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23 Sep, 2024 by Sam allen
Very helpful, and informative. Edward Stemmer was excellent.
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04 Jun, 2024 by Casey regan
27 May, 2024 by Tori h keck
Edward Stemmer at NMLaw is highly professional. I collaborated with him on establishing a Trust, which can be complex, but he simplified the process efficiently. He was remarkably patient and understanding, even when we had numerous inquiries. I feel comfortable reaching out to him with any questions without hesitation. His kindness and expertise are truly commendable.
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23 Sep, 2024 by Sam allen
Very helpful, and informative. Edward Stemmer was excellent.
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04 Jun, 2024 by Casey regan
27 May, 2024 by Tori h keck
Edward Stemmer at NMLaw is highly professional. I collaborated with him on establishing a Trust, which can be complex, but he simplified the process efficiently. He was remarkably patient and understanding, even when we had numerous inquiries. I feel comfortable reaching out to him with any questions without hesitation. His kindness and expertise are truly commendable.
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17 May, 2017 by Iman
I highly recommend Ahmed Shaikh for Islamic inheritance and trust planning. He is extremely knowledgeable and was very patient with us as we asked him a myriad of questions. He was very generous with his time, and at no point did we feel rushed. He is also very thorough and professional and is open for us to call him with any questions or modifications. We asked for a quick turnaround, and he promptly delivered. Also, I must mention that Leslie Mills, Ahmed's legal assistant, went above and beyond to make the process easy for us - she went out of her way to come to the house on several occasions for our convenience. Thank you!
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12 Apr, 2016 by Anonymous
Mr.Shaikh was able to quickly and effectively move a fairly nasty dispute over inheritance through the court with minimal impact on me. I was so pleased to turn the emotionally upsetting matter over to him, and receive my settlement at the end! He kept me updated, followed my wishes, and advised me on the most prudent steps to take- all the while sparing me the headache and drama of the ordeal, so that I could remain focused on my life and family. I hope I never have to hire an attorney again, but if I did, I would not hesitate to contact Mr. Shaikh. Ahmed Shaikh and his kind assistant Leslie were extremely accommodating, professional, and compassionate; everything you would want in a law office.
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08 Oct, 2015 by Noha alshugairi
If you are an American Muslim and would like the peace of mind from knowing that your loved ones will have a clear Islamic Inheritance plan to follow, I highly recommend utilizing the services of Ahmed Shaikh. As a practicing Muslim who was lost between the Islamic and the Legal perspectives with regards to inheritance planning, I found Ahmed Shaikh to be be knowledgeable, thorough, and organized. He knows both perspectives very well and he was able to answer and address all of my concerns and questions. I definitely felt at peace once my inheritance planning was in place. I highly recommend his services.
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23 May, 2018 by Anonymous
I found Mr. Blevins to be an excellent business attorney providing both sound advice and great strategies. Mr. Blevins was initially retained to review a contract that I was about to get involved. He was able to point out some deficits in the contract which were then changed (I probably would not have caught them, maybe). It has proven to be a good choice to have him review our documents. Since the initial contact with Mr. Blevins, he has been retained as our corporate council. Now most all documents are run by him. We have found Mr. Blevins to be extremely attentive, trustworthy and reasonable with his time and charges. Mr. Blevins has my utmost confidence and I would recommend him to you. He has done some work for business associates and they notice the same things.
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22 May, 2018 by John
I hired Mr. Blevins to oversee our acquisition of another company and he since stayed on to serve as our outside general counsel. He is an excellent business attorney that spends the time to understand the unique goals and strategies of our company. Mr. Blevins always provides a quick turnaround on our contract review, answers compliance questions timely and makes himself readily available for any issues that may arise. He is top notch.
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18 May, 2018 by Anonymous
Chris has helped me with a number of real estate issues over the years from negotiating agreements to dealing with local government on land use matters. He is very diligent and always works very hard to accomplish my needs and goals. He has helped me tremendously with all of my legal needs and I could not give a higher recommendation.
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26 Mar, 2015 by David gilmour
We were in a rush to get our estate plan in order before an overseas trip and Jan Scott was accommodating and conscientious. From our comprehensive documents to the customized attention we received, Jan exceeded our expectations. Thank you, Jan Scott!
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01 Sep, 2014 by Anonymous
Attorney Scott was responsive and dedicated to solving our issues. She made the complicated issues understandable and was an attentive listener. The documents we received were timely and comprehensive. I would highly recommend her services.
