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20 Oct, 2017 by Anonymous
I hired Anne for my divorce. She helped me straighten out some basics after my ex claimed I abandoned him with a signed, notarized agreement in hand before I walked out. She made the divorce process as quick and painless as his foot dragging would allow and helped me solidify the modest concessions I asked for with ease. When it came to a nasty 4 year custody battle, I didn't think I could afford her and I worked with another attorney who made a complete mess of my case and lost some things I will never be able to reverse. After a significant loss, I decided I would do whatever it took and reached out to Anne again. She was amazing from our first conversation. She listened where the other attorney dismissed. She never blamed me or questioned my motives or actions with judgment, but from a genuine desire to understand so she could help the way I wanted and needed (within the confines of the law, obviously). She set realistic expectations without being a downer and she has always been easy to talk to when needed or quick to have someone on her team respond. She's an adept negotiator that never made me feel like I was giving miles for inches (like with the previous attorney). Anne doesn't victim blame or shame and never put herself on a pedestal where I thought she had no idea what I was thinking, feeling, or going through. She never ignored me before trials, always sitting with and talking with me beforehand. She helped me feel prepared and well equipped and didn't hesitate to highlight what I was already doing well while gently providing guidance where I needed to strengthen my case. She is thorough in her research, level headed in her approach, and adept at redirecting, particularly if you're up against someone who likes to fight with character assassination as opposed to merits of the case. Anne is amazing and I would highly recommend her, particularly for anyone with divorce and family issues. She really helped turn things back around after my previous attorney cost almost double and made a mess we will have to work long and hard to recover from. I felt like she was on my side without being blindly loyal to me so that she could remain objective AND supportive in a way that no previous attorney had. I really felt like I had a champion who wanted what I wanted just as badly as I wanted it!
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28 Jul, 2016 by Anonymous
Obtained attorney Casrleberry's services for a prenuptial agreement. I was able to quickly schedule an appointment with her and went to her office and gave her all the pertinent documents. Two days later my agreement was ready to be signed, this process could not of been more simple and easy. I would highly recommend her for anyone who is considering a prenuptial agreement. We were able to get this done just the week before the wedding and everything went very smooth really I highly recommend her.
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25 May, 2018 by Barbara
We hired Mr. Dodl to creat our revocable trusts - he was very available and took as much time as we needed to explain everything and answer any questions. I can highly recommend him for estate/trust planning.
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05 Apr, 2023 by Justin robare
Frugal Legal Services should be the staple for how all parents are represented in custody cases. Ms. Burroughs worked hard and diligently on my case and set realistic expectations. My case had a ton of unrelated issues to custody and Ms. Burroughs was completely understanding and worked through our nearly 9 month case. Ms. Burroughs is a magical and enlightening person who gets results. I went from having no contact with my children to now everything is 50/50 and I get to see my sons every other week and have the assurance that no one should be able to change that. The only shame here is that I can only give Ms. Burroughs and Frugal Legal Services 5 stars because it doesn’t let you show off the absolute brilliance of the firm or Ms. Burroughs. Ms. Burroughs and Frugal Legal Services are the prime and top option of any family matters should anyone require those services. I will recommend them for my entire life because of the amazing work that was done.
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12 Jan, 2022 by Alphonce o
12 Sep, 2021 by Nathaniel
5.0
2 Reviews
4.6
67 Reviews
16 Aug, 2024 by Juli edwards-mcdaniel
Shelly Wood and Caryn West have been so helpful for all our needs!
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16 Aug, 2024 by Michelle brown
I would highly recommend allowing Mr. Barlow and his paralegal Ms. Whitmore to manage you legal needs. I appreciated Mr. Barlow taking the time to explain legal terms and the various options I had available to meet my estate planning needs. They prevented the process of creating a will from being unpleasant, thanks again!
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16 Aug, 2024 by Caitlin matthews
My husband and I recently had the opportunity to meet Shelly Wood. While she did not directly represent us, she did a family member with a custody court case. We were extremely impressed with her professionalism, how committed she is, and goes above and beyond to assist. Also very caring. I highly recommend her, you cannot go wrong!!
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23 Jan, 2025 by Brian shapley
Great process. Very smooth and organized home purchase.
