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28 Aug, 2024 by Bev’s gear
Jackie and Troy were super helpful and precise with our filings, producing a great outcome for our family. Thanks you both so much!
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12 Jun, 2024 by Kristin baker
Chellie was great a simplifying all that was required. She worked with me to make the paperwork seamless.
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05 Jun, 2024 by Alicia macy
I cannot say enough good things about Joshua Brunner and his office, Envision Family Law. From the moment I met them, I knew I was in capable and compassionate hands. After a series of disappointing experiences with other attorneys who seemed more interested in their fees than my case, Mr.Brunner was a breath of fresh air. They truly listened to my concerns, understood my needs, and advocated for me every step of the way.
Their dedication to my case was evident in their meticulous attention to detail and their unwavering support. Mr.Brunner provided me with clear guidance and realistic expectations, always keeping my best interests at heart. Their expertise in family law is unparalleled, and their strategic approach made gave me the strength to keep going. Even when I felt like I couldn’t.
I only wish I had met Mr.Brunner and his team at the beginning of my divorce process. They turned a very difficult and stressful situation into a manageable one and restored my faith in the legal system. If you need a family law attorney who will represent you with integrity, empathy, and exceptional skill, look no further than Joshua Brunner, Envision Family Law Bellingham Wa
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31 May, 2024 by Laura
I contacted Patrick Lackie to assist me with a demand letter for a judgment that I was attempting to collect. He was one of the few attorneys that responded and said he could help me. Patrick wrote several letters on my behalf and was able to solicit a response and offer from a defendant that had promised to pay but then ghosted me. Patrick is very responsive; I was very happy that he did everything that he said he would do and in a timely manner. I highly recommend Patrick Lackie!
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21 Jul, 2020 by Jen
After I was falsely accused of a crime and was assigned ineffective assistance of counsel, Patrick appeared from out of the blue, took my case, and got the charges dismissed.
I don't think I spoke with him or corresponded with him for more than a half hour total, yet he quickly grasped all the issues and worked directly over a period of months with the parties to dismiss.
He is an exceptionally intelligent, experienced, and compassionate attorney, overlain with quiet vitality and a sublime self-confidence. I will forever be in his debt.
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29 May, 2019 by John
Patrick Lackie helped with my DUI case years ago. He is very professional and easy to talk to. He made everything clear to me about my case from the start. This gave me piece of mind moving forward.
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14 Feb, 2023 by Joann childs
Listen to my needs, highly educated but discussion was in words and meanings I can understand.
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10 Jan, 2023 by Happy golucky
Edward and Junga represented me on a very seriously damaging gender discrimination case with the highest level of knowledge, skills and integrity to get to a huge settlement in mediation after they stood by me diligently for 3 years! They are both excellent, hard working, intelligent tough negotiating attorneys and I owe them many thanks!
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10 Nov, 2022 by Solar sal
06 Mar, 2020 by Nat
Mr. Kleps was very helpful and kind when we had to go through what was my first probate. He understood our financial realities. He encouraged us to do what we could on our own, and was there 100% for the tasks that were beyond our capabilities. I highly recommend.
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21 Jun, 2018 by Jamesa
I have a traumatic brain injury. I was referred to him by the attorney who helped me to finally get social security disability after 6 years. That attorney referred me to Michael when I got my "back-pay" from SSD; and helped me to understand how getting a large amount of money could create financial havoc in my life-- losing my home in a public housing unit, losing my state paid caregiver 30 hrs. a week, and losing my state insurance that covers what my medicare never would. He did all of this in a kind, patient way; without ever making me feel like he was "timing" our first consultation or even counting every second when he did the paperwork. He is my favorite attorney ever, I have to say; and I have dealt with a few throughout my life.
Thank you Michael!!!!
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19 Feb, 2015 by Anonymous
We were happy with the knowledge and experience Michael provided in preparing a will, Durable Power of Attorney and Health Care Directive for my husband and I. He was personable, respectful and listened to our concerns and wishes and helped us with the wording, offered advice concerning tax laws and beneficiaries, and provided our documents in a timely manner.
