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05 Nov, 2024 by Monica bayarri
This will be the second time I hire the Fontes Law Group in Santa Ana. I live in Miami, work in Spain, and I’m from Houston and researched intensely on many immigration law firms and hands down they are the best. I’m incredibly grateful for the attention to detail and diligence. I’m also grateful to Veronica Levya for her patience and professionalism. Thank you from the bottom of my heart.
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29 Oct, 2024 by Manuel orozco
I closed my case with the Law Offices of Dennis Dascanio and I highly recommend him Mariella was very helpful and was able to answer all my questions the communication for them is number one and you can talk to the attorney whenever you request an appointment no hassle at all
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12 Oct, 2024 by Luis hernandez solis
Quiero recomendar a la abogada Navarro y la firma Fontes. Yo llegue a ella gracias a recomendación de mi sobrina a quien le ayudo a ganar un caso de custodia. Yo estaba atravesando un proceso complicado de divorcio en el cuál había muchas implicaciones/agresiones por parte de mi ex esposa el cual se estaba alargando más de lo deseado. Yo comencé el proceso con un paralegal por "barato" sin saber que lo barato me saldría más caro. En cuanto llegue con la abogada Navarro se notó su experiencia, profesionalidad y educación. Ella y su equipo me guiaron paso a paso durante el proceso, me mantuvieron informado de cada avance en el caso y contestaban mis dudas. Cabe destacar que la srita Gali fue quien estuvo en contacto conmigo y me escucho y resolvia todas mis dudas y me guio, cuándo la abogada no podía hacerlo directamente y siempre lo hizo de una manera profesional y amistosa. El día de la audiencia me sentí ampliamente representado por la abogada y gracias a ella, su experiencia y su guía legal pudimos llegar a un acuerdo en mediación y finalizar el divorcio. Estoy sumamente agradecido con la abogada y su equipo. 100% recomiendo a la Abogada Navarro y su gran equipo para quien este pasando por un caso legal difícil. Quiero recalcar que si estas en un proceso de divorcio no acudas a lugares baratos, solo te hacen perder tiempo y dinero y esas personas no te asesoran en absolutamente nada legal.
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31 Jan, 2024 by Carlethia murray
Although my experience having to hire attorneys wasn’t what I wanted to do & it wasn’t a pleasant journey; it is what was needed and Moran law firm tried to make it less painful as possible. I actually found this attorneys office on a whim because I live in Vegas and the case was in Calif. The attorneys down to David, the paralegal were impeccable. No nonsense and takes care of business. I came across their name/number strolling thru the yellow pages (google). Called a few others, Moran took my case & did an excellent job. They’d keep me updated on my mother’s case, if zoom meetings were necessary, they scheduled them and my whole family would join. Had to ask some pretty intense questions but, needed to get the job done. They offered & opened up the phone lines to Myself & my family if anyone needed to reachnout to them with questions however, to minimize them from getting inundated with questions; I tried to stay on top of that. One issue, I personally think they need to handle, was the front end secretary(whatever her title is). She answers the phones. I’m not sure if she’s still there; I personally told them how rude she was; ALWAYS and I told HER how rude she was. Hopefully, something was said to her so that she changed her demeanor/attitude. I can’t recall how long it took; not too long to settle the case. Something I’d like to forget🙂. I STILL miss my mom to this day💔. Thank you Moran Law firm for a job well done.
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04 Dec, 2023 by Keith jones
Moran Law is one of the most professional firms I have dealt with. Their review of my case was detailed along with explaining everything up front, so I knew what to expect. Once the case was underway, their communication was prompt and detailed throughout. I never had to worry about where we were at or if I needed to do anything. Settlement was quick and I was very satisfied with the process and handling of the case. The entire firm is of the highest integrity and showed compassion for us and our circumstances. Many thanks to Mike, his partners and all his staff for helping my family through what was a very difficult and trying time for us. God Bless!!!
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04 Dec, 2023 by Kelly mcelvany
The team at Moran Law did an amazing job supporting me and my family while bringing closure to my legal issue. I’m very happy with the result and would highly recommend them.
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15 May, 2024 by Ninoska jimenez
Definitely went above and beyond with my case. Made everything go smooth. Definitely recommend them!
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11 Apr, 2024 by Juan garcia
Excellent firm. Not only do they do their job well, they go above and beyond. Thank you!
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11 Feb, 2024 by Veronica galo
Esta oficina legal y todo su personal en especial Donald fueron siempre muy atentos con mis necesidades y me fueron guiando en todo el proceso del caso e hicieron que me sintiera en familia y que cuidaban mis intereses. Muchas gracias y continúen ayudando a quien lo necesite. This legal office and its personnel, particularly Donald, were continuously quite attentive with my needs. To elaborate, I received guidance throughout the process of my case and thus, assured me they cared for my interests. Thank you and I hope many more people are able to have the same experience I did.
