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17 Feb, 2019 by Tom & velva
Patricia A Clements helped my wife and I set up our will and our entire estate in a trust account. She added numerous very important legal principles that are very helpful which we would never have thought of if we had completed our will by ourselves over the internet. All the her legal expertise will save us time, money and legal headaches from potential future problems that we or our children will not have to be entangled with in the future. Patricia Clements price and her legal knowledge was so helpful we have referred many of our friends to her. All of our friends came back andtold us that they were so glad we referred Patricia Clements to them. They also said the same thing, "Patricia saved them from several potential headaches due to her legal expertise.
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28 Jan, 2019 by Barbara
I'd been procrastinating trying to cobble together an estate plan using an online service for 2 years. It was time consuming and I realized that there were too many questions that I couldn't answer for my particular situation. Hiring Patricia removed the stress and made it a simple process. It's a relief and she was very easy to work with.
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20 Jan, 2019 by Anonymous
I had a recommendation to use Ms. Clements services for some estate planning. What a great recommendation! I decided to use her services and she was most helpful with our unusual situation. Live in 2 separate cities and she arranged the signing/witnessing with another law firm in my usual home area instead of near her office. Overall process was understandable and thorough.
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13 Dec, 2021 by Martie
Excellent listening skills, verbal skills (layman's terms) considerate, patient,
Respectful of my input and what I wanted
In the settlement. Mr. Johnson is not only an outstanding attorney; he is a true gentleman. I'm a senior citizen, virtues are extremely important to me. I would highly recommend Mr. Jonathon Johnson to anyone.
Sincerely,
Martie
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07 Jun, 2019 by Dana
Johnathan Johnson stepped in to represent me in an auto accident case nearing the statute of limitations when my options appeared limited and the likelihood of a satisfactory resolution seemed improbable. He went straight to work during our first and only in-person meeting and employed a strategy to expedite the insurer’s response and encourage a reasonable settlement, avoiding drawn out litigation. With Mr. Johnson’s knowledge, skilful negotiations and excellent, concise communication the case was settled satisfactorily in less than seven weeks. He kept me informed of developments throughout and was responsive to my questions. I am so grateful to Mr. Johnson and would recommend him without hesitation.
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24 May, 2019 by Michelle
Compared to a previous experience with a different firm, Jonathan was excellent at communicating every step of the way. I was not left in the dark as to the status of my case, and he reviewed each communication with me prior to submitting to the opposing party to verify accuracy and obtain my consent. Based on his previous experience with case law, he pursued an alternate angle in an attempt to obtain the best result. I knew I had a favorable advocate who was doing his best, even with a relatively small case. He was also very conscientious to not over-promise and under-deliver.
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16 Apr, 2023 by Charles
Helped with my bankruptcy and found him to be thorough careful and patient I. Going thru these steps. I recommend him to anybody!
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24 Feb, 2020 by Anonymous
Gordon Hall has been our attorney for many years for a variety of
different reasons. They all have had a positive outcome. We highly
recommend Gordon!
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16 Dec, 2019 by Preston
Gordon helped me with my family's estate planning needs recently. He was very informative and provided guidance regarding some important decisions that come with the estate process. I recommend Gordon for estate planning services!
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21 Dec, 2018 by Gene
Walter Weiss Jr. did an excellent job for me by helping me sign three new commercial tenants and renewing two other commercial tenants using BOMA leases. I would highly recommend him to others.
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06 Sep, 2017 by Amber clayton
JR has helped walk us through sale of our residential property to a developer without the usual aid of a real estate agent. He has been patient at explaining terms and standard practices, prompt at reviewing materials and providing counsel, and very transparent about when he's available to talk in person and when he's busy with other matters. We have trusted him with helping guide us through a process that is very much out of our comfort zone and we would absolutely recommend him to friends and family.
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17 Jun, 2009 by Anonymous
Mr. Weiss has provided my family and I with years of excellent service and sage advice. He's been an asset to our family planning, career changes, and personal litigation.
