Filter by

star star star star star
28 Sep, 2019 by Beth elmore
Google Maps
star star star star star
26 Feb, 2015 by Anonymous
I highly recommend Chuck Exum & I have already recommended him on several occasions. He is very knowledgeable and easy to work with. His office staff is also very knowledgeable, efficient & friendly. Chuck has always been easily accessible and promptly responds to my phone messages or emails. Chuck is currently helping me with an ongoing partition suit & I will definitely continue to use his services for other matters in the future.
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
20 Feb, 2015 by Barry
Mr. Exum has served as counsel to Farmers & Merchants Bank for almost 15 years and has handled many, many routine as well as highly complex collection and contractual cases. He consistently provides Superior, Timely, Accurate, and Responsive Professional legal services. Mr. Exum has the skill set, work ethic, character that we need. He seems to enjoy high respect within the legal community throughout West Tessessee including Judges seem to appreciate his preparedness, sincerity, demeanor, and humility. Our entire staff depend upon and appreciate Mr. Exum.
Read more Avvo
See more
star star star star star
07 Aug, 2022 by Anonymous
Sara did an excellent job assisting us with our legal matter. She was efficient and knowledgeable and very kind. I recommend her without hesitation
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
22 Mar, 2022 by Rhonda
I would highly recommend Sara Barnett if you are looking to hire attorney. She help me get all my mom stuff taking care. Day one Sara was there all the way to end . I really appreciated what she did for me and my mother .
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
05 Jan, 2022 by Amy
Sara worked with me through an unusual divorce and was able to help me figure out exactly how things needed to be done to accomplish a peaceful end to a long and complex relationship.
Read more Avvo
See more
star star star star star
08 Nov, 2013 by Toni
we hired Lisa after someone referred her. Being tired of attorneys that were in our town, they all were in each others pockets. Lisa was fresh and went straight in and took care of the problem. She's not cheap but worth every penny. I will never hire another attorney but her if I need one again.
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
17 Jul, 2013 by Melissa
Ms. Houston is and was very informative, and addressed all my concerns in the proceeding of my divorce; she fought for everything I wanted out of the marriage and I got everything I wanted from the marriage. This was a divorce between two military individuals, so with-that-said she is a go to Lawyer for a military divorce. Good luck with yours, but if you have her in your corner you will be getting one of the best in her field…
Read more Avvo
See more
star star star star star
14 Feb, 2011 by Robert a. caldwell, cpa
“When I refer clients to Nancy Choate, I do so with complete confidence. I know that my clients’ legal needs will be well met by a competent, caring, and extremely knowledgeable attorney. Nancy has the unique ability to present complex legal concepts on estates, wills, trusts, elder care, etc. in terms that my clients easily understand. While the estate planning and probate processes can be very emotionally challenging, Nancy serves as a compassionate, professional guide. The experiences that my clients and I have had in working with Nancy can be summed up in one word: EXCELLENCE!” Robert A. Caldwell, CPA Jackson, TN
Read more Avvo
See more
star star star star star
16 Mar, 2014 by Anonymous
April worked with an organization I am closely involved with that assists families. She is extremely professional and genuinely cares about her clients. It is rare to see an attorney that is as aggressive but caring at the same time. I highly recommend hiring April for your family. She will take care of you!
Read more Avvo
See more
star star star star star
30 Mar, 2024 by Mamie mcclellan
Google Maps
star star star star star
29 Feb, 2024 by Christie haley
Verner is hands down the best lawyer in this area. He calls back when he says; puts the work in that he promises; is affordable and the best part, has morals. He knows the laws and how to put them in effect. I 100% recommend him if you want the case handled the right way.
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
16 Dec, 2023 by Trent wilbanks
Google Maps
See more
star star star star star
16 Aug, 2024 by Phyllis umberger
Sara was great to work with. She helped me understand and answered any questions I had about what I needed to do. I feel like I have gained a new friend. I highly recommend her!!
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
19 Jun, 2024 by Michelle ouellette
I couldn’t have chose another lawyer better than Sara Barnett. From the first time we met, I knew I was in good hands. She made me feel very comfortable with my decisions. She is very personable, kind and knowledgeable. She helped me from start to finish. I can guarantee that if I ever need a lawyer she is my go to person. Thank you so much Sara for taking my case and leading me to the end.
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
10 Apr, 2024 by Mary helen whitley
Google Maps
See more
star star star star star
15 Apr, 2024 by Alison winston
My advice to anyone that has to deal with this Chancellor is to run. He is unprofessional he doesn't know what he's doing in his new job as Chancellor. He schedules appearances and then he backs out it happened to me twice. He doesn't know the law and I'm not the only one that has commented on this. IfJudge Butler was still there my experience would never have happened.
