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24 Sep, 2024 by Gretchen porkert
Kristen House at JM Law is a pleasure to work with. Their process of a visioning session and implementation session really helped us think through various scenarios for our estate plan. Kristen is incredibly detail oriented, and extremely knowledgeable. Getting our estate plan in order was painless with JM Law.
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20 Sep, 2024 by D 2
As a layperson, knowing what to put in your will requires knowledge that most of us don't have or even consider. necessary. Ramar Jaradat, an estate planning associate at Cassday and Company in McLean VA, did a fantastic job for us:, making us clear on what we need to do to protect our assets from unnecessary taxes, as well as from any potential, even though unlikely, claims against our estate that were not in our wishes. I am not quite ready to say that estate planning is fun, but Ramar Jaradat, made it as pleasant and as informative as possible.
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03 Sep, 2024 by Pat
Ramah is very professional, respectful, and kind. She is very knowledgable and patient always goes out of her way to help, with all my documents and all amendments I need it to have moving to another state. She always gave me very wise advice
I wish I can continue working with her. I am definitely recommending her to all my friends Thank you Ramah you are the Best!
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15 Apr, 2024 by Kim
Kyle was extremely helpful in getting my directives in order. Its not easy to think about exiting this earth but he walked me through it and we got it done! Very professional and kind when talking about these sorts of things. Thankyou Kyle!!
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03 Jan, 2024 by Anonymous
My recent experience with Manikas PLC for estate planning exceeded my expectations.
Before delving into the process of estate planning, I am not sure my husband and I fully understood what not planning would mean for us and our family. One of the most valuable parts of the experience was the planning meeting where Kyle walked us through the specifics of what would happen to our home in probate and my children if there were no legal precautions taken. It was a stark reality check that every parent should experience.
As we worked through the planning, what impressed us the most was the genuine sense of commitment that Kyle had. There was an ongoing collaboration to make sure that all the details, like the deed and other aspects of the trust funding, were taken care of so that the plan would work when we needed it. Kyle was available to address our questions and concerns as my husband and I worked through the process, which was very reassuring. There was a strong emphasis on education and communication from start to finish and this allowed us to make well-informed decisions. I wholeheartedly recommend Kyle.
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05 Dec, 2019 by Anonymous
I was represented in the court by Mr. Manikas . From the first meeting with him, I had a complete confidence that he is in control of all aspects of my case. He provided the best recommendations for every step I had to take and because I followed exactly what I was told to do before the court, the result was outstanding. I greatly appreciate the hard work, time and dedication of Mr. Manikas . I highly recommend him as a attorney you can completely rely on. His professionalism and level of expertise is the highest that you can expect. Thank you very much!
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25 Jan, 2024 by Sarah
When we needed to learn how to manage our sister's anticipated inheritance, it didn't take long to settle on the Farr Law Firm for advice. Their reputation as the experts in elder law and estate planning preceded them. After a thorough review of our situation, they revised my mother's revocable living trust and prepared a Special Needs Trust for my sister. There was some urgency as my mother was nearing 100 years of age. Thanks to their knowledge and depth of experience they were able to complete the work in a matter of days. Trusts are complicated and in the course of administering them, I've had numerous questions for Mr. Farr or a member of his staff. Without fail, responses are clear, comprehensive and delivered without delay. Working with Farr, I know I can count on things being done correctly and to our best advantage - and that adds up to great peace of mind.
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20 Oct, 2021 by Mr. & mr. f.
Originally we chose Evan Farr and his law firm based on his clients' reviews. Our initial appointment with Evan only confirmed all the excellent reviews we have read. Three specific qualities set Evan apart from other attorneys practicing Elder Law: his vast knowledge, excellent listening skills and offering of continuous education for his many clients. We much appreciated Evan's help in navigating the complex and stressful process of setting up our legal documents. We also appreciate Sara Entis' efforts to finalize this colossal task and to make the important signing appointment totally flawless. In addition, we want to mention Sierra Kolasa's willingness to help every time we needed assistance. Our entire experience only proved that choosing Evan and his firm was the right decision. We highly recommend Evan and his firm to everyone.
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12 Sep, 2020 by Nick
Evan is a first rate attorney and he’s always generous with time and knowledge. His contributions to other sites, the legal profession and the community as a whole are invaluable.
