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11 Oct, 2024 by Ed tiedemann
Paul's knows what is doing and get the job done. I could not recommend him more highly.
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10 Jul, 2024 by T.j. muro
I am deeply disappointed with my experience at Cona Elder Care Law Firm. I contracted this firm to create a trust for my parents, but the entire process felt more like a business transaction than a genuine effort to assist with our family's needs. The costs initially presented were significantly lower than what I was ultimately billed. They seemed to initiate unnecessary back-and-forth emails and conversations, likely to inflate their billable hours, especially when the mistakes were theirs.
Despite charging tens of thousands of dollars to assist with a Medicaid application, the first application was denied under their guidance. We had to reapply, and despite months of work, we essentially had to start over and pay twice for the same service.
The most troubling part was after a year and a half when my parents finally had their affairs in order. Once everything was settled, the firm had the audacity to charge me for my siblings' inquiries about removing me as a trustee. This caused significant strain on our family, further compounded by the firm's opportunistic billing practices.
It's disheartening to see a firm prioritize profits over genuinely helping families. I would strongly advise against using Cona Elder Care Law Firm if you are looking for a compassionate and transparent experience. Their primary motivation appears to be maximizing their own profits, often at the expense of vulnerable elderly clients and their concerned children.
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10 Jul, 2024 by Jayson mintz (mintyfresh18)
Was able to get one of my tickets dismissed and the others severely lowered. Very satisfied
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11 Oct, 2024 by Ed tiedemann
Paul's knows what is doing and get the job done. I could not recommend him more highly.
Read more
10 Jul, 2024 by T.j. muro
I am deeply disappointed with my experience at Cona Elder Care Law Firm. I contracted this firm to create a trust for my parents, but the entire process felt more like a business transaction than a genuine effort to assist with our family's needs. The costs initially presented were significantly lower than what I was ultimately billed. They seemed to initiate unnecessary back-and-forth emails and conversations, likely to inflate their billable hours, especially when the mistakes were theirs.
Despite charging tens of thousands of dollars to assist with a Medicaid application, the first application was denied under their guidance. We had to reapply, and despite months of work, we essentially had to start over and pay twice for the same service.
The most troubling part was after a year and a half when my parents finally had their affairs in order. Once everything was settled, the firm had the audacity to charge me for my siblings' inquiries about removing me as a trustee. This caused significant strain on our family, further compounded by the firm's opportunistic billing practices.
It's disheartening to see a firm prioritize profits over genuinely helping families. I would strongly advise against using Cona Elder Care Law Firm if you are looking for a compassionate and transparent experience. Their primary motivation appears to be maximizing their own profits, often at the expense of vulnerable elderly clients and their concerned children.
Read more
10 Jul, 2024 by Jayson mintz (mintyfresh18)
Was able to get one of my tickets dismissed and the others severely lowered. Very satisfied
Read more
11 Oct, 2024 by Ed tiedemann
Paul's knows what is doing and get the job done. I could not recommend him more highly.
Read more
10 Jul, 2024 by T.j. muro
I am deeply disappointed with my experience at Cona Elder Care Law Firm. I contracted this firm to create a trust for my parents, but the entire process felt more like a business transaction than a genuine effort to assist with our family's needs. The costs initially presented were significantly lower than what I was ultimately billed. They seemed to initiate unnecessary back-and-forth emails and conversations, likely to inflate their billable hours, especially when the mistakes were theirs.
Despite charging tens of thousands of dollars to assist with a Medicaid application, the first application was denied under their guidance. We had to reapply, and despite months of work, we essentially had to start over and pay twice for the same service.
The most troubling part was after a year and a half when my parents finally had their affairs in order. Once everything was settled, the firm had the audacity to charge me for my siblings' inquiries about removing me as a trustee. This caused significant strain on our family, further compounded by the firm's opportunistic billing practices.
