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18 Sep, 2024 by Caro smith
17 Sep, 2024 by Sameh yacoub
Sarah answered all our questions, she explained the process and the difference between a "Will" and a "Trust" with the benefits of each, she is great, she is a people person.
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16 Sep, 2024 by Julie miramonti
13 Jul, 2024 by Stephanie mann
Traci is an amazing lawyer who tells you how it is and works to get the best possible outcome for your case. I highly recommend her!!
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04 Jun, 2024 by Joel mcmillan
Traci and her team were excellent in handling my domestic case and resolving it as painless as possible. Very understanding and compassionate. I highly recommend TT Attorney. Thank you !
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23 Apr, 2024 by Austin johnson
Traci is the best she got my speeding ticket down and got me a great deal on my ticket with no ponits. Definitely recommend her
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19 Sep, 2024 by Leroy and linda
Judy Sartain was highly recommended to us in the middle of a two-year drawn-out custody proceeding that didn't seem to be working in our favor. As soon as Judy and her team were hired, they worked tirelessly to ensure our legal goals were met and that our Grand babies were afforded the opportunity to have a chance at a life that would allow them to prosper. Legal fees were expensive but worth the outcome! Her team was professional, responsive and prepared! She exceeded my expectations and provided every option to a desired end and success for my Family. Today I rest easy and am postured to allow my Grandbabies to enjoy a good life. A big thanks to Judy, Stephanie and the entire team.
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01 Aug, 2024 by James
We tasked Judy with a nearly impossible task, and she was innovative and aggressive on our behalf. Judy is a fighter, a winner, and an ally who knows adoption and juvenile courts better than anyone. I recommend her with the highest praise I can possibly give.
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15 May, 2024 by Ryan
We hired Judy and her team at Stearns-Montgomery & Proctor to handle the adoption process for my step-son. Judy and her team were hard-working and professional. I would highly recommend them to anyone going through the adoption process. Thanks!
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11 Jul, 2022 by Irene
I consulted with Dawn regarding questions about Power of Attorney and Trusts for my father who is 97 and in failing health.
She answered my questions and made excellent suggestions regarding his estate planning and a trust as well as disposition of his house. I will definitely hire her if we have issues moving forward.
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03 Feb, 2022 by Sherry
Our experience with Dawn and her entire team was magnificent. I have NEVER had an experience with a professional company like GA Wills. Everyone does their job with perfection. Their responsiveness is second to none. The communication both verbal and written always answers your questions. They provide more information than you thought was important and know this business inside and out. They make this process as easy as it can be. Always on time for meetings. Dawn is the expert in her field. We are so thankful that we were told about her because we live in Dunwoody and didn’t look in Marietta for an attorney to help us. And honestly, we thought we were going to spend MUCH MORE for our Trust and Wills than we were charged. Dawn will tell you everything you need to know to protect you and your loved ones. If you need their service, just call them. They really know their stuff.
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24 Aug, 2021 by Sue
Ms. Levine prepared wills, financial powers of attorney, and advanced directives for health care for my husband and me. The process was very efficient, and we appreciated that she had prepared several videos explaining elements of each document. We also liked working with someone who has been such an exemplary public servant in a number of areas.
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05 Mar, 2024 by Rick massie
Anjel Burgess is the absolute disability Lawyer ever! She is supremely knowledgeable, motivated to help, and a WINNER! My family and I are completely blessed to have had Ms Burgess on our side. She communicates well and truly cares about her clients. She was our Attorney but remains our friend well after my case was handled.
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28 Apr, 2021 by Wanda
I was unsure If I should apply for disability because I didn’t know if I qualified until I contacted the law office of Anjel Burgess. After briefly explaining my health situation the caseworker knew upfront I had a case that was worth looking into. I did not have to worry about contacting any doctors or collecting any information about my medical history. The law office handled all this for me with ease. All staff was very professional and patient. Attorney Burgess is the BEST and helped me win my case!! I highly recommend her office in handling yours.
