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30 Mar, 2024 by Dawn
Megan and her team listened to what I needed in my divorce and guided me in the right direction with a very difficult spouse who wasn’t willing to cooperate. With Megan’s help he eventually did and I can’t thank her enough. She is very pleasant to work with and Her assistant Lori is great also. They helped a bad situation be a little easier and I can’t thank them enough. I highly recommend Walstrom Law
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17 Jan, 2024 by Tabitha
Megan THANK YOU! For providing your knowledge and expertise in handling my divorce case in addition to my other cases. I appreciate and value your time in how carefully you handled my cases. Thank you ,to your staff, Paralegal Lori. I appreciate your assistance and dedication, I appreciate you!! I pray blessings and prosperity over your firm as you continue to bless those in need of your services! I highly recommend The Walstrom Law Firm!
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22 Aug, 2023 by Theresa haslam
Great lawyers
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02 Jul, 2024 by Jb
Mr. Vassallo is caring, compassionate and thorough. He takes the time to understand the details of the case and acts with empathy and fairness. With Mr. Vassallo, you are not just another case file, instead you are treated like a priority with sincerity, professionalism and fierceness.
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16 Apr, 2024 by Nick
I have been dealing with my custody matter since 2016/2017. I had worked previously with another attorney in my earlier years of Family Court, who I thought was a great experience at the time. After several years of stagnant custody, I tried to work on changing my custody order pro se against an attorney. To say I was destroyed by the system is an understatement. After some time of trying to fight my way back out of my situation, I interviewed with attorneys about my case, at all price ranges. I even met with the attorney in the state that is considered to be “The Best”. Actually, two different attorneys at that same firm. After all of this effort, I came across Vernon Vassallo. I met with him at his office for an interview/consultation. After laying out my case and talking with him for some time, I left his office feeling reassured and that someone actually saw and understood me. Later that evening after meeting with him, I received an email from Mr. Vassallo asking for more information. He stated something I told him about my case just wasn’t sitting well with him. That was the moment I knew, he was the one. He immediately started working on my case, from filings to exhibits. He made sharing information with him so easy, that I even asked him for advice on communication with the other party. Every time he was right there by my side when I needed him. He built an amazing case, he saw things I never would have saw. He brought perspectives to the table I would have never had. He organized everything perfectly and he beautifully prepared our filings, exhibits and case with a nice neat binder to take to trial. Scared from the previous experiences in family court, I expressed my feelings with him. He said, “It’s okay to be nervous, everyone’s nervous in the courtroom. The bailiffs are nervous. The attorneys are nervous. Even the judge is nervous. But don’t be scared.” To say I received what I wanted out of our trial, would be doing Mr. Vassallo a disservice. He superseded any expectation I could have imagined. He is the best. He has a client for life now. Thank you Mr. Vassallo.
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11 Apr, 2024 by Sherrille
Treated my mom and grandma like family. Was patient and answered all of their questions. Was extremely knowledgeable. Great demeanor and made the process of getting a will completed extremely easy.
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13 Jun, 2024 by Stacie
Going through a custody battle can be confusing, exhausting and stressful. Especially, when you find out two months to trial the other side retained an attorney.
I decided it would be best to seek some form of counsel. I was referred to Mr. Tsakataras through another attorney. I immediately called because I had been praying for guidance, and this attorney gave him a stellar recommendation. I did my own research while awaiting the consultation meeting. His reputation was incredible! He has EXTENSIVE experience in custody matters. He has state / federal contracts in the family court system. This man has earned the respect; and you only do that by working hard! So, everything in me said “THIS, is exactly WHO you need to talk to!”
Fast forward to the Monday we were meeting, we ended up rescheduling because an emergency hearing was the following day he had to prepare for. I was timely notified by Steven (his paralegal) and informed of what was going on. How could I even be upset? That’s the type of person you WANT on your team. Somebody who is DEDICATED to your case and will FIGHT to see the best outcome.
Finally, it’s the day of the consult, he called me in a timely fashion; and he let me know how the process works; 50 minutes, i had already sent all my documentation to him- so even though it was via phone; it was as if I was in the office.
