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09 Jan, 2025 by Km
We highly recommend Smith Law! Our family has worked with Smith Law on both Business and Trust issues and they have made complex issues so easy for us to handle. They encouraged our questions and were always ready to work with us. We look forward to working with them for years to come!
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18 Dec, 2024 by Jim mccarthy
My wife and I are delighted to work with Chris Smith and his team (Jane and Catherine)! I am the son of a (retired) estate planning attorney, so I appreciate the importance of having Trusts, Living Wills, Last Wills and Testaments, and Powers of Attorney in place. We have had significant changes to our personal and financial lives (and relocated from California to Florida), so it was really important to update all of these documents.
Chris Smith is both very competent and very easy to work with. His documents are well written and easy for a non-lawyer to understand. He was very thorough and patient as he addressed all of my questions. I am also happy that I did not have to wait weeks to get onto his calendar, which is sometimes a problem with professionals.
This has overall been a great experience. Thank you!
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25 Nov, 2024 by Lee b
Chris did an excellent job creating a will and end of life documents that are clear and reflect my wishes.. He and his staff are efficient, knowledgeable and pleasant. There are many choices you can select for legal representation, but Chris and his staff are the best choice!! Highly recommend Chris Smith Law!!
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06 Dec, 2024 by Heather
Marc answered the phone himself the first time I called which blew me away, because I deeply appreciate responsiveness and “first responders.” I am very excited to move forward working with him as needed, and based on my experience so far, I highly recommend that you call him. He helped me tremendously by (1) listening (He is a good listener.), and (2) Answering my questions, (3) Giving me advice. He’s awesome!
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26 Nov, 2024 by Michael dipiero
Mr Soss took the time to get hold of my sister and I who were searching for advice on a question about a Florida statute in relation to probate law.
He is very knowledgable and confident.
He explained the answer to me and was very patient in doing so. He did not take any payment from us as we did not have a case.
Thank you so much Marc!
I would highly recommend Attorney Soss for your legal issues.
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19 Nov, 2024 by Rafael d
Excellent. Marc Soss helped me with administration of a small estate. He focused on the key questions, offered wise advice (which I took), and was fair and reasonable in cost. It's a pleasure to deal with a skilled individual practitioner instead of a big firm that churns a bottom layer of junior attorneys.
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01 Dec, 2024 by Michell chiquito mijica
I cannot thank Smith & Eulo Law Firm enough for their outstanding legal expertise and unwavering support. They guided me through a challenging situation with empathy and professionalism. Every step of the way, I felt reassured that my case was in good hands. Thanks to their dedication, I was able to achieve a favorable resolution. I highly recommend them to anyone in need of legal assistance
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29 Nov, 2024 by Dayarliz sánchez
I would like to extend my heartfelt gratitude to the attorneys at Smith & Eulo for their exceptional care and attention. They are truly wonderful people who go above and beyond for their clients. Thank you for all your support!
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14 Nov, 2024 by Zudaiby sanchez
I cannot thank the team at Smith & Eulo enough for their outstanding support throughout my case. Their dedication and availability made a world of difference, and I felt constantly reassured knowing that they were on my side. Highly recommend their services
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15 Dec, 2024 by Jan mangham
Greg and his staff are a pleasure to work with. They are very thorough leading clients through the process of establishing a trust. I have already recommended this firm to friends.
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07 Dec, 2024 by Dominick crea
Greg and his staff are unbelievable. Best experience we ever had with a legal firm. They are extremely knowledgeable of all facets of Wills and trusts. They answer all your questions patiently and in great detail in everyday language not legalize terms. HIGHLY trust Greg and his team.
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07 Nov, 2024 by Mary myers
Exceptional experience. Great professional advice. Tremendous team of experts. Best experience ever. Strongly recommend you make an appointment and get your personal effects in order. I am confident that all of my last wishes will be executed exactly as desired.
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08 Dec, 2022 by Dale turner
13 Oct, 2022 by Marc falco
14 Oct, 2020 by Gina
Mr. Hogreve was a pleasure to work with on the closing of my condominium. He and his Paralegal Kathy were instrumental in making sure we closed on our closing date due to their commitment in communicating effectively with my lender. The closing was flawless and extremely expedient. This was my first home buying experience and I'm so thankful they were there to walk me through everything making a stressful situation not stressful at all. I will recommend his firm to anyone who is looking for closing services, estate planning and incorporation.
