Filter by

Leonid Murashkovskiy, experienced Business, Elder Law attorney in Addison, TX with 37 reviews
Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
44,64
star star star star star
5.0/5
Avvo
5.0
20 Reviews
Google Maps
5.0
17 Reviews
star star star star star
26 Jan, 2024 by Ian klein
Omar Alahmady is an outstanding attorney, and treats each client's case personally. He is a voracious advocate, and great human being, who anyone would be lucky to have in their corner.
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
21 Jan, 2024 by Amer alrimawi
I had the privilege of working with Omar at Alahmady Law, and I must say the experience was exceptional. From the moment I called, til the very end of the process, Omar displayed professionalism and expertise that immediately put me at ease. Omar's attention to detail and deep understanding of the legal matters at hand were truly impressive. He navigated through complex issues with ease, providing clear explanations and guidance every step of the way. It was evident that he was not only knowledgeable in his field but also genuinely invested in the well-being of his clients. What stood out the most was Omar's unwavering commitment to ensuring my case was handled with the utmost care and diligence. He demonstrated a level of dedication that went above and beyond my expectations. Throughout the entire process, communication was prompt, transparent, and conducted with the highest degree of professionalism. I highly recommend Alahmady Law to everyone and anyone. If you're seeking legal representation characterized by professionalism, expertise, and a genuine concern for your case, look no further. They truly set the standard for outstanding legal services.
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
15 Jan, 2024 by Marc alozie
Omar is a stand up individual who will work your case with fervor and pursue justice on your behalf.
Read more Google Maps
See more
Allen Landerman, experienced Business, Estate Planning attorney in Addison, TX with 173 reviews
Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
43,60
star star star star star
4.9/5
Avvo
5.0
4 Reviews
Google Maps
4.9
169 Reviews
star star star star star
14 Nov, 2024 by Aidos moldakashov
Very knowledgeable!
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
25 Oct, 2024 by Karanveer sekhon
Professional expert service at reasonable prices.
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
23 Oct, 2024 by Luba empson
Google Maps
See more
Kavita Nair Brignac, experienced Business, Estate Planning attorney in Addison, TX with 5 reviews
Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
39,15
star star star star star
5.0/5
Avvo
5.0
5 Reviews
star star star star star
28 Sep, 2022 by Allison
My husband and I have been advised by Kavita for our will and trust. She was incredibly knowledgeable and was very comprehensive in answering our questions. She made us feel very comfortable and confident throughout the consultation. I highly recommend Kavita.
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
19 Jan, 2022 by Alicia
My family hired Kavita in 2018 to handle the probate process and updating of estate documents after my mom unexpectedly passed away. Kavita's kindness and thoroughness were a lifesaver during an incredibly difficult time. She had the patience and knowledge to ensure that the probate process was as smooth as can be. Also, she was with us every step of the way to update all of the documents pertaining to the estate in the same detailed and thorough manner. We hired Kavita again in 2021 when we were looking to set up an LLC for a new line of business. Once again, Kavita came to our aid and took us through every step of the process with patience, knowledge, and insight to ensure we had all of the documents we needed for our new business. And while going through the process of creating what would become our Operating Agreement for our new business, we learned a lot from her as well! We will definitely hire Kavita again for future estate planning as well as when we set up our next business venture to make sure we have all of our I's dotted and our T's crossed - we know we can count on her to listen, to help guide us, and to execute our needs flawlessly.
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
11 Jan, 2022 by Richard
Kavita... a good lawyer? I think more, but you tell me. It's difficult when you have to count on a stranger at the worst moment in your life. It's a terrible feeling. Weather it be a death, possible loss of your freedom, some type of lawsuit. Having to instantly confide in and trust a stranger; whom additionally you are having to pay..... that can be tough to swallow and deal with. I lost my mother and nothing seemed fair or right. Kavita made the probate process make sense. She wasn't doing a "job". She was helping a stranger get through the toughest point in their life with understanding, compassion, patience, explanations and knowledge of law. When I paid for a lawyer I paid for and expected someone to help me quickly and efficiently close out my mothers estate. I got that.... but i also got a shoulder to lean on for strength when I needed it most, a voice of reason that dumbed it down enough for me to understand when it didn't seem fair and I didn't get it, someone that put me back in my place when I got out of line because of my pain... I got so much more than a lawyer I am forever grateful. My family continues to count on Kavtia today. Kavita tells you what you need to hear but more importantly cares what you heard. Kavita is a great person and better Lawyer.
