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14 Oct, 2024 by Kalyna
My lawyer kept in constant contact when necessary and kept me seamlessly updated on documents or emails I may have missed! She was also always kind to respond to my emails and documents even with a simple but excited “Thank you!” when we completed a step :)
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03 Oct, 2024 by Anonymous
Very polite and it was on point. They handled the contracts perfectly and were very aware of my needs and changes to the contract. 10/10 would hire again.
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24 Sep, 2024 by Hunter
Rijon was amazing! Always eager to answer any questions we had and made sure we were okay with each section of the contract! Highly recommend!
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20 Mar, 2024 by Michael
Thank you Delton Henderson. Your expert legal expertise and contract knowledge proved invaluable in helping us overcome unsubstantiated copy rights claims to the documentary film Living Legends 66-0.
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01 Mar, 2024 by Anonymous
Professional, pleasant and conscientious . I have already recommended him to a close friend
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30 Sep, 2023 by Anonymous
Delton provided me with additional guidance and advice on starting a Nonprofit after I had watched one of his webinars on the subject, and he was very thorough, clear, and helpful.
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31 Mar, 2017 by Chris
I hired Naveed to look over a contract between myself and a film company. Naveed not only noticed things that needed to be removed from the proposed contract to me, but also had many ideas about what should be added in the contract to protect me. Naveed was very helpful, patient, and experienced. I'll be using him in the future.
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13 Mar, 2017 by Jason
Naveed assisted us with a personal services contract with an actor for our independent film. He was excellent in terms of quality of work and punctuality. Would hire him again.
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30 Aug, 2016 by Carter
I was referred to Naveed when I was desperate for an attorney to help me negotiate an option agreement that had fallen suddenly on my lap. He not only helped me out tremendously, he did it at a shockingly fair rate. He was quick to respond and attentive every step of the way, really couldn't have asked for a better experience.
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03 Jul, 2021 by Rex
I met Megan in 2019, after a conflict with my family reached an impasse and I felt I needed an advocate. She was the fourth lawyer I met with, but the first to take me seriously and to engage with my story. After almost 2 years, we were able to reach a solution to a complex, multiparty, high dollar value, and very contentious conflict. I cannot recommend Megan more strongly or passionately. She is an incredible lawyer who understands the rules and how to move within them. But more importantly, she is an incredible partner who knows how to sit in pain and distress with her clients, build mutually agreeable solutions, and to work long term to execute a difficult and intricate strategy. Megan and I slayed dragons together, and I am sure she will do the same with you.
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10 Jun, 2019 by Susan
Megan worked very hard for us on an upcoming case regarding a trust. We live in the state of Washington. I was very surprised when Megan called me back personally the next day. I have a very difficult time understanding the legal wording of documents, but Megan was able to help me with my questions. She didn’t seem to tire of my frequent emails and texting. I would not hesitate hiring Megan for my legal matters. I wish there were more people like Megan....dedicated, caring, honest and reliable. Thank you Megan!
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06 Apr, 2017 by Dianne
I live in Tucson and my late husband and I had a Trust that was drawn up here. However, he owned a condo in L.A that we weren't able to get into the Trust before he passed away. Megan was very responsive in working with me and with my AZ attorney in getting the property into the Trust without having to go through Probate. Although I haven't taken her up on it yet, she offered to help me find someone to assist if I decided t try to sell the property.
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17 Aug, 2019 by Antonio
Monica came highly recommended by a friend. In a city that is reputed to have as many attorneys are there are actors, I was a deer in headlights when I was an inaccurately named party to a small-business lawsuit. Monica genuinely listened to my side of the story, and explained my options for tackling the case. I had never been involved in a lawsuit before, and was relying entirely on her counsel. She explained her background, fees, and her assessment of the case. She was calm, collected, and presented my options. All my instincts indicated that she was the perfect lawyer to represent me, and I hired her on the spot. Monica checked in with me regularly, explained what was happening, and never left me in the dark. After a few months, my case concluded in my favor, and I couldn't be happier. Monica is an empathetic communicator, and executes. She is analytical, thoughtful, and a performer. As the first attorney I've ever hired for a lawsuit, I don't have a reference point for her attorney rates relative to others. However, there is no question that the value of her services are worth every penny. I highly recommend her.
