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29 Jun, 2024 by Cmm scp3
People are nice but they don’t remember making out my Mother’s will and can’t find some paperwork they were paid to draw up. I’m going to help them out. :)
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21 May, 2024 by Trish martin
They made our Estate Planning a very comfortable situation . They were very professional with compassion . They took time with us and clearly explained all aspects of our Estate planning .
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31 Jan, 2024 by Dolores magro
FRIENDLY, WARM, PROFESSIONAL, COMPETENT, WELCOMING!
What more could we ask for? Halligan & Keaton handled our wills, living wills, and powers of attorney. I felt comfortable to ask questions but that was barely necessary since everything was explained clearly in language easy to understand. We felt we were in good hands and could not be happier that we chose Halligan& Keaton and Mr. Halligan in particular to take care of all our needs.
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16 Dec, 2024 by Rebecca calvani
Anderson Law helped my family at a difficult time when we were overwhelmed by numerous legal, financial, and health care questions. It is not easy to find a law firm with so much experience in the specialized area of elder law, and I can confidently say that they are experts in their field. Linda Anderson and her team were honest and professional and treated us with the utmost courtesy and respect.
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07 Nov, 2024 by Frank spitale jr
Linda and her team are wonderful! All of our concerns were addressed and we couldn’t have asked for anything more.
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22 Aug, 2024 by David bender
Thoughtful, thorough, and kind folks - Anderson Elder Law helped my family think through (and then drafted on our behalf) legal documents for our unique, somewhat complicated family situation. They then made signing and notarizing the documents at their office simple and efficient, while taking time to clearly answer every question we had along the way.
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24 Jan, 2024 by Michael coyle
22 Dec, 2023 by Phillip
Steve is a great guy I have known him 28 yrs he came threw and helped me in a way no one would or could of when I needed help so glad an proud to know him thanks Steve your the best
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13 Nov, 2023 by Michael vincent tedesco
Hands down the very best lawyer in Delco. Case dismissed! Thanks Mr. Shukraft!
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19 Jan, 2025 by Iggiey nicoletto
Amazing firm! Meaghan did a fantastic job in helping me get what I needed said and done. Also, Heather was extremely great with communication and helping me understand things. Would recommend to anyone!!
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17 Dec, 2024 by Tiffanie demby
21 Nov, 2024 by Dimitrius ince
I highly recommend Coarrocchi Law for anyone in need of legal services. Throughout my case, Meaghan demonstrated exceptional professionalism, dedication, and legal expertise. Meaghan took the time to explain every step of the process, making sure I understood my options and felt confident in the decisions being made. Meaghan was responsive, patient, and always had my best interests in mind. Thanks to Meaghan’s hard work and strategic thinking, we achieved a favorable outcome. I couldn’t be more grateful for the support and representation I received!
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26 Aug, 2023 by Paul anthony
17 Mar, 2019 by Derek's world
16 Nov, 2015 by Kelly
Mark has represented our family on a few occasions. Most recently, Mark is handling my mother's estate. What I like the most about Mark and the Barnard, Mezzanotte, Pinnie and Seelaus law firm is the kind of personal service you receive. This is not your typical law firm. The attorneys are kind, thoughtful, experienced, and well respected in their field and the community. You find outstanding attorneys who charge fair and reasonable prices for reliable representation. Mark and his legal team also handled my uncle's estate and the entire process was explained to me clearly and I was kept in the loop through the entire process. We will be using Mark and his team to handle our estate planning needs as well. I would highly recommend Mark Pinnie and his firm, Barnard, Mezzanotte, Pinnie and Seelaus, to anyone seeking great attorneys who truly care about their clients.
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11 Jul, 2024 by Lauren
27 Jun, 2024 by Shelby white
16 Dec, 2023 by Hannah grant
12 Oct, 2024 by Harriet
Looking back at legal documents & finally purging things from when I was a young widow 18 years ago reminds me that I couldn't have navigated through the system to establish a trust for my young child & handle the legal aspects of the responsibilities I was left to manage when my husband passed without Mr. Todd Bales. He helped me tremendously to keep my life as simple & on track as possible in my time of grief. . Thank you.