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19 Mar, 2021 by Darnell king
My experience with Attorney Anjel F. Burgess, was/is a great one. Attorney Burgess is truly a lawyers lawyer, she makes sure she keeps tou up to date with your case and gives you the right information, at all times. Without any doubt she is very dependable, very much about her business and about your business too..as a person and lawyer. Attorney Burgess takes her "lawyer firm very serious. I am a witness. To all that seek professional counseling from an attorney. Attorney Anjel F. Burgess is the lawyer you must seek. I am proud to express, that I came out a winner because of Attorney Anjel F. Burgess and her associates. Thank God and thanks to you Attorney Anjel F. Burgess. FACTS.
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06 Aug, 2021 by Robin
Josie and her assistant Stacy are the best hands down! They kept us in the loop the whole process start to finish. If I had a question they were very proactive to respond quickly. We just finished with finalization yesterday and received communication all in the same day! I would highly recommend Josie to everyone that is looking for an adoption lawyer. The best part was knowing all the costs up front and not being surprised with a huge bill at the end.
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12 Mar, 2020 by Anonymous
We could not be more pleased with the services that Josie Redwine and her staff provided to us. We had an extremely difficult and lengthy case and her expertise was key in helping us. She was a true professional in everything thing she did and was also very personable and caring. We could not ask for anyone better. We would highly recommend her!
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10 Sep, 2019 by Anonymous
Ms. Redwine took on our adoption case when previous counsel was failing to assure the custody of our children to us from the hospital. She worked quickly and set the proper course of action. She was very diligent in reviewing the previous counsel's work and found many errors that could have possibly threatened the permanency of the adoption in the future if someone would have chosen to contest it. We are grateful that we hired Ms. Redwine when we did as her knowledge and familiarity with the whole process turned a potential huge problem into a much more manageable situation.
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13 May, 2022 by Harvey
Where to start? How about the beginning... My wife and I started a family late in life and only now were financially able to purchase our first home together. Being a huge financial decision, we also decided it was time to create our wills should the unfortunate happen to one or both of us. We wanted to protect our survivor and our now 20-year-old child.
For months we surfed in the internet and asked various friends for advice, not necessarily asking them for referrals. This is our private business and we treated it as such. We wanted to make our own decisions, not be overly influenced by others. We happened to come upon GAWTP in Marietta and read up on them, doing some research at various professional online sites too. After comparing them to other possibilities, I decided to give them a call for a free consult. The administrative/office assistant, Rachel, was very pleasant, and seemed to appreciate my whacky self-deprecating sense of humor and we hit it off (good sign). She took down the necessary information and told me to expect a call from one of the firm's attorneys in the very near future.
Well, sure enough, within a day I was speaking to Amanda Riedling, WOW...!!! She just hit it out of the park. Unassuming, pleasant, cheerful, and eager. I like that last one best. She explained in not too boring detail (lol) what to expect and that was all it took. She just made these life decisions seem simple. She and her team would do the dirty work, all we had to do was supply them with various details. Done deal. I hired them.
We scheduled an online meeting and went over all the pertinent options clients, such as us, could face. We are far from being considered wealthy. Not on fixed income yet, but getting closer every day (lol). I was supplied with links to video tutorials on not only what to expect, but how to best make the decisions themselves. Wonderfully done! Kudos to Dawn.
We've since visited their office in downtown Marietta, signed our documents, had them witnessed, and actually enjoyed the entire process from start to finish. We even took our new puppy with us!
You'd think making these types of decisions would be rather agonizing and maybe stressful since they are about the end of life, however Amanda was so caring, sensitive to our needs, easy-going, so heartwarming, we just felt like we mattered. My wife and I made a great decision. You can too.
