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20 Feb, 2017 by Anonymous
Philip assisted us with the changes to the trust and power of attorney due my my mothers Alzheimer condition. He was very helpful and patient during this difficult time.
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11 Nov, 2016 by Ronald d
He was very professional ,efficient & very easy with whom to communicate .
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08 Oct, 2016 by Domingo & natividad
We met with Atty. Philip Sousa who explained to us the importance and advantages of creating a trust. We have talked with other trust attorneys before but when we met Atty. Sousa, we immediately trusted his knowledge and professionalism. He is friendly and courteous & was thorough in answering all our questions during meetings prior to the creation & signing of the trust 2 weeks later.
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07 Mar, 2012 by Brian mendonca
Stew helped my wife and I set up a trust for our family. He has since followed up with additional helpful information regarding financial advisors and trustees. He did great, efficient work. I have recommended him many times and have always received good feedback about him to those to whom I recommended him.
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20 Jan, 2012 by Sara
My husband and I worked with Stewart to craft our trust and estate plan after the birth of our child. Stewart is a true professional who is extremely knowledgeable about his field, yet able to communicate concepts in a clear, practical way. He also is a pleasure to work with and strikes a great balance between being responsive and efficient. As lawyers ourselves (though not estate planners), we really appreciate his substantive know-how and excellent client relations, and look forward to working with him in the future.
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08 Jan, 2012 by Jon
Stewart helped my wife and I with a prenuptial agreement as well as our basic revocable living trust. We had a fantastic experience all the way around. He took the time to listen carefully to our situation, ask thoughtful questions, walk us through our options, and ultimately design and draft exactly what we wanted and needed. I would highly recommend Stewart to anyone looking for an exception estate planning attorney.
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19 Oct, 2017 by Eric
Sabrina helped us update our wills and set up a trust for our assets. She knew all the details and advised us well.
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18 Oct, 2017 by Cheryl
Sabrina Johnson did our estate planning for us. She was knowledgeable and very prompt and we are very happy with her work. I would highly recommend her to anyone needing estate planning.
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31 Mar, 2017 by Teresa
I hired Sabrina Johnson to do a trust and a will for me. She was great about discussing what I wanted to accomplish with the trust and she would clearly explain terms and what was being accomplished with the documents. I felt that she was really listening to what I said so that all the documents were being designed for my specific needs and not just a "canned" document that would work for anyone.
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20 Jan, 2016 by Faith
I absolutely recommend Ellen Cookman for both estate planning and special needs. I originally came to Ellen for Special Needs Trusts, but quickly discovered that these Trusts impact my estate planning. In addition to tax considerations, Ellen helped me deal with various family members’ planning issues, as well as the various kinds of assets in my estate. Ellen’s expertise is clear plus she is very easy to work with.
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06 Dec, 2015 by Patricia
Ellen has a warm personality and is terrific at explaining complex estate planning concepts and strategies in simple terms. She has a sharp legal mind. Although she is already a certified specialist and a leader in her field, she never stops seeking further education in order to provide her clients with the best and most current legal advice.
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07 Sep, 2015 by Karen
We retained Ellen Cookman to do our estate planning, set up trusts, and write wills. We have two children and were eager to make arrangements for them for best and worst case scenarios. Ellen worked diligently and efficiently to set everything up for us, listened carefully to all our needs and wants, and produced an excellent set of documents and directives for our family. She maintained professional discretion and treated our family with great care and respect. She has followed up regularly to ensure our needs are met as time goes on, and has been an excellent resource for advice on other matters as well.
Ellen is clearly dedicated to her work and demonstrates unimpeachable integrity. I recommend her highly; I have recommended her multiple times to friends and colleagues entering into estate planning.
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13 Mar, 2021 by A kaitz
13 Feb, 2017 by Jordan baczuk
03 Nov, 2016 by Joshua jin
26 Apr, 2010 by Anonymous
I purchased a condo that seller did not disclose the unit is not in compliance with HOA architecture requirements. I ended up need to find an attorney to solve this issue with HOA and seller. It is a vey complex situation, and lots of lawyers I talked either has no HOA experience or do not think the damage is big enough for their time.
Before I met Michael, I had hired 2 attorneys for the same issue. The first attorney was not responsive, does not have adequate real-estate law experiences and knowledge, and always delays the process. The second attorney, I found her through a reputable law company, and with more than 20 years real estate experiences. She is a lot better than the first one, but still can’t resolve the issue between seller, HOA and myself.
After the 2 not so good attorneys, I was very frustrated until I met Michael. My friend recommended Michael to me, and he did help me to resolve the issue. Michael is very responsive, and he is super fast. He surprises me that he knows a lot more real estate laws by comparing him to others I used and talked. He always thinks about his clients, and he really pays attentions to details when he drafts the legal documents. I was amazed that he checks the building requirements that most lawyers could miss it before he puts the numbers on my agreements/legal documents. He has very high negations skills and always helps you to prepare the next step. By comparison, I think Michael is the attorney I have had. Not just my opinion, the HOA attorney also told me that I have an excellent attorney to represent me and put my interest on the top of his priority.
