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11 Apr, 2024 by Deborah
Whitney Glaser did our estate planning, she answered any and all questions that we were concerned with. She told us the best options for our needs and was very professional yet personable to work with. She was able to have papers organized in a timely manner and without hassle, I would definitely recommend her for any estate planning needs.
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11 Apr, 2024 by Mary
Ms Glazer was very knowledgeable and sensitive to our needs. She was most helpful and easy to work with, giving us peace of mind through each process.
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13 May, 2023 by Pamela
I recently retained Ms. Glaser to help me with my estate planning. Not only does Ms. Glaser have the perfect combination of legal expertise and compassion for this area of law, but she patiently listens to your concerns and offers real world solutions for you to consider. This is the attorney you want helping you when deciding end-of-life options and the disposition of your estate assets.
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08 Jun, 2024 by Anonymous
I want to share my positive experience with Rodney Gerling, the exceptional lawyer who helped me create my will. After getting married, I needed to update my will, and Rodney guided me through the process with expertise and care. Our initial meeting on Zoom was convenient, and he asked all the right questions to ensure my will accurately reflect my wishes. I met with him once more to finalize the details, and I can confidently say that he is truly the best
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05 Jun, 2024 by Barbara
We highly recommend Rod Gerling of Gerling Law Group aka Affordable Attorneys as an estate attorney. We were in need of having a trust established and having our wills and other related docs updated. He proved the utmost in professional service and advice. His staff, particularly Shauna Smith, were also very courteous, helpful and professional. In terms of meeting our requirements at a reasonable price, we felt we got excellent service and all the things we needed. Again, we strongly recommend Affordable Attorneys if you need a will, trust or other related estate issue addressed.
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26 Jan, 2024 by Anonymous
Mr. Gerling made the process of preparing our Wills and Power of Attorney's very easy. He explained all aspects in a language we can understand and then we were able to decide what's good for us.
He really knew the proper way to draw up our documents to our desire and satisfaction. His staff was also excellent to make the process easy.
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17 Aug, 2021 by Elizabeth
Dana and the Staff were just wonderful. Explained everything, walked me through what needed to be done, very personable and timing was spot on! Had no worry with this team on my side.
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26 Apr, 2021 by Sylvia
I’m a widow and moved to Florida about 3 years ago and so glad I found Dana to help me with my Eatate will. She’s very knowledgeable, friendly, patient and very reasonable with the fee. Now I’m so relieved that everything is organized for my estate. I strongly recommend her if ever needs to sort out your Eatate will.
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22 Feb, 2021 by Michael
My wife and I moved to area recently and wanted to set up a trust to ease the burden on our heirs. Doing so with Dana Gerling proved to be extremely easy as well as cost effective. Ms. Gerling was very knowledgeable and thorough. The entire process was both efficient and enjoyable. I would highly recommend the Gerling Law Group if their services meet your needs.
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26 Jan, 2024 by Evis
Dear Anna Mitchell, We want to express our utmost gratitude for your exceptional work.
Thanks to your help, THE IRS wanted to take everything from us, but you helped us preserve our company, which we have built with immense devotion and effort over the past eight years.
Your assistance has been invaluable, and we are forever grateful. You are an exceptional professional, and we do not doubt you will continue succeeding in your career. Your dedication and expertise are commendable; we feel privileged to have worked with you.
We wish you all the best in your future endeavors, and we do not doubt that you will continue to be highly recommended by everyone who has had the pleasure of working with you. Thank you again for everything.
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21 Nov, 2023 by Stephen
Anna Mitchell was great from the start. She understood my situation with the IRS, and began work immediately. She handled my case with exceptional competency and professionalism. I was kept up to date the whole way, and my case was resolved in a timely manner. I could not ask for more. Highly recommended.
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06 Nov, 2023 by Michele
I am so grateful my path crossed with Anna. Her professionalism and empathy ended a period of concern in my life with a result I never imagined! With no doubt I highly recommend her Law Firm!
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06 Jun, 2023 by Rachel
Nancy Roden helped assist me in a time sensitive critical matter. Very impressed with her skills as a lawyer. Nancy responded to my calls and email immediately and with personable responses that helped ease my stress. I highly recommend her and if I ever need a lawyer again she will be my first call!
