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25 Sep, 2022 by Frank a. westgate
There services helped me 100%
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03 Nov, 2019 by Alexandra cottrell
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24 Feb, 2019 by Josh hinton
Friendly and knowledgeable law service.
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02 Jul, 2013 by Jeff
I hired him to help with some complicated real estate problems I was having. He kept me informed and involved in the decisions as we went along. The bills were fair. It was nice to have an attorney who would really talk with me and who didn't just look at me as a check-writer.
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17 Jun, 2024 by Christine
Stephanie J Wilson was more than I had expected from any attorney, and I've had experiences with attorneys. She did ALL of our estate planning. Everything we did was so we didn't have to come back to see her to make changes. Only if there are some major changes in our lives would we need to come back. (Some attorneys build their income by having a client returning all the time. She is not one of those). The price was a flat fee with as much time as needed (for 6 months). So, we weren't looking at the clock all of the time. An example of when we may need to see her is as follows: if my husband or I needed to be on Medicaid to protect our assets, she would help with that. We also had a question about doing DNA testing and if my husband were to have a child he knew nothing about, would he be responsible financially. Good question! See Stephanie for the answer! She was flexible, easy-to-talk with, and kind. Most of all, she didn't judge. We've got some sticky situation with our families. So, she helped navigate those situations. Stephanie also has a great sense of humor, which made her even more easy to work with. We had the choice to meet in person or via Zoom, which was very convenient. She also has many contacts in Douglas County, so that part was easy too. 5 stars doesn't quite describe her. I would recommend her to anyone. Her business is Elder Law, and she knows it very well. Thank you, Stephanie. We appreciate you. Christine
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25 May, 2024 by D b
Very knowledgeable patient and clear. Walked us successfully through our trust process
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23 May, 2024 by Nathaniel's monster fish & exotic plecos!!
It was a pleasure working with Catherine on a matter that is difficult to navigate. I would highly recommend Catherine.
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23 May, 2024 by Lee saylor
Very patient, allowed me to direct what I needed/wanted, while helping me understand what the law required. Helped me understand the interrogatories I received and helped me push back when they weren't appropriate. The firm's personality fit mine perfectly. Straightforward, matter-of-fact, helped keep emotion out of the process.
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07 Feb, 2023 by Heather anderson
Attorney Lee is truly professional, experienced, trustworthy, dedicated and very responsive. He helped me through the most difficult personal time with his wisdom and his solid legal advice. He explains everything thoroughly so every single step is clear. He was always very responsive and made himself available through the most stressful moments. He pays attention to details and listens to the concerns and addresses them very well and makes the whole experience smooth and fulfilled. His vision and expertise really helped me to reach the best possible outcome for my personal matter and he handled the whole process with comfort and professionalism. Attorney Lee is very approachable, personable and courteous. I highly recommend this outstanding firm to anyone who is seeking high-rated and trustworthy attorneys. Thank you Attorney Lee for everything!!!
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28 Jan, 2023 by Caleb dunn
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24 Sep, 2024 by Just fnatic
Matt Donnelly was exceptional and so kind to me from the beginning. He worked with me day in and day out! Highly recommend!
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19 Aug, 2024 by Gnomesbykaeluv
I am very grateful to Matt Donelly. He negotiated an out-of-court settlement for me, avoiding a long and costly trial. His negotiating skills are impressive. He answered all my questions with great clarity and patience. He kept me informed every step of the way, which gave me great peace of mind. I am very satisfied. Thanks again!
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20 Jun, 2024 by Johnny buschardt
Matt Donnelly was not only courteous, knowledgable, and professional, but he truly was protecting my best interests at every step of my legal process. I wouldn't hesitate to recommend him highly and I feel very confident he'll be able to meet your legal representation needs as well. Wonderful service and a fantastic attorney!
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23 May, 2024 by Lee saylor
Very patient, allowed me to direct what I needed/wanted, while helping me understand what the law required. Helped me understand the interrogatories I received and helped me push back when they weren't appropriate. The firm's personality fit mine perfectly. Straightforward, matter-of-fact, helped keep emotion out of the process.
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07 Feb, 2023 by Heather anderson
Attorney Lee is truly professional, experienced, trustworthy, dedicated and very responsive. He helped me through the most difficult personal time with his wisdom and his solid legal advice. He explains everything thoroughly so every single step is clear. He was always very responsive and made himself available through the most stressful moments. He pays attention to details and listens to the concerns and addresses them very well and makes the whole experience smooth and fulfilled. His vision and expertise really helped me to reach the best possible outcome for my personal matter and he handled the whole process with comfort and professionalism. Attorney Lee is very approachable, personable and courteous. I highly recommend this outstanding firm to anyone who is seeking high-rated and trustworthy attorneys. Thank you Attorney Lee for everything!!!
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28 Jan, 2023 by Caleb dunn
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25 Feb, 2024 by Lina rose
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21 Feb, 2020 by Andy
Great bussiness practices
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06 Aug, 2019 by Linda mcinroy
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19 Dec, 2023 by Sheryl brooks
Listened to us and provided the needed service without any hassle.
