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06 Dec, 2013 by Valerie
I met with Mr. Vergun for a half hour consultation as a result of a referral by the Oregon State Bar. I spoke with him by phone and emailed ahead of time of my areas of concern regarding a small business I am starting. There was technical statutory research that needed to be done for several questions. When we met, his answers were thorough and specific to my questions; however, he also provided related information that he thought might be helpful, and it was. I felt comfortable with him and confident in his knowledge. I expect to need more legal advice through the next year, and I intend to stay with Mr. Vergun as my counsel.
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24 Jul, 2013 by David
What Larry lacks in hair, he makes up for in intellectual genius. I have had Larry work on many of the business dealings our company has been involved with. He is easy to work with, fast at returning my calls, and getting down to the brass tacks of what I need. His intelligence and experience make him a goldmine of legal advice. I'd trust him with anything I have on my legal plate.
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06 Sep, 2012 by Kurt
Larry is a good listener and asks the important questions first. He seems to know the shortest path from my problem to a great solution (gets results faster and for less money), and he explains his reasoning well. I always go to Larry first for explanations of complex legal issues, and he's always got a clear answer.
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26 Oct, 2020 by Anonymous
I am so grateful that he worked in my case, He is honest, he goes beyond to help his clients. I am talking about my case personally, I trusted him, Professional. Efficient, Highly recommend his services.
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18 Jun, 2019 by Autumn
Art was so helpful from our first phone conversation. He is knowledgeable and honest. I had a major parenting plan issue and other divorce related issues to settle. All in all we were able to work out a fair deal for everyone. He was there to take my phone calls or emails every step of the way and made feel like he really cared.
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05 May, 2018 by Marty
Art stepped into my case on the fly from another attorney who didn't want to finish the job. He handled that issue well, and has worked diligently on my other responsibilities. I have a long time Guardianship and Conservancy over a family member that has been challenging. He listens well and is compassionate.Knowing this could be a longterm association I feel very confident he will do his best for me. In this process I have had to deal with about four other attorneys and I would not want a longterm contract with a single one of them. They have been either rude, dismissive, arrogant or inept. Mr. Fowler is a refreshing difference from all that.
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01 Jun, 2023 by Rosemary
Mr Hamilton was both knowledgeable and customer oriented making his client feel important.
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08 Sep, 2013 by Alan
I am a transactional attorney who generally believes that reasonable people can always find a path to resolving their differences. At least I believed that until I had to deal with Portland Public Schools regarding my son receiving the services he needed and which PPS is obligated to provide.
Faced with an early morning meeting with PPS, we called Wiscarson Law. Our call was returned promptly and Christopher offered to meet with us that evening and join us at our meeting the next day. Christopher listened to our situation and our goals for our son. He explained our rights and the practicalities of dealing with PPS and the individuals involved. He then took charge, contacting PPS's counsel to notify them that he would be attending our meeting in the morning and arranging to meet in advance with the administrator who that had been an absolute impediment to any workable solution. When we arrived Christopher informed us that PPS had agreed to the resolution we desired. This was, to say the least, an enormous relief.
Following this, Christopher kept in regular contact with us, and helped ensure that any needed follow up was taken care of effectively and efficiently.
As an attorney, I can honestly say that Christopher is a credit to the profession and I would recommend him whole heartedly. My only regret is that we didn't engage him or Diane Wiscarson much sooner. Our experience with PPS would undoubtedly have been much more productive or at least less stressful.
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29 Nov, 2012 by Tracy
Mr. Hamilton did an excellent job assisting me through the guardianship process. He was timely, honest and, compassionate. If Christopher was unsure about a specific questions, he was not afraid to research the answer and quickly respond. This is the mark of a professional. Guardianship process was smooth, and Christopher answered all my questions to my satisfaction. I highly recommend Christopher, and have to my friends who are approaching this unsettling time with their soon-to-be adult children with a disability.
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07 May, 2015 by Gerald
We have consulted with Ed and have found him and his staff to always be very professional and knowledgeable. Ed helped us write a contract for our electrical company so we complied with the new CCB regulations. He also advised us on how to collect bad debt from a general contractor that we had dealt with and helped us walk through the process that seems to a layman almost insurmountable.
