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15 May, 2024 by Ryan halvorson
4 years ago I was facing serious consequences for an incident that changed the course of my career and life. Thanks to Gary Barthel and his team, he helped fight for me to get a better outcome and navigate the process to be able to complete the court requirements to reduce the punishment and ultimately expunge my record. If you're active duty or a veteran in any kind of trouble with civilian or military law I would recommend getting in touch with military law center.
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06 Oct, 2021 by Andy
I am a combat veteran, with 10 years of service. In the fall of 2020, I received a call from the Public Defender’s office asking me if I was going to use their services. I told her that she must have the wrong number. She confirmed that she in fact had the correct number. She went on to tell me I was being indicted on two felony counts for attempting to exercise my 2nd Amendment right to purchase a shotgun. I thought, “This is some kind of joke.” It was not.
In the summer of 2016, I was taken to a hospital by the police for an alcohol related incident. Prior to leaving the hospital for home, I apparently signed a document acknowledging that I could not purchase a firearm for 5 years. I don’t remember this or really anything about that night.
After becoming sober, four years later in December 2019, I attempted to purchase a shotgun so I could teach my son to shoot. On the 7th day of the 10-day waiting period I received a phone call that the gun store could not release the weapon to me. I didn’t know why. Two months later I was contacted by an investigator asking why I tried to purchase a gun. “You are barred from owning a firearm” he said. This was news to me. He explained that almost four years earlier I was given what’s called a 5150. This means that a doctor had determined that I am a danger to myself and others. I don’t remember ever hearing those words from a doctor.
I was given a public defender who, in my opinion, did nothing but try to intimidate me into taking the prosecutor’s deal. I refused because I honestly did not know that I was a barred person and was willing to fight for my 2nd amendment right, even if that meant I might become a convicted felon. It seemed like the DA’s office and the public defender both just wanted me to go away. I was getting irritated with the way the whole situation was developing.
Finally, I was fed up. I started asking around for any effective attorneys who truly believed in our constitutional rights and that wouldn’t try to extend the case in order to increase their bill. A veteran neighbor suggested Attorney Gary Barthel at the Military Law Center. Mr. Barthel is a veteran himself and so I felt he could understand the nuance of this case. What he discovered blew my mind.
After retaining Mr. Barthel, he immediately started to examine the evidence and determined the 5150 determination, that I was threat to myself or others, was not properly assessed in accordance with California law. Additionally, Mr. Barthel also determined I was denied a required hearing to appeal California’s 5-year ban to purchase a weapon. Based upon the results of his investigation, Mr. Barthel was able to convince the District Attorney’s office to dismiss the charges.
It took Mr. Barthel only a few months to get all charges dropped. Attorneys are expensive so it is important to find one that is efficient. Mr. Barthel was able to win the case and since it was done so quickly, my total bill was very reasonable. I was also refunded the unused portion of the retainer. I don’t plan on ever needing a criminal defense attorney again, but if I do, I’m calling Gary Barthel. He is very competent, and I would highly recommend his services.
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16 Jun, 2021 by Kevin green
Smart guys & great results! Nick & Gary solved couple year old 'problem' I'd gotten into in Riverside- THANKS
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15 May, 2024 by Ryan halvorson
4 years ago I was facing serious consequences for an incident that changed the course of my career and life. Thanks to Gary Barthel and his team, he helped fight for me to get a better outcome and navigate the process to be able to complete the court requirements to reduce the punishment and ultimately expunge my record. If you're active duty or a veteran in any kind of trouble with civilian or military law I would recommend getting in touch with military law center.
Read more
06 Oct, 2021 by Andy
I am a combat veteran, with 10 years of service. In the fall of 2020, I received a call from the Public Defender’s office asking me if I was going to use their services. I told her that she must have the wrong number. She confirmed that she in fact had the correct number. She went on to tell me I was being indicted on two felony counts for attempting to exercise my 2nd Amendment right to purchase a shotgun. I thought, “This is some kind of joke.” It was not.
In the summer of 2016, I was taken to a hospital by the police for an alcohol related incident. Prior to leaving the hospital for home, I apparently signed a document acknowledging that I could not purchase a firearm for 5 years. I don’t remember this or really anything about that night.
After becoming sober, four years later in December 2019, I attempted to purchase a shotgun so I could teach my son to shoot. On the 7th day of the 10-day waiting period I received a phone call that the gun store could not release the weapon to me. I didn’t know why. Two months later I was contacted by an investigator asking why I tried to purchase a gun. “You are barred from owning a firearm” he said. This was news to me. He explained that almost four years earlier I was given what’s called a 5150. This means that a doctor had determined that I am a danger to myself and others. I don’t remember ever hearing those words from a doctor.
