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23 Jul, 2024 by Haze “hazetuned” tuned
10 Jun, 2024 by Vedat s
Honest person if you text him or his office, they will respond to you right away, which is very good
Get the job done quietly and peacefully
In firms you for anything changes like time or court change time which is good
Overall, five stars dessert.
Thank you
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17 Apr, 2024 by Michael carden
The McConnell Family Law Group exceeded my expectations in every way. Their approach to mediation helped me and my ex-partner come to an agreement that worked for both of us, avoiding a lengthy court battle. Their commitment to resolving family law matters amicably and efficiently is truly commendable.
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31 Jul, 2023 by Laura trachtman
Smith Legacy Law is spectacular. Their work product is precise, their grasp of Trusts and Estates Law is profound, and I rest easier knowing that my family's estate planning needs are being handled by the best of the best. I'm a lawyer myself, so I know when an attorney actually knows what they're doing -- and Jason knows everything. I wouldn't trust my family's business to anyone else, and neither should you.
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28 Feb, 2023 by Jeff gaggin
Jason Smith is by far one of the best Trust & Estate attorneys in the country. He has helped me on numerous occasions and I highly recommend his work. If you are looking for someone that is patient, caring and detail-oriented then Jason and his team should be your go to for estate planning.
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31 Jan, 2023 by Gerard papetti
I have worked with Jason Smith and his law firm for over 5-years. Jason is one of the most brilliant and knowledgeable tax attorneys that I have worked with over my 30 + year career as a CPA and Certified Financial Planner. The numerous clients that I and my firm have referred to Jason have always had their business and estate planning needs taken care of in the most professional and diligent manner. I look to recommend Jason whenever a client's need arises for tax and estate planning.
Gerard T. Papetti, CPA, CFP
Partner
U.S. Financial Services, LLC
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29 Mar, 2024 by Jack vayner
17 Mar, 2024 by Matthew
Where to begin?! In June of 2019 I was placed in a very scary legal situation during my professional career. I reached out to Attorney Mark Sherman and his team to help fight for me and get me through. Both Attorney Mark Sherman and Attorney Amanda Telesco were nothing but phenomenal. From the moment I called the office I felt at ease. They were kind, compassionate, understanding, non-judge mental, and most of all realistic. I made several trips to the office in Stamford. All of these trips were welcoming and helped put me at ease. Mark and Amanda sat with me, went over all the details of the case, explained everything to me, and assured me they would do everything in their power to fight for a positive outcome. As we all know, the legal system is slow. But during the 16+months I worked with Mark and Amanda, they kept me abreast of the entire case and the direction it was moving. I received phone calls, emails and at one point they even met with me in my area of the state. In September of 2020 I received the call that I had long awaited. Attorney Sherman called me and informed they fought hard and the case resolved in the manner we had hoped for. In an instant, my whole life changed for the better and I felt like my old self. So many times I felt like giving up and giving in. Attorney Sherman encouraged me to stay the course and let he and Attorney Telesco do what they do best. I am sure glad I listened! Without their hard work, compassion, knowledge and experience, I wouldn’t have received the positive outcome I knew should come! I am forever grateful to Attorneys Mark Sherman and Amanda Telesco. If you are faced with a legal or DCF dilemma, I STRONGLY encourage you to call Attorney Sherman’s office.
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11 Mar, 2024 by Shellie chie
Very helpful and compassionate. Listened and was able to give me the best advice. Guided me thru the start of a very difficult time.
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29 Mar, 2024 by Jack vayner
17 Mar, 2024 by Matthew
Where to begin?! In June of 2019 I was placed in a very scary legal situation during my professional career. I reached out to Attorney Mark Sherman and his team to help fight for me and get me through. Both Attorney Mark Sherman and Attorney Amanda Telesco were nothing but phenomenal. From the moment I called the office I felt at ease. They were kind, compassionate, understanding, non-judge mental, and most of all realistic. I made several trips to the office in Stamford. All of these trips were welcoming and helped put me at ease. Mark and Amanda sat with me, went over all the details of the case, explained everything to me, and assured me they would do everything in their power to fight for a positive outcome. As we all know, the legal system is slow. But during the 16+months I worked with Mark and Amanda, they kept me abreast of the entire case and the direction it was moving. I received phone calls, emails and at one point they even met with me in my area of the state. In September of 2020 I received the call that I had long awaited. Attorney Sherman called me and informed they fought hard and the case resolved in the manner we had hoped for. In an instant, my whole life changed for the better and I felt like my old self. So many times I felt like giving up and giving in. Attorney Sherman encouraged me to stay the course and let he and Attorney Telesco do what they do best. I am sure glad I listened! Without their hard work, compassion, knowledge and experience, I wouldn’t have received the positive outcome I knew should come! I am forever grateful to Attorneys Mark Sherman and Amanda Telesco. If you are faced with a legal or DCF dilemma, I STRONGLY encourage you to call Attorney Sherman’s office.