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21 Nov, 2012 by Heather
Penny Henderson was a joy to work with. In our initial phone conversation she was encouraging and very supportive of our journey of adopting through foster care. Mrs. Henderson took care of all the communication and bills to the court house and kept us in the loop. She was happy to wait for her payment from the state so that it was not out of our pocket. Mrs. Henderson went above and beyond and took wonderful pictures of us in the court room and joined us for the party afterwards. She made the legal part stress free and joyful!
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14 Nov, 2012 by Kathleen
I used Penny Henderson to handle my collaborative divorce. She was great. I interviewed several attorneys in town who specialize in collaborative divorce, and chose her because of her experience and expertise. She had worked in the legal field for years before becoming and attorney. I was so impressed that she had challenged and passed the bar exam, without going to law school. No easy feat for anyone, much less someone who worked full time. I was also drawn to her calm manner. She was perfect in a collaborative legal setting.
She was at all times professional with me and with the other parties involved. She explained up front what to expect and she spent time asking questions and making sure she understood all my issues. Her explanations of the legal issues were very clear. When I had questions or concerns, she would return calls promptly and always spent time making sure I understood. Her billing was fair and accurate, and about half of what my spouse paid for the same legal representation.
I would use Penny Henderson again.
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14 Nov, 2012 by Anonymous
Ms. Henderson handled a case for me in 2007 and has helped me on subsequent smaller matters as well. I find her services to be exemplary. I was impressed with her collaborative approach to the law and how she was able to elicit cooperation from both sides. I found her to be impartial, fair, and a consummate professional. I recommend her to others often as she is patient and very skilled at working with children, particularly those in crisis.
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07 Mar, 2020 by Anonymous
Our will took a long time because we were unsure about things. Phillip stuck with us throughout and explained all of the details as many times as needed. He is highly recommended.
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08 Aug, 2019 by Chris
My wife and I found Phillip to be very knowledgeable and helpful. Planning for the future is a tough thing to do. Phillip was VERY helpful and informative regarding the many options available. this was a very detailed process and each meeting with him proved to be very calming and we walked away feeling confident our estate is properly cared for. I would recommend Phillip and would plan on calling him for other legal needs.
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14 Dec, 2018 by Jenny and russ
Preparing for elder care as 60 years olds can be a difficult trek through uncharted territory, but with Mr. George we made it to "Safe Harbor" by incorporating Aging Options all the way. He has become a friend of our family and a stedfast resource in future needs. Peace of mind is what we walked away from after working four months to arrange our estate in legal order. Everyone could prosper too if they decide to get their affairs in order.
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21 Nov, 2021 by Anonymous
Olivia's services were professional, quick, responsive and well-priced. I appreciated her flat fee and patience answering my questions about the process. I am so glad I found her!
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28 Aug, 2024 by Bev’s gear
Jackie and Troy were super helpful and precise with our filings, producing a great outcome for our family. Thanks you both so much!
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12 Jun, 2024 by Kristin baker
Chellie was great a simplifying all that was required. She worked with me to make the paperwork seamless.
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05 Jun, 2024 by Alicia macy
I cannot say enough good things about Joshua Brunner and his office, Envision Family Law. From the moment I met them, I knew I was in capable and compassionate hands. After a series of disappointing experiences with other attorneys who seemed more interested in their fees than my case, Mr.Brunner was a breath of fresh air. They truly listened to my concerns, understood my needs, and advocated for me every step of the way.
Their dedication to my case was evident in their meticulous attention to detail and their unwavering support. Mr.Brunner provided me with clear guidance and realistic expectations, always keeping my best interests at heart. Their expertise in family law is unparalleled, and their strategic approach made gave me the strength to keep going. Even when I felt like I couldn’t.
I only wish I had met Mr.Brunner and his team at the beginning of my divorce process. They turned a very difficult and stressful situation into a manageable one and restored my faith in the legal system. If you need a family law attorney who will represent you with integrity, empathy, and exceptional skill, look no further than Joshua Brunner, Envision Family Law Bellingham Wa
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06 Jun, 2024 by E rs
30 Jun, 2023 by Dana pattison
12 Jun, 2023 by Alan lee millard
I contacted Jamia and was amazed at her willingness to help me right of the bat. She helped me immensely within minutes, answering all my questions and addressing my concerns.
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5.0
8 Reviews
4.7
3 Reviews
30 May, 2020 by Charles rushing
Mark took care of all my worries and was very understanding of the laws up to date and timing for filling. Great job Mark I’m totally blessed to have had your help.