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14 Jan, 2025 by Crome dome
A highly efficient and hard working team. Highly recommend. Melanie was fantastic and was always a step ahead.
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08 Jan, 2025 by Michelle bastian
I hired Thompson Law Group to evict a person from my home that wouldn't leave. The law firm helped me step by step through the whole process and kept me updated on how my case was going and court date. The person after being served with court papers left before court date. I had money left in a trust fund to them and was contacted about refunding what money wasn't used.
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16 Dec, 2024 by Kerry donegan
Kim Miller was a great help with processing my case. Corey Lipp made the process quick and painless. He was always there for any changes or questions. Highly recommend.
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20 Nov, 2024 by Hyleta floyd
We are incredibly grateful for the exceptional service provided by Kimberly Miller and our attorney, Cory M. Lipp. Throughout our case, they demonstrated impressive expertise and professionalism, addressing all of our questions promptly and thoroughly.
Their extensive knowledge of the legal process and their guidance helped us navigate each step with ease, ensuring everything went smoothly. The customer service they provided was outstanding, and their attention to detail and dedication were truly commendable.
If we ever require legal services in the future, we will undoubtedly turn to Kimberly Miller and Cory M. Lipp again. We highly recommend their services to anyone in need of experienced and reliable legal professionals.
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15 Nov, 2024 by Bart & irene van den berg
We based our decision to work with Jon W. Lee as our attorney to set up a Trust based on Google reviews. The reviews did not disappoint. Our experience was outstanding. Everything was explained in great detail and we were not rushed throughout the process. His staff, Kimberly Miller and Sarah Green were very courteous and professional. I would highly recommend this firm for your legal needs.
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11 Dec, 2024 by C. rowe
I can’t say enough good things about having David as your attorney. From the very first phone call, in which I spoke to David directly, my first take away from our interaction was how personable was, and the amount of information he gave me just in our initial conversation. Even with that, I opted to look around to find a couple other opinions and honestly, to compare rates. This was the first time I have ever needed a lawyer, so this was all new to me. I quickly found out that David was by far the most open, honest, and genuinely concerned to find the best possible outcome for me.
After not talking to David for almost a month prior to me court date due to some family issues, we touched base again, and he was on top of everything. He had a plan, and he knew what he wanted to see happen in court.
Well today was the court date, and I am very happy to announce that Mr. Cardon saw that plan all the way through to the end. He was able to get my charges dismissed for the exact reasons he had stated to me.
This guy is an ACE! In the court room and in person. I can’t recommend him highly enough!
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02 Oct, 2024 by True rising
Jacquelyn,
Mr. Cardon was my lawyer on several different accounts. He was quick, professional, and sincere. My charges were felonies one was dismissed and the other I did no jail time for. I would highly recommend him and I will continue to use him if ever needed
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25 Sep, 2024 by Bryan m
Mr. Cardon was very professional. We had a phone meeting and in person meeting to discuss my case. While other lawyers promised to lower my charges in court, Mr. Cardon said he would fight for dismissal. And that's exactly what he did, all my charges were completely dismissed.
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16 Oct, 2024 by Chamroeun ciballos
I gave them 1 star because I called to get my remaining balance to pay off. Their accounting person was awful and rude. She did not know what the fees are being charged for nor the remaining balance that I would had to speak to the lawyer handling the case to get the final balance. That was fine but why be nasty and rude if clients are asking. They really need to train their front office or accounting staff better customer service or how to properly talk to clients better. My husband called a second time and asked to speak to a specific paralegal or lawyer involved in the case to get the final balance and they mistakenly transferred him to this accounting person they had again. She was soo rude and spoke to us both slowly like you are talking to a 1st grader like we did not speak any English. I do not know if it’s because of our last name but we both were born in the states so there was no need to belittle people that are trying to pay off their remaining balance. Makes me think she speaks to all foreigners this way and everybody should be spoken with respect regardless what race, former or current client. We will not be using them ever again for any services knowing they have rude and nasty accounting or front office staff that are not properly trained. I will also be telling others I know about this awful experience.
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13 Sep, 2024 by Charles territo
I have been using Poole Brooke plumlee for couple yrs now and I am very happy with there services especially Todd Roethlisberger he's the best and great to work with.
