Lawyers map
>725
experienced lawyers
Filter by
16 Jul, 2017 by Anonymous
Roland was able to replace another attorney I hired in a probate matter quite quickly. That other attorney had made a lot of mistakes, and Roland spotted and corrected every one of them. I am eternally grateful. His support staff and firm are top notch as well.
Read more
05 May, 2016 by Donna
Roland Achtel has been representing me in a Trust/ Will litigation for the past two years. His representation has been of the highest quality possible and I highly recommend him for your estate plannings or any contesting that may arise.
Read more
19 Feb, 2013 by George
Roland did a thorough remake of our estate planning and wills. We were very impressed with the end product at a reasonable cost. I would recommend him.
Read more
05 Mar, 2020 by Terrence
Rob was referred to me and I very much appreciated his consultation on a real estate and estate planning matter. He has established expertise in these areas and provided reliable and thoughtful guidance based on the nuance of my situation. I highly recommend Rob and am glad to have him as a resource moving forward.
Read more
13 Dec, 2013 by Shaun sullivan
Mr. Dieringer is a true original. When I needed an estate planning attorney to assist me after the untimely passing of my father, I interviewed a number of attorneys in the field. Mr. Dieringer stood head and shoulders above the rest because of his intellect, zeal, and thoughtful consideration. More than any other attorney I've encountered, Mr. Dieringer internalizes the concerns of his clients and wrestles with them until reaching the soundest strategy. I know this based on nothing more than our discussions; but during all of them, he is so well-prepared and able to anticipate my ever concern, along with providing needed reassurances along the way, that I am confident in my gut instinct. Mr. Dieringer has heart to go with the brains. I won't refer an elder law case anywhere else.
Read more
05 Mar, 2014 by Alison
Patrick helped me with a neighbor dispute and he was very helpful. Although my case didn't have the outcome I was hoping for, Patrick did everything he could to help me with the dispute to the best extent possible given my limited resources. I would highly recommend Patrick as an Attorney.
Read more
28 May, 2010 by David
Patrick Tira has helped me in so many ways from helping me setup my corporation to helping me find a great accountant. He always gets back to me promptly whenever I have any questions or need some quick advice. I have and will continue to encourage everyone I know to work with Patrick Tira. He is by far the best advisor I could have ever asked for!
Read more
23 Oct, 2010 by Lindsay
Stephanie Lord did an outstanding job handling our estate planning (and all of the related documents) both immediately before and following the birth of our son. I HIGHLY recommend her and her firm's legal staff. We were initially intimidated by what seemed like a complicated process to set up our will and trust and all of the healthcare directives, etc. before our son's birth. We wanted to make sure everything was in order in the event of an emergency during labor or an unforeseen event during our son's adolescence. Stephanie explained the complicated rules and documents in CLEAR terms and took care of everything for us. We had one brief meeting to sign documents before our son was born, and then another brief meeting to sign our will and trust documentation following his birth. Stephanie also provided information and simple instructions outside of those meetings to help us prepare. We were blown away by how smooth the process was once we arrived at Stephanie's office. ALL of the documents were prepared and ready for signature and a paralegal was standing by to make copies following our signatures. Stephanie was present at both meetings to explain everything we were signing. We left with a user-friendly binder containing copies of all documents, a very clear understanding of how our estate was set up according to our wishes, and simple steps for how to transfer our existing assets to the trust. Several months later, Stephanie also stepped in to handle the purchase of our home in the name of our trust. If you are looking for an easy process, quick and understandable responses to all of your questions, and the perfect estate plan for your needs, call Stephanie! The added bonus is that her rates are also very reasonable!
Read more
04 May, 2009 by Anonymous
I used Stephanie to prepare my will and trust. This was during an unusually stressful time of my life. Stephanie handled the preparation of my trust in the most professional manner with a sensitivity to my issues.She was always available for my questions and responed very quickly with any requests I had. I am extreemly happpy with my trust and would recommond her to anyone he needs a excellent lawyer
Read more
25 Jun, 2016 by Stephanie
We did our family trust before our boys were born. Once they were born we realized that some of the plans we had made if something happened to us needed to be changed. We were referred to Lucas to review our trust. He helped us amend our trust and do new documents. He was professional and knowledgeable. We are glad we met him and appreciate his help with our documents.
Read more
23 Oct, 2015 by Melissa
I was Attorney Woodward 's first client when he was fresh out of law school. He protected me, my inheritance and stopped opposing counsel harassment.
