Best Estate Planning lawyers in New York

6,157 Estate Planning Lawyers in New York

>6.2k

experienced lawyers

Kyle Frederick Lester

425 Broadhollow Rd Ste 428, Melville, NY

Business Estate Planning Tax +3

5.0/5

5.0

80 Reviews

07 Jun, 2024 by Chris jelley

A comprehensive firm rooted in experience with an attention to detail.

21 May, 2024 by Samson freundlich

David Krangle and his legal team are hard working and caring professionals who can be trusted to handle your personal injury case from intake to verdict. I highly recommend their office.

07 May, 2024 by Miguel guzman

Shara Hallie Goldfarb

271 North Avenue, New Rochelle, NY

Child Custody Child Support Estate Planning +2 +5

5.0/5

5.0

80 Reviews

19 Aug, 2024 by Ruth o.

Had a great experience, Doug was very responsive, communicative, and clear from the very beginning. I enjoyed working with him. I would recommend him & his services.

11 Aug, 2024 by Christ dominion city

Doug Stone is an exceptional immigration lawyer, he keeps you informed and updated from the get go to the end. I highly recommend him for your immigration needs, and I will be glad to use his services again and again

30 Jul, 2024 by Gary quintal

Mr. Stone explained the steps and information needed to gather so that I could petition for a family member very thoughtfully and thoroughly. He helped our family navigate the process and our family is forever grateful for his help.

Julie Soury Kattan

271 North Ave Ste 1103, New Rochelle, NY

Estate Planning Real Estate Trusts +3

5.0/5

5.0

80 Reviews

19 Aug, 2024 by Ruth o.

Had a great experience, Doug was very responsive, communicative, and clear from the very beginning. I enjoyed working with him. I would recommend him & his services.

11 Aug, 2024 by Christ dominion city

30 Jul, 2024 by Gary quintal

Robert A. Schwartz

2468 East Henrietta Road, Rochester, NY

Business Criminal Defense Estate Planning +1 +4

5.0/5

5.0

2 Reviews

5.0

76 Reviews

16 Oct, 2024 by Pamela garcia

Robert was such a big help when it came to filing my bankruptcy and answered any questions I had. The process was swift and smooth , definitely would recommend if you are in need of an attorney.

07 Oct, 2024 by Peter elia

Bob was very helpful and guiding my wife and I though a process that nobody wants to be in. But Bob explained everything and helped us at every step.

02 Oct, 2024 by Joseph bruton

Bob is an amazing legal Council. He is very quick to respond and handles everything in a professional major. His office assistant is on the ball and I highly recommend this team for their legal services.

Justin A. Auslaender

43 W. 43rd Street, Suite 266, New York, NY

Business Estate Planning Foreclosure +1 +4

5.0/5

5.0

75 Reviews

26 Apr, 2024 by Dennis sahai

Joseph represented my nephew Ronnie recently and was extremely dedicated and professional. His presented the case with such care and precision, the jury only needed 30 mins to find my nephew not guilty and this was after a hung jury in a previous trial. I would recommend him to represent anyone seeking justice and truth.

19 Feb, 2024 by Sean chung

23 Dec, 2023 by Poppy

Tara is a wonderful person! ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Nicole Palermo

43 West 43rd Street, New York, NY

Estate Planning +1

5.0/5

5.0

75 Reviews

26 Apr, 2024 by Dennis sahai

19 Feb, 2024 by Sean chung

23 Dec, 2023 by Poppy

Tara is a wonderful person! ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Carrie A. Arias

22 Lawrence Ave, Smithtown, NY

Consumer Protection Elder Law Estate Planning +1 +4

5.0/5

5.0

3 Reviews

5.0

71 Reviews

05 Jul, 2024 by Dana bergstein

Fratello Law, located in Smithtown, is a truly remarkable estate planning and elder law firm. The attorneys are highly adept in a variety of practice areas such as wills, trusts, power of attorney, asset protection, Medicaid applications, special needs, and more. The practice has many beneficial events as well as resources to help educate their clients. Fratello Law is a very caring Law Firm that goes above and beyond for all of their clients!

