Lawyers map
>35
experienced lawyers
Filter by
07 Nov, 2023 by Carol
When a sudden death in our family threw us into the most traumatic experience of our lives, we were blessed to find Michelle to represent us in the very difficult task of establishing the guardianship of a minor child and seeing her estate through to distribution. She and her entire team walked us through this daunting journey with extreme knowledge, experience and confidence combined with compassion, caring and sensitivity for our situation. They were always available and took the time to explain each step and put our minds at ease. We felt as if they were fighting for their own family. Michelle secured an excellent outcome out of a very long struggle. We are forever grateful.
Read more
05 Feb, 2019 by Anonymous
We hired Mischelle for adoption. Everything was smooth and fast. Her assistant was professional and helpful in making sure all documents were complete.
Read more
02 Feb, 2019 by Shane
Always looked out for my best interest, and has a heart of gold...not to many Lawers have those from what I'm told. She is awesome!
Read more
06 Jun, 2024 by Lois
When I called was told they didn't handled that kind.But then they called back and helped me, so grateful. Thank you.
Read more
07 Apr, 2023 by Anonymous
Mr. Iken stuck with me for my entire case. My questions were always quickly answered and he reached out to me proactively throughout my case. Very highly recommended!!
Read more
06 Jul, 2022 by George
I just want to say thanks to Mr. Howard Iken and his associates for making my legal matter a very professional and straight forward experience. When I first spoke with Mr. Iken, he was very friendly and offered a no-nonsense approach to my case. He was very attentive and informative regarding answers to my questions/concerns and he always addressed any reservations that I had in a very timely manner. If you are looking for a professional, down-to-earth, and to-the-point attorney who has empathy at an affordable rate, then you should definitely consider Ayo and Iken for your needs.
Read more
22 Aug, 2024 by Helena
Mr. Whittaker set up my trust, he’s a very professional and caring attorney. He listened to what I wanted and handled it efficiently and with Care, I would recommend him to all my family and friends, blah blah blah blah blah
Read more
18 May, 2024 by Anonymous
It is my sincere pleasure to share the rewarding experience I had with Spencer Whitakker, Esq., with Williams & Doddridge PA. He was very professional, knowledgeable and listened closely to my needs. He had a clear understanding of my requests and completed things in a very timely, manner. I must definitely say I made the correct decision in my choice of Spencer Witakkker, in handling my interests.
Read more
16 Nov, 2023 by Arnie
Spencer and Ryan provided me with the guidance necessary to resolve an issue with Chase Bank at our initial 1-hour meeting. This information allowed me to resolve the issue without having to pay thousands of dollars that other attorneys wanted to help me.
Spencer also helped my wife and I put together our last will and testaments, living wills, designation of health care surrogates, and durable power of attorneys.
I recommend Spencer and this firm to anyone that needs help with their financial matters.
Read more
29 Jun, 2022 by Michele klein
I would personally like to thank my attorney, Jaleh Piran-Vesseh for her expertise and knowledge in elder care. My journey started from New York to Florida and she had walked me through all the difficulties and task that i wouldn’t of been able to do with out her. Her attentiveness to details is right on point. During this difficult time with my parents being so ill, she had insured confidence in me to preform my duties as a trustee to the estate of my parents. No question has been unanswered. Every phone call has been answered. I would also like to thank Amanda for all her hard work and kindness. I highly recommend Jaleh Piran-Vesseh to all in need. You will never be disappointed. Thank you Jaleh for your kindness and understanding from the bottom of my heart.
Read more
03 Jul, 2018 by Alvin au
Jaleh is an excellent lawyer and helping me to solve some issues of trust property. She always discuss and explain my case to me very patiently. She took very high responsibility to my case. Also Her Paralegal, Mary L. Andersen, FRP , has a very experienced and knowledgeable helper. Even my case is not closed yet, so far she is a lawyer I can trust. I strongly recommend her to everyone if you need a lawyer. I need to appreciate with their help!
