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09 Feb, 2025 by Barry haynie
Kyle Robbins and Anna White were very helpful throufhout the steessful probate process. Their staff updated me throughout and kept me informed. I couldn't recommend Robbins Estate law any higher.
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23 Jan, 2025 by Stacy gomez
We worked with Robbins Estate, specifically with Lorenza Cigarroa, who was extremely thorough and knowledgeable and took the time to answer all our questions. We appreciate her extensive experience, curiosity, and guidance in the process.
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23 Jan, 2025 by Joshua welch
Our experience with Mr. Strickland for estate planning was first-rate. 10/10 recommend, A++
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23 Jan, 2025 by Tim morris
29 Oct, 2024 by Ismael cantu
I reached out to this firm for representation...what a outstanding group of professionals. Responded immediately, professionally, caring and with a purpose. What a great group of people.
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23 Aug, 2024 by Brad king
Terry was organized, thorough, compassionate, and an amazing advocate for my late grandparents and mother. She had a plan for every hurdle that popped up and streamlined the process moving forward. I recommend The Garrett Law Firm for end of life and estate planning. I’ll be using the firm to arrange my own affairs.
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27 Apr, 2017 by Chris
I had Jim do my NFA Gun Trust and my family Trust. The NFA Trust was all done online and via email from Hawaii. Zero problems with that process. It was so easy to get done I had him to put together a family Trust. Very easy to work with and excellent service.
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08 Mar, 2017 by Anonymous
Jim made it very easy to set up my trust. He spent close to an hour on the phone with me answering all my questions and explaining every aspect of the trust and how it works. I never felt as though he was trying to rush to get me off the phone. I had my trust set up in a day. I would recommend Jim to anyone wanting to set up a gun trust.
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03 Mar, 2017 by Alex
I chose Jim to draft my trust and he did a great job. I've come back for questions multiple times and he always answers and is eager to help. I love that he is involved in the community which he services and it's been a pleasant opportunity to see him at some of the same events I've attended. If you need a trust, I highly recommend Jim.
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23 Sep, 2024 by Eddie
Megan Baumer was my attorney on my Bankruptcy case. She did an amazing job! She was very thorough, friendly, thoughtful, and kind throughout the entire process. There was never a question I needed answered that I couldn’t turn to her with and she made the entire process easy and less daunting each step of the way. My partner and I couldn’t be more pleased with the results. The entire Baumer Law team did a terrific job. They are best bankruptcy law office in the Austin area. I would highly recommend them to anyone in need of a good bankruptcy lawyer. They know what they’re doing.
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08 Dec, 2022 by Susan
Megan Baumer was a pleasure to work with - she was knowledgeable and thorough! Wills and End of Life Documents aren't easy - lots of details and tough decisions to think through. My husband and I knew we were in good hands with Megan's guidance and direction. She was both professional and friendly - nice combination!
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25 Nov, 2022 by Dina
Megan Baumer was so helpful. Working on our estate planning was not an easy task. Megan walked us through the importance, answered multiple follow-up questions, and stayed patient the whole time. I recommend her services to anyone. She treated us with respect too.
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13 Aug, 2013 by Anonymous
John was very professional and knowledgeable. He assisted me with understanding a few different contracts. You can tell that he puts a lot of effort into providing all the necessary legal information and a little more. I was very satisfied with his advisement and did not feel that something was lacking in any way. I highly recommend John Burns for anyone needing advice in his areas of expertise.
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08 Aug, 2013 by Ron
Mr. Burns helped me recently and was available THAT day in
formulating a Licensing agreement when I was pressed for time.
His response was professional,quick and he kept me well informed during the process.
I would highly recommend him and will use his expertise again when needed.
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25 Oct, 2017 by Joe
I have known Terry for several years and he has worked on several real estate matters I hired him to work on. The many friends I have referred him to have nothing but praise for him and the work that he has done for them as well. When it comes to real estate matters you will find no one better than him.
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30 Apr, 2020 by Anthony
Joel handled my will with ease. He answered every question I had and explained things fully. It was a pleasure to work with him.
