Lawyers map
>307
experienced lawyers
Filter by
27 Feb, 2024 by Lorey1348
Maria help me to solve my child custody case. She kept me informed all the time and not only responded to my questions through this website. Once I met her and she took my case she did the same as well. She is tough and I can tell that she fights for what is right. I feel lucky to have met her and thanks to her everything went well. Sometimes thank you is not enough but I can't find find better words to thank her for her help.
Read more
11 Apr, 2018 by Ryan
Maria Lowry handled my divorce this past spring (2018). She gave solid advice on my questions and maintained the focus -- both mine and hers -- on the big picture. I was particularly grateful she was with me on the day of the mediated settlement. She somehow managed to keep the costs within the retainer! I really appreciated not receiving a big bill from her at the end. Additionally, her fees were very reasonable based on the other family attorneys I interviewed. My divorce was the most difficult season I have had in a long time, and I am incredibly grateful to the people who work to make the process go as smoothly as possible. Thank you, Maria.
Read more
27 Dec, 2017 by Philip
Maria Lowry worked with me for several months through the divorce process. She never pressured me for services I did not need, but she was always available when I needed her. She has confidence in her abilities and her confidence gave me peace of mind. She explained the process step-by-step. I always knew she was working on my behalf.
Read more
19 Aug, 2024 by Bradley gaskin
The entire team at Kennard Law are very professional and I appreciate the candor, the advice and their guidance. I highly recommend this firm and their services.
Read more
11 May, 2024 by Jae e
I highly recommend this law firm! Thank you Mr. Kennard for being 4 the people!
Read more
09 May, 2024 by Michael gonzales
07 Aug, 2024 by David brammer
I am very pleased with this law firm helping me navigate thru my parents' trust and wills. Kimberley answered all my questions and made suggestions for plotting out my journey. The firm scheduled my appointment quickly, and I was able to meet with Kimberley face to face. I highly recommend using this firm for your estate planning. Do it for your kids and your peace of mind...
Read more
17 Jul, 2024 by Bryan corbin
This law firm is amazing, especially, Ms. Solis-Maduzia. She went out of her way to help my family at every step of the way. Furthermore, she was forthright and honest about our chances of winning a court case, and she never sugar coated anything. However, she was professional and cordial throughout all of our court proceedings. I am so grateful for the thoughtful and methodical way that Ms. Solis-Maduzia approached our case. Never once did she make my wife or me feel dumb, and her personal touch made all the difference in the world.
Read more
19 Jun, 2024 by Gz lz
Highly recommended. They are very patient answering all questions during the consultation meeting. No pressure sell. I met w other law offices with high reviews in the area. They exaggerated scaring people to get businesses. Then I received emails, snail mail, and phone calls. Waldron & Schneider office was very honest, no pressure sell like the others
Read more
24 Sep, 2024 by Michael sampson
Better than other Lawyers I've had hands down!
Read more
23 Sep, 2024 by Mrs tink
He went over and above for us. When you call or text him, he responds in a professional time frame. Him and his staff were so kind hearted. They took us from a frantic state to a calm state after one conversation. I truly and honestly suggest this law firm for anything you may need. It’s hard to find honest people in this work but this is your sign this is who you need!!
Read more
21 Sep, 2024 by Maria j redondo
Responded quickly, very knowledgeable, highly recommend this group
Read more
02 Oct, 2024 by Lauren cornay
Lindsey was amazing, I could not have asked for a better person to help represent me in my divorce process. She made sure everything was less stressful and never gave up.
Read more
13 Sep, 2024 by Sana qureshi
I cannot thank Lindsey enough for making the divorce process as stress-free and efficient as possible. After dealing with a previous attorney who mismanaged my case, Lindsey stepped in and completely turned things around. She was responsive and completely transparent throughout the process.
I never had to chase her for updates or to file documents on important dates—she always kept me informed and handled everything with utmost professionalism. If you're looking for a divorce attorney who is thorough, responsive, and truly cares about her clients, I highly recommend Lindsey. I’m incredibly grateful for her hard work and dedication.
