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05 Mar, 2024 by Annette hasten
Awesome folks. So very helpful and very concerned for their customers. I will continue to use them until the day one of us is dead.
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01 Jul, 2020 by Anonymous
Jacque Mingle beautifully carried through on multiple aspects of her training, as exemplified through her professional expertises: She was instrumental in overseeing the Guardianship Case on behalf of my ill, age-advanced mother (Alzheimer's), where concepts of elder law were at play, forefront and center. Because a contested, complicated Trust was involved, Jacque Mingle's Estate Planning background became invaluable. I would bet that Jacque Mingle has pretty much seen it all. (And she's so humble that, for the longest time, I thought that her specialty only allowed for her to handle Guardianship cases.) Later in the process, when I was erroneously, anonymously accused of elder abuse, much of it related to family dynamics and greed, Jacque Mingle stepped forward with patience and support, quietly leading the way to better days to come. Though Jacque Mingle changed law offices during this lengthy journey, she never missed a beat and kept her eyes on the tasks at hand. Not once did I feel that her personal/professional life had been disrupted during her move toward becoming a Partner, or while changing office locations, coincidentally during the time of Coronavirus... I cannot thank Jacque Mingle enough for always staying on target, while sometimes having to tirelessly engage in job requirements (evenings, laboring from home), particularly when there were time crunches. Jacque Mingle reached out with a kind heart, and was empathetic. She's humble and brilliant, so does not focus on her own star having to shine. I could count on Jacque Mingle's guidance, coupled with her integrity and strong work ethic--she helped me to move this case from a basic nightmare (after my mother fearfully bit a policeman on a hot summer day) to a workable solution, all tailored to my Mom's best interests. Since we live overseas, and have advocated for my mother's long-term best care and considerations, I could never thank Jacque Mingle enough for following through on everything, and then some, which we had discussed during our first consultation together. It's amazing how this all played out: I had contacted my mother's Scottsdale attorney for a referral, after which I ended up seeking counsel in Tucson from a complete stranger, who ended up becoming my new best friend, if even for a relatively short while (roughly 18 months). Should we ever need any further assistance down the road, Jacque Mingle would still be my first choice for legal needs. Jacque Mingle has allowed us to move forward from some very dark days, and she helped us to focus on the rays of sunshine at the end of a cold, narrow tunnel. I will be forever grateful to Jacque Mingle for doing everything right to have thus earned my respect. Jacque Mingle is a great asset to any appropriate legal situation, especially when personal strength, perseverance, and a warm smile are desperately needed in a timely manner. She's a good investment of one's time, energy, funds. Having survived numerous disappointments during the past couple of years, I can honestly say that Jacque Mingle is a positive constant in Tucson, Arizona, who still remains. Thank you, Jacque, for being able to balance your professionalism with your humanity.
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04 Feb, 2025 by Amy dantzler
I met attorney Kevin Kinghorn and his team at a very difficult time following the sudden death of my father and the death of my mother shortly thereafter. Kevin and paralegal Amber Kirkley were kind, patient and professional in the administration of my parents' estate. They worked closely with me for over two years to ensure everything was done properly. I can't thank them enough for taking such good care of my family in a very stressful time. I highly recommend Kevin Kinghorn.
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18 Nov, 2024 by Bruce pavlikowski
My father had a trust with Kinghorn Law and after his passing, I became the Trustee. I retained Kevin's firm to do the Trust Administration and worked with Amber from their office.
Amber was able to resolve all of the issues dealing with Canadian investments, Treasury Direct, creditor notices and many other items. She is also creating beneficiary trusts for the survivors and taking care of all paperwork.
It has been a difficult process in dealing with the loss of a parent but Kinghorn Law has been there to assist in every aspect of the entire process. I would highly recommend them for any type of Family Law needs.
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20 Sep, 2024 by Mimi
I was new to the world of estate planning until my husband and I got a trust with Kinghorn. I can say with all honesty, it was the best thing we've ever done! If anyone wants to know more about estate planning, Kinghorn Law has to be at the top of the list. They are extremely helpful, answer any question thoroughly, and treat clients with genuine appreciation. If you're looking for a good estate planner, as well as financial services, consider reaching out to this exceptionally professional company. You won't regret it.
