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12 Jan, 2025 by Maria guadalupe avalos
04 Jan, 2025 by Cristina lopez
Marcela es una excelente abogada! Gracias a ella varias personas en mi Familia se han echo residentes de los Estados Unidos. Les recomendó a Marcela para que sea su abogada de inmigración, es la mejor!
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03 Jan, 2025 by Heriberto talbott
10 Jan, 2025 by Bilal kubulan
İlticaSürecinde bana yardımcı olan Efe bey ve mahkemede yanımda olan Yusuf Bey’e çok teşekkür ediyorum ve Oğuz law Çalışanlarının hepsini ayrı ayrı teşekkür ediyorum size minnettarım
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10 Jan, 2025 by Müge arıker
Başta Müge hanıma ve Oğuz law ekibine teşekkür ederek sözüme başlamak istiyorum. 1.5 yıl önce Amerika’ya geldim şuan green cardım onaylandı. arkadaşım aracılığıyla Oğuz law ile çalışmaya başladım. Buraya ilk geldiğimde herkesin dediği ulaşabileceğin bir avukatı seç. Çünkü Amerika’da avukatlara ulaşmak çok zor dediler. Ve Oğuz law bu konuda beni hiç pişman etmedi. Müge hanım çalışmaya başladığımız andan itibaren ne zaman arasam her zaman ulaşabilir oldu. En stresli anlarımda bir arkadaş gibi yakalaşarak beni hep rahatlattı. Hiç bir zaman ulaşamama problemi yaşamadım. Son olarak Büşra hanıma da teşekkür etmek istiyorum. Son süreçte yollarımız kesişti ve beni çok güzel hazırladı. Şimdi green card prosesleri içinde birlikte çalışacağız ve bunun içinde çok mutluyum. Bu süreçte yanımda olduğunuz için teşekkür ederim.
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10 Jan, 2025 by Perviz efendiyev
Choosing “Oguzlaw” was one of the best decisions I have made in my life. It’s because the most sensitive issue in such matters was choosing the right attorney and I was lucky in this regard. In particular, Ms Gamza really helped me a lot in this work. What I see in her example is that you serve people by working too professionally and smoothly. Therefore I sincerely thank you all.
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28 Nov, 2024 by Venus gist
We really appreciate how Oath has a system in place to move through the entire estate planning process. At first I thought it was a bit fast how smoothly and quickly they handled the process. I realized that Living Trusts are all they go, so they have the system down and know Trust Law extremely well. Why procrastinate when so many families/people already lag on getting their Living Trust completed.I realized that so much of the process was knowing what we wanted in detail and that took us some time, but it was great to know that OATH gives their clients 3 months to make any changes. There is also a no charge 3 year follow up or
a yearly follow up and revision option for a reasonable fee. Usually once a Trust is completed you never look at it again, but Oath has made this process simple. Thank you Vashali and Alajah who were a great team in Walnut Creek, CA. Like Nike, "just do it" get your Trust completed today! You DO NOT want to ever grace the presence of Probate Court! Thank you Oath for your excellent customer service and caring about The Family! Thank God !🙏🏾🥰
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19 Nov, 2024 by June miles
I am so glad I Finally made this important step in my life . Oath estate planning made this process very easy and affordable for me. Thank you.
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04 Nov, 2024 by Cj nyc (sharkbite)
Effortless Estate Planning service. We very glad that Oath attorney Vaishali Gupta Estate Planning Attorney and her associate Alajah Burns accommodation our schedule meeting. Understand our requirements of established our family, Trust.
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21 Nov, 2024 by Katie sweeney
At a time when it felt like no lawyer would help us, Mika Domingo stepped up to the plate and efficiently assisted my grandfather in updating his will. Her superb moral judgment, flexibility with her time, and enjoyable nature made the process not only bearable but enjoyable. We will be forever grateful for her kindness and how she helped our family.
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19 Dec, 2023 by Ant d marshall
One of the best in the Bay Area - I can’t express our gratitude enough
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15 Jan, 2022 by Alan
Excellent!!
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22 Dec, 2020 by Jeni
I contacted Jenny Lin regarding a tax issue for one of my clients. She provided great insight and assisted me in understanding the nuances of the tax issue. She is clearly knowledgeable on the issue, but also thoughtful in how to best approach it given my client's needs and circumstances. I would highly recommend Jenny Lin for anyone needing assistance with domestic or international tax issues.
