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29 Aug, 2024 by Victor
MY EXPERIENCE WITH JAMES LAW FIRM WAS THE BEST EXPERIENCE I EVER HAD WITH ATTORNEY OFFICES . THE TEADON WHY IS BECAUSE THE WAY THEY TREAT THERE CUSTOMERS LIKE QUEENS AND KINGS , JAMES ALSO UNEXPECTELY GOT ME EXTRA MONEY THAT WAS UNEXPECTED AND HELPED OUT UBUNDANTLY, SUCH AN AWESOME SERVICE I CAN NEVER FORGET AND SUCH GREAT STAFF WERE HONESTY AND INTEGRITY ARE ROLES THEY LIVE BY EVERYDAY .
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28 Aug, 2024 by Jada musgrove
Caleb is a Excellent and Professional Attorney. He will go above and beyond to get the results you deserve! Had a great experience. Thanks Caleb !
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20 Aug, 2024 by Josh erdman
The team at James McKiernan lawyers are highly competent. I referred a coworker to them and her situation was well handled.
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04 Oct, 2016 by Anonymous
Recently, while consulting our financial advisor, it was learned that we had no Will, no Advance Health Care Directives, no POA's, nor a Special Needs Trust for our disabled adult son. Our advisor pointed us straight to Chris Toews and Ann Murphy, whose firm, Toews & Murphy in San Luis Obispo, specialize in all of the above. Initially, we consulted with Chris so that we may ask questions and get some understanding of how it all works. Chris was so knowledgeable! He was not in a hurry, offered expert information to us, and put us completely at ease. Because there were so many unfamiliar documents, his partner, Ann Murphy met with us at a later date when the documents needed to be signed and notarized. She carefully explained each of the documents, again, taking her time and never rushing us, and made the task very informational, and enjoyable. The front office staff is also outstanding, cheerful, and efficient, making it a pleasure to call the office. The entire experience with this firm made my husband and me feel as if our concerns were the most important things on their calendars. At the end of the process, and in a short amount of time, we were handed a beautifully bound compilation of our new Family Trust, with each part delineated and organized for us. We cannot say enough about how we were handled by the Wonderful Team at Toews & Murphy! We highly recommend this firm!
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02 Aug, 2015 by Anonymous
Some years after the death of my father, my mother was referred to Mr. Toews for estate planning. He has become our "to go to man". When issues arise about family trusts, ligation, estate taxes and securing assets upon death, Mr. Toews has been on task 100 percent. He has treated our family with complete respect and honesty. Legal and tax laws are intidimating for a lay person but Mr. Toews has demonstrated patience and an ability to simplify the information. Professionally, he and his office display a standard of excellence. Seeing the preparation needed for my mothers estate I have utilized his expertise. I have peace knowing family estate planning is securely in place and trusted consultation is available.
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15 Apr, 2015 by Anonymous
This attorney came highly recommended by a two people I work with locally. On my first call I was helped immediately by an associate and very impressed with her knowledge and manner. I was informed that Mr. Toew is the only tax attorney in San Luis Obispo who has his level of certification. I was greatly relieved after dealing with their office and felt that I was in great hands with my tax circumstance.
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11 Aug, 2018 by Bob and linda
Several years ago we hired Stephen Hall to write the documents for our estate. Since then we have retained him for counsel regarding gift-giving and other items throughout the years with the latest issue being the distribution of our father’s estate. When our father died with full blown dementia he left control of his sizable estate and a portion of his holdings to an unlicensed caregiver who had being living with him for a few years. Mr. Hall immediately petitioned the court to have the person removed as trustee. In the courtroom we found Stephen to be an experienced and well prepared negotiator, he sited where the State of California form to leave an inheritance to a caregiver had not been filled out and past cases where abuse occurred; he then met our objective to have the estate put safely in the hands of a fiduciary. Stephen was confident, authoritative and direct. When we met with the caregiver in mediation to resolve the issue of their inheritance Stephen sized up the possible outcomes as new information came to light and counseled us on our options. It came to the point where we had to make a pretty tough decision. Stephen was professional and supportive as he counseled us on the monetary, emotional and time costs to us if we went to trial. This was helpful in making our decision. Stephen Hall is a man who open and above board in every aspect of his dealings. His high moral fiber comes to surface as you work through a process with him. He is committed to giving his clients the best service from himself as well as from his staff.
