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03 Dec, 2024 by Tammy ballard
Does not return calls.
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27 Feb, 2023 by Michael niedzwiadek
Great person! Played sax at the show wouls love to play more:)
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07 Jun, 2018 by Amanda hadsell
04 Apr, 2024 by Tammy murray
This attorney only accepts, “easy” cases.
Disgusting!
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11 Mar, 2023 by Alora l lattimer
Good
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13 Nov, 2020 by Todd percox
Hired Clinton for a misdemeanor case. He told me $10,000 for lawyer fees and trial. We show up to trial and he was unprepared. Didn't properly submit some items into evidence, so they got tossed out. He tried to show a video and didn't even have it prepared, so that got tossed out too, and couldn't even show the video. The D.A made him look like a fool the entire time. I lost the case as a result. Then I get a bill on top of that for another $3,000 for "work he did". He wasn't even prepared for the trial!
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31 Mar, 2023 by Pilots discretion
He doesn’t seem to actually care about what he is doing. Just going through the motions. While letting families be torn apart. Needs some education on parental alienation.
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07 Dec, 2022 by Tony el spaniard
Judge Kochlacs is not a fair judge at all. I am a veteran doctor with a clean record and I feel discriminated against for being a non-white father. The other party lied, cheated, physically assaulted me, and connived against me with her family, and effectively manipulated this judge into doing their bidding. I held on to love and forgiveness as I tried to salvage my family when they held on to hate and greed. Let the record show that I never wanted this, and I will always love my kids, even if they were wrongfully taken away to another state against my will. But awarding my ex 2 years of spousal support (especially after I've already supported her for the past 1.5 years since she abandoned me and she continues to choose to not work as she lives with her parents) plus full custody and $20,000 I don't have was manipulation and discrimination, not justice. Also, allowing last-second made-up exhibits to be submitted the day of court without giving me any chance to refute the false claims should not be legal. You should feel ashamed of yourself Judge Kochlacs. You sir, are a bad judge.
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20 Sep, 2022 by Frankie nin
I was appointed this lawyer in my case back in 1997 and he fell asleep, did not present any evidence and never objected to the DA’s overly exaggeration of facts costing me 25 years of my life
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04 Nov, 2021 by Tori
Made an appointment weeks in advance with Mr. Lay to discuss my issue. Appointment was for 3pm - still have handwritten note saying 3p with other instructions I was given. Called prior to my appointment about emailing him info before our phone appointment, and the receptionist stated my appointment was at 11 am. Wrong! Not a good way to treat a potential client. Given the quality of the receptionist if you DO make an appointment, repeat it back to their receptionist several times so you know you are on the same page. Or you will be stuck like I am starting all over again for an appointment weeks out.
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16 Sep, 2019 by Melissa
Josh worked quickly, clearly, and effectively to reduce not only the length of time spent on litigation of a dispute but also reducing the overall cost. He spoke honestly and openly with me about the case I had sought his counsel on, and I appreciated his honest approach to the potential options and resources. I would highly recommend his service.
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13 Aug, 2024 by Anonymous
Disappears after initial consult. Called every day for two weeks, only option is to leave a message, no return calls. Took a call to the State Bar and a certified demand letter to return my documents. Big waster of time.
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24 Jan, 2020 by Anonymous
I was the Executive Director for a non profit organization and hired Andrew to provide both legal assistance and consulting. Andrew was not only thorough, accurate and knowledgeable with his legal advice and duties that he performed for us but he was also personable, easy to work with and took an interest in learning about our organization, mission and the nuances of what we were about to help give top notch consultative services. He was responsive, timely, knowledgeable and Andrew performed his work with a high level of integrity and skill. I recommend his services and do so actively whenever I can.
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25 Nov, 2020 by G
As clients, we had to deal with multiple errors and issues related to our paperwork for our probate process. We had to edit our documents and ask the attorney to make updates. Additionally, the paperwork submitted to the court included a document representing a different deceased individual, not our father. The process was sloppy and important details were not paid attention to.
