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Patrick M. Culhane, experienced Estate Planning, Real Estate attorney in Braintree, MA with 24 reviews
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48,32
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5.0/5
Avvo
5.0
10 Reviews
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5.0
14 Reviews
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11 Dec, 2024 by Bob clark
When my wife passed away a year ago, I engaged Herbst Law Group to handle estate matters. Briana Nashawaty was my attorney. She handled all my matters including probate issues and establishing a new trust seamlessly and professionally. Thank you Briana! I highly recommend both Herbst Law Group and Briana to handle your estate matters.
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04 Dec, 2024 by Andrade haughton
I had the pleasure of working with Briana N. Nashawaty, Esq., and I cannot recommend her enough. She was incredibly attentive, ensuring that every detail of my case was addressed thoroughly. Her professionalism stood out, and she approached every step with kindness and care, which made a potentially stressful process much easier to navigate. Briana's thoughtful and meticulous nature inspired confidence and provided me with the support I needed. If you're looking for an attorney who is not only knowledgeable but also compassionate and professional, Briana is an excellent choice.
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25 Sep, 2024 by Stacey turner
This was my first time ever needing to retain legal council - and Briana Nashawaty WAS the breath of fresh air I needed!! I went into this completely blind desperately trying to understand and navigate through my fathers estate in MA while I reside in AZ. Briana's guidance was top notch. She was so patient and always made sure I understood what she was doing and why. Thank you again to Herbst Law Group and especially to Briana Nashawaty!! Highly recommended!!!
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Russell F. Peck Jr., experienced Car Accident, Consumer Protection attorney in Braintree, MA with 6 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
48,10
star star star star star
5.0/5
Avvo
5.0
3 Reviews
Google Maps
5.0
3 Reviews
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05 Oct, 2024 by Jimmy (sj notebook)
You do not need any other lawyer on this planet.
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11 Apr, 2022 by Jacqueline coleman
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03 Jan, 2018 by Jimmy
Russ, amazing lawyer, from the beginning to the end he knew exactly what he was doing, how to handle my case and keep me in comfort and updated through the entire process. I would recommend Russ to anyone in any need. Russ has gone above and beyond in my case with honesty and experience. Russ is confident in his work, knowledgeable and understood my needs and rights. trust him.
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Christopher Joseph Fein, experienced Bankruptcy, Business attorney in Braintree, MA with 19 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
44,38
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5.0/5
Avvo
5.0
12 Reviews
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5.0
7 Reviews
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29 Sep, 2024 by Mark
I have been a self-employed business owner for 34 years, and have had experience with several attorneys. I and my company were sued with no good cause by an individual for financial damages, and this action lasted about 3 years. I can honestly say without reservation, and with my strongest possible recommendation, that Chris Fein is the finest and most skillful and knowledgeable attorney I have ever encountered. He is extremely intelligent and thoughtful, takes the time to listen and understand all of the issues at hand, and how they affect you or your business, is a master strategist, of the highest ethics both professionally and personally, and is very adroit verbally at the bar or in legal conference. He is also very patient and understanding, realizing that most clients are not legally educated. I would urge anyone reading this to retain his services if needed, and confer my very highest possible recommendation on his behalf.
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29 Oct, 2022 by Joseph germain
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22 Jul, 2022 by K h
Not knowing if I even needed an attorney I spoke with Attorney Benner on the phone, he was aware right away that I did not need an attorney, however that didn’t stop him from going out of his way to continue to explain a lot of information to me about my situation and actually educate me about it. I do not usually leave reviews, however it was refreshing to be treated respectfully by an attorney. He was actually a really nice guy.
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Briana Nichole Capshaw, experienced Business, Consumer Protection attorney in Braintree, MA with 19 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
44,17
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5.0/5
Avvo
5.0
5 Reviews
Google Maps
5.0
14 Reviews
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11 Dec, 2024 by Bob clark
When my wife passed away a year ago, I engaged Herbst Law Group to handle estate matters. Briana Nashawaty was my attorney. She handled all my matters including probate issues and establishing a new trust seamlessly and professionally. Thank you Briana! I highly recommend both Herbst Law Group and Briana to handle your estate matters.