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15 Dec, 2017 by Gale
Over the years as Amy has helped me with various legal issues including probating a complicated estate, I have found her a pleasure to work with in addition to being extremely knowledgeable and competent. I trust her judgement and abilities.
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31 Mar, 2017 by Connie
Amy Cross reviewed and analysed my Trust and conferred with me about my existing documents. She then assisted me with my estate planning.
She prepared and executed my Last Will, Durable Power of Attorney, Oregon Advance Directive, Burial Instructions, and Tangible Personal Property List.
She recommended a Texas Land Sale Contract for one of my homes, several P.O.D. accounts for checking and savings accounts, and she explained all the details of a family existing Trust and tax implementations . She advised the dissolution of the Trust since the death of my parents and many of the details
that involved in that process.
Amy was very professional and warm and explained every detail
of every transaction very clearly!
I would recommend Amy to anyone who is looking for an honest
and sincere attorney.
It was a pleasure working with her and I appreciated her kind delivery.
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25 Mar, 2017 by Martha
I have worked with Amy Cross since 2011 when she handled my divorce. Amy is understanding of any situation and very practical. She is reality based and will take the time to explain different options that are possible for a particular situation, and the best way to accomplish the outcome. Contacting her is never a problem as she is very responsive whether I email or call. I feel comfortable telling her confidential details and she's helping me start the process of drawing up my will.
Another benefit when working with Amy is that she has been in practice long enough to have made many valuable connections in the surrounding community. Amy was able to put me in touch with a financial planner during my divorce and a tax professional in my immediate area that would suit my needs.
Amy Cross is very trustworthy and I highly recommend her without reservation for any legal need of a personal or business nature.
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20 Oct, 2015 by Larry
Patrick was the attorney for an estate which had two trusts in it. My wife was the executrix. The estate's terms and property were a "mess". Patrick's advice and help allowed my wife to get through the experience. We trust him and would use him again!
Larry Hughes SeaTac, Wa.
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06 Jan, 2012 by Susan
Pat has been our lawyer for over six years, as we have worked to close our Father's estate. My sister and I were the Personal Representatives and we had no experience with this role. Pat has been an instructor, educator and cheerleader throughout the process, as well as a knowledgeable lawyer. He has been most patient with a family of seven siblings that did not agree on most things. His sense of humor, patience, ability to be tough when necessary and sensitive when it's called for are such wonderful attributes. His commitment to his clients and to his family are admirable.
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12 May, 2008 by Anonymous
Bryson is one of the good guys. He's trustworthy, great at what he does, enthusiastic, empathetic and just plan good -- no, great.
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15 Feb, 2014 by Anonymous
The Pixton Law Firm was very thorough in reviewing our estate and gave invaluable advice as to how to plan for our future - things we'd never have known or thought of if we were just using forms. They put together a really slick package for us. The firm handles a lot of estate administration too, so they have firsthand knowledge of how various things can play out and can avoid some of the pitfalls others might not think of. Tom is extremely knowledgeable in this area, very caring, and clearly more concerned for our well being than anything else. He's one of the "good" lawyers. I'd recommend him in a heartbeat.
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10 Feb, 2014 by Anonymous
We had a great experience with Tom as he helped us create and execute our living wills. There's a huge advantage to working with his small practice: quick responses and everyone knows your progress and needs. His staff is extremely efficient and friendly. Tom is genuine and truly cared for our needs without being pushy. He was on the ball, always one step ahead of us. I'd use him again in a heartbeat.
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10 Feb, 2014 by Jennifer
Tom and his staff are very knowledgeable in the Elder law world. I have used his services for my personal planning, as well as referred several very satisfied clients of mine, to use his services.
He is very calming during a time that is generally an emotional crisis, and often potentially a financial crisis.