Read more Avvo
See more
Maria Ahmed, experienced Estate Planning, Family Law attorney in Addison, TX with 50 reviews
Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
39,07
star star star star star
4.8/5
Avvo
5.0
14 Reviews
Google Maps
4.8
36 Reviews
star star star star star
03 Oct, 2024 by Sarah shakeel
Google Maps
star star star star star
24 Feb, 2024 by Omar salem
Maria is an exceptional lawyer! Her expertise, professionalism, and dedication are truly commendable. She handled my case with care and precision, achieving the best possible outcome. Highly recommend her services!
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
24 Jan, 2024 by Prince chimezie ogbonna
Immigration can be complicated, we need to prepare and send so many documentation, attend to fingerprint session, interview, adjustment of status, etc… You need a lawyer that is responsive and accessible. Someone that is there for you! I only have good things to state about Maria 1) She is super responsive, you sent an email, 10 min later you have an answer! 2) She is excellent on getting all the paperwork organized 3) She is always on time 4) She keeps track of everything, you will not miss any details on any case. If you are looking for a lawyer, stop now, you will not regret having Maria by your side
Read more Google Maps
See more
Tiffany Lajoyce Pratt, experienced Estate Planning, Family Law attorney in Addison, TX with 1 reviews
Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
39,03
star star star star star
5.0/5
Avvo
5.0
1 Reviews
star star star star star
22 Mar, 2017 by Robert
Attorney Pratt is extremely knowledgeable. I like that she is very patient and takes her time to explain everything in a way that I can clearly understand. She was the 2nd attorney I had handling my case, and she was by far the best!
Read more Avvo
See more
Sarah Lynn Murphy, experienced Estate Planning, Trusts attorney in Addison, TX with 9 reviews
Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
39,01
star star star star star
5.0/5
Google Maps
5.0
9 Reviews
star star star star star
07 Jul, 2024 by Vivianny rovero
Excelente su ayuda y colaboración con nuestro caso. responsables! Los recomiendo
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
20 Jun, 2024 by Apichris chotichoey
Thank you Oscar for helping me getting my H1B visa. Attorney Oscar was very polite and carefully listened to me. If you need a Dallas immigration lawyer, just contact him.
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
20 Jun, 2024 by Daliana anez
Mi residencia fue aprobada en tiempo récord con la ayuda de los abogados, guiaron en cada paso y explicaron todo muy bien. Excelente comunicación y atención al cliente.
Read more Google Maps
See more
Amanda Lee Sarp, experienced Estate Planning, Insurance attorney in Addison, TX with 9 reviews
Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
35,01
star star star star star
5.0/5
Google Maps
5.0
9 Reviews
star star star star star
07 Jul, 2024 by Vivianny rovero
Excelente su ayuda y colaboración con nuestro caso. responsables! Los recomiendo
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
20 Jun, 2024 by Apichris chotichoey
Thank you Oscar for helping me getting my H1B visa. Attorney Oscar was very polite and carefully listened to me. If you need a Dallas immigration lawyer, just contact him.
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
20 Jun, 2024 by Daliana anez
Mi residencia fue aprobada en tiempo récord con la ayuda de los abogados, guiaron en cada paso y explicaron todo muy bien. Excelente comunicación y atención al cliente.
Read more Google Maps
See more
Matthew Taylor Valeriane, experienced Business, Child Support attorney in Addison, TX with 30 reviews
Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
34,33
star star star star star
4.9/5
Google Maps
4.9
30 Reviews
star star star star star
29 Jan, 2025 by Jessica skoropinski
My husband and I bought a car from a used car dealer in early 2024. Obviously it didn’t go very well! After months and months and MONTHS of waiting to get our title, (we truly gave them way too much patience) we finally decided it was time to proceed with legal action. I honestly just searched “car title fraud lawyer dallas texas”- the first two firms we reached out to instantly declined to work with us. Matt took the time to consult with us in detail before deciding whether or not to take our case, and thank god he did, otherwise we never would’ve ended up getting our money back! We were at the point that we didn’t even want the car anymore, we just wanted the whole thing reversed, and Matt helped us achieve that. Our fraud dealer was doing god knows what while stringing us along and Matt really dug deep to figure out just what in the world was going on- the car hadn’t been inspected in the last THREE years, so they never should have sold it to us in the first place, and could not transfer the title to us. He told us straight up what our best options were every step of the way, and was extremely understanding and willing to work with us when scheduling conflicts arose (my husband is active duty military and was actually deployed while we were working everything out). Working with Matt feels like having somebody who is truly in your corner, fighting enthusiastically for you. His confidence in his ability to do a good job and right whatever wrong has happened is infectious- and true! If you’re in a similar position, waiting for a title from a fraud car dealer who just won’t get it done, I honestly cannot recommend Matt enough. Hiring him to represent us was the only bright spot of this entire fraud title debacle.