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21 May, 2018 by Noel
Monica helped us with a trust sale on one of our property. Monica was Very professional and was always there for any questions or concerns. She guided us through the whole process which made us feel very comfortable.
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02 Oct, 2021 by Cheryl
Erik provided much needed letters in a timely fashion to settle two disputes related to my notary public business. A good attorney letter goes a long way putting an immediate halt to those going down a path of ignorance who need clarification of sorts.
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17 Sep, 2020 by Bernd
Had a car problem with a dealership. They could not decide what VIN number was mine. Erik stept in and solved it excellent!
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10 May, 2020 by Louis
It's always great when you hire a professional for a task and the experience is better far above what is expected. I am late in my review and just realized when I looked up Juliana's contact information that I never put in a review which is long overdue & warranted. Just that, professional, knowledgeable & made our experience a wonderful one. We used her services for immigration and recommend her highly. We have a referral for her now and know she will handle it excellently as she did for us. Thanks again!
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11 Jan, 2012 by Chris
Juliana is very knowledgeable and helpful. She works well with the immigrant community and is able to interact seamlessly with Chinese. (she speaks both Chinese and English very well.) I needed some immigration help and she helped me get all of the necessary paperwork in very quickly. She's very respectable, kind, understanding and well composed. I would recommend her to anyone, but especially Chinese.
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18 May, 2021 by Shannon
I consulted and hired Daniel Rodarte, Esq. for two family legal matters. One was a review of my mother's trust. Mr. Rodarte caught some lapses from a previous update that left me vulnerable as the successor trustee. He quickly remedied the vulnerability in an amendment. The second matter involved administering a very complex Trust/Estate upon the death of a family member. He guided me through the process, highlighting legal and accounting issues, protecting assets, and clarifying confusing elements. He drafted the multiple subtrusts, and associated legal forms needed by beneficiaries residing in different states. Mr. Rodarte's guidance proved invaluable. I found him to have integrity and competency, as well as being easy to communicate with.
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02 Jun, 2014 by Ray
A great experience from beginning to end. Handled my case with class and made sure I was happy and informed the whole way through. Highly recommend.
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28 Oct, 2017 by G. m.
He got me free from conviction. No longer a sex offender. Thanks Wilson!
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25 Jul, 2012 by Heather
Beverly cleaned up a probate mess that was tangled so thick because of poor accounting and a conservatorship. There was no animosity in this probate within the family at all, it was just complicated and a mess because of the conservators accounting and attempts to settle the probate on her own. When we all hired Beverly, she embraced the challenge and took so much stress off my plate, took care of me on every level, and really cared about fixing all of it for our entire family. I called her out of the blue one day out of the Yellow Pages, and it was after 5pm, and she answered her own phone. It was one of the greatest moments of good fortune I could have asked for.
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22 Apr, 2013 by Kamran
James is very professional and he does what he says he's going to do for you as a client. He worked for Tax Lifeboat, a firm specializing in helping people clean up the mess of unfiled and/or unpaid tax returns. I have 5 years of returns I owed the IRS, and James was a big part of cleaning up the mess and getting the IRS off my back by getting them to stop collection efforts for over 2 years in my case while I had the returns prepared and then continued helping as an intermediary between the IRS and me while they were processing these returns. He did a great job.
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08 Sep, 2024 by Ly pharmacy
Labor Law PC has a fantastic team of specialists who are incredibly knowledgeable in their field. Every interaction was professional and informative, and they took the time to explain everything clearly. The team's expertise and dedication really set them apart!
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28 Aug, 2024 by Jessica mohseni
Great experience working with Danny and this entire team - they were always responsive and helpful. i would def recommend choosing to help with any labor issue.
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26 Aug, 2024 by Angela cruz
I had some issues with a past employer and I finding this lawyer was the best thing that happen to me. I highly recommend
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28 Nov, 2023 by American property management
I have been a client of Marc Bronstein firm for the past 25 years. Marc and his associates have handled numerous business and personal legal, accounting, tax, and estate matters for me. Mr. Bronstein and his team are very knowledgeable, thorough, and easy to work with. I highly recommend using their firm.