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05 Dec, 2024 by Mary mcf
We received outstanding professional legal representation by
Drake Buckman.
Aimee and Nick worked diligently behind the scenes on our behalf.
We were treated with respect and dignity as we navigated the murky waters of the insurance system. All the while being continually updated by Buckman and Buckman.
Yes, we received a positive outcome in our case. But we received so much more in the knowledge that there is a law firm in Sarasota that is truly client focused. And approaches each client with care and respect.
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22 Nov, 2024 by Stefani
Very Friendly and Very Responsive !! Thank you so much Elizabeth for all your help !!
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12 Nov, 2024 by Jose delira
Amazing staff and firm to work with! They handle my case and also my sons case efficient and effectively! I would definitely recommend to friends and family
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21 Nov, 2024 by Anonymous
When everything that was most sacred and profound was taken from me, my children, due to unscrupulous actions and vendetta and I questioned the ethical foundation of the entire legal system, I was blessed to find the one person who acted with integrity, wisdom, kindness, honor and determination. It is truly difficult to find the words to express my gratitude to Robert Hoffman. Not only does he return emails with laser-like speed and precision -- including that very first time when I wrote to him on a Sunday morning -- he is dispassionate and committed. He is a man of his word. Mr. Hoffman is a true rare breed in his field. I shudder to think of what a future mom might endure if she does not have the grace that I experienced in acquiring his legal representation.
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13 Nov, 2024 by Dean
We recently hired Mr. Hoffman to execute our last will
and testament/trust. It was an exceptional experience from start to finish! He was extremely responsive to all of our questions and needs. He answered our emails typically within literally minutes of receiving them and explained things in language that we could understand. He and his office team took very good care of us and I would highly recommend him to anyone in need of legal assistance!
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31 May, 2024 by Karen
Bob represented me in my divorce. He is an exceptional attorney. Very affordable, and quick to respond to phone calls,
emails, and texts. Also very empathetic. Highly recommend Bob.
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28 Nov, 2022 by Aleksandra
Law Office of Mary E. King, P.L. is the most professional, most efficient, most capable and competent, Law Office I've ever dealt with while doing complex nation wide or local as well as an international contracting deals, for over 35 years. I was so afraid that my case would be rejected, but Mary had respectfully taken my case, and handled it so gracefully with most care I've ever experienced in legal industry, with above any mark results, as her dedication for a quick successful results and best ever outcome is a true blessing in my life.
With great grace and professionalism this extremely experienced Law Office (that did not waste any of my time not even one phone call until the complete job was done and all in my best interest), with Mary E. King's leadership, I was able to get my personal life and my business, on right track again.
This office is more affordable than any of my past accountants or attorneys who were not able to even comprehend the level of requirements needed, Mary was skillfully and swiftly able to understand and to resolve and to eliminate the root causes, so even my credit score is now getting automatically better, based on hard work Mary had accomplished. I cannot thank enough to Mary and her staff on the great job done and for accepting my case and for bringing it to successful outcome! Thank you so much for working so hard on this difficult case, you are greatly appreciated! Sincerely, Aleksandra W.
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08 Oct, 2019 by Anonymous
Mary did it! It was a long and frustrating process... not on Mary's part but on the IRS process. She walked me through the entire process from start to finish, kept me up to date and made it happen. I am grateful to Mary and her staff and would recommend them highly.
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04 Apr, 2019 by Gino
Many local professionals in the accounting community suggested I contact Mrs. King’s office to receive help for a tax issue. I knew that my tax project would be complicated but Mrs. King and Staff helped me through it. Thank you.
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06 Mar, 2024 by Melanie
My appointments with attorney Evans were by far the very best. They were productive, professional, precise, friendly, courteous and thoughtful. He was hired to produce new, updated, documents, i.e., will, power of attorney and medical directive. These were completed quickly and ready for pick up in a week. His staff was professional and thorough. I am most pleased with the service and highly recommend Lee & Evans, PA to anyone needing legal assistance.
