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30 Sep, 2024 by Stephanie adams
OMG Jaime Garcia is the best lawyer in the business!!! I cannot thank him and his paralegal Cynthia for her great support during my Domestic Violence case and they cleared me with all of my evidence for my case. If you want the best in the business....hire Jaime you won't be disappointed!!!
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18 Sep, 2024 by Ebony
Great representation I have no complaints. Mr. Garcia & Ms Cynthia explored all my options & I received a better offer based off of his findings & research. Definitely recommend his services!
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05 Sep, 2024 by Brenda bobe
Attorney Jaime Garcia and Cynthia has been guiding and educating me with a case involving a family member. I could not have met a better attorney including his assistant Cynthia. They had and still have for the past 2 years the compassion with guidance that I needed through this terrible time in my life and couldn't be happier with the work they have put into helping me in this case and or direction. Jaime and Cynthia made me feel like family in the most professional way. Attorney Jaime Garcia couldn't be more honest and upright with me and there isn't enough money that can cover the cost of honesty.
Jaime Garcia will always be the Attorney I will go to for any future legal help if ever needed.
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15 Nov, 2017 by Anonymous
I hired Attorney Stokes twice concerning two businesses. As a first time entrepreneur, she guided me through the necessary steps to ensure my business started on the right foot. Additionally, she introduced me to a banker, who has gone above and beyond to ensure my business is financially responsible. Without her dedication, commitment, and guidance, my business may have failed. I highly recommend without reservation Attorney Stokes to all new and seasoned entrepreneurs.
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15 Nov, 2017 by Justin
Shaunette Stokes is one of the best lawyers ever. She was very patient and on point with her knowledge. very professional, punctual,detailed and straight to the point. No underline fees or gimmicks. I will surely press the refer button on this one.
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15 Nov, 2017 by James
It took me several failed attempts to find someone knowledgeable in intellectual property law. She helped me secure my small business and continues to consult as needed. I feel confident in her work and recommend any artist to work with her.
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13 Dec, 2021 by Joey
Yet again the legal eagle prevails. I was forced into an unfortunate situation having to defend myself violently in my own home. Subsequently I was arrested for domestic battery against a male assailant. After Mr. Hajaistorn negotiated my Hasty release the legal team went to work. In a time of uncertainty, and the courts being far behind, Alex and his team were able to reduce my violent charges to disturbing the peace plus nominal fine.., also withheld from my record. Once again I highly recommend Alex hajaistorn attorney at law for all of your legal needs and woes!
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24 Nov, 2021 by Nathanial
Mr. Hajaistron, Esq. is the attorney you want to be representing you. He will go above and beyond to not only treat you with dignity and respect but also like you are family. He takes the time to carefully and meticulously go over the finite details of your case to provide the absolute best possible representation. No matter what your concern is, he takes the time to listen and more importantly doesn't sugarcoat the matter, he will tell you plainly and clearly what to expect and what the goals are, whether positive or negative, and when negative he absolutely takes ownership in order to tell you how to accomplish the best possible outcome. I'd hire Mr. Hajaiston any day, and I personally keep him on retainer.
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05 Aug, 2021 by Anonymous
My experiences with The Law Offices of Alex V. Hajaistron was stupendous through and through. He knows his craft and walks the extra mile for you. I have consulted with him on several different occasions and each one of them was handled with utmost care and professionalism. I appreciate working with people that care for you on a personal level instead of just handling you as a “case“.
I HIGHLY recommend, Alex V. Hajaistron, with The Law Offices of Alex V. Hajaistron, he is a TRUE professional and allaround Great Guy!
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15 Aug, 2015 by Louis
My family met Mr. Gonzalez over 20 years ago as we were considering our options with different law firms concerning estate planning. We hired Alan and have done business with him ever since. He is very knowledgeable and wise in his counsel. Our family and our business depends in his expertise.
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13 Aug, 2015 by Oscar
Mr. Gonzalez has been my attorney for estate planning, trusts, will documents and personal consultation for over 15 years. I greatly appreciate his expert opinion and explanation of planning options for my family and proposed retirement. I have recommended his services to other individuals and all of them have been very grateful for his advise.
