Filter by

Daniel M. Wood, experienced Business, Estate Planning attorney in Bay City, MI with 41 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.
40,02
star star star star star
4.7/5
Avvo
5.0
16 Reviews
Google Maps
4.4
25 Reviews
star star star star star
27 Nov, 2024 by Thomas hoffman
Dan helped me and my family deal with the probate court after one of my brothers passed away. Things went very smoothly in that ordeal, so I employed Dan again to help me navigate through a potentially complicated divorce. He cleaned up an enormous mess that my first divorce lawyer had created and I could not be more pleased with the work that Dan did for me. IF YOU NEED A LAWYER, YOU NEED DANIEL WOOD!
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
11 Oct, 2024 by Matt pfleghaar
Daniel returned my call quickly and answered all my questions and emailed some documents to me . He made a time sensitive situation a lot easier. Daniel followed up with me later that day to make sure all went well and I wasn’t even charged a fee. I highly recommend Wood law.
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
09 Oct, 2024 by Jeannie dosson
I highly recommend Wood Law Firm, I was completely impressed with their professionalism.
Read more Google Maps
See more
Kimberly Sue King, experienced Bankruptcy, Criminal Defense attorney in Bay City, MI with 306 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.
39,61
star star star star star
4.6/5
Avvo
5.0
6 Reviews
Google Maps
4.6
300 Reviews
star star star star star
01 Feb, 2025 by Jennifer
Thank you so much to my lawyer Kim King and Jason Gower. . They are phenomenal, very supportive, caring and knowledgeable. they really help you navigate through the plethora of confusing hoops you have to jump through when attempting to get your Revoked Drivers License Reinstated. They also are highly experienced in out of state license restorations (like my situation was now living in SWFL). I’m only familiar with their expertise in getting drivers license back, but from my experience I would have to say no matter the case you are in great hands and they will work diligently in your matter. I highly recommend GOWER Law (Bay City) and honestly can’t thank them enough for helping me get my Freedom back after having my license revoked for 19 years and 9 months!!
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
31 Dec, 2024 by Amy g
Gower Law has been wonderful to work with, complete professionals, reasonable costs, and available at all hours! Excellent advice and results! Highly recommend!
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
11 Nov, 2024 by Mary bassier
Guy Kotter, what an amazing lawyer, when he ask you what happened, he does not interrupt while you are talking, he LISTENS and CARES, he hangs on to every word spoken. I went to him on a Monday, my case was resolved in 4 days, I absolutely adore him as a lawyer and a very kind human being. Thank you Mr. Guy Kotter.
Read more Google Maps
See more
J. Joseph Purtell, experienced Business, Consumer Protection attorney in Bay City, MI 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
03 Apr, 2024 by Jerry
Entrepreneurs know that a good lawyer and a good accountant are worth twice their weight in gold. I consulted Joe regarding how to proceed regarding my newest venture, and he demonstrated a wide range of knowledge in dispensing great advice. As an entrepreneur himself, he has a deep, firsthand understanding of the pitfalls and challenges that new business owners face. He’s slyer than a fox, yet direct and honest. I’ll definitely hire him as an advisor once my businesses reach that stage. An ounce of prevention is worth far more than an ounce of cure! His assistant also answers the phone, which is rare for most lawyers I’ve worked with. I’ve gotten used to waiting 2-5 business days for a response, but this guy actually picks up the phone. Incredible!
Read more Avvo
See more
John J. Mcquillan, experienced Estate Planning, Real Estate attorney in Bay City, MI 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.
35,03
star star star star star
5.0/5
Avvo
5.0
1 Reviews
star star star star star
31 Jan, 2009 by Anonymous
I have used this attorney for over a decade representing me and/or my business. He really tells it like it is, explains options, evaluates opponents allegations and their likely possibility of prevailing, and estimates legal costs to defend or pursue. John really looks out for you. His Ethical are the highest I've been exposed to.