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02 Jun, 2023 by Anonymous
Words cannot express my gratitude. Nancy went above and beyond she even answered my texts on the holiday weekend. I highly recommend her she is one awesome attorney I would have not gotten through this without her expert advice if you’re looking for a great attorney, look no further
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04 Dec, 2022 by Teri
What a relief to find someone so knowledgeable and helpful when you feel like you have reached the end of your rope. I have tried everything on my own to no avail. One phone call to Nancy and we not only have a game plan, but she is very open to what we may or may not accomplish. Don't try to do this on your own when you can find help for a very nominal fee.
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10 Mar, 2024 by Eileen
Marla Stewart Owczarek was wonderful helping my husband and I with our planning. She was thorough, professional and knowledgeable. We would highly recommend her for your estate planning needs
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15 Sep, 2023 by Ned
Marla was very helpful and knowledgeable in completing my estate plan and making recommendations to avoid probate as much as possible. She went over plan to be sure I understood everything.
I would recommend Marla to anyone that needs assistance with this type of service at a reasonable cost.
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14 Aug, 2023 by Arthur
Marla Stewart Owczarek and the staff at Affordable Attorney's were super sharp, attentive to our needs, and knowledgeable. We highly recommend them for all areas of Estate and Trust Planning. The customer service and communications were great, answered all our questions in language we could understand. Excellent !
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29 Sep, 2015 by Anonymous
I am a local Realtor in Manatee County and based on the experience I had working with Donna with my elderly mother, I have referred several friends, family, and clients to her to assist them with their family members. Donna tells it like it is and walks you through the process step-by-step. I can't recommend her enough! Such a blessing!
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12 Feb, 2015 by Elizabeth
I have worked with Donna for over 20 years, in the matters of Estate Planning, and Elder Law. She is knowledgeable, competent, easy to work with, and she truly cares about the people she helps! She is not only the attorney I recommend to my clients, she is my own attorney as well. I have worked with other attorneys in town, but none can compare to her level of compassion and competence. She is down to earth and takes time to explain complex issues. She is just excellent!
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12 Aug, 2014 by Mary beth
For eight years, Donna Sobel has helped me as a POA managing my elderly father's affairs.
I highly recommend her. She helped in an emergency situation in 2006 and in all the years since. She is caring, competent, efficient, and affordable.
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18 Mar, 2022 by Niaja
He won my case and he did a great job. I wanted to thank him for the work that he did.
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08 May, 2015 by Andrew
Mr Fleck has handled several mortage foreclouser cases for me . His knowlege of the law is amazing. The outcome of each case was past anything that I would of expected. I would highley advise speaking to John prior to making any other decisions .
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15 Jul, 2014 by Anonymous
I used Mr. Fleck for my divorce and he was excellent in making sure I was protected. I recommended him to a friend for his divorce and his guidance was flawless. I recommended him again to another friend for bankruptcy and he protected him without fail. I asked him for legal guidance on another issue and his response time was impeccable along with his legal recommendations. I live in another state and the lawyers here are horrible. I highly recommend him. His approach is a no nonsense approach and his legal knowledge is impeccable.
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01 Dec, 2022 by John
When my mother passed away, I hired Brandon to assist me with the administration of her trust. He was very respectful in working through the process, and he was always quick to respond to my questions. There were some unforeseen challenges that arose, but Brandon worked effectively to resolve those. I highly recommend him!
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20 Jul, 2020 by Anonymous
Brandon had the patience of a saint as I was dealing with my aging parents. Professional, always courteous, he went above and beyond my expectations. I would definitely recommend Brandon, and I would definitely hire him again :-)
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14 Jul, 2020 by Jayne
Following my husband’s sudden death I met with Attorney Robinson. Overwhelmed and grief stricken I relied on Brandon who was not only well equipped professionally but showed empathy and compassion.The Trust was from another state and very complicated. An effective communicator, my financial advisor in New Hampshire complimented me on choosing Brandon and his firm. I am profoundly grateful.