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13 Aug, 2015 by Lee
Alan teaches CE credits in his industry, if that tells you anything. If you want someone who has the experience, knowledge, detailed, competent & empathy rolled into one, this is your man.
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07 Aug, 2019 by Anonymous
12 minutes ago
Absolutely amazing! We ran into a mess with a seller who didn't want to close. Thank God we had Todd on our side; he even identified overcharges applied by the other title company. I highly recommend Westchase Law I couldn't be more greatful for his help.
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07 Aug, 2019 by Thaissa
Attorney Marks guided me through the legality aspect of removing a business partner from the company. Additionally, gave me wonderful suggestions of how to go about things gracefully and amicably. He has a wide range of experience and expertise.
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07 Aug, 2019 by Michelle
Westchase Law helped me navigate a rather messy foreclosure. I am very grateful to Mr. Marks and his team who achieved nothing short of a miraculous outcome for my situation. I now refer friends and family to this firm.
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04 Dec, 2017 by Stephen hayman
I know Mr. Frisicia both personally and professionally. He has provided legal services to me, and I have worked with him on numerous legal matters, involving family law, real estate and probate. I have always found Mr. Friscia to be very knowledgeable, diligent and well-prepared. He has a lot of experience in court and is very thoughtful and astute with his legal arguments and analysis. I highly recommend him!!
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11 Aug, 2016 by Anonymous
Honestly, He's a great guy and so is his staff. My Case exceeded my retainer and had about 1.5 years of effort into my case. In my opinion, divorce law is not his specialty. I do believe he did everything he could but there are things he should have pushed back on, and I mean numerous times. It was not completley my counsels fault. Rather the extraordinarily odd requests from opposing counsel. Talk about redundant. The other this lawyer could have done was let me know thousands of dollars prior that I had exceeded my retainer so I could have made arrangements with him to continue my case. Otherwise an ok attorney.
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18 Jun, 2013 by Anonymous
He is always quick to return a phone call and does his best when representing you. He charges a fair rate and never coats it with sugar.
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24 Sep, 2013 by Susan
Mr. Riffel handled my bankruptcy case which was very unique since I was filing as a Texas resident now living in Florida. He was very professional, always available to meet with me and returned my calls promptly. He told me what to expect every step of the way. Mr. Riffel and his staff made me feel comfortable during a very emotional time in my life. I found him very easy to communicate with and would highly recommend him to anyone in need of his services.
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16 May, 2013 by Ben
Paul was very easy to work with. He handles every case with a confident attitude that leaves you feeling protected, and secure. Mr. Riffel was always prompt and helpful through every step in my bankruptcy process. I recommend Paul E. Riffel to anyone contemplating filing for Bankruptcy whether it be Ch. 7 or Ch. 13. You are guaranteed competent and confident counsel if you put your trust in Paul. He also practices Family Law and Estate Planning. Should you require any of those services I highly recommend Mr. Paul E. Riffel Esq. -Attorney at Law
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22 Oct, 2011 by Anonymous
I am a single mother and I don't make very much money and expected this attorney to represent me during this difficult in my life. I would not recommend this lawyer. He is highly ineffective. He just took my money and did not accomplish anything. Did not take the time to explain the law to me. Nor did he try to protect my best interests.
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22 Jan, 2023 by Tiffany noble
29 Dec, 2021 by Lisa garcia
Won't return phone calls.
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06 Jun, 2021 by Rodney lozada
18 Dec, 2021 by Annette temme
I would highly recommend Attorney Liz Potts firm. The staff are courteous, helpful with a quick response time. Attorney Potts is very professional but makes you feel like family and protected. A truly great experience with many different services.
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30 Sep, 2021 by Linda kovacs
🎃
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01 Feb, 2020 by Steve khare
12 Feb, 2016 by Steven
I had a car accident where I hit some one that stopped in an intersection. Mike was able to prove it was the other persons fault and win a small claims court for me. Without him I would of been left with a broken car and increased insurance rates.
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27 Apr, 2018 by Anonymous
I hired Ms. Vargas to assist me with a legal family law matter. She was not knowledgeable in this area of law. She was unable to accurately answer my questions or provide sound legal advice. She was not prepared for our Court date and I felt like she didn't even know the facts of my case. She has no attention to detail and provides no customer service. She wouldn't return my calls and failed to keep me updated as to the status of my case. I would have been better off representing myself. I received very poor representation and would not recommend this attorney to anyone who is looking for an aggressive knowledgeable attorney.
