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08 Jul, 2024 by Debbie m
Very nice lawyer to help with will and other items necessary. Staff was very helpful and a notary also. Would highly recommend.
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08 Jul, 2024 by Semper fi
Great mineral attorney.
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08 Jul, 2024 by Sue “georgia” watson
They helped me with my Inheritance from my Great-Uncle. Atty. Mr. Morrow was Executor of my Trust Fund til I turned 30, then helped me to manage the same for next 20 years. Such nice people, and place!!!
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14 Jun, 2016 by Anonymous
I wanted to protect my assets from future long term care costs and Attorney Rugg was able to set up a legal plan and all of the documents needed to make my plan work for me.
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03 Aug, 2015 by Daniel
Bob Handelman provided me with excellent, professional service and was very timely with follow ups and answering all of my questions.
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13 Aug, 2011 by Tatiana loughman
I have received a very good service from Lee D. Heckman when I needed lots of help with incorporating my business, and had issues with hiring employees, etc..I was very satisfied and have already recommended this lawyer to some of my friends. They told me they were very happy with the service too.
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28 Jan, 2023 by Le plafond n'est pas le plancher
A very fine lawyer, with a penchant for examining legal issues with the finest calibre analysis. Some say his taste in fine whiskey is almost unmatched by his legal acumen.
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26 Apr, 2024 by Nick fair
Not sure where to start but I will start at the beginning. My mother and father are elderly and my father was in the mid-stages of alzheimer's, I was concerned about him having to go into an assisted living facility (Nursing Home). If this happened we were concerned that all their assets would be consumed due to the cost associated with the care he would need (Mother could lose her house). In 2019 I heard an AlerStallings (Golden Reserve) ad on the radio in regards to how trusts could secure assets (we knew nothing about this,) so I made an appointment. Everything went great, my parents agreed to have this team create a trust that would secure all their assets in a 5 year period, (House, investments, cash, etc). The cost was a bit steep but worth it to make sure my mother would be safe and have her house if dad had to go in a home. Everything went well, annual meetings to verify the security of the assets, advice on what to invest in to keep their money growing. When 2024 arrived and the Trust had hit the 5 year time requirement for security. Another annual review and come to find out half of the assets that my parents brought to Golden Reserve was not in the trust. I went back to the original documents and the form given to us showed that the owner of funds now not in the trust, showed that the funds were owned by "Trust". At the top of the form it listed my parents name. This told us that this fund was owned by the trust created. Now that the 5 year mark was met in 2024, come to find out almost $200,000 was not securred in the trust. Golden Reserve failed to put the funds in the Official Trust name. The fund was started by transfering my parents stock to a new safe investment advised by the AlerStallings/Golden Reserve team and they did not put it in the Trust. How does this happen? Unfortunately my father contracted COVID and passed away before the need for assisted living. My mother is now 89 and quite frail. If she has to go into a nursing home she will lose all of the $200,000 unsecurred due to this major blunder by AlerStallings/Golden Reserve. I feel as if I failed my mother. I guess I am somewhat at fault only because I did not hire an attorney to make sure AlerStallings/Golden Reserve was doing the job we paid them to do. Where do you put your trust. NOT IN ALERSTALLINGS/GOLDEN RESERVE!
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12 Jan, 2019 by Anita riley
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31 Oct, 2017 by Rich & amy roldan
Friendly and professional service!! Great job!
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08 Jul, 2024 by Manda manda
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08 Jul, 2024 by Don bennett
Great attorneys for any type of real estate transactions or real estate problems
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08 Jul, 2024 by George mccorkle
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17 Apr, 2024 by Eat me2000
I hired Mr. Rose twice and he was very kind, helpful, as well as very patient with me. The other staff was just as kind also
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17 Nov, 2023 by Doug cougill
I highly recommend Patrick Carpenter at Shaller Campbell & Untied for your Estate Planning and Business Law needs. Patrick was very patient while enduring my frequent diatribe of....we'll call them frustrations. Ultimately he solved a seemingly hopeless situation on a purchase, provided an easement for my parcel split and wrapped it all up promptly and professionally. A very good experience! Well done and thanks, Patrick!
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10 Nov, 2023 by George mccorkle
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03 Aug, 2024 by Patricia farnlacher
Atty. Carl McCoy is a legal expert and a compassionate person!
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21 May, 2024 by Kara post
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17 Nov, 2023 by Payne blair
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24 Nov, 2022 by Brian benbow
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02 Nov, 2022 by Scott jones
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30 Aug, 2022 by Kimberly sims'stevens
We hired Mr Veley yesterday, he is very good at law, were feeling hopeful and content he is here to help.