We ultimately felt it would be best to transfer our probate needs to a new attorney. Our attorney was shocked at the fees we had to pay for what we received and was very surprised with issues they spotted in our paperwork too.
The only recommendation I can offer is to steer clear and take your business elsewhere. You will not have to worry about a lack of editing and you will save money.
Our new attorney has been great to work with!
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12 Apr, 2013 by Anonymous
Larry was referred to us from our real estate agent, we went in pretty blind and only communicated by e-mail and phone (distance) until we met at mediation. He explained the process well and what to expect and how to participate. He was so well prepared, we were instantly comfortable. Mediator was very impressed as well. He was very direct and up front in telling us no matter how right we thought we were (and were) the outcome will not be so black and white, it is mediation. He looked us in the eyes and told us where he thought the best outcome would be and we ended up exactly at the point. He was very aware of keeping legal fees in check. Great guy, lots of practical business experience. I wish he was not at the Oregon coast, I would use him again.
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22 Oct, 2023 by Anonymous
I am posting this review to share the facts relating to my experience with this attorney. After finding that my multimillionaire corrupt ex tenant, negligently caused approximately $100,000 in damage to my home in Florence, With this tenant being the first to occupy my home, and having an agreement signed by him where he is to return the home to pre move in condition and or pay to bring it to pre move in condition. With this in hand and the tenant being corrupt, untruthful and evasive, though being more than financially capable to pay for the the damage he caused, I hired the Law Offices of Brian Cox, (specifically Brian Cox as he is the single attorney there). Cox appears to have close to 30 years of experience and informed me that they specialize in landlord tenant issues specifically representing landlords. Cox charges for every minute of his time including consultation. I shared with Cox my rental agreement and hired him to send my ex tenant a demand letter. Tenant did not pay so I hired Cox to file a suit against my ex tenant. I am one who likes to keep on top of things, despite my earlier inquiry with Cox on filing date, Cox did not file the suit till over one year since my discovery of the damage. Cox filed a breach of contract claim citing my rental agreement. If I prevailed in any way under this claim I was to be able to collect my attorney fees in addition to the amount of my damages from the tenant. Since I was looking over his work I found two careless mistakes (besides the one that ruined my case) that Cox made in supplying evidence to the defense. After several months and thousands of dollars of attorney’s fees paid to Cox, the defense attorney informed Cox that he filed my claim past the statute of limitations (which was one year). Cox and his required insurer Oregon PLF (whose job is to protect Cox and their best interest is Cox and not the party that is damaged by Cox) Suggested that I amend my complaint to common law claims such as “waste, chattel etc” A path that would be being difficult in prevailing even if I prevailed I would not be able to collect my attorney fees from the defendant which by the end of that claim would probably be over $20,000. After consulting with at least three attorneys who each informed me that the probability of prevailing under common law claims (as suggested by Cox and the PLF) would be a novelty, not likely or very difficult. Meanwhile the defense attorney filed for a summary judgement mainly based on the statute of limitations issue. The most probable outcome of this is that I would lose the case (which I lost anyway due to Cox’s error) and would be required to pay all of the defendant’s attorney fees. I was left with no choice but to hire another attorney and mitigate the damages. I settled the case between my ex tenant with no money awarded to me in exchange for not having to pay his attorney fees. I then had to hire a third attorney, who specializes in malpractice to settle and collect from the PLF. In the end after paying attorney fees to Cox, and the malpractice attorney I did not even end up with getting half of my damages paid for. I asked Cox to refund me what I paid him which he did not answer. Also, for some illogical reason the PLF is not responsible to pay back attorney fees that I paid to the attorney who is guilty of malpractice. The legal system in the country is a joke, in the end it is the attorneys who win! (Cox still got paid for his careless incompetent “work”)You simply pay the attorney for their time regardless of outcome and if they make a gross error despite how good your initial case is you are still not made whole.