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24 Jan, 2017 by Fred gumbinner
GREAT JOB!! I hired them for a 40/25 SPEEDING ticket, and they got it reduced to a no point, non moving violation NO DMV (98-14)!!! They saved me tons on my insurance premium, no DMV points, and no record for the prior offenses. I was extremely satisfied with their service, work, and I'd hire them again!
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02 Jan, 2016 by Tracy
I was referred by a friend to the Gilson Law Firm and I could not be happier with the results. Mr. Gilson is very knowledgeable, friendly and was well prepared for my case. He is very professional and respectful. I highly recommend his services.
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18 Sep, 2014 by Bryan
Our family has used the services of The Gilson Law Firm for over three years. Attorney John Paul Gilson is an experienced trial attorney with high integrity and dedication. All of his staff are top notch and customer service is outstanding. The phones are always answer by a staff member and our questions answered. He keeps us informed. John Paul Gilson is very knowledgeable and one of the nices & best attorneys in the area. He goes out of his way to help, no matter the time of day.
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17 Sep, 2019 by Anonymous
In 2017, I was seeking legal expertise in the area of Elder Care. My journey led me to Jean Galloway Ball. Since then, she has been instrumental in guiding me through/about Elder Care as well as Estate Planning/Trusts. She was able to assess my situations immediately, provide the challenges ahead for me, options for resolutions, thorough in ensuring I understood all documentation, and, above all else, understood me. I am thankful for her knowledge, frankness, concern, and patience. As a result of her professional demeanor, and just who she is, I felt at ease during and after each session even though, many times, the situation that I was dealing with didn’t warrant it. I highly recommend Jean Galloway Ball. She will never give up on her client.
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03 Apr, 2017 by Anonymous
Jean Galloway Ball is a superb attorney in every way. We hired her to represent us in a difficult estate litigation matter. I am an attorney myself and I had very high standards. She met and even exceeded them throughout the litigation. She has great judgment, is very responsive, produces excellent work product and works really hard to represent your interests. I am very happy we hired Jean to represent us.
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30 Aug, 2015 by Maralee
My husband left behind a very muddled and complicated estate with no will, loans that were owed him, real estate owned in several states, a construction project that was barely started, unpaid taxes, money in a foreign account that was frozen, a safe deposit box owned by him alone and a jealous girl friend who sued me.
Jean and her associates have helped me through the process of becoming the administrator of his estate, reactivate my late husbands LLC so I can continue the construction project and has countered the suit effectively. Jean has begun the process of forcing the repayments of the loans by placing liens against the debtors property which he has for sale thereby preventing sale without repayment of his loan. There is still much to be done, but I have confidence in Jean's ability to advise me and help me find the specialized help I need to complete this task..
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24 May, 2022 by Anonymous
I reached out to Claudia about a divorce matter my cousin was going through. It is a tough and sad case and Claudia gave us excellent guidance and advice. Claudia is strong, strategic and thoughtful in her approach and we are grateful for it! Her advice led to a great outcome in court and we couldn't be happier. Thank you so much!!
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09 Jul, 2018 by Anonymous
Claudia saved my life! I met her at one of the lowest points in my life. My husband at the time left me with 2 kids, no family and/or financial assistance. I was far away from home. Claudia took a genuine interest in the lives of my children. She became my friend during a long custody battle. When things got tough,so did she! I honestly believe if it wasn't for the work she did for me in the beginning, I would have continued to struggle and fight for my children. Claudia wanted to see me win..she wanted to see my children and I in a much better place. She educated me on every single piece of documentation, legal process and the do's/don't of divorce. I'm forever grateful. My children and I are doing so well and it's because of all the LOVE, DEVOTION and FIGHT she put into my case. Money well spent.
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14 Feb, 2018 by Anonymous
Claudia is a smart, focused, compassionate attorney who helped me navigate a scary divorce and custody case. She was both kind and tough, counselling me on the realities of what I was facing with tenacity and wisdom. She has an experienced team around her that offers decades of combined experience. I felt both cared for and well represented.
