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Randall F Kaiden, experienced Consumer Protection, Elder Law attorney in Valencia, CA with 146 reviews
Average
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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.
48,60
star star star star star
5.0/5
Avvo
5.0
15 Reviews
Google Maps
5.0
131 Reviews
star star star star star
12 Feb, 2025 by Johnnie h. ryan
They did a good job handling my commercial truck accident case, but I felt a little lost at times because there was so much to process and take in with the insurance company
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star star star star star
12 Feb, 2025 by Vandana
I have never met a company so welcoming, caring and helpful. I really thought when I got in my accident that it was gonna be hard to get through but They were there for me and helped me through it all. They genuinely care for your time and they always made me feel comfortable. This company has the kindest people I’ll never forget about.
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11 Feb, 2025 by Fern t. barker
Thanks to Luis I was able to solve my case.Luis was the best lawyer. I highly recommend this law firm.
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Edward Alan O'Hare, experienced Estate Planning, Probate attorney in Valencia, CA with 35 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.
43,55
star star star star star
4.9/5
Avvo
5.0
7 Reviews
Google Maps
4.9
28 Reviews
star star star star star
22 Jan, 2025 by Jon augusta
When hiring attorneys it is good to have an attorney who is confident, but also who's track record can back it up. That is Steve Marcus. His 30yrs experience show and he will make sure that your interests are handled completely.
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18 Apr, 2024 by Nelly romo
I recently engaged the services of Mr. MARCUS for my child’s case and, unfortunately, my experience did not meet the expectations set by other reviews. While I appreciate Mr. MARCUS's expertise in the field, I felt that the representation provided was not aligned with my child’s best interests, which was concerning and disappointing. It seemed there was a bias that did not favor a fair outlook for my child's situation. I would encourage Mr. MARCUS to ensure that the representation of all parties' interests, especially those of minors, is balanced and fair in future cases. This feedback is intended to be constructive and I hope it will be taken into consideration.
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star star star star star
13 Nov, 2023 by Erkin boy
Excellent Service ! If you want your ticket to be dismissed, I'd recommend Aaron Fontana !!! Thank you for all !
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Sean David Ethington, experienced Elder Law, Estate Planning attorney in Valencia, CA with 58 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.
39,06
star star star star star
5.0/5
Google Maps
5.0
58 Reviews
star star star star star
20 Sep, 2024 by Natalie sevdalian
Thank you so much to the RJB Law Office team ! They were really helpful throughout the process! I highly recommend RJB Law Offices!
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09 Sep, 2024 by Andrei a
Best of the best in information, professionalism, updates etc... I definitely recommend their services. They have assisted me all the way. Thank you so much RJB law offices.
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27 Aug, 2024 by Ms.ponce 8787
The entire office personnel is fantastic! From the receptionist to Ray, everyone is very professional and helpful. They answered all my questions in a timely matter and helped me through the process. Thank you everyone for all your help :)
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Jane Maris Mcnamara, experienced Elder Law, Estate Planning attorney in Valencia, CA with 1 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.
39,03
star star star star star
5.0/5
Avvo
5.0
1 Reviews
star star star star star
22 Aug, 2024 by Mark
Jane and her team did a wonderful job with our family trust. We had several properties and a blended family where we would eventually have to disperse our assets. They made the process easy and efficient. The final trust package was thorough and made us feel we covered all the bases.
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Heidi Kugler-Barnholtz, experienced Child Custody, Criminal Defense attorney in Valencia, CA with 28 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.
38,33
star star star star star
4.9/5
Google Maps
4.9
28 Reviews
star star star star star
22 Jan, 2025 by Jon augusta
When hiring attorneys it is good to have an attorney who is confident, but also who's track record can back it up. That is Steve Marcus. His 30yrs experience show and he will make sure that your interests are handled completely.
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star star star star star
18 Apr, 2024 by Nelly romo
I recently engaged the services of Mr. MARCUS for my child’s case and, unfortunately, my experience did not meet the expectations set by other reviews. While I appreciate Mr. MARCUS's expertise in the field, I felt that the representation provided was not aligned with my child’s best interests, which was concerning and disappointing. It seemed there was a bias that did not favor a fair outlook for my child's situation. I would encourage Mr. MARCUS to ensure that the representation of all parties' interests, especially those of minors, is balanced and fair in future cases. This feedback is intended to be constructive and I hope it will be taken into consideration.
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star star star star star
13 Nov, 2023 by Erkin boy
Excellent Service ! If you want your ticket to be dismissed, I'd recommend Aaron Fontana !!! Thank you for all !
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David Oscar Barnes, experienced Estate Planning, Family Law attorney in Valencia, CA with 2 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.
