Karen Donaldson

Name: Strauss Attorneys PLLC
Rating: 4.9

Estate Planning & Elder Law

Karen Donaldson, Esq., brings a deeply personal perspective to estate planning and elder law. After witnessing firsthand the challenges that come with a lack of planning, she has made it her mission to help families prepare for the future with clarity, compassion, and confidence.

Main Areas of Practice

Estate Planning

Raleigh 2626 Glenwood Ave,
Suite 310
Raleigh, NC, 27608

(919)825-0932

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A Personal Commitment to Protecting Families

My dedication to guiding families through estate planning was shaped by my own experience when my mother passed away without a will. Navigating the aftermath of her passing, I came to understand the real impact of inadequate planning—not just legally, but emotionally and financially. The challenges my family faced reinforced how essential it is to have a well-structured estate plan that not only protects assets but also spares loved ones unnecessary stress and uncertainty.

This experience led me to expand my legal practice to focus on estate planning and elder law. I originally started my career in real estate law, but as more clients sought guidance in planning for their future, I recognized how crucial it was to help families prepare in a way that truly protects them.

Professional Background

For twenty years, I ran my own law firm, working closely with individuals and families to navigate estate planning, real estate law, and business law. This experience gave me a deep understanding of the unique challenges families face when planning for the future and allowed me to develop practical, compassionate solutions tailored to their needs.

My interest in elder law deepened after losing my father to Alzheimer’s. Though he believed he had planned adequately, the reality was far more complicated. His experience made me realize that even well-intentioned planning can fall short without proper legal guidance and long-term foresight. Now, as the primary caregiver for my mother-in-law, I see firsthand the complexities of aging, caregiving, and the legal and financial issues that arise.

Prior to starting my own firm, I worked in New York for a law firm representing banks, served as a staff attorney for the North Carolina Real Estate Commission, worked with a North Carolina firm focusing on HOA representation, and served as a North Carolina Small Claims Magistrate Judge.

I joined Strauss Attorneys to provide clients with the highest level of service in estate planning and elder law, ensuring that their plans are not only legally sound but also effectively structured to achieve their goals.

Personal Life

Born in Arkansas to a military family, I grew up as an Army brat, moving frequently and gaining life experiences that allow me to relate to people from many different backgrounds.

Outside of work, I enjoy spending time with my husband and our three rescue dogs. I also have a love for travel and aviation, embracing every opportunity to explore new places and experiences.

Education

J.D., Oklahoma City University School of Law
B.A., Political Science, University of Oklahoma

Bar Admission

North Carolina, 1993.

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