Lawyers map
>30
experienced lawyers
Filter by
05 Mar, 2024 by Libby o'connell
Barry represented us in the sale of our house where we had lived for 38 years. With his guidance, the process went smoothly and quickly. It’s great to find a local lawyer who is so capable, trustworthy, informed, and pleasant to work with. We highly recommend Barry Lites.
Read more
14 Feb, 2023 by Joshua millington (jm)
Very motivated.
Read more
20 Jul, 2021 by Running zuschi
Very professional, reliable, fast...
and very competent!
An amazing partner for our non profit
Read more
17 Aug, 2024 by Anonymous
Very informative and a pleasure to speak to. Told me in detail what I needed to do. Highly recommend calling him if you have any questions.
Read more
25 Mar, 2023 by Doreen
Mr. Houslanger and his office have been the best experience we have had with court examiners for our daughter. He is kind and thoughtful, extremely knowledgable and very efficient and quick to respond to any questions or concerns we may have. I highly recommend him.
Read more
17 Nov, 2021 by Chris
In all truth, I bumped into dialogue with Counselor Houslanger completely by accident, under the erroneous impression that his firm was the latest to inherit an old judgment, presumed to be still in effect and in force, naming my mother as the Defendant, while in truth and in fact he was NOT the Counsel of Record. Nevertheless, he gave me an audience, he asked me for the Index #, he had the means and the desire to take some initiative in researching some basics about this old story, and as fate would have it, my mother's old judgment had been ordered to be vacated some five years earlier in a certain class-action matter. Counselor Houslanger then went out of his way to offer some basic instruction for the proper Pro Se steps to remedy the judgment in the Court of the first instance, which I imagine would have worked nicely if the Court staff at my mother's venue understood the procedure as well as he himself does. Bureaucrats seldom see beyond the scope of their own responsibilities, however. This attorney possesses a keen insight to the needs and concerns of ALL with whom he speaks, whether he's getting paid to listen and respond or not. And as long as he doesn't have any equity or interest in the other side of the case or docket, I'll call Todd Eric Houslanger before I call anyone, whether the matter to be addressed is a traffic summons, a criminal arrest, a debtor judgment, a divorce proceeding, a CBP Global Entry Reconsideration Hearing, a charge under the Espionage Act of 1917, or even a FISA Court matter. Regardless whether he'd be equipped and/or inclined to represent and/or to assist in the representation, this is clearly a man whose interactions are ALWAYS a matter of consequence. My only regret is that I encountered this man some seven years after my brother was crushed to death by a subway train. If there weren't so many liens pending in the current cause of action already, I'd fire all current counsel yesterday, and hire Todd Eric Houslanger today, without even checking his record of decisions in such matters. He knows the law; he knows procedure; and most importantly: he knows to treat EVERYONE well, and to speak to EVERYONE with respect, DESPITE the fact the ones with whom he speaks DO NOT have a title or even a degree. THIS one's an ATTORNEY people. NOT a fast-talking, used-car salesman with a license to practice law. NOT some JD who passed the Bar, and believes his license GIVES him license to be ill-mannered. I'm fully mindful that his fortes are in prosecuting debt collection, and in defending traffic-related and criminal matters. But once every great while, a man comes along who is so brilliant, so personable, and so well-mannered, that one truly cannot tell what is beyond the abilities of Todd Eric Houslanger's legal acumen, unless and until one discusses the matter WITH him, and dares to ask if he can help. Some 40 years ago I dared to debate William Rehnquist when I was a high school senior. Anyone familiar with that name should understand what I mean when I say that Counselor Houslanger is a genuine attorney, and a brilliant, well-mannered, and thoughtful gentleman.
Read more
16 Apr, 2017 by Vivian
Mr. Lee's service came highly recommended to me by my real estate agent. The house I was buying had several complications prior to closing one of which involved securing a CO for a conversion that was not approved by the city. He and his staff made an otherwise overwhelming house-buying process seamless and less stressful. He's very knowledgeable, transparent, and pleasant to work with.
