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Trav Baxter, experienced Estate Planning, Tax attorney in Little Rock, AR with 11 reviews
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17,71
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3.2/5
Avvo
5.0
1 Reviews
Google Maps
3.0
10 Reviews
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03 Dec, 2024 by April b
Everyone has a horror story about an attorney they've had and for me, this Attorney proved there is no justice in Arkansas. If you have a felony criminal charge and don't have enough money for John Wesley Hall, it's fair to say your screwed!!! Even told us once we didn't have to show up in court when we actually were supposed appear. This resulted in John Anderson advising us to "lay low" for the weekend because we were issued felony warrants that couldn't be recalled until the following Monday!! My husband was incarcerated for 33 months and he was told that he would get out in 18 months. Yes, I avoided jail time for so far but am basically chained to the door with 8 yrs probation time. I was also told they would file a lawsuit after trial but when it came time for that they ignored my calls as long as they could then when I requested my file I was told to sign a paper agreeing that they recused before they would give me my files back.
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03 Dec, 2024 by April b
I agree with Kurt! These guys did the same thing to me!! All positive for a year leading up to trial. Paid $12,000.00 and then on the day we were supposed to argue for suppression he got scared I guess so he said it was in our best interest to take a plea bargain because the judge never granted anyone else a suppression and we probably wouldn't be the first. They gave us approx. 10 mins to decide and since he was no longer confident what was I supposed to do? Horrible about returning calls or answering questions they are not seeking justice for victims of crooked police and abuse of power! They won't stand up for you once it goes to trial!! If you have a criminal case- save your money and hire John Wesley Hall instead. 🤬
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22 Nov, 2024 by Scott ward
Great lawyers
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Michael A. Bell, experienced Business, Elder Law attorney in Little Rock, AR with 25 reviews
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16,40
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3.6/5
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3.6
25 Reviews
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13 Jan, 2025 by Madeline garris
My Mom died in a nursing facility where she was neglected. I contacted this office and gave them proof from a nurse at the facility. They never did anything and did not contact me. Later I called them, they told me my Mom died from liver disease which was a lie. I felt hurt and disappointed. I'll always have bitterness against this law office.
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03 Oct, 2024 by Dami dayz
I had my case handed over to Casey Or Kasey Green whom I've spoken to twice. Only to tell me my case was settled for a $1000.00. $400 was N gift cards from the company. She settled my case without even talking to Me about it. Cash settlement $600.00. I got $198.00 N'd $400.00 N gift cards. After reading what the company letter to Me the $400.00 N gift cards was a Courtesy, for being a Valued Customer. It was not apart of the settlement. If I could give a ZERO STAR I WOULD. Make it Make Sense.
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26 Mar, 2024 by Joy greer
My brother was hurt really bad because someone ran the stop sign, it's been almost 6 months they got their money he hasn't got a dime
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Morgan Paige Topping, experienced Estate Planning, Family Law attorney in Little Rock, AR with 2 reviews
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16,29
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3.0/5
Avvo
3.0
2 Reviews
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13 Nov, 2024 by Seth
Paige Topping (AKA Morgan Paige Topping) Title: Broken Promises, Financial Strain, and Abandonment by Paige Topping and Lion Legal Services I trusted Paige Topping and Lion Legal Services with my custody case because I wanted to be an active and loving father to my children. From the very start, they gave me promises of progress and hope but ultimately left me abandoned at the most critical time. My experience has been one of broken promises, financial strain, and outright dismissal of my concerns In May 2024, I hired Lion Legal Services to represent me in my custody case. I paid $2,250 upfront, with an agreement to pay $750 later, and was assured they would secure temporary visitation rights so I could have my children during the summer. This was a deeply personal issue for me, as my children are my world, and I wanted nothing more than to see them. Despite their assurances, no progress was made. I was promised that they would meet with opposing counsel to arrange visitation, but that meeting never happened. For months, my case stagnated. Then, just days before my November 19 court hearing, I received an email from Lion Legal Services stating that my attorney, Paige Topping, had withdrawn from my case. This abrupt withdrawal left me scrambling to find representation. Even worse, they made no real effort to contact me before filing their motion to withdraw. They had multiple ways to reach me, including alternative phone numbers, emails, and my mailing address, but