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01 Sep, 2024 by Siddharth bajpai
It was a fantastic experience working with Poole Brooke Plumlee. I was referred to them and after an initial conversation, was connected with Mr. David Oakley. We required urgent support on a short notice, and David exceeded our expectations in every way. He grasped our needs, thoroughly reviewed the materials we provided, kept us informed at every stage, and represented us exceptionally well. I couldn't have asked for a better experience.
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12 Dec, 2024 by Darren
Mrs. Wood Hanna guided me through a recent family law issue.
Her advice was direct and to the point. She provided plenty of context to help me set expectations and weigh my options. For my relatively minor issue, her pricing was reasonable and straightforward.
I highly recommend her for your family law legal needs.
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27 Nov, 2024 by Kendria marshall
Liz was incredibly helpful and just wonderful to work with. I am so thankful for her and her team.
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20 Nov, 2024 by Luis cortes
Great attorney.
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16 Oct, 2024 by Chamroeun ciballos
I gave them 1 star because I called to get my remaining balance to pay off. Their accounting person was awful and rude. She did not know what the fees are being charged for nor the remaining balance that I would had to speak to the lawyer handling the case to get the final balance. That was fine but why be nasty and rude if clients are asking. They really need to train their front office or accounting staff better customer service or how to properly talk to clients better. My husband called a second time and asked to speak to a specific paralegal or lawyer involved in the case to get the final balance and they mistakenly transferred him to this accounting person they had again. She was soo rude and spoke to us both slowly like you are talking to a 1st grader like we did not speak any English. I do not know if it’s because of our last name but we both were born in the states so there was no need to belittle people that are trying to pay off their remaining balance. Makes me think she speaks to all foreigners this way and everybody should be spoken with respect regardless what race, former or current client. We will not be using them ever again for any services knowing they have rude and nasty accounting or front office staff that are not properly trained. I will also be telling others I know about this awful experience.
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13 Sep, 2024 by Charles territo
I have been using Poole Brooke plumlee for couple yrs now and I am very happy with there services especially Todd Roethlisberger he's the best and great to work with.
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01 Sep, 2024 by Siddharth bajpai
It was a fantastic experience working with Poole Brooke Plumlee. I was referred to them and after an initial conversation, was connected with Mr. David Oakley. We required urgent support on a short notice, and David exceeded our expectations in every way. He grasped our needs, thoroughly reviewed the materials we provided, kept us informed at every stage, and represented us exceptionally well. I couldn't have asked for a better experience.
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15 Jan, 2020 by Anonymous
Omg!!!!! I had a case that had a mandatory jail time and I walked out of court with a 50 dollar fine!!!! I’m very appreciative of the lawyer that represented me!!! I’m thankful for all that was done for me!!!! She is the go too!!!! One call that’s all!!!! What more could I ask for!!!! Grateful to be home with my children!!!! The real GOAT!!!!!
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14 May, 2015 by Pamela
Mr. Driscoll recently handled my case involving my sister's breach of fiduciary responsiblity in the handling of my late mother's income. He involved me in the process at every step and though a suit was filed, a fair negotiated settlement was reached before the case went to court. He gave me excellent advise and his genial demenor kept me sane through a very difficult time. I would not hesitate to use his services again should a need arise.
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25 Aug, 2015 by Mercy
He helped with my estate problem. He's one of the most
powerful and best of many. I will not hesitate to refer clients to the law firm. Please continue the great work. Long live
Boyd and Boyd legal firm. Blessings to all of you and staff.
Rev
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04 May, 2015 by Anonymous
Kristen handled a property dispute matter through arbitration for us and I would recommend her. Very straightforward and has no desire to waste your funds. She did a great job and her rate was excellent for the work and communication we received. She is friendly and very knowledgeable and she works at Pender & Coward so she has many senior associates who have seen it all so your money is saved when she doesn't have to waste hours researching.
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12 Dec, 2024 by Caleb chilldres
They have been helping me work through my case and have been very helpful explaining and helping me with everything.
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30 Oct, 2024 by Francisco
22 Oct, 2024 by Melinda amidon
15 Jan, 2025 by Anthony d
Appreciate the professionalism and courtesty of your entire staff, and John was extremely understanding and helpful.