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08 May, 2012 by Thomas
I had a dispute with a partner and Todd handled my part of the case. He got me the best deal. He worked on my behalf and got me to keep focused on the situation and to take the emotions out of the case. Todd got me to compromise when I need to even though it was lost business and revenue for himself. Thank you Todd
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02 May, 2012 by E. j.
Mr. Bales is well versed in personal injury law and has been very thorough and responsive while handling my case. I would not hesitate to recommend him.
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26 Apr, 2020 by Kendall
To say I was overwhelmed with a legal situation my business had become entangled in is an understatement. Hiring Lindsey was the best decision I could have made! She was extremely knowledgable, understanding, and responsive to my needs. Whether it was a small or large question via email or phone, she was never too busy to assist me. Not only did she do a great job with settling the situation, but she took an immense amount of stress off of myself and my business so I could focus on my current jobs and staff. I've continued to use Lindsey's services for my real estate business, and am happy to have her expertise on my side.
Thank you Lindsey!
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23 Apr, 2020 by Rich
Lindsey is one of the best communicators I've worked with. From the first conversation, I felt Lindsey was very welcoming, cared about helping me, and that she was an expert in her field. She ended up offering me some much-needed guidance on what steps to take, and now I feel a lot more confident about how to proceed on our real estate transaction. I'm so incredibly thankful!
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04 Jan, 2018 by Taisha bartolomei
Lindsay helped us close on our new home in less than 30 days!!! She was so thorough and so professional! She really evaluated all aspects of the purchase and guided us in the best direction. She told us she would handle it all and she did that and more!!! So educated in what she does and has a great personality!! Thank you Lindsay! I would definitely recommend her to my friends and family.
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19 Dec, 2016 by Monica
Mr. Maroto was extremely professional, knowledgeable and helpful throughout my divorce. His advice was spot on and he was able to help me solve several difficult sticking points in my divorce with creative solutions. Mr. Maroto responded in a timely manner when I contacted him and I always felt as though I was a priority. Once my divorce was final, he also helped me with my estate planning. I highly recommend Mr. Maroto.
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10 Dec, 2014 by Nelly
Mr. Maroto has been my lawyer for about two years now. He has been very responsible with all of the issues around my case giving me all of the information I needed to make the best decision for me and my family. He gave me different options and work with me to make sure I understood the consequences of my decisions. He and his staff were very professional at all times. They scheduled times to talk to me either in person or over the phone. They kept me inform at all times and reach out to me when they needed more information. They fought for me and my case to make sure I got the best possible outcome. They were always kind and understandable of my situation. I am thankful for his service and I will highly recommend his law firm.
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02 Dec, 2014 by Phil
Mike handled my divorce. Mike's service was absolutely fantastic. Divorces can be contentious between parties at times and Mike was very consistent in providing sound advice and helped me maintain perspective-keeping me centered/focused on the outcome. His business background serves as a great advantage when negotiating the asset and property split. He is a skilled strategist who keeps the client's first. His fee structure is very fair- especially when you consider the team you get working for you. Mike is interested in getting closure to the legal process- not stretching the process out.
Mike also advised me on some additional personal matters which I appreciated immensely.
Lastly- Mike is just simply a nice guy to work with. Not your stereotypical lawyer personality.
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30 Aug, 2022 by Brett
I retained Aimee around 2 years ago after working with 2 attorney previously. Aimee has completely exceeded my expectations in multiple court hearings and ongoing disputes with support/custody. The anxiety surrounding these events can be considerable but I have felt completely at ease and comfortable knowing that Aimee is handling my case. Her communication is timely and concise. Billing is more than fair. And her preparation for court proceedings is excellent. I would highly recommend Aimee to anyone in need of family law counsel.
