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15 Sep, 2022 by Jeff
Mike was extremely knowledgeable and persistent representing us in a civil matter. Highly recommend him.
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20 Apr, 2022 by Janice
Michael was efficient and great to work with. He really had our best interests in mind when we had a dispute with our former landlord who was taking complete advantage of us in a tenant/landlord dispute. Highly recommend his services.
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07 Oct, 2021 by Jonna
I highly recommend Michael. My brother needed help regarding an eviction issue, as many people do during this pandemic crisis. However, my brother had a dire need and was unable to fix the issue due to his incarceration. Michael was straight up, professional, and went the extra mile to look for resolve. He also went to work immediately. No wasting any time here. Not only did my brother get the funding he needed to keep him in his apartment, but he was represented by an honest, empathetic, professional, who is human at heart. Michael, you are blessing to our family. If it weren't for your immediate assistance and kind attitude, my brother would be on the streets today. Thank you!
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12 Apr, 2016 by Kristin
Andrew has been spot on throughout a long and emotional situation after her husband, David Briggs, died. His children convinced her that her and her husband needed a medicaid divorce to protect the money and had him sign a POA and a will while in the hospital just weeks before his death. We did not see the manipulation until after he died and they tried to keep it from her. These were people she hugged and had in her home for 14 years for holidays. Andrew is a star
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10 May, 2015 by Anonymous
Mr. Shotwell was extremely helpful in navigating us through the process of setting up a will and trust. He spent time throughout the whole process to work through many aspects and details. At our final review of the documents I felt secure that my family was thoroughly protected because of the details.
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08 May, 2015 by Holly
I have had the privilege to work with Andrew in helping our mutual clients achieve their estate planning goals. Andrew genuinely cares about people and he is most knowledgeable in the law and the tools available to assist clients.
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08 Jun, 2015 by Anne-marie
Lea Ann helped my husband and I do our estate planning after we had put it off for over five years because it just seemed too overwhelming. She was patient, caring, asked thoughtful questions we had not considered, helped us articulate our wishes in proper legal format, and anticipated a complicated family situation. Further, she was clear on how to proceed after the actual documents were drawn.
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08 Jun, 2015 by Anonymous
I went to lea ann for help getting my boys into a better situation than they were in. lea ann and her team did a great job in helping me with my situation.
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05 Jun, 2015 by Dean
Lea Ann took my custody case and for three years she showed so much tenacity and care for my case. After plenty of bumps along the way, she finally won the case and I was able to bring my son home with me where he has flourished both as a person and a student. I don't know what I would have done if she would have given up, like I was ready to do plenty of times. Thank you Lea Ann for everything you have done for me and my family
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06 Mar, 2019 by Jim
Dave has represented my interests in several civil and business issues over the past 14 years. I have also referred numerous other people to him for similar circunstances as well as divorce and criminal cases. The quality of his work is consistently at a high standard while maintaining continual open and honest dialogue. In each instance the results exceeded expectation. I highly recommend him and his firm.
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05 Jan, 2017 by Daniel beard
Dave helped me and my family through our personal injury claim. Dave was very friendly and professional, and helped us understand the legal process. He helped us get compensation for our pain and suffering. All in all, I am glad we retained Dave and would not have gotten anyone else!
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27 Apr, 2016 by Steven
David handled my Probate case with a bit of a twist.Early on David represented opposing counsel and through that experience observed how relaxed,professionally and persuasive in the court David was.Has the Courts respect.So if you need a Lawyer and have no Idea who to pick your search stops here!
Will most defiantly use his services again if needed!
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22 Jan, 2020 by S. slater
Wendy really helped us wade through all the legal jargon and confusing letters sent by the disability insurance company. Without Wendy and Todd's willingness to help and expertise we would be in a place of financial hardship. We could not have tackled the paperwork and communication needed to pursue this on our own. Their help made a difference and we appreciate them.
