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26 Jul, 2024 by Sandy
JulieAnn has done two things for us (so far). First, she helped decipher some trust documents that had us baffled when we needed to make a quick decision. She was patient and thorough and a big help there. Second, she helped us prepare our estate planning docs, a task which we had been putting off for years. Those were relatively straightforward, but she did a nice job making sure we understood our choices and helping us finally get that done.
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01 Jul, 2024 by Karen
Putting together one's estate planning documents has potential to be stressful. It requires one to make important, sometimes difficult, decisions and to think about "what ifs" you don't want to think about. It is hard to overstate how important it is to have sound professional advice - clearly stated, and how a friendly, supportive atmosphere can ease the anxiety and facilitate the process. Julie and her staff provided all that and more. We were able to complete the forms efficiently which kept the cost reasonable as well. I am very pleased.
Karen Beck
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28 Apr, 2024 by Anonymous
I first met Julianne at a workshop where she was talking to the group about estate planning and how to help your loved ones handle their finances, etc., in their elder years. When it came time to settle my father's estate, years later, she was the first one I thought of and she made the difficult process as seamless as it could have been. So, of course, when it was time to get all of my affairs in order, she is the first person I thought of. I highly recommend her.
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05 Oct, 2023 by Richard
Lucas led the owners of our company through a very complicated and emotionally charged transition. He skillfully navigated an incredibly complex situation that easily could have devolved into chaos, but instead resulted in a solution that left all parties satisfied and relationships fully intact. Look no further, hire Lucas now.
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01 Jun, 2023 by Marjorie bishop
10 years ago i saw mr. mihuta in rensselaer county court and he was the only lawyer that argued with the judge for his client. other attorneys i witnessed agreeing with the da. Mr. Mituta wouldnt take anything less then the best for his client. i was impressed then and started to retain him. I have used lucas over the last 10 plus years for various criminal court proceedings, to surrogates and most recently my personal injury case which went to trial. During trial i was so impressed with his knowledge of medical that i asked him if he had a medical degree as well. he actually had the doctors re think what they were saying and his style had the jury do anything BUT fall asleep. even the judge said he was looking forward to lucas keeping him awake. he was so impressive with his closing arguments he had me crying and moved the jury to a favorable outcome. Hes friendly, impressively knowledgable, understanding and most of all not judgemental in anyway. lucas generally cares for his clients and will work hard to make sure he gets the bests results for you. stop looking for attorneys. i swear you hit jackpot with mr. mihuta, your in good hands and worth every penny.
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06 Oct, 2022 by Anonymous
Lucas helped me at a time in my life in which I found myself in a precarious situation filled with stress and worry. I had never been through this process and I thought the results were dire and would affect my life moving forward. Right from the very start he was honest, compassionate and incredibly insightful as it relates to every particular step moving forward. Most importantly his level of communication was stellar. I knew from the start that Lucas was the very best person I could have had acting as an advocate. In the end I was absolutely stunned by the results. Exceeded even my wildest expectations. The guy saved me on something where I thought I was doomed. I cannot recommend Lucas Mihuta enough. His counsel was tremendous and I couldn't l have been luckier I had him as my attorney.
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09 Apr, 2023 by Darien smith
16 Jan, 2023 by Anonymous
Joseph was very supportive every step of the way. The settlement was done within 10 months. He is the best of the best. Look no further for representation.
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13 Jul, 2022 by Timothy gibbons
Erica professionally and empathetically helped me navigate one of the most difficult times in my life. She explained every step of the divorce process and what would be required of me at every turn.
I would recommend her practice to any of my friends or family if the need ever arose.
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19 Aug, 2024 by Jenn
Michael Bruno helped me steer through a very difficult historical home purchase that didn't end up working out through no fault of his or mine. Mike is very prompt responding to email and phone. Mike always has his clients interest at heart and has true integrity. I appreciate Mike's swift action to extricate me out of a very bad investment.