-Brett
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12 Jul, 2019 by Anonymous
I worked with Aimee on a very challenging divorce case that could have easily taken years to come to a conclusion. Aimee was not only timely in her responses to myself but I genuinely felt like she understood how challenging the situation was and that she was invested in supporting my case.
Ultimately, Aimee was able to utilize her experience and intellectual capital to find a way to get the divorce resolved even under the most difficult circumstances. I owe her many thanks and would highly recommend working with her for any needs you have.
Thank you again Aimee! You are amazing!
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18 Apr, 2017 by Paul & barbara
We have been using Aimee since 2006 when we first contacted her to obtain custody of our grand daughter. In that time she has provider execellent services to us in obtaining custody, getting the father to provide child support and eventually in getting the father and mother to finally give up their parental rights so that we could adopt her. Aimee also helped us in preparing our wills so that all our childern, both natural and adopted, would be equitably taken care of when we died. She also helped in setting up the legal and medical care of my wife's physically and mentally challenged younger brother. The latest service was in making changers to our wills when my wife's sister died. If you need a lawyer who is caring, capabile, friendly and professional then we strongly recommend that you look into the services that Aimee can and will provide.
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25 Nov, 2018 by Anonymous
Attorney Hoppe is my attorney and is an honest professional who listens to my concerns and addresses them.He is a man of integrity who has been a tremendous help in a very difficult situation. I highly recommend Attorney Hoppe.
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23 Mar, 2017 by Jp
Ted Hoppe is exactly what you want in a family law attorney. He is fair and honest and has no fear about telling his clients the truth, even if it's not what they want to hear. His staff is friendly, sympathetic and caring. I've been working with Ted in my divorce and custody case for over two years. He has treated us like we are part of his family, been available at all hours for emergencies and has kept my child's interests as a priority. He hasn't forgotten a single detail about my case and has been there when we needed him. His focus, legal expertise and knowledge of the judges and courts makes him invaluable. One thing I really like about Ted Hoppe, versus other attorneys, is he truly listens. Not just to his clients, but to the judges, to the other attorneys, and has this uncanny ability to cut through everything down to the issues at hand.
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14 Jan, 2014 by Anonymous
Ted is very wise and is a no nonsense kind of guy. He has high moral standards and really cares about his clients. I had two terrible attorney's before I was recommended to Ted Hoppe. What a difference! I would recommend him to anyone! You can't go wrong with Ted Hoppe.
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25 Jul, 2019 by Sheila
It’s not often a guest speaker keeps my full attention during a hour, and half lecture. If you ever have the pleasure of listening to Ms. Anderson speak, on how to interpret the law with the aging population. I highly recommend to take advantage of Linda’s many years of experience and professionalism. Thank you Linda, for making me understand Ethics in Dementia. I hope to get invited to another time you speak.
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30 Apr, 2019 by Erin
Linda is an exceptionally compassionate and highly competent lawyer. She takes the time necessary to make you comfortable and to educate you on the options available to you and your loved ones.
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15 Aug, 2018 by Harry and chris
My wife and I heard of this great firm through a lawyer at my union. We met with her in Media in 2017 and had a complete set of Elder Wills, POA/Executor and Living Wills created. Apparently some people have different priorities in life such as cruises and sports games. We feel that it is wise to really examine our retirement years, where our assets will go and to have this Elder Will Kit for the eventual healthcare and finally our physical repose all set-up. This firm is not inexpensive. Nothing of value in life is. One saves to be able to have work done by this award winning firm.
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24 Apr, 2019 by Anonymous
What can I say? My case was complicated . I relocated from a different state to Pa in a messy custodial matter where I was seeking 50/50 VS. what I currently had (Partial Physical Custody ) and Craig crafted the right strategy with how to approach the Chester County Judicial system and my case. Let’s face it, it’s not easy for Fathers. (Especially for those that are comming from a different state) Craig’s strategy humanized me in the eyes of the court and thus was granted what only 14 percent of Fathers have in this state : 50/50 Custody. I will forever be grateful . If you want actual results , hire this lawyer .
