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5.0
259 Reviews
14 Dec, 2024 by Mj
The Yee Law Group was professional, courteous, and efficient. You need someone trustworthy and they are!
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04 Dec, 2024 by Melanie
My husband and I chose the Yee Law Group to help us create our estate plan and we had a very positive experience with Michael and his staff. They are professional, responsive, and thorough. They responded very promptly when we emailed questions and had additions/changes to the drafts. They made the whole process easy and reassuring. Signing day went smoothly and the whole office was pleasant and friendly. The fee is very reasonable and completely worth it to have the help of a knowledgeable attorney and his staff.
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20 Nov, 2024 by Sallyanne monti
I hired Yee Law Group reinstate my Trust. The process is seamless snd the expertise stellar. A great firm, very reasonable fees, incredible customer service. I am a very satisfied client, highly recommend.
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5.0
20 Reviews
4.7
35 Reviews
20 Dec, 2024 by Sue squires
08 Jul, 2024 by Gloria reynolds
I originally went to the Mr. Goralka in 2006 for my Will and Trust.
I was pleased with the attention I received so when I needed to update these items I again went to Mr.Goralka. I was again pleased. He was patient with my questions and explained until I understood. I would recommend his Law Firm to anyone looking for a reliable source to provide them with conscientious service.
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13 Jun, 2024 by Olena buzan
Very warm and good memories of the family speak of family values, love and respect that you carry throughout life. Thanks for sharing
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06 May, 2022 by Ian qubain
I called in and although they couldn't take my case they gave some great information and recommended a great lawyer for my case. If they were able to do that for me, I can only imagine how great they would handle a case
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04 Sep, 2021 by Manny
Roy Loving has helped me resolve a very serious real estate issue and I have no trouble giving him my highest recommendation.
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15 Mar, 2021 by Martin zavala
Dr. Roy Loving handled my case very well. My problem was the non-return of my deposit in an apartment complex. I think he did a quick and very effective job. I recommend it.
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02 Aug, 2023 by Andy s
Kathryn helped administer my mom's estate with the utmost professionalism, patience, and warmth. After my mom died last year, I had no idea what to do about her estate, of which I was a trustee. I went to the large law firm which originally drew up her trust, only to find that they were going to charge me a criminal amount for a processing this relatively straightforward trust. After starting work with them, I realized I had to switch, which was painful because I didn't want this to be more complicated than it needed to be. Kathryn was recommended to me by a friend, and not only did she complete the work much more efficiently for a reasonable fee, but she took the time to explain different aspects of the estate which confused me, and recommended certain decisions, whereas the big law firm and the banks I was dealing with did no such thing. None of them could answer questions like "What do people normally do with an inherited IRA?" whereas Kathryn could. Highly recommended!
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21 May, 2016 by Trina
She prepared my living trust to provide protection for my children. She explained the options and gave suggestions that I had not thought about for my circumstances. She did not rush me if I asked multiple questions and made sure I understood everything. Also, she explained it in language I could understand, without the legal jargon. After I signed all my documents, she provided me with an organized binder of all of my documents and explained how I should proceed in the future . She was prompt, attentive and exceeded my expectations. Thank you!
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25 Feb, 2016 by Jodi
Tonya Nygren processed our bankruptcy and was very professional and efficient when handling our case. She communicated with us throughout the process and made sure all our documents were processed on time. I would highly recommend her law office for future buisness.
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01 Dec, 2023 by Robert leinweber
Matthew Becker is hands down the best attorney I have ever had the pleasure dealing with.
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17 Nov, 2023 by James rohn
Richard is extremely knowledgeable and helps the underdog
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20 Apr, 2023 by Dimitrius taylor
Best lawyer in Sacramento , very helpful and he knew what he was doing, i would recommend him to anyone .
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20 May, 2024 by Tammy9896
Adam was so great at researching and interpreting the law. He had an excellent ability to communicate difficult information and make it easy to understand. I felt he left no stone unturned and I felt I was in very capable hands during my entire process. I highly recommend this firm.
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01 Dec, 2023 by Robert leinweber
Matthew Becker is hands down the best attorney I have ever had the pleasure dealing with.
