Best Estate Planning lawyers in Columbia, LA

2 Estate Planning Lawyers in Columbia, LA

experienced lawyers

James L. Carroll

Po Box 1619, Columbia, LA

Child Support Estate Planning Litigation +1 +4

1.0/5

1.0

3 Reviews

31 May, 2014 by Sputnikman harassment/terminated/discrimination

I became licensed to sell Life and Annuities in nov of 1999. Went under contract with a nationally recognised prominent company and successfully completed all contract requirements. My wife and I were doing well during these times. Then in 2003 my manager retired ;therefore, bring on a goofball. I was forced to work under his inadequate supervision and reported the sexual harassment to the state boss from this new manager to no avail. This very same goofball of a manager terminated my contract in June of 2005. And the state boss remarked, "It's out of my hands." But, later on tape said, "I fired that queer ***, are you ready to come back to work?" I saw Mr Carroll in August of 05 where he said to my wife and I that he could help us recover our losses and more for the harassment and lost wages. During this terminated time my book of renewal and current new business was up to one thousand three, or four people I had personally sold life ins., coverage to or set-up retirement accounts. Many money transfers and rollovers were scheduled in the near future back then from my book of business... I suppose better to forget the state bosses promises, "No one will steal your people or take your business. (They turn out to be all lies.) Mr Carroll said it is best to wait one year before filing your lawsuit for same-sex-sexual harassment. My depositions were taken over two days and he and the Ins. Co., attorney appeared to be best of friends. Then The State bosses depo was taken. And a great deal of time passed as Mr Carroll made excuses of, "we can't locate the perpetrator" or "he is in Washington state." Then he did take the perpetrator's depo in his home town of Denham Springs, LA. His depo and the state boss who fired the perpetrator's deposition are in serious conflict. Somebody is lying. But, Mr. Carroll did not pick up this issue but rather called me up on the phone and said, "It's all over. The judge ruled against you and didn't believe you." I ask, "What about my loses and the money they stole from me? Will you be able to recover any of my losses?" Mr Carroll simply stated, " No, I've done the best I could and it's over. I'm sorry, I wish it would have been more successful. I have thirty-seven thousand in expenses in this case." There seems to have been a joy in his voice. So, I thought and prayed about the matter as the wife and I did before seeking Mr Carroll's help and advice. Oh and because of this loss in life, etc. Mr Carroll was also my divorce attorney. My divorce was final 7/18/2012. So, I've heard my ex is now employed by one of Mr Carroll's best friends he's known most of his life. So I am permanently disabled mainly due to this loss of career and Mr Carroll has "forgiven" the thirty-seven thousand in expenses he incurred. Goes to wonder what happened between Mr. Carroll and the Insurance Company who believes in "sprinkling money on attorney's to make them go away." Of and he is very expensive in the cost of my divorce which I have agreed to pay twenty-five dollars a month from my disability check. And that bill remains over three thousand dollars. So, when it is all said and done I loose a career worth millions of dollars, a wife who still to this day I love very much and has been a rock of valuable support in my life until that divorce. So, Mr. Carroll I do not know what or why you singled me out to be the biggest loss in my life for or know any of your motives except maybe money is you God and worship it accordingly. How did you say it, ? "One in the hand is better than fifty in the bush." Remember on the trip back from Denham Springs, La all you said? Somethings you need to take to the LORD. In closing, I pray no one else has to endure the malpractice, and personal abuse I received from you personally and at times your office as well. It is my prayer, "Mr. James L. Carroll you are healthy, wealthy, and wise but most importantly you have no problem sleeping at night." May God be with you and forgive you your sin,

