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17 Jul, 2017 by Anonymous
My Father was about to have unexpected heart surgery. Like most us, unprepared for such an event, my Dad wanted a will. Mr. Lambert listen to my father's wishes and rapidly prepared the document. My Dad has passed knowing he left a life in order.
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24 Apr, 2024 by Trudy hayes
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12 Oct, 2023 by Azubuike carrington
Did an amazing Job. Thanks Ike. I’m currently a different man because of the job you did!
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05 Oct, 2023 by Orlando ismael armas quintana
Bonito lugar
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18 Mar, 2024 by Cheryl phillips
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16 Oct, 2023 by Mari nerbovig
Wow huge thanks to Anna for saving me from a terrible situation! I had a called another firm around the corner in the morning who had said they could notarize a car title for me, and when I showed up with that document at 4 PM, they said actually we can't do it! I called Carol A Newman Law Firm, talked to Anna, showed up at her door one minute later, and she got me in and out quickly and easily (and it was the very end of the business day too!) Thanks so much to Anna for coming in clutch, preventing disaster, and making sure I didn't have to cancel my car sale tomorrow. I can't recommend this office enough!
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14 Feb, 2023 by Vii vee
I had a horrible experience at this law firm! The secretary was very racist and evil. My love one had passed and my family and o needed information and she treated us horrible! We were going through a horrible death in my family and Mrs. Newman allowed her secretary to handle myself and others badly! I would never ever do business with this racist law firm!
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29 May, 2019 by Donna
El señor González y su oficina, debían ayudarnos con un caso de reunificacion, más de $ 500 pagados, dinero entregado supuestamente para un proceso inicial que nunca progresó, nos cansamos de llamar para recibir nuevas noticias y nunca nos atendían. Hasta que desestimó. Una falta de respeto completa y total, shame of you.
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19 Sep, 2018 by Daniel
10 years ago I hired Mr Romualdo for my green card petition and then to become a citizen and both of my applications were approved . It was the best choice I made for my life in the USA . Thanks to him and his office employees
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13 May, 2024 by David caballero
I have run a national company for over 25 years and have dealt with dozens of trial attorneys. Bob is the most knowledgeable and thorough attorney that I have ever dealt with. I would only recommend him when in need of an attorney in New Orleans.
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07 Aug, 2019 by J shaw
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13 May, 2024 by David caballero
I have run a national company for over 25 years and have dealt with dozens of trial attorneys. Bob is the most knowledgeable and thorough attorney that I have ever dealt with. I would only recommend him when in need of an attorney in New Orleans.
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07 Aug, 2019 by J shaw
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13 May, 2024 by David caballero
I have run a national company for over 25 years and have dealt with dozens of trial attorneys. Bob is the most knowledgeable and thorough attorney that I have ever dealt with. I would only recommend him when in need of an attorney in New Orleans.
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07 Aug, 2019 by J shaw
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13 May, 2024 by David caballero
I have run a national company for over 25 years and have dealt with dozens of trial attorneys. Bob is the most knowledgeable and thorough attorney that I have ever dealt with. I would only recommend him when in need of an attorney in New Orleans.
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07 Aug, 2019 by J shaw
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13 May, 2024 by David caballero
I have run a national company for over 25 years and have dealt with dozens of trial attorneys. Bob is the most knowledgeable and thorough attorney that I have ever dealt with. I would only recommend him when in need of an attorney in New Orleans.
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07 Aug, 2019 by J shaw
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13 May, 2024 by David caballero
I have run a national company for over 25 years and have dealt with dozens of trial attorneys. Bob is the most knowledgeable and thorough attorney that I have ever dealt with. I would only recommend him when in need of an attorney in New Orleans.