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07 Nov, 2023 by Connie bailey
They don't have the BALLS to take on a Pre-Meditated Murderer and habitual Drug Addict/Dealer.
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03 Oct, 2023 by Gary lucas
Very nice for a lawyer meeting.
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19 Dec, 2023 by Sheryl brooks
Listened to us and provided the needed service without any hassle.
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07 Nov, 2023 by Connie bailey
They don't have the BALLS to take on a Pre-Meditated Murderer and habitual Drug Addict/Dealer.
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03 Oct, 2023 by Gary lucas
Very nice for a lawyer meeting.
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19 Dec, 2023 by Sheryl brooks
Listened to us and provided the needed service without any hassle.
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07 Nov, 2023 by Connie bailey
They don't have the BALLS to take on a Pre-Meditated Murderer and habitual Drug Addict/Dealer.
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03 Oct, 2023 by Gary lucas
Very nice for a lawyer meeting.
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19 Dec, 2023 by Sheryl brooks
Listened to us and provided the needed service without any hassle.
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07 Nov, 2023 by Connie bailey
They don't have the BALLS to take on a Pre-Meditated Murderer and habitual Drug Addict/Dealer.
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03 Oct, 2023 by Gary lucas
Very nice for a lawyer meeting.
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19 Nov, 2024 by Wes thygerson
Mike is great!
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21 May, 2024 by Sonya gardner harris
This office is horrible. My mother wanted a second set of ears when she talking with this office and they refused to speak to her because SHE wanted someone to listen in. They insisted on a power of attorney for the person my mom requested present. These demands are unrealistic. There's no need for a p.o.a.. Possibly a confidentiality issue but not even that. It's like going to the doctor and having an extra set of ears present. It's not any concern of this office who a member chooses to have present. I would NEVER recommend Riling, Burkhead, and Nitcher! Represent yourself before you bother with this place. There are plenty of qualified attorneys that are happy to help a client.
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21 Apr, 2024 by Patrick manning
Chris Peoples has helped me out and recovered over a $1000 in expenses. Thank you for what you do.
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19 Nov, 2024 by Wes thygerson
Mike is great!
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21 May, 2024 by Sonya gardner harris
This office is horrible. My mother wanted a second set of ears when she talking with this office and they refused to speak to her because SHE wanted someone to listen in. They insisted on a power of attorney for the person my mom requested present. These demands are unrealistic. There's no need for a p.o.a.. Possibly a confidentiality issue but not even that. It's like going to the doctor and having an extra set of ears present. It's not any concern of this office who a member chooses to have present. I would NEVER recommend Riling, Burkhead, and Nitcher! Represent yourself before you bother with this place. There are plenty of qualified attorneys that are happy to help a client.
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21 Apr, 2024 by Patrick manning
Chris Peoples has helped me out and recovered over a $1000 in expenses. Thank you for what you do.
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02 Jul, 2024 by Yoselin negrete
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18 Apr, 2024 by Mota isk
I recommend this firm because of Mr. Trevino. He's a great lawyer. He did my citizenship process from A-Z. I'm glad I worked with him and his legal assistant, Mr. Escobedo. Mr. Escobedo has great hospitality and he helped me with my paperwork as well. He also kept following up with me to make sure everything is good to go and answered all my questions that I had. Thank you for this great experience, Mr. Trevino and Mr. Escobedo.
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13 Jun, 2023 by Grant taubman
Dave and Elizabeth made everything super simple. I used them for their expertise in immigration law. Both of them made sure create a simple and easy to follow checklist of documents that were needed. Dave was really good about following up, if documents were missing, or not correct. Elizabeth was excellent in explaining why certain documents were needed. I would recommend anyone looking for the best, to hire them.
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21 Dec, 2023 by Anonymous
We hired Emily to work our case and she did a subpar job. Lack of communication during the process and did not acknowledge or accomplish what we needed to execute. She is also the most expensive attorney in the area and doesn’t advocate for the client.
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10 Oct, 2017 by Anonymous
Emily has been our lawyer for quite some time now but she got us in quickly and wrote pages of information based on the situation. She also was able to keep us from going to court through her expertise and knowledge. We were grateful for her expediency and feel confident she will help us again if necessary
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26 Sep, 2017 by Amanda
Emily was hired as our attorney to handle our adoption. She went above and beyond to get it completed before my husband had to go overseas for work. She is down to earth and very good at answering your questions truthfully and let’s you know what to expect. Her legal assistant is great as well. We highly recommend Emily if you are in need of an attorney that you can count on to do everything she can.
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18 Sep, 2024 by Willie
Worst lawyer experience of our lives. He will take your money and get pointless revenue and always agree with the other party and never represent his own clients purposely. This is the worst lawyer I’ve ever had any contact with through speeding tickets, family, law, or simple Dispute with neighbors through litigation. He will take weeks to respond back and also think he’s smarter than you so there’s no point in arguing your case. Horrible culture, cander and transparency.
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21 Jun, 2024 by Jonathan andrews
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21 Jun, 2023 by Mike thezen
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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.

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