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12 Aug, 2013 by Anonymous
I have many friends in the local Sarasota and Bradenton Florida legal communities. When it came time for my wife and I to update our complex estate planning, I first asked my friends for recommendations. The one resounding recommendation was Attorney Todd Kaplan. I was told that he would not only serve my needs, but that he is the area's premier estate planning, probate, trust administration, business and tax attorney. I couldn't agree more, and my wife and I found Todd to be personable, respectful, professional, knowledgeable and that he obviously possesses a solid report in the legal community. Like Todd, his staff is easy to deal with and exemplify excellence. When it came to our disabled child, Todd was not only compassionate, but we were surprised to find that Todd is highly involved in a local charity for people with disabilities. Seeing such a busy attorney giving so much back to the community was very impressive. Likewise, his tax planning for our child's disability and my several businesses is the epitome of a skilled practitioner. After completion of my estate planning, I chose Todd to represent my businesses as well, and he has shown the exact same diligence and high standard that I have become accustomed to. When my mother passed away several months after we discovered Todd, he also represented me as personal representative in the probate of my mother's estate. He has that "x-factor" magnetic personality that makes everyone seem to gravitate toward him. I have dealt with many attorneys in the past, and I realized quickly that Mr. Kaplan is the attorney that I want on my side. For the reader of this review, if you take anything away from what I have written above, it should be that Mr. Kaplan is one of the few well-rounded and highly skilled attorneys that represent what the rest of the legal industry should strive to be.
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08 Jan, 2013 by Joan
Todd was reccomended by a neighbor and friend to update my will and trust since it had not been updated since my husband passed away 8 years ago. I had put off making revisions to my will and trust since my husband passed away because my last experience with another local attorney who had drafted our first will and trust (and then handled my husband's estate) was not a positive one. Based on that last experience, I was intimidated to see an attorney by myself but knew that i needed to get this accomplished. When i got to the offices of Icard Merrill in Lakewood Ranch, I was greeted warmly by the receptionist and then by Todd's legal assistant. Mr. Kaplan was on time for the appointment and from the first minute, I was comforted by his demeanor. He took the time to explain the relevant laws, review my documents and make good suggestions that will save my children alot of time and money upon my passing. He provided me with a flat fee quote (and actually charged me a little less than quoted) and my work was completed relatively timely. Overall, I was extremely happy with the and comforted by the experience. If you are like me and heistant to see an attorney, I would not hesitate to suggest and reccomend Todd.
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16 May, 2012 by Jennifer
I came to see Todd for issues and advice regarding my company. We have grown substantially over the past few years but did not have all of the necessary documentation to protect myself and my business. I have partners and Todd took the time to explain a number of issues and problems with the current structure. He also had several suggestions to reduce our current tax liability. Todd ultimately drafted a well needed operating/buy-sell agreement that was specific to our business needs. This new operating agreement was far better than the cookie cutter Operating agreement (full of errors) that I got when I set up my company with another local attorney.I also just made an appointment to update mine and my husband's wills and trusts since they have not been looked at in over 10 years. I presume that this experience will be as successful as the first one. I definately recommend Todd to anyone looking for a smart, knowledgeable (and affordable) attorney.
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20 Apr, 2018 by Rob in
He helped me out with settling my debt. I am now debt free and can move on with my life.
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18 Dec, 2015 by Vc
Mr. Sowa has provided me with legal assistance and direction concerning estate planning and trust issues. His "one-man-show" approach to working with clients is a welcome change from the typical overly-staffed attorney's office. He is quick to respond to questions and or to do the appropriate research to ensure his clients have a full understanding of their legally available options. Because he works independently Walter is able to develop an in-depth knowledge and understanding of his client's desires/needs. Having known Walter for several years, I am totally comfortable with recommending him as a legal representative for anyone wishing to attain the services of an attorney who hasn't lost his moral compass.
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24 Sep, 2014 by Carolyn
Walter made a tough personal decision the most positive experience possible. Always available, prompt replies, very knowledgable in all areas. Treats everyone with respect. Love the fact of no office personnel but him. Very involved. Can't say enough good things.
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09 Jan, 2014 by Duane
Adron Walker is more than an excellent Attorney - he is a friend for life. Adron has handled the creation of seven (7) corporate entities for us. He has handled the purchase and sale of over 75 commercial and residential properties for us over the past 27 years. With and only with his direct involvement were we able to preserve our assets, credit and sanity following the anguish of "The Great Recession". He is the only attorney we will refer family, friends and clients to. He not only has got us through the "good times" - he has got us through several bad ones as well. He has handled the estates of both of our parents. His knowledge in conjunction with his tenacity are unparalled. It is not uncommon to receive phone calls well into the evening or on weekends. His committment and dedication to his clients are unsurpassed. I could utilize the entire capacity of the allotted space for this review and still not be able to say enough "good" about Adron Walker. If you are fortunate enough to choose Adron Walker as your counsel - consider yourself to have chosen well. The integrity he adds to his profession is stellar.