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20 Mar, 2020 by Andrea
I considered going with one of the larger firms in town, but I am so glad that I saw sense and found Leigh Hudson. I was terrified and struggling after becoming disabled, and I definitely waited too long to attend to the financial situation in which I found myself. Leigh put me at ease immediately and was truly enjoyable to work with. She is very knowledgeable and she truly cares about the people she helps. She worked with me and my cognitive disability without ever making me feel judged and I left feeling glad that my case was in good hands. I really appreciate everything Leigh did to help me out of a tough situation.
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22 Dec, 2016 by Cindey
I was scared to file bankruptcy. Ms. Hudson was both professional and personable, and alleviated my fears. She was always available to answer my questions and made the process so easy. I was kept informed of the progress of my case every step of the way. She was accurate, efficient and I started sleeping again! Don't bother looking further than Ms. Hudson. AND the fee was perfect.
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20 Mar, 2012 by Anonymous
I hired Thompson's firm to represent me in an audit with the IRS. He kept me informed of what was going on, was knowledgable about the circumstances of my case, and produced a favorable result.
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10 Dec, 2009 by Anonymous
Mr. Thompson was hired to recover a substantial sum taken from our clompany wrongfully as part of a credit card scheme. He recovered all ours funds plus substantial additional monies.our
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28 Feb, 2022 by Anonymous
I've hired Rob for several legal reasons. He helped my late husband and myself with estate planning years before my husband got sick. When he was informed about my husband's cancer, he made sure that we knew what to do. He explained clearly his recommendations and helped facilitate those choices quickly and efficiently. His fees were not only fair and reasonable, but he went above and beyond what was expected. Rob has since written up a pre-nup for my second marriage and my trust for when I pass. He is also excellent at helping with hard conversations and teaching legal principles in a concise and clear way. He is not only competent but compassionate. I would ABSOLUTELY recommend Rob for all and any of your estate planning needs!
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21 Aug, 2014 by Anonymous
My aunt recommended Rob Fotheringham to me and I am very glad she did. Rob and his staff treated me with such kindness. The legal matter he helped me with was delt with in a very organized way. I never felt "out-of-the-loop". The process was explained to me in a straightforward and understandable way. Rob has lots of experience, so he was able to relate to and answer all of my questions and concerns. I fully recommend him.
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03 Aug, 2022 by Chip
Oh Boy!
What great advice and results. A real person of high repute! Kept me outta jail! The best . . . . Simply the best!
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16 May, 2015 by Janet
Priscilla Taylor has helped my husband and myself recover large sums of money several times, once when my husband suffered a traumatic brain injury as a result of a MVA and once when my mother-in-law's estate was being claimed by the state of Idaho. (An attorney in Idaho who specializes in Elder Care law had previously told us that we had no claim to the estate.) She also helped us navigate the health insurance companies and was able to force them to provide the health care to which my husband was entitled. She is extremely knowledgeable and is able to research individual situations. That ability combined with her experience makes her a valuable ally. She also has a big heart and actually cares about her clients and their well-being.
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16 Oct, 2020 by Anonymous
So far I have hired Ms Van Meter to review and revise my commercial office lease, employee manual and a real estate transaction that was having some payment problems. In all cases she provided worthwhile advice and was prompt, professional and fair priced.
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03 Sep, 2015 by Joyce
Darin Dooley helped my spouse and me with our Estate Planning, and assisted us during the successful Oregon Medicaid application process, for my spouse's long term care. We have worked with Darin since April 2014. Darin's knowledge and expertise in applying Elder Law principles are simply outstanding.
Our complex case included various current and future financial considerations, including future retirement, setting up several trusts for different possible future scenarios, and setting up the will.
I am confident that Darin always considers our family's best interests. He competently attends to the legal aspects of our situation, while consistently considering the details.
Darin is also very respectful to his clients. When my spouse and I signed our Power of Attorney forms, I appreciated Darin's respectful responses to my spouse's financial and legal questions, which were completely answered to my spouse's satisfaction.
Darin also consults with his office paralegal and transfer associates, and our financial advisor on our behalf to ensure that the ongoing legal facets of our situation are carefully considered, and accounted for, thoroughly.