11 Jun, 2024 by Russ sallese

Rachel Katz was so helpful and nice with all info on living will, heathcare proxy, and reg wills. We had free consultation with her. She didn't rush us at all. We will deal with her again. Thanks Russ and Mary Ann Sallese.

22 May, 2024 by Joe nunz

Professional, know their stuff and a pleasure to deal with. Highly recommend.

Jeffrey William Rizzo

930 Grand Concourse Apt 1 E, Bronx, NY

Business Estate Planning Real Estate +3

5.0/5

5.0

73 Reviews

16 Sep, 2024 by O guc

Attorney Thomas Boyle and colleagues at Maggiano law were extremely attentive to my needs and worked diligently for a favorable result in my case. İm grateful for their work and would highly recommend them.

10 Aug, 2024 by Felix m

If I could recommend anyone, it would be the team at the Law Office of Delmas A. Costin. Delmas and Dawn are exceptionally patient and understanding. When I needed representation, they delivered results. I am truly grateful for their help. Thank you for representing me.

29 Jul, 2024 by Joshua santiago

Joanne Blair

570 Lexington Ave, New York, NY

Estate Planning Family Law Personal Injury +3

5.0/5

5.0

68 Reviews

08 Jul, 2024 by Henrik reid

highly recommended. I have been included in a number of class action lawsuits with Leeds. First thing- they have an lovely secretary who picks up the phone right away. In an age of tapping on numbers to get to different deptartments, this just makes life easier. I have been in touch with Dave Mayo a number of times who answered all my questions thoroughly as if he had all the time in the world. If you want boutique service, I highly recimmend Leeds!!!

12 Nov, 2023 by Nick kishchenko

Yes he’s a good lawyer, and helped me get out of my ticket!! Highly recommend.

27 Oct, 2023 by Sam polland

The best special education attorney in NYC!

Robert Coles Edmonds

570 Lexington Ave Ste 1600, New York, NY

Business Estate Planning Real Estate +3

5.0/5

5.0

67 Reviews

08 Jul, 2024 by Henrik reid

12 Nov, 2023 by Nick kishchenko

Yes he’s a good lawyer, and helped me get out of my ticket!! Highly recommend.

27 Oct, 2023 by Sam polland

The best special education attorney in NYC!

Laura Cowan

125 Park Avenue, New York, NY

Estate Planning Probate +2

5.0/5

5.0

8 Reviews

5.0

58 Reviews

30 Aug, 2024 by Jamie blau

I highly recommend hiring Laura Cowan as a trust and estates attorney. She was exceptionally patient, understanding, skilled and knowledgeable. Laura took the time to carefully explain my options, and ensured I felt comfortable and informed throughout the entire process. Her attention to detail, responsiveness, and professionalism were outstanding. Her expertise gave me peace of mind that my estate planning was in good hands. I am so grateful for Laura’s assistance and would not hesitate to recommend her to anyone in need of a skilled and trustworthy trust and estates attorney.

20 Sep, 2023 by Steven gregory

Laura is one of the most highly-qualified estate planning attorneys in Manhattan. Moreover, she is an excellent teacher of estate planning.

20 Sep, 2023 by Campa ltd

Excellent Estate Planning attorney. She is both knowledgeable and a pleasure to work with. Highly recommended!

Samuil Silver

49 West 37th Street, New York, NY

Criminal Defense Estate Planning Family Law +3 +6

+1 (877) 812-2676

5.0/5

5.0

1 Reviews

5.0

60 Reviews

30 Aug, 2024 by N s

15 Jun, 2024 by Christina officer

David Pankin, P.C. law firm did an excellent job on my case. They work hard to make sure that everything went as it should.

16 Apr, 2024 by Merrilly noeth

8 years ago, I'd had multiple surgeries & just managed to pay for my mom's Alzheimer's care when she died. I was totally broke. Couldn't work. Barely surviving. My debts happened before any of this. I contacted debtors to workout a reasonable way to go - no good. Then I came to you. Almost 8 years to the day back from today I had no more debt. Since then, while I have health challenges & can't work, I have found a pretty wonderful way to live. I made it 6 years paying cash only, then started to build credit again, and now my rating is around 700. In 2 years the bankruptcy will be off my credit record & it will go higher. Without your services, I wouldn't have had a chance in hell. Yes, it was definitely a new beginning. I may be 79, but I'm 79 going on 50!

