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30 Nov, 2022 by Joe
I called around and took some recommendations from friends. However, when I called Matthew A. Ferri Estate Planning a young lady named Andrea picked up the phone and I knew while talking to her that this is a company I could trust with my trust. Andrea consulted wife my wife and I and patiently answered all of our questions. She litteraly took us through a very complicated procedure and left us both feeling like we made the right decision.
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12 May, 2022 by Steve and kristy
Matthew and Andrea were extremely well prepared for our goal of building our trusts. They made the process easy, complete, and structured to accomplish the goal quickly. Matthew has incredible insight into personal needs and all of the options available in setting up our legal documents to account for so many options in life. Great experience and we recommend Matthew and Andrea to anyone interested in estate planning!
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14 Apr, 2022 by Joe
Matt is a well-respected and highly accomplished attorney. I have had the pleasure of referring several clients to Matt over the years and he has always exceeded expectations. I trust Matt, and his firm, implicitly. He is leader in his field and delivers exceptional results for his clients.
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26 Jan, 2021 by Doraswamy
I have taken Betsey Rubel services to update and recreate our Trust and Will documents to add our adult son and other family members. Also, she prepare docs on house and power of attorney for our son and parents.
She is extremely professional and very personal to client's. She met us for initial meeting to take requirements, prepared docs and reviewed online before she showed up with her husband to witness to sign and complete the job while she was going vacation before Christmas.
I appreciate Betsey for her time commitment, clear communication and making customer feel like family. She is too good and highly recommend you to hire her for whatever lawyer services she agrees to provide.
Once again, thanks Betsey for your help. Best wishes to you and family.
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25 Jun, 2019 by Julie
Elisabeth did estate planning for our family. She is knowledgeable, professional, and timely. Her fees are reasonable. Returns phone calls promptly, and walked us through the process in a way that we could understand. We have already referred her to other friends and family members.
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24 Jan, 2017 by Anonymous
Elisabeth is a true professional and a teacher at heart. She is knowledgeable in her work and is able to articulate and answer the questions asked. Most importantly, she is able to explain and teach it so we fully understand what we are getting and so we can customize according to our needs.
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07 May, 2015 by Johnna
2nd marriage, 3 children on one side 1 on the other, a business and real estate - Kirk made the entire estate planning process REAL, EASY, and leaving us feeling confident. He understood our particular needs, he was knowledgeable and full of genuine ideas to manage our estate. I heard him as a speaker which finally hit me on what needed to be done for us as a couple and our children. If you work hard and want to protect what is yours and your family's I highly suggest you contact Kirk.
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04 Dec, 2009 by James studinger
I first met Kirk through a client. She was getting help revising an existing trust. I found his advice very practical, and was fairly priced. He was recommending what was best for her. So I had lunch with Kirk to learn more about him.
Since then he's helped a number of my clients, and has done some work personally for my family.
Kirk has been an excellent resource. When I come across an interesting estate problem Kirk has always been there, willing to lend professional guidance.
As a Financial Advisor, one of the risks in recommending others is that they might do something wrong. Financially there is no direct upside for me, but there could be significant client relationship downside if the other professional makes mistakes or treats my client poorly.
If all goes well however, then the bonds I have with clients are strengthened. They know I’m going beyond my job and making sure their estate is in order. And they see me as a resource to help them find the best people. They appreciate that I take the effort, and am looking out for their best interest.
I’m very comfortable recommending Kirk. Not only is his attitude positive (greeting with a big smile and pleasant handshake), but also he is very good at his job. I know he’s living up to his reputation when I consistently receive ‘Thank You’ notes from my happy clients.
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02 Dec, 2009 by Gordon
We are very pleased for the opportunity to write this review. Mr. Falvay has been our main attorney for 16 years.
With all of our needs including inheritance issues and trusts he has been fair, honest, creative, innovative and
prompt. We own a small corporation and he has taken care of our business needs as well. We have had some experience
with other law firms both huge and small. Most have been competent but none have ever come close to Mr. Falvay's
performance in all areas. Thank you again Mr. Falvay.
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17 Jan, 2024 by Kevin bremer
Jim is great attorney to work with. I highly recommend him.