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16 Mar, 2020 by Anonymous
From start to finish Mark was there supporting me and my case, even through stressful times when the creditor where calling. I would highly recommend him
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05 Dec, 2019 by David
Mark handled my bankruptcy, He was always easy to talk to and helped me understand exactly what I had to do. I never felt like he didn't have answers to my questions and I couldn't be happier with the outcome of my case. I never felt like I was talking to a lawyer, more like a friend who helped me thru a difficult situation. Exactly what I was looking for. Thanks Mark!
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09 Sep, 2024 by Aves
Ryan is an extraordinary attorney who goes above and beyond. When I felt like all hope was lost, Ryan was there to support and guide me as my attorney. If I had to do it all over again, I wouldn't have chosen a different person to represent me because Ryan is a gem in a world full of coal. Honesty, integrity and empathy are three words I would use to describe Ryan and his firm.
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05 Sep, 2024 by Elizabeth mandranis
200% 5 Stars!!!!!!! Emily Rose and her wonderful staff were the PERFECT law firm for the challenges our family was dealing with during a lengthy and arduous probate. I contacted Limitless Law in desperation after years of trying to close out what had become a very mired situation and I chose Limitless Law based on the many positive reviews, my own research, and the initial phone consultation with Emily Rose that convinced me she had the skill, knowledge, and personality to help me. She was very practical and professional, yet always approachable when I had questions. She walked me through every step of the process, giving me advice to overcome each problem we faced, while including me in all decisions. I never felt unheard, talked down to, or otherwise negated in any way. I never felt she thought my questions stupid or the answers obvious. She included me in deciding the strategies, and helped our family finally reach a successful and harmonious closure. I cannot say enough good things about her! She streamlined every aspect of signing and payments, so it was easy to quickly finish documents and get them filed. Emily and her staff were also always very quick to respond, kind, attentive, which helped us to close out the estate quickly once we started. I will never stop singing the praises of Limitless Law, Inc. I have such gratitude for the help she gave us. If you need a guide to walk your through the probate process, THIS law firm is the one! They do not do litigation, which may be why they can focus on helping their clients so well, but they also will discuss your needs right from the beginning so you can find the help you need for your particular case, and there is no hard sell from them. Just sound and respectful advice.
Thank you so much, Emily Rose and staff. You helped us through to the closure that had eluded us for so long. I am so grateful to you for your help. Sincerely, Elizabeth Mandranis.
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27 Aug, 2024 by K johnson
Emily made us feel comfortable from the moment we met her. We are grateful for her expertise and for her valuable feedback when addressing our legal needs. Thanks Emily for making the process so easy!
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16 Sep, 2024 by Jose
Mr Beaty is very knowledgeable. Kept me informed on every aspect and step through my divorce.
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09 Sep, 2024 by Aves
Ryan is an extraordinary attorney who goes above and beyond. When I felt like all hope was lost, Ryan was there to support and guide me as my attorney. If I had to do it all over again, I wouldn't have chosen a different person to represent me because Ryan is a gem in a world full of coal. Honesty, integrity and empathy are three words I would use to describe Ryan and his firm.
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05 Sep, 2024 by Elizabeth mandranis
200% 5 Stars!!!!!!! Emily Rose and her wonderful staff were the PERFECT law firm for the challenges our family was dealing with during a lengthy and arduous probate. I contacted Limitless Law in desperation after years of trying to close out what had become a very mired situation and I chose Limitless Law based on the many positive reviews, my own research, and the initial phone consultation with Emily Rose that convinced me she had the skill, knowledge, and personality to help me. She was very practical and professional, yet always approachable when I had questions. She walked me through every step of the process, giving me advice to overcome each problem we faced, while including me in all decisions. I never felt unheard, talked down to, or otherwise negated in any way. I never felt she thought my questions stupid or the answers obvious. She included me in deciding the strategies, and helped our family finally reach a successful and harmonious closure. I cannot say enough good things about her! She streamlined every aspect of signing and payments, so it was easy to quickly finish documents and get them filed. Emily and her staff were also always very quick to respond, kind, attentive, which helped us to close out the estate quickly once we started. I will never stop singing the praises of Limitless Law, Inc. I have such gratitude for the help she gave us. If you need a guide to walk your through the probate process, THIS law firm is the one! They do not do litigation, which may be why they can focus on helping their clients so well, but they also will discuss your needs right from the beginning so you can find the help you need for your particular case, and there is no hard sell from them. Just sound and respectful advice.
