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04 Apr, 2016 by Kristina
David represented me in an unexpected lawsuit. He was extremely patient in explaining how everything worked and what each step of the legal process meant. David was very professional and detailed through the entire law suit. I feel like he went above and beyond every aspect of his professional duties, especially when researching the plaintiff, in an effort to help my case. He obtained the best outcome for my situation and because of that I was overwhelming grateful for what he accomplished. I would highly recommend him to anyone looking for an attorney.
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30 Dec, 2015 by Doug
David was extremely professional and friendly, and updated all the components of our trust to meet our personal goals and interests. He provided very clear instructions to us for managing our trust in the future - something we very much appreciate. I recommend him without hesitation.
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05 Dec, 2015 by Kim
We have been so impressed with David...he has provided us with legal counsel for a couple of issues and the overcomes were far above and beyond what we hoped for. He did an amazing job and we will continue to use him as our attorney for all our legal matters.
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22 Jun, 2022 by Robin
I was referred to Colline before she went out on her own. I followed her when she opened her own practice. Best thing I did. She was always there for me. We even communicated with each other while I was out of state. She handled everything perfect. I was awarded a nice sum from my husband (which I get every month) she never backed down. I consider her a friend not just my attorney. Highly recommend her services.
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28 Apr, 2021 by Julianne
Having already gone through the divorce process with a different lawyer I was left feeling taken advantaged of, underrepresented, just a dollar sign, and had a distrust in lawyers in general. Knowing that I would need representation again in the future related to custody issues I needed to find another attorney. I remembered an attorney that spoke at Second Saturday, an informational workshop for women dealing with divorce. Colline was the lawyer that spoke about the legal issues related to divorce and her passion and expertise struck me then enough for me to remembered her years later.
I felt understood and safe with Colline and this was so no easy task because of my prior experience with attorneys. She took the time to understand my case and situation more than anyone had done previously. She not only has impressive knowledge with family court and custody she also understands and is sensitive to the personal aspect of your case. Colline knew when to give me straight facts, that at times was challenging to hear and also when to be empathize with me as person and mother.
Her abilities to represent me in the court room were just as impressive as some of her other qualities already mentioned. She was prepared and organized with all the details of my case but what I valued even more was her passion to make sure my daughters and I had the best chance at a life without consent fear. My case was not a simple and I was consistently amazed at her drive to represent me in the best way possible. Colline was able to overcome what seemed like impossible barriers that allowed me to have the best outcome with my custody arrangement.
Having Colline on my side was the only thing that allowed me to not break during the most stressful time in my life. For this reason alone I recommend her to anyone that wants an attorney that will always put forth extreme effort, has impressive knowledge and judgement with the law, and cares deeply about you as a person. You will never feel like a dollar sign when Colline is your attorney.
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17 Mar, 2021 by Karl
I almost hate to give her a good review. She's pretty busy already and I don't want to share, kidding, She's an awesome attorney, down to earth and practical and I'm not a fan of lawyers. There are a lot of slimy, dirty, money grubbin' liars, oops I mean lawyers especially in the shitshow that is family law. Colline is none of that. A true diamond in the rough.
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25 Dec, 2009 by Anonymous
Mr. Topa worked very closely with us over the course of setting up our business. He navigated us though all the challenges from writing a business plan, setting up the legal entity, arranging financing with the bank, to navigating all the mess of forms to be filed with the state and federal governments. I would highly recommend him. Only problem was keeping in touch. He was frequently out of the office visiting other clients and we spent most of our time communicating through email.
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03 Apr, 2009 by Anonymous
I used Mr. Topa to help with tax questions. He spent a great deal of time going over the material with me, helping me to understand the different "elections" and the effects they would have. I was very pleased with the outcome. I was, however, disappointed with some of the waiting. I wish he would call more often to update.
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19 Aug, 2008 by Anonymous
Chris worked with me very closely. He took the time to explain all the proceeding and the different options available to me. He came out to me on several occassions and would even meet with me on weekends when my work scheduled prohibited me coming by the office during normal office hours.
