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11 Oct, 2024 by Landon knight
I reached out to Rosen law firm, knowing Peter. He told me amazing things about Jeremy and his success. I had been through a personal injury case before and wanted to make sure I picked a reputable attorney to take care of this spine injury. Overall, I was extremely happy with the service I received from Rosen law firm. I do have to comment on the case manager, Gabby. Someone’s been through this before I know how this works. Gabby was absolutely horrifying to work with she was consistently rude and the worst to work with. She refused to provide me with the information that I requested. Over all I would highly recommend Jeremy and Peter for your personal injury needs, but ask that you do not have Gabby as your case manager
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07 Oct, 2024 by Robert mier
My experience with Rosen Law group was outstanding. Unfortunately, I was in an accident. They got my car immediately, got total loss wages to me very fast. I was sent for mri, got injections and chiropractic therapy. As soon as I recovered, got me max payout. I highly recommend this Law group. I am grateful to the attorney and entire staff that helped and guided me through all of this. Thank you Jeremy! I really appreciate everything.
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07 Oct, 2024 by Owen foster
I was recommended by someone who had used this firm before. I was treated with much respect. I never had to worry about the case because Ms.Gabby was always on top of things. I would definitely recommend this firm to family and friends. Thanks for all your hard work.
OF
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01 Nov, 2018 by Tracy
Sidney came as a referral from a local gentleman of many properties that is very detail-oriented and picky as all get-out. Felt I was in good hands from the beginning. My estate matters were fairly straight-forward, my partner's matter were more complicated. Sidney did a great job with both! He is totally capable, extremely knowledgeable, VERY clear and easy to understand, kind, warm, friendly and an overall joy to work with. Sidney made me actually look forward to getting my will done! And who in matters of the modern world can make you say that? Much thanks, Sidney!
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29 Oct, 2018 by Bernie
Mr. Braquet created a will, power of attorney and medical power of attorney for my wife and I
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10 Nov, 2017 by Gary
Sidney prepared an updated Last Will and Testament for me and for my spouse. He visited with us in our home in Liberty Hill to review a previous will and note the additions and changes we wanted to make. A short time later, we met with Sidney in his Houston office where the documents were approved, signed and witnessed. We appreciate Sidney’s willingness — and patience — to answer any questions and clarify terms, etc. We both were impressed with his organized presentation along with his relaxed but professional approach to a subject that is often difficult to address! We are very pleased with our experience.
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11 Aug, 2024 by Luis flores
Amazing. Pete is the best lawyer and Jennifer is the best paralegal. They both listened to me and heard my case. They cared and went above and beyond. Highly recommend!
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05 Jun, 2023 by Di rogers
Pete and his staff have been extremely helpful throughout my litigation process and addressed my questions and concerns along the way, promptly! His legal representation confirmed my faith in the justice system. I highly recommend and will work with this law office again. Thank you Pete Patterson!
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31 Dec, 2020 by Cassie norman (50 shades)
11 Aug, 2024 by Luis flores
Amazing. Pete is the best lawyer and Jennifer is the best paralegal. They both listened to me and heard my case. They cared and went above and beyond. Highly recommend!
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05 Jun, 2023 by Di rogers
Pete and his staff have been extremely helpful throughout my litigation process and addressed my questions and concerns along the way, promptly! His legal representation confirmed my faith in the justice system. I highly recommend and will work with this law office again. Thank you Pete Patterson!
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31 Dec, 2020 by Cassie norman (50 shades)
13 Aug, 2019 by Rodney
Nick handled my late wife's estate a few years back, and today helped me through an estate matter regarding my daughter (an estate beneficiary), both with clarity and understanding.
I would highly recommend him for any legal matters you might have.
Dr. Rod Sparks
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09 May, 2018 by Karen
Nick Abaza has kept me inform of what been going on with my fathers estate. He has been returning my calls and emails he has alsohas went out of his way to try and get loan on my part of the estate.Hes fair and understanding. I would use him a again for what i needed no one can go wrong with him....... Thank you Nick Abaza.yours truely Karen
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07 Mar, 2018 by Anonymous
He took things in a timely manner and did what he said he would do. I would use him again.