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
29 Oct, 2024 by Barden family
My daughter and I purchased her first vehicle that she saved her own money up for and we paid in full cash for the vehicle from what we thought as a reputable dealer. Turns out the used car dealer went out of business shortly after our purchase and never transferred the title into our name. Furthermore, we learned from the state that there was still a lien on the vehicle from the previous owner. After a quick google search on title fraud, we found Mr. Valeriane and set up a time to meet with him to discuss our case. In that meeting, it was clear to us that Mr. Valeriane knew how to handle cases like ours. We reviewed what to expect throughout the process of suing the dealership. Mr. Valeriane was very experienced and knew the process inside and out, explaining each step to us. We felt he was the right individual to handle our case. Mr. Valeriane was able to achieve a successful outcome to our benefit. He provided us updates throughout the process and was quick to answer our questions along the way. While our patience were test, Mr. Valeriane assured us there would be an end eventually. If you ever have an issue in getting your car title from a dealer, give Mr. Valeriane a call to know your options. We are so thankful we found him on google and this nightmare for our daughter is behind us!
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
08 Oct, 2024 by Christian kashala
I purchased a vehicle from a used car dealer over two years ago. I met the dealer at the auction house in Dallas and found the vehicle I ultimately purchased. Aside from certain repairs the dealership promised to pay but never did, I NEVER received title to the Vehicle. After trying to contact the dealer multiple times about the status of the motor vehicle title transfer, I came to terms that I was being ignored and that title would never come. I googled “car title fraud attorney” and found Mr. Valeriane. Mr. Valeriane is an attorney who specializes in suing used car dealers that sell vehicles to consumers but never transfer the car title. I have never sued another business so I wast a little hesitant in getting involved in a law suit. Mr. Valeriane explained the pros and cons of filing a lawsuit and I ultimately decided to move forward. I’m glad I did. Mr. Valeriane was able to get me back the money I paid for the vehicle even though two years had passed. If you’re still waiting on your car title, being ignored by the dealer, and do not think you can afford an attorney, give Mr. Valeriane a call and explain your vehicle title situation. If he cannot take your case, he may be able to lead you into the right direction. Thanks again Mr. Valeriane for all of your hard work! You’ve earned another great review from a very satisfied client. Regards, Christian 😃😃😃⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Read more Google Maps
See more
Debra Suzanne Schard Crafton, experienced Estate Planning, Litigation attorney in Addison, TX with 5 reviews
Below Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
28,39
star star star star star
4.2/5
Google Maps
4.2
5 Reviews
star star star star star
03 Aug, 2023 by 69 sawgrass chowdhury (69 sawgrass)
Excellent Estate Planning Law Firm
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
06 Jan, 2023 by Ashley young
I have not had the need for their law services. However, I did call to ask about a package left at a neighboring office. Kelly is SO nice! You couldn't get any nicer. Thank you for being so sweet, professional, and willing to help.
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
19 Feb, 2022 by Daniel & danielle durbin
Google Maps
See more
Gregory G. Turner, experienced Estate Planning, Tax attorney in Addison, TX with 5 reviews
Below Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
28,39
star star star star star
4.2/5
Google Maps
4.2
5 Reviews
star star star star star
03 Aug, 2023 by 69 sawgrass chowdhury (69 sawgrass)
Excellent Estate Planning Law Firm
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
06 Jan, 2023 by Ashley young
I have not had the need for their law services. However, I did call to ask about a package left at a neighboring office. Kelly is SO nice! You couldn't get any nicer. Thank you for being so sweet, professional, and willing to help.
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
19 Feb, 2022 by Daniel & danielle durbin
Google Maps
See more
Beverly Lynn Via, experienced Estate Planning attorney in Addison, TX with 8 reviews
