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14 Feb, 2024 by Joe
We were referred to Marissa DeBellis a few months ago, and I can't say enough good things about her and her law firm.
We tried a few other law firms, but they were not only rude but also seemed to be interested only in our money. However, when we called Marissa's office, we were pleasantly surprised at how well we were treated. Right from the first call, we knew we were in good hands.
Marissa and her staff made us feel very comfortable and during our first consultation, she spent a lot of time answering our questions.
I highly recommend her law firm and believe she is the best state planning attorney in Palm Beach Gardens.
Thank you, Marissa!!!
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04 Oct, 2019 by Reg
Was most pleased with the work and attention to detail by Andrew Gindae and his team when The Karp Law Firm recently handled my family trust work. Not only a very professional experience, but very eye opening to nuances of the law as they applied to our family circumstances. Well done, Karp Law.
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30 Sep, 2015 by Dean
Peter took the time to get to know me and address my individual needs. He and his staff are personable and knowledgable. Highly recommended!
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04 Jul, 2016 by Arthur
Knowledgeable, well respected, concise, understands options available and their probable outcomes. Will let you know immediately if she will be able to help you, and, if not, then who may. Personally, she never over charged me, and informed me when, where, and how much she would be able to help. I sincerely never met a more honest attorney.
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11 Aug, 2017 by David
After procrastinating for many years about getting my estate plan in order, I finally decided to get down to business. I was referred to Randy Doane of Doane & Doane, PA by a friend. I was glad to note they possessed all my base-line requirements: Board Certified in Wills, Trust and Estates, taxation experience, excellent reputation, firmly planted in the area, boutique atmosphere, convenient location and initial consultations were complimentary. I arrived with the pre-conceived notion that my particular situation was somewhat convoluted. I was sure estate planning would pose a tremendous challenge. At my initial consultation, I had a chance to present my situation and verbalize my anxieties. Within that first meeting, Doane & Doane presented me with recommendations, options and fees. Because of their knowledge and expertise, my presumed difficulties were readily resolved. I was able to finalize my estate plan within a couple of weeks. It turned out to be a pleasant and informative experience. I have been back to Doane & Doane, PA a few times over the years to integrate into my plan some life changes that have occurred. Always .. . I am met with great care and concern for my overall situation and ultimate satisfaction. Always . . . I leave with the precious gift they promise at the first meeting: Peace of Mind! When I cross their threshold, I am often a glass-half-empty sort of fellow because that’s just who I am. When I leave the offices of Doane & Doane, PA, I am definitely transitioned into a glass-half-full sort of guy because I know the legacy I worked so hard to accumulate all my life will follow the path I desire. Thanks, Doane & Doane, PA. Peace of Mind is a beautiful thing!
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04 Mar, 2013 by Anonymous
She took care of my sons case and helped the whole family through a difficult time. Great defense attorney for children.
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22 Nov, 2020 by Tara
We hired a probate attorney who raked us over the coals. I called attorney Skatoff and was desperate for assistance. He was not only prompt at closing out my mother’s estate, but he did so in an ethical and sensitive manner.. there’s no telling how far the other attorney would have taken it if attorney Skatoff didn’t intervene. Thank you for everything you did.. my family appreciates you.
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12 Jan, 2015 by Anonymous
I couldn't ask for a better lawyer to represent me in my elective share case! After my husband died, my husband's children fought me with everything they had trying to cut me out of my husband's estate. Jeff Skatoff got me everything I was entitled to! I was so lucky to have Jeff in my corner. His staff is amazing as well.
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29 Sep, 2014 by Anonymous
Jeff Skatoff has the ability to take a complicated set of issues and explain them in a way that is approachable and easy to assimilate. Jeff is thoughtful and knowledgeable in his approach to issues of estate planning documents. I am very satisfied with Jeff's process and with his professionalism.
