Filter by

Gwendolyn Powell Braswell, experienced Estate Planning attorney in Saint Joseph, MI with 25 reviews
Average
info
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.
44,09
star star star star star
5.0/5
Avvo
5.0
2 Reviews
Google Maps
5.0
23 Reviews
star star star star star
11 Nov, 2024 by K kutschbach
Gwendolyn, Emma and Heather were absolutely wonderful to work with!! They were all professional, knowledgeable and friendly!! We weren't sure what to expect once we decided to investigate estate planning. The team at Legacy Counsel made the process so easy and completely tailored to our family. From the first call, to questions on completing the information packet prior to our meeing with Gwendolyn, the meeting where she explained everything fully, right through to the document signing and final pick up of our documents was just a really good experience. Highly recommend the Legacy Counsel team.
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
25 Oct, 2024 by Judy rose
Gwendolyn was very thorough explaining all of the information pertaining to our will and assuring she addressed all of our concerns. After the documents were completed she scheduled a second meeting to review, page by page, all documents to verify all of the information was correct. We left feeling assured that Legacy Counsel will be there to help address any changes in the future and will be there for our children in the event of our passing.
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
23 Sep, 2024 by Fawn bass
If you are trying to decide who to use for your estate planning attorney, we highly recommend Gwendolyn! Gwendolyn and her support team - Emma, as well as Heather, provide great service. They explain your options clearly and customize them for you with the information you provide prior to your first meeting. We learned quite a bit from them pertaining to estate planning. No one really wants to plan for when they are gone but after completing our estate planning, we think everyone should seriously consider taking that first step, Gwendolyn makes it easy to understand and Emma guides you through the process. They are friendly, knowledgeable, and professional and you should utilize their firm.
Read more Google Maps
See more
Stephen William Smith, experienced Business, Estate Planning attorney in Saint Joseph, MI with 2 reviews
Average
info
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.
39,00
star star star star star
5.0/5
Google Maps
5.0
2 Reviews
star star star star star
06 Dec, 2019 by Shirley feora
I could shop there all day p people are very helpful that work there
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
06 Mar, 2019 by Joyce mccort
Google Maps
See more
Mabel Johnson Mayfield, experienced Estate Planning, Family Law attorney in Saint Joseph, MI with 1 reviews
Average
info
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.
35,00
star star star star star
5.0/5
Google Maps
5.0
1 Reviews
star star star star star
30 Apr, 2015 by Giles d
Dedicated, caring, powerful, persuasive! Just a couple words that sum up Attorney Richard G. Sammis. He knows his stuff and is passionate about his craft. If you need an attorney, this is the man to see!
Read more Google Maps
See more
Roger A. Petzke, experienced Estate Planning attorney in Saint Joseph, MI with 5 reviews
Below Average
info
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.
28,39
star star star star star
4.2/5
Google Maps
4.2
5 Reviews
star star star star star
04 Sep, 2023 by Luann sandmire
Google Maps
star star star star star
05 Mar, 2022 by Nicole dohm
Google Maps
star star star star star
15 Oct, 2019 by Kevin hine
Google Maps
See more
Blair M. Johnson, experienced Estate Planning, Family Law attorney in Saint Joseph, MI with 86 reviews
Below Average
info
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.
26,85
star star star star star
4.5/5
Google Maps
4.5
86 Reviews
star star star star star
04 Jan, 2025 by Al raya
I want to thank you for your outstanding work, You went beyond my expectation. I couldn’t have done it without you. You truly are a brilliant person made of incredible analytical, intelligent and people skills. Thank so much for your hard work and dedication! You reunited me with my boys and I couldn’t be more thankful for your hard efforts.
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
11 Dec, 2024 by Bill robison
Peter Johnson is the best.
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
03 Dec, 2024 by Joshua heron
So I found Blair Law via google when I needed to hire an attorney for a case in Van Buren County. He was a random choice I found online with decent reviews and ended up being by far one of the best attorneys that I have ever hired! He is a beast in the courtroom and really has things well laid out and handles business! My experience with Blair has been nothing but 5 star and honestly the man deserves 10 stars for everything he has done but 5 is all there is. He is easy to talk to about everything, he listens well and very well organized. Being that I’m from Alabama and dealing with a custody case in Michigan, working with him over the phone, email, and the Clio portal has been so easy and straightforward! Making payments to his office is easy and sending the documents necessary is flawless in my opinion as a computer guy. He is affordable and isn’t one of those attorneys that just bleed you with bills! In my experience he will work with you best he can. Absolutely the man to contact if you are looking for a bad ass attorney that will handle business for you! Truly an amazing person that has his client’s best interest in mind and definitely goes the extra mile. Definitely talks to you like a person and makes you feel like more of a friend than a client. I definitely highly recommend him as an attorney and if I ever need to hire an attorney in Michigan again I won’t go anywhere else that’s for sure! So if you need an attorney for anything he practices you definitely won’t be disappointed by the job he does!
Read more Google Maps
See more
Kurt M. Armstrong, experienced Estate Planning, Family Law attorney in Saint Joseph, MI with 81 reviews
Below Average
info
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.
26,25
star star star star star
4.4/5
Google Maps
4.4
81 Reviews
