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Matthew Eric Palmer, experienced Estate Planning, Family Law attorney in Oceanside, CA with 2 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.
43,06
star star star star star
5.0/5
Avvo
5.0
2 Reviews
star star star star star
20 Sep, 2024 by Meghan
It’s so nice to have peace of mind knowing that you have a trustworthy, caring, and kind person in your corner, especially with so much uncertainty going on. I would 100% recommend hiring this firm . Matthew is the man to get the job done. There are not enough words for me to express my gratitude to this Man and his whole team, so I will simply say thank you!!!!
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18 Sep, 2024 by Joel
I had important questions about my child support termination and they helped me out promptly. Very helpful.
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Melissa Loreen Rodriguez, experienced Estate Planning, Probate attorney in Oceanside, CA 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.
39,03
star star star star star
5.0/5
Avvo
5.0
1 Reviews
star star star star star
15 Sep, 2017 by Lilia
I consulted Melissa to review my mothers frust. I was able to schedule appointment the following day, she was prompt and cordial. Reviewed the documents and made referrals. Graciously declined to change for the consult. I have no doubt I'll be retuning to have her draft my trust, Melissa is knowledgeable, ethical, professional and overall a person with integrity and values. Rare to find now days!
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Ashby Clark Sorensen, experienced Estate Planning attorney in Oceanside, CA with 97 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.
35,13
star star star star star
4.6/5
Avvo
5.0
1 Reviews
Google Maps
4.6
96 Reviews
star star star star star
09 Feb, 2025 by Adrian gomez
Google Maps
star star star star star
29 Jan, 2025 by Lisa gonzales
I would highly recommend this law firm. Unfortunately, I had a very difficult divorce with a lot of unforseen obstacles. Despite my Ex behaving in a sneaky under handed way, this law firm always maintained their dignity and professionalism. Thankfully, because of their due diligence I received ALL that I was legally entitled to.
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28 Jan, 2025 by Tom r.
I can say enough in appreciation for the great service my family has received from Ashby Sorensen, Esq.! My Dad passed away (2017) and we sold our family home of 63 years recently, and were pleased to find our Family’s Living Trust put in place years ago protected our assets and gave us peace of mind. Ashby Sorensen’s legal team (Lisa), has been very helpful and friendly to us over several years! Without a doubt, best Attorney and Team I highly recommend!
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William John Freed, experienced Estate Planning attorney in Oceanside, CA 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.
35,03
star star star star star
5.0/5
Avvo
5.0
1 Reviews
star star star star star
13 Aug, 2014 by Theresa
GREAT!! Bill has done a bit of legal work for me and my family and always does a great job!
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Elizabeth Jean Kuchta, experienced Estate Planning, Family Law attorney in Oceanside, CA with 96 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.
30,86
star star star star star
4.6/5
Google Maps
4.6
96 Reviews
star star star star star
09 Feb, 2025 by Adrian gomez
Google Maps
star star star star star
29 Jan, 2025 by Lisa gonzales
I would highly recommend this law firm. Unfortunately, I had a very difficult divorce with a lot of unforseen obstacles. Despite my Ex behaving in a sneaky under handed way, this law firm always maintained their dignity and professionalism. Thankfully, because of their due diligence I received ALL that I was legally entitled to.
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19 Nov, 2024 by Lluvia semler
I was going through a divorce and child custody when i found Michael Fischer online. After speaking to several lawyers Michael was very professional and listen to me with my problems. I went to him because while pregnant I had made the huge mistake when I went to child custody court and letting my ex husband take our baby when he turned 10 months to PA different state. I knew I made a huge mistake leaving court that day so when I went back to court to tell the judge I was going trough postpartum depression and I wasn’t thinking straight I was taking medication for depression the judge refuse to acknowledge anything I told him. That’s when Michael came to the rescue taking my case. It took us a little bit but we were able to prove that my son being so young and sick with asthma could not go for that long to another state without his mother. Michael gave me back that peace of mind I had lost and we won the case. After that I also got him to do my divorce that took more time because my ex was making it hard for me. Michael again was able to talk to my ex and finalize are divorce this August. I’m a middle class person I live check by check for the most part. I was able to stay with my condo. Michael has reasonable prices and you pay monthly so that helped me a lot. Some lawyers want 10k up front. I would recommend Michael to anyone that is in need of a good lawyer specially when it comes to fighting for your kids.
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David V. Doria, experienced Estate Planning, Probate attorney in Oceanside, CA with 13 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.
29,59
star star star star star
4.4/5
Google Maps
4.4
13 Reviews
star star star star star
08 Feb, 2025 by Chris
I could not be more delighted with the courtesy and professionalism we have received from our attorney David Doria. He has been nothing short of amazing throughout the probate process following my mothers death. He is responsive, friendly, and sympathetic, and accessible. He is a genuinely nice human being, and has made me feel comfortable and confident throughout this legal process. So much so that my wife and I enlisted his expertise to restructure our own living trust. I would wholeheartedly recommend Mr. Doria for a Trust/Probate attorney. He has been an absolute pleasure to do business with.
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star star star star star
23 Apr, 2024 by Haeneman
The process of establishing a Trust and Will went very well. Kurt is friendly, knowledgeable, efficient and went out of his way several times to patiently help us understand what needed to be done. He greatly assisted with filling in documents required by Banks, Federal and Health care institutions that otherwise would have been a struggle for us. He is generous with his time, always helping us whenever needed. We certainly would highly recommend him to anyone looking to set up a Trust and Will.