Read more
23 Jul, 2024 by Lyfeof sassy
Very insightful and knowledgeable. Mr. Garrett was very attentive and helpful. Very professional but made me feel welcomed. Initial consultation was great. Was expecting a little more but he made me feel comfortable with opening up about my concerns
Read more
30 Jul, 2024 by Jessica lira
I am a disabled military veteran, and this agency represents my homeowners association. Every time I go into compliance with what they are asking me to do, they change what they are asking me to do. Now they are requesting me to paint my house that was approved to be the color. It is 10 years ago. I am a single parent with 2 autistic children and cannot afford this and I don’t understand why I should paint my house again after 10 years when there is nothing wrong with the color other than they don’t like it. The paint is not chipped, this is an intimidation tactic. So much for protecting veterans.
Read more
21 Mar, 2024 by Mark turvey
Joann and her staff are great to work with! She helped us greatly with our estate planning. Highly recommend!!
Read more
22 Feb, 2024 by Andrea lecompte
My husband and I have been long-time clients of Badeaux & Associates. Joanne has helped us with all of our businesses. Super thankful for her and all of her help all these years. She is truly the best!!
Read more
11 Jul, 2024 by Brittany foster
Ha!
Read more
25 Feb, 2022 by Stephen bouis
27 Jul, 2021 by Tula hahn
THEY ARE NOT LOCATED AT 901 MAIN ST IN DALLAS TEXAS - Check their "contact us" page on their website for accurate locations.
Read more
10 Sep, 2024 by Diana pearson
Jessica Geanger , has made my claim experience a pleasurable experience . She is a member of the team who is working extremely hard to settle my case .
I want to thank you Jessica because legal matters as you know ? Are very complicated and exhausting . Thank you for your knowledge, prompt response and support concerning my claim .
Mr. Worley has a phenomenal team working har to keep me updated .
I’m grateful to have a team such as this working on my claim . Thank you for your outstanding client support service and kindness .
Thank you
Diana Pearson
9/10/24
Read more
10 Sep, 2024 by Mic
Well this firm is one of those who will ride the roller coaster with you... my hernia case is such a mess and they are still with me... I thank Heather west and the other ladies for being there when I'm not understanding things.. this is so hard being stuck with something they won't remove... thank you all so much.. and God bless you all.
Read more
09 Sep, 2024 by B langkamp
Mrs. Davidson did a wonderful job explaining my status after a five year wait. She gave me a new perspective that was not detailed to me previously. She's relatable and down to earth and believe she will follow up when she said she would. This group is lucky to have her customer facing she's an asset for sure.
Read more
13 Sep, 2024 by Huerta huerta
The person answering phone calls is a frustrated unhappy person. Very rude like my phone call and question I had bothered her.
Read more
12 Sep, 2024 by Lok wong
Case dismissed!
Read more
07 Sep, 2024 by Mitchelle romero
Today I had to go to court for three fines, the lawyer I had was very nice and in the end I didn't have to pay anything, so I highly recommend hiring here. ☺️
Read more
09 Mar, 2024 by Mukesh kharde
11 May, 2018 by Matt davis
01 Jan, 2018 by Shane brooks
09 Mar, 2024 by Mukesh kharde
11 May, 2018 by Matt davis
01 Jan, 2018 by Shane brooks
28 Aug, 2024 by Janet collins
Natasha Hunter is a very experienced, punctual, detailed Agent for your firm. Very informed, makes sure you understand every step of the process of giving you accurate information. Thank you lady. You are AWESOME!! JANET COLLINS.
Read more
23 Aug, 2024 by Idris delaney
They keep me informed help me through therapy was able to get me a small loan while I wait for my settlement and i’m very thankful for everything they did i would highly recommend them if you get in any accidents
Read more
22 Aug, 2024 by Lana james
Godsey Martin Law Firm answered all my questions and kept me informed, every step of the process. They are professional and it's easy to communicate through the app.
Read more
24 May, 2024 by M&d handyman /painting contractor-marian degner
A Excellent Immigration Attorney!
