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15 Jul, 2022 by Todd
“Orange County Resident chooses Los Angeles Attorney David A. Shapiro”
“Sometimes it takes an outsider who can see things much better. I hired David Shapiro because he was just that, outsider. Outside the three-ring circus of Orange County Trust Attorneys who just want to lead you down the path of rancorous litigation.” David only cares about the facts and how to effectively utilize those facts in preparation and negotiation to attain the best results for your case.”
Knowledgeable A+
Great Communication A+
Responsiveness A+
Straight Forward A++
Great Listening Skills A++
Hardworking and Persevering A++
"Trusted Counsel for your Orange County Estate & Trust Litigation Needs” - T. Cashman, Orange County, California
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16 Nov, 2021 by Hanan
When my father passed away he made my stepmother the trustee of his estate. Big mistake. Though I had been under the mistaken impression she was a decent and loving person, that turned out to be an illusion. David helped me right this wrong, and through mediation I received the estate my father had left to me and had his widow removed as trustee. David was a steadying influence throughout this process, he cared about my outcomes without letting his desire to win derail my goal of ending the conflict swiftly and fairly. I would unreservedly recommend David to anyone who needs help with an estate.
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10 Jul, 2019 by Jim
I cannot begin to say enough great things about David Shapiro and his law practice.
David helped me get through an estate matter from 3000 miles away. I'm in Michigan, the case was in LA. I spoke with 5 different lawyers about my matter, David was THE only one I felt comfortable with.
David explained every step in the process, answered every and all questions I asked plus added input I had no idea about because of his experience.
Being 3000 miles away I expected communication issues. Absolutely none. All phone calls, emails were handled same day by David not an associate.
Top notch Professional. I truly believe his one and only goal is to benefit his clients.
I hope I can find a lawyer like David here in Michigan. He has set the bar very high.
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05 Jun, 2018 by Sylvia
After speaking with several other probate attorneys I was glad to find Gordon & Gordon here on Avvo. Following the free initial consultation when I hung up I felt relieved. They were upfront and honest with me and I knew I was in good hands. Although I hired Justin (Donald’s son) to represent me Don was always there assisting and ready to help using his vast knowledge and experience. I would definitely recommend him to anyone seeking legal counsel.
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17 May, 2015 by Char
Don took time to thoroughly explain everything to me regarding drawing up a new Last Will & Testament.
He also never rushed our meetings, which was much appreciated,and completed things in a timely manner.
I would highly recommend him!
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15 May, 2015 by Edwin
Don handled my brother's probate with a true understanding of the process involved. He was
understanding , sincere, and patient. His legal expertise helped our family navigate a difficult
situation with a very positive outcome.
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03 Feb, 2023 by Anonymous
She helped me with my asylum case.She always available over the phone when I needed her.
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22 Sep, 2021 by Fidelis
Melissa is highly knowledgeable in matters of the law especially immigration issues. What I enjoyed working with her is the confidence she instilled in me. She breaks down the issues and translate 'law' into colloquial language. Definitely the kind of lawyer you want to have behind you when in any of these immigration matters!
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16 Sep, 2021 by Anonymous
I hired Heather L Poole PC for my very complicated immigration case. Melissa was diligent, empathetic, and honest in our interactions. She did a wonderful job and got my case approved in a speedy manner. I highly recommend HEATHER L POOLE PC Immigration Lawyers and Melissa in particular to anyone seeking legal representation.
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01 Feb, 2018 by Kathi
I can't express enough how much I appreciate having found Steve to help me through a very complex and difficult probate. My grandfather passed away without a will or trust and a lot of assets and children that completely dislike each other - it's been messy to say the least.
I've worked in the legal profession for over 20 years and was referred to Steve Grant by an attorney I work with, as I personally didn't know anyone who specialized in Probate Law. One thing about probate law is that the court mandates or sets the attorney's fees based off of the value of the estate. The fee is also paid from / out of the estate... so you don't pay by the hour, so if you're reading this - you're probably searching for a good probate lawyer and wondering if you can afford a really good attorney, and in a probate situation, it's really up to you, the individual (aka the administrator of the estate) to find the best possible attorney (for the set fee that the estate will pay anyways). Someone that will give you their time, attention and expertise...someone who cares... Well, I'm thankful to have found Steve and that's why I'm even taking the time to write this...
