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18 Apr, 2023 by Gigi
Jeff helped us create our first POA and Will and Testament. He was immensely helpful in the process, answering our questions and providing guidance. He was prompt, professional, and personable with excellent communication skills.
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06 Feb, 2023 by Neva
Jeffrey L. Austin, Law Office of JLA, was most helpful in representing me in the matter of my late husband’s estate. He answered my questions, was accommodating in arranging meetings, and updated me on the progress of matters at the courthouse whether I had filed them or he had on my behalf.
With the legal work completed, Jeff informed me that I have access to the case file at the courthouse as well as access to electronic copies of the case files through his client portal.
I will continue to ask his help when needed with other matters.
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23 Aug, 2022 by Keith
Jeff accepted our business to build out our estate planning. He is relatable, professional and compassionate. He was incredibly flexible to meet our needs. He answered our questions in a timely manner and made the entire process seamless. We highly recommend Jeff!
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29 Jun, 2021 by Nina
I can't get enough of Heather. My spouse and I went through the whole estate planning shebang with Heather, who made the process completely painless. When a recent change in circumstances arose, we made some edits to our wills and yet again, it was so easy. And then it happened again. The third time was even smoother than the first and second--she even made flowcharts so that we could visualize what our unique plans were!
While these conversations and decisions are not easy, working with Heather sure is.
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07 May, 2021 by Ann
Very clear and streamlined process for creating the documents that no one wants to talk about...Heather was friendly, professional, and efficient. I highly recommend for your estate planning needs.
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04 May, 2021 by Anonymous
Heather was great to work with, provided really clear information on the estate planning process for someone totally new to it. She also makes efforts to use inclusive language in her materials which I really appreciated. She provided straightforward but detailed answers to questions throughout the process and I recommend working with her.
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03 Aug, 2022 by Anonymous
Brandon gave a very clear, thorough, and helpful response to my questions. I actually tried to hire him but realized it would not work out because my business operates in a different state.
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29 Jul, 2022 by Sharrod
Attorney Brandon Robinson is extremely knowledgeable and proficient in Estate Planning and tax-related legal complexities. The scope and competence of Brandon’s Estate Planning legal knowledge were readily evident and demonstrated during our initial introductory phone consultation. Brandon effectively communicated various legal concepts, opinions, and recommendations relative to my Estate Planning questions, needs, and expectations. Brandon proposed and delivered legal opinions and recommendations that were thorough, clear, concise and applicable to my specific wills, deeds, and tax-related estate issues. Brandon’s comprehensive legal concepts, opinions, and recommendations were utilized as strategic guidelines in effectively resolving and settling my specific wills, deeds, and tax-related estate issues. Based on Brandon’s demonstrated legal expertise, guidance, and full resolution of my estate issues—I highly, highly recommend Attorney Brandon Alexander Robinson as a trusted, honest, dependable, effective, and highly-qualified Estate Planning legal counsel.
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15 Jul, 2022 by Daniel
Brandon Robinson has been consistently responsive, knowledgeable, and helpful as I develop a young business. His advice and efforts have improved my financial security and peace of mind. Definitely my go-to attorney.
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24 May, 2024 by Katie o'brien
Cory Hanline is the kind of lawyer you want in your corner- professional, knowledgable, and compassionate.
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27 Feb, 2024 by Bernarda romero
Excelente equipo de abogados, en lo personal, me trataron con mucha amabilidad y me an resuelto dos casos los cuales, ellos no descansan hasta ganarlos. Y explican detalle a detalle, todo lo que uno tenga duda alguna! No duden en. Poner sus casos en sus manos, se los recomiendo , que Dios los bendiga 🙏
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20 Oct, 2023 by Will herrmann
Nobody I would trust more to handle my personal injury case. These are the best people to work with and they treat you like family. If you have been in an accident and you need somebody you can trust to handle your case, you've found your people.