I recommend Randeep and his law firm to all reasonable immigrants in Texas, Nationwide.
Responsive, reliable, reasonable, responsible professional, determined to help, detailed on Law, perfectionist, polite, but sharp, truthful and trustworthy, friendly, family oriented, fort-coming, fighter !
Please continue to keep the great job in my representation, lawyer work.
Thanks again Mr. R.S. Hira !
~Mar.
Read more
02 Dec, 2022 by Satwinder sandhu
good work and good experience really appreciate Thank You.
Read more
08 Sep, 2022 by Kerim auto diagnostics and repair
bad bad communication. They very good until get paid, After that they dont answer phone orrrrrrr other respond
never rommend
Read more
17 Sep, 2023 by John
03 Aug, 2023 by Sharon fuller
Great communication and extremely helpful. Would highly recommend them
Read more
08 Jan, 2023 by Diana morales
Never heard a word back from these attorneys.
Read more
07 Feb, 2022 by R r (team usa)
They charged double of their written quote. * Very hard to get ahold of ---sometimes for over a month * Threatened me if I complained * I'd recommend using someone else.
Read more
13 Mar, 2020 by Ryan stampp
Great service, and very friendly! Did good trying to get me what I deserved
Read more
09 Sep, 2019 by Connie chandler
Had good conversation we with Scott.
Read more
26 Aug, 2024 by Dymond hall
Horrible just horrible!
Read more
26 Aug, 2024 by Stephanie a
TERRIBLE SERVICE!!!!
Read more
26 Aug, 2024 by Brandy schaffer
Trash firm can’t be trusted!
Read more
22 Jun, 2023 by Anna kekule
This law firm stands with high honors ! They went above and beyond our expectations. My Aunt who has now passed away was extremely happy at the time she asked The Díaz Law Firm, to assist her in filing legal documents for her own Last Will and Testament and was very determined . He explained everything carefully and she strongly agreed that he execute her every wish! I’m sure All Law Firms have to deal with family members that try to fight and Lose!!! So sad. Thank you so much for your kindness and encouragement to us , that HER Will was the Last and Final Testament Thanks Be To God…
Read more
22 Jun, 2023 by Leticia rodriguez
My late aunt whom was in her 90's hired him as her attorney for her will. My aunt wanted to revoke her will and asked me to contact Mr. Diaz, I called 3 times In which his wife answered everytime and always had an excuse as to why he could not come to the phone, I told her my aunt wanted to talk to him about cancelling the will, Mrs Diaz said each time Mr. Diaz would call us back. We never got a return phone call back from him. Which resulted in many problems with the will after my Aunt passed away.
Read more
20 Jun, 2023 by Richard keys
Hear he is best in Texas
Read more
09 Aug, 2013 by Deborah
she was court appointed for my fathers estate and literally took a 2M estate down to nuts and bolts. when she realized what poor condition she had gotten the estate in she bailed and the incompetent judge let her. she did such a poor job she didn't even argue when I asked the judge to stop payment on her fees.
Read more
11 Jun, 2011 by Anonymous
I retained Sharon Gardner to represent me in a trust probate matter here in Houston with respect to obtaining a distribution. I was very unhappy with her services and frankly believe that she violated ethics and the attorney-client priviledge in my case. I found Sharon Gardner to NOT to be trustworthy.
Read more
30 Sep, 2010 by Becky
Sharon Gardner stopped an unneeded guardianship on my uncle and prosecution on me due to untruths that went on for 1.5 years. Sharon turned this nightmare in the courts, which included 4 other lawyers, all seeking huge fees, right side up, in 2.2 months. Sharon held everyone's feet to the fire, and had to do the job by herself. Her integrity is impeccable. Shockingly, the system was upside down for us, until Sharon Gardner arrived, and thank goodness she left no stone unturned. The great lawyers ARE still around. She is worth her fees!
Read more
05 Apr, 2022 by Michael
He prepared wills for my family very efficient and excellent advice.
Also he was not expensive and was very timely.
Will use him again.