Kelly Patricia Rau

72 East Main Street, Suite 3, Babylon, NY

Estate Planning Family Law +2

+1 (631) 214-2956

5.0/5

5.0

20 Reviews

5.0

41 Reviews

31 May, 2024 by Gen pact

Exceptional legal expertise coupled with unwavering dedication, Mr. Glass exemplified the pinnacle of professionalism in defending me for my small family business. I am truly grateful for his assistance.

04 Feb, 2024 by Matty t

Atty Glass is a very skilled and deliberate litigator. He handled a complex matter for our family which delivered great results. We couldn’t be more pleased the outcome or the services. His staff is also extremely helpful and warm to deal with.

26 Jan, 2024 by Julie wielstein

I was referred to Gerard through a friend who I whole heartedly value . Gerard and his firm were honest professionals and got the job done. He was professional in all off my my expectations. They handled a tenant eviction in my home and they were true to their word and got the job done. Gerard’s office personnel answered every phone call and email professionally and I never felt like I was intruding on their time. I would highly recommend his services if you are in need . I had many emails and conversations with his paralegal Maureen who answered all my questions and concerns. The moving company that they recommended as well lived up to all my expectations. You can take comfort in knowing that if you are in need of an eviction attorney, Gerard is the one that you should hire.

Gerard J. Glass

72 E. Main Street, Babylon, NY

Business Criminal Defense Estate Planning +1 +4

5.0/5

5.0

20 Reviews

5.0

41 Reviews

04 Oct, 2024 by Debra

Gerard was nothing short of outstanding. He fought tirelessly for my Real Estate case. I am thankful for his exceptional legal service, and highly recommend him.

31 May, 2024 by Gen pact

04 Feb, 2024 by Matty t

Marie Elena Rosaria Puma

100 Quentin Roosevelt Blvd, Suite 102, Garden City, NY

Elder Law Estate Planning Real Estate +1 +4

5.0/5

5.0

60 Reviews

01 Oct, 2024 by Dom ronk

04 Apr, 2024 by Karen basso

03 Apr, 2024 by Giovanna condello

Our family sought out Russo Law Group to assist us with elder law/estate planning for my mother. We worked directly with Katie Ann Trotta, Esq who was so helpful and informative and really made us feel comfortable throughout the whole process. She is extremely knowledgeable and helped guide us toward the best plan for my mother. Katie Ann is also readily available to answer any questions we have. I would definitely recommend the Russo Law Group and Katie Ann Trotta, Esq. to anyone looking for an attorney to assist with elder law/estate planning.

Heather Lynn Gray

445 Park Ave Ste 1401, New York, NY

Estate Planning +1

5.0/5

5.0

58 Reviews

16 Sep, 2024 by Vincent lawson

I was hurt over 15 years ago I called Mr Wilhelm and he was on the case we talked on a regular basis always by the time if not he called back Mr Wilhelm will walk you through the case and keep you informed long story short he never missed a beat as I was out of work he got me compensation and no doctors bills and 15 years I am still living comfortable life or even better thanks to Mr Wilhelm great firm thank you again Mr Wilhelm

17 Jun, 2024 by Christine diaz

Kenneth Wilhelm is an excellent attorney to work with. I felt comfortable with him right from the start of my case. If I had any questions, Mr. Wilhelm and his staff were always responsive whenever I called or emailed. They were always there to help answer my questions and reassure me of my case. I was extremely happy with my settlement. The whole team is very professional and amazing to work with. I would highly recommend Kenneth Wilhelm’s office.

21 May, 2024 by Barbara friesen

Never have I had a better lawyer . You know why ? Because I’ve never wanted another lawyer . He has been the BEST , most helpful , and I’ve used him 3 times . I’ve told injured frightened friends of mine , about him , and their cases were solved ! So were all their worries . Call him . From Natasha Veruschka aka Barbie Friesen .

Zarina Burbacki

1 Penn Plaza, New York, NY

Business Estate Planning Intellectual Property +3

5.0/5

5.0

1 Reviews

5.0

57 Reviews

06 Mar, 2024 by John murren

Highly recommend Chris's services to anyone going through the emigration process. Chris's timely, professional and also caring attitude really made this a pleasant experience.