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17 Sep, 2016 by Russ
"Trust(ed)" in the most broad sense. Referred via MOAA, we retained "Rupe" to prepare and execute our estate plans. It was a most excellent, efficient, effective and very responsive experience. One that fully addressed and met our financial and estate planning needs. Bravo to Rupe and Memori
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16 Jul, 2013 by James
Excellent attorney. Very knowledgeable and helpful. Explained information clearly and provided a great product.
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16 Jul, 2013 by Anonymous
My husband and I attended an information meeting sponsored by Attorney Gill’s group, and we were so impressed with the clarity with which he explained the benefit of a family trust. Since that time we have set down with Mr. Gill and created a trust which we think organizes and protects our assets. We very much want our family to understand this process, and Mr. Gill has been kind enough to share the same presentation about trusts with our son, and help him understand the process. It is so very comforting to have provided each of our children with Attorney Gill’s contact information and to know he has a copy of all our powers of attorney (health, etc.) If ever we should experience a medical emergency, each of our children carries one contact card—Attorney Gill’s. We know that Gill’s office would fax to anyplace in the world, papers that are pertinent to our care, and they have established a relationship with our children. His materials have also helped us organize contact information regarding our property, insurance, etc, and provided a way we can communicate to our children about our end-of-life wishes in as non-emotional way as possible. Meanwhile, we are blessed to be active and healthy at 70+, and we intend to stop by the office often to keep our records up to date and to be responsible with the resources the good Lord has provided. S. & C. of Durham
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24 Jun, 2015 by Sam
Sonya handled estate planning for my wife and me. She is knowledgeable, efficient and (you read this right) fun. An attorney who is fun. Imagine that. Highly recommend Sonya.
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22 Jun, 2015 by Katie
We hired Sonya to review and update our estate documents. We already had an existing plan, but it was drawn up in another state and we had since had several more children. She reviewed our existing plan and made some very insightful recommendations. It was very clear very quickly that she is very well versed in all aspects of estate law. She is very kind and fun to work with as well. I would highly recommend her to anyone looking to develop or update their estate plan.
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08 Jun, 2015 by Jaimie
My husband and I were in search of a lawyer to help us with estate planning and were very lucky to have found Sonya. She was extremely personable and very thorough during our consultation. Throughout the process, she was always quick to respond to any questions we had and made the task of preparing our estate less daunting. I would recommend Sonya to anyone looking for a good, affordable lawyer to provide them with estate planning help.
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27 Jul, 2019 by Dana
Recently Vail helped us navigate through the will and estate of our loved on who recently passed. She took the time to answer all of our questions with patience and love. She made us feel heard and gave us all the information we needed to understand what the will stated in terms we could process. She was super attentive and easy to work with. I felt very much at peace working with her.
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31 Mar, 2019 by Jim
Vail is incredibly knowledgeable, helpful, and meticulous. She's also great fun to work with. She answered all of our questions, and made the estate planning process easy. We are so grateful to have worked with Vail--and so relieved to know that we have put in place plans that will help our family in the future.
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29 Jan, 2019 by Katie
Vail took time to walk me through her process and hear my current situation and needs. She will come to clients for meetings and offered great flexibility, which I value greatly.
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21 Mar, 2012 by Francis
Dori was extremely helpful in navigating the workings of my late parents affairs. In this very stressful time I was guided by Ms, Wiggen through all the legal requirements and issues that came up during the processes. Her skilled dexterity in communicating to other heirs who were not cooperative during the probate process was evidence of her legal competence and her abilities in handling elder law.
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19 Feb, 2012 by Mindy
Dori took the time to listen to my husband and me and really understood what we were looking for in making out a will and setting up a special needs trust for our son. She responded to our questions in a timely fashion and was very thorough in her treatment of the matter. She anticipated potential problems I hadn't even considered, and when we found things we wanted to change, she did so without any hesitation. Her presentation was professional. We would highly recommend her to others.