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22 May, 2015 by Anonymous
Brian Cox responded promptly to my inquiry, and was very clear on what he would need to assist us in deciding how to proceed with our case. And the response we received was from him directly - he didn't just pass us off to his assistant, which I appreciate! We plan to contact him when we are ready to proceed, and have been pleased with the communication thus far.
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22 Jan, 2025 by Aka dork
Almost got this man Debarred from law , he is a bad person and doesn't care about you. He'll take your money and screw you over. He tried to get his own client double time more than the DA was suggesting and tried to tell them it's the best he could do. He lies , he puts his own clients under the bus.
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21 Jan, 2025 by Caleb harp
“I came to Mike during one of the most difficult times in my life, and I couldn’t have asked for a better attorney to guide me through it. From the very beginning, Mike was objective, straightforward, and focused on helping me through the process.
He had my best interests at heart every step of the way, and was incredibly transparent and informative throughout. Not only is Mike an excellent communicator himself, but his entire office is highly responsive and professional. They always kept me updated and made sure I never felt left in the dark.
I’ve worked with a lot of attorneys in the past, and when I came to Mike, I already had two others on retainer. That said, Mike’s level of service, and expertise surpasses everyone else’s exponentially. His professionalism, and dedication truly stand out.
In me, he’s got a client for life. I cannot recommend him, and his team enough! To anyone who needs a skilled, and trustworthy attorney.”
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15 Mar, 2024 by Autum lopez
This lawyer took my family for 1,000.00,s he did no research, no investigating, no calls, no emails left us in the dark till day of court explaining he's doing nothing might as well plead guilty. Had to fire him not a cent refund, get a court extention and a court appt attorney who actually did the work and helped like a good lawyer does. This lawyer is a legal money theif and it's all he cares about h'ell take everything you have and not help you at all. Save yourself from this traumatic experience and get any other lawer.
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20 Oct, 2021 by Rachel andras
I cannot say enough about the team at Anderson Irrigation. We had a water leak happening and I was stressed out wasting so much water. These guys help guide be through the steps to find the leak and then I had them come out to fix. Everyone I worked with was professional, helpful, and was efficient at the work they did for us. I HIGHLY recommend this team over anyone else! Thank you!
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06 Jun, 2021 by Brandon bender
20 Oct, 2021 by Rachel andras
I cannot say enough about the team at Anderson Irrigation. We had a water leak happening and I was stressed out wasting so much water. These guys help guide be through the steps to find the leak and then I had them come out to fix. Everyone I worked with was professional, helpful, and was efficient at the work they did for us. I HIGHLY recommend this team over anyone else! Thank you!
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06 Jun, 2021 by Brandon bender
27 Feb, 2020 by Ml
Marlene wrote our wills years ago and we are using her again to update them. She was professional, efficient and pleasant. She asked the right questions so we would know what to include and exclude in the wills.
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18 Jun, 2019 by Anonymous
Incredibly hostile and unprofessional. Acted very arrogant and entitled in her opinions. Will not work with again.
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18 Mar, 2022 by Kimberly mcnamara
Called inquiring about an attorney for my potential case and even though Jonathan explained he does not prosecute these types of cases. He was more then willing and took the time to give me professional referrals that he knew of who do. He additionally was so kind and seemed truly genuine.
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11 Oct, 2012 by Anonymous
I have used several attorneys over the years and this is the first time I have actively gone out of my way to review one. I feel I need to try to warn others that Shannon isn't very good. We did not communicate well, the level of research needed was excessive for a 20 year attorney, billing was terribly slow, and together these items lead to average work at a very high price. I felt as though I was her first will client.
Do yourself a favor and keep looking. Even after confronting her I felt she was uncaring. I am not the type of person to write a complaint but I hope by doing so I can help someone from overpaying for legal services.
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15 Aug, 2024 by Lynda kuehn
26 Apr, 2023 by Jan cassens
23 Mar, 2023 by Keri martin
I contacted the office twice for assistance with an eviction and For Sale by Owner situation in Oregon and was told I would get a phone call back - sadly no one called me back to see if they can assist me with this process. This law firm was suggested to me by Metlife Legal Plan which I pay for through my employer. I give this review 1 star because the lack of a simple phone call back from the law office.