Read more Avvo
See more
Jeffrey M. Martin, experienced Criminal Defense, Estate Planning attorney in Bay City, MI 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.
30,41
star star star star star
4.5/5
Avvo
4.5
9 Reviews
star star star star star
16 Jan, 2024 by Alex
Doesn’t communicate, ducks calls, won’t return calls or messages. He made it seem as if he got to where there’d be no repercussions, only to find out he just failed to inform me of them. I would’ve taken my case to trial with an actual attorney. Jeff Martin is shady and a poor excuse for what he calls him “an attorney”
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
27 Oct, 2018 by Marsha
We hired Jeff as a divorce lawyer. I would highly recommend him for divorces.
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
09 Nov, 2017 by Kyle
Jeff has a tremendous amount of legal expertise that serves as a huge asset for his clients when “Life happens.” What makes Jeff great though, is he really wants to help people! It’s his passion and he’s very good at it.
Read more Avvo
See more
Marcus Raymond Garske, experienced Car Accident, Child Custody attorney in Bay City, MI with 126 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.
30,29
star star star star star
4.5/5
Google Maps
4.5
126 Reviews
star star star star star
02 Dec, 2024 by Justin hildinger
Marcus always gets the job done and dies what he says. I won't use any other lawyer.
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
11 Nov, 2024 by Cap
Such horrible communication with Hewitt. Definitely seemed to just want to get the case over regardless of my best interest. Left a meeting with a plan with him, then he did something completely different to just get it over with. Multiple emails about the same thing. Just really wasted so much time.
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
19 Oct, 2024 by Hannah mills
If I could rate higher than 5 stars I would. I recently worked with Nick, and I can't recommend him highly enough. I came to him on a Friday with my court date just a week away, and he jumped into action immediately. Despite being relatively new to the field, his dedication was remarkable. He worked tirelessly through the weekend to prepare my case, demonstrating a level of commitment that truly impressed me. Nick’s thoroughness and attention to detail made all the difference. He kept me informed throughout the process and provided clear, actionable advice. Thanks to his hard work and strategic thinking, we achieved a successful outcome in court. If you’re looking for a passionate and capable lawyer who will go the extra mile for you, Nick is the one to choose. His newness in the profession is no obstacle—he is a true asset. I’m incredibly grateful for his support and highly recommend him to anyone in need of legal assistance.
Read more Google Maps
See more
Mark J. Brissette, experienced Business, Estate Planning attorney in Bay City, MI with 24 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.
30,20
star star star star star
4.5/5
Google Maps
4.5
24 Reviews
star star star star star
23 Feb, 2025 by Scott carmona
Google Maps
star star star star star
13 Apr, 2024 by Lianne wendling
Chuck Hewitt is wonderful!
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
21 Feb, 2023 by Deb mikols
Worked with them for years.
Read more Google Maps
See more
Matthew B. Hewitt, experienced Estate Planning attorney in Bay City, MI with 126 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.
26,89
star star star star star
4.5/5
Google Maps
4.5
126 Reviews
star star star star star
02 Dec, 2024 by Justin hildinger
Marcus always gets the job done and dies what he says. I won't use any other lawyer.
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
11 Nov, 2024 by Cap
Such horrible communication with Hewitt. Definitely seemed to just want to get the case over regardless of my best interest. Left a meeting with a plan with him, then he did something completely different to just get it over with. Multiple emails about the same thing. Just really wasted so much time.
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
19 Oct, 2024 by Hannah mills
If I could rate higher than 5 stars I would. I recently worked with Nick, and I can't recommend him highly enough. I came to him on a Friday with my court date just a week away, and he jumped into action immediately. Despite being relatively new to the field, his dedication was remarkable. He worked tirelessly through the weekend to prepare my case, demonstrating a level of commitment that truly impressed me. Nick’s thoroughness and attention to detail made all the difference. He kept me informed throughout the process and provided clear, actionable advice. Thanks to his hard work and strategic thinking, we achieved a successful outcome in court. If you’re looking for a passionate and capable lawyer who will go the extra mile for you, Nick is the one to choose. His newness in the profession is no obstacle—he is a true asset. I’m incredibly grateful for his support and highly recommend him to anyone in need of legal assistance.
