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Joy Spence, experienced Elder Law, Estate Planning attorney in Fort Lauderdale, FL with 375 reviews
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43,75
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4.9/5
Avvo
5.0
2 Reviews
Google Maps
4.9
373 Reviews
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14 Feb, 2025 by Mario raymond
Very Good expérience and professional
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04 Jan, 2025 by Jac davie
Rick and his staff! Great result!!
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03 Jan, 2025 by Phil mcmican
Tried to use this Title company (hidden within this law firm) for a closing. Would not recommend to anyone.
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Danielle R Stief, experienced Elder Law attorney in Fort Lauderdale, FL with 261 reviews
Average
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
39,27
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5.0/5
Google Maps
5.0
261 Reviews
star star star star star
26 Jan, 2025 by Marta nessl
"Exceptional Legal Representation for My Insurance Claim." I am incredibly grateful for the outstanding legal representation I received. I was facing insurance claim that was initially denied, leaving me feeling lost and overwhelmed. The attorney was incredibly responsive and compassionate throughout the entire process. They patiently explained the situation and answered all my questions. In the end, the attorney went above and beyond to make sure I received the check. I highly recommend this firm to anyone facing an insurance claim.
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17 Jan, 2025 by Moped 4400
My experience with using Jose as my Probate attorney was fantastic! He was always upfront about the process and expectations- everything went smoothly as you can expect and quickly- please reach out to Jose as you will not be disappointed.
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11 Jan, 2025 by Janice brooks
My family and I needed a probate attorney. We needed to settle my mother’s estate after she passed away. I looked for a probate attorney and they never got back with me after leaving several messages and I had to keep calling. When I did received a call back they did not explain the process just told me what their fee was and I had to pay it upfront. Needless to say I seek help from someone else. I called Mr. Lorenzo on a Saturday afternoon and he answered and explained the process of what to be expected. He sounded very knowledgeable and also caring. I felt so relieved after speaking to him and I knew I had found the right attorney. Mr. Lorenzo was there for my family and I through a difficult time and case. Mr. Lorenzo showed us empathy and trust which are two important factors to me.Through out the process he kept us informed of every detailed of the case. I’m so glad we did not stay with the other attorney. We made the right choice. I would highly recommend Mr. Lorenzo to others who are looking for a caring and trustworthy attorney who is knowledgeable of the law. Thank you Mr. Lorenzo. My family and I are very grateful to you.
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Regina W Drennan, experienced Elder Law, Estate Planning attorney in Fort Lauderdale, FL with 8 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
39,25
star star star star star
5.0/5
Avvo
5.0
8 Reviews
star star star star star
19 Jul, 2022 by Nancy
Ms. Regina Drennan guided us through the seamless sale of our parent's home. This was completely new to us having lost both parents within three years, but she consulted and provided us with the best options. Of course we had questions, but Ms. Drennan answered each one promptly and professionally. We would recommend Ms. Drennan to anyone needing guidance through the probate process. She was awesome and far exceeded our expectations. We will be seeking her advice for future concerns as well.
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26 Dec, 2021 by Liane
When my ex- husband (my son’s father) passed away, I had no idea what to do. Since our son was a minor, I had to step in and Regina was there every step of the way - helping to set up his court-ordered guardian account, his annual reporting, and eventually, the final legal steps when he turned eighteen. I don’t know what I would have done without her! She helped me with my will as well, and I turn to her when I need legal guidance. She knows her stuff!
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16 Dec, 2021 by The martinez family
Attorney Regina was outstanding! After long hours of tumultuous web searching, she offered an entire reasonable service package for our dire circumstances. The moment we spoke with her, she exceeded beyond our expectations without no hesitations or complaints and thoroughly explained the best course of action. With time being of the essence, she executed a vast task of necessary legal objectives with her exceptional Team. She diligently served as a conduit advocate and instantly removed the weight off our shoulders. Regina is compassionate, patient, highly knowledgeable and a well-rounded professional readily available, and listened to our unsettling concerns. She never disappointed us and always kept us timely abreast and transparent all the way throughout this rigorous process. We highly recommend her as a well experienced top asset in the legal profession.