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06 May, 2022 by Bob & karen
Since It had been 19 years since we had our wills, POAs, and ADs drawn up and in that time our attorney had retired and transferred our files, with our permission, to another attorney – we decided it was time to update our documents. Our only problem was the attorney that had our files was no longer in practice. A diligent search for a new law firm was begun and after reviewing numerous firms and their reviews, my wife and I chose Georgia Wills, Trusts, & Probate Law Firm LLC. It was a good choice. One phone call, identifying what we wanted to accomplish; a “Zoom” meeting introducing Amanda Riedling, Partner, to confirm our goals and another to review and confirm the contents of the draft documents she had presented so the final documents could be created, followed by a meeting at the office to sign the final documents. Amanda was great to work as were the other members of her team. They made you feel “at home” from the first phone call through the signing and beyond.
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17 Dec, 2021 by Mel b.
I would highly recommend. My husband and I hired Ms. Riedling to establish a trust and re-do wills and POA's for us. She spoke in language we could understand, was patient will all our questions, and was thorough in her approach to cover all scenarios and giving instructions. She also supplemented our introduction to the process with multiple videos that her partner Ms. Dawn Levine had produced. A top notch lawyer and law firm!
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16 Nov, 2021 by Chrissie
Mr. Burnett is absolutely the best! He listens to your needs and accommodates accordingly. Very kind and professional.
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13 Nov, 2014 by Anonymous
Michael is very thorough and knowledgeable about estates, will, trusts, etc.. He spent so much time with us going over every detail of our wills. I felt very comfortable talking with him. He is very passionate about estate planning and I would recommend him to anyone.
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07 Nov, 2012 by Casey
My firm uses Michael to prepare estate documents for our clients. We like the fact that he is knowledgeable in his field, works hard for the right result, not just a result.
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03 Mar, 2023 by Ash husak
Just I want to know.more about the practice, seems like a good and powerful , professional attorney
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03 Feb, 2023 by Ralph clark
At the age of Nineteen, I made some incredibly bad decisions and was facing possible prison time. Thank GOD, I was blessed with a second chance. Mr. Woodman is the best defense attorney around.
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29 Jan, 2020 by Jason butler
I have been blessed to have Mr. Woodman as my Attorney, so I speak from a experience that one could not find a better, more capable, kind Attorney to handle significant matters on your behalf. I am grateful that he took the time to assist me in life...and yes he cares a great deal! He comes up with brilliant ideas to handle the situation.
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25 Feb, 2021 by Bonnie
My sister died unexpectedly and without a will. We live in Pennsylvania and definitely needed legal help. After reviewing lawyers with top ratings in Cobb County, I contacted three lawyers by email. Steve Worrall responded in 2 hours. One of the other lawyers contacted me days later, and the third not at all. The initial contact was not just a legal one, but also one saying how sorry for our loss in a genuine way. Steve was able to meet with us and offer help during the limited time we could spend in Georgia. Once in Pennsylvania, any questions we had were responded to by Steve or Karen in a speedy manner. Worrall Law is tip top in my book. They made this awful time one in which I felt legally and personally supported.
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01 Sep, 2020 by Susan
I can't say enough good things about Steve, Karen and Georgia Estate Plan. They have helped my family to navigate a very challenging time of executing my father's estate after he passed away this year. Steve has been there to answer all of my questions and guide me through all of the unknowns. They also guided us through building an estate plan for our family, making the process clear and convenient. Steve came highly recommended by a close friend, and I can see why! We would recommend Georgia Estate Plan to any friends and family that need guidance in these sometimes challenging areas.
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28 Jan, 2019 by Lawson
Having been involved last year in settling a relatives' estate with nothing more than a software generated, one-size-fits-all Will, we knew we wanted something more comprehensive than that for our Estate. Additionally, we needed a clear, objective comparison of Trusts vs Wills, and which would be the best fit for us. After attending some local attorneys' introductory/free-lunch seminars, we felt far more comfortable working with Steve Worrall at Georgia Estate Plan. Without a doubt we made the right choice. We could not have completed the complex process of generating an all-inclusive Estate Plan that addresses potential issues without Steve and Karen's guidance and expertise.
Going forward, this will be our family's "go-to" law firm.