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10 May, 2013 by Anonymous
Attorney Scott is professional, knowledgable and patiently answered all of my questions. She completed the work in a timely fashion and doesn't charge for every phone call or question. I highly recommend her.
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17 Jul, 2019 by Dewey cardenas
14 Aug, 2017 by Mayra cuellar
Mr. Thomas Connor is a very good lawyer very helpful and understanding he's the best.
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04 Oct, 2013 by Ruth
Alexandra helped me set up my estate. She made the estate planning process a pleasant experience. (I did not expect it to be.)
I truly appreciate the time she took to explain everything to me. It meant a lot to me, as estate planning can be a bit confusing and emotional. I can’t say enough how well she took care of me during the process. I am very grateful!
I highly recommend Alexandra for your estate planning needs. She really knows her stuff and really cares!
I am very grateful to have my Will/Trust/Advance Health Care Directive and Durable Power of Attorney all set up for my family and myself. Thank-you!
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30 Nov, 2020 by B.g.
Ethical, conscientious, professional and knowledgeable. I can't say enough about Cathy Kim, she definitely does her job extremely well. Words alone can't express my gratitude for not only all of her diligent work, but for always going above and beyond. Cathy had to deal with several unscrupulous individuals on my behalf, and she had a big hand in saving my sanity. She often had to deal with me when I was an emotional mess, and she was able to calm me down and explain things in a manner that was always reassuring. She advised me of my fiduciary responsibilities as a Trustee and guided me through painful probate and litigation matters. I was very blessed to have Cathy represent me, and I will be forever grateful. You will not regret choosing her as your attorney, she is simply the best.
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16 Jan, 2014 by Barbara s.
I count it a great pleasure and privilege to express to others my experience with the Ernest Joon Kim Law Firm, and in particular the services rendered my family by Attorney Catherine Kim.
I had just lost my dear sister and found myself experiencing for the very first time, the daunting process called Probate. Desperately seeking answers I discovered AVVO and submitted my concerns in hopes that someone would enlighten and assist me in my efforts. Attorney Ernest J. Kim responded with a full page summary addressing all my questions and concerns. I immediately felt that with an empathetic and understanding attorney as this, how could I go wrong with retaining their services. They were the fourth firm I had contacted, and the only ones that were not offended by my need to know and understand the Probate process so I could effectively provide what was required of me to the attorney representing me. I telephoned the firm and Ms. Catherine Kim responded.
From our first encounter I felt very comfortable in discussing all the issues with Ms. Kim. Oftentimes I was overwhelmed with grief, the probate process, the difficulty in finding a genuine, caring attorney who was not too busy to answer my questions with courtesy, professionalism and patience. I could not have found a more skilled and adept attorney than Ms. Kim. She is knowledgeable, conscientious, courteous, trustworthy, kind, patient, and compassionate. She addressed all my concerns and the many questions plaguing me regarding this intimidating Probate process. She quieted me and guided me through all my anxiety. No amount of words can express my sincere and deepest gratitude for her support and assistance.
Ms. Kim was always available to me and responded promptly to my telephone calls and emails. She was there to help me at every juncture going above and beyond the call for Probate services. I always felt at ease, burdens lightened and encouraged that I could do all that was required of me.
As busy as Ms. Kim may have been, I never felt rushed off the telephone or that she was too busy to assist me in working through every issue. Rather, she patiently took the time to explain in laymen terms what I needed to know, ensuring that all concepts were clear, concise, and understandable, so that I would be in a position to make good informed decisions.
Within only three days after retaining her services Ms. Kim represented me in court. She kept me informed and abreast of all court actions. She provided easy and understandable explanations of issues and provided legal counsel in all areas of concern to me, some even being outside of Probate. There is no doubt in my mind that these past two years of going through the probate process, the encouragement and support I received from Ms. Kim is immeasurable. She exudes integrity in all she does.
Ms. Kim successfully brought my family through the probate process and we are very pleased with her services. She was upfront and truthful about all statutory fees and cost, and also offered us the option for a discounted rate.
We highly esteem and recommend Ms. Kim to anyone requiring Estate Planning Services. I have also personally retained her to do my Will and Trust, and is recommending her to one of my good friends. Her services are outstanding and her work impeccable. Put your mind at ease and allow Ms. Kim the opportunity to service all your estate planning needs. She’s the best. Thank you Ms. Kim.
