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14 Jan, 2025 by Do not call list
Elizabeth Molnar advised me to address my criminal case by initiating a PFA case. I spent $$$ for a paragraph and sat an entire day in court to submit it. They appeared with me on the scheduled hearing date, knowing it would be postponed, and charged me another $$$.
She told me I needed to hire a criminal lawyer 2 days before my case because they didn’t have one to send, that was another $$$$. But that firm showed up, exceeded the desired expectations THIS firm requested to win the PFA, and did it with one court visit that lasted 30 minutes.
The PFA hearing was postponed again, another full day in court, then wasn’t given clear billing expectations moving forward. She handed off the case to Meghan Zupanic. An emergency arises, there’s a PFA violation, Elizabeth was on vacation, Meghan took 2 days to respond, the lack of action resulted in a PFA being filed against me.
Told them I planned to change firms, Elizabeth offered me a lower flat fee, promised to address my concerns about lack of urgency or communication, I paid them another $$$$. They made no effort to communicate or keep me informed, likely because they weren’t doing anything to prepare or ensure the desired outcome for the cases.
I did the investigative research that Elizabeth suggested, said she would do, and then didn’t. I researched claims and accusations, pointed out lyes, and provided evidential proofs that could be used in my case. Meghan was so ill prepared for the case that the judge was genuinely frustrated. While my character was being ripped to shreds, the JUDGE asked why she wasn’t objecting. She had dates wrong, hadn’t reviewed crucial parts of the case. The conclusion? Another full day in court. My case for the PFA violation was dismissed and a Temp PFA was granted against me.
They have negated any validation I had of being a victim from the criminal trial. I relived all my trauma to provide them the resources to protect me from being fearful of them ever happening again. He got to walk away smiling, calling himself the victim, while I have to live with the perpetual fear of being arrested if he sees me somewhere.
While I hate to leave such a terrible review, its impact will pale in comparison to how their terrible service has impacted me. They refused to provide me any billing details. They couldn’t speak to a single reason or cause for their negligence other than blaming the JUDGE. They dwindled the possibility of a partial refund so I could seek new counsel, they suggested they would take action to try and remedy part of the outcome, but what they really did was just exhaust any legal window I had for recourse.
The negligence, the lack of professionalism, lack of accountability, blame shifting, failure to honor the terms of the retention contract that was signed, is all just absolutely appalling. As they’ve made zero effort to remedy any of this, and have in fact made it worse, I will be filing complaints with all the necessary legal entities. I implore anyone seeking genuine help to look elsewhere.
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10 Jan, 2025 by Annie miller
Ana Lisa Petrella is an extremely efficient, compassionate, and knowledgeable attorney. She got me through the very important process of dealing with child support successfully. Will you be charged for phone calls and emails? Of course. But her rates are reasonable and her experience is extensive, so she will not waste your time, or hers for that matter. When you reach out, she responds within the day, sometimes the hour if you catch her between hearings. She is a warm soul that clearly wants to help her clients get what they deserve. As a woman, I wanted a woman representing me through this process. She gave me the confidence to ask for what I needed, and to not give in to my natural instincts to roll over. I'm so grateful to the person who recommended Ana Lisa to me, and now I'm paying it forward to whoever reads this. Do yourself a favor, just call her.
Her office, paralegals, and admins also deserve high praise. They keep you apprised of everything from billing, deadlines, and correspondence about your case. You'll get itemized statements monthly so there are no surprises. Let's face it, if you're seeking a lawyer, you are already stressed- Ana Lisa and her team relieve as much of that pressure as you let them. Just let them. :)
Thank you, Ana Lisa and GRB Law, for a seamless process in my case.
Annie
Read more
09 Jan, 2025 by Melinda wedde
Highly recommend Morgan Bonekovic--kind, thoughtful, and responsive.
Read more
14 Jan, 2025 by Do not call list
Elizabeth Molnar advised me to address my criminal case by initiating a PFA case. I spent $$$ for a paragraph and sat an entire day in court to submit it. They appeared with me on the scheduled hearing date, knowing it would be postponed, and charged me another $$$.
