Erik S. Helgesen
Estate Planning Attorney
Overview
Erik is an experienced estate planning attorney who has dedicated his career to helping clients create personalized plans that meet their unique needs and goals. He understands that estate planning can be a complex and intimidating process, and he works closely with his clients to ensure that their affairs are in order and that their loved ones are taken care of. Erik has a deep understanding of the various estate planning tools available, such as wills, trusts, durable power of attorney, and advance medical directives, and he uses this knowledge to help his clients create effective plans that meet their specific situations. Whether you are just starting to think about estate planning or have specific goals in mind, Erik is here to help you navigate the process and create a plan that works for you.
Erik was born and raised in Kaysville, Utah. He is the sixth child in a family of 8 children. As the son of an attorney, Erik has been involved in dealing with legal issues for most of his life.
Erik currently lives in Layton, Utah with his wife (Jamie) and their 4 children (3 boys and 1 girl). He is a wonderful and dedicated father who enjoys being involved in his children’s lives. He enjoys coaching his son’s T-ball and soccer team and looks forward to being a coach for his other children in the future. Erik and his family love spending time outdoors and look forward to the summers when they can camp, fish and hike with their friends and family.
Education
Erik graduated from Weber State University in 2008 with a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration. He then moved to Michigan with his family where he received his law degree from Michigan State University. He became a member of the Utah State Bar in 2011 and has been practicing law as an attorney with Helgesen, Houtz & Jones ever since.
While attending law school, Erik worked as a paralegal for HH&J, assisting his father Jack C. Helgesen with estate planning and asset protection. Through working with his father, Erik has acquired firsthand experience dealing with complicated estate planning and end-of-life issues.
Practice Areas
Estate Planning
Asset Protection
Probate
Guardianship
Guardianship and Conservatorship
Other Elder Law and Estate Planning Issues
Articles and Videos from attorney Erik Helgesen
When Life Changes, So Should Your Trust
The Three Essential Parts of an Estate Plan
When people hear the phrase “estate planning,” they often picture something complicated or reserved for the wealthy. In truth, estate planning is about protecting yourself, your wishes, and the people you love – no matter the size of your estate.
When Is the Right Time for Creating an Estate Plan?
When it comes to planning for your future – and the future of the people you love – the best time to begin an estate plan is simple: as soon as possible. Whether you’ve just started your career, are raising a family, or are approaching retirement, creating an estate...
Wills vs Trusts: Choosing the Right Path for Your Estate
For many people, the best approach isn’t choosing between a will and a trust – it’s using both together. A trust can handle most assets efficiently, while a will ensures that anything not formally transferred into the trust is still distributed according to your wishes.
Why Estate Planning Shouldn’t Wait for “Someday”
Few people want to sit down and answer questions like, “What happens to my assets and my loved ones when I pass?” It may feel uncomfortable, and often far away. That’s why surveys show that nearly half of Americans don’t have a will – and even fewer have a complete estate plan.
Ensuring Prudent and Fair Distribution of Trust Assets
Even when the trust seems straightforward, the process often requires time. A simple trust might take 12–18 months to settle, but factors like selling real estate, paying estate taxes, or resolving debts can extend the timeline.
Estate Planning: Getting Started
At HH&J, we help families make sure their legacy is preserved and their loved ones are protected. To learn more about your own estate needs, it’s easy to set up a free consultation. Just call us at (801) 544-5300.
Valuing Assets: A Trustee’s Essential Responsibility
At HH&J, we know that stepping into the role of trustee can feel overwhelming. These duties require time, patience, and commitment, but you don’t have to shoulder them alone. We offer resources designed to help you understand your responsibilities and carry them out with confidence.
Why an Asset List Is an Essential Part of an Estate Plan
A thoughtful estate plan isn’t just about writing a will or creating a trust – it’s about making sure your loved ones are cared for and that your assets are passed on exactly as you intend. One of the simplest but most powerful tools you can include in your planning...
The Role of Trustee: What You Need to Know
There are a number of rules, guidelines and regulations that family members need to follow when acting as trustee. And while each trust is unique, trustees share a few core responsibilities that are crucial to the role.