He told me the retainer fees, and asked me if I wanted to be prepared, OR, if I would be able to pay the fee. I opted for preparation as trial is set for next month and the fees as a result was going to be very high.
During this consultation, he outlined in details which factors are the factors I should be focused on, how to highlight them, how to present them to court. He gave me valuable information that you really can’t put a price tag on. Once the 50 minutes was up, he did not rush to get off the phone. He made sure I was able to take very detailed notes, giving me dates, telling me how to get things admitted into court and before the judge.
I feel very confident in my case, however, he has made my confidence level boost while fright of the attorney has diminished.
I 110% recommend this attorney and I am so glad I had the opportunity to speak with him. It’s evident that he cares a lot more about the people he HELPS than he does about the money; I can only pray he continues to have great success in all paths of his life and continues to be blessed.
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09 Aug, 2023 by James
George was very straightforward and honest with me and really helped me moving forward with my case highly recommended
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19 Mar, 2023 by Anonymous
Mr. Tsakataras was very professional. I could tell he knew what he was doing. He had the experience to deal with the situation I came to him for and gave me great advice. Steven, the paralegal was very helpful and courteous. I would highly recommend this firm.
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27 Mar, 2023 by Anonymous
I attended one of PWW's free seminar's in Lewes years ago and felt so comfortable with their presentation where they shared great information without 'selling'. We hired Amber and her team to correct and update Moms estate/trust documents (a different firm prepared these docs and they weren't prepared correctly). Amber took the time to explain herself to my aging Mom and me using her 'buckets' drawing which were very easy to understand. The entire PWW team are amazing! If your looking for an excellent attorney in Delaware, PWW's team is worth the drive to either Seaford or Lewes!
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08 Nov, 2020 by Ron & cindy
We first hired Amber to help with my father-in-law's estate. She was exceptionally patient with us as we all embarked on a new journey, as was her entire staff. She helped him organize all of his assets into both a Revocable Trust and an Irrevocable Trust. She also helped with his Advanced Directive. We were so pleased with Amber, that we hired her for our own Estate planning several months later. She helped us with our will, a Revocable Trust and our Advanced Directives. I highly recommend Amber Woodland for all your Estate planning needs!!
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25 Jul, 2020 by Jim
Amber held our initial meeting in a very organized way, listening and inviting our comments and questions all the way through. When it came time to finalize our wills, we had agreed on one element that we later changed our minds about. Amber was patient and understanding, and ably made the adjustment. We are fully satisfied!
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24 Jun, 2022 by Dmytro
Tiffany has handled my auto claim case and negotiations with insurance carrier.
Case finally settled well.
Highly recommended
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07 Mar, 2022 by Camille
Tiffany Shrenk, Esq. represented me in a personal injury lawsuit and exceeded my expectations! She and her support staff were amazing to work with and made me feel secure throughout the entire process. They always communicated clearly with me, answered any questions I had, and kept it honest about the potential outcomes in my case. Thanks to Tiffany Shrenk, Esq. and her team, I made it through one of the most difficult times I’ve ever faced and made out very well in the settlement.
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11 Jan, 2021 by Brian
Tiffany treated us with respect, patience and diligence from the first time we spoke. She was honest about the timetable, the cost and what would be required from us. All of which came in UNDER her initial estimates. She was courteous, encouraging and very empathetic. She was our Lawyer, now she’s our Friend. Would recommend her wholeheartedly!!
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27 Jul, 2022 by Tony
I want to publicly thank you for your assistance with a company's erroneous business dealings. Your assistance was greatly appreciated in getting justice against them. Thanks a million. God Bless
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14 Sep, 2020 by Sean
Thank you for leading down the right path for help. Since I now have legal help I can focus on my healing. Thanks again.
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25 Jun, 2020 by Donna baker
Greg is a Brilliant Attorney, who is very knowledgeable with very good communication skills. Greg is a Honest Attorney who has advised me in a professional, courteous, respectful manor.
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23 Dec, 2020 by Larry
We hired Attorney Robbert to assist us with structuring our " Living Trust" and we are very satisfied with his efforts.