She told me I needed to hire a criminal lawyer 2 days before my case because they didn’t have one to send, that was another $$$$. But that firm showed up, exceeded the desired expectations THIS firm requested to win the PFA, and did it with one court visit that lasted 30 minutes.
The PFA hearing was postponed again, another full day in court, then wasn’t given clear billing expectations moving forward. She handed off the case to Meghan Zupanic. An emergency arises, there’s a PFA violation, Elizabeth was on vacation, Meghan took 2 days to respond, the lack of action resulted in a PFA being filed against me.
Told them I planned to change firms, Elizabeth offered me a lower flat fee, promised to address my concerns about lack of urgency or communication, I paid them another $$$$. They made no effort to communicate or keep me informed, likely because they weren’t doing anything to prepare or ensure the desired outcome for the cases.
I did the investigative research that Elizabeth suggested, said she would do, and then didn’t. I researched claims and accusations, pointed out lyes, and provided evidential proofs that could be used in my case. Meghan was so ill prepared for the case that the judge was genuinely frustrated. While my character was being ripped to shreds, the JUDGE asked why she wasn’t objecting. She had dates wrong, hadn’t reviewed crucial parts of the case. The conclusion? Another full day in court. My case for the PFA violation was dismissed and a Temp PFA was granted against me.
They have negated any validation I had of being a victim from the criminal trial. I relived all my trauma to provide them the resources to protect me from being fearful of them ever happening again. He got to walk away smiling, calling himself the victim, while I have to live with the perpetual fear of being arrested if he sees me somewhere.
While I hate to leave such a terrible review, its impact will pale in comparison to how their terrible service has impacted me. They refused to provide me any billing details. They couldn’t speak to a single reason or cause for their negligence other than blaming the JUDGE. They dwindled the possibility of a partial refund so I could seek new counsel, they suggested they would take action to try and remedy part of the outcome, but what they really did was just exhaust any legal window I had for recourse.
The negligence, the lack of professionalism, lack of accountability, blame shifting, failure to honor the terms of the retention contract that was signed, is all just absolutely appalling. As they’ve made zero effort to remedy any of this, and have in fact made it worse, I will be filing complaints with all the necessary legal entities. I implore anyone seeking genuine help to look elsewhere.
Read more
10 Jan, 2025 by Annie miller
Ana Lisa Petrella is an extremely efficient, compassionate, and knowledgeable attorney. She got me through the very important process of dealing with child support successfully. Will you be charged for phone calls and emails? Of course. But her rates are reasonable and her experience is extensive, so she will not waste your time, or hers for that matter. When you reach out, she responds within the day, sometimes the hour if you catch her between hearings. She is a warm soul that clearly wants to help her clients get what they deserve. As a woman, I wanted a woman representing me through this process. She gave me the confidence to ask for what I needed, and to not give in to my natural instincts to roll over. I'm so grateful to the person who recommended Ana Lisa to me, and now I'm paying it forward to whoever reads this. Do yourself a favor, just call her.
Her office, paralegals, and admins also deserve high praise. They keep you apprised of everything from billing, deadlines, and correspondence about your case. You'll get itemized statements monthly so there are no surprises. Let's face it, if you're seeking a lawyer, you are already stressed- Ana Lisa and her team relieve as much of that pressure as you let them. Just let them. :)
Thank you, Ana Lisa and GRB Law, for a seamless process in my case.
Annie
Read more
09 Jan, 2025 by Melinda wedde
Highly recommend Morgan Bonekovic--kind, thoughtful, and responsive.
Read more
26 Nov, 2023 by Rafi bienenstock
I've had the experience of using multiple immigration lawyers in the last few months. Joel was BY FAR the most efficient, honest, and effective I've encountered. I recommend him to anyone looking to be properly taken care of in the quickest and most cost efficient manner. I'd give 10 stars but Joel will have to settle for 5 😁
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19 Jun, 2023 by Gabriel cimarolli
Update Review #2
Absolute disregard for clients time and money, 4 years and Nothing done for divorce. The only thing I’ve found this firm responsible for is making sure their “Bill gets delivered on time to our home in a timely fashion”
I would give it less than one star, but I have to choose something.