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18 Aug, 2022 by Albert
Tom Fortenberry is the best. His experience is like having a Jedi on your team.
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02 Jun, 2014 by Anonymous
I got to know Patty personally as a long time friend of one of my very good friend. She has represented several companies I have worked for and been a principal of in debt collection matters with impressive results in many cases...i.e. we got paid! She also represented me personally in a dispute with a shady landlord resulting in a favorable outcome.
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10 Sep, 2015 by Rick
I hired Natalie to paper the sale of my business. She was knowledgeable of the pertinent issues, bringing things to my attention that I had not considered. She was responsive to my emails and was easy to work with. I would hire her again in a heartbeat and would not hesitate recommending her to others. Overall, working with Natalie was a very positive experience.
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02 Jan, 2019 by Anonymous
I called to schedule a free consultation for a probate matter. Mr. Greening advertises FREE CONSULTATION on Avvo and on his own website. NOT TRUE! I made the appointment, and spent 15 minutes or so on the phone with his assistant explaining my needs so that Mr. Greening could be briefed prior to our consultation. Then several days later I got a call back from another person in Mr. Greening's office to inform me that the so called "free" consultation requires a $4,000 retainer fee up front. So, it's only "free" if you agree to retain Mr. Greening in advance of the very first meeting you have with him! Isn't that pretty much the opposite of a "free consultation"??? Losing a family member without a will is difficult enough, but being forced to deal with attorneys like Mr. Greening just adds to the misery. Hopefully I will be able to find another probate attorney who will sit down with me for 15 minutes free of charge and hear my story without asking me to shell out $4,000 just for the privilege of speaking with him/her. Hard to believe Mr. Greening has such high reviews from other people. Surely this same thing has happened over and over again to other people like me who foolishly believed the advertising that he offers a free consultation.
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03 May, 2018 by Katy
In2003,shortly after I retired there was a neighborhood meeting which I attended.I contacted Ron Greening about a trust for my son. My son passed away and Ron assisted me in a new trust for my family.The efforts of the Greening Law Firm exceeded my expectations.
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11 Jan, 2018 by Patrick
Ron helped through a trying period while building my estate plan. There were many changes during that period including sale of properties, purchase of properties and the death of my Wife of 52 years. Through it all, Ron was patient and provided the best professional advice.
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27 Jan, 2025 by Alejandro martínez
Excelente trabajo !!
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14 Dec, 2024 by Joe rob
I appreciate Maruri law group and her team. They help my wife with her situation and kept me up dated with everything and explained the steps that we need it to take. It’s a must trust worthy and I highly recommend it.
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10 Dec, 2024 by Henri palacios
17 Dec, 2015 by Nancy
We couldn't be more pleased with the service that Ms. Layne provided to our family. She asked great questions, was respectful, patient and understanding as we discussed issues with each other and made decisions and provided excellent and diplomatic advice when requested.
When she delivered the completed plan to us, she had witnesses available to sign and notarize our documents while we waited and patiently reviewed each page with us to our satisfaction. We had very few changes to make but she made them immediately so we could continue the finalization process.
It is such a relief to have our plan completed. It feels good to know that you've done all you can do to make the administration of your estate and providing of your family and pets as easy as you can.
I cannot recommend Ms. Layne's services highly enough.
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14 Dec, 2015 by Lynn-marie
Leanne helped set up a POA for my oldest son and my mother. She was great to work with and took the time to explain everything along the way. I highly recommend her services!
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11 Dec, 2015 by Dr chae
My wife and I could not have been more satisfied with comprehensive detail, personalized touch and genuine concern in regards to our needs and desires of our family while drafting our living trust and wills. She made sure We understood each and every section and that if executed then that would be the vision and desire of which we desire.. Each of us were pleased with here attention to detail and thoughtfulness while addressing offering thoughtful suggestion and guidance in each of our request . We would wholeheartedly recommend her to others and will be return clients.
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23 Jan, 2025 by Tim morris
29 Oct, 2024 by Ismael cantu
I reached out to this firm for representation...what a outstanding group of professionals. Responded immediately, professionally, caring and with a purpose. What a great group of people.