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03 Jan, 2024 by Cheryl van drie
I've worked with Jim on a few different different issues, and couldn't have been happier to have him on my side. When planning for a trust, he was straightforward and easy to understand, making the normally daunting process simple for us to breakdown and get our paperwork together to begin. I've also had him advise me on a few legal matters and appreciate his honesty and attention to look at the whole picture and explain it from all sides before jumping in. Nobody wants to be in the situation of needing legal advice or services, and I felt assured that Jim advised me in the direction that was best for my needs, not what was best for his pocketbook. His honesty and integrity stand out amongst other lawyers I have used in the past.
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30 Dec, 2022 by Kc ng
Mr. James Hubbert suggested excellent steps for us to arrive at a just resolution in our situation. He is responsive and communicates well.
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30 Oct, 2021 by John
Without any knowledge of Cronin I was led to this lawfirm from a a bit of Intel where I ended up on the phone with a firm more local, but the team there couldn't help me. That same firm suggested I called Cronin and though most of the phone calls between the team and I were loud because of my work, I was surprised that notes were taken well and I didn't have to repeat any information on further calls and conversations. Overall I'm another step forward in getting a grip on my situation thanks to Samantha Faulkner at Cronin Lawfirm.
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10 Nov, 2020 by Dan
Samantha was all in from the moment she was hired to assist with my post divorce litigation. Samantha was not only an incredibly well organized and knowledgeable member of my legal team but was a caring and compassionate person as well. I knew that she was really in it for what was best for my children and for me. I really appreciate all of the hard work that you put into my case and on behalf of my children - regardless of the outcome - I thank you Samantha.
I would HIGHLY recommend Samantha's services for ANYONE in search of a qualified family law professional.
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28 Aug, 2019 by Rachel
Next to custody issues, is there a hotter topic than vaccines/medical between two parents that are divorced and do not see eye to eye on said topic?? What I really appreciated is that Samantha may not share my same concerns about vaccines, but she guided me objectively and accurately through my possible options and described how she could be of assistance to help us draft an agreement. My ex is a very difficult and duplicitous person to deal with. As a very loving and involved parent herself, I know family law has to be challenging. On the flip side of this, I know this makes Samantha a passionate (and tenacious) advocate for her clients. In the event that I need someone in my corner in a family court, I will definitely call Samantha!
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04 Mar, 2013 by Art
Jonathon is super knowledgeable, trustworthy and doesn't waste time. His fees are reasonable and doesn't bill unnecessary. I would recommend him without question!
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20 Feb, 2013 by Julie
Mr. Lowe took care of the trust of my in laws before they passed away. My mother-in-law had alzheimers and was unable to manage her affairs. Mr. Lowe did such an excellent job with investments and management that although there were tons of bills to pay (medical and otherwise) we ended up with more money when she passed away than what we began with. When we had questions that needed answers he always returned our calls and was upfront about what we needed to know. I totally trust him and would recommend him to anyone.
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15 Jun, 2018 by Michelle
Eric assisted my grandmother in amending her trust and then assisted me in carrying out those wishes as a trustee. I believe he achieved my grandmother’s wish in that amendment, while protecting those that would carry it out when she passed. Eric is professional, informative, and very patient. I plan on using him for my personal estate planning and would highly recommend him to anyone else in need.
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23 Sep, 2012 by Susan
Eric is working with our family to resolve a complicated marital trust matter for our dear mother who passed away on July 25th. His professionalism, knowledge, and commitment to doing the right thing are so appreciated and respected by all of my family. We have complete faith in his ability and commitment to bringing this matter to a fair and equitable resolution for the sake of our Mom.
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30 Dec, 2016 by Dan
Michael did an excellent job representing me and my husband. Could not be happier or more satisfied.
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30 Dec, 2016 by Xxxxxxxxx
Mr. Clawson has handles many of my family and business transactions. He is very versed in many areas of law. Everyone I have sent to him is very pleased! I have used him for real estate, trust and estate, and contract review issues. Would not use anyone else in Oakland County.
XXXX PhD
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31 Aug, 2016 by David
I have had John Grenke as my family attorney now for some 15 years. He has provided all of my family documents for Wills, family Trusts, and the creation of our family charitable foundation, on which I have him as a member of our Board. John is unwaveringly honest and dependable, and I have found his legal work to be superior with impunity.
