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20 Dec, 2024 by Joseph rastall
The initial dinner info session was very helpful, and going from that to a completed trust happened very quickly.
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12 Dec, 2024 by Travel lots
We just hired Oren Ross for our estate planning. It had been on our list of things to do for awhile, and couldn’t have been more pleased with the results. His professionalism and expertise in the subject matter were top notch. Definitely recommend his services to anybody who has yet to set up their living trust.
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11 Dec, 2024 by Crystal arnold
Oren did all the documents for a Trust instead of a simple Will for my husband and I. It was a seamless and uncomplicated process only because he made it easily understandable, and was timely and very professional. I highly recommend using him for all your estate planning needs.
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11 Mar, 2015 by George
I was referred to Michael Burns (and the firm he works for) for some necessary actions to put my estate in order. Although a difficult topic to deal with, Michael made it easy. He is personable and professional; most importantly, he develops a trusting relationship. I was very pleased with all my interactions with Micael and with the product he delivered. I'm an engineer with no legal background and he clearly walked me through every step of the process. I couldn't be happier.
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03 Jun, 2014 by Valerie
As the Executor of my father's estate, Michael Burns kept me sane during the
two year Estate Settling. He was always responsive as he guided me through my father's estate. Working with both my accountant and the partnerships, his knowledge and direction made a very stressful time much easier with his constant communication and knowledge. I am highly recommending him!
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12 Sep, 2013 by Gail
Michael Burns put his clients first. He was very patient with us and took the time to make sure we understood all the intense paperwork. I would highly recommend him for any issues.
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29 Aug, 2016 by Dzeneta
Mr. Herman has provided my husband I with an extraordinary service. Our will was explained in details with a high level of professionalism. Mr. Herman’s personable approach to every detail of our estate planning made us grateful to be his clients.
- Dzeneta.K
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01 Nov, 2015 by Debra
Steven Herman represented me in a traffic violation. He was very professional and he kept me informed with the court process. I highly recommend him for all your attorney needs
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27 Oct, 2015 by Bonnie
I had Stephen review contracts for my small business services and he advised me on modifications needed for business protection and loop holes. I appreciate his sound advise and look to him as my guide for legal assistance moving forward.
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22 Sep, 2014 by Anonymous
Wally is very professional and knowledgeable in his field. I have consulted with Wally on a few occasions regarding trust management, including trust management in the bankruptcy context. I have seen him work tirelessly to achieve a positive outcome for a client. I also had the opportunity to hear Wally present on the attributes of the Limited Liability Company in Georgia, and I was very impressed at his depth of knowledge, extent of research and professionalism.
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27 Jul, 2012 by Gwendolyn
A while back, I gave my credit card number to a charlatan for a supposed business opportunity. I immediately realized my error, but this man would not cancel the transaction. He had worked this system for quite some time and knew the tricks to abuse the consumer. So, even the credit card company could not help me to recover my funds. Wally stepped in and looked meticulously at the case. He applied extensive knowledge, understanding, and strategy and soon had the swindler begging to settle. Even though this is a simplified version of how Wally helped me, he utillized expertise and professional skill to recover my money with an efficiency that caused me the least possible stress.
I will always go to Wally first when I need legal advice. I first went to him because I trusted him as a person. Having worked with him on this case, I found that my instincts were correct. He is the real deal, and he takes seriously his clients' rights and needs.
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11 Mar, 2012 by Sara p
Amazing, Wally is so knowledgeable and thorough. He is prompt, organized, intelligent, and really personable. I am currently under his advisement and have no regrets. I have been gouged financially by an attorney in the past and know that Wally has integrity and is fair priced for the awesome services that he provides. I have recommended him and will continue to do so.
Sara p.
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10 Aug, 2015 by Chris
I have had business relations with Nancy Liu for a number for years and had many business dealings with her. I wouldn’t think of using any other firm even though I have had other attorneys approach me for my business. Put simply, place your file with Nancy and rest peacefully – she has your back.
Nancy is meticulous, thorough, attentive to detail and very protective of her client’s interests. One closing I brought to her involved multiple possible claims to ownership, Nancy took the precaution to protect my interest from any claims on the property from anyone past, present or future. That’s an example of the extra work that she does, that very few other attorneys will do nowadays (there’s not a lot of money for them in closing work).
She is also very responsive - when working your file you will find Nancy very easy to reach by phone or email no matter how busy she is. She goes well beyond the standard service one expects from an attorney – including working on your file until wee hours to ensure timelines are met and any and all issues are addressed, but not billing for those overtime hours.