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16 Dec, 2024 by Michael misciagna
Estate planning is so important, especially when you have a family. It can be daunting trying to find the right person to lead you through the process and we STRUCK GOLD when we hired Stefanie! She helped us to achieve some peace of mind. She is incredibly knowledgeable, responsive, and patient with all our questions. Stefanie makes the whole process easy to handle and understand. On top of that, she takes the initiative to ensure we've done our part to implement the estate plan into lives. She makes you feel like she's a part of your family; that she cares. Thanks Stefanie!
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20 Oct, 2024 by Lori
When we decided to build a trust, my husband did a search online and found Law Offices of Stefanie West, Inc. I was a little hesitant about this since we usually go through referrals, but after our first meeting with her we knew she was the one.
Stefanie is very thorough and walked us through all of the paperwork step-by-step. She also gave us examples of how a situation may or may not play out when we were unsure. She always provided important guidance and recommendations throughout the process. She was also always reachable and responded right away. She’s professional yet has a good sense of humor and makes you feel very comfortable. Stefanie is an exceptional attorney and we highly recommend her services!
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06 Oct, 2024 by Lucy frank
Are you consistently putting off the daunting task of making your trust? So did I, for years, YEARS, because I didn't even know where to begin. I didn't want to meet with a stuffy lawyer who I couldn't connect with, I didn't want to be faced with big legal jargon I didn't understand. I needed someone who would lay it all out for me in simple terms, answer my incessant questions, and be there every step of the way, which is EXACTLY what I have found in Stefanie.
Stefanie is organized, communicative, accommodating, caring and has very clear cut instructions on how to successfully set up your trust. She is with you every step of the way and is someone you can call on as life changes. She knows what she's doing, and she made what would have been an otherwise dry and honestly somewhat dreary task feel more approachable.
As long as you follow through with her very clear and concise instructions, you will be set and so glad you trusted Stefanie, I sure am!
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5.0
20 Reviews
4.7
58 Reviews
22 Nov, 2024 by Karen schuckman
Our family business needed to close down and declare bankruptcy. David Arietta was recommended to us and we found him and his staff to be very professional and communicative during a difficult time for us. They provided clear and concise instructions on completing paperwork, always replied in a timely fashion and represented us successfully in court. We definitely recommend David Arietta 100%.
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20 Nov, 2024 by Lance wong
I recently needed help getting a corporation through the business bankruptcy process and David Arietta came highly recommended. David clearly explained what to expect and both he and his staff were very responsive throughout the proceedings. I would recommend him without reservation to anyone needing help with bankrupcty.
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15 Nov, 2024 by Toni de alba
01 Nov, 2024 by Nancy monroe
Nathan and his business associates are the best! I felt like well taken care of throughout the probate process and almost like I was losing family when it ended
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30 Oct, 2024 by David flin
Nathan came to me during a very difficult time, he navigated me through the entire process. He was able to resolve my case.
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10 Oct, 2024 by Monica burneikis
I brought Matthew Talbot into a personal injury case I was handling that had a probate issue that needed to be litigated. I was impressed with Matt's responsiveness and expertise. He clearly knows the ins-and-outs of estate law. I would not hesitate to retain his firm again for any kind of probate litigation matter.
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12 Jan, 2025 by Maria guadalupe avalos
04 Jan, 2025 by Cristina lopez
Marcela es una excelente abogada! Gracias a ella varias personas en mi Familia se han echo residentes de los Estados Unidos. Les recomendó a Marcela para que sea su abogada de inmigración, es la mejor!
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03 Jan, 2025 by Heriberto talbott
17 Dec, 2024 by Carole pertofsky
Jonathan Thompson‘s service in developing and amending a personal trust is outstanding. Jonathan is a expert professional, thorough and clear, and also welcoming and warm. This process is often stressful, however Jonathans expertise and guidance led to a calmness and clarity. Stellar service.
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27 Sep, 2023 by Maria giannell
Prompt! Professional! Patient! And oh so very helpful!
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18 Aug, 2022 by Janine davis // curb addresses painted
Atty is the best. Parking is possible.
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07 Dec, 2024 by Esco c
Amazing attorney do no hesitate to work with.