Read more
31 May, 2023 by Jake rickard
24 Mar, 2024 by Theresa michalski
I know this attorney from personal experience/co workers!
She is pure awful! greedy!
And unconditional!
As a family law attorney!
Who pushed so much against the children and the dad involved that the kid was left more then traumatized, and now backwards as an adult!!
It’s not even funny how much she is against all sides when her pockets are involved!
She is not someone I would recommend to babysit my hamsters rights!
This individual is just awful as a human being!!
She doesn’t think of the incident children are either party!!
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05 Jan, 2024 by Ed verrilla
24 Jan, 2023 by Kristin hermann
Warm, inviting And knowledgeable definitely recommend her
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14 Jan, 2025 by Do not call list
Elizabeth Molnar advised me to address my criminal case by initiating a PFA case. I spent $$$ for a paragraph and sat an entire day in court to submit it. They appeared with me on the scheduled hearing date, knowing it would be postponed, and charged me another $$$.
She told me I needed to hire a criminal lawyer 2 days before my case because they didn’t have one to send, that was another $$$$. But that firm showed up, exceeded the desired expectations THIS firm requested to win the PFA, and did it with one court visit that lasted 30 minutes.
The PFA hearing was postponed again, another full day in court, then wasn’t given clear billing expectations moving forward. She handed off the case to Meghan Zupanic. An emergency arises, there’s a PFA violation, Elizabeth was on vacation, Meghan took 2 days to respond, the lack of action resulted in a PFA being filed against me.
Told them I planned to change firms, Elizabeth offered me a lower flat fee, promised to address my concerns about lack of urgency or communication, I paid them another $$$$. They made no effort to communicate or keep me informed, likely because they weren’t doing anything to prepare or ensure the desired outcome for the cases.
I did the investigative research that Elizabeth suggested, said she would do, and then didn’t. I researched claims and accusations, pointed out lyes, and provided evidential proofs that could be used in my case. Meghan was so ill prepared for the case that the judge was genuinely frustrated. While my character was being ripped to shreds, the JUDGE asked why she wasn’t objecting. She had dates wrong, hadn’t reviewed crucial parts of the case. The conclusion? Another full day in court. My case for the PFA violation was dismissed and a Temp PFA was granted against me.
They have negated any validation I had of being a victim from the criminal trial. I relived all my trauma to provide them the resources to protect me from being fearful of them ever happening again. He got to walk away smiling, calling himself the victim, while I have to live with the perpetual fear of being arrested if he sees me somewhere.
While I hate to leave such a terrible review, its impact will pale in comparison to how their terrible service has impacted me. They refused to provide me any billing details. They couldn’t speak to a single reason or cause for their negligence other than blaming the JUDGE. They dwindled the possibility of a partial refund so I could seek new counsel, they suggested they would take action to try and remedy part of the outcome, but what they really did was just exhaust any legal window I had for recourse.
The negligence, the lack of professionalism, lack of accountability, blame shifting, failure to honor the terms of the retention contract that was signed, is all just absolutely appalling. As they’ve made zero effort to remedy any of this, and have in fact made it worse, I will be filing complaints with all the necessary legal entities. I implore anyone seeking genuine help to look elsewhere.
Read more
10 Jan, 2025 by Annie miller
Ana Lisa Petrella is an extremely efficient, compassionate, and knowledgeable attorney. She got me through the very important process of dealing with child support successfully. Will you be charged for phone calls and emails? Of course. But her rates are reasonable and her experience is extensive, so she will not waste your time, or hers for that matter. When you reach out, she responds within the day, sometimes the hour if you catch her between hearings. She is a warm soul that clearly wants to help her clients get what they deserve. As a woman, I wanted a woman representing me through this process. She gave me the confidence to ask for what I needed, and to not give in to my natural instincts to roll over. I'm so grateful to the person who recommended Ana Lisa to me, and now I'm paying it forward to whoever reads this. Do yourself a favor, just call her.
