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28 Sep, 2017 by Mary
We've used Mr. Cohen fit estate planning for 2 relatives.
He hosts and teaches free seminars on what his clients communicate to him that they are interested in. He and his staff make everything easy to understand. Other lawyers tend to overuse words they are familiar with (since they use the terms every day).
Me Cohen uses analogies and simple terms to communicate with the regular civilian
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20 Jun, 2017 by Anonymous
I can't say enough positive things about Michael Cohen. I live in Georgia with a family member in Texas and needed to get a lot accomplished during our visit. I provided an agenda of items that were needed and he and his staff met every need and I'm so appreciative. For those going through this process with a loved one, Michael Cohen is a great partner through the process.
In response, to those that feel the cost were high... I can only speak for myself, but I went in with all the items that I needed identified ahead of time and the cost were within reason compared to other attorneys. If you don't have a plan you can literally talk for days about all the scenarios you and your family could face and that will raise your spending.
Good luck!
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24 Nov, 2015 by Anonymous
Michael Cohen has a vast knowledge and expertise in Elder Care Law. He was highly recommended to me by two lawyers who greatly respect his work. It is his passion, as one can see in consultation meetings w/him. He is constantly updating his knowledge of all the Medicare & Medicaid Laws in Texas, as well as in other states, as the laws change continually. Michael is a teacher by nature wanting all the family members involved to understand all the pertinent information/facts that might apply to your individual case. In dealing with an elder, Michael's compassion for his or her situation is truly evident, not only in his words, but also by his actions. I highly recommend this Elder Care Attorney. I trusted him to complete a living trust for my beloved mother. To me, honesty and trust is everything when choosing an Elder Care Attorney to help our aging parents. I recommend Michael B. Cohen without hesitation to you.
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07 Apr, 2022 by Patricia
I was represented at every meeting and at every level by this highly competent, well-prepared attorney. I have recommended him to other educators facing similar negative and unwarranted behaviors on the part of administrators. Mr. Shergold is an attorney who I cannot praise highly enough. Well-pleased with the outcomes.
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30 Dec, 2015 by Sara
Mr Shergold is an excellent lawyer who listened and represented me with the utmost respect and importance. He kept me informed, helped me in all legal dealings with my employer and gave me peace of mind when I felt overwhelmed. I feel truly blessed to have had him as my attorney.
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13 Jul, 2012 by Evelyn
Mr. Shergold has assisted me throughout a very tough situation with my employer. He is very knowledgeable and kept me informed with the details of my case and sound advice. I could not have gotten the assistance that I did without John. He is tough and thourough. I would recommend him to everyone!
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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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03 Dec, 2024 by Brian portis
Mr. Cammack is Without a doubt, the most exceptional lawyer I’ve ever seen in a courtroom. I found myself facing Fraudulent charges steeming from a person committing insurance fraud To try and make a quick buck. With the help of Mr. Cammack and his team after an excruciating 10 months, the truth was brought to light and the case was dropped,
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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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11 Apr, 2019 by Rhonda
Mr. Collins was referred to me in 2012 during a time that was intense and vulnerable, both financially and emotionally. He absolutely 'took the bull by the horns' and gave sound advise and direction. I've remained a client since! Expect his highest and best at all times!
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06 Mar, 2018 by Lisa
Mr. Collins was clear and concise and gave me step by step instructions on what to do in my probate case. He was very friendly and he never acted superior like many lawyers do. I felt very comfortable asking questions that I'm sure he had answered a thousand times. His administrator was wonderful to work with. She is so kind and helpful and knowledgeable. It was a great experience.
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07 Mar, 2015 by John
Ms. Johnson has a passion for her area of expertise. I spent twenty years working and serving senior adults in housing and services. Ms. Johnson assisted me on numerous occasions with professional insight while listening closely to my questions. I also witnessed her work with several adults who were making business and personal decisions. I highly recommend her to families dealing with seniors as well as to seniors capable of making their own decisions.
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28 Feb, 2015 by Ron
Marcie worked with my wife and I to update our 1990 Living Trust. Marice walked us through the changes in the laws and regulations to bring our trust up to date. We left with a quality product and the knowledge that our needs had been met. As future questions arise, we will not hesitate to contact Marcie. She was great to work with.