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17 Jul, 2017 by Lorraine
Zero compassion. Zero knowledge. Provided zero evidence when there was a plethora available. If you truly believe that your fight is worth fighting for, do not hire Wendy. She will not give you the good fight.
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20 Apr, 2017 by Liliana
We loved working with Wendy, she was excellent explaining all our options, was very quick in preparing all our documents and prices were fair.
We will keep working with her in all our legal needs.
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19 Jan, 2024 by Kevin
John said he would take my case for divorce. I gave him $500 he sent a couple of letters . I tried to reach he by phone by email, text message no response from him. In the beginning I told him I had no money because my wife had it all. He said no problem I’ll Paition the court for the money month went by nothing gave him $500 more to sign the papers . I had a court date he told me nothing about . He walked with my money. I’m disabled living on social security. Money is hard to come by so someone to take me for $1000. Is a lot to me. Thanks John
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03 Jul, 2019 by Anonymous
Let me start out by saying I have had several attorneys. Highly litigated ongoing family law case (8 years). John has by far been the best attorney for my case, and my husbands case as well. He is knowledgeable in many areas of the law. He is very fair in his pricing. He is honest with his clients. He wont set you up for failure, or to be let down. When he says he can get it done, he really can. One thing I can say is he defends his clients to his absolute very best ability. He is the only attorney to make me feel like he is really on my side and not feel defeated by the court system when we walk out. If I had this to do all over, he would have been my number 1 choice and I would have stuck by him the entire time. He can be aggressive or passive and that helps alot when litigating cases also. Highly recommended.
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22 May, 2019 by Denise
I hired John Panzarella to resolve a very sensitive case in court on my husband and my behalf. I am very happy with his conduct, professionalism, knowledge, charisma and positivism. I have talked to many Attorneys before about the same case and they all turned me off saying that I had no chance. John made a lot of researches about my case and found out what was the key to give me what I was for so long waiting for. I would recommend John Panzarella to any type of case because even though the case might not be his area of knowledge, John will dig deep on his researches to help you out with professionalism and care. Denise - Personal Trainer- Tampa/FL
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22 Nov, 2023 by Anonymous
Yes, Dennis closed his doors and screwed over all of his clients. However, there is a Facebook group being advertised online for the victims that is just as bad! The host (Jess Ica) is vile, disrespectful, and paranoid. She is accusing victims of being spies and lying. Don’t join the group! Here’s the info you need. Hillsborough County investigation: 813-247-0519 (klaus)
Case number: 23-1085893
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25 Oct, 2023 by Jessica
He closed his Tampa office on 10/16 and stole all
His clients money- this man is a scammer along with his paralegal Danielle.
Look at yelp!!! Do not give this man your money
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22 Jun, 2022 by Anonymous
I used this law group for a probate. I found them unresponsive. Multiple phone calls and emails went unanswered. I would not recommend this law group
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25 Jul, 2017 by Denise p
Mr. Anthony Chris Ekonomides is one of those lawyers who takes money and promises solid legal support but does not check the facts or scrutinize the details. I needed to send a legal letter to my ex-spouse who was not fully cooperating with a Court Order. Mr. Anthony Chris Ekonomides did not study the details of the case and ruined it completely. I lost my case because of his ignorance.
I would never use him again or recommend him to anybody.
Denise
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04 Jul, 2017 by Michelle bryant
Mr. Ekonomides is extremely professional and listens to your story without judgement. He always has your best interest at heart and is straight and to the point. He treats you with the utmost respect and sincerity. He makes you feel like you're his only case even though he has several. As his client, I put my total trust in his hands knowing he will give it his 100%. He is reasonably priced. I highly recommend Anthony Ekonomides in any case. I can not thank him enough for getting me through this difficult point in my life.
Very Respectfully,
Michelle
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27 Jun, 2017 by Laura
Mr. Anthony C. Ekonomides is very dishonest lawyer. In my post-divorce case he has promised me a lot, and achieve almost nothing. He is approaching very aggressive, however there is no any results in Court of his tactics. He just drain money with no practical success. Even my ex-husband who is technical person, easily destroyed our case during Court hearing.
