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01 Mar, 2025 by Julissa ramos
Best car accident lawyer
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06 Feb, 2025 by Cesar blanco
I was in a car accident several months ago and I was recommended Avaness Law by a good friend. I spoke with Aren Avaness and be quickly got to work. He reviewed my accident, he was able to begin the process helping get my car repaired and get me back to 100% health. His quality of work and the partnerships he has made my life go from chaos to smooth sailing. Aren and his team guided me through every step of the process. I was very impressed at the final outcome of this case. I hope I don’t get into an accident again but if I do I will be reaching out to Avaness Law. Thank you again Aren I appreciate everything you did for me.
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24 Jan, 2025 by Ang 79
We are appreciated to Avaness Law Firm for their incredible support and dedication throughout our car accident case. They were always available to answer my questions, kept me informed every step of the way, and fought hard to secure a fair settlement. I highly recommend them to anyone facing a similar situation. :)
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06 Mar, 2024 by Nicolette j-pownall
The BCLG was instrumental in helping us set up a family trust. Brittany is generous with her knowledge, her time and is deeply passionate about helping her clients protect themselves and future generations from going into probate. Highly highly recommend working with her and her incredible team.
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21 Feb, 2024 by Jaeson wilkins
Brittany's expertise in the area of estate planning and probate representation (and prevention) surpasses that of anyone I know! I've known brittany for almost 5 years and have seen her handle some of the most complex probate methodically and meticulously. She stands up for families in these tough situations and ensures a fair legal process is had. 100% recommend Best Coast Law Group!
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10 Aug, 2022 by Luis fernandez
Very helpful and informative
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01 Mar, 2025 by Julissa ramos
Best car accident lawyer
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06 Feb, 2025 by Cesar blanco
I was in a car accident several months ago and I was recommended Avaness Law by a good friend. I spoke with Aren Avaness and be quickly got to work. He reviewed my accident, he was able to begin the process helping get my car repaired and get me back to 100% health. His quality of work and the partnerships he has made my life go from chaos to smooth sailing. Aren and his team guided me through every step of the process. I was very impressed at the final outcome of this case. I hope I don’t get into an accident again but if I do I will be reaching out to Avaness Law. Thank you again Aren I appreciate everything you did for me.
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29 Jan, 2025 by Dorothy page
Filing for bankruptcy was something i never thought I would have to do. I begin calling around to different firms looking for some help. I came across Kateryna Bilenka name and decided to give her a call. We spoke the same day and she explained everything to me and I decided to work with her. She was very professional and on top of the business. Whenever I had a concern, she reassured me that everything would be ok and it was. I would recommend everyone to work with the Bilenka firm.
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10 Sep, 2017 by Gail
It is important to Steve that his clients fully understand different ways to structure a trust, so that we are able to make informed decisions. He addresses both the legal and more affective aspects of the trust. He also stresses the importance of regularly revisiting the trust so it remains accurate & up to date. He uses subsequent appointments to continue to educate his clients, and offer criteria for making adjustments given changes in law or family circumstances.
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07 May, 2014 by Violet
From the moment I talked to Steve I was impressed at his promptness to return my call. He listened thoughtfully, I could hear the concern in his voice; it was as though I had been handed a (cup of instant kindness). He even gave me a little boost of much-needed self confidence).
Thank-you, Steve, my friend!
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22 Feb, 2012 by Anonymous
I researched a long time before I finally settled with Steven Oakley. He was very professional and had a great presentation and made us so comfortable from the beginning. We trust our estate planning with him and would recommend others to do the same. It takes 3 meetings to get your estate planning done. The first is a free initial meeting where he explains what he does and the pricing options. Then if you do decide to go with him then during the second meeting you provide all your information for your estate planning. You get a DPOA , an advance directive, beneficiaries if you or your spouse dies all set up and more. Then during the third meeting he hands you your estate planning folder with everything in it along with a CD copy and he goes through everything with you. You also receive an Emergency Medical Information Card you can keep in your wallet if ever you get hospitalized. He answered all our questions and everything that I wanted on my checklist for estate planning was marked off because of him. There is a yearly annual review that you must pay for but it is worth it because you need to keep your estate planning updated or else some things might become invalid. The price is on the higher end but you definitely pay what you get for and I wouldn't want to pay cheap when it comes to my family and estate planning. Like he said to us during his presentation, think of it as an investment into your future for you and your loved ones.