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17 Nov, 2023 by James rohn
Richard is extremely knowledgeable and helps the underdog
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22 Mar, 2017 by Leona
My husband had to go out on disability. WE hired Nyman Turkish and were appointed Brian as our Attorney. He was right on top of everything. His assistant Dan was totally awesome. They called us back the same day each time we called if they were able to talk to us right then. We got our case settled in record time and we won it. They made the whole process so easy and less stressful then we could have ever imagined. I recommend this Law Firm 120%
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22 Feb, 2014 by Nabeel zuberi
10 Dec, 2024 by Velma
Mark Drobny & his entire team from start to finish have been nothing short or OUTSTANDING! Truly PHENOMENAL! They have been helpful in every step of the process no matter how many questions we may have had. From the moment we met with Mark his wisdom poured out creating such a peace for us. Afterhaving had unfortunate experiences with previous lawyers whom you should be able to trust, we now know more than ever how much Mark Drobny & his team are the top of the top, best of the best, highest quality of care, compassionate, trustworthy & extremely professional in every way! We were so grateful to have him recommended to us & we will only recommend Mark Drobny & team to everyone!! Thank you! Thank you! Thank you!
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08 Dec, 2024 by Gary
Mark did our initial will, Trust and Advanced Health Directive, and we recently updated it with him. Very happy with the attentive service from him and his team. I can definitely recommend him and his practice.
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12 Nov, 2024 by Dan
Our current trust was outdated and needed significant changes. Mark was extremely helpful in identifying our needs and making the appropriate recommendations to make sure we were accomplishing our goals for the future of our family.
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09 Jan, 2025 by Kathy jundt
Tom is an exceptional attorney! He was an absolute pleasure to work with and I would recommend him to all my friends and family. I had so much anxiety, but Tom was able to relieve my stress through his kindness, thoroughness and patience. He was always available to answer any questions I had whether it was through email or telephone. He also continually kept me informed and up to date on my case. I can not thank him enough for all of your help, guidance and professionalism. I highly recommend Tom.
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06 Jan, 2025 by Danniel hernandez
Tom made the bankruptcy process so smooth. I was worried about it being a stressful process but he helped me understand each step as it came up and made everything really easy for me. I appreciate the help so much and I cant recommend his services more.
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06 Jan, 2025 by Jamie penfil
10/10 experience! They helped me every single step of the way until I settled my case! They made it easy and handle 99% of what I needed to do! Highly recommend for anyone needing a lemon!
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17 Dec, 2024 by Scott
I have worked with Kellie over the last few years and she is always willing to help and provide amazing guidance. Kellie is always at the top of my recommendations list.
Don’t hesitate to give her a call
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19 Jul, 2023 by Faye
Kellie was recommended to me by a family member who raved about her legal expertise. I did some research and decided to hire her to review and update my family trust. At my request, all meetings were conducted over video chat and Kellie accommodated this with ease. She quickly identified and corrected numerous mistakes in my existing trust made by another attorney. She took the time to truly gain a complete understanding of my desires for the trust. The entire process was smooth and efficient. Kellie is very personable and completely professional!
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05 Nov, 2021 by Susan
Hired Kellie for our first time need for Estate Planning and wills for the two of us. End of life documents were set up to benefit all our grown children and eight grandchildren, Kellie came to our home which really helped us. Polite and extremely intelligent. Really knows her stuff!!!
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24 Oct, 2024 by Kayla ewert
I can't say enough good things about Candace. In a situation that is already stressful and difficult to be in, Candace was so friendly, communicative, knowledgeable, and helpful throughout the entire process. She walked me through all of the paperwork, and filled me in on everything; easing my mind. Any time I had a question, she was quick to respond and explained things thoroughly, where I felt comfortable and educated on the next steps. Because of this, I knew I made the right decision hiring Candace. Absolutely worth every penny!
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22 Nov, 2023 by Jacquie marroquin
Candace Brooks worked with me on my bankruptcy for the better part of 2023. I cannot speak of her and her work highly enough!
She was kind when I shared my big feelings about filing for bankruptcy for the first time in my life. Flexibility is her superpower as I delayed the process several months to handle other priorities. When I returned ready to continue, Candace was patient as I caught up on my part of the process. She was a consummate professional while being personable along the way. She and her team made this as painless as possible while offering solid legal advice. I strongly and enthusiastically encourage Brooks & Carpenter as you consider legal representation.
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24 Oct, 2023 by Penny carter
Candace Brooks took care of my situation from start to finish. She was always quick to respond when I had questions. She explained the process in detail and walked me through every step of the way. She made a stressful situation much less stressful. I would highly recommend her for your service needs.