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22 Nov, 2024 by Jose lopez
If you guys need a bk attorney, this is your guy! Satisfied with their work. Recommend 100%
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20 Nov, 2024 by Tawfik musallam
Excellent experience. Helped me file for bankruptcy. Made the process very easy for me for a very fair price. Highly recommended to my family and friends. Thank you Michael Primus for the amaizing work you do
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10 Nov, 2017 by Kathleen
We all know, want and plan to get our legal, financial and healthcare affairs in-order for either the unlikely event that we are hit by some random life altering accident or to make it simple and easy for our surviving loved ones after we’ve lived a long fulfilling life and passed peacefully in our sleep. If you are ready to do this, hire Summer Selleck. She’s the real deal. Summer is super smart, personable, organized and professional. She helps you understand the tactical steps, she listens and she translates your wishes into the legal documents. Summer keeps her promises, and she checks her ego outside the calls and meetings. Summer is such a pleasure to work with, that I’d almost say that she makes this dreaded (yet important) task FUN!
Thank you, Summer. My Husband and I are feeling really happy that our paperwork is ready and waiting,
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27 Oct, 2017 by Susan
My husband and I needed a will and a trust before we left on a vacation to Africa. We really did not give Summer a lot of time to do this. She had it finished and ready to sign in record time. She made us both feel very comfortable that she was taking care of us. My husband is not the easiest to please when it comes to these types of issues. Summer also helped me with another situation from a former employee. She calmed me down as I was a bit of a wreck and took care of the problem.
I highly recommend Summer. It gives me great confidence to say “I have an amazing attorney, Summer Selleck”
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09 Oct, 2017 by David
Have known Summer for about a year now and have consulted with her on some estate planning matters for my extended family. She is kind, honest and eager to help wherever that is possible. Most importantly, she is knowledgable and decisive which I find to be very comforting. I would trust anything that Summer has to say on a matter and I never fail to recommend her to anyone I meet that needs any sort of family law help.
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21 Jun, 2024 by Stan
Ryan wrote my will seven years ago. He has just written, and gained, my living trust. Everything you will read in the reviews … it's true! Hope I've got him for life. Shout out to Matt Colliss for connecting us.
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28 Aug, 2023 by Nanette
My husband and I met with Ryan to evaluate and update the Living Trust we executed years ago with an on-line service. We are very glad we did! Ryan was able to quickly summarize the changes we needed to make and suggested additional steps we should take to finalize our estate plan. From beginning to end, Ryan is highly professional and trustworthy. No gimmicks, pressure or uncomfortableness. Highly recommend!
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09 Dec, 2021 by Katie
Highly recommended! The most amazing and understanding person! He really took the time to explain things to me. He worked hard and quickly to get my items written up. I feel much better about my situation and I really feel like he has my back. Thank you sooo much Ryan! Your the best
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13 Sep, 2016 by Steven
Mr. Khalil did an amazing job with my case. He was very informative, very knowledgeable, and catered to all my needs and requests. I don't know where I'd be right now if it wasn't for his expertise.
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06 Sep, 2016 by Christine
I recently went through some personal struggles and Frank was there to help me through every step. He was very professional and took the time to explain legal matters in a way I could understand. He helped me see all of the options that were available so I could make a informed decision. I have and will continue to recommend him to family and friends and look forward to working with him the future.
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08 Mar, 2016 by Joshua furnald
Frank Khalil was really knowledgeable and answered my many questions easily, and in a way that I could understand. His fees were reasonable, and he finished my estate plan promptly. I would definitely hire Frank again.
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24 Nov, 2020 by Barbara
My husband and I used Brandon to write our wills and assist us in setting up a trust. He handled everything down to the last detail. We were very pleased with Brandon's knowledge, assistance and patience. He took time to explain everything to us in terms we would understand. We highly recommend his firm.
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21 Nov, 2020 by Taylor
Working through legal issues when it comes to family can be tough, Brandon not only made the process of selling my mother's house and working through our family Trust efficient, but was thoughtful in his consultations and compassionate to the situation at hand. A true professional in every sense of the word, demonstrating his expertise in all areas, the sale, the Trust and the tax implications of the process. Never hesitating to walk us through any complications and problem solve when there were issues. Extremely detail focused and alleviated any worry that everything would be taken care of in what was a very traumatic time for my family. I would absolutely recommend Brandon for any of your legal needs, he was a pleasure to work with.