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11 Mar, 2024 by Shellie chie
Very helpful and compassionate. Listened and was able to give me the best advice. Guided me thru the start of a very difficult time.
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29 Mar, 2024 by Jack vayner
17 Mar, 2024 by Matthew
Where to begin?! In June of 2019 I was placed in a very scary legal situation during my professional career. I reached out to Attorney Mark Sherman and his team to help fight for me and get me through. Both Attorney Mark Sherman and Attorney Amanda Telesco were nothing but phenomenal. From the moment I called the office I felt at ease. They were kind, compassionate, understanding, non-judge mental, and most of all realistic. I made several trips to the office in Stamford. All of these trips were welcoming and helped put me at ease. Mark and Amanda sat with me, went over all the details of the case, explained everything to me, and assured me they would do everything in their power to fight for a positive outcome. As we all know, the legal system is slow. But during the 16+months I worked with Mark and Amanda, they kept me abreast of the entire case and the direction it was moving. I received phone calls, emails and at one point they even met with me in my area of the state. In September of 2020 I received the call that I had long awaited. Attorney Sherman called me and informed they fought hard and the case resolved in the manner we had hoped for. In an instant, my whole life changed for the better and I felt like my old self. So many times I felt like giving up and giving in. Attorney Sherman encouraged me to stay the course and let he and Attorney Telesco do what they do best. I am sure glad I listened! Without their hard work, compassion, knowledge and experience, I wouldn’t have received the positive outcome I knew should come! I am forever grateful to Attorneys Mark Sherman and Amanda Telesco. If you are faced with a legal or DCF dilemma, I STRONGLY encourage you to call Attorney Sherman’s office.
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11 Mar, 2024 by Shellie chie
Very helpful and compassionate. Listened and was able to give me the best advice. Guided me thru the start of a very difficult time.
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29 Mar, 2024 by Jack vayner
17 Mar, 2024 by Matthew
Where to begin?! In June of 2019 I was placed in a very scary legal situation during my professional career. I reached out to Attorney Mark Sherman and his team to help fight for me and get me through. Both Attorney Mark Sherman and Attorney Amanda Telesco were nothing but phenomenal. From the moment I called the office I felt at ease. They were kind, compassionate, understanding, non-judge mental, and most of all realistic. I made several trips to the office in Stamford. All of these trips were welcoming and helped put me at ease. Mark and Amanda sat with me, went over all the details of the case, explained everything to me, and assured me they would do everything in their power to fight for a positive outcome. As we all know, the legal system is slow. But during the 16+months I worked with Mark and Amanda, they kept me abreast of the entire case and the direction it was moving. I received phone calls, emails and at one point they even met with me in my area of the state. In September of 2020 I received the call that I had long awaited. Attorney Sherman called me and informed they fought hard and the case resolved in the manner we had hoped for. In an instant, my whole life changed for the better and I felt like my old self. So many times I felt like giving up and giving in. Attorney Sherman encouraged me to stay the course and let he and Attorney Telesco do what they do best. I am sure glad I listened! Without their hard work, compassion, knowledge and experience, I wouldn’t have received the positive outcome I knew should come! I am forever grateful to Attorneys Mark Sherman and Amanda Telesco. If you are faced with a legal or DCF dilemma, I STRONGLY encourage you to call Attorney Sherman’s office.
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11 Mar, 2024 by Shellie chie
Very helpful and compassionate. Listened and was able to give me the best advice. Guided me thru the start of a very difficult time.
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08 Dec, 2022 by Robert
In order to buy or sell property in Connecticut, you must be represented by an attorney. My brother recently passed away, and because we live in Florida we didn't know where to turn for assistance. Our realtor provided us a list of three names, and Jim's was at the top of the list. I called Mr. Dougherty after having read reviews and visiting his website. It was immediately apparent in speaking with Jim, that he was exactly the kind of attorney that would make me feel well represented. Soft-spoken, extremely knowledgeable, and methodical in his approach, resulted in a very quick and stressless conclusion to the sale.
James Dougherty is exactly the kind of attorney that will put you at ease, and remove any anxiety when in the position of requiring legal representation.