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John Robert Clarke, experienced Car Accident, Elder Law attorney in Fort Lauderdale, FL with 4 reviews
Average
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
39,12
star star star star star
5.0/5
Avvo
5.0
4 Reviews
star star star star star
23 Nov, 2022 by Cynthia
I was referred to John Clarke after contacting five or six other lawyers that did not want to bother with my case; I got the impression that they didn't think it was worth it for them. When I first spoke with John, he actually listened! And then he asked me pertinent questions. Throughout our interactions, he called to keep me up to date and if I called him, he got back to me by end of business day. He made us feel as if our case was the most important one he had, which I know it wasn't. John is the ultimate professional and it would be hard to find anyone better, in so many ways. From diligence and responsiveness to patience and understanding, he has all the traits needed to guide you through any negotiations/agreements or trial. I highly recommend John Clarke to represent you!
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11 May, 2017 by Mark
Mr. Clarke is tough and smart! After my house was sold at a foreclosure auction, the bank sued me for a deficiency of $150K. He analyzed the case carefully and found that the servicer, which had acquired the loan from the original lender, hadn't filed the correct documents to prove standing. As a result the court dismissed the case. I only wish I had hired him before they took my house!
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09 May, 2017 by Anonymous
A friend recommended we speak to Mr. Clarke after my husband and I were injured in an accident. We weren't sure how to proceed. Mr. Clarke took 90 minutes to get all the details of our case, and clearly explain what remedies we could realistically seek. He also explained how are damages would be assessed, and the pros and cons of settling the case prior to suit. We were very impressed by his professionalism, knowledge and dedication to his clients.
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Jeffrey S Bunin, experienced Elder Law, Litigation attorney in Fort Lauderdale, FL with 4 reviews
Average
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
39,12
star star star star star
5.0/5
Avvo
5.0
4 Reviews
star star star star star
22 Aug, 2018 by Richard
My sisters and I hired Mr. Bunin to get a squatter out my father's residence so we could finish the probate and sell the home. Mr. Bunin did an amazing job for us. He always kept us informed, and was always honest with us even if it hurt. He promptly returned phone calls and responded to e-mails. His style was to get to the point quickly, and not waste time. Within just a few short months, we were able to get the matter resolved and got the squatter out of the house. We had to pay the squatter a little money in order to get him out, but we were okay with that because it would have cost us a lot more if we had to go to trial. I would definitely recommend Mr. Bunin for any legal matter.
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18 Apr, 2012 by Anonymous
Mr. Bunin has done an amazing job for me in my case. He always keeps me informed and is a tireless advocate for his client. You should consider yourself lucky if Mr. Bunin decides to take your case!
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11 Aug, 2010 by William
Jeffrey was very knowledgable and helpful. He handled my case with the highest level of professionalism. He answered all my questions and didn't pretend to know everything. If he didn't know the answer, he went out of his way to find it. I would definitely use his services again.
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Odelia Goldberg, experienced Elder Law, Estate Planning attorney in Fort Lauderdale, FL with 3 reviews
Average
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
39,09
star star star star star
5.0/5
Avvo
5.0
3 Reviews
star star star star star
13 Feb, 2024 by Jim m
Mrs. Goldberg was the most knowledgeable person in my issue. I had a problem with another attorney trying to collect a life insurance policy from a friend who had passed. I was told by my previous attorney it would take about 3 months or so to get it resolved. For unknown reasons my previous attorney let it drag out 18 months for a simple issue. I contacted and hired Mrs. Goldberg and she got everything resolved in 5 weeks. I just received the life insurance check today. She is the best. Answers all my questions. I'm so happy...thank you all!!!!! Odelia Goldberg my hero.
