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Michelene Lisa Brassel, experienced Adoption, Estate Planning attorney in Topeka, KS with 5 reviews
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44,07
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5.0/5
Avvo
5.0
2 Reviews
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5.0
3 Reviews
star star star star star
09 Sep, 2022 by Melvin hedgepath-shaffer
A very knowledgeable attorney you can trust her with your life
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05 Jan, 2022 by Brandy smith
We have retained Mrs Brassel on several occasions, she diffently knows her way around a court room and shes worth every dollar charges. She always returns your calls or has her another attorney in the office follow up with you. Her clients become part of her family, and she put the children's needs first. She is easy to work with, very perfessional and get the job done.
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31 Aug, 2021 by Lj harrison
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Richard William Smith, experienced Adoption, Estate Planning attorney in Topeka, KS with 31 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
42,84
star star star star star
4.8/5
Avvo
5.0
7 Reviews
Google Maps
4.8
24 Reviews
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16 Oct, 2024 by Kay leah (kaypricot)
Rick cleared up so many questions and concerns for me in a compassionate, comprehensive way and I will definitely be utilizing Rick's services if I have anything to file.
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20 May, 2024 by Robert sands
Rick helped me immensely with some desperately needed legal advice when I suddenly found myself dealing with my deceased parents estate. They had little to no estate plan, and I had to learn, and do, a lot in a short period of time. His advice , and compassionate support, was truly a Godsend.
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20 May, 2024 by Kurt guth
Your willingness to explain and explore topics touching on both of our areas of expertise were admirable. I had a very good professional exchange every time we talked. That he or she would be in good hands and if they were a mutual client of ours, I'd have confidence that the advice and work would be solid and fully executed. I've enjoyed our conversations about the legal process itself and about practice management. I hope you find great success in Utah. The process of settling an estate is always seemingly complex and bespoke to the situation. In addition to dealing with a grieving relative and unhelpful financial institutions, there are due diligence aspects that are just heck to figure out. I never look forward to these situations while knowing they are unavoidable.
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Austin K. Vincent, experienced Adoption, Estate Planning attorney in Topeka, KS with 5 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
39,15
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5.0/5
Avvo
5.0
5 Reviews
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20 Oct, 2016 by Vanessa
Austin Kent Vincent has helped us through 2 adoptions and almost another adoption. He is very easy to work with, responds quick to text, emails or calls, he has exceptional-high character and does his upmost to stay above board on every aspect of the adoption process. During these two years of working with him we have considered him a friend and would recommend him to anyone.
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19 Oct, 2016 by Leah
I have worked with Kent on several adoptions. Always professional, polite, friendly and so supportive of these girls as they make life-changing decisions.
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18 Oct, 2016 by Sara
Vincent went above and beyond in his service to us. He does excellent work and genuinely cares for his clients. We are so grateful that he was there for our adoption journey.
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Gary H. Hanson, experienced Business, Estate Planning attorney in Topeka, KS with 6 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
39,01
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5.0/5
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5.0
6 Reviews
star star star star star
13 Aug, 2019 by Tonya tregellas
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31 Dec, 2018 by T.w. fuller
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07 Dec, 2018 by Jocelyn elliott
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James William Newbery, experienced Business, Estate Planning attorney in Topeka, KS with 1 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
39,00
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5.0/5
Google Maps
5.0
1 Reviews
star star star star star
03 Sep, 2023 by Luke medlen
Very impressed! B. J. Hickert went above and beyond to get my mother's Will and trust set up and was most courteous and understanding. Would definitely recommend to anyone needing a Will or a Trust written up. They do excellent work.
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Andrew Stone Mayo, experienced Business, Estate Planning attorney in Topeka, KS with 6 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
35,01
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5.0/5
Google Maps
5.0
6 Reviews
star star star star star
23 Jul, 2024 by Catherine gillman
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20 May, 2023 by Wayne o sonsteng
A reputable law firm.
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13 Dec, 2022 by Staci williams
The attorneys here are excited in their fields. Highly recommend them!