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12 Nov, 2014 by Julie
Craig is so awesome, (understated), and took over my very complicated high income Child Support/Custody Case. He was well informed, motivated and results driven. He was extremely knowledgeable, passionate and articulate. He put things into perspective for me, and as a result, the results were highly in my favor, thanks to Craig's expertise and skill and knowledge. He is trustworthy, respectful, and well educated in the area of family and support law. I highly highly recommend him. Other lawyers were not able to understand my case as well as Craig. He charges fair fees and really works for your money. He saved me from a bad outcome and turned things around for me and my daughter!
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29 Sep, 2008 by Anonymous
He's the greatest. Sincere. Non-judgemental. Honest. Results driven. Compassionate. Highly recommend him and his firm.
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12 Apr, 2016 by John
Tom and his team did a great job helping me prepare my will and also helped me to frame my thinking around the successor-ship of my business.
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04 May, 2015 by Carolyn
Tom was considerate and caring during this difficult process. He was easy to work with, he has a pleasant mannerism. Tom is a true professional taking the time to explain the legal nuances. His knowledge inspired confidence in me as he guided me through the process patiently clarifying it. He is responsible and trustworthy and works efficiently. The staff are pleasant and welcoming. I could always reach him when I needed to. I highly recommended him to many of my friends.
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07 Apr, 2020 by Mike
I had the privilege of utilizing Mr. Bottiglieri recently and was very great full for his services. He was able to provide the positive outcome in my situation. I wouldn't hesitate to call his office to get his legal advice for your matter.
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30 Dec, 2019 by Jason
I had a property that I was renting for quite a while close to 8 years making no money on it and dreaded foreclosure. When I finally reached the point that I needed to give up on it I did an internet search because I did not nowhere to turn. I came across Steven bottliglieri. He had some pretty good reviews and I thought I would give him a shot. He was able to adjust my foreclosure to the time frame that I needed. I feel that his pay rate was very reasonable. He often took emails and calls without charging me. Now after 3 years, my choice to prolong the foreclosure, he not only settled my claim completely without any further pay to the bank. I feel like he always answered my questions and he was always able to work with me when I had a little trouble switching jobs and needed to work out a payment plan. I never met him which I know is a scare for a lot of people but I will tell you he did everything he told me you would do and I feel like a little more I will always recommend him. -MJB
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25 Feb, 2016 by Mike
I hired Alice to handle my divorce. From the consultation to the final paperwork the professionalism in which she worked through everything was mind blowing. Prompt replies to e-mails and phone calls. She kept me informed every step of the way. She made sure I understood everything that was being done and even more importantly that I was OK with the steps being taken. She cared about what the best outcome of my divorce would be and not just finishing another case. I have another Civil matter that I will be discussing with her and look forward to working with her again.
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23 Oct, 2015 by Jeanine
Alice Miller handled my divorce. She's given me advice on a few matters and every time I needed her help she was prompt in responding to me. She met with me a few times to go over my paperwork. She explained everything clearly, in real English now lawyer speak, and was kind enough to handle interaction with my ex.
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06 Apr, 2012 by Anonymous
Rob did pro bono work for me for just one hearing and he sure didn't have to do what he did for me and my family. Oh but how he helped us in that one day. I found Rob to be compassionate, brilliant, clever, and really experienced and knowledgeable in a court room. We will never forget how he helped us. We are forever grateful. Most attorneys would not have bothered to give us their best in our situation the way Rob did.
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12 Mar, 2018 by Philip
Kelsey handled my case professionally and competently and got me a fair and equitable result. She handled my case in the most efficient, cost effective way possible and was always available for any questions or concerns I had. I would highly recommend.