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02 Aug, 2023 by Anthony
Had a question related to a real estate purchase. Thought it was going to be lengthy and cost some money. Michael answered the questions/ concerns over a quick call. At the end he wished me luck and said not to worry and said there was no charge. Don't come across that much these days. I would certainly use him on future matters.
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17 Aug, 2022 by Christopher
I have retained Michael on three occasions and will do so again should the need arise. A consummate professional, Michael is earnest, prompt, detail oriented, curious, efficient, and well informed. Expect sound legal advice, and excellent service.
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25 Aug, 2015 by Nicole
Justin was extremely great to my husband and I during our 1 st time home buying process! He made us feel completely confident that he was taking care of us and in a timely manner! There was never a doubt in our mind, Justin is trusted 100%. Not to mention every time we ended a phone call we were blown away by his knowledge and ability to help us understand! Not a single phone call/email went without a response and in most cases immediately! Thank you for everything Justin!!
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18 Mar, 2015 by John
Working with Justin Rutherford was a fantastic experience. He's brilliant. A great people-person coupled to a very well versed lawyer. It's hard to find someone as personable and intelligent as Justin. Justin worked incredibly hard to make me happy as a client. He went out of his way on several occasions to go the extra mile. The net results of my experience with Justin left me feeling confident in his work.
I would recommend Justin to anyone, especially as it relates to home purchase closings.
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20 Feb, 2015 by Patrick
Justin and his firm make transactions happen for his clients. He is dedicated to using the latest in technology combined with old-fashioned customer service. He is always available and very responsive whether you just need your legal rights explained or if you need to discuss more complicated legal issues. He helped overcome last minute obstacles that were going to delay closing on the property. He was always looking ahead during the process and making sure that we addressed things before they became a problem. At the closing he went through all of the closing statements and documents in detail to make sure that there was no question unanswered.
They don't come any better! I highly recommend Justin.
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15 Jun, 2019 by Hudson
Casey helped me work through drafting a contract for the process of assisted reproduction with a close friend. I couldn't have asked for a better lawyer for this process. She helped me understand all the issues involved - on both a legal and a personal level - and she was extremely knowledgeable about the law as it stands and as it may change in the future. I was nervous about making sure that we drafted as strong a contract as possible. While she wasn't afraid to tell me when something I wanted wasn't possible, her supportive attitude during our conversations helped me feel much more comfortable with the document that we generated over the course of the process, and it ended up containing almost all of what I wanted. In addition, she was not only timely and responsive in our communication, she was also human - and a warm and caring human at that. It's clear that this field is important to her, and that she'll do her best for all of her clients. Casey is an excellent choice for anyone seeking legal counsel in this field.
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01 May, 2018 by Anonymous
Is gunna talk me thru the process to help me and my husband adopt my daughter
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18 Nov, 2016 by Nicole
Hands down the best lawyer around. I had previously hired another lawyer for my divorce and adoption of my son, and after 5 months and several thousand dollars, nothing was accomplished. I was referred to Casey from a friend who had a great experience as well. Casey was able to break everything down and go over everything until I could understand the complicated situation I was in. With her by my side, we were able to accomplish our goals and finalize everything in a timely matter. She was never one of those lawyers who wanted to drag anything out just to drain me of more money (Like my previous lawyer). She was always available to reach when needed, even on a Saturday night!! I would recommend Casey to anyone who needs any sort of legal help. Hopefully I will never need legal services again, but if I did, I will be right back with Casey. Thank you again!!
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29 Mar, 2015 by Dennis
I am a Physician in the local area. In January, Mr. Wagoner reviewed my contract with one of the local hospitals. I found him to be dependable, trustworthy, and knowledgeable. His work ethic was exceptional. When given a job to do he did not forget or delay but got it done. I found Mr. Wagoner to be a pleasant, understanding, and caring individual. He spent quite a lot of time with me and he explained the complex terminology in easy to understand terms. He proved to be a thorough, courteous, and dedicated attorney. I could not be happier with the outcome of his work and would recommend him with the highest regard for all future assignments. Thank you.