Read more
27 Jan, 2015 by Anonymous
Patrick wrote a business contract for me and my partner where I was to invest 100% into a company and allow my partner to work and buy into her shares. My partner did not follow the plan of the franchise, paid herself a salary, used company assets for personal purchases and burned through my working capital within weeks. She also did not pay rent for two months. Upon review of these findings, Patrick offered no feedback as to how I could recover my company, remove this person, or sell my company at a fair price I had plenty of capital to start over without this person and partners willing to step in. Subsequently, Patrick stated that he was offered future work from my partner and that he was walking a fine line as a lawyer to represent me, since he technically was working for my company, which I funded 100%. After, my original payments to Patrick were reimbursed by my company, Patrick moved forward to sell my stocks and remove me from my company without explanation or options to remove this bad player. I am not certain as to how any of my company could be left with my partner because their was a breach in the contract and she was very close to expiring her working capital. I was informed by Patrick that my partner would retain no compensation for the sale of my company and that she would not retain any ownership; however, this remains to be seen. Patrick said he would call me to explain the details; however, offered no feedback.
Read more
11 Jun, 2013 by Beverly
I have had Jeff represent me in a couple of real estate transactions over the years and he has been great. Last year I had him sue someone in a contract case and everything has gone well. His assistant, Paula, always emails me a copy of every document so I know exactly what's going on.
Read more
09 Jan, 2010 by Anonymous
I contracted directly and personally with Mr. Tompkins in 2006 for a dispute with the subdivision homeowners association. Immediately after I paid the retainer, I can't never speak with or contacted with Mr. Tompkins. The excuses always " he is in the meeting." Or, " he is out of town on business." etc. My questions and concerns were never answered or take care of with Ms. Karalynn Cromeens, with whom, I was told is taking care of my case for Mr. Tompkins. After many complaints regarding Ms. Cromeens' irresponsiveness and lack of professionalism in service, I formally cancelled the contract with Mr. Tompkins law firm. However, as of today ( 1/10/2010) I can't get the un-used retainer refunded.
Mr. Tompkins personally signed the last and final billing statement, on which, it charged all the charges on reviewing and handling the complaint I filed against Ms. Cromeens on her non-service to me concerning the actual origional law suit.
It is rather pittful if an attorney and the law firm have to make money in such a disrespect, un-professional, and urgly way.
Even though, the Texas Bar Association find "no mis-conduct" on Mr. Tompkins and his law firm in handling the law suit case. But, they do agree that it is not right to "rob" the retainer which was paid for other reason. However, it seems doesn't bother Ms. Cromeens and Mr. Tompkins. If any one can help me with getting this refund back (we are talking about almost US$1.000), it is greatly appreciated.
Read more
17 Jun, 2022 by Victoria
He was my Mother lawyer for more than 20 year she was in her 90 at the end he keep all her money I can not understand how he is still working he lost his job at the Cenatiempo law firm
Read more
13 Apr, 2022 by Wild bill
26 Jan, 2022 by Anonymous
Yes my mom is 81 years old Mr dude has been her attorney for many several years now he's just blowing her off we paid him $1,900 8 months ago we have yet to have an appointment with him he keeps telling us that he'll see us and he never calls he never returned calls we've gone to his office several times and we've gone to another attorney now he doesn't do what he says he's going to do and I guess my mother is not worth his time even though we pay him always on time and even asked up for a payment up front before he even did anything and that's not how it works cuz he knows what my mother wants to do she just needs a couple an hour or two with him and he can't even give her that and this has been going on for 2 years now so I would not suggest using him
Read more
09 Nov, 2023 by Beatrice torres
07 Sep, 2023 by Anahi villaseca
I would like to give a special thanks to Ashley, Valerie, Tyra, and Gisel for helping us out on our case. I got involved in a car crash in September 2022. Ashley & Valerie quickly got to work to help my mother and I get the proper treatment we needed. Then my case was transferred to Tyra & Gisel and they were patient and answered all of my questions. My case has been recently closed and I couldn't be happier. Thank you so much!