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21 Dec, 2020 by Anonymous
We worked with John and his staff to put together a comprehensive plan for our estate. We left his office with our paperwork updated, beneficiaries in place, confidence and peace of mind. Our paperwork is all in one place, easy to understand and well organized. John and his family also contribute to our community in many ways. Thank you!
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22 Sep, 2020 by Anonymous
John and his team carefully guided us through the creation of estate planning for my wife and I and my parents through the creation of revocable trust(s). I can't emphasize enough the care and support we received through this process and would HIGHLY recommend John to anyone who is considering the same.
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31 Dec, 2019 by Diana
I worked with Brian on a case as an expert witness. He is very diligent, organized and thorough. He knew exactly what he was doing and got the job done! He was a pleasure to work with. I highly recommend him.
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05 Sep, 2019 by Anonymous
I hired Mr. Ferry in a collection matter about a year ago and although the outcome was not as I would have liked due to circumstances outside his control, I was impressed from day one with Mr. Ferry's approach and professionalism. He had a clear sense of the steps that needed to be taken in my case, identified potential pitfalls, outlined cost implications for continued litigation outside his area of expertise, and proved to be a strong sounding board when deciding whether to continue pursuing the case. He was instrumental in identifying another attorney outside his own firm with expertise in the area that I needed, continued to work with this attorney following, and made me feel perfectly comfortable conferring with him when things became confusing or I felt as though focus was being lost on my core objectives.
I was an out-of-state client and have yet to meet Mr. Ferry in person. I can say that I have great trust in him and his judgement. I am grateful for all he has done with respect to my case and recommend him highly. Overall, an incredibly decent person and a very capable attorney.
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14 Mar, 2019 by Joyce
Mr. Ferry represented me in a lawsuit to remove a Power of Attorney who had been taking money from my father behind his back. We were successful in the Court of Chancery to have the person removed and the money returned. Mr. Ferry is a great lawyer with a wonderful demeanor.
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13 Oct, 2017 by Ellen
I could tell as soon as I stepped foot into the comforting office of The Delaware Elder Law Center (and was immediately greeted by the cutest little dog) that we were in the right hands, and that this is a business that is family owned and operated, because we were treated like family, too. The entire process went so smoothly, and we were all shocked and SO relieved at how much money we saved by planning ahead and getting my mom ready for long term Medicaid. If you need an Elder Law attorney or have questions about estate planning and long term Medicaid qualification, look no further than The Delaware Elder Law Center. Their rates are very very reasonable, and it is definitely an investment you do not want to take chances on. Thank you so much, Wade and team!
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12 Nov, 2013 by Todd
My dealings with Wade Scott was a welcome and positive experience during an otherwise difficult period in my life. His knowledge, work ethic and dedication are top notch. All the bases of my issue were expertly covered and allowed me to focus on the other matters at hand without having to worry about legal issues at hand. He adds a personal touch that can only be achieved through genuine compassion for his clients. Wade Scott stands above all others in his field.
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02 Jul, 2013 by Sandra
Wade Scott is a compassionate and knowledgeable attorney who works for the best interest and protection of his clients. I have nothing but respect for him and his abilities. I would recommend him to anyone who needs assistance with an elder family member or friend.
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06 Sep, 2019 by Paula and michael
We worked with Paul recently to rework our outdated estate plans. He is knowledgable, easy to work with and takes the time to thoroughly explain the options and reasoning behind the plan and documents. We highly recommend his work for trusts and estate planning. He makes the entire process efficient and transparent. Thank you!
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16 May, 2019 by Beth
Before my husband and I met with Paul, I was under the impression that a DIY online Will was all we needed to protect the best interests of our children. I am so glad I followed through with calling this law office. I'm relieved to have all of our documents in place and Paul on our team.
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15 May, 2019 by Benjamin
Paul O'Brien is an extremely pleasant, respectful and kind person. He explains legal matters clearly and in an easy to understand manor. His fees are reasonable and work is exceptional. I would absolutely give him my highest recommendation.
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26 Apr, 2024 by Rich costello
I recently worked with D Cummings Law to settle a fence dispute with my neighbor and update our estate plan, and I couldn't be happier with the service I received.
