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03 Oct, 2018 by Dawn
I can't thank Mr. Bolves enough for providing my family with the peace of mind in a time of uncertainty. With my Mom in a rehab facility, and in and out of the hospital a couple of times, I knew we needed to get legal papers in order and do it quickly! Mr. Bolves prepared all the legal documents for both my Mother and Father. He patiently guided us through each of the Elder Law Portfolio documents, and now we are ready for to take care of all their future needs!
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30 Sep, 2018 by Kia
No one expects sickness to come. My father was hospitalized and unable to make sound decisions for himself. After a consultation with Mr. Bolves, I was able to obatin the propoer paperwork that would allow me to ensure proper care for my father.
After the initial consultation, documents were prepared and ready for review within a matter of a few days. I appreciated the care taken in explaining the process of what needed to be done and the professional manner in which it was done. Even after business was concluded, a follow-up conatct was made to ensure all was well.
I would definitely recommend Mr. Bolves for legal matters regarding elder law.
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15 Nov, 2013 by Jennifer
Eric and his team have been very helpful to me since I came to him in 2010 and still have helped to date 2013 with situations. I have no doubt in my mind that if/when I recceommend someone to him that they would receive the same outstanding service as I have. :)
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25 Nov, 2014 by John
Mr. Brown has been my attorney for the past five years and I cannot see myself ever calling anyone else. He has done a fantastic job with every matter he has handled. He is very easy to work with and, regardless of how complicated or difficult or mundane the process is, he explains it in a way that is easy to understand. Mr. Brown’s rectitude is ever present. If you are looking for a dedicated and trustworthy attorney, then I would, without a doubt, highly recommend Mr. Brown as that attorney.
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11 Nov, 2014 by Anonymous
Billy Brown is an excellent attorney, and I highly recommend him to you. He has helped our family through some the toughest times of our lives, and we will be forever grateful. He always made the time to answer any questions or concerns we had, and if he didn't have the answer at hand, he would make sure to find the answer. The office staff is pleasant and attentive, and the fees are much more reasonable than I have dealt with in the past.
Thank you again, Billy Brown!
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09 Nov, 2014 by Alex
I contacted Attorney Brown for assistance with a legal matter. He was kind and actually listened to what I was saying. He did not use legalese or talk down to me during our consultation. Another Attorney I consulted with wanted thousands of dollars and told me it would take several months or years to reach a possible resolution. Attoney Brown wrote two letters, made three calls on my behalf and everything was finalized.
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25 May, 2018 by Jason
Heiko was referred to me by a friend of mine. I was in a car accident and had some injuries. I did not have the time nor was I in the mood to deal with the other person's insurance company or my insurance company. Heiko and his team were a huge help in putting everything together so I could get compensated for all of my injuries and damages to my car. I would definitely recommend him to others for assistance.
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13 Dec, 2017 by Anonymous
Heiko does great work! I had him work on a completely BS hit & run case for me a bit back and he did a fantastic job. He is great with communication and excels at getting the job done as fast as possible. His number one goal is to do well by his clients, and this was clear to me the entire time he worked on my case. By the time of our final court date, we were in and out of the courthouse with things going in our favor (criminal charge dropped) in nearly no time at all. Couldn't be more grateful for the amazing job Heiko did on my case. Thanks Heiko!
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27 Nov, 2015 by Tina smith
I have to start by saying that my situation was a bit of a conundrum from the start. I was doing a favor for a woman that I knew from my church by taking her daughter to the nearest retail outlet. Unbeknownst to me the young lady while in the Dept Store Shoplifts. I never enter the building. Doesn't Matter. In the End Police in my Area try to charge me with Robbery, Then DCF visits me about my babies, Etc.etc. I've never been faced or even heard of a situation like this. Heiko Moenckmeier had this Resolved in matter of weeks. He was Prompt. Answered every question I had thoroughly and clearly. He was Patient. "As you could imagine I was a wreck". He Had Everything DROPPED within a matter of days. Truly Amazing. He is and will be My "GO TO" attorney for My family and I for all our future endeavors. I would Strongly recommended him to Anyone who has a pressing situation as he handled mine extremely well. I was thankful to have him in my corner. Sincerely, T.Smith
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03 Jul, 2014 by James w.
Attorney Jackson is an excellent professional - competent, knowledgeable and personable. She listens and advises after fully understanding the client's goals or wishes and then has a plan of action. Her billing practices are above reproach - reasonable, fully documented and work specifically described. She never strays from her level of expertise and knowledge.
This recommendation is based on personal positive experience working with her and knowing her excellent work habits and from positive feedback from client referrals.