I was given a public defender who, in my opinion, did nothing but try to intimidate me into taking the prosecutor’s deal. I refused because I honestly did not know that I was a barred person and was willing to fight for my 2nd amendment right, even if that meant I might become a convicted felon. It seemed like the DA’s office and the public defender both just wanted me to go away. I was getting irritated with the way the whole situation was developing.
Finally, I was fed up. I started asking around for any effective attorneys who truly believed in our constitutional rights and that wouldn’t try to extend the case in order to increase their bill. A veteran neighbor suggested Attorney Gary Barthel at the Military Law Center. Mr. Barthel is a veteran himself and so I felt he could understand the nuance of this case. What he discovered blew my mind.
After retaining Mr. Barthel, he immediately started to examine the evidence and determined the 5150 determination, that I was threat to myself or others, was not properly assessed in accordance with California law. Additionally, Mr. Barthel also determined I was denied a required hearing to appeal California’s 5-year ban to purchase a weapon. Based upon the results of his investigation, Mr. Barthel was able to convince the District Attorney’s office to dismiss the charges.
It took Mr. Barthel only a few months to get all charges dropped. Attorneys are expensive so it is important to find one that is efficient. Mr. Barthel was able to win the case and since it was done so quickly, my total bill was very reasonable. I was also refunded the unused portion of the retainer. I don’t plan on ever needing a criminal defense attorney again, but if I do, I’m calling Gary Barthel. He is very competent, and I would highly recommend his services.
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16 Jun, 2021 by Kevin green
Smart guys & great results! Nick & Gary solved couple year old 'problem' I'd gotten into in Riverside- THANKS
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21 Feb, 2024 by Kirk edwards
31 Jan, 2024 by Oanh edwards
Lauren's services were beyond excellent! We couldn't be happier. Not only is she an ultra professional, knowledgeable, efficient and responsive attorney but she is also kind, considerate, thoughtful and patient. She made us feel at ease and made the whole process of filing adoption paperwork easy to follow and execute. She is trustworthy and you can tell she genuinely loves what she does. We highly recommend Lauren to anyone who is looking for a trustworthy, professional, experienced and caring adoption attorney. We felt like she took care of us as if we were family. She even had a personalized gift made for our son after the adoption was finalized! We're grateful for her top-notch services.
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27 Jan, 2024 by Jim harris
Danielle helped us with our new wills, setting up a new trust, medical directives, and powers of attorney. She even set up a pet trust so that our cat would be taken care of if something happened to both of us.
From our first meeting she was courteous and professional, listening to our concerns and answering our questions. She walked us through all the information we would need to gather, and made everything as painless and easy as possible. I especially appreciated her flexibility and patience with our complicated work schedules.
Highly recommended!
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29 Apr, 2024 by Matthew goss
Great experience working with Attorney Bryan Nel. He was in communication with me since day one until conviction, which lasted over a year. I had no idea what to expect and was facing jail time. Bryan was able to get me off on CPAC with no jail time. Highly recommend, thank you for your help!
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16 Oct, 2023 by River sprecher
Absolutely fantastic work from Attorney Bryan Nel. He was assigned to my case and without hesitation he made a great defense. His calm & Professional demeanor kept me calm throughout the entire process as the Superior Courts DA tried To railroad me after offering a Horrible deal. I took his advice & trusted him and At pretrial Both Felony cases were dismissed thanks to him, his attention to detail and His Aggressive Cross examination Techniques. He not only save a man but save a family! Thank you So much!
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15 Jun, 2023 by Alejandro perez
Very helpful and communicative!
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27 Jun, 2023 by Patrick b.
I had a consult with Attorney Matt Odgers after reading about asset protection trusts for physicians. He laid out all the pros and cons and gave me an honest opinion based on my situation and didn't try to sell me with fear. At this time I concluded that it wasn't necessary for me but in a few years I will definitely be back for his assistance!
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09 Jan, 2019 by Bruce
Matt Odgers handled my Child Support issue like a champ. Over the years I've had several attorneys help me to no avail. Matt was referred to me, but I didn't think he would get the best results I could ask for. He was on it. Not only did he do it expediently, he saved me several thousands of dollars. Thank you, Odgers Law Firm. You are the best.
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27 Sep, 2018 by Tony
I hired Matthew Odgers to review a contract for a 6 figure deal, he was extremely difficult to get a hold of. I was constantly told by his secretary that he was busy & would call me back.
Horrible service, I personally would never use again & regret ever using this firm.