It's disheartening to see a firm prioritize profits over genuinely helping families. I would strongly advise against using Cona Elder Care Law Firm if you are looking for a compassionate and transparent experience. Their primary motivation appears to be maximizing their own profits, often at the expense of vulnerable elderly clients and their concerned children.
Read more
10 Jul, 2024 by Jayson mintz (mintyfresh18)
Was able to get one of my tickets dismissed and the others severely lowered. Very satisfied
Read more
11 Oct, 2024 by Ed tiedemann
Paul's knows what is doing and get the job done. I could not recommend him more highly.
Read more
10 Jul, 2024 by T.j. muro
I am deeply disappointed with my experience at Cona Elder Care Law Firm. I contracted this firm to create a trust for my parents, but the entire process felt more like a business transaction than a genuine effort to assist with our family's needs. The costs initially presented were significantly lower than what I was ultimately billed. They seemed to initiate unnecessary back-and-forth emails and conversations, likely to inflate their billable hours, especially when the mistakes were theirs.
Despite charging tens of thousands of dollars to assist with a Medicaid application, the first application was denied under their guidance. We had to reapply, and despite months of work, we essentially had to start over and pay twice for the same service.
The most troubling part was after a year and a half when my parents finally had their affairs in order. Once everything was settled, the firm had the audacity to charge me for my siblings' inquiries about removing me as a trustee. This caused significant strain on our family, further compounded by the firm's opportunistic billing practices.
It's disheartening to see a firm prioritize profits over genuinely helping families. I would strongly advise against using Cona Elder Care Law Firm if you are looking for a compassionate and transparent experience. Their primary motivation appears to be maximizing their own profits, often at the expense of vulnerable elderly clients and their concerned children.
Read more
10 Jul, 2024 by Jayson mintz (mintyfresh18)
Was able to get one of my tickets dismissed and the others severely lowered. Very satisfied
Read more
11 Oct, 2024 by Ed tiedemann
Paul's knows what is doing and get the job done. I could not recommend him more highly.
Read more
10 Jul, 2024 by T.j. muro
I am deeply disappointed with my experience at Cona Elder Care Law Firm. I contracted this firm to create a trust for my parents, but the entire process felt more like a business transaction than a genuine effort to assist with our family's needs. The costs initially presented were significantly lower than what I was ultimately billed. They seemed to initiate unnecessary back-and-forth emails and conversations, likely to inflate their billable hours, especially when the mistakes were theirs.
Despite charging tens of thousands of dollars to assist with a Medicaid application, the first application was denied under their guidance. We had to reapply, and despite months of work, we essentially had to start over and pay twice for the same service.
The most troubling part was after a year and a half when my parents finally had their affairs in order. Once everything was settled, the firm had the audacity to charge me for my siblings' inquiries about removing me as a trustee. This caused significant strain on our family, further compounded by the firm's opportunistic billing practices.
It's disheartening to see a firm prioritize profits over genuinely helping families. I would strongly advise against using Cona Elder Care Law Firm if you are looking for a compassionate and transparent experience. Their primary motivation appears to be maximizing their own profits, often at the expense of vulnerable elderly clients and their concerned children.
Read more
10 Jul, 2024 by Jayson mintz (mintyfresh18)
Was able to get one of my tickets dismissed and the others severely lowered. Very satisfied
Read more
11 Oct, 2024 by Ed tiedemann
Paul's knows what is doing and get the job done. I could not recommend him more highly.
Read more
10 Jul, 2024 by T.j. muro
I am deeply disappointed with my experience at Cona Elder Care Law Firm. I contracted this firm to create a trust for my parents, but the entire process felt more like a business transaction than a genuine effort to assist with our family's needs. The costs initially presented were significantly lower than what I was ultimately billed. They seemed to initiate unnecessary back-and-forth emails and conversations, likely to inflate their billable hours, especially when the mistakes were theirs.
Despite charging tens of thousands of dollars to assist with a Medicaid application, the first application was denied under their guidance. We had to reapply, and despite months of work, we essentially had to start over and pay twice for the same service.