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13 Jul, 2015 by Patrick
i have needed the services of Wendy Bailey a couple of times during the progression of a divorce with custody and parenting time challenges. I have found her to be tireless and extremely effective as an advocate legally and honest/direct as a counselor. She has worked for my kids and myself on upholding the court orders with integrity. As the father with primary custody, Wendy views the whole situation from what is best for the children not just what I may want in anger or hurt. I respect this and feel this is a major part of her responsibility as a counselor. I feel that she works to find a solution and is excellent at negotiations. Ms Bailey was timely in follow-up and was willing to work with my schedule. In addition to being willing to use Ms Bailey's services again, I have highly recommended Ms Bailey to others both male and female.
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02 Jun, 2015 by James
Wendy is a fantastic attorney. She came highly recommended by Olmstead Law in Ludington, MI. I hired her for a highly convoluted custody case. She consistently delivered in a highly professional manner with attention to every detail throughout the court proceedings. Wendy was also very responsive throughout the case answering emails and phone calls in a timely manner. She was quick to establish a good rapport with myself and her peers. I would definitely recommend her to anyone involved in a family court dispute. My children had been moved out of state without my permission and I thought the situation was hopeless. The outcome of the case was exactly what I had hoped for. Wendy is a definite asset to her profession.
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17 Jun, 2015 by Anonymous
I have worked with Dingeman's firm for 20+ years. We have worked with them on business transactions, real estate deals, litigation and a wide variety of other various legal work. Dan and his firm have always been a beneficial business partner whether it was for 9&10 News or Fox 32. We appreciate their commitment and services.
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17 Jun, 2015 by Anonymous
Dan Dingeman is the rare attorney in my 30 year career in real estate that goes beyond the nuts and bolts of each assignment. He understands the nuances of all aspects of each transaction, is concise, insightful, knowledgable and consistently works to keep all parties on track to reach the desired outcome. His counsel is a valuable part of my overall success.
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03 Oct, 2008 by Anonymous
Mr. Dingeman helped my husband and I select the structure for our business (an S corporation), obtain financing and purchase the necessary building. He did a superior job in shielding us from personal liability and provided us the best tax benefits for our business. We are so pleased, that in these troubled financial times, that we are successful and turning a substantial profit. We believe we were fortunate to have had the council and guidance of Mr. Dingeman.
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10 Jul, 2016 by Tony
My wife and I have used Deb Rysso on multiple occasions in the past ten years. She first worked with us when my father entered in a nursing home and we needed to protect my mother's assets. Next we used her with my mother-law's estate and then used her to develop a ladybird deed for my mother's home. All of the estates were small and in all cases she helped us simplify the process and avoid probate for a very reasonable fee.
My wife and I were so impressed with her attention to detail and sound advice that we used Deb to set up our own trust.
What impressed me most was in two cases she told us "I think you're worried about the wrong thing" and then explained a scenario we didn't foresee. In both instances the scenario she described was what actually happened, but due to the pre-planning we were prepared and protected.
I would highly recommend Deb to anyone for elder planning and estate issues.
Tony McLain
Sault Sainte Marie
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20 Oct, 2013 by Catherine
Deborah has been my family's lawyer for a few years, helping us with tasks including estate planning, updating my parents' trust and developing a contract for home health care workers. She is always courteous and prompt, she charges very fair rates and does high quality work. Deborah has a strong knowledge of elder law and is skilled at communicating information simply and clearly. I also appreciate her willingness to find experts in other legal fields if we have a question that is outside of her area of expertise.
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27 Sep, 2018 by Anonymous
Mr. Rowe is incredibly professional and helped me to develop a new consulting business entity. He was able to guide me through my initial contracts in a consulting field that is unique. His counsel was genuine, personalized and successful.
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29 Sep, 2016 by Debbie
Being in the real estate business, my husband and I have both hired David Rowe to help with LLC, business and Real estate matters. We are repeat clients and have returned time and again because of his high level of competency and professionalism. He is very sharp legally and strives to achieve his clients goals as efficiently as possible which is not something I could say about all attorneys. His accessibility is amazing! David has called us many times after business hours, on weekends, or from his vacation when we needed something right away. He is a wonderful person and a great lawyer! The following letter we received from a client is further evidence of David's desire and ability to solve issues we sometimes need help with........
