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28 Aug, 2024 by Peter lewis
My wife and I had been putting off getting a will for many years. We envisioned stuffy formal offices manned with gruff, cigar comping, self important lawyers in Italian suits and Rolexes!
We were also worried if we could afford it. My wife read about an Elder Law office in our town and was impressed with their commitment to family legal matters. We decided to make an appointment. From the minute we walked into Estate Planning & Elder Law Center of Brevard we felt welcome.The surroundings were cozy and professional. We were immediately greeted
and offered coffee and water. Our initial consultation was informative, thorough, and congenial. The attorneys Robin and Roger are exemplary executives, and along with Erica, Jennifer, and Danielle, Elder Law Center is in excellent, capable hands. We now have a gorgeous binder complete with our will, living trust, and all the trimmings. In many ways we feel this is one of the best investments we've ever made.We extend our praise and deep thanks to Elder Law Center of Brevard. Highly Recommended!
Peter & Emily Lewis
Melbourne Beach, Florida
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22 Aug, 2024 by Lisa ortiz
My mother went in to make a few amendments to the existing documents Elder Law Center had drawn up a few years ago. Robin Petersen Esq. was efficient and detail oriented. My mom was supposed to come back a few weeks later to sign the documents. Two days later the office informed her that her documents were ready for review. The office staff was able to make time for her to come in immediately to sign. This was a huge relief to have everything done so quickly. Erica and the rest of the office staff were so incredibly sweet to my mother. Erica made sure to go over everything carefully so that my mother understood everything. Erica even spoke to my mother in Spanish to make the process even easier for her to understand. I would 100% recommend their services to anyone in need of estate planning.
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17 Aug, 2024 by Kathleen malloy
10 Aug, 2024 by Allaine
Very happy how fast and smooth my divorce was processed with the help of Attorney Lindsay and Brooke.
Brooke is amazing, very quick to respond with any questions and very helpful. Spouse living in a foreign country/outside the US so we had to do international process service for the papers, Brooke helped me save some cost of the process server.
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25 Jun, 2024 by Nick murray
Mr. Mitchell did an amazing job resolving my d.u.i. my case was 21 years old and he went in and got the whole thing dismissed. I would recommend him to everyone.
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12 Jun, 2024 by Kristen monk
Mr Mitchell and his team was such a great help he made sure I understood the process and the extent of my injury he took his time answering my questions and had my best interest at heart I would recommend and if I ever need help I'll be back thank u SOOOO much for all your patience and help
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17 Jun, 2019 by Debbie
I was referred to Ms. Pierce from another law firm. Ms. Pierce was kind enough to spend FREE time in talking about my case even via email. I don't want to clog up her client list, but she's a rare find. I was trying contest my father's will after he died and after I had already texted him some horrible things about him as a father and dead beat dad. Ms. Pierce advised me well and was straightforward about it all. Although I don't have a chance in heck to fight my father's will, I'm glad she took the time to be straight with me. If I had a case that was somewhat worthy or if my father had diminished capacity, then I believe she would have worked with me pro bono and given me even more great advice!
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13 Jul, 2018 by Joyce
While doing research for my divorce, I learned Julie Glocker Pierce was the only attorney in Brevard County who was Board Certified in Marital and Family Law. In addition, she was a sole practitioner vs. a law office with 25+ attorneys. I needed someone who was not only caring, patient, a good listener but also extremely competent, well respected. My consultation with Julie confirmed she and her staff were exactly what I was looking for. Julie was the total package: fearless, smart... who also became my coach, my sounding board. And she didn't hesitate to give me a kick in the pants "pep talk" if necessary :) From the get-go she and her staff worked diligently to ensure the best possible outcome. I could not have been happier.
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09 Feb, 2018 by Ryan
Ms. Glocker Pierce is not a person you want to have to meet, that is not to say she is not a pleasant person, cause she is, but frankly no one wants to have to contact a lawyer. However if/when life puts you in situations where a lawyer is needed Julie is a person you should contact.
I consulted with 4 other attorneys across two counties prior to having my consultation with Ms. Glocker Pierce and I knew with in the first 90 seconds of our conversation that I would be securing her services. Every other attorney I spoke with made promises about what they "would win" for me without even hearing my situation. Julie's approach was much different, she listened to the details, laid out a plan, asked me to implement my part of that plan and then did her part to secure the best out come.
Over the course of 2-3 years of using Julie's services she was always direct, provided only what I needed to know, reached out to me only when there was something I needed do, which is not to say that I felt rushed or not a priority, it was exclusively because she was trying to keep costs down for me.
My only regret in with working with Julie, was not doing exactly what she said to do, had I followed her advice I am confident I would have had less expense, time in court and the very minor portion of the rulings that did not go in my favor would have.
There were times hearing what Julie had to say was not easy and not what I wanted to hear, but that's what an attorney is paid to do right? A good lawyer should tell you what you need to hear not what you want to hear and Julie Glocker Pierce is exactly that, a VERY good lawyer.
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28 Jun, 2023 by Anonymous
Diane is someone who's been an attorney practicing family law for decades. Very good at going through step by step with you about your case. Responds routinely within minutes if not 24 hours. I'm glad I picked her, instead of that other one!
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05 Dec, 2017 by Heather
I was referred by an mutual acquaintance for a consultation. I called unexpectedly, but Diane didn't hesitate and immediately answered my questions. Within a thirty minute phone conversation she had me heading in the right direction!
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11 Aug, 2015 by Darrell
I was referred to Diane Baccus Horsley, Esq. by a family member who retained her for a family law case in the past. I am struggling financially with a mountain of secured debt and four children in great need of support.
Mrs. Horsley and her daughter Kyle Lieneck, Esq. kindly and compassionately listened to my story. They decided to represent me with low monthly payments that I can afford.
The office is clean and orderly and the staff are patient and professional. I see smiles every time I walk through the door. When I call, no matter who answers, they have time to listen and they are professionally courteous.
The office has an area dedicated to children so that the attorney and client can meet without interruption. This is essential when child care is not financially feasible. The children even get to pick out a toy they can take home and keep.
So far, Diane has professionally advised me and aggressively represented me through two grueling days of mediation. She even traveled out of the county in order to insure I had this quality representation during mediation.
Diane and Kyle make it a point to be available when I call or email. Their office keeps me well informed regarding the progression of my family law case. Diane has kindly and compassionately reassured me on multiple occasions during this most difficult time of my life. Additionally, Diane competently handles multiple legalities inherent to family law cases, and explains them to me in an easily understandable and very patient manner.
Diane is there for me and she cares. She has a big heart and a wonderful smile with a jovial personality.
If you desire quality legal representation at a price you can afford, then do yourself a huge favor and retain the compassionately professional representation of Diane Baccus Horsley, Esq.
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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.