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Douglas C. Fincher, experienced Business, Estate Planning attorney in Topeka, KS with 6 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
35,01
star star star star star
5.0/5
Google Maps
5.0
6 Reviews
star star star star star
23 Jul, 2024 by Catherine gillman
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star star star star star
20 May, 2023 by Wayne o sonsteng
A reputable law firm.
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13 Dec, 2022 by Staci williams
The attorneys here are excited in their fields. Highly recommend them!
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Frederick Colovin Patton, experienced Business, Elder Law attorney in Topeka, KS with 2 reviews
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info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
35,00
star star star star star
5.0/5
Google Maps
5.0
2 Reviews
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20 May, 2021 by Richard thomas
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22 May, 2019 by Kj snyder
Mike Patton is great helped me settle my case is a great time. Staff are so helpful. I have used them twice and would tell anyone to use them .A+ rating
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Jacob Gene Holly, experienced Business, Estate Planning attorney in Topeka, KS with 1 reviews
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info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
35,00
star star star star star
5.0/5
Google Maps
5.0
1 Reviews
star star star star star
29 May, 2021 by John summerville
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Brian Matthew Jacques, experienced Estate Planning, Tax attorney in Topeka, KS with 195 reviews
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info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
34,58
star star star star star
4.6/5
Google Maps
4.6
195 Reviews
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24 Jan, 2025 by Rita hrenchir
All of my questions were answered so quickly and Kelly was very helpful. Highly recommend!
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03 Jan, 2025 by Mary jane
As soon as I talked to one of their people, it was like they took all that weights off of me and started to carry it for me. Therefore I was able to focus on getting myself better. So don't wait like I did! Don't think nobody could help because they've helped me tremendously with my case and my well-being!
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11 Dec, 2024 by Izaiah huston
Thank you to Ashley for the help with my case!
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John B. Turney, experienced Appeals, Civil Rights attorney in Topeka, KS with 25 reviews
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info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
33,63
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4.8/5
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4.8
25 Reviews
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08 Dec, 2024 by Monika górka
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03 Oct, 2024 by Teresa reilly
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03 Oct, 2024 by Mark martin
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Orville W. Bobo III, experienced Adoption, Criminal Defense attorney in Topeka, KS with 8 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
32,21
star star star star star
4.6/5
Google Maps
4.6
8 Reviews
star star star star star
27 Feb, 2024 by Kristen marie
Google Maps
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16 Nov, 2023 by Jacque baker
Was told that Jacqueline Ried-Peterson Law was HIGHLY RECOMMENDED TO ME. 👌
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24 Sep, 2023 by Shawna michelle martindale
Hands down the very best attorney on this planet!
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Denise Lynn Magathan McNabb, experienced Consumer Protection, Estate Planning attorney in Topeka, KS with 8 reviews
Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
30,97
star star star star star
4.5/5
Avvo
5.0
1 Reviews
Google Maps
4.4
7 Reviews
star star star star star
18 Oct, 2024 by Ryan green
Is very unprofessional for one Scott lied over the pettiest thing you could possibly lie about so from that i will never trust someone especially coming from a attorney. And he does not know how to answer questions. I hope people learn how scandalous this law firm is. And they like to drag their feet so they get more money which isn't professional. If I could give 0 stars I would.
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01 Dec, 2021 by Dave jolly
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29 Jul, 2021 by Troy
This is the second time I have hired Ms Mcnabb, first time was to help understand and file the paperwork for moms Medicaid application. She was always nice to deal with and has a wealth of knowledge to seamlessly take care of any and all issues that come up. The second time was for dad which was the exact same thing although he passed before we could file. I cant say enough good things about this professional and calming experience at two of the worst times in my life. Thank you Denise.
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Jeremy L Graber, experienced Business, Estate Planning attorney in Topeka, KS with 29 reviews
Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
30,80
star star star star star
4.6/5
Google Maps
4.6
29 Reviews
star star star star star
13 May, 2024 by My music
Google Maps
star star star star star
10 May, 2024 by Aniston
Google Maps
star star star star star
10 May, 2024 by Zamaja herrera-gallegos
The office staff is very professional and they take their time making sure you understand the process of the legal temps they are making to help your situation. Their prompt response surely helped as well. Highly recommend!!
