Experienced Northern Virginia Estate & Probate Attorneys
At our firm, you will work directly with an attorney and paralegal. We take the time to carefully listen to your story, understand your priorities, and address your concerns to align our approach with your specific goals.
For more than 33 years, our attorneys have provided legal services to clients in Northern Virginia. We are highly respected in our local legal community for sharing our in-depth knowledge of Virginia law.
When you work with us, we are committed to providing you with the top level of care. This means keeping you informed throughout your case and responding to any questions or concerns.
Meet Our Team
William M. Ryland
Attorney at Law
William M. Ryland is a licensed attorney with a focus on estate administration and probate, estate planning, catastrophic personal injury, medical malpractice, wrongful death, and criminal defense. A graduate of the University of Richmond School of Law, he is a member of the Virginia State Bar, as well as the Prince William Bar Association and the Virginia Trial Lawyers Association.
Sally Hook Merchak
Attorney at Law
Sally Hook Merchak is a licensed attorney serving clients in Northern Virginia. A graduate of the George Washington University National Law Center, she has been practicing law since 1977 with a focus on family law as well as real estate law and litigation. She is a member of the Virginia State Bar and the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia.
Why Choose Us?
Friendly, Small-Firm Service
Our goal is to treat you as more than just a case. We provide friendly, approachable service and clear communication to help anticipate challenges, develop strategies, and work towards the solutions you desire to achieve.
READ MORE70+ Years of Combined Experience
With 70+ years of combined experience, our attorneys bring advanced insight to every case. We are dedicated to providing actionable guidance and empowering you to make confident and informed decisions.
READ MOREPractice Areas
Estate Planning vs. Estate Administration
Estate Planning
Estate planning involves making decisions and creating legal documents to determine how your assets will be managed during your lifetime and distributed after your passing.
This proactive process includes drafting wills, establishing trusts, designating powers of attorney, and making sure your wishes are clearly documented to protect your family and beneficiaries.
Estate Administration
Estate administration occurs after a loved one has passed away and involves managing and distributing their assets according to their will or state law if no will exists.
This process ensures the proper transfer of assets to beneficiaries, manages any outstanding debts, and achieves final estate closure.
Legal Services Designed to Protect You and Your Loved Ones
Compassionate Advice After Your Loved One Passes
Handling legal matters after the loss of a loved one can be overwhelming. From probating loved ones' estates to managing estate administration and probate, we are committed to providing compassionate guidance to handle the legal aspects of estate administration and probate so you can focus on what matters most: your family.
Client Reviews
You will not find a more competent and thorough local attorney than Mr. Ryland. You will not find an attorney more prepared and knowing every small detail of your case than Mr. Ryland. I highly recommend Ryland and Merchak for anyone looking for excellent council in the local area. They both have over 35 years experience practicing law.
Justin H
Mr.William Ryland was professional, very knowledgeable, highly experienced and detail oriented when it came to my daughters case. A seasoned professional. I have never seen someone take so much care and attention to every detail as I did with Mr. Ryland. I would highly recommend Mr. Ryland to anyone who wants the best results.
Elaine D
An excellent law office that is personal, patient, and highly professional! I would enthusiastically recommend Ryland & Merchak to anyone seeking first class legal representation in serious personal injury, medical malpractice, wrongful death, and estate planning and administration. Ryland & Merchak will always be my first choice for future legal representation and assistance!
David N
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April 28, 2025
Most people facing a family conflict are fearful of the possibility of financial ruin. The burden of splitting a household into two, adapting to a shared parenting plan, and liquidating shared assets can be daunting.
Read MoreCommitted to Advocating for Your Best Interests
We are devoted to delivering exceptional services for those who require experienced legal help. Whether you need help with creating estate planning documents, administering an estate after the death of a loved one, holding a negligent party accountable for an injury you sustained, or support with criminal defense or family law matters, we provide compassionate guidance to help you make informed and confident decisions.
Located in Woodbridge, Virginia, our attorneys serve families and individuals throughout Northern Virginia, including Prince William County, Stafford County, Fairfax County, and the surrounding areas. If you require skilled legal representation with a commitment to care and professionalism, contact us today to schedule a consultation. We are committed to providing the trust and dedicated support you need.