Sunny J
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16 Jun, 2014 by Anonymous
This lawyer advised me on business and tax matters at a time when I was facing government audits. She was astute, capable, and caring. Thanks to her wise counsel, nearly all of my issues have successfully resolved. The right advice at the right time made all the difference. I recommend Ms. Jackson and her firm.
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17 Dec, 2013 by Lisa
I highly recommend Kris Jackson for all of your estate planning and probate needs. She is highly knowledgeable in this area of law and very responsive. I have referred many clients to her and they have always been more than satisfied with the legal services that have been provided. She is an exemplary lawyer and considered one of Orlando's best.
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21 Mar, 2024 by Charity
Living in Miami-Dade county, I needed an attorney in Orange County to represent me as the Guardian Advocate for the ward living in Orlando. Immediately, I needed representation for a scheduled hearing before the Court. Time was of the essence. From the first telephone call to Ms. Zoebel’s law firm I received immediate and appropriate guidance, concisely explained and executed. Ms. Zoebel understood my issues and with the help of her legal assistant very efficiently resolved my issues and took an added step that had not occurred to me to improve future dealings as Guardian. She very clearly explained the steps and actions that resolved the situation very favorably and what would be necessary in the future. She demonstrated excellent legal knowledge, communication skills and responsiveness. I believe I am in good hands for any future needs in this area and highly recommend her.
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29 Jun, 2023 by Christopher
I recently had the privilege of having my will drawn up by Attorney Zobel. I was recently divorced and had to have a custom will drawn up to meet the requirements of my specific divorce settlement. Attorney Zobel took the time to thoroughly review my case and drew up a will that met those needs.
She took her time explaining every step of the process. At the time of signing, she went over everything, making sure I had no questions or concerns before leaving.
I offer my highest recommendation of Attorney Zobel, as I will plan on continuing to work with her regarding my future needs for legal assistance in my Estate Planning .
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05 Mar, 2013 by Anonymous
Hallie Zobel has an unbelievable amount of knowledge regarding probate. She is so kind and the office staff made me feel very welcome in such a difficult time.
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18 Apr, 2016 by Milca
Cesery Bullard and the entire team at Bullard Law are very compassionate and knows their stuff. Bullard Law and Cesery have represented the company I work for in multiple cases. She is efficient and knowledgeable. They are always reachable and responsive reassuring us throughout the process. We owe most of our success, as a company, to the hard work that is put into our cases, by Cesery and her legal team. I would highly recommend her firm.
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15 Apr, 2016 by Maria
Cesery has done legal work for me for many years. As a client, I always feel appreciated. Her work ethic is exemplary and her knowledge of the law is very broad.
Her staff is very knowledgeable, and courteous.
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12 Aug, 2012 by Allen
I have worked with Cary and her firm on several issues over the past 5 years on behalf of my parents and my wife's parents. She and her staff provided excellent advice, thorough documentation through the Medicaid application process on behalf of my parents and provided proper instruments to allow cost-effective settlement of their estates.
My recommendation is proven by the fact that my wife and I have selected her to prepare our estate planning and last wishes documents for us.
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17 Jan, 2018 by Kim fennell
After an extensive search for an attorney, I found Pamela Martini who agreed to represent me in a contested guardianship case. Her rates were reasonable, she was accessible and she gave me excellent legal advice on how I should proceed. She worked tirelessly to navigate through the complexity of my case. Pam's diligence and commitment tremendously helped and ultimately lead to a favorable resolution and more importantly, relief for my mother. At the conclusion, I was comforted in knowing that my mother would be safe and properly cared for. I highly recommend her services to anyone needing counsel.
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30 Jan, 2017 by Anonymous
Tracy is was very professional and knowledgeable regarding Elder Law. Her skills regarding Estate Planning are particularly impressive as she knows about all of the appropriate trusts and advance directives. Her staff is very confident, helpful, accurate and responsive.
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08 Nov, 2024 by Alex negron
Maribel Ramos has been an incredible help so far!
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06 Nov, 2024 by Eduardo alvarez
I had an exceptional experience with Luis Berk’s legal services, especially thanks to Genesis. From the very first contact, she was more than just an advisor—she was a true ally throughout the entire process. She explained every detail in both Spanish and English with a patience and clarity that really made a difference for me. Genesis not only handled my case with professionalism but also showed a genuine empathy that made me feel supported and understood every step of the way. Her personalized attention truly sets this team apart. I highly recommend them!
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04 Nov, 2024 by Merarys diaz
VANESSA helped in the right way, very kind! Thank you so much !!
