Book Ellen as a Speaker

Are you looking for an engaging, knowledgeable, and compassionate speaker to present on estate planning, special needs trusts, strategies to protect public benefits, or related topics?

Ellen Cookman is an experienced estate planning attorney based in the Bay Area who is passionate about educating families, professionals, and community organizations. Her presentations are informative, accessible, and tailored to the needs of each audience whether you’re hosting a webinar, community workshop, conference, parent support group, or professional training.

With a focus on complex estate planning, special needs planning, helping families protect benefits like Medi-Cal, SSI/SSDI, and more, Ellen brings clarity to complex legal topics and offers practical guidance to help individuals protect their loved ones and plan for the future.

Speaking Topics Include:

  • Special Needs Trusts: What They Are & Why You Need One
  • Protecting SSI, SSDI, Medi-Cal & Medicare: What Parents and Caregivers Should Know
  • Letters of Intent: How to Create a Roadmap for Your Loved One’s Future
  • CalABLE Accounts: Saving Without Losing Benefits
  • Estate Planning for Families with a Loved One with Disabilities
  • Trust Administration Basics for Families
  • Conservatorships and Alternatives in California
  • Avoiding Probate with Protective Trusts
  • Planning for Incapacity: Powers of Attorney & Advance Directives
  • Looking for a different topic? Ellen can tailor presentations for your audience or event.

Past Speaking Engagements Include:

  • Parents Helping Parents
  • Support for Families of Children with Disabilities
  • The Arc of California
  • Sunflower Hill
  • CalABLE
  • Regional Centers
  • PFAC
  • Financial Planners and Professional Advisors
  • Parent Support Groups and School District Events
  • and many more!

Why Book Ellen as a Speaker?

Ellen Cookman giving a presentation at a special needs conference.

Ellen is available for a variety of event formats, including in-person workshops, webinars, professional trainings, keynote presentations, and small-group sessions. Whether your audience is composed of families navigating special needs planning, professionals seeking continuing education, or community members looking to understand estate planning basics, Ellen adapts her presentations to meet their unique needs. Her sessions can be hosted via Zoom or other platforms, or conducted live throughout California.

Organizers appreciate Ellen’s warm, engaging style and her ability to break down complex legal topics into clear, relatable language. As a practicing estate planning attorney who focuses on families with children or adults with disabilities, Ellen brings both professional insight and deep empathy to her presentations. She’s known for using real-world examples, offering actionable guidance, and creating a welcoming space for questions. Whether your goal is to inform, inspire, or empower your audience, Ellen’s presentations are both practical and impactful.