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24 Jun, 2016 by Lost person
Excellent, went out of his way to help be personally calling me. Answered all my questions, even though I could not hire him due to location from me. Would hire in a heartbeat. Well rounded and knowledgeable. Recommend.
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16 Feb, 2016 by Anonymous
I was referred to Mr. Britt by another law firm for his expertise regarding probate and property law. Mr. Britt spent considerable time discussing my situation, the legal process surrounding it and the probable outcome and made suggestions regarding my course of action. He told me that he could certainly represent me in court but said that in all honesty I did not need this because I had no legal rights in the matter. In essence, he was saying that it would not be a wise use of money to hire him since in all likelihood, it would not make a difference in the outcome in this case. I brought up many points and angles for which I sought clarification and Mr. Britt was knowledgeable and experienced in all areas. He was certainly professional and demonstrated legal expertise but at the same time, he was patient and fully present as he listened to me and addressed my concerns. The fact that he treated me with consideration and kindness and told me the truth--that I really did not need his representation--tells me that he conducts himself personally and professionally with honesty and integrity. These character traits are very important to me and because I don't find them so prevalent in today's world, I feel fortunate and blessed to have found an attorney like Mr. Britt. I would certainly recommend him and I plan to retain his services for estate planning and preparing a will.
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13 Jun, 2015 by Anonymous
Chris is phenomenal! I highly recommend him.
My case was probably his first divorce since he has only been practicing a year (if that). I originally had a very seasoned divorce lawyer that had given up on my case for two reasons …. My case was “screwed up” and I had run out of funds to pay him since my husband had refused to pay alimony and child support that was ordered by the Divorcee Referee over a year earlier.
In a nutshell here is what Chris has done for me:
Come in on an already 2 year case with boxes and boxes of evidence filled with financial information that showed marital funds being hidden in multiple businesses and taking the time to not only get familiar with everything but he also did his own investigating. Amazing!
He jumped right in and started dealing with my husbands never ending harassing texts, emails and phone calls. His aggressive emails to opposing counsel put an end to the harassment which finally allowed my kids and me to have a sense of safety that we had gone two years without.
Chris was incredible about getting back to me in a timely manner. Since I was receiving threatening texts and emails almost daily and at all hours of the day there were several times that I had to contact him outside of the normal business hours…this included nights and weekends and he always dealt with the situation immediately.
A few miracles he pulled off….
Had a necessary out of town hostile witness served at the airport the minute they entered Tennessee.
He was able to prove to the judge that marital funds had been hidden in multiple business ventures by my husband and his family members. The Judge joined the family to the case which is something I didn’t even know was possible.
After 10 hours in a contempt hearing regarding harassment and nonpayment of child support and alimony my husband was cuffed in the court room and spent days at 201 Poplar. The money that the Judge set for his bail was ordered to be sent to me. The office that handles this sort of thing didn’t even have protocol for this type of situation because it just never happens.
Switching lawyers terrified me. I recall having a meltdown shortly after I first hired Chris and I realized just how much of a brand new lawyer he was. I thought I had made the biggest mistake of my life and I shared this with him. He told me that what he lacked in experience, he more than made up for in life experiences that some seasoned lawyers have no clue about. He started on day one fighting for my kids and I. My only regret was that I didn’t have him from the start of my divorce.
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24 Sep, 2021 by Melo2kcrazy
Very rude. I Called him just to see if he can help me he said my case was a waste of his time.
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13 Oct, 2020 by Clint sowell
Mr. Patterson did an excellent job on my case, and I would recommend him to anyone. Professional, thorough, and honest!
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02 Aug, 2019 by Tucker worsham
Great lawyer to work with. Quick to help with your legal matters. I will continue to use Kevin as my attorney.
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13 Dec, 2021 by Dilipkumar kapadia (richard)
Very good law office.
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10 Dec, 2016 by Mikki perkins
16 Sep, 2024 by Dale burkett
Chelsea and the entire staff at Gill Family Law were extremely helpful during my entire process. They were very professional and made me feel like my case counted and my needs were understood. Chelsea took the time to work diligently on my case, ensuring that I was updated constantly on the progress and explaining the process in great detail to ensure that I was comfortable and confident that my time and situation was being handled professionally. I would recommend anyone going through a divorce or in the need of a family law lawyer to call Chelsea and Gill Family Law and let them fight for you!
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09 Aug, 2024 by Julio duran
I am very happy and satisfied with the professional legal services that your office has. They have all you exceeded my expectations, focused on obtaining positive and satisfactory results for their clients. I am very impressed with the legal system that you have created.
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31 Jul, 2024 by Christopher stuart
I Highly recommend this firm. Lisa and her team of professionals ensure integrity, understanding, and compassion for all clients. Extensive knowledge of the law and exceptional at litigation. They go above and beyond to make sure your case is a priority and keeping you in light of the status of your case. If you are in question of what law firm is right for you go no further!
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06 Aug, 2024 by Katrina carpenter
It was such a pleasure working with Reese and the whole team during my first time home buying experience. Everyone was so friendly and prompt and knew exactly how to get the job done quickly. I highly recommend this law firm when purchasing a home. Thanks you guys for a smooth process!!
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27 Jun, 2024 by S a
Seamless closing during the buying and selling process. Hodges staff are all very personable, always have documents ready to go so you are in, out and on your way!
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18 Jun, 2024 by Dennis craddock
Good service
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31 Oct, 2024 by Asap transportation taxi service
Beware of this attorney he might be good for some, but he’s definitely bad for a whole lot. I’ve been calling this man for six months. He’s so damn busy. He cannot return a phone call when I do get a return call. It’s a letter stating that he does not wanna handle my case anymore for action about my case.
Not professional at all
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26 Sep, 2024 by Anonymous
28 Jul, 2024 by Kenneth renner
I was very disappointed with the outcome and felt Mr. Snider didn't present my case to the Judge accurately and was presented without conviction. In my opinion he appeared ill prepared in court and in the end he couldn't even recover his legal fees on my behalf resulting in my having to pay his firm roughly $3200. I'll never use his firm again.
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01 Dec, 2023 by Margaret maccani
10 Nov, 2023 by Amelia carkuff
12 Oct, 2023 by David kakish
I wanted to take a moment to give a big shoutout to Tim Rainey and the fantastic team at Stanley & Rainey! Tim's dedication and expertise made our recent collaboration a breeze. If you're in need of a smooth and easy title process, I highly recommend their firm for their consistently excellent service!
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06 Feb, 2025 by New jerusalem healing & ministries deliverance
27 Jan, 2025 by Monica watts
Excellent law firm. The staff was very polite, welcoming, and professional. They were able to accommodate me on short notice as I was in town for other business. I sincerely appreciate their quick and expedient service. Thank you very much!
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18 Dec, 2024 by Marilyn duncan
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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.
