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05 Nov, 2022 by Dale
Sandra helped my family and I with my father's probate. We could not have done it without her. And on top of that she is a very nice person. (Her dog is pretty wonderful too)
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31 Oct, 2022 by Mike
From beginning to end, Ms. Green walked me through every step of an estate probate. She explained it in a language that I could understand and was more than ready and available to answer all of my questions, no matter how small they may have been.
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19 Oct, 2022 by Sherry
Sandra Green is incredibly down-to-earth and easy to talk to.
We had many questions and limited knowledge; Sandra had all the answers.
She also gave us useful nuggets of information we could use but wouldn’t have known to ask.
Excellent experience!
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08 Jun, 2021 by Randy
We bought a brand new 2020 cyclone rv July 5, 2019.
We had nothing but problems with it from the very
first day. From holes drilled in the drain pipe for the sink
to lights strobing in the living area and master bedroom,
to awning arms breaking, water leaking in the door to the
kitchen, back ramp door filling with water,
we even had a situation where the rod for the rear bunks
came out and the right seat crashed down and hit my son
in the back. Bubbling around the roof, lights burned out all over.
it was so bad that every single time that we went to use the rv
I had to go pick it up from the repair center, use it, then return
it to the repair center. It got so bad that I was dealing with heartland
directly. I had my own direct number to a supervisor at heartland.
He would call me or I would call him and we would go over the warranty items
and he would tell me he was approving them line by line as I was on the phone
with him. I would go to pick up my rig and nothing would be repaired! I would
send an email to him 3-5 days later I would get a response that everything
was approved. 4-6 weeks later I would go to use my rig again and nothing
would be fixed. They would print the work orders and show me in black
and white that everything had been denied. This went on for 1.5 yrs. I got tired of it.
Warranties were expiring or expired and nothing was getting fixed. So in late
January 2021 I made 3 calls to different attorneys. I left messages with
all 3 giving a brief explanation of what was going on and the problems
I was having/dealing with. Tony was the only one who returned my call and within
5 min. I spent over 30 min with him over the phone. He listened to every word that I had to say.
He took notes asked me questions so he fully understood my dilemma and then
Made some suggestions to me of what to do next. The last thing he said to me before
we hung up was “ hang in there and if you ever need anything else call me and ill do
whatever I can to help you”. Well 6 weeks later I called him again and hired him to do a demand
letter. I had hundreds of emails back and forth with heartland. I had videos of the damage, 30-40 repair
orders from 3 different repair facilities, that he had to go through. Within a week he had prepared a
demand letter, sent it to heartland and received a response from upper management. 1 week and he
was already further up the chain than I got in 1.5 yrs. He didn’t stop there like a normal attorney would
have considering I only paid him to do a demand letter. He kept on with them back and forth until we
reached an agreement. We are in the final phases now with heartland and of course we agreed to hire
him on for the negotiations at a separate rate. Tony saved us big time. For what he did for us and is still
currently doing for us was way more and way over the top of what he charged us. There is no way that I
could have accomplished what he’s done. I would recommend his law firm to anyone who needs help
not with just issues like mine but any issues you have. If you want someone who never stops fighting for
you, Tony is the man you want on your side. I won’t divulge our settlement but I will say that we are
extremely pleased with the results, especially considering what it cost us. All this and my wife and have
never physically met Tony. Many many conversations and emails later he got it done!! Thank you again
Tony!
Randy Revis
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26 Mar, 2021 by Leona
My husband and I had the best experience with Mr. Conticello P.A. We had a dispute with our landlord and didn't know exactly what the laws were regarding our case or how to move forward legally. I spoke with several different attorneys before hiring this firm and I'm certain I made the right choice! After scheduling a consultation within 48 hours, my husband I were given all the tools we would need to succeed legally in small claims court. Our attorney was patient, knowledgeable, kind, respectful, and very good at communicating the law to us so we could comprehend. I would definitely trust this firm to handle my legal needs in the future.