" We don’t hear thank you often enough. Sometimes we do things for others, it greatly benefits them, but in the rush of victory, smothered in tears of joy, we forget to say thank you to those people who did a small thing that paid off big. Ted, you did a small, simple thing, that just turned a hugely ugly situation into one of those moments in life you never forget. Your referral of Dave Rowe was that simple thing.
What an outstanding attorney, a wonderful human, a good soul. He and I worked in concert yesterday on a matter surrounding the sale of our property, that almost killed a complicated deal, and could have led to a long, ugly court battle – one we had neither the mental fortitude, health or finances to make happen. At times, the last few years have been hellish, there have been many hardships and pitfalls. As we’ve often said to one another….”just one smooth day, just one thing that goes our way”. Today is that day, and Dave Rowe played a significant role in making it happen, We can’t thank you enough for that referral, for being a part of this one smooth day, and the beginning of a new chapter in our lives, one that starts on a high note."
Mike
Thank you Dave, for being the compassionate lawyer that you are!
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21 Mar, 2018 by Anonymous
Mr. Huber is very professional. My husband is a disabled veteran and Mr. Huber was very patient and accommodating to our individual needs. We would recommend him highly.
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01 Dec, 2014 by Jane
Mr Huber was very professional, and put my fears at ease within minutes of our first conversation.
There was no long wait for a return call as with other lawyers.
I would highly recommend this Mr. Huber.
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16 Oct, 2014 by Anonymous
John Tilley helped me obtain custody of my children. He is knowledgeable and well respected by the judges. He always returned my phone calls promptly and showed genuine concern for my case throughout my divorce from my wife. He effectively defended me in Court against numerous false accusations made by my wife. I was able to keep the house and and enjoy an uninterrupted relationship with my kids.
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06 Oct, 2014 by Justin
John, is very fair priced, knowledgeable and willing to help. Three things that were crucial in my divorce proceedings. With John's help I was able to have a fair divorce that didn't leave me broke or broken.
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18 Jan, 2012 by Nancy
excellent attorney very helpful and took time to answer my questions and help me understand my options.
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05 Jan, 2015 by Shelley
I have great respect for the work of Diane Kuhn Huff and feel confident referring my family law clients to Diane for their estate planning needs. Diane is conscientious, hard work, intelligent and warm. Her ethics are above reproach.
-Shelley
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19 Feb, 2011 by Carol
Melonie helped me through some really rough times, I do not know if I would of made it without her, she is very good lawyer who cares very much about her clients, would use her again in a minute
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01 Oct, 2018 by Jim
Joe was my Attorney for a divorce. From start to finish Joe told me exactly what was going to happen and it all happened just as he said. Joe's staff was incredible as well; the whole process was seamless and I feel that I received great.value for the fee I paid. I highly recommend Joe Fisher for any legal matter you might have.
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12 Aug, 2024 by J t
I hired Mas/Stig-Nielsen for a criminal case and it was very evident from my first conversation with Fred that I made the correct choice. Fred and Betsy both engaged in the details of the case, were clearly knowledgeable on the charge and went to great lengths to research precedent cases. Needless to say, all of this ended in a very favorable outcome for me. Their preparation, diligence, and attention to detail were what achieved that. I could not be happier with their services.
Beyond the law aspects, the quote on their website says something about them better than I could say: “Each of us is more than the worst thing we’ve ever done.”
Fred and Betsy treated me as a human being who was in a tough spot, had a tough case against me, and probably did not make all the correct decisions in the incident. I was treated with dignity, and when you are in these spots, that can mean all the difference in how you respond to your plight and get through it.
Fred and Betsy, thank you again!