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26 May, 2020 by Anonymous
Dave was easy to work with and took the time to explain things we didn't understand. He gave good recommendations and helped us work out details for our situation.
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24 Feb, 2020 by Marco
I spoke with David on the phone initially involving a family member and possibly amending a Power of Attorney document that was drafted before the new Florida laws came into effect after 2011. During the initial phone call, David was very honest with me and my wife with our legal situation. David offered a level of professional trust that was immediately obvious. David was a referral and I can now see why he comes highly recommended.
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09 Jan, 2025 by *73swinger special*
Great experience with Blair Jackson at hanlon law. Called after regular business hours and took my call to go over details. Got started right away with a great outcome for my situation. Would absolutely recommend and will be returning for any further legal counsel.
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28 Oct, 2024 by Thomas e. mcclung
It was a pleasure working with MCT Law. They kept me informed through the entire process and hey were always available to take my calls if I had questions. I would highly recommend them.
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27 Oct, 2024 by Mj menein
All of the staff at MCT Law with whom I was in contact, were very efficient, helpful and managed my expectations. Any time I had a question or concern, they were addressed immediately. I felt very safe and assured in my involvement with MCT Law. I feel that I had the best possible outcome and I would not hesitate to recommend MCT Law. They were kind and professional and very respectful. At no time did I ever feel as though I was being processed, or that my concerns were trivial or unimportant. Thank you to Leslie and Michelle and all of the behind the scenes staff at MCT Law.
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25 Nov, 2024 by Hp piano
I appreciate Paul getting back to me in a timely matter and handling my case with care. I needed the case expedited. He more than delivered. If I asked for something he made it happen.
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19 Sep, 2024 by Janet doke
17 Sep, 2024 by Aracely gomez
I had an amazing experience with Mr Eckert. Very professional and efficient. He was very responsive and helpful. He explained everything in-depth, answered all my questions and addressed my concerns. Showed compassion and understanding. As far as pricing I found it very reasonable. I am grateful I found him.
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17 Jan, 2020 by Mitchell
My and my family's experience with Attorney Slade Dukes and Boyer & Boyer was excellent. I highly recommend the firm and Slade in particular. The firm came highly recommended as the top firm in elder law and related matters on the Sarasota Bar. Edwin Boyer and Slade Dukes' counsel was prudent, strategic and excellent. Slade quickly and capably understood the nuances of our situation and I came to rely on his counsel, both big-picture as well as sensitive correspondence with all parties involved. With Slade and Boyer & Boyer, my family achieved in all respects the outcomes we desired in as gentle a manner as we could've hoped. We are pleased to have the firm of Boyer & Boyer, and attorney Slade Dukes, in particular, as counsel to our family.
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17 Jan, 2020 by Mitchell
My and my family's experience with Attorney Slade Dukes and Boyer & Boyer was excellent. I highly recommend the firm and Slade in particular. The firm came highly recommended as the top firm in elder law and related matters on the Sarasota Bar. Edwin Boyer and Slade Dukes' counsel was prudent, strategic and excellent. Slade quickly and capably understood the nuances of our situation and I came to rely on his counsel, both big-picture as well as sensitive correspondence with all parties involved. With Slade and Boyer & Boyer, my family achieved in all respects the outcomes we desired in as gentle a manner as we could've hoped. We are pleased to have the firm of Boyer & Boyer, and attorney Slade Dukes, in particular, as counsel to our family.
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16 Jan, 2020 by Mitchell
My and my family's experience with Attorney Slade Dukes and Boyer & Boyer was excellent. I highly recommend the firm and Slade in particular. The firm came highly recommended as the top firm in elder law and related matters on the Sarasota Bar. Edwin Boyer and Slade Dukes' counsel was prudent, strategic and excellent. Slade quickly and capably understood the nuances of our situation and I came to rely on his counsel, both big-picture as well as down to sensitive correspondence with all parties involved. With Slade and Boyer & Boyer, my family achieved in all respects the outcomes we desired in as gentle a manner as we could've hoped. We are pleased to have the firm of Boyer & Boyer, and attorney Slade Dukes, in particular, as counsel to our family.
