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24 Reviews
03 Oct, 2024 by Dawn
Jamie is extremely knowledgeable and explains to you everything you need to know. She is kind and patient and we never felt rushed. She has extremely good communication skills that enable you to understand what she is trying to explain, whether or not you already have knowledge of the subject. I would not hesitate to recommend her to anyone.
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26 Sep, 2024 by Diane
Jamie is quite the professional with a personal touch. It was a pleasure to work with her. She had a great team working with her.
My experience was so positive, I have recommended her to others.
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12 Sep, 2024 by Tom
Jamie was very professional while also being understanding to our questions and concerns.
Very pleasant to work with.
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09 Oct, 2024 by David and stephanie
We have dealt with Doug and his very capable staff over 14 years, and have very high regard for his knowledge and recommendations. Doug has the ability to translate complicated issues into clear and understandable language, and he has protected our estate plans.
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24 Feb, 2024 by Bernice
I would n have recommended Jaime n the whole team to help so many with wills, estate wills . They all are knowledgeable, compassionate n responsive to all your concerns!! It was a relief to know that I could call any time with any questions . For me it was a relief knowing that everyone was there to help us to get thru a long process and we are finally finished n we can now move on. Thank you for all your advice and patience's thru our family wills!!
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24 Feb, 2024 by Rochelle
I was thoroughly pleased with the professional way I was advised by my lawyer. His staff was both pleasant and thorough in preparing my documents. I would highly recommend Doug Fredrick to anyone who needed legal advice regarding Elder Care or who needed help with their Will. His help in these areas was priceless.
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21 Jan, 2023 by Merrik
We met with Rothkoff Law Group shortly after my father suffered a severe stroke and his outcome was uncertain. Jerry and his team were able to quickly assist us in preparing for the next steps in my father’s care while helping us carefully plan for my mother’s future. Choices had to be made and we were not prepared to navigate the process surrounding long-term care. The care coordination efforts we received were invaluable, giving us peace of mind that we were making the best decisions at each turn. The communication was clear and well documented, and we always received prompt responses to any questions or concerns we had. A sincere thank you to Jerry, Jennifer, Shannon, and everyone at Rothkoff for their guidance and support.
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16 Feb, 2022 by J. sean bradshaw
Best phone call I ever made. While speaking with Mr. Rothkoff for the first time, he asked "why are looking for legal help with managing your mother's estate?" As Power of Attorney for my mother, I was terrified I would make a mistake that would be to her financial detriment. I lived in one state, she was currently in another and was re-locating to a third. I had heard horror stories from people who just didn't know how to navigate elder care law. When I told him such, he replied: "We'd love to help you. When can you come in?" I felt like I'd just been welcomed to the family!
The services provided by Rothkoff Law Group have proven invaluable.
Every interaction with anyone from Rothkoff Law Group is pleasant and efficient. I'm really so grateful that I picked up the phone that day.
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14 Jan, 2021 by Ed
In a very tough year, after losing my sister who was primary care for my elderly parents, Jerry and his staff were a godsend in dealing with all the issues that we had to deal with. Well worth the money for setting up and maintaining care for the elderly
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06 Sep, 2022 by Charlie
Ron was great. From the first time we met he was immediately able to guide me and my business in the right direction with regard to how to avoid liability and dealing with sales tax issues. Ron’s many years practicing as a tax attorney were very apparent.
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29 Aug, 2022 by Dharmendra
Ron is a pleasure to work with. We worked with him on various tax and business matters - he is honest and offers great advice and expertise. One of our clients had a very unique and difficult situation, and Ron handled it with great composure and professionalism. Would highly recommend!
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22 Aug, 2022 by Ed
I am a lawyer as well and consult with Ron often. I often refer clients to him. He is creative, knowledgeable, and a bulldog. He is particularly experienced in the areas of sales and use tax audits, tax collection and appeals, and business organization.
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21 Jul, 2019 by Paula w .
Hiring Scott Counsel was the best decision we made! I could not have imagined the could have made such a process as seamless as they did while also helping understand my mother's care at every turn. I would urge anyone in similar circumstances to seek out Justin Scott .They are excellent!
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18 Jul, 2019 by Edward s.
When my mom just passed the team at Scott Counsel helped us the whole way. Now they are helping with the estate work. Special thank you to Clare, one of the paralegals for her extensive contributions.
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16 Jul, 2019 by Bob donahue
When my wife came was diagnosed with dementia and I had talked to a person that said I would have to spend down most of our money on care for her and didn't really offer an alternatives that would work. Justin was able to help us get good care for my wife and protect the money for me.
