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31 Dec, 2014 by Rick
I was going through a difficult divorce and had already become disenchanted with two attorneys. In my state of despair, my friend mentioned that he had heard of a really effective, knowledgable and caring attorney named Marc Isaacs. To make a long story short; this was the best advice i have ever gotten. Marc proved to be not only an outstanding attorney, but also a professional, sensitive and personable individual. I highly recommend using his services.
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31 Dec, 2014 by Jason
I worked with Marc for months and I couldn’t have had a better lawyer. I was fighting for custody of my kid and his mother hired a really sleazy lawyer that tried to manipulate her and the facts of the case to take my visitation away. I really felt like Marc cared about me and my rights as a father and it showed in court. It was a horrible process to go through but Marc was easy to talk to and I always felt more comfortable going into court. He also worked with me on a payment plan which was a huge factor in taking the pressure off during the case. I would highly recommend him for anyone with a family law case.
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31 Dec, 2014 by Anonymous
I got a consultation to get information for my brother regarding custody of his son as well as a restraining order against my nephew’s mother. Mr. Isaacs gave me a lot of helpful information even though he knew I wouldnt be hiring him myself. To me that just showed how dedicated he is to helping people, not just being a lawyer. I have strongly encouraged my brother to work with Mr. Isaacs and would recommend him to other in similar situations.
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03 Jan, 2022 by Nick
I hired Ms. Arnett to create my Living Trust and my Last Will and Testament. I knew the time had come, but I was naive. I thought I just needed a Will. But after interviewing me and taking meticulous notes on my wishes, she helped me understand that especially because I own a small business, a Will was not sufficient enough to honor my wishes. And this was no upsell. It was a lesson about how little power a Will has and how much it doesn't cover. And I think most lay people like me would be surprised too. It's not just about who you want your deceased grandmother's jewelry to go to. What would you do if you were still alive, but unable to make decisions for yourself? If you own a small business, what's going to happen to it if you die? What if you have no wife, siblings or children, such there would be not be an obvious or lawful choice as a beneficiary? And if a Court had to ultimately decide for you, would you want some random Judge making these decisions - all because you didn't want to spend the time and money to create the needed official legal documents that ratify your wishes when you were still alive? Ms. Arnett was willing to negotiate a very fair cost for drafting these docs and was more than patient with me when some life events caused me to take a really long time to review and proofread the drafts of all of the docs, even though she prepared them in a timely manner. And when it was time to sign all of the documents, she included two of her own assistants, necessary to serve as two witnesses, with one being a notary public. I give BT Arnett my highest recommendation!
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17 Oct, 2015 by Calvin
My family has a number of businesses. Ms. Arnett helped my family create a means of transferring these businesses to our children. The plan was well developed and accomplished our goals. She provided the right level of information and advice.
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16 Oct, 2015 by Tamar
We have used BT Arnett for many years for all aspects of estate planning as well as closing estates and trusts. She is thoroughly knowledgeable and compassionate. We would not consider even using any other estate attorney
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24 Sep, 2024 by Diane phillips
Our company has used the services of Powers and Worshtil for years. We have always found them to be very professional, responsive and accommodating for whatever situation we may have. Their expertise is unmatched and we would most certainly recommend them to anyone in need of accurate, timely, legal advice and service.
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19 Sep, 2024 by Renee butler
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28 Jul, 2024 by Hvac startup technician
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04 Jul, 2021 by George gabel
Both lawyers we met are good listeners,I like that.
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03 Jun, 2021 by Sandra broadhurst
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01 Jan, 2021 by Frank pierce
Gary diamond is a incompetent lawyer when it comes to child custody. I paid Gary diamond 3000 thousand dollars for terrible counseling advice.. I can't see my daughter. I can't visit her in the hospital or doctors office due to a medical a lifelong medical ailment she has. Gary gotm me paying 1200 a month for child support lied to me about custody of of my daughter. Billed me a thousand dollars after I fired him for processing man who could not even serve my daughter mothers a simple summons. I do not reccomend gary diamond for any type of custody or family matters or litigation matters at all.. I am terrible upset and displeased with his counseling ..
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04 Jul, 2021 by George gabel
Both lawyers we met are good listeners,I like that.
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03 Jun, 2021 by Sandra broadhurst
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01 Jan, 2021 by Frank pierce
Gary diamond is a incompetent lawyer when it comes to child custody. I paid Gary diamond 3000 thousand dollars for terrible counseling advice.. I can't see my daughter. I can't visit her in the hospital or doctors office due to a medical a lifelong medical ailment she has. Gary gotm me paying 1200 a month for child support lied to me about custody of of my daughter. Billed me a thousand dollars after I fired him for processing man who could not even serve my daughter mothers a simple summons. I do not reccomend gary diamond for any type of custody or family matters or litigation matters at all.. I am terrible upset and displeased with his counseling ..
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27 Feb, 2021 by Mike
For me Marks work was efficient, effective and complete. More then happy to refer him.
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18 Sep, 2020 by Madeleine
I highly recommend Mark Hessel. He is more of a generalist, and so before you turn to a more specialized lawyer, you might want to try his services. He has a lot of common sense and experience, and seeks a way to resolve legal issues the least complicated way possible, and for the least expense. That might turn out to be just what you need. He helped us get out of a tricky real estate situation very simply, with a strongly-worded letter, and with drafting a legal document for a relative who was in a difficult situation. And his rates were very reasonable.
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29 Apr, 2015 by Anonymous
I sought his help which he told me will be free consultation. Then after consultation he asked him to pay $400. stating his hourly fee is $275/hour. Then he told he cannot appear in the court. I still gave him $400 as check. Then he sent a bill for more than $1200 to pay him as he contacted my opposite party over phone. Also, he look into law books for every question we ask before he can tell the answer. Then he bill for the time and asking you to Pay. Strongly NOT RECOMMENDED.
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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.

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