Although it’s possible she can be perceived as outspoken, curt or a bit aggressive – when dealing with those who are not her clients or are challenging her clients. But to me those are positive traits in an attorney, not negatives. She is a consummate professional who represents her clients to the utmost. The fact that Nancy doesn’t take guff or suffer fools lightly is a strength in my books.
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19 Nov, 2024 by Maxx patano
Hammers Law Firm made it easy when deciding to have them represent me and my case. Their team was responsive and always kept me updated on the progress with their easy portal system. Thanks to their expertise I was able to receive a favorable settlement that helped me move forward with my life. Thank you for everything Hammers Law Firm! Highly recommend.
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25 Sep, 2024 by John bell
I cannot recommend Hammers Law Firm and their team enough. From the moment I called for a consultation and spoke with Aryana, I knew I was in good hands. The entire team was professional, knowledgeable, and compassionate throughout my case. Molly fought tirelessly for my rights to ensure I received the compensation I deserved. I am so grateful for their hard work and dedication to my case. If you are in need of a personal injury lawyer, look no further than this amazing firm. They truly go above and beyond for their clients. Words cannot express my admiration for this team of attorneys and their staff. Thank you doesn’t seem enough.
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06 Jun, 2024 by Abbie collie
03 Dec, 2024 by Kristianna pallottillo
I’d like to give a special thank you to Karen Taylor over at Atlanta Personal Injury & Law. In my accident I was hit unexpectedly while stationary at a stop light, resulting in critical damage to my vehicle and long term damage to my physical health. I initially hired them to cover the medical bills, but they went above and beyond for me. I would completely recommend them. They were efficient and timely. Throughout the experience, Karen kept great communication with me and showed immense compassion towards my situation. She was able to get me more coverage than I could have ever expected. If I ever got into another accident, there’d be the first I’d call. The staff was amazing by making the smoothest and stress-free experience possible.
Much appreciated,
Karla Monte
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03 Nov, 2024 by Talethea wright
The team was very professional , knowledgeable, and caring. Their unwavering support and commitment to the needs and desired outcome of the client was incredibly commendable, and honestly very refreshing to experience. I would give 10 stars if I could !
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26 Oct, 2024 by Yeahthatstony
Working with Kyle Cobb at ATL Personal Injury Law Group was a fantastic experience. He was professional, compassionate, and kept me informed every step of the way. Thanks to his hard work and attention to detail, my case had a great outcome. I highly recommend Kyle and the team at ATL Personal Injury Law Group for personal injury cases!
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12 Nov, 2020 by Neil
My mother (a challenging soul during the best of times) employed him to write her will several months ago. During this time, he exhibited kindness and patience and wrote her what I can only call a beautiful will.
He is reasonably priced and very good at what he does.
I used him to probate my mom's will when she passed a few months ago and he did so in a very short period of time, also for a reasonable price.
I cannot recommend him more highly and plan to use him for my own family's estate planning and end of life planning in addition to any other legal needs that we have.
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20 Dec, 2024 by David nicaragua
Great insight and amazing advice 10/10
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12 Dec, 2024 by Shawna ware
I did a lot of research and I found the Shermans and I can tell you without a doubt they are amazing. I really liked that they were great communicators, really knowledgeable about the law, and always gave me great advice.
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05 Dec, 2024 by Haydin barnett
I’d say they’re the perfect attorneys because they go the extra mile to help you and they are there when you need them.
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27 Dec, 2024 by Treetoprose rose
I had an excellent experience; there was no wait time when I called, and they were very informed and addressed all of my inquiries. 100% recommend.
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14 Nov, 2024 by Jasmine russell
05 Nov, 2024 by Louis ydg
I would advise anyone to avoid using this practice here the only concern is billable hours and not the best interest of the client. I’ve filled a grievance with the Georgia Bar and American Bar for ineffectual counseling and regret ever calling upon Ms Herron’s firm for representation of my divorce. She talks a good talk to swoon you in but her representation is deplorable.
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27 Dec, 2024 by Treetoprose rose
I had an excellent experience; there was no wait time when I called, and they were very informed and addressed all of my inquiries. 100% recommend.
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14 Nov, 2024 by Jasmine russell
05 Nov, 2024 by Louis ydg
I would advise anyone to avoid using this practice here the only concern is billable hours and not the best interest of the client. I’ve filled a grievance with the Georgia Bar and American Bar for ineffectual counseling and regret ever calling upon Ms Herron’s firm for representation of my divorce. She talks a good talk to swoon you in but her representation is deplorable.
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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:
-
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.