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17 Jun, 2024 by Ric
We went to C. Clark for estate planning based on a very positive comments from friends, and we were not disappointed. We found her to be friendly, helpful, patient, and quite knowledgeable. She guided us through the planning process, prepared draft documents for our review, and responded to all questions in a timely manner. From start to finish, we were very happy with this estate planning experience.
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10 Jun, 2024 by Jim
Cindy and Tim are a great team. We had our trust done in 2015 and to this day 6/10/2024 we can call them for any of our needs. They answer the phone how refreshing in these times.
Use these folks you won't be sorry.
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27 Sep, 2023 by Barbara
Ms. Clark and her team were fantastic. She has such an excellent background before moving into elder care law and it is very helpful. She did a very informative consult over the phone and explained many factors of the process and what was needed (or not needed) in my particular situation. I was told how the how the process would go and I had copies of documents within 2 weeks. I had time to review them and ask as many questions in detail as I wished. Then, I went in to sign final documents once all details were finalized. Cindy and Tim were so informative, prompt, kind and professional. It was a total pleasure doing business with them and I feel confident with everything in completion. I highly recommend their firm ... you will receive kind and personal care!
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27 Jul, 2019 by Anonymous
John Ferrari came very highly recommended. Mr. Ferrari did not disappoint. He was very accessible,
knowledgeable and extremely patient. He was
available to answer any and all questions. He was
quite engaged in the task at hand and left me feeling that he was genuinely concerned about my wishes. Extremely easy to work, Mr. Ferrari treats his clients with professionalism and respect. Recommend without reservation.
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23 Aug, 2018 by Audxmike
John represents the Co- Guardian of our recently adopted children. We’ve had a long drawn out battle for the past two years. John is a man of honor and integrity. He is professional and well respected. I’m grateful he always kept our children’s best interest in mind! Hire him! You won’t regret it!
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07 Feb, 2018 by Sabrina
Our family was placed under extreme circumstances and we needed someone to help us. Within 5 days of first speaking with Mr. Ferrari, he had the documents prepped and filed with the court. He took his time to jump into our situation with us to help our family. Throughout the whole complicated situation, Mr. Ferrari and his staff were very helpful, informative, friendly and professional. They have the heart and the professional skills to help anyone in any situation. You seriously will not find a better attorney anywhere. Mr. Ferrari and his staff are like family now to my family!! We can not thank them enough for all that they have done for our family!!
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31 Mar, 2024 by Anna
I am extremely satisfied with the exceptional legal services provided by Natalya Soshnikova. Her professionalism, knowledge, and commitment to her clients are truly commendable. I would highly recommend her services to anyone in need of legal assistance.
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16 Oct, 2020 by Anonymous
I had the most amazing caring experience. She is so driven and focused on what is best for my family. I could have never asked for a better lawyer.
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24 Jul, 2016 by Anonymous
When getting a divorce you need someone who will be honest with you regarding the decisions you will have make and what the outcome could be. She never left me with an unanswered question and her communication was timely.
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06 Aug, 2020 by Marshall
Let's face it... a large percentage of the time going to a lawyer usually isn't fun. I was fortunate to to have Robles Law to counsel me and prepare all the necessary documents for my small estate to insure that everything necessary and legal would be done. I enjoyed participating in the preparation using modern technology which saved time and cost. In our appointment to complete the paper work I experienced a pleasant and professional staff who made me feel quite comfortable. I will certainly return to them should I need legal services.
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30 Mar, 2020 by Susan
Michelle did an excellent job of explaining what we needed for estate planning. We left with a feeling of confidence about the process and end result.
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25 Mar, 2020 by Catherine and fernando
Moving to Florida we needed some adjustments to our wills.Ms Robles was very professional and well informed as to our wishes and needs. Handled everything perfectly!
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11 May, 2023 by Andy
Erik is very knowledgeable and very well connected to people and resources. As a former Sarasota Mayor his reputation speaks for itself. Very ethical and a straight shooter.
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10 Jan, 2020 by Erik g.