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07 Aug, 2019 by J shaw
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28 Jul, 2022 by Cindy
Never use services by Carole Cukell Neff. She billed me for her time even when I had no agreement or notification that the initial phone call consultation would cost anything. In March of this year (2022) I was calling around to find an attorney who could help me understand how to set up a trust if needed to avoid probate for my heirs. I was referred to Carole Neff and a phone call was set up. I was never told that the initial phone call or consultation would cost anything. As a matter of fact, she didn't have my street address. When I raised my initial question, she launched into a long explanation of probate in Louisiana and how laws had changed. I asked her about next steps to get off the phone call as she had talked me out of a trust in the first 2 minutes of the call. Then she said something to the effect of, "Well, if we don't proceed, then nothing, but if we do I'm definitely going to bill you for this time because I gave you a lot of legal advice." I was turned off instantly by this statement as I had not solicited or agreed to pay for any advice, and I thought that would be the end of it. But no, she send an email bill and then spent more time looking up my street address to send me a paper bill for services I didn't agree to, "advice" didn't help me. This law firm should update their practices to avoid this in the future. Bad business.
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17 Apr, 2014 by Anonymous
As a surviving spouse residing in Louisiana with a very complicated ongoing estate problem, I visited Carole Neff after years of uncertainty and lack of intelligent communication, even from hired lawyers (who charged less). While my case is hopeless legally (surviving spouses' rights don't exist without community property in Louisiana) Carole was different than the other lawyers I had seen previously. She knows how to listen, has a comfy calm demeanor and best of all, provided clarity on a confusing situation. Years of stress melted away after seeing her. When it comes to estate planning and/or woes, it pays to consult with this super lawyer.
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04 Apr, 2017 by Anonymous
Courtney Miller was assigned to my case- a hopeless one from the start: a newly wed widow in Louisiana whose husband left behind an old will, not updated to include her name. What I needed at the time (as well as currently) was to be free of an inappropriate legal relationship with my husband's sister who was executor and primary beneficiary according to the un-updated will. Courtney Miller failed to sever the legal connection between my ex sister in law and myself- two years later I'm still struggling with a major music royalty company that lumps us together. This tells me that although Courtney told me she had experience in royalty issues and she knew I was not on friendly terms with my husband's sister (duh- death, family and money), obviously not enough experience to even identify ASCAP's unusual payment and tax rules. Did she even look into it at all? I don't think so. In addition to this technical bust, I was very unhappy with Ms. Miller's communication style with the adversarial side and with me, her client. She deferred to them and told me to be grateful for the "gifts" my estranged sister in law either couldn't get (his stuff) or didn't want (his house which was called a "liability") In summary, I felt like I wasn't taken very seriously. But to be fair, how could I be in my position as surviving spouse in Louisiana whose name was not in her husband's will? We had been married only 6 months before he died unexpectedly of a heart attack. Still, I needed someone to fight for me, not have a tea party with the adversarial lawyer who happens to work in the same building? Also, another lawyer was assigned to my case as well to help out? I'm not sure why there were two lawyers instead of just Courtney Miller. But he was not in control in communication either. Courtney had a personal matter to attend to as the case was winding down and I was pushed by this other lawyer to sign papers I had yet to see the final draft of. And he had an emotional outburst on the phone with me. Very unprofessional to say the least. I shelled out over 10K to provide Courtney Miller with continuing education- a practicum. Unfortunately she was far from ready for field work. She needs to go back to school and more importantly, learn how to be strong and effectual for her clients' sake. I actually owed close to 20K for Adams & Reeses' "services" in this matter. A very expensive education for all involved with me, the widow client, left with nothing, footing the bill. Pure nonsense, all of it. What I got out of it is always research the lawyer being considered, always , always- no matter how desperate things are at the time. If you have a mundane easy to solve case which you are not emotional about, Courtney Miller might be fine as an attorney. Like dealing with a clerk at the New Orleans Sewage & Water Board. If it's something easy, chances are things will go smoothly. But any real issue, especially involving death, family and money/property- look elsewhere! Unless you enjoy being frustrated and agitated by weakness and poor communication. I'm sure Ms. Miller is a nice person but as a lawyer dealing dealing with surviving spouses not in spouse's will, she is not up to task.
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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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