Read more
26 Jun, 2020 by Frances
I found Attorney Middleton and her office assistant to very professional yet easy to communicate with. All questions were answered and call backs were done in a timely manner. I found her to be very knowledgeable and extremely helpful in completing court documents and filings.
Read more
15 Nov, 2017 by Bridgette
Antoinette Middleton successfully guided me through a legal process that I was unfamiliar with. She was always prepared for meetings and court apprearances. I appreciated her professionalism, and compassion during times when I did not think I would make it through the difficulties of my case.
Antoinette informed me of resources that will help me fulfill my duties as trustee of my mother's estate. She also informed me of organizations that I should contact for support.
The case was determined in my favor and I will trust her in the future should any legal needs arise.
Read more
23 May, 2021 by Diana
We highly recommend Ashley Teague for estate planning. We found her based on her stellar reviews and after looking specifically for an estate planning specialist. We were impressed by her level of organization, knowledge, and attention to detail. She was patient and knew how to explain things very well, given this was the first time creating an estate plan. She made what could have been a stressful process as seamless as possible.
Read more
19 Apr, 2018 by Kelly
I went to Ashley with a business situation that had potential legal ramifications. In working with her, I found her extremely knowledgeable, professional and personable. She has the unique ability to relate to clients. She was thorough and able to review the situation from all angles. She offered sound legal advice that was easy to follow. These situations are often really stressful, but Ashley walked me through every step until I felt at ease. She's very skillful at breaking down complex legal concepts into layman's terms. I very highly recommend using her as an attorney.
Read more
09 Apr, 2015 by Anonymous
Just when I thought all hope was lost,as if by divine intervention I was referred to Mr Scheingross. From the start he showed the most experience, professionalism and caring attitude. Mr Scheingross will fight for your rights, keep you informed and walk you step by step of the process while been very compassionate. He explained all my options in easy to understand language. Everyone at the office is kind and helpful. I'm forever greatful. I HIGHLY RECOMMEND HIM!
Read more
31 Mar, 2015 by Alisa
Alex Scheingross has been my father's and my attorney since 1998. He created a trust for my dad which was thorough and trouble-free when my dad passed last year. He and his assistant have always been there during the many years of my dad's illness: availability, kindness, and legalities (POAs, trust amendments, etc.). Mr. Scheingross also helped me every step of the way when my dad passed - from guiding me as the executor to recording properties to dealing with family issues.
Mr. Scheingross also created my trust in 1999 and has been patient with all the changes I have requested as a result of my sons reaching adulthood and my need to have everything in place for my sons.
Last but not least, Mr. Scheingross finalized my divorce in 1999 after numerous attorneys gave me the run around and cost me a fortune.
If you want a fair, patient, intelligent, and caring attorney give him a call.
Read more
19 Sep, 2015 by Anonymous
I was impressed with his communications with me, and availability. He's a great writer and did great in court and the eventual mediation, where we reached a great settlement. Nice guy.
Read more
26 Jan, 2008 by Anonymous
Mr. Ritaccio is a higly skilled environmental lawyer. At first he was retained to only help with the permit process for one of our major development projects and to make sure we were in compliance with all NY and FED environmental regulations. His performance was timely and exact. As it turned out Mr. Ritaccio also has a talent with negotiating and we continue to use him for settlement conferences and hearings for several of our projects.
We found great benefits from having an attorney that not only performs transactional work, but is also able to handle the related litigation.
Read more
21 Jul, 2014 by Anonymous
Matt, as he encouraged me to call him, helped me tremendously with a tax problem I was having. He instantly put me at ease with his calm demeanor, asked me all the details of my case, and explained how we were going to proceed. And that is exactly how my case got resolved. He is confident, professional, competent, and also a nice guy. I recommend him to everyone.
Read more
22 Aug, 2013 by Joe
Matt is an artist when it comes to the law. He is attentive, knowledgeable, and pays attention to detail. His cost structure was great because he doesn't charge for every little phone call. I would definitely recommend him to someone that needs business attorney.
Read more
23 May, 2017 by Mika
My husband and I worked with William Sauls to establish our family trust. He was very knowledgeable and professional and answered all of our questions and concerns. He made the process effortless. We are so pleased with his services and highly recommend William Sauls and his firm to our family and friends.
Read more
10 Sep, 2013 by Anonymous
I am a retired attorney and needed to update my estate plan. Bill was very efficient and did a super job.
