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11 Sep, 2024 by Jeremy strouhal
I highly recommend this firm. Annelisa Smith and her team were extremely responsive and professional group to work with. I had multiple meetings over many months and every interaction was very positive and my issues and questions were fully discussed and had a favorable outcome.
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06 Sep, 2024 by Paul schoppe
Troy Nixon took my case when I was in a very stressful and difficult situation. I was so relived that I had someone on my side. Troy was very considerate and explained the situation for best direction to take. The entire team I worked with was outstanding! A special thanks to Lindsay, Paralegal for Troy! I highly recommend this law firm to help you if trouble comes your way. They gave me back my peace of mind so that I could move on!!
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05 Aug, 2024 by Jatin patro
I retained (McKean Smith) Annelisa's services the day I met her for initial consultation. She was referred to me by a common friend.
Annelisa worked with me from start to finish on my divorce, to end my 21 years of marriage, that should've been settled amicably from the get-go, as all I wanted was for there to be no disruption to my kids' (2 teens) lives at home from the parenting plan, and I was ready to give up my house, and 100% child support, and allow both kids to stay with their mother 24/7 for that, with me visiting kids at their home only to care for them when they wanted me to, no different than our usual routine. Yet, somehow conspiracies prevailed and it ended up as a contested divorce that dragged on for over a year, with me having to defend against numerous baseless accusations.
It was a real life nightmare to say the least, but fortunately I had my kids and the truth to bank on, and had all the documented evidence needed to fend off every single unfounded accusation, and that's all Annelisa needed to get me the exact results I wanted, with the only difference being that instead of my kids living with their mother in the home 24/7 I now have sole custody of both my kids and they now live with me in the house 24/7, with zero disruption to their lives from the divorce.
Annelisa will fight for you and get you the results you deserve. She is very busy, but made time for a 1 on 1 meeting anytime I felt the need for some assurance. Heather, the paralegal, was also very pleasant to work with, and was prompt at responding to my questions.
In court, at status check meetings, Annelisa was very clear and concise in her choice of words, and spoke with full confidence, no matter what cheap tactics the opposing counsel used in front of the judge to try to scare me. Annelisa has the experience, is very skilled in her profession, and is very honest and upfront about the possible outcomes. Each time I felt drained and wanted to discuss updates and meet with Annelisa, I left feeling assured and confident that she will get me the best result possible.
At one point I felt so frustrated and drained from dealing with the contested divorce that I was willing to give in to all the demands from the opposing party, but Annelisa advised me why that was not a good option, and boy am I glad I listened to her!
Annelisa doesn't play any games with the opposing party. She is very straightforward and deals with the opposing party in a very professional manner, and will get you the best results you deserve. For me, that was zero disruption to my kids' lives at home after divorce, and that's exactly what she delivered. My 2 teens are now living with me in my house 24/7, and my life with my kids is as good as it can get... very much at peace!
One other thing that stood out in my interactions with Annelisa is that she was always conscious of my financial constraints and questioned the need whenever I requested a 1 on 1 meeting, warned me about additional cost when discussing independent 3rd party services, suggested alternatives to getting the same outcome as a trial, without actually taking it to trial, and even worked with the opposing counsel and the judge to minimize my costs by avoiding certain in-person meetings when the divorce was being finalized.
If you have the truth and facts on your side, and anticipate a contested divorce, retaining the services of McKean Smith could end up being the best decision you make. It was for me!
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01 Aug, 2024 by Kasia swenson
Greg is an amazing attorney. He is honest, hardworking, and will give you pragmatic advice throughout any process he handles. He is very responsive and is someone I know I can count on for all of my legal needs. I am so grateful to have found Greg and to have had his services. I would highly recommend him to anyone, especially if you need help with family law. Don’t hesitate to reach out to him with any legal needs you may have. He will take excellent care of you!
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11 Jun, 2024 by Raymond tindell
Atty Nate Law with this firm is awesome! As a practicing attorney myself with a Juvenile case in Washington County , Nate guided me through the quagmire of getting State funding for a psych evaluation and helped get my client successfully terminated from probation…much appreciated !
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27 May, 2024 by Lorena causor
29 Jun, 2024 by Diane barr
Great to work with. She was instrumental in helping resolve a collections case. I would highly recommend.
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15 Feb, 2024 by Bret
I would highly recommend Mr. Eblen for any legal help with credit matters. He was instrumental in helping me resolve an erroneous credit situation that was very serious and headed towards a negative conclusion. He is very nice, professional, and easy to work with.