Below Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
26,78
star star star star star
4.5/5
Google Maps
4.5
8 Reviews
star star star star star
23 Aug, 2024 by Angelica cardoso
10/10 for any and all immigration needs. She has helped many members of my family. Forever grateful.
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
07 Feb, 2024 by Rozmeen ali
When it comes to immigration Mona knows it All…she puts so much effort in our cases. She’s got so many years of experience her Assistant Claire always helps you whenever you reach out to her and quickly answers all my questions via email or calls . Mona and her team Rocks 👍 I just want to thanks Mona and her team for helping me with my immigration case 🙏
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
17 Nov, 2022 by Ritwik chowdhury
Neena Wiora handled my case and did an outstanding job with my immigration application. Her excellent crafting of the application very well highlights an applicants abilities and strengths. Consequently, I was able to qualify as an Outstanding Researcher. Neena was diligent and efficient throughout the application process. Her expertise and knowledge is, in my humble opinion, top-tier. I highly recommend anyone to consult Neena for their EB1-related or possibly other immigration needs.
Read more Google Maps
See more
Makenna Powell, experienced Estate Planning, Probate attorney in Addison, TX with 0 reviews
Below Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
4,00
star star star star star
0.0/5
See more
Israel Sylvester Saucedo, experienced Business, Consumer Protection attorney in Addison, TX with 0 reviews
Below Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
4,00
star star star star star
0.0/5
See more
Christopher Lee Summers, experienced Business, Estate Planning attorney in Addison, TX with 0 reviews
Below Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
4,00
star star star star star
0.0/5
See more
Michael Lamar Jones, experienced Appeals, Business attorney in Addison, TX with 0 reviews
Below Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
4,00
star star star star star
0.0/5
See more
Michael Harrison Focht Jr., experienced Business, Elder Law attorney in Addison, TX with 0 reviews
Below Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
4,00
star star star star star
0.0/5
See more
Maurice E. Klein, experienced Estate Planning, Litigation attorney in Addison, TX with 0 reviews
Below Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
4,00
star star star star star
0.0/5
See more
James S Patterson, experienced Business, Estate Planning attorney in Addison, TX with 0 reviews
Below Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
4,00
star star star star star
0.0/5
See more
John J. Diggins, experienced Business, Estate Planning attorney in Addison, TX with 0 reviews
Below Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
4,00
star star star star star
0.0/5
See more
Michael Baber Allen, experienced Business, Estate Planning attorney in Addison, TX with 0 reviews
Below Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
4,00
star star star star star
0.0/5
See more
Thomas William Kniest II, experienced Estate Planning, Litigation attorney in Addison, TX with 0 reviews
Below Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
4,00
star star star star star
0.0/5
See more
Karl Thomas Bryant, experienced Estate Planning, Probate attorney in Addison, TX with 0 reviews
Below Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
4,00
star star star star star
0.0/5
See more
Lisa Renee Newman, experienced Estate Planning, Probate attorney in Addison, TX with 0 reviews
Below Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
4,00
star star star star star
0.0/5
See more
Clarence R. Allen Jr., experienced Estate Planning, Insurance attorney in Addison, TX with 0 reviews
Below Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
4,00
star star star star star
0.0/5
See more
Marshall Neal Bridges, experienced Business, Estate Planning attorney in Addison, TX with  reviews
Below Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
4,00
star star star star star
0/5
See more
Leonid Murashkovskiy, experienced Bankruptcy, Business attorney in Addison, TX with 0 reviews
Below Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
0,00
star star star star star
0.0/5
See more
Jay M. Rosenberg, experienced Appeals, Business attorney in Addison, TX with 0 reviews
Below Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
0,00
star star star star star
0.0/5
See more
Cale Patrick O'Bryan, experienced Debt Collection, Estate Planning attorney in Addison, TX with 0 reviews
Below Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
0,00
star star star star star
0.0/5
See more
Amy Kathleen Lewis, experienced Estate Planning, Litigation attorney in Addison, TX with 0 reviews
Below Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
0,00
star star star star star
0.0/5
See more
Rajesh Sonny Sethi, experienced Business, Entertainment attorney in Addison, TX with 0 reviews
Below Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
0,00
star star star star star
0.0/5
See more
Discover the ideal lawyer
You can search a lawyer by practice area, lawyer name, city, state, or ZIP code
FAQs
Questions? We have answers

