Lawyers map
>69
experienced lawyers
Filter by
08 May, 2023 by Diana p
I've had a very good experience with working with Blue and his staff. Everyone cared about doing a good job for my case and I received prompt responses to my questions. I appreciate Blue's guidance and the whole office's dedication for my case.
Read more
24 Dec, 2022 by Anonymous
I highly recommend Blue Spruell and his legal team! He is a very knowledgable in all legal matters for divorce and separation. He responds in a timely matter and is passionate about taking care of his clients. I really appreciate everything he has done for me and my family. Thank you Blue!
Read more
27 Jun, 2022 by Bertrand
Blue did a great job. He was responsive, attentive gave great advice and resolved an issue that has been a challenge for years.
He also redid i wills.
Read more
17 Aug, 2024 by Ps
21 Sep, 2022 by Pat tucker
Thank you Mr. Edwards for a great ESTATE PLANNING experience. You explained everything in a way that was easy for me to understand. I feel like a load has been lifted.
Read more
25 May, 2022 by William cook
09 Dec, 2009 by Jessica
I contacted Brad last minute to help me help my grandmother with her medical directive and financial power of attorney. He responded promptly and without hesitation. I needed someone with patience, knowledge and experience to sit down with her and carefully review and explain what these important documents were and how beneficial they were to her, and that is exactly what Brad did. I highly recommend him, if he can't help you, he will certainly do his research and refer you to someone who can. My family and I plan to continue to use his services in the future.
Read more
19 Oct, 2009 by Michael
I recently had the opportunity to work with Brad. He handled a case for that was not clear cut, but required a good understanding of the field in which he was practicing. He was persistent, he kept me in the loop, and negotiated a successful result.
Brad also clearly understood how the process was likely to unfold, and accurately presented the time line the case would follow. I was amazed. In addition, he was a careful steward of time and expenses, keep costs low.
I would highly recommend Brad, and have personally to friends and business associates.
Read more
24 Aug, 2009 by Shamus roff
Mr. Legare lead me through the process of putting a will together, and all aspects of the adavanced medical directives. These included a living will, health care proxy and durable power of attorney. During the process, Mr. Legare discussed in detail the process, terms and answered any questions I had. Since we completed the estate planning and medical directives I have gone back to Mr. Legare for various other legal questions unrelated to the previous work. He hs been very helpful and responded very quickly.
Read more
26 Jan, 2015 by Da'mon
Attorney Burns is an outstanding attorney , She is very knowledgeable and thorough. She is straight forward and will have your best interest at heart. She has proven herself to be dependable, informative and effective. I will definitely recommend her to others.
Read more
23 Jan, 2015 by Stephanie lee
Ms. Burns is a powerhouse attorney. She dedicates her time and energy to make sure your legal needs are handled with the utmost care. Her attention to detail and thoroughness, no matter how big or small the job, stands out the most to me. It has definitely been a pleasure working with Ms. Burns.
Read more
23 Jan, 2015 by Alexis
Ms. Burns demonstrates good judgment, diligence, and integrity in her life and law practice. Burns is caring and a good listener, two essential traits for an effective law practitioner.
Read more
28 Sep, 2018 by Latha
As his one and only daughter, I feel obligated to give him a great rating. He has helped me involving my pedagogical school work that I struggle with. I am rating him five stars, but he won't get me the Sims 4, so that's a minus. Over all, great for buying pizza. Takes me to Candler Park Market. Good.
Read more
29 Dec, 2010 by Bart
Dan has been our "go to" guy on the vast majdority of our commercial real estate transactional work since we started our company. Dan couples a sound understading of the law with a pragmatic, detail-oriented approach with which we have been very pleased. In addition, Dan has done estate planning for me and my family and here again - we have been very satisfied with the results. I would highly recommend Dan to anyone.
Read more
12 Dec, 2010 by Fisher
Dan has assisted my company in several commercial real estate purchase and lease transactions. He is extremely knowledgeable, responsive and never loses focus of getting the deal done. He has also assisted us in setting up operating agreements for various entities as well as our personal wills. He is an excellent general business and commercial real estate lawyer and I would highly recommend him.