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06 Dec, 2017 by Anonymous
I was introduced to Oakley Law Group by my workplace legal plan. I GREATLY enjoyed working with Gena. She works with incredible professionalism, and explains everything in great details, with care, and kindness. I highly recommend her.
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01 Dec, 2017 by Gilbert
Gena did a fantastic job on our trust. We were blessed to have her complete it. Be prepared to sit in her office for awhile, there were many options discussed and she brought up many ideas what can be on that trust. Strongly recommend her.
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20 Aug, 2017 by Pamela
I saw Gena after a negative experience with another lawyer who overcharged me, convinced me, with insufficient explanation, to draw up a trust that was not practical for me, and then shunted me off to his lackeys. So I was on high alert when I first met with Gena. But what a pleasant surprise! Gena is knowledgable and will spend a full two hours or more with you on your first visit to learn about your situation and your needs, and to answer whatever question you have. If you propose alternative viewpoints, she considers them thoughtfully and points out your options. She does all the follow-up meetings and discussions herself, and she has innovative and creative ideas. Plus, she is just a nice, interesting, and thoughtful person! (She makes her own jewelry by the way--check it out!) I highly recommend her!
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29 Oct, 2014 by Sheila
Shelley Rizzotti represented me and my nonprofit organization on a case that involves contractual, nonprofit, and animal law. She took on our case pro bono and stuck with us from beginning to end. She was very knowledgeable on the statutes pertaining to our case. She was meticulous and thorough in her research. Her letters were all skillfully written, and in the end we prevailed!
Shelley made the entire process easy for us. She assured us that she would be properly handled our case and she told us not to worry. She explained everything to us along the way. She gathered all pertinent documents and evidence; she allowed us to focus on our day-to-day operations rather than dwell on our case. This certainly lifted a huge burden off our shoulders. She gave us regular updates. She was readily available to answer any questions over the phone or by e-mail... even though she had taken on this case pro bono amid her busy schedule!
Shelley is an attorney with compassion, grit, and integrity. She is not one to take on a case if she does not fully believe there will be a positive outcome for her client(s). She will fight for her clients, and she will never back down. When she takes on a case, she comes up with a list of strategies to use to win the case. She has excellent people skills and was professional and firm in her dealings with the other party's attorney.
Overall, we are incredibly grateful to Shelley for her expertise and phenomenal help to our nonprofit organization. We highly recommend Shelley! She is by far one of the most effective lawyers we came across in the 10 years we have been in operation.
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13 Nov, 2012 by Lance
Shelley Rizzotti provided my business partner and I with excellent, detailed service. We were able to avoid a long, difficult case with her assistance. She examined and recommended points on all aspects of the case in a way that showed she was very engaged and extremely competent. She went far beyond our expectations and I am truly grateful to have found her.
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24 Jun, 2011 by Ken
I came to attorney Shelley Rizzotti with a few vague ideas about some kind of estate planning for my future. Shelley was quick to understand the uniqueness of my situation, and skillfully articulated her recommended solution in a way that would make sense to me. Shelley became my ally in developing a detailed, comprehensive, personalized estate strategy which included a trust, an advanced health care directive, a will, and a nomination of conservator. Throughout the process she was impressivley attentive to detail while courteous and patient with my questions. I have entrusted Shelley to oversee my personal legal affairs as such services may be needed. I have made this decision based on my assessment of her as a capable, diligent, compassionate professional who understands both legal and personal matters of importance to her clients.
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22 Mar, 2012 by Marla
I have known and had a business relationship with this lawyer for over 30 years. I last retained her to prepared my parents Estate documents. She is well versed in this area and handles all estate related matters.
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12 Oct, 2020 by Amit
As a victim of fraudulent Marriage, I was desperately looking for a trustworthy family lawyer to get me out of this mess. After consulting couple of other lawyers, Luisa was recommended to me by another well known immigration attorney Helen Tarokic.
Luisa was very thorough with all the required documents and information needed for a successful representation. She made sure there were no loose ends on our side and also had a back up plan ready just in case of an undesirable result.
Even during the Covid crisis and huge back log of cases, I was lucky enough to get a court date last week. Luisa briefed me thoroughly 30 mins before hearing and we were able to get a favorable decision from the Judge. Thank you Luisa!!
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16 Jul, 2021 by Anonymous
Reached out to the firm and was in contact with Susie immediately. She was professional and punctual with deadlines. She listened to my problem and helped identify solutions to help me win my case. She was always in contact with me to make sure I sent the proper documents on time. It was always an enjoyable experience every time we spoke as she helped me with every thing along the way.