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05 Jun, 2024 by Brandy
Let me preface this by saying there was a language barrier which made it very difficult for me to understand the person I was speaking with, I am sure she had an equally difficult time. First, I called in to ask about a consultation to see if I have a case, and possible representation. She asked what type of case, which I explained and then she asked for more information. I attempted to explain it, I could tell she was not understanding what I was trying to convey as she asked me the same question more than once. She told me they don't offer free consultations, which I was fine with but when I asked her how much she hesitated and told me she could not tell me how much a consultation would be. I was confused and asked her how would I find that out. She told me someone would call me back within 2 business days and took my number. As we said our goodbyes she said if no one called me back in 2 days no one could help me. I then confused, asked her if I should call back after the two days then if I didn't hear back. She told me no, if no one called me back it meant no one could help me. I wanted to make sure I understood her correctly and said so if no one calls me back they won't do a consultation? She said I was correct. I said so you can't give me a cost for a consultation, then you tell me if no one calls me back that means you can't help me? So without knowing the details of the case, you not understanding what I am saying and being unable to provide me a price for a consultation so an ATTORNEY could explain what rights I may or may not have, you are telling me if I don't receive a call back it means no one can help me??? I told her this was the most unprofessional experience I have ever had with a law firm and I have 13 years of legal background in one area or another. I told her not to worry about calling me back. This is absurd. I hope someone from the firm does read this and call me back and ask for more details (as there are plenty I am not going to share on this platform, yet) as I hope this not an accurate representation of their firms professionalism or the way they treat potential clients. If not, I hope it is corrected, a good percentage law referrals are done via word of mouth! This was pretty appalling behavior and she needs trained and/or this firm needs training and some standard SOP's developed and implemented as soon as possible.
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22 May, 2024 by Jeb
Bethany Stickradt did a fantastic job helping our family protect and navigate the complex assisted living facility issues for our handicapped uncle, who has cerebal palsy. He has lived at the facility in Newark happily for 18 years.Then it was sold and the new management tried to kick him out two times and harassed our family. There was no change in his level of care. He did not fit their marketing image. Bethany handled our appeal to the State. Thankfully they backed down. We are so very grateful we had Bethany representing us and used the Reese Pyle Meyer Law Firm.
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08 Feb, 2024 by Jeffrey wilkey
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05 Jun, 2024 by Brandy
Let me preface this by saying there was a language barrier which made it very difficult for me to understand the person I was speaking with, I am sure she had an equally difficult time. First, I called in to ask about a consultation to see if I have a case, and possible representation. She asked what type of case, which I explained and then she asked for more information. I attempted to explain it, I could tell she was not understanding what I was trying to convey as she asked me the same question more than once. She told me they don't offer free consultations, which I was fine with but when I asked her how much she hesitated and told me she could not tell me how much a consultation would be. I was confused and asked her how would I find that out. She told me someone would call me back within 2 business days and took my number. As we said our goodbyes she said if no one called me back in 2 days no one could help me. I then confused, asked her if I should call back after the two days then if I didn't hear back. She told me no, if no one called me back it meant no one could help me. I wanted to make sure I understood her correctly and said so if no one calls me back they won't do a consultation? She said I was correct. I said so you can't give me a cost for a consultation, then you tell me if no one calls me back that means you can't help me? So without knowing the details of the case, you not understanding what I am saying and being unable to provide me a price for a consultation so an ATTORNEY could explain what rights I may or may not have, you are telling me if I don't receive a call back it means no one can help me??? I told her this was the most unprofessional experience I have ever had with a law firm and I have 13 years of legal background in one area or another. I told her not to worry about calling me back. This is absurd. I hope someone from the firm does read this and call me back and ask for more details (as there are plenty I am not going to share on this platform, yet) as I hope this not an accurate representation of their firms professionalism or the way they treat potential clients. If not, I hope it is corrected, a good percentage law referrals are done via word of mouth! This was pretty appalling behavior and she needs trained and/or this firm needs training and some standard SOP's developed and implemented as soon as possible.
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22 May, 2024 by Jeb
Bethany Stickradt did a fantastic job helping our family protect and navigate the complex assisted living facility issues for our handicapped uncle, who has cerebal palsy. He has lived at the facility in Newark happily for 18 years.Then it was sold and the new management tried to kick him out two times and harassed our family. There was no change in his level of care. He did not fit their marketing image. Bethany handled our appeal to the State. Thankfully they backed down. We are so very grateful we had Bethany representing us and used the Reese Pyle Meyer Law Firm.