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09 Nov, 2021 by Randy and diane
We recently had to have our trust and health directives updated. The change required basically drawing up a whole new trust and health directive. Jonathan was very patient in answering all of our questions and offered some excellent advice pertaining to the changes. We are very pleased with the level of expertise Jonathan offers.
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02 Dec, 2020 by Anonymous
Mr. Huber helped me and my husband with our living trust. He was very patient with us as we really procrastinated getting our draft paperwork to him and cancelled our appointment three times. However, we have been talking about needing to have our LT done for years, so very happy we have finally completed the task. I will be referring Mr. Huber to family and friends should they need this service - as I said, he did a great job, very thorough and did a great job. Your offices were very clean and we felt comfortable being there during this strange COVID-19 era Thank you.
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25 Sep, 2020 by Wayne
As Trustee to my mother’s complex Trust, Jonathan Huber and staff brought order and organization to the settling of the Estate that included multiple beneficiaries and multiple split properties to resolve. All done without an office visit or face to face contact! Great performance and seamless online workflow made the process stress free and smooth.
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5.0
7 Reviews
4.6
155 Reviews
02 Oct, 2024 by Anonymous
Thank James so much for answering my question! The answer provides a great guide line for me to resolve the landlord and tenant issues. I really appreciate it and highly recommend him!
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18 Sep, 2024 by Tess trautmann
James made a huge In my husband's custody case related to his daughter. James made the difference Between And never seeing her again. Before james came along my husband was ready to just give up. But james gave us hope with his skills and his ability to change Is wrong into right, Fear into hope. This is what james can do for you
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16 Sep, 2024 by David
I never had any problems with James, specifically he helped me with my divorce. I thank him for everything. He helped me get what I wanted and now I am calm. THANK YOU JAMES. Also, since I was a little worried, even on the 4th of July, he helped me for a few hours to keep me calm for me. divorce case
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07 May, 2020 by Jes
While I was not able to retain Mr. Ervin due to jurisdiction issues, he was so kind and thoughtful when giving me a consultation over the phone. He was methodical, compassionate, and you can tell he speaks from experience. I appreciate his candor, and if my issue changes jurisdiction I hope to have him in my corner!
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19 Oct, 2019 by Tricia
I reached out for guidance, I wasn't sure if I had a case. Attorney Ervin talked me through the entire situation. It was great to be understood and and even better that I felt he understood. Taking the time to go over the details, he made me feel secure that he was aware of my situation and I wouldn't be fighting this on my own.
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22 May, 2019 by Anonymous
Shawn gave us an honest straight forward evaluation of our case . He kept us informed, his fees were fair, and we won our case. He was empathetic, innovative, and seemed one step ahead of opposing council.
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17 Sep, 2016 by Barbara
My husband and I reached out to Brian Wyatt when we were ready to set up a special needs trust for our daughter. We were impressed with Brian's education and his breadth of experience. He was also genuinely gracious and professional in his conduct. He thoroughly explained the complexities of our options and asked very specific and detailed questions to produce a comprehensive product for us. We were so very grateful for the trust he prepared for us, and the peace of mind that came with it. I have returned to Brian to have him help another family member with their trust because I would refer Brian Wyatt wholeheartedly with reservation to anyone.
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29 Aug, 2011 by Jan
What I appreciate most about Brian is that he is accessible. I am able to call and ask questions about things I don’t understand. I’m not charged for this. I’m not pushed off to an assistant. I get his attention and expertise. If he’s not in, he calls back. Right away. Pretty unusual from my experience with attorneys.
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13 Aug, 2010 by Sherri
He was very personable and nice, his staff was great too. He helped answer some important questions we had and researched stuff that he didn't know.
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30 May, 2008 by Anonymous
I met Mr. Burton last year at a networking event and decided to give him a try after I lost confidence in my previous attorney. Not only is he an extremely intelligent individual but unlike my previous attorney I feel I can trust him. I use the Burton law firm for all my business activities. Aside from the professional legal counsel that they provide I have been very impressed with their prompt responses. I can remember numerous times when I had a VERY important question and my previous attorney would take days to call back. Very professional firm and I would definitely recommend them.
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12 May, 2008 by Anonymous
Jeb and his firm treated us with respect and demonstrated great competence. They were very thorough and presented aspects of our estate plan that had never been brought up by other attorneys.