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15 Jan, 2025 by Lisa w
Professional and personal service. Timely and efficient. Look forward to an ongoing supportive relationship.
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02 Jan, 2025 by David perez
My experience at J S Burton was absolutely phenomenal! From the first meeting to the last, ensuring that I was aware of all the necessary information and explaining any items I was unsure of. The professionalism, dedication and attention to details from John and his staff was impeccable. I’d refer anyone and everyone I know to him and his staff. Thank you again from bringing peace of mind to my family and I.
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12 Jun, 2024 by Jared lesler
18 Feb, 2024 by Marcus wilson
Terrible law firm pray on HOA residents. Use someone else. Don’t use a firm that does work for HOA’s they are only in it for the money and not for your personal interest. All about the Benjamin’s with this firm
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14 May, 2023 by Matt knight
They were great. Handled my family's estate. Made it very easy and comfortable.
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12 Jun, 2024 by Jared lesler
18 Feb, 2024 by Marcus wilson
Terrible law firm pray on HOA residents. Use someone else. Don’t use a firm that does work for HOA’s they are only in it for the money and not for your personal interest. All about the Benjamin’s with this firm
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14 May, 2023 by Matt knight
They were great. Handled my family's estate. Made it very easy and comfortable.
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05 Aug, 2024 by D t
Alison anders commits legal malpractice and is a professional liar. She refused to take me as a client solely on the basis she thinks I'm too poor. She charged me 450 for a 15 minute consultation where she rudely insinuated I have no right to my son. Shes a professional scam artist that uses her career to steal from people. She should be prison. Alison anders is a fraud. Alison anders is evil.
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11 Oct, 2023 by Hammad abdulbaaqee
Effective, Meticulous, Mission oriented, Truthful, Confident, and Lawyer of the Year. Although it's best to start your case here, if you've had other representation, purge your disappointments and ask for Ms. Chaing, Esq. or any of her associates.
Outplayed? Family stripped from you? Living on borrowed means? Despairing? I thought my situation to be a losing cause. If results are what you are looking for, this firm will assist you throughout the legal process and back to normalcy.
Thank you for all the tireless work, for my restored dignity, and for my new life.
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27 Aug, 2023 by Jet100dragons666
My personal experiences with Chaing Anders was, in a word; WONDERFUL! Cynthia exceeded all of my expectations. All of my legal needs were met. Truly a blessing. HIGHLY RECOMMENDED.
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10 Sep, 2024 by Jon and kris kent
I was represented by Mr. Strickler for a worker's comp case and was very pleased with his and his firm's professionalism, expertise and diligence. They were able to get a fair settlement for my family and I not to mention peace of mind. I would highly recommend this great firm to do the same for anyone.
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08 Sep, 2024 by Robert ayers
Stephen Strickler represented me on my worker's compensation case, and he was very professional and knowledgeable with the worker's compensation laws. I appreciate everything that he and his paralegals did on my case. Thank you Mr. Strickler for all the hard work.
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11 May, 2024 by Keith p
This law firm is exceptional. I have had the pleasure of working with several of their attorneys, including Matthew Weinberg, who has been incredibly impressive, providing meticulous and caring representation. I have also spoken with Thomas Snyder, who is kind, patient, and informative. This law firm truly cares about its clients and goes above and beyond, and I highly recommend them.
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5.0
6 Reviews
4.0
61 Reviews
17 Feb, 2025 by Acalia jones
I hired M. Thibault for a JDR matter, and I was really impressed with the results. His team—especially his paralegal Tamara—kept everything running smoothly, handling all the paperwork and deadlines perfectly. I was so confident in their work that I decided to bring him on board for another matter as well. If you need an attorney who truly has your back makes you feel confident, and an attentive transparent team Thibault is the one to call. Highly recommended Coastal Virginia!
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06 Jul, 2024 by Anna cromis
Hopefully the Chevron will stop lawyers like Mr. Thibault. My situation was a nightmare. I constantly owed him money for nothing. He’ll probably come up with an another bogus bill after this review.