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5.0
4 Reviews
4.9
164 Reviews
22 Aug, 2024 by J
I had such a great pleasant experience with Kirson & Fuller. Natasha who answered the phone was very nice, patient, and helpful. Then later I spoke with Mr. Christian Fahrig, Senior Associate, he was very nice, kind, approachable, and professional! Jessica N.
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15 Aug, 2024 by Mary ann corrado
15 Aug, 2024 by Cindy corrado
Thank you for being very professional, caring and understanding.
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22 Aug, 2024 by J
I had such a great pleasant experience with Kirson & Fuller. Natasha who answered the phone was very nice, patient, and helpful. Then later I spoke with Mr. Christian Fahrig, Senior Associate, he was very nice, kind, approachable, and professional! Jessica N.
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15 Aug, 2024 by Mary ann corrado
15 Aug, 2024 by Cindy corrado
Thank you for being very professional, caring and understanding.
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22 Aug, 2024 by J
I had such a great pleasant experience with Kirson & Fuller. Natasha who answered the phone was very nice, patient, and helpful. Then later I spoke with Mr. Christian Fahrig, Senior Associate, he was very nice, kind, approachable, and professional! Jessica N.
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15 Aug, 2024 by Mary ann corrado
15 Aug, 2024 by Cindy corrado
Thank you for being very professional, caring and understanding.
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03 Oct, 2024 by Stephanie
I'm consistently impressed by the level of care and compassion exhibited at Tower Law Group It's evident that the staff genuinely values their customers, making each visit a pleasure. They take the time to explain how estate planning works for personal and business.
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03 Oct, 2024 by Dan lopresto
I cannot say I've ever worked with a more professional, knowledgeable, and pleasant law firm. Carina de la Torre and team are phenomenal and they're who I plan to work with from now on.
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25 Sep, 2024 by Jared varitek
Personal, intentional and thorough consultation with Carina de la Torre. She made it very comfortable and took time to listen to our needs and wants with patience and grace. I highly recommend Tower Law Group for establishing your family estate plan. You will not be disappointed.
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22 Aug, 2024 by J
I had such a great pleasant experience with Kirson & Fuller. Natasha who answered the phone was very nice, patient, and helpful. Then later I spoke with Mr. Christian Fahrig, Senior Associate, he was very nice, kind, approachable, and professional! Jessica N.
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15 Aug, 2024 by Mary ann corrado
15 Aug, 2024 by Cindy corrado
Thank you for being very professional, caring and understanding.
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20 Oct, 2024 by Stephen read
Amazing service and extremely profesional.
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07 Oct, 2024 by Stefany dossantos
If you are looking for a firm that will handle all of your immigration needs in a timely and professional manner, then the office of Michael Mendes PA is where I would go. Not only was the staff professional in how they handled my case, but they were also very kind and attentive to my needs. Lis Heymann ( senior paralegal) was beyond amazing. She was always available to answer any of the questions that I had regarding my case and provided updates anytime I would reach out. She never rushed me or made me feel like a bother. I have dealt with a number of attorneys in the past, but the office of attorney Mendez was the only one that handled my case with dignity and grace. They were able to assist me in a way that changed my life completely for the better. Thank you Lis for all your efforts! 🙏🏾
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02 Oct, 2024 by Cillian gowan
Michael Mendez P.A. were very pleasant to work with! They very communicated and put my mind at ease as they guided my through the green card process.
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05 Dec, 2023 by Saree herrera
I literally LOVEEE this law firm!!!!!! They’re SUPER helpful and very sweet! I thank God they do what they do because this world needs good people like them! I would DEFINITELY recommend talking to them for anything that comes up! Maureen and the lawyer have been sooo sooo nice with me, they’ve also given me answers on anything I need! I have their phone number for any future cases! Thank youuu guys for everything you have done! Bless you and your families ♥️🤞🏼
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21 Jul, 2023 by Christine peacock
I contacted attorney Brown via voice mail and got a prompt reply. I told him about a few legal matters that were admittedly tricky, bar one. Sadly, although I was not able to hire him, he gave me some solid information how I might help myself with the Insurance Commission and Florida Department of Financial Services as well as said he would check with some associates to see if they were interested in these areas of law. He listened patiently and with compassion and actually gave some helpful advice. Unbelievable! I don't usually take the time to review those I have not directly done business with but his rare professionalism merited my time. If I had his brand of attorney in my corner for these open matters it would have been life-changing, I have no doubt. You folks that did retain him... I can see how he has the near perfect score. Wow, just WOW.