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26 Mar, 2017 by Randy
When my aging parents needed help with their estate planning I set out to interview attorneys for the job of reviewing and updating their existing trust. I gathered recommendations from other professionals in the community, and Stephen Hall was one of three that I met with for initial consultation. While the other two attorneys I met with were more than competent to handle the job, Mr. Hall stood head and shoulders above them both. Mr. Hall's in-depth knowledge of not only the law, but of estate tax issues as well, is a combination that I have not found with any other attorney. He asked questions none of the other attorneys asked, and provided ideas that none of the other attorneys offered either. It was a crystal clear decision to hire Mr. Hall. Since the initial work with my parent's trust, we have had him work on our own family trust, as well as my wife's parents. I have recommended him to anyone who asks, and without exception people have been profoundly pleased with the work of this office. Not only is Mr. Hall one of the most knowledgeable attorneys I've ever worked with, but his staff are all highly professional, competent, and responsive. I cannot recommend this team highly enough.
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12 Apr, 2019 by Jackie
Charron has been my attorney for more than 20 years, she is extremely efficient. She set up my trust & will & has always been able to answer any question that I have had. Charron's staff has always been very pleasant & helpful. I would highly recommend this attorney.
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05 Oct, 2016 by Anonymous
Recently, while consulting our financial advisor, it was learned that we had no Will, no Advance Health Care Directives, no POA's, nor a Special Needs trust for our disabled adult son. Our advisor pointed us straight to Chris Toews and Ann Murphy, whose firm, Toews & Murphy in San Luis Obispo, specialize in all of the above. Initially, we met with Chris so that we may ask questions and get some understanding of how it all works. Chris was so knowledgeable! He was not in a hurry, offered expert information to us and put us completely at ease. Because there were so many unfamiliar documents, his partner, Ann Murphy met with us at a later date when the documents needed to be signed and notarized. She carefully explained all of the documents, again, taking her time and never rushing us, and made the task very informational, and enjoyable. The front office staff is also outstanding, cheerful, and efficient, making it a pleasure to call the office. The entire experience with this firm made my husband and me feel as if our concerns were the most important things on their calendars. At the end of the process, and in a short amount of time, we were handed a beautifully bound compilation of our new Family Trust, with each part delineated and organized for us. We cannot say enough about how we were handled by the Wonderful Team at Toews & Murphy! Highly recommended!
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26 Jan, 2013 by Anonymous
Shannon really understood my case and handled it quickly and professionally saving me a great deal of money.
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06 Mar, 2013 by Anonymous
Anne did a tremendous job mediating a nasty intra-family probate and estate situation. She was tough when she needed to be, but treated all parties with utmost respect. She gave us peace of mind and guidance about how to deal with the situation, as well as acting as our attorney to handle the specifics. I would highly recommend her.
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18 Feb, 2024 by Andy m.
Unique among attorneys.... Duncan is HONEST, and INTELLIGENT. He is also a brilliant litigator. I will consult with Counselor Skogsberg from now on. This review format only offers five stars, but he gets 10 out of 10.
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16 Mar, 2021 by Elleana gonzalez - mohsenian
17 Nov, 2017 by Elsa comulada
Mr Skogsberg was highly recommended, thank you Dawn.
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01 Aug, 2024 by Brian
Ed Attala has helped my family with several estate, trust, contract and general law items and has always been professional and timely with our needs!
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01 Aug, 2024 by Julie
Ed Attala is an excellent attorney. My family has been working with him for several years for our estate planning. He is professional, knowledgeable and is very patient in explaining the details of our trust. He and his office staff are proactive and quick to respond. Ed goes above and beyond for his clients and I highly recommend him.
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01 Aug, 2024 by Matthew
I have worked with Mr. Attala for the past 12 years on complex estate planning documents and real estate entity operating agreements. His advice and work has always been correct the first time, he is easy to talk to and easy to understand. I have always been more than happy with his work, advice and integrity. I would not hesitate to recommend him to a family member or close a friend.
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30 Oct, 2022 by Tim mclaughlin
From setting up a family trust, preparing leases, and representing me in difficult situations, they are always there for me. I would highly recommend this Office. Call them first!
