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09 Apr, 2020 by Charlie
I purchased a $2 million plus home last week in Lighthouse Point, FL. Sheri Nott was recommended to us by a friend, who hired her to handle the purchase of their home in our new neighborhood. Sheri worked with our Seller, prepared a post occupancy lease agreement for them to stay another month, handled the seller's lien issues, and closed our deal in a very quick amount of time. She has a lot of experience with many real estate issues and maintained a pleasant attitude considering how difficult the sellers were in this process. My wife and I highly recommend her firm.
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29 Jan, 2020 by Bob
I bought a house in Hidden Valley neighborhood last week, which is very close to the Nott Law Group. The Seller’s realtor recommended Sheri Nott and I was so happy that she did! My closing costs were very fair and Sheri went out of her way to make sure I thoroughly understood everything. She has a wonderful assistant named Laura who was also very helpful. I highly recommend them!!
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22 Jan, 2020 by Anonymous
The worst experience I have ever had with a lawyer. I believe they are overpriced and when I questioned some of the fees I received a rude and annoyed response.
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23 Sep, 2024 by Brandon
As a former client of Peter J. Snyder, P.A., I feel compelled to share my deeply troubling experience. Mr. Snyder's conduct throughout my case was not just disappointing, but in my view, egregiously unprofessional and potentially unethical. I had to fire him and represent myself in court in order to win (which I did). From the outset, communication was abysmal. I was left in the dark about crucial hearings and important case developments. How can an attorney effectively represent a client when they fail to keep them informed? This isn't just an inconvenience; it's a fundamental breach of the attorney-client relationship. What's worse, Mr. Snyder made major decisions about my case without my input or consent. He elected for a non-jury trial without even discussing it with me. The lack of diligence in handling my case was staggering. Despite my repeated requests, Mr. Snyder failed to initiate settlement discussions, unnecessarily prolonging the legal proceedings. But perhaps most alarming were the ethical concerns. I believe Mr. Snyder misrepresented facts to the court regarding trial duration and evidence. He attempted to coerce me into accepting unfavorable terms. At times, it felt like he was working more for the opposing party than for me. In my opinion, Mr. Snyder's actions demonstrate a shocking disregard for client advocacy and professional responsibility. I wouldn't wish my experience on anyone else seeking legal representation. If you're considering hiring Peter J. Snyder, P.A., I strongly urge you to reconsider. In my view, he has shown himself to be untrustworthy, unprofessional, and potentially unethical. You deserve an attorney who will truly fight for your interests, not one who might compromise them at every turn.
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22 Dec, 2016 by Charles
I contacted Mr. Snyder for help with a complicated legal issue dealing with a real estate matter which needed immediate attention. He took the time to fully explain my legal rights and obligations under my circumstances and I found him to be extremely knowledgeable about many aspects of real estate law. I would highly recommend him to anyone.
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22 Dec, 2016 by Michael
I called attorney Snyder on a Friday afternoon on an urgent basis as I needed him to review a real estate contract for the purchase of a home in Boynton Beach, Florida. The deal was falling apart fast and I desperately wanted the deal to go through. He was able to see me that same day and immediately after hiring him he contacted the seller's attorney and was able to close the deal. What a great experience and I really appreciated his extensive knowledge and understanding of my particular needs. Would absolutely use again!!
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24 May, 2023 by Henry w
Bad attorney
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09 Dec, 2022 by Tristan brown
Ken and the firm does great, we have used them for years.
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13 Feb, 2022 by C d
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16 Feb, 2022 by Barbara
Mrs. Cohen was a very professional and honest Attorney. She was able to help my family when we needed it the most. I am very grateful for the help that I received from her.
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07 Feb, 2022 by Jeff
Natalie played a key role in assisting with my case. Over the last 2 years, she has been my "go to". She not only helped me through the difficult process, but often took the time to speak to me on a level that showed that she genuinely cared. Natalie is professional, extremely accommodating and very easy to talk to. As a lawyer, she goes above and beyond. The extra time she invested in my case not only showed her determination but also her dependability. I'd certainly use Natalie again and will recommend her to everyone I know.
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12 Jun, 2021 by Toby
Not prepared for hearing Bad advise Never asked witness one question !! Didn't fight for client Didn't have clients back I would not recommend her at all
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27 Apr, 2020 by Anonymous
Stu and his firm were instrumental in devising the strategy and implementing our complex estate plan which included a multigenerational trust structure. They introduced many concepts which were previously unknown by our family as a part of the process. We highly recommend the firm.
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23 Apr, 2020 by Brandon
If you want a 5 star law firm, to actually care about you and your family this is the place! Stuart and the team is AMAZING in my book. Communication is on point. Professional as it gets and will treat you like family during rough times and good times. They have taken my estate and have got me so much more organized and set up for success.