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24 Sep, 2018 by Fred
My review is late arriving, but it is true. I needed assistance with estate planning and disability services for a Parent. The Law Office had a different location at the time, however it was not a long distance to commute. I entered the office for a consultation with one conceived notion which was quickly wan-tingly, dismissed at my request after listening to SOUND PROVEN ADVICE . Thank You Always to My Particular ATTORNEY NANCY STONE.
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02 Jan, 2018 by Gerardo
Ms. Stone was very pleasant and knowledgeable when trying to create a will for my parents. I'm very glad we chose her. We only had to visit with her once to determine my parents needs and she gave us a few options we might want to consider. When my parents decided a couple of years later that they wanted to make a few changes, it only took a simple phone call initially with a follow up meeting to sign the documents.
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13 Aug, 2013 by Anonymous
John was very professional and knowledgeable. He assisted me with understanding a few different contracts. You can tell that he puts a lot of effort into providing all the necessary legal information and a little more. I was very satisfied with his advisement and did not feel that something was lacking in any way. I highly recommend John Burns for anyone needing advice in his areas of expertise.
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08 Aug, 2013 by Ron
Mr. Burns helped me recently and was available THAT day in
formulating a Licensing agreement when I was pressed for time.
His response was professional,quick and he kept me well informed during the process.
I would highly recommend him and will use his expertise again when needed.
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15 Dec, 2019 by Michelle
After my father died recently I had no clue what to do. Dad's will appointed me Executor of his estate. Someone told me that my dad's estate needed to be probated. I did not know where to start. I did some research on probate lawyers, then called Professor James. He was so knowledgeable and helpful! We talked for almost an hour as he simplified what I now know is the probate process. He also told me that because my dad's property is in the Virgin Islands and dad had a residence there and died there, then the estate should be probated in the Virgin Islands. But he couldn't represent me. However, he had a shortlist of lawyers in the Virgin Islands that he could recommend to me. Wow! A lawyer turning down a case and recommending another lawyer! I was astonished. And then I asked him how much I owed him for his hour of consultation. He replied, " You do not owe me a brass farthing". Accept my sympathy for your loss, and all the best with the lawyers in the Virgin Islands. What a kind and compassionate man! I would recommend Professor James to anyone. May God bless him mightily.
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20 Oct, 2017 by Margaret
Attorney James is good at what he does. He is very attentive and easy to talk to. Before going forward with the case he researched and came up with the best possible approach. I was very pleased with the outcome.
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07 Jun, 2015 by Elliott
Had Don do my gun trust at the Lewisville gun show great price compared to others and I have already used it once with no issues highly recommended
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24 Oct, 2014 by Mark
In that I live out of state, I hired Mr. Mills to do some investigative "lawyering." This was no easy task for him as he had to locate and unearth various information from 1974 (long before computers). To my surprise and delight he was able to find all the information I required PLUS he took it upon himself to dig a little deeper into the situation. He uncovered facts that had been purposefully withheld from me from 41 years ago. His going above the call of duty helped me both emotionally and financially. I highly recommend Don Mills because of his professional knowledge, tenacity, communication, and the way he put his heart into my case. As I said, Don Mills went "ABOVE THE CALL OF DUTY!"
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26 Jan, 2015 by Jenny
It's good business practice to have a good attorney available to you. Nick Dupre has always responded quickly and thoroughly with all my questions. He has always answered all my questions and is not quick to get you off the phone or in person. It's just really good to know Nick is there to take care of any details to help make our company run smoothly and not to mention the peace of mind knowing he keeps all of our legal needs in line. Did I say, I recommend him for all your legal business needs?
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19 Oct, 2011 by L
I have never worked with an attorney like Mr. Dupre. He and his firm, Stone & Associates, are incredibly responsive, approachable, and knowledgable. I have never had an attorney answer ALL of my myriad questions so quickly and thoroughly. And what do most people cringe about with attorneys? The unrelenting and questionable bills for seemingly trivial things. NOT so with this firm. They charge up front and it is not egregious. This allows such a great level of comfort in that you can ask all you need and not fear an onslaught of invoices. Nick Dupre and his firm help remove the stigma that many attorneys have these days.
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28 Aug, 2015 by Robin
Ira is a great listener. He asks important questions to help his clients better understand their goals.
He is always kind and compassionate.
He has advised our family on important matters for over twenty years.
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26 May, 2015 by Anonymous
Silverman helped my father prepare a will, trust and related documents. After my father died, Silverman handled probating the will and helped with estate and trust administration. I can't say enough good things about Silverman and his office. The work was done timely, for a reasonable price and was of the highest quality. I have worked with several lawyers over the years. Silverman is one of the very few who returned calls promptly and took a genuine interest in both my father and me. I can give him my unqualified recommendation.