Thank you so much, Emily Rose and staff. You helped us through to the closure that had eluded us for so long. I am so grateful to you for your help. Sincerely, Elizabeth Mandranis.
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09 Sep, 2024 by Aves
Ryan is an extraordinary attorney who goes above and beyond. When I felt like all hope was lost, Ryan was there to support and guide me as my attorney. If I had to do it all over again, I wouldn't have chosen a different person to represent me because Ryan is a gem in a world full of coal. Honesty, integrity and empathy are three words I would use to describe Ryan and his firm.
Read more
05 Sep, 2024 by Elizabeth mandranis
200% 5 Stars!!!!!!! Emily Rose and her wonderful staff were the PERFECT law firm for the challenges our family was dealing with during a lengthy and arduous probate. I contacted Limitless Law in desperation after years of trying to close out what had become a very mired situation and I chose Limitless Law based on the many positive reviews, my own research, and the initial phone consultation with Emily Rose that convinced me she had the skill, knowledge, and personality to help me. She was very practical and professional, yet always approachable when I had questions. She walked me through every step of the process, giving me advice to overcome each problem we faced, while including me in all decisions. I never felt unheard, talked down to, or otherwise negated in any way. I never felt she thought my questions stupid or the answers obvious. She included me in deciding the strategies, and helped our family finally reach a successful and harmonious closure. I cannot say enough good things about her! She streamlined every aspect of signing and payments, so it was easy to quickly finish documents and get them filed. Emily and her staff were also always very quick to respond, kind, attentive, which helped us to close out the estate quickly once we started. I will never stop singing the praises of Limitless Law, Inc. I have such gratitude for the help she gave us. If you need a guide to walk your through the probate process, THIS law firm is the one! They do not do litigation, which may be why they can focus on helping their clients so well, but they also will discuss your needs right from the beginning so you can find the help you need for your particular case, and there is no hard sell from them. Just sound and respectful advice.
Thank you so much, Emily Rose and staff. You helped us through to the closure that had eluded us for so long. I am so grateful to you for your help. Sincerely, Elizabeth Mandranis.
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27 Aug, 2024 by K johnson
Emily made us feel comfortable from the moment we met her. We are grateful for her expertise and for her valuable feedback when addressing our legal needs. Thanks Emily for making the process so easy!
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11 Jul, 2024 by Mr anonymous
We took our beloved Italian Greyhound to our local veterinarian for a routine exam. To our surprise, the veterinarian informed us that our dog needed all his teeth removed. We were hesitant to accept this diagnosis, but the veterinarian insisted we follow his treatment plan, which included strong antibiotics, anti-inflammatories, and pain medication.
After two days, our dog became very sick. He stopped eating and drinking. We called the veterinarian's office every day, but they ignored us and did not return our calls. Finally, we had to take our dog to the emergency room. We were absolutely devastated when he died. The emergency room veterinarians said he had complications from the medications he was prescribed.
A couple of days later, I got ahold of the original veterinarian. He was rude, argumentative, and denied any responsibility. I told him I would hold him accountable, and that's when I reached out to Adam. I am so glad I did.
Adam got justice for our beloved dog and family member. He really cares about his clients. He is compassionate, tough, and an expert negotiator, able to maintain a strong position while showing a willingness to settle. Adam secured a very respectable settlement for us, much more than we were expecting.Our dog did not deserve what happened to him. Adam fights tirelessly for those who cannot defend themselves. Now, our family has closure, and the person responsible was held accountable. I am so glad we reached out to Adam.
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29 May, 2024 by Tim hertel
23 May, 2024 by Janna cavanaugh
They made the probate process simple and stress-free.
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01 Aug, 2024 by Cindy demme
Lawyers offices. Was clean and tidy.
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28 Oct, 2023 by Angela polito
Elder Law has been my source of legal planning for years. They are knowledgeable, helpful, expert. I highly recommend them.
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05 Aug, 2023 by Letitia tappa
Experienced, kind law firm. Using their services for my mom's will and my power of attorney if she becomes unable to care for herself. I got a lot of piece of mind after our meeting.