Mr. Cummings was incredibly thorough and thoughtful throughout the entire process. He took the time to understand our situation and provided clear and effective solutions to resolve the fence dispute. Additionally, he guided us through the estate planning process with expertise, ensuring that our wishes were accurately reflected in our documents.
Not only was the legal work impeccable, but the communication and professionalism demonstrated by Mr. Cummings was outstanding. He was always available to answer any questions we had and made sure we felt comfortable and informed every step of the way.
I highly recommend D Cummings Law to anyone in need of legal assistance. Whether it's settling disputes or estate planning, you can trust them to provide top-notch service with care and expertise. Thank you, D Cummings Law, for your excellent work!
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23 Apr, 2024 by David denham
I've had the pleasure of working with Doug on several matters over the past few years. Doug has assisted me with real estate transactions, as well as estate planning. Doug is very knowledgeable in the areas that he practices, is always well prepared and always provides great service. I never hesitate to recommend Doug to friends and family members.
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19 Apr, 2024 by Amy francisconi
My husband and I, small business owners, have known Doug Cummings for years. We have used his expertise to tackle both business and personal legal matters in that time. Doug is a pleasure to work with. He has always been measured, patient, and kind when listening to our concerns. His advice has been invaluable, and when set on a course of action, he has been unfailingly thorough and invested to its conclusion. We trust Doug implicitly, and would not hesitate to recommend him to colleagues, friends, and family.
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05 Nov, 2018 by Anonymous
I have relied on Gerald Street for sound advice and legal guidance for many years. He has provided guidance and assistance on matters from trusts to personnel and business issues. He has the ability to analyze issues clearly and provide sound advice. I would highly recommend Gerald Street to anyone who is looking for legal help. He is an honest, trustworthy and competent attorney.
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05 Nov, 2018 by Thomas
Integrity, talent, experience and compassion are the qualities that define Gerald Street. If you want an honest appraisal of your situation or condition, he is the attorney to call. He is well known and respected throughout the industry and his reputation is well earned. I have retained his services on several occasions involving wills, trusts, real estate and elder care among other issues. I have been impressed with the results...every time. Look as hard as you want and you will not find better representation anywhere in the entire State.
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22 Oct, 2018 by Anonymous
Lorrie and Gerald have been terrific. They are patient, detail-oriented and knowledgeable the process. In addition, they are sympathetic to the stress that families are put under. I don’t know if my family could have gone through the process without them.
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06 Sep, 2019 by Paula and michael
We have depended on Kevin, and now his son and colleague Paul O'Brien to help our family with our estate planning for many years. They provide sound advice, take the time to present the options and explain the reasoning behind all of the estate planning documents. Kevin did our Trust documents almost 20 years ago and it was time (maybe past time) to update them. Paul took this on and was great to work with, patient and knowledgable. He explained the options and we worked to apply them to our situation, He made the process easy and understandable. We highly recommend Kevin and Paul for estate and trust planning.
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27 Mar, 2014 by Anonymous
Kevin is an excellent and experienced estate planning attorney. I feel he has my family's best interests at heart in his recommendations. My family includes a child with special needs and charitable intentions, both of which he easily handled in his overall plan. We also own a small business which he was able to integrate into our estate plan, with additional asset protection I feel was necessary.
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24 Mar, 2014 by Anonymous
Kevin takes time with his clients and explains options in an easy-to-understand way. He bills on a flat fee basis. He still answers my questions without continued billing, even years after retaining him.
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18 May, 2016 by Dayna
Mr Becker has handled many projects for us. He has prepared our wills, settled real estate purchases, assisted with unclaimed property and advised us on several issues. We have recommended Mr Becker to friends and family, they were completely satisfied with his services as well.
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27 Apr, 2016 by Uday
Jay has helped me over the year in multiple real estate transactions both domestic and commercial. He is very knowledgeable,professional,thorough and prompt in replying to questions. He is always able to deliver on time. I have used him and also referred many to him for wills, power of attorney and health proxy documents.He does a fantastic job with those and makes the process easy to understand. Be sure to be ready to laugh when you meet him because he is a very funny guy.