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21 Jan, 2025 by Larry mcqueen
Theander & Grimes was very pleasant to work with, reasonable rates and great people!
Larry
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06 Nov, 2024 by John welch
I needed a simple trust document for my youngest son, and T&G delivered. The document was prepared quickly, and addressed all of my requirements and was simple to understand.
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11 Oct, 2024 by Deborah foreman
Thanks Amanda, you made us feel at ease and answered all of our questions. Great customer service!
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28 Feb, 2025 by Philip beyer
Corliss Birks of Clifton Coufal was entirely professional, kind, patient, and friendly. Long story short--she secured VA benefits for my mom months ahead of what I expected based on conversations with my Air Force aunt, and those extra months of benefits more than offset the law firm fee. Hey, if you know someone honorably discharged from the US armed forces, or a surviving spouse, or child--if they aren't getting VA benefits call Clifton Coufal, ask for Corliss, and she'll let you know what is possible. My mom is getting a lot of money from the VA. Maybe you can too!
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26 Feb, 2025 by Cindy ferguson
Clifton Coufal Law Firm did an outstanding job helping me gather and submit all my father's documents for his VA benefits. I only wish I would have called them sooner rather than struggling to pull things together before I called! Christian Stringer was fantastic to work with - Highly Recommend!! Call them now!
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21 Feb, 2025 by Susan nation
Clifton Coufal Law Firm and their employees have been a tremendous blessing to us. Christian Springer and Michael Sawilowsky helped us get benefits for my father and stepmother even coming to our location to complete the paperwork. Michael took the extra time to visit with my father on a personal level making him feel valued as a person and not just a client. My father has now passed away and again they have helped us get benefits for my stepmother with no additional charges. We are forever grateful to them and have already recommended them to others.
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29 Jun, 2024 by Cameron d
25 Mar, 2024 by Aubreon otieno
I hope this law firm calls me back I have heard nothing but good and ready to be represented
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06 Dec, 2023 by Ashley s
The Glenn law firm helped me through my entire process regarding my collision. They are very personable and professional. What I appreciate the most is that they constantly checked in on me throughout the entire process. The Glenn law firm truly makes you feel like family. Jacob, David, and Marisol are an amazing team. Thank you so much.
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29 Jan, 2025 by Bobby locke
Bryn and Kim did an amazing job helping our organization get things lined out with different entities at both local and state levels of government. We couldn’t have had the growth within our organization without them.
Thank you!
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06 Aug, 2024 by Jill b denson
Mr. Mayo is very knowledgeable in elder law and took the time to answer all questions patiently. His staff is amazing!!! They treated us like family, in a professional manner, not just another client. Thank you for an exceptional experience.
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07 May, 2024 by Reynolds whatley
Bryn Poland, Kim Garcia, and the entire team do very thorough comprehensive legal planning work. They helped a client with a very tight deadline accomplish their goals. They are the best I have seen in Texas planning for Medicare/medicaid, nursing home protection, probate, and estate planning work. I would recommend them to anyone seeking best in class service and work product.
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29 Jan, 2025 by Bobby locke
Bryn and Kim did an amazing job helping our organization get things lined out with different entities at both local and state levels of government. We couldn’t have had the growth within our organization without them.
Thank you!
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06 Aug, 2024 by Jill b denson
Mr. Mayo is very knowledgeable in elder law and took the time to answer all questions patiently. His staff is amazing!!! They treated us like family, in a professional manner, not just another client. Thank you for an exceptional experience.
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07 May, 2024 by Reynolds whatley
Bryn Poland, Kim Garcia, and the entire team do very thorough comprehensive legal planning work. They helped a client with a very tight deadline accomplish their goals. They are the best I have seen in Texas planning for Medicare/medicaid, nursing home protection, probate, and estate planning work. I would recommend them to anyone seeking best in class service and work product.
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23 Sep, 2020 by Tameka
She will fight on your behalf and she knows her stuff!! I was very pleased with her representation as well as the outcome!!