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05 Jun, 2020 by Lisa
Our family had a difficult real estate transaction involving uncooperative relatives and a challenging buyer. Samantha did an incredible job getting the sale across the finish line with successful results. She was extremely responsive, always available and courteous. Samantha was able to work through additional obstacles with my being out-of-state. We highly recommend Samantha and wouldn't hesitate to use her again for any legal matters.
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03 Aug, 2018 by Keith
My disabled son is turning 18. Ms. Fredieu assisted my wife and I with the guardianship proceedings. In our first meeting she clearly laid out what information she needed from us. once the information was provided she just took care of the rest; all we had to do was show up in court. She took the anxiety out of what could have been a complicated legal mess. To top it off the legal fees came in under budget. I could not be more pleased.
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20 Jul, 2017 by Bob
At the beginning of 2016 my aunt, who was living in an assisted living facility, was getting very frustrated with a relative who was handling her funds but not providing any accounting of her assets. Not knowing how to proceed to help my aunt, I asked the facility where she resides for a recommendation of an attorney who might have experience in a situation like ours. They recommended Hale Ball and we are so happy they did.
After an initial consultation with my aunt and I, lawyer Samantha Fredieu gave us a plan on how to try and get an accounting of the assets. Thanks to Samantha’s quick actions, we immediately gained control of my aunt’s assets but discovered our worst fears; the relative had misappropriated a large sum of money from my aunt.
Samantha suggested ( and we agreed) to file a lawsuit to recover the funds. Samantha guided us through all of our choices, explaining in detail which venue was better for our case, state or federal court. After carefully weighing all our options with Samantha, we chose to file our lawsuit in Virginia federal court. Samantha and her firm jumped right into the case and quickly filed an action. Samantha litigated very professionally and always worked with us to keep expenses as low as possible. The relative fought back hard and made the case unnecessarily complicated, but Samantha and her firm thwarted every attempt by the relative to try to get the case dismissed.
After a year of very hard work and multiple appearances before the judge, we won our case with summary judgment and not having to go to trial. We succeeded at every level we had hoped and thanks to Samantha’s efforts, we didn’t have to have my aunt exposed to a potentially exhausting trial. Samantha also got the court to award punitive damages and also got the judge to order that our legal fees had to be reimbursed by the relative who misappropriated the funds.
Throughout the case Samantha kept us continually up to date with every development as it happened. On numerous occasions Samantha consulted directly with my aunt with showing great patience, love and respect to her, even though my 82 year old aunt can be a handful. Samantha went above and beyond all our expectations. If you ever find yourself in need of an elder care specialist, Samantha Fredieu and Hale Ball law firm is the place to go.
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05 Feb, 2024 by James
Dear Mr. DeGioia,
I am writing to thank you for your exceptional representation at the hearing before the Administrative Law Judge for my Social Security Disability case. My appeal had been denied during the reconsideration appeal and it was a difficult case to represent in establishing my first date of disability. You were dedicated, detailed, and caring in obtaining all the information that was required including additional medical records, physical examinations, and diagnostic records. Due to your diligence and hard work, I received a fully favorable decision!
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24 Jul, 2023 by Brian
Absolutely the best! Mr. DeGioia was extremely knowledgeable, responsive, and professional. He was always able to answer questions and willing to listen. He knows the law, he knows the system, and he knows the right questions to ask to ensure your rights are protected. I am very grateful for everything he did to secure the best results for me. Mr DeGioia is an outstanding attorney!
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11 Jan, 2023 by Joseph
When faced with the need to apply for a disability insurance claim, we sought out a law firm specializing in disability. Never having used an attorney before, we were very pleased with the treatment and understanding of Matthew DeGioia. Matthew was knowledgeable related to the specifics of filing the claim, as well as sympathetic and kind associated with my disability.