Read more
22 Dec, 2015 by Eugenia
He was great. He fought hard to get me compensated for my accident. He was always responded in a timely manner if he was out of the office when I called. I have used Mr. Bastien two times and will use again.
Read more
07 Dec, 2015 by Magdalena
Villard Bastien helped me and another family member with a speeding ticket. It did not go on my record and I was very pleased, considering the fact that it was the second ticket in a year. I recommended him to friends and they were also very happy with Villard. I definitely recommend him.
Read more
07 Dec, 2015 by Jepsie
One of the best lawyers I know. He aided me in two occasions. In both cases, he got me the results that I needed. Definitely give him a try. Trust me, he is worth it.
Read more
06 Nov, 2012 by Linda
Henry was my parents' attorney for years. He took care of their needs before and after my father's death in 2001 and my mother's death in 2012. Henry was always conscientious, timely, knowledgeable and insistent on taking legally appropriate, ethical action in all cases. This was very helpful, since my brothers and I were unaware of legal options or requirements, much less pitfalls and problems. I would highly recommend Henry and his legal team for any legal needs, or a referral to another attorney if such is necessary.
Read more
25 May, 2011 by Anonymous
Henry is extremely knowledgeable, patient, and was a pleasure to work with. I highly recommend Henry.
Read more
27 May, 2016 by Fritz
I've gone through estate planning 3 times with 3 different attorneys and Brooks was by far the best. He is clearly smart and knowledgeable but what makes him so good is his ability to make things easy to understand and very clear. In addition, Brooks makes the whole process relatively fast and easy. I trust that we are in good hands with Brooks and I'm happy to recommend him to anyone looking for a good attorney in his areas of expertise.
Read more
06 Feb, 2016 by Robert
Brooks Mackintosh worked with us to create all the documents necessary for our estate-planning situation. This included wills, powers of attorney, advance directives for health care, HIPPA authorization, and other related documents. After contacting Brooks to schedule an initial appointment he sent us a questionnaire to gather the necessary personal, financial, and other information to start the estate planning process. We returned the questionnaire prior to our first meeting. During the first meeting Brooks reviewed the information with us and asked several questions for clarification of our current state of affairs. Brooks first provided an overview of the estate planning process and then talked about the various options and levels of estate planning and what he recommended for our situation. Going into the meeting, I had some experience with estate planning but my wife had none. Brook explained the estate planning process in a clear, concise, and thoughtful way that was understandable to both of us. His recommendation was in line with our expectations for estate planning.
Brooks then walked us through and explained in layman’s terms each of the documents and options we needed to consider. After going through all the documents he provided us with planning copies so we could consider the information he provided and which options we wanted to select. This closed the first meeting. We considered our options and sent the planning sheets back to Brooks so he could prepare the documents for our next meeting.
At the second meeting Brooks had all the documents prepared for review and signatures. He took the time to once again go through all the documents, explain the options, and noted our selections. While reviewing all the documents we decided to make one last minute change to our selections. Brooks quickly updated that document and we were then ready to sign the documents. During the signing process Brooks managed the documents with proficiency, as the signing of the documents required different people signing depending on the document. Brooks’ office staff was able to provide the notary service and witness to the documents.
Brooks provided our completed documents in a professional looking and well-organized binder along with instructions on which documents need to be distributed to executor, medical professionals, and people who will act on your behalf should the situation require. Overall Brooks made it an easy and very positive experience. Thanks Brooks!
Read more
15 Sep, 2024 by Teresa perez
15 Sep, 2024 by Deisi gonzalez
15 Sep, 2024 by Jose
15 Sep, 2024 by Teresa perez
15 Sep, 2024 by Deisi gonzalez
15 Sep, 2024 by Jose
15 Sep, 2024 by Teresa perez
15 Sep, 2024 by Deisi gonzalez
15 Sep, 2024 by Jose
15 Sep, 2024 by Teresa perez
15 Sep, 2024 by Deisi gonzalez
15 Sep, 2024 by Jose
24 Sep, 2024 by Dana stone deubel
Thank you Radford Scott LLP for your help and support through our time of need! Thank you, Grace! We couldn't have gone through this process without Grace Starling by our side! Her level of knowledge, her empathy, honesty, skill in her craft, and professionalism were essential for our success! This process was so stressful and frightening for my husband and I, and to be able to move through it with Grace by our side was a blessing. I highly recommend for anyone in need of legal help or support to contact Radford Scott and Grace. Thank you again for everything! We are so grateful!