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11 Jul, 2023 by Cory
I had a horrible situation where I was the victim of identity fraud. Even as a prior finance manager, there were three huge credit card companies that refused to cooperate. It took the time of the court system, but Tim Eblen and his staff went after the three companies and credit reporting agencies, and not only got my credit back to perfect, but got good compensation settlements for me. Truly professional, kind, and SO well versed at financial law... hire him today!
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09 Sep, 2024 by A webster
An agreement with an attorney in the office of Mayor Law was signed 2022-Oct giving Mayor Law proof of representation in an auto claim. Officially PIP was exhausted 25 April 2024. May 16 the attorney received digitally all payments; bills, notes, coding. At that time we should have sent the demand letter. I waited until July 4, 2024, contacted her, accepting the $3000 offer from April. I signed an agreement 29-July-2024. She received $3870 for costs and fees. I contacted her August 20 asking when I would get the settlement. She had been waiting on Progressive to update the Medicare liability section. She told me she still needed lien information on Medicaid, DHS, Medicare, and Med Advantage - and the 3 small businesses that treated me. I was 7 hours on the phone 20-23 August 2024 to contact insurances about liens on the settlement $3000: Medicare over the phone told me there was no lien (2nd payor and there was no hospitalization ZERO came in the mail today 9/9/2024). I called and got the procedure and fax number to Recovery for Mayor Law. Email attached attorney requesting I provide all Providence visits, summaries, billing. Attached ZERO owing PHP. DHS Medicaid (they faxed info right away which could have taken a month) in response to long email that EOB shows owing. My 3 small business folk who only take cash unless it was PIP were asked to provide the same information already given by my insurance carrier on May 16 to the attorney. 9/6/2024 Friday I received call stating the duo Advantage and Medicaid for medicare members NEVER create liens but would reversed to provider. Received a lien for $11.08 for xray would be paid correctly if Ayin Health Solutions would submit through Providence and Medicaid. Seems Mayor Law made a deal to pay 11.08 out of settlement without first notifying me! I have to deal with an attorney that would do that! HOW come they continue to argue they are still searching for a lien to take out of the settlement. It gives me the creeps. Ayin Health Solutions understood the attorney did not do the research before negotiating the cost to be 11.08 for the xray. They are voiding the lien today with Phia Group LISTEN. Mayor Law did not do the work she agreed to and I was on the phone 7 hours beginning it. Mayor Law is taking the 11.08 out of settlement anyway! Trashy company.
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01 Jul, 2024 by Scott huish
27 Mar, 2023 by Agil manizade
Stay Away. The lawyers (Liz W.) wasted my time for weeks, and dropped the case cause they couldn't bebothered with a camera subpoena. State Bar should mb disbar them for leaving Wildland Firefighters kidnaped and hurt by a KKK county.
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27 Aug, 2020 by Jessica b
I have worked with Shane Swilley several times over the last year or so - I can't recommend him enough. His thorough knowledge and excellent communication is unmatchable. He was able to provide guidance through a muddy situation that has now left both me and my business thriving. If you have any employment law needs I can't recommend Shane enough. He will absolutely be my go-to Employment Attorney moving forward.
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14 Nov, 2019 by Kevin hurst
I used this firm a few years ago to create my Will. They charged thousands of dollars and left me with a document I can’t understand and no directions for my heirs once I die. When I ask for clarification, they want more money ($250-$500/hr). I would never recommend using them for any legal service.
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12 Oct, 2019 by Terese demanuelle
Absolutely top notch law firm. Great team of attorneys. Worked with them for years with a complicated case. David Morrison and Dan Peterson greatly exceeded my expections. Wonderful communications, expert legal advice. Highly recommend. Terese
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22 Feb, 2021 by Anonymous
She showed up drunk to our meeting ranting about twitter. A very disturbed person who needs help and her internet taken away. Yikes.
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31 Jul, 2017 by Anonymous
Gave Actionable and timely legal advice for difficult coverage issues. She knows this area of the law better than anyone.
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08 May, 2017 by Breana
We used Candice to do our estate planning. The experience was smooth and enjoyable from beginning to end, taking care of everything we needed to have in order and more. The care and attention to detail was so comforting. On top of that, the personal interviews that were included for our children, should anything happen to us, was just so thoughtful. It gives me so much peace of mind to know all is in place. I would highly recommend Candice for other parents who haven't done their estate planning yet.
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08 Mar, 2022 by Kellie
I found Tanzosh Family Law after multiple calls to other attorney's in the area. Brenna was personable, answered my questions, and was very sympathetic and understanding during my consultation (divorce - mostly amicable). Her billing was accurate in time devoted to my case and I never felt she 'added on or made things longer' than they needed to be. Very fair in price and represented me very well. I would highly recommend them to anyone needing assistance in Family Law.