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28 Nov, 2023 by Janet
We met with Ms. Odelia to go through, review & determine the necessary paperwork needed to put in place so that our children will have an easy time when the time comes that they need to act on our behalf and for when we pass. We had additional questions as one child lives in a different state and is affected by different rules. We have other unique situations that Odelia is also working on to help us with. She was kind, understanding, thorough, calming, patient, and gave us the tools and information so we can make the best decisions for our family. She provided us with information and guided us. What is also truly special is that the employees that we met or communicated with Shira, Rachele and the girl who met us when we arrived were truly welcoming and pleasant; the office feels like family. I definitly recommend the office of Odelia Goldberg.
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12 Oct, 2023 by Tony
I needed help for my mother's Power of Attorney, Living Will, and Last Will. Odelia was kind, professional, fast, efficient, and priced extremely reasonably. I have no regrets using her services.
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Nina Zuckerman Chepp, experienced Elder Law, Estate Planning attorney in Fort Lauderdale, FL with 2 reviews
Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
39,06
star star star star star
5.0/5
Avvo
5.0
2 Reviews
star star star star star
09 Feb, 2016 by David
I live in Pennsylvania....and (subsequent to a recommendation) I met/consulted in person with Attorney Nina Chepp one time. All other estate work was done via email, US mail, and fax. Nina and assistant Alida Bustos clearly advised and processed the considerable paper work involved. 5 Star recommendation for their competence, efficiency, and pleasantness.
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08 Dec, 2011 by Bob
I hired Ms. Chepp about six years ago. She is outstanding in her knowledge of the law. Ms. Chepp is a true professional in her field of elder law and guardianships. I reside in the state of Pennsyvania and she helped me with many questions and problems that had to do with my guardianship of a relative. I am fortunate to have Ms. Chepp as my attorney.
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Sophia Antoinette Lopez, experienced Elder Law, Estate Planning attorney in Fort Lauderdale, FL with 1 reviews
Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
39,03
star star star star star
5.0/5
Avvo
5.0
1 Reviews
star star star star star
13 Oct, 2013 by Ls
Sophia Lopez handled the estate and probate issues for our family. She was thorough with all the legal and tax prep paperwork, kept all of her promised appointments, and was more than fair in billing at the end.
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Phillip R. Semenick, experienced Criminal Defense, Elder Law attorney in Fort Lauderdale, FL with 1 reviews
Average
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
39,03
star star star star star
5.0/5
Avvo
5.0
1 Reviews
star star star star star
15 May, 2010 by Anonymous
Mr. Semenick represented me more than once. Each time his knowledge of the court system and the law impressed me. He's the attorney you want sitting beside you in court. I'd hire no other attorney to represent me or my family. Mr. Semenick's tenacity is evident in his ability to win his client's case. There was a time in our situation when we were faced with confusing consequences. Mr. Semenick repeated the details to us until we understood, he was never impatient, he communicated with us on a level we understood. His calm, knowledgeable, very professional manner gave us the feeling of security we needed. Unfortunately this site doesn't allow for the availability of a higher rating score. Excellent/10 is what Mr. Semenick deserves and would get from me and my family.
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Allison Muney, experienced Business, Elder Law attorney in Fort Lauderdale, FL with 114 reviews
Average
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
31,37
star star star star star
4.7/5
Google Maps
4.7
114 Reviews
star star star star star
18 Feb, 2025 by Stephanie kust
This firm is a nightmare. Can’t never get a hold of anyone and when you do and make an appointment no one calls. 5 years later no resolution and I had to pay out of pocket for my roof. Makes empty promises and can’t ANSWER the phone. I reached out via personal number and was cussed out by Monique low. Couldn’t get a hold of you any other way…..I tried for months and months and months. Take you business elsewhere unless u wanna be waiting around for 5 years. Also note that stopped responding to bad reviews 4 years ago, because THEY DONT CARE!
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03 Mar, 2023 by B giordano
Google Maps
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01 Mar, 2023 by Danielledraws
From day one our case has been butchered. Our attorneys have overlooked MAJOR details in our case, we ended up signing settlement papers (SIX MONTHS AGO) and agreed to a fraction of our out of pocket expenses. Where is the check? Who knows! I am not getting anywhere with these lawyers. They don’t seem to care that we never got our settlement. Stay far away.