I highly recommend Darin to anyone who needs an attorney extremely skilled in Estate Planning, Elder Law, the Medicaid process, and Special Needs Planning.
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13 Dec, 2017 by Michael
Terry has referred several clients to me and has been professional and detailed in all business dealings with me.
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01 Mar, 2013 by Eileen
John has been out Attorney CPA for the past 20 years ..he is honest compationate knows the law..especially CPA..TRUST HIM 100%and he is not all about money..he really cares..would never go anywhere else..Thankyou John for your honest wisdom !!
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28 Oct, 2023 by Laurence kirsch
04 Jul, 2020 by Sammy kahuk
Lotus Law Group has changed my life forever. I approached Allison and Matthew at LLG with some pretty serious legal matters going on in my OLCC licensed marijuana facility. Logan, who handles the OLCC related matters worked tirelessly and diligently with the OLCC to find a solution to my complex matters. His knowledge and understanding of this regulated industry is unmatched, and his drive and work ethic helped pioneer a solution that still feels unreal even as I write this review today. I will continue to be a client of LLG as I expand in this industry and am honored and proud to be represented by the best in the industry!
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02 Nov, 2019 by K smiles
Matt is very honest and knows his stuff .
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03 Sep, 2024 by Susan foote
Michael and his team are professional, thorough, and respectful. We highly recommend them for any and all estate planning.
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16 Aug, 2024 by Hailey donaworth
Gail who I worked with has been like rocky in the ring helping me with a landlord who has been very stressful to get anything out of and if you need help for housing issues she's been nothing but spectacular. Always felt comfortable when we would speak, and she truly cares about her clients. I hadn't had the pleasure of speaking with John but thanks to them I have less on my plate to deal with.
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05 Aug, 2024 by Shawn pierce
Mr Justice made me feel like I was very informed about what was going on, he walked me through the process carefully, it made me feel comfortable. Very professional demeanor, he was able to get me a compromise that save my job and my reputation. I can't say good enough stuff about this man!!
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03 Sep, 2024 by Susan foote
Michael and his team are professional, thorough, and respectful. We highly recommend them for any and all estate planning.
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16 Aug, 2024 by Hailey donaworth
Gail who I worked with has been like rocky in the ring helping me with a landlord who has been very stressful to get anything out of and if you need help for housing issues she's been nothing but spectacular. Always felt comfortable when we would speak, and she truly cares about her clients. I hadn't had the pleasure of speaking with John but thanks to them I have less on my plate to deal with.
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05 Aug, 2024 by Shawn pierce
Mr Justice made me feel like I was very informed about what was going on, he walked me through the process carefully, it made me feel comfortable. Very professional demeanor, he was able to get me a compromise that save my job and my reputation. I can't say good enough stuff about this man!!
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03 Sep, 2024 by Susan foote
Michael and his team are professional, thorough, and respectful. We highly recommend them for any and all estate planning.
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16 Aug, 2024 by Hailey donaworth
Gail who I worked with has been like rocky in the ring helping me with a landlord who has been very stressful to get anything out of and if you need help for housing issues she's been nothing but spectacular. Always felt comfortable when we would speak, and she truly cares about her clients. I hadn't had the pleasure of speaking with John but thanks to them I have less on my plate to deal with.
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05 Aug, 2024 by Shawn pierce
Mr Justice made me feel like I was very informed about what was going on, he walked me through the process carefully, it made me feel comfortable. Very professional demeanor, he was able to get me a compromise that save my job and my reputation. I can't say good enough stuff about this man!!
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03 Sep, 2024 by Susan foote
Michael and his team are professional, thorough, and respectful. We highly recommend them for any and all estate planning.
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16 Aug, 2024 by Hailey donaworth
Gail who I worked with has been like rocky in the ring helping me with a landlord who has been very stressful to get anything out of and if you need help for housing issues she's been nothing but spectacular. Always felt comfortable when we would speak, and she truly cares about her clients. I hadn't had the pleasure of speaking with John but thanks to them I have less on my plate to deal with.
