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12 Aug, 2024 by Vathsana manivong
Tom has helped me tremendously with my bankruptcy from start to finish. He was always easy to get a hold of and communicated with we needed to. I would recommend him to anyone thinking about filing bankruptcy. I feel so much better now that my case is done!
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06 May, 2023 by Victor camacho
At Mcguire Law Offices, I worked with Thomas M. Mcguire to file a chapter 7 bankruptcy. Tom Mcguire was more than accommodating to begin the process of filing bankruptcy and answer all my questions that I had right from the outset of getting things started. His instructions are clear-cut to the point and he is willing to describe in more detail any and all of the concerns you have regarding bankruptcy, and I did have many! Being unfamiliar with how a bankruptcy is a process was my first eye-opener but from the time Tom and I began the 1st step of the gathering all the information and paperwork to the 341 meeting of creditors, it was helpful to have Tom guide me through with carefulness and understanding. The thing that helped me the most was his patience. And I guess I just stress this a lot because of my own impatience but believe me, if you're filing a bankruptcy, you will learn that the saying "patience is a virtue" just may have some truth to that. There was some waiting there that I began to doubt that I was even going to be able to file chapter 7 but Tom helped me remain calm and assured me that we would get it done. The folks at Mcguire Law Offices talk to you attentively and don't overwhelm you with "legal" terminology and concepts that are hard to understand. I highly recommend Thomas M. Mcguire and Mcguire Law Offices. Thank you, Tom!
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04 Apr, 2023 by Cheryl bunger long
I highly recommend the Tom McGuire Law practice to represent you in a bankruptcy. He returned my phone calls, answered my emails promptly and explained the process thoroughly. The process was easy and handled remotely.
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16 Oct, 2024 by Mason manske
Definitely recommend! Steve was great to work with and he helped me big time. Worth every penny.
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07 Jul, 2024 by Alex sackschewsky
Gets the case taken care of!! By far best lawyer in GI!!
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17 May, 2024 by William grimes
Very Professional!!!
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22 Nov, 2024 by Roger friesen
Galen is the best. I have worked with lawyers in 3 states, none were as good as Galen !
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28 Sep, 2024 by Kat new
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03 Jul, 2023 by Dee janssen
Really great person, easy to talk to. Very knowledgeable and gets things done in a timely manner.
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22 Nov, 2024 by Roger friesen
Galen is the best. I have worked with lawyers in 3 states, none were as good as Galen !
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28 Sep, 2024 by Kat new
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03 Jul, 2023 by Dee janssen
Really great person, easy to talk to. Very knowledgeable and gets things done in a timely manner.
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07 Jan, 2025 by Steven grimes
Erin Urbom didn't do anything asked, refuses to defend her clients constitutional rights, and will quit on you when you call her out on it. would rate zero stars if they would let me. do not hire.
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26 Nov, 2024 by Alma contreras
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28 Aug, 2024 by Jason duryea
Zach is unprofessional and rude and confrontational. I simply called to ask a couple simple questions regarding my grandmothers estate settlement, and again, he was confrontational and rude and disrespectful. I have the voicemail from him proving my statement is accurate. I would not recommend him to anyone that needs assistance with an estate settlement. No small town values practiced here 😡
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07 Jan, 2025 by Steven grimes
Erin Urbom didn't do anything asked, refuses to defend her clients constitutional rights, and will quit on you when you call her out on it. would rate zero stars if they would let me. do not hire.
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26 Nov, 2024 by Alma contreras
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28 Aug, 2024 by Jason duryea
Zach is unprofessional and rude and confrontational. I simply called to ask a couple simple questions regarding my grandmothers estate settlement, and again, he was confrontational and rude and disrespectful. I have the voicemail from him proving my statement is accurate. I would not recommend him to anyone that needs assistance with an estate settlement. No small town values practiced here 😡
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07 Jan, 2025 by Steven grimes
Erin Urbom didn't do anything asked, refuses to defend her clients constitutional rights, and will quit on you when you call her out on it. would rate zero stars if they would let me. do not hire.
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26 Nov, 2024 by Alma contreras
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28 Aug, 2024 by Jason duryea
Zach is unprofessional and rude and confrontational. I simply called to ask a couple simple questions regarding my grandmothers estate settlement, and again, he was confrontational and rude and disrespectful. I have the voicemail from him proving my statement is accurate. I would not recommend him to anyone that needs assistance with an estate settlement. No small town values practiced here 😡
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07 Jan, 2025 by Steven grimes
Erin Urbom didn't do anything asked, refuses to defend her clients constitutional rights, and will quit on you when you call her out on it. would rate zero stars if they would let me. do not hire.