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03 Feb, 2010 by Jeana
Mr. Walker is absolutely wonderful to work with! He is personable, conscientious, detail oriented and has a great staff. We have worked with him and his staff on multiple projects for professional and personal projects and highly recommend Mr. Walker and Barnes Walker Title Company.
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06 Dec, 2009 by Jeana
We have worked with Adron Walker on both business and personal matters and find him to be professional, personable and dedicated to his clients and he goes the extra mile, if needed. We would strongly recommend him and Barnes Walker Title for Real Estate work.
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16 Nov, 2010 by William
I contacted Jason to help me with the tough and sad times of caring for my grandmother in her finals months. Jason was very compassionate to my situation and helped immensely in preparing all the necessary documents for her.
Jason's demeanor and compassion were a very welcomed change to the normal "turn and burn" attitude with which most attorneys these days approach these types of situations.
I would highly recommend Jason for any and all services for which he is an expert.
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04 Nov, 2010 by Joseph
Mr. DePaola's depth of knowledge and professionalism were evident by the way he handled different engagements, including purchasing real estate and fielding numerous questions/concerns related to the complex estate of a loved one. His timeliness and the rate of information flow far exceeded my lofty expectations. As a result of my experiences working with Mr. DePaola on more than one occasion, I have absolutely no qualms recommending him, and I will no doubt call upon him again as the needs arise.
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27 Sep, 2010 by Britta
Over the years, Jason DePaola has handled several legal matters for my family and my business. I always find him to be extremely responsive and clear-sighted, with a solid knowledge of the law. And here's the bonus: he's personable and communicates like a human being. When it comes to choosing a lawyer, I want someone who can put me at ease with whatever situation may arise. That's what I get with Jason.
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09 Feb, 2022 by Elizabeth
My 104-year old Mother, on Medicaid for years, was suddenly Medicaid disqualified. Sierra was able to resolve the problem quickly and effectively. I highly recommend her for any Medicaid issues.
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17 Aug, 2017 by Yvonne
I can not rave about Sierra Butler at Butler Elder Law enough. Sierra helped my family and I through an extremely difficult time in our lives. We had two other lawyers who had neglected to do their jobs accurately and had failed to file important documents in a timely matter. I was panicking and stressed and Sierra came through in a big way. She literally fixed everything for us. We had a complicated situation and what started out as something we thought was going to take multiple court visits and multiple pleadings ended up being handled quickly and efficiently by Sierra. She was patient and kind and thorough in her explanations. She knew her what she was talking about and after the first conversation with her, I knew we'd picked the right lawyer. She was always easily accessible, both on the phone and through email, and got back with me promptly. All of these are things we had not experienced with our other lawyers. I can say without conviction that you will not be disappointed with her.
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28 Mar, 2015 by Debra
I highly recommend Anne Sheffler Douglass for anyone needing an attorney who is well versed on all legal matters. Anne is empathetic, responsive, and highly qualified to give you the best client service experience you will ever have with an attorney. I needed immediate legal advice, and Anne more than exceeded my expectations for the situations I presented to her. She is a problem solver, and her knowledge and expertise is exceptional. Due to that immediate help, our family has made Anne our legal counselor for all legal matters.
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22 Feb, 2012 by John
Attorney Anne Sheffler Douglass is an outstanding lawyer. She not only is extremely competent in her field, but demonstrates a caring concern for her clients. She is an excellent communicator and has been very responsive to our needs.
In our dealings with Attorney Douglass we were made to feel comfortable and we felt that she listened to our concerns, answered questions and solved difficult problems that we presented.
I have used the services of several attorneys, but have never been as pleased as I have with Attorney Douglass.
I recommend her most highly and without any reservations.
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26 Jan, 2018 by Dennis
I used Mr Elliott on some personal documents that I needed for my will. He was quick and thorough. I would recommend and do recommend him to my friends and family
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22 Jul, 2013 by Jackie
I contacted Mr. Elliot for a matter that needed prompt handling- he was quick and responsive and helpful.
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16 Jul, 2009 by Anonymous
Bob has great research skills and was able to find out statues and information that really helped my case. His down-to-earth personality and instant rapport made it very easy to understand the more complicated parts of the law regarding my case. He was quick to return phone calls and emails; I always felt like I was in good hands. I will be sure to turn to him whenever the need arises.