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12 Apr, 2024 by Anonymous
I actually smiled as I left Rachel’s office I was so glad I had chosen her to do our Trust …she listened to everything we had to say was very patient and gave us great advice …I will definitely use her again and I highly recommend her.
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27 Mar, 2024 by Anonymous
I had a great experience with her and she helped me make my will. She told me how to make my will with what I wanted. I would refer her to anyone.
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23 Mar, 2024 by Jim
Rachel was awesome!!! She helped us with our wills and power of attorney. Very knowledgeable and answered all of our questions.
Would definitely recommend.
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08 Oct, 2023 by Jean
Thanks to Madeline I now have a plan in place to make things easier for my family when the time comes. I thought it would be complicated because of some issues but with Madeline's help, it really wasn't. Totally appreciate her knowledge, understanding and work on my behalf.
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15 Oct, 2022 by Roxanne
Excellent walked us through this very confusing process step by step and explained everything in layman’s terms
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10 Oct, 2022 by Janice
My lawyer helped me update my will and answered any question that I had concerns with. offered some suggestions to help understand what I was reading in different sections of the will's content.
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20 Nov, 2018 by June
Ali consulted with me about my legal needs and provided information that was relevant and helpful. Her pleasant demeanor made the process so positive!
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20 Jul, 2017 by Jessica rodio
Allison Cohen represented me when I bought my first home, and she made what seemed like a daunting process so much more enjoyable and understandable. It helped a lot to have an attorney whose expertise I could rely on throughout such a stressful process no matter what challenges arose. She took the time out of her day to have lengthy discussions with me to fill me in on where things stood, and when challenges arose she made sure they were handled with ease. Allison's assistant, Leslie, was also a huge help. Between the two of them, someone was always accessible whenever I had a question or when something needed to get done. I would definitely use Allison again and would recommend her to anyone in need of a real estate or estate planning attorney!
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28 May, 2017 by Herb & jennifer
We sold our home through a Realator and purchase our home from a private seller. Ali and her office provided the guidance and expertise for both deals. For the purchase, she provided the necessary contract and coordinated all details including hiring the title company.
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17 Jun, 2015 by Greg
Hello, Pam is one of the best lawyers in South Jersey. She'll work with you to the end and has plenty of patience to help you resolve your difficult problems. All you have to do is Lay back and allow her to work her magic. Pam will work hard on your case 100% always keeping you in the loop. In my book she is a 10.
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02 Jun, 2015 by Gene
I have been working with all levels of attorneys for over 45 years.
Pam is at top of list.
Excellent professionalism,knowledge and most importantly the ability to understand and communicate the most difficult of legal issues and options.
Most unique in today's world
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02 Jun, 2015 by Salvatore
Two relatives of mine, both sisters, had strokes within weeks of each other, after discharge from a hospital they were placed in an undesirable nursing home for rehab, which eventually turned into a long-term care situation. I was at a loss on how to get them out of this place & what to do next. That's when I called Rice Elder Law and spoke to Pam Quattrone, who immediately stepped in, made me POA, found us a wonderful facility. She also gave us information on what to do about any assets, and tirelessly worked to get them both on Medicaid. She has been there for any and all questions and has made all our lives so much better. Pam really knows her business and we would highly recommend her for any elder care situation.
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20 Dec, 2021 by Carol
I was power of attorney and then executrix for my husband's godfather, who passed away after his 100th birthday. Brittany helped me handle the insolvent estate, from the filing of requisite documents to handling dunning letters from creditors for which there were no funds to pay under $5,000 in debts. I found her to be knowledgeable, professional and caring and would recommend her without reservation.
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26 Oct, 2020 by Chad
My elderly aunt, who lived at home by herself, began displaying signs of dementia, while recovering from a fall. It became quickly apparent that I would not be able to handle my aunts' estates and also help her apply for Medicaid, so I needed assistance. From the moment I spoke on the phone with Brittany, I knew I was in good hands. Brittany and her team kept me updated through the entire process and I am forever grateful to them.
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22 Oct, 2020 by Cindy
Loved working with Brittany. Over the years, found her knowledgeable and very patient with me. All the details were handled as we were guided through the process. We were very happy with the outcome. Would not hesitate to use her again if needed, or to recommend her.
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18 Jan, 2021 by Michael
Chris and his team have been great at not only helping my wife amd I set up our estate but also helping us review on a periodic basis to ensure it is up to date
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18 Jan, 2021 by Steve b
We had put off our Will preparation and POA designations forever and a day. After research into credentials, we went with Bratton Law...this was the right choice! Chris is super knowledgeable, is a common presenter on estate planning and elder law (clearly knows his stuff), and made our process worry free while answering all of our questions. They also have several offices, one of which was nearby and made meeting logistically easy. I would highly recommend, and will likely be using professional services from Bratton in the future.
