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22 Mar, 2022 by Joe
We were referred to Nikki by another of her clients after reaching out to three other attorneys in the area to draft a family trust. Nikki was by far the friendliest and most responsive. It was a pleasure meeting with her about estate planning as she made it all very understandable and affordable. We feel much more at ease knowing she's handled everything and can assist in the future.
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07 Mar, 2021 by Kaitlyn
Nikki was hired by me to deal with an unpleasant situation with my "landlord", which is actually a larger management company. Through no fault of my own, my apartment had been uninhabitable for nearly a month, and I could barely get them to acknowledge me. She sprang to action on my behalf immediately, never once backing down. In her interactions with my landlord, she somehow managed to be courteous yet authoritative and was quite effective in her communications. On a personal level, Nikki was knowledgeable, empathetic, responsive, reassuring, and exceedingly patient with me, continually going above and beyond what I ever could have asked or expected of her. She ensured that I knew that she was in my corner, and that she was dedicated to making things right for me. Not only did Nikki prevail for me, she took a weight off of my shoulders when I felt lost, alone, and ignored. She is not just a reputable, experienced lawyer whom I would hire again in an instant, but a truly special person as well. 100% recommend!
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28 Aug, 2020 by Elaine
I first hired Nikki Allen to get her help an issue concerning my father’s trust, of which I am a beneficiary. The trustee we had in place turned out to be engaged in illegal activity. Nikki quickly took control, had the trustee removed, and has been involved with me every step of the way since. There is no trust, real estate or probate matter that Nikki could not be an asset to. Working with Nikki on my father’s trust, made me realize that I needed to create a trust and redo the wills for my own family’s assets. Nikki worked with me to make sure that everything was put together according to my needs. I was extremely happy with the finished product. I can not recommend the work of Nikki Allen highly enough.
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18 Nov, 2020 by Jerry
Jeremy and his staff did a great job updating my estate planning documents. Jeremy made the entire process very efficient and he promptly delivered the final results. Everything was explained in easy to understand terms. I’m very satisfied with his services and would give him my highest recommendation.
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16 Sep, 2020 by Michele
I found Jeremy to be very knowledgeable and was more responsive than several other attorney's I deal with. I intend to utilize his services in the future.
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28 Aug, 2020 by J
Excellent service, office staff, attorneys. Wonderful document signing process. Would definitely use them again.
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04 Dec, 2020 by Kathy
I gave Julia a 5 star review in 2012 after she stepped in and corrected the many errors in my parents’ estate plan that resulted from one of the “free lunch” seminars that are held in the desert.
She has continued to provide 5 star service every step of the way...from my mother’s death, property sales, a remarriage, and finally wrapping up my parents’ estate after my father’s death.
Julia’s extensive expertise in the law, taxes and real estate means you don’t need to involve multiple professionals—she can deal with just about any issue that comes up in a professional and timely manner.
My only regret is I no longer live in California, so I must find a new attorney. They will have big shoes to fill!
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07 Jul, 2020 by Ginny
After listening to Julia speak at our Women's Financial Boot Camp regarding estate planning, wills, probate, etc. I knew she was the attorney I wanted in the planning of our estate. All the way through the process, she delivered everything she promised and took my fear and dread out of the ordeal. I will recommend Julia to anyone in the Coachella Valley who inquires about estate planning.
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25 Mar, 2015 by Chris
Julia assisted my sister and I with our fathers probate down in California. We had previously been working with another attorney that literally did nothing for us. He dragged his feet and never even so much as present simple paperwork to the courts after 6 months of employing him as our representation. We promptly parted ways with that attorney and were directed to Julia. I can tell you that the work she did for us was a breath of fresh air. She was extremely prompt in all of her responses and thorough in her communication. She went to bat for us in court to try to get things sped along as the previous attorney had left us in a tight bind and delayed the probate closing by 6 months. I'am not an attorney but I do have a great background in client services and I can speak for my sister and myself by saying that Julia was a delight to work with and left both of us with a sense of ease knowing that she was getting everything done for us. I would recommend Julia to anyone. Thank you so much for your help!
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29 Jul, 2019 by Nicholas
John was generous enough to give me of his time to hep me understand the legal parameters of my case. He was involved and took interest in my well being. In the future, if I ever needed a business attorney I would use John. Decency and kindness seem to be a part of his being, and that makes me trust him. I did not hire John because he provided me with all I needed to know without charging me. Thank you for your help.
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05 Oct, 2015 by Craig
In this day and age, we have many choices. As a private wealth manager, over the years I have enjoyed working with John Anderholt as he professionally yet kindly takes care of my clients Estate and Real Estate matters. If he doesn't have the answer you know he will research it for you. John is someone I trust, his intelligence and experience is valued in each transaction, I enjoy working with John client after client, and plan to do so going forward. Most importantly I appreciate his candor and willingness to point out 'red flags' in a matter that my clients otherwise would have ignored.
