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24 Jan, 2025 by Brenda chavez
24 Jan, 2025 by Jorge hernandez
24 Jan, 2025 by Valentino greenfield
They took care of me and my case in a timely manner! Would highly recommend if you find yourself in a situation and need someone to fight for you! Thank you Law Offices Of Daniel KIM
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21 May, 2014 by Anonymous
Charles was really helpful throughout the probate process for my family (did all the work, was on top of things, etc). I was told the probate process would take a long time because of the California court system, but it didn't take nearly as long as he'd warned me it might. He kept me informed throughout the entire process and always quickly responded to my questions via phone/email. Would definitely recommend him.
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21 May, 2014 by Cynthia
Charles is extremely insightful, knowledgeable and a true pleasure to work with. He helped me with decisions regarding a trust that were key given my extenuating circumstances. He completely present and listened to my concerns which I sincerely appreciate. Highly recommend!
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21 May, 2014 by Kt
Charles is a fantastic lawyer. My company hired him to handle some of our employment and tax law issues, none of which any of us were equipped to handle, or even frankly understood. Charles was incredibly thorough, patient and explained everything to us in a relatable manner. Sorry, but there's nothing I hate more than lawyer jargon! Charles made sure we understood all risks, outcomes, etc but without using jargon that we would have to ask him "Wait, what the heck does that mean?" He also makes sure that he's providing the guidance that you need without all of the "upselling." We've been thrilled with his work and look forward to working with him again.
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05 Apr, 2016 by Cassy
John has quite the impressive resume, especially for someone who looks quite young (turns out he's not quite as young as he looks). I was referred to him by another attorney (who I trust deeply) and looked at his reviews on other sites, which were also good. John really took the time to understand my family's dynamic, and found solutions that achieved all of our goals. I've now referred him to one of my neighbors and one of my close family friends.
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18 Mar, 2016 by Anonymous
John is well versed with estate planning fundamentals, trust litigation, and financial planning. This inter-disciplinary training offers clients a holistic analysis and solution to protect their wealth. I have personally trusted John as a reliable professional sounding board to discuss about complex estate planning concepts.
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02 Mar, 2016 by Ursula
I had a great experience using John as my estate planning attorney. He was knowledgeable about several issues, including income tax issues that my CPA had not addressed. He worked with my CPA and Financial Advisor to ensure that everyone was on the same page with my financial picture. Most importantly, we set up an estate plan to protect my business and my children from creditors.
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09 Aug, 2017 by Tom
We recently had Shauna create our Living Trust. She performed in a most timely & professional manner. The document was uniquely personalized to our specific requirements. The finished product was simultaneously legally concise & also clear to read. Throughout the entire process Shauna presented herself as a very knowledgeable attorney.
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16 Sep, 2016 by Benjamin
I have a had the opportunity to discuss estate planning Issues on many of may cases with Shauna. She in knowledgeable, skilled, and makes complex issues very easy to understand. I strongly recommend her services!
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23 Dec, 2015 by Lauren
Shauna did a great job at helping my husband and I create our will and trust. She's relaxed yet very professional and caring. She gave us some good and practical points to consider when making the will and trust. Easy to work with and I would highly recommend her especially if you have kids or very little idea of the will and trust process.
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13 Jun, 2024 by Steven
I am grateful for the exceptional assistance provided by Peilin Ngo of Ngo Legal Group in Irvine, CA. Although she was unable to help us directly with an LPS conservatorship, Peilin went above and beyond by providing invaluable resources, recommendations, and referrals. Her professionalism, dedication, and genuine concern for our situation were truly remarkable. Peilin has been the best, and I highly recommend her services to anyone in need of legal expertise.
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29 Jun, 2023 by Art
Peilin handled a probate case for me and I couldn't be more satisfied. She is organized, meticulous, prompt and an exceptional communicator. She set clear expectations up front and exceeded all of them. She has a wonderful balance of caring and professionalism. 10 out of 5 stars.
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04 Aug, 2022 by Cari
I had the pleasure of hiring and working with Peilin Ngo in handling my late father’s Trust and Estate. She is an experienced professional and a wonderful person. I appreciated her knowledge, guidance and excellent communication. There were several complicated legal issues that needed special handling that included beneficiary conflicts and court petitions. Peilin worked with diligence and compassion with all parties involved to expediently resolve the issues. Also, if you are in need, Peilin has a network of seasoned professionals she will refer you to such as CPAs and other specialty attorneys. You can be confident that she will be your trusted legal advocate and she will work with you with the utmost respect and dedication.