25 Mar, 2014 by Rodneym

I do not recommend James Carroll. I hired James more than 3 years ago. James handled my Sexual Harassment matter. Licensed to sell Life and Annuities in Nov. of 1999. Went under contract with a nationally recognized prominent company and successfully completed all contract requirements. My wife and I were doing well during these times. Then in 2003 my manager retired ;therefore, bring on a goofball. I was forced to work under his inadequate supervision and reported the sexual harassment to the state boss from this new manager to no avail. This very same goofball of a manager terminated my contract in June of 2005. And the state boss remarked, "It's out of my hands." I saw Mr Carroll in August of 05 where he said to my wife and I that he could help us recover our losses and more for the harassment and lost wages. During this terminated time my book of renewal and current new business was up to one thousand three, or four people I had personally sold life ins., coverage to or set-up retirement accounts. Many money transfers and rollovers were scheduled in the near future back then from my book of business.I suppose better to forget the state bosses promises, "No one will steal your people or take your business." (They turn out to be all lies.) Mr Carroll said it is best to wait one year before filing your lawsuit for same-sex-sexual harassment. My depositions were taken over two days and he and the Ins. Co., attorney appeared to be best of friends leaving depo's to have lunch. Then The State bosses depo was taken. And a great deal of time passed as Mr Carroll made excuses of, "we can't locate the perpetrator" or "he is in Washington state." Then he did take the perpetrator's depo in his home town of Denham Springs, LA. His depo and the state boss who fired the perpetrator's deposition are in serious conflict. Somebody is lying. But, Mr. Carroll did not pick up this issue but rather called me up on the phone and said, "It's all over. The judge ruled against you and didn't believe you." I ask, "What about my loses and the money they stole from me? Will you be able to recover any of my losses?" Mr Carroll simply stated, " No, I've done the best I could and it's over. I'm sorry, I wish it would have been more successful. I have thirty-seven thousand in expenses in this case." I forgive those. A joy in his voice. So, I thought and prayed about the matter as the wife and I did before seeking Mr Carroll's help and advice. Oh and because of this loss in life, etc. Mr Carroll was also my divorce attorney. My divorce was final 7/18/2012. So, I've heard my ex is now employed by one of Mr Carroll's best friends he's known most of his life. So I am permanently disabled mainly due to this loss of career and Mr Carroll has "forgiven" the thirty-seven thousand in expenses he incurred. Goes to wonder what happened between Mr. Carroll and the Insurance Company who believes in "sprinkling money on attorney's to make them go away." Of and he is very expensive in the cost of my divorce which I have agreed to pay twenty-five dollars a month from my disability check. And that bill remains over three thousand dollars. So, when it is all said and done I loose a career worth millions of dollars, a wife who still to that day had been a rock of valuable support in my life until that divorce. So, Mr. Carroll I do not know what or why you singled me out to be the biggest loss in my life for or know any of your motives except maybe money is you God and worship it accordingly. How did you say it, ? "One in the hand is better than fifty in the bush." Remember on the trip back from Denham Springs, La all you said? Somethings you need to take to the LORD.

29 Dec, 2013 by Rodney

James E Mixon

107 Riser St, Columbia, LA

Business Estate Planning +2

0.0/5

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What an Estate Planning Lawyer Can Do for You

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

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

When Should I Hire an Estate Planning Lawyer?

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

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

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

What Does an Estate Planning Lawyer Do?

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

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

How Are Estate Planning Lawyers Paid?

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

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

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

How Much Does an Estate Planning Lawyer Cost?

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

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

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

How to Check the Credibility of an Estate Planning Lawyer

To ensure you’re hiring a credible estate planning lawyer, follow these steps:

Verify their state bar license: Check with your state bar association to confirm that the lawyer is licensed and in good standing, with no history of disciplinary actions.
Look for estate planning certifications: Some lawyers are certified as estate planning specialists, which indicates they have extensive knowledge in this area of law.
Read client reviews and testimonials: Online reviews on sites like Avvo, Google, or Martindale-Hubbell can provide insight into the lawyer’s professionalism and client satisfaction.
Ask for references: A credible lawyer should be able to provide references from previous clients who can speak to their expertise and client service.
Check for membership in professional organizations: Lawyers who are members of organizations like the National Academy of Elder Law Attorneys (NAELA) or the American College of Trust and Estate Counsel (ACTEC) often have a strong reputation in the field.

What Should I Prepare for My First Consultation?

To get the most out of your first meeting with an estate planning lawyer, it’s important to come prepared. Here’s what you should bring:

List of assets and liabilities: Provide a detailed inventory of your assets, including real estate, bank accounts, retirement funds, investments, and personal property, as well as any debts you may have.
List of beneficiaries: Be ready to discuss who you want to receive your assets and in what proportions. This includes naming guardians for minor children if applicable.
Existing estate documents: Bring copies of any existing wills, trusts, powers of attorney, or other relevant estate planning documents.
Questions about your estate goals: Write down your goals, such as avoiding probate, reducing taxes, or setting up charitable donations, so your lawyer can tailor a plan to meet your needs.
Information on medical and financial decision-makers: Be prepared to discuss who you want to appoint for healthcare and financial decisions if you become incapacitated.

By being well-prepared, you can ensure a productive consultation and begin building a comprehensive estate plan that meets your needs and protects your loved ones.