Read more
30 Sep, 2014 by Giacomo
Adam is a VERY caring person. He handed my case where I don't think any one else wood have. The Knowledge and the research he had to ubtain for me case was just unbelieveable. I was very happy with the out come of my case.
Read more
06 Feb, 2014 by Fayez
We retained Mr. David to represent us in a Defense of Garnishment case ( Wells Fargo Bank, N.A. Plaintiff.) Claim of Exemption was GRANTED to us on January 21, 2014.
My wife and I consider Mr. Davis an EXCELLENT LAWYER in addition, he is also very friendly. His office staff are also friendly and professional. We definitely will recommend him to all our friends.
Read more
09 Sep, 2024 by Mindy cary
Steven was very polite and knowledgeable. Prices were reasonable. The peace of mind is priceless.
Read more
27 Aug, 2024 by Elizabeth roesslein
I have only good things to say about Stephen Skipper and his staff. Everyone I dealt with was friendly and efficient. Stephen went above and beyond for my family. I also want to acknowledge Cindy and Sherry. They were so helpful to me, and it was much appreciated.
Read more
16 Jul, 2024 by Judith inks
Professional and personable. I trust Stephen.
Read more
08 Aug, 2024 by Zen federal
Liz Coviello defended my daughter and me in family court intermittently for many years against a hostile counter-parent. She helped with child support, custody, stalking, injunction, and special-needs minor related issues. When dealing with the other side, who used manipulation, dishonesty, no ethics, no integrity, and did not have the best interests of a disabled minor ... Liz's ethics, integrity, and commitment to a proper practice was a breath of fresh air and a consistent sanity check. I highly recommend Liz Coviello's practice. She's formidably intelligent, she knows the laws pertaining to family court, she is reasonable, logical and trustworthy.
Read more
26 Jul, 2024 by Shan
I can't speak highly enough about my experience with Liz. I hired her for a divorce and she reassured me from Day 1 that she would fight for me and she did not disappoint. She's smart, kind, empathetic and she will fight for you when you don't have the strength to fight for yourself. We hit a few roadblocks with opposing counsel and she handled them with ease while I was losing my mind. I put all my trust into her and I will forever be grateful for her.
Look no further...Liz is an absolute queen and one hell of a lawyer. 10/10!
Read more
16 Jan, 2024 by Erica frankowski
Liz was very attentive and assertive. She was there with me every step of the way with my family matter. I would definitely recommend her to anyone!
Read more
09 Sep, 2024 by Mindy cary
Steven was very polite and knowledgeable. Prices were reasonable. The peace of mind is priceless.
Read more
27 Aug, 2024 by Elizabeth roesslein
I have only good things to say about Stephen Skipper and his staff. Everyone I dealt with was friendly and efficient. Stephen went above and beyond for my family. I also want to acknowledge Cindy and Sherry. They were so helpful to me, and it was much appreciated.
Read more
16 Jul, 2024 by Judith inks
Professional and personable. I trust Stephen.
Read more
5.0
1 Reviews
4.6
23 Reviews
23 Sep, 2024 by Lucretia
I wish I could adequately articulate how grateful I am that Ryan was recommended to my husband and me. From the very first consultation, he very patiently listened to understand and then asked clarifying questions to make sure he understood. Then, after giving us the legal information we needed, he asked us questions to make sure we understood. When we came back to sign papers, he again spent time with us that had not been on his schedule. He truly puts his clients first. We still have more to do, but I will only go to Ryan to have the work done. One thing that was so important was that he warned us that after filing our document we might get "official" looking mail indicating that there were more fees to be paid. This indeed happened and we could comfortably shred them and throw them away. If he had not done this, we could have been scammed into paying money we did not need to pay. I am so grateful that he made sure to warn us. I have such respect, trust, and high regard for Ryan Doddridge and recommend him without reservations.