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21 May, 2024 by Eddie albright
I regret to inform that my experience with The Coastal Virginia Law Firm Of Brook M. Thibault P.C. was profoundly disappointing and lacked the professional rigor one would expect. Engaging Mr. Thibault as my attorney, I anticipated a robust advocacy for my interests. Unfortunately, the reality was a hurried and disjointed process that led to a custodial agreement deeply unsatisfactory to my needs—one that was not only settled without my prior consent but also executed without my signature.
The lack of communication was a significant issue throughout the process, exacerbated by the non-cooperation of the opposing party. Despite these challenges, the expectation was that my legal representation would navigate these complexities with professional diligence. Instead, there was a premature rush to resolution, evidenced by Mr. Thibault’s unilateral decisions to sign off on agreements and letters without my input.
This approach not only compromised my legal standing but also resulted in substantial financial loss without achieving the desired legal outcomes. To those considering this firm’s services, I urge thorough research and consideration of other testimonials. The experience served as a stark reminder of the critical importance of selecting a legal representative who is thoroughly committed to their client’s interests and communicative every step of the way.
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23 Oct, 2024 by Max owens
Great experience with Doummar Law. I highly recommend them (Joel and Richard) for your counsel needs.
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08 Aug, 2024 by Sarah ghandil
Joel is AMAZING! I hired him for an expungement and he made the process of expunging my record smooth, easy, and quick. He not only expunged the charge but also the ticket that was thrown out alongside the charge for no additional cost without me even asking. What sets him apart from other strong lawyers is he is very reassuring and nonjudgmental about whatever situation you are presenting, and he made the entire process stress free. I would recommend Joel to anybody who needs a great lawyer.
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06 Aug, 2024 by David malbon
I highly recommend Doummar Law. I recently had a traffic violation case and Joel Kinney represented me. His work resulted in a significantly reduced charge. I was one of the first cases called and did not have to spend the day in the court room. I cant say enough good things about my experience and results with Doummar Law.
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16 Aug, 2024 by Juli edwards-mcdaniel
Shelly Wood and Caryn West have been so helpful for all our needs!
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16 Aug, 2024 by Michelle brown
I would highly recommend allowing Mr. Barlow and his paralegal Ms. Whitmore to manage you legal needs. I appreciated Mr. Barlow taking the time to explain legal terms and the various options I had available to meet my estate planning needs. They prevented the process of creating a will from being unpleasant, thanks again!
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16 Aug, 2024 by Caitlin matthews
My husband and I recently had the opportunity to meet Shelly Wood. While she did not directly represent us, she did a family member with a custody court case. We were extremely impressed with her professionalism, how committed she is, and goes above and beyond to assist. Also very caring. I highly recommend her, you cannot go wrong!!
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07 Feb, 2025 by Jodi miller
As a friend and a professional I have nothing but the highest regard for Laura McQuesten. She goes above and beyond to provide the best representation for her clients. I highly recommend McQuesten Law.
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03 Feb, 2025 by Millard souers
The Law Office of Laura L. McQuesten, PLLC should be considered by any individual seeking effective and experienced legal counsel in the area of family law. Laura's deep commitment to her clients and the community at large is continually demonstrated through her efforts inside and outside of the office and by her professional demeanor. Highly recommended!
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28 Jan, 2025 by Chris baker
Excellent family law attorney. Laura did an exceptional job for me. I feel like she actually cared about what mattered to me. She was very professional and responsive. I don't know anything about law so I'm glad she represented me!
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25 Feb, 2019 by Megan
Ms. Williams was able to work wonders for my case! She is attentive, very knowledgeable of the law in NC and VA, and easy to discuss the facts of your case with. I highly recommend her services. She was able to get my speeding ticket reduced substantially. Highly recommend!!!!!!!!!!!
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03 Nov, 2018 by Teri
WARNING - DO NOT USE - I don’t normally write reviews but this one I’m doing because I wish someone had told me. I’ve have actually filed a complaint with the VA State Bar. I paid in October 2017 for an easy divorce as we had a prenup. She finally told me in March that I would have my papers in 4 to 6 weeks - the word “guaranteed” was said several times, which stood out because nobody, let alone an attorney, would say that. Now comes August & she finds out we need affidavits. Stating she and the opposing attorney didn’t think they would need them. I don’t know who the opposing attorney is because he didn’t have one. She will call so it shows unknown caller that goes straight to voicemail and will then deny she did that. Still no divorce. Use at your own risk now.
