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01 Jan, 2025 by Celeta duncan
They were there for my oldest sister for her will as she was dying with cancer and always professional and went above and beyond to make it as easy as they could for her. When she died we called them and they were promptly there for us. We live in Florida and they have handled it all. They have been a blessing. We would recommend them.
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31 Dec, 2024 by Celeta
They were there for my oldest sister for her will as she was dying with cancer and always professional and went above and beyond to make it as easy as they could for her. When she died we called them and they were promptly there for us. We live in Florida and they have handled it all. They have been a blessing. We would recommend them.
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28 Dec, 2024 by Valarie applin
This review is long overdue. I know it will make Michael's day when she sees it <3. My CASES (yes plural) were complicated and Michaela and Anastasia handled all my mood swings like true champs. I endured two personal injury incidents within a short period of time. To make things even more complicated, I had preexisting conditions and I was a full time Uber driver. It wasn't easy getting all that was due to me but Michaela came through. There were moments that I lost hope. I'm grateful to this team for setting proper expectations with me so I didn't get my hopes too high. I would rather not expect something and be surprised, then to expect it and not get it. I ended up being pleasantly surprised. For me, my experience with Kelly and Canterbury reinforced the concept of "trust the process". I didn't always trust the process...but you should. Michaela is a fighter and I'm so grateful for her compassion and strength even when I had doubts and was not the easiest to work with. From the bottom of my heart, THANK YOU!!!!
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29 Feb, 2024 by Tricia baty
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04 Nov, 2022 by George fournier
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10 Dec, 2017 by Kurt adler
Christina really cares about her clients. I’m happy with the estate planning she’s done for our family throughout the years. She’s a real expert in her field and has prepared us for life. What a great feeling that is.
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23 Nov, 2024 by Kelly simmons
Quality service and great to work with. She advised us to shop around and was up front on her prices. We did not find anyone in Anchorage that made us feel like we were listened to or comfortable going wuth them. Already referring her to others. Thank you for all your help!
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27 Sep, 2024 by Jennifer dawkins
Blyss Cruz and her team made me feel so comfortable and welcome! She fully understood my needs and guided me in a friendly yet professional way. I would happily refer Cruz Law to all my friends and family!
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14 Aug, 2024 by Janet steinhauser
Blyss Cruz is fantastic. She is friendly, organized, professional, and knowledgeable about every aspect of estate planning. I walked away very satisfied that she had tailored our session to my very specific needs.
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01 Jan, 2025 by Celeta duncan
They were there for my oldest sister for her will as she was dying with cancer and always professional and went above and beyond to make it as easy as they could for her. When she died we called them and they were promptly there for us. We live in Florida and they have handled it all. They have been a blessing. We would recommend them.
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28 Dec, 2024 by Valarie applin
This review is long overdue. I know it will make Michael's day when she sees it <3. My CASES (yes plural) were complicated and Michaela and Anastasia handled all my mood swings like true champs. I endured two personal injury incidents within a short period of time. To make things even more complicated, I had preexisting conditions and I was a full time Uber driver. It wasn't easy getting all that was due to me but Michaela came through. There were moments that I lost hope. I'm grateful to this team for setting proper expectations with me so I didn't get my hopes too high. I would rather not expect something and be surprised, then to expect it and not get it. I ended up being pleasantly surprised. For me, my experience with Kelly and Canterbury reinforced the concept of "trust the process". I didn't always trust the process...but you should. Michaela is a fighter and I'm so grateful for her compassion and strength even when I had doubts and was not the easiest to work with. From the bottom of my heart, THANK YOU!!!!
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19 Nov, 2024 by Tamie hollingsworth
Michaela is so articulated and patient! she explains details that are sometimes complicated and hard to understand. Their office is very friendly and her staff is very helpful. She did an excellent job representing us in regards to our car wreck. Highly recommend them.
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05 Jan, 2025 by Rory butler
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16 Dec, 2024 by Jason fisher
Had a legal matter come up and didn’t think it was fair. Almost lost sleep over it. Talked to Mr. Henshaw face to face and he solved my issue. Huge weight off my shoulders. He was great to talk to and my issue is solved. Hopefully I don’t ever need a lawyer again but if I do he sure knows his stuff. Thank you.
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15 Nov, 2024 by Max robicheaux
A friend and I are working on starting a small business, Nathan provided a free consultation in which he made sure we have everything we need to succeed👍
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01 Sep, 2024 by Judy
Since hiring this law firm I have been kept up to date during the entire process. The encouragement and care shown by my team made a difference, not to mention the outcome received in the end. Thank you for your dedication!
