Best Estate Planning lawyers in Caldwell, NJ

2 Estate Planning Lawyers in Caldwell, NJ

experienced lawyers

Christopher Rohde

13 Smull Avenue, Caldwell, NJ

Elder Law Estate Planning Probate +3

5.0/5

5.0

1 Reviews

14 Apr, 2015 by Bill

Mr. Rohde has the unique qualifications of not only being an excellent lawyer who knows estate and elder law, but he’s also has an excellent financial background… I believe he is also a CPA. Having expertise in both areas made it possible to get through my families estate planning without the need to get the accountant involved. With both the legal and financial impact of our decisions readily available to us, we were able to quickly determine the best course of action for our situation. Mr. Rohde is an expert at explaining complex situations in terms the layperson can understand. He took whatever time was necessary to be sure both my father and I understood every aspect of what we were doing. One of the most patient people I have ever met. I’ve recommended him to several friends who have all had similar experiences. Many years later after my father had passed, the true value of what Chris did for us became clear. As grim as it may sound we were prepared (at least legally and financially) for my father’s death. I can’t thank him enough.

Larry A Stempler

32 Smull Ave, Caldwell, NJ

Estate Planning Probate Tax +1 +4

4.8/5

5.0

3 Reviews

4.6

21 Reviews

27 Jul, 2023 by Pei zhu

I recently had the pleasure of working with Larry and Mary as my attorney during the homebuying process. We are impressed with their responsiveness and professionalism. They promptly answered all of my questions, addressing any concerns I had with care and attention. They guided us through each step, ensuring that we understood our rights and responsibilities. Thank you for making this process as smooth and stress-free as possible.

26 May, 2023 by Sheleen quish

Now that I am sitting comfortably in my new house I can reflect on the elements that came together to make it not only possible but a victory! Obviously the realtor plays a significant role , but what brings it all together at that closing table? Your Real Estate attorney is the answer! I have purchased and sold properties with the expertise, knowledge and wisdom provided by Stempler Law! Mary Young and Larry Stempler are by far the most thorough and dedicated advocates for their clients. Their goal is to do everything right and in a timely manner. They went out of their way to accommodate my schedule when I sold my place in Montclair and relocated to Tennessee and had to leave before the closing day. They are a great team, working together to make sure everything tics and ties… no loose ends!! I highly recommend their services! Your realtor will thank you as well because they work in partnership with both you and your realtor!! Thank you Mary and Larry for assuring a clean and efficient close! Best regards and much appreciation!

08 Mar, 2023 by Rashi verma

I used this law firm to close sale of my condo in 2021, since they were under the legal plan (Legalease) and had good ratings on Google. I am sad to say that I found this firm to be dishonest in their dealings. They charged me an extra $500 without explaining why and held up the closing until I paid them. I did end up paying them because it was not worth ditching the transaction and starting with another lawyer so late in the game. This was my last email to them. They didn't respond to why they charged me an extra $500 without an explanation. It took me a long time to post this review, and I hope it saves others headaches in dealing with dishonest service providers like this firm. ------------------------ Larry I didn't get a clear answer on the phone from you re: your fees, and also I would prefer to get this over email anyway. You seem distressed that Legalese pays you just $400 for the contract -- which, if we stick to facts alone, is something you knew fully well before taking on this case. The retainer you sent which I signed states that: " Expenses such as postage and overnight delivery are not covered by the Plan and are your individual financial responsibility. Likewise, lengthy contract negotiations and extraordinary factors including, but not limited, to lengthy inspection negotiations, title issues and travel to a distant closing are not covered by the Plan and are also your individual financial responsibility. A Fee List is enclosed herein for your reference. Any additional charges for legal fees will be based upon the amount of extraordinary time required of the Firm are billed at Larry A. Stempler’s current hourly rate of $425.00 per hour and Paralegal hourly rate at $135.00." I am still not sure what lengthy contract negotiations were done by your firm, or extraordinary services were offered wrt this contract closure. When you got involved, we already had a price we had agreed to with the buyer. The buyer, post-inspection, asked for a bunch of stuff which could be waived for $1000, which we took up. So, to my knowledge, I am unaware of any lengthy contract negotiations or extraordinary services that your firm performed that should require an additional charge. I am not comfortable with you charging me $500. If you believe it is deserved per the retainer agreement we have in place, kindly respond back as to what exactly you are charging for. -------------------

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What an Estate Planning Lawyer Can Do for You

An estate planning lawyer helps individuals plan for the management and distribution of their assets after death or during incapacitation. Their services involve drafting important legal documents, such as wills, trusts, powers of attorney, and healthcare directives. Estate planning attorneys work to ensure that your assets are transferred according to your wishes, minimize tax liabilities, and avoid probate court. They also help clients plan for potential long-term care needs and protect their estate from being diminished by healthcare costs.