The most troubling part was after a year and a half when my parents finally had their affairs in order. Once everything was settled, the firm had the audacity to charge me for my siblings' inquiries about removing me as a trustee. This caused significant strain on our family, further compounded by the firm's opportunistic billing practices.
It's disheartening to see a firm prioritize profits over genuinely helping families. I would strongly advise against using Cona Elder Care Law Firm if you are looking for a compassionate and transparent experience. Their primary motivation appears to be maximizing their own profits, often at the expense of vulnerable elderly clients and their concerned children.
Read more
10 Jul, 2024 by Jayson mintz (mintyfresh18)
Was able to get one of my tickets dismissed and the others severely lowered. Very satisfied
Read more
11 Oct, 2024 by Ed tiedemann
Paul's knows what is doing and get the job done. I could not recommend him more highly.
Read more
10 Jul, 2024 by T.j. muro
I am deeply disappointed with my experience at Cona Elder Care Law Firm. I contracted this firm to create a trust for my parents, but the entire process felt more like a business transaction than a genuine effort to assist with our family's needs. The costs initially presented were significantly lower than what I was ultimately billed. They seemed to initiate unnecessary back-and-forth emails and conversations, likely to inflate their billable hours, especially when the mistakes were theirs.
Despite charging tens of thousands of dollars to assist with a Medicaid application, the first application was denied under their guidance. We had to reapply, and despite months of work, we essentially had to start over and pay twice for the same service.
The most troubling part was after a year and a half when my parents finally had their affairs in order. Once everything was settled, the firm had the audacity to charge me for my siblings' inquiries about removing me as a trustee. This caused significant strain on our family, further compounded by the firm's opportunistic billing practices.
It's disheartening to see a firm prioritize profits over genuinely helping families. I would strongly advise against using Cona Elder Care Law Firm if you are looking for a compassionate and transparent experience. Their primary motivation appears to be maximizing their own profits, often at the expense of vulnerable elderly clients and their concerned children.
Read more
10 Jul, 2024 by Jayson mintz (mintyfresh18)
Was able to get one of my tickets dismissed and the others severely lowered. Very satisfied
Read more
18 Jun, 2021 by Anonymous
I do not recommend this attorney to anyone! Terrible, just terrible! No credibility whatsoever! Not trustworthy, and never prepared! Stay away, please!
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27 Aug, 2015 by Anonymous
My experience with Ira Bezack has been a positive one. I would highly recommend IraBezack for various legal needs. I had a need for Ira to execute my fathers will. We came up against obstacles and Ira fought and won a long, drawn out case. I now hired Ira Bezack once again to assist with the sale of my home. I have total confidence and truly feel Ira is a true "gem".
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26 Aug, 2015 by Larry
I found him to be very professional and very knowledgeable about a number of law problems that I was having. He guided me step by step through a couple of big problems I was having.
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19 Jul, 2021 by Amanda
Consultation. Didn't even try to hide his disdain for clients. Exactly the type of lawyer who makes the profession look bad.
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06 May, 2015 by Michael
My two siblings and I are all on disability. Our parents created a Special Needs Trust for us, the last Trustee was resigning and there were a lot of legal issues. We were referred to Steven A. Kass, Esq.. Mr. Kass provided us with a detailed analysis of our issues and created solutions that enabled us to retain our governmental entitlements, maintain our independence, and get the most out of our trust funds.
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26 Oct, 2012 by Miriam
My husband had a stroke and is in a hospital on a ventilator. He will need care in a nursing home. I was scared that all of our savings would be paid to the nursing home leaving me with nothing. Mr. Kass told me how my assets could protected against the costs of nursing home care, how Medicaid could pay for my husband's care, and how I could later protect my monies if I need long term care in the future. I didn't think that was possible! Mr. Kass is helping me implement the plan he created to save my assets and get Medicaid for my husband. I am grateful to have Mr. Kass advocating for me.
