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Katherine Eisold Miller, experienced Estate Planning, Family Law attorney in New Rochelle, NY with 184 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.
48,28
star star star star star
5.0/5
Avvo
5.0
3 Reviews
Google Maps
5.0
181 Reviews
star star star star star
22 Jan, 2025 by Kevin davidson
Divorce and other major life changes are stressful and overwhelming. Miller Law Group, specifically Alex and Shara were EXACTLY what I needed. They both navigated me through completely new territory for me. They were kind, professional, responsive. I really trusted them with very important life matters and they came through for me. I can't say enough great things about this firm.
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18 Jan, 2025 by Ash dev
I can’t thank Shara Goldfarb and the Miller Law Group enough for their incredible support during my divorce. Shara’s expertise and empathy were unmatched as she guided me through negotiating an equitable financial settlement and kept my case out of court, just as I wanted. Her dedication and professionalism turned a difficult experience into one I could navigate with confidence.
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18 Jan, 2025 by Domenic venuto
Shara Goldfarb and her team at the Miller Law Group provided me with outstanding legal representation during a very emotional divorce. She not only negotiated a thoughtful and fair financial settlement but also honored my wish to avoid court. Shara’s strategic thinking, professionalism, and compassion made all the difference. I’m deeply grateful for her guidance and support and highly recommend her and the firm.
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Erina R Ponzini, experienced Criminal Defense, Estate Planning attorney in New Rochelle, NY with 23 reviews
Average
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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.
39,35
star star star star star
4.9/5
Avvo
5.0
1 Reviews
Google Maps
4.9
22 Reviews
star star star star star
05 Jun, 2024 by Camille ammaturo
My case was closed 3 months ago after 3 years of waiting . I was told it would take a few years and everything promised was delivered and more . I cannot say more about John & Erina , they are the real deal . They seemed quite and slow at the beginning and I had to take into consideration covid was still out there and that also prolonged my case . The professionalism , knowledge and compassion was shown from day one and they both will go the extra mile for you when the time comes. At the end I was at awe with how they handled each & every step of the process. Trust them all the way , I am blessed to have had them in my Court ! Forever grateful, 🙏John & Erina 😘
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13 Oct, 2023 by Jennifer lopez
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22 Apr, 2023 by Marek cyrwus
I would highly recommend Gugliotta & Ponzini. We had the pleasure of dealing with Erina Ponzini directly. She advised us on a couple of matters without hesitation. She was very professional and knowledgeable as to our next steps.
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Lori Ann Corini, experienced Estate Planning, Personal Injury attorney in New Rochelle, NY with 9 reviews
Average
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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.
39,28
star star star star star
5.0/5
Avvo
5.0
9 Reviews
star star star star star
25 Jul, 2018 by Charles
I recently had the pleasure of having Ms. Lori A. Corini prepare for me my Health Care Proxy, Living Will, Power of Attorney and Last Will and testament documents. She explained in simple and practical terms how beneficial doing these documents while I am still young and able would be. Ms. Corini was immensely helpful in explaining what I needed and how this would spare my family much anxiety and grief later on. I was very impressed by her knowledge, compassion and understanding of this area of law. She is very professional, courteous and pleasant. I was so impressed that I recommended her to help my mother with her estate planning. Excellent attorney!
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03 Mar, 2015 by Raymond
Ms. Corini was very helpful and directed me in a righteous direction to solve my legal problem. She gave me really good advice and genuinely cared about me personally and my welfare. She was honest and sincere. She composed a letter for me that was beyond my expectations. It was direct and precise. I am very grateful to her that she made me feel comfortable and confident, and provided me with a positive legal experience. Not all lawyers suck!! I would recommend her legal services!
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13 Jan, 2015 by Karen
She put my stresses at ease during a crazy time for me. She had a lien against me reduced and put my worries finally to an end. I was worried about how I was going to handle the situation for a long time, and as soon I gave the problem to her it was resolved promptly and to my satisfaction. I would highly recommend her for any legal issues you may need resolved. She is hard working and trustworthy and will go over and beyond to do her best to advocate on your behalf.
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Artem Djukic, experienced Elder Law, Estate Planning attorney in New Rochelle, NY with 48 reviews
Average
info
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.
