Lawyers map
>103
experienced lawyers
Filter by
25 Nov, 2024 by James
I was really impressed My Laura Epstein & her associate Nicole Beran. I had googled Attorney in Rockford, Illinois & Found them by chance. I dropped in their office & inquired on if can help me with an updated will & Trust. They were more then helpful & did an awesome job. Made me feel welcome & explained what was done. Was really glad they did the work for me. I will highly recommend them.
Read more
13 Mar, 2024 by Heather
Laura Epstein and her team have been nothing but amazing and helpful to my family and I. My journey with Laura started in 2008 and she still is the first person I go to for family matters. Starting with Laura and Maureen they took on my custody battle and they were open and honest the entire step of the way. Nicole then joined my case and she stepped right in where Maureen left off, assisting Laura. Laura is fierce and has grit like no one I've ever met. She works so hard to get her clients the justice they deserve. Ive never met someone with so much compassion for her patients. This office keeps things moving! Calling at 8pm at night to give an update! When she says she is all in, I assure you she is all in. I am forever grateful for all of the hard work Laura and Nicole have done for me over the years. If you looking for a good family lawyer, this is it!! 15 years later and still my go to. Completely professional Compassionate and dedicated to their patients.
Read more
19 Sep, 2023 by Diane
Laura was a great attorney...got me through my divorce and was there for me ever step of the way. When my ex stopped paying me she took him back to court and even now makes sure he keeps paying what he agreed to.
Read more
13 Apr, 2021 by Loretta
Estate Planning with Pet Trust:
Estate planning is something that is easy to put off. It’s not fun to think of one’s own mortality and I put it off for a long time. After all, I reasoned, I don’t have much money or many possessions to leave others. But I do have pets that I want to be assured will be appropriately cared for after my death. Kathy Johnson walked me through the process of creating end of life documents, and, most importantly, a pet trust.
It wasn’t easy thinking about being separated from my beloved pets but Kathy gently guided me through the process of determining who will assume responsibility for them and how they should be cared for when I no longer can. She was endlessly understanding of my myriad questions and requests, patiently explaining to me all of my options in ways easily understandable for a non-legal mind. She made astute and intuitive suggestions so that I now feel assured that when I become incapacitated, any pets I have will continue to live their best lives in the homes of trusted friends.
After she created the required documents and saw that they were all duly signed and notarized, she presented them to me in a lovely binder complete with easy to read instructions for whoever might need it someday. I feel that Kathy left nothing to chance, detailing every aspect of my end of life requests and from her estate planning work on my behalf, I derive great peace of mind.
New Business Start-up:
Kathy Johnson’s assistance was invaluable to me as I started my new, small business. She helped me understand Illinois laws, so I could make an informed choice about the legal structure of my business. Kathy obtained all of the required state and federal business identification numbers and permits; she registered my new business with all the required agencies, providing me with copies of the completed documents. She advised me on potential tax implications, wrote an iron clad liability (including COVID-19) waiver, created effective (and attractive) registration forms, and generally was available to me every time I had a question or concern.
Kathy’s unswerving patience and good humor in answering my varied and sometimes atypical questions knew no bounds. It is because of her exceptional work on my behalf that I can concentrate on running my business and attending to my customer’s needs, knowing my business is in full compliance with all local and state rules, regulations, and requirements.
Read more
05 Apr, 2021 by Curtis
Very helpful, full of knowledge. Awsome and affordable service. Definitely hire again. She was very kind to say the least.
Read more
05 Apr, 2021 by Melody
I was pleased with all the items this Attorney brought up that I had not thought of on my own. She was organized and easy to talk to. The final papers all came with typed instructions and copies for my power of Attorney. She kept me on track with decisions but I didn’t feel rushed.
Read more
28 Sep, 2015 by Thomas
Russ is an excellent attorney. I have worked with him on a number of matters and he has always done a fantastic job for me. I would not hesitate to refer people to him because I know he will assist them professionally and courteously.