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04 Dec, 2014 by Ron
I know Jim very well, and have partnered with him on many matters. Jim is a client's favorite attorney because he is extremely responsive - he always returns telephone calls and e mails promptly. Jim is a highly skilled attorney, and very knowledgeable for elder law and estate planning matters. Jim is ethical, and you will feel most comfortable telling anyone to "speak to my attorney," knowing he will protect your interests.
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23 Nov, 2014 by Michael
I have worked with Jim Dougherty on numerous transactions and he has been extremely thorough and responsive throughout the process. Jim has demonstrated not only a keen knowledge of the underlying legal issues but has also achieved the business goals of the transactions as well. I would highly recommend Jim and I will continue to use him for my legal work.
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15 Apr, 2022 by George
Gillian Ingraham represented us on the purchase of a home under challenging circumstances, including an aggressive and unprofessional opposing counsel combined with an extremely seller-friendly market, and was able to handle the challenges with competency, professionalism and grace. She kept us informed at every step, and leveraged her deep knowledge, dedication to her clients and negotiation abilities to ensure we had the desired terms in the agreements. Gillian was very easy to work with and we appreciated her creativity and resourcefulness - when closing was nearly delayed due to opposing counsel’s actions, Gillian came to our house and executed the documents there in order to get the deal done on time.
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21 Dec, 2017 by Anonymous
Attorney Ingraham is extremely passionate about the law and dedicated to finding the best solutions for her clients. She is thoughtful, knowledgeable and equipped with the most up-to-date information. I feel at ease trusting her with my legal issues.
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21 Dec, 2017 by Lauren
Attorney Ingraham handled the purchase of our home. She was efficient, professional, and reliable and gave us frequent updates on the status of the sale. She made sure all of our requests and needs were met and explained all documents before we signed to ensure we understood every piece of the sale. Attorney Ingraham presents herself as extremely confident and knowledgeable within her field - we will be returning to her for our estate planning and any/all other matters.
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08 May, 2019 by Alex
First-time homebuyer. Our realtor recommended Clare Bolduc as our real estate attorney. I couldn't have been happier with that recommendation.
Right from the start she was open to all my questions and concerns. Being very new at this I needed someone to walk me through the entire process, and Clare did just that. She went over every point with me and responded very timely to any questions I had. We spent significant time on the phone going over every last detail.
Upon hiring her, Clare gave me a flat quote for her services, which, at the time, I thought was very fair. I personally think she undercharged. With the amount of footwork she had to do and how she continues to go to bat for me with the sellers even after we closed I feel I got great value in hiring her.
She's really good. At her previous law firm it only took her 3 years to make partner. That's VERY quick. She definitely knows the ins and outs of her profession and I would be very happy to hire her again if the need arises.
She even made a point to provide some distractions for my 2-year-old son during the closing so my wife and I could sign the documents.
5 gold stars from me. Very satisfied. Highly recommend for ANYONE doing ANYTHING that needs an attorney in CT or NY.
Thank you, Clare.
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25 Apr, 2018 by Kasey
As first time home buyers, my husband and i had A LOT of questions! The ones our realtor couldn't help answers we asked to Clare and not only did she always know the answer but she responded to us very quickly. We hardly ever waited more than an hour to hear back from her which always put us at ease during the stressful moments. As you're looking for a Attorney for real estate transactions, we highly, highly would recommend working with Clare! We would do it all over again if we had to!
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23 Oct, 2016 by Anonymous
Our firm had a complex commercial assignment and Heather's work was outstanding. It was a unique situation and really required someone knowledgeable about complex real estate transactions especially the assignment of a purchase agreement. She helped us arrive at the ideal solution. Her knowledge of real estate and trusts is vast. Heather is caring, passionate about what she does, and devoted to her clients. We cannot thank her enough.
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12 Aug, 2015 by Anonymous
I have worked with John Vecchiolla several times over the years for Real Estate transactions; however I have also consulted with him regarding various other legal matters and he has consistently provided relevant and helpful advice. He is well versed in all types of law. He has always been extremely professional, reliable and courteous every time I have worked with him. I would highly recommend him.
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30 Jul, 2016 by Lindsay steel
John Ferguson seems to be a fine lawyer , but if he doesn't watch out his partner there Cohen will look as though his frist name is Ferguson and there will go all Attorney John Fergusons hard work!!! For stranger things have happened.