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29 Jan, 2025 by Dorothy page
Filing for bankruptcy was something i never thought I would have to do. I begin calling around to different firms looking for some help. I came across Kateryna Bilenka name and decided to give her a call. We spoke the same day and she explained everything to me and I decided to work with her. She was very professional and on top of the business. Whenever I had a concern, she reassured me that everything would be ok and it was. I would recommend everyone to work with the Bilenka firm.
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02 Dec, 2024 by Tobias rogers
Bilenka Law Firm has been a huge lifesaver for me! Kateryna has been an incredible help, perfectly explaining all options and choices. Oftentimes, I was shown choices that I wasn't aware of. Her patience and expertise on my case made me feel like it was being personally handled by someone who cares, rather than just a by-the-numbers approach. I wish I had contacted this firm earlier! I highly recommend the firm, for anyone looking for its services!
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10 Oct, 2024 by Gerardo tovar
Lerner was recommended to me by a trusted friend, and now I'll be doing the same if anyone ever asks.
About a year of different treatments to get my body close to where it was before a car accident. Lerner and his team were with me every step of the way, and at every opportunity they showed up and showed out. I leaned heavily on him and his team through the entire process and I couldn't have any more appreciation for all he has done
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02 Oct, 2024 by Lennart leedu
19 Sep, 2024 by Hakobh harutyunyan
Expert in what he does, blessed to have found him.
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22 Aug, 2024 by Angelo r casillo (mr.big)
I contemplated filing for bankruptcy for several months. I did my research and read many testimonials from various law firms including those pf Mark’s former clients. I had a good feeling about Mark and made the decision to schedule my appointment for the free 30 minute consulation. By there end of the consultation, I knew I had made the right choice and felt I was in very good hands.
His communication was always clear and easy to understand. I provided Mark with all the requested documentation and completed the required forms. In turn, Mark was able to present my case in the best possible light and we received a successful Discharge of Debtor within six months from the date I retained his services.
Mark is truly a master of his craft.
Angelo CasilloI
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06 Sep, 2013 by Anonymous
So knowledgeable, caring, and compassionate with regard to everything I was going through.
He seems to have extensive knowledge in very complex estate planning matters and I always felt that I was in the best hands possible.
I would never consider going elsewhere. Thank you Bob & team!!
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28 Feb, 2023 by Amy
Making an estate plan has been super easy with Marianna. She’s very helpful, knowledgeable, and professional! Also, she is easy to work with. I will definitely recommended her services to my family and friends.
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11 Dec, 2024 by Debra ryan
Great experience. Great team of people who made my experience exceptional. Very pleased and grateful.
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30 Jul, 2024 by Mark seliga
I have to say that the team at AGMB are exceptional. They work tirelessly and I never feel I cannot reach out at anytime with anything. I feel extremely lucky to have been able to learn from them as I started a business.
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22 Oct, 2022 by Richard saperstein
I’ve worked with other law firms and business management firms and was amazed and relieved to find this level of talent on both sides at one firm. They are impeccable professionals; savvy, thoughtful, strategic. I feel lucky to have found them and plan to work with them for years to come.
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14 Jan, 2025 by Stepan boyajian
Edgar is the consummate professional and communicates with full transparency. Never beats around the bush nor does he say "whateve it takes" in order to please you .... you can expect absolute honesty and truth (even if it doesn't please you). His whole staff (or at least the ones I have met) are a reflection of his own values, so no matter who you deal with you can expect the same transparency.
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13 Jan, 2025 by Aram airapetian
MPC Legal has been by far the most professional, caring, and competent firm I have ever worked with. They have represented my businesses in 2 cases now and I am extremely satisfied with Edgar and his team and would highly recommend them!
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13 Jan, 2025 by Albert sharaf
Thank you Edgar we appreciate your Knowledge, caring, and being always there when we need your advise and honesty.
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25 Feb, 2025 by Frank g
I can't say enough great things about Morris Chichyan and his team! He went above and beyond to handle my case with professionalism, efficiency, and care. From start to finish, he kept me informed and made the entire process smooth and stress-free. Thanks to his dedication, my settlement was finalized quickly and with a fantastic outcome. I highly recommend Morris Chichyan to anyone in need of top-notch legal representation!
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18 Feb, 2025 by Julian galvan
I been with them for 2 years and I got to say they are a lot of help for everything you need great work they do and for sure I will come back to them
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18 Feb, 2025 by John bercasio
Frank did great explaining the process! Really easy to work with and straight forward, process was quick and smooth!