chose not to use them. Instead, they filed their withdrawal and left me completely unrepresented during one of the most critical moments of my custody battle. What’s even more heartbreaking is how dismissive they’ve been since then. When I reached out for help or clarification, I was told, “Sorry, case closed,” and when I tried to call, I was even laughed at. Out of desperation and not wanting to lose my children in a case that I initiated, I have made several attempts in the last two weeks to pay their ransom money of $2,000 more than originally agreed upon, just to keep my court date and not lose my kids. My pleas have been ignored, dismissed, or met with mockery. This treatment is appalling and unprofessional, especially for a law firm that claims to care about its clients. The financial strain has been equally devastating. When I offered to pay the remaining $750 as agreed, I was suddenly told I needed to pay $2,750 instead. These escalating demands felt like bullying tactics rather than fair negotiations. I was forced to take an early settlement in an unrelated legal case just to try and meet their financial demands. Yet even after all this, they abandoned my case, keeping the $2,250 I had already paid without delivering on their promises. After my experience, I began researching Lion Legal Services and discovered numerous complaints about their behavior. Many clients report similar issues: poor communication, broken promises, abrupt withdrawals, and financial exploitation. Even a former employee stated publicly on Indeed that the firm is “throwing clients to the wolves.” This fits with their apparent business model, which seems focused on signing as many clients as possible into a monthly payment system. Instead of prioritizing their clients’ best interests, they appear to take on more cases than they can handle, compromising the quality of their representation. It’s also concerning that Lion Legal Services has a history of changing their firm’s name after receiving significant negative feedback under the previous name. While some positive reviews exist, I can’t help but question their authenticity given the volume of negative experiences shared by clients and employees alike. It almost feels as if these positive reviews were written by friends, family, or staff to counteract the negative complaints. I am writing this review not out of anger, but out of heartbreak
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28 Nov, 2023 by Layla
Paige was consistently responsive and professional. She made sure I was well-informed about every aspect of my case, and her communication was always clear and concise. This direct and no-nonsense approach inspired trust and confidence in her abilities.
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Brad Walker, experienced Business, Estate Planning attorney in Little Rock, AR with 2 reviews
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16,29
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3.0/5
Avvo
3.0
2 Reviews
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20 Jul, 2023 by Jim
Sloppy, names misspelled, a ton of grammatical errors in documents a letters
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10 Jul, 2013 by Richard
It is easy for me to recommend Brad Walker as a top notch attorney. I was involved in a lawsuit in Federal Court concerning a real estate issue. The process was lengthy and required a great deal of document review, legal knowledge, and diligence. At every point during the process I found Brad to be resourceful and prepared. His wise counsel allowed me to stay confident and informed through a legal process that was unfamiliar to me. At trial the immense volume of reference documents were quickly and deftly handled by his team. His use of computers and exhibits were enhanced by a technological approach that was clear and compelling to me and the jury. I found him to be tireless in his preparation and alert to the shifting issues that arose throughout the case. Always prepared to see it through to the final moments, he backed the opposition into a spot that swayed settlement negotiations strongly in my favor. A true gentleman and a brilliant mind are hallmarks of this man who succeeded in steering me and my company successfully through a very trying time. I would not hesitate to recommend him strongly in any legal matter and can relax with confidence in his judgment.
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William Thomas Baxter, experienced Estate Planning, Tax attorney in Little Rock, AR with 20 reviews
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14,90
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2.7/5
Google Maps
2.7
20 Reviews
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23 Jun, 2024 by Agus gumilar
Google Maps
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21 Mar, 2024 by David tate
Not bad not good
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09 Mar, 2023 by Linda yarbrough
Called and emailed but no return call. Have left many voicemails.
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Byron M. Eiseman, experienced Business, Estate Planning attorney in Little Rock, AR with 20 reviews
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14,90
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2.7/5
Google Maps
2.7
20 Reviews
star star star star star
23 Jun, 2024 by Agus gumilar
Google Maps
star star star star star
21 Mar, 2024 by David tate
Not bad not good
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09 Mar, 2023 by Linda yarbrough
Called and emailed but no return call. Have left many voicemails.