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08 Feb, 2016 by Dave
Jay Becker is without a doubt the most informative, professional, courteous, results oriented attorney I've ever had the pleasure to deal with. I trust him completely to handle all aspects of my Real Estate transactions and also my estate planning. One of the best Real Estate Attorneys in the area!!!
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04 Dec, 2022 by Kevin lu
I retained Rob Beste of this firm to represent me in litigating a Delaware corporate case. I certainly vouch for Rob's professionalism and highly recommend Mr. Beste.
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17 Jul, 2022 by Anonymous
I engaged him when my father had passed away years ago and again when my mother passed away recently. It also involved international estate planning. Some of the forms he had done for me when my father passed away did not reap immediate benefits (quite honestly at that time, I was questioning it). However, several years later after my mom passed away, I saved a significant amount of cap gains tax because I decided to follow his advice (even if I did not completely understand his rationale at that time). He was extremely professional, knowledgeable, and pleasant to deal with. Would hghly recommend him (already referred two of my friends to him).
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04 Dec, 2022 by Kevin lu
I retained Rob Beste of this firm to represent me in litigating a Delaware corporate case. I certainly vouch for Rob's professionalism and highly recommend Mr. Beste.
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25 Oct, 2013 by John
In a world of chaotic decision making, Trisha is a calming influence. She maintains her professional demeanor, and kind approach all the while keeping your best interest as a priority. I would highly recommend her!
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17 Jun, 2014 by Anonymous
It was very hard to find an Estate Planning attorney in this area. Mr. Tipton was very open and understanding to our unique planning needs. We felt very comfortable through out the whole process. Mr. Tipton even made a house call when my partner was too ill to make one of our meetings.
I recommend using Mr. Tipton and have told many friends to use his services.
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11 Jun, 2014 by Marc
Mr. Tipton was great to work with. He was very professional and knowledgeable. I had a tricky situation with my son who has special needs. Mr. Tipton was able to provide a great solution that provided me with great piece of mind that everyone will be taken care of if a pass way.
I would highly recommend the use of Bear Law.
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18 Jan, 2016 by Renee
My experience with Karla has been nothing short of excellent. She is extremely knowledgeable, and she is able to translate what she knows to her clients in a very understandable way without ever being condescending.
She is extremely reliable and does what she says she will do without needing reminders from the client. Unlike almost every other professional I have dealt with, when Karla takes on a task, the client can very safely let go, knowing that it will be done right and on time.
In addition to doing the work that I contracted for, Karla went out of her way to help me with a related issue involving another professional, who was not doing his job properly.
I have already referred my friends and colleagues to Karla and will continue to do so without hesitation.
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09 Jun, 2015 by Sandy
Karla is an outstanding lawyer. She is very compassionate to her clients and their family. She creates a calming atmosphere when things are out of control . She understands people are grieving sometimes when the legal stuff has to happen. She never rushes the clients, she explains the complete process and even repeats when it's confusing. I would and have recommended her to family and friends.
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26 Aug, 2020 by Emily
Deval was a delight to work with through our mortgage refinancing. She was flexible and responsive. I'll keep her in mind for future legal needs.
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28 Apr, 2017 by Lynda
Deval has been our attorney for almost 3 years and handles a multitude of matters for us. She and her paralegal, Ashley, make an excellent team! Phone calls are returned promptly, they are always professional and courteous and get what we need done when we need it done! Would not go anywhere else!
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20 Jun, 2016 by Anonymous
Mr. Hitchings did an excellent job with my divorce and custody case. Had a very complicated custody with multiple children involved and an ex which was very manipulative. Had to go to court multiple times due to the complexity of the custody. If Tim said he was going to do something he did it. He is very straightforward and honest. He gets to know you so he can better understand what needs to be done. He actually cares about everyone involved in the case and wants what is best for all, especially the children involved. He will meet with you as often as need be to make you comfortable before going to court and throughly go over all paperwork involved. I had many,many pages of documents that I had to send to Tim and he went over every email that I sent him and called me on many occasions if something didn't make sense. Bottom line is HE CARES. If I had to do it all over, I would not change a thing. He guided me in the right direction every step of the way.