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15 Mar, 2011 by Sandy
Howard, as a former County Counsel for the Public Administrator/Public Guardian (PA/PG), handled many very difficult estate matters. PA/PG estates are not straight forward and generally messy but Howard solved all the problems and found a path toward completion so that distributions could be made to the heirs. He is so expert at probate matters that even the Superior Court asked him for advice on occasion when they could not figure out the answer. I have worked with many probate attorneys over the years, so I know a good one when I see him. When the time came to choose a probate attorney for my Mother's estate, I naturally chose the best around and that is Howard. He has solved each problem as it arose, is trustworthly, responsive to my questions and concerns, very knowledgeable and keeps me informed each step along the way. Howard is the best probate attorney in Orange County and I wholeheartedly recommend him. You could not find a better one!
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12 Mar, 2011 by Jill
After our attorney retired, I contacted a family friend's attorney. Their offices did not handle conservatorship/trust cases, but told me I was in luck because a very fine attorney, Howard Serbin, had recently retired from the Orange County Counsel. They said I would be lucky to get him. He has been our attorney for nearly four years. Our case is particularly difficult and messy, but Howard has been so supportive, easy to work with, very professional, extremely honest and fair. He is easy to communicate with and timely on all paperwork filed and phone call and email responses. Whenever we are at the court house with Howard he is fequently approached by the staff who are genuinely happy to see him. It is obvious Howard is a respected and admired attorney. I would highly recommend Howard Serbin.
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10 Mar, 2011 by Dorothea
I have known Howard for many years as an associate and client of his. His experience as an Assistant County Counsel for the County of Orange has given him great experience and knowledge of Probate, Conservatorships, Guardianships, etc. for both Orange County and other local counties such as Los Angeles, Riverside, San Bernardino and San Diego. I was delighted when he retired from OC's County Counsel after many years of service, since he is now free to accept private clients and share his expertise and knowledge of the probate system in the State of California. I would highly recommend him.
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20 Sep, 2017 by James
My wife and I hired Patrick Phancao for our estate planning. Truly, words could not express sufficiently our gratitude for all of Patrick's kindness, patience and knowledge in regards to our living trust. We feel the future of our son is now secure. Again, thank you and God bless you.
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14 May, 2013 by Michelle
Patrick is a very knowledgeable, relatable, man who truly took the time to completely understand our needs and wishes with regard to our Living Trust and LLC. He was responsive in a timely manner, and always kept us apprised of the status of our documents. The staff is friendly, communicative and professional. We were very lucky to have had him referred to us!
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06 Sep, 2012 by Manny
I can highly recommend Patrick Phancao and his firm, Asset Protection and Elder Law. He provides a personal aspect to his profession that is unusual. In creating a trust for my elderly mother, he was not only the consummate professional but was kind, patient and understanding, making my mother comfortable with the process.
As I have continued to rely on Patrick for advice concerning family issues, he has made himself available within hours of my phone call, if not available immediately. His personal concern for his clients and expertise make this firm a valuable resource for those wanting a clear understanding of the law as it pertains to one’s unique situation.
I appreciate the strength, patience, knowledge and character with which this this firm conducts business. The form exceptional relationships with their clients and provide a trust beyond the norm
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07 Jun, 2013 by James
Our family has had the good fortune to work with a person like Tamsen for approximately 7 years . She has been most knowledgeable, professional, and helpful in terms of both our estate planning, as well as my recently deceased parents estate. She guided us through some sensitive areas/issues with my parents estate and was always available to assist via in-person meetings, telephone or email. I've strongly recommend other family members and friends to her for consultation.
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25 May, 2013 by Eileen
Tamsen was referred to me by my sister who spoke very highly of her. After meeting Tamsen and having her update my multi-year old trust documents I know why. She is caring, thoughtful and able to communicate so that I understood every aspect of the documentation and the reasons behind it all. She is knowledgeable and very compassionate.
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09 May, 2013 by Verna
Tamsen has been part of assisting in putting my parent's trust together, maintaining connection with us and after my parent's death, assisting me as the trustee. Her office was impeccable when it came to returning calls, getting me information or seeing me in person. The information provided has made my trustee duties less complicated and I don't have any worries that I have not handled the trust correctly so there are no future problems.
