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Kimberly Ki Hollingshead, experienced Business, Estate Planning attorney in Nashville, TN with 55 reviews
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23,52
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3.9/5
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3.9
55 Reviews
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24 Sep, 2024 by Gil johnson
Attorney Manson is of the highest character and professionalism.
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01 May, 2024 by Mike fascio
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26 Apr, 2024 by Intense realism
While I understand EC Law Group may not be interested in my case, I would appreciate that in the 5 minutes I talked with Emily she would have been more polite and did not sound as if she was going to fall asleep
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Andrea Jane Sinclair, experienced Appeals, Business attorney in Nashville, TN with 8 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
21,01
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4.0/5
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4.0
8 Reviews
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03 Jan, 2025 by Larhonda mclemore-cockrell
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06 May, 2024 by Katrina williamson
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10 Dec, 2023 by Ashtyn turnbow
Ms. Greene-Campbell is an excellent mediator. Very fair, reasonable, and kind.
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Max Douglas Fagan, experienced Criminal Defense, Estate Planning attorney in Nashville, TN with 3 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
20,97
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3.7/5
Avvo
5.0
2 Reviews
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1.0
1 Reviews
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28 Jan, 2022 by Abigail trott
I hired this lawyer and he did not show up for the last court date. Also never returned a phone call.
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20 Jan, 2012 by Vanessa
Max assisted us with the custody of our Granddaughter. She was with her mother and not being well taken care of. We went to Max and he assured us that we were doing the right thing. WIthin a matter of two days Max had presented the judge with our documents and they were signed and back to us in a day. Max has been such a Great help. We are currently in the process of working on our Will and hiring Max to create that document for us. I would definately recommend Max to anyone needed a good attorney.
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12 Jul, 2011 by Jerissa
ALL I HAVE TO SAY IS WOW !!!!!!! I have been lokking for a good Lawyer for too long.. I knew from the moment I spoke with him on the phone ...he was the one.... so far so good... could not feel more sercured with my choice... I would highey recommened Max Fagen.. if you want someone who to take time with you ..open.. honest... paience...
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Andre Philip Johnson, experienced Business, Estate Planning attorney in Nashville, TN with 55 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
20,52
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3.9/5
Google Maps
3.9
55 Reviews
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24 Sep, 2024 by Gil johnson
Attorney Manson is of the highest character and professionalism.
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01 May, 2024 by Mike fascio
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star star star star star
26 Apr, 2024 by Intense realism
While I understand EC Law Group may not be interested in my case, I would appreciate that in the 5 minutes I talked with Emily she would have been more polite and did not sound as if she was going to fall asleep
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Isaac Thomas Conner, experienced Entertainment, Estate Planning attorney in Nashville, TN with 55 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
20,52
star star star star star
3.9/5
Google Maps
3.9
55 Reviews
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24 Sep, 2024 by Gil johnson
Attorney Manson is of the highest character and professionalism.
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01 May, 2024 by Mike fascio
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26 Apr, 2024 by Intense realism
While I understand EC Law Group may not be interested in my case, I would appreciate that in the 5 minutes I talked with Emily she would have been more polite and did not sound as if she was going to fall asleep
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T. Leigh Hearn-Rushton, experienced Business, Consumer Protection attorney in Nashville, TN with 123 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
19,73
star star star star star
3.0/5
Avvo
5.0
21 Reviews
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2.6
102 Reviews
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23 Jan, 2025 by Donna hampton
Tara is awesome ...... They accommodate if situations come up unexpectedly always friendly and very helpful..
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17 Jan, 2025 by Jr
In a highly contentious divorce, Leigh proved to be a fantastic choice in representation. She was responsive, thoughtful, and empathetic. Most importantly, when the dust settled- Leigh was spot on from day 1 as to how my case would be resolved. My case was particularly ugly and I experienced Leighturn from fierce advocate to more like a fierce advocate who was personally offended their family member or close friend was being targeted. I would not hesitate to recommend Leigh and would insist on consulting with her for your legal needs.
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09 Dec, 2024 by Hope marstiller
I have been working with them and with any law firm they are busy but I definitely would recommend them ! Tara is super sweet and always kept communication with me through whole process . Thank you guys for everything !!
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Cynthia Ellen Gardner, experienced Estate Planning, Trusts attorney in Nashville, TN with 3 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
19,04
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3.6/5
Avvo
3.6
3 Reviews
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18 Sep, 2016 by Don
