Gina Shaffer
Attorney/Founder
Gina Shaffer graduated from UB Law School and is licensed to practice law in Maryland (2001) and Virginia (2003). She began her career as an attorney at Miles & Stockbridge, and it was there she discovered her passion for the senior population and elder law. Seeking to work in the local community, Gina began her solo law practice in Bel Air in January 2004. She enjoyed a ten-year law partnership with Brad Stover and Eric McLauchlin from 2011 to 2021.
In 2022, she re-established her solo law practice, focusing on elder law and estates & trusts. Gina is a member of the Maryland State Bar Association Solo Section, Elder Law Section, and Estates & Trusts Section. She has served on several local non-profit boards in Harford and Worcester Counties. Gina’s philosophy is that clients should experience a warm, friendly atmosphere and still receive quality legal services.
Gina divides her time between our Bel Air office and Ocean Pines offices. When time allows, Gina enjoys golfing, bike riding, watching baseball and visits to the beach.
Patrick Hanley
Associate Attorney
Patrick was born in Maryland and received his bachelor’s degree from Rollins College. Before law school, he worked at a geriatric care management company and became passionate about helping elders and their families. As a result, he opted to pursue a career in Elder Law.
Patrick obtained his Juris Doctorate from Penn State Dickinson Law School. He was admitted to the Maryland Bar in 2020 and joined Shaffer Law in 2023.
Wan Chen
Associate Attorney
Wan joined the Eastern Shore SLO team part-time in May of 2024 after she semi-retired in 2023 to care for an elderly parent. She is a graduate of the American University’s Washington College of Law and is licensed to practice law in Maryland. She clerked at the District of Columbia Superior Court and worked at the Maryland Comptroller’s Office as well as the Washington State Department of Revenue. Prior to law school, Wan was a software engineer in the telecommunications industry. During her off time, Wan likes to hike, cook, and simply enjoy life to the fullest with her husband and their bobtail cat Andy.
De’Von Carter
Law Clerk
De’von received his bachelor’s degree from Coppin State University and went on to earn his Juris Doctor from the University of Baltimore, where he was part of the prestigious Fannie Angelos Program. Through internships and clerkships, De’von developed a strong interest in estate planning and enjoys helping people make smart decisions about their future and their families. When he’s not working, De’von likes to stay active by playing baseball, softball, and golf. He also enjoys spending time with his family.
Ryan Valentine
Law Clerk
Originally from New Jersey, Ryan earned his Bachelor’s degree from Rutgers University and went on to receive his law degree from Delaware Law School in 2024. He has been part of the Berlin office since 2022. Outside of work, Ryan enjoys spending time outdoors, golfing, horseback riding, and being with his family.
Sarah Richard
Office Manager
Sarah joined the SLO team in March of 2023 after being home for several years with her children. With a background in healthcare, she is excited to learn more about the legal world. When not working, Sarah likes to read, exercise, travel, and spend time with her family.
Kimberly Kvech
Paralegal
Kimberly has worked in our Bel Air Office since August 2023. Kimberly holds a Bachelor’s degree in Math & Computer Science from UMBC as well as a Master’s in Computer Science from Northeastern and is enjoying paralegal work.
Kimberly enjoys gardening, knitting, reading, learning Irish, her cats – and spending time with her two grown children when they get a chance to visit Maryland.
Sean Silence
Legal Assistant
Sean joined Shaffer Law in April 2025. He has 10 years of experience working with seniors in a retirement community. Sean holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Sociology & Anthropology, with a focus in Archaeology and Forensic Investigation. When not working, Sean enjoys travel, learning about ancient history and culture, reading, writing, and trying new food.
Caitlin Cawood
Receptionist
Caitlin joined Shaffer Law in May 2024. She is a creative and driven individual with a background in Psychology. She loves connecting with people and has a passion for travel, good food, and spending time with her family and cat.