Teresa Valente

Teresa Valente

Teresa is new to the team as of this October after spending nearly two decades as an educator. She was born and raised here in Phoenix, Arizona and graduated from Arizona State University in 2006 with her bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education. She received her license as a Speech Language Pathology Assistant in 2013. She is excited to serve Arizona families in a different capacity.

What are some causes you care about?

Disability acceptance and awareness, healthcare, and protecting our National Parks.

If we held an office talent show, you would wow everyone by:

Throwing a tennis ball with my foot. Yes, really!

What inspires you most about your job?

Helping families prepare for their future and the futures of their loved ones is such an important job. I am humbled to be part of the team doing this work.

What is your favorite way to spend a day out of the office?

I love spending time with my husband and son seeing new places, hiking, biking, swimming, or kayaking! We are big nature lovers. I also enjoy singing, playing my guitar, and relaxing with our dogs and cat.

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A family of seven stands together on a desert road, smiling at the camera. There are cacti and mountains in the background. One adult holds a young child, and the family members are dressed in casual, neutral-toned clothing.

Mary K. Redwing

Mary is a Phoenix native and attended Madison elementary schools and Xavier College Preparatory.  She then went on to attend Northwestern University and then earned her Juris Doctorate Degree at UC Hastings College of Law.  Mary has been a licensed attorney in California since 2006 and Arizona since 2015.  After spending 18 years as a criminal prosecutor, Mary joined Emily Taylor Law, bringing with her deep courtroom experience and a steady, compassionate approach to advocacy.  Mary has also volunteered with Special Olympics, was a member of the City of Mesa Humans Relations Advisory Board promoting Diversity Equity and Inclusion and is a member of the Arizona Women’s Law Association. 

Mary is a proud mom to two amazing children and three equally amazing stepchildren.  She is also a very proud member of the “Lucky Few” as her youngest daughter, Maddie, has Down syndrome.  Mary’s family are regulars at Gigi’s Playhouse and Down Syndrome Network events and love attending the annual conference for the National Down Syndrome Congress Conference. Mary understands, firsthand, what it’s like to navigate the world as a parent of a child with special needs.  She is a fierce advocate for disability rights and is passionate about helping other families find clarity, confidence, and support along the way. Mary believes that everyone deserves dignity, respect, equality, and inclusion—and that the world is better when diversity is celebrated and protected.

Mary has no hobbies because she has way too many kids.  In another life, she loves traveling, hiking, cooking, reading, and would probably like to try golf!

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Michelle posing for a picture with her son standing behind her with his arms around her shoulders

Michelle M. Franz

Michelle has been working with Ms. Taylor since 2022. Michelle is originally from Palm Springs, California, and moved to Arizona in 2010. Michelle has a background in client service and hospitality and is a Paralegal. Michelle works primarily with our Estate Planning clients.

What are some causes you care about?

Mental health awareness and education.

If we held an office talent show, you would wow everyone by:

Getting a toddler dressed and ready to go in record time!

What inspires you most about your job?

Being able to meet different individuals and families from all walks of life and be a part of helping them create a plan for their peace of mine and comfort.

What is your favorite way to spend a day out of the office?

Spending time with my son doing anything outdoors! Hiking, the park, walks, etc.

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Emily posing in front of a tree with her family

Emily R. Taylor

Emily R. Taylor, a proud alumna of Arizona State University and the University of Arizona's James E. Rogers College of Law, has been a licensed attorney in Arizona since 2007. Her practice specializes in comprehensive estate planning and special needs planning, offering legal guidance with a personal touch.

Raised in the historic small town of Galena, IL, Emily's journey has always been about empowering families through thoughtful legal planning. Our firm is committed to ensuring families in Arizona receive the best in estate and special needs planning services.

Emily loves...

  • Her rescue dog, Athena
  • To travel!
  • Learning to golf
  • Cooking
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    Athena, a black lab dog, resting on the couch with a bone

    Athena Taylor

    Meet Athena—the 'top dog' of our office! Affectionately known as our 'office dog,' Athena has been Emily's sidekick for going on four years. Athena loves walks around the neighborhood or to the park, playing with her toys (more accurately described as tearing them to pieces), and, of course, treats! We love having Athena around to brighten our days, and to make the big business decisions!

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    Emma Vytlacil

    Emma grew up in Bentonville, Arkansas and then attended college at Missouri State University where she studied Business Management and Leadership. Throughout college, Emma found interest in the legal field and worked as a paralegal after graduating.