I must comment on the note that Mr. Grenke had been disciplined by a state licensing authority. I can categorically state that this brief discipline had nothing at all to do with Client care, but was rather associated with a very personal grief experience. John's character is as superior as his legal acumen. I can recommend him without hesitation.
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30 Aug, 2010 by Anonymous
I have worked with Jeff for many years and have found him to be an excellent resource for all of our corporate needs. He has assisted us in many facets of our business and helped us manage our growth. Highly recommend.
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03 Mar, 2024 by Anonymous
Mr. Bourjaily is a highly-experienced probate litigator who represented me in a highly contested lawsuit involving my parents’ trust. His aggressive and technical representation proved to be worth every penny as he achieved the best potential result for me. I would recommend Ryan to anyone in need of an ethical and passionate probate specialist in their corner! Thank you, Ryan!
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04 Feb, 2019 by Anonymous
They gave me the kind of answer I needed for my case/problem and I greatly appreciate the help they have given me considering my case was important to me and he was the first to review within 2 hours of me posting it.
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03 Mar, 2020 by John
When my mother needed a will and a living trust, I took her to see Mr. Borkowski. He treated her respectfully and answered all questions. He did the worked skillfully and timely. When she passed away, everything went smoothly and easily. I highly recommend Mr. Borkowski.
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07 May, 2014 by Martin
Diana guided my wife and myself through trust and will process. We were very impressed with her knowledge of intricacies of establishing trusts and wills. In addition, Diana not only gave us clear direction but also prompt delivery. We have already recommended several other work associates to her.
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28 Aug, 2023 by Wes eddington
02 Jan, 2022 by R j
Marc, is patient and takes time to explain everything. We are very happy with his service and staff.
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14 Nov, 2020 by Brian swindler
Experienced estate attorney. Makes planning and execution of estate very easy.
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05 Sep, 2024 by Debbie aliotta
05 Sep, 2024 by Vivian kadbi
I recently had a phone consultation with Sabrina regarding my divorce, and her support was invaluable. She was incredibly compassionate and made me feel truly understood during a challenging time. Sabrina clearly explained the legal terms related to my case and guided me on the best way to move forward. I greatly appreciated her willingness to listen and answer all my questions. I highly recommend her to anyone facing a similar situation.
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04 Sep, 2024 by Alan rivera
Thoroughly pleased with Kimberly Cochrane and her estate planning work with Genesis Family Law. Knowledgeable, professional, efficient and kind, Kimberly truly went above and beyond to navigate and accommodate the particular needs of three generations of our family. Very highly recommend.
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05 Sep, 2024 by Debbie aliotta
05 Sep, 2024 by Vivian kadbi
I recently had a phone consultation with Sabrina regarding my divorce, and her support was invaluable. She was incredibly compassionate and made me feel truly understood during a challenging time. Sabrina clearly explained the legal terms related to my case and guided me on the best way to move forward. I greatly appreciated her willingness to listen and answer all my questions. I highly recommend her to anyone facing a similar situation.
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04 Sep, 2024 by Alan rivera
Thoroughly pleased with Kimberly Cochrane and her estate planning work with Genesis Family Law. Knowledgeable, professional, efficient and kind, Kimberly truly went above and beyond to navigate and accommodate the particular needs of three generations of our family. Very highly recommend.
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25 Sep, 2024 by Savannah rancour
The team at NK Law is incredibly professional, knowledgeable and compassionate. I could not have asked for a better attorney than Nick, he worked hard and succeeded at getting a settlement I deserved. I would highly recommend this law firm to anyone. Thank you Nick and staff for everything!
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25 Jul, 2024 by Thavy anongthep
Friendly. Very approachable. Answers all my questions in a courteous manner. Definitely will recommend to my friends and family.
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13 May, 2024 by Howard dew
I recently had the opportunity to work with Nicholas Kyriakopoulos at NK Law following an accident, and I commend the professionalism and efficiency of both the attorney and his office staff. They handled my case with utmost care and transparency. Their communication was clear and timely, and their guidance was invaluable in navigating the complexities of my case. I highly recommend Nicholas Kyriakopoulos and NK Law to anyone looking for competent and reliable representation.
