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06 May, 2013 by Ron
Patrick Perkins is the most trustworthy attorney I have ever dealt with. I wouold highly recommend him to everyone
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21 Sep, 2024 by Laura lawson
Mr. Phillips represented me for a peace order case. He got the verdict that I wanted. He was always available to talk . He was well prepared for trial . Thank you so much!
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20 Sep, 2024 by Scott keith
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17 Sep, 2024 by Julio munoz
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04 May, 2023 by Ruth forrest
He was wonderful helping us with my mother's estate planning, POA, Will, etc
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05 Jun, 2018 by Craig celgin
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01 Sep, 2020 by Logan roberts
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16 Jul, 2018 by Tyson goody
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17 Jul, 2023 by S drake
Chris has been representing my case since I hired him as my WC attorney. I can truly say if WC tries not to work in your favor or slow with your payments; Chris jump right on the matter and get fast positive results. When calling his office I get to speak with my attorney and not an office personnel. He is always willing to talk without rushing through the conversation. I would highly recommend Attorney Christopher Marts.
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12 Jan, 2024 by Kimberly dugan
We worked with Joe Meadows to complete our Will, Power of Attorney and Medical Directive. He was great to work with, completed everything in a week and helped us through the process. I can’t say enough good things, I highly recommend him.
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28 Aug, 2023 by Timothy eng
Joe is very professional and responsive. Highly recommended and a pleasure to work with!
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28 Aug, 2023 by Gayle unhjem
I was looking for someone to prepare my will, power of attorney, and advanced directive. I immediately felt comfortable with Joe, and he was extremely responsive throughout the entire process. He is very easy to work with, and will schedule to meet you needs. If you are looking for a lawyer to take care of your estate planning, I highly recommend Joe!
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24 May, 2022 by Anonymous
Laura Henninger prepared my estate documents. She was efficient and answered all of my questions. She made many very helpful suggestions for my will and other documents. The office staff is also very helpful.
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02 Dec, 2021 by Brett
Laura reviewed and update our wills, healthcare directives and POAs. She provided excellent insight and fantastic recommendations in structuring our wills. She challenged us to really think through options and see different viewpoints to help us to understand our decisions. She was extremely detailed and a pleasure to work with. We were impressed with the staff's professionalism and warm greetings. We highly recommend Laura and trust her with our planning.
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07 Jan, 2021 by Jon k
From very first day, we agreed that choosing Henninger & Henninger firm was a very good choice. Our needs were carefully examined and presented in well structured proposal. It was a well executed process. From now on, we will retain the firm for our legal needs.
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14 Aug, 2024 by Chelestina2493 jade
Horrible they try to threaten you with lies. Definitely in it for the money only .
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27 Jun, 2024 by David lee
DiPaula Law handled my father's estate & did a fantastic job. Carolyn Evans was patient with me every step of the way even when family dynamics became an issue at times. She was very helpful in recommending a fantastic Realtor to sell my fathers house. The staff was always kind no matter the communication method whether phone, e-mail or in person etc. I would use their services again & highly recommend DiPaula Law.
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14 Jun, 2024 by Carmela dean
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29 Apr, 2023 by Robert boyle
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08 Dec, 2019 by Rene lipka
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14 Nov, 2019 by Autumn gardner
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30 Aug, 2024 by Tim kilby
I would encourage anyone on the verge of filing a bankruptcy to seek council from Larry Price. Mr. Price provided the best services and advisement during my chapter 7 bankruptcy filing. Straight forward and very pleasant to do business with.
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22 Aug, 2024 by Ellen hannahs
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22 Aug, 2024 by Keesha alexander
Mr. Price was very helpful and responsive to my questions about my case. He truly cares about his clients and goes above and beyond to help. I highly recommend his services.
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14 Aug, 2024 by Chelestina2493 jade
Horrible they try to threaten you with lies. Definitely in it for the money only .
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27 Jun, 2024 by David lee
DiPaula Law handled my father's estate & did a fantastic job. Carolyn Evans was patient with me every step of the way even when family dynamics became an issue at times. She was very helpful in recommending a fantastic Realtor to sell my fathers house. The staff was always kind no matter the communication method whether phone, e-mail or in person etc. I would use their services again & highly recommend DiPaula Law.
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14 Jun, 2024 by Carmela dean
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14 Aug, 2024 by Chelestina2493 jade
Horrible they try to threaten you with lies. Definitely in it for the money only .