star star star star star
12 Feb, 2025 by Cyber wolf
Gennel and Mary have been there the whole way. Highly recommended
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
31 Jan, 2025 by Michelle colcord
I have worked with Mr. Neal. He is very professional and very patient. I will hire him again in the future.
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
31 Jan, 2025 by Shelby bohland
Brendan Neal was so great to work with-quick and easy communication. He did a Quit Claim Deed to add my spouse to our home, and also did a will and some other legal documents we wanted completed. Very happy with Mr. Neal and his team for making this process easy to navigate!
Read more Google Maps
See more
Jason Engram, experienced Criminal Defense, Elder Law attorney in Saint Joseph, MI with 7 reviews
Below Average
info
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.
13,20
star star star star star
2.9/5
Google Maps
2.9
7 Reviews
star star star star star
27 Jun, 2023 by Bev zwar
Google Maps
star star star star star
18 Oct, 2022 by Noah havlin
I don't know what these bad reviews or about. I had a really bad felony charge. He took my case from the Public Defender's office, when I had a problem with them. Even though they asked him to take my file, he work and he filed motions, and made some of my witnesses appear, and testify. The prosecutor found out the person accusing me was nothing but a liar, and they dismissed my case.
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
18 Oct, 2022 by Mary tinsley
Google Maps
See more
Reinhold Schroeder, experienced Elder Law, Estate Planning attorney in Saint Joseph, MI with 0 reviews
Below Average
info
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
star star star star star
0.0/5
See more
Jordan Douglas Florian, experienced Business, Estate Planning attorney in Saint Joseph, MI with 0 reviews
Below Average
info
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
star star star star star
0.0/5
See more
Jack M. Struwin, experienced Business, Criminal Defense attorney in Saint Joseph, MI with 0 reviews
Below Average
info
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
star star star star star
0.0/5
See more
Jonathan B. Sauer, experienced Business, Elder Law attorney in Saint Joseph, MI with 0 reviews
Below Average
info
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.
0,00
star star star star star
0.0/5
See more
William M. Engeln, experienced Business, Estate Planning attorney in Saint Joseph, MI with 0 reviews
Below Average
info
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.
0,00
star star star star star
0.0/5
See more
Patricia A. Moss, experienced Business, Entertainment attorney in Saint Joseph, MI with 0 reviews
Below Average
info
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.
0,00
star star star star star
0.0/5
See more
Howard H Kahne, experienced Business, Estate Planning attorney in Saint Joseph, MI with 0 reviews
Below Average
info
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.
0,00
star star star star star
0.0/5
See more
Thomas R. Betker, experienced Criminal Defense, Estate Planning attorney in Saint Joseph, MI with 0 reviews
Below Average
info
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.
0,00
star star star star star
0.0/5
See more
James Anthony Mollison, experienced Estate Planning attorney in Saint Joseph, MI with 0 reviews
Below Average
info
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.
0,00
star star star star star
0.0/5
See more
Simon Peter Hoffmann, experienced Consumer Protection, Elder Law attorney in Saint Joseph, MI with 0 reviews
Below Average
info
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.
0,00
star star star star star
0.0/5
See more
Katherine M Cotter, experienced Estate Planning attorney in Saint Joseph, MI with 0 reviews
Below Average
info
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.
0,00
star star star star star
0.0/5
See more
Brian S. Berger, experienced Estate Planning, Family Law attorney in Saint Joseph, MI with 0 reviews
Below Average
info
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.
0,00
star star star star star
0.0/5
See more
Mike Davis, experienced Civil Rights, Criminal Defense attorney in Saint Joseph, MI with 0 reviews
Below Average
info
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.
0,00
star star star star star
0.0/5
See more
Hannah Kathleen Scruton, experienced Estate Planning, Family Law attorney in Saint Joseph, MI with 0 reviews
Below Average
info
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.
0,00
star star star star star
0.0/5
See more
Robert B. Lutz, experienced Estate Planning, Family Law attorney in Saint Joseph, MI with 0 reviews
Below Average
info
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.
0,00
star star star star star
0.0/5
See more
Daniel Alan Petersen Jr., experienced Elder Law, Estate Planning attorney in Saint Joseph, MI with 0 reviews
Below Average
info
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.
0,00
star star star star star
0.0/5
See more
Discover the ideal lawyer
You can search a lawyer by practice area, lawyer name, city, state, or ZIP code
FAQs
Questions? We have answers

What an Estate Planning Lawyer Can Do for You

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

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

When Should I Hire an Estate Planning Lawyer?

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

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

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

What Does an Estate Planning Lawyer Do?

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

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

How Are Estate Planning Lawyers Paid?

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

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

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

How Much Does an Estate Planning Lawyer Cost?

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

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

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

Top Questions to Ask an Estate Planning Lawyer

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

  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.

Scroll to top