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06 May, 2024 by Tom and carol
Carla knows, and shares, everything we needed to know about the documents we need to leave for our survivors. It is a wonderful feeling to know that we have provided a thorough map for our heirs. Carla also helped us discern the Catholic end of life decisions we wish. She is very patient and understanding.
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15 Oct, 2023 by Mike k
I hired Carla for Estate Planning purposes. She helped me organize my thinking around this critical area and completed all pertinent documents. During the interview she took great care to fully understand my needs and wishes, explained any choices I needed to make, and summarized my final decisions for me clearly and accurately. When the paperwork was presented to me I found zero mistakes. Everything was just as we had outlined. Carla was personable and engaged throughout the process and willing to spend all the time with me that I required. The whole experience was easy and quite pleasurable actually.
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06 Sep, 2023 by Aspen
Carla and her staff were amazing from start to finish in handling Wills for my husband and I. She solved a lot of problems and made it all miraculously come together. Carla and her staff are professional, responsive, efficient, patient, and wonderful. Since we are Catholic, Carla prepared complete Catholic Wills for us. We even learned some new things along the way, which boosted our confidence in her even more. Carla is extremely knowledgeable, trustworthy, personable, and concerned about her clients. We've never met another attorney like her before, and we appreciate her so much. We will always be grateful to her, and would highly recommend her.
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17 Jul, 2020 by Tim
Daniel and his team were great. Very detailed and instructive. They did a good job of off site presentation and requirements.
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08 Apr, 2020 by Mike
We recently worked with the Mckenzie Law Firm for estate planning and to develop our family trust. Daniel and his team were great.
Daniel and Tienne were excellent at identifying our wishes, understanding our circumstances, and crafting a trust and related documents that captured what we needed. They accomplished all of this under the difficult circumstances related to Covid-19, going to extraordinary lengths to keep the process moving forward, while at the same time protecting our health.
Daniel, Tienne and Rachel are very personable and a pleasure to work with. We look for and love good process, and they have created a straightforward and efficient process that made developing our trust simple for us. We also found their fees to be extremely reasonable. We can’t recommend them enough.
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26 Feb, 2020 by Joan
Dan and his team did an outstanding job completing our estate planning documents. Rachel was proactive on setting appointments, following up and making sure our experience was a good one. Dan thoroughly explained our options, made excellent recommendations and put our wishes into legal format. I am convinced he and his team created a plan that will make managing our estate as easy as possible. In addition to being highly professional, Dan and his office are very friendly, approachable and reasonably priced.
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06 Aug, 2015 by Anonymous
I have worked with Ms. Kokinos on a couple of estate plans. She takes time to understand each client's unique situation and desired results. She is personable, caring, communicative, and well-versed.
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23 Oct, 2013 by Gene
Sue was awesome and helped me get through the emotions of divorce by giving me information and options. Procured the information that gave me comfort in the outcome. I would recommend her to anyone.
Have continued using her skills for other business issues as well.
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17 Jan, 2011 by Anonymous
Ms. Kokinos helped me immensely when I was getting a divorce. She was helpful and was able to answer all of my questions. I would recommend her in a heartbeat!!
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5.0
1 Reviews
4.9
158 Reviews
19 Apr, 2024 by Griz langley
The best anyone can have in their corner for any cost it would be cheap at twice the price
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09 Apr, 2024 by Janet tucay
I found the whole process educational & helpful. The first meeting was virtual when the whole process was explained & questions answered. The next virtual meeting was to set up my will and powers of attorney for healthcare & financial. I was able to clearly document my wishes for everything so that my daughter will be able to manage everything as the need arises. The final meeting was for signatures on all documents. I appreciated the binder and I understand there will be a card coming that will allow providers access as needed. I feel confident and without worry. Thank you for making things happen so smoothly.
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01 Apr, 2024 by Cathy hartman
The entire office definitely made a difficult time in life much easier to understand and get things taken care of! They all deserve a 10 stars on the service that is provided.
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13 Aug, 2024 by Suzette buss
Jeremy was so helpful and knowledgeable. Thank you again for everything you do.
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08 Aug, 2024 by Bettyjo ehrlich
24 Jul, 2024 by Jason sayre, macis
I, ultimately, found Mr. Kevin D. Murphy, Esq. to be courteous and professional. His amicable and patient work as an attorney assisted in obtaining the positive, right outcome for a man and lady who benignly stumbled because of their life stressors. He, considerately, gained understanding that they can healthily compromise, do know one another quite well, and love each other.
I, thus, recommend Alexandra White, PC.