Read more
01 Sep, 2015 by Tony
I have been a client of Russell for over 5 years now and have been extremely satisfied. He has handled numerous cases for me stemming from a botched mortgage modification with the largest mortgage company in the country. That spiraled into other creditors "calling in" my loans, etc. Not only did he get it straightened out, but actually had them backpedalling. After that, I have continued to work with Russ on any legal issues including settling the estate of my late aunt. He has proven to get 100% of my cases solved to my satisfaction or even exceeding my expectations. His fees have been reasonable and he has always conducted himself with the most professionalism in the room. If you need an attorney to handle something and you want to make sure it goes your way, this is the guy to call.
Read more
31 Aug, 2015 by Bjorn
Russ is great. He has helped me on both my personal and business side with wills, trusts, employee handbooks, non-solicitation agreements, contracts along with other projects that come along. I highly recommend Russ Baker.
Read more
06 Nov, 2015 by Anonymous
Erin handled a real estate transaction for me and preared my estate planning. She did a great job. She was professional and always willing to answer my questions. I highly recommend Erin Walsh.
Read more
08 Nov, 2013 by Jennifer
Attorney Walsh handled my divorce. She was professional and compassionate throughout the entire process. She has continued to represent many members of my family. I highly recommend her!
Read more
26 Feb, 2019 by Adam
Ren is an experienced,skilled, and compassionate attorney. He sucessfully represented me in a very complex and lengthy case. Where he worked tireslly to obtain an acquittal in a case that another prominent local criminal attorney told me could not be won. Additionally, as an Army Veteran he was uniquely well equipped to understand, empathize with and advocate for Veterans and Wounded Warriors like me. As I struggled with losing rights I had personally fought to defend. Thanks for all your great work Ren!
Read more
18 May, 2017 by Jacob
Rene was available almost immediately to help give me advice, guidance, and legal counsel. My situation could not have turned out better and I recommend anyone in need of employment legal services or counsel to give Rene a chance. He seemed to be very experienced, knowledgeable, and strong; ultimately, my case turned out very positive. Thank you, Rene.
Read more
04 May, 2016 by Tim
I first became focused on finding ways for our district to re-invest in its amateur sports tournament facilities in 2011. For nearly two decades before, our district had earned a national reputation for being a leader in hosting amateur sports tournaments. While we invested in our facilities over those years, we did not do so at the same pace as other communities and the competitive environment was leading to a loss in our reputation. I was committed to retaining and regaining that reputation which is when I turned to Paul.
I first became familiar with Paul's work about ten years ago when he represented a local government in our district who sought our participation in a regional economic development project involving five other local governments. Because of this project’s success, I felt confident that Paul would be able to help. That was nearly five years ago (see our complete project timeline) and today, with the guidance of Paul and his team, I am completing our region's award winning process for the development of a $65M amateur sports tournament hosting campus. None of which would have been accomplished without the help of Paul and his team. The Project, known as Reclaiming First, has a simple but powerful message - the reputation of our park district for hosting amateur sports tournament events is a critically important economic development engine for our region, and is, therefore, worth of regional support and investment.
Developing this message and moving it from idea into action required consideration of political, financial, economic and legal issues. The experience of Paul and his team in helping build local government coalitions to achieve regional projects was an indispensable part of our success. Through countless meetings, board presentations, and state legislative sessions, my team and I working side by side with Paul and his team to identify each stakeholder's needs in the context of their particular financial and economic positions and to cobble together a strong unified political and financial coalition to bring this project home. The project has not only been an award winning model for success but, in large part because of Paul's approach, experience and technical understanding, it has created a new sense of community collaboration amongst the local governments in our district.
Read more
10 Apr, 2012 by Dave and valeri
Pat is a great lawyer and very informative and customer service-oriented. He takes the time to really explain things and is patient with the estate planning process and clients' learning curves and thought processes in what can be wraught with difficult choices. We recommend him highly.
Read more
17 Mar, 2015 by Anonymous
My husband and I went to Attorney Whitman for estate planning. She was extremely knowledgable and brought forth issues we had not considered but were glad she made us aware of. We got everything completed in a very timely matter (we were traveling to Russia and wanted this done prior to leaving and she accommodated us happily). We now have our estate in order and will return to her periodically if and when circumstances change and updating is needed.
We recommend Elisa Whitman highly and without reservation.