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07 May, 2015 by Anonymous
Edward was very informative from the start, he told me what to focus on and the 4 or 5 things that I needed to pay close attention to. This allowed me to sleep well at night knowing that he would take care of the business at hand. He seemed to work well with the opposing counsel and was very fair and reasonable . Edward was always accessible and quick to return calls and kept me most informed all along the way. In a divorce there is never a good senario, no one wins, hopefully you can go on respectfully about your life and I feel Ed and his team was very concerned about the personal affect of all involved. I would absolutely recommend Edward Lohman and his team to anyone looking for legal assistance. He was very knowledgable, informative and someone I can trust with my business and I would look to him for any legal help I may need in the future.
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04 May, 2015 by Kurt
Edward Lohman is an excellent attorney. He has handled a few significant matters in my life to very positive resolutions. Edward and his staff are Fast, Friendly, Efficient, Trustworthy and get the results you need. I highly recommend this firm.
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20 Mar, 2020 by Andrea
I considered going with one of the larger firms in town, but I am so glad that I saw sense and found Leigh Hudson. I was terrified and struggling after becoming disabled, and I definitely waited too long to attend to the financial situation in which I found myself. Leigh put me at ease immediately and was truly enjoyable to work with. She is very knowledgeable and she truly cares about the people she helps. She worked with me and my cognitive disability without ever making me feel judged and I left feeling glad that my case was in good hands. I really appreciate everything Leigh did to help me out of a tough situation.
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22 Dec, 2016 by Cindey
I was scared to file bankruptcy. Ms. Hudson was both professional and personable, and alleviated my fears. She was always available to answer my questions and made the process so easy. I was kept informed of the progress of my case every step of the way. She was accurate, efficient and I started sleeping again! Don't bother looking further than Ms. Hudson. AND the fee was perfect.
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25 Apr, 2024 by Sandy
Newport Law
MINOR, BANDONIS & HAGGERTY
J. Christopher Minor
Michael Bandonis
Brian Haggerty
Jim Shepherd
We are retired, and the office is closed. If you have need of legal services, there are many good attorneys available in this area and up and down the Willamette Valley. You can search on line, or call the Oregon State Bar referral number (1-503- ).
If you need to communicate with any of the now retired lawyers regarding a past matter, you may drop a note to our former mailing address:
Minor, Bandonis & Haggerty
PO Box 510
Newport OR 97365
For a while, that postal address will be monitored from time to time, although no response can be guaranteed.
Thank you.
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15 May, 2008 by Anonymous
In late 2006 a developer proposed a large residenial/commercial development in a South Lincoln County community. The proposed development included multiple residential structures that would be located on lots that are CC&R limited to 1 living unit per lot. Additionally, several residential structures were proposed to be situated above commercial structures on Commercially Zoned lots (lying within the CC&R area). Many of these living unts were proposed to have heights that exceed the CC&R residential height limitation of 16-feet.
Mr Minor's first question of us was "Have your CC&Rs been continuously enforced?" Following our "yes" answer, he stated that the wording of the CC&Rs (specifically limiting residential structures to 16-feet height above average natural grade - irrespective of whether these structures are located on Residential or Commercial Lots within the CC&R area), coupled with numerous and supporting precident cases, placed us a winnable position, should the developer go ahead with his proposed deveopment and violate our CC&Rs. Mr Minor wrote the developer, clearly advising him of the perilous position that he was in. The developer had earlier gained approval of the Community's Planning Commission, which had chosen to avoid challenging him on traffic impact, density and other concerns voiced that had earlier been voiced by dozens of nearby property owners and other citizens.
Mr Minor's understanding of the law as it bears on CC&R and Zoning issues was most impressive -- as was his candor in asking the first question "Have your CC&Rs been continuously enforced?" -- and explainig that the community's ability to prevail in this case was dependent on prior enforcement of the prior enforcement of the covenents.
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22 Apr, 2020 by Vicki
I have worked with Stephanie for several years as my attorney. I was very pleased with her attention to details in writing my trust and handling real estate matters. She is professional and takes an interest in her client’s wellbeing and needs.
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19 Apr, 2020 by Ruth
Stephanie helped my husband and I with our estate plan. She made sure everything was just as we wished. After my husband died, she walked me step-by-step through the transfer of assets to my trust and other necessary actions. She was sensitive to how stressful that time was for me and didn’t mind repeating things when I forgot.
