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10 Apr, 2024 by Danielle mickens
I love them they went up and beyond for me they are the greats I know I will use them if I have to again they checked on me and my kids all the time they made sure I knew what was going on at all times they are just the best
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25 Mar, 2024 by Paula rek
Although my case did not go in my favor, Attorney Posch was always professional, did his best and worked hard and diligently. I appreciate everything he and his staff did.
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26 Feb, 2024 by Iris cuchillas
18 Sep, 2024 by Orlando pereira
Joe Budd represented me in my car accident case, and I couldn't be more grateful for his outstanding work. He was always professional, kept me informed throughout the entire process, and made sure I understood every step. His attention to detail and knowledge of the law were impressive, and thanks to his hard work, we achieved a better outcome than I ever expected. Throughout the case, Joe was kind, approachable, and made me feel confident that I was in good hands. I highly recommend Joe Budd to anyone looking for a skilled and compassionate attorney. He truly cares about his clients.
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12 Sep, 2024 by Andrew brennick
I had the pleasure of speaking with Joseph Budd and appreciate the insight that he was able to provide. The initial consultation was scheduled promptly and I was able to receive the advice that I needed.
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10 Sep, 2024 by M. s.
Seth Beckley provided exceptional legal services. Highly recommend Seth and the firm.
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29 Aug, 2024 by Travis sherbine
Fourscore is built to support start-ups. I actually just referred them to another start-up that is going with them.
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12 Aug, 2024 by Gwen campbell
Fourscore has been a great resource for our small, growing business. You never know what legal challenges may arise, and it is so nice to have a firm with such well rounded knowledge on our side for the expected, as well as unexpected, business happenings.
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08 Aug, 2024 by Johnpaul baric
Fast and professional lawyers who are eager to put their clients first. I have used them for my legal work for over 5 years as a startup founder with multiple businesses
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28 Aug, 2024 by Donta spruill
Amazing attorney very nice and caring handled every case I gave him with no problems and the least damage to my record, never hassled me about money and always kept it professional and honest
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15 Aug, 2024 by Bailey
I cannot express how thankful I am that I hired Kevin as my lawyer. He not only got everything dismissed but he is genuinely just a good person. He was very empathetic and kind, he took time to listen and answer all questions, he made me feel like I was not alone. He is wonderful, and I cannot express that enough.
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11 Jul, 2024 by Isaac myers
Kevin is an amazing Lawyer and even better human. It was a pleasure working with him and he was able to get my case resolved (dismissed) in a timely manner once I switched to his services. Would recommend him and his team all day every day! 5star service all around.
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10 Apr, 2024 by Danielle mickens
I love them they went up and beyond for me they are the greats I know I will use them if I have to again they checked on me and my kids all the time they made sure I knew what was going on at all times they are just the best
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25 Mar, 2024 by Paula rek
Although my case did not go in my favor, Attorney Posch was always professional, did his best and worked hard and diligently. I appreciate everything he and his staff did.
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26 Feb, 2024 by Iris cuchillas
18 Jun, 2022 by Srinivas m
Very responsive to your concerns.
Quick to respond to emails.
Understands the subject/problem at hand quickly and offers solutions.
HIGHLY recommend.
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21 Aug, 2020 by Matt
Landon has been indispensable to my life. When everything else went wrong and I had a million things to figure out I could count on Landon to represent me justly, in court. 5 stars.
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29 May, 2020 by Phil
I hired Landon White through a recommendation and boy am I glad I did.
I got a traffic citation that could of affected my livelihood and just having him in my corner was a huge relief. His professionalism, communication and genuine care of me and this situation is refreshing. Thank you Landon for doing a GREAT job and exceeding my expectations.
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15 Feb, 2017 by Anonymous
I have nothing but wonderful things to day about Ms. Buyrn. She is very professional yet showed compassion which made me feel comfortable talking with her. She was quick responding to my questions and handled my case promptly and efficiently. Thank you so much Amanda! If I am ever in need of an attorney, which I pray I'm not unless its for winning the lottery, I will not hesitate to contact her again.
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21 Jun, 2016 by Ray
Do yourself a favor! Appoint an adviser that can deliver. In my experience Amanda Buyrn was very professional while guiding with all I needed to know throughout the process. Her approach got me out of 2 deserved negligent tickets, needless to say saving me good money in insurance for the next 3 years. Needed to write a review which I barely do for this lady, thanks again.