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05 Mar, 2024 by Annette hasten
Awesome folks. So very helpful and very concerned for their customers. I will continue to use them until the day one of us is dead.
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22 Sep, 2014 by Sylvia
We were looking for a lawyer to represent us in AZ since we were out of state. We were coming to Tucson for a limited amount of time and needed to find someone quickly. We wanted to meet with someone face to face, so we were comfortable dealing with them long distance. Mrs. Conway was able to get us in for a consultation quickly which was great. She was honest and upfront about the situation which we appreciated. We had already made contact with a few others to no avail or satisfaction. She was very helpful and knowledgeable with the circumstances of our case. And if she didn't have an answer she found one. She kept us informed and was available for questions with a quick response. I could not be more happy with her professionalism and felt comfortable working with her long distance. She was very upfront and honest through the whole case (which was somewhat complicated) and we were able to have a positive outcome. If you are in the market for a lawyer I highly recommend Katrina Conway!
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29 Oct, 2024 by Ken
After a major life change, I needed to establish a trust to ensure my son's future was secure, and the Law Offices of David Karp in Tucson, Arizona, exceeded my expectations. David and his team provided outstanding, personalized service, carefully listening to my needs and guiding me through every decision with care and professionalism. They explained all options for my estate planning in clear, understandable terms and ensured that the solution I chose was meticulously prepared. Their dedication to thoroughness and follow-up left me with complete peace of mind, and I highly recommend them for their expertise and genuine commitment to their clients.
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21 Oct, 2024 by Lisa
David is extremely knowledgeable and his team is fantastic to work with. We are at ease knowing our estate planning is being handled by this firm.
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28 Jun, 2024 by Mary
David and his staff were extremely professional and competent. From our first initial meeting to the final product, his humor, friendly demeanor and expert knowledge were incredible. Each step of the process was explained in detail and his entire staff were responsive and extremely thorough. We are very grateful for his expertise in the development of our trust, my husband and I would highly recommend his firm.
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19 Jun, 2024 by Sheila
I received great guidance throughout the process of creating my estate plan. Ms. Schmitz provided professional advice with that personal touch that fit my needs.
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13 Dec, 2023 by Tom
Shameless did a great job working with us on our will, explaining every step of the way. The office staff was also excellent.
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07 Dec, 2023 by Kathy
Shanelle did a great job handling the personal details of our estate planning. She made sure that we understood every step of the process and provided great followup when needed. Our overall experience was excellent!
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30 Jul, 2024 by Peggy ollerhead
Professional, timely service. Appreciated the text boxes provided on the draft that explained potentially confusing passages.
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23 May, 2024 by Xxheatdrxx
My thanks to Dane.... a great attorney and a true heart.
He helped me "figure out" if i had any inheritance from an estranged father. He told me my options and in a way I could understand. I highly recommend this law firm. I dont understand why there are any reviews under 5 stars for this law firm!
Kenneth
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07 May, 2024 by Leona kay
12 Dec, 2015 by Anonymous
We recently had a very complicated trust matter as we were moving a trust from La to Az, where laws are very different. We also decided to make new wills and basically restructure all of our estate planning. Other attorneys we spoke to made our goals seem virtually impossible. Craig made it seem easy (even though we know it was not). Everything was handled quickly and in our best interest for the future and the future of our children. We can't say enough positive things. And just a note - the staff in his office are friendly and pleasant as well.
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05 Jun, 2015 by Bill
I have been working with Craig for more than 5 years. Not only has he been extremely helpful to me and my entire family he has also drafted trust documents and other estate planning documents for several of my friends who I referred to Craig. I would not hesitate to give Craig my highest and best endorsement. He is extremely knowledgeable and takes the time to explain difficult concepts in a way we can all understand.
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03 Jun, 2015 by Jim
I am an independant financial advisor here in Tucson. I have been referring my clients to Craig for a number of years and the response has always been tremendous. Not only is he highly knowledgeable in the fields of trusts and elder law, he is sincere, approachable and sensitive to client situations. Sometimes our interation can get somewhat complicated but he is always able to express himself in a way that is easy to understand. I trust Craig enough that I have asked him to set up my mothers trust as well as my own. I would highly recommend him both as a person and a very capable attorney.
