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27 Oct, 2020 by David
I met Attorney Glen Secor in 2004. He represented me during the sale of my business to a much larger entity that maintained a very aggressive posture from the start of the deal until it closed. Attorney Secor was undaunted by the buyer’s greater resources, and the sale closed precisely as I wanted. Glen was accessible to me, and he was responsive throughout the process. Glen’s finance and accounting background is a bonus for any business client. Glen is primarily a transactional lawyer. He has experience in software and internet law. His strong intellectual property law background would benefit any content company. He has substantial experience working with nonprofits. I cannot recommend Glen more strongly.
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15 Jul, 2020 by David
I met Attorney Secor in 2004. He represented me during the sale of my business to a much larger entity that maintained a very aggressive posture from the start of the deal until it closed. Attorney Secor was undaunted by the buyer’s greater resources, and the sale closed precisely as I wanted. Glen was accessible to me and very responsive throughout the process. Glen’s finance and accounting background is a bonus for any business client. Glen is primarily a transactional lawyer. He has experience in software and internet law. His strong intellectual property law background would benefit any content company. Glen has substantial experience working with nonprofits. I could not recommend him more strongly.
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10 Dec, 2019 by Mary ann
Glen has been an incredible and invaluable lawyer and advisor. I could never have started my ed tech company without his timely and expert guidance. I highly recommend his services.
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13 Aug, 2010 by Michele
Shani Rae Collymore helped me through the process of buying my first multi family investment property. Not an easy transaction as it was also a short sale. Ms Collymore made herself available to me for all the questions and uneasiness I had during this process. She made me feel comfortable even to ask what might have seemed like a silly question. She had more professional ism in this transaction then one could ask for. She knows the laws, the correct procedures and has the sense of urgency when requried. More than I can say for the others involved in my transaction. When I start to think about purchasing my next properly, Ms Collymore will be the first one I call. I am confident she will get me through the process with as little heartburn as possible. Without reservation, Shani Rae Collymore will be recommend by me to anyone in need of legal services.
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10 Mar, 2012 by Anonymous
Kathy is very knowledgeable in the field of real estate law. She was able to answer all of our questions and even followed up quickly on emails that were send during non-normal working hours.
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18 Feb, 2024 by Tim newell
Prior to a litigation within a condo association in which settlement should have been immediate, they escalated the matter, which was not in the best interest for those that they are supposed to represent. Note that Perkins office was the retained attorney for Fuller Farms Condo Association in Lowell, MA. The facts of the matter were.
1) Two unit owners were denied access to the financial books. His office was made aware of our multiple email requests. Condo by-laws and MA laws dictate that all unit owners are allowed to inspect the "books, for the purpose of an audit.
2) We were denied access because the treasury was depleted because of poor management. There was misappropriation of funds as some supporters of management received upgrades and installations, including $10,000 for windows. The was approximately a $45, 000 shortfall in condo fee arrears. Some owners were able to sell there condo and move owing thousands of dollars in condo fees.
3) There was a further shortfall because of late fees due to unpaid water and tax bills and vendors were paid above industry standards.
4) The property manager had complete control over the bank accounts and accounting software. The QuickBooks software was in his name, his personal information was connected to FFCA bank accounts. This is illegal.
5) Perkins chose to allow a rogue property manager and trustees to retain his counsel, knowingly and willfully that they were not operating in accordance with the law. They were not certified trustees and the property manager was never voted to be hired and he carried no insurance. They do not have the authority to enter into an agreement with Perkins at the expense of FFCA. Perkins chose to allow this.
6) Perkins allowed these individuals to hire him for the purpose of withholding the books and for incumbent protection.
7) Stalling and Intimidation tactics were inflicted upon me. I received letters from Perkins that stated, " this office represents the board of trustees and it is understood that the board through its managing agent has provided you with all requested documents with the exception of a few outstanding invoices." Shortly after I politely notified his office via email and wrote that I received nothing. I submitted further request to the board to access the books. Immediately after I received a demand letter to cease & desist. This is unlawful as it could not be justified.
8) I retained council and shortly after Perkins released 90 pages of financial records.
9) After 6 months of hardship and FFCA payments totaling $35,000 to Perkins, his office chose to reassign the litigation to the associations insurance company. The board had new legal counsel. During the tenure of new counsel, every bank statement was provided through a subpoena. Two out of seven board members resigned, including the treasurer. After 30 months of unnecessary litigation, the property manager resigned to avoid consequences of trial. Perkins did a lot of harm to FFCA. They allowed this matter to escalate into an action for injunctive relief against that former board of trustees and property manager.
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31 Mar, 2023 by Amanda trudell
I was referred to Perkins&Anctil from a real estate colleague and from day one, my experience has been top notch. I will refer their office to everyone I know. As a property manager with a large quantity of units, the liability we face daily is very high. It is extremely important to have educated, reliable and proactive attorneys. Attorney Robert Anctil and Attorney Amy Collins have not only far exceeded my expectations but they have truly helped change how I run my business. Having their legal guidance has eased my stress levels beyond belief especially when it pertains to evictions. Joanne, Pia & Peter go above and beyond every single time whether it is by call or email. I can’t say it enough Everytime I encounter someone new in the industry (investors, landlords, property managers, agents, brokers) having the right legal guidance by hiring trusted professionals is far more important than just hiring any attorney. THANK YOU Perkins & Anctil for being the professionals that I can always trust and count on!
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09 Feb, 2023 by Hannah hanson
I was given a recommendation to this firm by another attorney due to their expertise in Condo law and the complexity of my issue. I contacted them and was put in contact with attorney Scott Ericksen . He gave very little effort or interest to want to take me on or help me. I was kind of taken aback with how unhelpful and uninterested he was and we spoke for less than 10 minutes! I was very unimpressed and disappointed how Mr. Erickson dismissed me in a few minutes and that he basically have no added value until I sue or get sued. Although I was looking for representation as Condo Trustee and/or owner, be aware that they only tend to take on clients that are associations, not individuals. I am glad I didn’t spend one more minute with this firm that gave me zero patience or understanding when I was in a real need of help and guidance and willing to pay!
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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.