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18 Nov, 2020 by Sanjay
Brandon helped me set up my estate. He explained everything to me in the most basic terms. I had several questions and he answered them all in an easy to understand terms. I would HIGHLY recommend him.
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10 Jan, 2025 by Bilal kubulan
İlticaSürecinde bana yardımcı olan Efe bey ve mahkemede yanımda olan Yusuf Bey’e çok teşekkür ediyorum ve Oğuz law Çalışanlarının hepsini ayrı ayrı teşekkür ediyorum size minnettarım
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10 Jan, 2025 by Müge arıker
Başta Müge hanıma ve Oğuz law ekibine teşekkür ederek sözüme başlamak istiyorum. 1.5 yıl önce Amerika’ya geldim şuan green cardım onaylandı. arkadaşım aracılığıyla Oğuz law ile çalışmaya başladım. Buraya ilk geldiğimde herkesin dediği ulaşabileceğin bir avukatı seç. Çünkü Amerika’da avukatlara ulaşmak çok zor dediler. Ve Oğuz law bu konuda beni hiç pişman etmedi. Müge hanım çalışmaya başladığımız andan itibaren ne zaman arasam her zaman ulaşabilir oldu. En stresli anlarımda bir arkadaş gibi yakalaşarak beni hep rahatlattı. Hiç bir zaman ulaşamama problemi yaşamadım. Son olarak Büşra hanıma da teşekkür etmek istiyorum. Son süreçte yollarımız kesişti ve beni çok güzel hazırladı. Şimdi green card prosesleri içinde birlikte çalışacağız ve bunun içinde çok mutluyum. Bu süreçte yanımda olduğunuz için teşekkür ederim.
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10 Jan, 2025 by Perviz efendiyev
Choosing “Oguzlaw” was one of the best decisions I have made in my life. It’s because the most sensitive issue in such matters was choosing the right attorney and I was lucky in this regard. In particular, Ms Gamza really helped me a lot in this work. What I see in her example is that you serve people by working too professionally and smoothly. Therefore I sincerely thank you all.
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21 Aug, 2012 by Paul
Organizing my family's legal affairs was badly overdue. We needed the full kit - a family trust, living wills, durable powers of attorney, advance health care directives, etc.. We found Lee on a recommendation, and the recommendation was well deserved.
Lee was great to work with. We know nothing about these things, and he led us through it step by step. He explained each legal document, why that document did (or did not) apply to our family, and how to gather the information to produce the final documentation. My wife and I feel much more comfortable now that we have this process behind us. It was quicker and easier than we expected.
I recommend that any family get their legal documents in order - it's a relief once it's done. And I highly recommend Lee Kaster to help guide you through the process.
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31 Jul, 2012 by Rose
I had the pleasure of working with Lee to set up a living trust. I am not the most organised person but with his help and patience the task was completed efficiently. His direction and advice was so very helpful and I found him to be easy to talk to and attentive to detail. I would have no hesitation in recommending him.
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31 May, 2016 by Jean
Steven Wood has served as my legal counsel for nearly 20 years. First engaged as private counsel for plaintiff in civil litigation, and later as family counsel in estate planning and elder care issues, I have been impressed with his dedication and service in every realm. Mr. Wood allows and encourages client participation, assuring my voice is heard and concerns voiced through his. With integrity and a genuine passion for the law, Mr. Wood successfully represented me through depositions, mediation, and trial. He is adept in assembling legal teams, expert witnesses, and appearance in multiple counties across the state. At a time in my life when trust was difficult to extend, Mr. Wood proved himself steady by every measure, and in this continues. Thank you Steven!
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04 Jun, 2013 by Dana
I wasn’t looking forward to establishing an Estate Plan, however, after purchasing a home I knew I needed to. Dan guided me through the process with knowledge and professionalism. His level of expertise, responsiveness, and flexibility provided a streamlined, seamless experience. Great office location and premier parking. I highly recommend the Law Office of Daniel L. DuRee.
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08 Sep, 2016 by Kathy tinney
I posted several questions on avvo regarding my sons special needs trust account, primarily concerning the trustee. Thomas Bret called me and took the time to explain my legal options which was very helpful and now I have a better understanding of how the SNT works.
