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04 Sep, 2024 by Gerson
Hola mi nombre es gerson y estoy muy agradecido con la abogada y su equipo ! Muy profesionales . Consulte mi problema con ellos y me explicaron como podian ayudarme y tomaron mi caso . Ellos fueron muy puntuales en todas las cital telefonicas . Me fueron ecplicando todo el caso como estaba transcurriendo . Siempre me mantuvieron informado hasta que GANAMOS ! el caso .. estoy muy contento mi familia igual damos toda la fe a la abogada marcia guzman y si equipo ! Gracias a ellos ganamos. Y no permitio que mis derechos fueran pisoteados .. gracias nueva mente Bendiciones !
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11 Apr, 2024 by Norma a
Es una persona atenta amable en todo los aspectos Responsable soluciona los casos gracias
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07 Apr, 2024 by Melinda
I would have to say that it was an absolute pleasure having Marcia Guzman represent me in my wrongful termination case against my former employer. The dedication and commitment Mrs. Guzman and her team put into this case made me feel very comfortable and protected. From the very beginning, the firm maintained great communication and updated me on anything pertaining to my case. Mrs. Guzman and her team fought very hard throughout the entire case to make sure I am properly and well compensated by my former employer. Overall, I’m happy to say that I am very pleased with their professionalism and outcome of the settlement. I would happily recommend the firm to anyone needing an attorney for employment and labor, discrimination or wrongful termination.
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05 Feb, 2016 by Anonymous
Our family trust was created several years ago, and we knew that several changes were needed. We are so fortunate to have found Mr. Boss to do this work for us. Not only was his knowledge of trust law thorough and up-to-date, but he was very clear and also patient in his explanation to us of various provisions in the trust. I had just spent several months of frustration and confusion with a different lawyer in the administration of my parents' trust. Working with Mr. Boss was like a breath of fresh air after that experience. My phone calls and e-mails were answered promptly. All of the work on the trust was completed in the time agreed upon. We have already recommended him to our best friends, knowing that they would receive conscientious and excellent service.
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12 May, 2014 by Fritzie galliani
Donald Boss is a lawyer's lawyer. He is knowledgeable in the areas of business planning, trusts, wills, estate planning, and a host of other information. I have consulted with him on numerous occasions and have referred him clients who have given me positive feedback after he has rendered services for them. He's an outstanding lawyer.
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05 Mar, 2014 by Neil
I was the Executor of a Will with a trust benefiting two beneficiaries, myself and an estranged family member. When this responsibility was thrust on me I was busy with my business, refused to contact the second beneficiary and mostly ignored Don's direction and advice. Don chased me down, forcefully explained my legal obligations and laid out my detailed "To Do" list. Don made it as easy as possible for me but never relented on meeting deadlines and getting things done. Don knew his stuff and how to manage at least one difficult client.
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08 Oct, 2015 by Anonymous
One of my family members was arrested for a DUI case. Rory helped us understand the law and assisted us with court proceedings. His services resulted in a favorable outcome for my family and I would recommend his services to people seeking help for DUI or drug offenses.
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08 Oct, 2015 by Dario
When I have needed help with business issues the attorneys at Leisinger Law have consistently provided our medical practice with the highest level of legal counsel, proactively addressing issues before they escalate into problems. Rory and Ryan have helped me with employee discipline issues, contract difficulties, and other legal advice.
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28 Sep, 2015 by John
This Law firm very quickly and professionally handled a business dispute on our behalf, giving us the peace of mind to be able to focus back on the business of business.
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09 Feb, 2021 by David
Gustavo is an excellent attorney, because he is always prepared to tackle his clients' concerns in a timely manner.
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02 Mar, 2024 by James smith
Keep up the great work attorney! 🙏
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27 Jan, 2024 by Cecilia rosas
Javier Castillo has been the BEST OF THE BEST! I recommend him! When others told me that it was impossible. He took the extra time to help me and my Siblings for our Probate! Don’t doubt about Javier he is Great. God Bless his business. Cecilia Rosas. Yo Recomiendo a Javier y A su Equipo de Trabajo. Muy Buen Abogado! Cuando otros me decían que no podían ayudarme el no dudo en explicarme todo y Ayudarme con el Probate ! Gracia Javier!!!!!!!!
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13 Feb, 2023 by Todd
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13 Apr, 2024 by Colleen moore
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20 Feb, 2024 by Ray reid
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07 Feb, 2024 by Karen feulner
As an estate beneficiary trying to sort out illogical and incorrect document submissions from the attorney of record in an on-going estate proceeding, I contacted the Stapleton Law Office for help. Every interaction I had with the Stapleton Law Office was welcoming, helpful, professional, and informative. Their quick and efficient document review, direct responses to my questions, and overall knowledge about procedural requirements, were absolutely invaluable at a time when a helping hand was most needed. The Stapleton Law Office has shown themselves to be trustworthy and good to work with. I will not hesitate to use their services again or refer them to others.
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13 Apr, 2024 by Colleen moore
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20 Feb, 2024 by Ray reid
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07 Feb, 2024 by Karen feulner
As an estate beneficiary trying to sort out illogical and incorrect document submissions from the attorney of record in an on-going estate proceeding, I contacted the Stapleton Law Office for help. Every interaction I had with the Stapleton Law Office was welcoming, helpful, professional, and informative. Their quick and efficient document review, direct responses to my questions, and overall knowledge about procedural requirements, were absolutely invaluable at a time when a helping hand was most needed. The Stapleton Law Office has shown themselves to be trustworthy and good to work with. I will not hesitate to use their services again or refer them to others.
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01 Mar, 2024 by Julio chavez
Wow, spoke personally with Mr. Warren regarding legal advice needed on debt problems and he took the time to explain to me options that are available to me and was VERY straightforward with me and gave me amazing advisement. He was not out to just get a quick buck off of someone and truly cares. I recommend him over several attorneys offices that I called who were not helpful or informative. I can honestly say I was surprised to get this treatment from an attorney’s office. Thank you Kelly Warren and team. HIGHLY RECOMMEND!!!!!
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06 Nov, 2023 by Jim daley
Kelly was great. He very good a law. Thank you thank you thank you Kelly.
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12 Feb, 2022 by Ted jetman
Kelly Warren was hired by my father to handle the affairs for my sisters estate. We found that Kelly was very easy to do business with and was able to save my parents money by avoiding probate. He has a lot of experience and was always able to take the time to explain things to us and also offer us great advice and options. I highly recommend!!
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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:

  1. What is your experience with estate planning?
    Ensure the lawyer has substantial experience drafting wills, creating trusts, and handling other estate planning services.
  2. 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.
  3. 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.
  4. 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.
  5. 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.
  6. 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.

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