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07 Dec, 2017 by Todd
Topher did a wonderful job helping our young family begin the process of estate planning. He was efficient with his time and explained everything in great detail so my wife and I could easily understand all the documentation. Highly recommend.
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18 Jun, 2017 by Dave
As professional as we hoped. This being our first will, we needed a lot of guidance and information. Christopher took the time to explain all the "legaleze" in a plain manner which was easily understood. I would certainly suggest Christopher to anyone looking for an attorney for estate planning. Clear, plain speaking, stayed in communication, and produced document I am confident in - what else can you ask.
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19 May, 2016 by Anonymous
Christopher (known as Topher) was a great assistance to me during a difficult period. I was terminated from my job and was uncertain as to my rights. Topher as patient and helped me along every step of the way. More than that, Topher kept his professional cool when the other attorney was stooping to professional lows. I'd recommend Topher to anyone else in a similar situation!
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29 Sep, 2016 by Anonymous
Amy helped me resolve a messy business matter. I met her through BNI and im glad I did. With her dillugence, integrity, and ethics I was able to get my issue resolved. Thank you Amy.
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22 Sep, 2024 by Mikayla w
Where to even start, I just want to scream THANK YOU to Katie for everything you’ve done for my life and my family. Because of you I am able to finally rebuild a relationship with my son again. For that I am forever grateful. Katie is by far THE best family attorney in Duluth, she actually cares about the people she works with. She treats me like a human and not just a “client” She has went way above and beyond for me as her client and that is a trait you don’t find often in attorneys. Honestly, I suggest you book her now before the prices go up because I promise you one day Schwandt Law will be the biggest firm in Duluth Minnesota. 💯
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19 Sep, 2024 by Jacob
I can't say enough good things about Alexander M. Landreville. He helped me through one of the most challenging times in my life – my child custody case. Thanks to his hard work and expertise, my ex-wife and I were able to come to an agreement through mediation, and now, I have the incredible opportunity to see my son regularly. Alexander M. Landreville was always professional, compassionate, and available to answer any questions. His knowledge of family law is top-notch, and he fought for my rights every step of the way. I am forever grateful to him for giving me the chance to rebuild my relationship with my son. I highly recommend him to anyone facing a family law battle!
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20 May, 2024 by Pamela r k ardis
As an attendee of a course on conciliation (25 April '24) led by Katie Schwandt, I came away extremely happy with not only the amount of ground she covered in a short period of time, but also the way she made time to make certain the material was helpful as well as understood. She was obviously enthusiastic about her subject and made potentially difficult to understand legal material very approachable. Highly recommend reaching out to her. Thanks so much Katie.
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16 Apr, 2020 by Sarah lewerenz
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23 Oct, 2024 by Carolina delgados
If you need some help with Minnesota workers' comp layer, I wouldn't think twice and hire Mottaz & Sisk Injury Law. They were so great and attentive with me.
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08 Jul, 2024 by Adam daniels
Alexandra has truly been a blessing to me and my family. I will be using her again should the need ever arise. As a single father I knew it would be a battle to obtain custody of my daughter. But Alexandra was there fighting for me the whole way. She took my case and made it feel as though it was her own daughter she was fighting for. Any concerns I had were addressed promptly and professionally. Not only did she handle any concerns. She also on several occasions drove 60+ miles to hand deliver paperwork to me due to not being able to get to her office at times due to work. I've dealt with a few lawyers in the past and none have been as pleasant as my experience with Alexandra and the whole Atticus Family Law team! She helped me recieve 80% custody of my daughter and to have her back home with me is something I will forever be grateful for. If you are looking for someone that's truly there for your families best Interest than I highly suggest Alexandra.
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08 Jul, 2024 by Lori
I utilized services through this law firm with Alexandra Reynolds as my advocate. She was informative and supportive for me and helped me navigate the system to write and review my last will and testament Thank you Alexandra! I would definitely use your services again. Lori Pykkonen Ageless Solutions
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23 Oct, 2024 by Carolina delgados
If you need some help with Minnesota workers' comp layer, I wouldn't think twice and hire Mottaz & Sisk Injury Law. They were so great and attentive with me.
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08 Jul, 2024 by Frosty lindberg
