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16 Dec, 2020 by Randall
I recently received a notice from a collections agency, which was contracted by a local municipality. They claim I owe back taxes on a car I purchased about six years ago. I called David after talking to several local area attorneys who were unable or unwilling to help. David was empathetic the entire phone call and went well beyond anything I was expecting. He, without being prompted, found the statutes - the source of the unpaid taxes - and explained them in a straightforward way. Additionally, he counseled me on some strategies to either pay a reduced amount or avoid the expense altogether. While I'm still negotiating with the collections agency and the city that hired them, I know I will reach a more satisfactory solution after my conversation with David.
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09 Apr, 2019 by Anonymous
Mr. Bastiaans is skilled at complicating, prolonging and bloating tasks to benefit the billable hours charged. Communication was consistently inconsistent and often statements made were not executed. An example, billing for services rendered would be issued monthly, but at the end of month one, it was changed to quarterly, which was again changed to end of the month following the previous quarter. Four months of billing charges accrued before a client is made aware of cost seems unreasonable. Not someone I would recommend or trust to manage my family’s estate.
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24 Nov, 2015 by Bruce
David was responsive, straightforward and helpful in determining an appropriate path for a rather unique business opportunity. I have more work to do on my end but expect that when the time comes will have no issues leaning on David for his background and expertise
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06 May, 2024 by Tiona
Cherish Hadley talks on the phone for hour to charge you $400 per hour. All what you will hear from her ( one of you will got out of the court happy or sad). I grantee you will be the sad one for hiring her.
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20 Apr, 2024 by Anonymous
Cherish Hadley is after your money. She does not care you win or you lose. All what she cares about how she will take you money. Her review on google are fake she removes all the bad reviews somehow.
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25 Mar, 2024 by Anonymous
If there zero star I will choose it. Ms. Hadley good in sending you invoice but not a good fighter. She charged me 61,000 in 8 months. Lost all my cases with her. The ironic thing that my ex sign a prenuptial contract to pay all the legal fees. When the judge saw the way she charges me he ordered that my ex pay 25000 only cause she changed me in ridiculous way my ex attorney send someone to retake a document from Hadley office she charged me 200 dollars. After all of this the judge give her one week to finish the divorce decree she is behind 4 weeks now. I had physical custody from the beginning then the ex file to have the custody 50/50 she could not keep the full custody for me and he wins. I have been I full time mother since my kids born my son is 10 years now. She could not help me to have full spouse support and the judge imputed my spouse support 17.50 per hour. I am asking her to give a hard copy from my orders her office refuses to help me and prepare this for me to pick up. After the judge ordered to close the case after one week from the trial she is behind 4 weeks and I called several times to set deadline with her to close the case and she does not want to give a deadline and he does not want to close the case. Every month she was charging me from 7 to 10 thousand dollars. I do not know how to say that but when she talks in the court judge does not consider her talk. Not strong fighter. Something also I did not like she charged me all this money and in the court she does not talk too much infront of the judge. Every time she was talking to the judge she talks about 5 minutes. The ex attorney was talking and reading from papers. The performance so weak, the invoices huge.
Update: now they decree is not entered yet, so Ms Hadley had 25000 to be paid by the ex. So, what they do Ms. Hadley and the other attorney of the ex black mail me that if I do not sign the deeds of the houses they will not enter the decree in the court and when I said I am not going to sign the deed till he refinance the house under my name they said ok we will enter the decree tomorrow. Consulting other attorney, they said it is black mail. Gathering with my ex against me so he pays her the balance. After I called her and I said to her you are black mail me you and the ex attorney, answer was you do not have to sign now the deeds. Really, I have been told if I do not sign the deeds they will not send the decree to the court and they will take me to the court. Too much money and poor service.
Update: the receptionist is the most disrespectful person you will meet in the Virginia beach law offices. She is discriminator. Second, after all of this experience and charges Ms. Hadley saying that she worked for free. Also, the decree that has been sent to the court to be signed was rejected by the the office of the judge cause it has a list of corrections that she has to correct so the judge has to sign it. This decree has to be finished in beginning of my now we are 30th of june.
Update: here is the result she does not want to finish the case and the divorce decree. The ex does not want to Pay the child support and spouse support and she does not do any thing for that. She does not care about me or my kids and I do not know why she wants to stay in my life. She just send invoices. I am telling ms. Hadley the ex did not pay the support, she answered back ( go find a job). Wow
Update: now we are about to be in August and Ms. Hadley does not want to finish up my divorce decree and she said that she will keep sending me invoices as long as the case opened and I want to close the case and have my decree. I think she keeps the case opened to keep charging me. I am asking here when she will finish the divorce decree her answer is she does not know
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20 Oct, 2023 by Sham wow
This attorney is absolute garbage represents the trash of Virginia Beach that are rich and don't pay Their bills
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18 Oct, 2023 by Duck duck goose
No help here. Will give you up to the lowest bidder. How can you even sit through him shaking to finish listening to him lie and try to convince you he has your best interests? Don't waste your finger strength dialing this number. If it's anything against the court you've automatically lost with him. The only reason I believe they allow him to still practice is because of the cases he loses as a court-appointed. Which violates the guidelines of indigent counseling for Virginia and several rules of the American Bar Association. This man wrote the court and told the people I said I wasn't coming to the court. That was his attempt to have himself removed instead of filing motions that benefited my case. Section 19.2-163.01(A)(4). Model Rules of Professional Conduct.