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18 Aug, 2022 by Dan parker-king
Tardiff & Saldo Law Offices know their stuff. After a relative passed away, their house, pension, and bank accounts were a mess due to a poorly planned estate by a different attorney. We should have gone to Tyler. Tyler sat down with us, and patiently sorted through the documents, and provided us with a path forward. I definitely recommend talking to Tardiff & Saldo about estate planning BEFORE someone passes away.
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13 Sep, 2016 by Ashley gorshack
Kevin Owens is top-notch in his field. He is an estate and probate attorney. Kevin gives you comfort in knowing that your affairs are in order and that your family is taken care of exactly how you would like them to be. If you're looking to update a trust that is 4 or more years old, or just get the ball rolling on a trust, I'd highly recommend Kevin Owens.
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02 Apr, 2024 by Shawna
I was a new case. She charged a lot, which was expected. I wish that she would have spent some time explaining a little bit more about how to handle things with my ex, who I thought was supposed to communicate with her, but chose not too. But I really wasn't explained anything. Instead she charged me for every email she opened. About $40 to read an email. We had a trial. She didn't prepare me for the trail, even though I did ask in advance. The Commissioner who was on the bench at the time asked more appropriate questions of the opposing parties witnesses, than she did. My ex was pro per. I had the lawyer. And yet the ex had more working in his favor, because my lawyer didn't do enough. I brought 2 witnesses to that hearing. 1 was a very credible witness who knew and seen a lot, one was nervous and shy. She called the nervous and shy witness and not the witnesses who had the greater information. She was preparing to go on a trip at that time. So maybe she didn't care as much about that case, because she was mentally already on her trip. I don't know. What I do know, is that when I realized the acting commissioner did a better job asking questions of my ex's witnesses (to try to bring some fairness into the case), than she did, I was hurt. I parted ways with her shortly afterwards. I then went pro per from then on for the next 6+ years. I ended up doing better being on my own, then working with her. So she might be worth it for you. But she wasn't worth it for me.
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31 Aug, 2015 by Robert
I hired Ms. Curtze to be my attorney for custody matters. I was using another attorney locally and was not getting good results, so I switched to her office. Curtze Law was a great help. She was able to get me the results that I wanted in a classy fashion. I felt like I was respected and my concerns were heard and listened to. I am very happy here and would highly recommend. The response time was always quick and the staff was helpful. She explained the process so I could understand, the pros and cons and obtained the best results for me that I could ask for.
Thank you to this firm. Highly recommend.
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20 Aug, 2014 by Randy
I could not be more pleased with the service that Ms. Curtze provided to me. She kept me up to date on everything and stayed in contact with me throughout the process until the case was settled. I never thought I would say this about a lawyer, but she was a joy to work with. I would recommend her to anyone who needs legal help.
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23 Jul, 2024 by Amelia t
Jeffrey Stulberg is a fantastic lawyer and an even better human. Jeffrey is honest, diligent, & determined to get the best possible outcome. He is easy to work with and his demeanor is backed by integrity and kindness. Jeffrey has always gone above and beyond for me and maintains consistent communication throughout the entire process. This man is a true professional and an incredible attorney. Thank you Jeffrey for everything you did for me. I will gladly recommend Jeffrey and his staff to anyone in need of an amazing law office.
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15 Mar, 2023 by Jessica watson
My first and only phone conversation with Jeff was awful. He didn’t listen to anything I said and he made me feel as if I were being interrogated instead of carrying out a conversation about a very sensitive matter I needed help with. This could have been a great case for him to take on, but he didn’t give me the chance to let him know about my case, because he abruptly hung up on me and told me to hire a different attorney. no empathy and overall unprofessional.
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02 Mar, 2023 by Gail niemann
Jeffrey Stulberg is the best! He is fast, efficient, and gets the job done. We were being held hostage by our Vacation Rental Company, which would not allow us to sell our house with our Realtor of choice. The Vacation Rental Company stated we were bound to them, and they were the only ones that could sell our home. Jeffrey Stulberg told them the Real Estate laws and quickly corrected that issue.
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01 Apr, 2022 by Shane
Central Coast Estate Planning and the legal help of Jed Hazeltine were outstanding in helping me and my siblings work through the complexities of a family estate issue in the area. I live remote to the area and contacted Jed after an internet search. He was able to quickly assess the situation and provide a recommended legal courses of action. Throughout the process, I was supported with savvy legal advice and strategic recommendations. He or one of his team were always quick to respond, easy to follow and the quality of the legal submissions were spot on. I was very professionally represented in court by Jed, and especially important, the end results were very positive.
