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23 Apr, 2024 by Zakia khan
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14 Feb, 2024 by Therese osullivan
We used Marc to create our living trust and other necessary documents. He and his team explained everything clearly, took care of transferring our residence into the trust and even two years later, they still answer any questions we have. I would highly recommend his services. Very nice man and trustworthy.
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16 Mar, 2023 by Mary stravogenis
Working with Marc Gugliuzza was the best legal experience ever! Marc seemed completely available to us throughout our selling process and took all of our stress away (and there was a LOT!). Marc has become my go-to for all Legal matters and has never disappointed. I would recommend his services to anyone in need of Legal representation. First class!
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03 Mar, 2024 by Tarasha brown
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29 Dec, 2023 by Aruna hau
Words alone cannot express how grateful we are to have found this wondeful law firm. Attorney Sara R. and Attorney Cheryl K. are excetional lawyers, and even better human beings. Their knowledge, professionalism and kindness are truly inspiring. Thank you - we are forever grateful.
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17 Jul, 2023 by Chris kibble
We have worked with Kathryn Harry and Associates many times and they have always been AMAZING to work with! They always have your best interest at heart in any matter you have! There is no other group that we would even consider working with in the future. Quality advice and candor is a rare find in any field, but it is always given with this group! Thank you so much!
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03 Mar, 2024 by Tarasha brown
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29 Dec, 2023 by Aruna hau
Words alone cannot express how grateful we are to have found this wondeful law firm. Attorney Sara R. and Attorney Cheryl K. are excetional lawyers, and even better human beings. Their knowledge, professionalism and kindness are truly inspiring. Thank you - we are forever grateful.
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17 Jul, 2023 by Chris kibble
We have worked with Kathryn Harry and Associates many times and they have always been AMAZING to work with! They always have your best interest at heart in any matter you have! There is no other group that we would even consider working with in the future. Quality advice and candor is a rare find in any field, but it is always given with this group! Thank you so much!
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28 Nov, 2018 by Connor
I hired Alex when I was buying my first home. He and Caryn were incredibly helpful, responsive, and always available throughout the process. They made sure the closing went as smooth as possible. Alex is an expert at explaining real estate law in a way that was easy to understand.
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16 Apr, 2015 by Zafar musvi
Alex is a consummate professional. His demeanor and conduct under pressure and in delicate situations is second-to-none. His core practice areas require a high degree of tact and diligence and Alex has repeatedly demonstrated his commitment to his responsibilities as an advisor to individuals in sensitive legal situations. Alex's strengths as an attorney and counselor are evident in his high level of service, attention to details, and clear communication practices. It is always a pleasure to do business with him and I look forward to many more opportunities in the future. I would highly recommend Alex for your legal needs.
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07 Mar, 2015 by Anonymous
If you want an attorney that actually knows how to communicate, be sure to hire Alex Ranjha. I have dealt with many attorneys over the years and none of them were as attentive, honest, easy to talk to, and responsive as Alex. Ranjha Law Group is located in Oak Brook (just across from the mall), but they actually cover Chicago and the suburbs including Cook and DuPage county and I'm pretty sure other counties as well. I recently sold my house and Alex represented me for a flat fee. There were no hidden costs and no additional fees for every time I would call him to ask a question. It was very comforting to know that I could call and ask him a question and not be additionally charged for it. From what I have seen from friends and family, real estate closings can be quite the headache. Not only did Alex make sure everything went smoothly, he actually foresaw a few potential problems that allowed us to act accordingly. Alex focused on MY best interest; NOT whatever gets the deal done the quickest. I would not hesitate to hire Alex again, and in fact referred him to a friend who is filing bankruptcy (Alex practices bankruptcy law as well). Bottom line: you're in great hands with Alex!
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14 Sep, 2019 by Brittany
I have used Kelsey's council on multiple issues, most recently on a real estate / family law issue. She was resourceful, accessible, reliable, and most importantly, personable, to help navigate a family matter. I appreciate and value her intellectual rigor and honestly- highly recommend.
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13 Sep, 2019 by Christine
I highly recommend Ms. Stangebye for your real estate or estate planning needs. She has advised me and represented numerous friends of mine and has always done an excellent job- she truly has her client's best interest in mind and goes above and beyond to make sure her clients' needs are met!
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18 Oct, 2024 by Daniel ahiakpor
Daniel is super knowledgeable and professional. I found him to be strategically-minded as he helped me navigate a tenant's breach of contract in a thoughtful and balanced yet decisive manner. I'm looking forward to hiring this law firm again for any future real estate related needs.
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05 Aug, 2024 by Adam zagata
Great attorney on all aspects.
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09 May, 2024 by Xy z
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22 Mar, 2017 by Mary ann
Ms. Cappetta handled the sale of my condo with integrity and competence. She listened to my concerns and carefully explained all the issues involved in selling the condo so that I understood them.
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04 Apr, 2019 by Anonymous
Joe handled such transactions with the support of his Paralegal. Both of them were a pleasure with which to work. Despite hiring another lawyer, I'd never hesitate to recommend or hire Joe!
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27 Nov, 2024 by Andrea u
Great law firm, very supportive and helped me through a difficult time in my life. Thank you!
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11 Jan, 2024 by Alan robinson
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08 Dec, 2023 by Ahmad tayseer sulaiman
Experts.
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27 Nov, 2024 by Andrea u
Great law firm, very supportive and helped me through a difficult time in my life. Thank you!
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11 Jan, 2024 by Alan robinson
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08 Dec, 2023 by Ahmad tayseer sulaiman
Experts.
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30 Dec, 2024 by Erici97
Easy communication, thorough explanations, and overall great value for the amount of information I learned while setting up my LLC.