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David M. Graf, experienced Business, Estate Planning attorney in Little Rock, AR with 20 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
14,90
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2.7/5
Google Maps
2.7
20 Reviews
star star star star star
23 Jun, 2024 by Agus gumilar
Google Maps
star star star star star
21 Mar, 2024 by David tate
Not bad not good
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09 Mar, 2023 by Linda yarbrough
Called and emailed but no return call. Have left many voicemails.
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William J Changose, experienced Business, Estate Planning attorney in Little Rock, AR with 0 reviews
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12,00
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0.0/5
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Cynthia Satterfield Moody, experienced Estate Planning, Family Law attorney in Little Rock, AR with 5 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
10,89
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1.8/5
Avvo
1.8
5 Reviews
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03 Nov, 2023 by Anonymous
Please be careful with Moody. She took advantage of my family's situation to gain a shameful win for pure money. She plays unfairly and will change "her mind" at the last moment, or to make you think so... Likely she was toxic to her own family and probably has no one. If she gets "appointed" then walk on egg shells. If she doesn't have to cross your life, you are a lucky person.
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16 Aug, 2023 by Anonymous
She is completely biased, lazy, and flat out lies!! She told me multiple times that it didn’t matter how many times the child told her where he wanted to live because she bases her decision on what’s best not on what they want. She misled me over and over. Claimed she had the same concerns I had. Then she goes awol for an entire year!! By that time things had definitely changed and she took advantage of that. She had multiple meetings with my child that I wasn’t aware of, her bill is inaccurate to say the least, and she lied to my face about what my child had said to her and was going to say in court. I told my lawyer when she was first assigned that I wasn’t comfortable with her based on the horrible, and very true, reviews. I was assured she was the best. She’s the worst! She will side with the dad even when the child is provided with more at moms. She needs to retire and get away from tearing apart innocent families.
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19 Mar, 2023 by Anonymous
This woman will lie and hide the truth. She will never speak for the children but lies to them and says she will. Instead of presenting the judge with legitimate evidence, she makes a courtroom drama and focuses on hearsay and minor issues that are truly unimportant while hiding the stack of reports that the court should see and hear. I have evidence of her misconduct and would gladly share it with the proper authorities to get this wretch removed from her unfortunate position of power.
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Lisa C. Ballard, experienced Child Custody, Estate Planning attorney in Little Rock, AR with 1 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
9,12
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2.0/5
Avvo
2.0
1 Reviews
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05 Sep, 2019 by Tiffany
When flies or documents were needed for court Lisa would tell me last minute. I had to self help my self because she forgot to mention I needed a parenting class, and calling her and emailing her was like surgery. Now that my case is prolonged she hasn’t answered my emails. What’s important to me isn’t important to her.
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Rebecca Jane Denison, experienced Estate Planning attorney in Little Rock, AR with 1 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
9,12
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2.0/5
Avvo
2.0
1 Reviews
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31 Dec, 2015 by Alex
In our phone conversation, Ms. Denison stated her fee but did not mention that it is "all up front." Ok. In our initial meeting, she reported that she had "won all 7 of the cases" she had been hired for- she later said that she won after lengthy appeals. She told me that the evidence against me was damning and that specific sanctions against me would be imposed, which turned out to be wrong. She told me that with her representation, my chances were 50/50 that the judge would see the case from my point of view. After each time, I spoke with her I was depressed and angry. In total, I would estimate that 75% of her information turned out to be false. I fired her and she was ethical enough to return my unused retainer even after her form said that it was "nonrefundable." I then employed another attorney who gave me corrected information and hope. He won my case after a skillful refutation on the elements of my case. In my life, I have hired over 5 different attorneys for various matters but I would not hire Ms. Denison for any legal matter in the future whatsoever.
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Zachary T. Sellers, experienced Bankruptcy, Car Accident attorney in Little Rock, AR with 4 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
9,10
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2.0/5
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2.0
4 Reviews