Side note: She also decided to hire an assistant during the time I was utilizing Brenna's services. She is also knowledgeable, timely and efficient. Great team.
Thank you for all you have done for me. I was so appreciated.
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08 Mar, 2022 by Anonymous
Honest and Dependable Loyer gets the job done Very satisfied Never want to go through divorce again but definitely hire her again
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11 Jan, 2022 by Jeff
Brenna & Michael took my case a couple of years ago and it was complicated, and at the time very emotional with the circumstances and challenges. They got me in the right mental frame of mind with their support. Then we meticulously went through our options, and devised a plan. We reached a settlement that was fair and equitable for both sides which is all I could have asked. It didn’t get messy because Brenna & Michael were empathetic to the factors in our case. I’m forever grateful for the outcome. They are top shelf professionals that know the law and the reality. I highly recommend them to the serious person that desires a fair shake, and is willing to put in the time to get there.
Sincerely,
Jeff Johnson
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11 Sep, 2021 by Rachel g
06 May, 2021 by Ken corbin
24 Mar, 2020 by :adam
He's an attorney, he serves nobody but the states interest.
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11 Sep, 2021 by Rachel g
06 May, 2021 by Ken corbin
24 Mar, 2020 by :adam
He's an attorney, he serves nobody but the states interest.
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11 Sep, 2021 by Rachel g
06 May, 2021 by Ken corbin
24 Mar, 2020 by :adam
He's an attorney, he serves nobody but the states interest.
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11 Sep, 2021 by Rachel g
06 May, 2021 by Ken corbin
24 Mar, 2020 by :adam
He's an attorney, he serves nobody but the states interest.
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11 Sep, 2021 by Rachel g
06 May, 2021 by Ken corbin
24 Mar, 2020 by :adam
He's an attorney, he serves nobody but the states interest.
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23 Mar, 2023 by Jay
Zero stars would be great to post, however, by now most people expect that 1 star means the same thing as zero or less.
Beware. I am moving forward with the ethics complaint with the State Bar Association and I will be posting an honest review of this company with every message board, blog and review I can find. This firm was hired to do a job they had agreed was the best course of action. After they got my money, they try to force a different course of action that would only yield further litigation costs and injury to my child and myself. Sarah Bain was assigned to my case. She had admitted that she had not dealt with an out of state custody issue but reassured me that the Senior partners had and would be overseeing the case. After payment was received by the firm, and Sarah was appointed the case, She called to gather information. She had suggested a different course of action as did the first person there that I consulted with, and also agreed that the actions they were retained for was the best way to go. At the conclusion of this phone call, Sarah stated that she would begin drafting the papers and would send me a copy to review within the next few days. After 10 days without hearing from them, I called to check the status of the papers she was supposedly drafting. By the time she returned my call, I was on the road. Cellular service was poor and communications then moved to emails. From this point on is where I get reminded that anytime you are dealing with an attorney, email should be your only method of communication and kept in writing (especially with your own attorney). Everything in writing is the only way you can prove what they told you and then didn't do. The multiple emails that followed over the course of a few weeks each started with Sarah pushing her agenda of this different course of action. Each one ended with me requesting they move forward with the course they were retained for. It then escalated to Sarah emailing one of the Senior Partners William Jones and CC the email conversations to me where she is asking them if she is not being clear enough of the course of action she has continued to take in spite of my very clear wishes she do what they were retained to do. During all of this, Sarah had made multiple misrepresentations of what the proceedings are and waiting periods in order to push her course of action as the correct one. Apparently William Jones believes that all his firms clients haven't any knowledge of any legal issues, practices or remedies and legal definitions. HIs emails consisted of legal analogies that basically equate to comparing an apple to an orange as though you wouldn't know the difference and just take his word for it. I may not be a lawyer, but I have been through this with my EX for over 10 years now having had to represent myself in much of it. All the information you need to handle any legal issue is available to you for free through your states websites. You hire an attorney because they should be proficient with the law, and its a little complicated to navigate the court system. On top of that, the courts hate you for representing yourself. But you should always research the laws, court proceedings and family code to ensure what your attorney tells you is the truth. Most of the papers you will receive from an attorney that was filed with the court is verbatim from these codes.
The end result was this firm charged me $4,000 to push me to do something other than what they were hired to do. $4,000 yielded zero attorney work product, a delay in court proceedings and further injury to my child and myself.
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11 Sep, 2018 by Irina
I was using William Jones' services for my divorce case with child involved. I have nothing but wonderful things to say about William. He made a challenging process much easier for me! He is very intelligent and well versed in law practice and always has an answer for you, and even makes it simple to understand. He is extremely professional and polite!
The best part is that William is very honest with his fees, he will tell you right away what he will charge and his bill explains in detail what he used his services for, so there is no misunderstanding.