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04 Dec, 2024 by Andrade haughton
I had the pleasure of working with Briana N. Nashawaty, Esq., and I cannot recommend her enough. She was incredibly attentive, ensuring that every detail of my case was addressed thoroughly. Her professionalism stood out, and she approached every step with kindness and care, which made a potentially stressful process much easier to navigate. Briana's thoughtful and meticulous nature inspired confidence and provided me with the support I needed. If you're looking for an attorney who is not only knowledgeable but also compassionate and professional, Briana is an excellent choice.
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14 Nov, 2024 by G
I highly recommend attorney Briana Nashawaty and the qualified team of individuals at Herbst Law Group. She stepped in and assisted me with my parents’ complex estate plan when nobody else wanted to get involved, and then guided me through to the very end with patience, kindness and clear instruction. Attorney Nashawaty is professional, knowledgeable and accessible. I wouldn’t hesitate to use her services again for future estate needs.
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Peter Caldwell Herbst Jr, experienced Consumer Protection, Elder Law attorney in Braintree, MA with 20 reviews
Average
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
43,62
star star star star star
5.0/5
Avvo
5.0
20 Reviews
star star star star star
13 Jun, 2021 by Laurie
I am so thankful to have had Peter referred to me. He helped me through a very difficult time with professionalism and a calm reassuring demeanor. He always responded in a timely manner, and our interactions consistently left me with a confidence that all was being handled in the best possible way. I will certainly use his services again if the need arises.
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01 Sep, 2019 by Joshua
We went to Peter for our end of life planning, and went into the process not knowing much about it. He was very thorough, and helped us come up with a great plan for our will, trust, health care concerns and more! He is very kind and considerate and will explain any questions you have. I would recommend anyone doing this style of planning to consult Peter.
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08 Jul, 2019 by Patricia s.
I found Peter Herbst via AVVO when I did a search looking for a new trust attorney. I was looking to revamp my outdated trust documents and make some changes and had no clue where to start. I find it all confusing. From the first email inquiry to the final doc signing, Peter and his assistant Kristie did not miss a thing. Peter's pricing was very affordable without sacrificing quality of service one bit. He is very knowledgeable in his field and was thoughtful and understanding of my situation. He is also very mindful taking time to listen to my concerns and offered some great insight and advice on matters I struggled with. I also have a special needs son and he understood my concerns about his long term care. Peter is an exceptional estate attorney and I would give him higher than 5 stars if I could. Thank you!
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Robert A. Gorfinkle, experienced Business, Elder Law attorney in Braintree, MA with 19 reviews
Average
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
43,44
star star star star star
4.9/5
Avvo
5.0
4 Reviews
Google Maps
4.9
15 Reviews
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11 Nov, 2024 by Jeanette johnson
Awesome team! I am confident knowing that I made the right decision to trust Atty. Lane and Nina. I will refer all my friends to this practice.
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31 Oct, 2024 by Michael ruxton
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31 Oct, 2024 by Amado anne
All I can say is …the entire office from the staff and the Lane family…they have been in our life legally on real estate issues for decades. If I could put 10* stars I would! TRY THEM YOU WILL LIKE THEM!!
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David J Merrigan, experienced Estate Planning, Probate attorney in Braintree, MA with 13 reviews
Average
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
39,40
star star star star star
5.0/5
Avvo
5.0
13 Reviews
star star star star star
13 Dec, 2011 by Michael
My late father had a piece of property in Massachusetts that my siblings and I had to sell. None of us lived in state, and there was a considerable amount of legal work to do. We were lucky to find David. He took care of everything for us, even finding an excellent realtor. David was considerate and thoughtful, and treated us with respect while we were going through a difficult time. He kept us informed and guided us through the maze of court filings and probate hearings with great care. The bottom line is that we sold the property without having to come to Massachusetts even once; David even handled the sale. I would recommend David to anyone. I can't thank him enough for what he did for us.
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05 Jan, 2009 by Anonymous
David and those in his firm have handled a variety of legal situations for me and my family with expertise, kindness and expeditiousness. Recently, in the case of my sister's death, David and his firm went above and beyond in the legal and personal care of me and my sister in her last months. If there was a level above "excellent" that would be my rating for David and his family firm.
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07 Dec, 2008 by Anonymous
David is very honest and straightforward. He is thorough and persistent and has always been very responsive whenever we have had questions. We started going to him to prepare our annual tax returns, but found ourselves calling upon him for any legal matters, including real estate transactions as well as setting up wills and legal trusts. If you need legal advice, David is the one you should call.