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21 Aug, 2024 by Pat coffey
I can’t further express the gratitude that I have for this team. Nic and Sarah have both been so solid through out not only the duration of my court cases, but completely went above and beyond following my court dates to assist me the entire step of the journey through to the end date of my probation. Sarah continued to be there to answer my calls, emails, texts questions, everything from dmv questions, to probation questions, to out of state dmv questions. My case happend while on vacation so I was unable to attend court in person and Nic was above and beyond in getting our hearings heard as early as possible via zoom and was able to attain the best outcome that could have been possible thanks to the investigating he did into the case. Without this team I genuinely believe that this would have gone a lot differently and I would still probably be paying an unfair price. I highly recommend this firm to anyone in need that wants to get the best possible outcome in the court rooms. Thank you Sarah for answering all of the stressed out phone calls from me and countless other cases I’m sure and continuing to do it in a positive and re assuring way every time.
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20 Aug, 2024 by R g
Absolutely excellent attorney. Best choice I could have made. Extremely qualified, professional and kind. Sara in the office is great as well. Listen to Nic and follow his advice for your best possible outcome. If I could give 10 stars I would! Thanks Nic and Sara you’re awesome!
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14 Aug, 2024 by Jimmy hatch
I wanted to express my deepest gratitude for your exceptional work on my case. Thanks to your expertise and dedication, the outcome was far better than I had hoped for. With the case ending in a DWAl, I am incredibly relieved to be able to continue my military career, something that means the world to me.
Your guidance and support throughout this challenging time have been invaluable, and I truly appreciate the effort you put into securing this result. Thank you for standing by me and helping me move forward with my life and career.
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20 Aug, 2024 by Rodney
30 Jul, 2024 by Christian jones
The initial consultation started with Marty Long being concerned about my well being. Bankruptcy is hard and extremely embarrassing. Marty outlined what would take place when filing Chapter 7 and never talked over my head. Marty, also did everything he said he would do in my case. Communication between client and attorney was quick and accurate. Marty sent me on my way with a future that will be debt free. Highly recommend.
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24 Jul, 2024 by Mark cohen
I am an experienced lawyer, but no longer handle residential landlord/tenant litigation. When I needed help for a rental property I own, I knew I was not up to date on recent changes to Colorado landlord/tenant laws. Sal personally returned my call promptly and quickly drafted the necessary documents for me. It was a pleasure working with him.
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24 Jul, 2024 by Mark cohen
I am an experienced lawyer, but no longer handle residential landlord/tenant litigation. When I needed help for a rental property I own, I knew I was not up to date on recent changes to Colorado landlord/tenant laws. Sal personally returned my call promptly and quickly drafted the necessary documents for me. It was a pleasure working with him.
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20 May, 2024 by Rebecca l.
I would highly recommend Kim - Kim is knowledgable, intelligent and efficient she was very helpful in walking me through this difficult process - Thank you Kim!
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11 Apr, 2024 by Travis regan
My experience with CFI Kimberly Utesch in Colorado was highly disappointing. From start to finish, it was evident that Ms. Utesch lacked the competence and dedication necessary for her role. Throughout the investigation process, she seemed to simply phone it in, displaying a lack of thoroughness and professionalism. She often had an auto-reply email set up which made getting a hold of her very difficult. She refused to review any videos or relevant evidence because would not allow me to send these items through Dropbox, as the files were too large for email.
She conducted my "home visit" through Zoom. To make this even worse, when she called on Zoom to do the home visit she started to berate me and tell me that it was inappropriate that I had my child present for our interview. She seemingly forgot that this appointment was for the home visit that she had specifically asked me to have my child present. She then proceeded to turn her camera off and "watch us interact" for 30 minutes.
One of the most concerning aspects of Ms. Utesch's performance was her failure to interview ANY of the family members who had submitted questionnaires...... on either side of the family. This negligence not only demonstrates a lack of diligence but also raises serious doubts about the validity and fairness of her findings. How can a comprehensive investigation be conducted without gathering input from all relevant parties?
Furthermore, Ms. Utesch's overall competency was severely lacking. It was clear that she did not possess the necessary skills or knowledge to handle the complexities of the case. Her lack of attention to detail and apparent disinterest in the matter at hand only exacerbated the situation. To make things worse she then asked for more money at the end of her investigation. The ONLY thing my son's mother and I have ever agreed on is that Ms Utesch has no business being a CFI.
Less than a year after her report was completed, our judge allowed us to have another investigation completed. This report had DRASTICALLY different findings. Her entire report was a waste of time and money.
Overall, I would not recommend Ms. Utesch as a CFI based on my experience. Her subpar performance and lack of thoroughness do a disservice to the families relying on her expertise. I urge anyone seeking a competent and dedicated CFI to look elsewhere.