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21 Aug, 2020 by Leslie
Mrs. Bacarisse recently helped my husband and me with our estate planning. We had dreaded doing it because we thought it would be a tedious and difficult process. Jana Fay made the whole experience as painless and easy as possible. She was very patient in explaining all of the intricacies to us and always responded promptly to all of our questions. She cares about her clients, and that is reflected in the quality of her work. We feel so relieved to have all of our estate planning completed and would hightly recommend Jana Fay to help you through this process.
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19 May, 2017 by Lisa
Jana Fay is a fantastic attorney for your estate! She helped me during a very difficult time when my Aunt passed away and I was left with a lot to deal with. I hired Jana Fay after another attorney failed me and she picked up the pieces and had my back in so many situations. Even though I am not in the same city with her, I plan on having her handle all my estate planning. She is trustworthy and knowledgeable. She can be stern if need be, but very professional in all her dealings with people. Even after months of trying to gain a pension for my dad, she did not let the matter drop and managed to successfully make this happen for him. I absolutely receommend Jana Fay for all your estate planning needs.
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12 Nov, 2016 by Gunnar
I am so glad that I was referred to Jana Fay for help in probating the estate of my deceased father. Living in another state, I wanted to work with someone who was capable of managing the entire process, limiting my need to travel to appear in court. Not only did Jana Fay take care of everything, she far exceeded my expectations on timing. Many people warned me the process might take well over a year. Even with some complicated elements, Jana Fay was able to move our case forward to completion less than 6 months. And I never had to show up in court. That saved me time, money and frustration. I would highly recommend Jana Fay.
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19 Jun, 2024 by Sir john
04 May, 2024 by Alejandra robles
Súper surtido 🥰
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01 May, 2023 by Desiree yazell
Amazing lawyers they truly make you feel like family
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19 Jun, 2024 by Sir john
04 May, 2024 by Alejandra robles
Súper surtido 🥰
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01 May, 2023 by Desiree yazell
Amazing lawyers they truly make you feel like family
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06 Jun, 2023 by Ken
I went to Jason with property/financial issues involving my aging sister with Alzheimer's. Jason provided many different options to assist me with her property, finances, Will, POA, etc. His knowledge and ability to explain in layman's terms is superb. He was always so patient, kind, helpful, and took the time to explain everything. After completing many documents for my sister, my wife and I returned to Jason for Wills, POA, Medical Directives, etc. for us and again were more than pleased and thankful for his service.
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28 Aug, 2019 by Gloria jeffers
Jason Hannah handled a lawsuit that my siblings brought against my mother trying to take away her half of my parents businesses from her. He handle her with kit gloves. I was her power of attorney. The firm that he was with at that time never sent us copies of the briefs that were turned into the court that they would file representing my mother. Almost 2 years later I finally got copies. I was so impressed with the way he handled the lawsuit brought against my mother, I was left speechless. As you can imagine, they did not win. My mother subsequently died, and everything remained As she wanted it to be. But this was only thanks to Mr. Hannah.
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07 Oct, 2018 by Cynthia
I hired Jason Hanna when a dishonest contractor cheated me out of a sizable amount of money. Mr. Hanna was extremely approachable, attentive, knowledgeable, and HONEST. The amount of relief I felt knowing that he was handling everything for me was measurable. He made all the stress and pressure I was feeling vanish. I can’t thank him enough for turning a very bad experience into a very good one, and in a timely manner at that! I am thrilled with the outcome and give Mr. Hanna my highest recommendation.
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19 Jun, 2024 by Sir john
04 May, 2024 by Alejandra robles
Súper surtido 🥰
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01 May, 2023 by Desiree yazell
Amazing lawyers they truly make you feel like family
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16 Sep, 2022 by C. chapin
We put off estate planning for too long – for various reasons, including “we don’t have enough assets”, “it’s uncomfortable to talk about”, “our blended family is too complicated”. Working with McCreary Law Office helped us move forward with confidence. Jana McCreary is organized, thoughtful and attentive. She listened to our concerns and explained how a solid estate plan, including powers of attorneys, medical directives, and other components can protect our wishes, assets, and legacy. I know her thoroughness caught things we would have never even thought of and will protect our heirs when the time comes. It was a pleasure working with her and is a great feeling to know this is taken care of. I highly recommend McCreary Law Office.