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
09 Jul, 2019 by Elaine
She was very thorough and knowledgeable. She was helpful and understanding. Will recommend her to others.
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
09 May, 2019 by Severiano
Our experience with Ms. Gay has been wonderful. Since our first meeting with her she took her time to talk to us about the situation, the procedure and what to expect . I love that she takes the time to explain everything and answer every question , she replies to ALL of our emails and phone calls. I feel we couldn't be in better hands.
Read more Avvo
See more
star star star star star
27 Sep, 2024 by Anonymous
My niece informed me of what happened in the office firm September 27,2024 and I was absolutely shocked and devastated that such behavior would come from a licensed attorney. My niece is 27 years old, educated , articulate and understands ,comprehensively. She was trying to help on the behalf of my brother . Kortney Simmons did not lead by example per what was explained to me. Definitely not a good representation of Casey & Simmons Law Firm . Threatening in tone , condescending to someone younger , cruel to someone with a disability and their ability to process information .
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
26 Sep, 2024 by Melanie
Very nice firm, however would not recommend Kourtney Simmons as a point of contact for an attorney. I experienced her as very quick tempered. Talks more than she listens and gets flustered easily during problem- solving - resolution tasks. I also don’t appreciate her openly discussing the matter in the lobby area of the firm instead of in her office when she got frustrated . Her voice began to rise first , and her facial expressions were flustered . Meaning, everyone in the office heard her and heard us . Not client confidential at all . I believe if she could be more empathic in nature , and patient she could assist clients better with the needs of all parties involved , which could strengthen her reputation for the brand of this office . Maybe it was due to her busy schedule so she wanted quick - cut - paid - deal when I finally got to see her, bringing my dad . There was a misunderstanding - and instead of using critical thinking skills to full assess the root needs and even misunderstandings , she immediately jumped into defense , but not in the best way . I have an elderly father with 2 strokes, I already communicated that to her , a little slow in understanding , and she tried to spin my questions of clarity into coercion . Other than that, I believe the staff are quite friendly and are awesome at following up and scheduling . I hope in the future Kourtney can treat all of her clients with disabilities and non disabilities , black or white , young or old the same care as it’s given in previous reviews .
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
27 May, 2024 by Eddie williams
Google Maps
See more
star star star star star
08 Feb, 2024 by Lucky mcluckerton
Lanis Karnes was hired by my ex wife and that God forsaken mother of hers to terminate my parental rights. She filed a motion to cease my visitation with my child. I filed an 11 page response with exhibits to EE that literally destroyed ever facet of their case. Mainly because their entire case was based on conjecture, heresy and camp fire tall tales. I sent her exculpatory evidence for an allegation my XMIL made up. She had an ethical obligation to present the evidence to the judge. Instead she postponed court as my ex wife went on a desperate man hunt for someone, anyone willing to say anything negative about me. They had a woman pretend to be my girlfriend for a year so she could get close enough to have me arrested. Ms. Karnes concocted a a very complex plan requiring all 4 women performing different tasks to inevitably get me behind bars. All 4 women escaped unscathed by hiding behind the VAWA as I am accepting reality that I will never receive any justice not whip. I ever hear someone call me dad. People love to tell me karma will get them . I have to laugh because there ain’t enough karma. I reported her twice to the bar for ethics violations. That’s how I learned attorneys decide for themselves if they practice ethically.
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
01 Jul, 2016 by Anonymous
Ive never needed a lawyer before. I live in East tn, and I suddenly found the largest, most powerful bureaucracies in the state, lined up against me with both barells! They acted as if they were above the law. I'm referring to child protective services. I went to them for help for a child in a bad situation as a mandated reporter. Then they turned on me like a pit bull. It was my worst nightmare. They just arbitrarily determined I was guilty of a crime based on the word of a derelict abusive parent. They never contacted me at all during their "investigation" of me. And they broke many more of their own rules and policies. No one would help. No one would listen to me. Family knew the truth but that didn't matter. I stood to have my name on a list, a publicly searchable database as someone who did something that never happened. They had NO CASE AT ALL but it never stopped them. I stood to be ruined by reputation, lose my ability to serve God in the capacity that I had for years. Then I found Ms. Lanis Karnes. A lawyer in the family had advised me to find one with experience in the area of administrative hearings