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30 Aug, 2024 by Stacy cyz
I would recommend doing your research before retaining. I've spoken to 2 different individuals who used this individual for a custody battle and both have been very displeased. He just doesn't appear to care and put in the effort. I definitely recommend interviewing other attorneys before you commit to this one.
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29 Aug, 2024 by Christy lewallen
Do your research! he was my daughters attorney, he cowards down to Arkansas law instead of fighting for his client and the best interest of children. She would have been better off to represent herself!
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11 Aug, 2023 by Matthew padilla
Phenomenal loring staff very well-versed able to resolve my issue with an incense definitely look forward to working
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Harry Warden, experienced Bankruptcy, Estate Planning attorney in Little Rock, AR with 0 reviews
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8,00
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0.0/5
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Lyle Douglas Foster, experienced Business, Estate Planning attorney in Little Rock, AR with 1 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
7,17
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1.0/5
Avvo
1.0
1 Reviews
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15 Nov, 2021 by Anonymous
Have been paying rent for 9 mos on apt in Hillcrest owned by Foster. Two words describe this "man": Dirtbag and Slumlord. The place is a "dump". Broken Windows, water seeping up from foundation, black mold, ceiling about to fall in. Mr Foster cares only about collecting rent. He owns 26 dwellings and each is worse than the last one. I don't know how the "man" can sleep at night .. Probably on a mattress stuffed with $$$. Whatever you do don't rent from this man. Repairs won't be made and he refuse to cooperate.
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Adam D. Reid, experienced Business, Estate Planning attorney in Little Rock, AR with 0 reviews
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7,00
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0.0/5
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Kelli LaPorte-Jenner, experienced Criminal Defense, Divorce attorney in Little Rock, AR with 0 reviews
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6,00
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Jay Paul Coleman, experienced Criminal Defense, Estate Planning attorney in Little Rock, AR with 0 reviews
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6,00
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Reba Mangum Wingfield, experienced Estate Planning, Tax attorney in Little Rock, AR with 0 reviews
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4,00
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S. Craig Smith, experienced Business, Elder Law attorney in Little Rock, AR with 0 reviews
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4,00
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Michael Kelly Cornett, experienced Estate Planning, Probate attorney in Little Rock, AR with 0 reviews
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4,00
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Robert E. Fahr Jr., experienced Business, Estate Planning attorney in Little Rock, AR with 0 reviews
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4,00
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0.0/5
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A. J. Kelly, experienced Elder Law, Estate Planning attorney in Little Rock, AR with 0 reviews
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4,00
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Charles Monroe Case, experienced Business, Estate Planning attorney in Little Rock, AR with 0 reviews
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4,00
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Sherri L. Latimer, experienced Estate Planning, Family Law attorney in Little Rock, AR with 0 reviews
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4,00
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Judy Patrice Mcneil, experienced Business, Estate Planning attorney in Little Rock, AR with 0 reviews
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4,00
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Dustin Alan Duke, experienced Estate Planning, Probate attorney in Little Rock, AR with 0 reviews
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4,00
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Angela Mann, experienced Divorce, Estate Planning attorney in Little Rock, AR with 0 reviews
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4,00
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Sydney Rasch, experienced Bankruptcy, Business attorney in Little Rock, AR with 0 reviews
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4,00
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Jarred Kibbey, experienced Bankruptcy, Business attorney in Little Rock, AR with 0 reviews
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4,00
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0.0/5
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Michael Branden Childers, experienced Estate Planning, Real Estate attorney in Little Rock, AR with 0 reviews
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4,00
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FAQs
Questions? We have answers

