
Sierra S. Applegate
Associate
Overview
Sierra focuses her practice on estate planning and estate and trust administration. She advises individuals and families on estate planning strategies tailored to their goals and circumstances, including the preparation of Wills, Trusts, Powers of Attorney, and Advance Healthcare Directives. She also assists clients with wealth transfer planning and the interpretation of estate planning documents.
In the area of estate and trust administration, Sierra represents fiduciaries in all aspects of the process, including probate proceedings, the collection and distribution of estate assets, the preparation and filing of inheritance and estate tax returns, and the preparation of estate and trust accountings. She also advises fiduciaries in estate and trust litigation matters, helping them navigate complex legal issues and fulfill their responsibilities.
Recognizing that each client's circumstances, priorities, and concerns are unique, Sierra takes a thoughtful and personalized approach to her work. She values building trusted relationships and takes the time to understand her clients' needs, providing practical guidance and thoughtful solutions tailored to their individual situations. With a focus on clear communication and a collaborative approach, she helps clients navigate complex and often sensitive matters with confidence and peace of mind.
Prior to joining the firm, Sierra served as a Deputy City Solicitor in the City of Philadelphia Law Department, where she advised City departments on a variety of legal matters, including real estate transactions, contract negotiations, risk management, and charitable trust fiduciary litigation. She also served as a judicial law clerk to the Honorable Sheila Woods-Skipper in the Philadelphia Court of Common Pleas, Orphans’ Court Division.
Sierra is also committed to providing pro bono legal services, assisting individuals with estate planning and probate matters.
- Executive Board Member, Barristers’ Association of Philadelphia (2023-present)
- Volunteer Attorney, Philadelphia VIP
- Treasurer, National Bar Association, Women Lawyers Division, Philadelphia Chapter (2025-2026)
- Board Member, Senior Law Center (2025-2026)
- Executive Co-Chair, Women of Color City Resource Group Leadership Team (2023-2024)
- Pennsylvania Bar Association, Real Property, Probate, & Trust Section, Pro Bono Committee (2023 - 2024)
- Philadelphia Bar Association, Real Property Section, Executive Committee, YLD Laison (2022-2023)
- Board Observer for Senior Law Center – Spring 2020
- 2022 Community Service Award, City of Philadelphia Law Department
- 2020 MVP of VIP Award Winner, Philadelphia VIP
Credentials
Education
- Villanova University Charles Widger School of Law, JD
- Temple University Beasley School of Law, LLM, Taxation
- La Salle University, BASc, magna cum laude
Admissions
- Pennsylvania