Payton M. Heyen Pech

Payton joined Sandberg Phoenix in 2021 after her summer associate internship with the firm in 2020. She is a member of the firm’s Business practice group. Payton focuses her practice on both foundational and sophisticated estate planning, advising individuals and families on strategies designed to preserve wealth, accomplish personal planning goals, and navigate complex family and business dynamics. She regularly counsels clients on high net-worth estate planning matters, including advanced wealth transfer strategies, estate and gift tax planning, and the preparation of estate and gift tax returns.

In addition, Payton advises business owners on business succession planning and works with clients on prenuptial agreements, special needs planning, estate and trust administration, and related planning designed to protect beneficiaries and family legacies. She is committed to helping clients implement practical, tailored solutions that align with their long-term objectives.

Payton is a graduate of the Heart of America Fellows Institute, a selective fellowship program of the American College of Trust and Estate Counsel (ACTEC) that develops emerging trust and estate practitioners through intensive education, mentorship, and collaboration with leading estate planning professionals throughout the region. Through the fellowship, Payton further developed her knowledge in advanced estate planning, fiduciary administration, tax, and closely held business succession matters.

In April 2024, Payton completed the Carver Project’s Legal Vocation Fellowship, a 15-month program for early-career attorneys seeking to integrate their Christian faith into the practice of law.

Outside of the office, Payton enjoys spending time with her growing family, especially on her family’s farm in south-central Illinois. She is also an avid fan of the Kansas City Chiefs and Illinois Fighting Illini men’s basketball, and occasionally enjoys a round of disc golf.