Read more
07 Jul, 2021 by Cari cromwell
I had a horrible time at a local hospital while my dad was ill. He couldn't ambulate, and was incredibly miserable after an extended wait in the ER waiting room. I called, and asked what words were needed and who I needed to speak them to in order to get my dad help. Mr. Moore was concise, considerate, and extremely helpful. 10/10 would recommend.
Read more
21 Feb, 2024 by Lisa coen
Andrew Mertzenich is more than just an attorney; he's a trusted advisor who truly cares. He patiently listened to our hopes and concerns, then expertly crafted an estate plan that not only secures our future but also safeguards our child's well-being. His clear communication and thoughtful suggestions, like helping us navigate complex tax implications, gave us the peace of mind we desperately needed. If you're looking for an attorney who'll treat your family like their own, look no further than Andrew Mertzenich.
Read more
16 Nov, 2023 by A. simmons
Attorney Mertzenich was able to get results quickly and efficiently, and was extremely pleasant throughout the process. Highly recommended!
Read more
29 Aug, 2023 by Kathy mcneely-johnson
10 Dec, 2024 by Murna lindsey
Great staff and very helpful. Highly Recommended for help with your legal questions and issues.
Read more
06 Dec, 2024 by Brianna cote
Joshua and Trisha amazed me! I’ve worked with lawyers previously who would just take my money and do the bare minimum. Joshua and Trisha worked FOR me and I could tell they truly cared about my case and what I was going through. I got the best possible outcome short of a complete dismissal. Joshua is also the most affordable law office I found in the area. If you are struggling or stressing about what law office to trust or where to go… this is the absolute best place to call! Worth every penny. Thank you guys again so much!!!
Read more
22 Nov, 2024 by Chicas kerlin
Un muy buen abogado junto con su equipo de trabajo donde realmente si se interesan por tu caso y están siempre al pendiente de informarte todo lo que pasa con tu caso y responderte toda duda que tengas muy recomendable, muchas gracias por sus servicios
Read more
15 Oct, 2024 by Susan bushey
This was our first time as Billet Automotive Mentoring working with Reno & Zahm law firm. Victor Zamora was assigned to help our non-profit with filing all the required legal paperwork and forms. He walked us through step-by-step with the IRS 1023 Application for our 501(c)(3), making sure every question had complete and accurate responses. This resulted in a swift approval of our tax exempt status from the Dept. of Treasury. We highly recommend both Victor and Reno & Zahm.
Read more
11 Oct, 2024 by Brad lindeblad
Victor Zammora handled our 501(c)(3) application and not-for-profit business start up documentation in an efficient, accurate and timely way. Very professional!
Read more
04 Oct, 2024 by Cat valdez doyle
Attorney Victor Zamora was so great and easy to work with. He took excellent care of us.
Read more
08 Dec, 2024 by James lindstrom
18 Nov, 2024 by Christine odjick
The attorneys and paralegals at Simmons Law are helpful and kind. They are patience and understanding when a case presents challenges from the past. Thank you for all your hard work and closing this chapter of my life.
Read more
15 Nov, 2024 by Jose m. escobar
09 Jan, 2018 by Neil
Used Schilling law on more than one occasion. They listen to what you have to say and will handle your case with professionalism. Cost is not out of sight and reasonable. Will continue to use this law firm...
Read more
25 Jun, 2012 by Patrick
I was referred by a business associate to The Law Office of Patrick J Adams in September of 2011. Attorney Patrick (Pat) Adams was the first attorney that I have met in 30 years that actually took my team out to lunch to discuss our "business concerns and new legal requirements. He drove to our corporate headquarters and spent almost three hours discussing our unique business needs. When he said on the phone that there would be no charge for the "initial consultation" - he meant it. I have to admit, I was very reluctant to hire a firm or an attorney that does not have an office in Chicago or New York; however, after a year of excellent service and an uncanny ability to recommend the correct solution, it was an easy decision to switch to The Law Office of Patrick J Adams I would recommend Patick (Pat) Adams to any small to medium sized company with 40 to 1000 employees. Keep up the good work Pat, please open an office in downtown Chicago!