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12 Apr, 2013 by Greg
Gillian is a great choice for your will, trust and estate planning needs. Very comfortable dealing with her regarding all of the sensitive issues surrounding financial planning. Very knowledgeable and willing to research and consult with others when more information is required. Fees are in line with others, but service is superior.
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21 Mar, 2013 by Jerry wilk
knowing something about estate planning, I am very impressed with Gillian's expertise and genuine caring for my family and me. Her sincere concern for our future well being really touched me and reassures me that I am getting estate advice from the best source.
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15 Mar, 2013 by Marcia
Gillian Stein was at all times extremely knowledgeable, professional and reliable. Her advice was constructive, honest and very helpful in making the necessary decisions. She could be relied upon to complete the case within the time period stated. I would have no hesitation in hiring her again when I have the need to.
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21 Aug, 2017 by Kelly
Finding a trustworthy & hardworking attorney isn't exactly easy. However, Ms. Murray was wonderful to work with. She put me at ease, answered all of my questions, and really helped me feel comfortable with the entire process. I felt like I was working with a friend rather an attorney. I'd highly recommend her to anyone.
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15 Aug, 2017 by Antonio
Shawna was extremely helpful throughout the whole process of helping me plan my estate. Whenever I had a question about any sort of legal issue pertaining to the planning of my estate; Shawna was always on call and provided me with knowledgeable answers to all of my questions. Overall my experience with her was top of the line. Thank you Shawna!
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01 Jan, 2017 by Anonymous
Shawna Murray provided much needed assistance for my legal issues and was the catalyst for getting my case moving. She treated me with respect and dignity. I'm thankful for all her help to bring this chapter in my life to a successful close.
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08 Jul, 2018 by Anonymous
Jonathan responded to me when I was in dire need of advice. He was at court but took my call and provided me his view that was accurate, ethical, balanced, and fair. I was panicked over a situation and he gave me ethical, rational perspective.
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19 Oct, 2016 by Anonymous
Haven't hired yet and in a process of to hire. First expression after our consultation over the phone very positive. It seems like he is a caring, ethical and proffesional in his field. Comparing to all of my experiences with other dishonest individuals in the past.
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09 Oct, 2016 by Koen
My older brother has a mental disability that put him in a difficult situation for U.S. citizenship. We tried different lawyers who just seemed to not care about my brother's case. However, when Jonathan stepped in, he loved my brother like his own brother. He took my brother out for lunch and he made personal connections with him. Later, on my brother's interview day, we prayed together and stepped into the USCIS office together. At the end, my brother became a citizen in the United States and we still keep in touch.
Jonathan Yong becomes a part of your family from the moment you enter into his office.
Not only that, he takes care of all the paperwork, signings, notaries, and any works instantly and professionally.
I believe that God has made Jonathan Yong to be a lawyer for all the people of God. He is faithful to God, and he is faithful to you.
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27 May, 2015 by Gary
Mr Nematbakhsh has helped me on three different lawsuits and all were resolved or settled in my favor. I have worked with many attorneys in the past and Mr Nematbakhsh is by far the best of the best !!!!
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29 Jan, 2015 by Amir
I met tom in early part of 2014 and he ended up setting up my family trust. Tom is a very knowledgeable, caring and compassionate attorney. His prices are very fair and it seems like when dealing with him you have found a new friend. Since my family trust was set up I have referred him to both by sisters and my cousin and all of them are happy with his services.
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14 Jul, 2019 by Maggie
Sean is the best , he helped me since 2015 for my green card application, green card condition remove application and citizenship application. In the past 4 years he had supplied very professional service, he is knowledgeable, friendly, made application process very easy and smooth. I recommend him to everyone who needs best lawyer for Immigration application.
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01 Nov, 2011 by Henny
I hired a different lawyer previously and because - like many new clients - I relied on big firm advertisement, every time I called the office for questions, instead of talking to my lawyer, I was mostly talking to his assistants/paralegals. And when I finally get a hold of my lawyer, he was clueless of my case.
I had a totally opposite experience with Sean Yuan. At first glance, you'll most probably felt hesitance to hire Sean Yuan as your lawyer because he doesn't own a big law office or has a big poster advertisement on newspapers. But from my experience, it meant every time I picked up the phone with questions, I spoke directly to Sean instead of his assistant.