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02 Jun, 2022 by Pam
I have worked with Sean Kelly for over 10 years on multiple legal issues, every one had a positive outcome. He tells you what you NEED to hear and know instead of what you WANT to hear. His tenacity, persistence, and overall knowledge of the law is always above and beyond anything you would imagine as possible. Sean and his staff are always on top of any issue, be it something that can be accomplished is a few hours or literally take years. He is always accessible and replies quickly so you are never in doubt he is there for you. I have never once doubted or questioned his reasoning and abilities. He will take whatever time is needed to explain everything in detail until you both feel comfortable, know the good-bad-ugly of the situation and the overall process that is needed to accomplish the goal.
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19 Feb, 2019 by Treston ducker - blue rose auto detail / blue rose body & paint
Sean and his team are awesome to work with. When it comes to legal matters or setting up your business entity, make sure to consider Sean Kelly PC first. They have helped us through setting up two businesses entities, answered many crucial questions, and gave us sound advice throughout. On-point with time sensitive issues, great service with a personal touch. I entrust all my current legal matters and any future endeavours with Sean.
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20 Mar, 2012 by Anonymous
I hired Thompson's firm to represent me in an audit with the IRS. He kept me informed of what was going on, was knowledgable about the circumstances of my case, and produced a favorable result.
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10 Dec, 2009 by Anonymous
Mr. Thompson was hired to recover a substantial sum taken from our clompany wrongfully as part of a credit card scheme. He recovered all ours funds plus substantial additional monies.our
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05 Aug, 2021 by Rick
As a retired professional engineer, I have never needed a lawyer before, I couldn’t even play one on TV, let alone go toe-to-toe with an attorney seemingly committed to an adversarial process in a largely trivial fence dispute. Insult on injury, said attorney enjoined me against contacting plaintiff directly, ruling that out as a resolution tool. Before obtaining representation, I sought a quick tutorial, came to the Reynolds Law Firm, drawn by the 2nd paragraph of its Vision Statement which matches my own philosophy 100%. I scheduled an initial consultation & met with Rance Shaw on June 1, 2021. Best $$ I have ever spent. I won’t repeat the lavish praise “anonymous” bestowed on Rance on Feb 6, 2021, just concur in every detail. A key insight emerged during the time Rance generously allowed us which rendered obsolete a couple of strategies I had developed on my own, pointing to a better way. Long story short, I had already sent plaintiff’s lawyer one letter previously, now followed with a second letter. 60 days later, nothing. Complete radio silence! If that’s the end of the matter, Rance: sorry good buddy, but if I ever do need representation, I know exactly where to go. Peace & thanks! I'm still chuckling about Ruth Bader Ginsbun...
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06 Feb, 2021 by Anonymous
Rance Shaw expertly navigated our real estate fraud case, securing a judgment in our favor with an award for every dollar we sought through arbitration.
Prior to hiring Rance, we had consulted with multiple attorneys, but knew from our initial consultation that he was the right person for our case, and we were not disappointed.
Rance immediately grasped our situation, recommended a course of action and deftly managed our unusual case and a particularly difficult and uncooperative respondent.
Throughout, Rance demonstrated a wide knowledge of legal process and points of law, yet never hesitated to say “I don’t know, let me get back with you about that” concerning the more arcane points of our unique case. He prepared us fully for the proceedings of the arbitration, and the hearing itself was professional and amicable.
Rance is not only competent, intelligent and skillful, he is a genuinely kind human being, and despite the difficulty of our circumstance, we very much enjoyed working with him.
We’re ever grateful for the blend of expertise, competence and personal warmth that Rance brought to our situation. It was truly reassuring to know we were in such capable hands through this trying process.
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24 Feb, 2016 by Shane
Scott Levin was great he did a fabulous job for me with by B.K. I had a lot of legal issues and finical debt that I was not able to pay. Scott made everything I was going through so much easier Scott is very professional and he worked very hard to make sure all my issues was handled and done right. I have referred others to Scott because of the great job he did for me I would highly recommend Scott to any one looking for legal work. Shane
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06 Jun, 2012 by Sarah
Mr. Levin, Esq. was extremely helpful and made things a lot easier for me by explaining everything thoroughly and being very clear about what I could and could not expect in the way of potential outcomes. I would definitely recommend him to friends.