Read more
19 Sep, 2024 by Alee strickland
Grace was so easy to work with and always answered any questions I had! (In a timely manner too! I never felt like I was left hanging!)
Read more
10 Sep, 2024 by H f
I had a paid consultation which was very disappointing. I have no issue with the attorney saying I don't have a claim as that's his job. Where I take issue is being asked for supporting documentation and none of it being reviewed ahead of the call. I was then rushed through a complicated situation that displays long-term harassment and told there was nothing that could be done. I felt like I paid $415 and put together hours of documentation for nothing. It was disheartening to say the least.
Read more
24 Sep, 2024 by Dana stone deubel
Thank you Radford Scott LLP for your help and support through our time of need! Thank you, Grace! We couldn't have gone through this process without Grace Starling by our side! Her level of knowledge, her empathy, honesty, skill in her craft, and professionalism were essential for our success! This process was so stressful and frightening for my husband and I, and to be able to move through it with Grace by our side was a blessing. I highly recommend for anyone in need of legal help or support to contact Radford Scott and Grace. Thank you again for everything! We are so grateful!
Read more
19 Sep, 2024 by Alee strickland
Grace was so easy to work with and always answered any questions I had! (In a timely manner too! I never felt like I was left hanging!)
Read more
10 Sep, 2024 by H f
I had a paid consultation which was very disappointing. I have no issue with the attorney saying I don't have a claim as that's his job. Where I take issue is being asked for supporting documentation and none of it being reviewed ahead of the call. I was then rushed through a complicated situation that displays long-term harassment and told there was nothing that could be done. I felt like I paid $415 and put together hours of documentation for nothing. It was disheartening to say the least.
Read more
24 Sep, 2024 by Dana stone deubel
Thank you Radford Scott LLP for your help and support through our time of need! Thank you, Grace! We couldn't have gone through this process without Grace Starling by our side! Her level of knowledge, her empathy, honesty, skill in her craft, and professionalism were essential for our success! This process was so stressful and frightening for my husband and I, and to be able to move through it with Grace by our side was a blessing. I highly recommend for anyone in need of legal help or support to contact Radford Scott and Grace. Thank you again for everything! We are so grateful!
Read more
19 Sep, 2024 by Alee strickland
Grace was so easy to work with and always answered any questions I had! (In a timely manner too! I never felt like I was left hanging!)
Read more
10 Sep, 2024 by H f
I had a paid consultation which was very disappointing. I have no issue with the attorney saying I don't have a claim as that's his job. Where I take issue is being asked for supporting documentation and none of it being reviewed ahead of the call. I was then rushed through a complicated situation that displays long-term harassment and told there was nothing that could be done. I felt like I paid $415 and put together hours of documentation for nothing. It was disheartening to say the least.
Read more
24 Sep, 2024 by Dana stone deubel
Thank you Radford Scott LLP for your help and support through our time of need! Thank you, Grace! We couldn't have gone through this process without Grace Starling by our side! Her level of knowledge, her empathy, honesty, skill in her craft, and professionalism were essential for our success! This process was so stressful and frightening for my husband and I, and to be able to move through it with Grace by our side was a blessing. I highly recommend for anyone in need of legal help or support to contact Radford Scott and Grace. Thank you again for everything! We are so grateful!
Read more
19 Sep, 2024 by Alee strickland
Grace was so easy to work with and always answered any questions I had! (In a timely manner too! I never felt like I was left hanging!)
Read more
10 Sep, 2024 by H f
I had a paid consultation which was very disappointing. I have no issue with the attorney saying I don't have a claim as that's his job. Where I take issue is being asked for supporting documentation and none of it being reviewed ahead of the call. I was then rushed through a complicated situation that displays long-term harassment and told there was nothing that could be done. I felt like I paid $415 and put together hours of documentation for nothing. It was disheartening to say the least.