He is very professional and knows a great deal about this area of the law. I would highly recommend him to anyone.
Read more
02 Sep, 2011 by Ronnie
I have worked with a few lawyers before but none have given me the courtesy and respect that I deserve. She was informative and treated me like a person, not just a client. More lawyers should be like her and take the customers feelings into account.
Read more
25 Jul, 2011 by Marie
Alexia has done some fantastic work for my LLC, both interpreting and creating a wide variety of agreements, (Licensing, Publishing, Employment, etc). She exceeding my expectations in regard to turn around time, responsiveness and overall legal knowledge. Her ability to get to the issue and present resolutions is uncanny. Through working with her I feel I truly have an advocate for the continued success of my business. I've become accustomed to go to her first for all of my legal needs whether business related or personal, and I will continue to recommended her to my colleagues as well as friends and family.
Read more
12 Jun, 2019 by Steven
Albert provided excellent service, demonstrating professionalism and attention to details when preparing my living trust package. Gr
Read more
22 Mar, 2019 by Anonymous
Albert was great to work with and helped me with my Living Trust. He knew exactly what to ask and how to make the process simple. His turn around is very quick, and he is very professional. It was a great experience.
Read more
19 Mar, 2024 by Jorie amato
We called Deja with some questions about our situation, and she was quite knowledgeable! Also fast to answer our call! She didn't rush us and made us feel heard, and validated. She speaks with such expertise, and explains things in a way non-legal folk understand. We really appreciate her time and recommend her for legal care!
Read more
15 Dec, 2023 by Mercedes castro
Attorney Correia is a wonderful and knowledgable attorney. Clients are lucky to have her representation. She puts clients first and gives nothing less than 100% of her time and effort. She is results driven and ensures that her clients needs are met in a timely fashion.
Read more
24 Oct, 2020 by Tom
Mr. Sullivan provided legal services to me in connection with my business. He handled the incorporation, and advised on several matters. I found his help to be practical and to-the-point. I have recommended him to my friends and associates.
Read more
22 Nov, 2014 by Brenda
The first time I met Tim, I knew I was in good hands.
Referred by a friend of mine. And she was right. Tim is great!
I will be returning to Tim with any further questions or concerns. I may have.
Thank you, Tim.
Read more
26 Mar, 2015 by Kelli
I needed help with a complex short-sale issue and Michael was the right guy for the job. Sharp guy that knew his trade. My realtor referred me to Michael and I was so glad he did. Thanks again Mike!
Read more
08 Mar, 2013 by Corky
After years of not knowing why I paid so much in taxes, I found Michael DaSilva..I have since not only gotten refunds, but he went back 3 years and straightened out those taxes as well.. I will NEVER use anyone else..EVER..Honest, sympathetic, smart and updated on everything, this is a lawyer who takes the time to explain anything and everything you don't understands, and translates it into terms I could understand..He's been my GO TO guy for the last 10 years..Ive recommended him to many others who continue to thank me for the referral..He is by far..simply THE BEST!
Read more
23 May, 2016 by Val
Debra Scheufler is an excellent attorney, a great listener and enjoyable to work with. My business partner and I worked with Debra for many years. She incorporated our small business and met with us on many occasions to discuss many business oriented matters. Ms. Scheufler always emphasized the importance of memorializing conversations, verbal agreements and events when dealing with clientele. This has been extremely useful throughout the years and is poignant to a business matter we are dealing with at the moment. Debra is well versed in her profession and is also a well rounded person with diverse interests and accomplishments that make her even that more dynamic to work with. I would highly recommend her to anyone who wants competency, clear communication and a great lawyer to business relationship.
Read more
17 Dec, 2015 by Rob
I have had the pleasure of Debra Scheufler representing me for over 16 years. She has assisted me with Limited Liability Corporations for business and real estate ventures as well as personal legal matters. She has helped and made my Mother feel very comfortable while setting up her last will and testament as well as through a taxing legal issue. Debra responds quickly with professionalism and always has insightful advice. But most importantly Debra simply cares. She is a woman of grace and compassion. Those qualities are just as important as her knowledge, experience, efficiency and her strength. I always feel I am getting the best and ethical work in any concern when working with Debra Scheufler.
“Debra Scheaufler has represented me for many years in business, real estate and personal legal matters. She responds quickly with professional and insightful advice. Debra helped my elderly mom through a taxing legal issue as well with grace and compassion.”