In writing this review, I thought it might be helpful to list out the words that come to mind to describe Steve and what kind of a person/probate attorney he is to have on your side. Steve is:
Very patient
Articulate
Great at making himself available when you need to speak with or email him
Intelligent - Probate law is very specialized and he really knows what he's doing and cares!
Good Communicator - great at keeping me informed, organized and on the ball with due dates
Works well with others - handles even the most difficult people very well (again, patience is a virtue)
Handles complex matters very well
Always pleasant and professional
Logical and practical
Always looking out for his client's best interest
Excellent with follow through
I'm sure there are many more qualities to add to this list, but if you're looking for a great probate lawyer, I believe this will really help break things down for you. It would have helped me a lot!!!
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31 May, 2017 by Stephen
Being out of state, I was concerned about hiring someone I had not yet met to handle my deceased family member's estate. Stephen E. Grant has exceeded my expectations and made this difficult process as easy and smooth as possible. He is a true professional; very easy to work with, easy to get in contact with, and has your best interest in mind. He walked me through every step of the process and maintained excellent contact, answering all questions I had. He offered great recommendations as well, especially Flans & Weiner Real Estate Auctioneers, and instilled confidence that everything was being taken care of even in my absence. I highly recommend Stephen Grant, especially to those in out of state situations like myself. He will not disappoint.
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31 Dec, 2014 by Anonymous
Stephan really helped us through a very difficult period in our lives. I have a lot of experience with attornies and I can say that it was a pleasure dealing with him. He was very knowledgable and easy to get a hold of.
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08 Feb, 2022 by Farid t.
DO NOT LOOK ANY FURTHER: JULIYA is the ONE …... After weeks of searching for estate planning attorneys, Juliya was the ONLY one who answered all of our questions with pure transparency! Never did she lie to us nor try to trap us into doing unnecessary steps.
From the second we started the estate planning process till the very end, Juliya left not a single ounce of doubt in our minds about our future. Juliya answered ALL of our questions, went above and beyond to ensure that we understand EVERYTHING there is to know. Her level of professionalism, organization, dedication, and commitment are unmatched!
Everything was recorded throughout the process on Zoom, and when it came to notarize everything, the entire process took less than an hour!! The notary she recommended for us, came over and took care of everything. Even the notary was telling us that she is THE MOST ORGANIZED estate planning attorney that he has ever worked with!
Everything comes in a SUPER organized, color-coordinated binder with clear, easy-to-read instructions on how to access each and every aspect of our Trust when necessary. We also get a virtual copy of all of the documents!
There are further directions on how to reach out to doctors, banks, insurance, etc and Juliya follows up to make sure that everything is in order.
Please do not look further! She will take care of all of your family needs. No stone is left unturned!
Thank you for helping secure our future! We are so grateful to you!
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20 Jun, 2019 by Adina
Juliya was wonderful to work with. She was incredibly caring when I approached her to set up our living trust after a terrible personal loss, which is unfortunately frequently the reason people realize they need to get their affairs in order. She was extremely responsive and turned documents around fast which is #1 for me, took time to explain unfamiliar concepts no matter how many times we asked, and gave us the pros and cons of various scenarios we posed. I'm an attorney and this is not my field, and I trust her completely. Her rates are extremely reasonable.
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15 Jan, 2019 by Nikki
Juliya is one of my most trusted referrals for estate planning. She takes amazing care of her clients. Her knowledge and expertise make her an incredible attorney.
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29 Jul, 2022 by George
He Got me a settlement i was not expecting. Great service I highly recommend him
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22 Nov, 2020 by Chervonte
ALK is a great lawyer. He helped my family fight against a huge corporation and won. I would definitely recommend him to other family and friends in the future.
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31 Jul, 2020 by Adrian
I find Attorney Lorenzo service above average. He is always in contact giving updates, he is very knowledgeable in regards to his profession. I was thrilled to have him represent me, he was available at all times. He truly stands behind his client, I haven't met a lawyer that I would rank in his professionalism, he exceeded my expectations!