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03 May, 2016 by Matt
I don't have a long history of speeding tickets but over the last year I've received 2 (both on I-40). I contacted Amanda and she responded immediately. We maintained e-mail correspondence in order that she could keep me informed of progress. Amanda took care of both tickets and I didn't receive any driving or insurance points.
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25 Nov, 2018 by Ryan
I contacted Dominic, based on the recommendation from a friend, to help establish my business The entire process went exactly as he described. Very friendly. Thoroughly answered all questions asked.
Recommended Dominic to a family member for assistance in setting up a business as well.
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08 Jun, 2018 by Jonathan
Dominic was very professional and consultative while assisting with my legal needs. His approach was very comprehensive and holistic, which made me feel comfortable. He was always available to answer questions and offer his expertise. Highly recommend him to others!
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04 Dec, 2017 by Lisa
Dominic gave me an in-depth review of my situation in legal terms, as well as going over my options. He let me record the conversation so I could review it again later. The advice he gave me was spot on. He also wrote contracts for me that have been a great help, although thankfully I haven't had to put them to the test. He was compassionate and a guiding force in the storm. I'm thankful for his help and expertise.
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25 Apr, 2015 by Rahul
One of my close friend recommended Monica’s name for my immigration help.
When I met her for my first consultation, she was ready with the response as well as had done lots of back ground work. She worked very hard on my case. I was away from USA, but she kept me informed of all the developments via email. She not only provided me with the updates but also has recommendations for me. Final outcome was favorable.
I have no hesitations in recommending her services. All the best Monica.
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08 Mar, 2015 by Karen
I struggled with the idea of entering into due process against my severely autistic son's school system, and I am very thankful that I found Monica's contact information on Wrightslaw.com. Monica Moncrieffe has thoughtfully and valiantly protected my son's and our family's rights. Monica has kept me informed of my options and listened ever so carefully to my concerns and questions. She is a rare individual with a unique gift because when you speak to her, she listens as if there is no one else in the world. Monica is quick to respond when you need her, and she thoroughly and diligently works to provide her clients with the finest legal representation available.
I have never had to go through any legal matters in court before, but Monica reduced my stress level significantly. She has a peaceful, calm way about her that carried us through very difficult times. She is our family's attorney for life.
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06 Mar, 2015 by Mark
Monica Moncrieffe, Esq., is an outstanding professional who truly goes out of her way to serve her clients. She guided my wife and I through the intricate permanent residency process which had additional challenges due to our complicated situation. Throughout, she was clear about the difficulties which may have arisen, but gave us the confidence we needed to push through. Excellent advice, flexible meeting times and a personal approach. Thank you Monica!
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21 Aug, 2017 by Stephanie
We have used Donna for several years for our personal and professional needs. She is incredibly knowledgeable and advocates for her clients. We are a small family without large assets, but Donna and her team have always been generous with their time and given us the attention and advice we needed.
She helped us close several mortgages and a sale of our house, which would not have closed without Donna and her team going above and beyond (the buyer's attorney was clueless).
She has handled our estate planning, as well as healthcare powers of attorney. We have a unique family situation, and Donna's knowledge of NC law helped us create custom documents that have brought us tremendous peace of mind.
We highly recommend Donna.
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18 Aug, 2017 by Jeremy.drawas
I have been working with Donna for many years now and she has become an absolutely essential part of my team and a truly trusted partner.
She always takes my calls (early, late, weekends) and if she can't, she gets back to me very quickly -- as if I were her only client. She almost always knows the answers, but if she doesn't she knows the right people to contact. I know that she won't quit until the job gets done. And above all, I know that Donna is always working in my best interests and will always go above and beyond to ensure I am covered from a legal standing.
I could not more highly recommend Donna.
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17 Aug, 2017 by Joseph
We have used Donna's services several times from mortgage closings to customer collection issues to estate planning.
She answers all questions immediately and has a plan of action within minutes.
Donna is not only professional, but also a woman of her word and now a family friend.
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23 Aug, 2019 by Jim b.