13 Feb, 2024 by Anthony calderone

I am writing to express my sincere gratitude for the exceptional legal representation provided by Togut, Segal & Segal LLP during our recent custody case with Celsius Network. Bryan M. Kotliar and Kyle Ortiz, the lawyers overseeing our case, demonstrated utmost professionalism and dedication. Their strategic approach and effective communication, including numerous Zoom meetings and timely update emails, greatly contributed to the successful resolution of our case. I especially appreciate their willingness to address unique issues by accepting individual phone consultations. The court's decision in favor of our case and the subsequent award of our custody assets have brought considerable relief. Despite the financial challenges associated with the bankruptcy process, the support and expertise provided by Togut, Segal & Segal LLP significantly eased the burden. I couldn't be happier with the level of service and communication throughout this challenging period. Please extend my gratitude to Bryan M. Kotliar and Kyle Ortiz for their outstanding efforts.

11 Dec, 2023 by Gary spund

Chris was excellent to work with to acquire US citizenship for my wife. He knew the laws and the process cold and assisted us in every step along the way through her receiving her citizenship last week. I can't recommend him enough! Thank You Chris for all your hard work and diligence on our behalf!

Evans Legros

16 Madison Square West, 12th Floor, New York, NY

Entertainment Estate Planning Immigration +1 +4

5.0/5

5.0

23 Reviews

5.0

33 Reviews

14 Aug, 2024 by Brayton

Evans and his team were exceptional in assisting us with the purchase of our co-op apartment. They handled every step of the process with great care and attention to detail. Despite navigating around complicated schedules from others, they were incredibly flexible and made sure all our concerns were thoroughly addressed. We would gladly work with Evans again and highly recommend his services to others.

05 Aug, 2024 by Dawn murphy

I recently used Mr. Warner to file my chapter 7 bankruptcy. Mr. Warner was very easy to work with and he made the whole process go very smoothly. I would highly recommend his services to anyone looking to file bankruptcy.

23 Jul, 2024 by Metsfanr86

I filed chapter 7 with Howard Warner back in October. He did everything right and made sure there was no margin for error. Just make sure u have all the required paperwork in order before you file. He does the rest. He has years of experience which I liked. I don’t think I would have gotten the results I’ve gotten if I went with someone else. If you plan on filing a chapter 7 def go with him.

Cory Alan Levine

1834 US-6, Carmel Hamlet, NY

Business Estate Planning Probate +1 +4

5.0/5

5.0

6 Reviews

5.0

49 Reviews

10 Jul, 2024 by Ed p.

Working with the law firm led by Cory A. Levine, PC, Attorney at Law and his legal assistants was fantastic. They flawlessly managed my remote home sale, providing all the necessary details from day one. Cory expertly represented both me and my wife throughout the process, ensuring a smooth transaction. Overall, the firm is highly professional, responsive, and exceptionally knowledgeable.

24 Jun, 2024 by Maria levine

Cory and his team were so patient and thorough in preparing for our closing. There were a few bumps along the way, but he and Cathy navigated everything very smoothly. This was actually the third time we have used his services. When we needed a not-for-profit attorney, Cory gave a great recommendation. I would highly recommend his firm for any real estate transaction.

07 Jun, 2024 by David m.

Knowledgeable and thorough legal services and very responsive staff. The team is awesome, including Fayth, Cathy, and Cory. Cory represented me throughout the process for a home purchase and there was no small legal detail that could get by him - he is exactly what you expect when you seek attorney advice and services. The team also went above and beyond with last minute requests and so on. Highly recommended.

Richard W. Bryan

30 Wall Street, 8th Floor, New York, NY

Adoption Child Custody Child Support +4 +7

5.0/5

5.0

8 Reviews

5.0

46 Reviews

03 Oct, 2024 by Chelsea winston

D'Emilia Law are the absolute best in the business. I can assure you that Kendra and Paul will fight for you tooth and nail. They're so many lawyers that are out there who simply will tell you anything just to get your money and once they get it, you'll feel as if you gotten ripped off. If you're reading this, I'm telling you that Kendra and Paul will make you feel like you have family looking out for you. I honestly consider them my family now. if I could give them a million stars, I would. D'Emilia Law are professional, accessible, affordable and are Great White Sharks in the court room. Take it from me' Hiring them will be one of the best decisions you'll ever make.