Read more
22 Aug, 2024 by Helena fletcher
What a great group of attorneys to work with!! From my first call to the office and through the whole process of setting up my trust, i could not ask for a better experience, Mr. Whittaker listened to what I wanted to accomplish and he and Mr. Doddridge made sure it was all taken care of. Thanks you
Read more
24 Jul, 2024 by Tom waters
Great Lawyers
Read more
03 Oct, 2024 by Gratia smith
Howard was fantastic. He explained everything thoroughly and just made it all very easy! Hopefully I don’t need him for the same service but if I did I would definitely return. Thank you again Howard!
Read more
13 Mar, 2024 by Ron barbuto
THE OWNER LIED LOOK AT THE PICS Used Jeremy S for a case where 2 days after the case was over he was pulled from the firm due to being sick and not being able to represent. We called to talk with the firm 8 times and no call back they have no communication will take your money and never call you back
3/13/24 edit in response to the owner saying “Jeremy was not pulled” one thing the owner doesn’t realize is we referred a client who called us 2 days after my court date to ask why Jeremy was no longer working on her case then she informed us he was pulled from the firm for being sick …. Aggressive is an understatement your attorney could not walk stairs and couldn’t breathe and barely stand in court….
EDIT attached text from the customer we referred and how we found out Jeremy was released from the firm…. I have called up multiple times all I ask is for communication on your side which I have gotten none and then you just attacked me saying that I’m unhappy with the results that’s not why I’m reaching out, so please contact me for the ninth time so I can communicate with you. My time is even more expensive than Jeremy’s time, so I’m about to start billing you for how many times that I’ve tried to reach out
Read more
13 Feb, 2024 by Anonymous
If I could rate a 0 I would. That is what he did for me; 0. This attorney quoted me a $4000 retainer in 11/22 and reeled me into an alimony modification case against my ex-wife. He was supposed to represent me, and actually after $12,000 I paid him over the $4,000 he quoted me. I still had not trial set, this money was charged tome for me to submit my financials to his paralegal. He submitted no motions to compel against my ex-wife who did not submit he proper affidavits and paperwork, but charged me for 2 motions to compel he never filed. We finally went to court a year later and $22,000 later. He misrepresented me and I was ordered to pay my ex-wife's attorney $11,000 fees on top of the $22,000 I already paid him for a total of $33,000 that has forced me into bankruptcy. Then he emails me and says I am no longer practicing law, you will have to find another attorney. Leaving me to hold all the debt he put me into and received no representation for. Stay away!
Read more
09 Aug, 2024 by Robert daley
Contacted them for my wife and they came out, took info and we never heard from them again. Don't waste your time. Hire a real attorney
Read more
18 Apr, 2024 by Uspi
I highly suggest if you’re looking for a good criminal defense attorney you strongly consider Mary Catherine Campbell from this firm. She does their criminal defense work. Very professional, very knowledgeable and she keeps in close contact with her clients. Highly recommend.
Read more
01 Nov, 2023 by Caroline h.
I found myself in an unfortunate situation and needed a lawyer. I was referred to Denmon Pearlman Law, and I can say I'm very happy with the outcome of my case. It was dismissed. Walked me through what to expect. Lee forecasted the outcome of the case; it was exactly what happened. I am thankful this case didn't drag out and was handled quickly. Having a charge over your head is stressful for the average person and Denmon Pearlman Law was great throughout the process.
Read more
29 Aug, 2021 by William
Steven is trying to keep more of my inheritance then he is entitled to. When asked about it he said “it’s a wash”, and now he is ignoring my attempts to get this resolved. I completely understand why he lost his right to practice for 18 months in 2006. Hopefully it will be permanent this time so he can’t take advantage of anyone else.
Read more
02 Nov, 2018 by Charlie
Steven was great very clear and concise. Left no stone unturned and helped me through a unfavorable event with sheer confidence and outstanding res4ults. Steven is Highly recommended.
Read more
07 Jul, 2015 by Anonymous
Steven Jonas lied to me repeatedly when handling a case of my mother's estate. A Wells Fargo employee stole a significant amount of money from her. The employee was found guilty and sent to jail. I never recovered all the money stolen because Jonas lied to Wells Fargo and to me. It was astonishing how badly he misrepresented the situation. He did not tell me that his partner, who I considered my lawyer, has left the firm. He told me the partner was too busy and he was handling it. He did not file the proper paperwork to close the estate. He did not tell the bank that my mother had died. When I went to obtain other legal representation he would not send them the files. It was a disaster. My mother died in unnecessary emotional pain and confusion due to his mishandling of the suit.