What an Estate Planning Lawyer Can Do for You

An estate planning lawyer helps individuals plan for the management and distribution of their assets after death or during incapacitation. Their services involve drafting important legal documents, such as wills, trusts, powers of attorney, and healthcare directives. Estate planning attorneys work to ensure that your assets are transferred according to your wishes, minimize tax liabilities, and avoid probate court. They also help clients plan for potential long-term care needs and protect their estate from being diminished by healthcare costs.

By working with an estate planning lawyer, you can have peace of mind knowing that your loved ones will be cared for and that your estate will be managed efficiently and according to your desires.

When Should I Hire an Estate Planning Lawyer?

Hiring an estate planning lawyer is beneficial in many situations, especially when you want to ensure that your assets are handled properly after death. Common reasons to hire an estate planning lawyer include:

  • Drafting a will: If you want to clearly define how your assets will be distributed after death, an attorney can draft a legally sound will.
  • Creating a trust: For those looking to avoid probate or provide for loved ones over time, setting up a trust can help manage the distribution of assets.
  • Planning for incapacity: An estate lawyer can help draft powers of attorney and healthcare directives so that your financial and medical decisions are made by someone you trust if you become incapacitated.
  • Minimizing estate taxes: If your estate is large, a lawyer can help create strategies to reduce or eliminate federal and state estate taxes.
  • Special circumstances: If you have minor children, blended families, or complex assets like businesses, an estate planning lawyer can create tailored solutions.
  • Guardianship or conservatorship: If you want to designate guardians for minor children or ensure proper care for incapacitated adults, an attorney can help.

Hiring an estate planning lawyer is especially important if your estate is complex or if you want to ensure that your wishes are properly followed.

What Does an Estate Planning Lawyer Do?

An estate planning lawyer provides a range of services designed to help you organize your affairs and ensure your estate is managed according to your wishes. They can:

  • Draft wills and trusts: Creating legally binding documents that dictate how your assets will be distributed and managed.
  • Create powers of attorney and healthcare directives: Appointing someone to make financial or medical decisions for you if you become incapacitated.
  • Minimize taxes: Developing strategies to reduce estate taxes, gift taxes, and other financial liabilities for your heirs.
  • Help avoid probate: Structuring your estate plan to avoid probate, which can save time and money for your beneficiaries.
  • Advise on long-term care planning: Helping you plan for potential healthcare needs in the future, including Medicaid planning and protecting assets from being depleted by nursing home costs.
  • Assist with beneficiary designations: Ensuring that life insurance policies, retirement accounts, and other financial instruments are correctly designated.
  • Handle probate and estate administration: If a loved one has passed away, an estate planning lawyer can help guide you through the probate process or act as an executor.

How Are Estate Planning Lawyers Paid?

Estate planning lawyers typically charge for their services in one of several ways, depending on the complexity of your estate and the type of services you need. Common payment structures include:

  • Flat fee: Many estate planning services, such as drafting a will or trust, are charged on a flat-fee basis. The fee covers all work related to preparing the document.
  • Hourly rate: For more complex planning, such as estate tax strategy or trust administration, lawyers may charge by the hour. Rates vary based on the lawyer’s experience and location.
  • Retainer: Some lawyers require a retainer for more complex cases, such as ongoing trust management or estate administration. The retainer is an upfront payment that covers future legal services.