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13 Aug, 2021 by Anonymous
I guess she'll be replying she never saw it. Yeah, right. I used Avvo messaging and the sent message is there to prove it, from last month! Lady, a simple reply politely declining would have sufficed. Instead she treated me like I was worthless. Here's a tip: you never know who you're talking to and what they can do for you in the future! Joke's on you lady: I hired 2 attorneys and they're doing a fantastic job. Manners go a long way! Thanks for nothing.
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30 Oct, 2020 by Cyndi
I knew very little about California real estate being from the state of Virginia and I had to sell my parents’ house in Southern California. I googled real estate lawyers in the area of my parents‘ home and chose Susan Stein because she was a real estate broker as well. I left a message with her office and was pleasantly surprised that she called me back in less than three hours and graciously spent about 15 minutes with me on the phone explaining everything I needed to know to sell the house. I asked her if I could pay her and she said “No”. What a precious soul! Thank you Susan Stein, and may the Lord bless you!
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15 Jan, 2020 by Anonymous
I had Susan helped me on a landlord/tenant case. Hired Susan is like hired a whole team of attorneys. No attorney can memorize every single line of law, especially for those Case Laws. To precisely present the case laws at the court, her team could play an important role helping her win the cases for you. One day during the court trial, after more facts were revealed, Susan remembered a case law that could quickly knock off a portion of my case. She called another attorney during the break and asked him to search for the details of the case law. Before the trial resumed, the details was sent to her cellphone with the case title, the year, the parties' names, and the exact wording of the part directly related to my case. By reading the portion of the case law and being able to provide the other details regarding the case law at the court, the Judge was able to verify the info right on the spot. That portion of the case which the tenant claimed was immediately turned down by the Judge. I ended up winning the whole case with Susan's help. Thank you Susan!
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02 Apr, 2024 by Anonymous
She wasn’t my attorney,she was my wife who kidnapped our kids and ran off with a trucker
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19 Mar, 2022 by Danielle
I am Rhonda’s actual client and have nothing but great things to say about her. I brought her on to my case in June 2020 in the midst of the pandemic and she was incredibly compassionate and empathetic with my situation. My ex was withholding financial information and after filing my own response and paperwork I realized very quickly that this situation would cause for more than just self representation. He dragged on our proceedings by stating “he didn’t know” on more than one occasion to the judge, filled out his own paperwork incorrectly, didn’t follow court procedures with serving paperwork to my attorney and has in general been very verbally abusive and accusatory in declarations presented to the court that were false and had no relevance to the case further dragging things along. All the while Rhonda has been encouraging and supportive and reminding me of what is actually important to getting things finished. She did not allow me to get caught up in the drama with my ex and instead helped me focus on what mattered most, my kids. She negotiated a very fair custody and visitation agreement that benefitted both parents equally, got us signed up with Our Family Wizard to communicate about the kids, recommended a book on how to interact with each other in our high conflict divorce and even negotiated our financial disagreements in a fair manner. The only real delay in our proceedings were due to Covid related court dates (2020/2021) and then lack of preparedness by my ex who was self represented. Divorce paperwork was filed by my ex in June 2019 and our first original court date wasn’t scheduled until March 2020 which was delayed by Covid until October 2020. CNV was completed in October 2020 and the only thing left were financials which took all of 2021 to get finalized at no fault of Rhonda’s. I am very satisfied and happy with her work and encourage you to give her a call to see if she is the right fit for you. Don’t be swayed by anonymous reviewers pretending to be her clients. She puts your kids first and that’s most important.
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15 Sep, 2019 by Anonymous
She has been my attorney for over two years . She’s very experienced, knowledgeable and professional. She can be very tough in a situation that she needs to be. But she has a very kind and warm personality. She’s been helping me getting through a tough time I’m going through right now. She listens to me in compassion and consults me with her great judgements. Also, she tries to accommodate my needs in various situations. She always tries her best. She really cares about her clients. I highly recommend her. She is the best attorney.
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01 Sep, 2021 by Anonymous
Resolved nothing. Questionable billing practices without justification. No results on a "simple case" and no actual documentation until after we fired him.
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05 Jun, 2017 by Dan shallit
I met Matt through a mutual client. After explaining what I needed in order to provide a professional retainer to my clients, Matt drafted a document that according to another legal client, would stand up in the Supreme Court. Being a new business, receiving that feedback from a client was fantastic feedback. I could not be happier and would recommend him to anyone I work with who needs legal counsel.
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02 Jun, 2017 by Vince
As a business owner I can confidently say that we wouldn't be where we are today without the help of Matt. His time and effort spent drove one of the larger and more crucial deals for my company. Even when we thought it was lost, it was Matt that brought it back into the pipeline, and helped close the deal! I would highly recommend his services. Vince Chief Operations Officer, Rockit Gaming
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22 Jul, 2024 by Ersi medina
Receptionist was rude and didn’t really offer any help outside of what you can find on google. Phone call took a total of 3 minutes if not less and it felt like I was taking her time. Cut me off a couple times while speaking.
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03 Feb, 2024 by Connie wheeler
Ms. Hadjian was a delight to work with. We were under an important time constraint, we were from out of state and Ms. Hadjian was very professional and solved a very difficult Guardianship problem for us. Anyone that works with Ms. Hadjian will be very pleased to have her handling your case.