Read more
05 Sep, 2023 by Debra smith
Excellent choice for representation after a car backed into me. Each person who handled my case was proficient and extremely helpful.
Read more
19 Sep, 2020 by Black client
I wasn’t going to write a review until you purposely wrote a bad review about a former client you assumed the anonymous person was me but you got your years messed up You’re racist and rude and the review above mine is how you treated me I pray for you and remove them false lies
Read more
02 Jan, 2019 by Anonymous
Did not communicate much at all not haveing a very good experience I do not recommend her as an ssi lawyer
Read more
12 Jun, 2018 by Family of mr. garza
I was in an appeal alone without an attorney and at the last minute I called her office and told them about my Ssi case. They immediately started helping me and getting all the paperwork needed to prepare for my appeal hearing(less than 2 months to prepare). When the hearing came she did excellent representation and got me approved. Thank you Kristi Ward & team.
Read more
19 Sep, 2023 by Anonymous
Renee was picked by opposing counsel to be the amicus on the custody case between me and my ex. Now I know why. She was friends with opposing counsel representing my ex. When lawyers take an oath to represent the court and child's best interest friendships between lawyers should be pushed to the side. Renee did not do that. She was all about billing and making the most money possible. Only visited with our children once at each home and then based what she heard through her attorney friends. She has a horrible reputation within the family law community in Houston. If you care about your children, do not hire this lady.
Read more
26 Feb, 2022 by Anonymous
I’m an attorney and worked with this lawyer as opposing counsel. She fought for her clients while remaining professional. She was also easy to reach which is so important in cases when trying to reach an agreement! We both fight hard - it was a pleasure
Read more
11 Mar, 2021 by Deborah
She was assigned by the court as an Ad Litem to represent my 16 year old child in a change of custody dispute way back in 2008. Renee failed to recognize a glaring case of Parental Alienation Syndrome that had been an ongoing issue with my extremely narcissistic ex. She did not heed the advice of my child's personal psychiatrist (& close family) & allowed my daughter to move to a foreign country (Panama) with my ex, during her senior year of high school....all to the utter shock of my attorney, who said it should not have ever happened. That became the end of my relationship with my daughter. So much sneaky emotional damage done by ex & he got away with it. Fast forward to 2021 & my daughter is still not a part of my life. How Renee could have condoned this action - to remove a geographic restriction - & allow an egomaniac ex to basically destroy a mother/child relationship by taking our child to another country is beyond my comprehension. She made the wrong decision. I continue to pay the price.
Read more
18 Aug, 2024 by L lebron
I dont dislike Andrew Tatgenhorst as a person even though he does appear very bored and generally disgruntled. However, I do have experience with him as opposing counsel and my genuine feeling/opinion is that he’s bad for kids. Andrew ramps things up, serving only himself in legal fees, and seemingly has no sight of the child at the core of the dispute. Thus, districts are paying taxpayer dollars to Andrew’s attitude rather than to children’s services. I didn’t find Andrew to be incredibly honest, the opposite in my experiences. I also noted that Andrew focused quite a lot (perhaps exclusively) on extraneous things that did not serve the child or resolution but designed to malign the student and/or their family. Unfortunately, I also witnessed harmful tactics. I would hope school districts would partner with solution oriented, student centered firms who can advance mutual interests and needs, support children, and save taxpayer dollars. I did not feel like this was the case with Andrew and Thompson Horton.
Read more
21 Oct, 2023 by Tasteforbattle
Would never pay these unethical and immoral clowns to represent me. I prefer ones who abide by the law instead of side stepping it.
Read more
20 Oct, 2023 by Theon greyjoy
Imagine a Law Firm that teaches people how to get around the law. Isn’t there some type of legal ethics involved here?
Read more
08 Jul, 2023 by Anonymous
I wish I'd never spoken to Mr. Barrett. He was quite personable on the phone. We had some nice, very brief chats, but when he wants to disappear, he WILL disappear. I went ~42 days with nothing which would be absolutely fine but you have to manage expectations, and not say 4 days then go 42. Bizarre. Oh and he never withdrew from my case. The case continued and the entire process was a nightmare. I’m still baffled.