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28 Nov, 2023 by Catherine landis
Marc has handled our small business corporation filings for years. This past year we had a different kind of issue, a flood in our offices, and we were having problems getting our insurance company to pay out fully on the claim until I got Marc involved. I'm so happy to have all that behind me now and only wish I had contacted him sooner. His office is very professional and always responds immediately when contacted. I highly recommend him. Catherine Landis Vice President R. Landis Interiors, Inc.
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28 Nov, 2023 by Lisa kay smith
We have been working with Marc and Brett for a handful of years now and would highly recommend them. They have assisted us both with our business and personal legal needs, always in a timely and friendly manner. A great asset to have on our team!
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10 Sep, 2024 by Salim kassam
This is the guy you want if you have a challenging tenant situation. No bullshit, fair, effective.
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09 Sep, 2024 by Skyview realty
On a Thursday I suddenly realized that I would need legal representation (as a Real Estate Investor involved in an earnest money deposit dispute), in time for that upcoming Monday. After calling multiple real estate attorneys unable to assist with such short notice, I fortunately came across Avi Sinai, Esq., of Sinai Law Firm. What initially stood out about this attorney was that he personally answered the phone! Mr. Sinai also immediately listened to my urgent need and on this same day, confirmed being able to represent me. I was further blown away by Mr. Sinai's willingness to work through the weekend, so that he could provide a proper and timely response to the other party. In short, Attorney Avi’s responsiveness, cordiality and professionalism instantly put my mind at ease. I not only look forward to maintaining a relationship with Sinai Law Firm, but I also highly recommend this firm to others! Renita H.
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03 May, 2024 by Nariman dehghani
Avi was great in helping us get our earnest money deposit back. We cancelled the escrow due to inspection contingency, but the sellers refused to return our money and lawyered up. Avi drafted a strong letter, and even prepared us for mediation. His strategic approach eventually convinced the irrational sellers to return our deposit. What I appreciated most was how accessible Avi was. Highly recommend him for his dedication and effective communication.
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21 Sep, 2024 by Sanford
Mr. Lamelas "walked" me through the difficult process of settlement of a probate estate. His input was very supportive and professional . I highly recommend him for help in similar matters.
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17 Sep, 2024 by Amy
Ramon walked us through a set of very complicated legal documents and made them clear and easy to understand. He was always very quick in his response times, completed all the complex work quickly, and made everything very easy for us. Would definitely work with him again!
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25 Jun, 2024 by Stuart
Ramon provided excellent professional legal services the past nine months. He helped to solve problems with difficult financial institutions and successfully brought them to a positive result.
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28 Nov, 2023 by American property management
I have been a client of Marc Bronstein firm for the past 25 years. Marc and his associates have handled numerous business and personal legal, accounting, tax, and estate matters for me. Mr. Bronstein and his team are very knowledgeable, thorough, and easy to work with. I highly recommend using their firm.
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28 Nov, 2023 by Catherine landis
Marc has handled our small business corporation filings for years. This past year we had a different kind of issue, a flood in our offices, and we were having problems getting our insurance company to pay out fully on the claim until I got Marc involved. I'm so happy to have all that behind me now and only wish I had contacted him sooner. His office is very professional and always responds immediately when contacted. I highly recommend him. Catherine Landis Vice President R. Landis Interiors, Inc.
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28 Nov, 2023 by Lisa kay smith
We have been working with Marc and Brett for a handful of years now and would highly recommend them. They have assisted us both with our business and personal legal needs, always in a timely and friendly manner. A great asset to have on our team!