We hired Cindy Gardner of the Special Needs Law Center to do our Wills and Special Needs Trust for our daughter. We were very impressed with the way she explained everything so thoroughly and answered all of our questions. She is VERY knowledgable and took special care to make sure we understood all aspects of our future plans for our child. She even came to our house to go over the Wils with us at no extra charge and their fees were extremely reasonable. I would highly recommend this firm if you have a child with special needs.
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15 Dec, 2014 by Anonymous
She seems very good until you need her afterwards. Even named her as successor conservator on special needs trust fund. Three years later neither she nor office will return my calls or give me an explanation as to why she won't call me back. Very unprofessional in my opinion and will cost me many $$ to get her name removed.
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19 Apr, 2013 by Pamela
Cynthia was hired to handle a conservatorship and special needs trust for our disabled son and also to construct our wills. She was very helpful and knew all about laws regarding our special needs. She made sure we understood all the options and made herself available to us when we had questions and concerns. She is very trustworthy, is dedicated to serving all her client's needs and is especially knowledgeable of those with special needs. Cindy quickly became a friend to our family and we are grateful for that.
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Susan Lyell Young, experienced Criminal Defense, Estate Planning attorney in Nashville, TN with 3 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
19,04
star star star star star
3.6/5
Avvo
3.6
3 Reviews
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09 Jan, 2012 by Donnie.noland
I had Susan for part of a custody case and I would say she lacks the experience and knowledge to handle trying cases. Throughout the proceedings she used phrases like "show them we are serious" or "show them we are ready to play hardball" or even "fight the good fight" She was supposed to work on a petition to modify and handle the TRO that was handed out. She did ok on the TRO issuing, but once we got to court she was in over her head. The opposing counsel was able to steer the testimonies to their side without objections or interference. We went back to court today. During her rebuttal today she stammered and stuttered repeatedly. She asked for my help in finding rebuttal to testimony and then didn't use any of the rebuttal. She was given proof of abuse and didn't introduce it because she didn't think it would help our case. Overall I feel she lacks the confidence and ability to provide clients with objective and unbiased attorney privileges. Furthermore when we began talking outside she realized she had done poorly and I confronted her about it, she said the best option would be for her to step aside and file a motion stating thus. I immediately fired her instead so i could seek counsel immediately. During the proceedings there were 3 counts of Perjury, and 1 Judge mistake. Yet none of these were ever brought to light. Also when the judge asked Ms. Young where she stood on the preparation for the petition today, she said she had not worked on it as she was awaiting the outcome of this hearing. Upon hearing this the judge was furious as why this attorney had not began work on something even though it had been on the books for 5 months.
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04 Feb, 2011 by Anonymous
Ms. Young represented me on an extradition warrant and misdemeanor theft charges, also a violation of parole. I was very afraid that I was going to back to jail but she worked very hard to see that I did not. She didn't treat me like a criminal and she didn't treat me like a number--she treated me with respect.
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16 Nov, 2010 by Michael
Ms. Young represented me in a criminal matter. She is the first attorney who actually returned my calls. And the first attorney who really seemed to care. She didn't just go in and take what the DA offered she worked hard to negotiate the best deal for me.
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Helen Sfikas Rogers, experienced Child Custody, Estate Planning attorney in Nashville, TN with 3 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
19,04
star star star star star
3.6/5
Avvo
3.6
3 Reviews
star star star star star
20 Aug, 2019 by Michael
During a phone consult with Helen Rogers, I was sincerely polite and explained my unlikely family law situation. Ms. Rogers told me that I should have called her when I had major trouble with my previous lawyer in June 2019. I did not even even know Ms. Roger’s name in until August 2019. After Ms. Rogers stated that she would not help me, and instead of answering my questions on a referral, she cut me off, she simply said, "I cannot help you." and then proceeded to hang up the phone on me for no good reason. I was in shock as I stared at my phone. I was not rude to Mr. Rogers at all. I just wanted to ask her for a recommendation on a referral. She never gave me that chance. Before and after this call, I have spoken with over a dozen lawyers regarding my case. I was never treated even close to as badly a Ms. Helen Rogers treated me during my consult. I have no interest in hiring an attorney that has zero sympathies for someone’s plight. She treated me badly without just cause. She does not know me, so why would she not treat someone else so badly that she knows nothing about? In my opinion, Ms. Rogers’ unchecked behavior reflects badly on her firm, Rogers, Kamm & Shea. I cannot give any level of recommendation for this lawyer or her level of client (customer) service. I would never hire this lawyer, nor am I able I recommend this lawyer or her firm, Rogers, Kamm & Shea, to anyone seeking family law representation in his or her future.
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13 Oct, 2014 by Anonymous
Helen is the best divorce lawyer I know of in the Nashville area. If there was a better one I would have hired them. I was personally in divorce related litigation for years including numerous appeals. Trial after trial year after year and we never lost on any issue. In my business I work with lawyers all over the country on a daily basis in all areas of civil litigation including divorce, custody, support , abuse, etc. Helen and her team have seen it all and done it all. I did not have to pay for their education. Helen was very efficient and accessible. She worked to keep the bill down by using less costly staff as much as possible but when it came time for depositions or trial I felt like I was the only client she had. Most importantly Helen was always kept the focus on what was in the best interests of the children and very effective in obtaining that through her understanding and knowledge of the law, the rest of the players in the litigation and who the most credible experts were. Helen worked aggressively and wisely for settlement and fearlessly and prudently in trial and depositions. Helen and her team's work was the bright spot in an otherwise bad situation.
