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19 Feb, 2024 by George
I would highly recommend utilizing the services that the Law Offices of Martin Springer provides. During a hard time within the family, Martin was able to handle all of the financial and legal documentation that needed to be filed. This allowed my family and I to deal with the emotional toll that a loss takes on an entire family. Martin was able to provide clear and concise directions on how the process would work and timelines in which things needed to be handled. There were many components that Martin educated us on that we didn't know existed or had to be done. I strongly recommend working with Martin Springer as you will get the best quality assistance.
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09 Apr, 2019 by Harry
Martin has handled my wills, estates, taxes and real estate dealings for over 20 years. Most recently he totally handled the sale of my primary residence in Princeton, NJ. His expertise and manner kept me calm during what could have been an overwhelmingly stressful process. His ability to know the answers and to know how to clearly handle my concerns made for a smooth closing. Over the years, I have recommended his services to friends and family and I will continue to refer him with heart-felt appreciation for his work.
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27 Sep, 2018 by Ken
This is our second time in 20 years using Martin's services to draft estate documents. In both circumstances, he has proven to be highly knowledgeable and extremely efficient. He took all the time necessary to clearly explain options and guide us toward the choices most appropriate in our particular circumstances. We always felt welcome and never rushed. I wholeheartedly endorse Martin and would not hesitate to recommend his services to anyone who is interested.
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16 Nov, 2018 by Margaret
Mr. Orron handled two matters for me. One was a challenging estate settlement, which he masterfully negotiated in my favor. The transaction that followed a year later was a real estate sale. The real estate sale was painless on my part and David Orron stayed on top of it, filling me in as needed... Worry-free professional service. I completely trust him and also had him draw up my health/will etc. papers. I highly recommend his professional services.
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16 Nov, 2018 by Laura
I hired Mr Orron to handle an estate and I found him to be extremely professional and very helpful. I would highly recommend him to anyone needing his services. I also found his staff to be very competent and knowledgeable.
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15 Nov, 2018 by Barry
David Orron has been my lawyer for several years . He has been reliable, hard working , communicative , honest , and his staff is the same . He has handed all of the work I have given him with efficiency and even when faced with an unforeseen situation , he has handled that for me and charged me very reasonably especially considering the last minute snag that was not related to him . Highly recommend !
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16 Jun, 2015 by Marty
My interaction with Don on my recent purchase of my home was excellent from the first phone call to the flawless closing. Don educated me along the way and kept me well advised. His fee was precisely as quoted, no extras, no surprises. He saved me several hundred dollars by getting the Title Company to accept an older survey. He was easily available by e-mail or telephone to talk through concerns. He gave good advice, yet listened to my concerns and needs. I could not have been more pleased with his service. He clearly exceeded all of my expectations. Thanks Don!
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25 Oct, 2010 by Mary
I initially met Don through the Chamber of Commerce. He provided top quality legal support to the Chamber, and impressed me with his expertise and commitment to quality. I was pleased to engage him on a commercial lease matter, and I highly recommend his work. If you need someone who is thorough and easy to deal with, Don is the right choice for you.
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29 May, 2024 by J c
I needed help with a inquiry dealing with the division of revenue and enterprise services. Not only did Linda never even bother to pay mind to my issue, but her office gave up completely after 2 weeks. They didn't care that even they couldn't get through after 2 weeks. It's been over a month and still no movement on my issue costing me and my wife $4500 in tax deductions. She got elected because she's a Democrat, not because she cares or does anything helpful.
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22 Apr, 2024 by Joseph miczak
Fantastic state senator, working for the people.
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16 Apr, 2024 by Peter
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09 Mar, 2019 by Tylee & sabrina
I was refered to Ms. Gabrielle Strich when seeking assistance for my employment matter. Marcia Leach took my call and asked me who I wanted to see her or Ms. Strich, she went over cost per hour and stated she was able to handle the employment matter at a smaller per hour rate than Ms. Strich. We insisted on seeing the actual lawyer we were refered to. She set up the appointment with herself and kept hushing me as I tried to talk. She had us go all over the place talking about different things during the consult time. We were not happy or satisfied. She kept talking about my friend spending down his ira so that he may become eligible for Medicaid before needing nursing home care.
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28 Dec, 2016 by Kenneth
I am very please and feel very confident with the services provided by Marcia Leach I am resting easy and know my best interests are her priority
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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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