35,00
star star star star star
5.0/5
Google Maps
5.0
2 Reviews
star star star star star
14 Oct, 2021 by Tim karcz
Seth provided us with timely, professional, and clearly understandable legal services. Highly Recommended!
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star star star star star
14 Aug, 2021 by Kathy cleversley
Seth helped me with getting my tenants out who were smoking in the unit and ruining my property. He wrote a letter and was very professional which finally got them to move. I highly recommend him.
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Walter John Damboise, experienced Estate Planning attorney in Valencia, CA with 69 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.
34,37
star star star star star
4.9/5
Google Maps
4.9
69 Reviews
star star star star star
21 Jan, 2025 by V&a furniture
Google Maps
star star star star star
16 Dec, 2024 by Chucutrucu lópez
muy buena abogada en todo tiempo estuvo pendiente de todos los movimientos sobre mi caso le agradezco mucho fue una resolución rápida se las recomiendo está siempre pendiente de todo lo referente al caso le doy un 100
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16 Dec, 2024 by Jose delgado
They were fantastic by helping with my accident definitely recommend.
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Jason Arthur Benkner, experienced Estate Planning, Litigation attorney in Valencia, CA with 69 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.
34,37
star star star star star
4.9/5
Google Maps
4.9
69 Reviews
star star star star star
21 Jan, 2025 by V&a furniture
Google Maps
star star star star star
16 Dec, 2024 by Chucutrucu lópez
muy buena abogada en todo tiempo estuvo pendiente de todos los movimientos sobre mi caso le agradezco mucho fue una resolución rápida se las recomiendo está siempre pendiente de todo lo referente al caso le doy un 100
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star star star star star
16 Dec, 2024 by Jose delgado
They were fantastic by helping with my accident definitely recommend.
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Scott Brandon Ayers, experienced Business, Estate Planning attorney in Valencia, CA with 28 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.
34,33
star star star star star
4.9/5
Google Maps
4.9
28 Reviews
star star star star star
22 Jan, 2025 by Jon augusta
When hiring attorneys it is good to have an attorney who is confident, but also who's track record can back it up. That is Steve Marcus. His 30yrs experience show and he will make sure that your interests are handled completely.
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star star star star star
18 Apr, 2024 by Nelly romo
I recently engaged the services of Mr. MARCUS for my child’s case and, unfortunately, my experience did not meet the expectations set by other reviews. While I appreciate Mr. MARCUS's expertise in the field, I felt that the representation provided was not aligned with my child’s best interests, which was concerning and disappointing. It seemed there was a bias that did not favor a fair outlook for my child's situation. I would encourage Mr. MARCUS to ensure that the representation of all parties' interests, especially those of minors, is balanced and fair in future cases. This feedback is intended to be constructive and I hope it will be taken into consideration.
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star star star star star
13 Nov, 2023 by Erkin boy
Excellent Service ! If you want your ticket to be dismissed, I'd recommend Aaron Fontana !!! Thank you for all !
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Adrian Chiang, experienced Business, Estate Planning attorney in Valencia, CA with 71 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.
29,05
star star star star star
4.3/5
Google Maps
4.3
71 Reviews
star star star star star
20 Nov, 2024 by Emmett hull
Would recommend Young & Williams to anyone seeking legal services.
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star star star star star
12 Oct, 2024 by Mauricio alvarez
Ryan’s firm did an excellent job for us when our home insurance denied our claim that they had previously approved for a bursted pipe in our kitchen. I first tried reasoning with insurance to no avail, then tried California insurance commission and they were of no help. This firm took over and they did all the communication with insurance and their attorneys. We received full payment of the original quoted bids to redo our kitchen. I’d definitely recommend this firm.
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star star star star star
07 Oct, 2024 by Nicole lowry
I wasted tens of thousands of dollars being taken advantage of by this firm... lawyers that couldn't even get my name correct, didn't communicate with eachother, and accomplished literally nothing for me in my divorce. They continually tried to "go to war" with my ex-husband and billed me for things that were completely unnecessary, stoking a fire that did not even need to be lit. Funny how I was able to get my divorce finalized and processed with no anxiety or headache once I fired this firm. They took advantage of a vulnerable single mother and should be ashamed of themselves.
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Mark Thomas Young, experienced Business, Estate Planning attorney in Valencia, CA with 71 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.
29,05
star star star star star
4.3/5
Google Maps
4.3
71 Reviews
star star star star star
20 Nov, 2024 by Emmett hull
Would recommend Young & Williams to anyone seeking legal services.
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star star star star star
12 Oct, 2024 by Mauricio alvarez
Ryan’s firm did an excellent job for us when our home insurance denied our claim that they had previously approved for a bursted pipe in our kitchen. I first tried reasoning with insurance to no avail, then tried California insurance commission and they were of no help. This firm took over and they did all the communication with insurance and their attorneys. We received full payment of the original quoted bids to redo our kitchen. I’d definitely recommend this firm.