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30 Dec, 2012 by Sarah
Helen Rogers is the Attorney you want on your side in any legal issue. Her confidence and preparedness in the court room is excellent. Ms Rogers won my child support case, setting a precedence in TN.
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Terry Renease Clayton, experienced Business, Civil Rights attorney in Nashville, TN with 4 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
13,73
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3.0/5
Avvo
3.0
4 Reviews
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04 May, 2019 by Anonymous
Mr. Clayton consulted me on a bankruptcy that I desired to file. I went into his office and met with him. He advised me about the class I needed to complete prior to filing. He was very polite and courteous however he lacked professionalism when it came to follow up. I contacted Mr. Clayton several times to follow up on my next step as instructed. He was running for a political office was out of his office and unavailable and never returned my calls. I had been behind on my mortgage and other household expenses and needed legal counsel and Mr. Clayton did not provide me with the professionalism I needed through communication on how to resolve my legal matter. I would not recommend this lawyer.
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01 Dec, 2018 by Anonymous
I would not recommend Terry Clayton due to his lack of professionalism and inability to communicate effectively. I hired Mr. Clayton on an investment deal. His lack of knowledge experience and competence cost me the deal. When I expressed my concerns to his law office. Mr. Clayton suspended all communication.
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16 Oct, 2015 by Brandon
I was sued by a client for silent hung that I did not do. Attorney Clayton successfully litigated the case in my defense as a result of his expertise, the case was dismissed and justice prevailed. Since that time he has been our company attorney. I must say that in every case I have been more than pleas with his knowledge of the law. I have recommended him to colleagues, friends and family alike.
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Charles C Burridge, experienced Estate Planning, Tax attorney in Nashville, TN with 2 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
13,65
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3.0/5
Google Maps
3.0
2 Reviews
star star star star star
14 Feb, 2025 by Pete hayes
I did not have a good experience with this law firm. Did not see much results and did not feel there was much care in process. Hopefully others will have a better experience.
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01 Sep, 2021 by Stephaine spencer
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Trent North Notestine, experienced Bankruptcy, Business attorney in Nashville, TN with 102 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
11,90
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2.6/5
Google Maps
2.6
102 Reviews
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23 Jan, 2025 by Donna hampton
Tara is awesome ...... They accommodate if situations come up unexpectedly always friendly and very helpful..
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09 Dec, 2024 by Hope marstiller
I have been working with them and with any law firm they are busy but I definitely would recommend them ! Tara is super sweet and always kept communication with me through whole process . Thank you guys for everything !!
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21 Nov, 2024 by Chadwick finchum
I agree as all the other people have stated that this law firm does not reach out to you, they are unethical, they lie and submit orders that are not true and bold face lie to you in court and also outside of court. For all the violations that they’ve committed a class action lawsuit should be committed to shut this firm down.
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Don Byrd, experienced Estate Planning, Intellectual Property attorney in Nashville, TN with 0 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
11,00
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0.0/5
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Frank E. Mondelli, experienced Appeals, Criminal Defense attorney in Nashville, TN with 1 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
9,12
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2.0/5
Avvo
2.0
1 Reviews
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12 May, 2019 by Anonymous
I hired Frank Sr. For family law post divorce, I feel he was not prepared for case in contempt hearing and lost case.i called his office trying to contact him, in three weeks he did not return calls. Would not recommend him. His son by the way was very personable!
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Allison Manning-Carroll, experienced Business, Estate Planning attorney in Nashville, TN with 0 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
8,00
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0.0/5
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Garrett Knisley, experienced Estate Planning, Personal Injury attorney in Nashville, TN with 0 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
8,00
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0.0/5
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Cathryn Ruth Armistead, experienced Criminal Defense, Estate Planning attorney in Nashville, TN with 2 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
7,19
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1.0/5
Avvo
1.0
2 Reviews
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24 Jun, 2022 by Mary