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15 May, 2024 by Lars canty
A rare diamond in Northern Michigan. Extremely knowledgeable in regards to every aspect of the criminal justice process. Communicative and diligent. This firm gets my highest praise. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
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29 Mar, 2024 by Neil roper
I can’t say enough great things about Betsy. I was 2 DUI's down and 10 years without a drivers license. She was accessible, thorough and prepared at a really great price. Things were pretty much a breeze at the hearing due to her preparation. Only regret I have is not finding her sooner. She is one of the nicest and most genuine people my wife and I have had the pleasure of meeting. Thank you so much Betsy.
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09 Oct, 2024 by Bgsportscast
Where do I start? When I contacted Ryann, I called him to take my case against a former employer, this was due to a work injury and Worker’s Compensation dispute. Since day one, Ryann was always, kind, and understanding to my situation. He was very clear, and informative and kept me up-to-date on my case, and how it was progressing. Throughout my case just like any other case, I’m sure there was a lot of ups and downs, but no matter how hard the case got Ryann never gave up on fighting to make sure I won my case. I can gladly say that after 2.5 years of fighting tooth and nail with the defense attorney, Ryann WON my case. If anyone knew how hard this case was, you would understand that this WIN was not easy at all. I can’t express enough, to how good of a job Ryann did and how much a FIGHTER Ryann is!! So DO NOT make a mistake by going somewhere else, contact Ryann to HELP YOU!! you won’t regret it!!
I HIGHLY RECOMMEND RYANN!!
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12 Dec, 2023 by Chris
Quick to respond. Very knowledgeable
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29 Aug, 2022 by Cassandra kamaloski
We were referred to Ryann Embury by a few people in our community and we are so glad. He went above and beyond to help us. We were impressed with not only his knowledge and expertise but also his caring and thoughtful manner. He genuinely cared about our situation, and it showed through the handling of our case. We will be using Ryann for any of our legal needs in the future and will be referring him to all of our family and friends. If you are looking for a good attorney, I would highly recommend Ryann.
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09 Oct, 2024 by Bgsportscast
Where do I start? When I contacted Ryann, I called him to take my case against a former employer, this was due to a work injury and Worker’s Compensation dispute. Since day one, Ryann was always, kind, and understanding to my situation. He was very clear, and informative and kept me up-to-date on my case, and how it was progressing. Throughout my case just like any other case, I’m sure there was a lot of ups and downs, but no matter how hard the case got Ryann never gave up on fighting to make sure I won my case. I can gladly say that after 2.5 years of fighting tooth and nail with the defense attorney, Ryann WON my case. If anyone knew how hard this case was, you would understand that this WIN was not easy at all. I can’t express enough, to how good of a job Ryann did and how much a FIGHTER Ryann is!! So DO NOT make a mistake by going somewhere else, contact Ryann to HELP YOU!! you won’t regret it!!
I HIGHLY RECOMMEND RYANN!!
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12 Dec, 2023 by Chris
Quick to respond. Very knowledgeable
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29 Aug, 2022 by Cassandra kamaloski
We were referred to Ryann Embury by a few people in our community and we are so glad. He went above and beyond to help us. We were impressed with not only his knowledge and expertise but also his caring and thoughtful manner. He genuinely cared about our situation, and it showed through the handling of our case. We will be using Ryann for any of our legal needs in the future and will be referring him to all of our family and friends. If you are looking for a good attorney, I would highly recommend Ryann.
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09 Oct, 2024 by Bgsportscast
Where do I start? When I contacted Ryann, I called him to take my case against a former employer, this was due to a work injury and Worker’s Compensation dispute. Since day one, Ryann was always, kind, and understanding to my situation. He was very clear, and informative and kept me up-to-date on my case, and how it was progressing. Throughout my case just like any other case, I’m sure there was a lot of ups and downs, but no matter how hard the case got Ryann never gave up on fighting to make sure I won my case. I can gladly say that after 2.5 years of fighting tooth and nail with the defense attorney, Ryann WON my case. If anyone knew how hard this case was, you would understand that this WIN was not easy at all. I can’t express enough, to how good of a job Ryann did and how much a FIGHTER Ryann is!! So DO NOT make a mistake by going somewhere else, contact Ryann to HELP YOU!! you won’t regret it!!