He helped me through H-1B application and eventually LPR's application.
He is very knowledgeable in his area expertise and maintained a good line of communication with his clients. He prepared each application and procedure properly. He patiently explained each procedure and all possible outcomes with the case . He is not one who only promised all positive outcomes in a case (as we all know US immigration can be so complicated these days), but he also laid out the risks/possible negative outcomes, so his clients fully understand both sides of possible outcomes.
I would recommend Sean Yuan's service to anyone who need help with immigration's law. As the matter of fact, I also hired Sean for my mother's LPR application.
Thanks for all your help, Sean!
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15 Jul, 2022 by Bruce & debra
We would like to highly recommend the law firm of Copenbarger & Copenbarger to anyone considering an estate plan.
Attorney, Larry Copenbarger, was attentive, knowledgeable, and explained all of the components of our estate plan thoroughly. Most of our questions were answered before we even asked them.
Paralegal, Rachael Sharp, was a pleasure to work with as well; promptly responding with clear and concise answers to our correspondence.
We now feel completely confident that our assets will pass to our heirs as intended.
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15 Dec, 2021 by Anonymous
Extremely professional, helpful, thoughtful and kind. He takes the time to explain everything in an easy to understand way.
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24 Apr, 2014 by Luis
Mr. Lopez helped me with my legal matter. He understood my issue, explained the court process to me and told me exactly what my options were. He tried to resolve the matter by contacting the other side and when that did not work, he filed a lawsuit. The other side agreed to settle and paid me. I have already recommended him to friends who need the best attorney they can find. He is trustworthy and reliable.
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02 Apr, 2014 by Brian
I hired Mr. Lopez to handle a business dispute with a major company. I own a small company and this other company is a major player in my industry. Before I hired Mr. Lopez, they would not even return my calls. They owed me nearly $100,000 and refused to pay my bills. I was nearly going out of business because of this. After I hired Mr. Lopez, we met with the other company and he explained to them what they owed. They finally agreed to pay me EVERYTHING that I was owed! I credit this to Mr. Lopez, he is an excellent lawyer.
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26 Mar, 2022 by Margaret
I was Trustee for my Uncle’s Estate. It was a very complicated estate that involved real estate properties in two states and seven beneficiaries. The task felt insurmountable at the beginning. Diane clearly outlined what was expected of me and guided me along the way. She is extremely knowledgeable and was able to explain the law in a way that I could easily understand. When issues or complications came up, she always had a clear solution. I would say that my favorite thing about Diane is that she is a kind, affable, and direct person. With situations like this, this is so important. I highly recommend Diane. She is a very competent and skilled attorney.
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14 Jan, 2014 by Anonymous
Diane helped me settle my husband's estate. I never expected a lawyer could be so likeable. I found her to not only be very knowledgeable and professional, but also very caring and compassionate. I will be using her in the future and will recommend my friends and relatives to her.
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14 Dec, 2021 by Bijan
My firm Freedom National has been working with Barry Seaton for over a decade and his integrity and punctuality are the best of any law firm that I have seen in my 30 years of experience being self-employed. His attention to detail and truly caring about his clients is one of his qualities that I admire the most! I have referred him and will continue to refer him to anyone that could use his services!
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10 Dec, 2021 by Sharon
Barry was so helpful - we had no idea where to start and he explained everything so we understood and now we feel a sense of relief that our estate plan is taken care of. He answered every question with patience and was prompt to return our emails and phone calls. We are so thankful.
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29 Oct, 2015 by Anonymous
Mark is a very professional, knowledgeable and efficient attorney. His honesty and integrity are beyond measure. He took the time to answer any and all questions, reassured and guided me through every step of the decision process. I highly recommend Mark to anyone looking for an exceptional attorney!
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02 Dec, 2014 by Sam
Mark has been my attorney for over 23 years now. I've used him to set up several Trusts, corporations, and LLCs. Mark is very knowledgeable about the fine details and things to watch out for. He helped me decide which type of entity was best for each type of business. He is always great at returning phone calls very quickly and making time to chat about different issues. I believe anyone would be very impressed with Mark's thoroughness and knowledge on Business law.
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15 Jun, 2021 by Betty
I was stuck in a frustrating situation with a vacation rental host and Airbnb and felt defeated. As a last option, I turned to Katie for guidance. From the beginning she provided sound advice. Her reassurance of my position motivated me to fight the case in small claims. Our views and logic was aligned. We fought off principle and we prevailed!