I met Cathryn Armistead after seeking counsel regarding matters concerning my mother, who could not represent herself. Ms. Armistead convinced me that I needed a conservatorship on my mother. She claimed that she would assist me with the conservatorship and any matter connected to it once it was obtained. Before hiring Ms. Armistead, her level of communication was high. After being hired and after she was paid, communication almost ceased entirely. Several months after the conservatorship was granted, I hired Ms. Armistead in an attempt to seek justice for my mother, who had been the victim of neglect in an area nursing home. Once again, Ms. Armistead communicated with me regularly until a retainer was signed for services. After not hearing from her, I reached out via email to ask about a timeline for starting proceedings; I did not receive a response to my email. I then reached out to her office about the matter and was told by her paralegal that she did not know and would speak to Ms. Armistead concerning my question. I never heard back from her office and Ms. Armistead. I reached out again, but still no response. After repeated attempts via email and phone to contact Ms. Armistead, I reported her to the Board of Professional Responsibility of the Supreme Court of Tennessee. After receiving a copy of the complaint, it was only then that I heard from her by mail. I received a letter terminating our contract because "our relationship had deteriorated" This is not about a "relationship" but business. I understand that it is within an attorney's right to decide not to pursue a case. It is grossly unethical and bad business not to communicate with a client. I knew Ms. Armistead had her faults in communicating, but given the fact that it was a case of nursing home neglect of a loved one, I thought she would step up. It is inexcusable to keep a client waiting when time is wasted on helping an elderly patient (my mother) in a nursing home. Unfortunately, it appears that Ms. Armistead is only interested in obtaining new business without doing the work she is hired to do and doesn't like being held accountable, given that she terminated our "relationship" after being reported. It says a lot about a person when they are incapable of offering an apology for wasting your time and resources.
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03 Jan, 2019 by Anonymous
hired, she failed to support an innocent client, requested my case file information returned- never acknowledged the request. she sent a letter stating investigation of logistics near my residence, Never bothered to meet with me at my home, raised a concern as to the validity of the investigation. Friends and professionals questioned integrity of how the case was managed, -- rather mismanaged.
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Robert Joseph Turner, experienced Business, Criminal Defense attorney in Nashville, TN with 1 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
7,17
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1.0/5
Avvo
1.0
1 Reviews
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21 Aug, 2024 by Shelley
This firm only takes your money with no results. Poor response. Doesn’t show up or say anything at a hearing. Do not hire this firm
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Jeffrey L. Levy, experienced Appeals, Estate Planning attorney in Nashville, TN with 1 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
7,15
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1.0/5
Google Maps
1.0
1 Reviews
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28 Jan, 2022 by Abigail trott
I hired this lawyer and he did not show up for the last court date. Also never returned a phone call.
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Alexandra Hulme, experienced Elder Law, Estate Planning attorney in Nashville, TN with 0 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
6,00
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0.0/5
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William Henry Agee, experienced Elder Law, Estate Planning attorney in Nashville, TN with 1 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
4,57
star star star star star
1.0/5
Avvo
1.0
1 Reviews
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10 Feb, 2011 by Anonymous
Charged way to much for his services. He was introduced to me by a family member. I will never use him nor do i recommend him. He took advantage of his client and is very unprofessional in my opinion.
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Wessley S Inscoe, experienced Business, Estate Planning attorney in Nashville, TN with 0 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
4,00
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0.0/5
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Miller Kelly Hunt, experienced Elder Law, Estate Planning attorney in Nashville, TN with 0 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
4,00
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0.0/5
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Ramon Alejandro Cue, experienced Estate Planning, Probate attorney in Nashville, TN with 0 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
4,00
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0.0/5
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Michael Dudley Sontag, experienced Estate Planning, Tax attorney in Nashville, TN with 0 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
4,00
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0.0/5
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Rachel Fuqua Klages, experienced Business, Elder Law attorney in Nashville, TN with 0 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
4,00
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0.0/5
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Soon Young Kwon, experienced Business, Estate Planning attorney in Nashville, TN with 0 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
4,00
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0.0/5
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William L Harbison, experienced Estate Planning, Litigation attorney in Nashville, TN with 0 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
4,00
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0.0/5
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Natalie Rowan Sharp, experienced Consumer Protection, Estate Planning attorney in Nashville, TN with 0 reviews
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4,00
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0.0/5
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Donna Marie Tees, experienced Business, Estate Planning attorney in Nashville, TN with 0 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
4,00
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FAQs
Questions? We have answers