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02 Mar, 2021 by Christopher
Sarah was incredibly professional and efficient. She was incredibly helpful and answered all of my questions.
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09 Dec, 2019 by Carole
Sarah has been guiding me through the trust making process. She is always professional, knowledgeable, trustworthy, and kind. She has taken time to answer all my questions clearly and patiently. She truly cares about her work and her clients. It’s a pleasure to work with her.
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31 Aug, 2022 by Luz
I hired Sam for probate (Jan 2022) and I was absolutely in good hands. He is very good in communicating, he emails back or calls back promptly.. no long wait. He handled the issues in an excellent way. He is very knowledgeable that we came out in the good end of mediation (June 2022). Big WIN. He was very open how I can save attorneys fees too . That really surprised me and I’m thankful of that of course. It was a smooth journey with this lawyer. HIGHLY RECOMMENDED…
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09 Jul, 2021 by Lee
After having serious concerns about a Trustee for 8 years, and having contacted 12 different attorneys, I finally found Mr. Samuel E. Sears. Along the 8 year journey I had learned that Trust Litigation is a very specific area of the law, and there were only 3 attorneys in the Pacific Northwest that were experts. I contacted them all but after being referred to Mr Sears by an actual probate Judge I was fortunate to be able to hire Mr. Sears. His was wonderful, affordable, and handled my case perfectly. I strongly suggest anyone with concerns about Trusts, and specifically Trust litigation contact Mr. Sears. He is the best in the business, and although he was 50 miles away in Salem, Oregon, he was a much better choice than the other two experts who were both located locally in Portland. He was honest, fair, compassionate, and the best possible choice for the task. I would further encourage anyone in need to contact him early. Civil claims often have a short life expectancy, so don't make the mistake I did, and hire counsel as soon as you suspect problems exist.
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03 May, 2019 by Anonymous
I had HOA dispute with board and got consultation from Mr. Knaupp. He gave me really excellent advice for a resolution. He is very honest and kind professional who really care about his client and highly recommend him
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02 Oct, 2017 by Tim
Ben helped my wife and I with a very limited time frame where
our backs were against the wall and went way beyond the norm
to help us keep our home. Would highly recommend him to
anyone. Plus he is more affordable than most.
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01 May, 2022 by Anonymous
Good personality, easy to understand and very helpful in general. She was able to answer my questions in a way I could understand and didn't make me feel stupid for asking questions. Concise, professional and expedious. I would recommend to anyone in need of estate planning.
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12 Apr, 2022 by William
Heidi did a will for my wife and I, she was very professional and did a great job. She explained things very well and helped us both understand what we needed and didn't need in our estate plan.
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14 Apr, 2013 by Glenn
They did a great job putting our trust in order. They included advanced directives and a will all for a very fair price. I would recommend to everyone to take care of this stuff before it is too late and your family winds up in probate which is a mess. Richard and his son Tom just do estate planning and they are efficient.
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18 Jan, 2013 by Anonymous
This estate attorney firm near Lake Oswego OR. provides a very good service. They specialize in estate planning and they offer a very complete package that was a lot less than others wanted to charge me. They are very pleasant and knowledgeable. I received a very good value.
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22 Aug, 2016 by Guy
I was referred to Andrew by Oregon Bar Association for a question about an aggressive internet image website that was demanding an exorbitant amount of money for one photograph I was using. Andrew was very easy to reach, knowledgeable, professional in his dealings, and he was fair in his fee. I would certainly use him again.
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14 Apr, 2016 by Tiffany
I am the CEO of a fairly new company here in Portland (a little over a year old). Because we are new (ish), it is important that we establish relationships with those we NEED to work with that will not kill our bottom line while still providing excellent service and value.
Andrew definitely fits the mold here. After a consultation, I knew that he and his partner, Jackson, were going to be a great fit for Guest One. Both Andrew and Jackson go out of their way to make sure that I am informed regarding specific business choices so as to avoid both simple and complex legal landmines.
They have never made me feel like I am "one of many", but rather "first", every time.....and they have never made me feel like my questions or needs put me "last in line".
They are transparent with what they do and what they offer HUGELY....and will work with their clients to make sure that the services they are offering fit the way that THEIR client needs...both professionally and financially.