He responded to my calls, voicemails very fast, most of the time within few hours, sometimes within 24 hours.
What made me chose him as my lawyer, is that he was the only one that was willing to give me a free hour consultation with very professional advice. It is very challenging to find a good lawyer, so it is important to interview them before you hire them, unfortunately not many lawyer give free consultation.
I highly recommend William!!! If I ever need a family lawyer again , I will definitely use his services again :)
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06 Sep, 2017 by Caroline
Quite simply, I must say this: Will is a great attorney. When I was dealing with a difficult alimony issue, I moved my case from another attorney, which was the best move I could have made. Will did a detailed analysis of the complicated financial issues in my case, looked at every angle and made sure everything was handled before the case was heard. When we went to court, I felt that I was well represented. Using his thorough research, Will presented all of his terrific analyses in court – and, as a result, I wholly prevailed in my case. With Will’s great efforts, I felt that I finally found a piece of justice in a difficult divorce situation.
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10 Sep, 2024 by Matthew
The firm was cold, the employees frequently chose not to reply to emails, and while I won my arbitration, this attorney wrote the award in a way that I still lost money trying to protect my rights. They entirely missed the initial protocol to begin arbitration and I had to call them out.. They were late on filings, but sent emails saying they filed on time (do you not know these things are timestamped?).. A general improvement in professionalism and regard for those receiving paid services is greatly needed. They seem to not understand or care about the difficulties of civilians navigating a system that is not weighted in their favor. I would not recommend, find an attorney that is genuinely interested in your protecting equity in your rights over receiving your money.
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01 Sep, 2022 by Nick
Elizabeth Savage Handled an appeal for me. She is experienced, very knowledgeable of the law, and professional. I felt very confident with her immediately upon my first consult. Elizabeth settled my case very quickly, and with zero drama. I highly recommend her.
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19 May, 2021 by Samson
Elizabeth Savage fights hard for her clients. She gave my case all of the time and attention needed to be successful at trial. Not only were the opposing party’s initial claims dismissed, but Elizabeth won me a judgement in the counter-suit. When the opposing party appealed, she successfully negotiated a settlement that I am happy with. Elizabeth really listened, and she put a lot of thought and care into each part of the litigation process. Highly recommend.
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08 Mar, 2024 by Wvs
I wish Ernest was a stand-up person for African Americans in the community but I cannot say that. At least with my experience.
We own a small business in Tigard Oregon and have been constantly harassed and intimidated by the local governmental jurisdictions. I record all instances with video and we are compiling documentation for a possible discrimination lawsuit in the future. I included Mr Warren on emails that we send out to the news media and local officials and had hopes of possibly retaining him in the future when the time was right but his lack of response to any of the multiple emails sent to his office clearly shows he's not interested. I will remove you from them emails next time I send one out.
I am from an area where African Americans look out for other African Americans that area is Chicago Illinois, which is much much different than Portland Oregon. Sorry to see you were sold out by the man.
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24 Feb, 2021 by Danny vian
Great Lawers
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24 Feb, 2021 by Quinn millegan
Ernie is a great guy.
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30 Jan, 2024 by Pedro garcia
Good care of people and ther needs
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12 Jan, 2024 by Charlesmillerdbacharlies chimney cleaning & covers
02 Nov, 2023 by Seasidevacationhomes
Over the past 15 years I have come to rely on Mr. Grayson's wisdom and guidance on a host of legal situations. I highly recommend and appreciate his ability to thing globally while maintaining an attention to detail.
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13 Apr, 2022 by Glenn rodriguez
Bob,
Has always shown the professional side of what you think a Lawyer should be! Straight forward, you know, no Bull$h*t.
I highly recommend his services and if you do retain him as your Legal Advisor, you’ll feel good about the results you’d expect for your hard earned dollar!
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23 Sep, 2021 by Ray lewandowski
4 me is it
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30 Oct, 2019 by Marylou zimmerman
They are easy to work with.
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09 Oct, 2019 by Tina greek
10 Apr, 2024 by Anonymous
Most compassionate, helpful and knowledgeable attorney I have ever encounter ed in my life. How I wish he was where I live. If you are so fortunate to be close don’t waste your time looking for an outstanding person and attorney. He is the one.
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25 Feb, 2024 by Ysmart1
I have had the good fortune of having Gregory L Abbott answer some Property Management questions that I have posted and in each case I received a concise, thorough, and professional response. I have also read his responses to questions posted by others which has further enriched my knowledge as a Property Manager. I would not hesitate to hire him to represent me should the need ever arise as I have full confidence of his knowledge of the Oregon Landlord Tenant and Fair Housing laws.