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03 Jan, 2015 by Patrick
Ed handled a very tedious and potentially cumbersome divorce in a very calm and professional way. He kept me up to date on all of the legal ramifications and was able to address each of the legal roadblocks that were presented with ease and satisfy all parties concerned. I would highly recommend Ed to anyone who was in need of a lawyer with his field of expertise
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04 Jun, 2014 by Roy
I am a professional and deal with attorneys on a regular basis in my work. I also retained several attorneys to handle various matters for me, but Mr. Culbertson proved to be among the best attorney I ever worked with or retained. Mr. Culbertson handled a custody-related issue for me during 2014, and provided excellent representation in my case that led to a successful outcome. He is a very capable, professional attorney that offers alternative approaches for addressing complex issues and does so in a simple and straightforward manner. He also suggests ways that allow the client to minimize attorney fees, and is very responsive to inquiries and questions that arise during the course of his representation. I would not hesitate to retain Mr. Culbertson in the future and would recommend him without any reservations to anyone looking for a highly skilled and experienced attorney in Fairfax County, Virginia.
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05 Aug, 2010 by S.
I received outstanding representation in a highly disputed divorce and custody case. Mr. Culbertson was extremely attentive from start to finish. Nothing got by him. He is extremely professional and is careful about how he spends the time that you are paying for. This enables you to stretch your legal budget further which is especially important when you're headed for trial. I highly recommend him.
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20 Oct, 2019 by Jeffrey rubin
I'm sorry to say that, even though I was married in the Catholic Church, my wife divorced me in March of this year, 2019. It was traumatic of course but Sharon Lieblich not only did a great job as a lawyer, but as a human being. I truly grew to love her. She was recommended by my family's lawyer in NYC, and though she was more expensive than other lawyers in Virginia, she probably saved me half a million bucks. You can't beat Harvard lawyers!
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07 Jun, 2017 by Josh
Sharon is an extremely experienced attorney with an excellent background for over decades. Using an attorney is extremely expensive and I've been happy with the ways she's tried to help cut the bill without giving up any rights. I just wish my STBX's attorney had the same approach.
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13 Sep, 2016 by Andrea barreiro
Sharon is a wonderful lawyer, who is very precise and knowledgeable. She is an asset to any case. She is a member of AAML, which is a very prestigious organization for lawyers. They are known for their high standards.
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27 Jul, 2016 by Anonymous
Kimberly is a bright and experienced lawyer who is also caring and supportive. She made every effort to win an excellent settlement for me in a difficult divorce over a protracted period of time. She went after every possible avenue and detail that could help my case. Kimberly was always available and worked to meet my schedule as much as possible. She has a good sense of humor, but was serious about assuring me when I gave up hope of a fair settlement. In the end, it was much more than fair I am grateful for her expertise and highly recommend her to anyone.
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28 Apr, 2014 by J
Kimberly is an incredible attorney. She listened to me well and understood my situations. She is always responsive even though her days are super busy. She practices her roles with high ethical thinking & attitude. She is an impressive and energetic lawyer who won't disappoint you. I was so blessed being represented by her for a number of cases due to an evil man. Of course, all results were on my favor. Her firm, Owen & Owens, and the attorneys there, are also excellent in both skills/knowledge and heart. My life has been saved by Kimberly and her firm, Owen & Owens.
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10 Sep, 2016 by Ju
I went to Waseem's firm to handle a case with my former employer. Waseem was incredibly professional, efficient, and thorough in the handling of my case. He answered all of my questions promptly as well. He is great at what he does, and I felt like he did an awesome job overall. I was satisfied with the results, and would strongly recommend him and his firm to anyone seeking legal advice and guidance!
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15 Jul, 2016 by Anonymous
Mr. Moorad was great to work with! Compared to other lawyers I consulted with, he was patient and empathetic to my needs. I recommend him to all!
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08 Dec, 2014 by Anonymous
When everything seemed to be going backwards and the hill seemed to be getting steeper everyday, Bill Fralin and his wonderful team instantly turned everything around for my family, consulting us at every step and advising us on the hard decisions. Getting our situation headed in the right direction was such a relief. It was a true blessing to get such fantastic support from Bill and his team. Thank you!
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07 Dec, 2023 by Jan
Contrary to what many people think, all lawyers are not out for just winning. While this is the main goal, of course, Mr. Smith not only pressed to win and did a great job of handling my case- he genuinely cared about me and the outcome of this very painful and delicate case.
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31 May, 2017 by Patty
John was very professional and knowledgeable. Very fair pricing and flexible schedule. Evening and week-end hours. Complimentary consultation.