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01 Aug, 2024 by Cindy demme
Lawyers offices. Was clean and tidy.
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28 Oct, 2023 by Angela polito
Elder Law has been my source of legal planning for years. They are knowledgeable, helpful, expert. I highly recommend them.
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05 Aug, 2023 by Letitia tappa
Experienced, kind law firm. Using their services for my mom's will and my power of attorney if she becomes unable to care for herself. I got a lot of piece of mind after our meeting.
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01 Jun, 2023 by Kelly plyler
I recommend Bryan Page for his knowledge, professionalism, and integrity.
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22 Apr, 2023 by Rajeev majumdar
Great lawyers!
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09 Mar, 2023 by Isaac andersen
Lisa and Colin are really awesome, they know exactly what they're talking about and they actually care a lot about the case they're working on.
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01 Jun, 2023 by Kelly plyler
I recommend Bryan Page for his knowledge, professionalism, and integrity.
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22 Apr, 2023 by Rajeev majumdar
Great lawyers!
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09 Mar, 2023 by Isaac andersen
Lisa and Colin are really awesome, they know exactly what they're talking about and they actually care a lot about the case they're working on.
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19 Apr, 2020 by Muhammad
She is very confident about what she does.She is very knowledgeable, Experienced, Organized, Straight forward, Caring and Good Hearted Person. She was my lawyer to evict a nasty chineese Guy. She didn't leave me alone when I was in the middle of an ocean. I had a terrible experience with that nasty Chineese Guy and She was all the time beside me to go through the process and get the job done.It took 6 months to evict that Chineese nasty Guy......That guy was that bad... I am extremely happy about her performance and her sense of responsibility.
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21 Feb, 2020 by Quinn
Far and away THE WORST attorney in Bellingham. Not only was she rude and indignant, she could care less about you and your case. She’s only interested in money. And worse, here is an example of her extreme unprofessionalism: I followed each and every step she gave me for a Reply Declaration and even turned it in to her days before she asked for it back (in order for her to go over it and submit it to the courts for filing on my behalf) she not only did not file it, I had to learn about her NOT filing it by happenstance, and then when I confronted her about it asking why she didn’t file it and especially why she didn’t tell me that she didn’t file she claimed that she did it for “legal reasons.” That’s all she would tell me. DO NOT USE THIS ATTORNEY. You will regret it.
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16 Mar, 2018 by Mary
Nancy was my divorce lawyer and she helped me get everything that I deserved. She listened to me and gave me explanations and answers that are easy to understand. She works calmly and very professional. Her paralegal, Chellie, was also very helpful and they make a good team together.
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09 Oct, 2023 by Ann bright
Kathryn Resnick was referred to me through the Senior Will Program with Law Advocates. I so appreciate her participation in this important service. The will she prepared was so comprehensive, included all the important details and her service, along with staff Sara, was just excellent. She was also very kind and welcoming, and appreciated the supportive way in which she and her staff conducted business. It's a relief to have a very good will in place and again, was so impressed with the quality of work and the professional and personal service she and her staff provides!
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03 Oct, 2023 by Rob snowden
We found Kathryn and her staff extremely professional and committed to the highest standard of legal procedure. Kathryn has a profound knowledge of state and federal laws and regulations and how those domains apply to her client’s personal needs. She keeps herself and her staff updated with the ever changing strictures within the legal community.
For us, she provided several services: an updating of our will, she’s helped provide clear understanding of our family trust, and she had a commitment to work with our financial advisers in order to give us greater confidence in our financial and legal concerns.
Kathryn has an ability to put abstract and ambiguous legal jargon into basic layman’s terms. We were comfortable asking her questions and her answers were never returned in esoteric attorney type piffle. Through the years we have recommended her practice to several friends and they share our appreciation of her professionalism.
We recommend her law practice with all enthusiasm.
Coleen & Rob Cheesman
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21 Sep, 2023 by Trisha walton
She is a competent attorney, but she told me so many times that she would do something that she never did. It was very frustrating, especially with the amount of money I was paying her.
Examples are she would tell me she would get back to me within a couple days and she wouldn’t, she said she would look into many things for me which she never did.
When going through a divorce you need an attorney who will do the things they say they are going to do when they say they are going to do them.
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07 Feb, 2024 by Von
They will deceive you to obtain a signature which is a felony.