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05 Apr, 2014 by Michael
Did a family illness lead to a legal and financial nightmare--as though you had walked onto the stage of an absurdist play? And then, when you turned to a lot of professionals for help, they gave you the wrong advice or absurd decisions and then turned their backs on you? The Kim team to the rescue! In my case involving a family trust, they went to work immediately, with Mrs. Kim taking down my details by phone; they stayed in very close contact by both phone and email; they were able quickly to write the legal opinion I needed even better than I had imagined. Unlike another lawyer I had previously hired, the Kim team wasn't stumped by a trust with a provision somewhat different from the usual. They also have been clear on their fees. Only when you've felt utterly legally and financially helpless can you understand the value of what Mr. Ernest J Kim's team can do for you: the peace their competence, speed, attention to detail, and communication skills provide. They immediately understood my predicament and were thinking ahead; they were never hard to reach by phone or email. Only the word "excellent" suffices to describe my experience with Mr. Kim's team. [I have not been paid anything to write this review--it is MY pleasure to do so!]
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02 Jan, 2011 by Anonymous
Christina Stone's expertise was in elder law, and she was amazing! She helped my brother and I when our mother was very ill and in a convalescent hospital and when our parents passed away. She is a very good listener, compassionate, sensitive and thoroughly professional. With regard to our mother's longterm illness, her medicare ran out and we needed to qualify her for medi-cal. Ms. Stone helped us through this difficult time and found solutions for us. When drawing up a new trust after mother passed away, she asked the right questions and helped my father find the equitable and reasonable solutions.
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20 Apr, 2012 by William
I am one of those who was hit by the economic downturn and faced losing my home. I had many a sleepless night and my marriage suffered from the stress.
I had received a notice of trustee sale after wasting time with the so-called foreclosure help agencies and waiting in long lines at big venue save-your-home events.
I contacted Mr. Schrader to discuss options.
I needed to file bankruptcy.
His advice was concise and his rates were fair.
I could not believe how he hustled around to meet with me and make sure paperwork was completed accurately and submitted on time.
I felt that I had finally found someone who sincerely cared about my situation and was ready and willing to do what it took to keep me in my home.
I was finally able to rest peacefully at night.
Mr. Schrader never missed an appointment, was never late, was always calm and collected and explained everything to me as we went through the bankruptcy process.
Working with Link Schrader was like working with a friend, not an attorney whom I had never met before.
He helped me save my home, I am back on track and couldn't be more pleased.
I consider myself extremely fortunate to have found Mr. Schrader.
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04 Oct, 2019 by Johnny
Alex is knowledgeable when it comes to family law. He predicted what would most likely happen when we went to court and he was 100% spot on.
My recommendation is to allow him to guide you in the correct direction, he won't guide you astray. In dealing with family law it's easy to allow your emotions to take the front seat it's beneficial to have a trusted attorney by your side.
Thank you Alex
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28 Dec, 2018 by Zahra
A lawyer with a heart! A woman with courage and a desire to put all her effort and knowledge out for you!! Love her
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13 Apr, 2024 by T p
Ilian took a difficult situation and made it easier to comprehend and calm my thoughts. Trying to do this alone or with someone who doesn’t have compassion would be a scary dangerous road.
He broke things down so they were easy to comprehend. Yes, he had to give me the truth as he talked me off the ledge (so to speak).
There is happiness after this process. I’m definitely there and quicker than I thought possible.
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21 Nov, 2022 by Brady runyon
My wife and I had an extremely positive experience working with Steve and his staff. They made the process easy and were able to clearly explain each step, without making it confusing. Start to finish they were extremely responsive, professional, and personable and I will definitely be referring my friends and family!
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04 Aug, 2022 by Walter ruiz
Very knowledgeable and professional willing to answer any questions. Would highly recommend this law office.
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13 Apr, 2024 by T p
Ilian took a difficult situation and made it easier to comprehend and calm my thoughts. Trying to do this alone or with someone who doesn’t have compassion would be a scary dangerous road.
He broke things down so they were easy to comprehend. Yes, he had to give me the truth as he talked me off the ledge (so to speak).
There is happiness after this process. I’m definitely there and quicker than I thought possible.
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21 Nov, 2022 by Brady runyon
My wife and I had an extremely positive experience working with Steve and his staff. They made the process easy and were able to clearly explain each step, without making it confusing. Start to finish they were extremely responsive, professional, and personable and I will definitely be referring my friends and family!