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15 Dec, 2018 by Mark
She is very knowledgeable in elder law. She advised me on my father's situation. I found from her that I could do a Conservatorship to stop his wild spending. Since my father was in Colorado she advised me to seek a lawyer in Colorado. He is a snow bird. Her advise was as good as the best lawyer I found in Colorado. I had to interview 3 lawyers in Colorado before I found one as competent. She was very generous with her time and did not charge me for a long consult.
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21 Sep, 2017 by Elaine semonian
He was extremely professional and compassionate and explained to me very clearly what I needed to do.
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27 May, 2015 by Craig wisnom
Teresa is one of the top younger attorneys in the estate planning field. She is able to handle issues related to all areas of estate planning, as well as special needs and elder law relate issues, and in some situations will take litigation in this area where her firm's skills may be utilized in a manner beneficial to the client.
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05 Dec, 2024 by Carrie wexler
25 Jul, 2024 by Carol weber
Simply the best experience we could have had with our Estate planning process!
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14 Jul, 2023 by Sheri pfautz
After my inquiry email, Mr. Leonard graciously called me right away, even though it was late in the evening after his normal work hours. We discussed my situation in an initial consultation, and even though he was unable to assist on the matter, he offered me detailed advice on options for proceeding. I would recommend Mr. Leonard.
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20 Sep, 2024 by Keith singer
10 Jun, 2023 by Jennifer becker
No-nonsense, highly experienced, professional, and notably superior to my other limited experiences with lawyers.
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02 Nov, 2021 by O k
14 Aug, 2024 by Susan springstead
They handle all my brothers needs ( he is a double amputee and paraplegic) Victoria is the absolute best. So quick, efficient, responsive, and compassionate. I love her and trust her with my brother’s care. She is #1 most definitely. So knowledgeable and empathetic as she has special needs family members.
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26 Jul, 2024 by Brian
Very favorable yet when I asked them a question about technical issues regarding the trust they would not answer the question. "We weren't retained by you, retained by your parents. Here is a list of attorneys who can help". Thing is, mother was alive. Still their client. Why couldn't they help me? I was set up as "special agent" for mom with rights entitled to act as "attorney in fact" for my Mom and I could not get my questions answered.
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05 Aug, 2022 by World administrator
Place seems perfectly professional - until parents pass away and rightful heir is left without funds after paying these attorney for decades of Trust establishment and help. I am such a heir, and have been left absolutely nothing from my parents after a half brother, not my father's son, also an attorney, took control of the hundreds of thousands of dollars and property that was strictly my fathers'. Timothy Struse Senior left the management of my parents' estate to his son (it was originally established by very long term partner Paul D Slosser). Do not possibly trust these attorney with your funds if you want your only son and heir to have them!
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16 Nov, 2024 by Jason morelos
John Dorris is a excellent lawyer he is a straight shooter and gives advice when need be. Best attorney I have ever hired.
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09 Oct, 2024 by Rich
A word to the wise. ALWAYS check an attorneys record with the Bar Association before hiring anyone.
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29 Jan, 2024 by Kelly marquart
John Dorris was the attorney I prayed for🙏 He was extremely thorough and helped my daughter get her children back to the state she lives in. I highly recommend this man and his fabulous team 🙏😀
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25 Apr, 2018 by Pat
Very considerate, kind, and understanding. She answered questions, returned calls, and e mails. Attorney Hoffman is a direct and honest person. Plus she is a wonderful person.
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11 Jul, 2013 by Becky
I felt she really tried for my son. She kept me informed. She answered my calls. She was honest and always concerned about my son's best interests.
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29 Dec, 2017 by Rhiannon
Carrie advised me on the best documents needed for my growing and blended family. She explained everything clearly and didn't use lawyer-speak. I highly recommend her and her office.
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05 Mar, 2024 by Annette hasten
Awesome folks. So very helpful and very concerned for their customers. I will continue to use them until the day one of us is dead.