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22 Feb, 2021 by Melissa
I used Conticello, PA to obtain legal advice on how to proceed with a Florida based vacation company. Due to COVID, we had to cancel our travel plans and as a result, the company issued a travel voucher for the full balance we originally paid. When we re-booked the trip, they sold us insurance to cover the value of the travel voucher, however, when we had to cancel our plans again, we found out that insurance doesn't cover travel vouchers and the company was also unwilling to give us our voucher back (1 time use only). Anthony answered all of calls/questions and provided several options for us to proceed. Within 1 day of sending a demand letter, the company was willing to reissue us our travel voucher. Anthony also checked in with us to ensure we were able to redeem the voucher without any issues. Without his help we would have lost a significant amount of money as well as a family trip. We were extremely happy with his services and would highly recommend him. He is knowledgeable, patient and most importantly, effective!
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16 Apr, 2016 by Anonymous
Catherine represented me in a civil litigation matter. She explained to me what was happening every step of the way and I got the outcome I wanted! If I ever need a lawyer again then she will be the only one I hire. I HIGHLY recommend her.
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14 Apr, 2016 by Angela
Catherine is the most compassionate lawyer I have ever worked with. She handled a child support case for me and even though it was her first time you couldn't tell by her court room presence. She is a great attorney and puts forth 100% effort in making sure her client is treated fairly. She is truly a blessing to me and my kids!!
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05 Feb, 2016 by Alfreeka
When I found Catherine she was a God sent, excuse my vocab, nut crushing attorney at law! She has been such a blessing to me and my boys. She is fair but fights for you. Professional as well as down to earth and relatable. I would recommend her to anyone with any legal issues. I will always keep her on speed dial for any legal circumstances I may encounter in the future.
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23 Jul, 2014 by Anonymous
Ms. McConnaughhay took care of my uncle's estate and trust planning in a timely and thorough fashion. She was very patient - there was a language barrier-- in listening to his needs. She also gave him honest advice and explained everything to not only him, but also to his selected family members upon his request. She took everyone's questions, but continued to protect his interests. Her staff is very helpful and discrete. I will continue to recommend her to anyone who has probate, wills, estate, trust or guardianship issues.
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13 Jul, 2014 by Toni
Jana completed my will several years ago. After a divorce she updated my will and gave me very sound advice and direction. I have complete confidence that she works with MY best interests in mind. Her work is professional, timely and thorough.
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11 Jul, 2014 by Betsy
Jana completed our estate planning in a very professional and expedient manner. She is well versed in all aspects in estate planning and especially elder law.
Jana is compassionate, patient, knowledgeable and thorough. I found her price structure to be reasonable.
My experience was so positive, I have recommended several folks to Jana. She has also completed my parents estate planning.
If you get the opportunity to work with Jana and her team, you will find her expertise and customer service to be excellent. I highly recommend her services.
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06 May, 2014 by Lee
Absolutely fantastic attorney. Mr. Dariotis has great expertise, judgment and intellect. He assisted me in a difficult family trust and estate matter. I know many attorneys in Tallahassee and he is in a different league than most. He is unassuming but exceptional and highly ethical.
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03 Apr, 2014 by Lee
Absolutely fantastic attorney. Mr. Dariotis has great expertise, judgment and intellect. He assisted me in a difficult family trust and estate matter. I know many attorneys in Tallahassee and he is in a different league than most. He is unassuming but exceptional and highly ethical.
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5.0
2 Reviews
02 May, 2023 by Joe
I presented Belinda with a very challenging case after discovering some unclaimed funds in Florida. It took some very good lawyering to figure out a complicated set of circumstances regarding beneficiaries, and there was an error in my uncle's will to boot. She steered around probate and protected me from any specious claims that could have arisen. This all required Belinda to apply some creative thinking, but she figured out a way to get to the result my uncle would have wanted. Since I am out of state, I found her via the Florida Bar Association, and I could not be more happy that the fates led me to Belinda France.