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26 Nov, 2016 by Carmine gerardi
Mrs.Spencer is exteremly knowledgeable,professional and very patient in answering any questions I had about my will. I highly recommend her to anyone needing legal assistance in areas of her legal expertise.
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02 Mar, 2015 by Barry
Janelle is one of the rare lawyers who has a good head for business and can communicate the legal aspects or ramifications of a course of action while understanding the potential impact of timing and other contingencies. I particularly appreciate her understanding of maintaining momentum when you have it and her willingness to do what she can to move the process along without unnecessary, though sometimes customary, delays in the legal process. She is a consummate professional with a sharp mind and has my highest recommendation.
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03 Feb, 2011 by Russell
John has assisted me and my company with various types of legal work over the years. He has been our attorney of choice for more than 10 years. His broad knowledge allows us to paint a general outline and receive a great legal framework and document back from John. He has made a critical difference in protecting our interests more than once.
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02 Dec, 2022 by Robert j. subbiondo jr.
Faith Brown is honest, wise, and concise. Her ability to analyze the facts of the case and law through a compassionate but realistic framework is mitigating the pain and trauma that can occur through legal representation and the process. By refraining from legalese salesmanship she has saved me time, money, and aggravation.
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20 Dec, 2021 by Ty burns
Jim kept me informed and up to date. He checked on me often. It was my first experience with this type of law and was not sure if i needed it as we were never going to go to court etc. I am so happy I went to him! I would NEVER have known what to do, where to go, or how to maneuver thru the complexity of it. I would never have received the compensation I did with out Jim Dodson Law. There are too many things I would have never known on my own. I was concerned about paying a lawyer one third but he MORE than took care of that.
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19 Apr, 2021 by Jason mcdaniel
03 Nov, 2023 by Marko sherma
Jason is the best
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02 May, 2023 by Hair fx
Awesome lawyer, really he is the best!! Be patient and kind
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03 Feb, 2023 by Karis russell
Mr.Reid represented a friend of mine and did an outstanding job. He is polite, professional, and thorough. Mr. Reid communicates well, he is thoughtful, and meticulous. He provides his services with sincerity and integrity. Very thankful for his help and representation. Highly recommended.)
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09 Sep, 2024 by Kimberly zorrilla
Responsive, knowledgeable, clear, professional and gets it done. Thank you Crystal! Happy to have you on my corner
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24 Jul, 2024 by Mark barish
Intelligent and straightforward Golm Law was accurate AND affordable. She helped me personally twice, and has had success
finding solutions for both the referrals I’ve sent to her.
HIGHLY RECOMMEND!
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22 Jul, 2024 by Rachel mccoy
Crystal is one of the most knowledgeable and dedicated attorneys I know. I have referred several clients to her and will continue to do so with confidence. I highly recommend her firm.
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24 Apr, 2024 by Lorena betancourt carbonell
Muy buena la atención, los consejos, buen servicio en general
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24 Apr, 2024 by Jose alberto 1970 gonzalez
Nuestra experiencia con el abogado Arnoldo de rate y su equipo fue muy exitosa, nos devolvió la confianza y la tranquilidad.verdaderamente un ejemplo de profesionalidad todo su equipo ,nos quitó la corte a mi esposa y nos limpio el camino en este gran paÃs... agradecidos de todo corazón y k dios me lo bendiga..un abrazo
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23 Apr, 2024 by Jendy macia
Mis más profundo agradecimiento a mi abogado defensor de la justicia que lucha por un mundo más justo y equitativo, defensor de los derechos y excelente abogado Arnoldo Arrate y a su equipo legal les envÃo mis más sinceros reconocimientos en su invaluable labor estoy impresionado por su talento , habilidad y la eficiencia de su trabajo al llenarme de felicidad y hacerme residente de este hermoso paÃs en un récord de tiempo. Muchas felicidades y éxitos profesional por la gran labor que realizan . Muchas gracias! aprecio su arduo trabajo y con gusto recomiendo sus servicios a otras personas q puedan necesitar asistencia legal por su diligente representación en mi reciente caso judicial su experiencia y determinación fueron fundamentales para el resultado favorable que hoy disfruto. Muchas gracias aprecio profundamente su arduo trabajo!