    What are some causes you care about?

    Mental health and eating disorder awareness

    If we held an office talent show, you would wow everyone by:

    Singing all roles to the song One Day More from the Les Misérables Musical:)

    What inspires you most about your job?

    The future is inevitable, and I think there is a lot of comfort that comes with being able to "control your future". I am inspired to help others feel that way by helping with their planning needs!

    What is your favorite way to spend a day out of the office?

    My favorite way to spend a day out of the office when it isn't a million degrees outside, is playing pickleball and hiking. I also love trying new foods, scrap booking, and going to different workout classes!
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    Two people stand close together outside, smiling at the camera. One wears a gray plaid suit and glasses, and the other wears a sleeveless brown dress. They are surrounded by greenery and cacti.

    Jennifer Collins

    Jennifer Collins has a Master's of Social Work focused in end of life care. Supporting the team at Emily Taylor Law, as the front desk receptionist, in her retirement is rewarding as they support Arizona families with their estate and special needs planning. 

    What are some causes you care about?

    End of life care.

    If we held an office talent show, you would wow everyone with:

    Making appetizers!

    What is your favorite way to spend a day out of the office?

    My perfect day would be spent working on Ikebana flower arranging, or international travel, or time with my family!

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    Jennifer X.

    Hi my name is Jennifer. I live in Boonton NJ with my boyfriend. Pictured with me are my two rescue dogs, Henry (Beagle) and Jackie (German Shepherd/Jack Russel mix). I grew up with dogs, cats, fish and birds and love them all. I worked in the hospitality industry for 25 years taking care of guests needs. I enjoyed assisting guests but always wanted to work with animals. I can’t wait to provide excellent care and services to your pets!

    Jessica holding her young daughter standing next to her husband

    Jessica S. McElderry

    Jessica has been working with Ms. Taylor since 2014. From starting as the receptionist to now a Certified Paralegal and Estate Planning Coordinator, Jessica has seen and done it all! Jessica graduated from the Paralegal Studies program at Phoenix College. Jessica is certified through NALA, the nationwide paralegal association.

    What are some causes you care about?

    Education, mental health, and women empowerment.

    If we held an office talent show, you would wow everyone by:

    My rapping skills. 😉

    What inspires you most about your job?

    Having the opportunity to provide planning and peace of mind to our community. Working with an amazing group of women is a sure bonus!

    What is your favorite way to spend a day out of the office?

    My favorite way to spend a day out of the office is doing something active (hiking, picnics at the park, pool day, and more!) with my husband, daughter, and dog. I also love to play golf or do hot yoga when I get the opportunity!

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      Meet the Team

      Who We Are

      We’re just like you… Kind. Thoughtful. Professional. Parents. Compassionate. Busy. Protective of our time. Caregivers. Humble. ;-)

      Together, we can transform what might seem like a daunting task into a journey filled with empowerment, compassion, and a profound sense of purpose, and replace any apprehension with a sense of security, comfort, and acceptance.

      One Less Thing

      We simplify the process so you can get it done. Rest assured knowing you have a legal plan in place for you, your family, and those you love most.

      One Less Thing

      We simplify the process so you can get it done. Rest assured knowing you have a legal plan in place for you, your family, and those you love most.

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      Through streamlined processes, adaptable schedules, and flexible payment terms, our approachable team takes a seemingly daunting task and simplifies it, so you can get back to what matters most.

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      What Our
      Clients Say

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      “We have a unique situation with two special needs boys and other variables, and Emily made the process seamless. We worked with Emily, Michelle and Camille and everyone was so pleasant, patient and kind.”

      —L

      “Emily Taylor is your go-to lawyer for estate planning if you are looking for someone who is experienced and up-to-date in the field; thought, kind, patient and trustworthy; who gives back to the community through professional and local charities.”

      —Dr. L

      “We found Emily at a very difficult time in our family as we had to realize the need for guardianship for our daughter with special needs. Her compassion and expertise made this smooth and removed so many fears we had. We would highly recommend Emily and her firm.”

      —Lori A

      “Emily and team were great, friendly people to work with as we transfered and updated our trust to Arizona. They are all very knowledgeable in the various fields including the medical forms, wills, and trust info. We highly recommend their services!”

      —B&M P
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      Helpful Resources

      On-demand webinars on the ins-and-outs of special needs and estate planning.

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