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05 Aug, 2024 by Shawn pierce
Mr Justice made me feel like I was very informed about what was going on, he walked me through the process carefully, it made me feel comfortable. Very professional demeanor, he was able to get me a compromise that save my job and my reputation. I can't say good enough stuff about this man!!
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13 Dec, 2014 by Brad
Was recommended to Sara from my financial consultant and couldn't be happier. Was great to work with and did exactly what she said she was going to do and timely. Estate was settled ahead of schedule without any problems because of her attention to detail and knowledge of what she was doing. Would highly recommend Sara to any of you out there looking for a great lawyer.
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29 Mar, 2011 by Julie
We worked with Sara long distance regarding an estate. She was a pleasure to work with.
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04 Nov, 2010 by Frank & laurie
Sara provided excellent information and explained the options we had for making out our will. She then put together a very nice binder with all the information needed to execute our wills so that it would be a relatively painless process. We would recommend Sara for estate planning. Thanks, Sara.
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04 Apr, 2024 by Cynthia mason
19 Jun, 2023 by Andrew colton
Things in my legal malpractice case completely have changed from a year ago I sent in a complaint to the Oregon State Bar and nothing's been dismissed but they won't take the time to review my case again. The person I spoke to was very short and dismissive when I called today. Sorry I wasted your time and bothered you again office of Judy Snyder !!
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25 May, 2023 by M. p.
Easy to work with and gives great customer service
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28 Mar, 2023 by Betsy shand
Real estate and marijuana law help when you need it!
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14 Jun, 2022 by Fumi s
Loses cases to self-represented civilians, submits unacceptable evidence, harasses survivors, and represents known abusive men, while claiming to protect women.
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17 Jun, 2021 by Sadako hattori
I hired Hafez to assist me with an issue I had with a contractor. He did excellent work on my behalf. My only regret is that I didn't hire him sooner.
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04 Apr, 2024 by Cynthia mason
12 Oct, 2023 by Chaz
Joseph Feary comes off personable reasonable and intelligent. He absolutely did not show up in the most basic sense as a lawyer or small business owner. Despite being the *actual author* of the OREF forms that allow legal real estate transactions between parties without lawyers he *failed to correctly fill them out and file them*.
This cost me the sale of a building the owners had agreed to sell months before in an amicable sale he was writing the contract for.
He did not return calls or emails and had no counter person paralegal or support staff to address emergencies. As a small business owner and first time home buyer on a live work project this was the single biggest investment and dream of my life and livelihood and he did not show up on the day he was to file the contract. No one could reach him. The sellers thought it was shady confusing behavior because he had been in contact the evening before and they took another offer that arose in his absence for less money than I was offering.
What an absolute nightmare to have trusted someone so uncommitted badly resourced and shamefully negligent at his profession. It was a done deal and should have been extremely easy to accomplish. He was in no way accountable for this mess. The next property of similar use cost more than $150,000 additional. Steer clear of this lackluster lawyer and save yourself time money and heartbreak !
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19 Jun, 2023 by Andrew colton
Things in my legal malpractice case completely have changed from a year ago I sent in a complaint to the Oregon State Bar and nothing's been dismissed but they won't take the time to review my case again. The person I spoke to was very short and dismissive when I called today. Sorry I wasted your time and bothered you again office of Judy Snyder !!
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17 Apr, 2024 by Liz & kev - fresh aire of the willamette valley
RJ Sohler has been with us since the VERY beginning of our business, eight years ago. He has helped us with the initial setup, issues, purchases, accounting, business growth, messy taxes, Quickbooks, my one million questions, and everything in between. His team covers so many areas and has been a vital part of our success. Marina Elliott has since joined Sohler Law and she, too, is knowledgeable and kind, always explaining things that seem difficult in an approachable way, and just straight up, she gets things done! We will always continue to use Sohler Law!!