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23 Aug, 2024 by Anonymous
My lawyer has a thorough knowledge of the law and defended my case with determination. I highly recommend this law firm." ‍
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22 Aug, 2024 by Anonymous
My legal team was informative and upfront. Helpful and helped me understand what would happen. Great help
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08 Jan, 2025 by Josh kahakua
Thanks for going out of your way and spending time to help me out with my caes in court. It helped me move forward with my family. Thanks to you all that works in the office also. Happy new year 🎉
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07 Jan, 2025 by Kerry line
Robert walked me through a difficult process and alleviated a lot of concerns. He was always there when I had questions and helped me find the light at the end of the tunnel.
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15 Dec, 2024 by Shaelyn henley
Josh Bither is a great attorney and I would recommend him to my closest friends and family in Alaska. He gives valuable advice, listens to what you want, and gets the work done in an efficient & timely manner.
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19 Sep, 2024 by Marissa elizabeth persaud
Mrs. Fields was very helpful and made my immigration procedure very easy. I highly recommend her to anyone who would like to have a stress free procedure.
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11 Jun, 2024 by Leah johannessen
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22 May, 2024 by Dawit gebremikael
Thank you Julie, you are doing a good job. Working with you was fast and efficient.
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06 Aug, 2020 by Ky
Chelsea was a refreshing voice in the noise of navigating a trust and estate. I have specific challenges with a trust being a designated beneficiary and for the first time I found who understood exactly what was happening and some of the options ahead. She was also quick to suggest some alternative resources in the community, suggesting that I may not need a lawyer as much as someone with good estate financial planning skills and she provided a specific person she'd found helpful in the past dealing with the same problems. I'll be back to hire her if we determine we do need an attorney to proceed.
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01 Nov, 2017 by Heidi
Deborah helped us with updating our will. She provided very helpful insight and had a depth of knowledge of Alaska statutes. I would highly recommend Ms Randall for anyone seeking estate planning.
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26 Oct, 2020 by Connie dougherty
A great big thank you to Otterson Law, especially Tiffany! She is fierce! As with any adoption there are so many things that come up, obstacles, hurdles and just general aggravations. Tiffany let none of these things slow her down at all. She knows exactly how to navigate every situation, she knows the law better than many lawyers and judges and the bottom line is that she gets results! From what I witnessed, she is the very heartbeat of Otterson Law, she is the one that keeps the wheels greased and things running smoothly. Our adoption is now complete and we couldn't be happier ! Thank you Otterson Law! God Bless You , Tiffany and tell your boss to give you a big fat raise!!! We love you!
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01 Oct, 2020 by Trevor brookwell
Otterson Law office handled the adoptions of my niece and nephew in Alaska. They did a great job addressing all of the concerns and making sure that things were handled well. I am glad to have my niece and nephew in our family thanks to them.
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29 Feb, 2024 by Tricia baty
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04 Nov, 2022 by George fournier
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10 Dec, 2017 by Kurt adler
Christina really cares about her clients. I’m happy with the estate planning she’s done for our family throughout the years. She’s a real expert in her field and has prepared us for life. What a great feeling that is.
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19 Sep, 2024 by Marissa elizabeth persaud
Mrs. Fields was very helpful and made my immigration procedure very easy. I highly recommend her to anyone who would like to have a stress free procedure.
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11 Jun, 2024 by Leah johannessen
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22 May, 2024 by Dawit gebremikael
Thank you Julie, you are doing a good job. Working with you was fast and efficient.
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15 Apr, 2024 by Jill jaeckel
Great attorney, super nice staff.
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04 Aug, 2023 by Danno williams
Extremely good Autorneys very experienced
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12 Apr, 2021 by Elizabeth hueske
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15 Apr, 2024 by Jill jaeckel
Great attorney, super nice staff.
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04 Aug, 2023 by Danno williams
Extremely good Autorneys very experienced
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12 Apr, 2021 by Elizabeth hueske
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25 Aug, 2024 by Amanda
Jimmy White is an honest, hard working, generous, solid attorney. He deserves all the positive reviews and awards he receives and more. He helped me with a tough divorce and continued to advise me for years afterwards while I completed my college degree and got on my feet. His office is professional. He has a good reputation among his peers and the judges. He has a warm and friendly disposition. He made a positive impact on my me during a hard time and I cannot say enough how grateful I am for his help.