Read more
12 Feb, 2015 by Anonymous
We enjoyed working with Jay Trost for our will and estate planning. He was very knowledgeable and often suggested things that we had not thought of. I feel confident in the documents that we finalized and would use him again for any other issues of this nature. We trusted him, and that is probably the most important factor in selecting an attorney.
Read more
10 Apr, 2023 by M costoff
Burkhard has been my attorney for over thirty years. He was first recommended to me by a CPA from the Rockford, Illinois office of Coopers & Lybrand way back when and he's been my attorney since. He has been an asset to me in any instance I needed legal advice - from somewhat complex business transactions/sales to personal issues ranging from marital to real estate.
Read more
10 Jun, 2021 by Pc tech2u
Great place, Burk and Joanne are awesome. You will not be disappointed coming to Geissler Law.
Read more
14 Nov, 2024 by Dawn colson
Mr. Granger was absolutely amazing! Professional and always responsive with my concerns. Thank you so much for your hard work !!!
Read more
27 Sep, 2024 by Mariah tradewell
Elder is the best around the Winnebago county area when it comes to criminal cases! His team is professional, kind hearted, and they truly care about the outcome of your case. I’ve been forced into a terrible situation and they constantly remind me that the truth cannot be changed and to just be patient. I am beyond thankful for them and I highly recommend them!
Read more
25 Jul, 2024 by Matthew casey
Was able to speak to someone right away, answered all my questions and ended up getting my ticket dismissed! If you need an attorney to take care of your traffic tickets, call Granger Law Group!!
Read more
25 Dec, 2024 by Katy yeager
26 Nov, 2024 by Audrey smith
Adrian and her team, especially Vicki Wagner; helped me in dealing with a very trying divorce. Very professional and understanding when I became frustrated with the process! Thank you Adrian and team for all that you did for me.
Read more
15 Nov, 2024 by Andrew schultheis
From my first phone call to the final decision, Adrian Crow and her team, specifically Lesley, were outstanding. I knew when I first spoke to them that they cared about what I was experiencing and how I felt, and they never once changed. Emails were responded to immediately. Correspondence was relayed to me promptly. They were on top of everything and always included me in decisions, explaining to me specifically what I was looking at. It is unfortunately a very expensive process, but it was not Crow Law that made my case drag on for so long. Rather, their diligence and dedication were impeccable. I felt they gave me and my situation proper attention and were always fair with me. It was always important to me that I felt trusted by them, that they had confidence in what I told them. And, I always did. I truly felt they cared.
Read more
25 Dec, 2024 by Katy yeager
26 Nov, 2024 by Audrey smith
Adrian and her team, especially Vicki Wagner; helped me in dealing with a very trying divorce. Very professional and understanding when I became frustrated with the process! Thank you Adrian and team for all that you did for me.
Read more
15 Nov, 2024 by Andrew schultheis
From my first phone call to the final decision, Adrian Crow and her team, specifically Lesley, were outstanding. I knew when I first spoke to them that they cared about what I was experiencing and how I felt, and they never once changed. Emails were responded to immediately. Correspondence was relayed to me promptly. They were on top of everything and always included me in decisions, explaining to me specifically what I was looking at. It is unfortunately a very expensive process, but it was not Crow Law that made my case drag on for so long. Rather, their diligence and dedication were impeccable. I felt they gave me and my situation proper attention and were always fair with me. It was always important to me that I felt trusted by them, that they had confidence in what I told them. And, I always did. I truly felt they cared.
Read more
05 Nov, 2024 by Greencity lawn maintenance
Paul was very helpful with my needs and I am grateful for it. Thank you.
Read more
01 Oct, 2024 by Samuel alligood
Brad has been my lawyer for many years . Has accomplished acquiring me custody of my youngest daughter . To proving my innocence in criminal cases . I have also referred many happy clients friends & family ect . Hands down professional great lawyer . This guy will get the job done ! The real deal ladies and gents .
Read more
16 Jul, 2024 by Jesse campa
Attorney Schreiber did a wonderful job working on my family law case. Just go in for a consultation and you'll realize that he will take your case personally and fight for your satisfaction as his client. I am speaking from experience as there were fast results instead of the typical dragged on litigation I experienced with other less competent Rockford area family law attorneys. 10/10 would recommend.