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28 Feb, 2020 by Jill
Experience, judgement and great communication skills are just a few of the qualities that I expected in a lawyer when I was presented with some difficulty of receiving my inheritance after my parents passed. I found those qualities with Lawyer, Jed D Hazeltine of Central Coast Estate Planning and Fiduciary Services in San Luis Obispo,CA
Jed Hazeltine promptly took care of business even with me living out of state. He represented my interests as a beneficiary of my Parent's estate. With the information I provided, Jed guided me thru on what my rights were, as well as a timeline to effectively receive my inheritance without having to go into Probate.
Thank you, Jed
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16 Oct, 2017 by Anonymous
I called to for a consultation. Receptionist advised I could have a consultation the follwing day and I should send a summarizing email to Jed. I sent it to him with the expectation he would have it read 24 hours later. Email had not been read the following day... basically unprepared and said he'd need time to think about it. Waste of my time.
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17 Jan, 2022 by Betty perez
Answered my questions and very nice to talk to
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07 Mar, 2020 by Robin clark
08 Mar, 2019 by Suzan borazjani
I do not think any one should hire an impolite person like Jere. He is very impatient with answering your question, He will not listen to your concerns and keeps bragging about his being good at this, well if you are where are the reviews?
It is obvious by other reviews that he is not doing good. He has bad-tempered and seems like not knowing what he is doing, Avoid going to him, if you are looking for a decent person, being polite and talking with you about the facts!
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FAQs
Questions? We have answers
What an Estate Planning Lawyer Can Do for You
An estate planning lawyer helps individuals plan for the management and distribution of their assets after death or during incapacitation. Their services involve drafting important legal documents, such as wills, trusts, powers of attorney, and healthcare directives. Estate planning attorneys work to ensure that your assets are transferred according to your wishes, minimize tax liabilities, and avoid probate court. They also help clients plan for potential long-term care needs and protect their estate from being diminished by healthcare costs.
By working with an estate planning lawyer, you can have peace of mind knowing that your loved ones will be cared for and that your estate will be managed efficiently and according to your desires.
When Should I Hire an Estate Planning Lawyer?
Hiring an estate planning lawyer is beneficial in many situations, especially when you want to ensure that your assets are handled properly after death. Common reasons to hire an estate planning lawyer include:
- Drafting a will: If you want to clearly define how your assets will be distributed after death, an attorney can draft a legally sound will.
- Creating a trust: For those looking to avoid probate or provide for loved ones over time, setting up a trust can help manage the distribution of assets.
- Planning for incapacity: An estate lawyer can help draft powers of attorney and healthcare directives so that your financial and medical decisions are made by someone you trust if you become incapacitated.
- Minimizing estate taxes: If your estate is large, a lawyer can help create strategies to reduce or eliminate federal and state estate taxes.
- Special circumstances: If you have minor children, blended families, or complex assets like businesses, an estate planning lawyer can create tailored solutions.
- Guardianship or conservatorship: If you want to designate guardians for minor children or ensure proper care for incapacitated adults, an attorney can help.
Hiring an estate planning lawyer is especially important if your estate is complex or if you want to ensure that your wishes are properly followed.
What Does an Estate Planning Lawyer Do?
An estate planning lawyer provides a range of services designed to help you organize your affairs and ensure your estate is managed according to your wishes. They can:
- Draft wills and trusts: Creating legally binding documents that dictate how your assets will be distributed and managed.
- Create powers of attorney and healthcare directives: Appointing someone to make financial or medical decisions for you if you become incapacitated.
- Minimize taxes: Developing strategies to reduce estate taxes, gift taxes, and other financial liabilities for your heirs.
- Help avoid probate: Structuring your estate plan to avoid probate, which can save time and money for your beneficiaries.
- Advise on long-term care planning: Helping you plan for potential healthcare needs in the future, including Medicaid planning and protecting assets from being depleted by nursing home costs.
- Assist with beneficiary designations: Ensuring that life insurance policies, retirement accounts, and other financial instruments are correctly designated.
- Handle probate and estate administration: If a loved one has passed away, an estate planning lawyer can help guide you through the probate process or act as an executor.
How Are Estate Planning Lawyers Paid?