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07 Mar, 2014 by Peg
Good lawyer who helped me twice: Once with my son when he was a juvenile and also with a personal family matter. Both times he was compassionate and very thorough.
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05 Apr, 2018 by Phil
I used Ellen for a real estate settlement and she was very honest and straightforward with the estimated costs. I would highly recommend her and plan on using her firm to re-do the wills for myself and my wife.
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17 Jan, 2016 by Anonymous
I'm new to DE and needed an attorney for a fairly simple, personal matter. I chose Ellen Feinberg based on others' ratings and am very satisfied with this choice. Service at this firm (Berl & Feinberg) was professional, helpful, knowledgeable. I felt Ms. Feinberg was truly my advocate in the process; she was supportive and understanding. I will return for future legal needs.
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25 Sep, 2019 by Dana
I consult with Melissa on a regular basis regarding her insurance defense practice as it relates to much of the contract and liability issues that come up in my field of work. Melissa is incredibly astute, experienced and has a wealth of knowledge in all facets of insurance law and contract litigation. She is very professional and has an excellent "bed side" manner. I highly recommend this attorney.
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25 Sep, 2019 by Ed
I have referred over 50 of my clients to her over the past 8+ years for will/living wills/power of attorney, trusts, and other legal documents. She always does a great job, and my clients enjoy her wonderful personality and understanding.
Also, I have sent some of my business owner clients for legal documents, contract reviews, incorporation, and buy/sell arrangements.
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05 Nov, 2019 by Justin
I have worked with Dierdre on my own Wills and Estate planning and can honestly say she makes dealing with all of the intricacies that would overwhelm most much easier to manage. From the initial consultation through the process she was extremely professional and very thorough. I plan on using her again for other matters as well as recommend her for anyone who needs her services.
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04 Apr, 2013 by Jo
We have used Bonnie Benson two times in the past 5 years and are using her again for real estate transactions. Just average folks, we want the biggest bang for our buck, an honest attorney and one that keeps us up to date and will pull no punches if the seller is wrong. Bonnie is supported in the beach communities by many real estate brokers who know she does an outstanding job on closings of real estate. Thanks Bonnie - we'll see you soon to do our Wills too!
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27 Jun, 2014 by John
Mr. Perza is efficient, caring and very detailed oriented. He is extremely knowledgeable in his areas of the law. He explained everything to me in a way that I could understand it completely. He walked me through the process step by step. He kept me informed through my case and got me the outcome I wanted.
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04 Nov, 2012 by Anonymous
I was most pleased with Mr. Lawson's work on my behalf. His significant real life business experience made our communication more efficient and effective. This same experience tempered his legal advice so that I was able to choose options that were based on sound legal principles and best of all on grounds that were best for my business. This is a rare combination to fiind in a lawyer. I strongly recommend Mr. Lawson to any business person in need of legal assistance.
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15 Jun, 2012 by Donna
Jim Owen took care of my parents affairs for many years. When mom passed away Jim was there during dad's remaining years while he struggled with the complications of advanced age. He became my family lawyer along the way and continues to help with estate issues that arise when several children are beneficiaries. He has never failed to respond quickly and patiently provide the legal solution.
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12 Jan, 2021 by Marsha
Susan was very helpful in setting up our wills. She was knowledgeable about elder law as well.
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30 Dec, 2020 by Anonymous
She presented herself well and very professional. Certainly knows the ins and outs of estate planning. She is not inexpensive but I believe that you get what you pay for.
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11 Mar, 2024 by Alan nadler
22 Nov, 2022 by J m
Ed is amazing! So much knowledge. Very passionate about his clients. His para legal Elaine is great as well. She keeps in touch with you about your case via email and phone. I had 2 consultations with Ed. During my first consultation he was thorough and didn’t rush. He made sure he had all the information he needed. He even asked me multiple times if I had any questions or other things I would like to bring up.
He did not charge me for my second consultation. Ed took my case free of charge! I’m so thankful for Curly Dodge Fitzgerald and Funk. (This was a family law case regarding custody and relocation).
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26 Jun, 2022 by Jennifer hunt
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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:
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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.