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23 Dec, 2014 by Anonymous
Ms. VanVeen represented me in a probate manner. I was pleasantly surprised by the experience - I was nervous about hiring a lawyer because I thought the process would be very expensive and tedious, but Ms. Van Veen was very patient with me and explained what she was doing and why so that I understood exactly what was going on with my case. I appreciated that she didn't file unnecessary documents or insist on going to court when issues could be resolved in a more peaceful manner. I highly recommend her services - thank you!
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12 Dec, 2014 by Paula
I was going through a difficult time in my life and I sought assistance from Anya Van Veen. Anya helped me with a probate litigation. I found her to be very calming, direct, and thorough. She was very knowledgable throughout the entire process and helped me understand my options. I really appreciated how she advocated for me and had my best interests in mind. I would definitely work with Anya again and recommend her to anyone.
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12 Dec, 2014 by Anonymous
Anya handled my case very well. She is very knowledgeable and kept me up to date as my case progressed. She does not waste time and money on useless hearings. She is very efficient, thoughtful and trustworthy. I would highly recommend.
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09 Nov, 2017 by Anonymous
Hired her upon death of my father for probate work. She resigned half way through when my brother questioned a bill. Expensive and unresponsive. Stay away.
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09 Jun, 2017 by Jenniferb
Words cannot express the level of reassurance I felt in working with Nicole Morris as my attorney. Over the last six years, she has handled a multitude of issues for me including drafting Living Will, Durable Power of Attorney and Designation Healthcare Surrogate documents. She has also reviewed real estate documents on my behalf during a very stressful transaction that resulted in a settlement. I am so grateful for her guidance and compassion as she handled everything with dignity and the utmost professionalism. Her services far exceeded my expectations, as such I would highly recommend Ms. Morris because she is the best.
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09 Jun, 2017 by Julie
Nicole has been representing my family for over ten years, which alone says a lot. From day one she gone above and beyond to accommodate our needs. She is always available to answer questions, ease anxieties or just point us in the right direction. Not only is Nicole prompt and efficient, but she is passionate about her work and really cares about her clients. I highly recommend her.
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14 Jan, 2022 by Teresa
Mr. Hurd was referred to us by a friend as well our financial advisor.
Mr. Hurd is extremely knowledgeable and experienced. Like many, we avoided completing our estate planning for years. Mr. Hurd and his staff put us at ease and we feel extremely confident in his work.
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20 Dec, 2021 by Anonymous
Steer clear of this attorney. Not only is he haughty and dismissive. He has a poor grasp on this area of the law. He is not open to input from potential clients. He talked about his upcoming vacation and how he could squeeze me in for a consultation. Avoid this guy, he should make the list for worst attorneys in Palm Beach County, Florida!
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06 Jul, 2013 by Chuck & mae
Roger is exceptionally knowledgeable in areas of Trusts, Wills, Estates (including Probate) as well as General Counsel. His staff handled Probate concerns and the development of our family Wills with excellence and ease.
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13 Jan, 2023 by Anonymous
Excellent attorney. I would encourage you to hire
Tim Quinones. He is an excellent attorney with strong ethics.
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20 Apr, 2021 by Anonymous
Had a complimentary phone call consultation with this attorney. It was sufficient in order to establish that we will not be hiring his services as he was not knowledgeable on our matter which he previously stated that he handles . Avoided our direct questions | inquiries by trying to change the subject several times at which point we have decided to call him out regarding his deceiving and malicious tactics . Do not recommend under any circumstances
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21 Aug, 2024 by Chris zill
Boyes, Farina & Matwiczyk has very knowledgeable attorneys who want the best for their clients, whether it is estate planning, probate or litigation. Would highly recommend for anyone seeking skilled professionals.
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28 Jun, 2023 by Zeely z.
I don't live in this county but called for general info and spoke with a lady by the name of Marina. Her professionalism was impressive her demeanor cool, calm an collective. She didn't rush me off the phone, but instead kindly listened to my concern and pointed me in the right direction. I remember when every professional law office conducted business on this level not, anymore. This is what amazed me by this employee...her kindness and great people skills!