30 Sep, 2024 by Edward villalta

I am grateful to God for leading me to D'Emilia Law. I had to help a family member with a legal problem. I called the number after hours and Paul returned my call directly within minutes. Not only is this firm very professional, but Paul and his team have empathy. I knew after the first conversation within minutes that I was working with the right person. Excellent firm and I highly recommend their services. Thank you so much Paul.

27 Sep, 2024 by Maria yon

Highly recommend. Responds in a timely manner. Knowledgeable and personable guides you step by step thru the process of your case.

Jay P. Sheryll

633 East Main Street, Suite 2, Riverhead, NY

Elder Law Estate Planning Probate +3

5.0/5

4.9

8 Reviews

5.0

45 Reviews

26 Aug, 2024 by Leigh boden

My wife and I were in the middle of planning our trust agreement with Jay when my brother-in-law passed away suddenly. Jay helped us get through the probate process as my brother-in-law did not leave a will. We then switched gears and finished our trust with Jay. Jay and his team are very patient and customer service oriented. They satisfied our every need. I would recommend them to anyone needing estate planning.

04 Jun, 2024 by Bruce meyer

Very pleased with my Esate Planning update.

11 Feb, 2024 by Jennifer peros

Shannon Patricia McNulty

745 Fifth Ave., New York, NY

Estate Planning +1

5.0/5

5.0

47 Reviews

22 Aug, 2024 by Tiko sharikadze

David is an excellent professional. He is very nice, informative and knowledgeable in his area of expertise.

19 Aug, 2024 by Galina rossovsky

David was amazing to work with, from the beginning to the end. He took time to explain everything to me and had patience with all my questions. My house selling process was very efficient and organized. He cares about his clients and works to get you the best results. Highly recommend!

25 Jul, 2024 by Rosti tsirulnik

David was amazing to work with, from beginning to end. He cares about his clients and works to get you the best results. Highly recommend!

Susan G Parker

141 North State Road, Briarcliff Manor, NY

Business Estate Planning Probate +1 +4

+1 (914) 302-5810

5.0/5

5.0

20 Reviews

5.0

24 Reviews

05 Aug, 2024 by Richard leahy

The most competent attorney that I have ever retained. Susan could answer any questions relating to the work done for me clearly and concisely. The documents and real estate transfers were done on time. If you choose to retain Susan, I assure you that you will be pleased with your decision.

11 Jun, 2024 by Earle ellefsen

Susan was very professional and answered all our questions quickly. Her presentations were precise and to the point. We could not have completed our Wills, Trusts, etc. without her help and guidance.

31 Jan, 2024 by Mangala narasimhan

Excellent law firm, professional, easy to work with, and kind.

Lucy Frances Titone

825 Eastgate Blvd., Garden City, NY

Business Estate Planning Probate +1 +4

5.0/5

5.0

13 Reviews

5.0

31 Reviews

22 May, 2024 by Diane grande

I have had the pleasure of working with Lucy on multiple occasions for professional and personal reasons. Her knowledge, compassion and professionalism is unmatched. She has listened to my concerns and guided me every step of the way. I am grateful for the prompt responses and have full confidence in the work she provides. I highly recommend her!

10 May, 2024 by George kumar

I recently had the pleasure of working with Lucy on the creation of my family trust, and I cannot express enough how impressed I am with the level of professionalism, expertise, and personal attention I received throughout the entire process. Lucy is truly an Exceptional Trust Attorney, Seamless and Secure Estate Planning Experience!!!

10 May, 2024 by Kissinger rai

Highly recommended! Lucy was very professional as well as empathetic to the situation. She listened to my concerns and helped me every step of the way. In a pretty tense situation, she really helped to keep me at ease and everything worked out. I can't thank her enough for helping me get through this difficult time. If you want a lawyer who cares and that will help you every step of the way, then I highly recommend Lucy. Thanks so much.