Read more
27 Aug, 2024 by Nancy huyck
I recommend this firm. Contact Amanda Brasfield for any concerns or inquiries regarding medical malpractice cases or law. She has won millions of dollars worth of compensation for individuals and families. She is highly competent, reliable and trustworthy. Her firm will be an asset to you.
Read more
23 Aug, 2024 by Juanantonio rodriguez
23 Aug, 2024 by Rocio ortega
Gracias al abogado Omar salguero por su buen trabajo y dedicacion,a todo su equipo por su trabajo y amabilidad y especialmente a Veronica v por todo su trabajo,comunicacion y su paciencia para explicar todo muy bien.
Read more
14 Nov, 2024 by Teresa lundeen
03 Oct, 2024 by Gabriela doss
The process of my divorce took 5 months. You will mostly be working with the paralegals which are not friendly at all. It’s an inconvenience if you call or email. Don’t expect fast responses. Absolutely no compassion either. Divorce is a difficult process but you are on your own. I had to remind them of all the demands I had. They even missed a few demands that I had required. I felt like an inconvenience to them. Mason & Tyler are kind. But they need better paralegals. I’m just glad this is over with.
Read more
19 Sep, 2024 by Enrique
Brittany was extremely helpful! She was able to help guide us through our legal situation to a successful outcome.
Read more
08 Feb, 2024 by Matt kentner
John Logan is a warrior for his clients. He is knowledgeable, responsive, and gets things done!
Read more
05 Jan, 2024 by Ruth amenda
03 Jun, 2022 by Camryn
She made sure to address every issue. Made sure I knew what I was entitled to, and helped me through every step. Very reasonable and would reccomend to any friend or relative.
Read more
01 Oct, 2024 by Ryan gray
Highly recommend! Very on top of it. Made the experience a lot better. Made things very smooth.
Read more
28 Sep, 2024 by Rocael ramirez
21 Sep, 2024 by Jessica ortiz
08 Dec, 2024 by James lindstrom
18 Nov, 2024 by Christine odjick
The attorneys and paralegals at Simmons Law are helpful and kind. They are patience and understanding when a case presents challenges from the past. Thank you for all your hard work and closing this chapter of my life.
Read more
15 Nov, 2024 by Jose m. escobar
20 Feb, 2024 by Seaver sisler (your real estate guy)
Michael is amazing! I trust him with all of my business and real estate needs. Highly recommend Michael J. Smith!
Read more
03 Jan, 2024 by Jamin unger
I used Mike for a long drawn out divorce that lasted about 2 and half years. Using Mike was the best decision I made, as he guided me through the process professionally and never had an issue with the many questions and concerns I had. Even up to the final day's circus, Mike was right by my side the entire time. Maria was fantastic the entire time also. Without Maria I would have gone crazy, she was right there to help me in any way I needed. Thank you both for getting me to the finish line.
Read more
18 Oct, 2023 by Andrew albers
10 Dec, 2024 by Zachary stanley
Took 3 and half years to get anything done. This case was handled poorly. Should have picked another company for worker’s compensation cause nothing was done right at all.!!!
Read more
11 Dec, 2023 by Richard harris
Awesome place to visit and the people there are very nice and friendly and I am very grateful for the opportunity to work with them.
Read more
05 Oct, 2023 by Eduardo ibarra
14 Nov, 2024 by Dawn colson
Mr. Granger was absolutely amazing! Professional and always responsive with my concerns. Thank you so much for your hard work !!!
Read more
27 Sep, 2024 by Mariah tradewell
Elder is the best around the Winnebago county area when it comes to criminal cases! His team is professional, kind hearted, and they truly care about the outcome of your case. I’ve been forced into a terrible situation and they constantly remind me that the truth cannot be changed and to just be patient. I am beyond thankful for them and I highly recommend them!
Read more
25 Jul, 2024 by Matthew casey
Was able to speak to someone right away, answered all my questions and ended up getting my ticket dismissed! If you need an attorney to take care of your traffic tickets, call Granger Law Group!!