By working with an estate planning lawyer, you can have peace of mind knowing that your loved ones will be cared for and that your estate will be managed efficiently and according to your desires.

When Should I Hire an Estate Planning Lawyer?

Hiring an estate planning lawyer is beneficial in many situations, especially when you want to ensure that your assets are handled properly after death. Common reasons to hire an estate planning lawyer include:

Drafting a will: If you want to clearly define how your assets will be distributed after death, an attorney can draft a legally sound will.
Creating a trust: For those looking to avoid probate or provide for loved ones over time, setting up a trust can help manage the distribution of assets.
Planning for incapacity: An estate lawyer can help draft powers of attorney and healthcare directives so that your financial and medical decisions are made by someone you trust if you become incapacitated.
Minimizing estate taxes: If your estate is large, a lawyer can help create strategies to reduce or eliminate federal and state estate taxes.
Special circumstances: If you have minor children, blended families, or complex assets like businesses, an estate planning lawyer can create tailored solutions.
Guardianship or conservatorship: If you want to designate guardians for minor children or ensure proper care for incapacitated adults, an attorney can help.

Hiring an estate planning lawyer is especially important if your estate is complex or if you want to ensure that your wishes are properly followed.

What Does an Estate Planning Lawyer Do?

An estate planning lawyer provides a range of services designed to help you organize your affairs and ensure your estate is managed according to your wishes. They can:

Draft wills and trusts: Creating legally binding documents that dictate how your assets will be distributed and managed.
Create powers of attorney and healthcare directives: Appointing someone to make financial or medical decisions for you if you become incapacitated.
Minimize taxes: Developing strategies to reduce estate taxes, gift taxes, and other financial liabilities for your heirs.
Help avoid probate: Structuring your estate plan to avoid probate, which can save time and money for your beneficiaries.
Advise on long-term care planning: Helping you plan for potential healthcare needs in the future, including Medicaid planning and protecting assets from being depleted by nursing home costs.
Assist with beneficiary designations: Ensuring that life insurance policies, retirement accounts, and other financial instruments are correctly designated.
Handle probate and estate administration: If a loved one has passed away, an estate planning lawyer can help guide you through the probate process or act as an executor.

How Are Estate Planning Lawyers Paid?

Estate planning lawyers typically charge for their services in one of several ways, depending on the complexity of your estate and the type of services you need. Common payment structures include:

Flat fee: Many estate planning services, such as drafting a will or trust, are charged on a flat-fee basis. The fee covers all work related to preparing the document.
Hourly rate: For more complex planning, such as estate tax strategy or trust administration, lawyers may charge by the hour. Rates vary based on the lawyer’s experience and location.
Retainer: Some lawyers require a retainer for more complex cases, such as ongoing trust management or estate administration. The retainer is an upfront payment that covers future legal services.

It’s important to discuss fees with your lawyer upfront to avoid unexpected costs.

How Much Does an Estate Planning Lawyer Cost?

The cost of hiring an estate planning lawyer depends on the complexity of your estate and the services you require. Here are some general guidelines:

Simple wills or powers of attorney: A straightforward will or power of attorney may cost between $300 and $1,500, depending on your location and the lawyer’s experience.
Trust creation: Establishing a trust, such as a living trust or revocable trust, can cost between $1,000 and $3,000 or more, depending on the complexity of your assets and estate planning needs.
Comprehensive estate planning packages: Some lawyers offer packages that include wills, trusts, powers of attorney, and healthcare directives, which may range from $2,000 to $5,000 or more, depending on the estate’s complexity.
Hourly rates: For ongoing services like estate administration or tax planning, lawyers may charge hourly rates ranging from $150 to $500 or more, depending on the lawyer’s experience.

Always get a clear estimate of costs during your initial consultation to ensure the services fit within your budget.

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.