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11 Feb, 2020 by Marie
I can’t say enough positive things about Kevin and his team! He went out of his way to guide us through a process we knew very little about. He made the entire thing easy and actually enjoyable! My family and I recommend him 100000% to anyone who needs estate planning!
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03 Jan, 2020 by Philip winters
Honest, reliable and efficient. Easy to work with and protects our music and art so we can keep making it.
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18 Oct, 2018 by Kippen
Atty Lane and her staff were exceptional in dissolving an existing trust. They were all very quick to communicate with me when I asked for information. They updated me clearly when there were changes, without doing so excessively and incurring unnecessary fees. They were patient with me when I was confused from time to time. They were very considerate of my finances in balance with what was needed to successfully resolve this issue. They were very well prepared and knowledgeable in the field of expertise. They were very down-to-earth as well as very professional. It was a great balance of skills and humanity. I would recommend them to anyone. I'm grateful that I found them.
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21 Aug, 2009 by Cm
Daria's legal knowledge is superb and she has practiced law for years and has been successful.
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04 May, 2015 by Robert
Mary Conklin wonderfully assisted in the needs of an elderly member of my church. In the process I was appointed to be the power of attorney in health and legal matters and then as the executor of the estate. Mary provided ongoing guidance and the necessary advice and legal work during those times. I recently completely my responsibilities to the estate. I appreciated her professionalism, knowledge, and "going the extra mile" spirit of service. I have recommended her to others and would certainly continue to do so. She is without question someone you can trust.
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23 Mar, 2022 by Jeron
I don’t even know where to begin with having Ms.Hanna as attorney. One hopes the words chosen conveys all the sincerity. When the battle for my son was not looking good due the misrepresentation of my last attorney. I was thrust into a black hole and spiraled ever downward. My active mind went dormant and my existence felt meaningless. Self-loathing, self-pity, and self-destruction became the order of business. Then something remarkable happened; I became your client. Because of you Hanna, and your entire firm, I gained a safe haven, a voice, a coat of armor, and hope. Right from the start, you re-humanized you believed in my efforts of fighting for my first and only child. As time elapsed, you gave me inspiration and determination to reverse the spiral. And if that wasn't enough, through your efforts, you gave me a new life with my child! When you and the lead attorney Mrs.Cheltenham conference called me with strategies, and ethical outcomes, I was so overwhelmed and words escaped me. As a father fighting for his son all the way from Florida 1000+ miles away Thank you from the deepest recesses of my heart and the epicenter of my soul- for all you have done for me and will continue to do for others. I would like to express my heartfelt gratitude to you for all the care and concern you have shown me, and for working tirelessly to ensure that the law worked in our favor for my son and myself. If it weren’t for your analytical skills and knowledge, the matter wouldn’t have been settled by now. Thanks once again for your legal advice, time, and efforts.
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27 Aug, 2015 by George
I have known John Hunt for many years. He is an attorney and C.P.A., who is smart, detailed and has an excellent reputation, particularly in the tax arena. I would stongly recommend him.
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04 Sep, 2024 by Yiwen li
Amy is one of the best immigration lawyers I worked with. For the following reasons:
She cares deeply: Many immigration firms see immigrants as just another case or another workload, but behind every immigrant, there is a unique story. Amy sees this, she cares for her clients and their dreams, and she tries her best to help them achieve their immigration goals.
She is very knowledgeable and experienced in what she does: especially for the categories that need deep skill and expertise, such as O1, NIW etc. She understands the regulation, keeps up to date with changes, and pays attention to the nuances. She also tailors solutions for every case based on everyone’s different situation.
She has a strong sense of justice, and not afraid to discuss with the authorities and stand up for her clients to do what is best for them.
I recommend Amy to anyone who seeks a knowledge, capable immigration lawyer who cares, to be alongside their immigration journey.
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26 Jul, 2024 by Manal rahman
She is an amazing lawyer! She solved an extremely complicated case for us and was able to expedite the processing of our case in unprecedented time. We are so thankful to have found her and would recommend her for any and all immigration related questions!