Her office, paralegals, and admins also deserve high praise. They keep you apprised of everything from billing, deadlines, and correspondence about your case. You'll get itemized statements monthly so there are no surprises. Let's face it, if you're seeking a lawyer, you are already stressed- Ana Lisa and her team relieve as much of that pressure as you let them. Just let them. :)
Thank you, Ana Lisa and GRB Law, for a seamless process in my case.
Annie
Read more
09 Jan, 2025 by Melinda wedde
Highly recommend Morgan Bonekovic--kind, thoughtful, and responsive.
Read more
29 Jan, 2025 by Naveen koka
I sincerely Thank Valerie May, Kent May, Elizabeth and Amy who worked on my case, provided valuable inputs, helped me to build a strong case for EB1A and EB2 NIW.
With their guidance and help I was able to get much needed approvals to speed up my AOS application. I am very happy with their service and communication.
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27 Nov, 2024 by Paul carter
Highly dissatisfied in dealing with these jokers and would recommend looking elsewhere for sure
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13 Oct, 2024 by Clean perks
Ahit place
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13 Oct, 2024 by Clean perks
Ahit place
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04 Feb, 2020 by Joseph valenti
Great place to work, and great legal services!
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09 Sep, 2017 by Carl brockmeyer
Great firm. Incredibly knowledgeable employee benefits practice.
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26 Nov, 2023 by Rafi bienenstock
I've had the experience of using multiple immigration lawyers in the last few months. Joel was BY FAR the most efficient, honest, and effective I've encountered. I recommend him to anyone looking to be properly taken care of in the quickest and most cost efficient manner. I'd give 10 stars but Joel will have to settle for 5 😁
Read more
19 Jun, 2023 by Gabriel cimarolli
Update Review #2
Absolute disregard for clients time and money, 4 years and Nothing done for divorce. The only thing I’ve found this firm responsible for is making sure their “Bill gets delivered on time to our home in a timely fashion”
I would give it less than one star, but I have to choose something.
Read more
31 May, 2023 by Jake rickard
21 Jul, 2023 by Eliza wick
Keep it up Mark
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16 Aug, 2012 by Anonymous
Was not responsive. Had trouble remembering details in my case. Seemed overwhelmed and was uninterested in explaining the details in my case.
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22 Aug, 2023 by Susie bailey
03 Aug, 2023 by Don saluga
Clark Hill handled my mother in law's estate which consisted of one simple investment account. It took approximately 19 months for them complete the final distribution , way longer than than expected. They admitted they "dropped the ball." They did not communicate their progress very well at all. To add insult to injury when we asked for an update because it was taking so long, they then charged us hundreds of dollars in fees just to answer this simple question. I would not have hired them if I knew what I know now. Judge for yourself.
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21 May, 2018 by Amy peluso
15 Apr, 2017 by Anonymous
I would not recommend this attorney. His services are not worth what he charges. Every time I would try to call him I would get put through to voicemail, and he would not return my calls.
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06 Aug, 2015 by Judy
Mike Carr was extremely helpful in setting up a trust for our autistic son, arranging our estate and retirement planning and providing guidelines for the future. He has so much knowledge and was very personable and pleasant. He continue to handle our legal future.
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28 Jul, 2015 by Sharon
Mike Carr was extremely professional, pleasant and knowledgeable. I would highly recommend this services, and find him to be very trustworthy. I will continue to seek his advise for all my future needs.
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01 Feb, 2021 by Anonymous
This "attorney" threw a fit in the courtroom. He also badgered witnesses and tried to black male a female into walking away with nothing. Don't waste your time. Find someone that knows what theyŕe doing. Oh! and he lost my case.
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15 Aug, 2012 by Karen
Attorney Yandrich is one of the nicest guys you will ever meet! He is very professional and extremely knowledgable in his field! He explains everything in great detail and in terms a regular person can understand! His fee is quoted to you after the initial meeting and thats what it is! No hidden cost! He won my case for me when other attorneys told me it couldn't be done! I certainly don't miss going to hearings at family court, but I do miss seeing and talking with Attorney Eric Yandrich! He's actually the type of person I would like to have as a friend! I highly recommend him if you are looking for a great attorney you can trust and an overall nice guy!