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12 Jan, 2015 by Joujou
Mrs. Jessica Gordon is a very trust-worthy person and very professional. Before I met her, I had no idea where to take my case. I had been to three different lawyers, all of whom were unable to help me. Mrs. Gordon helped me conclude my case, and it ended very successfully.
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18 Dec, 2014 by Sharon
Ms. Gordon assisted me in adopting my Mexican stepson in August 2012. We had certain time restraints that we had to meet and she worked very hard to meet those conditions which ended in the successful adoption of my son.
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10 Dec, 2014 by Marina
Jessica did outstanding job in getting green card for an international orphan with health problems.
Thanks to her my not adopted daugther can continue medical treatment without a fear being deported.
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5.0
2 Reviews
5.0
1 Reviews
29 Sep, 2024 by Regania richards
So far my Attorney Tim Bailey is Awesome 👌
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27 Sep, 2022 by Craig
Utilized O’Dell, O’Neal, Hungerford, & Blanchard for a probate process for my parents’ estate and they were simply amazing! Always on top of things, they kept me in the loop, and the entire process was seamless. They are a pleasure to work with!
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16 Jan, 2016 by Stan
Ms. Hungerford is a very caring, knowledgeable, and professional advocate and attorney. Leslee has assisted and represented my family and me in manifold family law cases. From Temporary Protective Orders to Custody Modification cases, Ms. Hungerford displayed outstanding knowledge, skills, and abilities. She works long and hard to prepare the courtroom presentation and is ready, willing, and able to take on the tough challenges in family law. Leslee is always available, 24/7, to listen, answer questions, and provide timely guidance Over the course of several years, Ms. Hungerford has become not only our advocate, counselor, and attorney, she is also a family friend. I am proud to call her our attorney and friend.
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17 Aug, 2018 by Clark
Matthew is an outstanding wills and trusts attorney. I recommend him most highly!! 5 stars indeed!
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05 Feb, 2009 by Anonymous
Have used Mr. Howard for all our estate planning and have found him to be thoroughly professional, honest and knowledgable.
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13 Nov, 2008 by Anonymous
Matt Howard is an excellent tax attorney. He does a terrific job and I would recommend him to anyone with such a need or desire.
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02 Nov, 2016 by Anonymous
I called Saeed and explained my traffic ticket; unlike the other lawyers who wanted me to hire them immediately and pay them up front. Saeed advised me that my traffic ticket was a simple expiry of tag and that i should be able to pay the fine without paying thousands to any lawyer. He was more of a physician watching out for the best interest of his client instead of a businessman looking out for the best for himself. I can not thank him enough for giving the best advice in a simple and understandable language. I highly recommend Saeed for his principles and practise of law.
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04 Sep, 2012 by Mitch
Saeed is a fantastic attorney and just a genuinely caring guy. His office is in a very nice area, and conveniently located. He spent more time with me than I've ever experienced from an attorney, and he was quick to find answers to all my questions. He handled my case extremely efficiently, and even made me laugh a couple times.
I'd recommend Mr. Mahallati to anyone. I actually picked up a stack of his cards because lawyers like him will actually give lawyers a good name.
Also, he speaks various languages. If you're in the market for a Persian / Iranian speaking attorney, then he's your guy.
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11 Dec, 2010 by Jason
This guy was the only honest guy that I talked to about my situation. He told me exactly what would happen and helped me through it. He was very professional and knowledgeable. I would most certainly recommend him to anyone needing legal services.
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19 Apr, 2018 by Dena
Mr. Prado represented me on a case where I was being harassed by a shady bill collector. He worked very hard on the case and putin extensive time and effort in my behalf. He kept my updated with the developments and offered sound advice throughout the entire procedure. In the end his fees were more than fair and he helped resolve the matter with the best outcome considering everything wer had to go through.
I am comfortable referring future business to him.
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09 Jan, 2016 by Michael
David has been great! My partner and I have just started a new business endeavor and he's made it very easy, fun and non stressful with educated decisions.