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28 Mar, 2015 by Andrew
I count on Matt as a trusted advisor for my business and my family. He's helped me navigate nuanced business issues, advised me on complicated contracts and has done my estate plan for my family. He's well informed, responsive and I would highly recommend him to anyone looking for a business attorney.
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24 Oct, 2014 by Anonymous
Matt helped me with a confidential matter, that caused great stress in my life. Once I was hook-ed up with him, everything seemed to go smoother. He took the time and attention to get to know the facts of my case and explained things to me in an understandable way, not like some lawyers who only use legal jargon to confuse you and try to prove how smart they are. I would highly recommend him to anyone! Thanks for all your help, Matt!!
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5.0
4 Reviews
10 Nov, 2015 by John
My wife and I have used Tim and his firm for a number of years. He has provided support in the area of elder care services for my elderly mother, our personal estate planning and real estate transactions.
We have always been well served by Mr. Casserly and his staff. They are attentive to our needs, timely in their service and thorough in their efforts.
We strongly recommend Tim and the firm of Burke & Casserly!
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28 Oct, 2015 by Alan
Mr. Casserly has been my long time personal and business attorney. I have always found him reliable and responsive. His advise and guidance has been greatly appreciated and I would strongly recommend Tim to others needing legal and financial advise.
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27 Oct, 2015 by Carl
Tim and his firm recently navigated our family through a difficult lawsuit during a large real estate transaction. He lead the way with conviction and tenacity. His perseverance kept us out of court leading to the eventual closing of a property that has changed the lives of many.
Tim is not just a great lawyer, he is a nice guy who is easy to talk and down to earth.
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27 Apr, 2010 by Brigid
I wouldn't hesitate to recommend David to anyone. He is a very thorough, ethical, knowledgeable, well spoken attorney. At court there was no comparison to the other attorney! David outshone him in every area!
He always treated me with dignity, kindness and compassion, and always made time to explain things to me in a way that I could understand.
Recently I had occasion to use the firm for a real estate deal and David again- in a supervisory position for one of the associates- ( who in her own right was excellent)- was an a great resource and available for questions all the way through the transaction.
I am delighted to have such a wonderful attorney in my corner and plan to call on David Siegfeld any time I need legal help.
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19 Apr, 2010 by Anonymous
Mr. Siegfeld helped my family with my grandmother's estate. He was able to balance the personalities of all family members in a compassionate and efficient manner to timely resolve my grandmother's estate. I would whole-heartedly recommend him to anyone!
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14 Apr, 2010 by Ross
David has been trustworthy and reliable legal council both professionally and personally.
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09 Aug, 2010 by Basil
Mr Ettinger has worked with my family for over a decade and has provided excellent advice on numerous issues relating to trust and elder law.
He is extremely knowledgable and responsive. I highly recommend him.
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05 Aug, 2010 by Marlene
We were looking for an attorney who would ADVISE us how to proceed with Special Needs issues and estate planning not to just do what we told him. We found Mr. Ettinger to listen, to be empathetic and to be knowledgable on all aspects involved. We are confident that we have excellent legal counsel for now and future issues.
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04 Aug, 2010 by Judith and lowell
We have been Ettinger clients for almost 10 years. He has assisted us in setting up trusts, provided referrals to other excellent advisors when needed, answered all our questions and always gave up-to-date guidance. Outstanding!
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05 Feb, 2016 by Bonnie
I luckily was referred to Mr. Barnes by a friend. I needed a lawyer to help with a Medicaid application for my mother, whose funds were running out after she had been privately paying for the senior/nursing facility she was residing in. When I asked the facility upon her taking up residence how things worked when she could no longer private pay, they explained the Medicaid process that needed to happen when her funds ran low. Unfortunately, they gave me an unrealistic time frame as to when that was. If it wasn’t for Mr. Barnes and his legal assistant, Donna, my mom’s life, as well as my own (her daughter) could have been in total ruins. I was in fear that I would have to remove her for lack of payment and that she wouldn’t get the daily care she needed. During my first appointment with Mr. Barnes, he allayed those fears. He immediately assessed the abbreviated time frame involved with my request and let me know what and when everything on his end and my end needed to be pulled together. They got the application in so quickly that I finally was able to breathe a sigh of relief. As each ensuing DSS request came in they were there, quickly helping me to identify what I needed to provide, as well as writing support statements for DSS from me to approve/edit. When nerves got the better of me during this process and the long waiting period, both Mr. Barnes and Donna where there for me. They almost instantly responded, night or day, to all my calls and/or my frantic late-night emails, which was very much appreciated. I highly recommend Mr. Barnes services! I also recommend that anyone with a parent entering a senior/nursing facility contact him sooner than later for an assessment and a realistic time frame to prevent any problems personally or financially.