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10 Oct, 2023 by Denise
This atty is not professional at all. I am in desperate situation in dire need of the inheritance my mother left, that my sister withheld from me due to greed. Mr Bond intially spoke w me, talked a real good game and will not respond to me. It's been 3 mos now and he will not respond to me whatsoever after agreeing to work w me pro bono. I've left messages, emails, phone calls, etc. Last he picked up the phone 1 mo and said he couldn't talk, was very busy and meaning to contact me. I'm moving on to someone else who wants to treat their clients w respect and professionalism. I'm done w this person.
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10 Mar, 2023 by Anonymous
This guy said he would help me, had me pay him a thousand dollars like the other reviewer here, then he just stopped taking my calls, never responded to my emails, and I had to go elsewhere to find the assistance I needed.
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09 Dec, 2022 by Anonymous
Hired Michael to write letters to a trust attorney on 10/12/2022 in Riverside CA. He said for $1,000 he would write letters to the trust attorney and the trustee of the trust asking questions that had not been answered, this was my dad's trust, like where did my dad's money go? He described what he would put into the letters, and I was pleased. I asked what his timeline was, and he said as soon as I receive the money, I will write the letters and you will get a copy first in your email. He cashed the check on 11/17/2022. Today is 12/09/2022. Still no letters. I have called him 8 times and left 4 emails. No response on the emails of which he told me that was the best way to get ahold of him. He often answered the phone and always said things like, I am driving, I will call you back, I am not in the office, I will call you back, never called back and later that the letters were sent out, and I would receive a copy in the mail. That never happened. To be truthful, I just want the letters written. If not, I need a refund. The BBB and legal match are my next steps.
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FAQs
Questions? We have answers
What an Estate Planning Lawyer Can Do for You
An estate planning lawyer helps individuals plan for the management and distribution of their assets after death or during incapacitation. Their services involve drafting important legal documents, such as wills, trusts, powers of attorney, and healthcare directives. Estate planning attorneys work to ensure that your assets are transferred according to your wishes, minimize tax liabilities, and avoid probate court. They also help clients plan for potential long-term care needs and protect their estate from being diminished by healthcare costs.
By working with an estate planning lawyer, you can have peace of mind knowing that your loved ones will be cared for and that your estate will be managed efficiently and according to your desires.
When Should I Hire an Estate Planning Lawyer?
Hiring an estate planning lawyer is beneficial in many situations, especially when you want to ensure that your assets are handled properly after death. Common reasons to hire an estate planning lawyer include:
- Drafting a will: If you want to clearly define how your assets will be distributed after death, an attorney can draft a legally sound will.
- Creating a trust: For those looking to avoid probate or provide for loved ones over time, setting up a trust can help manage the distribution of assets.
- Planning for incapacity: An estate lawyer can help draft powers of attorney and healthcare directives so that your financial and medical decisions are made by someone you trust if you become incapacitated.
- Minimizing estate taxes: If your estate is large, a lawyer can help create strategies to reduce or eliminate federal and state estate taxes.
- Special circumstances: If you have minor children, blended families, or complex assets like businesses, an estate planning lawyer can create tailored solutions.
- Guardianship or conservatorship: If you want to designate guardians for minor children or ensure proper care for incapacitated adults, an attorney can help.
Hiring an estate planning lawyer is especially important if your estate is complex or if you want to ensure that your wishes are properly followed.
What Does an Estate Planning Lawyer Do?
An estate planning lawyer provides a range of services designed to help you organize your affairs and ensure your estate is managed according to your wishes. They can:
- Draft wills and trusts: Creating legally binding documents that dictate how your assets will be distributed and managed.
- Create powers of attorney and healthcare directives: Appointing someone to make financial or medical decisions for you if you become incapacitated.
- Minimize taxes: Developing strategies to reduce estate taxes, gift taxes, and other financial liabilities for your heirs.
- Help avoid probate: Structuring your estate plan to avoid probate, which can save time and money for your beneficiaries.
- Advise on long-term care planning: Helping you plan for potential healthcare needs in the future, including Medicaid planning and protecting assets from being depleted by nursing home costs.
- Assist with beneficiary designations: Ensuring that life insurance policies, retirement accounts, and other financial instruments are correctly designated.
- Handle probate and estate administration: If a loved one has passed away, an estate planning lawyer can help guide you through the probate process or act as an executor.
How Are Estate Planning Lawyers Paid?