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27 Jan, 2016 by Colleen
Chris Schneider has been my attorney since 2011. I first hired him to help me settle my mother's estate after her death. As the executor of the estate, Chris provided excellent advice. It was a very tenuous time due to siblings dissatisfaction of their share of the estate. Chris provided excellent stratigies to protect the estate from lawsuits. This in itself provided me comfort during a stressful time. It enabled me to concentrate on settling the estate properly.
I still use Chris as my tax attorney. Once again he has provided excellent service in this realm of his expertise. I will continue using Chris's services for he is honest, trustworthy, and has high integrity. I highly recommend him.
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04 Jun, 2019 by Susie
In terms of my estate planning in the past, I had done it on my own with documents I sourced online. Yet, I’ve always known that I needed to complete my estate plan the right way, but I was embarrassed that I hadn’t sought out professional help previously and that my affairs weren’t exactly where I wanted them to be as a single mom paying for most of my daughter’s expenses. After working with Kirsten to help market and grow her business, I saw the importance of making my estate plan a priority. There is no time the like the present to get your affairs in order, and I knew that Kirsten was the right person to help me. Kirsten and the Absolute Trust Counsel team pride themselves on making each client a priority, and I was no exception to that rule. I was so blown away by Kirsten’s commitment to her clients, processes and her business practices that I flew up to Walnut Creek from Orange County to work with her, and it was WELL WORTH the travel. Thank you, Kirsten and ATC team, for helping me feel comfortable and secure my future the right way!
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16 Jan, 2013 by Rick
John is by far one of the most trusted attorneys I've worked with both professionally and personally. He walked us through each phase of our Will and Estate Planning and personally delivered our final documents to go over each and every step so my wife and I understood.
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31 Mar, 2024 by Matthew t.
Dealing with legal stuff can really tie you up in knots, but Simon Law made the process bearable. Had to sort out some paperwork that felt like it was written in ancient Greek to me. Their team was patient, broke everything down so even I could get it, and they were on the ball with all the deadlines. Felt like they actually had my back the whole time. Honestly, didn't expect to feel this relieved after it was all said and done. If legal jargon's not your thing and you need someone reliable, give them a shout.
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21 Mar, 2024 by James foley
David has been a blessing I believe I found through a prayer that was answered. I am still wondering if I'm going to wake up back into the nightmare I left before contacting David.Because of his excellence we just settled and have been awarded more than I was hoping for in a matter on 2 or 3 months instead of years like it could have been. If you are reading this and looking for help like I was please call David and let him work his magic . You'll see what I mean.
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12 Feb, 2024 by Paul stanley
David and his team are professional and amazing to work with. Teh compassion David shows for his clients combined with the expertise and knowledge of the legal system is rare in the world these days. I cannot recommend him highly enough.
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25 Jul, 2024 by Darla meury
Adam Carlson is a very upstanding and kind man.
Always there to help with what ever legal issue. He is very articulate and knowledgeable about the law, and serves his clients greatly 😊
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14 Jun, 2024 by Myiasha lewis
I had a DMV hearing where my license were to be suspended but because of my lawyers keen eye after reviewing body cam they were fully reinstated Thanks No Cuffs
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21 May, 2024 by Jason pfister
Nick is the best! You cannot beat him when it comes to an attorney who gives it to you at 150%: blunt honesty, understanding, compassion, exemplary legal abilities, kindness, friendship, humor. While he was unable to handle my potential claim, he still took time out and provided great referrals.
I will not hesitate to recommend him and the entire law firm team. Excellent office.
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03 Dec, 2024 by Michael schoen
Truly enjoyed working with this law group. They took us on when it was hard to find representation and supported us all the way through the end. Thank you so much for all your support and advice!
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29 Aug, 2024 by Erika descoust
The Weed Law Group delivers on their promise to fiercely advocate for clients. Their responsive, compassionate and highly competent approach is very reassuring. Weed Law is an excellent team to have working on your behalf!
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14 May, 2024 by Teresa
03 Dec, 2024 by Michael schoen
Truly enjoyed working with this law group. They took us on when it was hard to find representation and supported us all the way through the end. Thank you so much for all your support and advice!
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29 Aug, 2024 by Erika descoust
The Weed Law Group delivers on their promise to fiercely advocate for clients. Their responsive, compassionate and highly competent approach is very reassuring. Weed Law is an excellent team to have working on your behalf!
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14 May, 2024 by Teresa
21 Oct, 2024 by Nicholas ferlatte
Tom did an amazing job of getting me the absolute minimal sentence possible.