39,22
star star star star star
4.6/5
Avvo
5.0
1 Reviews
Google Maps
4.6
47 Reviews
star star star star star
04 Dec, 2024 by Daisy cardoso
This lawyer isn’t professional at all. My mom waited 1 year for an appointment and for them to tell her there isn’t anything to do . So much for them to promise to help .
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12 Oct, 2024 by Esteban andrade loyola
Google Maps
star star star star star
02 Sep, 2024 by Rosa vilcapoma
Very great professional attorneys. Mr.Alarcon has always dedicated and committed on providing quality services. He genuinely cares about achieving a positive outcome for his clients. I always highly recommend him, he's the best!
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Shara Hallie Goldfarb, experienced Child Custody, Child Support attorney in New Rochelle, NY with 86 reviews
Average
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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.
39,09
star star star star star
5.0/5
Google Maps
5.0
86 Reviews
star star star star star
25 Oct, 2024 by Tanya g.farias
Very professional, extremely helpful lawyer I have ever found In regards to immigration lawyers. And I’ve had a few. Extremely knowledgeable, detail, oriented, and cares about his clients. They are not enough ways for me to express my thanks. I would highly recommend Mr. Stone to anyone that is dealing with immigration issues.
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24 Oct, 2024 by Aderly duval
I highly recommend Doug for anyone needing immigration services. He helped me get the conditions removed from my green card seamlessly and without any hassle. From start to finish, Doug was incredibly knowledgeable, responsive, and professional. He kept me informed throughout the entire process and made what could have been a stressful situation feel easy and straightforward. If you’re looking for an immigration lawyer who genuinely cares and delivers results, Doug is your guy! Can’t thank him enough!
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17 Oct, 2024 by Johnel patiño
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Jennifer Walter Fowler, experienced Consumer Protection, Elder Law attorney in New Rochelle, NY with 1 reviews
Average
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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.
39,03
star star star star star
5.0/5
Avvo
5.0
1 Reviews
star star star star star
10 Jun, 2021 by Anonymous
Jennifer Fowler has been my family attorney since 2005. After executing the selling of my mother's house, she set up a family trust, which, upon my mother's death, turned into a special needs trust for my disabled brother. She is currently helping me administer the trust. Over the years, Jennifer has helped me with various trust, social security, and retirement issues. She has always been highly responsive and fully devoted to the project at hand. Jennifer Fowler is one of the most ethical attorneys I've ever known. It's immensely comforting to know that I have a fierce advocate no matter what might come up in the future.
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Patricia Ann Bave, experienced Business, Elder Law attorney in New Rochelle, NY with 181 reviews
Average
info
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.
35,19
star star star star star
5.0/5
Google Maps
5.0
181 Reviews
star star star star star
22 Jan, 2025 by Kevin davidson
Divorce and other major life changes are stressful and overwhelming. Miller Law Group, specifically Alex and Shara were EXACTLY what I needed. They both navigated me through completely new territory for me. They were kind, professional, responsive. I really trusted them with very important life matters and they came through for me. I can't say enough great things about this firm.
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
18 Jan, 2025 by Ash dev
I can’t thank Shara Goldfarb and the Miller Law Group enough for their incredible support during my divorce. Shara’s expertise and empathy were unmatched as she guided me through negotiating an equitable financial settlement and kept my case out of court, just as I wanted. Her dedication and professionalism turned a difficult experience into one I could navigate with confidence.
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
18 Jan, 2025 by Domenic venuto
Shara Goldfarb and her team at the Miller Law Group provided me with outstanding legal representation during a very emotional divorce. She not only negotiated a thoughtful and fair financial settlement but also honored my wish to avoid court. Shara’s strategic thinking, professionalism, and compassion made all the difference. I’m deeply grateful for her guidance and support and highly recommend her and the firm.
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Samantha E. Hampl, experienced Business, Estate Planning attorney in New Rochelle, NY with 181 reviews
Average
info
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.