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21 Dec, 2024 by Jerzmine sanjuan
Baron Family Law is dedicated to protecting the well-being of children and families.
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21 Dec, 2024 by Arjhay
The firm is known for its honesty and fairness, upholding the law with respect.
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21 Dec, 2024 by J c
22 Jan, 2025 by Christy crichlow
Hannah was fantastic! She put together my uncles trust and made sure we both understood everything in it. She made what could have been a stressful experience easy.
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16 Jan, 2025 by Adria rosendale
I recently worked with Hannah Myers’s to do some estate planning. She met wit me for over an hour to explain the process of setting up a family trust and answered all of my many questions. There was no pressure to use her law firm at that point, she just gave me her card and I was able to have time to think about the direction I wanted to go. Of course she was so thorough and knowledgeable that I ended up paying a deposit and getting started on the process. She sent all the draft documents to me promptly for me to review before out final appointment to sign all documentation. She helped me analyze several family scenarios to help me figure out what options I had when making big financial and health decisions. I appreciated all of her help and have since recommended her to two friends
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13 Jan, 2025 by Phil baxter
Hannah was great. well prepared with the project completed and copies made!I don't know what else to add but she was also nice and well spoken.
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02 Dec, 2024 by Allan c
Excellent! Made the whole process so easy. Always quick to respond to emails. Efficient to work with. Very experienced. Questions always answered with no delays. Highly recommend.
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24 Jul, 2024 by Eirini vamva
I worked with Larry and Jason on my green card application. I really can not recommend them enough. They are truly great. They were always available and supportive through the process.
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24 Jul, 2024 by Sandor jones
Lawrence and Jason were outstanding lawyers. Highly recommend this team for any immigration law need. One of their best qualities as a legal team is that they are extremely responsive. We would ask a question on Friday late afternoon and get our answer 10 minutes later....and you can bet there will be quite a few questions going through the immigration process.
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09 Oct, 2024 by Jodi
We found Anastasia through a referral to the Law Firm. In our initial meeting with her we found her very professional, and also so easy to work with and to talk to. She explained everything us and listened to our concerns and also provided suggestions on certain issues. We would highly recommend Anastasia for any trust or probate issues you may have. She is very knowledgeable and a pleasure to work with
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03 Apr, 2024 by Debbie
Anastasia prepared my Trust and the process was so very easy and comfortable. She is very professional, and also so easy to work with and to talk to. She explained everything to me and took care of absolutely everything. I would not have put this off for so long if I had known how easy it would be. The service that she provided goes well beyond just a Trust. She covered everything. I highly recommend Anastasia for any trust or probate issues you may have.
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12 Sep, 2023 by Erik
Anastasia was very professional and experience in her field. She worked very hard on my case. I highly recommend her!!!!!!
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20 Feb, 2024 by Sandra
When my husband passed away, I needed help setting up a trust to fairly pass along our assets to our blended family. A friend recommended Terri Easlon. She guided me through the process and made what could have been a complex procedure, understandable. She and her team were very organized and efficient. A pleasure to work with.
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07 Oct, 2023 by Pj blaze
Terri, was very helpful in setting up my family trust. Initially I was hesitant in actually setting up a trust, I felt it was not needed. She explained the benefits and with her very insightful experience I made the decision and am very happy that I completed this process.
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29 Jul, 2023 by Mary
Having worked in a law firm at one time, I feel that I know a little about what makes a good attorney. Terri Easlon is that attorney. She updated my estate plans in a very timely manner, and her manner was pleasant and efficient. I would give her the highest recommendation to anyone.
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14 Mar, 2024 by Bw.41
Tim made the process easy to understand and took the time to educate us about our trust. Both Tim & his staff were wonderful to work with and we would highly recommend him.
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14 Mar, 2024 by Ronc5690
Overall experience was handled in a professional & relaxing manner. Information was conveyed in a thorough and understandable way. Process was timely. His service is very recommendable.
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14 Mar, 2024 by Coreyc994
My wife and I just finished meeting with Tim Murphy on our Estate Plan and related Trust documents. With respect to Tim Murphy, we could not be happier or more satisfied. Tim obviously has years of experience, but the best part of our relationship so far is the way Tim communicates with his clients. Almost immediately, we felt as if we had known him for a long time. He made us feel at ease and explained everything in a professional yet personal manner. Another point that impressed us was how quickly Tim responded to our emails. You would be hard pressed to find anyone to handle your estate planning better than Tim Murphy.