Kevin is an excellent attorney helping my family work through the application process for getting my mom approved for Medicaid to cover her nursing home care. He is extremely knowledgeable regarding the process enabling the family to safeguard some assets. He kept me informed through the process and was always quick to get back with me to answer a question. I felt like I received a value added service and would strongly recommend Kevin to anyone going through this process or should they need other estate planning services.
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12 Apr, 2019 by Virginia
Kevin helped our family work through a very stressful situation after my mother’s passing. He was very professional, and acted as a mediator and objective third party carefully reviewing the details of the dispute. He was very concerned for the welfare of all parties involved, and worked diligently to try to reach a peaceful resolution. His communication skills are top notch as he carefully composed several letters to family members outlining procedures and explaining the law. He returned all phone calls and emails timely, and was always very courteous and kind to work with. He’s a most excellent lawyer, but even more importantly, he’s an amazing person too. Very thankful to God that Kevin Huston was there for our family. Very thankful to Kevin and for all his hard work.
Highly, Highly, Highly recommend him.
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22 Mar, 2019 by G.c.
We are so grateful for Kevin Huston's help, advice, patience, and kindness during a most difficult and painful time in our lives. I thank God every single day that he was there to help resolve issues and bring peace to my family. I could not recommend his services enough.
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09 Feb, 2015 by Anne
Stacey Carless handled my uncontested divorce. I didn't have to go to her office or appear in court. It was efficient, fast and reasonably priced. She even sent me money back!
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11 Dec, 2014 by Ms. thornton
I had the pleasure of working with Stacey Carless. She was very attentive, knowledgeable, assertive and genuine.
She helped me to find a middle ground for all parties involved. I was able to voice my concerns, she welcomed my suggestions and encouraged positive feedback. She provided tools and conducts follow-ups.
I was truly satisfied with her services and would highly recommend her to others.
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18 Nov, 2014 by Dianne
Stacey's work on my case was great. It was such a relief not to have to worry about everything. She took care of everything for me. She was very responsive to my phone calls and emails and always kept me in the know of what was going on. She treated me as a person not just a case file. Anyone would be very lucky to have her represent them as an attorney.
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20 Nov, 2015 by Jerry griggs and martin
Jeffery truly cares and have a heart of gold, he is not your typical arrogant moralistic attorney. His professionalism is unsurpassed and his team is always there to help. We have always use him and recommend him to everyone that need good work and results.
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08 Sep, 2015 by Eddie & pam lechuga
We were referred to Jeff via a relative of ours. Jeff and his staff could not have been more inviting. We have a non standard situation with our estate planning and he provided sound advise from common sense and experience. While attorneys should and will keep their distance, he was able to achieve this yet still make everyone feel very comfortable. The office staff make you feel at home and all have genuine smiles while working with you. You can tell he is just a good guy with integrity trying to help you. He and his pleasant staff deserve this review.
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06 Apr, 2015 by Nancy
The idea of finding a good lawyer has always been associated with high hourly rates, confusing paper work and unexplained processes. I knew I had found gold when I meet the team at The Law Offices of Jeffrey G. Marsocci, PLLC. They’re a law firm that believes in doing what is right. Their staff is extremely well versed and educated on all areas of estate administration which allows every client to have the highest level of individual planning; planning that fits their personal and family needs. Planning that comes with ongoing and thorough client care. I had the pleasure of working with The Law Offices of Jeffrey G. Marsocci, PLLC almost a year ago. They hired my business, Loblolly Concierge to oversee some work on a foreclosure case they had that was in probate. The staff was efficient, timely and extremely professional. They are a law firm that fights for the rights of their clients, sometimes clients that are unable to fight for themselves. They’re meticulous at what they do and because of this have helped hundreds of people in need of honest and excellent estate planning.
I would refer their practice to everyone that needed estate planning, estate administration, and Care Assistance Planning. They’re the best.
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30 Jan, 2018 by Lorie
Glen was great to work with on our estate planning process. Glen was very thorough and asked all the right questions to have my husband and I think through how we wanted matters handled. Estate planning can be stressful but Glen took care of so many of the details that it was a very easy process for us. I highly recommend Glen to all of my friends and will continue to use his services as my needs change over time.
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25 Jan, 2018 by Jill
I highly recommend Glen as a Trust and Estate Planning attorney.