35,19
star star star star star
5.0/5
Google Maps
5.0
181 Reviews
star star star star star
22 Jan, 2025 by Kevin davidson
Divorce and other major life changes are stressful and overwhelming. Miller Law Group, specifically Alex and Shara were EXACTLY what I needed. They both navigated me through completely new territory for me. They were kind, professional, responsive. I really trusted them with very important life matters and they came through for me. I can't say enough great things about this firm.
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
18 Jan, 2025 by Ash dev
I can’t thank Shara Goldfarb and the Miller Law Group enough for their incredible support during my divorce. Shara’s expertise and empathy were unmatched as she guided me through negotiating an equitable financial settlement and kept my case out of court, just as I wanted. Her dedication and professionalism turned a difficult experience into one I could navigate with confidence.
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
18 Jan, 2025 by Domenic venuto
Shara Goldfarb and her team at the Miller Law Group provided me with outstanding legal representation during a very emotional divorce. She not only negotiated a thoughtful and fair financial settlement but also honored my wish to avoid court. Shara’s strategic thinking, professionalism, and compassion made all the difference. I’m deeply grateful for her guidance and support and highly recommend her and the firm.
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Gregory T. Varian, experienced Business, Estate Planning attorney in New Rochelle, NY with 181 reviews
Average
info
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.
35,19
star star star star star
5.0/5
Google Maps
5.0
181 Reviews
star star star star star
22 Jan, 2025 by Kevin davidson
Divorce and other major life changes are stressful and overwhelming. Miller Law Group, specifically Alex and Shara were EXACTLY what I needed. They both navigated me through completely new territory for me. They were kind, professional, responsive. I really trusted them with very important life matters and they came through for me. I can't say enough great things about this firm.
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
18 Jan, 2025 by Ash dev
I can’t thank Shara Goldfarb and the Miller Law Group enough for their incredible support during my divorce. Shara’s expertise and empathy were unmatched as she guided me through negotiating an equitable financial settlement and kept my case out of court, just as I wanted. Her dedication and professionalism turned a difficult experience into one I could navigate with confidence.
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
18 Jan, 2025 by Domenic venuto
Shara Goldfarb and her team at the Miller Law Group provided me with outstanding legal representation during a very emotional divorce. She not only negotiated a thoughtful and fair financial settlement but also honored my wish to avoid court. Shara’s strategic thinking, professionalism, and compassion made all the difference. I’m deeply grateful for her guidance and support and highly recommend her and the firm.
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Julie Soury Kattan, experienced Estate Planning, Real Estate attorney in New Rochelle, NY with 86 reviews
Average
info
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.
35,09
star star star star star
5.0/5
Google Maps
5.0
86 Reviews
star star star star star
25 Oct, 2024 by Tanya g.farias
Very professional, extremely helpful lawyer I have ever found In regards to immigration lawyers. And I’ve had a few. Extremely knowledgeable, detail, oriented, and cares about his clients. They are not enough ways for me to express my thanks. I would highly recommend Mr. Stone to anyone that is dealing with immigration issues.
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
24 Oct, 2024 by Aderly duval
I highly recommend Doug for anyone needing immigration services. He helped me get the conditions removed from my green card seamlessly and without any hassle. From start to finish, Doug was incredibly knowledgeable, responsive, and professional. He kept me informed throughout the entire process and made what could have been a stressful situation feel easy and straightforward. If you’re looking for an immigration lawyer who genuinely cares and delivers results, Doug is your guy! Can’t thank him enough!
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
17 Oct, 2024 by Johnel patiño
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M David Lacher, experienced Business, Estate Planning attorney in New Rochelle, NY with 1 reviews
Average
info
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.
32,03
star star star star star
4.0/5
Avvo
4.0
1 Reviews
star star star star star
12 Jan, 2017 by Arianna
We retained Mr. Lacher for a real estate transaction in New York State. He was referred by the large real estate office that was working on our transaction, and is supremely knowledgeable regarding real estate, particularly in Westchester County, NY. Mr. Lacher has years of experience, and enjoys sharing it. We did not feel he was a "clock watcher", as he gave thorough, well - experienced advice in detail, and answered questions thoroughly. He was responsive via email, text message, and telephone calls, returning calls on weekends, while he was on vacation, and well past business hours (upon my request) at times in need. He was emotionally supportive too, sharing personal experiences, and other niceties that provided life perspective; something which we did not know we needed, but welcomed once received! Finally, his flat fee was slightly more than other real estate attorneys, but only by 20%, but if we were to calculate his actual billable time, we would have had to pay around double his rate. If there was one critique I would give to Mr. Lacher, is to avoid jumping to conclusions. There was a minor incident when he did, but the limitations that I presented were not my own; they were from a financial institution, so it was not me being a difficult client...at least not that time. All in all, he apologized, and we moved on to other work together, and hopefully many more future and successful transactions. I recommend Mr. Lacher.