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star star star star star
07 Oct, 2024 by Nicole lowry
I wasted tens of thousands of dollars being taken advantage of by this firm... lawyers that couldn't even get my name correct, didn't communicate with eachother, and accomplished literally nothing for me in my divorce. They continually tried to "go to war" with my ex-husband and billed me for things that were completely unnecessary, stoking a fire that did not even need to be lit. Funny how I was able to get my divorce finalized and processed with no anxiety or headache once I fired this firm. They took advantage of a vulnerable single mother and should be ashamed of themselves.
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Betty Luu, experienced Business, Estate Planning attorney in Valencia, CA with 71 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.
29,05
star star star star star
4.3/5
Google Maps
4.3
71 Reviews
star star star star star
20 Nov, 2024 by Emmett hull
Would recommend Young & Williams to anyone seeking legal services.
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star star star star star
12 Oct, 2024 by Mauricio alvarez
Ryan’s firm did an excellent job for us when our home insurance denied our claim that they had previously approved for a bursted pipe in our kitchen. I first tried reasoning with insurance to no avail, then tried California insurance commission and they were of no help. This firm took over and they did all the communication with insurance and their attorneys. We received full payment of the original quoted bids to redo our kitchen. I’d definitely recommend this firm.
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
07 Oct, 2024 by Nicole lowry
I wasted tens of thousands of dollars being taken advantage of by this firm... lawyers that couldn't even get my name correct, didn't communicate with eachother, and accomplished literally nothing for me in my divorce. They continually tried to "go to war" with my ex-husband and billed me for things that were completely unnecessary, stoking a fire that did not even need to be lit. Funny how I was able to get my divorce finalized and processed with no anxiety or headache once I fired this firm. They took advantage of a vulnerable single mother and should be ashamed of themselves.
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Stephen George McKee, experienced Estate Planning attorney in Valencia, CA with 9 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.
27,26
star star star star star
4.0/5
Avvo
3.0
2 Reviews
Google Maps
5.0
7 Reviews
star star star star star
05 Apr, 2024 by Matthew steen
Google Maps
star star star star star
21 Aug, 2022 by Tambry lee
For over 40 yrs, Steve's been our family law attorney for 5 generations, always providing xlnt services, both legal & financial. The office is never cold & impersonal, like most firms, & every member of the office provides personal attention. I'd highly recommend them for family law & financial issues.
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star star star star star
06 Apr, 2021 by Jennifer camberos
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David Alan Huffaker, experienced Estate Planning attorney in Valencia, CA 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.
24,05
star star star star star
4.0/5
Avvo
3.0
2 Reviews
Google Maps
5.0
2 Reviews
star star star star star
10 Feb, 2024 by Irma albaro
David Huffaker is very thorough and prompt in following through with his commitments to his clients. He has shown me fairness, competence, and integrity.
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star star star star star
19 Sep, 2022 by Anonymous
Mormon. Uses church affiliation to scout for elderly patriarchs to shop his service to. That's how he found my parents. Like many a modern man, my father was a lifelong atheist who found church just in time for his final reckoning. Convenient, no? Anyway... As a beneficiary, i found huffaker to be a bit of ...haffuker, lol - unresponsive, disinterested and utterly shiftless when i was compelled to bring pertinent issues to his attention. Just to speak with him, I'd first have to leave him voicemail - he would never take my call directly. I suppose he was just trying to appear busy & in- demand, but that appeared highly dubious. U can Forget about catching him still office- bound after 4pm. Honestly, my heart goes out to his office girl for constantly covering for him. When i finally DID hear back, it always felt like it was taxing him or putting him out. Worst of all, after going thru all the hassle simply to speak with him only to then feel like i was talking to a wall, he would prove I'd done just that by doing absolutely NIL about ANY of the valid legal concerns I'd explicitly brought to his attention! Inexcusable. If that's the kind of lawyer ur looking for, no judgment. After all, crappy, out to lunch lawyers need clients to finance their cozy lifestyles, too. I think if all u need is a simple will drafted and nothing more, & u have no more than a single heir, this guy will probably suffice. Then again, in that case, u'd probably do just as well to file ur docs urself with an online attorney & not waste the money & time on an arrogant attorney who's just another average lazy lawyer under all the pretense. In the end, I gave up on him & hired more professional counsel to have my concerns adequately addressed. He was just a waste of time and money. For these reasons, i DO NOT recommend him to anyone.
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16 May, 2019 by Laura gracia
David is a kind man and always very helpful, wish more people could be like him.
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Michael D. Finley, experienced Criminal Defense, Entertainment attorney in Valencia, CA with 6 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.