Read more
04 Jan, 2016 by William
I engaged the services of Mr. Barnier to construct a contract for the sale of my business. He completed his task with speed and thoroughness. I expected this from any professional. What I did not anticipate was his continued support and advice long throughout the process. Many times before the sale was complete, David stepped in to facilitate the transaction. I am greatly indebted to Mr. Barnier for all his good work.
Read more
08 Oct, 2015 by Anonymous
We hired David to address our rights associated with a family member’s estate plan. David took care to note our goals and concerns during the lawsuit, efficiently negotiated a resolution that was consistent with our goals, and kept us updated throughout the process. I would definitely recommend David should you have a similar need.
A.L., San Diego
Read more
30 Jun, 2010 by Randy
joe and his firm are excellent to work with. they have helped us tremendously in our business and personal lives. our profits at work are up unbelieveably, they have helped reduce my taxes and yet put money away that is asset protected. a great firm to work with....
Read more
24 Jun, 2010 by Julie
Joe Strazzeri has guided us through various matters over the course of our relationship and always with the same good humor, creativity, wisdom and insight to our needs. He has a remarkable way of simplifying the complexity of legal stuff and developing a plan of action that is specific and unique to our situation.
Read more
09 Dec, 2014 by Matt
I was referred to Anna by a friend. I needed some legal forms written up and gone over with me. I was also in somewhat of a hurry. Anna was very thorough in explaining everything to me and she was extremely hardworking. She had the forms ready for me in half the time the other attorneys said it would take. She was also very knowledgable in the matter at hand which made me feel safe and protected. I am very thankful for Anna and if you need legal help she is the best.
Read more
12 Nov, 2014 by Lauren
I needed a few things taken care of legally and I really didn't know where to start. Anna was so knowledgable about exactly what I needed to do and how she could help me. I was calling her with questions all the time and she was always so helpful and kept telling me to call her if I had any other questions! I recommend Anna to all my friends and family anytime someone needs legal advice as she is the best attorney I have come across.
Read more
14 Aug, 2019 by Changgeun
Bob is not your average attorney. He is genuinely concerned with the clients' situations. I have known him for more than 15 years with mutual clients etc. He is real.
Read more
14 Jul, 2016 by Shaun
I have known and worked with Mr. Aljabi for over ten years. He is an excellent business/corporate attorney and I recommend him to anyone in need of competent, thorough representation. He has handled many cases successfully that I have referred to him throughout Southern California.
Read more
16 Dec, 2011 by Lisa
Ms. Bowler is not only extremely intelligent and knowledgeable she is exceptionally good at communicating with her clients. When dealing with issues such as debt, and collections it can be overwhelming, embarrassing and just plane confusing. Kerina walked us through every step and explained all our options. Best Lawyer in San Diego.
Read more
12 Jul, 2013 by Anonymous
I would definately reccomend Ronald F. Woods for legal help. He was helpful, courteous and attentive to my concerns.
Read more
22 Jan, 2014 by Pam
We worked with Elizabeth on our trust and she was thorough, knowledgable about regulations and a pleasure to deal with on the task.
Read more
17 Jun, 2014 by Sydney
Palecek, Morrison, and Associates helped me build my business. They were skilled, professional, and incredibly knowledgeable on everything corporate. They understand business needs and are able to give quick advice and make you feel empowered in your decision making. I would absolutely send anyone over to PMA LAW for business law over anyone else.
Read more
11 Oct, 2019 by Paula
Carly Surber (now Maganuco) helped me at the law firm of Philip Lindsley and San Diego Elder Law. She was both completely professional and down-to-earth, highly accurate and warmly responsive, prompt in replying to emails and calls, and generally a comfort following my husband's death. She has excellent interpersonal skills and is one of those rare pros who makes you feel like you are her only client, even though you know better. Can't say enough!
Read more
30 Dec, 2010 by Anonymous
I was impressed with his soft spoken and thoughtful manner. He understands the law well and also understands people.
Read more
17 Jan, 2013 by Claudia
Leah Clifton Calica created my parents' trusts and did their wills. They thought very highly of her and so do I! They have both died and now their trust is in place.
Read more
13 Nov, 2019 by James
In 2006, my father passed away in WV and I needed to have a Living Trust prepared for both the assets I inherited and existing assets in California. She was able to contact a local attorney in WV to help with their local laws and procedures when I had to travel to change the deeds into my Living Trust. Very efficient and quicker than I expected.
Read 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:
-
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.