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01 Apr, 2013 by Joseph
I have worked with Cort (Brunn Cort Delany) in several legal situations where he represented my wife and me in both the sale and purchase of several homes in Greenwich. In addition, Cort has drafted our wills and is the executor of our estates together with one of our family relatives. I trust him completely and know his good judgement will be there to support my family if I am not. Simply put, Cort is outstanding!
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16 Dec, 2014 by Anonymous
After we bought our home in Brooklyn, and wanted to add another bedroom, we found out that we needed to legalize a previously completed renovation that had not been filed properly. Lyra was recommended to us by our architect and was a total pleasure to deal with from start to finish. She was diligent, thorough, and available to respond to all of our wants and needs.
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17 Dec, 2020 by Anonymous
Top notch service with an excellent outcome! Mr. Margenot handled my case with expertise and experience.
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30 Jul, 2016 by Lindsay steel
John Ferguson seems to be a fine lawyer , but if he doesn't watch out his partner there Cohen will look as though his frist name is Ferguson and there will go all Attorney John Fergusons hard work!!! For stranger things have happened.
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25 Sep, 2021 by Meg glass
14 Nov, 2017 by Alexandre coric
Amazing Architecture and beautiful Ambiance, The shape create the emotion
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21 Feb, 2020 by Dewey rambo
Excellent legal services. Top notch.
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21 Feb, 2020 by Dewey rambo
Excellent legal services. Top notch.
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29 Jan, 2024 by Oliver radclyffe
Eric helped me re-negotiate my alimony/child support agreement and I couldn’t recommend him more highly. He was determined to get the best results, patient and meticulous, and a pleasure to work with. He left no stone unturned, and had a keen eye for small issues that might lead to big problems if left unaddressed. He really went to bat for me, and I am very grateful to him.
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03 Oct, 2023 by Christine polishan
Upon contacting Eric for an initial consult, he made me aware that his initial fee was to donate to a children’s charity close to his heart. This spoke volumes to me. I could tell from the start of this initial conversation that he was compassionate, and upon conclusion of the consult, I knew that he was not only compassionate but extremely knowledgeable, professional and the type of attorney I wanted to represent me. He continued to impress me throughout my divorce proceedings. After the consult, I hired Eric as my divorce attorney, and it was one of the best decisions I made. Eric was professional, organized, meticulous, compassionate, and supportive during a turbulent time in my life. He not only gave me guidance and his expertise throughout the divorce proceedings, but he also was very emotionally supportive when necessary. He gave me a clear understanding of the process and what options existed in my particular case. Eric along with his associate and staff were very responsive and considerate throughout my divorce. They were truly amazing, and I would highly recommend the Law Office of Eric R. Posmantier for anyone seeking a professional, caring, compassionate attorney who knows when to stand up for his client and is able to negotiate a fair and favorable outcome. You will not be disappointed in this decision.
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09 Sep, 2023 by Slhebner
I had a very good experience with Eric and his team. Insightful, prepared, and always available when needed. Eric was also very good at moderating negotiations and helping me think through the proper approaches. Finally, is model is to avoid trials via collaborative law, which is a major plus. Highly recommended.
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29 Jan, 2024 by Oliver radclyffe
Eric helped me re-negotiate my alimony/child support agreement and I couldn’t recommend him more highly. He was determined to get the best results, patient and meticulous, and a pleasure to work with. He left no stone unturned, and had a keen eye for small issues that might lead to big problems if left unaddressed. He really went to bat for me, and I am very grateful to him.
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03 Oct, 2023 by Christine polishan
Upon contacting Eric for an initial consult, he made me aware that his initial fee was to donate to a children’s charity close to his heart. This spoke volumes to me. I could tell from the start of this initial conversation that he was compassionate, and upon conclusion of the consult, I knew that he was not only compassionate but extremely knowledgeable, professional and the type of attorney I wanted to represent me. He continued to impress me throughout my divorce proceedings. After the consult, I hired Eric as my divorce attorney, and it was one of the best decisions I made. Eric was professional, organized, meticulous, compassionate, and supportive during a turbulent time in my life. He not only gave me guidance and his expertise throughout the divorce proceedings, but he also was very emotionally supportive when necessary. He gave me a clear understanding of the process and what options existed in my particular case. Eric along with his associate and staff were very responsive and considerate throughout my divorce. They were truly amazing, and I would highly recommend the Law Office of Eric R. Posmantier for anyone seeking a professional, caring, compassionate attorney who knows when to stand up for his client and is able to negotiate a fair and favorable outcome. You will not be disappointed in this decision.