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18 Nov, 2018 by Mary margaret
I highly recommend McCreary Law Office. Jana McCreary’s professionalism, organization, and overall demeanor, made the process of making my end of life plans, including the distribution of my assets, a straightforward and empowering experience. Jana’s work is thorough and thoughtful. She answered all my questions, helped me navigate through different scenarios, and explained different outcomes under the law. Jana listens and then provides guidance, as any good legal counsel should. I am confident that whenever it is time for me to depart this earth, the process of distributing my estate will be clear, easy, and straight forward, all because of Jana and the excellent work of McCreary Law Office.
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17 Feb, 2018 by Anonymous
Jana was a great choice for our estate planning needs. She was very knowledgeable, was easily able to explain things in simple terms, and talked a lot with us to make sure she knew exactly what we wanted/didn't want when it came to our plans. She was very thorough and easy to work with. We would highly recommend her!
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05 Sep, 2019 by Christopher
Robert Jewett is a FANTASTIC estate and probate attorney.
I first met him in 2016 when there was an issue with a will being probated within my family. He drove to our home, sat there and spoke with my family in regards to the issue and gave us the advice free of charge. One of the biggest mistakes we made was not to go with him at that time.
Cut to May 2019 and I contacted him asking about a will being written. Not only did he have it completely done within the day, but he was also ready to file it then and there. Unfortunately, the person passed before it could be signed, but, again, I contacted him to probate this persons' existing will. From start to finish he completely probated it in less than 3 months all for a single flat fee. I was amazed especially seeing several peoples I know to take anywhere from 6 months to a year and a half.
Robert is the man to see if you need anything done!
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19 Nov, 2015 by Christine
Mr. Jewett is extremely knowledgeable in probate law. He guided us thru the will procedure before putting pen to paper, explaining every part thoroughly making certain we understood the concept. When completed it was exactly what our will was had envisioned.
I would highly recommend Mr. Jewett when you need an attorney.
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23 Oct, 2015 by Pat
My husband was dying of cancer and needed a will. Robert helped us with this situation through probate with compassion, caring, and expertise.
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10 Oct, 2024 by Remington s.
If you are looking for a great Attorney who will fight for you and is not full of B.S., Remington is the guy for you! He has great values and is hardworking, compassionate, and genius in his legal prowess and strategies. Also, we share the same first name, so I'm honored to share it with someone who does right by consumers and fights for the common folk.
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25 Jul, 2024 by Merron
I want to thank Attorney Remington for successfully representing me in a recent citation case. I was worried when I received the citation, but Remington put me at ease from our first meeting. He took the time to understand the details of my situation and was very reassuring that he would do everything he could to help.
Remington aggressive advocated on my behalf. He filed several strong reasoning that convincingly argued my side. I could tell he had carefully reviewed all the evidence and laws around my case. In the end, Remington obtained the full dismissal that he had promised. I'm so grateful that thanks to his efforts, I was cleared of all charges and can put this stressful situation behind me.
His knowledge of the legal system and commitment to his clients is very apparent. Remington truly fought for the best possible outcome. I would highly recommend him to anyone needing a dedicated, hard-working lawyer they can trust. His professionalism and ability to deliver made this process much less worrying. I feel lucky to have had such a competent attorney in my corner. Remington genuinely cares about his clients' well-being, and I am sincerely thankful for all he did for me.
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30 Mar, 2022 by Anonymous
One word to describe Remington is.....AMAZING! My husband and I hired Attorney Remington Alessi. He isn't like most Attorney's. From the first day we spoke to him about our case to the very end. He was extremely professional, attentive, very knowledgeable and honest. He knows his stuff! He isn't arrogant, but confident! It's a reason he is named "Texas Chainsaw Lawyer" lol. I love the fact that he isn't pushy. He doesn't make you feel like you are getting on his nerves, and he always had an ear to listen. He truly makes you feel like you matter! Anytime we needed to call him, he didn't make us feel like he was so busy and rushing us off the phone. He wasn't like the saying " Money is time". He listens and is compassionate and caring. Allowing you to ask any question that you need. Also, compared to most Attorney's he is very affordable. And to sum things up, he WON my case, it was dismissed. And this wasn't an easy case to win. So look no further. Go ahead and book him. You are in good hands! I pray I don't ever have to use him again. But if I do It will definitely be him!
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29 Feb, 2024 by Justbrit61
Handled Probate and Last Will & Testament for our family. Very efficient, responsive and professional!