I am impressed by Erik’s legal knowledge and most importantly the diversity of his legal expertise. So many attorneys have a narrow expertise and they commonly do not see the big picture. If you have a business transaction or estate planning issue would be one attorney with which I would recommend you consult.
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16 Jul, 2019 by Anonymous
I retained Erik Arroyo to be the Trustee to my Trust. He has done a phenomenal job and I highly recommend him to anyone having any Wills and Trust needs. He is diligent, knowledgeable, and you must meet him so you can see for yourself.
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20 Aug, 2014 by Anonymous
Ms. Simpler is very honest and straight forward. She solved my problem during the free consultation and I was speechless that she didn't charge me anything. She was very honest regarding which steps to take in my divorce process. Great person and a lot of knowledge.
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03 Jul, 2014 by Anonymous
I needed a divorce attorney, and Shahla was recommended to me. She was compassionate to my situation and directed me through every step of restraining orders, financial situations, mediation, and represented me honorably in the courtroom. After the final divorce, she again walked me through a stalking arrest of my ex-husband. I would very highly recommend Shahla as a divorce attorney
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20 Oct, 2011 by Bekim
I felt seems as though the whole world was against me, Shahla was on my side. with the knowledge and experience that she provide me with not only an excellent line of defense, but also a personal, caring approach that she let me know what to expect and help ease the stress of my situation.
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31 Jul, 2017 by Heather
Kevin not only told me my legal rights, and process; he actually heard me as a person and mother, and offered a little practical advice that helped me put the emotionally painful decision in perspective and feel confident to move forward.
Thank You
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12 May, 2017 by R.c.
After being wronged by my employer, a good friend thought I might have a case & put me in touch with Kevin Sanderson. I never dreamed I would have cause to pursue this case, but Kevin took it on. Throughout the entire process, Kevin kept me informed & worked for my best interest. It took over 2 years, but Kevin persevered. He used his expert negotiating skills, went above & beyond & procured a nice settlement for me. Without Kevin, I never would have gotten any compensation from my former employer. I can't thank Kevin enough for such a wonderful outcome & standing up for the little guy against a big corporation.
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19 Oct, 2016 by Diane
Kevin Sanderson is an excellent attorney. He is a competent and compassionate champion for his clients.
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08 Jan, 2016 by Sheri zillmer
Very informative and helpful to us in a difficult situation. I highly recommend this attorney.
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21 Sep, 2015 by Carolyn
Mr. Griffin made the complex understandable, and the tedious much more pleasant than we anticipated! It is such a comfort to have a Will & Trust.
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17 Sep, 2015 by Tom
We have a complicated Estate situation. Mr. Griffin cut through the "legalese" and covered our issues and questions in terms we could understand. Also, he made us feel at home during the process.
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19 Aug, 2018 by Elizabeth
When I became a caregiver for my elderly parents, I didn't know there was such a thing as an eldercare attorney. After I began getting help from Ira Wiesner, I quickly learned how essential his knowledge and advice are. To begin with, he re-did our family documents done with a previous lawyer. Our Durable Power of Attorney went from several pages to twenty; it now covers everything we need. When it was time for my father to go to skilled nursing care, Mr. Wiesner reviewed the community's contract and other written materials so that we were able to sign with confidence. We are also reviewing our long-range financial planning with him. I am grateful every day to have such excellent advice. And it is truly a pleasure to speak with everyone in Ira Wiesner's office.
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17 Aug, 2017 by Anonymous
Ira Wiesner was recommended to me by several individuals I respect. I needed some practical advice and guidance regarding a very difficult and rather exploitive situation with my mother. I had no idea what my options were, given that my mother, now suffering from dementia, had signed contracts, prior to the dementia, which gave Carte Blanche to a facility which was not providing appropriate care to her. He listened carefully, made some initial suggestions, reviewed the situation and gave me sound advice for a first step. He realized my stress level needed to be reduced, so his advice was not only financially sound, but helped me to get some much needed respite. His knowledge regarding elderly people and the facilities that care for them was comprehensive and pragmatic. His previous experience as a lawyer-ombudsman makes him uniquely qualified to know the buzz words and excuses used by facilities that do not provide adequate care. We are now entering step two in managing my mother's situation and it is something I can handle, knowing that she will be protected.
