Cole Eckhoff
Attorney
In 2022, I moved to Victoria, Texas to join the Werner Law Group, where I helped manage hundreds of family law and probate matters. During that time, the firm was voted Best Family Law Attorneys in 2023 and Best Civil Law Attorneys in 2024 by the Victoria Advocate’s “Best of the Best.” Before moving to Victoria, I represented major national banks and insurance companies in courts across Texas.
Today, estate planning is the heart of my practice. For generations, traditional estate planning has been designed around what is familiar or profitable for attorneys rather than what is simplest and best for families. We prepare wills, powers of attorney, trusts, and other essential documents, but our greater focus is helping clients avoid unnecessary probate, expense, conflict, and family disputes. We also offer emergency planning services, including home and hospital visits when needed.
When probate cannot be avoided, we help families administer estates as efficiently and practically as possible, and we represent clients in probate and estate disputes when disagreements arise.
My family law practice is now focused primarily on high-net-worth and uncontested divorces. I have served as attorney in charge in more than 200 family-law cases and bring that experience to significant cases involving separate property, reimbursement claims, real estate, mineral interests, businesses, investments, complex compensation packages, spousal support, cryptocurrency, and other significant assets. I work to resolve disputes thoughtfully when possible and work with clients to present the truth clearly and persuasively when trial is necessary.
Areas of Focus
Estate Planning, Wills and Trusts
Probate, Determination of Heirship
High Net Worth Divorce and Appeals
Uncontested or Agreed Divorce
Education
Texas A&M, BS, Economics, summa cum laude, 2016
Cornell Law School, JD, 2020
Admissions and Certifications
Texas, 2020
Southern District of Texas, 2023
Certified Guardianship Attorney, 2023
Memberships
American Association of Professional Landmen, 2026
State Bar of Texas - Real Estate, Probate and Trust Law Section, 2026
State Bar of Texas - Family Law Section, 2024
Victoria County Bar Association, 2023
Honors
Avvo Client Choice Award, 2024
Martindale-Hubbell Client Champion - Silver (2024), Gold (2025), Platinum (2026)
Super Lawyers Rising Star, 2025
Stacey Niederhofer
Business Manager
After years of experience as a human resources director and then as business owner and business consultant, Stacey joined our firm to help with the management of a huge workflow. Very quickly, Stacey has become an asset to the firm, regularly called by clients "a keeper," "amazing," and "awesome." Consultations often begin with the client stating, "I spoke with Stacey for a long time, I love her!"
Clients acknowledge what we have always known - Stacey's determination, positive attitude, and care make a huge difference to clients going through some of the most difficult times due to family law issues.
Karin Roberts
Paralegal
Karin Roberts brings decades of family law experience to our firm, most recently serving clients in the Victoria area after years of practice in San Antonio. Karin has a rare combination of gifts: the precision to prepare every document the case demands, and an investigative instinct that has uncovered hundreds of thousands of dollars in hidden assets for our clients. Beyond her technical skills, Karin brings genuine warmth and care to every person she works with, and her clients know they are supported from the first conversation to the last.
Se habla espanol.
Peggy Harper
Paraprofessional
As a former CPA with years of experience at top firms including Fulbright & Jaworski, LLP and DLA Piper, Peggy knows how to develop a winning mathematical strategy, particularly in cases with substantial property and financial issues. Peggy is a zealous advocate for our clients with the staff of other firms, diligently working out issues, including the "little things" that make a huge difference for people working to make the best of a separation or co-parenting situation.
Peggy also works with clients to create clear and personalized wills, simple trusts, powers of attorney, and other documents essential for your estate plan.
Education
Duke University, BA, Economics, cum laude
University of West Florida, MBA
Lizz Garza
Legal Assistant
After her personal experience in the courtroom, Lizz has been a huge help by relating to clients with pending contested cases and financial difficulties brought on by divorce. Additionally, Lizz is a licensed realtor working at one of the largest real estate companies in the area.
If you have any questions regarding your real estate issues or need a reminder to stay strong and believe in your case against fierce opposition, Lizz is here for your benefit.
Allyson Johnson
Legal Assistant
Even before entering the legal field, Allyson had a genuine passion for helping others navigate difficult family and probate matters. Her interest in these areas of law stemmed from supporting friends and family members through some intense personal situations.
Allyson initially joined Eckhoff, PLLC as part of an internship for her paralegal studies. It quickly became apparent that she would be an invaluable member of our team. Through her dedication, attention to detail, and serious commitment to achieving the best possible outcomes for our clients, Allyson earned a permanent place at the firm.
Known for her compassion, professionalism, and strong work ethic, Allyson takes pride in providing thoughtful support to clients during difficult times. Her genuine care for the people we serve make her a valuable part of our team.