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01 Oct, 2015 by Reagan
I was referred to John Anderholt by a friend shortly after the my father's passing. Initially, I'd tried to manage the affairs associated with my father's estate on my own, and I quickly learned just how taxing and complex matters like these can become. (Uncharted territory for me, to say the least.) During my initial consultation with John, he helped me to make sense of everything, and quickly put me at ease. He was clear, relatable, and articulate, every step of the way. Shortly after putting things in motion, he successfully resolved the issues relating to my fathers estate, and did so with ease, care, and professionalism. He was truly a pleasure to work with, particularly given the challenging nature of my situation. I'm so very grateful to have found him.
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5.0
2 Reviews
01 Oct, 2012 by Karen
I hired Peter Bochnewich to assist me with a very difficult and complex legal issue that involved a family member. Peter was immediately responsive, and continued to aggressively fight for my interests for the duration of the litigation. We were ultimately successful, and I am grateful for the time and attention he gave to my case. Peter is very, very smart, extremely knowledgeable in his areas of expertise, and more than fair with his time and billable hours. Finally, I have to say that Peter is also an unusual attorney in that he is compassionate and has a sense of what is just and appropriate; he will be honest and forthright with his client, but will absolutely fight to right a perceived injustice. I can't say enough great things about this attorney.
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01 Oct, 2012 by Paul
I would like to personally offer the highest possible recommendation for Attorney Peter Bochnewich.
In 2008, my sister and I were faced with a situation where the executor of our uncle’s estate had used what we believed to be deceitful practices to get my uncle to assign all of his financial holdings in joint accounts with rights of survivorship, he had then kept all virtually all of the financial assets of the estate for himself.
Our family lawyer told us that the situation was hopeless, that we could not win a legal challenge and we would only be wasting our money if we tried.
We were almost ready to give up when a lawyer in Palm Desert recommended Peter Bochnewich. We were told that he was one of the most experienced and effective trust and estate litigation attorneys in all of Southern California. After an initial, detailed consultation, Mr. Bochnewich was cautiously optimistic about the possibility of recovering some or all of the estate.
Throughout a long and sometimes difficult legal battle, my sister and I were constantly impressed by the depth of Mr. Bochnewich’s understanding of the law, his energy in applying it, and his intelligent and effective presence in court. We were also deeply appreciative of his warmth toward us and the deeply ethical behavior he exhibited both in and out of court.
In the end, Mr. Bochnewich’s skills were responsible for removing the executor from the estate, and in our receiving a seven-figure judgment. I would not hesitate to recommend Peter Bochnewich to anyone seeking highly skilled legal assistance with estate and inheritance issues.
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18 Oct, 2016 by Keith
Robert is a highly intelligent well spoken forward thinking lawyer. Without his assistance it would have been practically impossible to bring this chapter of my life to a close. He has worked his magic and I am 1000% indebted to him. He has bestowed nothing short of the impossible upon me. Thank you thank you thank you.
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08 Jul, 2013 by Bonnie
I have known Ron for almost ten years at this point. He has handled a number of matters for us, and has consistently done so in an efficient manner. I am particularly impressed by the fact that he has NEVER failed to respond to e mails as quickly as humanly possible. I have never felt out of the loop. Highly recommended.
Oh yes, and he is an incredibly nice guy...
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14 May, 2024 by Tom neel
11 Apr, 2024 by Shane schirmer
14 Aug, 2023 by Christiane joubert
08 Jun, 2024 by The home handyman
I contacted Rhona regarding filing a partition/lis pendens suit against another family member. When i called her she was very helpful on the phone and answered all my questions. She was willing to talk to me for quit a bit in regard to the matter and explained the process and what i could expect. She was very upfront and transparent about how to handle the matter. I was impressed that when we were talking there was no rush to get off the phone. I made up my mind by the end of the conversation and set up a appointment to meet her and start the process.
We met, I paid the retainer and started process. She sent a demand letter to the other party shortly after outlining that I had retained her and how we would move forward with the partition if this could not be settled immediately. In short, The other party realized that things were going to get serious and agreed to list the property at a reasonable price, and the property sold thereafter.
This avoided a costly battle thru the court system. When this ended Rhona contacted me and said she would now close out the account she had with the retainer. Within i couple weeks I received back a refund on the amount not used with a breakdown of charged time.
I would use her services again without worry because she is honest, transparent and is always available if you need to talk to her.
Again, Thank You - Dan M.
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31 May, 2024 by Garrett wiliams
31 May, 2024 by Marshall gilbert
30 Sep, 2024 by Teddy
We were guided through a very sensitive and difficult time. I am very grateful they took our case and helped us in such a confusing time.
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13 Aug, 2023 by Terry friedman
04 Jun, 2021 by Amy whelan
My parents went to Nancy 20 years ago for their trust. Then recommended that my uncle get a trust as well thru her. My mom died 2 years ago, my dad and uncle died within weeks that was 6 months ago. I have Never spoke Nancy. Yaz is somewhat knowledgeable. I have had to do most of the paperwork and research myself!! I am quite knowledgeable in financial and legal stuff. I would never recommend her. The absolute worst in communication and guidance.
