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10 Aug, 2024 by Salvador barrientos
I recommend him to anyone, he always does a great job. I have referred him to family members and he has never let them down, great at communicating. Joshua is very reliable, very professional and always very responsive to any of my questions.
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18 Jul, 2024 by Jamerson mayer
This is the guy you want to represent you!
A few months back a put myself in a bad situation that resulted in big handful of tickets.
Unfortunately my regular attorney had passed away just a few months before, so I searched Google till I found his website.
When contacting the office they responded very fast to give me a quote for my predicament.
A very reasonable flat rate, and very affordable payment options if you do not have the funds for paying in full.
Working with them was amazing! Extremely friendly and just common curiosity that is hard to find these days!
With constant reminders the day before court with a text, and a reassuring and positive attitude that he was going to do everything he could do to do the best that he could everytime we met.
He Definitely lived up to his word!
At the end of the hole ordeal he did better than what I was anticipating.
Not only would I use them again, I would recommend them to anyone!
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18 Jun, 2024 by David manthei
If I could give 100 stars I would. Atty Smith was able cleanly navigate my case and the result exceeded my expectations. I would recommend Atty Smith to anyone seeking legal advice or help with a case. Trisha was also great help and answered any questions I had in a timely manner 👍🏼
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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12 May, 2023 by Rose mary
Laura has been amazing with the cases she has handled for me. She is caring and professional. She really cares about you and works hard to make sure you understand and makes it easy to get through your case. I would recommend her 100%
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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!
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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!
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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.
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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.
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10 Jun, 2021 by Pc tech2u
Great place, Burk and Joanne are awesome. You will not be disappointed coming to Geissler Law.
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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.
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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...
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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!
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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.
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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.
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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!
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29 Aug, 2023 by Kathy mcneely-johnson
06 Sep, 2024 by Cory hendricks
Fantastic team!
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26 Aug, 2024 by Mike haskins
Terrible experience with attorney Jim Rodriguez. Used him a few years back for help on purchasing my home and ensuring all the private party purchase documents were in order. My home was supposed to be split off of a larger plot, and currently I’m paying taxes on 65 additional acres and it’s been going on for years. The issue with Jim specifically is not only can he not complete the separation of the additional acreage from my plot and get the deed in my name years later, but that he chooses to ignore emails and phone calls regarding it. I’ll be hiring another attorney to finish the process, and also hire an attorney to recoup my fees paid to Jim. Very unprofessional.
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20 Aug, 2024 by Lisa brankin
I would HIGHLY recommend Crow Law, LLC to anyone in the Winnebago or Boone County area for representation in a divorce. Adrian, Lesley, and Jennifer were amazing to work with. They were meticulous, organized, prepared, knowledgeable, thorough, strategic, and not afraid of the several large firms my ex had at his disposal in the divorce.
Crow Law, LLC was the third attorney I used in the 20 month long case. The second firm I used was a very large, very high priced firm in downtown Chicago who supposedly specialized in Woman’s domestic abuse. I thought by hiring a large firm that claimed to represent women better in divorce, I would get better results…but it was the opposite. They basically told me I had no options and I was out of luck because the prenup I signed 5 days prior to my marriage was so restrictive. The attorneys were rude, always talked over me, rambled on forever about other cases they worked on to try to prove their point with me, & never paused long enough to let me respond or ask questions. They basically TOLD me what was going to happen & would end every statement with a known sales assumptive close tactic “wouldn’t you agree?” in order to try to get me to agree with what they wanted to do. I wanted to go to trial & gave them the $10,000 additional retainer they mentioned I would need to give them…but once I did, one of the partners called me to say he would not take it to trial because I would lose & get none of what I was asking for.
I hired Crow Law, LLC after that and I DID end up getting several things that the Chicago attorney told me I would never get, and it never even went to trial. They convinced the judge to rule in my favor on several high ticket items in pretrial talks. I would not have ended up with that additional settlement had I stayed with the large Chicago firm.
Crow Law, LLC fought hard for me & my case was very complex. They were friendly and kept my worries at bay. I never had to show up to court or on Zoom once in 20 months. They handled it all remotely, as I live in Florida, now. Highly, highly recommend them.🙏
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06 Sep, 2024 by Cory hendricks
Fantastic team!
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26 Aug, 2024 by Mike haskins
Terrible experience with attorney Jim Rodriguez. Used him a few years back for help on purchasing my home and ensuring all the private party purchase documents were in order. My home was supposed to be split off of a larger plot, and currently I’m paying taxes on 65 additional acres and it’s been going on for years. The issue with Jim specifically is not only can he not complete the separation of the additional acreage from my plot and get the deed in my name years later, but that he chooses to ignore emails and phone calls regarding it. I’ll be hiring another attorney to finish the process, and also hire an attorney to recoup my fees paid to Jim. Very unprofessional.
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20 Aug, 2024 by Lisa brankin
I would HIGHLY recommend Crow Law, LLC to anyone in the Winnebago or Boone County area for representation in a divorce. Adrian, Lesley, and Jennifer were amazing to work with. They were meticulous, organized, prepared, knowledgeable, thorough, strategic, and not afraid of the several large firms my ex had at his disposal in the divorce.