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27 Jun, 2024 by David lee
DiPaula Law handled my father's estate & did a fantastic job. Carolyn Evans was patient with me every step of the way even when family dynamics became an issue at times. She was very helpful in recommending a fantastic Realtor to sell my fathers house. The staff was always kind no matter the communication method whether phone, e-mail or in person etc. I would use their services again & highly recommend DiPaula Law.
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14 Jun, 2024 by Carmela dean
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14 Aug, 2024 by Chelestina2493 jade
Horrible they try to threaten you with lies. Definitely in it for the money only .
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27 Jun, 2024 by David lee
DiPaula Law handled my father's estate & did a fantastic job. Carolyn Evans was patient with me every step of the way even when family dynamics became an issue at times. She was very helpful in recommending a fantastic Realtor to sell my fathers house. The staff was always kind no matter the communication method whether phone, e-mail or in person etc. I would use their services again & highly recommend DiPaula Law.
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14 Jun, 2024 by Carmela dean
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14 Aug, 2024 by Chelestina2493 jade
Horrible they try to threaten you with lies. Definitely in it for the money only .
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27 Jun, 2024 by David lee
DiPaula Law handled my father's estate & did a fantastic job. Carolyn Evans was patient with me every step of the way even when family dynamics became an issue at times. She was very helpful in recommending a fantastic Realtor to sell my fathers house. The staff was always kind no matter the communication method whether phone, e-mail or in person etc. I would use their services again & highly recommend DiPaula Law.
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14 Jun, 2024 by Carmela dean
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17 Sep, 2024 by Julia cimorose
The team here is just amazing! Krystle Acevedo Howard brought a nearly impossible situation to reconciliation. There is no lack of compassion with this team. Very hard working and professional, but also kind hearted people!
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13 Oct, 2023 by M. s.
The entire staff at Rodier Family Law Firm is extremely friendly, personable, and professional. Mrs. Krystle Acevedo Howard is incredibly caring, thorough, professional, and fair. She thought of everything and more. I feel incredibly blessed to have had her representing my family. I would even go as far as to say that I personally feel like Kryslte Acevedo Howard is the BEST CHILD CUSTODY ATTORNEY IN ALL OF HARFORD COUNTY! Thank you, Rodier Family Law and Krystle, for everything. I can't imagine anyone else representing my family other than Krystle. ❤️
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21 Aug, 2023 by Samantha shelton
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17 Sep, 2024 by Julia cimorose
The team here is just amazing! Krystle Acevedo Howard brought a nearly impossible situation to reconciliation. There is no lack of compassion with this team. Very hard working and professional, but also kind hearted people!
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13 Oct, 2023 by M. s.
The entire staff at Rodier Family Law Firm is extremely friendly, personable, and professional. Mrs. Krystle Acevedo Howard is incredibly caring, thorough, professional, and fair. She thought of everything and more. I feel incredibly blessed to have had her representing my family. I would even go as far as to say that I personally feel like Kryslte Acevedo Howard is the BEST CHILD CUSTODY ATTORNEY IN ALL OF HARFORD COUNTY! Thank you, Rodier Family Law and Krystle, for everything. I can't imagine anyone else representing my family other than Krystle. ❤️
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21 Aug, 2023 by Samantha shelton
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13 May, 2024 by J. roberts
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29 Sep, 2023 by Bonnie perez
Quick service, great prices, very friendly staff.
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18 Sep, 2023 by Kelly getz
Very helpful
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13 May, 2024 by J. roberts
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29 Sep, 2023 by Bonnie perez
Quick service, great prices, very friendly staff.
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18 Sep, 2023 by Kelly getz
Very helpful
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17 Apr, 2023 by Samuel walto
Chris handled my divorce 8 years ago and since then I have been able to reach out to Chris for great straight forward advice and help. He is honest , straightforward, dependable and I full heartedly believe he always has my best interests at heart. I truly recommend Chris and glad that I found him to represent me along the way in life. GOD Bless Thanks Chris
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19 Aug, 2019 by Melissa
Chris Van Roden came highly recommended by a Lawyer friend of mine. Against my better judgement, I briefly considered reconciling with my husband, and it was during that time that he told me his attorney (H.Brucker from HdG) said 'VanRoden is the best divorce attorney in Harford County'. My husband was angry and said his lawyer was afraid of mine. That said, I was all alone, and my husband and his family were seemingly so much stronger & more resourceful than me. Chris advocated for me in a professional and firm manner, and I was very pleased with the results. Chris met with me the day before our Settlement Hearing and knew exactly what I wanted. He was so confident and prepared that he rarely needed to speak with me during the negotiations. Chris and I looked like an unstoppable Team. Meanwhile, my husband and his lawyer were scrambling. Chris is so highly respected in Harford County that Judges, Lawyers, Court Reporters, and Security Guards walking thru the hallways seemed proud to shake his hand. Chris wouldn't agree, but from my perspective that day, it looked like Chris Van Roden owned that Courthouse. Admittedly, I didn't like paying legal fees (no one does) but Chris was worth every penny. My new motto: Whoever said....... 'Money can't buy happiness", NEVER paid for a divorce! Thank you Chris....,for the journey, my settlement, and my freedom!
