2890 N. Main Street, Suite 206 • Walnut Creek, CA 94597

Meet the Team

Kirsten Howe, Esq.
Founder and Managing Attorney

For more than 26 years, individuals and families in Walnut Creek, California, and the surrounding areas have trusted Absolute Trust Counsel Managing Attorney Kirsten Howe and her team to help them secure their legacy.

Uniquely qualified to create individualized estate plans, Kirsten and her team provide focused counsel on estate planning, trust administration, probate, Medi-Cal planning, special needs planning, and other estate-related issues.

“I began my law career as a business planning attorney, but soon realized that I was most passionate about estate planning and elder law. I founded Absolute Trust Counsel as a firm dedicated exclusively to providing full-scope, client-centered estate planning services, and I’m very proud of the specialized counsel we’re able to provide to families as they plan for their futures.”

She earned her law degree cum laude from the University of California, Hastings College of the Law, and a B. S. in Biology from the University of Michigan. While in law school, she was a member of the Thurston Society and managing editor of The Hastings Law Journal.

A noted speaker on estate planning issues, Kirsten is a member of the Trust and Estates Section of The State Bar of California, the Estate Planning and Probate Section, the Elder Law Section, and the Women’s Section of the Contra Costa County Bar Association.

Sandra Tanhuanpaa
Paralegal

With over 14 years of experience in estate planning, trust administration, and probate, Sandra plays a crucial role in ensuring Absolute Trust Counsel’s clients receive the highest level of support during some of life’s most challenging transitions. Since joining the firm in 2016, Sandra has been the backbone of trust administration and probate processes, expertly preparing legal documents, managing court filings, and maintaining clear, compassionate communication with clients and all members involved.

As a primary point of contact for clients, Sandra’s warm professionalism helps guide them through the often complex legal processes. Her responsibilities include drafting deeds, affidavits, and probate pleadings, as well as reviewing financial statements and organizing client matters. With an exceptional ability to multitask and stay ahead of deadlines, Sandra ensures that each case moves forward efficiently, offering clients peace of mind and confidence in the firm’s services.

“I enjoy working at Absolute Trust Counsel because it is a firm with heart and compassion, which is very important for the type of law that we practice,” Sandra says.

Sandra holds a bachelor’s degree from California State University, Hayward, and also attended UC Santa Barbara. Her extensive experience, attention to detail, and commitment to client service make her an invaluable asset to the firm and the many families she helps navigate estate planning and probate matters.

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Denette Grebe
Chief of Staff

As Chief of Staff at Absolute Trust Counsel, Denette Grebe is the driving force behind the firm’s seamless operation. With nearly a decade of dedicated service, Denette ensures that every aspect of the business runs smoothly, allowing the team to deliver the exceptional service and personal care that clients expect during the estate planning process. Her multifaceted role includes overseeing projects, managing internal processes, and ensuring every client’s experience is efficient, supportive, and worry-free.

Beyond her client-facing responsibilities, Denette manages vital operational areas, acting as a crucial problem-solver and behind-the-scenes leader.

“I enjoy working for someone I admire and respect and being part of a team where we truly care about our clients and each other.”

Denette’s ability to navigate the firm’s day-to-day intricacies, troubleshoot challenges, and support the team with unwavering precision makes her an invaluable asset to Absolute Trust Counsel and the clients it serves. Her dedication to fostering a cohesive, compassionate environment is at the heart of the firm’s success.

Suzette Ahmed
Administrative Support

Suzette joined our team as an Administrative Assistant in late 2021 and has been promoted to our Administrative Support role. In this vital position, Suzette is the backbone of our office operations, ensuring everything runs smoothly and efficiently. She manages a wide range of responsibilities, from coordinating day-to-day tasks to scheduling networking events. Suzette’s organizational skills and proactive approach directly contribute to the firm’s success, making her an indispensable part of our team.

She holds a bachelor’s degree in Advertising and Marketing from San Jose State University and has extensive experience working with several prominent Bay Area technology companies. Suzette also brings entrepreneurial insights from her time as a business owner, further enriching her ability to effectively support our team and clients.

“I am happy to work for a firm where all employees feel that they’re valued members of the team and have a passion to help clients protect their families.”

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