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28 Oct, 2024 by Nestor perez
I recently found myself in a tough spot, facing an eminent domain situation with the Turnpike planning to relocate a main road through my property. Feeling like I had no options, I reached out to Meyer Unkovic and Scott for legal advice. Frank called me back promptly, offering not only expert advice but also a sense of reassurance. When I first received the news early in the morning, I was anxious and hadn’t yet told my wife. Frank’s guidance helped me understand my situation better and prepare for that conversation with my wife.
He advised me to explore all my options first, including assessing whether the Turnpike’s offer is fair and getting my property appraised to gain a better understanding of its value. I appreciated this approach because he didn’t push to sign me up right away or pushing for payment for the advice. He acknowledged that at this stage, he might not be able to assist fully and recommended I first determine if their offer is reasonable. He genuinely hoped I wouldn’t need to contact him again (in a good way) as it would mean the issue was resolved. However, he reassured me that if things didn’t work out, I could always reach out for his help.
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17 Jun, 2024 by G b
Excellent firm. Guided us for years, and we cannot be happier!
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26 Nov, 2023 by Rafi bienenstock
I've had the experience of using multiple immigration lawyers in the last few months. Joel was BY FAR the most efficient, honest, and effective I've encountered. I recommend him to anyone looking to be properly taken care of in the quickest and most cost efficient manner. I'd give 10 stars but Joel will have to settle for 5 😁
Read more
28 Oct, 2024 by Nestor perez
I recently found myself in a tough spot, facing an eminent domain situation with the Turnpike planning to relocate a main road through my property. Feeling like I had no options, I reached out to Meyer Unkovic and Scott for legal advice. Frank called me back promptly, offering not only expert advice but also a sense of reassurance. When I first received the news early in the morning, I was anxious and hadn’t yet told my wife. Frank’s guidance helped me understand my situation better and prepare for that conversation with my wife.
He advised me to explore all my options first, including assessing whether the Turnpike’s offer is fair and getting my property appraised to gain a better understanding of its value. I appreciated this approach because he didn’t push to sign me up right away or pushing for payment for the advice. He acknowledged that at this stage, he might not be able to assist fully and recommended I first determine if their offer is reasonable. He genuinely hoped I wouldn’t need to contact him again (in a good way) as it would mean the issue was resolved. However, he reassured me that if things didn’t work out, I could always reach out for his help.
Read more
17 Jun, 2024 by G b
Excellent firm. Guided us for years, and we cannot be happier!
Read more
26 Nov, 2023 by Rafi bienenstock
I've had the experience of using multiple immigration lawyers in the last few months. Joel was BY FAR the most efficient, honest, and effective I've encountered. I recommend him to anyone looking to be properly taken care of in the quickest and most cost efficient manner. I'd give 10 stars but Joel will have to settle for 5 😁
Read more
07 Jul, 2023 by Marie rush
09 Jan, 2023 by Helen bowers
He handled my Aunt's estate.. filed the inheritance tax and prepared the deed.
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21 Feb, 2022 by Subonda johnson
30 Oct, 2024 by Matt connell
25 Jul, 2024 by Rebekah ceidro
The individuals working here are absolutely amazing! I know it’s a strange thing to say due to the nature of their profession, but they are an exceptional group. I have had to contact them about property liens and delinquencies a few times and they have always treated me with kindness and respect. I am an anxious person and they have immediately put me at ease each time. They did everything they could to assist me with my problems and find a solution that doesn’t break the bank. I truly appreciate them.
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08 May, 2024 by Raynelle patterson
We inherited a house and with that came a lot of new experiences, such as real estate taxes. I got a letter from them and called immediately. Someone answered and explained everything to us. I've actually called a couple times and all I can say is they are the best and super kind! They are working with us and it's been wonderful! Give them a call. They will work with you!!