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19 Oct, 2016 by Pamela
Ms. France has a vast depth of knowledge and years of experience in many areas of law. What sets her apart from the rest is her personal commitment to her clients. She makes you feel like she is a member of your family and will do whatever it takes to do the very best job for you, with the utmost attention to detail. She never made me feel like I was just another $$ per hour, she made me feel like a person she really cared about.
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07 Jan, 2015 by Fancyrou
I emailed Ian a question on a weekend & assumed if I got a reply it would be the next business day. Imagine my surprise when Ian not only replied to my email inquiry immediately but gave a very detailed response as well. He was very polite & professional and he even answered a follow up question I had as well. I truly appreciated him taking time out of his weekend to answer my question as I was stressing quite a bit over my issue. Awesome, professional! Lisa~
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09 Aug, 2011 by Jim
Ian took our probate case and did a GREAT job. The judge was located in another county from where we live and seemed to be going out of his way to make things difficult. Ian kept his cool and managed to wined his way through all of the barriers placed in his way. He kept us up to date on what was going on and we would use him again if we have a need for an atty.
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04 Dec, 2015 by Anonymous
Audrey Ehrhardt executed living wills, health care directives, power of attorney, pre-need guardian, and last will documents for my husband and I. She listened to our needs and created a plan to meet them, making the process very smooth and easy. Mrs. Ehrhardt has also been helpful with subsequent consultations regarding arrangements we may need to have in place as our parents age. She is extremely knowledgable with elder law issues, and knowing she is only a phone call way is a great comfort. I would highly recommend Mrs. Ehrhardt if you need an attorney specializing in elder law and/ or wills.
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01 Nov, 2015 by When i needed help, she was right there
Ms. Coleman helped me with several tax problems, and was willing to do much more. Her response and follow-up was outstanding. Working with her, I know first-hand that her experience, passion, professional acuity, and deep dedication to her clients is most assuredly one of the highest I've ever witnessed both as an attorney, and with my own accounting, tax, and family law experience. Hire Ms. Coleman, she is nothing short of excellent.
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13 Nov, 2009 by Anonymous
Mr. Goldberg provided excellent services at a reasonable rate!
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06 Sep, 2021 by Anonymous
Provided excellent services for my family in varied areas including property law.
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30 Dec, 2015 by Leslie
Christine and her staff were absolutely amazing! They handled my divorce case with speed, care and high professionalism. They made everything easy and simple to understand. I love how determined Christine is to protect your best interest. I highly recommend Christine Thurman. Colin Tease, her paralegal, was always there to quickly answer questions via email or telephone. Thank you all for your services!
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01 Feb, 2015 by Anonymous
Very quick response and extremely helpful and professional.
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07 May, 2015 by Jennifer
This is my first experience hiring an attorney and loosing a loved one followed by the administration of a will and the probate process. I have been extremely pleasantly surprised with how kind, responsive and wonderful everyone at this firm has been. I am very grateful to them for their help during this sad and stressful time.
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29 May, 2018 by Roxanna ford
I went in and saw Mr.Brice and has a consultation with him after meeting with him I new then he was the perfect attorney to handle my case very thoughtful and sensitive to the situation I’m very pleased with him I no this will be a long fight but at least I have a awesome attorney to fight for me and my daughter!!
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27 Aug, 2022 by Roxy
Very understanding and nice. Listens to your story. I got to talk directly to him and not a secretary. Gets back with you quickly.
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05 Nov, 2020 by Da. thunder
26 Oct, 2020 by John greco
16 Oct, 2020 by Dean filippi
05 Nov, 2020 by Da. thunder
26 Oct, 2020 by John greco
16 Oct, 2020 by Dean filippi
03 Aug, 2024 by Alan
I was hesitant about going through the process of Chapter 13 bankruptcy but Kathryn Hathaway explained the process thoroughly. After our initial consultation, I knew I had made the right decision to do this and in choice of attorney to guide me through it. Now, five years later, I'm so glad Kathryn handled my case. She and Tara were always there to answer questions, provide any documents I might need, and be at my side in the courtroom. Always professional and caring, that's the way Kathryn Hathaway and her team treat their clients. I very highly recommend them!