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10 Apr, 2024 by Karin moggridge
Sohler Law has set up my family trust and done my taxes for the last 3 years. I can only say positive things about them. They respond to questions promptly, and are nice and "layed back" in true portland style. I am ancient, and they have patience with my lesser than perfect knowledge of technology.
I no longer dread tax season.....
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10 Apr, 2024 by Madeline miller
28 Oct, 2015 by Anonymous
I wish I had read George's reviews BEFORE we hired him. Although a really nice guy, George consistently does not follow through. After agreeing to file a suit on our behalf and accepting a retainer, it took him over 5 months to file it!! That was after more than 10 revisions. He could not get the information correct in the filing. His follow through has always been less than timely. George is not a detail oriented attorney nor is he timely or complete in his communications.
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01 May, 2015 by Mike davis
George got us through the most difficult time in our lives, so I would recommend him to anyone in need. There was some stress in not always getting replies to emails or phone calls on a complete or timely manner. I felt a frustrating lack of control throughout the ordeal, in that the case was decidedly in his hands and not mine, but that's hardly a negative in a qualified and dedicated attorney such as Mr. Mead. This case was outside of his ordinary field of practice, but he ably took on the task because he believed in us and became an expert on the technical aspects. I had the unwavering sense of comfort that he was advocating for our welfare and that we were on his mind each and every day.
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20 Apr, 2015 by Craig
I first contacted George by phone from California about a suit my sister and I wanted to bring against our brother in the Portland area. The case had to do with our parents estate and my brother's (ex bro!) theft of the entire estate after my mothers' death. After interviewing him via phone, I hired him and he started to work. I had to trust in him as it was some months before we actually met face to face. This was hard for me because I don't like to feel 'not in control' of a situation but he took up our cause and proved to be a sterling guy.
George showed an intelligent and quick grasp of the situation and what steps needed to be accomplished and in what order to force an out of court settlement. He did his due diligence all the way such as flying to Florida to take an important deposition. His help with strategy in the conference room about the back and forth offers and counter offers enabled us to keep focused and even were able to share some humor in trying moments. In short, George guided us until we prevailed in an emotionally charged and difficult process. THANK YOU MR. MEAD!
The outcome was worth the battle it took to achieve justice. And George is actually interested in justice. An honorable man and I recommend him thoroughly.
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03 May, 2022 by Stacie m
10 Jul, 2021 by Victoria
Hilary Newcomb has given me tremendous assistance for over five years in relation to complex circumstances I have faced as a co-Trustee. She is always extremely prompt and comprehensive in her advice, and explains options in detail to ensure that I understand all aspects of every situation. Her team has been similarly helpful, accessible and conscientious. I cannot imagine what the past few years would have been like without Ms. Newcomb's counsel and support.
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10 Jul, 2021 by Brett
I reached out to Hilary of HAN legal when my Dad's Trust was suddenly defunded by his girlfriend - after he was diagnosed with severe dementia and had a major stroke. Dad had set me up 8 years prior to be his Trustee and successor POA. After Hilary couldn't reason with the girlfriend, she proposed a straightforward plan for me to pursue Conservatorship and Guardianship. Through the process she kept a professional and diplomatic tone. She proactively and tactfully handled messy & potentially volatile situations, keeping me updated and informed. Hilary even opened channels with a lawyer supporting the girlfriend, offering clarity. Shortly after the lawyer also supported Dad's original plan. Five months later I was my Dad's Conservator & Guardian. I reinstated the funds and took the role he asked me to do. Today the girlfriend and I work together cooperatively on Dad's behalf. This outcome at the onset was unimaginable to me. What a professional handling of the complex situation!
Thank you Hilary! You knew what to do!
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27 Jul, 2024 by Tibi
Heather Unger lied, regurgitated lies made under oath and supported a person who threatened to kill children. She has no morals and very little ethics. She's put my children in severe danger because of her lack of morals.
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05 Mar, 2024 by Anonymous
Heather was hired for my case to help out in which she did not. She made false accusations that were not true to my case. She does not know how to talk to her clients respectfully or professionally. I would not recommend her to anyone.