Read more
30 Oct, 2024 by Matt connell
25 Jul, 2024 by Rebekah ceidro
The individuals working here are absolutely amazing! I know it’s a strange thing to say due to the nature of their profession, but they are an exceptional group. I have had to contact them about property liens and delinquencies a few times and they have always treated me with kindness and respect. I am an anxious person and they have immediately put me at ease each time. They did everything they could to assist me with my problems and find a solution that doesn’t break the bank. I truly appreciate them.
Read more
08 May, 2024 by Raynelle patterson
We inherited a house and with that came a lot of new experiences, such as real estate taxes. I got a letter from them and called immediately. Someone answered and explained everything to us. I've actually called a couple times and all I can say is they are the best and super kind! They are working with us and it's been wonderful! Give them a call. They will work with you!!
Read more
30 Oct, 2024 by Matt connell
25 Jul, 2024 by Rebekah ceidro
The individuals working here are absolutely amazing! I know it’s a strange thing to say due to the nature of their profession, but they are an exceptional group. I have had to contact them about property liens and delinquencies a few times and they have always treated me with kindness and respect. I am an anxious person and they have immediately put me at ease each time. They did everything they could to assist me with my problems and find a solution that doesn’t break the bank. I truly appreciate them.
Read more
08 May, 2024 by Raynelle patterson
We inherited a house and with that came a lot of new experiences, such as real estate taxes. I got a letter from them and called immediately. Someone answered and explained everything to us. I've actually called a couple times and all I can say is they are the best and super kind! They are working with us and it's been wonderful! Give them a call. They will work with you!!
Read more
27 Sep, 2019 by Connie
My husband and I have found Attorney Farber to be informative, patient and kind. He is very professional and worked with us a number of times, answering all of our questions and taking his time to make sure we understood everything completely. I would certainly refer a friend to his service.
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28 Feb, 2018 by Anonymous
Two issues: 1. We had our Wills completed by Mr. Farber who failed to tell us that an Executor/Executrix is entitled to a fee in PA unless otherwise stated in the Will. We were not told this and we would have wanted this to be stated (other than normal expenses); and 2. Mr. Farber is an attorney representing the Executor/Estate that I am a Trustee acting on behalf of the Heirs. This is a simple Estate that should have been open/shut a long time ago. The deceased has passed three years ago and still not finalized. He indicated that I no longer e-mail or call him and that I had to write a letter to communicate with him because I kept asking for a distribution to the heirs. Basically, I had to hire an attorney to get a distribution made to the college-aged heirs so that they can at least pay some of their college debt. His duty was also to the Estate in which the deceased indicated that the money go to the heirs for college, etc. which Mr. Farber did not guide the Executor to do so. Instead he threatened me that the Executor can take a fee from the Estate/Heirs. I highly don't recommend this attorney. THINK TWICE
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10 Jan, 2011 by Anonymous
I was very disappointed with Mr. Farber. His responsiveness to inquiries, both via phone and email, was extremely slow or non-existent, meaning I had to follow up via phone and email numerous times to get a response. I received little explanation as to why matters did not proceed, he misplaced information I had sent him and I had to send it twice. Working with him was very frustrating, and I would not recommend him.
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30 Oct, 2024 by Matt connell
25 Jul, 2024 by Rebekah ceidro
The individuals working here are absolutely amazing! I know it’s a strange thing to say due to the nature of their profession, but they are an exceptional group. I have had to contact them about property liens and delinquencies a few times and they have always treated me with kindness and respect. I am an anxious person and they have immediately put me at ease each time. They did everything they could to assist me with my problems and find a solution that doesn’t break the bank. I truly appreciate them.
Read more
08 May, 2024 by Raynelle patterson
We inherited a house and with that came a lot of new experiences, such as real estate taxes. I got a letter from them and called immediately. Someone answered and explained everything to us. I've actually called a couple times and all I can say is they are the best and super kind! They are working with us and it's been wonderful! Give them a call. They will work with you!!
Read more
11 Jul, 2023 by D gierl
Congrats, you officially ruined Bob Huggins and everything he has done to the entire state of West Virginia. Every fan has turned on him.