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Anthony Hudson Gemma, experienced Estate Planning, Probate attorney in Braintree, MA with 10 reviews
Average
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
39,31
star star star star star
5.0/5
Avvo
5.0
10 Reviews
star star star star star
02 Jan, 2024 by John
I was seeking an attorney to handle conservatorship matters, so I contacted Gemma Law Office. Meeting with Attorney Gemma, his calm and deliberative manner, ability to engage, and display of knowledge convinced me that he would be suitable. For several years he handled Probate Court filings and other matters. Upon termination of the conservatorship, he provided similar services for my appointment as personal representative and for the administration of the estate. Attorney Gemma proved to be highly competent, informative, and reliable. Considering the excellent results that were achieved, I wouldn't hesitate to recommend him.
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10 Aug, 2022 by Anonymous
Attorney Gemma took on my case when what seemed like no other lawyer would. After reviewing all the paper work, he asked me what outcome I would like to see happen( it was a very difficult case that could have went many different ways) . He and his staff saw my vision and in a short amount of time in a case that would and could have taken years to resolve Attorney Gemma and his team got the job done in a few weeks and I couldn't be more happier... Truly a God send for me and I cant thank him enough.
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02 Oct, 2021 by Dan
As new empty nesters, my wife and I wanted to clean up our estate plan. The Gemma Law Office did a terrific job - completely professional, thoughtful, great legal advice and an awesome end result. We couldn't be happier!
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Daniel T. Carlson, experienced Estate Planning, Probate attorney in Braintree, MA with 6 reviews
Average
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
39,19
star star star star star
5.0/5
Avvo
5.0
6 Reviews
star star star star star
16 Jul, 2015 by Andrew
Dan provided cogent advice and guidance involving distribution of property; assistance with remortgaging a primary residence; and provided in depth analysis of tax consequences resulting from distribution of funds from a retirement trust.
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16 Jul, 2015 by Chris
I was referred to Daniel by another attorney for my estate planning matter. I had very specific tax related questions that Daniel was able to answer without any hesitation. He is intelligent, thorough and very down to earth. I will certainly meet with him again for any new legal work.
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13 Jul, 2015 by Christine
I contacted Attorney Carlson to review a trust and advise me whether or not the document needed to be amended to accept additional assets. I am very happy with the outcome and very pleased with his professionalism and the quality of his work. He was on time, extremely knowledgeable, and he responded to all my inquiries immediately. I highly recommend Daniel for any legal issues concerning trusts.
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Michelle Mattson Reed, experienced Elder Law, Estate Planning attorney in Braintree, MA with 2 reviews
Average
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
39,06
star star star star star
5.0/5
Avvo
5.0
2 Reviews
star star star star star
10 Feb, 2016 by Katie
Michelle was a wonderful attorney to work with. My husband and I sought her expertise for our estate planning. She guided us through the process and left us feeling well prepared. Michelle was welcoming, informative, trustworthy, and thorough, and I truly felt that she had our best interests in mind. I would work with her again without question, and highly recommend her services!
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22 Sep, 2015 by Lauren
Michelle was amazing to work with! She is extremely knowledgeable in her field of work and made this very difficult topic, easier to manage and get through. Any questions I had were immediately answered; I felt comfortable and in good hands. I highly recommend Michelle and Mattson, O'Toole and Reed.
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Pamela M. Jonah, experienced Estate Planning, Personal Injury attorney in Braintree, MA with 1 reviews
Average
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
39,03
star star star star star
5.0/5
Avvo
5.0
1 Reviews
star star star star star
20 Mar, 2015 by Christopher
Atty. Pamela Jonah's representation in our purchasing land and subsequent development of new construction condominiums in Weymouth, MA was excellent and instrumental to our project success. We would highly recommend Atty. Pamela Jonah for your business and real estate matters.