Read more
13 Dec, 2014 by Karen
Having Mr. McNally guide us through updating our will helped us get that onerous task completed in a way that felt thorough and satisfying for our current life situation. He helped us think through decisions that had to be made in a friendly, calm setting by providing examples of legal and personal implications which also helped to clarify issues. And he is one of the rare people who actively listens and incorporates the information received into the work at hand. I would highly recommend him!
Read more
13 Dec, 2014 by Bill
Mr. McNally assisted me in settling the estate of my aunt. He explained the process to me clearly and succinctly and directed me through the steps. He let me do as much as I wanted to do for myself and he did the things for which I felt unprepared. We had a very good working relationship. I live in another state and our communications were mostly by email and everything was very satisfactory. The will was probated and the estate settled with absolutely no complications.
Read more
12 Dec, 2014 by Anonymous
He was very professional and handled everything. However, make sure you read everything carefully before you sign the final order. The client will be held responsible for understanding the agreement.
Read more
27 Sep, 2024 by Teri osabutey
The Office of Ken Lanier, LLC provided my family outstanding service during a challenging time. Offered superior legal advice and step by step guidance in plain English.
Read more
10 Apr, 2024 by Alicia scott
22 Mar, 2024 by Kimberly smith
Mr.Lanier took my case and from day one he was very professional. He kept me informed as how the case was moving . He sent me to a great doctor. Mr. Lanier didn’t just settle I feel he faught to keep me a better settlement.
He did exactly what he said he was good to do.
I will always use Mr. Lanier in the future.
Great Attorney.
Kimberly Smith
Read more
27 Sep, 2024 by Teri osabutey
The Office of Ken Lanier, LLC provided my family outstanding service during a challenging time. Offered superior legal advice and step by step guidance in plain English.
Read more
10 Apr, 2024 by Alicia scott
22 Mar, 2024 by Kimberly smith
Mr.Lanier took my case and from day one he was very professional. He kept me informed as how the case was moving . He sent me to a great doctor. Mr. Lanier didn’t just settle I feel he faught to keep me a better settlement.
He did exactly what he said he was good to do.
I will always use Mr. Lanier in the future.
Great Attorney.
Kimberly Smith
Read more
12 Sep, 2024 by Jennifer philbeck
Laura was very professional and also very prompt in her communication. She was fantastic to work with and I highly recommend her!
Read more
10 Sep, 2024 by Falon stimpson
Laura and I have worked together on different cases, and most recently, shared a client with very unique needs. Laura was a pleasure to work with, and when we needed to come to a meeting of the minds about our mutual client, she scheduled Zoom meetings, and phone calls, and we collaborated so easily. We both reached an excellent resolution for our most recent client, who reported to me that Laura was able to get the Judge to accommodate not only transport issues, but financial issues upon sentencing. I hope that we have more work together in the future!
Read more
05 Sep, 2024 by Fatfolks
She's so amazing does the best she can fights for your rights does her best thank you for everything you done for me
Read more
14 Oct, 2024 by K parks
Mr. Morrison and staff did an amazing job! Very professional and kind. He took time to explain details and was available to answer questions clearly and promptly. He values your input and will work hard for you for the best possible outcome.
Read more
20 Sep, 2024 by Michael anderson
Attorney LeeAnne Lynch represented me in a sex offender removal case which was contested by the state. During what was undoubtedly a stressful time for me and my family. LeeAnne proved to be an invaluable support. Her genuine care and empathy made a significant difference in my experience. She fought tirelessly for my case, always keeping me updated on the progress. LeeAnne was always one step ahead in planning our defense strategy and was straightforward about the possible outcomes of the case. She is a skilled knowledgeable negotiator and a strong advocate for her clients. Her professionalism and sincerity are commendable, and I am thankful for her exceptional legal service. LeeAnn and The Law Office of Andrew R. Lynch advocacy, strategic thinking, and persistence helped me achieve a winning outcome. I highly recommend LeeAnne to anyone facing similar circumstances or looking for top-notch representation in legal matters. She truly cares about her client’s case and will work for you.