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star star star star star
11 Jul, 2023 by Flora g.
I had an awful experience with one particular female lawyer. She took more than $3000 and did not represent me in family court. Instead her and the corrupt individuals railroaded me. Violated my right as a parent. They went on to grant my abusive mother custody and adoption while I layer incoherent due to an automobile accident. She even tried to charge me again and threatened to sue me for the money stating I never paid her for doing nothing. She never represented me and sue to my inability to fight she abused her power as an attorney. This firm should know exactly what kind of person she is. Truth will prevail and she will be seen as guilty.
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Solmarie Ramos, experienced Child Custody, Child Support attorney in Oceanside, CA with 96 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.
27,46
star star star star star
4.6/5
Google Maps
4.6
96 Reviews
star star star star star
09 Feb, 2025 by Adrian gomez
Google Maps
star star star star star
29 Jan, 2025 by Lisa gonzales
I would highly recommend this law firm. Unfortunately, I had a very difficult divorce with a lot of unforseen obstacles. Despite my Ex behaving in a sneaky under handed way, this law firm always maintained their dignity and professionalism. Thankfully, because of their due diligence I received ALL that I was legally entitled to.
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
19 Nov, 2024 by Lluvia semler
I was going through a divorce and child custody when i found Michael Fischer online. After speaking to several lawyers Michael was very professional and listen to me with my problems. I went to him because while pregnant I had made the huge mistake when I went to child custody court and letting my ex husband take our baby when he turned 10 months to PA different state. I knew I made a huge mistake leaving court that day so when I went back to court to tell the judge I was going trough postpartum depression and I wasn’t thinking straight I was taking medication for depression the judge refuse to acknowledge anything I told him. That’s when Michael came to the rescue taking my case. It took us a little bit but we were able to prove that my son being so young and sick with asthma could not go for that long to another state without his mother. Michael gave me back that peace of mind I had lost and we won the case. After that I also got him to do my divorce that took more time because my ex was making it hard for me. Michael again was able to talk to my ex and finalize are divorce this August. I’m a middle class person I live check by check for the most part. I was able to stay with my condo. Michael has reasonable prices and you pay monthly so that helped me a lot. Some lawyers want 10k up front. I would recommend Michael to anyone that is in need of a good lawyer specially when it comes to fighting for your kids.
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Kelly Lynn Hinds, experienced Estate Planning attorney in Oceanside, CA with 13 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.
26,19
star star star star star
4.4/5
Google Maps
4.4
13 Reviews
star star star star star
08 Feb, 2025 by Chris
I could not be more delighted with the courtesy and professionalism we have received from our attorney David Doria. He has been nothing short of amazing throughout the probate process following my mothers death. He is responsive, friendly, and sympathetic, and accessible. He is a genuinely nice human being, and has made me feel comfortable and confident throughout this legal process. So much so that my wife and I enlisted his expertise to restructure our own living trust. I would wholeheartedly recommend Mr. Doria for a Trust/Probate attorney. He has been an absolute pleasure to do business with.
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
23 Apr, 2024 by Haeneman
The process of establishing a Trust and Will went very well. Kurt is friendly, knowledgeable, efficient and went out of his way several times to patiently help us understand what needed to be done. He greatly assisted with filling in documents required by Banks, Federal and Health care institutions that otherwise would have been a struggle for us. He is generous with his time, always helping us whenever needed. We certainly would highly recommend him to anyone looking to set up a Trust and Will.
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
11 Jul, 2023 by Flora g.
I had an awful experience with one particular female lawyer. She took more than $3000 and did not represent me in family court. Instead her and the corrupt individuals railroaded me. Violated my right as a parent. They went on to grant my abusive mother custody and adoption while I layer incoherent due to an automobile accident. She even tried to charge me again and threatened to sue me for the money stating I never paid her for doing nothing. She never represented me and sue to my inability to fight she abused her power as an attorney. This firm should know exactly what kind of person she is. Truth will prevail and she will be seen as guilty.
Read more Google Maps
See more
Joseph Battle Carnohan, experienced Child Custody, Child Support attorney in Oceanside, CA 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.
8,00
star star star star star
0.0/5
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Stephanie Michelle Wong, experienced Estate Planning, Family Law attorney in Oceanside, CA 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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Lisa L Fiance, experienced Estate Planning, Family Law attorney in Oceanside, CA 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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Kurt Albert Weiser, experienced Estate Planning attorney in Oceanside, CA 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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Richard Leroy Manwaring, experienced Business, Estate Planning attorney in Oceanside, CA 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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Roland Dean Cobb, experienced Business, Estate Planning attorney in Oceanside, CA 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.
0,00
star star star star star
0.0/5
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Susan E Bellon, experienced Business, Estate Planning attorney in Oceanside, CA 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.
0,00
star star star star star
0.0/5
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Joseph Alan Lara, experienced Business, Estate Planning attorney in Oceanside, CA 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.
0,00
star star star star star
0.0/5
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Sheri Lynne Perlman, experienced Estate Planning attorney in Oceanside, CA 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.
0,00
star star star star star
0.0/5
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John William Cronin, experienced Estate Planning attorney in Oceanside, CA 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.
0,00
star star star star star
0.0/5
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John Kimball Bishop, experienced Estate Planning attorney in Oceanside, CA 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.
0,00
star star star star star
0.0/5
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Anna Marie Camarena, experienced Estate Planning attorney in Oceanside, CA 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.
0,00
star star star star star
0.0/5
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Tricia D'Ambrosio Woodward, experienced Business, Estate Planning attorney in Oceanside, CA 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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William Walsh IV, experienced Estate Planning, Real Estate attorney in Oceanside, CA 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.
0,00
star star star star star
0.0/5
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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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