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14 May, 2024 by Tom neel
11 Apr, 2024 by Shane schirmer
14 Aug, 2023 by Christiane joubert
14 Mar, 2023 by Anonymous
Called to consult about an issue. Monica is very rude and doesn't even try to be listening to what my cases and needs are.
Would not recommend to anyone.
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20 Sep, 2019 by Robert
I have worked with Monica and she is tenacious. She is also extremely creative in how she is able to solve sticky issues. I highly recommend her.
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28 Nov, 2018 by Russel
I am a realtor and I had a legal issue. I called Car legal hotline as we are supposed to. They told me there is a conflict of interest as the other agent working on the transaction called in to them as well. They told me to contact Monica as she is outsourced to help with these matters When there is a conflict of interest. She answered the phone and as our conversation proceeded after every sentence I said she gave me a very snappy and angry response. I continued to be polite. We proceeded with conversation, she was having an issue with her computer. My wife walked in the room to say goodbye and I love you to as she left for work (took about 3 and1/2 seconds) . She reprimanded me and said that She does this for free for you so you need to listen up and pay attention. I said ma’am you have been nothing but rude to me for no reason for this whole conversation and I have no idea why.. She said get somebody else to do it and hung up the phone. That is fine that she does this for free but I actually pay real estate dues for legal counsel. They outsourced her so what they have worked out as pay is between them. That is no reason to treat a client that way. Very upset, unimpressed and very disappointed in her service.
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19 Oct, 2023 by Tim newton
05 Aug, 2019 by Diane zornes
Always so helpful to my needs
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24 May, 2019 by Leo cabrera
Thank you Mr Stoddard for helping me with my title property on my property You saved my home thank you
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30 Sep, 2012 by Anonymous
I have used Mr. Jackson for a variety of legal needs. From corporate formation, contracts, real estate to general issues. He is knowledgeable, insightful and has saved me thousands in legal fees by getting the job done efficiently and quickly. He is one of the best I have ever worked with. Fair, honest and a keen grasp on "business" sense. I would recommend him highly.
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28 Sep, 2012 by Marcel
I've used Mr. Jackson on several occasions ranging from matters as simple as corporation formations to intricate litigation matters. Mr. Jackson has always responded in a timely manner, provided excellent insight as to legal options and outcomes (in simple terms) and has always been fair with the stop watch (meaning he doesn't hit the clock with ever little question you may call him with).
With multiple businesses from retail to real estate to online and otherwise, I cannot express enough my gratitude for Mr. Jacksons calm, cool and collective approach to settle matters from the less scrupulous business people out there.
I would recommend Randall Jackson to anyone interested in quality representation or advice.
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16 Jul, 2012 by Anonymous
I would not do business with this attorney. I had an urgent situation with a problem tenant and was recommended to talk with Randall Jackson. I discussed the situation with him and he told me to send him a copy of the lease, a 3 day notice I served myself and statements that I had gathered from witnesses. I scanned the documents and called several times to start the eviction and never even received a return call. I have a solid case and he never even bothered to call even if he choose not to take the case. I can't imagine anybody doing business this way.
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08 May, 2023 by Chesty smith
WORST EVER!! They steal your money and then forget who you are. You’ve been warned!
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01 Apr, 2023 by Mathew baker
Jacob is the best lawyer I have ever had the opportunity working with and continue to work with. I have an extremely difficult case due to an extremely difficult ex-wife. Jacob continues to go above and beyond my expectations through the whole process. I greatly appreciate you and your entire team Jacob without you I would be lost in court.
I highly recommend Jacob and his team to anyone in the area that could use his services.
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23 Jan, 2023 by B r
He really screwed me out of a lot of money and didn't accomplish a thing. I was out 10k and the bills were just racking up. Nothing was happening in my case though. I was paying him what I could, about 200 a month. I didn't have any lump sum money left to pay him after the 10k. Just before a court date his office informed me he was not going to continue representing me unless I paid him another 8k upfront. I told them I was paying him all I could, so he quit my case. He left me right where we started over a yr prior only without any money and without representation. I mean it, absolutely nothing had been accomplished in my case after all that money and ask that time. I immediately stopped paying him at that point. I had already paid him close to 15k and my case had gone nowhere. He spent all the time in court arguing with the opposing attorney or requesting continuance just to rack up fees. I really think he and the other attorney (Richard Gahn) had a racket going together to rack up fees for their clients. Now, his office continually calls threatening me if I don't pay him. I've given him ALL I'm going to give him for the lack of service I received. I will have to say, he is kind, seems to know his stuff or where to find answers, and he seemed prepared for court .He did seem to know my case when he got to court, which is more than most can say about a lot of lawyers.
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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.