Thank you Mr. Abbott for all the good you have done on this site.
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14 Dec, 2023 by Carrie eldred mcpeak regnier
Caveat emptor: let the buyer beware. You may get an invoice out of the blue months later for a service you didn't understand he intended to charge you for. There are much better attorneys out there, keep looking.
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15 Nov, 2022 by Anonymous
Crook. Doesn’t pay debts. Writes bad checks. Crook. Crook. Crook. Crook. Crook. Crook.
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08 Oct, 2011 by Anonymous
Sara allenÂ
I absolutely hit the jackpot with this wonderful, approachable and reliable attorney.  Sara Allen went way beyond my expectations, not only solving my issues but at the same time putting me at peace while spending her own personal time (which I know she must have very little of) to take care of me. Ms. Allen's incredibly knowledgeable and has a confident and reassuring demeanor. I would entrust this attorney (person) with my most personal, life matters.  I have never had an experience as streamlined and efficient as it has been with Ms. Allen. It's not always a pleasant experience when one feels the need for an attorney, but somehow she always makes me feel much better about everything. The drop done only allows one area of law to choose from, but she's handled multiple areas for me. It's obvious she's just a
wonderful human being and I appreciate all she's done for me.
Involving any kind of legal matter
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22 Mar, 2011 by Debra
After a contract agreement in which I was owed a substantial amount of money could not be resolved, and getting no results from another lawyer, I went to Sara Allen.
She was very thorough, did not waste time, and clearly stated with the offending party's representation the terms of settlement. When they other side failed to responded and tried to employ stall tactics, Ms. Allen was prepared to go to Court to protect my rights.
Recognizing Ms. Allen's extensive court room experience and winning record, at the recommendation of their well known law firm the offending party settled for the full amount.
I can highly recommend Ms. Allen as a lawyer and will not hesitate to contact her again, should the need arise.
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27 Feb, 2020 by Ml
Marlene wrote our wills years ago and we are using her again to update them. She was professional, efficient and pleasant. She asked the right questions so we would know what to include and exclude in the wills.
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18 Jun, 2019 by Anonymous
Incredibly hostile and unprofessional. Acted very arrogant and entitled in her opinions. Will not work with again.
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20 Mar, 2022 by Anonymous
Avoid this lawyer and his law firm AT ALL COSTS. We hired Ben Evans to help my mother through her divorce from her abusive ex-husband, and let me tell you: working with him was one of the most infuriating and aggravating experiences of our lives.
Not only was this illiterate, degenerate lawyer unresponsive with laser-consistency, but he was always wildly impatient and rude to my mother. He never did any of the paperwork that he said he was going to do; my mother ended up doing most of it herself. He tried to convince my mother to give up most of the very reasonable things she was asking for from the divorce judge. It almost seemed like Ben Evans was colluding with my mother's ex-husband.
Ben Evans never once showed even so much as an iota of care for his client. Ben always behaved as if we were a massive drain on his life and as if we should worship every breath he exhaled. He acted like a pretentious, defiant pre-teen.
My mother's English isn't the best, and we're a very poor family, so we dug deep into what little money he had left to hire this clown. He caused my mother so much additional stress to the point that we ended up paying Ben Evans the full amount just so we could fire him on the spot and rid ourselves of the malignant tumor he had become in our lives.
If you are a woman, or an immigrant, or struggling financially, and seeking help from a lawyer: do NOT hire this arrogant insect of a man. He will only cause you to lose tens of thousands of dollars with ZERO results.
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06 Sep, 2018 by Thomas
When I got divorced a couple of years ago, it was Awful. I am so glad that I spoke with Benjamin. He gave me great advice, and steered me in the right direction. Even afterwards, he often will ask about it if we see each other. I highly recommend Benjamin Evans!
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04 Feb, 2017 by Anonymous
After 13 years of directly paying my exwife child support for our 2 children, per a verbal agreement, she decided to take me to court for more money. After trying to talk to her and settle situation out of court, as we have for last 13 years, I realized she wasnt going to compromise anymore and simply wanted everything she could get. I knew then that i needed a lawyer.
I was given Ben Evans name as a referral from my roommates EAP. This being my first experience with a lawyer, I had no expectations. After initially speaking with Ben on the phone, I felt comfortable about moving forward with him representing me.
I brought in everything regarding my divorce and explained what had changed since the final verdict years ago. He was quick to decipher everything I had and the situation I was in. By my next visit, he had every bit of paperwork ready to fill out and a rough time frame of what to expect. Every question I had was answered. Every bit of the paperwork I didn't understand or needed quidance on, Ben was there with an answer that related to what I was looking for as my final result.