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26 Nov, 2024 by Alma contreras
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28 Aug, 2024 by Jason duryea
Zach is unprofessional and rude and confrontational. I simply called to ask a couple simple questions regarding my grandmothers estate settlement, and again, he was confrontational and rude and disrespectful. I have the voicemail from him proving my statement is accurate. I would not recommend him to anyone that needs assistance with an estate settlement. No small town values practiced here 😡
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07 Jan, 2025 by Steven grimes
Erin Urbom didn't do anything asked, refuses to defend her clients constitutional rights, and will quit on you when you call her out on it. would rate zero stars if they would let me. do not hire.
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26 Nov, 2024 by Alma contreras
Google Maps
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28 Aug, 2024 by Jason duryea
Zach is unprofessional and rude and confrontational. I simply called to ask a couple simple questions regarding my grandmothers estate settlement, and again, he was confrontational and rude and disrespectful. I have the voicemail from him proving my statement is accurate. I would not recommend him to anyone that needs assistance with an estate settlement. No small town values practiced here 😡
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07 Jan, 2025 by Steven grimes
Erin Urbom didn't do anything asked, refuses to defend her clients constitutional rights, and will quit on you when you call her out on it. would rate zero stars if they would let me. do not hire.
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26 Nov, 2024 by Alma contreras
Google Maps
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28 Aug, 2024 by Jason duryea
Zach is unprofessional and rude and confrontational. I simply called to ask a couple simple questions regarding my grandmothers estate settlement, and again, he was confrontational and rude and disrespectful. I have the voicemail from him proving my statement is accurate. I would not recommend him to anyone that needs assistance with an estate settlement. No small town values practiced here 😡
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11 Apr, 2024 by Tammiw luevano
He does not want to help me. Just please bargin. He probably didn't Evan read the case. The NSP did so much wrong. He would not fight them. Or Evan talk to me about how my rights were violated.
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23 Sep, 2023 by Maria g rico
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24 Jun, 2023 by Alisha eckert
Jim and Lori are not only amazing professionals, they are great humans. The unmatched dedication they've shown the citizens of central Nebraska and this district is refreshing and appreciated and my case was no exception. I couldn't have Asked for a better legal team! Thank you, Wagoner Law Office! You are appreciated
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07 Jan, 2025 by Steven grimes
Erin Urbom didn't do anything asked, refuses to defend her clients constitutional rights, and will quit on you when you call her out on it. would rate zero stars if they would let me. do not hire.
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26 Nov, 2024 by Alma contreras
Google Maps
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28 Aug, 2024 by Jason duryea
Zach is unprofessional and rude and confrontational. I simply called to ask a couple simple questions regarding my grandmothers estate settlement, and again, he was confrontational and rude and disrespectful. I have the voicemail from him proving my statement is accurate. I would not recommend him to anyone that needs assistance with an estate settlement. No small town values practiced here 😡
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09 Apr, 2024 by Karlor
I get you’re not taking new clients, but I needed a simple form printed out….garbage service
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09 Apr, 2024 by Abo kareem
Excellent experience with Weber law, best of the best.if you have a case in Nebraska, here you go, You will be in a professional hands , knowing exactly what needs to be done, and will be done quickly and accurately. Thanks for all the staff working here , Appreciate all your work,🙏 God bless you all.🙏
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09 Apr, 2024 by Winston watts
Amanda is a great listener very understanding attorney. Great personality and well put together her case well . I’ll recommend her to anyone .
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18 Jan, 2024 by Gretter rodriguez mejias
Gave up on the case, told us to get another attorney!
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19 Oct, 2023 by Leeann thomas
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14 Aug, 2023 by Alicia perez
Audrey came through in the clutch for me.
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18 Jan, 2024 by Gretter rodriguez mejias
Gave up on the case, told us to get another attorney!
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19 Oct, 2023 by Leeann thomas
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14 Aug, 2023 by Alicia perez
Audrey came through in the clutch for me.
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24 Oct, 2024 by Lilian chavez
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03 Aug, 2024 by Anonymous
Mr. Hanquist is an unprofessional, arrogant, misogynistic lawyer with poor social skills and little integrity. DO NOT use him if you are a female or oppressed individual, he is an entitled chauvinist who will likely provide nothing but perpetuation of worldviews that harm.
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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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