WILMINGTON, N.C.—Johnson Legal, PLLC has been named a 2026 Best of North Carolina winner, earning the title of top Estate Planning Firm in the state from Guide to North Carolina. The annual program recognizes businesses across North Carolina based on public nominations and voting.
The statewide accolade arrives alongside a notable digital milestone for the boutique coastal practice: the firm has surpassed 665 Google reviews, all five stars. That figure is well above the norm for the legal industry—according to a 2026 industry benchmark report from Feedback Guru, law firms average roughly 45 Google reviews and a 4.3-star rating, putting Johnson Legal, PLLC’s review volume at more than 14 times the industry average.
“We set out to completely redefine what the legal experience feels like for everyday families,” says Shane T. Johnson, Founding Attorney of Johnson Legal, PLLC. “Estate planning and probate are deeply personal, emotional processes. Our growth isn’t driven by corporate handshakes, but by our commitment to plain-English education, total transparency, and a high-touch client experience. Being named the absolute best in North Carolina, while maintaining a national tier of client satisfaction right here in Wilmington, proves our team’s dedication to our community.”
The firm’s strong review record reflects a deliberate, customer-first approach to client feedback. Johnson Legal, PLLC systematically prioritizes collecting digital feedback from clients and backs that commitment up with tangible, user-friendly touches—such as custom fireproof legacy binders and emergency digital trust wallet cards—ensuring clients receive long-term value well after signing.
Further setting the firm apart is the compassionate, hands-on support it offers families after the loss of a loved one. Rather than leaving clients to navigate the court process alone, the firm’s probate team walks each family through settling an estate step by step, in plain language, so nothing feels confusing or overwhelming during an already difficult time. This work is led by Probate Manager Brooke Boltz, a 10-year veteran and former Deputy/Assistant Clerk of Court for the New Hanover County Estates Division. Her in-depth knowledge of how the courts work allows the firm to move filings through efficiently, helping families resolve matters faster and with far less stress than they’d typically expect.
With a statewide industry award and a client review record well above the legal industry average, Johnson Legal, PLLC continues to serve as a trusted resource in the Wilmington area for asset protection, revocable living trusts, and compassionate, efficient probate administration.
About Johnson Legal, PLLC: Johnson Legal, PLLC is a premier estate planning and probate law firm located in Wilmington, North Carolina. Focusing heavily on customized living trusts, wealth preservation, and compassionate, efficient estate administration, the firm serves families throughout the coastal Carolinas. To learn more or schedule a consultation, visit www.johnsonlegal.us or call (910) 319-7373.