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12 Apr, 2013 by John
I had contracted Ms. Heidi Ricker to represent me in a criminal matter. Ms Ricker was responsive, helpful and accommodating in every way. On the court date both Mr. Hasan and Ms. Ricker represented me and were able to negotiate to have all the charges against me dropped. I was amazed and delighted. I could not have asked for more from Mr. Hasan or Ms. Ricker. Both are professional, courteous and committed to their clients. I would recommend their services to anyone in need of a lawyer.
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26 Feb, 2018 by Evan
Sara is an excellent estate planning and probate attorney, with great attention to detail and great knowledge and expertise in these fields. That is why I hired her!
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19 Aug, 2014 by Inga
Sarah prepared a revocable trust for my husband and me, as well as a Living Will, Power of Attorney, Advanced Medical Directive, and a Will. She cares about what she does and the people for whom she works. When my husband died, she was incredibly helpful is handling the estate documents, probate documents, etc. She gets an A+ from me.
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19 Jan, 2016 by Lisa
Stephanie Dourado was extremely helpful in working with us to develop our very first estate plan. Compassionate, family-friendly, and great at explaining complicated legal terms in plain language, Stephanie walked us through the whole process with great care and attention to our needs and concerns. She is also affordable and just a generally lovely person to work with!
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17 Jun, 2021 by Karen
Attorney Wilson was very helpful and provided me with all the information I needed to make a decision about my case. She was fast and efficient and I highly recommender her.
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29 Sep, 2017 by Robert
I was interested to find the firm is all young female lawyers. I gave them a chance and was pleased with the result. I was assigned Jesci Norrington, which was excellent for the job. Jesci wrote an new will for me and found that my home deed needed updating of dual ownership and added survivor clauses to protect either my wife or me. This was all done quickly and looked great, at a reasonable fee. I am well pleased and am spreading the word. Thanks.
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03 Feb, 2013 by Anonymous
My elderly mother's legal affairs were a mess - Mr. Sim was very thorough, and quickly determined there were many issues of concern regarding her estate. As busy as I know he is, he always took the time to answer many, many questions we continually had doing the whole "clean-up" process, and he delivered an estate package that even my hard to please mother said she wished she had received from other attorneys in past years. When we went into sign the documents, he took the time to explain every detail to her before she signed everything. Four years ago Mr. Sim prepared my own estate package, and when I was looking for an estate attorney for my mother, he was the only one I would consider.
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24 Sep, 2024 by Gretchen porkert
Kristen House at JM Law is a pleasure to work with. Their process of a visioning session and implementation session really helped us think through various scenarios for our estate plan. Kristen is incredibly detail oriented, and extremely knowledgeable. Getting our estate plan in order was painless with JM Law.
Read more
20 Sep, 2024 by D 2
As a layperson, knowing what to put in your will requires knowledge that most of us don't have or even consider. necessary. Ramar Jaradat, an estate planning associate at Cassday and Company in McLean VA, did a fantastic job for us:, making us clear on what we need to do to protect our assets from unnecessary taxes, as well as from any potential, even though unlikely, claims against our estate that were not in our wishes. I am not quite ready to say that estate planning is fun, but Ramar Jaradat, made it as pleasant and as informative as possible.
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01 May, 2024 by Kaitlin westerman, mssw, lcsw
Working with them was amazing! Very knowledgeable and prompt is responses!!
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4.7
20 Reviews
4.9
239 Reviews
16 Sep, 2024 by Ainsley phillips
Attorney Wilfred Yeargan is absolutely excellent. He explained the process to obtain the best possible outcome for my traffic violation very clearly (this is my first ever experience seeking legal representation) and I am very grateful for his help. He secured the best possible outcome for me and I would highly recommend his expertise. Thank you sir!
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13 Sep, 2024 by Tyler richardson
My experience with Mr. Yeargan was great. Our communication was important, and fortunately everything worked out. I would recommend him to anyone in Virginia that's seeking an attorney.
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07 Sep, 2024 by Patrice hunt
16 Sep, 2024 by Ainsley phillips
Attorney Wilfred Yeargan is absolutely excellent. He explained the process to obtain the best possible outcome for my traffic violation very clearly (this is my first ever experience seeking legal representation) and I am very grateful for his help. He secured the best possible outcome for me and I would highly recommend his expertise. Thank you sir!