I would recommend Andrew and Jackson to any other business I know seeking strong, assured, realistic and confident legal counsel for their business needs, and already have.
Seriously...if you are looking for business attorneys that WILL go the extra mile, and not just say they will....Andrew and Jackson are who you should speak to.
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09 Apr, 2019 by Cara
Kevin was our probate for a very long, complicated and messy case. He came in for us about 18 months into the probate case after we had been having a HORRIBLE experience with the first lawyer. He never took more than 24 hours to get back to me and always answered all my questions. He pricing is very good for how good he is! Frankly he could get away with charging more. I highly recommend Kevin to anyone! We could not have finished probate without him. Honest, ethical and straightword.
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16 Aug, 2013 by Anonymous
Mr. Tillson has been a very good attorney during my current situation. He always has a positive, responsible attitude, and he encourages me to take the high road. His handling of my case has been very ethical and I have no moral quandaries when following his advice, and he has steered me away from bad legal decisions. His recommendations are solid and he has been correct in his predictions of any court decisions.
Although the case is still underway, I have no lack of confidence in Mr. Tillson's abilities, as he has already been able to gain significant ground with ethical and reasonable measures.
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15 Oct, 2024 by Peter
Mr. Parker has handled two separate matters for me and my wife and has been very diligent, communicative and reasonable in his pricing. His staff has been incredible. Would highly recommend.
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09 Jan, 2018 by Leland
Nate worked with my previous Trust Admini. and produced excellent work and continues to do so.
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08 Jul, 2015 by Anonymous
When my mother was diagnosed with cancer and scheduled for stem cell transplant, she had to face the reality that she may not survive. Among other things, her will needed to be updated, an advanced directive put into place, power of attorney transferred to me, and guardianship for her developmentally delayed sister changed. Bob got on board immediately and created all the documents my mother needed. He showed great patience with my anxious mother and brought her peace during a stressful time. He is a very skilled and conscientious lawyer and is extremely sensitive to his clients' unique needs and circumstances. I would recommend Bob to anyone who seeks sound and personable legal advice.
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16 Jun, 2015 by Anonymous
I arrived at Bob's office in a panic, in need of immediate help with a Family Law situation. The office staff & Bob were comforting and helpful. His office promptly prepared and filed all the legal paperwork I needed and walked me through the process of divorce and child custody.
I would definitely recommend Robert Good to anyone in need of a Family Law attorney.
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12 May, 2022 by Kristin
I can not recommend Natalie Wetenhall enough! She is not only knowledgeable and competent but she also has this wonderful ability to explain things in a way that non-lawyer's can understand. Her breadth of legal understanding is very impressive. She is responsive to questions and concerns and provides a level of care that you don't often see in the legal world. She cares about her clients and provides top notch legal service.
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06 May, 2022 by Gina
Natalie has been a tremendous help to us in establishing a new homeowners association for our townhouse project. She has helped us through the paperwork and necessary documentation for our compliance, and she continues to advise us with prompt replies and competent guidance when issues arise. We would highly recommend her for future legal assistance.
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28 Feb, 2022 by Anonymous
I've hired Rob for several legal reasons. He helped my late husband and myself with estate planning years before my husband got sick. When he was informed about my husband's cancer, he made sure that we knew what to do. He explained clearly his recommendations and helped facilitate those choices quickly and efficiently. His fees were not only fair and reasonable, but he went above and beyond what was expected. Rob has since written up a pre-nup for my second marriage and my trust for when I pass. He is also excellent at helping with hard conversations and teaching legal principles in a concise and clear way. He is not only competent but compassionate. I would ABSOLUTELY recommend Rob for all and any of your estate planning needs!
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21 Aug, 2014 by Anonymous
My aunt recommended Rob Fotheringham to me and I am very glad she did. Rob and his staff treated me with such kindness. The legal matter he helped me with was delt with in a very organized way. I never felt "out-of-the-loop". The process was explained to me in a straightforward and understandable way. Rob has lots of experience, so he was able to relate to and answer all of my questions and concerns. I fully recommend him.
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03 Aug, 2022 by Chip
Oh Boy!
What great advice and results. A real person of high repute! Kept me outta jail! The best . . . . Simply the best!