In 2017, I needed to update my will and establish a trust.
Glen listened to all of my needs, drafted the legal document that reflected my wishes, and explained every signature to me in great detail.
I now recommend Glen to friends as a Trust attorney.
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07 Dec, 2017 by Sam thorp
Glen is a trusted colleague and an excellent Trusts and Estate planning attorney. I frequently refer folks to him, and he does exemplary legal work for all of them. I give him my highest recommendation, without reservation!
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03 Mar, 2017 by Anonymous
We were impressed on so many levels during our meeting with Misty. She was not only knowledgeable, but organized and thorough in how she explained a complicated topic. We appreciated her patience and advice. We will recommend her over and over again.
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19 Feb, 2016 by Laua
Misty Piekaar was very helpful to me to understand a contract. I was being bullied by a company I no longer wanted to do business with. Without her knowledge and advice I would not have known how to respond to their communications. Misty Piekaar explained my legal rights under the contract and help me draft a letter so that I could protect myself. I'm very grateful and would recommend her.
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19 Jan, 2016 by Will m
Misty assisted me in obtaining a Will and Powers of Attorney. She was patient and did not use legal jargon. She often used hypotheticals so I easily understood what would happen to my family in multiple situations.
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21 Sep, 2016 by Ed
I am from Illinois, I needed an attorney from North Carolina, and Attorney Dedmond guided me through the estate process for my brother. I had to be appointed as administrator of my brother's estate (drafted and submitted the forms to the County Clerk) as he died intestate. Heath also assisted with the sale of the home in providing guidance to the closing attorney for distribution of funds to the heirs. Finally when the estate was closed his direction and assitance with the estate funds disbursement was excellent. I would recommend Heath Dedmond.
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08 Sep, 2016 by Kris
Before working directly with the state on what appears to be a straight forward process in handling the death of a loved one's estate, take the time and money, borrow it if you have to, to see Heath Dedmond.
My situation was a disaster after a long and difficult process of traveling back and forth while managing the care of my mom three time zones away, what seemed to be a straight forward estate will turned into a worst case scenario on a soul that was already worn thin. I came to Heath a depressed mess, having no choice but to move forward in a huge decision with only a slightly different set of options from bad to worse. Heath was patient and great at articulating the law in a way that helped me make a decision. He was quick at returning emails, and in the end he closed the estate as smoothly as possible. He stuck to his estimate of what it would cost to handle the estate and did so in a honorable way. Throughout the process it was clear that he empathized with the difficulty of my situation, but it wasn't until the very end that I realized he whole heartedly cared.
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16 Aug, 2016 by Anonymous
We were referred to Heath by our financial advisors. He helped us set up a suite of estate planning documents, including a customized trust, for a very reasonable price. He was friendly and did a good job explaining the obscure points of estate law.
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08 Mar, 2019 by Marlene
Attorney Allen was very helpful in overnight advice on a debt collection matter I was facing. She was upfront and did not try to sell me on services I did not need. Rather, she took a few minutes out of her day of helping actual clients to get me on the road to resolving my issue. Hopefully, I’ll never need her as representation in financial issues (bankruptcy) but I am glad to know she would be a great attorney to represent me.
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29 Oct, 2018 by Evelyn
Just gave Ms. Ruth Allen 5 Stars. She deserves every Star We gave her. She helped us in a legal matter, saving us time and money. We highly recommend Attorney Ruth Allen.
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28 Feb, 2018 by Douglas
Attorney Allen has successfully represented my family and myself on several occasions. She has always been professional and knowledgeable. I would strongly recommend her services.
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09 Jan, 2016 by Dominic high
I had several speeding tickets in NC dating back to 2001. I contacted Ms Bostrom and she immediately got back with me and we planned out a strategy to pursue these tickets. Seeing that the tickets were in several counties, Ms Bostrom had to do a bit of leg worked to make contact with several small county DAs. That was not an obstacle for her!
When all was said and done, Ms Bostrom somehow was able to get me out of a ticket that carried a possible suspension of my license,etc. I was able to pay other tickets and fines through Ms Bostrom and that was really great, seeing that I now live in New Jersey.
We communicated on the phone and via email and she was always forthright in what the possible scenarios entailed.