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Thomas P. Clougherty, experienced Elder Law, Estate Planning attorney in Braintree, MA with 187 reviews
Average
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
35,20
star star star star star
5.0/5
Google Maps
5.0
187 Reviews
star star star star star
18 Dec, 2024 by Sana sheikh
We had the pleasure of working with Bill during the closing of our home, and we cannot recommend him highly enough. My husband and I are both attorneys, and we were deeply impressed by Bill’s exceptional legal acumen, responsiveness, and professionalism throughout what was an extremely complex transaction involving numerous parties. His proactive communication kept us informed and reassured every step of the way, even as new complications arose. Bill’s attention to detail and his willingness to go above and beyond ensured that everything stayed on track, and his calm demeanor helped alleviate the stress of such a high-stakes process. For anyone seeking an attorney who combines legal expertise with excellent client service, Bill is an outstanding choice. We are so grateful for his hard work and dedication to making our transaction a success.
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13 Dec, 2024 by David martineau
Bill and his crew could not have been better to deal with. I felt like a billionaire with my own personal lawyer. Everytime I contacted him he or a paralegal would reach right back out with out hesitation. The purchase of my house was anything but normal due to some complications that were hit. Bill still handled it exceptionally through the 3-4 months that It dragged on through. Don't look elsewhere, just stop now and call Bill at Sinclaw. You will not regret it.
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04 Dec, 2024 by Jane hesson
Working with Bill Sincavage was a real pleasure. I was from out of town, trying to deal with an estate sale. Bill made the whole process easy to understand, progress smoothly and as worry free as a house closing can possibly be. I totally recommend using Bill and his firm.
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John Howlett Prettyman, experienced Business, Estate Planning attorney in Braintree, MA with 47 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
34,44
star star star star star
4.6/5
Google Maps
4.6
47 Reviews
star star star star star
01 Oct, 2024 by Jeremy jadlowic
Google Maps
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05 Mar, 2024 by Cindy webster
I just wanted to share what an amazing attorney Graham Wright is. He is very easy to talk to. He explains everything to you and then he takes care of everything. He gets right back to you when you have any questions. I would 100% recommend him. Thank you so much for everything.
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02 Feb, 2024 by Reshma chabria
This guy is just the best. I called him for some help and he told me he was busy, but stayed on the phone with me for about 15 minutes telling me what to do. Other attorney's would have charged for this. You're the best, John!
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Christopher J. Fein, experienced Bankruptcy, Business attorney in Braintree, MA with 0 reviews
Below Average
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
6,00
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0.0/5
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Brianne Dobush, experienced Business, Estate Planning attorney in Braintree, MA with 0 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
4,00
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0.0/5
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Paul J Bella, experienced Estate Planning, Probate attorney in Braintree, MA with 0 reviews
Below Average
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
4,00
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0.0/5
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Anthony Hudson Gemma, experienced Elder Law, Estate Planning attorney in Braintree, MA with 0 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
4,00
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0.0/5
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Kendra Marie O'Toole, experienced Elder Law, Estate Planning attorney in Braintree, MA with 0 reviews
Below Average
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
4,00
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0.0/5
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Brett Andrew Kaufman, experienced Estate Planning, Probate attorney in Braintree, MA with 0 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
4,00
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0.0/5
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Timothy Ahern Sherman, experienced Estate Planning, Real Estate attorney in Braintree, MA with 0 reviews
Below Average
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
4,00
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0.0/5
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Bill G. Sincavage, experienced Elder Law, Estate Planning attorney in Braintree, MA with 0 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
4,00
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0.0/5
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Nancy J. Campany, experienced Business, Estate Planning attorney in Braintree, MA with 0 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
4,00
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0.0/5
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Brian E. Hammell, experienced Business, Estate Planning attorney in Braintree, MA with 0 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
4,00
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0.0/5
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Daniel F. O'Brien, experienced Estate Planning, Probate attorney in Braintree, MA with 0 reviews
Below Average
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
4,00
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0.0/5
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John B. Glynn, experienced Estate Planning, Insurance attorney in Braintree, MA with 0 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
4,00
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0.0/5
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Warren F Baker, experienced Business, Estate Planning attorney in Braintree, MA with 0 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
4,00
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0.0/5
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Scott Ian Wolf, experienced Business, Estate Planning attorney in Braintree, MA with 0 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
0,00
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0.0/5
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Edward D. McDonald, experienced Business, Estate Planning attorney in Braintree, MA with 0 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
0,00
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0.0/5
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Charles S. Murphy, experienced Estate Planning, Litigation attorney in Braintree, MA with 0 reviews
Below Average
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
0,00
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0.0/5
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Amy M. Donovan, experienced Estate Planning attorney in Braintree, MA with 0 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
0,00
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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:

  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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