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09 Sep, 2023 by Slhebner
I had a very good experience with Eric and his team. Insightful, prepared, and always available when needed. Eric was also very good at moderating negotiations and helping me think through the proper approaches. Finally, is model is to avoid trials via collaborative law, which is a major plus. Highly recommended.
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29 Jan, 2024 by Oliver radclyffe
Eric helped me re-negotiate my alimony/child support agreement and I couldn’t recommend him more highly. He was determined to get the best results, patient and meticulous, and a pleasure to work with. He left no stone unturned, and had a keen eye for small issues that might lead to big problems if left unaddressed. He really went to bat for me, and I am very grateful to him.
Read more
03 Oct, 2023 by Christine polishan
Upon contacting Eric for an initial consult, he made me aware that his initial fee was to donate to a children’s charity close to his heart. This spoke volumes to me. I could tell from the start of this initial conversation that he was compassionate, and upon conclusion of the consult, I knew that he was not only compassionate but extremely knowledgeable, professional and the type of attorney I wanted to represent me. He continued to impress me throughout my divorce proceedings. After the consult, I hired Eric as my divorce attorney, and it was one of the best decisions I made. Eric was professional, organized, meticulous, compassionate, and supportive during a turbulent time in my life. He not only gave me guidance and his expertise throughout the divorce proceedings, but he also was very emotionally supportive when necessary. He gave me a clear understanding of the process and what options existed in my particular case. Eric along with his associate and staff were very responsive and considerate throughout my divorce. They were truly amazing, and I would highly recommend the Law Office of Eric R. Posmantier for anyone seeking a professional, caring, compassionate attorney who knows when to stand up for his client and is able to negotiate a fair and favorable outcome. You will not be disappointed in this decision.
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09 Sep, 2023 by Slhebner
I had a very good experience with Eric and his team. Insightful, prepared, and always available when needed. Eric was also very good at moderating negotiations and helping me think through the proper approaches. Finally, is model is to avoid trials via collaborative law, which is a major plus. Highly recommended.
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19 Oct, 2015 by Stuart
Dominick Rendina was referred to me by another attorney/friend, as someone who could handle a collections case. While the case dragged on and on, Attorney Rendina was responsive, available and attentive. This was my first experience with the court system, and not one that I would rush to repeat, however Attorney Rendina managed the process and prepared me. I wouldn't hesitate to recommend him and/or use him again myself.
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15 Oct, 2015 by Esther
Dominick Rendina worked with my husband and myself on our finances and we came up with only one solution and that was to file chapter 7. I was so scared to do this but Dominick helped me through it all, he was there for any questions and advise. He is a very professional man and we became good friends, will use him again with other matters as they arise. Thank you Dominick for being able to cope with us through this all.
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10 Oct, 2024 by Adelaide schneider
22 Apr, 2024 by Victor bruno
Casey O'Donnell did a great job with our planning and zoning matters in Greenwich. He is extremely knowledgeable about obtaining building permits, variances, and all things real estate-related.
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12 Sep, 2023 by Eileen o'donnell
Casey is exceptional in understanding family dynamics and helping with estate planning.
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07 Dec, 2018 by Jennifer
Attorney Effron is of the highest caliber, with knowledge above and beyond his expertise in family law. He treats his clients impeccably well and knows exactly how to manage the court system which can be difficult and frustrating. He is not a time waster, he is considerate of fees and plans his time accordingly. I would highly recommend him and wouldn’t use anyone else.
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02 May, 2018 by Sam m
He is a super aggressive type of lawyer. He asked clients to lie and make false accusations to win. I heard so many terrible stories about him to break relationships between soon-to-be husbands and wives, which is terrible for their children. He always works with certain Guardian Ad Litem to ensure his cases. One of my clients did one hour consultation with him, his questionnaire asks if people come to purely block him.
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12 Apr, 2017 by Anonymous
Anthony is my "go to" for any and all legal questions.
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07 Dec, 2018 by Jennifer
Attorney Effron is of the highest caliber, with knowledge above and beyond his expertise in family law. He treats his clients impeccably well and knows exactly how to manage the court system which can be difficult and frustrating. He is not a time waster, he is considerate of fees and plans his time accordingly. I would highly recommend him and wouldn’t use anyone else.
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02 May, 2018 by Sam m
He is a super aggressive type of lawyer. He asked clients to lie and make false accusations to win. I heard so many terrible stories about him to break relationships between soon-to-be husbands and wives, which is terrible for their children. He always works with certain Guardian Ad Litem to ensure his cases. One of my clients did one hour consultation with him, his questionnaire asks if people come to purely block him.
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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.