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10 Jun, 2024 by Anonymous
My consultation with Vanessa was very helpful. During our call she informed me of some options I had when filing for eviction. I will definitely be back to hire her if I continue to have issues with my rentals.
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22 Mar, 2024 by Randall
Attorney Vanessa Amador is a brilliant lawyer who brings a rare combination of knowledge, skill, empathy, and dedication to her profession. I would highly recommend her to anyone in need of legal assistance. Her commitment to her clients and her craft is truly commendable.
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24 Jan, 2024 by Terri
Attorney Vanessa Amador exceeded my expectation as a "qualified and experienced" Attorney. She worked extremely hard on my case and was able to resolve my issue that was favorable to me. I would highly recommend her and her team for any Real Estate, Landlord, Tenant issue or Estate planning. Vanessa really knows her stuff. She's is a tough professional in a small frame. Vanessa was able to repeatedly get my case vacated in an Unlawful Detainer complaint that should had never been file. She was able to take on my case in a short time frame, filed an Ex-parte to have case vacated and succeeded. I am forever grateful for all her hard word. Vanessa deserves a recognition and an award for being such a GREAT attorney.
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07 May, 2021 by Heddy
The staff at the law offices of Daniel A. Hunt was very helpful and handled my legal matters with the utmost care and professionalism. I would highly recommend them to serve your legal needs.
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01 May, 2021 by Wes
I am a current client and this firm is the best of the best in Sacramento. They are currently helping to protect my grandmother who has been victimized by a live-in caregiver, who changed the locks on her house, and manipulated her to sign legal documents. Daniel's paralegal Miranda is exceptionally talented, bright, professional and friendly. I highly endorse using their office for any estate planning or probate need.
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18 Dec, 2020 by Jasmine
Craig Harris and Andrew Sanchez at Dan Hunt's office setup my trust documents. They were very diligent and provided excellent service. I will definitely recommend this firm to my family & friends.
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10 Jan, 2024 by David
My wife and I met with Anne Rosenthal twice to prepare a new estate trust. Our first visit was to organize the new estate trust. She was efficient and very helpful with details on creating a special section for our grandchild. The documents were created and sent over for review. They included everything we had requested. The second meeting was to sign the documents and, again, Anne Rosenthal was efficient and in about 30 minutes and job was done. About a week later we had a binder with the estate trust. From beginning to end the whole process took about three weeks to complete.
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16 Nov, 2023 by Anonymous
Professional, warm, upbeat, knowledgeable and patient. Anne is everything you could hope for in an Estate Attorney. My wife and I are very appreciative of her assistance with updating our estate, and would highly recommend her to others in our situation.
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08 May, 2023 by Sue
Purely a joy to work with. Patient and kind and well versed in any question we asked. Hopeful she stays with Drobny Law for a long time so we may have an opportunity to work with her again.
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15 Jan, 2025 by Lala mendes
Thank you for the legal help with my J1 waiver questions God bless you Mr Ranchod
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13 Jan, 2025 by Roselin
Cristian was really sweet and was able to get me in for a sooner appointment. I appreciate the help he has given us so far and look forward to working with this law group
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02 Jan, 2025 by Johnny
Muy buena gente leal. Son muy reales y en verdad nos cumplió un sueño muy grande y maravilloso a mi madre que ya tiene su residencia y puede viajar a México para volver a ver a su familia! El sueño Mexicano cumplido!!! Gracias a Dios! Feliz Año Nuevo 2025!
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10 May, 2022 by Anonymous
I contacted John as a fish-out-of-water in desperate need of a line, and he acted swiftly and insightfully. He took the time to answer all of my questions in a way that was easy for a "beginner" to understand. And when I had follow up questions, he did not hesitate to see my issue through. I found John very knowledgeable and generous and I highly recommend him!
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24 Jun, 2021 by Gregory
I knew nothing about probate law. When my brother died I owed it to him to be his Administrator and I wanted to do my best for the heirs to the estate. I called John Palley Probate Attorney. He and his assistant Danielle Swain guided me through the process. Any time I had a concern or a question, he was always available. He recommended a great probate realtor and the house sold in a week. He told me what I needed to do to set up an estate account. Have my brothers final taxes done. All the way through to the final petition being approved. Probate law is a complex step by step process. It requires an up to date competent probate lawyer. I would have been lost without John Palley and his team, they did a great job! Perhaps best of all, working with John I was able to fulfill my administrator duties working online, saving me from a dozen 800 mile round trips. Keep up the great work John!