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17 Jul, 2024 by Monica valle
After getting a recommendation to Amy's office for my particularly time-sensitive O-1B petition, Adriana Klemish, Associate Attorney, filed my petition to the government in record time. Adriana has truly mastered the art of the legal narrative, taking my experience and qualifications and translating them into an airtight legal case, which was quickly approved. She fully went above and beyond to understand the complexities of my field to best represent me.
I cannot recommend Adriana and Amy's office enough. The attention to detail, knowledge, and professionalism have left a lasting impression, and I am beyond happy to recommend them to anyone needing immigration law support. I would not go anywhere else!
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04 Sep, 2024 by Yiwen li
Amy is one of the best immigration lawyers I worked with. For the following reasons:
She cares deeply: Many immigration firms see immigrants as just another case or another workload, but behind every immigrant, there is a unique story. Amy sees this, she cares for her clients and their dreams, and she tries her best to help them achieve their immigration goals.
She is very knowledgeable and experienced in what she does: especially for the categories that need deep skill and expertise, such as O1, NIW etc. She understands the regulation, keeps up to date with changes, and pays attention to the nuances. She also tailors solutions for every case based on everyone’s different situation.
She has a strong sense of justice, and not afraid to discuss with the authorities and stand up for her clients to do what is best for them.
I recommend Amy to anyone who seeks a knowledge, capable immigration lawyer who cares, to be alongside their immigration journey.
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26 Jul, 2024 by Manal rahman
She is an amazing lawyer! She solved an extremely complicated case for us and was able to expedite the processing of our case in unprecedented time. We are so thankful to have found her and would recommend her for any and all immigration related questions!
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17 Jul, 2024 by Monica valle
After getting a recommendation to Amy's office for my particularly time-sensitive O-1B petition, Adriana Klemish, Associate Attorney, filed my petition to the government in record time. Adriana has truly mastered the art of the legal narrative, taking my experience and qualifications and translating them into an airtight legal case, which was quickly approved. She fully went above and beyond to understand the complexities of my field to best represent me.
I cannot recommend Adriana and Amy's office enough. The attention to detail, knowledge, and professionalism have left a lasting impression, and I am beyond happy to recommend them to anyone needing immigration law support. I would not go anywhere else!
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03 Jan, 2024 by Al chris
Augustin Law Offices was excellent to work with in developing our wills, power of attorney and other legal documents. Would highly recommend if you are in need of these types of services.
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30 Nov, 2023 by Carrie thorburn
Ernscie is a very detailed and thorough attorney who has a professional and at ease demeanor. Her staff and her were always professional, returned emails and phone calls in a timely manner. I felt heard and understood as she guided me through the legal process.
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16 Oct, 2023 by Michael wacyk
it was a great pleasure to work with Augustin Law Offices in obtaining the services I needed to get my affairs in order for my family. I will be using her services again.
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10 Feb, 2010 by Raymond & mary lou
My wife and I searched for several years for an Attorney to help us build our Living Trust. We went to a multitude of luncheons and were always scared away by the complexity described by the Attorneys present. A very good friend recomended that we make an appointment with an Attorney who attends the same golf outing that we do, so we knew a little about Arlyn J.Bossenbrook before hand. We were both amazed and put at ease as he explained EVERYTHING required of him and us and how the whole process would take place should we decide to create a Living Trust. He continues to help us whenever we have a question or concern as his no. 1 priority. He treated us not only as a Client but a FRIEND. Thank you Arlyn. Raymond & Mary Lou
Mr & Mrs. Raymond Kissinger Sr.
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06 Feb, 2010 by Nancy
Arlyn has helped us with our estate planning, and has recommended lawyers for other issues. We have been very satisfied with his thoroughness and patience as he explained things to us.
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04 Feb, 2010 by Phillip
Extremely helpful and knowledgeable. Understands the law and has the anwers that satisfy my questions. His legal assistant is the most efficient and thoughtful person that I have ever met in th legal profession.