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13 Sep, 2024 by Tyler richardson
My experience with Mr. Yeargan was great. Our communication was important, and fortunately everything worked out. I would recommend him to anyone in Virginia that's seeking an attorney.
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07 Sep, 2024 by Patrice hunt
31 Aug, 2024 by Bill underwood
Sheryl Shane is a diligent and over the top attorney who goes the extra mile to help you understand every aspect of a case. Her experience of several decades in defending cases from traffic court to the most horrific crimes is unmatched. Thanks Sheryl for helping us win our case.
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20 Aug, 2024 by Debby lappat
I hired Sheryl Shane for a criminal matter. From beginning to end she worked tirelessly to obtain a dismissal. She was very knowledgeable and did a wonderful job in court. She explained the whole process at all times throughout the proceedings. I could not have asked for more. A positive result!
I also wanted to add that I feel Sheryl is extremely professional and very personable.
I would not hesitate to recommend her to anyone that I knew, including my friends if they ever were in a situation that they needed a criminal lawyer her expertise is a 10 in my book.
Thank Miss Shane .
You’ve helped me personally turn my life around.
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19 Aug, 2024 by Elvis lopez
Spoke with Sheryl regarding a case I have and although I ended up not going with her she definitely provided exceptional transparent service and information. She is very helpful and knowledgeable in her area of expertise.
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5.0
4 Reviews
4.9
82 Reviews
16 Jul, 2024 by Ashley gam
Shirley Chim helped me arrive at a negotiated custody agreement, with a difficult ex. I could not have asked for better representation and outcome. She was meticulousness, prepared, timely, and responsive. She confirmed the dignity of both parties. She placed me in the best possible position to negotiate and settle on terms that I was comfortable with.
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04 Apr, 2024 by Krista edwards
Shirley was fantastic to work with and very attentive . I was extremely happy with the outcome with my case.
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25 Mar, 2024 by Janice mullings
Shirley made this process easy, she was also very gracious. I'm am very grateful!!!
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10 Sep, 2024 by Olvin talavera
Quiero darle grasias adiós primeramente por ponerme en buenas manos delos abogados ganamos quiero compartir mi experiencia como un cliente sastifecho y agradecido por su excelente trabajo los recomiendo a toda persona que no dude en llamarlos y contratarlos son un éxito 👌👌
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06 Sep, 2024 by Ana benitez
Para mi la abogado gue me asistió no fue eficiente ella solo estaba preocupada por gue yo me de clarara culpable nada más en mi caso no trabajo nada para ayudarme por gue era dwi creo gue ellos son más Buenos en otros tipos de caso no en este por lo cual no los puedo recomendar cosas de DWI NO ESTÁN EN NADA pague solo para irme a de clarar culpable enfrente de ella insatisfecha mucho lo siento pero yo no puedo Desir lo gue no es triste es así 🥲hay Abogado’s gue pelean por sus Casos ella no fue así DARONG HULTMAN sé llama le daré una estrella por gue asta Llo siento feo no darle nada 👎
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06 Sep, 2024 by الامين مصطفى عبد الرحمان
5.0
21 Reviews
4.9
253 Reviews
30 Sep, 2024 by Path of the veiled moon
I was very fortunate to have been matched with PJI through the Virginia State Bar. I had a very bad experience with a previously but Bret Giaimo was AMAZING. He took the time to understand my case and my needs. He took the time to explain things to me and showed me he truly cared. Can’t recommend this law firm enough!! THANK YOU!
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20 Sep, 2024 by Davey chamberlain
The team at PLC are highly knowledgeable and provide top notch service!
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19 Sep, 2024 by Yuliana alas
They are amazing they listen to everything you need!
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30 Sep, 2024 by Path of the veiled moon
I was very fortunate to have been matched with PJI through the Virginia State Bar. I had a very bad experience with a previously but Bret Giaimo was AMAZING. He took the time to understand my case and my needs. He took the time to explain things to me and showed me he truly cared. Can’t recommend this law firm enough!! THANK YOU!
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20 Sep, 2024 by Davey chamberlain
The team at PLC are highly knowledgeable and provide top notch service!
Read more
19 Sep, 2024 by Yuliana alas
They are amazing they listen to everything you need!
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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.