During the whole process, there were a couple hiccups with a difficult judge, Ben was adamant about rectifying the situation and wasted no time contacting the judge so we could move further on closing my case. All the while, keeping me up to date on everything transpiring.
There were a couple things that I had to take care of on my own, which he informed me of where and how to handle. Including raising the eyebrows of child support division to the alterations in my case, making it easier for me to do what I needed to do.
In the end, my support was lowered, to the surprise of my ex! Ben was easy to work with and communication was spot on. Any problems throughout my case, were handled quickly and on track for ultimate goal. Every aspect of my case was addressed and tended to.
Regardless of my unexpected, pleasant outcome, I pray I don't have to go through this again but will definitely be calling Ben if the situation presents itself. I would recommend him to any person in need of a thorough family lawyer.
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09 Feb, 2017 by Elderlymom
Was my elderly moms attorney. She was billed for a lot of money, after she had Fired him. He would not accept the fact he was replaced. The new attorney had to contact him more than once. Stay away from this attorney.
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19 May, 2016 by Richard
Mark has helped my ski club revise our bylaws. He also advised us when a key employee died. Mark is no nonsense yet very kind and an active member of the community . He serves as VP for the South Portland Business Association. Few know that he is also an accomplished physicist.
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18 Mar, 2022 by Kimberly mcnamara
Called inquiring about an attorney for my potential case and even though Jonathan explained he does not prosecute these types of cases. He was more then willing and took the time to give me professional referrals that he knew of who do. He additionally was so kind and seemed truly genuine.
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11 Oct, 2012 by Anonymous
I have used several attorneys over the years and this is the first time I have actively gone out of my way to review one. I feel I need to try to warn others that Shannon isn't very good. We did not communicate well, the level of research needed was excessive for a 20 year attorney, billing was terribly slow, and together these items lead to average work at a very high price. I felt as though I was her first will client.
Do yourself a favor and keep looking. Even after confronting her I felt she was uncaring. I am not the type of person to write a complaint but I hope by doing so I can help someone from overpaying for legal services.
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01 Apr, 2014 by Anonymous
In my opinion Bill Keeler is one of the most evil men I have ever encountered in my entire life. I think that he is arrogant, selfish, inconsiderate, incompetent, and will do just about anything for money. I caught him lying to me on three occasions. He never kept any promise he made to me. He hunted me down like I was a wild animal, defamed my character and forced me against my will to testify in a civil case that had absolutely nothing to do with me and he knew it.
The civil case was all because someone at his law firm had written a living trust incorrectly and did not list and give money to anyone who might contest the trust. Because of that when their client died, someone previously listed on another living trust contested the trust. Everyone knows or should know that you have to list anyone on a trust who might contest the trust and give them $1 which shows you considered them and didn't want them to get any money. Any competent attorney would have listed any and all people listed on previous trusts and given them a $1. This is standard practice in the industry. Yet Bill Keeler's law firm did not do that. And one of the people listed in a previous trust contested the trust. Surprise, surprise. NOT The case couldn't be thrown out because he wasn't listed on the trust that Bill Keeler's law firm had written. So instead of owning up to the fact that they had written the living trust incorrectly, he decided to supeona anyone who might correct his mistake. A good person doesn't force other people against their will to correct their mistake. A good person corrects their own mistakes.
I was one of the people subpoenaed on their fishing expedition to correct their mistake. However, Bill told me excruciating details about the case. Attorneys are not allowed to tell details to a witness because it might sway their testimony. But Bill did exactly that to me. In my opinion he was trying to get me to lie under oath.
He also sent a process server to go to all my neighbors and tell them that I was being served papers. That process server hunted me down for over a month. I work a lot so I was never home when she tried to serve me. That gave me many sleepless nights during that month because all my neighbors were coming up to me telling me that someone was trying to serve me papers. I knew that I had done nothing wrong to get someone to serve me papers. He had never sent me a letter in the mail to tell me what was going on in advance. His first effort without giving me a chance to volunteer to testify was to serve me papers to get me to testify against my will. Again it is extremely rare for a person to be supeonaed in a civil case. Yet, because Bill, in my opinion, has no morals, it didn't bother him that he had made my life hell by defaming my character to all my neighbors.
When he finally got a hold of me, I figured out right away he wasn't owning up to the fact that they had made a mistake. And they wanted me to correct their mistake. I was so furious when I found the truth about why the process server had defamed my character for over a month.. To make matters worse, he and one of his staff threatened to throw me in jail if I didn't do exactly what they wanted. Knowing they would be throwing a completely innocent person in jail didn't bother Bill and his staff one bit. In my opinion, the person who should be thrown in jail is Bill and his staff. In my opinions they are criminals.