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11 Oct, 2023 by Anonymous
Jimmy was referred to me by a family member. When it comes to custody disputes- this is arguably the most emotionally charged fight that an attorney has to deal with. Jimmy has been nothing but compassionate, understanding, and genuinely concerned about the things that are important to me surrounding the well being of my child. He is extremely calming and nurturing in his demeanor. You approach him with terror and he arms you with confidence and facts. He’s truly on his clients’ team and has a heart made of gold. Having his legal expertise and guidance has been such a divine blessing in my family’s life. Thank you so so much to Jimmy and his team for all that you do. I am eternally grateful to have you. 10/10 highly recommend
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03 Dec, 2022 by Anonymous
This review really will not even going to come close to the amount of gratitude I have for Jimmy White and his team. I would like to start off by saying that if you need someone that will fight hard for you 24/7, Jimmy is your man. I was involved in a custody battle with my ex and used a previous attorney. After an emergency situation, I received full custody of both kids. My ex took me back to court and I decided to use a different attorney and that is when I found Jimmy. He truly is 100% AMAZING in every way, shape and form. He worked tirelessly to get me the outcome I wanted and he did. Shortly after, my ex tried changing the terms of our agreement and Jimmy went right back in fighting hard. He really does have his client's best interest at heart, but more importantly he helped my children and that is something that I will never ever forget. Not only is he a fighter, but he is extremely kind at heart and helps his clients. Negotiations starting stretching out more and more and everyone knows, that can be costly. Jimmy helped myself and my family out in that situation taking into account my finances so I would not have to pay more into the case. He not only looked out for getting me the best outcome for my family, he looked out for my financial wellbeing. He truly cares about his clients and that is what matters most. Thank you Jimmy. Thank you to Jimmy's team. I will never forget what you did for me and I appreciate it more than any words could every say.
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17 Dec, 2024 by Brad thornburgh
Great, friendly and professional service.
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20 Jun, 2024 by Ric schmidt
Wonderful organization! Outstanding Staff!
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22 May, 2024 by Emma haddix
Excellent organization, reasonable timelines, fair pricing. I am so happy with my experience.
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04 May, 2019 by Ryan mcdonald
Absolute professional. Took time to understand my needs and not just treat me as a client. Went way above and beyond. Highly recommend!
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04 May, 2019 by Matt pope
Very professional when speaking on the phone. Answered all my questions in a simple and easy to understand answer. Would highly recommend her to anyone who needs help with anything tax related.
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04 May, 2019 by Juan garcia
Probably the best there is. Saved me time and money. Highly recommend!!
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05 Jan, 2025 by Rory butler
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16 Dec, 2024 by Jason fisher
Had a legal matter come up and didn’t think it was fair. Almost lost sleep over it. Talked to Mr. Henshaw face to face and he solved my issue. Huge weight off my shoulders. He was great to talk to and my issue is solved. Hopefully I don’t ever need a lawyer again but if I do he sure knows his stuff. Thank you.
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15 Nov, 2024 by Max robicheaux
A friend and I are working on starting a small business, Nathan provided a free consultation in which he made sure we have everything we need to succeed👍
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30 Aug, 2024 by Brooklyn jackson
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15 Jun, 2023 by Andrew loeffler
Excellent advice in caring for my dad
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26 Mar, 2021 by Robert filler
I also tried to make an appointment with Ms Roston to review a QDRO that I had from a previous divorce. I also was told by the person who answered the phone that I would have better results contacting through email. I did and received a response fairly quickly telling me that she would be available between 2pm and 4pm on the following thursday and asked me to let her know if that was acceptable. I emailed her back and said that yes that would be ok with me and I asked if I should call her or if she would call me. NEVER got a response. I emailed the day before asking the same question....nothing. I emailed the day of....nothing! Called the office and asked to speak with her thinking that I was perhaps supposed to initiate the call myself. Lady who answered said no I cannot speak with her that she was busy. I explained that I was under the impression that we had an appointment albeit by phone. Was told to email her, that was the only way to contact her....period! Will now look again for another attorney to help me out! FYI I was even willing to pay for the phone call time, I don't expect something for nothing. Hope this helps someone else out especially if it's important that you receive the info you ask about.
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25 Jul, 2020 by Anonymous
Received estate planning, had new documents prepared to reflect my changed status. Would highly recommend MS Gallagher for you estate planning needs
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05 Apr, 2024 by Ashley grearson
He ALWAYS answers my calls and explains everything thoroughly to me I never feel “alone” with his representation and he is always willing to step in for other issues I have. I feel like he is a guardian angel.