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20 Sep, 2024 by Melanie jaco
I had a consultation with Mr.Shannon, he was fantastic. He was kind, patient, and genuinely listened to everything I had to say. It was clear that he truly cares about his clients. He is sharp, attentive, and on point. I appreciated his attentiveness and the guidance he shared during our consultation.
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26 Feb, 2025 by Sn
RTRLAW deserves 20 stars!!! They are truly an amazing law firm that goes above and beyond for its clients. From the moment you walk through their doors, you are treated with professionalism, respect, and a genuine commitment to helping you with your case.
They are extremely responsive, thorough, and always willing to go the extra mile to fight for their clients. Their track record of success speaks for itself, and their commitment to justice is evident in every case they take on.
If you're in Austin and need reliable legal representation, RTRLAW is the firm to call. They truly care about their clients and work tirelessly to deliver outstanding results. Highly recommended! 🚀👏
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18 Oct, 2024 by Tori
Even though Kevin couldn't help us he gave us the best advice and made us feel heard. He is a very warm and kind hearted person. If I ever need a lawyer in the future I would choose him for sure.
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07 Oct, 2024 by Lt
Four weeks and no calls after I paid. SCAM. SCAM. SCAM.
Give me my money back, Kevin Chyld.
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04 Aug, 2011 by Amalia
After the loss of my 19 yr old son, Christine was very careful to insure I knew what I was doing signing and wha tneeded to be done. Sh ekept me in the loop at al times. Was very open with me. Christine made sure I understood every step of the way.
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13 Jun, 2011 by Josie
Mrs. C. Larson and her able-bodied Receptionist Robin, worked very long and hard hours on this case. There were many documented items that needed to be followed through. The items that needed an accounting were taken care of in a timely manner so I was greatly appreciative that we did not waste.
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22 Oct, 2015 by J
If hiring an attorney can ever be described as a 'great experience', hiring Malcolm was just that. Previous dealing with attorneys have always left me with a bad feeling until using him. Highly recommend and very trustworthy (not something I usually associate with attorneys).
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22 May, 2010 by Hassan
I have known Malcolm for ten years. He represented me twice in civil and criminal cases. He is a great attorney devoted to help his clients to the highest professional and ethical standards. This attorney and his staff are very freindly and accessible.
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31 Jul, 2013 by Anonymous
My grandmother was being seriously mistreated at a nursing home outside of San Antonio and I was desperate for an answer. I was notified from a friend about an attorney who did work for his brother. Mr. McGill was very professional and understanding. He resolved my case within a year and ended a trying time in my life. Very thankful.
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22 Feb, 2022 by Rigoberto cortez
Every single person who answered the phone ever since my case started was super polite and professional. Not only did they handle everything dealing with my case , there was not an instance where I felt confused as to what was going on. Usibel was the one taking care of me and I highly recommend not only her but this attorney as a whole to anyone dealing with a car accident 🙏🏽 Thank you guys so much
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02 Jan, 2022 by Michelle steen
13 Dec, 2021 by Fahim idais
Attorney Steve Lee was recommended to me by a personal friend, and I am very glad I listened to him. Steve and Amanda gave 100% in working on my case; they communicated effectively, and made the stressful process as easy as possible with their professionalism, expertise, and friendliness. I highly recommend their services.
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22 Feb, 2022 by Rigoberto cortez
Every single person who answered the phone ever since my case started was super polite and professional. Not only did they handle everything dealing with my case , there was not an instance where I felt confused as to what was going on. Usibel was the one taking care of me and I highly recommend not only her but this attorney as a whole to anyone dealing with a car accident 🙏🏽 Thank you guys so much
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02 Jan, 2022 by Michelle steen
13 Dec, 2021 by Fahim idais
Attorney Steve Lee was recommended to me by a personal friend, and I am very glad I listened to him. Steve and Amanda gave 100% in working on my case; they communicated effectively, and made the stressful process as easy as possible with their professionalism, expertise, and friendliness. I highly recommend their services.