I think if I don’t have Michael to be my attorney, I will not be able to get the issue settled. You may be worry about he is so expensive, but he charges reasonable hourly rate with the highest quality. Why do I know? I hired other 2 attorneys before him, and they charged not less than Michael.
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29 Apr, 2020 by Anonymous
In our initial meeting with Gadi, he reviewed each of the subjects necessary for us to make the right decisions. His full attention was toward us and the questions we had for him. He and his office team were very responsive in providing us draft documents to review and provide him further clarifications on specific points.
Gadi conducted the signing process in a timely manner including providing the signed documents via mail and electronic means.
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15 Jul, 2015 by Lutz
We have been clients of Gilfix & La Poll since 2007. Our living trust (created in 1989) needed to be updated since our family dynamic had changed considerably. Our fist meeting with Michael Gilfix was most pleasant. Our questions and concerns were addressed in a professional, competent, and "easy to understand English" manner. We left the office convinced that our affairs are in very good hands. All the people in the office are friendly, polite, and very professional. We highly recommend to consult the Gilfix & La Poll Law Firm for all your living trusts needs
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02 Sep, 2016 by Dave
I've used Rob twice. Four years ago it was simple wills and a trust. More recently, it was remarriage, combined family with a child by previous marriage and an investment property. Rob initially recommended a QTIP trust, but the more questions he asked, the more he leaned toward a different structure. His key benefit was his ability to get to what we really wanted, and to explain all the pros and cons of each approach. We're very pleased.
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12 Dec, 2018 by Ben reaves
01 Nov, 2010 by Julie
Joan gave us great guidance and advice on the development of our Trust. We had some particular circumstances that had to be worked in and her advice was sound and forward-thinking.
It was a pleasure to work with her and these very sensitive issues.
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21 Jul, 2024 by Bharath srinivasaiah
I had an absolutely fantastic experience with Bay Immigration, particularly with TJ and Jeff who assisted me with my case. Their professionalism, expertise, and unwavering commitment to helping me were truly exceptional. TJ and Jeff went above and beyond to ensure that everything was handled efficiently and accurately. Their guidance and support made a complex process seem manageable, and I am incredibly grateful for their hard work and dedication. I highly recommend Bay Immigration, and especially TJ and Jeff, to anyone in need of immigration services. Thank you for everything!
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19 Jul, 2024 by Guy bar
Best immigration firm.
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01 Jun, 2024 by Damir vrabac
TJ, Orlando, Viane, and rest of the team are awesome! Helped with the O1 application. Very smooth process working with them and it felt like you are in good hands through out. Would strongly recommend them to anyone else, I have only positive things to say!
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08 Oct, 2022 by Ed
Mark And Mike Gilfix Are The Best
We would like to share a few words of praise about our recent meeting with Gilfix & La Poll Associates. Our adult family had a recent zoom meeting with Mark to discuss estate plans, trusts, and special needs trusts. Mark’s knowledge, expertise, experience, friendly manner & attentiveness regarding each & every one of our concerns provided the safety net we were searching for. Mark can be depended on to truly connect, communicate & facilitate plans with his clients. Now, for one example, money left for our special needs child is protected. Of tremendous continuing value has been his recent book, SPECIAL NEEDS TRUST, CREATION AND MANAGEMENT GLUIDE, by Mark & Mike. We are confident that with Mark & the resources he manages we have developed plans that respects and honors our wishes.
Ed
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23 Jan, 2018 by Anonymous
I've had a great experience over the past three years with Mark and his team at Gilfix & La Poll Associates, and have no doubt that I will continue to use his services in the years to come. He has helped me countless times to fluidly navigate what otherwise would have been a tangle of legal jargon and details. He's an exceptional listener and problem solver, and has a knack for simplifying the convoluted.
I have recommended family and two friends to their firm already.
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07 Aug, 2017 by Anonymous
Mark is the lawyer you wish for. He is an excellent listener, he understands things quickly, and he knows how to efficiently, and effectively put a course of action into place. He is also easy to spend time with because he is so personable and friendly.
I have gone to Mark multiple times with my legal questions, and he is always able to answer in a way that makes sense. In other words, he speaks in plain English! I love it. I always walk away feeling as though my issues have been mindfully and completely addressed. I have full confidence in Mark and the entire team at Gilfix & La Poll Associates.
It is Easy to recommend Mark and his entire firm. In fact, I have already referred many friends to them.
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26 Aug, 2024 by J c
I had a very good experience with the law group. The attorney helped guide me through setting up my LLC, which will be a MSO as well. He answered my questions and was very patient with me, I had many questions regarding setting up my IV hydration business and how to get documents related to the business.
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26 Aug, 2024 by Gary tran
They were more responsive and more attentive than other Healthcare law groups I reached out to. Alex was very happy to assist me after she listened to what my needs were and Albert was very good at providing me with the help that I needed. They even referred me to other people to assist me with other things that I needed in order to start my practice.