Read more
07 Aug, 2019 by Michael
Mrs Hook handled my elder care issues. She is very knowledgeable and uses practical terms that are easy to understand. I would highly recommend !her and her staff
Read more
20 May, 2013 by Anita
She charged $500 for a useless DPOA, by adding three words that should not have been included. When I tried to reach her by phone, I was told by her Paralegal that she would give her the message. Of course, I never heard from her because she knows what she did is wrong and, by her mistake, it has given me great pain and suffering. I'm quite sure she's afraid I may sue her for what she did to me.
Read more
04 Apr, 2019 by Gordon
I consulted mr Carter about a business bankruptcy issue I got involved in. He spent about 2 hours talking about how rich he is and maybe ten minutes on the facts of my case. I was charged a conference fee and small retainer so he could "look into it" ... a month later I get back a one paragraph opinion that wasnt so poorly written it was not understandable. And his advice was wrong!!! I spoke with a real bk attorney and then came to find out that mr Carter isnt even a member of the bankruptcy court! Misrepresented himself the whole time
Read more
01 Jan, 2017 by Anonymous
ive known david for year and he always makes me feel "at home" when I'm at his office. He drew up my wills and handled a few home closings for me. He is very friendly and knowledgeable. I hand his card to everyone.
Read more
19 Jul, 2021 by Jugraj singh
Good lawyer I really recommend this for hiring he help me out I am dealing with almost three year ago he never give me any problem.he is solved my three case and I am really recommended him
Read more
12 Jul, 2021 by Jugraj singh
Fake lawyer wasting time for people if you ask him anything he was mad and then his assistant call you argument with you she is pretty rude.I think he only need money but don’t worry karma will see fake fake fake fake fake attorney if anybody wants to hire him please don’t waste your time and money
Read more
04 Aug, 2019 by Anonymous
Mr Rupani is an up professional attorney. We hired him to apply for a bond. He was paid the amount he asked. And never submitted the documents to court until i sent over 30 emails. He was provided all the documents prior to hiring for review. He hang up calls and used unprofessional language. He offered to return money and then he refused and did not refunded even when he never got the job done.
Read more
09 Aug, 2019 by Michael
Mr Williams and his father have been a wonderful asset to my family! His office handled my mothers legal documents and finally the probate of her will.
Read more
05 Aug, 2019 by Mary
January 10, our first paid consultation
July 6, our request to close our account
During almost 6 months, Mr. Williams worked just over 5 hours on our account, according to his statement (which we had to request). He chose to spend most of that time on our #2 priority, and almost no time on our most pressing problem. When we contacted his office during those 6 months, we were told, repeatedly, neither matter “would take much time” to resolve.
Read more
11 Apr, 2019 by Anonymous
SAVE YOUR MONEY AND FIND SOMEONE ELSE WHO WILL HANDLE YOUR CASE PROPERLY.
I hired this lawyer to handle my grandfather’s estate in Florida. I originally was not going to write a review, but am still finding mistakes that are costing us TWO YEARS LATER! The paralegal was inexcusable on how many mistakes occurred and continued to be made throughout our case. Her email responses to her mistakes consist of (“obviously one of those checks was payable to”……) on DOCUMENTS sent to CPA's!!! Constant spelling mistakes throughout which now is causing a huge headache when filing taxes. During our case, we were fighting another law firm regarding the estate and another family for the estate funds. Many gross calculation errors in the sum of thousands of dollars sent over. I was told to track things and spent large amounts of time only to be then told “well I wasn’t sure and it turns out we can’t claim those.” In addition, at the end, they divided funds incorrect and people were not reimbursed for money spent out of their pockets. Luckily, our family gets along so it was no problem for us to write the checks correctly to each other. Their response was appalling to those mistakes. Even after multiple corrections throughout the two-year ordeal, they continued to make the same errors on future documents. In addition, this lawyer will NOT fight for your side! It was obvious when we had to stick to our guns and tell them to go back and do their jobs for what was owed to our case. They were not fighting to help us and were merely trying to quickly end the probate which I assume at this point was to collect their money. It got to the point that I went to another local law-firm to check on their work at the end out of frustration and concern. They could not believe what they saw and were out right laughing at their emails jaw dropped. Unfortunately, the probate was done so nothing could be changed without a massive ordeal and money. 2 years was stressful enough for this probate I can’t put my family through anymore or myself. RUN FROM THIS LAW-FIRM OR SEEK OTHER LEGAL ADVICE TO ENSURE ACCURACY BEFORE CLOSING YOUR CASE.