I cannot overstate how happy my family has been with service from Alexandra Reynolds, Tiffani Richardson, and everyone at Atticus Family Law. From an initial inquiry with Missy Olson (so friendly, attentive and helpful) to our hired counsel, the experience has been as delightful as it can be within the tumult of a legal battle. Ms. Reynolds jumped into an ongoing struggle without missing a beat. She quickly gets up to speed even with years of history, acts at all times with professionalism and refreshing avidity, is in sync with her client at every step, and is quick to respond and act when you need her. She is exactly the kind of lawyer you want on your side, being both a protective, fervent advocate and also a voice of perspective. I wholeheartedly recommend Alexandra Reynolds and Atticus Family Law!
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08 Jul, 2024 by Dylan molloy
Ms.Reynolds was able to jump into an ongoing case and pick up without missing a beat and we were able to get the desired outcome, as well as really helpful with any questions or concerns that i had. one of the best family law attorneys out there!
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26 Aug, 2024 by Samantha colvin
Spott Law Office didn't have the common curiosity to reply to my request for a lawyer.
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22 Feb, 2024 by Tizoc garcia
As solid of a lawyer you would want. Helped me with all my questions. Would recommend!
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18 Jan, 2024 by Tanya
This guy is the best he knows his stuff, I highly recommend him. N
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27 Oct, 2020 by Sandi rasmussen
Yummy breakfast, friendly staff, fun owner/entertainer, great food.
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23 Oct, 2024 by Carolina delgados
If you need some help with Minnesota workers' comp layer, I wouldn't think twice and hire Mottaz & Sisk Injury Law. They were so great and attentive with me.
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08 Jul, 2024 by Frosty lindberg
I cannot overstate how happy my family has been with service from Alexandra Reynolds, Tiffani Richardson, and everyone at Atticus Family Law. From an initial inquiry with Missy Olson (so friendly, attentive and helpful) to our hired counsel, the experience has been as delightful as it can be within the tumult of a legal battle. Ms. Reynolds jumped into an ongoing struggle without missing a beat. She quickly gets up to speed even with years of history, acts at all times with professionalism and refreshing avidity, is in sync with her client at every step, and is quick to respond and act when you need her. She is exactly the kind of lawyer you want on your side, being both a protective, fervent advocate and also a voice of perspective. I wholeheartedly recommend Alexandra Reynolds and Atticus Family Law!
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08 Jul, 2024 by Dylan molloy
Ms.Reynolds was able to jump into an ongoing case and pick up without missing a beat and we were able to get the desired outcome, as well as really helpful with any questions or concerns that i had. one of the best family law attorneys out there!
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05 Dec, 2024 by Tank cole
Friendly, helpful, and quick to respond with any questions or concerns. The staff helps you feel confident and comfortable.
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25 Nov, 2024 by Lee anne auerhan
Excellent experience. Ms Novak is very friendly, knowledgeable. She did a great job making sure my estate plan was updated to my requests. Erin and Ruth also do a great job. I would recommend this business without hesitation.
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23 Oct, 2024 by Dale etter jr
I went through a few years of extreme hardships and they helped me fix my problems with professional and compassionate guidance. I highly recommend to get in contact with them if you're in need of help and seriously you won't be disappointed. I would also like to say a special thank you to Heidi for all of her help!
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24 Oct, 2024 by Eve utyro
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21 Oct, 2024 by Grayson gray
Worst attorney ever! Don't pay for his services or if assigned to your case, do it yourself, odds are much better. "Sit and look calm" is the only defense he used and we were laughed out of court despite everything I sent him prior to trial to prepare. I kept having to correct him on the facts listed on court documentation and he just couldn't wrap his head around dates of service. I was completely embarrassed having him as my attorney. UPDATE: And after an accurate yet horrible review for you, you want to talk about my case. Excuse me, what part did I get wrong? None of it. Its been 3 weeks and you never called, until I posted what a God awful attorney you actually are and now you call. You can't fix what you did. I have to live with your complete inaction. The 3 phone calls during trial to ask if you were going to submit all the evidence in rebuttal? You did nothing! Absolutely nothing. I thought you were drunk in court. You just sat there. Nothing. So no, theres no need to talk so stop calling. I guess we both have to live with the consequences of your half a$$ job now.
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11 Oct, 2024 by Jeremy duban
This law firm is amazing. Drew was always very helpful and answered any questions I had the entire time. He always explained everything throughout the entire process. I highly recommended them and would call again. Thank you Drew and to your staff. Everyone I talked with was very helpful.
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22 Feb, 2022 by Paul
Brenda helped me several years ago with a custody case that had been in and out of courts for years. Brenda was the lawyer that finally made it so that my child had a voice in the hearings. After years of fighting for more time with my child it finally happened. Thank you Brenda for all of your hard work and brutal honesty about how things may or may not go.
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22 Jan, 2020 by Sean