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19 Dec, 2023 by Julieth jreige
"A Nightmare of Inefficiency and Neglect: Avoid This Law Firm at All Costs"
I recently had the unfortunate experience of engaging with Swanson Law Firm P.L.L.C., and I cannot express enough how disappointed I am with their
abysmal communication and overall lackluster service. From start to finish, my
interaction with this law firm was nothing short of a nightmare.
The primary issue that plagued my entire engagement with Swanson Law Firm, was their complete disregard for effective communication. It seemed
like getting a response from them was an insurmountable task. Emails went
unanswered for days, and phone calls were met with endless voicemail loops. It
felt as though my case was nothing more than an inconvenience to them.
When I did manage to get through to someone, the lack of
information provided was astonishing. It was as if the staff
were intentionally vague and unhelpful. Basic queries about the progress of my
case were met with generic responses that left me more confused than informed.
It became evident that they were either unwilling or incapable of keeping their
clients in the loop.
The final straw was today when I called and was informed my attorney would not be back till next year!!
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21 Aug, 2023 by Lou roberts
Brad Swanson is not to be trusted. Totally dissatisfied with his work. Charged a higher rate than they initially stated. Charged us for 3 hours for a zoom call that lasted less than 1 hour.
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17 Sep, 2023 by Anonymous
Nathan agreed to work on My case took My money and stopped returning calls and did nothing at all .. well except cash My check
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FAQs
Questions? We have answers
What an Estate Planning Lawyer Can Do for You
An estate planning lawyer helps individuals plan for the management and distribution of their assets after death or during incapacitation. Their services involve drafting important legal documents, such as wills, trusts, powers of attorney, and healthcare directives. Estate planning attorneys work to ensure that your assets are transferred according to your wishes, minimize tax liabilities, and avoid probate court. They also help clients plan for potential long-term care needs and protect their estate from being diminished by healthcare costs.
By working with an estate planning lawyer, you can have peace of mind knowing that your loved ones will be cared for and that your estate will be managed efficiently and according to your desires.
When Should I Hire an Estate Planning Lawyer?
Hiring an estate planning lawyer is beneficial in many situations, especially when you want to ensure that your assets are handled properly after death. Common reasons to hire an estate planning lawyer include:
- Drafting a will: If you want to clearly define how your assets will be distributed after death, an attorney can draft a legally sound will.
- Creating a trust: For those looking to avoid probate or provide for loved ones over time, setting up a trust can help manage the distribution of assets.
- Planning for incapacity: An estate lawyer can help draft powers of attorney and healthcare directives so that your financial and medical decisions are made by someone you trust if you become incapacitated.
- Minimizing estate taxes: If your estate is large, a lawyer can help create strategies to reduce or eliminate federal and state estate taxes.
- Special circumstances: If you have minor children, blended families, or complex assets like businesses, an estate planning lawyer can create tailored solutions.
- Guardianship or conservatorship: If you want to designate guardians for minor children or ensure proper care for incapacitated adults, an attorney can help.
Hiring an estate planning lawyer is especially important if your estate is complex or if you want to ensure that your wishes are properly followed.
What Does an Estate Planning Lawyer Do?
An estate planning lawyer provides a range of services designed to help you organize your affairs and ensure your estate is managed according to your wishes. They can:
- Draft wills and trusts: Creating legally binding documents that dictate how your assets will be distributed and managed.
- Create powers of attorney and healthcare directives: Appointing someone to make financial or medical decisions for you if you become incapacitated.
- Minimize taxes: Developing strategies to reduce estate taxes, gift taxes, and other financial liabilities for your heirs.
- Help avoid probate: Structuring your estate plan to avoid probate, which can save time and money for your beneficiaries.
- Advise on long-term care planning: Helping you plan for potential healthcare needs in the future, including Medicaid planning and protecting assets from being depleted by nursing home costs.
- Assist with beneficiary designations: Ensuring that life insurance policies, retirement accounts, and other financial instruments are correctly designated.
- Handle probate and estate administration: If a loved one has passed away, an estate planning lawyer can help guide you through the probate process or act as an executor.
How Are Estate Planning Lawyers Paid?
Estate planning lawyers typically charge for their services in one of several ways, depending on the complexity of your estate and the type of services you need. Common payment structures include:
- Flat fee: Many estate planning services, such as drafting a will or trust, are charged on a flat-fee basis. The fee covers all work related to preparing the document.