Read more
11 Jul, 2023 by D gierl
Congrats, you officially ruined Bob Huggins and everything he has done to the entire state of West Virginia. Every fan has turned on him.
Read more
24 Oct, 2015 by Anonymous
Hired as probate atty for grandmothers estate. Did not work well with all parties involved as there was multiple beneficiaries. Did not return phone calls after multiple messages and was very rude when contact was finally made. When asked certain questions, she gave vague answers leaving us in the dark most of the time. Not the kind of thing one wants when going through an already fragile time.
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17 Jun, 2007 by Anonymous
My grandfather's estate has been in court for over 4 years and Reis continues to send the same information out. Our attorney has found so many errors and more money lingering out there and he will not update the information.
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13 Jan, 2014 by Edmond
I was a client of this attorney. He never did the required filing and I lost my case. He also never returned my phone calls.
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11 Jul, 2023 by D gierl
Congrats, you officially ruined Bob Huggins and everything he has done to the entire state of West Virginia. Every fan has turned on him.
Read more
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Questions? We have answers
What an Estate Planning Lawyer Can Do for You
An estate planning lawyer helps individuals plan for the management and distribution of their assets after death or during incapacitation. Their services involve drafting important legal documents, such as wills, trusts, powers of attorney, and healthcare directives. Estate planning attorneys work to ensure that your assets are transferred according to your wishes, minimize tax liabilities, and avoid probate court. They also help clients plan for potential long-term care needs and protect their estate from being diminished by healthcare costs.
By working with an estate planning lawyer, you can have peace of mind knowing that your loved ones will be cared for and that your estate will be managed efficiently and according to your desires.
When Should I Hire an Estate Planning Lawyer?
Hiring an estate planning lawyer is beneficial in many situations, especially when you want to ensure that your assets are handled properly after death. Common reasons to hire an estate planning lawyer include:
- Drafting a will: If you want to clearly define how your assets will be distributed after death, an attorney can draft a legally sound will.
- Creating a trust: For those looking to avoid probate or provide for loved ones over time, setting up a trust can help manage the distribution of assets.
- Planning for incapacity: An estate lawyer can help draft powers of attorney and healthcare directives so that your financial and medical decisions are made by someone you trust if you become incapacitated.
- Minimizing estate taxes: If your estate is large, a lawyer can help create strategies to reduce or eliminate federal and state estate taxes.
- Special circumstances: If you have minor children, blended families, or complex assets like businesses, an estate planning lawyer can create tailored solutions.
- Guardianship or conservatorship: If you want to designate guardians for minor children or ensure proper care for incapacitated adults, an attorney can help.
Hiring an estate planning lawyer is especially important if your estate is complex or if you want to ensure that your wishes are properly followed.
What Does an Estate Planning Lawyer Do?
An estate planning lawyer provides a range of services designed to help you organize your affairs and ensure your estate is managed according to your wishes. They can:
- Draft wills and trusts: Creating legally binding documents that dictate how your assets will be distributed and managed.
- Create powers of attorney and healthcare directives: Appointing someone to make financial or medical decisions for you if you become incapacitated.
- Minimize taxes: Developing strategies to reduce estate taxes, gift taxes, and other financial liabilities for your heirs.
- Help avoid probate: Structuring your estate plan to avoid probate, which can save time and money for your beneficiaries.
- Advise on long-term care planning: Helping you plan for potential healthcare needs in the future, including Medicaid planning and protecting assets from being depleted by nursing home costs.
- Assist with beneficiary designations: Ensuring that life insurance policies, retirement accounts, and other financial instruments are correctly designated.
- Handle probate and estate administration: If a loved one has passed away, an estate planning lawyer can help guide you through the probate process or act as an executor.
How Are Estate Planning Lawyers Paid?
Estate planning lawyers typically charge for their services in one of several ways, depending on the complexity of your estate and the type of services you need. Common payment structures include:
- Flat fee: Many estate planning services, such as drafting a will or trust, are charged on a flat-fee basis. The fee covers all work related to preparing the document.
- Hourly rate: For more complex planning, such as estate tax strategy or trust administration, lawyers may charge by the hour. Rates vary based on the lawyer’s experience and location.