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25 Aug, 2022 by Maria puisis
The Brown Law P I attorneys and staff are awesome 👍🏼!! Especially, Maureen Brown. She goes above and beyond to help you out in whatever needs to be done.
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22 Jun, 2020 by Vivant senior living
We recommend Geoff and Family First Firm to all of our residents' families. They navigate families through the qualification process for VA and Medicaid benefits. These benefits can be a great way to supplement care costs for memory care services like ours. Geoff's team is excellent to work with, and they always answer our questions with proven experience and knowledge.
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26 Sep, 2016 by Dana
Geoffrey just did A-Z estate planning for my family and we were very pleased with his firm. They met with us at our convenience and got everything squared away for us in a timely manner and before we left the country on vacation. Needless to say; we were able to relax even more on our vacation knowing that our family affairs are in order should anything happen. We absolutely recommend the Family First Firm to our friends, family, and anyone needing to plan for their families future. They made this experience about as easy and enjoyable as it can be.
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20 Sep, 2016 by Robert
When my Father, a 90-year-old WWII veteran, indicated that, he was no longer able to manage his affairs I had to act quickly. I had never been privy to my Father’s finances or affairs until he asked for help. Furthermore, I live out of state. I was stressed handling this matter from afar. Luckily, Attorney Geoff Hoatson was recommended by my father’s longtime attorney as a specialist in Estate Planning. From the beginning, Geoff and his staff were clear, efficient, professional, and caring. Geoff and his staff worked quickly and offered solutions to issues I did not even know we had. He and his staff accommodated my schedule to ensure all matters were well attended. They are attentive to detail and responsive. I highly recommend Attorney Geoffrey Hoatson and The Family First Firm!
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13 Sep, 2024 by Veronica augustin
13 Sep, 2024 by Princess red
When it comes to patience Mrs. Waite get 10 stars thank you for all your help and patience with me during this trying time in my life
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03 Jun, 2024 by Jason rucoba
I highly NOT recommend Mrs. Kay-Ann Waite. I hired her in April and at the beginning she told me it wasn’t going to take too long and it seemed she was going to work hard for me. Then, I had to constantly ask for updates since she didn’t provided any without me asking. It is June now and since 2 weeks ago, I have been calling to her office and sending emails and text messages asking for updates but it seems pointless. If she is not planning to get the job done, I would like to get a refund and hire another lawyer.
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10 Mar, 2023 by Roberto davis
09 Sep, 2021 by Nu sound recone
Excellent advice, very helpful.
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14 Jan, 2021 by Brad cooper
I was desperate to get the lien document because we are in the process of refinancing our House and it was the only document that I was waiting to close the deal. We paid what we owed but for some reason it took too long to drop the check to their bank to clear up until our Refinance processed got expired and I was so frustrated because we got everything done except the lien document. The person that I spoke to in the phone told me, it was not their fault because they sent the letter awhile ago to let us know what we owed. Very inconsiderate! first of all you don't know what we went through just to survive on this difficult time. It took over a month to processed our payments till now I don't have the lien document yet. I would not recommend this law firm.
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4.3
12 Reviews
4.2
5 Reviews
30 Jul, 2024 by Christopher nasseh
I highly recommend Waugh PLLC for anyone seeking expert real estate legal services. The team at Waugh PLLC is incredibly knowledgeable, professional, and dedicated to achieving the best outcomes for their clients. Their attention to detail and thorough understanding of real estate law make them a standout choice in the field. Whether you’re dealing with complex transactions or need representation in a dispute, you can trust Waugh PLLC to provide top-notch legal support. I have been consistently impressed with their commitment to client success and their ability to navigate even the most challenging cases.
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07 May, 2024 by Anonymous
Beware of this guy. He is out strictly for working the process as slow as possible while billing you to the max. Run in the other direction to any other attorney in the area. He will blatantly disregard what you are trying to accomplish. My struggles were specifically in the area of guardianship. He ended up costing me the guardianship case where we had opportunities to win it along the way if it had been with any other minimally proactive attorney. He should be locked up for thievery, nothing honorable or lawyerly about this guy.
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21 Feb, 2024 by Haleyrae
We hosted Aubrey Harry Ducker at Ventura Country Club's Sunshine Ladies Club meeting on Wednesday, February 21st, 2024 in our clubhouse ballroom. He was our Sunshine Speaker of the day. He spoke about the topic of Elder Law. The ladies and I appreciated it and learned much from his presentation and Q&A session!
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29 May, 2024 by Anonymous
I reached out to Meredith, no one answered the phone so I left a message. Nobody returned my call. After a week went by, I reached back out again. I spoke to Mary. Mary was clueless to say the least. After much back-and-forth with her, an appointment was made for a Teams meeting.
