Pro Bono With Ed Nahhat Episode 05 - Brian R. Jenney

In this episode of Pro Bono with Ed Nahhat, Ed sits down with Brian Jenney, a partner at Kemp Klein whose practice focuses on estate planning, trusts, probate, tax matters, and special needs planning. The conversation blends legal insight with personal stories, offering a deeper look at the person behind the practice. Brian discusses how trust is at the center of his work, especially when helping families navigate estate planning, guardianship matters, probate court, and special needs planning. He explains how his background in tax law helps clients understand the broader impact of estate and financial decisions, from straightforward family planning to more complex taxable estates. The episode also explores Brian’s unique path to law, including his early work studying fisheries and wildlife in northern Michigan, where he tracked and tagged grouse. Ed connects Brian’s care for natural systems to the compassion and patience he brings to families facing difficult life decisions. Brian also reflects on the influence of mentor Earle Endelman and the lessons he learned about tax law and client service. Listeners also get a glimpse into Brian’s life outside the office, including his role as captain of a racing sailboat and life at home with his wife and their four children — two sets of twins. The conversation highlights how leadership, communication, and trust carry over from sailing to legal practice. The episode closes with practical advice for both lawyers and clients, as Brian emphasizes the importance of communication, responsiveness, and keeping clients informed throughout the legal process. Ed and Brian also discuss how Zoom hearings have changed access to the courts and the challenges that come with managing virtual dockets.