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07 Jan, 2016 by Lauren
My husband and I are first-time parents, and we were recently faced with the challenge of creating a last will and testament to ensure that our child is protected should we pass away. We reached out to The Prado Law Firm for assistance and David Prado made this task simple and understandable for us. He was very responsive and prompt in helping us get this done. We highly recommend his services! He is not only skilled at what he does, he is personable and easy to work with as well!
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16 Jun, 2015 by Anonymous
We used Stephanie to create wills, powers of attorney, and healthcare directives. She was very easy to work with and great at explaining complex issues in easy to understand terms. She respected your time and kept meetings concise and to the point. We were able to create and sign all documents in two meetings. She is very friendly, knowledgeable, and easy to work with. I would highly recommend her for these services.
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29 Nov, 2013 by Robby
Working with Stephanie was extremely easy and comforting. Stephanie became knowledgeable about our situation and shared her knowledge to bridge the gaps. She was responsive to all questions and concerns we asked throughout the process. I would recommend Stephanie to anyone who is looking to complete a will and living trust.
- Robby
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10 Dec, 2023 by William schubert
Always a pleasure working with Grantham Law.
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15 Jul, 2021 by Anthony mccarty
06 Aug, 2014 by Anonymous
I hit a very tough point in my life when we found out that a family member was taking advantage of our grandmother. My head was spinning cause we never expected something like this to happen within our family. Calling around to have initial consultations, I was treated as a billable expense, until I talked with Patricia. She gave me 3x the time on the initial consult then any other lawyer would.
After I consulted with the family and we all came to a decision that she would represent us, it became clear that she cared about us as a family versus an invoice. She went above and beyond always and did things for us that I doubt anyone else would have without a hefty bill. I can't thank her enough for rectifying what she could and even getting us with a massive law firm to finalize this battle.
I can tell you that every penny spent felt I got 5x the work I expected. She's reliable, motivated and more important she valued us. Stop looking around and call her, she will deliver!
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13 May, 2012 by Vanessa partee jackson
Ms. Caces is our dad's appointed conservator. She is a super lady, and our family trust her to make the right decisions for our dad and his 2 girls.
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23 Jul, 2017 by Anonymous
I consulted with Attorney Thompson about my parents estate in Long Island. At her suggestion, I provided her with a copy of the documents and a set of questions prior to my appointment. She was well prepared and thorough as she provided education and answered my questions. Attorney Thompson made comments on the documents before her, provided recommendations on my parents property outside the documents. She invited me to follow-up as needed should questions later arise. I did not feel rushed or "nickled or dimed." She was professional, personable and generous with her time. I will recommend her to friends and will hire her in the near future when my husband and I plan our estate. Signed, Very Satisfied Mary in South West Atlanta.
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23 Aug, 2012 by Anonymous
Mr. Maddox, Jr. was by far the best attorney I could have hired for my child custody case. Not only was he incredibly knowledgeable in the matters of family law, but there was never a moment where I did not feel that he was completely on my side. In a country where Dad's have minimal rights, Mr. Maddox made sure I received 110% of my rights. Highly recommended!
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19 Jan, 2016 by Shelley
Steve is excellent at everything he does and made our closing a breeze. S E in Marietta
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29 May, 2008 by Anonymous
Diligent, informative, caring and responsible. Could not have made it without his knowledge and guidance.
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18 Sep, 2024 by Caro smith
17 Sep, 2024 by Sameh yacoub
Sarah answered all our questions, she explained the process and the difference between a "Will" and a "Trust" with the benefits of each, she is great, she is a people person.
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16 Sep, 2024 by Julie miramonti
15 Jul, 2024 by John chandler
Hello,
I am extremely pleased with the legal services of Mr. Terry McGinn! I have worked with many attorneys before and Terry is definitely at the head of my list. He is extremely knowledgeable, communicative, has a pleasant, optimistic attitude, and gets the job done in an expedient manner at a reasonable rate. I highly recommend Mr. McGinn for your legal needs!