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22 Feb, 2022 by Rigoberto cortez
Every single person who answered the phone ever since my case started was super polite and professional. Not only did they handle everything dealing with my case , there was not an instance where I felt confused as to what was going on. Usibel was the one taking care of me and I highly recommend not only her but this attorney as a whole to anyone dealing with a car accident 🙏🏽 Thank you guys so much
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02 Jan, 2022 by Michelle steen
13 Dec, 2021 by Fahim idais
Attorney Steve Lee was recommended to me by a personal friend, and I am very glad I listened to him. Steve and Amanda gave 100% in working on my case; they communicated effectively, and made the stressful process as easy as possible with their professionalism, expertise, and friendliness. I highly recommend their services.
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28 Mar, 2024 by Chuck wilson
Attorney Dana Rieder recently completed my Last Will and Testament in a very professional and timely manner. I highly recommend her for all of your Estate Planning needs.
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07 Mar, 2024 by Ben rawson
We decided to work with Att Rieder to help tighten up our estate plan. She greatly exceeded our expectations! Not only did she find several areas we needed to update and modify, but she also made the plan more complete. She is extremely knowledgeable about the current laws and how they pertain to our situation. She, and her team, are responsive and pleasant with any questions and/or updates. We feel so much more at ease with the new plan in place and have confidence in Dana going forward. We are so pleased with our decision to work with Dana and her team!
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12 Dec, 2023 by Arthur o'meara
Atty Rieder is simply outstanding. I contacted her with a last-minute request (a bit of an emergency) and she rose to the occasion and got everything done on time and on budget. Then, she met with me and my wife and explained everything. The best part? One year later I get prompts for an annual review to ensure everything is in order to to check if anything has changed. Bottom line: we're not alone on our journey through life because Dana is with us.
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10 Jun, 2020 by Hermilo gamez
👍👍👍👍
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30 Jun, 2019 by Andrea renee
10 Jun, 2020 by Hermilo gamez
👍👍👍👍
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30 Jun, 2019 by Andrea renee
23 Jan, 2025 by Tim morris
29 Oct, 2024 by Ismael cantu
I reached out to this firm for representation...what a outstanding group of professionals. Responded immediately, professionally, caring and with a purpose. What a great group of people.
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23 Aug, 2024 by Brad king
Terry was organized, thorough, compassionate, and an amazing advocate for my late grandparents and mother. She had a plan for every hurdle that popped up and streamlined the process moving forward. I recommend The Garrett Law Firm for end of life and estate planning. I’ll be using the firm to arrange my own affairs.
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18 Dec, 2024 by Cindy whitesides
Julia and her team are so helpful in making sure my family is protected!
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16 Dec, 2024 by Debbie dunnam
Julia and her team are the finest and most professional legal team in Austin. We’ve worked with them for 20 years and highly recommend them.
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19 Nov, 2024 by Candice sullivan
I've been working with Julia for 15+ years and she has taken care of everything from a per-marital agreement, to post-marital agreement and amendments, my family trust and amendments and my sons trust, and as my family grows there will be more legal protection needed in the future. Julia and her team are easy to work with and offer excellent advice and understand the legal complexities of trust work. I highly recommend Nickerson Law Group for all of your trust work.
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21 Feb, 2025 by Tony vasquez
From getting information incorrect on court documents, to being late to my remediation, this firm has not only dropped the ball on numerous occasions, but they market themselves as "top tier" legal firm and charge higher rates than competitors.
They have billed me when I wasn't able to contact their billing person and had to ask her to contact me (unethical tactics), and yes they have corrected it when I brought it to their attention, but the fact that they thought it was fair to charge for it in the first place, is eye opening.
They (Hembree Firm) have failed to send me important court documents that were essential to my defense, and at times, the paralegal completely forgot to pass important notes to my main lawyer. When I brought this to the attention of my lawyer, she said that I should take notes and forward them to her after speaking with the paralegal. So, with this firm, you have to double check what they do and help them connect the dots?