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18 Feb, 2012 by Robbie
Attorneys Dori Wiggen and Jack Wiggen are very professional, knowledgeable, detailed, and courteous. We reviewed with Dori our high level goals and needs as husband, wife, and parents of two children (one child with special medical needs). She assessed our goals and needs in great detail. She organized our Estate Wills, Living Wills, Financial POA's, Health POA's, Trust Fund, Medical Disability, Guardianship Plans (if needed), etc. The entire WLG team follows up with our questions, concerns, and provides legal advice and suggestions beyond our goals. We have the utmost respect for the whole WLG team. They are sensitive to our needs, compassionate, and demonstrate their knowledge to the highest degree. I had already learned that attorneys having experience with special medical and medicaid needs children are very rare. WLG's attributes are rare, too! We highly recommend the WLG team without any hesitation. Their services extend beyond the walls of their office. They are involved in community activities and speeches due to their sincere desire to help others. Five Star Plus Rating!!!
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30 Aug, 2018 by Polly/mark
Ethan Timmins was engaged to review and possibly rewrite a will as well as to provide clarity and identify any issues in existing trust and health care documents. His clear and comprehensive analysis of our situation was extremely helpful, well presented and fairly priced for the service provided. We will use his expertise and services for other upcoming matters. We strongly recommend Ethan in his areas of practice.
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20 Jul, 2018 by Amy
Ethan did a fabulous job handling my parent's estate in Florida. Both of my parents died within 9 months of each other and did not have a will. My step-sister and I called Ethan and he helped us through the process and explained the process thoroughly to us. Ethan always kept us updated and was very persistent. We will be forever grateful for his dedication to our family matter. It was a pleasure to work with Ethan and would recommend him to anyone.
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12 Jul, 2018 by Nichole
Mr. Timmins was amazing at assisting us with legal documents regarding my elderly grandparents. He was kind and understanding in not only the way he handled asking questions but in also posing questions that we didn't even know to ask (which was extremely helpful in navigating the process). We also appreciate Mr. Timmins' sense of urgency in meeting with us quickly as this was a time sensitive matter. I would highly recommend him and will certainly call on him again in the future.
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06 Mar, 2019 by Anonymous
I can't sing enough praises about this kind and knowledgeable man !!
My sister is the executor of my mothers estate. I was already having issues with her taking advantage of her position.
I was pretty disappointed that she would even do this ... but before I called out the Marines, Doug went thru some options that he wanted me to be aware of. Clear headed thinking is always the best.
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13 Jul, 2016 by Geraldine
Mr.Koenig was knowledgeable and professional as we reviewed policies
on home ownership rights and problems. The need to possibly change
or transfer the deed, the pros and cons associated with any change;
the other possible options: refinancing or sale of the home. He provided
specific facts and costs of each options, facts of NC law relative to each option, and positive and negative financial and/or personal consequences related to each of those options. We reviewed local housing levels of care options for seniors, from rentals to assisted living.
Lastly we reviewed the NC law on tenancy; the right to rent out a room
to either stranger or family; when and how one might evict if necessary.
Mr. Koenig provided dates of upcoming appropriate information sessions. He explained a remedy to an incomplete Will and Power of
Attorney. I surely will recommend him to others and will return to use his
services as needed.
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28 Apr, 2016 by Ken
We found Doug to be respectful of our wishes, knowledgeable, thorough, careful and considerate. Beyond this, he offered suggestions that we had considered and were glad to accept to ease future estate settlement. He also made appropriate adjustments in our POA's and Directive. We highly recommend him.
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12 Sep, 2017 by Anonymous
Jennifer is sharp as a tack, fun, friendly, and leathal with legalese. Which makes her the perfect attorney to bring your estate, guardianship, elder law, and medical directives needs to. I've never stumped her with a question she couldn't answer, and I gladly refer my inner circle to her.
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16 Sep, 2015 by Tina
Jennifer is WONDERFUL to deal with. My Husband and I love the way she listens to details. Let's face it.....estate planning can be stressful. Jennifer takes the STRESS out of it. She is knowledge and helps you through the tough moments. I feel more confident our plans will be followed because of Jennifer's wonderful planning. Jennifer connects with you. I appreciate her and her wonderful staff. Tina Travis
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01 Sep, 2015 by Anonymous
Jennifer prepared my estate plan and I was very satisfied with her attention to detail and how she listened to my needs. Her explanation of each part of the plan was clear and concise and I have recommended her to my friends and relatives. I enjoyed working with her. She has such a calm and positive personality. Clearly she knows what she is doing.