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16 Jul, 2021 by Cody
I found Douglas Weitzman on Avvo related to my real estate dispute. Weeks after signing the P&S the buyers attempted to cancel the contract using the ‘inspection contingency’ as their stated basis—and wanted to back out—but I thought ‘changing their minds’ was not a valid reason to cancel the contract since I provided the buyers with a full disclosure—which described in detail all the current conditions of the property. The buyers commissioned their own inspection report—and the conditions identified in the buyers’ inspection report were the same conditions identified in my disclosure—revealing nothing new—as there were no repairs needed.
Despite this—the buyers exercised their 'inspection contingency' within the 10-day inspection period, during which time the buyer is allowed to have the property inspected to reveal any potential issues that could 'void' the contract. Despite the fact that there 'weren't any' new unsatisfactory conditions on the property—the 'inspection contingency' is obviously a scapegoat that buyers can use to back out of a deal.
Weitzman asked me if I issued a 'notice to perform'—a real estate tool designed to make buyers stick to agreed-upon deadlines that are defined in the real estate purchase agreement—issuing a notice typically gives the buyer 48 hours to remedy the situation at hand—if the buyer has still failed to comply with the agreed-upon action, the seller can keep the earnest money deposit in some cases.
Thus, we learn that the buyers have 'no obligation' to buy until they notify sellers that all contingencies are satisfied. Weitzman gave me a free consultation and in turn helped me define the 'notice to perform' and how to use it—which can be advantageous to both buyers and sellers in the California residential purchase agreement. In this case, I am not at the 'distinct advantage' of issuing the Notice to Perform.
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07 Jun, 2021 by Anonymous
I consulted with Doug about a real estate question, following a question posted on Avvo.
He took the time and not only answered my questions thoroughly but also gave me great advice. Thanks Doug.
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03 Jun, 2017 by Anonymous
Douglas responded quickly, and gave me the help I requested.
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17 May, 2022 by Emily
Attorney Deborah R. Bronner did our Living Trust, Power of Attorney, Will and Advance Health Care Directive. She also helped us put the Deed to our home in the name of our Trust. The initial phone interview was very thorough. I had a number of questions regarding our circumstances and Attorney Deborah R. Bronner took a great deal of time to give me relevant information. She walked us through the process with warmth and consideration. In addition to being knowledgeable she always kept me informed. If I had a question or just wanted to check on the progress of the documents, I always received a prompt response. She is a very knowledgeable attorney. She explained the documents very thoroughly and patiently. She is highly recommended.
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12 May, 2022 by Yuri
I highly recommend Deborah with any legal docs for a deed transfer. She made it very simple and easy for us to get this important paperwork figured out from start to finish.
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12 May, 2022 by O.leary
Found the Law Offices of Deborah R. Bronner on Google and happy I did! Atty. Bronner was always prompt in returning my calls and answered all my questions without feeling rushed. She was punctual on both occasions we had to meet in person and very accommodating to our needs. We are thankful for her assistance and expertise in getting our estate trust done in just a matter of days in a nicely bound portfolio. I did not get a chance to check the Yelp reviews when I called Atty. Bronner's office and concur with the majority of the comments made by her former clients regarding her professionalism and compassion. She was responsive to all my questions and requests via text and email even after she was done providing service. Needless to say, I'll definitely recommend her legal services to my family and friends should the need arise. Thank you once again for all your help, Atty. Bronner, we truly appreciate it!