Frank A. Cetero

248 Higbie Lane, West Islip, NY

Criminal Defense Estate Planning Personal Injury +3 +6

5.0/5

5.0

9 Reviews

5.0

35 Reviews

28 Aug, 2024 by Therese miccio

This law firm was with us every step of the way!

23 Aug, 2024 by Taryn bennardo

Top notch Lawyer. If I can leave him 100 stars I would. Very professional.

19 Aug, 2024 by Ryan kerzner

Maureen A. Glass

72 E Main St, Babylon, NY

Criminal Defense Estate Planning Family Law +3

5.0/5

5.0

1 Reviews

5.0

41 Reviews

31 May, 2024 by Gen pact

04 Feb, 2024 by Matty t

26 Jan, 2024 by Julie wielstein

S.J. Khalsa

1115 Broadway, 12th Floor, New York, NY

Elder Law Estate Planning Probate +1 +4

5.0/5

5.0

8 Reviews

5.0

33 Reviews

05 Aug, 2024 by Dawn murphy

23 Jul, 2024 by Metsfanr86

09 Jul, 2024 by R b

Mr. Warner was excellent handling my case. Very professional and worked in a speedy manner. Get all your paperwork together exactly as required. Highly recommend him.

Alan M. Dubow

199 Main St, White Plains, NY

Estate Planning Family Law +2

5.0/5

5.0

38 Reviews

01 Jul, 2024 by Sumit haidar

18 Apr, 2024 by Richard yoest

I want to thank the folks at Filippatos Law Firm for representing me during my Age Discrimination case against a former employer. Without the fantastic leadership of Gerry, Felicia, Kimberly and Alfredo my case could not have been resolved in my favor. Filippatos Law is companionate, driven, fact focused and determined to get YOU the best possible settlement. I recommend Filppatos to everyone seeking fair and equitable justice in their time of need. They are the BEST !! Rick Yoest

06 Feb, 2024 by Jj

“Going up against a large establishment can appear intimidating, so Filippatos PLLC is the perfect match for my situation. I received top professional help from individuals with years of experience and obtained proven results from a law firm determined to give me my voice and WIN my case! No corporation is too difficult or enormous for Filippatos PLLC to fight and WIN on your behalf. Thank you, Gerry Filippatos, Loris Baechi, and staff, for having my back and winning my case!” JJ

Eric Michael Sadkin

276 5th Ave Rm 404, New York, NY

Estate Planning Real Estate +2

5.0/5

5.0

36 Reviews

19 Oct, 2024 by Sara mojtahedi

I recently had a consultation with Ali Shahrestani and I can't recommend him highly enough. He was incredibly thorough and took the time to explain everything in detail, clearing up so many questions I had. His professionalism, patience, and ability to break down complex legal matters made me feel confident and well-informed. I truly appreciate the time he dedicated to ensure I fully understood my options. Thank you so much, Ali Shahrestani for your outstanding service!

02 May, 2024 by Cassie w.

Efficient, receptive and cares about his clients. Love having him on board for our entertainment legal matters. First call we make!

04 Mar, 2024 by Devin mcknight

Michael never misses any details and has always been a stable and reliable force on my small team. I would recommend him to anyone!

Nicole Kimberly Reed

218 Syracuse Ave, Oswego, NY

Estate Planning Probate Real Estate +3

5.0/5

5.0

35 Reviews

24 Sep, 2024 by Bob fantom

My recent experience with Reed Law went very well. Nicole was very professional. While making you feel at ease at the same time She is sharp as a tack.Just give her the required documents she needs and it's a done deal no more stress She takes care of everything would highly recommend her to anyone

09 Sep, 2024 by Elizabeth doviak

Ms. Reed was kind, professional and very knowledgeable. I highly recommend her!

24 Aug, 2024 by Sue wilson

Nicole is very knowledgeable and we were very impressed with her expertise. We have peace of mind with the decisions that we made. We highly recommend that you give her a call.

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FAQs

Questions? We have answers

What an Estate Planning Lawyer Can Do for You

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

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

When Should I Hire an Estate Planning Lawyer?

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

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

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

What Does an Estate Planning Lawyer Do?

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

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

How Are Estate Planning Lawyers Paid?

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

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

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

How Much Does an Estate Planning Lawyer Cost?

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

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

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

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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