Read more Google Maps
See more
Aaron C. Rodenbo, experienced Elder Law, Estate Planning attorney in Bay City, MI with 126 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.
26,89
star star star star star
4.5/5
Google Maps
4.5
126 Reviews
star star star star star
02 Dec, 2024 by Justin hildinger
Marcus always gets the job done and dies what he says. I won't use any other lawyer.
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
11 Nov, 2024 by Cap
Such horrible communication with Hewitt. Definitely seemed to just want to get the case over regardless of my best interest. Left a meeting with a plan with him, then he did something completely different to just get it over with. Multiple emails about the same thing. Just really wasted so much time.
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
19 Oct, 2024 by Hannah mills
If I could rate higher than 5 stars I would. I recently worked with Nick, and I can't recommend him highly enough. I came to him on a Friday with my court date just a week away, and he jumped into action immediately. Despite being relatively new to the field, his dedication was remarkable. He worked tirelessly through the weekend to prepare my case, demonstrating a level of commitment that truly impressed me. Nick’s thoroughness and attention to detail made all the difference. He kept me informed throughout the process and provided clear, actionable advice. Thanks to his hard work and strategic thinking, we achieved a successful outcome in court. If you’re looking for a passionate and capable lawyer who will go the extra mile for you, Nick is the one to choose. His newness in the profession is no obstacle—he is a true asset. I’m incredibly grateful for his support and highly recommend him to anyone in need of legal assistance.
Read more Google Maps
See more
Jason Paul Taylor, experienced Criminal Defense, Estate Planning attorney in Bay City, MI with 12 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.
25,60
star star star star star
4.3/5
Google Maps
4.3
12 Reviews
star star star star star
30 Oct, 2024 by Elizabeth pinnell
Jay is a great attorney! He made the divorce process as easy as it could have been for me. His communication is great, and he gets stuff done. Thank you Jay for all of your hard work!
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
15 Oct, 2024 by Kyle pinnell
Communication is extremely poor and Jay does not do his job. His ducks are not in a row... And I tried calling you back 3 times plus many emails. Is this the only way to talk to you? I am sticking with my review and will make sure nobody I know ever uses you. Is a simple request for you to fix your mistake worth the bad reviews and not getting recommendations to anyone? Fix your mistake and send me the proper papers to sign and I will delete my review
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
24 Oct, 2023 by Andrew harris
Was referred by Marble Law. Had a Family Court issue to be addressed. Paid $255 for a letter to be drafted up for the court. Gave Mr. Taylor over two months for this letter to be prepared. It didn't happen. I was refunded my money. But did not have the letter to give to the Court. That in my opinion cost me my court case. Which lead to me having to go and secure a lawyer at a much higher cost. Had the letter been done. I don't believe I would have had to go to court for the issue. I can not refer this attorney to anyone I know.
Read more Google Maps
See more
Andrea Gayle Fogelsinger, experienced Estate Planning, Family Law attorney in Bay City, MI with 3 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.
18,35
star star star star star
3.7/5
Avvo
1.0
1 Reviews
Google Maps
5.0
2 Reviews
star star star star star
30 Oct, 2024 by Anonymous
She's my children's lawyer and she's not doing what's best for my kids she's sabatoging my family
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
15 Jun, 2021 by Connie ingles
Google Maps
star star star star star
21 May, 2021 by Memo .t
This firm is amazing! Great communication, compassionate, honest and hard working. They treat you like family and make you feel like you’re their number one priority.
Read more Google Maps
See more
David L. Powers, experienced Appeals, Estate Planning attorney in Bay City, MI with 3 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.