Read more
18 Jul, 2024 by Emily mcknight
My partner and I worked with Attorney Johnson on our adoption case. The whole process went so smoothly thanks to Attoeney Johnson. She took care of everything and we knew she would always keep our best interests at the forefront.
I appreciate how easy Attorney Johnson is to talk to and relate to, but also exceptionally professional. I'd recommend her to anyone who needs an attorney.
Read more
17 Jul, 2024 by Jesse campa
$3,500 dollars down the drain from a lack of communication, false promises, and excuses of why it took 4.5 months to write a motion/petition to modify parental allocation which oddly referred to me as the mother (she/her) in the language. I switched counsel because of no movement and had $200 left from my retainer which was never reimbursed even after calling the firm’s office asking for payment. Moreover, she was unprepared for court and got talked over by the other party’s lawyer. I got the results I was looking for elsewhere.
Read more
19 Apr, 2024 by Jess b
I concur with the reviews that say lack of communication and they waste your time.
Read more
Discover the ideal lawyer
You can search a lawyer by practice area, lawyer name, city, state, or ZIP code
FAQs
Questions? We have answers
What an Estate Planning Lawyer Can Do for You
An estate planning lawyer helps individuals plan for the management and distribution of their assets after death or during incapacitation. Their services involve drafting important legal documents, such as wills, trusts, powers of attorney, and healthcare directives. Estate planning attorneys work to ensure that your assets are transferred according to your wishes, minimize tax liabilities, and avoid probate court. They also help clients plan for potential long-term care needs and protect their estate from being diminished by healthcare costs.
By working with an estate planning lawyer, you can have peace of mind knowing that your loved ones will be cared for and that your estate will be managed efficiently and according to your desires.
When Should I Hire an Estate Planning Lawyer?
Hiring an estate planning lawyer is beneficial in many situations, especially when you want to ensure that your assets are handled properly after death. Common reasons to hire an estate planning lawyer include:
- Drafting a will: If you want to clearly define how your assets will be distributed after death, an attorney can draft a legally sound will.
- Creating a trust: For those looking to avoid probate or provide for loved ones over time, setting up a trust can help manage the distribution of assets.
- Planning for incapacity: An estate lawyer can help draft powers of attorney and healthcare directives so that your financial and medical decisions are made by someone you trust if you become incapacitated.
- Minimizing estate taxes: If your estate is large, a lawyer can help create strategies to reduce or eliminate federal and state estate taxes.
- Special circumstances: If you have minor children, blended families, or complex assets like businesses, an estate planning lawyer can create tailored solutions.
- Guardianship or conservatorship: If you want to designate guardians for minor children or ensure proper care for incapacitated adults, an attorney can help.
Hiring an estate planning lawyer is especially important if your estate is complex or if you want to ensure that your wishes are properly followed.
What Does an Estate Planning Lawyer Do?
An estate planning lawyer provides a range of services designed to help you organize your affairs and ensure your estate is managed according to your wishes. They can:
- Draft wills and trusts: Creating legally binding documents that dictate how your assets will be distributed and managed.
- Create powers of attorney and healthcare directives: Appointing someone to make financial or medical decisions for you if you become incapacitated.
- Minimize taxes: Developing strategies to reduce estate taxes, gift taxes, and other financial liabilities for your heirs.
- Help avoid probate: Structuring your estate plan to avoid probate, which can save time and money for your beneficiaries.
- Advise on long-term care planning: Helping you plan for potential healthcare needs in the future, including Medicaid planning and protecting assets from being depleted by nursing home costs.
- Assist with beneficiary designations: Ensuring that life insurance policies, retirement accounts, and other financial instruments are correctly designated.
- Handle probate and estate administration: If a loved one has passed away, an estate planning lawyer can help guide you through the probate process or act as an executor.
How Are Estate Planning Lawyers Paid?
Estate planning lawyers typically charge for their services in one of several ways, depending on the complexity of your estate and the type of services you need. Common payment structures include:
- Flat fee: Many estate planning services, such as drafting a will or trust, are charged on a flat-fee basis. The fee covers all work related to preparing the document.