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04 Aug, 2022 by Walter ruiz
Very knowledgeable and professional willing to answer any questions. Would highly recommend this law office.
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13 Apr, 2024 by T p
Ilian took a difficult situation and made it easier to comprehend and calm my thoughts. Trying to do this alone or with someone who doesn’t have compassion would be a scary dangerous road.
He broke things down so they were easy to comprehend. Yes, he had to give me the truth as he talked me off the ledge (so to speak).
There is happiness after this process. I’m definitely there and quicker than I thought possible.
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21 Nov, 2022 by Brady runyon
My wife and I had an extremely positive experience working with Steve and his staff. They made the process easy and were able to clearly explain each step, without making it confusing. Start to finish they were extremely responsive, professional, and personable and I will definitely be referring my friends and family!
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04 Aug, 2022 by Walter ruiz
Very knowledgeable and professional willing to answer any questions. Would highly recommend this law office.
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27 Mar, 2024 by Lawrence prudhomme
Good company
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07 Oct, 2022 by P toep
16 Sep, 2020 by Rod i
Art is responsive, professional, professional, and proficient. I recommend him
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14 Mar, 2023 by Mari frank
She’s a top notch professional!
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14 Mar, 2023 by Mari frank
She’s a top notch professional!
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29 Apr, 2024 by David leon zink
Our family had two big concerns: whether MediCal might seek recovery from our brother's share of inherited real property that was still held in our family trust, and secondly, whether his personal property may be vulnerable unless he had his own trust set up. Internet research on MediCal recovery and the 2017 SB833 bill led us to Amity Law Group. I read their perspective on MediCal recovery, watched an introductory video and decided I to ask for a free consultation on our concern. It was easy to set up, the appointment was set for just a few days from my call, and today we met. After going over the fact pattern we got great news -- the family trust protects against MediCal recovery, and our brother's assets fall below the recovery threshold. The Amity Law attorney was happy to have helped, the consult really was without charge, and there was no attempt for an upsell. I take this firm as more than just honest, but one that is in it for service -- certainly this time without pay! Thank you, Amity Law Group, for hearing our question and taking a huge weight off the shoulders of our family. May this review help drive paying customers your direction!
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25 Apr, 2024 by M derecki
I am deeply grateful to Aden from ALG for his remarkable generosity and support during a challenging time in my life. As a struggling healthcare student overwhelmed by financial burdens and admittedly naive about my legal rights, I found myself in need of legal advice without the means to afford it. Aden provided invaluable guidance and support without any expectation of compensation in return. Despite my lack of knowledge, he took the time to educate me and ensure I understood my rights. Rather than capitalizing on my circumstances, as some firms might, he provided genuine legal advice, offered his best wishes, and handled the situation with integrity. The firm's selflessness and dedication to helping others, regardless of financial constraints, are truly commendable. I wholeheartedly recommend ALG to anyone seeking legal assistance, knowing they will receive not only expert guidance but also genuine care and support. Thank you!
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28 Mar, 2024 by Francisco paz
Great service, very kind and understanding people.
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30 May, 2024 by Ahmed hussain
Maxine fought hard for me and won at every single milestone. She will aim for the things that are beneficial in the long run and not let you get stuck in the useless emotional drama that comes along in divorce.
Highly collective & calm, professional, tactical and combative when needed. She had the strength to go and fight a case in another county with a top notch opposing attorney who unfortunately was a pathological liar with no ethics or character, driven solely by the pursuit of money who unsuccessfully tried to separate me from my son for almost 3 years by utilizing every loophole of the family law.
I am grateful to Maxine and her assistant Leslie for the support they have provided and wish them the very best in their life!
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16 Apr, 2024 by Ann shin
Divorce was a very emotionally painful experience and I was often unable to make calm decisions on my own.
She guided me through these situations with strength, calmness, and integrity at all times.
Without her support, I would not have been able to overcome this difficult challenge.
Because of her prompt responses and the steady stream of frank and calm advice you provided, I felt I could trust and accept whatever end result I got with her support.
Before I hired her, it was difficult to trust my former attorney because he was slow to respond and seemed to be little more than a clerical messenger.
Although I was not satisfied with the service I received from the former attorney, I was afraid of changing attorneys in the middle of the divorce process.