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29 Jul, 2024 by Daniel koenig
Could not recommend more. I worked specifically with Mark and Emily. Smart, quick, and excellent at their craft. This is a group of winners. While I hope I don’t need their services again, I wouldn’t go with anyone else.
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15 Jul, 2024 by C m
Ms. Emily Hollenberg JD is a dedicated legal professional who holds integrity and professional standards of conduct in high regard.
Ms. Hollenberg undertakes professional responsibilities with thoughtfulness and thoroughness, empathy and compassion, demonstrating a natural inclination toward
fair and just resolution of divorce and family matters.
At the outset, Ms. Hollenberg thoroughly reviews the legal process, all options, and provides guidance toward resolution of individualized client goals. She demonstrates an eagerness to serve as a sounding board in difficult situations.
Ms. Hollenberg consistently makes herself available and responds promptly to client requests to matters requiring immediate attention, serving to allay anxiety innate in the process. She exudes an air of confidence, competence, and an unwavering commitment to her clients and families.
Ms. Emily Hollenberg JD is an experienced professional whose skills and contributions will undoubtedly benefit those whom she represents without question. I highly recommend Ms. Hollenberg and the firm of Hauer & Snover without hesitation.
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30 Nov, 2023 by Rachael abraham
I couldn't ask for better representation. Very knowledgeable, accessible and overall a great firm to work with. Couldn't ask for better than Marcus and Mark. Have already referred them. They are a great team!
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5.0
1 Reviews
4.9
8 Reviews
04 Sep, 2023 by Glenn crandall
03 Nov, 2021 by Ron karl
Very professional and met our needs promptly.
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08 Jul, 2021 by Andrew leinart
22 Sep, 2024 by Greek
We hired this law firm to assist with guardianship and conservatorship. The law firm was wonderful...to start with. This law firm does not help with the entire process. We were asked to withdraw counsel before the first and final hearing for conservatorship. We were told that the law firm does not help through the whole process because conservatorships can last 7-8 years, despite ours lasting less than a year. They left us to complete the legal paperwork on our own. Also, they suggested to create a trust to avoid probate. This was frowned upon by the court because they did not ask the court's blessing before it was done. The law firm told us the trust was not funded, which was not accurate because it was funded with the house, which by the way, had a lady bird and the trust messed this up. We also tried calling Rutkowski about help with probate, despite being a client, three weeks later we had not received a call back. This law firm was originally referred to us. We would not recommend this law firm, unless you want to pay alot of money for bad advice.
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21 Aug, 2024 by Scott johnson
Mike gave us a very informative presentation
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30 May, 2024 by Karen samosiuk
I did my research on law firm and Rutkowsk law firm was the most easiest to work with and very resourceful. I highly recommend. Thank you for your help.
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22 Sep, 2024 by Greek
We hired this law firm to assist with guardianship and conservatorship. The law firm was wonderful...to start with. This law firm does not help with the entire process. We were asked to withdraw counsel before the first and final hearing for conservatorship. We were told that the law firm does not help through the whole process because conservatorships can last 7-8 years, despite ours lasting less than a year. They left us to complete the legal paperwork on our own. Also, they suggested to create a trust to avoid probate. This was frowned upon by the court because they did not ask the court's blessing before it was done. The law firm told us the trust was not funded, which was not accurate because it was funded with the house, which by the way, had a lady bird and the trust messed this up. We also tried calling Rutkowski about help with probate, despite being a client, three weeks later we had not received a call back. This law firm was originally referred to us. We would not recommend this law firm, unless you want to pay alot of money for bad advice.
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21 Aug, 2024 by Scott johnson
Mike gave us a very informative presentation
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30 May, 2024 by Karen samosiuk
I did my research on law firm and Rutkowsk law firm was the most easiest to work with and very resourceful. I highly recommend. Thank you for your help.
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4.9
44 Reviews
15 Aug, 2024 by Andre s. kohn
TLDR: Great Lakes employs attorneys that are not only terrible at their job, but who will overbill you and treat you terribly.