After my divorce was "finalized", my ex sent Hembree Law a child support check for me, and in return, I received a bill from Hembree Law in excess of another $200.00 for filing the check and another employee (names of Hembree employees charging fees are not people I have met or have knowledge of), racked time on the clock "discussing" my child support check with another paralegal. They are taking unnecessary / unrequested actions only to create extra charges.
I have been documenting their mistakes, and inappropriate charges to create a public social media post. When you hire an attorney, especially when your kids, house, and financials are on the line, it is fair expectation to want a firm that will be organized, punctual, ethical, and bill appropriately. I would not recommend Hembree Law Firm.
Allyson Swanson seems to have a great reputation, but when you sign Hembree as your representative, you are then passed on to an assigned lawyer or paralegal, and the experience is not pleasant. The outstanding reviews for Allyson, if you take a close look, are only for her volunteer work at schools etc.
Imagine showing up for your expensive mediation meeting with your lawyer and mediator, the clock strikes 9am, the room TV is on and the mediator is about to go live , and on billable hours, and your lawyer is not even present. (I have photos of me sitting at Hembree Law conference room at my scheduled mediation time, and my lawyer, Kathleen Brown, was not present).
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14 Feb, 2025 by T mac
Outstanding job on my behalf by Kathleen Brown, Jim Wilson and Amanda Mangrum. I faced a very aggressive, uncooperative, litigious opposition in my case. Kathleen stood strong against their attempts of intimidation and provided a sound, calm, professional strategic plan for getting the best outcome. She asked me to let her handle it which I did. She is an excellent advocate for men. Jim helped me navigate the early stages and gave crucial advice at key moments. They all gave good input on the law and a clear view of what the outcome could be. That allowed me to make good decisions throughout the process. By knowing the system they focused on what matters and what was realistic. They were disciplined and helped me not fall prey to distraction. Strong in court. Prepared and agile during the hearing. In the end, we won an outcome that was very much in my favor. They are winners and I appreciate them. Thank you.
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01 Dec, 2024 by Ting ting
The legal assistants at Hembree Bell Law are incredible—always caring, attentive, and focused on making clients feel supported. They handle every case with professionalism and compassion, ensuring a smooth and reassuring process. If you’re facing a divorce, this is the team you can rely on to guide you through with expertise and heart!
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24 Nov, 2024 by Mike kimo pfeifle
Called me back immediately. Resolved my traffic case and had it dismissed. Was at my side the whole way. Will use her for my estate planning also.
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07 Nov, 2024 by Javi b
Really appreciate the work that David and team put into my case. Being my first offense, I was completely scared of all the unknown. But both David and Karina took the time to ensure me that they had my best interests at heart throughout the entire process. Time, attention, and detail provided by this team is 100+.
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04 Nov, 2024 by Iván díaz
Excelente servicio de chamber,dan seguimiento paso a paso en tu caso,te explican a detalle el proceso de tu caso,disponibilidad de su tiempo y muy amables
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16 Jan, 2025 by Jasmine garza (yasmina808)
06 Dec, 2024 by Jackie bryant
13 Nov, 2024 by Kai boy
Literally are horrible people unless you pay them an arm and leg then they’ll just take half to the prosecutor to get the case thrown. Other than that if you or anyone you know loved ones, friends, family etc. They are in for it!! PREPARE to be treated as if you wanting to know what’s going on with your case is annoying them… they will not return calls or emails! The receptionist has the attitude of a 17 year old taking orders at McDonald’s! IN OTHER WORDS IF YOU ARE APPOINTED TO THEM RUN NOT WALK TO THE JUDGE FOR A NEW LAWYER THEY WILL 1000 PERCENT SELL YOU OUT AND DRAG YIUR CASE OUT FOR MONTHS ON END !!!!
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15 May, 2024 by Reesa thorne
Absolutely great experience working with Meredith and Rachel on our eldercare family needs. Meredith is so knowledgeable about all things ElderCare and Medicaid, and her calm and supportive demeanor was just what we needed. Not sure how we would have
navigated thru our needs without them. Grateful 🙏🏻
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13 Oct, 2022 by Anonymous
My consultation with Ms Sullivan was truly horrible. She was the most unprofessional attorney I have ever encountered. She showed no capability of listening to all parties involved with impartiality and objectivity and became stunningly rude and aggressive during the course of the meeting. I would absolutely never hire her for representation in any legal matter.