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04 Feb, 2025 by Amy dantzler
I met attorney Kevin Kinghorn and his team at a very difficult time following the sudden death of my father and the death of my mother shortly thereafter. Kevin and paralegal Amber Kirkley were kind, patient and professional in the administration of my parents' estate. They worked closely with me for over two years to ensure everything was done properly. I can't thank them enough for taking such good care of my family in a very stressful time. I highly recommend Kevin Kinghorn.
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18 Nov, 2024 by Bruce pavlikowski
My father had a trust with Kinghorn Law and after his passing, I became the Trustee. I retained Kevin's firm to do the Trust Administration and worked with Amber from their office.
Amber was able to resolve all of the issues dealing with Canadian investments, Treasury Direct, creditor notices and many other items. She is also creating beneficiary trusts for the survivors and taking care of all paperwork.
It has been a difficult process in dealing with the loss of a parent but Kinghorn Law has been there to assist in every aspect of the entire process. I would highly recommend them for any type of Family Law needs.
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20 Sep, 2024 by Mimi
I was new to the world of estate planning until my husband and I got a trust with Kinghorn. I can say with all honesty, it was the best thing we've ever done! If anyone wants to know more about estate planning, Kinghorn Law has to be at the top of the list. They are extremely helpful, answer any question thoroughly, and treat clients with genuine appreciation. If you're looking for a good estate planner, as well as financial services, consider reaching out to this exceptionally professional company. You won't regret it.
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08 Jun, 2024 by Suzie agrillo
I was referred to St.Clair Law to assist me with the eviction of a tenant. I am impressed with both Bob and Billy’s legal acumen as well as the sage advice I was given. I am a retired attorney, so I have high standards, and this firm exceeded my expectations.
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18 May, 2024 by Cassie giron
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09 Mar, 2024 by Joshua force
Very professional and knowledgeable firm, I highly recommend St. Clair Law.
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27 Mar, 2020 by David
I am an out-of-state resident but my parents live in Arizona. With my mom's passing in the fall, my father has been living alone for 6 months and recently fell gravely ill. He has been hospitalized for over 2 weeks and is incapable of managing his finances. Unfortunately the only POA on file was over 20 years old and listed mom as his financial AIF. Thus a conservatorship was needed. Mr. Wood answered the phone himself when I called, and secured me as my father's temporary conservator in less than 4 business days! I never imagined it would happen that fast and relatively easily.
Personally, this is nothing I ever wanted to do. I wanted my father to continue to self-manage his financial affairs, but the situation necessitated it. Mr. Wood was very sensitive to our situation and communicated with clarity, respect and compassion throughout. I plan to continue working with him as the permanent conservatorship process unfolds and in helping me to remain in good standing with the court for as long as I must act in this capacity.
I highly recommend him to anyone needing such services too.
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21 Mar, 2015 by William
In the 10 plus years I have know Henry Wood he has provided everything in an extremely timely manner. He goes out of his way to be helpful. Thanks to his knowledge level and proactive stance everything is done ahead of time. If you want things done correctly you have Mr. Wood on your side!
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16 Mar, 2015 by Laura
My brother passed suddenly in 2014. In his Will I was named executor or as I later found out from Mr. Wood, a Personal Representative. Not knowing a thing about probate and the duties of a PR, Mr. Wood was there to help guide me through the process of a Probate. He was forthcoming with fees and kept me informed of each step we were taking. Since I live in CA, I couldn't imagine doing all this by myself, without his help.
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09 Nov, 2024 by Peter vlassis
05 Apr, 2024 by Austin jorgensen
I had a detailed real estate inquiry and my call was returned within hours the same day with expert legal advice. Thanks.
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05 Jun, 2023 by Roycelynne merx
I reached out looking for attorneys for an unfortunate matter that I've been dealt. Although he couldn't take my case, he was very very sincere and kind and honest which is extremely appreciated in such a dark moment and world.
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13 Sep, 2024 by Leslie gose
Amy Hernandez is very knowledgeable, professional and forward-thinking. She provided me with the best information and a full understanding of the process ahead of us. Amy was pleasant, direct and communicated clearly on a level that was very helpful for me. I am forever grateful for her expertise, knowledge and help! You will be also!