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22 Jun, 2023 by Jolene' herndon
Strange email response. Dismissive and without explanation. We have a trust we need amended, and instead of calling me, they had a secretary take information and then sent a refusal letter. You cannot write a trust? Very odd. No worries, we found counsel 2 blocks from you that already started on it. Bizarre!
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12 May, 2017 by Kimbra
When my husband died tragically and unexpectedly, his children contested the will. I called the Clarkskatof firm to seek legal representation. They gave my case to Jordan Hammer. At first, Jordan seemed wonderful. He got us in for our first court appearance quickly. The ball seemed to be moving along and, he was easy to talk with. However, when my husband's children offered a settlement that included Jordan's firm acting as fiduciary, which would earn them firm six figures, everything changed. He and the senior partner began to pressure me into accepting the agreement. This was odd since they had been convinced that going to court was the right thing to do. Previously, when I had told Jordan that I didn't have the stomach for court he would give me a lecture about "Deserving vindication." I was hesitant to sign the agreement, given his previous, very passionate advice. I also wanted a couple of days to think on it. Jordan showed up at my house that evening. )(Yes, at my house.) My daughter was doing her homework in the dining room. I was crying in the kitchen. He strong armed me into signing the agreement. I regretted it immediately and called him within minutes, asking him not to file it and give me more time to read through it and think about it. He basically said "Too bad." I had another attorney call him and ask him to hold off on filing it. He got the same, "Too bad response." It was clear to me that Jordan's focus was on representing his firm rather than his client. I don't any doubt that Jordan was more interested into bringing the hefty fiduciary fee into this law firm than acting on my behalf. I have been very unhappy with the fiduciary service his firm was entrusted to perform. His children have indicated that they are not satisfied either. A house that was under construction and is a trust asset has been neglected. Even though I only own 25% of it, I finally hired someone to mow the lawn because the weeds were taking over and no one in Jordan's firm would act. It cost me $70. and took a single hour to find someone to mow the overgrown lot. This is just one example of many of how they have failed to look after trust assets. It genuinely seems that Jordan and the firm he works for, Clark Skatoff, put their own best interest over what is best for their clients.
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10 Oct, 2013 by Anonymous
In hiring an Attorney you will not always get the partner but an associate. In contacting Clark/Skatoff I was assigned Mr. Jordan Hammer as my attorney. Due to his neglect I loss everything I hired the firm to protect. As I cannot recover from my loss due to Mr. Hammers neglect of my case my hopes is to prevent others from suffering as I had. To begin Mr. Hammer does not answer you calls even if he is in the office. He does not return calls. His conduct is unprofessional. Mr. Hammer does not provide the client with information with regard to the case no matter how vital. I was not informed of a court hearing. In discussing the hearing Mr. Hammer was unaware of the documents provided to the court which was to be in three days. He informed me to sign and retracted advising me to wait until he reviews. He provided contradictory information and was not aware of all the particulars. He had this information for 4 months, plenty of time to review. On one occasion he provide the opposing Attorney information on the cut off date. Adding insult to injury Mr. Hammer lead me to believe we were in negotiations. I received notices from the opposing attorney stating otherwise. Mr. Hammer told me to send all information as he was not aware why negotiations were not proceeding. I finally learn that Mr. Hammer did not provide paper work in the allotted time frame which lapse due to Mr. Hammer's neglect. I lost the negotiations and would have to spend money to fight the incompetent work. I tried in vain to contact Jeffrey Skatoff and his only recourse was to defend his Attorney. It will cost me a great deal of money to correct these oversight if I can at all. As an attorney it is important to know the facts, relate to the client and provide all paper work in the time frame. He was negligent on all accounts. Mr. Skatoff did not take responsibility or assist in correcting the problem. He did not intervene or provide solution but blamed the client making me a victim a second time.
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27 Sep, 2013 by Scott
I hired Mr. Hammer to handle some estate issues that had to go against my family over. He was knowledgable and constantly kept on my case. Never did he let them sit on their butts and allow them to get away with anything. He constantly keeps me informed, and does not talk down to me. He gives me straight answers and is always prompt with his responses. He is a great attorney.
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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:
-
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.