What an Estate Planning Lawyer Can Do for You

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

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

When Should I Hire an Estate Planning Lawyer?

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

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

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

What Does an Estate Planning Lawyer Do?

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

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

How Are Estate Planning Lawyers Paid?

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

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

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

How Much Does an Estate Planning Lawyer Cost?

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

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

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

Top Questions to Ask an Estate Planning Lawyer

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

  1. What is your experience with estate planning?
    Ensure the lawyer has substantial experience drafting wills, creating trusts, and handling other estate planning services.
  2. How will you charge for your services?
    Clarify whether the lawyer charges a flat fee or by the hour and ask for a detailed estimate of costs.
  3. What strategies do you recommend for my estate?
    A good lawyer should be able to explain the best strategies for minimizing taxes, avoiding probate, and ensuring your assets are distributed according to your wishes.
  4. How often should I update my estate plan?
    Ask how frequently you should revisit your estate plan, especially if your financial situation or family dynamics change.
  5. Do you offer ongoing support or updates?
    Some lawyers provide periodic reviews or updates to ensure your estate plan stays current with changes in your circumstances or the law.
  6. How will you help my beneficiaries if something happens to me?
    Ensure the lawyer is willing to guide your heirs through the estate administration process or help manage your trust after you’re gone.

How to Check the Credibility of an Estate Planning Lawyer

To ensure you’re hiring a credible estate planning lawyer, follow these steps:

  • Verify their state bar license: Check with your state bar association to confirm that the lawyer is licensed and in good standing, with no history of disciplinary actions.
  • Look for estate planning certifications: Some lawyers are certified as estate planning specialists, which indicates they have extensive knowledge in this area of law.
  • Read client reviews and testimonials: Online reviews on sites like Avvo, Google, or Martindale-Hubbell can provide insight into the lawyer’s professionalism and client satisfaction.
  • Ask for references: A credible lawyer should be able to provide references from previous clients who can speak to their expertise and client service.
  • Check for membership in professional organizations: Lawyers who are members of organizations like the National Academy of Elder Law Attorneys (NAELA) or the American College of Trust and Estate Counsel (ACTEC) often have a strong reputation in the field.

What Should I Prepare for My First Consultation?

To get the most out of your first meeting with an estate planning lawyer, it’s important to come prepared. Here’s what you should bring:

  • List of assets and liabilities: Provide a detailed inventory of your assets, including real estate, bank accounts, retirement funds, investments, and personal property, as well as any debts you may have.
  • List of beneficiaries: Be ready to discuss who you want to receive your assets and in what proportions. This includes naming guardians for minor children if applicable.
  • Existing estate documents: Bring copies of any existing wills, trusts, powers of attorney, or other relevant estate planning documents.
  • Questions about your estate goals: Write down your goals, such as avoiding probate, reducing taxes, or setting up charitable donations, so your lawyer can tailor a plan to meet your needs.
  • Information on medical and financial decision-makers: Be prepared to discuss who you want to appoint for healthcare and financial decisions if you become incapacitated.

By being well-prepared, you can ensure a productive consultation and begin building a comprehensive estate plan that meets your needs and protects your loved ones.

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