for CPS. AND FALSE "indications" as they call them. Best advice ever. Over the months b4 hearing her staff and herself, walked me thru all that was needed, I sent them all the info and some q&a, but it was the best feeling in the world once the hearing started. All the months of worry and anger melted away as I watched her brick by brick destroy what passed as their case against me. Finally someone who was on my side (aside from witnesses and family) she was professional but tough as nails and prepared! She hit them figuratively speaking with a 10 lb hammer over and over till they had no choice but to dismiss b4 it ever even came to the point of mine and witness testimony. I just sat there in awe as she worked over this cps crew. They were stuttering and stammering and covering Their own tails. HIRE HER! HIRE HER! HIRE HER! HIRE HER! R. FROM EAST TN
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
22 Jan, 2016 by Bret
As a provider of homeschool curriculum, we sometimes find ourselves trying to help families whose civil rights are violated by the out-of-control child protective system. We have worked with Lanis, and she is knowledgeable, diligent and truly cares about the families with whom she works. Not only that, but as a family who has adopted 8 special needs children, she was instrumental in helping us deal with a recent situation we had with a child who ran away from home. I cannot think of an attorney that I would rather have helping me with a case involving child protective services.
Read more Avvo
See more
star star star star star
12 Mar, 2024 by Lashauntay comer
No one answers the phone . They wait last minute for everything
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
10 Jan, 2024 by Lindsay jakiel
The staff is very knowledgeable and quickly responded to all my questions.
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
10 Jan, 2024 by Emily brown
Highly recommend! Used them for getting my Will, POA, and advance directive paperwork completed. Very helpful with all my questions and quick in getting it all completed. Thank you!
Read more Google Maps
See more
star star star star star
11 Mar, 2018 by Gretchen
I hired her to help me with a divorce. I was scared and alone. She knows the law. She promised to fight for me and my kids and she did. She fought for me like no one else ever has. I never felt alone after hiring her. She did everything she said she would do. I recommend her to anyone who needs someone to be strong, have knowledge, and never quit fighting until the war is won.
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
05 Mar, 2018 by Alex
As a Dad fighting for what’s right for my daughter, I am very pleased with Angela as our attorney. She has made sure my daughter is HOME AND SAFE with me.
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
12 Jan, 2018 by Laura csabai
Angela has done a superior job at advising me how to ensure that my estate isn't a burden to any of my loved ones. Her power is shown trough her knowledge of the law, fairness for her clients and love of the Lord. If you are going into battle and need a wingman you can count on her !
Read more Avvo
See more
star star star star star
11 Sep, 2024 by Torris miller
Google Maps
star star star star star
10 Aug, 2024 by Angie reynolds
Megan Allen in the Huntingdon office…..no help at all. I sent everything she asked for. In our initial meeting I asked for spousal support. She hatefully said there is no way I could get it. My response was I definitely would not receive if it’s not asked for. My hopefully soon to be ex husband was physically, emotionally abusive. I sent Megan pictures of bruises, a black eye and a picture of my dog bleeding from my husband breaking a wood bar stool on his head. I sent her recordings of him threatening to kill me and wishing me to die. There was an instant that he showed up knocking and looking thru the windows where I am staying. I asked her for an order of protection. Several times. She did not attempt to even consider it. Extremely disappointed.
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
19 Jul, 2024 by Gary clough
Attorney Jake Old did a terrible job on my case against Capitiol One Bank. Mr. Old sent the notice to Capitol One to the wrong address in Utah even after I provided him with Capitol One's address in Illinois. Mr Olds letter to Capitol One stated that he would sue Capitol One for triple damages and attorney fees if they didn't remove a $250.00 transaction fee when I paid off my account. On 7-18-24 I received a letter from Attorney Jake Old stating Capitol One did not respond to his letter and he didn't have the time or money to continue my case. He had the case for 3 months and his incompetence allowed Capitol One to add late fees and interest to my account. If Mr Old wasn't willing to do what he said he would do if Capitol One did correct their mistake he should have never accepted my case. I would have been better off dealing with Capitol One on my own. I will be filing a formal complaint against Mr. Old with the Tennessee Bar Association in the near future. Gary Clough Tiptonville, Tennessee
Read more Google Maps
See more
star star star star star
01 Jun, 2014 by Anonymous
Hired in November 2013 Somewhat kept me informed but really was not helpful at all. All said and done 5k later. I have yet to see any results for my wife. She pretty much up and left midway through my case and never did thing but sure did take the money. This was when she worked with th Frager law firm in Memphis
Read more Avvo
See 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:

  1. What is your experience with estate planning?
    Ensure the lawyer has substantial experience drafting wills, creating trusts, and handling other estate planning services.
  2. How will you charge for your services?
    Clarify whether the lawyer charges a flat fee or by the hour and ask for a detailed estimate of costs.
  3. What strategies do you recommend for my estate?
    A good lawyer should be able to explain the best strategies for minimizing taxes, avoiding probate, and ensuring your assets are distributed according to your wishes.
  4. How often should I update my estate plan?
    Ask how frequently you should revisit your estate plan, especially if your financial situation or family dynamics change.
  5. Do you offer ongoing support or updates?
    Some lawyers provide periodic reviews or updates to ensure your estate plan stays current with changes in your circumstances or the law.
  6. How will you help my beneficiaries if something happens to me?
    Ensure the lawyer is willing to guide your heirs through the estate administration process or help manage your trust after you’re gone.

How to Check the Credibility of an Estate Planning Lawyer

To ensure you’re hiring a credible estate planning lawyer, follow these steps:

  • Verify their state bar license: Check with your state bar association to confirm that the lawyer is licensed and in good standing, with no history of disciplinary actions.
  • Look for estate planning certifications: Some lawyers are certified as estate planning specialists, which indicates they have extensive knowledge in this area of law.
  • Read client reviews and testimonials: Online reviews on sites like Avvo, Google, or Martindale-Hubbell can provide insight into the lawyer’s professionalism and client satisfaction.
  • Ask for references: A credible lawyer should be able to provide references from previous clients who can speak to their expertise and client service.
  • Check for membership in professional organizations: Lawyers who are members of organizations like the National Academy of Elder Law Attorneys (NAELA) or the American College of Trust and Estate Counsel (ACTEC) often have a strong reputation in the field.

What Should I Prepare for My First Consultation?

To get the most out of your first meeting with an estate planning lawyer, it’s important to come prepared. Here’s what you should bring:

  • List of assets and liabilities: Provide a detailed inventory of your assets, including real estate, bank accounts, retirement funds, investments, and personal property, as well as any debts you may have.
  • List of beneficiaries: Be ready to discuss who you want to receive your assets and in what proportions. This includes naming guardians for minor children if applicable.
  • Existing estate documents: Bring copies of any existing wills, trusts, powers of attorney, or other relevant estate planning documents.
  • Questions about your estate goals: Write down your goals, such as avoiding probate, reducing taxes, or setting up charitable donations, so your lawyer can tailor a plan to meet your needs.
  • Information on medical and financial decision-makers: Be prepared to discuss who you want to appoint for healthcare and financial decisions if you become incapacitated.

By being well-prepared, you can ensure a productive consultation and begin building a comprehensive estate plan that meets your needs and protects your loved ones.

Scroll to top