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Richard A. Sosis, experienced Estate Planning, Probate attorney in New Rochelle, NY with 47 reviews
Average
info
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.
30,64
star star star star star
4.6/5
Google Maps
4.6
47 Reviews
star star star star star
04 Dec, 2024 by Daisy cardoso
This lawyer isn’t professional at all. My mom waited 1 year for an appointment and for them to tell her there isn’t anything to do . So much for them to promise to help .
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
12 Oct, 2024 by Esteban andrade loyola
Google Maps
star star star star star
02 Sep, 2024 by Rosa vilcapoma
Very great professional attorneys. Mr.Alarcon has always dedicated and committed on providing quality services. He genuinely cares about achieving a positive outcome for his clients. I always highly recommend him, he's the best!
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Allan S. Metrick, experienced Estate Planning, Real Estate attorney in New Rochelle, NY with 1 reviews
Below Average
info
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
star star star star star
1.0/5
Avvo
1.0
1 Reviews
star star star star star
20 Feb, 2012 by Leticia
I had spoken to Mr. Metrick on the phone regarding a consult for a trust that I felt was not being properly administered by the trust attorney appointed to handle my trust. Initially, when I spoke to Mr. Metrick over the telephone to set up an appointment, he was very gracious. However, when I arrived at his office, his demeanor was totally out of line. He made a comment about where I had seated myself at the conference table. He paced the room opposite where I was seated and finally, after he sat down to my left, he leaned across, looked me in the eye, and asked "are you some kind of nut?" You can imagine my surprise. He skimmed through the papers I had brought him (the trust and my parents' wills), all the while muttering to himself and to me in a most ungracious tone. I finally decided to leave and upon my exit, he again was most ungracious. I can only surmise that possibly he had received a telephone call from the trust attorney with whom I was at odds with in her handling of the trust (since I had e-mailed her 2 days before my appointment with Mr. Metrick to say that I was going to see him) and Mr. Metrick had spoken to her and had taken the trust attorney at her word regarding my complaint with her. Whatever the situation be, I would NEVER RECOMMEND MR. METRICK OR HIS FIRM TO ANYONE!! '
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Ellen L Stewart, experienced Business, Consumer Protection attorney in New Rochelle, NY with 0 reviews
Below Average
info
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
star star star star star
0.0/5
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Lakisha Collins, experienced Business, Child Custody attorney in New Rochelle, NY with 0 reviews
Below Average
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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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Mary N. Clark, experienced Estate Planning, Real Estate attorney in New Rochelle, NY with 0 reviews
Below Average
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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.
0,00
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0.0/5
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Alan R. Sloate, experienced Business, Estate Planning attorney in New Rochelle, NY with 0 reviews
Below Average
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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.
0,00
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0.0/5
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Joseph Rafalowicz, experienced Business, Estate Planning attorney in New Rochelle, NY with 0 reviews
Below Average
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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.
0,00
star star star star star
0.0/5
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Orlando Anthony Cavallo, experienced Estate Planning, Personal Injury attorney in New Rochelle, NY with 0 reviews
Below Average
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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.
0,00
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0.0/5
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Carol Carozza, experienced Elder Law, Estate Planning attorney in New Rochelle, NY with 0 reviews
Below Average
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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.
0,00
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0.0/5
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Deborah Denise Clegg, experienced Appeals, Child Custody attorney in New Rochelle, NY with 0 reviews
Below Average
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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.
0,00
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0.0/5
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Stevon Lord Forrester, experienced Estate Planning, Family Law attorney in New Rochelle, NY with 0 reviews
Below Average
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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.
0,00
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0.0/5
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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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