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Bonnie Klein Rhoden, experienced Estate Planning, Family Law attorney in Rockledge, FL with 130 reviews
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43,93
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4.9/5
Avvo
5.0
20 Reviews
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4.8
110 Reviews
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04 Feb, 2025 by Lianna robinson
Bonnie and her team have been my saving grace. She is very knowledgeable, always there to answer all of my questions/concerns with such patience. Bonnie and Jessica are a powerhouse together, a breath of fresh air, providing clarity and comfort helping me through my case. She initially took my call on the WEEKEND (Super Bowl Sunday) And by the time we were done, I felt so relieved. I wish I could articulate the words but I knew I found the right person. I’m truly grateful I chose her to represent me. She cares and has a passion for helping people. Thank you, thank you, thank you! We need more attorneys like YOU.
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31 Jan, 2025 by J c
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18 Dec, 2024 by Kali rybinski
Bonnie is fantastic! 10/10 would recommend 🫶🏻
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Amy Marie Romaine, experienced Estate Planning, Personal Injury attorney in Rockledge, FL with 117 reviews
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42,84
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4.9/5
Avvo
4.3
4 Reviews
Google Maps
4.9
113 Reviews
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04 Feb, 2025 by Eve valens
Great firm completed my bankruptcy quick and accurately.
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18 Jan, 2025 by Kari jenkins
I was so pleased at how easy they were to work with! Very friendly and professional. They got it all done so quickly. What a blessing and a relief to be debt free.
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15 Jan, 2025 by Luke hillery
Thank you for helping us through this difficult time and fighting in our corner.
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Arna D Cortazzo, experienced Bankruptcy, Estate Planning attorney in Rockledge, FL with 4 reviews
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39,12
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5.0/5
Avvo
5.0
4 Reviews
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22 Mar, 2019 by Terry
Arna did an excellent job handled my bankruptcy. She was very knowledgeable and constantly keep me informed of status and answered all my questions. Highly recommend her.
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15 Feb, 2019 by Anonymous
We went through a bankruptcy with the help of Arna Cortazzo. She was very informative and helpful throughout the entire process! We were worried about filing for bankruptcy at first but she made the process very easy and stress free.
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14 Feb, 2019 by Anonymous
At a very difficult time, Arna took all of the weight off of our shoulders, She answered our calls and emails and all our questions. She was very kind and caring with us but, don't let that fool you, she is REALLY tough on the other side when she needs to be. She is smart and knows what she is doing. She took over the courtroom. We wouldn't want to be on the other side that's for sure. We were very impressed. She handled everything that we encountered. We highly recommend her !"
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David Allen Baker, experienced Child Support, Estate Planning attorney in Rockledge, FL with 1 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
39,03
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5.0/5
Avvo
5.0
1 Reviews
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24 Jun, 2024 by Carla
Excellent attorney, very knowledgeable and reasonable fees. We have used them for personal and business and he is the best.
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Jeanine A. Allen, experienced Estate Planning, Real Estate attorney in Rockledge, FL with 1 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
39,03
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5.0/5
Avvo
5.0
1 Reviews
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14 Jun, 2015 by Anonymous
Jeanine was knowledgeable about HOA and contract laws. She handle my issue quickly and efficiently. She explained my claim of law in language I understood. Jeanine kept me informed through the process. I highly recommend Jeanine for contract and HOA disputes
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John C Murphy, experienced Criminal Defense, Elder Law attorney in Rockledge, FL with 1 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
39,03
star star star star star
5.0/5
Avvo
5.0
1 Reviews
star star star star star
12 Oct, 2016 by James
John provided me with estate planning services, preparing my will and associated estate planning documents. This is not my area of expertise, so I definitely need the help of an expert attorney in this area. I chose to rely on John's many years of experience in the law and my personal knowledge of his professionalism and knowledge. I highly recommend him to anyone needing help in any area of the law in which he practices.
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Barton William Hogreve, experienced Criminal Defense, Estate Planning attorney in Rockledge, FL with 1 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
39,03
star star star star star
5.0/5
Avvo
5.0
1 Reviews
star star star star star
07 Feb, 2017 by Anonymous client b.c.
Great experience with Mr. Hogreve. I appreciate the time and attention he took with me and how responsive he was to my case.
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Eric John Estaris Enrique, experienced Bankruptcy, Estate Planning attorney in Rockledge, FL with 2 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
35,56
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4.5/5
Avvo
4.5
2 Reviews
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16 Oct, 2022 by Anonymous
Eric Enrique goes above and beyond any expectations i ever had for an attorney. He helped me and my late husband through some of the hardest times a family could ever face. He always made the time for us, and made us feel as if we were the most important part of his day. He helped us with grace and generosity, and at times humor and just concern for our situation, After my husband passed, Eric has continued to "look" after me with any concerns or questions that i have concerning anything i have needed. Not only is he a successful attorney, he is a truly genuine person.
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13 Apr, 2016 by Anonymous
The only reason I gave a 4 star review is that he ultimately got the job done! There was lack of communication, and I found that frustrating. My court date was pushed back the day before my 341 meeting, I don't believe this was due to any error of my attorney. After I expressed my concerns with his performance, he became quite aggressive and generally short and unfriendly! His assistant, Jennifer is worth her weight in gold! Excellent customer service and always polite and friendly. What it all boils down to: he was very affordable and ultimately got the job done. Other attorneys may have better customer service skills but charge much more! Good value! And would probably use him again!
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Bonnie Klein Rhoden, experienced Estate Planning, Family Law attorney in Rockledge, FL with 0 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
4,00
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Eric Enrique, experienced Bankruptcy, Estate Planning attorney in Rockledge, FL with 0 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
4,00
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Charles A Thurston, experienced Business, Estate Planning attorney in Rockledge, FL with 0 reviews
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4,00
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Ryan Joseph Bird, experienced Estate Planning, Probate attorney in Rockledge, FL with 0 reviews
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4,00
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Christopher Houlihan Block, experienced Civil Rights, Criminal Defense attorney in Rockledge, FL with 0 reviews
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4,00
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Jessica A. Spenik, experienced Elder Law, Estate Planning attorney in Rockledge, FL with 0 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
4,00
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Amy Marie Romaine, experienced Estate Planning, Personal Injury attorney in Rockledge, FL with 0 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
3,00
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What an Estate Planning Lawyer Can Do for You