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18 Jun, 2022 by Anonymous
I was contacted by this ...man, regarding an ongoing case. His legal writing is unclear, he is apparently unfamiliar with spell check, and he uses punctuation like a drunk throwing darts.
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13 May, 2020 by Anonymous
I contacted Attorney Michael Cougar with questions about my mothers estate. It took Michael 2 days to return my call. We agreed to a phone appointment day and time. At appointment time he didn't call. After waiting 10 minutes I called him and left a message. He returned my call several hours later saying he had taken an online class that day and was returning my call. He seemed to have forgotten our appointment.
Today we spoke. He spoke to me in a confrontational manner as though he was angry. He said many things including, "I can't answer your question.", a series of "You" statements directed towards me, "you asked me a question, I gave you an answer," was one of his replies. In sarcasm he said "Of course, there are" as though my question was wrong to have asked and the final comment was "whatever, whats the next question?" at that point I felt I had no other option but to end the call.
It matters not if he was having a bad day or perhaps didn't want to speak with me. This guy is a loose cannon. His sarcasm and impatience was uncalled for. There are plenty of other Attorneys in Medford. Cross Cougar off your list.
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09 Dec, 2019 by Anonymous
Mr. Cougar is straight to the point and doesn't waste your time with frivolity. His demeanor says that he knows what he's talking about and doesn't care if you buy it... because he's not selling anything. He'll get in the trench with you if you need it. Otherwise, don't waste his time because he won't waste yours! I hated the fact that I needed him, but sure glad that I had him on my side!
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24 Mar, 2020 by Joe
Both my wife and I like Mr Palmer, very personable, straight forward, friendly. Not afraid to tell you all about his accolades and then some, but that's okay, you want to know the attorney you have is worth his salt. Some of the meeting times we had seemed redundant, like, didn't we already cover this? In some ways, I felt after we left the appointment, he set his tablet aside and forgot most of what we went over times past even though he took copious notes. Our case was simple, not heated and hateful, we knew what we wanted for outcome and actually got less than where we started. His interrogation of the ex spouse was pitiful. We had gone over some talking points that he either forgot or decided at the last minute not to use, of course once the case starts, you can't say a thing and if you try to pass him a note he pushes it away. His knowledge of courtroom procedures and family law is really very good, we just didn't like his style and the judge in our case evidently didn't either. For us, the missed outcome didn't hurt us but we could think of other cases where it could be crucial. We will not recommend against him because, like I said, he knew his stuff. Maybe just not a good day for us. If you're looking for a bulldog attorney, then you might want to consider someone else, if your looking for a gentleman attorney, then that description is more in line with his style and personality. You can't have them both.
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24 Apr, 2019 by Anonymous
Quoted me $150/hr to take my case. Sent me an Email saying he worked ~3 hours to review my case then charged me almost $1500 to tell me he was not going to take the case based on information I gave him the first day in the consultation! This lawyer will take your money without providing any services whatsoever! Take your money elsewhere, there are plenty of lawyers who are not out to steal your money. James A Palmer should be disbarred!
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17 May, 2018 by Anonymous
Jim represented me in a child custody matter. He took my case when others were frighted off. He knew his stuff. I got the outcome I was seeking. I recommend him.
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27 Dec, 2024 by Terry howell
Fred and Jennifer are great at what they do. Fred helped me deal with a very rough situation with my father's memory care and guardianship process. The team assisted again year's later when my father passed away. I have nothing but great things to say about the firm.