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21 May, 2020 by Marty
Excellent lawyer very professional .explains details in laymen’s terms.the staff I dealt with,Tina and Dani were super helpful.classey firm.
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29 Mar, 2018 by James
I have had estate plans written several times in the past. My experience with Bradley Cohen was the best that I have ever encountered. I contacted Brad to discuss updating wills, etc for my wife and me. At our first meeting, Brad collected information and clarified our specific wishes for our estate and end of life medical intervention. At our subsequent meeting, I was impressed that Brad had captured all of our wishes clearly and completely in a thorough estate plan that included wills, trusts and medical directives. His recommendations demonstrated a deep understanding of the law and a compassion that is rarely found today.
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29 Mar, 2018 by Bryan
I used Brad for assistance with my estate planning documents. Brad took the time to review my financial information and explain all available options. Brad also answered my tax questions and educated me on the relevant tax laws. I highly recommend Brad's services.
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30 Oct, 2014 by Marc
Mr Whelihan helped our family with the transfer of a family business and a NY state sales tax issue.
He clearly explained our responsibilities and laid out our options. He promptly returned phone calls and kept us informed of our ongoing status. We appreciated his attention to detail.
We highly recommend Thomas Whelihan.
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24 Sep, 2008 by Anonymous
Tom is an excellent attorney, very knowledgeable and responsive to requests by carriers.
He was very effective in all of my cases
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03 Aug, 2017 by Meg
Our family went through a tremendously difficult time, dealing with false allegations by DCPP. Harvey was the heart and soul of our complex case. He fought tooth and nail for us, while also keeping our expectations realistic. In a David and Goliath situation, Harvey helped us come out on top.
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02 Aug, 2014 by Brian
As a CPA, I have an extra burden when clients ask me for a good attorney. Not only must they be well qualified, diligent but also responsive. If that attorney fails at that, my client turns their dismay towards me. I have been fortunate to have found Harvey Beran, who has always handled my clients with the utmost of professionalism. For those going thru a painful divorce or a difficult family or a business matter, my clients have raved at his exceptional abilities to understand, provide support as well as his thoroughness in resolving the matter to their betterment. I could not ask for more in sending my clients to an attorney.
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11 Mar, 2013 by Sd
Brian Darreff resolved my case with the best possible outcome. I did not expect such a positive outcome. I am extremely pleased and relieved. Highly recommended.
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19 Feb, 2013 by Mark
I have worked with Brian on two separate occasions . The first he represented me in obtaining damages from a badly handled real estate transaction . W e won The second Brian handled a real estate transaction that was misstated in turn the seller tried to get damages even though he misrepresented the condition of the property.Again we prevailed after three days in court Brian was professional and totally prepared And in total control.Brian prepared me well for the experience.Brian is a great guy and easy to communicate with . If ever I have the need to be represented by an attorney the first call I make is to Brian Darreff.
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10 Oct, 2024 by Richard schlagle
Worst experience of my life. Charged me way more then he first said and he did nothing but screw me over and kept postponing my court date because he had more important things to take care of he said. I was fighting to see my son more and had to wait 7 months to get to court bec of him. He Charged me 5000 to do nothing then wanted another 5000 to goto court. He was a horrible horrible laywer. My case was so easy I ended up not going to court with a laywer and i got 50 50 custody and got more then I asked for by myself. Don't waste your money on this guy.
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26 Sep, 2024 by Matt milly
I would not recommend this attorney. After paying $5000 he made my child support turn from $20 to $800, sent me an email telling me he was trying to contact me for more than a month when clearly the email was working fine and in zoom court he doesn’t know how to present himself professionally. One instance where he was representing me against my ex-wife, the camera was pointed only at his mouth from the nose down. Another instance, he had a picture of Scarface with a machine gun in the background in his office during court. Shop around.
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27 Aug, 2024 by Andrew dedomenico
Thee best lawyer in south jersey. I hired Fiore law group for my divorce case & restraining orders & I would not know what to do without Mr. Fioravante Bucci. He was always available for conversation & advice & throughout my divorce process I now consider Mr. Bucci my good friend. I highly recommend his services.
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16 Aug, 2024 by Michael
Laura and her staff were an absolute pleasure to work with. Laura and her staff were incredibly knowledgeable and took the time to listen to my concerns and answer all of my questions. I would highly recommend Laura and her staff to anyone in need of legal assistance.