I sent Bill two certified letters telling them not to contact me and I sent over 50 emails telling them not to contact me. And the next day Bill would always contact me out of complete disrespect, arrogance and selfishness. I couldn't sleep for four months over a case that was 100% caused by Bill Keeler's law firm's incompetence, in my opinion. Now you know why I think Bill Keeler is one of the most evil men I have ever encountered.
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07 Feb, 2014 by Anonymous
Mr. Keeler told us we would not be liable for anything but our own attorneys fees but infact he joined us to a petition that held us responsible for over 100 grand of all the other partys fees. He filed responses we never agreed to or even signed just to rack up more charges. Mr. Keeler was all about the money rather then having a close bond with his clients or even standing up and showing compassion for a deceased individual who deserved justice! NOT TRUSTWORTHY! I do NOT reccomend and would NOT ever use again! Please research thoroughly before you just think because of his age and how long he has been practicing law he must be good at what he does.
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01 Jan, 2009 by Anonymous
Mrs. Morasch gouged me in my divorce. She made sure everyting was convenient for her and not in her client's best interests. She would not respond timely to any of my written requests/instructions and lost my divorce case for me due to her poor representation which has cost me thousands of dollars. During the divorce hearing, she just sat there and never once defended me. She was a total disappointment.
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15 Feb, 2016 by Anonymous
Ms. Peterson was hired by me in relation to descrepencies on my credit report. During our initial consultation, she appeared competent and knowledgeable. After she was hired, she did not follow through on promises she made to attempt to contact the companies regarding my case, she did not return my phone calls or emails. I had to
Physically go to her office twice. The first time I showed up, she apologized for not returning my calls stating that things got extremely busy. She admitted that she had not even started on my case and it had been almost a month since she was hired. After our meeting , I heard from her via a letter she sent to the companies on one occasion and then another "letter" that actually was an invoice for time accrued. Well it's been 6 months and I have heard nothing else from her. I just recently emailed her requesting the valve of my retainer: $44.00. This attorney is awful and I am extremely surprised she has remained in business. I only stumbled upon her through my employer's EAP Program...if you need a lawyer, beware of this one....in fact, run the other way.
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19 Feb, 2016 by Anonymous
Attorney Ford was referred to me via Pre-paid Legal to write a letter to someone who was defaming my name. He sent the draft letter for me to review. I submitted the letter with changes. I then received a email from his administrative assistant with the original letter attached without the changes I requested. The name and orientation of the agency was wrong, and there were several name spelling errors. I let the office know that I was not aligned with them sending out the letter. Despite my communication of my not being aligned with the letter they sent the letter out without my knowledge or approval.
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22 Jun, 2021 by Anonymous
I engaged Caitlin for a small project. She estimated the time to complete at roughly 3 hours. Caitlin initially sent me an email stating that she would begin the research immediately and check in by the end of the week. A month later, I've heard nothing - no status updates, no work product.
I then write her an email on a Tuesday checking in to ask for a status update and to request that she have the project completed within the next 10 days. She writes back that she'll have it to me by the end of the current week. End of the week arrives, nothing.
Tuesday of the following week, she emails me to she had a multi-day emergency the previous week but that she would get it to me the following morning. She did not. She also did not send me any notice that she would be delayed by the emergency.
A few days after that, I emailed her to terminate my engagement with her and asked for a refund. Ignoring my email, she sent me the work product for the project soon thereafter.
If you're looking for a responsible, responsive attorney who will complete work in a timely manner, I strongly recommend that you look elsewhere. Caitlin exhibited a clear pattern of excuse making throughout the engagement that I would have never tolerated from any of my own employees. I suspect that if I hadn't followed up the project would have never been completed.
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11 Mar, 2016 by Wendy
DO NOT HIRE ERIN KEELER (RICKARDS) AS YOUR DIVORCE ATTORNEY.
Erin Rickards failed me in every way that a divorce attorney could fail. She failed to give me good advice. She failed to critique every level of the valuations done of shared assets. She failed to ensure that premarital assets were attributed to me. She failed to account for money that could have and should have been deducted from the equity of assets. She failed to go after my ex when we really had him with his lying and concealing of assets. She failed me. I trusted her and thought she knew what she was doing. But she did not. She had barely been out of school three years when taking my case she had NO business being my divorce attorney. She made mistake after mistake and failed to protect me from total financial ruin.
The results of Erin Rickards failure towards her client is that I am about to go into bankruptcy because of the insurmountable debt that I have incurred because of the huge divorce judgement against myself. I owe more on my divorce judgement today then I did in 2010 because at 9% interest I can barely make the interest payment each month. Furthermore, the emotional and physical stress that I have suffered since my divorce trying to run the business that I unhappily own and be a single mother and pay my ex-husband every extra cent I have has had a terrible toll on my physical health to the point that I can no longer even work in the restaurant as I am physically unable.