I joined the teams meeting at the appropriate time and waited over 15 minutes. No one joined the meeting, I called the office and was told that I was to call 30 minutes prior to make a payment which I knew nothing about.
I was called a liar abd was told that Mary had sent me an email worker at the law firm. No email was received with payment request.
Meredith requires a payment before any interaction. An initial consult should not be charged as it is finding out if we are a good fit, and if the client feels that the attorney is competent and able to tackle the task.
I do not recommend this law firm.
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19 Oct, 2015 by Scott
Ms. Smith provided me with invaluable & useful input as to how to go about ending a period of legal guardianship which as gone on for too long & is very obviously motivated by profit. I would recommend her to review any case dealing with this subject.
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25 Mar, 2015 by Sheri
Meredith is the best lawyer that I have ever met. I have had dealing with many lawyers in Orlando and hands down, Meredith is the best. Don't bother using some one that won't give your case their all. Meredith is on top of the case.
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19 Sep, 2024 by Ewm inc
Horrible practice to pay. Tried to pay they would not give a printed receipt with time and date on company letter head. Wanted to give handwritten book receipt worthless!!! Don’t be fooled by these scammers.
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19 Sep, 2024 by Lester smith
I used The Fab Law Firm to file my divorce and was quoted a price of 3,500 with a max price of 7,500 if we needed mediation. I paid the 7,500 upfront just in case. The case ended up not needing mediation because the ex-wife and I were able to reach an agreement on our own, which we sent to our lawyers to draft. In total I spoke with my point of contact less than 10 times on the phone and less than 20 times via email. I was charged over 6,500 dollars for the work because they charged me for every email they sent to me and or the other law firm, and at times sending multiple emails (conversations) and charging for each response. I am not sure of many of the items I was charged for because it was just shown as hours they logged for work done on my behalf. I really don't understand all of the work that was done because the ex and I wrote our own agreement and just needed it drafted into legal form and submitted. The lawyers in my case didn't negotiate or write any agreement on my behalf, they simply took the agreement the ex and I made and put it into form for the courts, submitted it, and we were done, but somehow my charges still reached over 6,000 when I was quoted 3,500 if we didn't need mediation. In addition I was giving access to a portal to communicate with them called CLIO, however they were very unresponsive and hard to contact there. My case closed July 16, 2024 and I am now waiting for a review before the remaining funds are returned to me. I was told that Felicia has 30 days to review the file before returning the retainer. However I spoke with them today (Sep 19, 2024) over 2 months after my case has closed and was told that she has now been tasked with doing the review but she hasn't got to it and doesn't have a date on when she can because she is busy. I am a entrepreneur myself and run multiple companies, which is why I feel that this is a completely unacceptable way to deal with a client. I don't usually write bad reviews but I do feel like people should be aware of my experience, and hopefully save them some of the trouble I've dealt with.
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02 Sep, 2024 by Marcel bunbury
Fantastic services, and extremely professional
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19 Sep, 2024 by Ewm inc
Horrible practice to pay. Tried to pay they would not give a printed receipt with time and date on company letter head. Wanted to give handwritten book receipt worthless!!! Don’t be fooled by these scammers.
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03 Jul, 2024 by Redding anna maria
Attorney Daren Dorminy posted my home address on google. In retaliation for filing truthful motions against him in my civil case. For fraud and misrepresentation of material facts in my case. That I can prove with concrete evidence. The judge ordered my motion sealed/expunged on May 5, 2024. Mr. Dorminy’s posted the sealed motion on goggle the same day. Also, he requested all my motions be sealed/expunged but didn’t go the application process. Like every one else nor did he pay the filing fee. So the citizens of Orange County paid for filing fees for a Florida Bar attorney with the ability to pay.
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08 Dec, 2023 by Matthew moran
01 Aug, 2024 by Felicita camacho
I have been trying to get anyone to answer the phone and all I keep getting is a recording. They repeat over and over the same commercial but no one answers. I am helping a young woman with no income to get legal advice regarding a divorce and cannot get her the help she needs. What is going on? You dont deserve the 1 star I gave but I have to give it.. Not happy with this place and will never refer it.
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14 May, 2024 by Tony meyer
Couldn't get a hold of anyone
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08 May, 2024 by Nondra dennard
They listened and addressed my needs and gave me the tools and knowledge to be successful in my legal matters.
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19 Mar, 2019 by Cloudspace 117
14 Nov, 2018 by Joseph pu
Does not answer call and will do whatever it takes to drag out process so that they can collect fees. This company needs to be reported.
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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.