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03 Oct, 2024 by Jenn
When I found myself in some trouble a friend recommended Tom. I am forever grateful for his help! Tom took the time to answer all my questions every step of the way. I was not familiar with how the courts run and probably bugged him more than his average clients, lol. Tom and his team went above and beyond my expectations! I am currently doing community service when I was looking at 2
Felonies! Thanks for saving me you are awesome!
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29 Aug, 2024 by Joseph breen
Tom was very helpful in navigating through some tough circumstances. We appreciate all he, and his office, did for us.
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20 May, 2024 by Ivan vindiola
The experience was great with Jason! He helped fix my situation and I have recommended him to others. 10/10 service !!
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20 May, 2024 by Yasmin de leon
I was recommended by a family member and they got my case dropped very quickly! I appreciate the honesty and help from Jason.
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20 May, 2024 by Anthony martinez
They were very helpful and always on top of everything. I will highly recommend these guys to anybody in need !
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12 Jan, 2025 by Maria guadalupe avalos
04 Jan, 2025 by Cristina lopez
Marcela es una excelente abogada! Gracias a ella varias personas en mi Familia se han echo residentes de los Estados Unidos. Les recomendó a Marcela para que sea su abogada de inmigración, es la mejor!
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03 Jan, 2025 by Heriberto talbott
Discover the ideal lawyer
You can search a lawyer by practice area, lawyer name, city, state, or ZIP code
FAQs
Questions? We have answers
What an Estate Planning Lawyer Can Do for You
An estate planning lawyer helps individuals plan for the management and distribution of their assets after death or during incapacitation. Their services involve drafting important legal documents, such as wills, trusts, powers of attorney, and healthcare directives. Estate planning attorneys work to ensure that your assets are transferred according to your wishes, minimize tax liabilities, and avoid probate court. They also help clients plan for potential long-term care needs and protect their estate from being diminished by healthcare costs.
By working with an estate planning lawyer, you can have peace of mind knowing that your loved ones will be cared for and that your estate will be managed efficiently and according to your desires.
When Should I Hire an Estate Planning Lawyer?
Hiring an estate planning lawyer is beneficial in many situations, especially when you want to ensure that your assets are handled properly after death. Common reasons to hire an estate planning lawyer include:
- Drafting a will: If you want to clearly define how your assets will be distributed after death, an attorney can draft a legally sound will.
- Creating a trust: For those looking to avoid probate or provide for loved ones over time, setting up a trust can help manage the distribution of assets.
- Planning for incapacity: An estate lawyer can help draft powers of attorney and healthcare directives so that your financial and medical decisions are made by someone you trust if you become incapacitated.
- Minimizing estate taxes: If your estate is large, a lawyer can help create strategies to reduce or eliminate federal and state estate taxes.
- Special circumstances: If you have minor children, blended families, or complex assets like businesses, an estate planning lawyer can create tailored solutions.
- Guardianship or conservatorship: If you want to designate guardians for minor children or ensure proper care for incapacitated adults, an attorney can help.
Hiring an estate planning lawyer is especially important if your estate is complex or if you want to ensure that your wishes are properly followed.
What Does an Estate Planning Lawyer Do?
An estate planning lawyer provides a range of services designed to help you organize your affairs and ensure your estate is managed according to your wishes. They can:
- Draft wills and trusts: Creating legally binding documents that dictate how your assets will be distributed and managed.
- Create powers of attorney and healthcare directives: Appointing someone to make financial or medical decisions for you if you become incapacitated.
- Minimize taxes: Developing strategies to reduce estate taxes, gift taxes, and other financial liabilities for your heirs.
- Help avoid probate: Structuring your estate plan to avoid probate, which can save time and money for your beneficiaries.
- Advise on long-term care planning: Helping you plan for potential healthcare needs in the future, including Medicaid planning and protecting assets from being depleted by nursing home costs.
- Assist with beneficiary designations: Ensuring that life insurance policies, retirement accounts, and other financial instruments are correctly designated.
- Handle probate and estate administration: If a loved one has passed away, an estate planning lawyer can help guide you through the probate process or act as an executor.
How Are Estate Planning Lawyers Paid?