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31 Aug, 2024 by Peter billie
In a very trying time for myself, looking for some Expert legal advice. Mrs.Sandaire and the Black Rock Legal Group were not only there in a timely manner, they were offering me advice to get results. You will receive patience, clarity, and understanding from this firm. I was very impressed, and I WILL stand by the work that they put in on the regular. These individuals don't just go to work, they get the job done. Thankyou so much for all your help, it was more than I could even hope or ask for.
Sincerely and Appreciatively, Peter J. Billie Jr.
B.S. in Finance
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27 Jun, 2024 by Dasha gordon
I can only say very good things about this law firm. They did a great job negotiating the settlement amount for my personal injury case following an auto accident. My attorney was Daniel Murphy, and I highly appreciate all his dedicated work, as well as his assistant Lorraine. Daniel was very patient with all my questions and concerns throughout the process, always expressed a lot of knowledge and responded in a timely manner, I felt like I was in good hands from start to finish. Definitely would recommend this office.
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28 May, 2024 by Marie wiggins
Very knowledgeable, affordable great atmosphere the lawyers are very professional and the front desk receptionist is very welcoming and makes your wait time go by fast she will definitely have a conversation with you customer service here is excellent thank you to the team that assisted me. Ms Lorraine thank you for everything and Mr Walsh thank you for helping me with my case thank you to everyone....
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06 May, 2024 by Scott godwin
Libby is a Rock star! She Got an Emergency Motion done for Custody for my 3 kids. She is fast and efficient and me being in North Carolina and have never met her in person she does not let that stop her and slow her down. Sean is great to he helped out a little during my hearing. This place is great and you should definitely use them!!!! Thank you again!
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02 May, 2024 by Heather freed
So nice to work with and answered all of my questions quickly and with a smile. It’s not easy to need a lawyer, but it sure felt that way 😊
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02 May, 2024 by Kathy bustle
My sister lives in Bradenton and referred me to Libby. I needed a Durable POA and also Health Care POA for a relative in assisted living and I would only be in town a few days. We got it all signed, witnessed and notarized — and with less than a week’s notice. Very kind people who work efficiently.
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19 Apr, 2024 by Sally wood mcdonald
As a Realtor, I have always recommended Barnes Walker to my clients because they provide excellent service.
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18 Apr, 2024 by Karen mcmichael
Great professional title/closing agency in Manatee County with many years experience.
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10 Apr, 2024 by Dan diggins
Barnes Walker prepared all our trust documents, wills, powers of attorney, etc. They also set up my new business LLC and reviewed my business lease. All items were completed flawlessly and on time. Barnes Walker have represented us since 2012 we will continue to have their representation in the future.
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21 Dec, 2021 by Irmela
We had Mr. Ruster notarize a power of attorney for us. He was well prepared, competent, friendly and helpful - an excellent experience. We can highly recommend Mr. Ruster. And he speaks German!
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03 Dec, 2021 by Ulrich kraus
Wir haben super Erfahrungen mit der Kanzlei Ruster gemacht. Patrick Ruster arbeitet sehr effektiv und professionell und versteht sein Fachgebiet top. Wir können die Kanzlei nur wärmstens empfehlen.
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05 Mar, 2019 by Al
I had a case with Mr. Ruster and he was able to preform better than any attorney is expected.
I ended up with more than I ever dreamed.
He is detail oriented and for attorneys that is expected, however he goes way past that.
Great guy too.
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19 Apr, 2024 by Sally wood mcdonald
As a Realtor, I have always recommended Barnes Walker to my clients because they provide excellent service.
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18 Apr, 2024 by Karen mcmichael
Great professional title/closing agency in Manatee County with many years experience.
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10 Apr, 2024 by Dan diggins
Barnes Walker prepared all our trust documents, wills, powers of attorney, etc. They also set up my new business LLC and reviewed my business lease. All items were completed flawlessly and on time. Barnes Walker have represented us since 2012 we will continue to have their representation in the future.
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19 Apr, 2024 by Sally wood mcdonald
As a Realtor, I have always recommended Barnes Walker to my clients because they provide excellent service.
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18 Apr, 2024 by Karen mcmichael
Great professional title/closing agency in Manatee County with many years experience.
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10 Apr, 2024 by Dan diggins
Barnes Walker prepared all our trust documents, wills, powers of attorney, etc. They also set up my new business LLC and reviewed my business lease. All items were completed flawlessly and on time. Barnes Walker have represented us since 2012 we will continue to have their representation in the future.
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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.