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21 Apr, 2020 by Ben j
I am confident now that all my affairs are in order. I have access to an expert on any tax or estate issue whenever I need it. As a matter of fact I call Stu for many other issues as well and I value his advice
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06 May, 2019 by Anonymous
Josh helped me through a difficult financial issue. He pays great attention to detail and thoroughly explains things. He is quite intelligent, knows the law and is a quick thinker. In addition he is kind, caring and genuine.
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21 May, 2018 by Maurice
Josh is an incredibly genuine, compassionate, experienced attorney. It should be clear that whoever gave the poor review is just out to tarnish his reputation as they would not even give their own name for Josh to respond. I would hire Josh in a second if I ever need an attorney again.
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09 Dec, 2014 by Anonymous
I have worked with this attorney for over two years and I gave him a lot of money. He wrote one letter that I hand delivered to the Corporation I was persuing and wrote a couple of emails. Then the manager of the Corporation hired an attorney and Josh had screwed it up so bad that the manager's attorney wanted to sue Josh.
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29 Feb, 2016 by Anonymous
Mr. Shipe gets a bad rap for a filing error but he is ethical and well l versed in the law. He is very careful, he doesn't waste your money and he helped our family keep our parents safe.
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27 Nov, 2020 by Anonymous
incompetent and less than honest. The worst attorney I have ever seen. Because I was in a different state and she was recommended by someone competent, I used her. I did not think she could make things worse and believed the truth would prevail. She made things worse.
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24 Mar, 2016 by Claudia
Ms. Hollingshead is both extremely professional and deeply knowledgeable. I hired her initially to draft estate planning documents (will, living will, power of attorney, health care surrogate, etc) for myself and my husband. Then when we separated, she advised me in how to update the documents to reflect my changed situation. Since that time, I've engaged her to advise me on a number of topics, including business strategy & real property acquisition. She has invariably given me sound advice, and correctly, completely, and quickly drafted and filed any and all documentation required. I would unhesitatingly recommend Ms. Hollingshead as a first rate attorney in all these areas.
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01 Feb, 2016 by Egilmez
Agnes represented me in format of the USCIS officer. She was a great emotional support as well as legal support. I couldn't have achieved to resolve my problem without her advice. She also set up all the trust fund for my family. She is the greatest attorney.
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01 Feb, 2021 by Brian
Was referred to Mark in regard to questions I had in dealing with issues relating to my recently deceased sister's estate. Returned my call promptly, and gave me almost an hour of his time, free of charge. Answered all questions I had. Would highly recommend.
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03 Sep, 2020 by Anonymous
Mark is an experienced, thoughtful, skilled and caring attorney who took his time with my wife and I to properly guide us through the estate planning process. I would highly recommend him.
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02 Sep, 2020 by Anonymous
Went for a consult. I was of course nervous as I know nothing about Estate Planning. As a layman, I assumed Mr. Gotlieb did. I was asking him many questions as this is an important thing in one's life. To make sure after you die, things go right. I could see he was getting annoyed by my questions. He never asked me about my assets. How much money I had in my accounts. Nothing. He wrote nothing down and could not wait for me ti leave. He even said I think you should use the law firm I used to work at. Are you kidding me. Do what you want but I would not waste my time seeing this attorney. He was useless
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07 Apr, 2021 by Anonymous
Don’t walk but run away from this attorney. Should have trusted my instincts when the mistakes and important files were misplaced. I am shocked he is still able to practice. He is the complete opposite of a warrior.
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27 Sep, 2015 by Joannajkent
This Lawyer was my warrior. He was the best I could of ever hoped for and much more then I could imagine. He assisted the original lawyer who had my case. That lawyer was having a substantial amount of trouble and difficulty. In my opinion, he did not have the powerful skills to resolve my case. CLIFF HARK to my rescue. He took my case on and took over. He broke the person I was suing for probate in the deposition. Saving me thousands of dollars by not going to court. He caught the defendant in the deposition in every lie, false testimony and played the roughest game of hard ball I ever saw. Opposing counsel was no match for him either. They were useless to their client when Cliff poured it on. Cliff was just a steamroller to the other side. I witnessed opposing counsel and the person i had to sue crumble under his relentless, intense questioning. This is the man you want in your corner. ON YOUR SIDE. A fair settlement was awarded to me. As for the person I was suing, they got the tar beat out of them by Cliff. He is my hero!!!!!!. I have recommended him to many people over the last 2 years. And will continue to do so. His staff of fellow Attorneys and paralegals were wonderful as well. They are professional, courteous, and extremely helpful. Thank you Cliff Hark and his staff for your EXCELLENCE. I highly recommend Cliff Hark as he is awesome. The best of the best!!!!,
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22 Sep, 2016 by Jill
Seth prepared a power of attorney for a cousin who was very ill, presenting a challenge. He went out of his way to visit the rehab where she was recovering to get the document signed on a day she was awake and lucid, expediting the situation to allow me to handle her affairs through this difficult time for her.