Katie prepared me for small claims and 2 weeks before the hearing, Airbnb responded with a favorable settlement.
I’m so glad I decided to pursue the claim. Thanks to Katie, I was able to close this case and finally move on from this very stressful ordeal.
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04 Jun, 2019 by Michael
I met with Andy to do a will and he said we can do a family trust.
He was through and very thoughtful with a few extra touches that were unexpected. He really know his estate and trust practice,
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04 Nov, 2016 by Daniel
Julie has been a great asset to my company in handling all of the business transactions and every other aspect of the company's legal needs. She has also been an incredible resource for my company's clients for their estate planning. She went above and beyond in addressing all of their concerns and ensured that they had the right plan for their families. I endorse her with no hesitation.
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20 Jan, 2014 by Bob
My wife and I had a legal firm write our trust, when she passed away several years later I had to address several issues that were questionable.. The main issue was the billing before we even addressed changes to the trust. I then changed attorneys and law firms. Michelle picked up the ball and what needed to corrected was handled discretely, professionally and the updated trust is now in place. Anyone needing a trust I would highly recommend Michelle
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16 Feb, 2023 by Kate mulligan
Amazing firm. Honest, thorough, compassionate and professional. I am SO thankful that we found them.
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17 Jun, 2020 by Linda samson
16 Feb, 2023 by Kate mulligan
Amazing firm. Honest, thorough, compassionate and professional. I am SO thankful that we found them.
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17 Jun, 2020 by Linda samson
16 Feb, 2023 by Kate mulligan
Amazing firm. Honest, thorough, compassionate and professional. I am SO thankful that we found them.
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17 Jun, 2020 by Linda samson
16 Feb, 2023 by Kate mulligan
Amazing firm. Honest, thorough, compassionate and professional. I am SO thankful that we found them.
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17 Jun, 2020 by Linda samson
16 Feb, 2023 by Kate mulligan
Amazing firm. Honest, thorough, compassionate and professional. I am SO thankful that we found them.
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17 Jun, 2020 by Linda samson
05 Jan, 2025 by Charon rollon
Fielding Law, APC, is a law firm that truly cares! Their professionalism and results-driven approach set them apart. Simply excellent!" From the initial consultation, I felt a great sense of relief in the way that information was conveyed to me, as well as the questions asked. Everything was clear and concise; and if the person I was speaking with didn’t have the answer, they got it for me elsewhere. Each call or text sent, to EACH team member working on my trip and fall case, was expedient!! From start to finish, my attorney Ryan Cooper was prompt with his responses and left no stone unturned. His strategic approach played a pivotal role in securing a successful outcome and I couldn’t be happier!! Yayeee!!
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01 Jan, 2025 by Shahab sefat
30 Dec, 2024 by Minoush t
We booked a first consultation session. Mr Sedaghat answered all our questions thoroughly and explain the process very well. The team were so professional and informative.
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05 Jan, 2025 by Charon rollon
Fielding Law, APC, is a law firm that truly cares! Their professionalism and results-driven approach set them apart. Simply excellent!" From the initial consultation, I felt a great sense of relief in the way that information was conveyed to me, as well as the questions asked. Everything was clear and concise; and if the person I was speaking with didn’t have the answer, they got it for me elsewhere. Each call or text sent, to EACH team member working on my trip and fall case, was expedient!! From start to finish, my attorney Ryan Cooper was prompt with his responses and left no stone unturned. His strategic approach played a pivotal role in securing a successful outcome and I couldn’t be happier!! Yayeee!!
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01 Jan, 2025 by Shahab sefat
30 Dec, 2024 by Minoush t
We booked a first consultation session. Mr Sedaghat answered all our questions thoroughly and explain the process very well. The team were so professional and informative.
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20 Jan, 2025 by Sina parhizi
I used their advisory service through Hyatt legal plan. They helped me review forms and answer my questions.
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07 Jan, 2025 by Kayla bailey
Wow, thank you so much! My green card was just approved after 4 very long years Ashkan and his Team stuck it out with us through this excruciatingly long process… (not their fault ) but they stuck by our side and got us through to a resounding approval!! Thank you so much to Ashkan, Emir and the team!
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21 Dec, 2024 by Mahdieh eisakhani
He is the best lawyer
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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.