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16 May, 2015 by Janet
Priscilla Taylor has helped my husband and myself recover large sums of money several times, once when my husband suffered a traumatic brain injury as a result of a MVA and once when my mother-in-law's estate was being claimed by the state of Idaho. (An attorney in Idaho who specializes in Elder Care law had previously told us that we had no claim to the estate.) She also helped us navigate the health insurance companies and was able to force them to provide the health care to which my husband was entitled. She is extremely knowledgeable and is able to research individual situations. That ability combined with her experience makes her a valuable ally. She also has a big heart and actually cares about her clients and their well-being.
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08 Mar, 2024 by Travis holt
17 Mar, 2021 by Dona mathews
I have turned to David many times over the years and he has always given sound advice and guidance on my legal issues. I am so glad to know that he's there to assist.
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01 Feb, 2024 by Kj booker
A highly professional tax expert!
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29 May, 2021 by Gregory
I have hired Donna to help both with wills, will revision, and for tax preparation over the past several years. She has been exceptional in all areas. She communicates clearly; her billing is fair and explicit; she's friendly; she makes sure you understand. Her excellent social and communication skills, when blended with her expertise, result in her being a pleasure to work with--especially when dealing with such difficult and challenging topics like wills and taxes.
I trust her, and will continue to hire her for this type of work in the future.
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04 Feb, 2024 by Dani g
11 Feb, 2022 by Alan hansen
25 Dec, 2021 by Waddah
I was very pleased with Mr. Alex. He was very kind and very helpful for my case. Very knowledgeable and very resourceful in his field of work. Still till today, when I ask him for law advise or s question, he doesn’t hesitate to help me out.
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25 Jun, 2021 by Zena
I am very grateful to this lawyer because he did a good job with my case. I recommend this lawyer for family or immigration issues because he has enough information about the USA rules
another culture rules so he can help so much. Also he I like when he answer for any email or phone call right away that makes easy connection with him.
Thank you so much Alexander.
Thank you so much Alexander
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12 Aug, 2024 by Anonymous
There are bad attorneys. There are mediocre, good, and great attorneys. Then there are attorneys of Mr. Kesselring's caliber, for whom there are simply few rivals. He is, without question, the most clever, curious, competent, composed, and compassionate attorney I have ever worked with (and I have worked with quite a few). I am continually impressed by John's legal finesse and acuity, his simultaneous efficacy and efficiency, and his intrinsic ability to digest a legal complexity, contemplate the relevant variables, and formulate a strategy for best approaching the matter. To top it all off, he's also just so incredibly personable and easy to talk to. He takes his time to explain things, answers thoughtfully, and clearly has his clients' best interest at heart. John has navigated us through a very emotional and difficult probate matter after a terrible experience with our first attorney and I mean it when I say I have felt thankful every single day since John has taken over. Hiring an attorney is an investment regardless of who you pick, but I'd argue there are few, if any, who are more valuable than Mr. Kesselring.
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16 Nov, 2020 by Madeleine
John is one of the most caring people I know- this core trait is what makes him so good at what he does. As a physician, I work with him often in patient cases. He has an amazing ability to represent those who are unable to speak for themselves and he always does it in a way that fits what they want and are comfortable with. He has a knack for supporting my patients to feel at ease even when going through tough times. He genuinely cares and truly works hard for his clients. I trust him completely and highly recommend him!
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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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01 Mar, 2009 by Anonymous
Ben helped me start a small business from forming and entity, negotiating a lease and finding financing. I highly recommend him.
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17 Apr, 2023 by Anonymous
Bill compiled a will for me explaining in detail all the items that entailed. I sought his advice with a housing problem and he was spot on with his information. He's an honorable and ethical man I'm proud to know.
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26 May, 2020 by Kristen
I was referred to Bill for a water leak case in my former apartment in Portland, OR. He was responsive, explained the process in detail and did a wonderful job working with the opposing attorney. He is passionate about plaintiff's rights and I recommend him to anyone in the area. Thank you Bil for your excellent work on my case!
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What an Estate Planning Lawyer Can Do for You
An estate planning lawyer helps individuals plan for the management and distribution of their assets after death or during incapacitation. Their services involve drafting important legal documents, such as wills, trusts, powers of attorney, and healthcare directives. Estate planning attorneys work to ensure that your assets are transferred according to your wishes, minimize tax liabilities, and avoid probate court. They also help clients plan for potential long-term care needs and protect their estate from being diminished by healthcare costs.