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04 Feb, 2015 by Anonymous
William Bonner has been extremely helpful in providing me with legal advice and counsel when I was given the responsibility of Power of Attorney for both my brother-in-law and sister-in-law about 2 1/2 years ago. I had no prior knowledge what this entailed and I knew Mr. Bonner through a mutual friend and sought his help in performing the duties as a POA. Within a short period of time, both family members died and I became the Executrix for the Estate which required a tremendous turnover in paperwork and added responsibilities that were unfamiliar and a bit overwhelming at times. Stocks and bonds had to be sold, untold trips and meetings with bankers, telephone conversations with brokers, insurance companies, and then the eventual sale of the home and its contents. The deed to the home was rather unusual and could have affected the agreement of sale, but Mr. Bonner rooted out the problem and used his legal skills to bring about a satisfactory conclusion for all parties at settlement.
In addition, Mr. Bonner has represented my husband and myself recently in a legal matter with former tenants and has brought about a good and fair resolution to the matter. Because of Mr. Bonner's patience, legal expertise, counsel, and integrity, I would recommend him.
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11 Apr, 2013 by Grace
John Neumann Hickey, Esq. has my vote for being the number 1 defense attorney in Delaware County, PA! John has the knowledge, experience education, and background to defend your case, especially in the Delaware County Justice Court System! I was very lucky to have found him through a recommendation from an attorney friend and will forever be grateful for his outstanding legal services! I never realized how complicated, costly and time consuming the legal system can be; this was my first time I was charged and arrested for any criminal matter. Without John Neumann Hickey, Esq., by my side defending me, I do not believe I would have been found NOT GUILTY of all the felony charges I was facing! FYI He is a no-nonsense attorney and I assure you, John Neumann Hickey, Esq., is worth every penny if you decide you want to hire the best attorney around in Delaware County, PA to defend your legal case!
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04 Feb, 2015 by Greg
Conal is committed to vigorously protecting the rights of victims harmed by others' wrongdoing. He enjoys a wealth of experience as a highly skilled trial lawyer. Equally importantly, he unfailingly demonstrates both a keen compassion toward his clients and impeccable ethical standards. Put simply, you want Conal as your lawyer , and in your corner...In my opinion, he is a leader amongst the trial attorneys in Pennsylvania, not only because he is an extremely accomplished litigator but also because he gets successful results !!!!
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18 Sep, 2024 by Michael etling
Russell Law was extremely helpful with my parent’s estate. Thank you.
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28 Jun, 2024 by Lauren stenson
Addison was wonderful to work with and made this process simple and easy. He listened to us and provided us with professional advice and information that was easy to understand. He created a customized estate plan for my family which gives me a peace of mind! Thank you Addison and everyone at Russell Law!
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06 Jun, 2024 by Kathy millaway
Ken Russell and his staff are very helpful and knowledgeable. Very easy and pleasant to work with. I would recommend them to anyone looking for an estate attorney.
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10 Sep, 2020 by Sterling stacker
Positive outcome With both support and custody cases
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22 Nov, 2019 by Andrew saksa
Great attorneys had a great experience working with them for years. Highly recommend their legal services.
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27 Aug, 2016 by Squirrelly temple
19 May, 2017 by Jack
Mr. Black is not only an amazing lawyer but is truly a caring person. I came to him after seeing another bankruptcy lawyer. What a difference! He was honest, clear, professional, compassionate and thorough. The other lawyer had been vague and did not communicate well with me about the next steps. But Mr. Black took the time to answer all my questions. He saved me from a terrible situation financially and understood that good people sometimes get in a bad place and deserve a fresh start. He gave me that and I will be forever jackgrateful to him and his staff. There is no one better!
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01 Oct, 2015 by William
Mr Black handled my chapter 7 case. I was made aware of all of my options. Everything was explained to me before the proceedings I was always made aware of all things beneficial to my case. I have used him before and because of my experience with him I knew it would be good for me to use him again. Very professional and polite.
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25 Aug, 2015 by Dorothy
Mr Black and his staff are professional, courteous and prompt. My case went on for almost 4 years and it was the most difficult and stressful time of my life. Mr. Black informed me of all my options and pointed me in the right direction when my judgement was less than ideal due to financial, physical and emotional hardship. Thank you Mr Black, Marissa and all the office staff at Black, Stranick and Cella....you are all top notch professionals!