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03 Feb, 2016 by Carol
I was told early on by an elderly kind attorney, that the probate process in California is no joke. As a matter of fact he indicated he no longer had the energy to do a full
Probate & suggested that I find someone that specializes in that area. So since the fees in California are statutory I set out to find the very best. And the best I found! I can't say enough about John Palley and his paralegal Danielle; actually everyone in that office who I had an interaction with. Words that come to mind........ caring, efficient, responsive, knowledgeable, dynamic. He is totally
on your team and steers you in the best direction for your situation. I had some other issues (probate related) come up during the process and John advised me on those as well. It was like being treated as a family member...in some instances better than a family member. I could go on and on and on. So I will just end this review by stating the obvious....... YOU ROCK JOHN PALLEY!!! You really do! Thank you from the bottom of my heart!
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25 Sep, 2021 by Angela
It was an absolute pleasure having Linda Dankman as my attorney. She along with her staff are very thorough, precise and knowledgeable. My first experience with her went so well I hired her a second time. I definitely would recommend her law firm.
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19 Aug, 2021 by Chantal and david
We really like Linda’s thorough explainations of all the legal provisions that affect our issue. She’s thoughtful, clear, translates laws into laymen’s lingo so we understand. And we like all the staff in Linda’s office who are very nice and respectful to us.
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06 Jun, 2017 by Jacob
Linda was excellent, professional, and took care of an unjust medical collections immediately. Wrote a very compelling lawyer that had the desired effect. The opposing side quickly admitted that they were wrong.
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25 Aug, 2022 by Anonymous
My parents and I had a wonderful experience working with Ed and his staff. My parents wanted to create a living trust and I wanted to find someone in the Sacramento area that spoke their native language (Cantonese and Taishanese). English is their 2nd language and it would be hard for them to fully comprehend some of those legal questions. I wanted them to feel comfortable in speaking and asking questions without a need for a translator. I’m very happy I was able to come across Ed’s business and after talking directly to him I felt he would be able to communicate just fine with my parents and we set up an initial meeting for my parents to see if they would like to work with him. The rest is history and my parents are overjoyed and I have peace of mind knowing that everything is in order for them.
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10 Aug, 2022 by Anonymous
My husband and I were delaying the process of putting together a living trust/will. At times it just seemed overwhelming and frankly, something we just didn't want to take the time to do. Obviously it is extremely important and when we finally decided to make the move to get this completed, we had a couple of lawyers in mind. After choosing Ed Fong, we were extremely pleased with our decision. He didn't talk to us like a lawyer. He has a down to earth demeanor and he effectively outlined the process. No questions that we had were ever treated as trivial or ridiculous. And the process was smooth and painless. His staff was always helpful and responsive and easy to talk to. We both highly recommend The Law Office of Ed Fong.
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01 Nov, 2021 by John k
My wife and I wanted to upgrade and have a review conducted of our trust that was established in the year 2000. Mr. Fong came very highly recommended by some friends. He and his team were incredibly professional and at the same time treated us with patience and courtesy. My wife and I both had some fairly significant questions about the trust and they were able to handle them without a problem. They completed the project and record time at a very reasonable cost. I would recommend this service and specifically the office of Ed Fong to anyone. Great job.
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05 Nov, 2018 by Sally
Mr. Ellison was extremely focused on what needed to be done, and the timetable to do the job well. Several times, he helped us negotiate surprises in the case with intelligence and humor, all the while being supportive of the overall goals. I would recommend him to anyone wanting a true professional.
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03 Dec, 2015 by Kimberly
Leland knows the law and the right questions to ask clients to be sure that their estate documents will do just what they want. I am a fellow lawyer and chose him to draft my trust. I'd recommend Leland anytime.
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03 Nov, 2015 by Bill
Mr. Ellision has assisted us with a number of services in his area of expertise as well as referrals to other lawyers when indicated. He is one of the best, if not the best, in his field! In one instance in particular, we would not have prevailed in a probate case without his expertise. Mr. Ellison is now, and will be for the forseeable future, our family attorney whenever we need services in his field of expertise.
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FAQs
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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:
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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.