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23 Feb, 2021 by Natalie amoils
18 Apr, 2020 by Brendan g
18 Apr, 2020 by Deborah poulter
23 Feb, 2021 by Natalie amoils
18 Apr, 2020 by Brendan g
18 Apr, 2020 by Deborah poulter
23 Feb, 2021 by Natalie amoils
18 Apr, 2020 by Brendan g
18 Apr, 2020 by Deborah poulter
23 Feb, 2021 by Natalie amoils
18 Apr, 2020 by Brendan g
18 Apr, 2020 by Deborah poulter
23 Feb, 2021 by Natalie amoils
18 Apr, 2020 by Brendan g
18 Apr, 2020 by Deborah poulter
23 Feb, 2021 by Natalie amoils
18 Apr, 2020 by Brendan g
18 Apr, 2020 by Deborah poulter
23 Feb, 2021 by Natalie amoils
18 Apr, 2020 by Brendan g
18 Apr, 2020 by Deborah poulter
23 Feb, 2021 by Natalie amoils
18 Apr, 2020 by Brendan g
18 Apr, 2020 by Deborah poulter
04 Apr, 2016 by William
Teresa was crucial to my case vs my landlord regarding habitability issues in an apartment that received water damage. She made sure I was taken care of from day 1 all the way to completion. Always attentive to my emails and phone calls and was a pleasure to work with. I recommend her for any future renter and landlord disputes.
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09 Jan, 2016 by Anonymous
I recently had an offer on a property accepted and the seller disclosed that she had recently been through a bankruptcy but that this "should not affect title." I was uneasy and asked Teresa for advice. Teresa was very knowledgeable and competent and gave excellent and practical advice reflecting her knowledge of and experience with real estate transactions. She also worked well with my realtor to assist with the communication.
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25 Sep, 2013 by Rich munday
I am a real estate agent and Teresa has helped my client with several real estate escrows that I was involved in. She is professional, knowledgeable, very effective and really knows how to get the results that we needed. I would highly recommend Teresa!!
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28 Jul, 2016 by Anonymous
I had the best experience possible given the circumstances with Debbie as my lawyer. Not only was she knowledgeable, but very trustworthy and upfront. I felt she was always on top of what was happening in my case, and kept me informed throughout the entire process. I feel very fortunate to have found such an upstanding and honorable person as my attorney. She is a rarity, and I would definitely recommend her services.
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17 Jul, 2016 by Anonymous
I wanted to share my experience with Debbie. She helped my family through a very difficult time when my grandpa needed an estate plan drawn up quickly. He is elderly, and Debbie showed genuine concern, treating him compassionately. I highly recommend Debbie if you are looking for a competent top notch attorney, with a sensitive and open approach that gets the job done. She helped my family, and I have referred her to my friends.
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05 Jul, 2016 by Anonymous
When I was hurt at work, I did not know what to do. Ms. Joe was recommended to me by another lawyer in the Los Angeles area. Throughout my case, I found her to be trustworthy and professional. She helped me understand the workers' compensation system, my options and helped me navigate the system. I believe it was through her proactive and aggressive approach, that I was awarded such a large settlement. Ms. Joe negotiated an amazing settlement that was 10 times more than what was first offered to me by the insurance company. I am grateful for Ms. Joe's help. So glad I found her.
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24 Mar, 2020 by Sam
Natalie helped me through the process of creating a trust for my family. I am so glad I decided to work with her. She walked me patiently through all of the important points and worked with me to create a plan that works best for my family.
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24 Jun, 2016 by Garry
I am an attorney with an accounting degree and when I needed help with establishing a Trust I consulted with Natalie Elisha and had her draft my trust instrument. She is knowlegable, responsive and reasonable. I recommend her highly
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29 Feb, 2016 by Scott
Natalie was my lawyer for estate planning. I am single but her tax recommendations and planning techniques are second to none. She took the time to sit with my accountant and financial advisor at no extra cost to me. During our time working together she made sure to emphasize the need for the entire financial planning team to be part of the process. I wholeheartedly recommend her. I have never seen such an empathetic attorney who really cares about her clients.
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11 Mar, 2017 by Abel lopez
She gave me facts didn't dance around things direct to the point very useful now I know my basic 101 to have a direction. Now I knwo what i need to do. Thank you very much. I'm still in need of representation
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21 Feb, 2017 by Anonymous
Without even charging me, she reviewed a complex special needs trust issue and found an attorney for my mother near where my mother lives.
Leslie clearly knows her stuff but is also caring and compassionate. I recommend her highly.