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23 Jun, 2024 by Scarlett sassoon
22 Apr, 2024 by Randy r
John and Shane are great attorneys. I would highly recommend them for any of your lawyer needs.
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22 Jan, 2024 by Michael deliberato
Words can’t describe the level of service that John provided to me. Everything that I needed was handled promptly and efficiently. John is the go to guy for anything legal! Would 100% recommend him to anybody
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12 Jan, 2021 by Anonymous
Joe was able to help me out on short notice with a business contract; he was very knowledgable and able to work with my needs. Will consult with him in the future on other projects, highly recommend his services.
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29 May, 2020 by Josh
I have used Joe on many occasions from basic contract writing to quiet title, opening probate, and fighting adverse possession case which we won. Joe and his team are extremely knowledgeable and come prepared to win. Aside from winning in the court room Joe gives you guidance along the way, always educates you on the process, and is a phone call away for any questions. As for contract law, Joe's agreements are stellar and protect our interests I wouldn't hire any other attorney for real estate matters in Philly & Delco.
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23 Jan, 2016 by Anonymous
He was very informative about my situation & has helped make a difficult decision easier. He gave me the pro's & con's of what could transpire.
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14 Jul, 2016 by Robert
Ms. Moscow was very attentive and available during a particularly challenging legal battle. She fought hard for me, answered emails, made phone calls, stayed engaged with opposing counsel, and had a good relationship with the judicial appointees. I had a good outcome and I would recommend her without hesitation.
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19 Mar, 2016 by Anonymous
Jean and her office are kind and extremely helpful. Jean has a great sense of human decency and compassion as a lawyer. She even let me pay her monthly without adding interest. When we were in court, she always wanted to get in and out, so as to not waste my money. She is not extremely aggressive, but I appreciated this about her in the end because it made me realize how much better we looked on our end, as opposed to my ex's slimy lawyer who wanted to soak him up for every little penny he had.
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08 Mar, 2016 by Theresa
Jean was a tremendous help during the long road that ended in my divorce. It was a frustrating and complicated matter. Her knowledge of the law and of the inter-workings of Delaware Country courts was invaluable. I would highly recommend her in any and all family law matters.
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19 Jan, 2025 by Jeff berends
Mark Much just won a case last week for our 84 year old father, who was charged with murder in a 50 year old cold case. Just a crazy complicated case with boxes and boxes of old evidence, a coerced confession, a jailhouse 'informant'. You could literally make a movie from this case - and if you do, you want Mark Much to play Mark Much because he is the absolute GOLD STANDARD at everything he does. Mark and his firm are all amazing, caring people too. Just can't say enough about Mark, who we now call St. Mark in our household. We are forever in his debt.
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19 Sep, 2024 by Michael jones
30 Aug, 2024 by Billy jones
Beth did an amazing job with my case. She was there for me every step of the way. She showed compassion and extensive knowledge and answered all questions throughout the whole case. I’ll be forever grateful of all the help she gave.
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04 Nov, 2024 by Jacqueline carrera
Mr. McIntosh handled my divorce over the past 2 years, he was professional, had great communication and fought for what I deserved throughout the entire process. I would recommend him 100 times over. He made a difficult process smooth and easy and truly had my best interest in mind.
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18 Sep, 2024 by Immanuel gilbert
23 Jul, 2024 by Elizabeth fetrow
Joe is a dedicated, passionate lawyer. He is professional and he helps find the perfect solution for his clients insuring the welfare of the child (children). I highly recommend Joe.
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25 Sep, 2024 by Chris siddons
05 Apr, 2024 by Jacqueline whipple
Siddons law office gets straight to the point !!! I love a lawyer that gets straight to it. Oh and Izak E. you’re awesome !!!!
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29 Mar, 2024 by Joseph karpinski
Michael and his team (namely, Heath Isaacs) handled the paperwork and the bankruptcy hearing (which I have just finished) professionally. All was done on time. I will leave another review when the bankruptcy is settled.
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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.