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04 Aug, 2022 by Joan gillcrist
Good people. Knowledgeable and thorough
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FAQs
Questions? We have answers
What an Elder Law Lawyer Can Do for You
An elder law lawyer specializes in legal issues that affect older adults, their families, and caregivers. These lawyers handle a broad range of topics, including estate planning, Medicaid and Medicare, long-term care planning, guardianship, elder abuse, and retirement planning. The goal of an elder law lawyer is to protect the rights, finances, and well-being of elderly individuals and to help them plan for future healthcare and financial security.
If you or a loved one is aging and facing challenges related to healthcare, finances, or legal matters, an elder law lawyer can provide essential guidance to protect your rights and interests as you age.
When Should I Hire an Elder Law Lawyer?
Hiring an elder law lawyer can be beneficial in many situations where older adults need help with legal, financial, or healthcare-related decisions. Common reasons to hire an elder law lawyer include:
- Estate planning: If you want to create or update a will, set up trusts, or ensure that your assets are distributed according to your wishes, an elder law lawyer can help with comprehensive estate planning.
- Medicaid and Medicare planning: If you need help qualifying for Medicaid to cover long-term care or need advice on navigating Medicare benefits, a lawyer can guide you through the application process and protect your assets.
- Long-term care planning: If you’re concerned about paying for nursing home care or assisted living, a lawyer can help you create a financial plan and explore options for government assistance.
- Guardianship or conservatorship: If a family member is unable to make decisions due to age-related cognitive issues, an elder law lawyer can assist in setting up legal guardianship or conservatorship to ensure their care.
- Elder abuse and exploitation: If you or a loved one is experiencing physical, emotional, or financial abuse, an elder law lawyer can help you take legal action to stop the abuse and recover damages.
- Retirement planning: Elder law lawyers can assist with planning for retirement, including managing pensions, Social Security, and other retirement income.
- Special needs planning: If you have a disabled family member who requires special care, an elder law lawyer can help create trusts or other legal arrangements to ensure their long-term financial and healthcare needs are met.
What Does an Elder Law Lawyer Do?
An elder law lawyer provides a wide range of legal services to help older adults and their families navigate the complexities of aging, healthcare, and estate planning. Their responsibilities often include:
- Drafting wills and trusts: Creating legal documents that outline how an individual’s assets will be distributed after death, ensuring that their wishes are honored.
- Medicaid and Medicare planning: Helping clients protect their assets while qualifying for government benefits to cover healthcare and long-term care costs.
- Establishing guardianships: Assisting families in setting up guardianship or conservatorship for loved ones who are unable to make decisions due to mental or physical incapacity.
- Protecting against elder abuse: Investigating claims of elder abuse or financial exploitation and representing the victim in legal actions to stop the abuse and seek compensation.
- Planning for long-term care: Developing strategies to cover the costs of nursing homes, assisted living, and other long-term care options without exhausting the elder’s financial resources.
- Managing probate and estate administration: Guiding families through the probate process to ensure that the decedent’s assets are distributed according to the law and their wishes.
- Setting up advance directives: Helping clients establish healthcare directives and powers of attorney to ensure their medical and financial decisions are carried out if they become incapacitated.
How Are Elder Law Lawyers Paid?
Elder law lawyers typically charge for their services based on the complexity of the case and the type of legal work involved. Common payment structures include:
- Hourly rate: Many elder law lawyers charge by the hour, especially for tasks such as drafting documents, handling legal disputes, or providing ongoing legal advice. Hourly rates typically range from $150 to $500 or more, depending on the lawyer’s experience and location.
- Flat fee: For specific tasks, such as drafting a will or setting up a trust, some lawyers charge a flat fee. This can range from $500 to $5,000 or more, depending on the complexity of the estate plan.
- Retainer: For long-term legal representation, such as managing a trust or handling guardianship matters, a lawyer may charge a retainer, which is an upfront payment that covers future legal work.