You are doing yourself a tremendous disservice taking your business to Great Lakes. Kim Browning in particular is the single worst attorney I have ever had to deal with. She is both not very good at the legal aspect of her job, nor the customer service aspect.
She ended up billing me 3x higher than her initial estimate despite the fact that the case proceeded exactly as anticipated without any sort of hiccups.
What's more, despite the case progressing exactly as anticipated, she never gave me a clear understanding about what the next steps would be.
Worst, she WILL NOT RESPOND TO YOU. Despite paying her over $10k, she could not bother to respond to simple "yes" "no" emails without me having to send them to her 3+ times.
Please take your business elsewhere. With Great Lakes and Kim, all you'll get is a massive bill and disappointment.
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15 Aug, 2024 by Tik toker
Kimberly Browning and Stephanie Taylor helped me through the hardest thing I had to go through in life. I lost my dad and didn't know what to do next. Kimberly over heard me talking to people at court trying to figure out what to do next and offered to help. They have been amazing the whole year they helped me with my dad's estate. They always answered my questions. And I was always able to get ahold of them which was very important to me. I highly suggest great lakes family & estates!!
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15 Aug, 2024 by Greggory walton
I am very Grateful, and Thankful for Great Lakes Probate!
Kimberly, and Stephanie have worked with me, and family diligently.
I had so much on my plate as personal Rep, and they were there for direction, and so much support. Never skipped a beat
Very Professional.
Me, and my family definitely made the right choice when we selected Great Lakes Probate & Estates!
Thank You!
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4.9
44 Reviews
15 Aug, 2024 by Andre s. kohn
TLDR: Great Lakes employs attorneys that are not only terrible at their job, but who will overbill you and treat you terribly.
You are doing yourself a tremendous disservice taking your business to Great Lakes. Kim Browning in particular is the single worst attorney I have ever had to deal with. She is both not very good at the legal aspect of her job, nor the customer service aspect.
She ended up billing me 3x higher than her initial estimate despite the fact that the case proceeded exactly as anticipated without any sort of hiccups.
What's more, despite the case progressing exactly as anticipated, she never gave me a clear understanding about what the next steps would be.
Worst, she WILL NOT RESPOND TO YOU. Despite paying her over $10k, she could not bother to respond to simple "yes" "no" emails without me having to send them to her 3+ times.
Please take your business elsewhere. With Great Lakes and Kim, all you'll get is a massive bill and disappointment.
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15 Aug, 2024 by Tik toker
Kimberly Browning and Stephanie Taylor helped me through the hardest thing I had to go through in life. I lost my dad and didn't know what to do next. Kimberly over heard me talking to people at court trying to figure out what to do next and offered to help. They have been amazing the whole year they helped me with my dad's estate. They always answered my questions. And I was always able to get ahold of them which was very important to me. I highly suggest great lakes family & estates!!
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15 Aug, 2024 by Greggory walton
I am very Grateful, and Thankful for Great Lakes Probate!
Kimberly, and Stephanie have worked with me, and family diligently.
I had so much on my plate as personal Rep, and they were there for direction, and so much support. Never skipped a beat
Very Professional.
Me, and my family definitely made the right choice when we selected Great Lakes Probate & Estates!
Thank You!
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14 Aug, 2024 by Lauren haboosh
Dalia and her staff are absolutely amazing. I switched to her from a previous lawyer and I can't thank them enough for going above and beyond for me. If you’re looking for a lawyer who is not only highly skilled but also truly dedicated to her clients, Dalia is the one to choose. I am incredibly grateful for her support and expertise, and I wholeheartedly recommend her to anyone in need of legal representation.
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01 Jul, 2024 by Lubna sharrak
Thank you Dalia for being my attorney and doing everything good for me to fix my case
Dalia is professional , understanding & smart to find solutions in time to any situation that arises because she prepared everything in advance and she knows how to get it done
The staff is friendly and treat you like family , my experience is with Samar she talked to me like sister to make feel better
God bless you
Lubna Sharrak
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13 Jun, 2024 by Carmen hanna
I HIGHLY RECOMMEND!!!!!!!!