Estate planning lawyers typically charge for their services in one of several ways, depending on the complexity of your estate and the type of services you need. Common payment structures include:
- Flat fee: Many estate planning services, such as drafting a will or trust, are charged on a flat-fee basis. The fee covers all work related to preparing the document.
- Hourly rate: For more complex planning, such as estate tax strategy or trust administration, lawyers may charge by the hour. Rates vary based on the lawyer’s experience and location.
- Retainer: Some lawyers require a retainer for more complex cases, such as ongoing trust management or estate administration. The retainer is an upfront payment that covers future legal services.
It’s important to discuss fees with your lawyer upfront to avoid unexpected costs.
How Much Does an Estate Planning Lawyer Cost?
The cost of hiring an estate planning lawyer depends on the complexity of your estate and the services you require. Here are some general guidelines:
- Simple wills or powers of attorney: A straightforward will or power of attorney may cost between $300 and $1,500, depending on your location and the lawyer’s experience.
- Trust creation: Establishing a trust, such as a living trust or revocable trust, can cost between $1,000 and $3,000 or more, depending on the complexity of your assets and estate planning needs.
- Comprehensive estate planning packages: Some lawyers offer packages that include wills, trusts, powers of attorney, and healthcare directives, which may range from $2,000 to $5,000 or more, depending on the estate’s complexity.
- Hourly rates: For ongoing services like estate administration or tax planning, lawyers may charge hourly rates ranging from $150 to $500 or more, depending on the lawyer’s experience.
Always get a clear estimate of costs during your initial consultation to ensure the services fit within your budget.
Top Questions to Ask an Estate Planning Lawyer
Before hiring an estate planning lawyer, it’s important to ask questions to ensure they are the right fit for your needs. Here are key questions to ask during your consultation:
-
What is your experience with estate planning?
Ensure the lawyer has substantial experience drafting wills, creating trusts, and handling other estate planning services. -
How will you charge for your services?
Clarify whether the lawyer charges a flat fee or by the hour and ask for a detailed estimate of costs. -
What strategies do you recommend for my estate?
A good lawyer should be able to explain the best strategies for minimizing taxes, avoiding probate, and ensuring your assets are distributed according to your wishes. -
How often should I update my estate plan?
Ask how frequently you should revisit your estate plan, especially if your financial situation or family dynamics change. -
Do you offer ongoing support or updates?
Some lawyers provide periodic reviews or updates to ensure your estate plan stays current with changes in your circumstances or the law. -
How will you help my beneficiaries if something happens to me?
Ensure the lawyer is willing to guide your heirs through the estate administration process or help manage your trust after you’re gone.
How to Check the Credibility of an Estate Planning Lawyer
To ensure you’re hiring a credible estate planning lawyer, follow these steps:
- Verify their state bar license: Check with your state bar association to confirm that the lawyer is licensed and in good standing, with no history of disciplinary actions.
- Look for estate planning certifications: Some lawyers are certified as estate planning specialists, which indicates they have extensive knowledge in this area of law.
- Read client reviews and testimonials: Online reviews on sites like Avvo, Google, or Martindale-Hubbell can provide insight into the lawyer’s professionalism and client satisfaction.
- Ask for references: A credible lawyer should be able to provide references from previous clients who can speak to their expertise and client service.
- Check for membership in professional organizations: Lawyers who are members of organizations like the National Academy of Elder Law Attorneys (NAELA) or the American College of Trust and Estate Counsel (ACTEC) often have a strong reputation in the field.
What Should I Prepare for My First Consultation?
To get the most out of your first meeting with an estate planning lawyer, it’s important to come prepared. Here’s what you should bring:
- List of assets and liabilities: Provide a detailed inventory of your assets, including real estate, bank accounts, retirement funds, investments, and personal property, as well as any debts you may have.
- List of beneficiaries: Be ready to discuss who you want to receive your assets and in what proportions. This includes naming guardians for minor children if applicable.
- Existing estate documents: Bring copies of any existing wills, trusts, powers of attorney, or other relevant estate planning documents.
- Questions about your estate goals: Write down your goals, such as avoiding probate, reducing taxes, or setting up charitable donations, so your lawyer can tailor a plan to meet your needs.
- Information on medical and financial decision-makers: Be prepared to discuss who you want to appoint for healthcare and financial decisions if you become incapacitated.
By being well-prepared, you can ensure a productive consultation and begin building a comprehensive estate plan that meets your needs and protects your loved ones.