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19 Sep, 2017 by Anonymous
I thought I would have a great experience with this law office, but almost every time I would get in touch with the office, it took forever to have my case worked on. Any action on my case was so delinquent, that I was offered a small refund, which I feel is a great P.R. gesture.
One month ago, I was told "the check is in the mail". I emailed this exact statement recently to the office, and I still have not heard back.
The continuous delays and excuses really turned me off. Very disappointed is an understatement.
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25 Oct, 2024 by John nevi
I’ve worked in the law-enforcement field for 40 years now , worked even in the court system but never seen a law firm like the Edge Firm , my attorney was Ben Hamlet he was very knowledgeable very kind considerate and it felt like a friend was helping me not a lawyer. He did a fantastic job , I can’t say anything negative whatsoever about Ben Hamlet or the Edge law firm , I would recommend them for any need you may have …..call them first , I know I will.
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17 Mar, 2024 by Amanda king
My experience working with Damian was positive. He provided me with the knowledgeable information relevant to my case and was always available and responsive to questions I had throughout the entire process. Our case never went to trial, and I thank Damian for that. He made sure I walked away from my divorce with everything that I was entitled to. I couldn’t have asked for a better outcome. If you are looking for a lawyer, who is devoted, competent, and gets things done, he is your dude. It’s also a plus, that the staff at Edge Law are all very friendly and responsive. Overall, it was a great experience.
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12 Mar, 2024 by Leanne pope
Damian Garcia provided representation in my child custody matter. He was extremely professional and thoroughly explained every aspect of the process. All of my concerns were addressed timely and to my satisfaction. The staff at Edge Law is very friendly and welcoming. I highly recommend Damian and the Edge Law firm.
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07 Feb, 2025 by Jodi miller
As a friend and a professional I have nothing but the highest regard for Laura McQuesten. She goes above and beyond to provide the best representation for her clients. I highly recommend McQuesten Law.
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03 Feb, 2025 by Millard souers
The Law Office of Laura L. McQuesten, PLLC should be considered by any individual seeking effective and experienced legal counsel in the area of family law. Laura's deep commitment to her clients and the community at large is continually demonstrated through her efforts inside and outside of the office and by her professional demeanor. Highly recommended!
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28 Jan, 2025 by Chris baker
Excellent family law attorney. Laura did an exceptional job for me. I feel like she actually cared about what mattered to me. She was very professional and responsive. I don't know anything about law so I'm glad she represented me!
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01 Oct, 2024 by Anonymous
All these negative reviews are reflected off of attorney Mapp not her staff. She was always late for appointments and when the client would call to get an update she would want them to get on the calendar just to speak to her and then would end up not being able to keep that appointment. It's deplorable how she ran that office!!! It's a wonder she's able to keep anybody working for her because she takes full advantage of the employees that stay for an extended period of time and goes through them like a roll of toilet paper.
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29 May, 2023 by Anonymous
This place does not do what you paid them to do. Actually, they take their sweet time. She makes excuses but I don't care. You have my payment in full. If you can't do your job offer my money back and let me move on. But that would be too much like right. Over a year later and I am still in limbo. There are never updates unless you hound the office. They wait weeks to tell you other items are needed and you still only find that out after you hound them for an update. A simple matter that should be done already.
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24 Mar, 2023 by As
Hiring Ms. Mapp as your attorney in a civil matter is equivalent to going to a used car dealership on the turnpike and getting a 10 year old car for 25% interest.
She does not advocate for you, she or her staff does not respond or complete tasks. When asked about the status of the case that should have been completed months ago, she states that the case is not a priority. She submits incomplete files to the court with no follow up and expects the client to know what to do. Lawyers are hired to SUBMIT COMPLETED files to the court.
I do not recommend hiring this lawyer unless you want to deal with disrespect and incompetence from her or her staff.
She prolongs cases so that she can continue to get paid.
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28 Dec, 2024 by Jeffrey bagdon
Great guys and girls best closing attorneys in the real estate business.
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18 Oct, 2024 by Marc rawlins
29 Aug, 2023 by Laurie williamson
I've been very impressed with them and appreciative of their services. Ryan Ramstad provided advice for our personal legal matters, and I plan on using them professionally.
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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.