But after meeting with her and interviewing, I immediately felt in my gut that this was the right person for the job and I am so glad I made the choice to change attorneys at that time.
I would highly recommend her to anyone who needs solid help with family law.
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26 May, 2023 by Hamza k
Maxine saved my life, I had a bad experience with another lawyer and I moved to work with Maxine, she gives you reasonable prices with the best service ever.
Thank you Maxine I really appreciate your business!
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13 Apr, 2024 by T p
Ilian took a difficult situation and made it easier to comprehend and calm my thoughts. Trying to do this alone or with someone who doesn’t have compassion would be a scary dangerous road.
He broke things down so they were easy to comprehend. Yes, he had to give me the truth as he talked me off the ledge (so to speak).
There is happiness after this process. I’m definitely there and quicker than I thought possible.
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19 Feb, 2023 by Anonymous
In a nutshell, I do not recommend Giammichele Law. Steven Giammichele and his staff are nice and friendly, but their work is haphazard. The number of drafts we had to review due to their sloppiness was time-consuming, frustrating, disappointing, and concerning. I spent dozens upon dozens of hours reviewing, making corrections, emailing, and speaking in person, trying to get the drafts close to what we asked for and Steven recommended. Mind you, the first several set of drafts were 56 pages for each trust, not including all the other document drafts that coincide with each trust. After the second round of drafts, I advised Steven it was taking such a long time for me to read almost 200 pages of language that is foreign to me, and have to track and explain all the mistakes. He decided to find a new template with fewer pages. Regardless if they are 40 pages or 56 pages each, plus the other document drafts, it takes a lot of time to read and make note of the mistakes or questions, especially when you’re not a lawyer or an estate planner. That's why I hired Steven, to explain, advise and help us through the process.
Unfortunately, we felt stuck with Giammichele Law because we paid thousands of dollars for the three trusts upfront and in full, that was a red flag we regret. We received many drafts that had countless mistakes and Steven would blame the mistakes on us changing our minds or miscommunication during our meetings. I would show him our submitted paperwork and our notes, and I would compare them to the drafts, and he still wouldn’t take ownership of the mistakes. It’s now been over eight months and our trusts are not up to par. We asked Steven to please fix them after we were advised by his notary that we still could sign the paperwork, and he would fix the areas that are not correct and go over the language we didn’t understand. Steven offered 30 minutes of his time and if we needed more time, he required a retainer because we signed the drafts, hence he is no longer required to revise them.
I would not use Giammichele Law if you want your trust to be created in a timely, accurate, and professional manner, keeping your beneficiary’s best interest at heart.
I didn't want to leave a negative review, but the way Steven has ignored our attempt to rectify the situation, I feel he is not taking the severity of his ways. I hope he will do the right thing.
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21 Nov, 2022 by Brady runyon
My wife and I had an extremely positive experience working with Steve and his staff. They made the process easy and were able to clearly explain each step, without making it confusing. Start to finish they were extremely responsive, professional, and personable and I will definitely be referring my friends and family!
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06 Jun, 2024 by Anonymous
Kate did my full estate planning package last year. Yesterday, I was at my yearly physical and the doctor asked if I had an advanced healthcare directive submitted through their portal. I did and, so she opened it and started to read it. She said " Oh- this is a good one. I see lots of these that don't cover the bases adequately. This one is really good!"
Kate was great to work with, fair, and responsive to me and my husband and our needs. She's my family law firm now!
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18 Apr, 2024 by Adalberto ramirez
I've had the misfortune of dealing with Kelso never returned my phone calls or emails and to this date Kelso and a family member have behaved very mysterious and secretive still missing $ 17,000. Would not recommend this establishment to settle Trust.
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26 Jan, 2024 by Brittany nieberg
DON’T listen to anything but this review: Everyone at K. Kelso law cares so much about each client, you’ll never need another attorney. Any negative review is clearly from somebody who can appreciate this new way of approaching legal services which will totally change your worldview and make you feel completely at home. Kate is the best thing that ever happened to me and her law firm is now family. Call them. Be a part of their movement.
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22 Jul, 2024 by Veronica quevedo
13 Jul, 2024 by Arturo morales
12 Jul, 2024 by Flor de maría avalos romero
05 Oct, 2020 by Peggy
Suzanne became my parents estate attorney in 2010. When a financial elder abuse situation occurred, Suzanne handled a very confusing, contentious and heartbreaking situation with calm, reason and the utmost professionalism. Her skills with the law and estate planning are unsurpassed. I never had any concerns with her expertise. She is also a very warm and compassionate person who has her client's best interest at the forefront. Very happy with Suzanne.