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Ryan Michael Brungardt, experienced Business, Criminal Defense attorney in Topeka, KS with 31 reviews
Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
30,20
star star star star star
4.5/5
Google Maps
4.5
31 Reviews
star star star star star
13 May, 2024 by My music
Google Maps
star star star star star
10 May, 2024 by Aniston
Google Maps
star star star star star
10 May, 2024 by Zamaja herrera-gallegos
The office staff is very professional and they take their time making sure you understand the process of the legal temps they are making to help your situation. Their prompt response surely helped as well. Highly recommend!!
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Scott Ervin Taddiken, experienced Business, Estate Planning attorney in Topeka, KS with 7 reviews
Below Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
29,59
star star star star star
4.4/5
Google Maps
4.4
7 Reviews
star star star star star
18 Oct, 2024 by Ryan green
Is very unprofessional for one Scott lied over the pettiest thing you could possibly lie about so from that i will never trust someone especially coming from a attorney. And he does not know how to answer questions. I hope people learn how scandalous this law firm is. And they like to drag their feet so they get more money which isn't professional. If I could give 0 stars I would.
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star star star star star
01 Dec, 2021 by Dave jolly
Google Maps
star star star star star
26 Dec, 2020 by Cori singleton
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Darin Mitchell Conklin, experienced Business, Estate Planning attorney in Topeka, KS with 49 reviews
Below Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
28,43
star star star star star
4.2/5
Google Maps
4.2
49 Reviews
star star star star star
25 Nov, 2024 by Vince lopez
Jennifer Smith was appointed to the case to represent the children. Despite giving her a police report where mother admitted to doing harm and numerous other strong evidence she wrote a bias report and intentionally omitted this evidence. But because she didn't take the stand she can't be questioned about her ethics on the case. (Sarcastic) Im sorry i didn't have another $20k to take it to trial to question you about your ethics. Now the kids have been removed from extra curricular activities by the offending parent. The kids were hurt by this attorney failure to represent them and withhold evidence from the court.
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19 Nov, 2024 by William swearman
Lady that answered the phone so they don’t do civil cases. I guess mine was maybe too difficult not enough easy money for them but very rude. Maybe they need to update their website. Sorry to bother you mam I’m sorry you had to pick up the phone.
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14 Oct, 2024 by Julie waterhouse
Courteous, patient, informative, and helpful
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Gary L. Conwell, experienced Business, Criminal Defense attorney in Topeka, KS with 24 reviews
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info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
28,41
star star star star star
4.2/5
Google Maps
4.2
24 Reviews
star star star star star
09 Jul, 2023 by Ej yewell
Haven't received a call back nor texted messages. If your that dang busy maybe you need an assistant
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15 Mar, 2023 by John carmichael
Good Lawyers work here.
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15 Sep, 2022 by Amanda monser (amanda)
It will be four weeks Monday since CB was arrested for failure to obey lawful order. Aug 31 was a scheduled hearing and the jail did not take him and according to his family his name was called and he nor lawyer there. Cecelia was rude when I called her akd said he has court Sept 28th. To this date thwre has been no first appearance, no contact with suspect, and no discovery or even an explanation of charhes in Pottawatomie Prairie band court. Cecelia has ignored her oath and rights due to inmate CB.
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Vincent Mantele Cox, experienced Appeals, Estate Planning attorney in Topeka, KS with 23 reviews
Below Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
24,02
star star star star star
4.0/5
Google Maps
4.0
23 Reviews
star star star star star
24 Nov, 2023 by Joshua breault
I need a probono attorney
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14 Jul, 2023 by A
Tom Lemon is by far a superior attorney. He’s honest, extremely intelligent and knows how to get things done. Mr. Lemon is very decisive and will ensure that as long as he understands the full story, he will do his best to represent you and your interests. I highly recommend Mr. Lemon or any of his other partners at this law firm.
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25 Mar, 2023 by John ashley
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Justin Wayne Whitney, experienced Criminal Defense, Elder Law attorney in Topeka, KS with 4 reviews
Below Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
24,00
star star star star star
4.0/5
Google Maps
4.0
4 Reviews
star star star star star
04 Jan, 2021 by Shad chandler
That response is hilarious, in my opine. They are the worst ever. I owned a the bank they were representing, a sad, sad story. I’d rather have buzz light year represent me
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29 Dec, 2020 by Brad horton
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02 Mar, 2018 by Vicki crouch