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18 Sep, 2024 by Jessica
Thanks Chris Ingram law office for a smooth and straight forward process for my EB1 case. Let me breakdown my experience with them: 1. Intake: detailed breakdown of the categories that I could apply for. Tim was my intake specialist and he answered all the questions I had and gave me confidence to choose this lawfirm to support my case. 2. Onboard: pay the lawyer fees accordingly. I started end of Jan 2024. 3. Paperwork preparation: the team was available to talk to me via conference call appointment a few times. Majority of the communication will be via email. For my case, I focused the energy on 3 categories + Merit. The team shared the template for the recommendation letter for me. However, from data gathering and writing recommendation letter for signing, I had to all do it by myself. Once having all the approved document for each category, then they would proceed with having the category for writing by the legal team. Things happen in series so my entire case was not ready to be shipped out till end of August 2024, so plan your time wisely. I was hoping the team could be a bit faster, and they got back with additional charges if I wanted to expedite the case filing. I think this was just misunderstanding and later they clarified their intention, which I appreciate the transparent and professional communication language that the entire team upholds. Sometimes the email feels a bit generic and repetitive, but maybe that’s part of professionalism and ensure of constant reminder for your case. 4. Case shipping: they shipped with priority Fedex mail and provide me with a scanned document for the entire package, so I know things are included part of my petition. A tracking number was shared once the case got shipped as well. I paid for PP, and received the decision notice in time promised. I’m grateful for my case worker team for all the attention you paid for my case: Jan, Mario, Mary, Jackie, Busola 🙏🏻🎉 overall, I highly recommend this law firm for your EB1 needs. They are legit!
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18 Sep, 2024 by Ishan khot
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06 Aug, 2024 by Chandan saxena
I engaged the Law Offices of Chris M. Ingram for my EB1A visa application. The firm's systematic and thorough approach to gathering evidence, developing case arguments, and client communication is highly impressive. My experience with them has been outstanding and has exceeded all my expectations. I am deeply thankful to Rhea, Judith, and all the staff members who worked directly and indirectly on my case. Thanks to their efforts in making the entire process flawless, my I-140 and adjustment of status (I-485) were approved quickly without any issues. The entire team at the Law Offices of Chris M. Ingram is professional, well-informed, and exceptionally supportive. I highly recommend Chris Ingram’s firm for their expertise, responsiveness, and unwavering dedication to clients, which greatly eased my anxiety and ensured our green card success.
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18 Sep, 2024 by Jessica
Thanks Chris Ingram law office for a smooth and straight forward process for my EB1 case. Let me breakdown my experience with them: 1. Intake: detailed breakdown of the categories that I could apply for. Tim was my intake specialist and he answered all the questions I had and gave me confidence to choose this lawfirm to support my case. 2. Onboard: pay the lawyer fees accordingly. I started end of Jan 2024. 3. Paperwork preparation: the team was available to talk to me via conference call appointment a few times. Majority of the communication will be via email. For my case, I focused the energy on 3 categories + Merit. The team shared the template for the recommendation letter for me. However, from data gathering and writing recommendation letter for signing, I had to all do it by myself. Once having all the approved document for each category, then they would proceed with having the category for writing by the legal team. Things happen in series so my entire case was not ready to be shipped out till end of August 2024, so plan your time wisely. I was hoping the team could be a bit faster, and they got back with additional charges if I wanted to expedite the case filing. I think this was just misunderstanding and later they clarified their intention, which I appreciate the transparent and professional communication language that the entire team upholds. Sometimes the email feels a bit generic and repetitive, but maybe that’s part of professionalism and ensure of constant reminder for your case. 4. Case shipping: they shipped with priority Fedex mail and provide me with a scanned document for the entire package, so I know things are included part of my petition. A tracking number was shared once the case got shipped as well. I paid for PP, and received the decision notice in time promised. I’m grateful for my case worker team for all the attention you paid for my case: Jan, Mario, Mary, Jackie, Busola 🙏🏻🎉 overall, I highly recommend this law firm for your EB1 needs. They are legit!
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18 Sep, 2024 by Ishan khot
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06 Aug, 2024 by Chandan saxena
I engaged the Law Offices of Chris M. Ingram for my EB1A visa application. The firm's systematic and thorough approach to gathering evidence, developing case arguments, and client communication is highly impressive. My experience with them has been outstanding and has exceeded all my expectations. I am deeply thankful to Rhea, Judith, and all the staff members who worked directly and indirectly on my case. Thanks to their efforts in making the entire process flawless, my I-140 and adjustment of status (I-485) were approved quickly without any issues. The entire team at the Law Offices of Chris M. Ingram is professional, well-informed, and exceptionally supportive. I highly recommend Chris Ingram’s firm for their expertise, responsiveness, and unwavering dedication to clients, which greatly eased my anxiety and ensured our green card success.