I do not recommend Mr. Anthony C. Ekonomides for any kind of defense or family case.
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29 Mar, 2022 by Anonymous
Contacted him about a bankruptcy. He spent a good half hour on the phone with me, was very nice and well informed. Said he would email info to me in an hour after we hung up. Never got an email, did return calls after that. Secretary said "Well, he will call you back you know, when he wants to" LOL
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15 Mar, 2016 by Elizabeth
David Blazek has handled my very difficult trust settlement with patience, insight, professionalism, communication and ease. I highly recommend him for your legal needs within his expertise. I am very pleased.
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24 Jun, 2017 by Kim
Ms. Lakeman is the owner of a firm which employs another lawyer (Jennifer Arena) who was appointed to represent me in a private petition for dependency. However, Ms. Lakeman virtually took over representation of the case herself. She didn't return phone calls, returned few e-mails, and during mediation, pushed me to settle issues in my divorce for which I had hired a different attorney. She actually suggested that my 18 year old son serve as an overnight supervisor for my estranged husband so my 3 year old son could have overnight visits with him, and she proposed this knowing that there had been a no contact order between them for prospective sexual abuse. She berated me for believing that yes, this man might actually molest our young son at night as the court found that he did to his ex-girlfriend's daughter. She also pushed me to go back into the mediation room when I felt so ill and in so much pain I couldn't think straight; my divorce attorney was present and was asking me if I wanted him to call me an ambulance. I filed a pro se motion with the dependency court to have her replaced, and scheduled and noticed the motion for hearing. Ms. Lakeman was the only one who showed up, and said that she was prepared to go forward on the motion herself. The judge stated that this was unacceptable - that Ms. Arena was the lawyer that had been appointed to represent me. She was in another county, and Ms. Lakeman's explanation was that, in spite of receiving proper notice of the hearing, they ASSUMED that I had just randomly scheduled the hearing and that the notice was not valid. I argued that this was indicative of the problems that I'd had with her all along. She never asked me, she never called the clerk's office; she just assumed that a properly noticed hearing was not really happening. With very little argument from Ms. Lakeman or Ms. Arena, the judge appointed a new attorney who provided outstanding representation. It was very clear that this lawyer wanted to be OFF of my case, for which she was being compensated less than she would have been had she not been appointed. I also filed a complaint against her with the Florida Bar, but apparently they decided the evidence was insufficient to discipline this attorney, in spite of the fact that I sent emails, phone records, the motion I filed, and the name and phone number of my divorce attorney who witnessed some of these actions. Please do not rely on the fact that there is no disciplinary history; the Florida Bar apparently protects its own.
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02 Apr, 2017 by Anonymous
When I was going through my divorce Cynthia and her assistant took a retainer of $2,500. During our first meeting she had me in tears and said to make sure to save up all my money. Her assistant was texting the entire time. Then another employee came in and they talked about her daughters dance performance and shared pictures. I felt as if my case was a joke. I asked for my retainer back so I could find another attorney. Instead they billed me for $3,600 for a meeting that accomplished nothing. I do not recommend Cynthia Lakeman. She is clearly only for the money.
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15 Oct, 2013 by Wilma
At our first meeting on a Monday, we presented Cynthia with the lead officers' name, contact number, warrant numbers (which she told us were actually CRA #s ). She told us she would file a Motion to Surrender and Motion to Set Bail the next morning. After paying the retainer fee that Monday, she told us on Wednesday, "There is nothing any attorney can do." This was because there was no case number and the arrest warrant had not been entered into the system which we knew & told her at our first meeting. On Friday of that same week, Cynthia told us we should find another attorney.
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30 Nov, 2016 by Gip
Mr. Hayes,
Has been my Attorney for almost 25yrs. He has handle about 4 case for me and all them were successful. One of my cases was in Buffalo NY and he won that case also. Mr. Hayes was always been fair with me and never over charge me. In fact, he has never charged me what he could have. Mr. Hayes is my Attorney for life and not only for me but for my entire family. If someone need a good, honest, and caring Attorney he is the one.