19,10
star star star star star
3.6/5
Avvo
3.6
6 Reviews
star star star star star
12 May, 2024 by Christopher wright
I recently had the unfortunate experience of working with Michael Finley on a legal matter regarding visitation rights and child support with my daughter. Initially, I was hopeful as he appeared attentive during our initial interview. However, once he received the retainer fee, the level of service plummeted drastically. Communication was virtually nonexistent after the initial meeting. I found myself unable to reach him when I had questions or concerns about my case. This lack of responsiveness resulted in a missed court date, which had serious consequences for my case. Furthermore, Michael Finley failed to advise me adequately about potential legal ramifications, such as the possibility of being held responsible for the opposing party's attorney fees. I was blindsided by unexpected fees and expenses that were not disclosed upfront. What's most egregious is that Michael Finley violated our agreement regarding the retainer fee. We had agreed that he would notify me if the retainer was about to run out, so I could make an informed decision about continuing his services. However, I was shocked to receive a bill for $25,000, far exceeding what we had initially discussed. The agreement that he had written had been worded to favor his interest. He took advantage of my lack of legalese. Overall, my experience with Michael Finley was extremely disappointing and frustrating. I felt misled, ignored, and taken advantage of. I would strongly advise anyone considering his services to proceed with caution and ensure that all agreements are documented in writing. While I cannot recommend Michael Finley based on my experience, I must emphasize that my intention is not to threaten or defame him in any way. Rather, I hope that my feedback serves as a cautionary tale for others and encourages Michael Finley to reconsider his practices and prioritize the needs of his clients in the future. Sincerely, Christopher Wright
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21 Dec, 2023 by Tina
This attorney is the most unprofessional attorney we have ever encountered. He yells and belittles his clients, not to mention he hangs up on you as a client if he feels you challenge him. We have been working with him for 6 months with no resolution to our case at all. He is non responsive and does not follow up. We have had to track him down to find out the status of our case. His behavior is very unprofessional and we have encountered this multiple times since we hired him.
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09 Jan, 2019 by Anonymous
I met with him for a free consultation as I was desperate, destitute and in great need of legal advice. He was so clear and neat on his advice and explanations but most of all it his generosity what amazed me the most as he spent all the necessary time to make sure I was clear about my situation. He spent over an hour of his time at no charge. There are no many attorneys left like him.
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Edward Scott Kent, experienced Estate Planning attorney in Valencia, CA 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.
13,73
star star star star star
3.0/5
Avvo
3.0
4 Reviews
star star star star star
08 May, 2019 by Anonymous
Ed Kent did a Living Trust for my wife and I. When we realized the Trust had some errors in it we tried to contact him to have them corrected. We have tries emails, phone calls even stopping by his office for a month and we have gotten no responses from him.
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01 Oct, 2018 by Marc
Family Living Trust, Ed Kent worked with my wife and I to protect our assets. His easy to understand methods and understanding of what we needed made the process very easy and took all the stress off our shoulders by filing all the needed documents. His personnel touch and communication throughout was outstanding. I would definitely refer Ed to friends and family which I have done.
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30 Oct, 2016 by Alicia
Ed handled all out estate planning while my husband was in the hospital. He was so caring and compassionate that it truly touched my heart. And he did a great job on all of our estate stuff. He was responsive - very responsive. So I high
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Jane M. McNamara, experienced Estate Planning attorney in Valencia, CA 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.
8,00
star star star star star
0.0/5
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Yvette Gabrielian, experienced Business, Estate Planning attorney in Valencia, CA 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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Sean David Ethington, experienced Estate Planning attorney in Valencia, CA 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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Ryan Eugene Jackman, experienced Estate Planning, Family Law attorney in Valencia, CA 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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Randall Kaiden, experienced Estate Planning attorney in Valencia, CA 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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Kristen Lynn Chic, experienced Business, Estate Planning attorney in Valencia, CA 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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Adam Matthew Miller, experienced Business, Estate Planning attorney in Valencia, CA 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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Mahsa Shakiban Golshani, experienced Estate Planning, Trusts attorney in Valencia, CA 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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Seth Michael Goldberg, experienced Business, Criminal Defense attorney in Valencia, CA 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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Maryam Lisa Odom, experienced Business, Estate Planning attorney in Valencia, CA 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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Joy Allysa Finch, experienced Business, Estate Planning attorney in Valencia, CA 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.
0,00
star star star star star
0.0/5
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John Tyndall Snell, experienced Estate Planning attorney in Valencia, CA 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.
0,00
star star star star star
0.0/5
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Jose Alfredo Nunez, experienced Business, Estate Planning attorney in Valencia, CA 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.
0,00
star star star star star
0.0/5
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Susan Marie Christopher, experienced Estate Planning attorney in Valencia, CA 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.
0,00
star star star star star
0.0/5
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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:

  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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