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10 Oct, 2014 by Jeri e
Peter Gellerman is an outstanding attorney! I have been very satisfied on several occasions with his expertise and services that he has assisted me with. I agree that he is exceptionally knowledgeable and ethical and has been a tremendous help to me. Peter Gellerman is always professional and kind. I feel very comfortable with his vast abilities and will always consultant with him first on all legal matters for his input....if it is not his field of expertise, although I believe that he can do it all, he will refer me to someone instead of taking it on....I really appreciate that! This great quality speaks to his ethics and business practices! I most definitely highly recommend Petter Gellerman as well! P. S.... I too believe that you get what you pay for.....when you pay for the best....you get the best!
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21 May, 2014 by Zachary
Peter is an exceptionally knowledgeable, responsive and ethical Estate Planning and Business Attorney. I have hired Peter on numerous occasions, most recently to complete a business transaction. Peter smoothly guided me through the transaction process and provided strategic and efficient legal counsel. I highly recommend Peter Gellerman.
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21 May, 2014 by Moira
I needed an estate/wills/trust attorney, and fortunately for me two friends had used Mr. Gellerman and highly recommended him to me. I've given him five stars in all categories because he was great -- knowledgable, experienced, and responsive. I think his years of practice have really honed his people skills in addition to his legal expertise, because he helped us combine what we wanted emotionally with what would work best for us practically and legally. Best of all, he gave us peace of mind -- we knew we had someone we could trust to look out for our best interests. I'd hire him again any time, and definitely recommend him.
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18 Apr, 2024 by Evan
Going through a divorce is never easy, and it was no different for me. I needed a reliable attorney for my case, which involved more substantial assets, and thankfully, a trusted friend referred me to Tammy. From the beginning, she was incredibly supportive and knowledgeable. Tammy was always available to answer any questions I had. I had a question about a bill once and I was worried from past experience that it would turn into a fight, but Tammy patiently resolved my concerns, drawing from a detailed record of the work she'd done to represent me. Her expert handling of my case led to a satisfactory agreement with my ex-spouse. I am grateful for her guidance and professionalism during such a difficult time. I highly recommend Tammy to anyone looking for competent and compassionate legal support in a divorce.
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14 Sep, 2022 by Anonymous
I hired Tammy for my divorce when I was in a very vulnerable time of mi life. She unethically overstated her expertise, overcharged, engaged in theft through intentional double billing, back-charged for conversations that happened prior to our engagement, then abandoned me (After billing $60k in only 2 months for no random stuff that did not in my case). She only wants to drain everything you have. Stay away!
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14 Feb, 2022 by Scott
I hired Tammy Andrews for my divorce. I run a Healthcare company, so I've dealt with my fair share of lawyers. She unethically overstated her expertise, overcharged, engaged in theft through intentional double billing, back-charged for conversations that happened prior to our engagement, showed negligence in outsourcing of work, then abandoned me when I started asking questions (After spending $80k). Stay away!
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06 Jan, 2024 by Anonymous
He did nothing for our case. We paid him nicely to get up to speed on the issues and facts on our case, and then he went on vacation right when we needed him to take action. We had to hire another lawyer. Also, when we simply asked him if he was familiar with a rather complex area of law relevant to our case, he charged us even more simply to respond to that email.
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18 Feb, 2020 by Lisa
Brandon was a realistic and honest attorney, He definitely kept me up to speed with the process. He represented me well.
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17 Aug, 2019 by Matt
I had a rather complex case, and I had a hard time finding a attorney who was interested in representing me. A family friend heard about my case, and recommended Brandon. He was organized, responsive and after a brief explanation of my case he not only took the case, but got a fair settlement for my family. After that case I was so impressed I trusted him to draft, and complete my pre-nup. So I have gone to him twice now.
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02 Jul, 2024 by Anonymous
Hello Jeffrey! I believe you owe me an apology! Here is a hint Guess who has been living alone and paying rent and bills and being responsible for herself? You told me that you were responsible for me! I do not see you hahaha! Ps you lied , a judge has to approve taking all my rights away! Not gonna happen! Going on 24 years now !