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Elizabeth Ann Baker, experienced Appeals, Business attorney in Topeka, KS with 3 reviews
Below Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
16,84
star star star star star
3.7/5
Google Maps
3.7
3 Reviews
star star star star star
11 Dec, 2020 by Dave lehmann
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07 Dec, 2020 by Michael m
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star star star star star
19 Oct, 2020 by Rebecca
Quality found here
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Lee W. Hendricks, experienced Business, Estate Planning attorney in Topeka, KS with 2 reviews
Below Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
16,29
star star star star star
3.0/5
Avvo
3.0
2 Reviews
star star star star star
28 Sep, 2022 by Anonymous
I call, and I'm blown off with "oh hes not in today, call back tomorrow, oh wait, just wait tell he calls you." (rudely told) and the days go on with no call back. also threatens instead of trying to fix a problem. I'm sure praying he finds Jesus!
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23 Jan, 2017 by Anna
Lee has been an invaluable part of our business setup and has provided excellent counsel in that regard. We've also been very impressed by how dedicated he is to his work and would highly recommend him.
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Kammie L. Dillner, experienced Elder Law, Estate Planning attorney in Topeka, KS with 13 reviews
Below Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
15,93
star star star star star
3.5/5
Google Maps
3.5
13 Reviews
star star star star star
23 May, 2024 by Cindy stillings
Professional and helpful!
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15 Oct, 2023 by Kristy johnson
Very easy to work with
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01 Oct, 2023 by Candace siebenmorgen
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David K. Aadalen, experienced Business, Elder Law attorney in Topeka, KS with 13 reviews
Below Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
15,93
star star star star star
3.5/5
Google Maps
3.5
13 Reviews
star star star star star
23 May, 2024 by Cindy stillings
Professional and helpful!
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star star star star star
15 Oct, 2023 by Kristy johnson
Very easy to work with
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01 Oct, 2023 by Candace siebenmorgen
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Lawrence L. Tenopir, experienced Business, Estate Planning attorney in Topeka, KS with 56 reviews
Below Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
15,51
star star star star star
3.4/5
Google Maps
3.4
56 Reviews
star star star star star
03 Nov, 2024 by Eric richards
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23 May, 2024 by Marty eddy
Larry did everything he said he would. Thank you Larry.
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16 Apr, 2024 by Justin scott
Vashia represented me very well in a long dragged out process. Would recommend to anyone needing assistance with legal issues.
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Jonathan M. Snyder, experienced Business, Estate Planning attorney in Topeka, KS with 0 reviews
Below Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
6,00
star star star star star
0.0/5
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Henry J. Schulteis, experienced Elder Law, Estate Planning attorney in Topeka, KS with 1 reviews
Below Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
4,57
star star star star star
1.0/5
Avvo
1.0
1 Reviews
star star star star star
03 Jun, 2013 by Anonymous
I saw him for a parental termination case. Gave him $1000 retainer. He didn't know much about the law, took 2.5 hours to type up paper work most of which was what I gave him word for word. There was no extra research involved as to what would count for my case. Nor did he try to verify things that I told him I didn't know for sure. Just put them in the paperwork as facts. He didn't return calls or file when he said he would then sent me letter stating that my retainer was exhausted and wanted more before he would file.
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Cecilia Therese Mariani, experienced Criminal Defense, Estate Planning attorney in Topeka, KS with 1 reviews
Below Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
4,57
star star star star star
1.0/5
Avvo
1.0
1 Reviews
star star star star star
12 Sep, 2022 by Charles
My friend has been sitting in jail three weeks and Mariani is his court appointed lawyer. His first appearance was supposed to be two weeks ago. She stated the judge didn't see anyone and djdnt lower bond which the jail says is no bond. For DUI. And when I told her she said well he has court Sept 28th. That's 6 weeks sitting there. The courthouse at prairie band won't tell me anything they say contact lawyer. Why is he there and what's he charged with? And where is his bond paperwork she said his bond is 4500 yet jail says zero. Now she's going to be gone all week . Not adequate defense lawyer at all!!!!
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Charles David Newbery, experienced Estate Planning, Tax attorney in Topeka, KS with 0 reviews
Below Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
4,00
star star star star star
0.0/5
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Miranda Kay Carmona, experienced Estate Planning, Tax attorney in Topeka, KS with 0 reviews
Below Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
4,00
star star star star star
0.0/5
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FAQs
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What an Estate Planning Lawyer Can Do for You