I HIGHLY RECOMMEND RYANN!!
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12 Dec, 2023 by Chris
Quick to respond. Very knowledgeable
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29 Aug, 2022 by Cassandra kamaloski
We were referred to Ryann Embury by a few people in our community and we are so glad. He went above and beyond to help us. We were impressed with not only his knowledge and expertise but also his caring and thoughtful manner. He genuinely cared about our situation, and it showed through the handling of our case. We will be using Ryann for any of our legal needs in the future and will be referring him to all of our family and friends. If you are looking for a good attorney, I would highly recommend Ryann.
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09 Oct, 2024 by Bgsportscast
Where do I start? When I contacted Ryann, I called him to take my case against a former employer, this was due to a work injury and Worker’s Compensation dispute. Since day one, Ryann was always, kind, and understanding to my situation. He was very clear, and informative and kept me up-to-date on my case, and how it was progressing. Throughout my case just like any other case, I’m sure there was a lot of ups and downs, but no matter how hard the case got Ryann never gave up on fighting to make sure I won my case. I can gladly say that after 2.5 years of fighting tooth and nail with the defense attorney, Ryann WON my case. If anyone knew how hard this case was, you would understand that this WIN was not easy at all. I can’t express enough, to how good of a job Ryann did and how much a FIGHTER Ryann is!! So DO NOT make a mistake by going somewhere else, contact Ryann to HELP YOU!! you won’t regret it!!
I HIGHLY RECOMMEND RYANN!!
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12 Dec, 2023 by Chris
Quick to respond. Very knowledgeable
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29 Aug, 2022 by Cassandra kamaloski
We were referred to Ryann Embury by a few people in our community and we are so glad. He went above and beyond to help us. We were impressed with not only his knowledge and expertise but also his caring and thoughtful manner. He genuinely cared about our situation, and it showed through the handling of our case. We will be using Ryann for any of our legal needs in the future and will be referring him to all of our family and friends. If you are looking for a good attorney, I would highly recommend Ryann.
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09 Oct, 2024 by Bgsportscast
Where do I start? When I contacted Ryann, I called him to take my case against a former employer, this was due to a work injury and Worker’s Compensation dispute. Since day one, Ryann was always, kind, and understanding to my situation. He was very clear, and informative and kept me up-to-date on my case, and how it was progressing. Throughout my case just like any other case, I’m sure there was a lot of ups and downs, but no matter how hard the case got Ryann never gave up on fighting to make sure I won my case. I can gladly say that after 2.5 years of fighting tooth and nail with the defense attorney, Ryann WON my case. If anyone knew how hard this case was, you would understand that this WIN was not easy at all. I can’t express enough, to how good of a job Ryann did and how much a FIGHTER Ryann is!! So DO NOT make a mistake by going somewhere else, contact Ryann to HELP YOU!! you won’t regret it!!
I HIGHLY RECOMMEND RYANN!!
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12 Dec, 2023 by Chris
Quick to respond. Very knowledgeable
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29 Aug, 2022 by Cassandra kamaloski
We were referred to Ryann Embury by a few people in our community and we are so glad. He went above and beyond to help us. We were impressed with not only his knowledge and expertise but also his caring and thoughtful manner. He genuinely cared about our situation, and it showed through the handling of our case. We will be using Ryann for any of our legal needs in the future and will be referring him to all of our family and friends. If you are looking for a good attorney, I would highly recommend Ryann.
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17 Jul, 2023 by David quimby
Excellent service. Wise counsel .Recommend highly for all legal needs.
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03 Jul, 2023 by Ashlee carnes
10 Mar, 2023 by Brad lonberger
04 Feb, 2024 by Lisa capell
10 Aug, 2023 by Amanda mcneil
Matt was very helpful and made it easy for my father and I. Much appreciated.