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10 Dec, 2013 by Anonymous
I was able to be seen quickly and have the basics of my case reviewed in short order. Steps to resolve were professional and helped to move the issues forward. His staff was very knowledgable and kind.
I can recommend without question.
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08 Jun, 2016 by Gene
Jennifer did an outstanding job of navigating me through the courts at a difficult time for my family. Ms . Cusack handled a difficult guardianship appointment, as a court approved real estate transaction and Surrogate Court proceedings.
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04 Sep, 2014 by Kathy
We went to Mr. O'Connor to have a Will drawn up, Power of Attorney's drawn up and Health Care Proxy's for both my husband and I. Mr. O'Connor was very knowledgeable and helpful explaining the processes and what they actually met.
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25 May, 2023 by Mary m.
She is, by far, one of the most devoted attorneys I have ever met. She was very real with me from start to finish and I appreciated her for it. Her words changed my life. Worth every cent!
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15 Dec, 2011 by Anonymous
Straight-forward and practical, Carrianna is the best attorney I could ask for. She has served as an intelligent and loyal advisor to me throughout the years and I am proud to call her my attorney.
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08 Jun, 2009 by Anonymous
He handled a difficult and emotional foreclosure/eviction with firmness and reasonabllity. We got an apology from the plaintiff and got 90 days to vacate the premises.
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29 Nov, 2017 by Katherine
Phillip Vacchio is an attorney I highly recommend. When you speak with him you know he is sincere and professional. He was informative and knowledgeable with questions. I highly recommend Phillip Vacchio as he is an attorney that you can trust.
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30 Sep, 2023 by Heather connell (sunshine)
12 Nov, 2021 by Mona bumpers
24 Feb, 2021 by Greg restino
09 Apr, 2023 by Darien smith
13 Jul, 2022 by Timothy gibbons
Erica professionally and empathetically helped me navigate one of the most difficult times in my life. She explained every step of the divorce process and what would be required of me at every turn.
I would recommend her practice to any of my friends or family if the need ever arose.
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10 Jun, 2022 by David iversen
Fights for her clients with a confidence and fervor that few can match. Highly recommend attorney
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09 Apr, 2023 by Darien smith
13 Jul, 2022 by Timothy gibbons
Erica professionally and empathetically helped me navigate one of the most difficult times in my life. She explained every step of the divorce process and what would be required of me at every turn.
I would recommend her practice to any of my friends or family if the need ever arose.
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10 Jun, 2022 by David iversen
Fights for her clients with a confidence and fervor that few can match. Highly recommend attorney
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15 Sep, 2020 by Mukul rahman
25 Jun, 2024 by Betty chadwick
I am Canadian and needed a US lawyer. Carl responded immediately and provided me with legal advice and the documenys i needed. He provided documents quickly as I had some very strict time lines. Excellent lawyer! I highly recommend Carl!!
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15 Sep, 2020 by Mukul rahman
29 Jun, 2024 by Jack van steenburg
I called Sarah Gold's law firm to ask about forming a LLC in New York. I did some research prior to my call but was confused as heck and was not confident in dealing with the state. Ms. Gold walked me through the process, answered my questions, and told me her fee. I thought the fee was competitive, keeping in mind it included state fees and public notice fees. We communicated online, she had to search to see if my LLC name was not prohibited or duplicative. I also asked for her to set up a DBA and she did that. It was so obvious that she new what she was doing, a true expert professional . She did all the filing, advertising and DBA in a day and I had what I legally needed hours later. she emailed me copies of the application filing, receipts and most important my official LLC. I would use Sarah Gold without any hesitation and I highly recommend you do too.