Crow Law, LLC was the third attorney I used in the 20 month long case. The second firm I used was a very large, very high priced firm in downtown Chicago who supposedly specialized in Woman’s domestic abuse. I thought by hiring a large firm that claimed to represent women better in divorce, I would get better results…but it was the opposite. They basically told me I had no options and I was out of luck because the prenup I signed 5 days prior to my marriage was so restrictive. The attorneys were rude, always talked over me, rambled on forever about other cases they worked on to try to prove their point with me, & never paused long enough to let me respond or ask questions. They basically TOLD me what was going to happen & would end every statement with a known sales assumptive close tactic “wouldn’t you agree?” in order to try to get me to agree with what they wanted to do. I wanted to go to trial & gave them the $10,000 additional retainer they mentioned I would need to give them…but once I did, one of the partners called me to say he would not take it to trial because I would lose & get none of what I was asking for.
I hired Crow Law, LLC after that and I DID end up getting several things that the Chicago attorney told me I would never get, and it never even went to trial. They convinced the judge to rule in my favor on several high ticket items in pretrial talks. I would not have ended up with that additional settlement had I stayed with the large Chicago firm.
Crow Law, LLC fought hard for me & my case was very complex. They were friendly and kept my worries at bay. I never had to show up to court or on Zoom once in 20 months. They handled it all remotely, as I live in Florida, now. Highly, highly recommend them.🙏
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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.
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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.
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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.
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19 Sep, 2024 by Enrique
Brittany was extremely helpful! She was able to help guide us through our legal situation to a successful outcome.
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13 Sep, 2024 by Grace roesslein
I had Tyler Crosby for my attorney and Brittany Matz for my paralegal in my Family case. Beginning to end they were knowledgable, attentive, and caring. I highly recommend them to anyone with any of their legal matters.
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01 Oct, 2024 by Ryan gray
Highly recommend! Very on top of it. Made the experience a lot better. Made things very smooth.
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11 Sep, 2024 by Jaida baxter
Best attorney around. I've never had to go through court before and knew nothing about anything. Austin really helped explain things to me and I felt like he really cared about my case and things going on. He's good at planning for future out comes and possibilities that may arise. Communication is very fluid. I have nothing but respect and love for all that he has done for me. He deserves a vacation because man he does a lot while also doing a very amazing and thorough job. I had a wonderful experience with austin and I hope others feel the same and if I have any other cases in Illinois he will always be my go to! ❤️
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21 Aug, 2024 by Dionna anderson
Austin was great to work with! Made my divorce easy to go through and answered any questions I had. I highly recommend him!
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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!
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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.
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18 Oct, 2023 by Andrew albers
23 Oct, 2024 by Ronaldo pérez
22 Oct, 2024 by William jose parrales solorzano
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!
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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!
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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!!
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23 Jun, 2024 by Shymecha ray
These are fake accounts cause this is the worst lawyer in Boone county!! I pray that God exposes this law firm!! Pls do yall home work before hiring this law firm!!
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23 Oct, 2024 by Ronaldo pérez
22 Oct, 2024 by William jose parrales solorzano
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.
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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!
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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!!
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23 Jun, 2024 by Shymecha ray
These are fake accounts cause this is the worst lawyer in Boone county!! I pray that God exposes this law firm!! Pls do yall home work before hiring this law firm!!
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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!
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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!!
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23 Jun, 2024 by Shymecha ray
These are fake accounts cause this is the worst lawyer in Boone county!! I pray that God exposes this law firm!! Pls do yall home work before hiring this law firm!!
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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.
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05 Jul, 2024 by Debra newcomer
Being an RN, I personally see attorneys as legal providers of care. That being said this is how I feel about Attorney Bradley J. Schreiber that recently helped me out of a bad situation with an ex fiancee. As does a medical provider have the schooling needed to practice. He had the care, and compassion to understand my situation both legally, and emotionally. and that being said would be one of my main reasons I would definitely recommend him for whatever you're legal problem would be. I believe he would handle each case to the best of his legal ability while adding in the human component that is definitely a plus during such stressful times. He achieved our desired outcome without nickel, and diming me as many professionals do. Thanks again Attorney Schreiber your are greatly appreciated by me, and my family. Be proud of the difference you make in people's lives.
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29 Feb, 2024 by Robert meyers
Mr Schreiber goes above and beyond for his clients! He’s not afraid to get in there and fight. I would definitely go to him again and I have went with him in the past. He makes a bad situation much better for his clients.
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08 Feb, 2024 by Matt kentner
John Logan is a warrior for his clients. He is knowledgeable, responsive, and gets things done!
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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.
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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.
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05 Oct, 2023 by Eduardo ibarra
16 Jul, 2023 by Wick
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.
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05 Oct, 2023 by Eduardo ibarra
16 Jul, 2023 by Wick
Discover the ideal lawyer
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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.