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27 Nov, 2022 by John harnois
Ashton is the finest most caring I’ve ever met. He is patient and kind and refuses to stop pressing until light exposes corruption. Moreover he is one of the finest human beings I’ve ever met. If anyone I knew ever knew needed an attorney I would refer Ashton over any other attorney available. I can’t speak highly enough of him and my family feels the same.
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25 May, 2018 by Christina
I came to Mr. Mettler with my child custody case. As a client of his and single mother of 2 small children, I highly recommend him. All good attorneys are very busy but he always came through as needed. Not only is he well knowledgeable about the law, he was always compassionate and empathetic to my situation. I never felt that Mr. Mettler was “out to take my money”. In fact I feel the opposite. Throughout my case I feel Mr. Mettler did everything he could to keep my case as cost effective as possible. Not to mention his awesome paralegal Tammy! All my calls with questions were answered promptly. I was always kept informed with any proceedings in my case. I am very pleased with the outcome of my case and will recommend him to anyone I know needing a good attorney to represent them in such an important matter as mine.
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04 Nov, 2013 by A client in virginia beach
When forced to face a difficult challenge, having the right attorney by one's side is critical, especially when what's at stake is of utmost importance. We do have a choice to "shop around" or interview at least 2 or 3 distinct professionals so we can make an informed decision for ourselves, and in this process for me, Mr. David Mettler stood out right away. The big difference: he took the time to listen, was honest and proficient, able to correctly assess what I was truly up against and enlist my options. He then probed my opponent's strengths, investigated the issue thoroughly, and planned the best course of action from the outset.
The result: A speedy conclusion with a settlement having a cumulative value in the 6 (almost 7) figures, totally exceeding my expectations.
It was clear who to hire for subsequent cases I needed expert guidance for, and have since referred close friends and business clients to Mr. Mettler. I've heard favorable outcome for their specific cases as well.
With his integrity and track record of success, I can confidently say: David Mettler truly sets the bar.
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21 Sep, 2013 by Anonymous
I would strongly suggest that anyone going thru a divorce to seek counsel ANYWHERE else than hiring David Mettler as your attorney. After over a year and close to ten thousand dollars later, no progress has been made. He is consistently at least 45 minutes late to every appointment as well as unable to ever call you at all when you've made a phone conference. He will and continued to go around your wishes to extend a case just to bill you more and rack up your legal fees. He is extremely arrogant for someone who clearly knows minimal in divorce cases. Do yourself a service and hire any other attorney other than David Mettler.
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14 Jan, 2025 by Anonymous
A slob with a propensity to take advantage and harm the lives of the elderly . Stay away from this loser .
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07 Feb, 2024 by Anonymous
After retaining Bradley Brickhouse, his demeanor quickly changed. He did not write up in the claim for the case what was discussed and purposely did it in such a way to string it over time, to make more money. He was rude, lied multiple times about multiple things. I had to fire him. I would stay far away from him and his firm.
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23 Jun, 2021 by Jim
I consulted with Mr. Brickhouse about him taking over as guardian. He had no patience with me and demanded immediate responses to his questions. Unfortunately, I couldn't hire him due to his temperament.
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31 Mar, 2021 by Anonymous
He did such a poor job, I wanted to make sure I leave reviews for others NOT to use for family law. He was railroaded in court and did not do anything but argue. He did not listen or state case in court. Very unprepared.
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18 Jan, 2021 by Anonymous
I hired this attorney to represent me for a traffic & civil infraction. After evidence required by discovery was shared by the arresting department Mr. Jack’s proceeded to inform me of my guilt and what the judge would sentence me possibly without even looking at or considering the discovery evidence. He neglected to even watch my arrest or what transpired on the video provided to my disappointment.
Mr. Jack’s did not want to do the job for which I hired him and was just going through the motions to collect the money I paid him for defense. I suggest hiring an attorney that will defend you instead of one who just agrees with the prosecution to push you through the system.
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10 May, 2017 by Randy
Unreliable, bad communication, misleading, over charge, loses easy cases, unprepared for hearing, and strategically sabotages your case if she doesn't side with you or if you fire her. Well connected which can work for you or against you in the courts. Definitely find a lawyer who will not waste your time or money.
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08 Aug, 2024 by Anonymous
Beware. This attorney is very deceptive. She presents well but once you hire her it is near impossible to get her to act on your behalf. She will take as much money as she can get from you but do nothing to help you prevail in court. Very unprepared and very dishonest. Hopefully this will help someone make a better choice. There are too many other reputable attorneys out there that have integrity. She is just looking for people who are vulnerable that she can take advantage of for financial gain. Completely disheveled and disorganized.
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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:
-
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.