I'd suggest that you retain Ms Bostrom's services because she is that good. Thank you.
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21 Apr, 2015 by Shareasa
I received a speeding/revoked license ticket about 2 years ago while employed with a transit company. In order not to lose my job and my remaining driving privileges I was ordered to attend a driving class. Mrs. Bostrom was a great helper in getting me the information I needed in a fast and timely matter. Once class was paid for and completed I received a certificate as verification and Mrs. Bostrom presented it to the right person and charges were dismissed. She is SO great!!!
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22 Feb, 2013 by David
Michaela is smart, hard working, and extremely passionate about her profession. She will work hard to make sure you get what you need, and is understanding to most circumstances. She was very flexible in working with my busy scheduled and I was very happy with the outcome.
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20 Jan, 2019 by Bridget
I highly recommend Mr. Rhodenhiser. He is efficient, professional, and compassionate that is why I am happy he is representing me. He always keeps me updated on my case and he is always available to answer all of my questions I have anytime of day! I highly recommend him to all of my family and friends or anyone seeking legal advice.
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14 Jan, 2019 by Jen
He is efficient, professional, organized, knows the law just to name a few reasons why I am glad he is representing me. I appreciate that he keeps good communication on the progress of my case. I do highly recommend him to my family and friends, to anyone who needs any legal needs.
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18 Jun, 2018 by Jason
Giles is your best choice when facing a difficult situation. He was very thorough in clearly communicating the best options for my specific situation, he was always available to continuously update me on my case. You will be impressed by his professionalism, his compassion.
I'm 100% satisfied with the resolution of my legal situation. Mr. Rhodenhiser rates are reasonable, and he is available whenever I need him.
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04 Jun, 2020 by Phillip
I hired Beth to help settle my families estate, a case that had been going on for 4+ years. She worked between me and my siblings as a mediator to help settle the case as quickly as possible. Beth was easy to reach and took time to explain any and all questions I had. Without her help, I have no doubt my legal issue would still be ongoing. If needed, I wouldn't hesitate at all to work with Beth again in the future. I can't recommend Beth enough!
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18 May, 2018 by Mike
I received a letter from a rental property I had recently moved from. Despite receiving a 30 notice, the property was attempting to charge me an additional 17 days worth of rent. As a servicemember, I was aware of my rights under the Servicemembers Civil Relief Act (SCRA) but was not knowledgeable of all the legal complexities and common tricks used by leasing offices to get around the law. Beth quickly research my options and was able to provide the necessary guidance to this developing issue. After my conversation with Beth, I spoke to my former leasing office. I informed them I had spoken to my lawyer and would not simply send them the check for the additional 17 days. The leasing office immediately changed their tone and stated lawyers would not need to be involved in the matter. In the subsequent conversation, the leasing office dropped the 17 day charge and ended up sending me a check for the remainder of my security deposit. I don’t believe I would have received that outcome had it not been for the tailored advice I had received from Beth.
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21 Jan, 2020 by Anonymous
Angela listened to our situation and gave us solutions on how to solve things out of court first and explained the process for in court if needed. She was very knowledgeable and gave us very useful information. An amazing attorney!!
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12 Oct, 2017 by Jon
Mrs. Lassiter represented my autistic brother in a modification of guardianship hearing. Having experience with her own special needs child, she got to see the dire situation my brother was in with his current group home. Not only did she show a genuine love and urgency for his well being, she took it upon herself to follow through with a complaint to the state on the conditions and treatment at the home. All of this done on her own, not because we asked her too because we hit roadblocks at every turn, but she did it on her own time. In a world which seems to be so misguided and upside down, it was nice to have a breath of fresh air with an angel in disguise. Now my brother is in a skilled home with caring people and the old home has lost its licensure. My hats off to her and she has earned my business for life for anything that falls in her realm of expertise.
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16 Jun, 2021 by Rob
In a time of family crisis, Anthony's help was invaluable. Sadly, our 34 year old son recently passed away in a swimming accident in Raleigh. With Anthony's guidance, we were able to navigate those first few traumatic days. He assisted our family in completing the necessary legal documents to gain access to our son's townhome as well as critical financial information. Anthony even met us at his office before normal business hours so the documents could be filed the same morning. His compassion and professionalism during this challenging time was greatly appreciated. I would highly recommend Anthony for legal services.