It’s important to discuss fees with your lawyer upfront to avoid unexpected costs.

How Much Does an Estate Planning Lawyer Cost?

The cost of hiring an estate planning lawyer depends on the complexity of your estate and the services you require. Here are some general guidelines:

  • Simple wills or powers of attorney: A straightforward will or power of attorney may cost between $300 and $1,500, depending on your location and the lawyer’s experience.
  • Trust creation: Establishing a trust, such as a living trust or revocable trust, can cost between $1,000 and $3,000 or more, depending on the complexity of your assets and estate planning needs.
  • Comprehensive estate planning packages: Some lawyers offer packages that include wills, trusts, powers of attorney, and healthcare directives, which may range from $2,000 to $5,000 or more, depending on the estate’s complexity.
  • Hourly rates: For ongoing services like estate administration or tax planning, lawyers may charge hourly rates ranging from $150 to $500 or more, depending on the lawyer’s experience.

Always get a clear estimate of costs during your initial consultation to ensure the services fit within your budget.

Top Questions to Ask an Estate Planning Lawyer

Before hiring an estate planning lawyer, it’s important to ask questions to ensure they are the right fit for your needs. Here are key questions to ask during your consultation:

  1. What is your experience with estate planning?
    Ensure the lawyer has substantial experience drafting wills, creating trusts, and handling other estate planning services.
  2. How will you charge for your services?
    Clarify whether the lawyer charges a flat fee or by the hour and ask for a detailed estimate of costs.
  3. What strategies do you recommend for my estate?
    A good lawyer should be able to explain the best strategies for minimizing taxes, avoiding probate, and ensuring your assets are distributed according to your wishes.
  4. How often should I update my estate plan?
    Ask how frequently you should revisit your estate plan, especially if your financial situation or family dynamics change.
  5. Do you offer ongoing support or updates?
    Some lawyers provide periodic reviews or updates to ensure your estate plan stays current with changes in your circumstances or the law.
  6. How will you help my beneficiaries if something happens to me?
    Ensure the lawyer is willing to guide your heirs through the estate administration process or help manage your trust after you’re gone.

How to Check the Credibility of an Estate Planning Lawyer

To ensure you’re hiring a credible estate planning lawyer, follow these steps:

  • Verify their state bar license: Check with your state bar association to confirm that the lawyer is licensed and in good standing, with no history of disciplinary actions.
  • Look for estate planning certifications: Some lawyers are certified as estate planning specialists, which indicates they have extensive knowledge in this area of law.
  • Read client reviews and testimonials: Online reviews on sites like Avvo, Google, or Martindale-Hubbell can provide insight into the lawyer’s professionalism and client satisfaction.
  • Ask for references: A credible lawyer should be able to provide references from previous clients who can speak to their expertise and client service.
  • Check for membership in professional organizations: Lawyers who are members of organizations like the National Academy of Elder Law Attorneys (NAELA) or the American College of Trust and Estate Counsel (ACTEC) often have a strong reputation in the field.

What Should I Prepare for My First Consultation?

To get the most out of your first meeting with an estate planning lawyer, it’s important to come prepared. Here’s what you should bring:

  • List of assets and liabilities: Provide a detailed inventory of your assets, including real estate, bank accounts, retirement funds, investments, and personal property, as well as any debts you may have.
  • List of beneficiaries: Be ready to discuss who you want to receive your assets and in what proportions. This includes naming guardians for minor children if applicable.
  • Existing estate documents: Bring copies of any existing wills, trusts, powers of attorney, or other relevant estate planning documents.
  • Questions about your estate goals: Write down your goals, such as avoiding probate, reducing taxes, or setting up charitable donations, so your lawyer can tailor a plan to meet your needs.
  • Information on medical and financial decision-makers: Be prepared to discuss who you want to appoint for healthcare and financial decisions if you become incapacitated.

By being well-prepared, you can ensure a productive consultation and begin building a comprehensive estate plan that meets your needs and protects your loved ones.

Scroll to top