Ashley L. Hawley

Ashley L. Hawley focuses her legal practice on helping individuals and families prepare for the future through thoughtful planning and practical legal guidance. Her work centers on estate planning, probate matters, fiduciary services, and succession planning. She takes the time to understand each client’s circumstances, goals, and priorities, creating customized strategies designed to protect assets, preserve family legacies, and provide long-term peace of mind.

Ashley earned a B.A. from the University of Wisconsin – Madison in 2007, graduating with Comprehensive Honors and distinction. She later earned a J.D. from the University of Wisconsin Law School – Madison in 2010 and graduated cum laude. Her academic background provides a strong foundation for advising clients on both straightforward and complex legal matters involving estate, trust, and succession planning.

Ashley assists clients with a wide range of legal needs, including general and complex estate planning, estate and gift tax planning, probate and guardianship avoidance, probate and trust administration, and special planning for beneficiaries facing disability, divorce, or substance abuse challenges. She also advises families on guardianships for disabled children transitioning into adulthood and elder law guardianship matters.

Ashley is known for her steady and composed approach when working through sensitive family situations. She frequently helps families navigate disputes that arise after the loss of a loved one. Whether serving as a court-appointed fiduciary or acting as a mediator, she promotes productive communication, helps reduce conflict, and works toward practical resolutions that meet the needs of those involved.

Ashley also assists clients with farm succession planning and pre- and post-nuptial agreements, helping them protect personal and family interests through careful preparation. Her experience allows her to address both immediate concerns and long-term planning goals while providing clear guidance throughout the process.

Throughout her career, Ashley has remained committed to helping clients make informed decisions during important life transitions. Her work combines detailed legal knowledge with a calm, thoughtful approach that supports individuals and families as they plan for the future and address challenging estate and fiduciary matters. Her professional accomplishments include recognition as a Super Lawyers/Wisconsin Rising Star in multiple years between 2013 and 2025.

Law Office Affiliations

• Attorney, Ruder Ware, L.L.S.C.
• Member, State Bar of Wisconsin

Licensed State

• Wisconsin

Education

• University of Wisconsin Law School
  Juris Doctor (JD)
• University of Wisconsin
  Bachelor of Arts (BA)

Awards & Badges