I would recommend his service to anyone and most especially to first-time home buyers.
Read more
03 Apr, 2017 by Doug
Lee was there every step of the way throughout my first home purchase. He communicates very well which is important to me and is extremely knowledgeable in his field. If I was to do it all over again I wouldn't do it any other way other than to have Lee represent me as my real estate attorney!
Read more
29 Sep, 2016 by Linda
Lee was recommended to us by our listing agent and family friend. Our Mom had just passed and we needed to handle the sale of her home and the execution of her will. It was an emotional time for us but we knew instantly when we started working with McCarthy and Reynolds P.C. that we had made the right choice. Every step of the way we were guided by them. Lee and his staff
worked with me and my five siblings to manage the home sale and the will execution handling situations as they arose and never missing a beat, Even though I was out of state I felt confident from the start that we had made the right choice. Lee's professionalism and consideration for our emotional state made all the difference. We highly recommend him and, if the need arises, will use his services again.
Read more
04 Dec, 2014 by Kim
I have had many successful transactions with Mr. Leavy. Every transaction that I have encountered with him has been smooth and easy. His remarkable dedication to his clients is demonstrated through his detailed hard work. He is thorough and knowledgeable which enabled me to feel confident during a stressful time. Additionally, he has a wonderful personality and humor that makes the experience even more enjoyable!
Read more
31 Mar, 2014 by Chris
michael had helped me with a problem with my property, did a great job and got it done. ive dealt with other lawyers and this guy was great. i could never use anyone but him.
Read more
05 Feb, 2014 by Monica and michael broderick
Michael Leavy had come highly recommended from a Real Estate Professional that I had worked with over the past several years. (Personally, I think that word of mouth is the best form of a compliment.) I called Mr. Leavy when we were refinancing our home and received time sensitive paperwork that needed to be addressed. The paperwork arrived during the Christmas holidays and I was concerned that we would not be able to have it reviewed before the deadline. Mr. Leavy understood our need for services within a very short time frame and made it a priority to get this matter addressed. He was extremely professional and did not make my husband or I feel rushed. He did not just review and sign papers; but rather explained what we were signing and the reasons behind certain things were notorized. I will be certain to refer anyone in the need for a Real Estate attorney to Michael Leavy's office. He made a stressful time in our lives a less stressed one.
Read more
05 Apr, 2014 by Bonnie
Laura Leavy is a very concerned, knowledgeable professional. We have been her clients now for a little less than a year. We are trying to purchase a home here on Long Island. We first started looking at Foreclosures and Short Sales; which is a long process. Nothing really panned out. Now we have found a Beautiful home and Laura is working hard to make sure everything is up to date and straight forward with the sale. She has kept us fully informed throughout the processes. She was in touch with our real estate agent and sellers attorneys as well as our mortgage banker. If she wasn't available for one reason or another, she made sure her partner and assistant were abreast of the situation at all times.
Read more
07 Aug, 2024 by Debra schmahl
My husband, the executor of an Estate, retained Novick & Associates for a probate matter and worked with Al Messina. Al Messina is a top notch attorney, very knowledgeable on Estate and Trust Laws and the procedures for Suffolk County Surrogates Court. Al responds quickly to emails, returns phone calls promptly and answers all questions professionally. Al Messina worked diligently to resolve a complicated estate matter, every step of the way he kept the executor informed. The results of Al Messina’s hard work exceeded our expectations. Do not hesitate to retain, I highly recommend.
Read more
01 Aug, 2024 by Kathy smalling
John Graffeo gave us superior service and achieved things for us that others could not do. The smartest thing we ever did was retain him and his firm to handle our probate case. We highly recommend him to anyone needing his service. He kept us up to date and sent monthly detailed bills for us to see. Thank you very much John.
Read more
04 Oct, 2023 by Renee taylor
23 Jun, 2023 by Tyler
As my first time needing an attorney, I was pretty freaked out. But Jeff and his work made it beyond easy. Great communication, and put in the work to make sure I got the resolution I needed. He's the one to call!