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04 Sep, 2014 by Pete
Judy was very informative, upfront, and honest. She did everything she could to educate me on the laws, prior to negotiations on my divorce case. My case was probably one of the most difficult of her career! I would highly recommend her to take on your case.
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12 Aug, 2014 by Anonymous
Judy did extensive research to discover a precedent to assist in my getting an equitable settlement. She was pleasant to work with, making a stressful personal situation more manageable.
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05 Jan, 2015 by Anonymous
My father passed suddenly and I had no idea where to turn, legally. I was referred to Bob from a friend and he was a pure God send! He helped me out tremendously during the process and went above and beyond what I wouod have ever of expected. Robert Idol is highly skilled and suburbly diligent! Highly recommend him!
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25 Dec, 2014 by Anonymous
I have consulted Mr. Idol on several occasions and have always found him to be knowledgeable, thorough, and very helpful. I have also referred several friends and family members to him and always get rave reviews back from them. Mr. Idol is definitely my go to attorney.
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17 Jan, 2020 by Anonymous
Excellent in considering all aspects of my family’s estate plan and other end of life planning needs.
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27 Mar, 2015 by Sarah
I couldn't have asked for better representation! Throughout the duration of custody and child support litigations, Liz has always been prompt, thorough, detail-oriented, and exceptionally well-informed. Liz is one of the most intelligent people I have worked with, and I work with many intelligent people. Liz is also exceptionally caring. I recommend her highly. She is very professional in her interactions with clients as well.
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27 Feb, 2024 by Rose
As one of the clients of Attorney Hirsh in the realm of real estate, my experience with him has been exceptionally positive and noteworthy. With his extensive knowledge and profound experience in real estate law, he managed my legal needs with unparalleled precision and professionalism. He not only had a precise understanding of my goals and concerns as a client but also ensured that I achieved the best possible outcome through tailored strategies and consultations.
Throughout the process, Attorney Hirsh provided a sense of assurance and peace with constant and transparent communication. He was responsive and accessible at every stage, always ready to address my questions and clarify any doubts.
In conclusion, my experience with Attorney Hirsh exceeded my expectations not only professionally but also on a human level. I felt I had not just an outstanding legal advisor but also a strong advocate by my side. I would unequivocally recommend Attorney Hirsh to anyone seeking legal counsel and representation in real estate matters. He stands out not just as a lawyer but as a committed and trustworthy consultant.
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12 Aug, 2019 by John
Steve got me out of a really hairy mess with me x. He reacted very quick to a tinderbox situation and saved my hide. He’s quick on his feet and if your going before a judge that’s what you need. He skillfully used the “object” motion many times and got me the outcome I desired. Even fought for me when opposing attorney Kelly Fairman tried to manipulate the order given by the judge. We had to go back to court 3 more times to get it write.
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03 Apr, 2021 by Bill
Professional, easy to work and knowledgeable with my particular needs. It was convenient during covid to work together virtual.
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05 Sep, 2024 by Jay baker
I highly recommend Kevin Ginsberg. I spoke with him at length about a claim for an auto accident, and he took the time to help me understand in detail how these cases work, what we could (and could not) recover, and offered several avenues to proceed. Because the claim was so straightforward, Kevin provided me with the information I needed to be confident in settling it on my own. The case ultimately settled exactly as Kevin suggested it would with a fair and reasonable settlement. I greatly appreciate his clear and straightforward guidance. It helps that Kevin came highly recommended to me by a law firm my family has worked with for years. They always steer us right and definitely did so in sending us to Kevin Ginsberg. Highly recommend.
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20 Aug, 2024 by Debi miller
My husband and I can’t say enough about Kevin Ginsburg. My husband needed some legal documents reviewed. We were referred to him and he did a quick and efficient job for us. He made us feel like our small issue was important to him. If the need ever arises again, we would definitely use him.