I was so pleased with Mr. Wiesner's ability, that I asked him to redo some legal documents for me. I have an excellent attorney in another city, and with the hours I care for my mother, I could not get back to that city easily to update my documents. This was managed at my convenience and I am most appreciative for that.
I highly recommend this attorney for anyone with questions or problems regarding older individuals.
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07 Aug, 2016 by Anonymous
Ira Weisner as able to help my family in time of crisis due to major financial exploitation of an elderly relative. We laid out our case to him, he listened attentively (didn't interrupt to show how smart he was like so many lawyers--and believe me, he's smart). He honestly assessed our chances of not only bringing a case, but also of how to protect ourselves from further exploitation. See, Ira is not just an estate planner, but a national expert in elderly abuse, so he was likely the best person in Sarasota to talk to about this.
As for our case, he told us that in one aspect our chances were slim (other lawyers would told us to press forward on the case just to collect bills later), in other aspects of our case, he really helped in telling us the steps forward to take.
His good character was so apparent throughout this process, that my elderly family member who was exploited, decided to switch lawyers and trust their estate planning with him and now we all feel protected. I couldn't recommend Ira Weisner highly enough.
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30 May, 2023 by Mary
Andrew Boyer listened to my concerns and went above and beyond in answering all my questions and helping me with his knowledge. He gave good advice and share insights that I highly valued regarding an estate and the legal system. He was patient, thorough, and kind. I would highly recommend him!
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20 Nov, 2009 by Anonymous
Andrew of Boyer & Jackson is a bright, attentive, talented lawyer.
I had a family case of Guardianship that required tact, skill, and leadership to get thru a maze of family discord and complexity.
Through Andrew's leadership I was able to protect my elder Father with a Guardianship that was for his best interest.
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13 Jan, 2020 by Anonymous
Will has been a Godsend in a very complicated issue. He has worked through the toughest circumstances and guided us through a very difficult time.
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07 Jan, 2015 by Ben
Mr. William shaffer was extremely attentive professional ; he also worked my case out quickly and was the best deal! He is amazing please hire him!
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29 Dec, 2016 by Jane
Met with Tina several years ago when I had a complex trust matter where I was serving as a co-trustee. She was able to advise properly and obtain the result my client wanted. Have since referred many others to her and know she has always done excellent work.
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06 Sep, 2012 by Devin
My experience with Sean was brief but he was courteous and promptly responded to my inquiry. While this exchange with Sean was regarding a not-for-profit matter he still took the time to research the matter and explore options. I was very pleased and look forward to engaging his services in the future!
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12 Jul, 2017 by Anonymous
Richard J. Cole III, gave me valuable legal advise while respecting my desire to keep our session to a minimal duration of time. He is an excellent lawyer and legal resource. I would use him for any future legal issue and have referred him to friends.
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12 Aug, 2020 by Scott grier
Liz has done a wonderful job of servicing me as a client, and my best friend as well. Her prices were fair, and her turn around time is quick. She is a great listener, and gives appropriate advice to make sure all loop holes are closed.
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10 Jul, 2018 by Greg
Nicholas was extremely helpful to my wife & I in detailing how we wanted our estate handled and those uncomfortable end of life details that no one wants to discuss. He was patience,knowledgable & offered excellent advice.I highly recommend to anuone.
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16 Jun, 2020 by Anonymous
Daniel and the entire staff at Advocates in Aging were supportive and helpful during a very difficult time. They never gave up and when nescessay continually came up with new solutions to situations. Daniel always made me feel like he had all the time I needed and explained everything in a way that was easily understood. The best!!!
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13 Mar, 2017 by Rob
I hired Anne for a short sale which she represented my interests succussfully. She was also called again to protect my interests again when one of the parties failed to fulfill their agreement and was posting inaccurate information on my credit report. She boldly went where other attorney's failed and again, corrected the situation in short order. I think she is awesome and highly disappointed that this legal challenge went against her. Her plaintiff in this case probably was overreaching in their so-called rights in the First Amendment.
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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.