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13 Aug, 2013 by Sheraz
It is very rare that you run across an honest attorney. Anthony Klish hopefully will be a trend setter. Straight out the gate he was warm and showed a human side which is a rare trait for an attorney in my opinion. He is very knowledgeable and very easy talk to. He worked with me with great patience until we remedied. His approach to my case was impressive and and he weighed all options. Besides honesty, accessibility would be his second quality. He kept communication open and kept me well informed. Add all of this up and it equals a victory in the court room
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03 Nov, 2013 by Omegasl
Just a personal note to say, "Thank you so much for the way you handled my case. You did an amazing and remarkable job, as I suspected you would after my initial consult with you!! After 6 years of pure hell!! I am so grateful to God and you that things are turning around in our life.
Thank you for "looking out" for us and making sure we are protected, and that I wasn't taken advantage of again.
I truly appreciate your professional skills, gifts and talents, and your kindness and compassion, as well. I felt like you were looking out for us... I have never seen a lawyer do that!
The compassion, care and strength that I received from you was so important to me. At no time did I ever feel as though I was just "another client", but an individual with individual needs. The patience and understanding I received by you lessened my stress level and allowed me to focus on the most important reason I was there... my son.
I am convinced without a doubt that I couldn't have ever done it alone. I will be forever in debt to you.
So, for those parents out there who are ready to make the most important decision in their life, and that is, to always put your child(ren)'s needs above your own, even when it cost you blood, sweat, tears, pain, heartache and gold! Your second most important decision now awaits you, and if you choose wisely, I assure you that you'll be in good hands with Mikael Gross. Give them a call, and never give up.
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28 Jun, 2013 by H.
Mr. Gross handled a tax issue for me. Dealing with the IRS can be intimidating, but Mr. Gross was reassuring and professional the entire time. He dealt with the matter in an expedient manner, and I was always kept in the loop. My questions were answered promptly and thoroughly. I will absolutely recommend him to anyone I know that needs a lawyer. He went above and beyond.
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06 May, 2021 by Donald
I contacted John Paschal when my mother suffered a stroke and now needs long term care. John took care of us as if we were his own family. We have executed a power of attorney and property deed and he is an excellent elder attorney to consult with on all matters involved for the elderly, including estate planning, wealth preservation, Medicare issues, probate, etc. John treated us like very well, personal service, very knowledgeable and professional. I highly recommend John Paschal for your elder law attorney.
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29 Dec, 2016 by Nikki
Attorney Sprunger is a knowledgeable and skilled professional that provides concise information. Her consultation proved valuable and time worthy.
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07 Mar, 2017 by Yuansheng xu
Kelly Crecco is the lawyer you want to represent you if you are going through a divorce. She is professional, a very good listener and will counsel you in what are the best steps you need to take going through a marriage dissolution. She will always get back to you in a timely manner and keep you informed as to what to expect next. She is very friendly, knowledgeable, easy to work with, and she was able to work an outcome for me that was very fair. I appreciate all the hard work she did to help me go through my divorce. I rate her an Excellent lawyer.
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06 Nov, 2016 by Kyle
Mellonee is a very personable and caring individual that I trust with all of my family law and estate planning. I feel lucky to have met her.
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12 Jun, 2017 by Kathy
Very thorough and efficient! The fee was so low we thought he had made a mistake! Highly recommend him for any estate planning legal work!
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18 Oct, 2022 by Paul parker
What can I say? Good people.
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11 Jan, 2021 by Fulton
Chris has been an excellent counselor for our numerous projects. What my wife and I appreciate most is Chris’s non-condescending manner when explaining complex legal issues. I’ve worked with many attorneys and humble competence is rare. I also have been very impressed with his ingenuity regarding tax strategies (as they relate to estate planning) and how available and cooperative he is with financial and accounting professionals with whom we work. We have a great “team” and Chris is a critical member/leader.
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FAQs
Questions? We have answers
What an Estate Planning Lawyer Can Do for You
An estate planning lawyer helps individuals plan for the management and distribution of their assets after death or during incapacitation. Their services involve drafting important legal documents, such as wills, trusts, powers of attorney, and healthcare directives. Estate planning attorneys work to ensure that your assets are transferred according to your wishes, minimize tax liabilities, and avoid probate court. They also help clients plan for potential long-term care needs and protect their estate from being diminished by healthcare costs.