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19 Dec, 2024 by Tiara essex
31 Oct, 2024 by Daniel small
So I get the initial call from a non-lawyer, their whole purpose is to confirm whether they can help or not. Unsure how they would know, since they are not an attorney. I pay $49 to schedule a 20 minute call. They call me 4 hours early, cancel the actual scheduled call, and proceed to bomb me with a series of email about my missed appointment. I re-schedule with them but ask for a refund, thus making the appointment free because of their error. I am told that will be fine. Shortly after I receive a notification that my new appointment has been cancelled. I would never give them another chance. If you need the legal help they provide... Run! Find someone else. They appear, to me, to be inept at best and fraud at worst.
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21 May, 2024 by Anonymous
My husband and I hired Scott in Nov 2023 for my husband to adopt my daughter. He sure liked to answer my calls before I sent him the check. Once payment was received, it was touch and go communication. It would take WEEKS for him to return calls or texts. I had to call my county courthouse to make sure he even filed the paperwork because he was not getting back to me (2.5 weeks)
When the judge signed off on our adoption, I still didn't hear anything. I ended up going to the courthouse to pick up the paperwork myself because he kept "letting it slip". Finally almost 4 months after the judges approval we received our documents. Save yourself the stress and hire a better attorney.
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14 Jun, 2023 by Amy
Scott lead us to victory with our complex adoption. He fought for our family, expressed any concerns and advice. I felt comfortable to reach out with any questions. He was confident and knowledgeable. I appreciate his dedication and advocacy. I would recommend him for adoption services. Thank you for all the hard work you put into our case.
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07 Aug, 2021 by Anonymous
Scott Adams caused our family undo hardship due to his poor communication and lack of follow-through/up. We are unable to refer him/his adoption services to anyone.
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21 Feb, 2013 by Anonymous
Mark has recently helped my husband and I through some issues regarding our business, and is continuing to help us. Mark not only did exactly what he said he would do, he gave us confidence throughout the process. We trust him completely and would recommend him to anyone needing help with their business. Mark was considerate and flexible to our needs, and always willing to take the time to answer our questions thoroughly. Though already very knowledgable, if there was ever a question he was unable to answer, Mark did he research and replied to us in a very reasonable amount of time. He has already saved my husband and I thousands of dollars.
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15 Oct, 2009 by Anonymous
Terrible experience with this lawyer in regards to an estate case. Communication was horrible, was not trustworthy. He came across trusting and that he would have my interest be a priority but it was NOT the case. He ultimately cost me to lose approx $30,000.00 of my estate money. I even had to hire another attorney to deal with Mr. Holady when he would not respond to me even after admitting what he had done. Make sure you do a good background check on lawyers BEFORE you hire and use the Oregon State Bar to look for any issues filed against attorneys. Mr. Holady has several complaints filed with the Oregon State Bar, you have to call and ask for the info; which is public record. This gives you an idea of what type of person he is. If we had done this first it would have save us a lot of headaches, and undeserved stress. I am sharing my experience so others can learn and make educated decision before hiring this attorney.
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15 Oct, 2024 by Lucas
11 Feb, 2023 by Paraclete hook
22 Nov, 2024 by Erica ransom
Wanted to share my experience with Jennifer Currin, a lawyer at this firm. I contacted her because I wanted to find new representation for a custody case. She had a nasty attitude and a very judgemental opinion about my case, even saying "I don't know if we will mesh" She honestly seemed like she was looking for reasons to dislike me and I'd even say she was vicious and snotty. She told me something potentially frightening about my case, when I told her another lawyer said that won't happen, she then recanted and said "oh if another lawyer told you that, then that's right!" She doesn't seem to know what she is doing or talking about, and she was hands down the rudest and most unprofessional attorney I had ever spoken with. She told me she wanted a $5,000 retainer for a case that may close because I moved. Then she said "I don't know why you'd give me a retainer if it's going to close" as if I dont need a lawyer regardless and she's not required by law to return the unused portion of my retainer. Even after all of that she scheduled me a consultation, I was in shock so I agreed but later canceled. First impressions are important, and my first impression of Jeniffer was so terrible that I am not even going to subject myself to further mistreatment.
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25 Jul, 2024 by Stephanie wallis
From our experience, Rick Christian's review is dead-on in accuracy. The firm has deficiencies.