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16 Jul, 2013 by Anonymous
Laura Jennett did our estate plan. Combining warmth and professionalism, she has been a great ally for our family for nearly 10 years, having helped us through several deaths in the family. Her legal mind doesn't miss a trick. Highly recommend with no reservations whatsoever.
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01 Sep, 2009 by Marie-pierre
Mrs Laura Jennett is down to earth but yet professional- I will recommend her to anyone who needs a lawyer for their estate needs. She is an excellent lawyer . Give her a try, you will be very please.
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15 Mar, 2018 by Anonymous
I am a young mom and went to Hegwood Law Group with no clue about estate planning and the importance of it. I was overwhelmed. The attorneys I worked with were very patient with me and explained things in terms that I understood. They helped me put together an estate plan that I was confident with. They also helped me understand the importance of planning because of my special needs child.
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15 Mar, 2018 by Becky
Kim Hegwood is excellent to work with. She is very laid back and makes you feel very comfortable,
She has done a will for my husband and I and a irrevocable trust for my parents. Both were great experiences.
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24 Aug, 2015 by Jason & michelle
We have been Hegwood & Associates clients for over 15 years. Whether family court, estate planning or special needs resource or advisory services Kim treats all our family situations as if they were her own. Always professional, timely, and in our family’s best interest. Thank you Kim for your compassion, dedication and integrity throughout the years.
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22 Jul, 2019 by Nancy
I have known Steve Touchy personally and professionally for many years. He is of the highest integrity, and very easy to communicate with and work with. Honesty these days is hard to find, and Steve is a true diamond in the rough! He is experienced, smart, and flexible and so many facets of the law. I highly recommend him!
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13 Jun, 2018 by Justice
We spoke with him by phone in the morning to review a contract, could speak with him personally; explained the contract pros and cons. All was done very quick and efficiently in one day. The price was rather average or affordable. He gave us good advice. He seems very experienced and kind. We do recommend.
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02 Sep, 2015 by James
I have consulted with Steve many times over the course of the last 25+ years and he has been a great source of both legal and practical advise. Steve has guided and assisted me concerning both personal and business matters, involving among other things estate and probate law, family law, business law, and litigation. I trust and respect Steve, and I have and will recommended him to others.
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11 Jun, 2022 by Bennie
I contacted Attorney Christopher Barber regarding a Probate matter. Having just recently lost my Husband, I needed answers. Hebwas very professional, kind hearted and took the time to answer my questions. He was able to put my mind at ease by explaining the Process. I am Grateful!
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15 Apr, 2021 by Donna
Christopher was excellent ! He was very professional through the whole case. I definitely would recommend him. He was willing to listen and answer any and all questions. He would get back to me in a timely matter with phone calls , text messages or email . His communication skills were great. He always explained everything I didn't understand in detail. I was so grateful I had him as my attorney .
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09 May, 2018 by Gayle marie
I contacted Christopher regarding my mothers trust that he had prepared in 1999. I was having concerns about the co-trustees duties. He went out of his way to return my calls and explain in a way that I could understand. He was genuinely concerned about my situation and very helpful. Very professional and courtious.
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08 Oct, 2022 by Ray burchette
07 May, 2018 by H d
14 Mar, 2015 by Anonymous
I hired Mr. Schwartz to assist me in a probate matter. He was professional, responsive, and knowledgeable. His knowledge helped me tremendously.
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13 Mar, 2015 by Marida
Attorney Schwartz was very professional and personable. He took time to answer all my questions regarding my will, health and POA. He reviewed all doucements with me. As a grandmother I feel very confortable that he addressed all my estate planning needs and concerns. I am recommending him to my friends and family.
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19 Jun, 2015 by Amy
Mark set up the LLC for my business. I had questions about set-up and he answered all questions right there and then. We were able to set up the LLC within a very short time frame and he had all paperwork to me by weeks end. He is incredibly courteous and pleasant. His fees are reasonable and fair.
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26 Feb, 2015 by Anonymous
Shanna's been my lawyer since 2011 -- she's an amazing consultant and lawyer. She effectively communicates what is happening now and what will happen later. Her prices are very reasonable.
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03 Jun, 2013 by Gene
Jerry has taken care of my legal issues for the last 20 years. I could not imagine a better lawyer I have recommended him to others and they all say that Jerry did a great job for them too. He is very realistic and honest about what he can do and what you can expect. This is a rare quality in anyone.