- Contingency fee: In some elder abuse or financial exploitation cases, a lawyer may work on a contingency fee basis, meaning they only get paid if they recover compensation for the client. This fee is typically a percentage of the settlement or damages awarded.
Be sure to discuss fees with your lawyer during the initial consultation to understand how you will be billed and what the total cost of services might be.
How Much Does an Elder Law Lawyer Cost?
The cost of hiring an elder law lawyer varies depending on the complexity of the case, the lawyer’s experience, and the fee structure. General cost estimates include:
- Simple estate planning: Drafting basic documents, such as a will or power of attorney, may cost between $500 and $2,000, depending on the complexity of the client’s assets and wishes.
- Complex estate planning: Setting up more advanced estate plans, such as revocable or irrevocable trusts, Medicaid planning, or special needs trusts, can range from $2,000 to $10,000 or more.
- Guardianship or conservatorship: Legal fees for setting up guardianship or conservatorship often range from $2,000 to $5,000 or more, depending on the complexity of the case and whether disputes arise.
- Medicaid planning: Legal fees for Medicaid planning can range from $1,500 to $10,000, depending on the level of asset protection needed and the complexity of the individual’s financial situation.
Always ask for an estimate of fees during your initial consultation to ensure you understand how much the legal services will cost.
Top Questions to Ask an Elder Law Lawyer
Before hiring an elder law lawyer, it’s important to ask the right questions to ensure they have the experience and expertise needed to handle your case. Key questions to ask include:
-
What experience do you have with elder law cases?
Make sure the lawyer has experience handling cases similar to yours, whether it's estate planning, Medicaid applications, or elder abuse claims. -
How do you charge for your services?
Clarify whether the lawyer charges by the hour, a flat fee, or a retainer, and ask for a detailed estimate of the total cost. -
What is the best approach for my case?
Ask for an honest assessment of your situation and what legal strategies the lawyer recommends. -
How long will the process take?
Whether it’s drafting an estate plan or setting up a guardianship, ask the lawyer how long they expect the process to take. -
Will you handle my case personally?
In larger firms, junior attorneys or paralegals may handle parts of the case. Make sure you know who will be working on your case directly. -
What documents should I bring to the consultation?
Ask the lawyer what documentation or information you should prepare for your consultation, such as medical records, financial statements, or prior legal documents.
How to Check the Credibility of an Elder Law Lawyer
To ensure you are hiring a reputable elder law lawyer, follow these steps to verify their credentials and experience:
- Check their bar status: Verify with your state bar association that the lawyer is licensed to practice and has no history of disciplinary actions.
- Look for elder law experience: Review the lawyer’s website or professional profile to ensure they specialize in elder law and have experience with cases similar to yours.
- Read client reviews and testimonials: Look for client reviews on platforms like Avvo, Martindale-Hubbell, or Google to see what previous clients have said about the lawyer’s professionalism and success rate.
- Ask for references: A credible lawyer should be able to provide references from past clients who have worked with them on elder law issues.
- Check for certifications: Look for certifications or affiliations with organizations such as the National Academy of Elder Law Attorneys (NAELA), which can indicate the lawyer’s dedication to elder law.
What Should I Prepare for My First Consultation?
To get the most out of your first consultation with an elder law lawyer, it’s important to come prepared with relevant documents and information. Here’s what you should bring:
- Existing estate planning documents: If you have a will, trust, or power of attorney in place, bring copies for the lawyer to review.
- Financial records: Provide details of your assets, including bank accounts, investments, real estate, and retirement accounts, as well as any debts.
- Medical information: If the case involves guardianship or Medicaid planning, bring relevant medical records that detail the individual's health condition and care needs.
- Insurance policies: Bring information about health insurance, long-term care insurance, and any other relevant policies.
- Questions for the lawyer: Write down any questions you have about your legal needs, the process, and the lawyer’s fees.
- List of family members or beneficiaries: Prepare a list of the individuals you want to include in your estate plan or who will be affected by the legal process.
By preparing thoroughly for your consultation, you can help the lawyer assess your situation more effectively and receive the best legal advice tailored to your needs.