Laura and Her staff were always accessible and responsive to any call or email I sent. Every one of them was kind and patient with all of my questions and concerns.
I would not hesitate for a moment to recommend her. I still can’t believe she accomplished all she did, she was truly amazing.
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16 Aug, 2024 by Lewis
My wife and I recently had need for an Elder Law attorney to handle a situation for a family member. Working with Laura, Olivia and the team made a complicated situation easier to deal with. They are thorough and professional, and we highly recommend them.
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07 Feb, 2024 by Richard
I generally don’t write reviews unless I feel compelled by a great company or service. We recently had a need for an estate planning attorney for an elderly member of our family and Ergood Law was recommended to us. The knowledge, honesty, and compassion that Laura Ergood and her great staff exhibited was very comforting in what was a stressful situation for our family. I highly recommend Laura Ergood and her wonderful team. I will not hesitate to you use their estate planning expertise for my wife and I.
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22 Aug, 2024 by Michele lubrano
20 Aug, 2024 by Darnell smith
Great experience, very helpful anytime I needed information on my case they was more than helpful to assist me with the matter.
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20 Aug, 2024 by Amanda caraher
I’ve know Jim Grace for many years now and he is both an outstanding lawyer and a wonderful person. All the advice and help Jim’s provided my family has always been outstanding. He is a man of integrity and has gained my utmost trust and confidence over the years.
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01 Apr, 2023 by Carol
My husband and I had our "simple" will written by Michael in 2013. When my husband died recently I had to have the will probated. It cost me a fortune since it was 79 pages long. My husband and i have been married 56 years, we have 1 child, and own 1 house. The Surrogate said she had never seen a will with this many pages.
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03 Dec, 2014 by Lorraine & david
My husband and I attended one of Michael Bonfrisco's Seminars last year and were impressed with the way he conducted the seminar, and with his professionalism and knowledge of Estate Planning. We set up an appointment with Michael quickly thereafter. He was easy to talk to, easy to understand, and with his guidance and expertise we planned our estate. Our main concern was protecting our assests from excessive taxes and preserving them as much as possible for our children and grandchildren. Needless to say, Michael helped us accomplish that. My daughter attended the last seminar in November with us and she said it really got her thinking about it, especially since she has 3 children. I have recommend Michael to my family and friends and three of them plan to seek his expertise with their estate planning in the near future. I would love to add one other thing.......Michael makes you feel like your Family!!!
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24 Nov, 2014 by Diane
for 10 or more years I had been trying to get my husband to agree to go to any estate planning lawyer to have a will/trust prepared. we knew very little about the whys & hows of estate planning. I had even been cutting out newspaper articles about the process for us to read but to no avail. we did attend one seminar during that period but while we learned a little more @ the process, it would be another few years before he finally took action. he had seen a notice in the newspaper for an upcoming seminar @ estate planning presented by a lawyer named Michael bonfrisco. he was finally motivated to attend another seminar. we attended that seminar in mar of 2013. he made his presentation so interesting and realistic that it felt like he was talking about us (& probably many of the other attendees). we could relate to the family in his presentation. my husband was so impressed that he scheduled a consultation (free) with him immediately after the seminar ended. when we met with him a couple of weeks later we explained exactly what we wanted to accomplish. he took us step by step through the process and provided us with a timeline. he listened to and understood our concerns, explained basic info to us, and then advised us to how he would proceed to protect our financial & personal interests by eliminating probate, excessive taxes ,& preserving our assets for our immediate family members. he explained what financial and personal info he would need b/f he could proceed. we met with him a few weeks later and fine tuned every aspect of the document to assure that it accomplished just what we wanted. two months later, by may 2013, we had signed our trust document with mr bonfrisco. over the past 20 months we have received numerous e-mail notices with updates and other seminars. we've also had need to ask several questions and have always received a quick response (w/o charge) from himself or one of his very knowledgeable staff members. we attended "our" 1st annual family legacy seminar on nov 15 and enjoyed it immensely. after the seminar he took time to answer questions on a 1 to 1 basis from the attendees. he truly takes a personal interest in all his old clients & any prospective clients. I would highly recommend Michael Bonfrisco to any of my family or friends.
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26 Aug, 2024 by Michael pone
25 Aug, 2024 by Paulette smith
The firm worked hard to ensure that I was compensated for a work related injury. Not many law firms take government cases. Mr. Jason took his time and explained everything to me in detailed and answered my questions.
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20 Aug, 2024 by Louis klekos
This law office goes above and beyond I highly recommend anyone in the federal government to use them. There knowledge in dealing with the department of labor is exactly what you need going forward on your claims.