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09 May, 2016 by Anonymous
Retained Mr Marmor for a Florida Trust matter. Minimal email contact after a single office visit. Pledged to followup and still waiting after 5 months repeated phone calls to his office have gone unanswered. Have requested that he return my $1500 retainer since no Attorney is worth 1500 an hour for information available on MYPALMBEACH.COM No Stars from this unhappy client. Hopefully this will get his attention as my next option is the Florida Bar.
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22 Mar, 2017 by Lee
alan is a fabulous lawyer he has a great tempermant and demeanor he was highly recommended by my fathers accountant and he did not disappoint he has handled many different things for my parents and I am highly pleased to have him as our lawyer
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04 Sep, 2016 by Anonymous
Alan was hired on recommendation to handle the liquidation of my parent's trust following my mother's death. He was well aware of certain family dynamics although he couldn't have cared less. He was unprofessional, uncommunicative and beyond slow. He did not return phone calls and there were interminable waits before we could reach him to discuss serious issues. I could go on and on. But suffice it to say, I would never, never recommend him. I have dealt with many attorneys in my life, some good--some average, but this one is just indifferent to the point of bad. More often than not, he sluffed us off to paralegals. His bill was exceedingly high but there was zero value for money.
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31 Jan, 2024 by Anonymous
I hired Dara via Proskauer back when her name was Dara Factor, prior to marriage when it changed to Dara Howard. She is basically a decent and intelligence person, though incentivized by her firm to bill with extreme prejudice. A "the client is always wrong" attitude came to prevail and I did not feel represented, but instead felt that our objectives were never the same, so much so that we became in opposition: she and her firm wanted my money and so did I, and every dollar that I retained meant a dollar less for them. I fell into the "sunk cost fallacy" which is that having spent so much money on them I could not admit that the money was gone, that it was lost, and that I needed to accept that. I have put two stars above as a review because there is always hope and room for anyone to improve, but I must emphasize the relationship was not a good one.
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08 Mar, 2024 by Anonymous
Raymond Paparella pleaded guilty after being charged with an alleged fraud lasting 15 years. They are accused of forging works of art (by artists like George Ault and Ralston Crawford) and the signatures of Babe Ruth, Lou Gehrig and Cy Young on sports memorabilia. (Chicago)
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10 Jul, 2022 by Anonymous
We retained the services of The Law Firm of Raymond Paparella to determine if a “Will” and “Trust” could be contested. Mr. Paparella informed us that he had 11 years of experience in the field, his demeanor was friendly, and he was eager to help us resolve our issue. We chose him because he was flexible in his terms to accommodate us financially, due to our very limited financial means. After our conversations, I became concerned that I had taken on more of a brainstorming role with Mr. Paparella instead of being reassured that his experience had already determined a clear cut course of action to resolve the matter. Mr. Paparella wrote two (2) letters on our behalf; one was approximately 250 words in length to a probate attorney, and another was approximately 160 words in length to a realtor. The response from the probate attorney concluded that the Will and Trust in question could not be contested. Mr. Paparella recommended that we proceed no further and that he would provide a refund from the $5,800 retainer. We received an $800 refund by check by mail but there was no accounting at all for the $5,000 billed (approx. 11.7 hours) and the retainer rate of $425 per hour equates to a bit more than $7 per minute. The previous legal services we retained included meticulously detailed records of activities and time spent on them. Due to the value of the Trust, we had no option other than to attempt to question it. Needless to say, we were very unhappy and disappointed that the two letters and any other undocumented and unaccounted work performed added up to a very round and convenient number of $5,000. To be exact-- $5,000 at the rate of $425 per hour equates to 11.7647 hours or 705.882 minutes. We could understand any round number in relation to time spent, but, in my opinion, the likelihood of 11.7647 hours of undocumented time is highly questionable. Due to this aspect, which we consider to be highly unprofessional, we cannot recommend the services of The Law Firm of Raymond Paparella.
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15 Mar, 2023 by Michael
It was a simple case. Nothing complicated. When came time to settle he told me something very different leading me to believe a different outcome. When I have tried repeatedly over 3 weeks to reach him to see if it could be fixed, he is vanished. Won’t answer calls or texts. I feel I was misled to accept something just so he could cash out. Would not recommend him.
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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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