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26 Aug, 2024 by Cindy talley
Cohen Law Group was great team to work with to develop my MSO/MSA for my business. Christian was very helpful to answer all my questions and concerns and so patient with me and my schedule.
The Lawyer was helpful and efficient.
Thank you.
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26 Aug, 2024 by J c
I had a very good experience with the law group. The attorney helped guide me through setting up my LLC, which will be a MSO as well. He answered my questions and was very patient with me, I had many questions regarding setting up my IV hydration business and how to get documents related to the business.
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26 Aug, 2024 by Gary tran
They were more responsive and more attentive than other Healthcare law groups I reached out to. Alex was very happy to assist me after she listened to what my needs were and Albert was very good at providing me with the help that I needed. They even referred me to other people to assist me with other things that I needed in order to start my practice.
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26 Aug, 2024 by Cindy talley
Cohen Law Group was great team to work with to develop my MSO/MSA for my business. Christian was very helpful to answer all my questions and concerns and so patient with me and my schedule.
The Lawyer was helpful and efficient.
Thank you.
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10 Feb, 2021 by Coco ayala
Highly recommend. Nancy and her team handled my case professionally, kindly and effectively. Grateful for a straightforward process handled by this firm.
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17 Nov, 2020 by Mou montes
Never call me back i leave my name and my number and im still waiting 🙄
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07 Oct, 2019 by Amy mears
Very trustworthy, easy to communicate with. Professional, well-organized, very responsive to questions and thorough with guidance. Nancy and her staff took an immense load of worry off my shoulders, when I needed my case to be done right. Thank you so much!
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20 May, 2022 by Jalena bingham
From one attorney to another, John Parsons is my go-to real estate guy. Practical, smart, a great strategic thinker and a more than fair biller. Highly recommend!
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05 Apr, 2020 by Dean birinyi
Jon has helped me quickly, and easily resolve two challenges in the past twelve months.
He’s great.
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23 Nov, 2019 by Diane
I had reached out to Kendra because my Trust was over 20 years old and my life had changed so I felt sure my Trust should too.
After reviewing my old Trust, she provided me with an easy to follow workbook. Throughout the process, I appreciated how she made herself available to answer my questions and when it was completed met me in person to review and notarize.
I am very pleased with Kendra's service and would recommend her to help anyone with the critical and somewhat emotional preparation of a Trust and Will.
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10 Nov, 2013 by Lisa
I worked with Jan to create my will and trust after my divorce. She was matter of fact and very thorough in the process. Since I have known Jan for many years I can attest to her honesty and diligence to the law, and willingness to tell someone when they are wrong. Like many, I can be biased by my own ideas. Jan has solid legal perspective and always kept my goals in mind, talking me through the facts and legal issues to make a good decision.
I’m glad I worked with Jan. She covered all the angles, from how my assets were registered with my financial company to ensuring the legal language fit with the changing relationships of family members and everything else. Thanks, Jan!
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09 Nov, 2013 by Nancy
Jan did an outstanding in reviewing and preparing both my parents estate plan and then my own. She prepared a Special Needs Estate Plan for my parents which was very complex and involved very sensitive and emotional family issues. She not only handled the legal aspects, but counseled us in a very personal way which enabled us to move forward and make some very necessary provisions.
After having worked with Jan through the process of creating my parent's plan, I immediately contacted her after my parent's plan was complete to review my own trust and estate plan which was enacted after my husband passed away. Jan immediately spotted some issues which needed to be taken care of, and we worked together to create a new plan which protects both me and my 13 year old daughter in a much more effective way.
Having worked with two other law firms in the creation of both my parent's first estate plan and my own first trust and estate plan, the difference with Jan is MORE than apparent. She brings a personal approach to estate law that is sadly missing from other firms. She takes the time to truly get to know her clients and create a personal relationship with them. She isn't just the attorney that created my trust - she is part of my support system and I know I can reach out at any time with questions.
I could not have been more pleased with Jan. She is the BEST of the best. I wholeheartedly recommend her!!!!!
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08 Nov, 2013 by Renee
During this past year, Jan has been a tremendous help to me. After the death of my husband in January, I appreciated that she not only had the knowledge and experience necessary to handle the estate, but also was someone I could trust to keep my best interests in mind. I did not know Jan before entering into this business relationship with her, and I feel fortunate to have found her.
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08 Nov, 2023 by Sonia w
Peter was an incredible attorney and a very big help to my sister and myself. I highly recommend him!
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16 Oct, 2023 by Annemarie
29 Sep, 2023 by Bertozzi family
Disappointing experience. Rude and unprofessional. Asked a series of personal questions that were completely unnecessary and irrelevant, cut me off, inquired as to whether I was "solvent" as "all kinds of people call..." and within seconds hung up. I suggest hiring an admin or charging a consultation fee (which would have been perfectly fine). Very weird interaction.
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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.