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Christine Paige Yates, experienced Elder Law, Estate Planning attorney in Fort Lauderdale, FL with 125 reviews
Below Average
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
27,48
star star star star star
4.6/5
Google Maps
4.6
125 Reviews
star star star star star
15 Jan, 2025 by Renee schneider
I would leave zero stars if I could. Empire came highly recommended from another law firm. Worst referral we have ever received. The Court Reporter showed up late for the zoom deposition and left her audio on the entire time with the tv playing in the background. We scheduled a 2 hour deposition for 4pm and Empire charge us almost double the hourly rate for after hour charges without letting us know there would be an additional fee. They corrected the invoice and when we paid it charged us the original amount of the invoice. I call and get disconnected or voicemail on a regular basis. This company has been very unprofessional and rude. I would recommend another court reporting service for your needs.
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09 Oct, 2024 by Jonathan betancourt
Great service all time, trustworthy.
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02 Oct, 2024 by Allison leonard
Although the circumstances that brought me to Davis and Associates were not the best, the lawyers in this office were the best to handle my situation. They handled my case with professionalism and grace. No questions were left unanswered, and I was updated through every step of the way.
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Alexander Ostrovsky, experienced Elder Law, Litigation attorney in Fort Lauderdale, FL with 15 reviews
Below Average
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
18,08
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3.4/5
Google Maps
3.4
15 Reviews
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27 Jan, 2025 by Laura sharratt
Google Maps
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17 Jan, 2025 by Argenis peralta
These guys are scammers. STAY AWAY. Will say that you owe tax money to the government and give you no proof of anything of the sort. After you've finished your business with them they'll send you an email years later saying you still owe money and then will send you an invoice for over 1.2K for sending you an update about work they never did. Then when you try to call to resolve the matter, they won't pick up the phone. DO NOT DO BUSINESS WITH THESE PEOPLE.
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15 Oct, 2024 by Joel sansone
Excellent service and very helpful while navigating the legal process.
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Rhoda Janet Nelson, experienced Child Support, Elder Law attorney in Fort Lauderdale, FL with 0 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
4,00
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0.0/5
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Andrew Hunter, experienced Elder Law, Immigration attorney in Fort Lauderdale, FL with 0 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
0,00
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0.0/5
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Matthew F Herman, experienced Appeals, Business attorney in Fort Lauderdale, FL with 0 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
0,00
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0.0/5
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George H. Aslanian Jr., experienced Elder Law, Estate Planning attorney in Fort Lauderdale, FL with 0 reviews
Below Average
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
0,00
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0.0/5
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Lawrence William Livoti, experienced Criminal Defense, Elder Law attorney in Fort Lauderdale, FL with 0 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
0,00
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0.0/5
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Philip M. Cullen III, experienced Business, Civil Rights attorney in Fort Lauderdale, FL with 0 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
0,00
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0.0/5
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Theodore David D'Apuzzo, experienced Appeals, Business attorney in Fort Lauderdale, FL with 0 reviews
Below Average
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
0,00
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John Gibbons Jordan, experienced Elder Law, Estate Planning attorney in Fort Lauderdale, FL with 0 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
0,00
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Cheryl J. Handley, experienced Business, Elder Law attorney in Fort Lauderdale, FL with 0 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
0,00
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0.0/5
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Angela Dawson, experienced Elder Law attorney in Fort Lauderdale, FL with 0 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
0,00
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0.0/5
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Maria Malkoon Cammarata, experienced Elder Law, Mediation attorney in Fort Lauderdale, FL with 0 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
0,00
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Leon J McCombs II, experienced Elder Law, Estate Planning attorney in Fort Lauderdale, FL with 0 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
0,00
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0.0/5
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Kenneth Edelman, experienced Business, Elder Law attorney in Fort Lauderdale, FL with 0 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
0,00
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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:

  1. 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.
  2. 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.
  3. What is the best approach for my case?
    Ask for an honest assessment of your situation and what legal strategies the lawyer recommends.
  4. 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.
  5. 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.
  6. 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.

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