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11 Apr, 2016 by Brandon pav
There are a lot of lawyer database websites out there, but when I heard that a lot of them just scrap public directories and don't necessarily have a credible or up-to-date information source, I researched and was glad to find out that Zeekbeek was the only legal marketplace that allows me to find a lawyer near me that's partnered exclusively with the state bar association. This site not only gives me good information about each lawyer, but it also allows me to communicate directly and even view their availability to schedule an appointment right online. Awesome feature and saves me a ton of time!
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25 May, 2022 by Angie bildson
24 Oct, 2020 by Gerry “gerry with a g” castino
13 Nov, 2023 by Adventure rhoades
Paul is very Honest & Fair.
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09 Oct, 2023 by Stacey boyer
Lauren Pfiel is phenomenal to work with. For custody related cases, I would highly recommend her. She listens to what your ideal outcome would be, lets you know how that compares to how the law views your situation and in my case created the best outcome. She does all of this while remaining empathic to your feelings as well. Super impressed by her along with her paralegal Bobbie.
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16 Oct, 2022 by Tery bernas
Was inquiring about their legal services and costs.
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06 May, 2024 by Tci mlaw
good mediation experience
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06 May, 2024 by Katie wareck
07 Jun, 2022 by Brian aaron
Very professional, honest, and upfront. Highly recommended.
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25 Sep, 2024 by Jay houston
Abigail is awesome!
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01 May, 2024 by Dan b
Highly recommend. I've known Joe Fisher since I was a kid. Bre Neros was outstanding.
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16 Apr, 2024 by Christine miller
I worked with Anca and her team to help navigate through a custody change after divorce. She was honest about expectations, always prompt to answer questions, and helped resolve the matter quickly.
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13 Nov, 2023 by Adventure rhoades
Paul is very Honest & Fair.
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09 Oct, 2023 by Stacey boyer
Lauren Pfiel is phenomenal to work with. For custody related cases, I would highly recommend her. She listens to what your ideal outcome would be, lets you know how that compares to how the law views your situation and in my case created the best outcome. She does all of this while remaining empathic to your feelings as well. Super impressed by her along with her paralegal Bobbie.
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16 Oct, 2022 by Tery bernas
Was inquiring about their legal services and costs.
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21 Jul, 2021 by Colleen
Curcio was an amazing firm and legal team and Jennifer was an amazing asset to have on our side. We knew she was always working hard on our behalf and she really made the experience as positive as it could be under the circumstances. We were always being supported in our interests and would definitely use this firm again for any of our future legal needs.
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05 Jul, 2021 by Katy
Jennifer Whitten was amazing when it came to working with her for our family estate planning needs. I highly recommend Jennifer and her firm. Very professional, knowledgable and personable.
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02 Jul, 2021 by David
Jennifer and her firm have performed legal services for me personally and for by business. Work has been very thorough and service is top notch. I've referred Jennifer several times and received excellent feed back.
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06 May, 2024 by Katie wareck
Sneaky. If you’re looking for someone to lie for you , they’re your people.
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06 Apr, 2024 by Ashley kabke
I hired Jordan Ascione for family court and a step parent adoption and she is absolutely amazing at her job. She puts in the hard work and effort and actually cares about the outcome and showing her clients how much she cares. I definitely recommend her she is definitely worth the money
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14 Feb, 2024 by Kimber thatch
06 May, 2024 by Katie wareck
Sneaky. If you’re looking for someone to lie for you , they’re your people.
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06 Apr, 2024 by Ashley kabke
I hired Jordan Ascione for family court and a step parent adoption and she is absolutely amazing at her job. She puts in the hard work and effort and actually cares about the outcome and showing her clients how much she cares. I definitely recommend her she is definitely worth the money
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14 Feb, 2024 by Kimber thatch
Discover the ideal lawyer
You can search a lawyer by practice area, lawyer name, city, state, or ZIP code
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.