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08 Aug, 2024 by Evan antonio hernandez
I was referred to Janet Linton from a friend and she did an amazing job on my case. I always felt like a priority and that she was working hard for a good outcome for my family and I
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07 Aug, 2024 by Brandy ruiz
I called in to get help from Amy referred by a coworker for my car accident, I explained my situation and she rudely said yea there’s nothing I can do about it. How unprofessional and her tone with attitude was very immature for a lady her age. As I called other lawyers stating it was a case that they can take on and see no issue with not doing so.
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28 Jan, 2025 by Bonnie jo savland
Horrible assistance! The “Para-legal” Kevin is no more fit for this job as a rock would be! At $350/hour & then he needs an intern at minimum wages to do the work for him! Not recommended!
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29 Aug, 2024 by Starlene schroeder
18 Apr, 2024 by Al urban
Upgrading my trust account and they are very knowledgeable and make you comfortable dealing with the issues.
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11 Dec, 2024 by Maria quiroz
First time I talk to this firm and Mr William receptionist was very nice with me when I explai n little bit about my case and she give me an appointment
Thank you very much 🙏🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
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26 Oct, 2024 by Jennufer vanden eykel
Paul and the team were very kind and professional when helping my son through his Divorce….compassionate making a life changing event manageable…at the same time providing hope.
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28 Sep, 2024 by Stephen perko
27 Dec, 2020 by Tricia
After my husband suffered a massive stroke, I realized how difficult it was to navigate the ALTCS system. Mr. Bartlett provided us with a detailed plan to help us pass the application process the first time! He continues to be very responsive to all questions and concerns. We will be forever grateful for his professional guidance!
Tricia Rivas, RN
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28 Aug, 2019 by Batia
Paul Bartlett listened well to our situation and then took on the challenge of an area of law with which he was not entirely familiar. He researched and then did a superb job at helping us present a strong case before the federal government, who made a repetitive and costly billing error on a Medicare insurance matter. Mr. Bartlett and his associate are of high caliber and do excellent work. They were referred to us by another top law firm in Tucson who think highly of Bartlett.
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27 Feb, 2016 by Anonymous
My family hired and paid Bartlett after my mother's death to handle her estate. He suggested we set up a "special needs pooled trust fund" for my schizophrenic brother with some of the money left (10K). He said my brother's SSI payments would be protected because the trust would only be for extra items other than food and rent which SSI covers. This was in 2012. In 2015-2016, SSI started demanding "over-payments" from my brother to the tune of 30K stating that his trust was not allowable. Bartlett would not even talk to me without a credit card number. All I wanted to do was talk first. I fumed, then came back after a few months and said I'd pay. His answer? He "declined to represent" us anymore. I don't understand how he could have gotten us into this mess with SSI and then not have the decency to help us out - even when I finally offered to pay. I strongly do not recommend him.
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20 May, 2024 by George demarino
If you're a guy, they're really no help. I don't know about how they're with women.
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17 Apr, 2024 by Rhonda sundell
09 Apr, 2024 by Akc in miracle valley
Found out that anything reported anonymously is not investigated! That Puts people in this state in danger when reporting. This state and especially Cochise County is corrupt!!
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21 Sep, 2023 by Kenny
A con man hired Denice on his brothers behalf due to the brother having dementia. Power of attorney was already granted to other family members who had been taking care of the brother for years. Denice is now being investigated by the AZ State Bar due to accepting a case where POA already existed as she is deeply unthorough or irretrievably stupid. Maybe it's time to retire Denice.
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03 Oct, 2015 by Lisa
I wholeheartedly endorse this lawyer. She was one of three Tucson attorneys who were recommended when I was caught up in an ugly (and emotionally draining) lawsuit. Denice is thorough, tough and very protective of her clients. She doesn't always tell me what I want to hear but her honest appraisals have been invaluable. It has been a great comfort knowing she's "got my back".
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19 Oct, 2022 by Anonymous
I went to get help on a probate issue. He wandered mentally all over the place. He repeated things he had said several times. He charged me $400 for a consultation that was 40 minutes long, my choice. I felt he addressed issues that were not relevant. When i questioned him he said "I am the lawyer". Never did answers of what forms were needed and a quess on a timeline.
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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.