Read more
23 Jun, 2023 by Brandon
Jeff was my first time hiring a traffic attorney. He was very easy to work with, can message him at anytime of the day, and was able to dismiss most of the charges. I will be using him moving forward for any legal issues. Thanks again!
Read more
16 Jun, 2023 by Christopher
Jeffery has always fulfilled all of me and my families legal matters with outstanding accuracy, care and passion. For all inquiring about Mr Crokers qualifications….he’s your guy
Read more
06 Oct, 2015 by Rosa
I was referred to Mr. Wand by a family friend a couple of years ago as I was seeking Sole Legal custody of my grand nephew. A couple of months later I was awarded custody of the child. Recently I again, contacted Mr. Wand to find out if he would handle an adoption as I now was seeking to petition the court for adoption. Mr. Wand and his staff were professional, compassionate and sympathetic and always available to answer any concerns I was having through the process. Again, a few months later the Adoption decree was signed by the Judge. I am forever grateful to Mr. Wand and his staff for the outstanding job.
Read more
06 Oct, 2015 by William, phd.
"Location, location, location,” that’s IT in real estate…Hiring a divorce attorney? The three rules are experience, experience, experience…
Experience – the knowledge of marital law, especially in your jurisdiction, and how to apply it. Experience – knowing how to deal with every circumstance, whether it’s standard procedure, or something from left field. Experience – the “people skills” to corral even the wackiest behavior of opponents (or clients!).
After years of marital un-rest, the divorce papers finally materialized and I was determined to hire the best. Mercifully, there were no custody matters; financial issues dominated the agenda – a hefty inheritance, pension awards, health and other insurances, plus the usual perks of a mid-life, well-lived: A modest investment portfolio, a home on the beach on Long Island, a house in the country, a boat, luxury cars, and the gem, a one-bedroom, pied-à-terre apartment in the heart of NYC’s Greenwich Village.
My wife opted to re-hire a general-purpose attorney she had used is a previous low-budget divorce. Big mistake. Carl Wand, Esq. was the 1998 Yankees vs. a Triple-A, team. More than once, after a conference or appearance in court, Wand came to me saying “this guy doesn’t know this,” or “he’s overlooked such-and-such.” My wife’s counsel was simply over-matched. Put bluntly, Carl and his team ‘hammered’ the opposition. In the end, both parties got what was coming to them, but to even a casual observer, I was the “winner.” (assuming there’s any WINNER in a divorce…)
When hiring counsel, I cannot overstate the value of an efficient, responsive, support staff. As with any legal proceeding, there were lots of phone calls, emails, etc. But Wand and Goody is different…kind of old-school. My calls to the office were always answered by a REAL person. Not some intern or receptionist, but an informed staffer that expedited a resolution to my concerns. In fact, my calls were usually routed immediately to Mr. Wand’s personal assistant. In these days of voice mails, e-mails, text messages, and endless phone-trees, I find this remarkable and reassuring.
A final note: After an equitable split on the sale of the L.I. home, and a few dollars exchanged, I ended-up with free-and-clear-ownership of the Greenwich Village apartment. To any New Yorker, that’s a win-win.
Read more
28 Jul, 2015 by Deborah
I have only the most superlative kudos for the team of Wand & Goody. Every issue/case I [my family]have ever sought help with has been under their knowledgeable & expert guidance. Each case was resolved in my favor with minimal stress or disruption. Being in business I need an expert team in this highly litigious society. I strictly use ONLY this firm for personal and business related problems. in 35 years I have NEVER been disappointed. In areas of law they do not handle they have procured only the best of their colleagues to make sure I always get the very best. If you are seeking excellence in law this is by and far the best of the best available anywhere.Every recommendation I have ever made to others has always resulted in gratitude. Thank you for the many years of support.
Read more
02 Sep, 2024 by Janet m
I’m not sure what the review below me means “ unsure”??? Very attentive and responsive.
Read more
18 Sep, 2022 by Richard shaw
Not sure
Read more
Discover the ideal lawyer
You can search a lawyer by practice area, lawyer name, city, state, or ZIP code
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.