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01 Aug, 2021 by Donna
I recently required the services of an attorney who could help me deal with some elderly law issues. I was very depressed, and quite stressed, and not at all an easy client to work with because of my inability to absorb instructions, even instructions as well expressed as those of Mr. Drewett or his ever-efficient paralegal (and lovely wife), Elizabeth. I was so soothed by their patience in answering (and re-answering) my multitude of questions and never making me feel badly at my struggles to understand the complex data. Believe me--dealing with Medicaid is not for the faint-hearted, and it is a path that should be walked with a highly respected, well-experienced attorney and his supporting staff right by your side. I cannot thank Mr. Drewett and Elizabeth enough for the kindness and compassion they shared with me when I sorely needed someone to help me. Indeed, they both treated me like family. I highly recommend Mr. Drewett and his staff and will caution you again about trying to navigate a medicaid journey without the assistance of a qualified, highly respected attorney and his staff. I truly believe God directed me to seek out their assistance.
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31 Jan, 2019 by Winston
Sarah Mcrae Robinson William's is an angel! I met Sarah while picking up a copy of my custody agreement from the county court. It was a troubling time for me, a time that I needed help like never before. Sarah must have sensed my troubles. She spoke with me freely about my options, and my rights as a father, and offered to consult with me for free with no strings attached. We met about a week later, had coffee, and talked for what seemed to be hours about everything and anything. My wife and I decided to retain Sarah, and she immediately got to work on our behalf. Communication was always prompt, emails and text were always returned, and she only offered realistic results. Her honesty about our situation was refreshing. We had been promised things before from others that didn't deliver. Sarah was able to work with the opposing lawyer and negotiate terms that were in the best interest of my daughter. She was also able to bring two feuding sides to an agreement that would encourage co parenting. It's been nearly a year since the resolution to our case, but Sarah still checks on us, and she has also given my advice on other matters. She even threw in an estate plan for us free of charge! I cannot thank her enough.
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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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28 Jun, 2011 by Anonymous
I called this man from Houston Tx and he stayed on the phone with me through everything and gave the plausible outcome of could happen went over the family law with me concerning what im trying to pursue!! I would recommend him just from our phone call! Im retaining him the second i get to amarillo!!! He pulled all the facts and everything with right on the phone. Most lawyers rush u off the phone to come in and pay for a consultation he didnt. He reviewed everything right away and has very reasonable pricing!
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08 Mar, 2015 by Anonymous
Chris was amazing in my tricky two year estate battle. Chris may be cool, calm, and collected when meeting with him, but when around the opposition you can see how hard he is willing to fight for you. Really nice guy and really good attorney.
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25 Dec, 2017 by Anonymous
I hired Monica Benson to transfer a guardianship to Texas. The work was done quickly. The fee was reasonable. The transfer was problem free. Her advice is sound.
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20 Jun, 2014 by Jim & zona and fred
Kristen Porter was so knowledgeable and efficient with helping complete the application and obtain Medicaid for my Mom.
She was a Blessing for us and we do appreciate her so much and we respect her ethics and we were so impressed by her knowledge and compassion.
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20 Aug, 2019 by John
Jay made out my will some years ago. I couldn’t have been happier. He asked the pertinent questions, him and his secretary were a delight to work with. Thought his prices were very reasonable. Plan on using Jay again soon for some estate planning, as are my two brothers.
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09 Dec, 2014 by Joe
Aleida was a wonderful lawyer and helped my family and me thru a very difficult time. Her compassion and responsiveness were very appreciated. Obtaining guardianship is a very unpleasant proposition but Aleida made it manageable.
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20 Sep, 2011 by Lacie
He took on my case the day of court and stood up for me with only a few facts of the case. He has been extremely reassuring and knowledgeable in the law pertaining to the case. I feel that he works from his book smarts along with his heart. I will never consult any other family law attorney again!
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16 Nov, 2023 by Eliza
El abogado Rodríguez respondió todas mis preguntas amablemente, con paciencia y profesionalismo.
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03 Mar, 2016 by Anonymous
I purchased my first house a year ago and found out shortly after that the seller did not disclose water leaks or mold and in fact tried to cover this up. Collen came to the rescue and helped me through every step in the process. Collen and his team were there whenever I had questions regarding the case and issues from the remediation company all the way to the contractor that finished the build out. Every step of the way Collen was there. Being that it was my first house I really did not want to take this case to trial and it be dragged out for years. Collen was able to settle the case after a couple of months and the settlement was very satisfactory to me. I felt that in any situation Collen would always make time for his clients. I would highly recommend Collen to anyone that has dealt with construction problems. He really knows his stuff and the process.
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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:
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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.