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02 Apr, 2024 by Kandis s
Didn't even get to paying for a consultation thank goodness. She basically asked me why I would want to stand up for myself on a bogus parenting plan. He is in contempt monthly and she thinks I should just allow him to control and walk all over his children and the parenting plan. Definitely not for you if you need someone strong that will stand up for you and what you want or
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14 Mar, 2024 by Danita macy
Family attorney for many years. Helpful in getting help for aged parents with dementia.
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27 Mar, 2023 by Amber
22 Jul, 2021 by Sbs
Zero at most. Front desk lady is very rude. Definitely glad I was in the wrong place and don't have to deal with her ever again!!
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26 Mar, 2024 by Cody skoff
27 Apr, 2023 by Nathan hill
08 Feb, 2023 by Kacie rowe
Men/fathers specifically, be careful! This attorney makes her living off of false hope. She was the opposing attorney in my custody case years ago, and she was an utter joke. My sons dad ended up with LESS visitation time than I was originally offering. We both paid money for court, only for him to get less time with his kid than I was offering him, ponder that!!! She is not always honest with the odds of her clients. This woman wastes good people's time and money, even her own clients, by manipulating, overusing, and draining the courts resources and time. She makes minimal effort for her clients and responds so vaguely, yet manages to waste others time and money so well. Since she defended my sons father years ago, I have watched this woman drag perfectly good mother's through court to defend fathers who have zero leg to stand on against the mother. I'm not saying the fathers were bad or undeserving fathers, but wouldn't you want to be paying an attorney who is going to be honest with your odds in court? Just be careful, if you need a cheapy attorney she's your girl! Or if being in denial, being vindictive, and paying this woman is worth buying your pride some more time, then give her a call, she's definitely the darkness you're looking for!
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12 Oct, 2023 by Anonymous
What a waste of money and time for family law.
I would have been better off to represent myself.
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07 Mar, 2021 by Anonymous
At the time of my divorce, I had become permanently disabled from a major car accident. While I was unable to defend myself, I hired Mr. Larvik to be my voice. He spent several months researching my case and a considerable amount of money. At the time of the court hearing, he said that he wasn't prepared and encouraged a settlement that gave my husband all of our joint assets so that we could get it over with. I was too shocked and incapacitated to respond. Later, my ex-husband stated that he would have settled for half of what he received. I received no part of the marital estate and continue to incur considerable medical expenses. I would have been better off letting the judge decide.
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10 May, 2015 by David
Mr. Larvik represented me in a family law/divorce case. He was truthful at all times and always kept me informed as to what was going to happen next. He prepares diligently and meticulously and didn't wait until the last minute. My trial was bumped up but no worries due to his timely preparation. My trial proceeded exactly like he assured me it would and I couldn't have been more pleased with the outcome; a fair decision by the Judge.
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29 Jun, 2009 by Anonymous
We worked with Corey on a land use issue. His knowledge was good, though not comprehensive. For example, after reading the relevant ordinance, we identified problems he hadn't, problems he later agreed were there.
The biggest problem working with Corey is his lack of responsiveness. During a crunch time for us (a period of a couple weeks), Corey was completely unresponsive, despite our contacts by email, by fax, and via voice messages. We ended up missing a deadline because we could not get Corey to respond. He eventually did respond, but with no mention or apology about his delays. When we contacted him again to follow up, same problem: we contacted him multiple times over multiple days without response.
We don't expect every attorney to be instantly available, but Corey's unresponsiveness was far beyond reasonable.
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18 Feb, 2021 by Anonymous
After 6 months she could not settle the case, and ultimately dropped my case. Tiffany came highly recommended to me and she was disappointing & hoped she could settle a simple divorce in less than 6 months. I wish I would have read her reviews prior to hiring her.
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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:
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What is your experience with estate planning?
Ensure the lawyer has substantial experience drafting wills, creating trusts, and handling other estate planning services. -
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. -
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. -
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. -
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. -
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.