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05 Mar, 2024 by Rachelle87778
Bob Macintyre was paramount in resolving all the controversies of my deceased husband's estate. He was attentive, generous, and thoughtful. I was in severe grief under psychiatric care on tons of medicines and very unstable. Somehow Bob was able to reach me and even make me smile through the tears I cried most of the time. He took my case and ran with it, launching it into a place of accoutability for those responsible for the demise. I admire and respect his tremendously strong spirit and his fearless crusade to right the course of those who have strayed.
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17 Sep, 2013 by Becky
I used Alison Pettiette as my divorce attorney. She kept me informed, kept me safe and was quick to respond to any concerns I had during this very troubling time. I highly recommend her to anyone that has a difficult case of any kind! She has the ability to anticipate and head-off problems before they happen. I HIGHLY recommend her.
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28 Feb, 2020 by Roxanne
Ms. Murphy made sure to use all of her resources and did everything legally possible to help me. She fought harder than other lawyers out there and found ways to make everything work in my favor. I really appreciate how she helped me and made me feel at ease under the worst circumstances. I recommend her highly.
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17 Oct, 2012 by Rosana
I have encountered numerous attorneys in my career and most of the attorneys that I worked with or had handle matters for me I would not recommend to anyone. Except when I met Martiana Cartwright I finally met an ATTORNEY with values, morals, integrity, and most of all putting the Client's interest first.
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22 Apr, 2015 by Anonymous
Mr. Baggott has an vast scope of experience and I have found his help in real estate matters, probate and personal matters effective and not cost prohibitive. His small practice is not intimidating and I feel comfortable bringing him any legal issue facing my family.
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14 Jun, 2022 by Amir
I have used Carly for several years. I am very pleased with her work and would recommend her to anyone looking for an experienced lawyer.
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24 Apr, 2024 by Hannah gonzalez
Thanks to the hard work and dedication from Kelly and Diana at Fibich, Leebron, Copeland, Briggs, I achieved a favorable outcome that exceeded my expectations. I am immensely grateful for their support and would highly recommend them to anyone in need of legal assistance. Not only did they exceed my expectations in terms of legal representation, but they also showed a genuine concern for my well-being. If you're looking for a law firm that truly cares about its clients and delivers exceptional results, look no further than Fibich, Leebron, Copeland, Briggs.
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22 Dec, 2023 by Frank zhang
I'm glad I found a great lawyer like Greg to help with my dad's malpractice case. He and his team are very professional and patient. We are also very satisfied with the final result. Thank you so much to Greg and his wonderful team.
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13 Dec, 2023 by Crystal adams
GREAT PLACE
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22 Aug, 2024 by Jab nun
Me siento muy bendecido por haber tenido a Mr Cammck como mi abogado representante, desde el principio se mostro claro, puntual, honesto, justo y tiene un amor a su profesión y sus clientes gigante. Me gano mi caso en 2 cortes. Es un tigre en el estrado literalmente. Fue un placer tenerlo de mi parte y claro que lo recomiendo 100% . Precios justos y una amabilidad enorme.. quiero tambien nombrar a la señorita Holly por su bonito corazon y su educada forma de orientar a los clientes. Muchas muchas GRACIAS!!! Dios los BENDIGA.
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17 Aug, 2024 by Crystal roy
Sam Cammack represented my daughter Gabrielle this past year. My daughter had no priors and was facing 1st degree felony charges. He came highly recommended from her probation officer out there in Houston's. From the first phone call with Ms Holly and Sam, I knew then who would represent my daughter. They listened to the situation she was involved. Listened to me cry my eyes out because Gabrielle has never given her Dad and I any problems throughout her 19 years. Just one college party and one bad decision was made September 2023. After 11 months of court appearances, this month this nightmare came to an end. Thanks Sam Cammack and Holly again. 1 Corinthians verse 1:4 "I always thank God for you. I thank him because of the grace he has given to you who belong to Christ Jesus.”
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12 Aug, 2024 by Fatt mike
I would like to thank Sam And Holly for helping me get my case dismissed. I highly recommend them to anybody who is dealing with a case. Not one time did I doubt them and the way Holly answers the phone every time I called and answered any questions I had was a major plus. Thank you so much
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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.