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05 Mar, 2020 by James
Heather was extremely informative and did an amazing job for my case. She gave me all the important facts and came with an open minded approach to hear me out and the details of my case. She was more then fair on what i was charged.
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20 Feb, 2024 by Annamarie davault
Favorite attorneys office. Darin Dooley is my go to attorney and is mindful of budgets.
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27 Jan, 2023 by Eric wishan
04 Jun, 2022 by Darnell ryce
20 Feb, 2024 by Annamarie davault
Favorite attorneys office. Darin Dooley is my go to attorney and is mindful of budgets.
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27 Jan, 2023 by Eric wishan
04 Jun, 2022 by Darnell ryce
Discover the ideal lawyer
You can search a lawyer by practice area, lawyer name, city, state, or ZIP code
FAQs
Questions? We have answers
What an Estate Planning Lawyer Can Do for You
An estate planning lawyer helps individuals plan for the management and distribution of their assets after death or during incapacitation. Their services involve drafting important legal documents, such as wills, trusts, powers of attorney, and healthcare directives. Estate planning attorneys work to ensure that your assets are transferred according to your wishes, minimize tax liabilities, and avoid probate court. They also help clients plan for potential long-term care needs and protect their estate from being diminished by healthcare costs.
By working with an estate planning lawyer, you can have peace of mind knowing that your loved ones will be cared for and that your estate will be managed efficiently and according to your desires.
When Should I Hire an Estate Planning Lawyer?
Hiring an estate planning lawyer is beneficial in many situations, especially when you want to ensure that your assets are handled properly after death. Common reasons to hire an estate planning lawyer include:
- Drafting a will: If you want to clearly define how your assets will be distributed after death, an attorney can draft a legally sound will.
- Creating a trust: For those looking to avoid probate or provide for loved ones over time, setting up a trust can help manage the distribution of assets.
- Planning for incapacity: An estate lawyer can help draft powers of attorney and healthcare directives so that your financial and medical decisions are made by someone you trust if you become incapacitated.
- Minimizing estate taxes: If your estate is large, a lawyer can help create strategies to reduce or eliminate federal and state estate taxes.
- Special circumstances: If you have minor children, blended families, or complex assets like businesses, an estate planning lawyer can create tailored solutions.
- Guardianship or conservatorship: If you want to designate guardians for minor children or ensure proper care for incapacitated adults, an attorney can help.
Hiring an estate planning lawyer is especially important if your estate is complex or if you want to ensure that your wishes are properly followed.
What Does an Estate Planning Lawyer Do?
An estate planning lawyer provides a range of services designed to help you organize your affairs and ensure your estate is managed according to your wishes. They can:
- Draft wills and trusts: Creating legally binding documents that dictate how your assets will be distributed and managed.
- Create powers of attorney and healthcare directives: Appointing someone to make financial or medical decisions for you if you become incapacitated.
- Minimize taxes: Developing strategies to reduce estate taxes, gift taxes, and other financial liabilities for your heirs.
- Help avoid probate: Structuring your estate plan to avoid probate, which can save time and money for your beneficiaries.
- Advise on long-term care planning: Helping you plan for potential healthcare needs in the future, including Medicaid planning and protecting assets from being depleted by nursing home costs.
- Assist with beneficiary designations: Ensuring that life insurance policies, retirement accounts, and other financial instruments are correctly designated.
- Handle probate and estate administration: If a loved one has passed away, an estate planning lawyer can help guide you through the probate process or act as an executor.
How Are Estate Planning Lawyers Paid?
Estate planning lawyers typically charge for their services in one of several ways, depending on the complexity of your estate and the type of services you need. Common payment structures include:
- Flat fee: Many estate planning services, such as drafting a will or trust, are charged on a flat-fee basis. The fee covers all work related to preparing the document.
- Hourly rate: For more complex planning, such as estate tax strategy or trust administration, lawyers may charge by the hour. Rates vary based on the lawyer’s experience and location.