Read more
24 Dec, 2022 by Frank
Retained Kenneth Royce Barrett after the initial consultation to ensure it was understood in that the rodent infestation I was dealing with inside apartment dwelling was clearly conveyed to property management; however, property management ignored the problem and failed to provide exterminating services despite monthly reminders for six months after infestation compounded exponentially. Served with eviction notice, sought an attorney and foolishly relied on the Peer Review provided to this attorney during selection process. Suddenly, Barrett increased retainer from $450/2 hours to $1,000/4 hours. After retainer was remitted, he immediately came back to me concerned in that level of case perceived difficulty had increased though no changes resulted to warrant any concerns for any increases in case perceived difficulties. This implied Barrett was forewarning of the potential need for additional funding. I decided to instead to negotiate an Exit Strategy with property management myself and did given I’d already relinquished $1.0K to Barrett for essentially no reason. Informed Barrett who then advised to not let property know of move out intentions in writing. Then he became unreachable. Three weeks later I requested my residual retainer be refunded on two different days before he responded with having had Covid and was behind on record keeping tasks but would resolve following week. This did NOT happen. Four months later I contact him again to learn he’s suffered another bout with Covid and remains behind on work tasks. He then tells me he advised me to remain in my previous apartment. Another lie. So I investigate to learn he has a reputation for being dishonest. Another month passes, seven months after initial retainer paid, request formal contact information for litigation purposes and receive nothing. As 100% Disabled American Veteran unable to work, trusting this person created a financial hardship I continue to struggle with present day given the unexpected relocation expenses and non-refunded retainer in part or in whole.
Read more
23 Feb, 2015 by Anonymous
July 2013 we started this divorce. No fighting , simple non contestant . It's February 2015 and our case was done in January, I still don't have a copy of the decree. She rescheduled , and forgot many things, Got a lot of information wrong. I'm scared to get the final paper back because I have feeling it is wrong. During the process of us being told our court date 1 business day in advance , and
that's because I called or she would have forgot . Her receptionist is not professional at all, and very rude even considering all the mistakes. I still don't have answers to all our questions like the attorney general I was told " they will call you". No it shouldn't work that way. I'm very unnerved and would NEVER recommend her for anything!!!
Read more
26 Jan, 2015 by Anonymous
This lady reschedule my court date with out even telling me. I had court Monday morning at 8 am and she called monday at 8:45 am bearly giving me a notice that she had rescheduled. She also never called me to ask any question about my case i had never even met her i only met her receptionist. The day of the other court day she did nothing for me I had to pay a court fee, had to take deffensive driving and will be on probation for 4 months.
Read more
15 Aug, 2019 by Kevin
Does not cross all her T’s and dot all her I’s before filing damaging paperwork, jumps to conclusions and does not look into a case first. Horrible service with this lawyer.
Read more
11 Nov, 2014 by Anonymous
I had the horrible pleasure of coming in contact with Mr. Edmond O'suji through a referral. In all my years I never seen such fraud, deceit and misrepresentation so much before in my life. This attorney has been deemed negligent, he failed to allow or advise me on proper process or ethical process of my case, he accepted a plea without my knowledge, he entered into a financial arrangement regarding my case without communicating anything to me. As a result my integrity and my case has been compromised. Future word of advice to any future prospects that are considering retaining this gentleman. Please do yourself a favor and save yourself the headache of dealing with dishonest attorney that will make provisions and accept pleas without your knowledge. He does not care about the consumer and has been known to misinform clients for his own gain.
Read more
17 Feb, 2011 by Lannie
I had this attorney for a bankruptcy that filed my bankruptcy and would not provide any answers nor explain anything to you. The bankruptcy was filed but did not provide information to the court. Therefore, it almost had the case dismissed before completing. I call her several times but it would be 3-4 days later before she call you back..She
Read more
Discover the ideal lawyer
You can search a lawyer by practice area, lawyer name, city, state, or ZIP code
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.