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08 Jul, 2017 by Anonymous
Several years ago I hired Chris when my children's father pursued a modification of visitation. My husband and I consulted with Chris and felt confident he understood the matter and would represent me in a way that would ensure the kids would have more consistency in the visitation with their father and the last minute demands and threats would stop. He agreed that what I was proposing was reasonable and he would be to help in this process. On one occasion while awaiting the court date, I contacted him when their father refused to return them on Christmas Day and Chris was very impatient and irritable while speaking with me as if it were an inconvenience when I contacted him the following day. When the court date arrived, all seemed fine until we had to negotiate some aspects of the agreement and Chris backpedaled on earlier reassurances and was aggressive when we asked him to explain the contradiction between earlier discussions and his current stance. I had been skeptical of him after the previously mentioned phone call, but my husband was blown away by his about-face. Needless to say we weren't satisfied entirely with the outcome, but to some extent that wasn't unexpected given the nature of cases like this. But I felt completely unprotected standing in that courtroom and we walked out of there with a visitation arrangement that benefited only the kids' father and he continues to violate to this day. Following the hearing, I refused to have any further contact with Chris as I found him to be unprofessional and insincere and on the day of the phone call nasty and unconstrctive.
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22 Mar, 2024 by Daniel noel
Extremely professional and wonderful and a very friendly staff. Kerstin is so pleasant to work with.
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20 Mar, 2024 by Heath isaacoff
I am very grateful for Mr. Demuth's help with my case. He has been incredibly easy to work with, friendly, honest and straight forward. I lost a lot of hope, and wasted a lot of time, trying to go it on my own without a lawyer in the beginning and have learned how valuable Mr. Demuth's experience is. If you are still reading this... in short, DON'T HESITATE to get a lawyer. It will be worth it. I highly recommend Mr. Demuth. 5 stars to their entire team, I'm forever grateful!
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21 Feb, 2024 by Danny haupt
I want to let everyone no that this Company really helped me out a lot. Took over a year and a half to get things done, but well worth it. I want to thank everyone there especially Mr. Murahari for keeping my head up when I thought things wouldn’t work out. If you need help don’t hesitate to call this Company.
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20 Oct, 2024 by Anonymous
Made many careless mistakes in my case ultimately wasting my money. I would not recommend.
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13 Apr, 2023 by Carmella lane
Allen has been my attorney for over 30 years. Excellent representation! Friendly, courteous, honest.
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06 Nov, 2021 by Donna the income boss
Only defends you when it’s in his favor
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03 Apr, 2024 by Bruce leslie
The billable hours seemed to be exaggerated. They also messed up the lease contingency and the lease started early and cost us an extra $30k and immediately after told us they wont continue until we paid them. Snee told us they would fight for us tooth & nail but when the time came he didn't put up a fight at all. The day of the liquor hearing he called us by the wrong names. The guy is old for the job and it shows. In my opinion he's a crook. He knew how the hearing would turn out and continued to grab as much money as he could. Be prepared to spend a lot for his services!
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03 Apr, 2024 by Bruce leslie
I agree with the billable hours being exaggerated. They also messed up the lease contingency and the lease started early and cost us an extra $30k and immediately after told us they wont continue until we paid them. Snee told us they would fight for us tooth & nail but when the time came he didn't put up a fight at all. The day of the liquor hearing he called us by the wrong names. The guy is old for the job and it shows. In my opinion he's a crook. He knew how the hearing would turn out and continued to grab as much money as he could. Be prepared to spend a lot for his services!
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20 Sep, 2023 by Robert hansen
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12 Mar, 2015 by Anonymous
Seemed like he was not aggressive enough during my hearings. Wouldn't suggest for hearings that you may be facing jail time, but in other cases he would be more than expected
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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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