An estate planning lawyer helps individuals plan for the management and distribution of their assets after death or during incapacitation. Their services involve drafting important legal documents, such as wills, trusts, powers of attorney, and healthcare directives. Estate planning attorneys work to ensure that your assets are transferred according to your wishes, minimize tax liabilities, and avoid probate court. They also help clients plan for potential long-term care needs and protect their estate from being diminished by healthcare costs.

By working with an estate planning lawyer, you can have peace of mind knowing that your loved ones will be cared for and that your estate will be managed efficiently and according to your desires.

When Should I Hire an Estate Planning Lawyer?

Hiring an estate planning lawyer is beneficial in many situations, especially when you want to ensure that your assets are handled properly after death. Common reasons to hire an estate planning lawyer include:

  • Drafting a will: If you want to clearly define how your assets will be distributed after death, an attorney can draft a legally sound will.
  • Creating a trust: For those looking to avoid probate or provide for loved ones over time, setting up a trust can help manage the distribution of assets.
  • Planning for incapacity: An estate lawyer can help draft powers of attorney and healthcare directives so that your financial and medical decisions are made by someone you trust if you become incapacitated.
  • Minimizing estate taxes: If your estate is large, a lawyer can help create strategies to reduce or eliminate federal and state estate taxes.
  • Special circumstances: If you have minor children, blended families, or complex assets like businesses, an estate planning lawyer can create tailored solutions.
  • Guardianship or conservatorship: If you want to designate guardians for minor children or ensure proper care for incapacitated adults, an attorney can help.

Hiring an estate planning lawyer is especially important if your estate is complex or if you want to ensure that your wishes are properly followed.

What Does an Estate Planning Lawyer Do?

An estate planning lawyer provides a range of services designed to help you organize your affairs and ensure your estate is managed according to your wishes. They can:

  • Draft wills and trusts: Creating legally binding documents that dictate how your assets will be distributed and managed.
  • Create powers of attorney and healthcare directives: Appointing someone to make financial or medical decisions for you if you become incapacitated.
  • Minimize taxes: Developing strategies to reduce estate taxes, gift taxes, and other financial liabilities for your heirs.
  • Help avoid probate: Structuring your estate plan to avoid probate, which can save time and money for your beneficiaries.
  • Advise on long-term care planning: Helping you plan for potential healthcare needs in the future, including Medicaid planning and protecting assets from being depleted by nursing home costs.
  • Assist with beneficiary designations: Ensuring that life insurance policies, retirement accounts, and other financial instruments are correctly designated.
  • Handle probate and estate administration: If a loved one has passed away, an estate planning lawyer can help guide you through the probate process or act as an executor.

How Are Estate Planning Lawyers Paid?

Estate planning lawyers typically charge for their services in one of several ways, depending on the complexity of your estate and the type of services you need. Common payment structures include:

  • Flat fee: Many estate planning services, such as drafting a will or trust, are charged on a flat-fee basis. The fee covers all work related to preparing the document.
  • Hourly rate: For more complex planning, such as estate tax strategy or trust administration, lawyers may charge by the hour. Rates vary based on the lawyer’s experience and location.
  • Retainer: Some lawyers require a retainer for more complex cases, such as ongoing trust management or estate administration. The retainer is an upfront payment that covers future legal services.

It’s important to discuss fees with your lawyer upfront to avoid unexpected costs.

How Much Does an Estate Planning Lawyer Cost?

The cost of hiring an estate planning lawyer depends on the complexity of your estate and the services you require. Here are some general guidelines:

  • Simple wills or powers of attorney: A straightforward will or power of attorney may cost between $300 and $1,500, depending on your location and the lawyer’s experience.
  • Trust creation: Establishing a trust, such as a living trust or revocable trust, can cost between $1,000 and $3,000 or more, depending on the complexity of your assets and estate planning needs.
  • Comprehensive estate planning packages: Some lawyers offer packages that include wills, trusts, powers of attorney, and healthcare directives, which may range from $2,000 to $5,000 or more, depending on the estate’s complexity.
  • Hourly rates: For ongoing services like estate administration or tax planning, lawyers may charge hourly rates ranging from $150 to $500 or more, depending on the lawyer’s experience.

Always get a clear estimate of costs during your initial consultation to ensure the services fit within your budget.

Top Questions to Ask an Estate Planning Lawyer

Before hiring an estate planning lawyer, it’s important to ask questions to ensure they are the right fit for your needs. Here are key questions to ask during your consultation:

  1. What is your experience with estate planning?
    Ensure the lawyer has substantial experience drafting wills, creating trusts, and handling other estate planning services.
  2. 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.
  3. 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.
  4. 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.
  5. 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.
  6. 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.

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