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31 Jul, 2024 by Michael poole
Well it’s been 10 years ago and I can tell you Cynthia is a great attorney. She took my case and made it a “slam dunk” (Cynthia’s words)
She is perisonalble and will help you legally. She’s also a great person along with her family.
I never wrote her a review but now I am (very happy customer)
-Michael Poole
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31 Jul, 2024 by On point
Cynthia Harris is the lawyer for anyone looking for a winning case. My divorce case took 7 years and had gone to trial. I was the respondent who left the marriage and was absent raising my children for 7 years. Cynthia’s 43 years family law experiences played a huge part of winning the case of sole physical and custody of the children. She is pleasant, compassionate, and have a winning strategy that is rare in the industry. 5 stars for Cynthia Harris and will definitely recommend her law expertise to divorce cases.
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31 Jul, 2024 by Brandon dalgarno
I engaged Harris Law Office to assist with a consultation for my small business. Laurel was prompt, professional, and a joy to work with. I have no issues recommending Harris Law Office to any friends, family or colleagues that are in need of legal assistance.
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23 Mar, 2016 by Adelheid
When I needed his help, I truley had help. Knowledgable, professional, and yes: Kind ! This attorney helped me through a very rough patch in my life. Things were settled quickly and what was the Best, no one got hurt or even offended. Truth and fairness won out, and this is what I like best about Rickard Borg..
His devotion to fairness and the Facts. Am overwhelmed by his ability to see the " human" side of things... and be more than reasonable with his Fees. Things got settled correctly and we were treated with the utmost compassion and respect.
Rick Borg comes highly recommanded by us.. we owe him a host of gratitude and wish that his type of lawering would be Norm I just had to say all this because of the gratitude I have and for the help he was to me and my family. " This attorney you do want on your side.. when you face a legal matter."
I can not say enough good about this man. Thank you again, Mr. Borg, you are the Best.. and my family and I will never forget Addie J
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29 Aug, 2013 by Anonymous
Has a complete lack of knowledge of the law. Gives client information about the law that is incorrect. This incorrect information leaves the client vulnerable to excessive damages. Says he knows all in real estate law, and will insult you when you present him with the correct information you researched. Then tells you to do more research to further prove the case. Very condescending and rude. Does not advise his clients appropriately. Wish I had never had to deal with him.
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01 Apr, 2011 by Anonymous
I found Mr. Borg to be vey kind, helpful, patient and knowledgable with my case. He took his time to listen, to review and go above and beyond to help me.
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23 Feb, 2023 by Michael
Dawn charged a lot of money, got very little done and was extremely vague on her billing statements. She gave advice contrary to the trust that she was retained work on. She also referred a CPA who wanted to charge 5 times the average to prepare IRS form 706,($17k for one form to be exact). It took her a week to return an email or phone call. It was a very frustrating experience with her.
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24 Nov, 2019 by Pieter matthew olimerick
07 Dec, 2017 by Docscotty2001
Ms Hersch has helped me with various issues over the past several years. She is honest and has the highest ethics. Besides being highly competent what I really love about her is that she really cares about me. She makes that clear in the way that she listens and takes time to arrive at the very best approach to solve the problems I set before her. I would never want to use anyone else. She is the best.
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30 Jun, 2023 by Anonymous
Because of Steven, my divorce has been low cost and without drama. Steve has been brutally honest with me in regards to what I’m entitled to but also has fought relentlessly for me without adding unnecessary drama. He has been honest, moral, aggressive, empathetic, and competent. I would guess that any bad review I see is likely from someone who is difficult to work with.
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06 Jan, 2023 by Kim
Attorney Steven Fritsch was appointed Minor's Counsel for my son for very concerning reasons. Even with many requests to do his job, Steven has proven to be incompetent in protecting and advocating for my son -- 50 days with zero contact with my son (15-year-old). It takes five minutes to call my son.
Steven has also been very unprofessional. In my first phone call with him, I respectfully asked him, "What's the game plan?" Instead of an empathetic message along the lines of "I'm sorry your family is in this situation. I will be contacting the professionals involved and do my best to represent your son," Steven Fritsch's approach was extremely harsh, rude, and unprofessional: "I don't need to tell you my plan. I don't need your approval." Clearly, our experience of working with him has been very unpleasant and frustrating.
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22 Oct, 2020 by Anonymous
Steven's failure to comprehend the facts and failure to relay those facts in a coherent unbiased way prolonged the parental visitation that was agreed upon. Furthermore, his lack of follow through on simple matters delayed reunion by several months increasing the cost and time associated with the ordeal, almost as if it was orchestrated.
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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.