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28 Jun, 2024 by Bob fuller
They did a great job with my workers comp case. Very attentive to my needs. I would recommend them.
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06 Apr, 2024 by Candace vaughan
12 Mar, 2024 by Jeanne o (jenny)
Such a pleasure once again visiting the offices of Walker Lambe. Everyone is professional, kind and expert at their jobs. Shout out to Shirley & Lisa, a dynamic team. Thanks for all the hard work!
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16 Feb, 2024 by Blake adkin
It's been a pleasure to work with Rupe Gill and Kim Sain over the last several years. They take the time to answer client questions and their follow through is very strong. I highly recommend that individuals and business owners reach out to the offices of Walker Lamb to receive a proposal for service.
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28 Sep, 2024 by Annette stewart
Belton Law Office is amazing! Prompt, professional, excellent service, and eager to share wisdom and knowledge! Thank you so much for your assistance with our situation! We greatly appreciate your excellent service!
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22 Sep, 2024 by Mario cedeño
Excelente atención me ayudaron con un tickets de velocidad, hablan español. Muy amables. 100% recomendado.
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20 Sep, 2024 by Jacqueline sinclair
Attorney Brennon Morton is a top notch Attorney very professional and confident ! He got a love one case dismissed that had a felony and two misdemeanors! I highly recommend his services !
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05 Sep, 2024 by Jay baker
I highly recommend Kevin Ginsberg. I spoke with him at length about a claim for an auto accident, and he took the time to help me understand in detail how these cases work, what we could (and could not) recover, and offered several avenues to proceed. Because the claim was so straightforward, Kevin provided me with the information I needed to be confident in settling it on my own. The case ultimately settled exactly as Kevin suggested it would with a fair and reasonable settlement. I greatly appreciate his clear and straightforward guidance. It helps that Kevin came highly recommended to me by a law firm my family has worked with for years. They always steer us right and definitely did so in sending us to Kevin Ginsberg. Highly recommend.
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20 Aug, 2024 by Debi miller
My husband and I can’t say enough about Kevin Ginsburg. My husband needed some legal documents reviewed. We were referred to him and he did a quick and efficient job for us. He made us feel like our small issue was important to him. If the need ever arises again, we would definitely use him.
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28 Jun, 2024 by Bob fuller
They did a great job with my workers comp case. Very attentive to my needs. I would recommend them.
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30 Jul, 2024 by Whitney huggins
I was referred to this legal team. For an estate matter my attorney was Lindsay. She is polite but mislead me in valuable Knowledge. I had to require Input a and do hours of research on my own behalf. To require what I'm entitled to. Then attorney JARED PEARCE was extremely rude and demanding that I sale. A 40 thousand dollar vehicle of my spouse's.To pay him for his services and out of a ten thousand dollar check he demanded 6 of it and if I didn't agree to that he would keep it all. So I've paid this form 7 thousand dollars this year. And have received 4 thousand dollars. You know. What they say the devil wears Prada. Before you hire this firm. I strongly suggest you know your P's n Q's.BEWARE!!!!!!!
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20 Jun, 2024 by Allie o (allieo)
I hired Wallace Pierce to help me with my case and I am very pleased with the handling of my case and satisfied with the out come. I am truly grateful for the time and effort Ryan put into it even though it doesn't replace what I lost I feel accountability was taken and I highly recommend using their services.
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10 Apr, 2024 by Hahn oslo
This is the highest quality law firm in NC in my opinion. So thankful that Mr. Pierce is a lawyer and helping NC to keep peace and equanimity.
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28 Sep, 2024 by Annette stewart
Belton Law Office is amazing! Prompt, professional, excellent service, and eager to share wisdom and knowledge! Thank you so much for your assistance with our situation! We greatly appreciate your excellent service!
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22 Sep, 2024 by Mario cedeño
Excelente atención me ayudaron con un tickets de velocidad, hablan español. Muy amables. 100% recomendado.