- Hourly rate: For more complex planning, such as estate tax strategy or trust administration, lawyers may charge by the hour. Rates vary based on the lawyer’s experience and location.
- Retainer: Some lawyers require a retainer for more complex cases, such as ongoing trust management or estate administration. The retainer is an upfront payment that covers future legal services.
It’s important to discuss fees with your lawyer upfront to avoid unexpected costs.
How Much Does an Estate Planning Lawyer Cost?
The cost of hiring an estate planning lawyer depends on the complexity of your estate and the services you require. Here are some general guidelines:
- Simple wills or powers of attorney: A straightforward will or power of attorney may cost between $300 and $1,500, depending on your location and the lawyer’s experience.
- Trust creation: Establishing a trust, such as a living trust or revocable trust, can cost between $1,000 and $3,000 or more, depending on the complexity of your assets and estate planning needs.
- Comprehensive estate planning packages: Some lawyers offer packages that include wills, trusts, powers of attorney, and healthcare directives, which may range from $2,000 to $5,000 or more, depending on the estate’s complexity.
- Hourly rates: For ongoing services like estate administration or tax planning, lawyers may charge hourly rates ranging from $150 to $500 or more, depending on the lawyer’s experience.
Always get a clear estimate of costs during your initial consultation to ensure the services fit within your budget.
Top Questions to Ask an Estate Planning Lawyer
Before hiring an estate planning lawyer, it’s important to ask questions to ensure they are the right fit for your needs. Here are key questions to ask during your consultation:
-
What is your experience with estate planning?
Ensure the lawyer has substantial experience drafting wills, creating trusts, and handling other estate planning services. -
How will you charge for your services?
Clarify whether the lawyer charges a flat fee or by the hour and ask for a detailed estimate of costs. -
What strategies do you recommend for my estate?
A good lawyer should be able to explain the best strategies for minimizing taxes, avoiding probate, and ensuring your assets are distributed according to your wishes. -
How often should I update my estate plan?
Ask how frequently you should revisit your estate plan, especially if your financial situation or family dynamics change. -
Do you offer ongoing support or updates?
Some lawyers provide periodic reviews or updates to ensure your estate plan stays current with changes in your circumstances or the law. -
How will you help my beneficiaries if something happens to me?
Ensure the lawyer is willing to guide your heirs through the estate administration process or help manage your trust after you’re gone.
How to Check the Credibility of an Estate Planning Lawyer
To ensure you’re hiring a credible estate planning lawyer, follow these steps:
- Verify their state bar license: Check with your state bar association to confirm that the lawyer is licensed and in good standing, with no history of disciplinary actions.
- Look for estate planning certifications: Some lawyers are certified as estate planning specialists, which indicates they have extensive knowledge in this area of law.
- Read client reviews and testimonials: Online reviews on sites like Avvo, Google, or Martindale-Hubbell can provide insight into the lawyer’s professionalism and client satisfaction.
- Ask for references: A credible lawyer should be able to provide references from previous clients who can speak to their expertise and client service.
- Check for membership in professional organizations: Lawyers who are members of organizations like the National Academy of Elder Law Attorneys (NAELA) or the American College of Trust and Estate Counsel (ACTEC) often have a strong reputation in the field.
What Should I Prepare for My First Consultation?
To get the most out of your first meeting with an estate planning lawyer, it’s important to come prepared. Here’s what you should bring:
- List of assets and liabilities: Provide a detailed inventory of your assets, including real estate, bank accounts, retirement funds, investments, and personal property, as well as any debts you may have.
- List of beneficiaries: Be ready to discuss who you want to receive your assets and in what proportions. This includes naming guardians for minor children if applicable.
- Existing estate documents: Bring copies of any existing wills, trusts, powers of attorney, or other relevant estate planning documents.
- Questions about your estate goals: Write down your goals, such as avoiding probate, reducing taxes, or setting up charitable donations, so your lawyer can tailor a plan to meet your needs.
- Information on medical and financial decision-makers: Be prepared to discuss who you want to appoint for healthcare and financial decisions if you become incapacitated.
By being well-prepared, you can ensure a productive consultation and begin building a comprehensive estate plan that meets your needs and protects your loved ones.