An estate planning lawyer helps individuals plan for the management and distribution of their assets after death or during incapacitation. Their services involve drafting important legal documents, such as wills, trusts, powers of attorney, and healthcare directives. Estate planning attorneys work to ensure that your assets are transferred according to your wishes, minimize tax liabilities, and avoid probate court. They also help clients plan for potential long-term care needs and protect their estate from being diminished by healthcare costs.

By working with an estate planning lawyer, you can have peace of mind knowing that your loved ones will be cared for and that your estate will be managed efficiently and according to your desires.

When Should I Hire an Estate Planning Lawyer?

Hiring an estate planning lawyer is beneficial in many situations, especially when you want to ensure that your assets are handled properly after death. Common reasons to hire an estate planning lawyer include:

  • Drafting a will: If you want to clearly define how your assets will be distributed after death, an attorney can draft a legally sound will.
  • Creating a trust: For those looking to avoid probate or provide for loved ones over time, setting up a trust can help manage the distribution of assets.
  • Planning for incapacity: An estate lawyer can help draft powers of attorney and healthcare directives so that your financial and medical decisions are made by someone you trust if you become incapacitated.
  • Minimizing estate taxes: If your estate is large, a lawyer can help create strategies to reduce or eliminate federal and state estate taxes.
  • Special circumstances: If you have minor children, blended families, or complex assets like businesses, an estate planning lawyer can create tailored solutions.
  • Guardianship or conservatorship: If you want to designate guardians for minor children or ensure proper care for incapacitated adults, an attorney can help.

Hiring an estate planning lawyer is especially important if your estate is complex or if you want to ensure that your wishes are properly followed.

What Does an Estate Planning Lawyer Do?

An estate planning lawyer provides a range of services designed to help you organize your affairs and ensure your estate is managed according to your wishes. They can:

  • Draft wills and trusts: Creating legally binding documents that dictate how your assets will be distributed and managed.
  • Create powers of attorney and healthcare directives: Appointing someone to make financial or medical decisions for you if you become incapacitated.
  • Minimize taxes: Developing strategies to reduce estate taxes, gift taxes, and other financial liabilities for your heirs.
  • Help avoid probate: Structuring your estate plan to avoid probate, which can save time and money for your beneficiaries.
  • Advise on long-term care planning: Helping you plan for potential healthcare needs in the future, including Medicaid planning and protecting assets from being depleted by nursing home costs.
  • Assist with beneficiary designations: Ensuring that life insurance policies, retirement accounts, and other financial instruments are correctly designated.
  • Handle probate and estate administration: If a loved one has passed away, an estate planning lawyer can help guide you through the probate process or act as an executor.

How Are Estate Planning Lawyers Paid?

Estate planning lawyers typically charge for their services in one of several ways, depending on the complexity of your estate and the type of services you need. Common payment structures include:

  • Flat fee: Many estate planning services, such as drafting a will or trust, are charged on a flat-fee basis. The fee covers all work related to preparing the document.
  • Hourly rate: For more complex planning, such as estate tax strategy or trust administration, lawyers may charge by the hour. Rates vary based on the lawyer’s experience and location.
  • Retainer: Some lawyers require a retainer for more complex cases, such as ongoing trust management or estate administration. The retainer is an upfront payment that covers future legal services.

