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20 Feb, 2024 by Randy ramsey
I have used Howard Stalling law firm for more than a decade and have always been impressed by their professionalism, ability to work through issues and attention to detail. I highly recommend this form to anyone in need of their services.
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13 Feb, 2024 by William brister
The Howard Stallings group is heads and shoulders above your typical law firm. Their services are thorough, professional, timely and most of all, friendly. I've enjoyed dealing with Beth Atkins and her partners for over thirty years. I highly recommend this firm.
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12 Feb, 2024 by Mike thompson
I have dealt with this group for over 20 years. Their support and responses have always been prompt and professional. We will continue to use the group for our legal needs. Good group.
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12 Dec, 2024 by Carmen king
This firm was very easy to work with and attentive to my needs. Every phone call and email was answered promptly. Once my case was resolved, I received an email and a letter notifying me of the outcome. I would definitely recommend White and Allen.
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15 Nov, 2024 by Renee' hanner
I had the privilege of retaining Mr. Patrick Holmes as my attorney. I received a traffic citation in NC, and being that I do not live in NC, it made an already stressful situation worse. Both Mr. Holmes, and his paralegal, Bradley Byrd were outstanding. They were knowledgeable, straight forward, honest, understanding, patient and kind. I always felt informed. If I had a question or concern, my emails were always answered within a reasonable amount of time. They truly made such a stressful situation so much less stressful, and for that I am grateful. They are upfront about what they charge, and their prices are fair and reasonable. They are truly worth every penny! On top of it all, I am extremely happy with the outcome of my case. It was better than even expected and I have them to thank for it! I would highly recommend them!
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07 Jul, 2024 by Mykenna scott
Attorney Patrick Holmes and his paralegal Mr. Bradley Byrd are AMAZING! Mr. Byrd is very knowledgeable and my initial phone conversation with him eased the stress of my speeding ticket a lot. The communication from this office is great and Patrick Holmes is one of the best lawyers around. If you need help handling your speeding ticket or any other ticket, definitely hire Mr. Holmes and his team! I am highly satisfied with the outcome that I received.
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04 Dec, 2024 by Jasmine conway
Job well done ! 🥲
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30 Sep, 2024 by Sandra hronek
To Whom It May Concern, My wife and I wish to express our sincere appreciation to Jaelah Hicks for a very professional job for us under personal difficult circumstances. Never in our lives did we ever think we would have to endure a bankruptcy situation. Ms. Hicks treated us with professional compassion, understanding, and professional guidance. Your firm is fortunate to have such a professional competent individual representing your law firm. Respectfully, Steven and Sandra Hronek
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18 Sep, 2024 by Stormy jones
Wonderful caring people and truly these lawyers are thorough and communication is beyond measure! They do everything as humanly possible to respond and be attentive to each and every client!!
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08 Jul, 2024 by Stephanie buckner
Great Lawyer's..friendly, easy to talk to.
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17 Oct, 2024 by Jessica hart
Patrick is an awesome lawyer. He is always willing to answer my questions about bankruptcy. I would highly recommend him to anyone.
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17 Oct, 2024 by Cleat (killercleat)
I’ve had the pleasure of working with Mr. Riley from the Stubbs Law Firm, and I can confidently say that their expertise in bankruptcy law is unmatched. Mr. Riley has a deep understanding of both business and consumer bankruptcy matters, and his guidance has been invaluable in helping navigate complex financial situations. From the very first consultation, it was clear that Mr. Riley is not only highly knowledgeable but also genuinely invested in his clients' success. He took the time to understand my concerns and offered practical solutions tailored to my specific needs. His experience, particularly in Chapter 7 and Chapter 11 bankruptcy cases, gave me confidence throughout the process. His approachable nature made it easy to discuss sensitive financial topics without feeling overwhelmed. What sets the firm apart is their commitment to their clients and the community. Mr. Riley’s dedication to mentoring younger attorneys and his involvement in community organizations shows that he values relationships beyond the courtroom. It’s rare to find an attorney who combines professional expertise with a genuine desire to see his clients succeed both personally and financially. If you are looking for a law firm that truly cares about helping you through bankruptcy or financial challenges, I highly recommend Stubbs Law Firm. Their experience, personalized approach, and commitment to the community make them a standout choice.
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14 Oct, 2024 by Emmett simons
Top Notch Firm from Start to Finish. Helped me get through my rough times! Can't thank them enough.
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20 Dec, 2024 by Brenda redmon
Amazing law firm! Great experience! Thank you! Hire The Carolina Law Group, you will not regret it!
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20 Dec, 2024 by Dee oliver
Super thankful for Mr. Kellis & The Carolina Law firm. They did way more than what I could've expected. Great customer service & great representation.
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13 Dec, 2024 by Javier medina
It was great, my answer came just when I needed the most. thank you Carolina law group.
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27 Apr, 2024 by David oglesby
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09 Feb, 2024 by The brotherwood insurance agency
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03 Feb, 2024 by Iv the wanderer
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29 Aug, 2024 by Scott allenspach
Ross and Richard are amazing real estate attorneys and take care of my clients! They have an amazing paralegal team including Allyson who is always on top of the transactions. Highly recommend their services for Eastern NC!
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08 Jul, 2024 by Mike wazowski
Highly don’t recommend unless you like wasting thousands of dollars.
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08 Jul, 2024 by Cat barrett
I can't speak highly enough about all my experiences with Sumrell Sugg. A highly intelligent group of attorneys that do what's best for their client, not what will rack up legal expenses. They maintain excellent contact, explain everything carefully, and ensure you understand the cost analysis in whatever action you take. Even when I need something done on short notice, they ALWAYS find a way to do it. They are organized & efficient and everyone there is fantastic.
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29 Aug, 2024 by Scott allenspach
Ross and Richard are amazing real estate attorneys and take care of my clients! They have an amazing paralegal team including Allyson who is always on top of the transactions. Highly recommend their services for Eastern NC!
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08 Jul, 2024 by Sheila hill
Unsure if the buyer's agent or the firm that was so-so....wait yes I do...I'd use the attorney again.
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08 Jul, 2024 by Shena rollins
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FAQs
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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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