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08 Mar, 2024 by Lucas r.
Stephen and Louis are very knowledgeable and professional. They're very diligent and truly have your best interest in mind. I absolutely trust these men with my life.
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22 Feb, 2024 by De'asiiaa erviin
Great communication , very understanding , quick , Low fees and I felt like he cared about me and my justice not just money
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21 Feb, 2024 by Tameriah mcgill
Mr. Baptise is highly professional, has strong communicative and listening abilities. He’s understanding, caring, and ensures the best quality possible. Thank you!
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16 Apr, 2024 by Marty ehlen
Thoroughly professional, responsive, and reasonably priced. I highly recommend the law firm of Bruner & Wright.
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13 Mar, 2024 by Elizabeth fowler
They helped me when nobody else would. They are still helping me
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07 Mar, 2024 by Jay brummett
Incredible service, incredible value during a very tough time.
The CoronaVirus and a bitter divorce put me in a horrible financial situation, and I can honestly say that Trey and Melanie from Bruner Wright did more for me in less time and with zero hassle than the two divorce lawyers I had to hire.
I hope you NEVER have to file bankruptcy. I hope you NEVER have a bitter ex who wants to rake you over the coals. But if you find yourself in a tough financial spot, these people are worth their weight in gold!
Thank you Trey, Melanie and the rest of the staff at Bruner Wright!
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5.0
7 Reviews
4.4
41 Reviews
03 Oct, 2023 by Bill rushing
Fournier represented me in a abuse/custody case. This case was continuous and complicated in many ways. Three years to completion. After three years of experience I can confidently recommend this law office. I wouldn’t trust another law office with my family!!!!!!!! Thanks Ashley, Gena, Susan, and everyone else in the office! They worked so diligently!
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03 Feb, 2023 by Kenchard daniels
Super Attorneys, Wise Counsel, Became My Family!
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18 Jan, 2023 by Claude rabbath
The best lawyer in Tallahassee who can represent you . Thank You Gena .
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20 Jul, 2024 by Melanie mason
Mr. Thompson and Ms. Rebecca were so friendly and helpful. They were both easy to work with and provided top notch customer service. I would highly recommend this firm.
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24 Jun, 2024 by Tony bower
Mr. Thompson and his para legal, Rebecca Martin, gave us pre service consultation, said what they would do and did it, professionally, timely and kept us informed throughout.
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19 Jun, 2024 by Jimmy h
Have been a joy to work with. Very skilled in dealing with all kinds of matters. Helped me deal with something that came out of the wood work from almost 20 years ago. Would highly highly recommend!
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20 Jul, 2024 by Melanie mason
Mr. Thompson and Ms. Rebecca were so friendly and helpful. They were both easy to work with and provided top notch customer service. I would highly recommend this firm.
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24 Jun, 2024 by Tony bower
Mr. Thompson and his para legal, Rebecca Martin, gave us pre service consultation, said what they would do and did it, professionally, timely and kept us informed throughout.
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19 Jun, 2024 by Jimmy h
Have been a joy to work with. Very skilled in dealing with all kinds of matters. Helped me deal with something that came out of the wood work from almost 20 years ago. Would highly highly recommend!
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20 Jul, 2024 by Melanie mason
Mr. Thompson and Ms. Rebecca were so friendly and helpful. They were both easy to work with and provided top notch customer service. I would highly recommend this firm.
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24 Jun, 2024 by Tony bower
Mr. Thompson and his para legal, Rebecca Martin, gave us pre service consultation, said what they would do and did it, professionally, timely and kept us informed throughout.
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19 Jun, 2024 by Jimmy h
Have been a joy to work with. Very skilled in dealing with all kinds of matters. Helped me deal with something that came out of the wood work from almost 20 years ago. Would highly highly recommend!