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11 Apr, 2024 by Elaine frazier
Attorney Gold is patient and engaged as you explain what brings you to the office. She actually listens without judgment. And then she tells you what she thinks!
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13 Feb, 2024 by Dixie little
Jo Anne is an exceptional divorce attorney. Her expertise and dedication helped me through a challenging time, ensuring a fair resolution for all parties involved.
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11 Jul, 2024 by Speechteach
Julie Nociolo helped us navigate our son’s false Title IX accusation. I would highly recommend her to anyone facing these allegations. You need someone knowledgeable in this area and she certainly was. She knew the ins and outs. Julie was always accessible, she was extremely knowledgeable, she was caring, and most importantly she established a very good rapport with my son. She saw him through a very hard time and he trusted her implicitly.
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08 Jun, 2024 by John ruggiero
Great lien law laywer .. responsive ... ansers all the time .. gets it done a++
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23 May, 2024 by David feyder reuveni
Martin did a great job and exceeded my expectations (and also did a good job at setting them). Professional, good communication, and a nice guy overall. Strongly recommend!
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08 Jul, 2024 by Roy volkmann
Could not be more satisfied with the service I received from Warner & Warner's , Samuel, and Alice. They made this experience as pleasant and understandable as possible . Thanks
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08 Jul, 2024 by Zeeek 58
Working with Jonathan was a pleasure. He made an extremely unpleasant process very tolerable. I would recommend Jonathan to anyone who is in need of a bankruptcy lawyer.
Alice, Jonathan's administrative assistant is wonderful and extremely competent in her understanding of the bankruptcy process and answering questions. Simply a great team.
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08 Jul, 2024 by Rae delibero
I highly recommend Warner and Warner for your bankruptcy needs. From the initial phone call with Alice, who not only provided ease with making an appointment, provided unlimited information, but most importantly was so kind and compassionate throughout all steps in the process. To working with Samuel Warner who was extremely knowledgeable, proficient, accountable, and extremely compassionate. Sam explained every detail, option, and scenario that could potentially happen, without pushing or deciding what choice would best fit my needs. He answered all questions, phone calls, emails within an exceptional timely manor. Before each step, meeting, and trial he made sure I was not only comfortable, had all my questions answered, but he always reassured me we would achieve the best outcome. Thank you Warner and Warner for giving me a second chance, at financial freedom.
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23 Aug, 2024 by Stanley sims
In the course of the conversation that I had with attorney Russel, we discussed a wide variety of subjects regarding a variety of themes. The planning of estates and weddings amongst persons of the same gender were two of the issues that we discussed throughout our conversation. Those individuals who paid attention to what we had to say were able to extract a great lot of value from his professional advice, which was of the highest possible quality and presented a large amount of support in a practical sense.
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08 Jul, 2024 by Nick supley
08 Jul, 2024 by James ferguson
Professional. Efficient. Hard Working.
Attorney Michael Supley handles cases with the utmost care and professionalism often going the extra mile for his clients. He is extremely knowledgeable on the subject matter and thorough in his work, always making clients feel like a priority. I Highly recommend anyone in need Michael’s services to represent your best interests.
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14 Nov, 2023 by Mike s
07 Feb, 2020 by Jonathan frias
Personally want to thank Andrew for his exceptional, flawless service. The man is patient, meticulous and extremely diligent. Thank you for representing my company and myself. The best attorney in Albany, hands down. I highly recommend him, please hire him for you will not regret it. Until the next one Andrew many thanks!
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31 Aug, 2019 by Michael jones
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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:
-
What is your experience with estate planning?
Ensure the lawyer has substantial experience drafting wills, creating trusts, and handling other estate planning services. -
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. -
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. -
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. -
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. -
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.