- Hourly rate: For more complex planning, such as estate tax strategy or trust administration, lawyers may charge by the hour. Rates vary based on the lawyer’s experience and location.
- Retainer: Some lawyers require a retainer for more complex cases, such as ongoing trust management or estate administration. The retainer is an upfront payment that covers future legal services.
It’s important to discuss fees with your lawyer upfront to avoid unexpected costs.
How Much Does an Estate Planning Lawyer Cost?
The cost of hiring an estate planning lawyer depends on the complexity of your estate and the services you require. Here are some general guidelines:
- Simple wills or powers of attorney: A straightforward will or power of attorney may cost between $300 and $1,500, depending on your location and the lawyer’s experience.
- Trust creation: Establishing a trust, such as a living trust or revocable trust, can cost between $1,000 and $3,000 or more, depending on the complexity of your assets and estate planning needs.
- Comprehensive estate planning packages: Some lawyers offer packages that include wills, trusts, powers of attorney, and healthcare directives, which may range from $2,000 to $5,000 or more, depending on the estate’s complexity.
- Hourly rates: For ongoing services like estate administration or tax planning, lawyers may charge hourly rates ranging from $150 to $500 or more, depending on the lawyer’s experience.
Always get a clear estimate of costs during your initial consultation to ensure the services fit within your budget.
Top Questions to Ask an Estate Planning Lawyer
Before hiring an estate planning lawyer, it’s important to ask questions to ensure they are the right fit for your needs. Here are key questions to ask during your consultation:
-
What is your experience with estate planning?
Ensure the lawyer has substantial experience drafting wills, creating trusts, and handling other estate planning services. -
How will you charge for your services?
Clarify whether the lawyer charges a flat fee or by the hour and ask for a detailed estimate of costs. -
What strategies do you recommend for my estate?
A good lawyer should be able to explain the best strategies for minimizing taxes, avoiding probate, and ensuring your assets are distributed according to your wishes. -
How often should I update my estate plan?
Ask how frequently you should revisit your estate plan, especially if your financial situation or family dynamics change. -
Do you offer ongoing support or updates?
Some lawyers provide periodic reviews or updates to ensure your estate plan stays current with changes in your circumstances or the law. -
How will you help my beneficiaries if something happens to me?
Ensure the lawyer is willing to guide your heirs through the estate administration process or help manage your trust after you’re gone.
How to Check the Credibility of an Estate Planning Lawyer
To ensure you’re hiring a credible estate planning lawyer, follow these steps:
- Verify their state bar license: Check with your state bar association to confirm that the lawyer is licensed and in good standing, with no history of disciplinary actions.
- Look for estate planning certifications: Some lawyers are certified as estate planning specialists, which indicates they have extensive knowledge in this area of law.
- Read client reviews and testimonials: Online reviews on sites like Avvo, Google, or Martindale-Hubbell can provide insight into the lawyer’s professionalism and client satisfaction.
- Ask for references: A credible lawyer should be able to provide references from previous clients who can speak to their expertise and client service.
- Check for membership in professional organizations: Lawyers who are members of organizations like the National Academy of Elder Law Attorneys (NAELA) or the American College of Trust and Estate Counsel (ACTEC) often have a strong reputation in the field.
What Should I Prepare for My First Consultation?
To get the most out of your first meeting with an estate planning lawyer, it’s important to come prepared. Here’s what you should bring:
- List of assets and liabilities: Provide a detailed inventory of your assets, including real estate, bank accounts, retirement funds, investments, and personal property, as well as any debts you may have.
- List of beneficiaries: Be ready to discuss who you want to receive your assets and in what proportions. This includes naming guardians for minor children if applicable.
- Existing estate documents: Bring copies of any existing wills, trusts, powers of attorney, or other relevant estate planning documents.
- Questions about your estate goals: Write down your goals, such as avoiding probate, reducing taxes, or setting up charitable donations, so your lawyer can tailor a plan to meet your needs.
- Information on medical and financial decision-makers: Be prepared to discuss who you want to appoint for healthcare and financial decisions if you become incapacitated.
By being well-prepared, you can ensure a productive consultation and begin building a comprehensive estate plan that meets your needs and protects your loved ones.