Sincerely yours,
John Chandler
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15 Jul, 2024 by Joel kristina
Terrence is very knowledgeable and professional. I highly recommend his legal services
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15 Jul, 2024 by T g
I had the most personable professional experience from Atty. Terence McGinn. He personally called me and was invested in my inquiry. Top notch Attorney firm, I highly recommend his services-TGore
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03 Mar, 2023 by Ash husak
Just I want to know.more about the practice, seems like a good and powerful , professional attorney
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03 Feb, 2023 by Ralph clark
At the age of Nineteen, I made some incredibly bad decisions and was facing possible prison time. Thank GOD, I was blessed with a second chance. Mr. Woodman is the best defense attorney around.
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29 Jan, 2020 by Jason butler
I have been blessed to have Mr. Woodman as my Attorney, so I speak from a experience that one could not find a better, more capable, kind Attorney to handle significant matters on your behalf. I am grateful that he took the time to assist me in life...and yes he cares a great deal! He comes up with brilliant ideas to handle the situation.
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25 Sep, 2024 by Paula seal
After seeing what our Brother’s children went through at his death we stereo get things in order for our children. John was very helpful and made the process quick and easy for us. He was very professional and friendly. I would recommend him for anyone with estate planning needs.
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23 Sep, 2024 by Thomas weisser
Team Farrell Law is a family affair, with John and his wife being top tier legal professionals. Once you are a client you become a family member, on all matters related to your estate management.
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23 Sep, 2024 by Ana reid
We loved working with the Farrell Law Firm. They were very professional and attentive to all our questions and concerns. The binder they provided to maintain everything organized and readily available is fantastic. We highly recommend them.
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26 Aug, 2024 by George alexander
Amanda Riedling helped my wife and me understand the importance of a trust. She was patient, answered all our questions, and suggested ideas concerning how to discuss our wishes with our kids. I appreciate her help.
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15 Aug, 2024 by Donna-marie rothnie
We worked with Amanda Riedling to set up our trust and loved working with her. She was patient and answered all our many questions. I was so happy with her I took my elderly parents to her to set up their wills. She again was so patient and helpful - even with my father who likes to tell stories. :) Highly recommend.
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15 Aug, 2024 by Ruth weber
Dawn Levine and GWTPF staff held our hands and offered us a stress-free journey to provide us with a trust, will and living will.
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20 Aug, 2024 by Jonathan allen
I highly recommend Kim Frye as a defense attorney. She is exceptional in every sense of the word. When I found myself in a serious legal situation, Kim guided me through the process with expertise and care. Her team also kept me informed every step of the way, which provided me with much-needed reassurance during a difficult time. Thanks to Kim's dedication and hard work, my case was ultimately dismissed. I am incredibly grateful for her outstanding legal representation and can confidently say that she is the best in the business. Thank you, Kim Frye, for everything!
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16 Aug, 2024 by T butler
If you want exceptional defense, I encourage you to reach out to Frye Law Group. Kim and her team work tirelessly to walk you through every step in the process. The communication system ensures everyone is on the same page at all times. She went above and beyond to get the best results possible. I am forever grateful for Kim's passion for helping clients and top tier defense.
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12 Aug, 2024 by Vince white
Very professional and competent. Frye Law Group helped me during a very stressful time and succeeded in getting my case dismissed.Thank You FLGroup!
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02 Aug, 2024 by Patricia swartz
John and his staff made a very difficult family situation regarding property nothing but professional and easily resolved. All my questions always promptly answered. John and his staff have been an absolute pleasure to work with. Highly recommend.
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20 Dec, 2023 by Tomma stone
Understanding and efficient. Totally trustworthy. Thanks for your recent legal work on my behalf.
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16 Nov, 2023 by Kim keheley frye
As another local attorney who is a colleague of Marla and John in the community, I very often find myself sending them cases that contact me regarding real estate or HOA disputes. They are very knowledgeable in this area and I trust them to take care of the issue.
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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.