What an Estate Planning Lawyer Can Do for You

An estate planning lawyer helps individuals plan for the management and distribution of their assets after death or during incapacitation. Their services involve drafting important legal documents, such as wills, trusts, powers of attorney, and healthcare directives. Estate planning attorneys work to ensure that your assets are transferred according to your wishes, minimize tax liabilities, and avoid probate court. They also help clients plan for potential long-term care needs and protect their estate from being diminished by healthcare costs.

By working with an estate planning lawyer, you can have peace of mind knowing that your loved ones will be cared for and that your estate will be managed efficiently and according to your desires.

When Should I Hire an Estate Planning Lawyer?

Hiring an estate planning lawyer is beneficial in many situations, especially when you want to ensure that your assets are handled properly after death. Common reasons to hire an estate planning lawyer include:

  • Drafting a will: If you want to clearly define how your assets will be distributed after death, an attorney can draft a legally sound will.
  • Creating a trust: For those looking to avoid probate or provide for loved ones over time, setting up a trust can help manage the distribution of assets.
  • Planning for incapacity: An estate lawyer can help draft powers of attorney and healthcare directives so that your financial and medical decisions are made by someone you trust if you become incapacitated.
  • Minimizing estate taxes: If your estate is large, a lawyer can help create strategies to reduce or eliminate federal and state estate taxes.
  • Special circumstances: If you have minor children, blended families, or complex assets like businesses, an estate planning lawyer can create tailored solutions.
  • Guardianship or conservatorship: If you want to designate guardians for minor children or ensure proper care for incapacitated adults, an attorney can help.

Hiring an estate planning lawyer is especially important if your estate is complex or if you want to ensure that your wishes are properly followed.

What Does an Estate Planning Lawyer Do?

An estate planning lawyer provides a range of services designed to help you organize your affairs and ensure your estate is managed according to your wishes. They can:

  • Draft wills and trusts: Creating legally binding documents that dictate how your assets will be distributed and managed.
  • Create powers of attorney and healthcare directives: Appointing someone to make financial or medical decisions for you if you become incapacitated.
  • Minimize taxes: Developing strategies to reduce estate taxes, gift taxes, and other financial liabilities for your heirs.
  • Help avoid probate: Structuring your estate plan to avoid probate, which can save time and money for your beneficiaries.
  • Advise on long-term care planning: Helping you plan for potential healthcare needs in the future, including Medicaid planning and protecting assets from being depleted by nursing home costs.
  • Assist with beneficiary designations: Ensuring that life insurance policies, retirement accounts, and other financial instruments are correctly designated.
  • Handle probate and estate administration: If a loved one has passed away, an estate planning lawyer can help guide you through the probate process or act as an executor.

How Are Estate Planning Lawyers Paid?

Estate planning lawyers typically charge for their services in one of several ways, depending on the complexity of your estate and the type of services you need. Common payment structures include:

  • Flat fee: Many estate planning services, such as drafting a will or trust, are charged on a flat-fee basis. The fee covers all work related to preparing the document.
  • Hourly rate: For more complex planning, such as estate tax strategy or trust administration, lawyers may charge by the hour. Rates vary based on the lawyer’s experience and location.
  • Retainer: Some lawyers require a retainer for more complex cases, such as ongoing trust management or estate administration. The retainer is an upfront payment that covers future legal services.

It’s important to discuss fees with your lawyer upfront to avoid unexpected costs.

How Much Does an Estate Planning Lawyer Cost?

The cost of hiring an estate planning lawyer depends on the complexity of your estate and the services you require. Here are some general guidelines:

  • Simple wills or powers of attorney: A straightforward will or power of attorney may cost between $300 and $1,500, depending on your location and the lawyer’s experience.
  • Trust creation: Establishing a trust, such as a living trust or revocable trust, can cost between $1,000 and $3,000 or more, depending on the complexity of your assets and estate planning needs.
  • Comprehensive estate planning packages: Some lawyers offer packages that include wills, trusts, powers of attorney, and healthcare directives, which may range from $2,000 to $5,000 or more, depending on the estate’s complexity.
  • Hourly rates: For ongoing services like estate administration or tax planning, lawyers may charge hourly rates ranging from $150 to $500 or more, depending on the lawyer’s experience.

Always get a clear estimate of costs during your initial consultation to ensure the services fit within your budget.

Top Questions to Ask an Estate Planning Lawyer

Before hiring an estate planning lawyer, it’s important to ask questions to ensure they are the right fit for your needs. Here are key questions to ask during your consultation:

  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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