By working with an estate planning lawyer, you can have peace of mind knowing that your loved ones will be cared for and that your estate will be managed efficiently and according to your desires.
When Should I Hire an Estate Planning Lawyer?
Hiring an estate planning lawyer is beneficial in many situations, especially when you want to ensure that your assets are handled properly after death. Common reasons to hire an estate planning lawyer include:
- Drafting a will: If you want to clearly define how your assets will be distributed after death, an attorney can draft a legally sound will.
- Creating a trust: For those looking to avoid probate or provide for loved ones over time, setting up a trust can help manage the distribution of assets.
- Planning for incapacity: An estate lawyer can help draft powers of attorney and healthcare directives so that your financial and medical decisions are made by someone you trust if you become incapacitated.
- Minimizing estate taxes: If your estate is large, a lawyer can help create strategies to reduce or eliminate federal and state estate taxes.
- Special circumstances: If you have minor children, blended families, or complex assets like businesses, an estate planning lawyer can create tailored solutions.
- Guardianship or conservatorship: If you want to designate guardians for minor children or ensure proper care for incapacitated adults, an attorney can help.
Hiring an estate planning lawyer is especially important if your estate is complex or if you want to ensure that your wishes are properly followed.
What Does an Estate Planning Lawyer Do?
An estate planning lawyer provides a range of services designed to help you organize your affairs and ensure your estate is managed according to your wishes. They can:
- Draft wills and trusts: Creating legally binding documents that dictate how your assets will be distributed and managed.
- Create powers of attorney and healthcare directives: Appointing someone to make financial or medical decisions for you if you become incapacitated.
- Minimize taxes: Developing strategies to reduce estate taxes, gift taxes, and other financial liabilities for your heirs.
- Help avoid probate: Structuring your estate plan to avoid probate, which can save time and money for your beneficiaries.
- Advise on long-term care planning: Helping you plan for potential healthcare needs in the future, including Medicaid planning and protecting assets from being depleted by nursing home costs.
- Assist with beneficiary designations: Ensuring that life insurance policies, retirement accounts, and other financial instruments are correctly designated.
- Handle probate and estate administration: If a loved one has passed away, an estate planning lawyer can help guide you through the probate process or act as an executor.
How Are Estate Planning Lawyers Paid?
Estate planning lawyers typically charge for their services in one of several ways, depending on the complexity of your estate and the type of services you need. Common payment structures include:
- Flat fee: Many estate planning services, such as drafting a will or trust, are charged on a flat-fee basis. The fee covers all work related to preparing the document.
- Hourly rate: For more complex planning, such as estate tax strategy or trust administration, lawyers may charge by the hour. Rates vary based on the lawyer’s experience and location.
- Retainer: Some lawyers require a retainer for more complex cases, such as ongoing trust management or estate administration. The retainer is an upfront payment that covers future legal services.
It’s important to discuss fees with your lawyer upfront to avoid unexpected costs.
How Much Does an Estate Planning Lawyer Cost?
The cost of hiring an estate planning lawyer depends on the complexity of your estate and the services you require. Here are some general guidelines:
- Simple wills or powers of attorney: A straightforward will or power of attorney may cost between $300 and $1,500, depending on your location and the lawyer’s experience.
- Trust creation: Establishing a trust, such as a living trust or revocable trust, can cost between $1,000 and $3,000 or more, depending on the complexity of your assets and estate planning needs.
- Comprehensive estate planning packages: Some lawyers offer packages that include wills, trusts, powers of attorney, and healthcare directives, which may range from $2,000 to $5,000 or more, depending on the estate’s complexity.
- Hourly rates: For ongoing services like estate administration or tax planning, lawyers may charge hourly rates ranging from $150 to $500 or more, depending on the lawyer’s experience.
Always get a clear estimate of costs during your initial consultation to ensure the services fit within your budget.
Top Questions to Ask an Estate Planning Lawyer
Before hiring an estate planning lawyer, it’s important to ask questions to ensure they are the right fit for your needs. Here are key questions to ask during your consultation:
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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.