16,84
star star star star star
3.7/5
Google Maps
3.7
3 Reviews
star star star star star
08 Jul, 2023 by Elizabeth levalley
To the guy who was complaining about the law firm defending doctors. Your comment makes no sense because EVERYONE in this country has the right to representation in a court of law!
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
03 Sep, 2020 by Jackquelyn rogers
Glad we chose David Powers to work are case, he is very professional and reassuring.
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
19 Nov, 2019 by Joe easter
Absolutely horrible that got no business in Bay City they represent the doctors not patients
Read more Google Maps
See more
Kim A. Higgs, experienced Bankruptcy, Criminal Defense attorney in Bay City, MI 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.
12,71
star star star star star
2.2/5
Avvo
2.2
5 Reviews
star star star star star
11 Mar, 2018 by Anonymous
Mr Higgs was consulted for my child support case that my ex was trying to increase astronomically due to outrageous childcare prices. Mr Higgs basically told me that I could not fight it and that child support is what it is, although I would have no money leftover for bills while working OT and going to college full-time. After the consultation, I went to court with no lawyer and the judge looked at all the facts and determined that it was much too high and did in fact lower the monthly payment. Mr Higgs could have helped me out, but stated there was nothing that could be done. He does not seem too experienced or confident in this area and I would not recommend him for a consultation.
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
13 Jul, 2016 by Ryan
Kim has represented my wife and I in MI several times. We live in TN and he has been great. We can't thank him enough! He has helped us and continues to help us through a very difficult situation!
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
30 Oct, 2014 by Brian
Kim is my court appointed attorney. He has lied to me numerous times. He lied to the court on two occasions. (I have proof). Kim refuses to communicate in any meaningful way. Meaning, he acts as if hes listening but sets his phone down and ignores and plays ignorant. Ive tried everything to get him to discuss my case proactively....i even sent him a funny thank u card with kittens on it to sway him to a HUMAN degree to no avail. Ur in trouble if hes ur attorney. Period.
Read more Avvo
See more
Richard B. Learman, experienced Estate Planning, Real Estate attorney in Bay City, MI with 1 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.
4,57
star star star star star
1.0/5
Avvo
1.0
1 Reviews
star star star star star
28 Jan, 2020 by Jon
Attempted to use Mr. Learman as an attorney to get together a family business Buy-Sell agreement, merger on 2 companies, and also some smaller items to get this all done. Correspondence was extremely slow, taking nearly a full year to get these 2 major points close to done. We then received a bill for over $250 per hour for about 20 hours of work completed. I thought this was a bit high for what was completed, but agreed to pay it if we would receive documents showing the work was completed. With 3 requests on our part asking for proof of what he claims was completed, as in forms and documents completed, the only thing we got was A SUMMONS FROM A LOCAL OFFICER saying we were being sued by Mr. Learman!!!!! His lack of communication and now he treats us like a criminal instead of a client. Horrible Horrible Horrible to treat clients like a criminal. Apparently likes to be the reason for many of the lawyer jokes many of us have heard over the years!
Read more Avvo
See more
Charles T. Hewitt, experienced Estate Planning, Real Estate attorney in Bay City, MI 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
Guy Greve, experienced Estate Planning, Personal Injury attorney in Bay City, MI 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
Marcie Joan Klida, experienced Elder Law, Estate Planning attorney in Bay City, MI 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
William H. Darbee, experienced Estate Planning, Government attorney in Bay City, MI 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
Brian K. Elder, experienced Estate Planning attorney in Bay City, MI 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
Robert J. Phillips, experienced Consumer Protection, Elder Law attorney in Bay City, MI 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
George R. Phillips, experienced Estate Planning attorney in Bay City, MI 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
W. David Conwill II, experienced Bankruptcy, Debt Collection attorney in Bay City, MI 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
Diana Stanford McParlan, experienced Bankruptcy, Estate Planning attorney in Bay City, MI 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
Laurie Krawczyk Berner, experienced Business, Estate Planning attorney in Bay City, MI 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
George F. Shaw, experienced Business, Elder Law attorney in Bay City, MI 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