Read more
16 Sep, 2024 by Jon claussen
Aaron Marks goes above and beyond to ensure his clients are not only completely satisfied with his assistance, but are sleeping well at night. His caring approach results in consistent communication and follow ups, which exceed any expectations. My family considers ourselves lucky to have him on our side.
Read more
06 Sep, 2024 by M p
An attorney friend recommended Roger Krause - calling him “the smartest man I know.”
My family quickly found that he was right. Besides being EXTREMELY clever-I found Mr. Krause (and his staff) to be fair, honest and VERY responsive.
This is the office you want on your side in any dispute. They will not forget about you and will work diligently to get things done.
My family received immediate attention from Mr. Krause and his staff and more assistance and kindness than we could have ever hoped for.
In this field, experience means everything and we were so thankful that they knew their stuff.
Our family cannot thank this law firm enough for their good work.
Read more
08 Jul, 2024 by Sarah harris
Doug Aholt and team were wonderful to work with. Even in the middle of a pandemic, Doug was able to get to know me and my case in order to lead me to the best possible outcome. He took the time to walk me through the multiple options I had and educate me on the process. I always knew what the next steps were and never felt like I was in the dark. I ended up with better results from my settlement than I thought possible. This was my first time ever needing a lawyer and the whole experience was a pleasant surprise.
Read more
08 Jul, 2024 by Janis dotson
Before I met this law firm, I was suspicious of the law field; therefore I was hesitant to go forward with my suit. A lawyer friend highly recommended this firm. The first time I met them I knew my friend had guided me in the right direction. My fear was unfounded and I was extremely pleased with the professionalism I experienced. They were compassionate, thoughtful and learned in their area of law. Their distinguished reputation among their peers was priceless and brought the suit to an acceptable conclusion. I felt they understood and would do all in their power according to the law to help me recover my losses. Above all I trusted them through the whole process. They were straight forward, if I did not understand their recommendations; they stayed with me until I fully understood. My experience from the start to finish of my settlement was of a firm that was patient and caring of my needs.
Read more
09 Aug, 2014 by Scott
Before I deployed to Afghanistan, Robert helped me set up my affairs so that my wife and children would be provided for in the event of an unfortunate circumstance. My family situation is more complicated than average, and he designed a trust that was tailored to the task.
Read more
11 Jul, 2014 by Diane
I had to have my dad's estate probated and I don't live in GA. Having Robert Turner as my attorney put my mind at ease. I appreciate that I never talked to his secretary or paralegal; I always communicated with him. Sometimes that meant I had to wait for him to get back from court but I was ok with that. He is very knowledgeable and patient explaining things. If I ever need legal assistance again, I will contact Mr. Turner. If he can't help me, I would trust his recommendation.
Read more
06 Jun, 2014 by Donna
Robert Turner represented me in an estate matter. He is very knowledgeable and got the work done in a timely manner. My case was difficult and involved fighting among the family. My family was completely at odds. Through his tireless and diligent work we were able to resolve all issues in our favor. Mr. Turner is an excellent attorney that I would highly recommend.
Read more
27 Dec, 2020 by Anonymous
He's very unprofessional. He gave my police report to someone else without my approval. Than he asked me private questions about my personal life. STAY AWAY!!!
Read more
10 Aug, 2020 by Anthony
Hired Derek in 2018 to assist with a case in Milledgeville forensic hospital. He was completely thorough and handling all aspects of the case. He was successful in handling this case in Fulton County. I would use him again without a doubt if ever needed. In my 45 years of business experience I have dealt with slightly under 10 attorneys and I would put Derek at the very top of the list. You can be confident that there will follow through for you and return your calls.
Read more
26 May, 2019 by Charity
Derek Gage is one of the best lawyers if not best lawyer. My boyfriend was dealing with a case and although last minute he graciously agreed to take him as a client. From our first phone conversation until close of case he worked diligently. He showed genuine concern, listened, and answered all of our questions. He was honest and upfront and didn't provide false hope. We were very pleased with the outcome of our case and are thankful for his hard work in getting my boyfriend's case resolved. I promise you will not be disappointed if you choose Mr. Gage as your attorney he will definitely do his best to help you and make sure you understand the law and the best and worst outcome for your particular case, and if he can't provide you with the best help for your case he will try to help find someone who can. You can't go wrong with picking Derek Gage!