Estate planning lawyers typically charge for their services in one of several ways, depending on the complexity of your estate and the type of services you need. Common payment structures include:
- Flat fee: Many estate planning services, such as drafting a will or trust, are charged on a flat-fee basis. The fee covers all work related to preparing the document.
- Hourly rate: For more complex planning, such as estate tax strategy or trust administration, lawyers may charge by the hour. Rates vary based on the lawyer’s experience and location.
- Retainer: Some lawyers require a retainer for more complex cases, such as ongoing trust management or estate administration. The retainer is an upfront payment that covers future legal services.
It’s important to discuss fees with your lawyer upfront to avoid unexpected costs.
How Much Does an Estate Planning Lawyer Cost?
The cost of hiring an estate planning lawyer depends on the complexity of your estate and the services you require. Here are some general guidelines:
- Simple wills or powers of attorney: A straightforward will or power of attorney may cost between $300 and $1,500, depending on your location and the lawyer’s experience.
- Trust creation: Establishing a trust, such as a living trust or revocable trust, can cost between $1,000 and $3,000 or more, depending on the complexity of your assets and estate planning needs.
- Comprehensive estate planning packages: Some lawyers offer packages that include wills, trusts, powers of attorney, and healthcare directives, which may range from $2,000 to $5,000 or more, depending on the estate’s complexity.
- Hourly rates: For ongoing services like estate administration or tax planning, lawyers may charge hourly rates ranging from $150 to $500 or more, depending on the lawyer’s experience.
Always get a clear estimate of costs during your initial consultation to ensure the services fit within your budget.
Top Questions to Ask an Estate Planning Lawyer
Before hiring an estate planning lawyer, it’s important to ask questions to ensure they are the right fit for your needs. Here are key questions to ask during your consultation:
-
What is your experience with estate planning?
Ensure the lawyer has substantial experience drafting wills, creating trusts, and handling other estate planning services. -
How will you charge for your services?
Clarify whether the lawyer charges a flat fee or by the hour and ask for a detailed estimate of costs. -
What strategies do you recommend for my estate?
A good lawyer should be able to explain the best strategies for minimizing taxes, avoiding probate, and ensuring your assets are distributed according to your wishes. -
How often should I update my estate plan?
Ask how frequently you should revisit your estate plan, especially if your financial situation or family dynamics change. -
Do you offer ongoing support or updates?
Some lawyers provide periodic reviews or updates to ensure your estate plan stays current with changes in your circumstances or the law. -
How will you help my beneficiaries if something happens to me?
Ensure the lawyer is willing to guide your heirs through the estate administration process or help manage your trust after you’re gone.
How to Check the Credibility of an Estate Planning Lawyer
To ensure you’re hiring a credible estate planning lawyer, follow these steps:
- Verify their state bar license: Check with your state bar association to confirm that the lawyer is licensed and in good standing, with no history of disciplinary actions.
- Look for estate planning certifications: Some lawyers are certified as estate planning specialists, which indicates they have extensive knowledge in this area of law.
- Read client reviews and testimonials: Online reviews on sites like Avvo, Google, or Martindale-Hubbell can provide insight into the lawyer’s professionalism and client satisfaction.
- Ask for references: A credible lawyer should be able to provide references from previous clients who can speak to their expertise and client service.
- Check for membership in professional organizations: Lawyers who are members of organizations like the National Academy of Elder Law Attorneys (NAELA) or the American College of Trust and Estate Counsel (ACTEC) often have a strong reputation in the field.
What Should I Prepare for My First Consultation?
To get the most out of your first meeting with an estate planning lawyer, it’s important to come prepared. Here’s what you should bring:
- List of assets and liabilities: Provide a detailed inventory of your assets, including real estate, bank accounts, retirement funds, investments, and personal property, as well as any debts you may have.
- List of beneficiaries: Be ready to discuss who you want to receive your assets and in what proportions. This includes naming guardians for minor children if applicable.
- Existing estate documents: Bring copies of any existing wills, trusts, powers of attorney, or other relevant estate planning documents.
- Questions about your estate goals: Write down your goals, such as avoiding probate, reducing taxes, or setting up charitable donations, so your lawyer can tailor a plan to meet your needs.
- Information on medical and financial decision-makers: Be prepared to discuss who you want to appoint for healthcare and financial decisions if you become incapacitated.
By being well-prepared, you can ensure a productive consultation and begin building a comprehensive estate plan that meets your needs and protects your loved ones.