Brenda handled my divorce for me like it was a piece of cake!!! She is very knowledgeable and has a lot of experience. I would not hesitate for a moment to recommend her to anyone. She also a very nice person, and it was my pleasure just to meet her. She will not let you down, so just give her a call! I'm so happy I did!
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20 Mar, 2018 by Anonymous
Ms. Denton took my case when I had a last minute, urgent situation, and has stuck with me through the end. She knows her family law. I chose Ms. Denton because of her reputation advocating for women in unsafe situations. I have enjoyed working with Ms. Denton through the years. I have come to recognize more about her outside of our case. Ms. Denton is experienced, thorough, intelligent, understanding, straight-forward, kind, and reliable. Lastly, I've noticed the professional rapport she has built in the justice system here in Northern MN. Ms. Denton has been my hero. I rate her 5-stars for walking through my messy and long-standing court case. Miigwech/thank you Ms. Denton!!
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04 Oct, 2024 by Amy
I reached out to Beaumier Trogdon Orman Hurd & Viegas, Attorneys at Law, PLLP, through the MN State Bar Association website for assistance with a post-divorce child custody matter. The gentleman who answered the phone was professional, attentive, and helpful. As promised, I received a call from Attorney Jeremy Hurd the next day. He exhibited a thoughtful blend of compassion and legal expertise, and I truly appreciated the professionalism, knowledge, and advice he provided.
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16 Apr, 2024 by Nate mitchell
I hired one of the partners. Awful and incompetent. Recommendation given to judge was not possible under statute and was essentially thrown out. Waste of money. Biased. Don’t hire
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10 Mar, 2024 by Melisa mauricio
Matt Beaumier and his team are so kind and helpful. They truly care about the clients. They answered all my questions and concerns with care. I couldn’t have made it through my custody case without them. I highly recommend them.
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04 Oct, 2024 by Amy
I reached out to Beaumier Trogdon Orman Hurd & Viegas, Attorneys at Law, PLLP, through the MN State Bar Association website for assistance with a post-divorce child custody matter. The gentleman who answered the phone was professional, attentive, and helpful. As promised, I received a call from Attorney Jeremy Hurd the next day. He exhibited a thoughtful blend of compassion and legal expertise, and I truly appreciated the professionalism, knowledge, and advice he provided.
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16 Apr, 2024 by Nate mitchell
I hired one of the partners. Awful and incompetent. Recommendation given to judge was not possible under statute and was essentially thrown out. Waste of money. Biased. Don’t hire
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10 Mar, 2024 by Melisa mauricio
Matt Beaumier and his team are so kind and helpful. They truly care about the clients. They answered all my questions and concerns with care. I couldn’t have made it through my custody case without them. I highly recommend them.
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04 Oct, 2024 by Amy
I reached out to Beaumier Trogdon Orman Hurd & Viegas, Attorneys at Law, PLLP, through the MN State Bar Association website for assistance with a post-divorce child custody matter. The gentleman who answered the phone was professional, attentive, and helpful. As promised, I received a call from Attorney Jeremy Hurd the next day. He exhibited a thoughtful blend of compassion and legal expertise, and I truly appreciated the professionalism, knowledge, and advice he provided.
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16 Apr, 2024 by Nate mitchell
I hired one of the partners. Awful and incompetent. Recommendation given to judge was not possible under statute and was essentially thrown out. Waste of money. Biased. Don’t hire
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10 Mar, 2024 by Melisa mauricio
Matt Beaumier and his team are so kind and helpful. They truly care about the clients. They answered all my questions and concerns with care. I couldn’t have made it through my custody case without them. I highly recommend them.
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04 Oct, 2024 by Amy
I reached out to Beaumier Trogdon Orman Hurd & Viegas, Attorneys at Law, PLLP, through the MN State Bar Association website for assistance with a post-divorce child custody matter. The gentleman who answered the phone was professional, attentive, and helpful. As promised, I received a call from Attorney Jeremy Hurd the next day. He exhibited a thoughtful blend of compassion and legal expertise, and I truly appreciated the professionalism, knowledge, and advice he provided.
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01 May, 2024 by Anonymous
Ms Trogdon is quite nice in person. That's the end of the good news. She wrote a recommendation to the judge in our case. Her recommendation was not even possible under the statute. On two separate points. In addition to lack of basic ability to interpret the law, her opinion was fully biased and illustrated everything "old" and wrong leftover in the court system against equal parenting. The judge thankfully threw her opinion out as it was not possible under the statute. Stay away. She should not be hired or working in any meaningful manner to do with families in the 21st century.
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16 Apr, 2024 by Nate mitchell
I hired one of the partners. Awful and incompetent. Recommendation given to judge was not possible under statute and was essentially thrown out. Waste of money. Biased. Don’t hire
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07 Mar, 2024 by Shari
Benjamin Kaasa is a great attorney. He was able to be a great support and strength in a very sensitive time. Mr. Kaasa is very knowledgeable in what he does, sensitive to my needs (case), knows what he is doing, and is reasonably priced. I would highly recommend him.