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04 Jun, 2015 by Anonymous
This will be my first and most likely last review I will ever make online. I never even check reviews but I decided it would serve the world a favor by taking my time to write this message. Mr. Hayes is the WORST lawyer I have ever had the displeasure of meeting. He is an angry fellow with very poor social skills. I hired him for a case and terminated him shortly after hire since he was doing a terrible job. His knowledge about law is poor and the only time Mr. Hayes would call me was to collect an advanced payment. Before you even consider hiring him please just google search and do some research on this attorney. He once had to be subdued in the courtroom by a taser gun after he assaulted a deputy when he was on a losing end of a case. He has no professional skills and I am confused on why he still possesses a license to practice. He will take as much money as he can from you, making you sign a contract which guarantees a large payment even if only proves he worked for just one hour on your case.
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26 Feb, 2023 by Anonymous
My experience with RFS and Mark
I attempted to purchase a bread route business through routesforsale.net. I gave them a deposit of $16,000.00 The purchase was contingent on obtaining financing. I tried with my bank, financial brokers and the sellers in house company purchase option. Didn't get approved. So I requested my deposit back.
The agreement I signed stated that if there was a dispute between the seller and myself, that we had to go to arbitration. I reviewed the contract with my local attorney. I had every right to get my money back. I can provide all proof that I fulfilled all my duties as a buyer. Traveling to Wisconsin, training, applied for financing etc etc. I can even provide that the broker informed me that I WOULD get my deposit back if I couldn't get the purchase financed. I reviewed these events at arbitration. However the arbitrator Mark Aubin decided to go against the contract. For reasons unknown and reasons that can not be provided.
I have spoken to several Tampa attorneys. They all say that this was WRONG. I even ran the matter by a retired judge in the area Judge G.H. They all agree this is wrong and harmful. This is why I am advising people to not sign a contract with an arbitration clause. Even if you are legally in the right they can get you. This cost me 16k and neither the arbitrator or broker would stand up and provide a reason for the ruling. I even agreed that I would move on if they could give me a reason for the outcome. They could NOT. They are not legal bound to refuse the reason. “Good arbitration should provide a reason for the ruling” came as the words from every lawyer that I've spoken to.
I did notice that the broker and seller tried twisting the idea that I “no longer wished to purchase the business” which if true would be fine, but I COULDN'T get it financed and under the purchase agreement in section 4 I should have been covered.
This has caused a great amount of suffering in my family. To get back the stolen deposit back that was LEGALLY ours we now have to spend money to get it back. Absolutely insane.
Stay away from brokers in which you can buy a business yourself and stay away from arbitration!
I now have less than 90 days to fight this matter under FL law, but the fact that I have to is crazy.
I say the broker and arbitrator should get together on providing a reason for the ruling. I WOULD move on. If not vacating the award is my best shot and providing all evidence that I can.
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15 Jan, 2016 by Anonymous
I have never written a negative review about anyone or anything. I usually go out of my way to speak to supervisors praising their employers when I've had a nice experience or just ignoring it when I haven't. However, my brief experience with this law firm was so dysfunctional and disappointing that I had to say something. The woman I was dealing with was cold and unhelpful. She also lacked the patience and skill to explain anything in a useful manner. When I asked a question, there would be a long pause and she would just repeat what she had said. No warmth, no personal interest, certainly not gracious. I was calm, polite and patient but I knew I was aggravating her by asking questions. The icing on the cake was when my husband called the office and Mr. Miller told him that because of my conversion with his associate, he didn't think our case was a good fit for them. I just want a basic understanding of the proceedings and what they were going to do for us that would cost between $5000 and $7000. If I am asked to spend that much money, I think I deserve a respectful, clear explanation.
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13 May, 2024 by Anonymous
This idiot couldn’t let me get more than 3 sentences at a time out before cutting me off with bizarre hypotheticals.
Keep in mind, Derek was referred to me by my firm at DSK Law. I will make sure they never refer this man-child again.
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15 Jun, 2016 by Anonymous
I did business with Bret for a certain case, and expected to be treated fairly and ethically. Instead I was met with false billing statements and defiance/refusal of my basic rights in this transaction. Please look elsewhere and put your money to good use. This one does not want to help you.
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Discover the ideal lawyer
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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.
