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11 Jul, 2023 by Dolores pinto (yo-yo)
Upfront and transparent. Kind nurturing to the need of the situation. 5-star attorney.
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12 Nov, 2022 by Nathan johnson
Russell has helped out my family members time and time again. Couldn’t recommend him enough. Truly. Nathan Johnson
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14 Feb, 2020 by Jamie aho
Russell Lockwood is amazing ! I highly recommend him to have one Who has had to DUI or any criminal case my family and I have used him since the 90s he’s reasonable with his pricing and very honest and upfront the best in San Diego
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30 Sep, 2015 by Anonymous
When I met Mr Garmo in his office he was nothing but professional and knowledgable. He was very informative and guided me through the entire process.
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24 Sep, 2015 by Danny
Freddy and his law firm have done a great job with our family trust and a few other legal matter like car accidents and some civil matters. He and his entire staff are great homework with
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19 Sep, 2015 by Salam
An excellent attorney that he go extra mile to satisfy your needs and make you understand your rights. He helped me in more than ten cases and he succeed in all of them,I truly recommend him because he is honest ,truthful and reasonable.
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26 Nov, 2013 by Kathryn
My mother had died and left a complicated mess of an estate. Her lawyer was taking advantage of the situation in full. Scott was recommended to me by a lawyer who had lost to him in court. He helped me take care of the estate to the satisfaction of all of the beneficiaries. That was no easy task.
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09 Jul, 2024 by Raul rodriguez
If you want to deal with a rude person with zero social skills, I recommend calling this firm. That is the experience I had.
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08 Jun, 2024 by Kenny osborn
Very professional and friendly.
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08 May, 2024 by Maab aljumaili
I wont say much. You will be happier with a lawyer signed to to you for free than hire him. Try and find out.
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19 Aug, 2024 by Strength love and power ministry
I like the straight forward and no nonsense nature. Great people to work with.
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13 Aug, 2024 by April valdivia
Samantha Andrew’s assistant very rude lady.!!! Talks to you with an attitude. Very unprofessional does not know how to speak to clients nicely. No matter the issue between the client & attorneys office there’s no reason why you should be speaking in such ugly and unprofessional way. Also , when trying to speak with Andrew griffin he’s ethier never there or with another client…👎🏽 👎🏽👎🏽
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12 Jun, 2024 by Alexis smith
I would highly recommend mr. Griffin and his team. I worked with directly with Samantha during our unlawful detainer lawsuit and she was highly professional, communicative, and proactive in keeping us informed during a stressful time.
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11 Dec, 2022 by Nancy
Catherine helped me thru a nasty divorce. My former husband is also an attorney. Catherine held my hand and fought for my rights and I will always be grateful.
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16 Dec, 2013 by Anonymous
I contacted Catherine through Avvo with a question and with the intent of hiring her, but I never heard back from her. She either did not receive my message or has too many customers and does not need another one.
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08 Jun, 2012 by Jennifer
Catherine is the only lawyer (out of close to 20) that would actually speak to me on the phone and answer my questions even before I made an appointment with her. She is very knowledgeable regarding the law and has many superior suggestions on how to handle things. She explains things so I can understand them and proves to look out for the best interest of my family. My case will be handled in a different state so I could not hire Catherine full time. She knew this after the first consultation but still speaks with me and answers all questions I have. She has worked with me on payments as well. She truly is someone who cares and is compassionate. She's not out for your money but out to help people. Thank you, Catherine. You have been such a blessing to my family.
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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:

  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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