- Retainer: Some lawyers require a retainer for more complex cases, such as ongoing trust management or estate administration. The retainer is an upfront payment that covers future legal services.
It’s important to discuss fees with your lawyer upfront to avoid unexpected costs.
How Much Does an Estate Planning Lawyer Cost?
The cost of hiring an estate planning lawyer depends on the complexity of your estate and the services you require. Here are some general guidelines:
- Simple wills or powers of attorney: A straightforward will or power of attorney may cost between $300 and $1,500, depending on your location and the lawyer’s experience.
- Trust creation: Establishing a trust, such as a living trust or revocable trust, can cost between $1,000 and $3,000 or more, depending on the complexity of your assets and estate planning needs.
- Comprehensive estate planning packages: Some lawyers offer packages that include wills, trusts, powers of attorney, and healthcare directives, which may range from $2,000 to $5,000 or more, depending on the estate’s complexity.
- Hourly rates: For ongoing services like estate administration or tax planning, lawyers may charge hourly rates ranging from $150 to $500 or more, depending on the lawyer’s experience.
Always get a clear estimate of costs during your initial consultation to ensure the services fit within your budget.
Top Questions to Ask an Estate Planning Lawyer
Before hiring an estate planning lawyer, it’s important to ask questions to ensure they are the right fit for your needs. Here are key questions to ask during your consultation:
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What is your experience with estate planning?
Ensure the lawyer has substantial experience drafting wills, creating trusts, and handling other estate planning services. -
How will you charge for your services?
Clarify whether the lawyer charges a flat fee or by the hour and ask for a detailed estimate of costs. -
What strategies do you recommend for my estate?
A good lawyer should be able to explain the best strategies for minimizing taxes, avoiding probate, and ensuring your assets are distributed according to your wishes. -
How often should I update my estate plan?
Ask how frequently you should revisit your estate plan, especially if your financial situation or family dynamics change. -
Do you offer ongoing support or updates?
Some lawyers provide periodic reviews or updates to ensure your estate plan stays current with changes in your circumstances or the law. -
How will you help my beneficiaries if something happens to me?
Ensure the lawyer is willing to guide your heirs through the estate administration process or help manage your trust after you’re gone.
How to Check the Credibility of an Estate Planning Lawyer
To ensure you’re hiring a credible estate planning lawyer, follow these steps:
- Verify their state bar license: Check with your state bar association to confirm that the lawyer is licensed and in good standing, with no history of disciplinary actions.
- Look for estate planning certifications: Some lawyers are certified as estate planning specialists, which indicates they have extensive knowledge in this area of law.
- Read client reviews and testimonials: Online reviews on sites like Avvo, Google, or Martindale-Hubbell can provide insight into the lawyer’s professionalism and client satisfaction.
- Ask for references: A credible lawyer should be able to provide references from previous clients who can speak to their expertise and client service.
- Check for membership in professional organizations: Lawyers who are members of organizations like the National Academy of Elder Law Attorneys (NAELA) or the American College of Trust and Estate Counsel (ACTEC) often have a strong reputation in the field.
What Should I Prepare for My First Consultation?
To get the most out of your first meeting with an estate planning lawyer, it’s important to come prepared. Here’s what you should bring:
- List of assets and liabilities: Provide a detailed inventory of your assets, including real estate, bank accounts, retirement funds, investments, and personal property, as well as any debts you may have.
- List of beneficiaries: Be ready to discuss who you want to receive your assets and in what proportions. This includes naming guardians for minor children if applicable.
- Existing estate documents: Bring copies of any existing wills, trusts, powers of attorney, or other relevant estate planning documents.
- Questions about your estate goals: Write down your goals, such as avoiding probate, reducing taxes, or setting up charitable donations, so your lawyer can tailor a plan to meet your needs.
- Information on medical and financial decision-makers: Be prepared to discuss who you want to appoint for healthcare and financial decisions if you become incapacitated.
By being well-prepared, you can ensure a productive consultation and begin building a comprehensive estate plan that meets your needs and protects your loved ones.