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10 Oct, 2015 by Carlos
Mr. Jeffrey Condon is a remarkable person and a great lawyer. His almost 30 years experience in the Inheritance Planning field makes him not only an expert but a unique insider of the family dynamics involved in the inheritance process. Mr. Condon generously helped us during our first consultation, even after our chat indicated that there was no case for him. We also read his book "Beyond the Grave". He did sign it for us!
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24 Jun, 2024 by Anonymous
She will take your money as long as you allow her to and then say you owe more. Beware.
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24 Dec, 2017 by Anonymous
During Dorothy and I's Phone conversations, I constantly heard other people in the same room. I asked her to step outside to continue our conversation because it was personal and she didn't. This has happened several different times. Therefore, I do not trust Dorothy with my personal information.
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30 Dec, 2015 by Steven
I hired Dottie to handle a very challenging lawsuit and she was the consummate professional, always available, and had my best interests at heart. We prevailed and I am eternally grateful for her dedication, ingenuity, and loyalty.
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19 May, 2017 by Anonymous
I wish I had read the reviews on AVVO before working with him. I concur with the previous review - Overcharges and Underdelivers. Takes advantage of clients. Charges you for Secretarial tasks at attorney rates. Never once stepped foot in the court system for me. Misguided me on case strategy. Could not produce the timesheets he was to use when billing me? Does not represent the practice of law in good faith. Poor example! Horrific experience!
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21 Feb, 2013 by Anonymous
He estimated it would cost a maximum $25K of his time to get a corrupt trustee removed from his position. He ran up a bill of about $50K. He accomplished nothing. We had informed him early in engaging him that our financial resources for pursuing our interests were very limited, yet he didn't even alert us to the fact that he was running up was way exceeding what he had estimated and give us the option of backing out before the bill got too high. Of course no lawyer can guaranty results in an adversarial situation, but he and/or his staff dropped the ball in at least these specific ways. ## He was impolite in responding to client emails, having been heard in the background to a call I was having to his staff making denigrating comments about me, the client, and complaining that I was making an inquiry. ## He filed a critical court response pleading just _barely_ short (hours short) of the absolute deadline for the judge's staff to receive it. As a result there is reason to believe that the judge did not really read it and as a result what should have been a slam dunk judgment in my favor it appears the judge was uninformed of the issues. And in court, when it became clear the judge had not really read our arguments McCullough did not verbally attempt to correct the judge's misunderstanding. ## When the party we were opposing made to the judge an out rightly false statement about an action he had taken, even though McCullough had in his papers documentary proof that this was false he said nothing and produced no counter evidence. It is extremely disappointing to do all the hours of background research and provide one's lawyer with the ammunition he needs in a hearing, have him standing there earning $400+ per hour and then have him stand there like a dummy and say nothing while events unfold against your interests. I could likely have represented myself more effectively in that court than he did. ## Mr. McCullough's billing policies are draconian and unreasonable. Specifically: I would send and email with information he requested. I would be billed a minimal period of time (about $100) for him sending me that one line email. When I supplied via email the information he requested I would again be bill that minimal charge when he received that email from me. It is important to understand the information he requested was already available in papers I had supplied earlier, and essentially I was being asked to catch the ball for him not finding the info he already had AND being double charged for his or his staff's failure to do their own clerical work and filing properly. # He also made a bad judgment call by counseling us to not make a reasonable/palatable settlement offer to the other party involved. Any lawyer can make a bad judgment call, but when he does it should be duly noted. Mr. McCullough is not unknowledgeable of estate law. And he or his staff did clearly put in substantual time on the case. That was not the problem. He just didn't seem motivated or interested enough or alert enough to do what he needed to do to represent me well, and interms of cost/benefit ratio I could not recommend him as a good bet.
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15 Apr, 2024 by Anonymous
Incompetent and rude. We were looking forward to get a consultation referred by a colleague, however, we regret it. We cannot comprehend why someone like him with such an unprofessional mannerism can be in business. Avoid.
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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:

  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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