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27 Jan, 2020 by Anonymous
Suzanne created my families Estate plan. She was very detailed and answered all the questions we had. We would recommend her to anyone.
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13 Sep, 2019 by Lynn
You cannot hire a better attorney for your probate and trust matters than Suzanne Rehmani. I know because I have endured a 9 year + horrible legal battle including trial. Ms Rehmani is the best - by a mile. Everything from creating your Family Trust to representing you in the most contentious conservatorship court matter . Do not even think about hiring anyone else!
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21 Aug, 2024 by Jenny
Giovanni, was very helpful he took the time to listen and explained the process moving forward
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09 May, 2024 by Angel davis
Choosing Mr. Milan was the best decision I made for my family's well-being. Co-parenting with a narcissist felt like an insurmountable task, but his unwavering support and expertise provided a beacon of hope during a tumultuous time. With his guidance, I found strength I didn't know I had, and together, we crafted a plan that put my child's happiness and stability first. Mr. Milan didn't just represent me in court; he became a trusted ally and source of comfort throughout the journey. For anyone facing the daunting challenge of co-parenting with a narcissist, I wholeheartedly recommend Mr. Milan for his unparalleled dedication and genuine compassion.
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05 May, 2024 by Allison wooldridge
I cannot recommend the Law Offices of Giovanni Milan highly enough! From the moment I stepped into his welcoming office in Tustin, California, I knew I was in good hands. Giovanni is not only incredibly kind but also a master at breaking down complex legal matters into simple, understandable terms. His fun and relatable personality made the entire experience surprisingly enjoyable.
Giovanni is a stellar communicator who kept me constantly updated throughout the process, ensuring I was never left in the dark. Thanks to his expertise and diligent work, he got me the result I desperately needed and truly saved me in a bind. If you're looking for a lawyer who combines professionalism with a personal touch, Giovanni is your go-to. I’d highly recommend him to anyone in need of legal assistance.
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01 Sep, 2024 by Ki yom
No communication. Not a good person. Not willing to lend a helping hand and a very selfish person. Typical stereotypical attorney.
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27 Aug, 2024 by Ki yom
Robert Pearson is absolutely the worst attorney I have ever dealt with. He is the worst communicator and is completely useless. The most non responsive attorney I have ever seen. I would totally stay away from this attorney. He is shady in his business practices and no help at all. Worst attorney ever!!
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22 Aug, 2022 by Darryl braden
26 Aug, 2024 by Ky
Robert Pearson is absolutely the worst attorney I have ever dealt with. He is the worst communicator and is completely useless. The most non responsive attorney I have ever seen. I would totally stay away from this attorney. He is shady in his business practices and no help at all. Worst attorney ever!!
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30 Dec, 2014 by Jan
Robert Pearson was recommended to me by my long-time tax professional following the death of my husband in a traffic accident. He was extraordinarily patient in explaining to me the various options available, as neither my husband nor myself had established a will. I could not have asked for better service in dealing with the numerous documents and situations relating to my husband as well as in establishing a will and trust in my own name. Over the years, I have contacted his office for updates and other matters, with nominal fees (if any). His associate, Cindy, has also been very helpful. I do not hesitate to recommend this attorney.
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31 Jan, 2024 by Anonymous
I called Mr. Magro for a consult after another attorney i respect referred me. Mr. Magro was extremely rude from the start, and yelled at me when I attempted to ask a question. He said he could not work with me because I don't listen. I could not work with him because he is rude. I took my business, which was considerable, elsewhere.
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03 Mar, 2023 by Anonymous
I called this lawyer for assistence and I couldn't get a word in, He was rude and very foul mouth.
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24 Sep, 2015 by Colleen
My husband called several attorneys before speaking with Mr. Magro about our estate plan. Mr. Magro was caring & very professional when we talked to him about our wishes & plans. We decided to hire him to prepare our trust & wills. There are so many decisions to be made when making a plan like this, like, who should be in charge if something happened to us and what choices we would like that person to make for us. Mr Magro was very patient with us and answered our questions in a way that was really easy to understand. We received the documents from him on the date he promised and his fee was super reasonable. I would totally recommend Stephen M. Magro if you need estate planning.
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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:
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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.