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06 Dec, 2016 by Judi
Our initial meeting with Nancy and staff was very pleasant, professional, and informative. We have met all the financial obligations and have further questions. We can not get a return call or appointment to address our needs.
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17 Jun, 2015 by Nancy & jim
We have been dealing with Nancy M. Rice Esq. since 1997 to satisfy our Elder Law needs and decisions. We
could not be happier or more satisfied with her guidance and skills. We highly recommend her to anyone
in need of Elder Law Services. It will be the best decision one could make.
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13 Aug, 2014 by Ed
I first started working with Nancy several years ago with power of attorney paperwork for a parent. At that time things were relatively straightforward. As things progressed, and my parent began to need more help, Nancy was able to steer me not only to other legal members of her firm but also an elder care specialist who was incredibly valuable in helping select an appropriate nursing home. Bottom line: my family's needs were met far beyond cut and dried legal matters. Nancy and her firm are HIGHLY recommended.
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26 Aug, 2024 by Michael pone
25 Aug, 2024 by Paulette smith
The firm worked hard to ensure that I was compensated for a work related injury. Not many law firms take government cases. Mr. Jason took his time and explained everything to me in detailed and answered my questions.
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20 Aug, 2024 by Louis klekos
This law office goes above and beyond I highly recommend anyone in the federal government to use them. There knowledge in dealing with the department of labor is exactly what you need going forward on your claims.
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27 Apr, 2024 by Dipak thesiya
Kim is very competent. She knows her job well. However communication can be better.
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26 Jan, 2024 by Jimmy patel
Great firm to work with. Very responsive and on top of their tasks. Five stars from me.
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21 Dec, 2023 by Zeshan nawaz
A very courteous and helpful team! I had the pleasure of working with Sachin on the closing of my new residence and he was very thorough and helpful. I've called them several times and they always pick up immediately and have a very helpful team on the phone as well. Will be using their services again!
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21 Dec, 2021 by Mike
Richard has been trusted with our family affairs for years now. He is always careful to guide us in the right direction with our be interests at heart. I would not hesitate to recommend him to anyone in need of family trust or estate matters.
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14 Jun, 2018 by Anonymous
Rich Cohen was our lawyer regarding estate issues. At first, I thought he knew what he was doing. However, as the case progressed, motions were not filed in a timely manner and we were charged hourly rates for legal work that was not completed or followed through with the court. He also failed to send our family copies of court filings, yet we were charged. We ended up hiring another attorney who was way more familiar with the law. I do not recommend him as he does not follow through yet he runs up your bill. Our issues were never resolved by Mr. Cohen and I cannot recommend him for any type of estate work as it ended up being a very costly mistake for our family by hiring Richard Cohen.
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03 Nov, 2017 by Anonymous
Mr. Cohen handled my family legal dispute that involved a will, and many assets and was able to retrieve and/or receive a judgment on ALL assets that had been stolen and commingled or misappropriated. He was also able to quickly have the executrix of the estate removed from any authoritative position so that further damage could not be done. It was a long rigorous process that ended with trial and a large judgment in my favor however, there were also many other victories along the way.
Mr. Cohen went above and beyond with my case, picking me up when I didn't have a ride, dealing with my less than respectful family, and much more. I am now happy that I can call him a friend. If you are looking for a smart lawyer who is willing to go the extra mile, and implement creative tactics to help you reach your end game, I would recommend Mr. Cohen to anyone.
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11 Mar, 2024 by Anonymous
He overbills for every little thing he does. I found myself with exorbitant bills and very little to show for it. Seemed like nothing was being done on my case to justify it. As someone else said here, very little communication. The work was shoddy in my opinion, just reflecting a general lack of care.
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05 Aug, 2022 by Anonymous
Fiore Bucci only answers your calls until you give him your retainer. After that don't expect a call back or an email. I've left 3 or 4 calls and emails and no answer. And when you do get him on a phone for his lack of responding he charges you for it. I had to get a new lawyer and start over after I paid him close to $1,600 and almost nothing was done. When you do press him to do something, he promises it and days go by and nothing is done. When he says he'll have something for you on a certain day, don't expect him to do what he commits to. I think he is the wrong profession.
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20 Jun, 2021 by Ann marie
Would definitely recommend. Was quick to respond, retain, and get to work. Results were faster than expected and communication was maintained throughout the whole process.
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03 Jun, 2024 by Joel small
His Staff makes sure,they keep incontact
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05 Apr, 2024 by Mary alonso
Beyond horrible experience. Actually he made things worse for my family.
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20 Mar, 2024 by Fred spaulding
I like what R put in the reviews
No phone replies
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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.