I had hired another lawyer and I was unhappy so I switched to Ms.Kejbou’s office and it was the best decision I’ve ever made. Her knowledge and experience resulted in a settlement that encompassed everything I wanted. In addition both Ms. kejbou and her staff supported me emotionally and treated me like family. I HIGHLY RECOMMEND whole heartedly ❤️❤️❤️ 💐💐🌹
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08 Aug, 2024 by Nunya pookie
Just awful.
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28 Jul, 2024 by Peter makarov
We would like to express our highest gratitude to Givi Kutidze for his unbelievable professionalism and assistance in every step of our immigration process. From the very beginning, Givi explained and coordinated all the nuances. He would respond to hundreds of our emails, no matter the type, and no matter where he was at that time. We would always feel that we had 100% support behind us. During the duration of the process, Givi would constantly monitor any changes in regulations from USCIS, NVC, and protocols from the Embassy to make sure everything was going smoothly.
Not only is Givi an amazing Immigration Attorney but he is also compassionate, polite, understanding to others feelings, and very kind. We were extremely fortunate to have located Givi within the long list of Immigration Attorneys. In such a complex process as immigration, it is impossible to know the ending. However, with Givi we did not doubt a single second that everything would go well.
We sincerely thank you from the bottom of our heart for everything you have done for us! If there were more than 5 stars, we would give those too. With love Peter and Kseniia
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19 Jun, 2024 by Tamta modebadze
ბატონი გივი არის თავისი საქმის პროფესიონალი, კეთილსინდისიერი და გულისხმიერი იურისტი.
აუცილებლად გავუწევ უდიდეს რეკომენდაციას.
არაერთი საქმე დაასრულა წარმატებით, რისთვისაც მადლობელი ვარ.
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30 Nov, 2023 by Jacqui nickol
If you want an attorney that tells you untruth, he's your guy. He tells you all along that you won't be speaking in court, 5 minutes befores you walk into court, he informs you that you will need to speak in court, he's your guy. If you want an attorney that won't return your calls, he's your guy. If you want an attorney that tells you he will handle something but he doesn't, he's your guy. Mr. Stabling never explained the consequences fully of a plea deal. Terrible attorney, so very disappointing.
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04 Sep, 2023 by Glenn crandall
17 Oct, 2022 by Kalaivani kalaimani
Paul Stablein and his staff were prompt in returning my calls and very professional. I would definitely recommend them to anyone in need of legal assistance. He reassured me and was great to have on my side.
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30 Nov, 2023 by Jacqui nickol
If you want an attorney that tells you untruth, he's your guy. He tells you all along that you won't be speaking in court, 5 minutes befores you walk into court, he informs you that you will need to speak in court, he's your guy. If you want an attorney that won't return your calls, he's your guy. If you want an attorney that tells you he will handle something but he doesn't, he's your guy. Mr. Stabling never explained the consequences fully of a plea deal. Terrible attorney, so very disappointing.
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04 Sep, 2023 by Glenn crandall
17 Oct, 2022 by Kalaivani kalaimani
Paul Stablein and his staff were prompt in returning my calls and very professional. I would definitely recommend them to anyone in need of legal assistance. He reassured me and was great to have on my side.
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11 Apr, 2024 by Kelly adair
09 Jan, 2024 by Carolyn
Michael Robbins is a wonderful attorney. His extensive knowledge and experience as a divorce attorney was reassuring to me during one of the most difficult times of my life. His support staff is top notch as well. Highly reccommend.
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02 Jan, 2024 by Tanya keppler
I had Steve Cohen represent me in my Chapter 13 bankruptsy. Steve treated me with respect and compassion. It was the worst time in my life and he explained everything along the last 5 years and made it more bearable to get thru!
I would highly recommend Steve! Thank you for all your help and explaining the procee and getting me thru it with dignity.
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11 Apr, 2024 by Kelly adair
09 Jan, 2024 by Carolyn
Michael Robbins is a wonderful attorney. His extensive knowledge and experience as a divorce attorney was reassuring to me during one of the most difficult times of my life. His support staff is top notch as well. Highly reccommend.
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02 Dec, 2023 by J nelson
Sherri Bono is an amazing attorney. She is caring, easy to work with, knows the law inside and out, is detailed and thorough, and will treat your case respectfully and professionally. She always had the best interest of me and my children in mind. I highly recommend Sherri.
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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:
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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.