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12 Mar, 2024 by Kim ortloff
Highly recommend this firm for any commercial and residential real estate needs. MSM’s team works smoothly and consistently to ensure all your needs are met. Best in town!
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07 Feb, 2024 by Jennifer heckman
04 Dec, 2023 by Edward johnson
Great experience,
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20 Jul, 2022 by Toby chapman
Website was thorough and easy to navigate
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15 Jun, 2021 by Tommy sparks
No one answers the phones and after leaving messages no one contacted me back. This was after several attempts over the course of a couple of weeks.
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21 May, 2020 by Chris higgins
Mr. Mathews and his team represented our family in a complex, multi-state case. From day one we were treated with compassion, professionalism, and clear communication. Mathews Law Firm was extremely responsive and went above and beyond to assist. Thank you Mathews Law Firm.
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11 Sep, 2024 by Sean dearborn (shantidass)
05 Sep, 2024 by Rochelle blaha
Professional and responsive in a timely manner
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05 Sep, 2024 by Donna bennett
I have had nothing but a great experience with Morgan and Morgan!
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30 Apr, 2024 by L simmons
Atty Butters really takes care of her clients and puts you at ease especially as it relates to estate planning. One stop shop. Excellent advisor, professional and personable and her staff sets the standards in how an office should be run. I feel like family.
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10 Jun, 2023 by Veronica adderson
19 Apr, 2023 by Anabel hall
Excellent legal representation. Patrick is a professional and well knowledge regarding my specific construction legal issues. I highly recommend this firm.
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25 Sep, 2024 by Gernea mobley
My experience with this law firm was not the best. It started out rather smooth and then made a huge turn towards the end. My case was drawn out over five years when it could have been much less. Let me start by first addressing the customer service from most of the individuals who answer the phone. They have no phone etiquette when you call the office. It seems as if they are bothered or don't have the time to deal with anyone. I have encountered rudeness on several occasions which sets the tone for what this firm is all about. The people who answer the phones are not educated on general questions, you never get any help or answers and your always transferred so quickly or asked to leave a message. Secondly, the lack of communication this office has is diabolical. After sitting and waiting almost 4 years for any movement on my case, I begin to receive calls and emails from random people I never spoke to before requesting that I come to meetings with short notice. My time was not taken into consideration at all. I mean asking that someone attend a deposition or an online meeting one day before is unreasonable without advance notice or proper preparation. You will never speak to Ms. Mattox at all I gather that the firm is only named after her, I spoke to her one time on a 3 way call at the very end stage of my case for about five minutes. My case was passed over to multiple people throughout the entire process I was so confused and was never given any clarity as to who was actually handling my case until the very end. I was not given full and complete honesty about some information, I was told one thing and received the opposite. This firm has showed me that they are concerned with their own satisfaction instead of the clients. Without going into any specific details regarding my case I will say that I feel that the five years I wasted and waited for a resolution and outcome was totally unnecessary and those who handled my case know exactly what I am talking about. This review is more so for the potential clients of this firm. I would encourage you to ask as many questions as you can from the beginning and stay knowledgeable about your case to avoid what I went through.
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06 Sep, 2024 by Steve hogg
I called to try to get answers about my issues.Before I could explain they the receptionist basicly told me the same thing I been hearing for the past 4 years.
You mean to tell me lawyers go to school to only do accidents?
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06 Sep, 2024 by Tracy scarbary
The experience for me was horrible. They do send you a letter in the beginning explaining you will go long times with no communication, that's an understatement! I never even meet the attorney assigned to my case. Never had a one on one discussion with anyone. Took over 4years to resolve, can't blame that all on covid! The process is confusing, the receptionist is rude, and it always felt like I was bothering them when I would call and try to get updates. Very disappointing from start to finish. Once settled took forever for payout, and understand the 40% percent the firm gets comes off the top not after fees are paid, you may not realize it but it makes a difference in what you end up with!!
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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.