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20 Sep, 2024 by Jacqueline sinclair
Attorney Brennon Morton is a top notch Attorney very professional and confident ! He got a love one case dismissed that had a felony and two misdemeanors! I highly recommend his services !
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28 Sep, 2024 by Annette stewart
Belton Law Office is amazing! Prompt, professional, excellent service, and eager to share wisdom and knowledge! Thank you so much for your assistance with our situation! We greatly appreciate your excellent service!
Read more
22 Sep, 2024 by Mario cedeño
Excelente atención me ayudaron con un tickets de velocidad, hablan español. Muy amables. 100% recomendado.
Read more
20 Sep, 2024 by Jacqueline sinclair
Attorney Brennon Morton is a top notch Attorney very professional and confident ! He got a love one case dismissed that had a felony and two misdemeanors! I highly recommend his services !
Read more
28 Sep, 2024 by Annette stewart
Belton Law Office is amazing! Prompt, professional, excellent service, and eager to share wisdom and knowledge! Thank you so much for your assistance with our situation! We greatly appreciate your excellent service!
Read more
22 Sep, 2024 by Mario cedeño
Excelente atención me ayudaron con un tickets de velocidad, hablan español. Muy amables. 100% recomendado.
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20 Sep, 2024 by Jacqueline sinclair
Attorney Brennon Morton is a top notch Attorney very professional and confident ! He got a love one case dismissed that had a felony and two misdemeanors! I highly recommend his services !
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09 Feb, 2016 by Jo ann
Excellent experience from beginning to end, a surprisingly pleasant process.
Mr. Wickward is very knowledgeable and experienced in social security / disability law. My case was approved in a little over a year. Throughout the whole process I was always updated and kept informed of what to expect. Mr. Wickward and his secretary were always pleasant and professional.
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28 Jan, 2016 by Raymond
I just want to say thanks to Mr. Wickward for standing by my side and working hard to help me out, it took a while but he never gave up and I'm blessed to have had the opportunity to select Mr. Wickward for my attorney.
thanks
r.m.brunson jr
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23 Jul, 2014 by Thomas
Mr. Wickward has been very informative in everything from start through currently awaiting the jjudge's decision after an adjudication review in June 2014. He has explained everything to me in layman's terms, easy to understand, and when there were any questions on my part, then he was so patient to explain the process, and specific questions, that I may encounter. He is very knowledgeable about disability, and social security laws. I have been totally pleased with his candor, and expertise.
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26 Jul, 2024 by Patrick mccullough
Atty Stan Abrams gave me rock solid advice and I encourage anyone involved with NCDOT eminent matters to contact him and just listen. You won't be disappointed.
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19 Jul, 2024 by Jimmy braswell
Very quick and professional
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28 Jun, 2024 by Ravi patel
The team at this firm is great! Kevin and Christie were easy to deal with and communicate. They were with me every step of the way. Would highly recommend to everyone!
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06 Apr, 2024 by Candace vaughan
12 Mar, 2024 by Jeanne o (jenny)
Such a pleasure once again visiting the offices of Walker Lambe. Everyone is professional, kind and expert at their jobs. Shout out to Shirley & Lisa, a dynamic team. Thanks for all the hard work!
Read more
16 Feb, 2024 by Blake adkin
It's been a pleasure to work with Rupe Gill and Kim Sain over the last several years. They take the time to answer client questions and their follow through is very strong. I highly recommend that individuals and business owners reach out to the offices of Walker Lamb to receive a proposal for service.
Read more
06 Apr, 2024 by Candace vaughan
12 Mar, 2024 by Jeanne o (jenny)
Such a pleasure once again visiting the offices of Walker Lambe. Everyone is professional, kind and expert at their jobs. Shout out to Shirley & Lisa, a dynamic team. Thanks for all the hard work!
Read more
16 Feb, 2024 by Blake adkin
It's been a pleasure to work with Rupe Gill and Kim Sain over the last several years. They take the time to answer client questions and their follow through is very strong. I highly recommend that individuals and business owners reach out to the offices of Walker Lamb to receive a proposal for service.
Read more
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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:
-
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.