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20 Dec, 2019 by Clinethia arrington
14 Sep, 2018 by Derek hackett
Lived in the apartments on the 2nd floor for 3 years. Affordable and cozy, even though the building is pretty dirty, especially the kitchen. The MSU Legal Clinic moved out of this building a little while ago. Some windows, and especially the back door have been broken by vandals, and the parking lot still needs a lot of work. However, these might just be the cheapest studio apartments in East Lansing
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03 Mar, 2017 by Ashley keller
20 Dec, 2019 by Clinethia arrington
14 Sep, 2018 by Derek hackett
Lived in the apartments on the 2nd floor for 3 years. Affordable and cozy, even though the building is pretty dirty, especially the kitchen. The MSU Legal Clinic moved out of this building a little while ago. Some windows, and especially the back door have been broken by vandals, and the parking lot still needs a lot of work. However, these might just be the cheapest studio apartments in East Lansing
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03 Mar, 2017 by Ashley keller
04 Sep, 2024 by Jeanne carter
Very disappointed in this office. My brother had total assets of less than $25,000. It has been 9 months and still the estate has not been settled. So far, lots of paper shuffling with lots of attorney fees.
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07 Jul, 2024 by Barb nieratko
07 Apr, 2024 by Jennifer pitcher
I highly recommend Raymond Harris. He is absolutely 100% there for his clients and has the patience and knowledge base to access and prepare you for the challenges ahead with a compassionate and comprehensive ability, he listens to your requests and makes sure to provide you with all legal coverages you may require. He is helpful in explaining every aspect of the options you have. He is available and open for consultation and is present in your time of need. That is not easy to come by in this day and age. I highly recommend him.
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04 Sep, 2024 by Jeanne carter
Very disappointed in this office. My brother had total assets of less than $25,000. It has been 9 months and still the estate has not been settled. So far, lots of paper shuffling with lots of attorney fees.
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07 Jul, 2024 by Barb nieratko
07 Apr, 2024 by Jennifer pitcher
I highly recommend Raymond Harris. He is absolutely 100% there for his clients and has the patience and knowledge base to access and prepare you for the challenges ahead with a compassionate and comprehensive ability, he listens to your requests and makes sure to provide you with all legal coverages you may require. He is helpful in explaining every aspect of the options you have. He is available and open for consultation and is present in your time of need. That is not easy to come by in this day and age. I highly recommend him.
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04 Sep, 2024 by Jeanne carter
Very disappointed in this office. My brother had total assets of less than $25,000. It has been 9 months and still the estate has not been settled. So far, lots of paper shuffling with lots of attorney fees.
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07 Jul, 2024 by Barb nieratko
07 Apr, 2024 by Jennifer pitcher
I highly recommend Raymond Harris. He is absolutely 100% there for his clients and has the patience and knowledge base to access and prepare you for the challenges ahead with a compassionate and comprehensive ability, he listens to your requests and makes sure to provide you with all legal coverages you may require. He is helpful in explaining every aspect of the options you have. He is available and open for consultation and is present in your time of need. That is not easy to come by in this day and age. I highly recommend him.
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04 Sep, 2024 by Jeanne carter
Very disappointed in this office. My brother had total assets of less than $25,000. It has been 9 months and still the estate has not been settled. So far, lots of paper shuffling with lots of attorney fees.
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07 Jul, 2024 by Barb nieratko
07 Apr, 2024 by Jennifer pitcher
I highly recommend Raymond Harris. He is absolutely 100% there for his clients and has the patience and knowledge base to access and prepare you for the challenges ahead with a compassionate and comprehensive ability, he listens to your requests and makes sure to provide you with all legal coverages you may require. He is helpful in explaining every aspect of the options you have. He is available and open for consultation and is present in your time of need. That is not easy to come by in this day and age. I highly recommend him.
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04 Sep, 2024 by Jeanne carter
Very disappointed in this office. My brother had total assets of less than $25,000. It has been 9 months and still the estate has not been settled. So far, lots of paper shuffling with lots of attorney fees.
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07 Jul, 2024 by Barb nieratko
07 Apr, 2024 by Jennifer pitcher
I highly recommend Raymond Harris. He is absolutely 100% there for his clients and has the patience and knowledge base to access and prepare you for the challenges ahead with a compassionate and comprehensive ability, he listens to your requests and makes sure to provide you with all legal coverages you may require. He is helpful in explaining every aspect of the options you have. He is available and open for consultation and is present in your time of need. That is not easy to come by in this day and age. I highly recommend him.