Read more
06 Apr, 2024 by Doreen nace
I hired Attorney Glenn Stern to represent me back in November 2023. He was by far one of the most professional yet personable attorneys I have ever met. I could contact him anytime to ask for advice and he made himself available usually the same day I reached out to him. I hear so many of my peers in my support group stating how long their case is taking and how the communication with their attorney is lacking or nonexistent; this is by far not the case with Mr. Stern! He explained all scenarios and recommended proactive tasks to complete for my case prior to going before the judge. He fought for everything to go in my favor and had my charges dropped down to a lower level which I had discussed with him in the very beginning! I am so thankful to have found such an awesome attorney. I am now two months past my court date and almost through everthing to get my life back to a normal state. If you are looking for a top notch lawyer to represent you, hire Glenn Stern! I will definately hire Glenn again, however, hopefully I will never be in the situation where I need a criminal defense attorney again!
Read more
09 Feb, 2024 by Melissa martins
Attorney Glenn Stern offered the best defense. Hired for my husband, he allowed us to understand all possible outcomes and scenarios and which situation would work best for our case. We were in the toughest county to be accused of a crime. He fought for everything to go in my husband’s best interested and it did! We are so thankful to have found a reliable attorney. Now my husband has nothing to worry about and his life is back to normal. Aside from that Attorney Stern exhibited great professionalism. His communication was great and everyone was always on the same page. If anyone is looking for a great lawyer to save you in a tight situation he is your guy. Hopefully I will not need an attorney in the future but if I do I know I will be calling ATTORNEY GLENN STERN!
Read more
29 Mar, 2022 by Felix k.
06 Apr, 2024 by Doreen nace
I hired Attorney Glenn Stern to represent me back in November 2023. He was by far one of the most professional yet personable attorneys I have ever met. I could contact him anytime to ask for advice and he made himself available usually the same day I reached out to him. I hear so many of my peers in my support group stating how long their case is taking and how the communication with their attorney is lacking or nonexistent; this is by far not the case with Mr. Stern! He explained all scenarios and recommended proactive tasks to complete for my case prior to going before the judge. He fought for everything to go in my favor and had my charges dropped down to a lower level which I had discussed with him in the very beginning! I am so thankful to have found such an awesome attorney. I am now two months past my court date and almost through everthing to get my life back to a normal state. If you are looking for a top notch lawyer to represent you, hire Glenn Stern! I will definately hire Glenn again, however, hopefully I will never be in the situation where I need a criminal defense attorney again!
Read more
09 Feb, 2024 by Melissa martins
Attorney Glenn Stern offered the best defense. Hired for my husband, he allowed us to understand all possible outcomes and scenarios and which situation would work best for our case. We were in the toughest county to be accused of a crime. He fought for everything to go in my husband’s best interested and it did! We are so thankful to have found a reliable attorney. Now my husband has nothing to worry about and his life is back to normal. Aside from that Attorney Stern exhibited great professionalism. His communication was great and everyone was always on the same page. If anyone is looking for a great lawyer to save you in a tight situation he is your guy. Hopefully I will not need an attorney in the future but if I do I know I will be calling ATTORNEY GLENN STERN!
Read more
29 Mar, 2022 by Felix k.
23 Sep, 2020 by Andrea brown
They are very backwards. Why are they sending notices to a house that they banned me from going to. I've given them my correct address several times, but I guess that means nothing, smdh.
Read more
20 Feb, 2019 by Joyze taylor
23 Sep, 2020 by Andrea brown
They are very backwards. Why are they sending notices to a house that they banned me from going to. I've given them my correct address several times, but I guess that means nothing, smdh.
Read more
20 Feb, 2019 by Joyze taylor
23 Sep, 2020 by Andrea brown
They are very backwards. Why are they sending notices to a house that they banned me from going to. I've given them my correct address several times, but I guess that means nothing, smdh.
Read more
20 Feb, 2019 by Joyze taylor
Discover the ideal lawyer
You can search a lawyer by practice area, lawyer name, city, state, or ZIP code
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.