Please take my advice and do not use her if you want to come out on top on your case.
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What an Estate Planning Lawyer Can Do for You
An estate planning lawyer helps individuals plan for the management and distribution of their assets after death or during incapacitation. Their services involve drafting important legal documents, such as wills, trusts, powers of attorney, and healthcare directives. Estate planning attorneys work to ensure that your assets are transferred according to your wishes, minimize tax liabilities, and avoid probate court. They also help clients plan for potential long-term care needs and protect their estate from being diminished by healthcare costs.
By working with an estate planning lawyer, you can have peace of mind knowing that your loved ones will be cared for and that your estate will be managed efficiently and according to your desires.
When Should I Hire an Estate Planning Lawyer?
Hiring an estate planning lawyer is beneficial in many situations, especially when you want to ensure that your assets are handled properly after death. Common reasons to hire an estate planning lawyer include:
- Drafting a will: If you want to clearly define how your assets will be distributed after death, an attorney can draft a legally sound will.
- Creating a trust: For those looking to avoid probate or provide for loved ones over time, setting up a trust can help manage the distribution of assets.
- Planning for incapacity: An estate lawyer can help draft powers of attorney and healthcare directives so that your financial and medical decisions are made by someone you trust if you become incapacitated.
- Minimizing estate taxes: If your estate is large, a lawyer can help create strategies to reduce or eliminate federal and state estate taxes.
- Special circumstances: If you have minor children, blended families, or complex assets like businesses, an estate planning lawyer can create tailored solutions.
- Guardianship or conservatorship: If you want to designate guardians for minor children or ensure proper care for incapacitated adults, an attorney can help.
Hiring an estate planning lawyer is especially important if your estate is complex or if you want to ensure that your wishes are properly followed.
What Does an Estate Planning Lawyer Do?
An estate planning lawyer provides a range of services designed to help you organize your affairs and ensure your estate is managed according to your wishes. They can:
- Draft wills and trusts: Creating legally binding documents that dictate how your assets will be distributed and managed.
- Create powers of attorney and healthcare directives: Appointing someone to make financial or medical decisions for you if you become incapacitated.
- Minimize taxes: Developing strategies to reduce estate taxes, gift taxes, and other financial liabilities for your heirs.
- Help avoid probate: Structuring your estate plan to avoid probate, which can save time and money for your beneficiaries.
- Advise on long-term care planning: Helping you plan for potential healthcare needs in the future, including Medicaid planning and protecting assets from being depleted by nursing home costs.
- Assist with beneficiary designations: Ensuring that life insurance policies, retirement accounts, and other financial instruments are correctly designated.
- Handle probate and estate administration: If a loved one has passed away, an estate planning lawyer can help guide you through the probate process or act as an executor.
How Are Estate Planning Lawyers Paid?
Estate planning lawyers typically charge for their services in one of several ways, depending on the complexity of your estate and the type of services you need. Common payment structures include:
- Flat fee: Many estate planning services, such as drafting a will or trust, are charged on a flat-fee basis. The fee covers all work related to preparing the document.
- Hourly rate: For more complex planning, such as estate tax strategy or trust administration, lawyers may charge by the hour. Rates vary based on the lawyer’s experience and location.
- Retainer: Some lawyers require a retainer for more complex cases, such as ongoing trust management or estate administration. The retainer is an upfront payment that covers future legal services.
It’s important to discuss fees with your lawyer upfront to avoid unexpected costs.
How Much Does an Estate Planning Lawyer Cost?
The cost of hiring an estate planning lawyer depends on the complexity of your estate and the services you require. Here are some general guidelines:
- Simple wills or powers of attorney: A straightforward will or power of attorney may cost between $300 and $1,500, depending on your location and the lawyer’s experience.
- Trust creation: Establishing a trust, such as a living trust or revocable trust, can cost between $1,000 and $3,000 or more, depending on the complexity of your assets and estate planning needs.
- Comprehensive estate planning packages: Some lawyers offer packages that include wills, trusts, powers of attorney, and healthcare directives, which may range from $2,000 to $5,000 or more, depending on the estate’s complexity.
- Hourly rates: For ongoing services like estate administration or tax planning, lawyers may charge hourly rates ranging from $150 to $500 or more, depending on the lawyer’s experience.
Always get a clear estimate of costs during your initial consultation to ensure the services fit within your budget.
Top Questions to Ask an Estate Planning Lawyer
Before hiring an estate planning lawyer, it’s important to ask questions to ensure they are the right fit for your needs. Here are key questions to ask during your consultation:
-
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.