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24 Jul, 2024 by Mark cohen
I am an experienced lawyer, but no longer handle residential landlord/tenant litigation. When I needed help for a rental property I own, I knew I was not up to date on recent changes to Colorado landlord/tenant laws. Sal personally returned my call promptly and quickly drafted the necessary documents for me. It was a pleasure working with him.
Read more
20 May, 2024 by Rebecca l.
I would highly recommend Kim - Kim is knowledgable, intelligent and efficient she was very helpful in walking me through this difficult process - Thank you Kim!
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11 Apr, 2024 by Travis regan
My experience with CFI Kimberly Utesch in Colorado was highly disappointing. From start to finish, it was evident that Ms. Utesch lacked the competence and dedication necessary for her role. Throughout the investigation process, she seemed to simply phone it in, displaying a lack of thoroughness and professionalism. She often had an auto-reply email set up which made getting a hold of her very difficult. She refused to review any videos or relevant evidence because would not allow me to send these items through Dropbox, as the files were too large for email.
She conducted my "home visit" through Zoom. To make this even worse, when she called on Zoom to do the home visit she started to berate me and tell me that it was inappropriate that I had my child present for our interview. She seemingly forgot that this appointment was for the home visit that she had specifically asked me to have my child present. She then proceeded to turn her camera off and "watch us interact" for 30 minutes.
One of the most concerning aspects of Ms. Utesch's performance was her failure to interview ANY of the family members who had submitted questionnaires...... on either side of the family. This negligence not only demonstrates a lack of diligence but also raises serious doubts about the validity and fairness of her findings. How can a comprehensive investigation be conducted without gathering input from all relevant parties?
Furthermore, Ms. Utesch's overall competency was severely lacking. It was clear that she did not possess the necessary skills or knowledge to handle the complexities of the case. Her lack of attention to detail and apparent disinterest in the matter at hand only exacerbated the situation. To make things worse she then asked for more money at the end of her investigation. The ONLY thing my son's mother and I have ever agreed on is that Ms Utesch has no business being a CFI.
Less than a year after her report was completed, our judge allowed us to have another investigation completed. This report had DRASTICALLY different findings. Her entire report was a waste of time and money.
Overall, I would not recommend Ms. Utesch as a CFI based on my experience. Her subpar performance and lack of thoroughness do a disservice to the families relying on her expertise. I urge anyone seeking a competent and dedicated CFI to look elsewhere.
Read more
24 Jul, 2024 by Mark cohen
I am an experienced lawyer, but no longer handle residential landlord/tenant litigation. When I needed help for a rental property I own, I knew I was not up to date on recent changes to Colorado landlord/tenant laws. Sal personally returned my call promptly and quickly drafted the necessary documents for me. It was a pleasure working with him.
Read more
20 May, 2024 by Rebecca l.
I would highly recommend Kim - Kim is knowledgable, intelligent and efficient she was very helpful in walking me through this difficult process - Thank you Kim!
Read more
11 Apr, 2024 by Travis regan
My experience with CFI Kimberly Utesch in Colorado was highly disappointing. From start to finish, it was evident that Ms. Utesch lacked the competence and dedication necessary for her role. Throughout the investigation process, she seemed to simply phone it in, displaying a lack of thoroughness and professionalism. She often had an auto-reply email set up which made getting a hold of her very difficult. She refused to review any videos or relevant evidence because would not allow me to send these items through Dropbox, as the files were too large for email.
She conducted my "home visit" through Zoom. To make this even worse, when she called on Zoom to do the home visit she started to berate me and tell me that it was inappropriate that I had my child present for our interview. She seemingly forgot that this appointment was for the home visit that she had specifically asked me to have my child present. She then proceeded to turn her camera off and "watch us interact" for 30 minutes.
One of the most concerning aspects of Ms. Utesch's performance was her failure to interview ANY of the family members who had submitted questionnaires...... on either side of the family. This negligence not only demonstrates a lack of diligence but also raises serious doubts about the validity and fairness of her findings. How can a comprehensive investigation be conducted without gathering input from all relevant parties?
Furthermore, Ms. Utesch's overall competency was severely lacking. It was clear that she did not possess the necessary skills or knowledge to handle the complexities of the case. Her lack of attention to detail and apparent disinterest in the matter at hand only exacerbated the situation. To make things worse she then asked for more money at the end of her investigation. The ONLY thing my son's mother and I have ever agreed on is that Ms Utesch has no business being a CFI.
Less than a year after her report was completed, our judge allowed us to have another investigation completed. This report had DRASTICALLY different findings. Her entire report was a waste of time and money.
Overall, I would not recommend Ms. Utesch as a CFI based on my experience. Her subpar performance and lack of thoroughness do a disservice to the families relying on her expertise. I urge anyone seeking a competent and dedicated CFI to look elsewhere.
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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.