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08 Dec, 2023 by Jim
I have been using John Rosenblatt for almost 30 years now and have never had a bad experience with John or his staff. They are always attentive and return my calls or emails on a timely basis.
John was my closing attorney on my first investment property in the 1990s and I have used him on dozens of purchases and sales over the years. I intend on using him for future transactions and would recommend him for any real estate work.
I just wrapped up another transaction with his team. Grace and Dennis were very professional and his team works very well together. His price is fair and he takes the stress out of the transaction.
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01 Aug, 2020 by Stephanie
Can I give zero stars? What a terrible experience we had using Mr. Rosenblatt as our real estate attorney as first time buyers. He gave all of the work to his paralegal (who more often than not couldn't answer our questions) and wasn't caught up on the goings on. He was also terrible at communicating with the sellers' lawyer- we were told for 2 weeks that we would be closing on the last day of our loan period, yet the sellers were never informed of this until 2 days before closing, and only because I informed them myself after getting the run around from Mr. Rosenblatt. Closing took place in spite of him, but was delayed 2 weeks and cost $1,000 more. I also had to make phone calls myself to obtain paperwork for construction done on the house in order to secure our loan. Three hours before the paperwork was due, we had nothing. Mr. Rosenblatt claimed he informed the contractor that the paperwork was needed, but when I called the contractor myself, he had absolutely no idea there was a deadline and the poor man left a job site to go to his office and send me the paperwork. We nearly lost our loan twice because of his negligence and lackadaisical attitude. Thankfully, I have half a brain, didn't listen to his BS, and did his job for him. He also charged us $60 more than agreed upon for "FedExes." Don't tell me the price if you're not going to stick to it. If anything we should have gotten a discount for his lackluster performance. Disappointed is an understatement.
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12 May, 2024 by Anonymous
Immediately after the initial consultation and well before Vivian Garrastegui was provided with documents she needed to work on my case, I informed her that the matter had been resolved, and requested refund of $4,600, the unused portion of the retainer. My initial request and follow up emails and phone call call were met with stone silence. About a month has passed, I am still waiting for a response and/or a refund check.
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06 Jun, 2016 by Chris
When my dad’s health was deteriorating and my mom wanted legal guidance to secure/protect their joint assets, I asked our long time corporate council if he could help. He highly recommended SCHNEIDER & GARRASTEGUI, the law office that took care of his elder care needs. So in 2008 Vivian Garrastegui became our elder care attorney and my mom and I were pleased and relieved to have such patient, understanding guidance. Vivian not only met with us, but she allowed us to record some of our meetings so we could share what we were planning/doing with my brother who lived in Pennsylvania.
My dad died in late 2008 and in late 2009 my mom was diagnosed with ALS. It soon became apparent that she could not/should not live alone, especially in her 2-story home. Since my home also had stairs, we agreed that my husband and I would sell our home and mom would sell her home, and the three of us would buy single level home to share. Again, we sought Vivian’s help. She gave us guidance on the sale of both houses and she represented us on the purchase of the new home.
Vivian also made sure my mom’s ‘ducks were in a row’ (Power of Attorney, Last Will & Testament, Do Not Resuscitate, etc.) so that that mom’s wishes would be followed and her assets would be distributed as she wanted (to her three children and four grandchildren). Mom died in early 2011. Everything went according to plan without a hitch.
After my husband suddenly died in January of 2014 I had Vivian make sure my affairs were in order (Health Care Proxy, Living Will, etc.).
In August of 2014 I remembered a small life insurance policy that my father-in-law took out on my husband (when my husband was born). In the early years of our marriage we took over the $33 per year premium payments until it was paid in full. I inquired and found that there was about $2,000 payable on my husband’s death. When I tried to collect this I found that the policy’s beneficiary was my mother-in-law, who died in 1989. Again, I sought Vivian’s council to successfully get through the red tape.
So, I have been an extremely satisfied client of Vivian Garrastegui for eight years now. I would, without hesitation, highly recommend her and I will, definitely, call on her again when the need arises.
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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.