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28 May, 2018 by Earl valley
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24 Feb, 2020 by Kate gekeler
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24 Feb, 2020 by Kate gekeler
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05 Dec, 2024 by Cathy robbins
Blake Quackenbush and his team Katie are the Best in Anchorage as far as I'm concerned! He was so great and professional, he got the job done that the other lawyers I had could not accomplish. If you want the right person in your corner Blake is your man! I will be forever grateful.
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25 Oct, 2024 by Inco ventures
Blake has created a place to bring all of our questions to. He has helped us to offer the best to our clients and team, even of it is to recommend another firm! We appreciate the honesty and will use again and again.
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19 Oct, 2024 by Jordan riley
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24 Oct, 2024 by Gama gonzalez
I don't read nor write English, I can talk and understand 80 percent in english, therefore I had a hard time finding a law group willing to take my case. Chicklo Law Group accept my case. I'm grateful with my attorney Megan Hiser . Megan was always on top of everything. She's very professional, she gives the best of her to help her clients. I highly recommend Chicklo Law Group. Everyone in the office always welcome me with a smile and a positive attitude. Thanks to Chicklo Law Group my case resolved in the best of its matters.
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24 Oct, 2024 by Kayla cox
Chicklo law group is a firm of extremely diligent and thorough attorneys and paralegals. Every single person in this office has been all hands on deck on moving us through court proceedings, we have never felt like just another case that came across their desk, it's always felt like they truly care. If you need a family law attorney I truly do not think there is a better firm to represent you. And Charles Gunther is the absolute best family law attorney in the state of Alaska, he has handled every up and down of an extremely sticky case with grace and tenacity. Chicklo will fight for you while remaining personable and attentive.
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21 Oct, 2024 by Indigenous chief ezi
Can Indigenous be represented by your law firm was all I wanted to ask. I'm sorry I called your law firm, the lady was not knowledgeable; the receptionist wasn't helpful.
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18 Nov, 2024 by Sean
John Pharr is a very humble person and professional attorney who worked endlessly and miraculously for my case. Loved the effort and hours he did for me
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30 May, 2024 by Anonymous
Atty Pharr is the best! He is very helpful and on top of his job. He does his job diligently with compassion and care. Very much experience lawyer and always ready to WIN the case. He is very much knowledgable about assisted living home, so I would recommend him if you’re needing some advice.
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11 Mar, 2024 by Lisa williams
John C Pharr Is One Of The Best And Honest Lawyers In Anchorage Alaska, Just All The Way A Good Person.
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01 Aug, 2024 by Neil hollowell
Mr.Wyatt was very thorough and asked the right questions to help me. They got me in on fairly short notice and I can’t thank him enough for the right information.
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18 Jul, 2024 by Jason langen
Absolutely the worst law firm I've ever had the displeasure to deal with. I'm a licensed professional and deal with a bunch of lawyers. Three lawyers,... and I've been beaten down by my wife's lawyer, the judge, and my lawyers. I even accused my last last lawyer of representing my wife, while I paid his bill. If you choose this firm, you'd better know the laws better than them... but then they won't represent you if you do. One of the staff lawyers quit, the second agreed to a strategy and then went against it in court. That cost me tens of thousands of dollars. The third lawyer revoked his representation because I called him out for his poor representation. And to top it off, the managing partner doesn't agree with his lawyers or vice versa. The only high mark is that they wiped the $6k invoice for the flawed court appearance after i told the managing partner that i would not pay it. Good thing, because I just finished paying my wife's lawyer a comparable amount. Good ridence. If I can get you on malpractice, I will... with punitive damages to boot. The insanity from this firm has beyond anything I could have expected from my worst nightmare, coming from someone that tries to be prepared for every contingency. I've got every email and filing from the past year, so this may be fun!
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07 Jun, 2024 by John kieffer
Mitch is great to work with and very responsive. He cares about his work and his clients.
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02 Aug, 2024 by Anthony ferreira
Pay him and he’ll Put in the good work for you.
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05 Jul, 2021 by Glen byrne
No better than a public defender..
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24 Jul, 2020 by D christie
I’d like to add to this do not use this attorney he abandoned me and never sent in one piece of evidence not even a note from him my divorce was fininshed my X told me 55 days later to long to Appel and I lost everything as he did not purse nothing I asked of him with Covid all was by phone so I had no idea this had happened I’m told sue him great case legal malpractice but more money and find a Attorney to do it in AK just find anyone but him research reviews be smart
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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.

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