It’s important to discuss fees with your lawyer upfront to avoid unexpected costs.

How Much Does an Estate Planning Lawyer Cost?

The cost of hiring an estate planning lawyer depends on the complexity of your estate and the services you require. Here are some general guidelines:

  • Simple wills or powers of attorney: A straightforward will or power of attorney may cost between $300 and $1,500, depending on your location and the lawyer’s experience.
  • Trust creation: Establishing a trust, such as a living trust or revocable trust, can cost between $1,000 and $3,000 or more, depending on the complexity of your assets and estate planning needs.
  • Comprehensive estate planning packages: Some lawyers offer packages that include wills, trusts, powers of attorney, and healthcare directives, which may range from $2,000 to $5,000 or more, depending on the estate’s complexity.
  • Hourly rates: For ongoing services like estate administration or tax planning, lawyers may charge hourly rates ranging from $150 to $500 or more, depending on the lawyer’s experience.

Always get a clear estimate of costs during your initial consultation to ensure the services fit within your budget.

Top Questions to Ask an Estate Planning Lawyer

Before hiring an estate planning lawyer, it’s important to ask questions to ensure they are the right fit for your needs. Here are key questions to ask during your consultation:

  1. What is your experience with estate planning?
    Ensure the lawyer has substantial experience drafting wills, creating trusts, and handling other estate planning services.
  2. How will you charge for your services?
    Clarify whether the lawyer charges a flat fee or by the hour and ask for a detailed estimate of costs.
  3. What strategies do you recommend for my estate?
    A good lawyer should be able to explain the best strategies for minimizing taxes, avoiding probate, and ensuring your assets are distributed according to your wishes.
  4. How often should I update my estate plan?
    Ask how frequently you should revisit your estate plan, especially if your financial situation or family dynamics change.
  5. Do you offer ongoing support or updates?
    Some lawyers provide periodic reviews or updates to ensure your estate plan stays current with changes in your circumstances or the law.
  6. How will you help my beneficiaries if something happens to me?
    Ensure the lawyer is willing to guide your heirs through the estate administration process or help manage your trust after you’re gone.

How to Check the Credibility of an Estate Planning Lawyer

To ensure you’re hiring a credible estate planning lawyer, follow these steps:

  • Verify their state bar license: Check with your state bar association to confirm that the lawyer is licensed and in good standing, with no history of disciplinary actions.
  • Look for estate planning certifications: Some lawyers are certified as estate planning specialists, which indicates they have extensive knowledge in this area of law.
  • Read client reviews and testimonials: Online reviews on sites like Avvo, Google, or Martindale-Hubbell can provide insight into the lawyer’s professionalism and client satisfaction.
  • Ask for references: A credible lawyer should be able to provide references from previous clients who can speak to their expertise and client service.
  • Check for membership in professional organizations: Lawyers who are members of organizations like the National Academy of Elder Law Attorneys (NAELA) or the American College of Trust and Estate Counsel (ACTEC) often have a strong reputation in the field.

What Should I Prepare for My First Consultation?

To get the most out of your first meeting with an estate planning lawyer, it’s important to come prepared. Here’s what you should bring:

  • List of assets and liabilities: Provide a detailed inventory of your assets, including real estate, bank accounts, retirement funds, investments, and personal property, as well as any debts you may have.
  • List of beneficiaries: Be ready to discuss who you want to receive your assets and in what proportions. This includes naming guardians for minor children if applicable.
  • Existing estate documents: Bring copies of any existing wills, trusts, powers of attorney, or other relevant estate planning documents.
  • Questions about your estate goals: Write down your goals, such as avoiding probate, reducing taxes, or setting up charitable donations, so your lawyer can tailor a plan to meet your needs.
  • Information on medical and financial decision-makers: Be prepared to discuss who you want to appoint for healthcare and financial decisions if you become incapacitated.

By being well-prepared, you can ensure a productive consultation and begin building a comprehensive estate plan that meets your needs and protects your loved ones.

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