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08 Feb, 2024 by Jeffrey wilkey
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05 Jun, 2024 by Brandy
Let me preface this by saying there was a language barrier which made it very difficult for me to understand the person I was speaking with, I am sure she had an equally difficult time. First, I called in to ask about a consultation to see if I have a case, and possible representation. She asked what type of case, which I explained and then she asked for more information. I attempted to explain it, I could tell she was not understanding what I was trying to convey as she asked me the same question more than once. She told me they don't offer free consultations, which I was fine with but when I asked her how much she hesitated and told me she could not tell me how much a consultation would be. I was confused and asked her how would I find that out. She told me someone would call me back within 2 business days and took my number. As we said our goodbyes she said if no one called me back in 2 days no one could help me. I then confused, asked her if I should call back after the two days then if I didn't hear back. She told me no, if no one called me back it meant no one could help me. I wanted to make sure I understood her correctly and said so if no one calls me back they won't do a consultation? She said I was correct. I said so you can't give me a cost for a consultation, then you tell me if no one calls me back that means you can't help me? So without knowing the details of the case, you not understanding what I am saying and being unable to provide me a price for a consultation so an ATTORNEY could explain what rights I may or may not have, you are telling me if I don't receive a call back it means no one can help me??? I told her this was the most unprofessional experience I have ever had with a law firm and I have 13 years of legal background in one area or another. I told her not to worry about calling me back. This is absurd. I hope someone from the firm does read this and call me back and ask for more details (as there are plenty I am not going to share on this platform, yet) as I hope this not an accurate representation of their firms professionalism or the way they treat potential clients. If not, I hope it is corrected, a good percentage law referrals are done via word of mouth! This was pretty appalling behavior and she needs trained and/or this firm needs training and some standard SOP's developed and implemented as soon as possible.
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
22 May, 2024 by Jeb
Bethany Stickradt did a fantastic job helping our family protect and navigate the complex assisted living facility issues for our handicapped uncle, who has cerebal palsy. He has lived at the facility in Newark happily for 18 years.Then it was sold and the new management tried to kick him out two times and harassed our family. There was no change in his level of care. He did not fit their marketing image. Bethany handled our appeal to the State. Thankfully they backed down. We are so very grateful we had Bethany representing us and used the Reese Pyle Meyer Law Firm.
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08 Feb, 2024 by Jeffrey wilkey
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05 Jun, 2024 by Brandy
Let me preface this by saying there was a language barrier which made it very difficult for me to understand the person I was speaking with, I am sure she had an equally difficult time. First, I called in to ask about a consultation to see if I have a case, and possible representation. She asked what type of case, which I explained and then she asked for more information. I attempted to explain it, I could tell she was not understanding what I was trying to convey as she asked me the same question more than once. She told me they don't offer free consultations, which I was fine with but when I asked her how much she hesitated and told me she could not tell me how much a consultation would be. I was confused and asked her how would I find that out. She told me someone would call me back within 2 business days and took my number. As we said our goodbyes she said if no one called me back in 2 days no one could help me. I then confused, asked her if I should call back after the two days then if I didn't hear back. She told me no, if no one called me back it meant no one could help me. I wanted to make sure I understood her correctly and said so if no one calls me back they won't do a consultation? She said I was correct. I said so you can't give me a cost for a consultation, then you tell me if no one calls me back that means you can't help me? So without knowing the details of the case, you not understanding what I am saying and being unable to provide me a price for a consultation so an ATTORNEY could explain what rights I may or may not have, you are telling me if I don't receive a call back it means no one can help me??? I told her this was the most unprofessional experience I have ever had with a law firm and I have 13 years of legal background in one area or another. I told her not to worry about calling me back. This is absurd. I hope someone from the firm does read this and call me back and ask for more details (as there are plenty I am not going to share on this platform, yet) as I hope this not an accurate representation of their firms professionalism or the way they treat potential clients. If not, I hope it is corrected, a good percentage law referrals are done via word of mouth! This was pretty appalling behavior and she needs trained and/or this firm needs training and some standard SOP's developed and implemented as soon as possible.
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
22 May, 2024 by Jeb
Bethany Stickradt did a fantastic job helping our family protect and navigate the complex assisted living facility issues for our handicapped uncle, who has cerebal palsy. He has lived at the facility in Newark happily for 18 years.Then it was sold and the new management tried to kick him out two times and harassed our family. There was no change in his level of care. He did not fit their marketing image. Bethany handled our appeal to the State. Thankfully they backed down. We are so very grateful we had Bethany representing us and used the Reese Pyle Meyer Law Firm.
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08 Feb, 2024 by Jeffrey wilkey
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24 Feb, 2022 by Sarah orwig
Cannot contact him. Is he still in practice?
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14 Dec, 2020 by Mary schuyler
he helped me with my divorce and was very kind
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03 Dec, 2020 by Donna yates
Can't get ahold of him need to make changes and haven't heard anything from him about retirement or anyone replacing him.
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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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