Read more
28 Jan, 2022 by Amber
I am so happy I hired Milly Athanasons team to handle my car accident I got paid out full policy and it didnt take long at all.
I cant thank the team enough !!!!
Read more
09 Nov, 2020 by Anonymous
These same people need to check her out too
She is the worst unprofessional, theft I have ever come across.
She has been turned into the bar and caught mismanaging funds to pay off her mother’s house.
She had to pay a fine and her account was ordered to get involved.
It’s too bad because she got away with it without going to jail.
On Friday, the Pasco County Sheriff's Office charged Hugh Charles Umsted, 65, of Gulf Drive with grand theft.
According to the Florida Bar, the Florida Supreme Court issued an emergency suspension March 21 of Umsted law license for "causing great public harm based upon his misappropriation of at least $82,647 in client funds.
Read more
13 Apr, 2016 by Anonymous
I hired Milly and I really regret doing so. The process was literally drawn out for years with her constantly not returning calls, and mailing things to old addresses and then claiming we never got back to her. it felt like once she realized we wouldn't be a huge payout for her we lost any and all priority with her as a client. We were made to feel like a nuisance if we asked questions and even in closing the case she didn't show up to closing and I had to sign with a very rude paralegal and then when I tried to call to speak to Millie to have things explained better to me and have my questions answered since she WAS NOT THERE at the time to answer them, the paralegal was very rude and would not set me up an appointment and claimed she couldn't promise anything and maybe shed be there around this time and what exactly did I need to speak to her about. I was astonished by the boldness and rudeness when i was paying for the service and the right to ask my questions to my attorney not her secretary. She completely blew off my concerns and just told me to tell her a date to come in and pick up my check and we would be done. When i went to pick up the checks Millie was also not there, the woman was again rude and did not greet me, and I had to take her word for it that my bills and doctors would be paid and covered and request 3 times for the print out of the money distribution which she insisted she had given me and she had not. I basically just ended up giving up on pursuing my case since I was sick of it being drawn out so long and just didn't want it hovering over me anymore and I had a really disheartening experience with both Millie ( who seemed very professional and courteous in her office at first) as well as ALL of her staff. Before she moved locations and had a different woman as her help that woman stood there complaining to me about how much she wished she didn't have to work here as she was copying information for me which should have been a sign to get out I suppose. I do understand you can't always know what your staff is saying and also that these things take time and some of the time issues were on our side as well however I was left with such a bad taste in my mouth from feeling really dismissed and out of the loop the entire time that I would never recommend her to anyone else.
Read more
18 Feb, 2009 by Anonymous
Do not use this lawyer! She will take your money then ignore you. She will make commitments that she will not keep and will hide behind a well-crafted contracted that allows her to take your money up front and not do any work for you. She is definitely the wrong pick for anyone seeking responsive, knowledgeable, professional representation.
Read more
27 Jan, 2009 by Anonymous
I would strongly recommend not hiring this attorney. She lacks professionalism, is unresponsive after collecting retainer, does not return phone calls, emails or other form of communication. Search for her business listing on Yahoo to see reviews by dissatisfied clients. She does have Bar Complaints filed.
Read more
Discover the ideal lawyer
You can search a lawyer by practice area, lawyer name, city, state, or ZIP code
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.