Estate planning lawyers typically charge for their services in one of several ways, depending on the complexity of your estate and the type of services you need. Common payment structures include:
- Flat fee: Many estate planning services, such as drafting a will or trust, are charged on a flat-fee basis. The fee covers all work related to preparing the document.
- Hourly rate: For more complex planning, such as estate tax strategy or trust administration, lawyers may charge by the hour. Rates vary based on the lawyer’s experience and location.
- Retainer: Some lawyers require a retainer for more complex cases, such as ongoing trust management or estate administration. The retainer is an upfront payment that covers future legal services.
It’s important to discuss fees with your lawyer upfront to avoid unexpected costs.
How Much Does an Estate Planning Lawyer Cost?
The cost of hiring an estate planning lawyer depends on the complexity of your estate and the services you require. Here are some general guidelines:
- Simple wills or powers of attorney: A straightforward will or power of attorney may cost between $300 and $1,500, depending on your location and the lawyer’s experience.
- Trust creation: Establishing a trust, such as a living trust or revocable trust, can cost between $1,000 and $3,000 or more, depending on the complexity of your assets and estate planning needs.
- Comprehensive estate planning packages: Some lawyers offer packages that include wills, trusts, powers of attorney, and healthcare directives, which may range from $2,000 to $5,000 or more, depending on the estate’s complexity.
- Hourly rates: For ongoing services like estate administration or tax planning, lawyers may charge hourly rates ranging from $150 to $500 or more, depending on the lawyer’s experience.
Always get a clear estimate of costs during your initial consultation to ensure the services fit within your budget.
Top Questions to Ask an Estate Planning Lawyer
Before hiring an estate planning lawyer, it’s important to ask questions to ensure they are the right fit for your needs. Here are key questions to ask during your consultation:
-
What is your experience with estate planning?
Ensure the lawyer has substantial experience drafting wills, creating trusts, and handling other estate planning services. -
How will you charge for your services?
Clarify whether the lawyer charges a flat fee or by the hour and ask for a detailed estimate of costs. -
What strategies do you recommend for my estate?
A good lawyer should be able to explain the best strategies for minimizing taxes, avoiding probate, and ensuring your assets are distributed according to your wishes. -
How often should I update my estate plan?
Ask how frequently you should revisit your estate plan, especially if your financial situation or family dynamics change. -
Do you offer ongoing support or updates?
Some lawyers provide periodic reviews or updates to ensure your estate plan stays current with changes in your circumstances or the law. -
How will you help my beneficiaries if something happens to me?
Ensure the lawyer is willing to guide your heirs through the estate administration process or help manage your trust after you’re gone.
How to Check the Credibility of an Estate Planning Lawyer
To ensure you’re hiring a credible estate planning lawyer, follow these steps:
- Verify their state bar license: Check with your state bar association to confirm that the lawyer is licensed and in good standing, with no history of disciplinary actions.
- Look for estate planning certifications: Some lawyers are certified as estate planning specialists, which indicates they have extensive knowledge in this area of law.
- Read client reviews and testimonials: Online reviews on sites like Avvo, Google, or Martindale-Hubbell can provide insight into the lawyer’s professionalism and client satisfaction.
- Ask for references: A credible lawyer should be able to provide references from previous clients who can speak to their expertise and client service.
- Check for membership in professional organizations: Lawyers who are members of organizations like the National Academy of Elder Law Attorneys (NAELA) or the American College of Trust and Estate Counsel (ACTEC) often have a strong reputation in the field.
What Should I Prepare for My First Consultation?
To get the most out of your first meeting with an estate planning lawyer, it’s important to come prepared. Here’s what you should bring:
- List of assets and liabilities: Provide a detailed inventory of your assets, including real estate, bank accounts, retirement funds, investments, and personal property, as well as any debts you may have.
- List of beneficiaries: Be ready to discuss who you want to receive your assets and in what proportions. This includes naming guardians for minor children if applicable.
- Existing estate documents: Bring copies of any existing wills, trusts, powers of attorney, or other relevant estate planning documents.
- Questions about your estate goals: Write down your goals, such as avoiding probate, reducing taxes, or setting up charitable donations, so your lawyer can tailor a plan to meet your needs.
- Information on medical and financial decision-makers: Be prepared to discuss who you want to appoint for healthcare and financial decisions if you become incapacitated.
By being well-prepared, you can ensure a productive consultation and begin building a comprehensive estate plan that meets your needs and protects your loved ones.
