Thomas P. Stanton
Associate | Attorney
Meet Thomas P. Stanton
Thomas P. Stanton is an estate planning attorney at Klemp and Stanton, where he helps individuals and families create clear, practical plans for the future. His practice focuses on wills, trusts, and estate planning strategies designed to give clients peace of mind and confidence that their families will be protected.
Tom works closely with clients to understand their goals and guide them through the estate planning process in a way that feels approachable and manageable, especially for those navigating it for the first time.
Estate Planning, Wills, Trusts, and Probate Support
Tom’s practice is centered on estate planning, including wills, revocable living trusts, powers of attorney, and healthcare directives. He also assists with probate-related matters and supports more complex planning needs alongside the firm’s broader team.
His approach is grounded in helping clients take a proactive stance, putting plans in place now to avoid confusion, conflict, or unnecessary complications later.
Helping Young Families Plan with Confidence
Tom has a particular focus on working with young families and parents with minor children, clients who often know they need an estate plan but are unsure where to start. As a parent himself, he understands the importance of planning for the unexpected and ensuring that children and loved ones are cared for according to a family’s wishes.
He regularly works with clients in similar life stages, helping them think through key decisions such as guardianship, asset distribution, and long-term planning.
A Clear, Educational, and Reassuring Approach
Tom believes that effective estate planning starts with understanding. Many clients come in feeling overwhelmed or uncertain, and he prioritizes breaking down complex concepts into clear, straightforward language so they can make informed decisions.
Rather than relying on legal jargon, Tom focuses on practical explanations and real-world examples. His goal is to ensure that clients not only have a plan in place, but also fully understand how it works and why it matters.
He also emphasizes transparency and predictability throughout the process. With flat-fee pricing and complimentary initial consultations, clients know what to expect from the beginning, without surprises or unnecessary stress.
A Long-Term Partner for Clients and Families
As part of the next generation of attorneys at Klemp and Stanton, Tom is committed to building long-term relationships with clients and their families. He works closely with financial advisors and other professionals, helping ensure that estate plans evolve alongside clients’ lives and financial goals.
Clients value his accessibility, responsiveness, and commitment to providing thoughtful, individualized guidance, whether they are creating their first estate plan or updating an existing one.
Background and Personal Interests
Tom earned his Juris Doctor from Mitchell Hamline School of Law, where he served as Treasurer of the Business Law Society and was a member of Parents Attending Law School (PALS). He began working with Klemp and Stanton as a law clerk in 2021 and has continued to grow his practice with the firm as an attorney.
Outside of the office, Tom enjoys spending time with his wife and children, following Minnesota sports, participating in trivia, and staying active through golf and other outdoor activities.
Education
Mitchell Hamline School of Law
Juris Doctor
Saint John’s University
B.A., Political Science (Pre-Law Focus)
CEA CAPA Education Abroad
Study Abroad Program
College Year in Athens
Study Abroad Program
Bar Admissions
- Minnesota
Experience
Type of Client: John and Jane Doe
Client’s Issue: Children that are all minors, do not want to inherit outright if John and Jane pass away unexpectedly.
My Approach: Implement a testamentary trust within their revocable trust to control distribution to their children.
Result: Instead of inheriting a large sum of money at 18 if the parents passed away, the kids will not have set distributions at certain ages, or can ask the trustee for early funds for good cause.
Media & Presentations
- Estate Planning 101 Seminar at Community Education across the Metro
News + Insights
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What Minnesota Employers Are Still Getting Wrong About Non-Compete Agreements
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What Happens If You Die Without a Will in Minnesota?
Most people know they should have a will. Far fewer understand what actually happens if they don’t. If you die without a will in Minnesota, you are considered to have died “intestate.” That means state law — not you — determines who receives your assets, who manages...