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12 Aug, 2024 by Krista blievernicht
I have not actually used the services but I wasn't able leave an email with an image from the website.
I wanted to inform you that Sparrow (I received from Sparrow specialty hospital) has completely missed spelled your name and made it very hard to Google you.
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16 May, 2024 by Karrie knickerbocker
Everyone at Chalgian & Tripp was wonderful! They kept me informed every step of the way throughout my case, and wasted no time getting things resolved. Mr. Doug Chalgian and every person who assisted with my case did so with great professionalism and skill, as well as kindness and empathy. And in the end, I was very happy with the resolution we came to.
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17 Apr, 2024 by Pam livingston
Dan Hilker from the Lansing location was my attorney. Dan is very thorough, extremely knowledgeable, is an excellent communicator and a hard worker. I highly recommend Dan. He will take care of you and ease your concerns throughout the process.
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12 Aug, 2024 by Krista blievernicht
I have not actually used the services but I wasn't able leave an email with an image from the website.
I wanted to inform you that Sparrow (I received from Sparrow specialty hospital) has completely missed spelled your name and made it very hard to Google you.
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16 May, 2024 by Karrie knickerbocker
Everyone at Chalgian & Tripp was wonderful! They kept me informed every step of the way throughout my case, and wasted no time getting things resolved. Mr. Doug Chalgian and every person who assisted with my case did so with great professionalism and skill, as well as kindness and empathy. And in the end, I was very happy with the resolution we came to.
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17 Apr, 2024 by Pam livingston
Dan Hilker from the Lansing location was my attorney. Dan is very thorough, extremely knowledgeable, is an excellent communicator and a hard worker. I highly recommend Dan. He will take care of you and ease your concerns throughout the process.
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12 Jul, 2024 by Heather hosey
Katie Gabel was excellent, she got the best possible outcome for me. She explained everything so I knew what to expect and made me feel comfortable and confident in her skills. Thank you Katie!
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22 Jun, 2024 by Nate
Professional scamer. Bills for things not done, prolongs cases, not Professional, rude, does not respond, forgets everything, and spends more time threatening and trying to drop clients. Wife with no law degree was able to finish right after Lyke drops us. She allowed other side to turn in false documents and will believe other side before her own client. STAY CLEAR!!!
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17 Jan, 2024 by It’s me
I am very impressed with Lyke Law! Kristina is a fighter and has won many awards. She is professional, pays attention to detail, and aggressively fights for her clients! She helped me and went above and beyond to fight in court. I highly recommend her services!
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12 Jul, 2024 by Heather hosey
Katie Gabel was excellent, she got the best possible outcome for me. She explained everything so I knew what to expect and made me feel comfortable and confident in her skills. Thank you Katie!
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22 Jun, 2024 by Nate
Professional scamer. Bills for things not done, prolongs cases, not Professional, rude, does not respond, forgets everything, and spends more time threatening and trying to drop clients. Wife with no law degree was able to finish right after Lyke drops us. She allowed other side to turn in false documents and will believe other side before her own client. STAY CLEAR!!!
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17 Jan, 2024 by It’s me
I am very impressed with Lyke Law! Kristina is a fighter and has won many awards. She is professional, pays attention to detail, and aggressively fights for her clients! She helped me and went above and beyond to fight in court. I highly recommend her services!
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05 Mar, 2021 by Thomas
If I could have given negative stars I would have. $18,000+ in legal fees. And my situation was actually worsened with their "assistance".
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06 Jun, 2019 by Paul
Doug Chalgian and his staff knows, and is compassionate about Elder Law.
It’s very true that death can bring out the worst in a family.
Doug Chalgian represented our defense against my mothers trust vs my siblings.
I would not want to be across the table from Atty Chalgian.
Thank you Chalgian and Tripp- very professional and knowledgeable.
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21 Aug, 2018 by Anonymous
Our lawyer and his staff were very friendly, but always acted in a professional manner. The service and advice we received and needed was very calming and helped relieve some of the stress associated with this situation. Thank you!
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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.