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01 Feb, 2024 by Esther jaryenneh
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04 Nov, 2017 by Dana
While I received negative responses from others, Brian was full of information and optimism for my situation. I will Definitely be using him if we are able to reach agreeable fees
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05 Mar, 2017 by Chris e.
I have dealt with and worked for attorney's in my 70+ years, and I must say Brian is at the very top of my list, and I'm not easily impressed. Brian went way above and beyond what he needed to do to help me with my bankruptcy questions. Brian also gave me tips, some of which I knew nothing about that were of great value to me. I would recommend Brian to anyone that would like an attorney they can not only trust to do the job, but do it correctly. I was also impressed with how quickly he got back to me any time I contacted him. Brian is top notch and a person could feel safe putting their personal or business problems in his hands. I would rate Brian much higher if the system allowed it. star only review
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04 Oct, 2016 by Karen
Bankruptcy is not what we wanted but when my brothers situation worsened we decided to talk with Brian Fenn. After our initial meeting we realized Brian could help my brother and we started on the bankruptcy journey. Brian is knowledagable and walked us through the entire process. He made a painful and embarrassing situation bearable. Thank you Brian for the peace of mind my brother now has. I would not hesitate to recommend Brian and the Fenn Law Firm.
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22 Jul, 2024 by Ersi medina
Receptionist was rude and didn’t really offer any help outside of what you can find on google. Phone call took a total of 3 minutes if not less and it felt like I was taking her time. Cut me off a couple times while speaking.
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03 Feb, 2024 by Connie wheeler
Ms. Hadjian was a delight to work with. We were under an important time constraint, we were from out of state and Ms. Hadjian was very professional and solved a very difficult Guardianship problem for us. Anyone that works with Ms. Hadjian will be very pleased to have her handling your case.
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01 Feb, 2024 by Esther jaryenneh
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25 Feb, 2015 by Anonymous
In 2010 I was charged with DUI. Although I had a blood alcohol content of .007 and no criminal record I was in graduate school and very scared/concerned and found her by google. The DMV hearing was won based on the facts (prior to retaining her) and eventually my charge was reduced to a wet reckless. During my initial consultation we were rushed because she had to run to take care of some family errands which I felt was unprofessional. In all honesty, I didn't get much feedback or updates from her during the process and never really knew what was going on. Her assistant, whom seems to be shared among a group of other lawyers, was very rude and unhelpful on the phone every time I called. Although she had very affordable rates, I believe I would have had the same result without an attorney or with a public defender, and I was disappointed with how much service I feel I got for what I paid. Things may have changed since or she may have had other more important cases at the time. After the case, there was no discussion of how I could get the record expunged or any follow up on how to proceed, I felt like I was on my own. She was a nice person, and I hate to give bad review but this was honestly my perspective. I felt like it was just another lawyer collecting a check for showing up and doing the bare minimum.
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21 Jul, 2012 by Ann
Lolita Kirk is one of the few attorneys I would send a client to without hesitation. A referral affects my reputation, so I don't refer cases out without being sure my client will be impressed and well taken care of. DUI trials are difficult and extremely important to the lives of the accused - the fines are high, the conviction and the driving record are serious permanent records. A DUI trial requires scientific knowledge, law enforcement knowledge and the ability to handle lay witnesses -- you MUST be an excellent and experienced lawyer to sustain a winning record in DUI trials. Lolita Kirk does this and she is beautiful, has a courtroom presence appreciated by judicial officers, she is an excellent choice for representation. I recommend her in Orange County whenever I can, and the feedback is reassuring that I am doing the right thing.
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27 Aug, 2024 by Melissa gladstone
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16 May, 2024 by David hill
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17 Apr, 2024 by A. shah
Mike Flory deliberately tripled my restitution in a criminal case several years back. Just read an OC Register article that he tried to drop the hammer on others as well. Questions: why does he still work here? How does 1 get reimbursed for malfeasance?
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17 Jan, 2024 by Steven
Very bad temper. Poor communication. Talks down to regular citizens that lack a J.D. Degree
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21 Sep, 2022 by Anna
Attorney Grace does not follow through on what she agreed and surprised us with her over billing for a simple divorce hearings. Non communicative and often cross the line of ethical practices. We would not recommend Attorney Patricia Grace.
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08 May, 2022 by Anonymous
Mrs Grace and her paralegal Maricela are the untrustworthy, they do not follow through on what they agreed in retainer and also led the case the way the judge sanctions you for incompetency and lies. Very unknowledgeable, not professional and often cross the line of ethical practices.
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07 Aug, 2024 by Steven arzola
This is where the person that talked to me on the phone you should take some sensitivity training even after I told you my disability you still were rude to me and you should call people maybe not a half hour before you're going to go home for you want to be such a nice person you know when you're going to be homeless which you probably never have a lady you didn't know what it's like so you don't care that's why I hung up on you
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28 Jul, 2024 by Jason reid
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11 May, 2024 by Nick martell
Due to PLC reached out to me and hashing out my original complaint. I have re-evaluated my opinion of this organization.
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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:

  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.

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