By working with an estate planning lawyer, you can have peace of mind knowing that your loved ones will be cared for and that your estate will be managed efficiently and according to your desires.
When Should I Hire an Estate Planning Lawyer?
Hiring an estate planning lawyer is beneficial in many situations, especially when you want to ensure that your assets are handled properly after death. Common reasons to hire an estate planning lawyer include:
- Drafting a will: If you want to clearly define how your assets will be distributed after death, an attorney can draft a legally sound will.
- Creating a trust: For those looking to avoid probate or provide for loved ones over time, setting up a trust can help manage the distribution of assets.
- Planning for incapacity: An estate lawyer can help draft powers of attorney and healthcare directives so that your financial and medical decisions are made by someone you trust if you become incapacitated.
- Minimizing estate taxes: If your estate is large, a lawyer can help create strategies to reduce or eliminate federal and state estate taxes.
- Special circumstances: If you have minor children, blended families, or complex assets like businesses, an estate planning lawyer can create tailored solutions.
- Guardianship or conservatorship: If you want to designate guardians for minor children or ensure proper care for incapacitated adults, an attorney can help.
Hiring an estate planning lawyer is especially important if your estate is complex or if you want to ensure that your wishes are properly followed.
What Does an Estate Planning Lawyer Do?
An estate planning lawyer provides a range of services designed to help you organize your affairs and ensure your estate is managed according to your wishes. They can:
- Draft wills and trusts: Creating legally binding documents that dictate how your assets will be distributed and managed.
- Create powers of attorney and healthcare directives: Appointing someone to make financial or medical decisions for you if you become incapacitated.
- Minimize taxes: Developing strategies to reduce estate taxes, gift taxes, and other financial liabilities for your heirs.
- Help avoid probate: Structuring your estate plan to avoid probate, which can save time and money for your beneficiaries.
- Advise on long-term care planning: Helping you plan for potential healthcare needs in the future, including Medicaid planning and protecting assets from being depleted by nursing home costs.
- Assist with beneficiary designations: Ensuring that life insurance policies, retirement accounts, and other financial instruments are correctly designated.
- Handle probate and estate administration: If a loved one has passed away, an estate planning lawyer can help guide you through the probate process or act as an executor.
How Are Estate Planning Lawyers Paid?
Estate planning lawyers typically charge for their services in one of several ways, depending on the complexity of your estate and the type of services you need. Common payment structures include:
- Flat fee: Many estate planning services, such as drafting a will or trust, are charged on a flat-fee basis. The fee covers all work related to preparing the document.
- Hourly rate: For more complex planning, such as estate tax strategy or trust administration, lawyers may charge by the hour. Rates vary based on the lawyer’s experience and location.
- Retainer: Some lawyers require a retainer for more complex cases, such as ongoing trust management or estate administration. The retainer is an upfront payment that covers future legal services.
It’s important to discuss fees with your lawyer upfront to avoid unexpected costs.
How Much Does an Estate Planning Lawyer Cost?
The cost of hiring an estate planning lawyer depends on the complexity of your estate and the services you require. Here are some general guidelines:
- Simple wills or powers of attorney: A straightforward will or power of attorney may cost between $300 and $1,500, depending on your location and the lawyer’s experience.
- Trust creation: Establishing a trust, such as a living trust or revocable trust, can cost between $1,000 and $3,000 or more, depending on the complexity of your assets and estate planning needs.
- Comprehensive estate planning packages: Some lawyers offer packages that include wills, trusts, powers of attorney, and healthcare directives, which may range from $2,000 to $5,000 or more, depending on the estate’s complexity.
- Hourly rates: For ongoing services like estate administration or tax planning, lawyers may charge hourly rates ranging from $150 to $500 or more, depending on the lawyer’s experience.
Always get a clear estimate of costs during your initial consultation to ensure the services fit within your budget.
Top Questions to Ask an Estate Planning Lawyer
Before hiring an estate planning lawyer, it’s important to ask questions to ensure they are the right fit for your needs. Here are key questions to ask during your consultation:
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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.