- Retainer: Some lawyers require a retainer for more complex cases, such as ongoing trust management or estate administration. The retainer is an upfront payment that covers future legal services.
It’s important to discuss fees with your lawyer upfront to avoid unexpected costs.
How Much Does an Estate Planning Lawyer Cost?
The cost of hiring an estate planning lawyer depends on the complexity of your estate and the services you require. Here are some general guidelines:
- Simple wills or powers of attorney: A straightforward will or power of attorney may cost between $300 and $1,500, depending on your location and the lawyer’s experience.
- Trust creation: Establishing a trust, such as a living trust or revocable trust, can cost between $1,000 and $3,000 or more, depending on the complexity of your assets and estate planning needs.
- Comprehensive estate planning packages: Some lawyers offer packages that include wills, trusts, powers of attorney, and healthcare directives, which may range from $2,000 to $5,000 or more, depending on the estate’s complexity.
- Hourly rates: For ongoing services like estate administration or tax planning, lawyers may charge hourly rates ranging from $150 to $500 or more, depending on the lawyer’s experience.
Always get a clear estimate of costs during your initial consultation to ensure the services fit within your budget.
Top Questions to Ask an Estate Planning Lawyer
Before hiring an estate planning lawyer, it’s important to ask questions to ensure they are the right fit for your needs. Here are key questions to ask during your consultation:
-
What is your experience with estate planning?
Ensure the lawyer has substantial experience drafting wills, creating trusts, and handling other estate planning services. -
How will you charge for your services?
Clarify whether the lawyer charges a flat fee or by the hour and ask for a detailed estimate of costs. -
What strategies do you recommend for my estate?
A good lawyer should be able to explain the best strategies for minimizing taxes, avoiding probate, and ensuring your assets are distributed according to your wishes. -
How often should I update my estate plan?
Ask how frequently you should revisit your estate plan, especially if your financial situation or family dynamics change. -
Do you offer ongoing support or updates?
Some lawyers provide periodic reviews or updates to ensure your estate plan stays current with changes in your circumstances or the law. -
How will you help my beneficiaries if something happens to me?
Ensure the lawyer is willing to guide your heirs through the estate administration process or help manage your trust after you’re gone.
How to Check the Credibility of an Estate Planning Lawyer
To ensure you’re hiring a credible estate planning lawyer, follow these steps:
- Verify their state bar license: Check with your state bar association to confirm that the lawyer is licensed and in good standing, with no history of disciplinary actions.
- Look for estate planning certifications: Some lawyers are certified as estate planning specialists, which indicates they have extensive knowledge in this area of law.
- Read client reviews and testimonials: Online reviews on sites like Avvo, Google, or Martindale-Hubbell can provide insight into the lawyer’s professionalism and client satisfaction.
- Ask for references: A credible lawyer should be able to provide references from previous clients who can speak to their expertise and client service.
- Check for membership in professional organizations: Lawyers who are members of organizations like the National Academy of Elder Law Attorneys (NAELA) or the American College of Trust and Estate Counsel (ACTEC) often have a strong reputation in the field.
What Should I Prepare for My First Consultation?
To get the most out of your first meeting with an estate planning lawyer, it’s important to come prepared. Here’s what you should bring:
- List of assets and liabilities: Provide a detailed inventory of your assets, including real estate, bank accounts, retirement funds, investments, and personal property, as well as any debts you may have.
- List of beneficiaries: Be ready to discuss who you want to receive your assets and in what proportions. This includes naming guardians for minor children if applicable.
- Existing estate documents: Bring copies of any existing wills, trusts, powers of attorney, or other relevant estate planning documents.
- Questions about your estate goals: Write down your goals, such as avoiding probate, reducing taxes, or setting up charitable donations, so your lawyer can tailor a plan to meet your needs.
- Information on medical and financial decision-makers: Be prepared to discuss who you want to appoint for healthcare and financial decisions if you become incapacitated.
By being well-prepared, you can ensure a productive consultation and begin building a comprehensive estate plan that meets your needs and protects your loved ones.