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08 Nov, 2024 by Mahdi mezghani
Working with Motiva has been an incredibly positive experience. Danya and the team were open, collaborative, and receptive to new ideas, making the entire process smooth and enjoyable.
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30 Oct, 2024 by Halal digest
Working with attorney Danya helped me make a confident and safe business decision. She is knowledgeable, easy to work with and understands our issues as Muslims especially with the growing franchises that are happening in our community. protecting us from financial and legal issues that unfortunately are arising. I high recommend Motiva Law and I plan to use their and Attorney Danya’s expert and professional services in the future.
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04 Jan, 2024 by Eric van keulen
Cameron is an awesome! Great experience!
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14 Nov, 2022 by Jackie helmuth-camarena
I am very pleased with the way my case was handled. Cameron took the time to make sure I truly understood each part of the procedure. I highly recommend the Goodman Law Firm to anyone who needs a good Family Lawyer.
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27 Jun, 2022 by Shaista shaikh
He used my entire retainer up in one email. He did not work on what was agreed upon. He has ignored my calls and emails after receiving payment. Please avoid at all costs especially if you have children.
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25 Nov, 2024 by Al be
Harry and his team of professionals led by Alison performed an expert closing for my sale. It was a pleasure to work with them every step of the way, including a deep title search they performed on my property. I would use them again, recommend without hesitation!
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24 Nov, 2024 by Joe campion
Excellent real estate law firm. Harry Fournier is a very knowledable real estate attorney and his support team is very proficient in handling all aspects of real estate closings. The November 2024 transaction that we just completed represents the second time that I have utilized the Fournier Law Firm and I would readily do so again.
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11 Nov, 2024 by Andre murphy
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25 Nov, 2024 by Al be
Harry and his team of professionals led by Alison performed an expert closing for my sale. It was a pleasure to work with them every step of the way, including a deep title search they performed on my property. I would use them again, recommend without hesitation!
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24 Nov, 2024 by Joe campion
Excellent real estate law firm. Harry Fournier is a very knowledable real estate attorney and his support team is very proficient in handling all aspects of real estate closings. The November 2024 transaction that we just completed represents the second time that I have utilized the Fournier Law Firm and I would readily do so again.
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11 Nov, 2024 by Andre murphy
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12 Sep, 2024 by Jessica volpi
Attorney’s office that gives great advice, support, and community! I’m so lucky to have found a law office I trust! Thank you for all you do for the community and teachers!
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13 Dec, 2023 by Iryna slizhova
If they can’t take case, they will give advice and guide you.
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27 Sep, 2023 by Yasmin koudmani
I highly recommend Mike Agruss and his team. They are great to work with. Not only are they professional and compassionate, but they ensure that their client feels well-represented at all steps of the case.
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27 Nov, 2024 by Andrea u
Great law firm, very supportive and helped me through a difficult time in my life. Thank you!
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11 Jan, 2024 by Alan robinson
Google Maps
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08 Dec, 2023 by Ahmad tayseer sulaiman
Experts.
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27 Nov, 2024 by Andrea u
Great law firm, very supportive and helped me through a difficult time in my life. Thank you!
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11 Jan, 2024 by Alan robinson
Google Maps
star star star star star
08 Dec, 2023 by Ahmad tayseer sulaiman
Experts.
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27 Nov, 2024 by Andrea u
Great law firm, very supportive and helped me through a difficult time in my life. Thank you!
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11 Jan, 2024 by Alan robinson
Google Maps
star star star star star
08 Dec, 2023 by Ahmad tayseer sulaiman
Experts.
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30 Dec, 2024 by Erici97
Easy communication, thorough explanations, and overall great value for the amount of information I learned while setting up my LLC.
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08 Nov, 2024 by Mahdi mezghani
Working with Motiva has been an incredibly positive experience. Danya and the team were open, collaborative, and receptive to new ideas, making the entire process smooth and enjoyable.
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
30 Oct, 2024 by Halal digest
Working with attorney Danya helped me make a confident and safe business decision. She is knowledgeable, easy to work with and understands our issues as Muslims especially with the growing franchises that are happening in our community. protecting us from financial and legal issues that unfortunately are arising. I high recommend Motiva Law and I plan to use their and Attorney Danya’s expert and professional services in the future.
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27 Dec, 2024 by Cdg visuals
Wonderful people. Made everything easy to understand. I'm only doing business with these ladies and gentlemen.
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24 Dec, 2024 by Oliver frisneda
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24 Dec, 2024 by Abdul rahman mohammed malik
Easy and well spoken
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03 Mar, 2024 by Tarasha brown
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29 Dec, 2023 by Aruna hau
Words alone cannot express how grateful we are to have found this wondeful law firm. Attorney Sara R. and Attorney Cheryl K. are excetional lawyers, and even better human beings. Their knowledge, professionalism and kindness are truly inspiring. Thank you - we are forever grateful.
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17 Jul, 2023 by Chris kibble
We have worked with Kathryn Harry and Associates many times and they have always been AMAZING to work with! They always have your best interest at heart in any matter you have! There is no other group that we would even consider working with in the future. Quality advice and candor is a rare find in any field, but it is always given with this group! Thank you so much!
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03 Mar, 2024 by Tarasha brown
Google Maps
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29 Dec, 2023 by Aruna hau
Words alone cannot express how grateful we are to have found this wondeful law firm. Attorney Sara R. and Attorney Cheryl K. are excetional lawyers, and even better human beings. Their knowledge, professionalism and kindness are truly inspiring. Thank you - we are forever grateful.
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
17 Jul, 2023 by Chris kibble
We have worked with Kathryn Harry and Associates many times and they have always been AMAZING to work with! They always have your best interest at heart in any matter you have! There is no other group that we would even consider working with in the future. Quality advice and candor is a rare find in any field, but it is always given with this group! Thank you so much!
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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.

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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