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12 Aug, 2015 by Anonymous
A friend referred me to Leslie when I needed some legal advice. I was in a jam and all the attorneys I contacted didn't know how to help me. In fact, one said "There isn't a way to resolve this". I was panicked! Then I spoke with Leslie who calmly told me what I needed to do. It worked like a charm!
She is the BEST!
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02 Dec, 2021 by Aidan m.
I hired Arellanez Legal to represent me after I was hit by a tractor-trailer coming home from Las Vegas to San Bernardino. I contacted multiple law firms but eventually chose Arellanez Legal and I'm very happy that I did. Michael and his staff are very friendly and took very good care of my case. Michael and his staff made sure that I finished treatment and kept me updated regarding the offers from the insurance company. Michael mediated the case and got me a great settlement. Without his help I wouldn't have been able to pay for my medical bills and still have money left over. He really cares about his clients and his staff is very friendly and knowledgeable about the legal process. I would highly recommend hiring Michael at Arellanez Legal.
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29 Nov, 2021 by Michelle moen
I was involved in a car accident in Modesto, California. It was a very scary accident for me because I was seven months pregnant at the time and was taken by ambulance to the local hospital. I contacted Arellanez Legal a few days after the accident because the law firm was recommended to me by a friend. My case was handled by Michael Arellanez who is very professional and makes you feel like family. The insurance company claimed their driver was not at fault. This greatly upset me because I was rear ended at a stop light. I could not believe an insurance company would claim I was not injured. Michael explained that the case would need to be mediated. I had never been involved in a mediation and I was unsure what to expect. Michael was very professional and helped me resolve my case at mediation. I was very happy with the results and would highly recommend Arellanez Legal. Michael does a good job at explaining how cases are resolved.
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28 Oct, 2021 by Kimberly
A few years ago, I suffered a broken arm from a slip and fall accident. At first, I tried to work with the insurance company myself to get my medical bills covered. Needless to say insurance companies did not want to compensate me for the medical bills. When the insurance company started downplaying my injury I reached out to multiple large firms in the LA area. I could hardly get one to return my call. I was ultimately referred to Mr. Arellanez by a personal friend, and I am so happy and thankful that I made that decision. I received the best service from him and his firm. They worked efficiently, always returned my phone call, and I was very please with the results they got me. Fast forward to 2020, when I unexpectedly ended up in the middle of a contract/real estate civil action, I cannot stress to you how extremely stressful, and emotional this situation was, however, I reached out to Mr. Arellanez once again, and asked if he could help me. Mr. Arellanez handled everything in regards to my second case like a true professional. I was very happy with the result and very relieved that it concluded in a relatively short amount of time. I highly recommend this attorney and firm to anyone.
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19 Dec, 2014 by Michael jones
I worked with John on a family trusts case. It was an extremely stressful experience. I cannot even imagine not having John representing me in this matter. He handled the case with upmost diligence, care and concern. I truly felt he had my best interest at hand.
When I was looking for a lawyer. One thing that stood out to me was the fact he had 20 years experience. I can honestly tell you, John really knows his stuff!
If I ever had a question, he took the time and explained all the legal jargon and process to me. He always was two steps ahead during the case. So there were no "surprises". Only a lawyer with experience can do that.
I was very pleased with the outcome of this case. I have referred John's services to friends of mine knowing they will get expert representation in their matters. John has your back!!!
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26 Aug, 2013 by Marlon
John is genuine, patient and knowledgeable.
My sister and I went to John for help with a living trust that had been done by another attorney 14 years earlier. John was extremely helpful in guiding us through and in resolving the problem for us. It is clear that he knows his field and expertise. I appreciated his amiable persona and how he spelled out the various options available to us. Definitely recommend him.
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29 Mar, 2013 by Erik
My family hired John to do our estate planning last year, to do a trust, and wills for us after he was highly recommended by a friend of mine. We were very happy with the services he provided us. He was very knowledgeable, and guided us through the process, taking time to answer all our questions to make sure all our issues were taken care of. I have recommended him to others and will be using his services again.
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26 Apr, 2024 by Dani hogan
24 Sep, 2020 by Wayne kurtz
Maureen Binder treats her clients like Family. She is intelligent, compassionate and very resourceful. Excellent work, Maureen!