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17 Jun, 2020 by Anonymous
I was gravely disappointed in his overall performance concerning his representation during my divorce. There were circumstances, in this particular case, of an unusual nature that could have made a for a less painful end if he would have had the fortitude to actually pursue on my behalf. From the very beginning, he displayed an obvious condescending and arrogant demeanor toward me. One of several examples, on 11/22/19 , I had asked him for a ball park figure regarding the possibility, if this case went trial. His reply, “a ton of money”, or “a truck full of money” and on further occasions when I made this same inquiry…..as if I were incapable of understanding. That same afternoon, I asked about scheduling a consultation before the first scheduled FENE meeting….never got a response. Later, I dropped off some requested documents, inquired about the importance of some that I couldn’t get and asked about others that I didn’t include…..he just shrugged his shoulders giving me the impression that they weren’t actually that necessary. I also reminded him about the pre-FENE consultation previously requested…..again no response. Again, dropped off more documents that suddenly became important from the last time he requested info….hummm… and we finally had our pre-FENE consultation due to my constant urging. I asked him about my wife's income and bank account info…if he had requested this disclosure info. His exact response, “I hadn’t had time to ask for it”.....the day before the meeting? Am I not paying him to collect all info, that I have been asked to provide? Luckily, FENE got rescheduled. This should have given him more than enough time to collect the same kind of info that was required of me…..which he didn’t pursue. He still hadn’t requested it, until the day before the 2nd FENE, in an e-mail to opposing attorney. I again asked him about it that morning at the meeting, his response, "Her attorney says she has nothing and that is good enough for me”…..seriously? My wife had been on her own for three years. Numerous times he told me that my income wasn’t a factor; because my wife had been self sufficient for the past three years without my financial help. He also told me my home, which was purchased in 1994, could be considered non-marital. I asked about the validity of this, and his exact response, “I’m not worried about it” and just disregarded my inquiry. Seriously?.. he obviously didn’t do his homework as it was a completely different set of circumstances when I showed up at the 02/11/20 FENE meeting. During this entire process, he was unforthcoming and almost to the point of being blatantly misleading …all the way up to the morning of the 2nd scheduled FENE meeting. His efforts in representing me were lame and lackadaisical with his obvious attitude being, that any judgments or agreements against me were unimportant, as he had my retainer in hand, why try to actually represent his client for a more favorable and fair outcome? During the FENE meeting, he was shiftless and unhelpful. I felt he had made some kind of a “deal” with the opposing attorney before I even arrived....for it sure seemed that way, as he starting back peddling on everything he had previously told me about her access to my income, home equity values, personal property be it marital or non-marital, etc. He should have scheduled a consultation sometime before, to prepare me for these so called “changes” from his original dialogue/findings? Also, flashing around a Family Law text book made me sadly realize his level of incompetence, especially when he couldn’t even correctly formalize the equity in my home that she might be entitled…..he relied on her attorney's numbers without even fact checking. I certainly wouldn’t recommend Benjamin Kaasa representing on any legal matter.
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31 Dec, 2019 by Anonymous
We recently had the pleasure of working with Mr. Kaasa as our attorney in a step-parent adoption matter. Both he and his office were very thorough throughout our case. They were great at responding to questions we had, and wonderful about keeping us informed at the status of our case. From our initial consultation to our final hearing, he was excellent every step of the way. I would certainly recommend Mr. Kaasa for family law needs.
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06 Mar, 2024 by Anonymous
Hired Jake with a blank check to secure sole custody of grandson and assemble a credible case to do it My wife has been told by the Lord this was an appropriate use of our ample nest egg. I was a dentist in Duluth for many years. Not only did Jake lose the case, he refused to work for us in any appeal. He said we had no basis.
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What an Estate Planning Lawyer Can Do for You

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

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

When Should I Hire an Estate Planning Lawyer?

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

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

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

What Does an Estate Planning Lawyer Do?

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

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

How Are Estate Planning Lawyers Paid?

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

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

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

How Much Does an Estate Planning Lawyer Cost?

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

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

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

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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