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25 Aug, 2019 by Faith family & friends
26 Apr, 2024 by Dani hogan
24 Sep, 2020 by Wayne kurtz
Maureen Binder treats her clients like Family. She is intelligent, compassionate and very resourceful. Excellent work, Maureen!
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25 Aug, 2019 by Faith family & friends
26 Apr, 2024 by Dani hogan
24 Sep, 2020 by Wayne kurtz
Maureen Binder treats her clients like Family. She is intelligent, compassionate and very resourceful. Excellent work, Maureen!
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25 Aug, 2019 by Faith family & friends
20 Sep, 2017 by Florencio
Im one of his clients now and can tell you that his professional conduct and great laughter makes you feel calm and ready to do as he asks you. he is great at listening to what circumstances you are in. he also is super at making sure that he is confident at making you feel that seeing a judge isnt going to be an experience that will leave you dumbfounded. Glasgow hails as a professional with a tender feeling for you as his client and will not be obtuse and rude in any way or manner. in fact, his manners is what makes him so good. His connection to details and observant style can lead you to believe that there really is good people in the world and that not all lawyers are crooks.
My name is Florencio, I am one of his clients who has an ongoing battle with another lawyer who has put me through so much turmoil that Glasgow has opened a pinhole of light which i thought there was only darkness and no way of seeing light.
Mr Glasgow has been able to deal with the opposing lawyer who has a foul mouth, bad attitude and was avoiding contact with me just to be in a position to steal money from my fathers inheritance. I would be happy to endorse here Mr Glasgow as a super lawyer who has a firm hold of his practice and understanding how the law works.
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28 Jul, 2017 by Anonymous
Handled a problem for my family and I we walked away with out a judgment. Takes his time, well prepared, promptly returns calls
We were well represented.
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15 Feb, 2022 by Suzanne raina
I've been referring cases to Merino Yebri since 2016, to both Alex and Sam. They are prompt at communication, thorough in their analyses, and fight hard for their clients. My clients, friends, and contacts whom I've referred have been happy with their representation, and they honorably pay referral fees. Highly recommend.
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13 Nov, 2014 by R g
Best legal experience I've ever had. Sam is hard working and truly cares.
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03 Feb, 2020 by Goalzenlife
He's a good landlord, and brilliant Attorney. Decent man.
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02 Jan, 2020 by G perkins
Was referred by a friend and he was great!
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31 May, 2018 by Adam
I have frequently consulted with Yasha Bronshteyn on matters related to probate litigation. Yasha is an experienced, aggressive and caring probate court litigator, who specializes in helping families when they have disputes about wills, trusts and conservatorships. Many lawyers like to handle easy, non-contested probate cases. Not Yasha. The more contentious, the more complex, the better. Yasha is a light for his clients when their families are in dark times. I refer my clients to Yasha Bronshteyn without reservation.
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26 Feb, 2018 by Nicholas
Lawsuits are complicated, draining, long, and isolating. Having an attorney you can TRUST by your side during this process is important. After having a nasty experience with an attorney who wouldn't get back to me for two weeks at a time, it was time to find someone new. With the recommendation of a trusted attorney, I found Yasha. Yasha was professional, on point, empathetic, responsive, provided sound legal advice, and made my life easier. With the help of Yasha, what could have been a many years long ordeal was handled in a year. Yasha gets the job done, will not try to maximize his earnings for your suffering, and is truly on your side while representing you. I hope I don't need an attorney again, but I would gladly use Yasha again and trust any recommendations he would have to offer. I can't stress it enough: IT IS HARD TO FIND AN ATTORNEY WHO IS COMPETENT, SELFLESS, HONEST, FAIR, and DAMN GOOD.
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15 Feb, 2022 by Suzanne raina
I've been referring cases to Merino Yebri since 2016, to both Alex and Sam. They are prompt at communication, thorough in their analyses, and fight hard for their clients. My clients, friends, and contacts whom I've referred have been happy with their representation, and they honorably pay referral fees. Highly recommend.
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13 Nov, 2014 by R g
Best legal experience I've ever had. Sam is hard working and truly cares.
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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:
-
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.
