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30 Sep, 2024 by Grant stuart
DO NOT HESITATE TO CALL THOMAS. He is the best. He listens, he communicates directly, and explains anything you may not understand, patiently, more than once. Thomas is also not a "Let's Do it Over Zoom" or "I'll fit you in for a call between This and That" type of lawyer. He's attentive, personable, and prefers to meet in-person (remember those days?) versus trying to hurry you off a call like so many others in his profession. Thomas is the consummate professional, and if your case takes you to any court appearance, like mine did, you will rest easy knowing Thomas is in your corner! Helping to facilitate meetings is not a long line of assistants or back-and-forth emails; Thomas' legal assistant Alondra is also a total pro, and will literally get back to you within an hour if not sooner. I can't recommend Thomas more highly, he won my case, and I will be forever grateful for his time (well-priced for your budget), attention, and expertise.
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31 Jul, 2024 by Nefthaly salas
Tom and his staff were very professional, friendly, and attentive to all of my parents and family’s needs. He made sure that the process for our case was smooth and that we always knew what was going on. I will be sure to recommend anyone who needs help to Tom and his team.
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24 Jun, 2024 by Bill liu
30 Jul, 2024 by Jean
Bill and his team not only have first-rate experience, they do whatever it takes to ensure that your estate planning experience is first-rate as well. The entire process was so well-managed in a most friendly, thoughtful and supportive way with every detail covered, every question answered - I now have the strongest confidence that I am well-protected with a complete estate plan.
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25 Jul, 2024 by Tinsley
This was such a pleasant experience. Working with Bill was fantastic as he made this process very easy and made my wife and I feel very comfortable.
I would highly recommend his company.
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12 Jun, 2024 by Anonymous
Bill and his staff were very friendly, punctual and made the process of setting up our trust and will painless. I highly recommend Bill and his team for personal legal needs.
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01 Jun, 2020 by Lisa
I recently hired Henry Kass and am so glad I did. Although I had a small matter, Henry treated me like I was his only client. He was professional, knowledgeable, expedient and his follow up was amazing. More importantly, he cared. He was able to use his relationships at the courthouse to our benefit. I highly recommend Henry Kass.
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21 Nov, 2019 by Art
I would absolutely recommend Henry and the MKFM firm to all my friends and family. My case was a contested adoption and ended up also including a side appeal case as well. It was an extremely long and litigious case that required patience, expertise and attention to detail. We won our case handedly and we would not have without Henry's extensive knowledge in case law, brilliant trial composure and overall calm, composed and very confident demeanor. In fact, the Appellate court saw fit to have Henry's arguments entered into case law for future cases.
If you need an attorney who can get the job done, look no further, this firm does not mess around.
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17 Jun, 2019 by Anonymous
I came to Henry with a divorce case previously handled by another attorney that was extremely long, complicated, and for which there was no similar precedent. Add to that a change in the divorce law while in process, and the complexity magnified. I truly believe had it not been for Henry's intelligence, tenacity, deep understanding/amazing total recall of the law, and spirited desire to make things right, my outcome would have been financially and psychologically disastrous. I cannot say enough good things about Henry's skill, competence and patience, and would highly recommend Henry to anyone looking for an ethicial and upstanding attorney for the best possible legal outcome.
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15 Jul, 2016 by Scott
We worked with Dave to create a Final Will and Testament in order to secure our family's future security. Dave was extremely knowledgeable and helped us feel more at ease with such a set of important decisions. We were nervous about having to think through some difficult questions, but Dave's knowledge, compassion and wisdom helped us put our minds at ease.
We also worked with Dave during the sale of our home. He guided us through the various complicated legal documents and explained everything in an extremely clear manner. His ability to translate "legalese" to a layman was quite impressive and reassuring.
I would strongly recommend Dave Martin's services to anyone. He is a professional in every sense of the word.
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05 Jul, 2016 by Anonymous
David was very helpful in obtaining court documents along with submitting them to the proper officials. Even though this was a smaller matter he still treated the work as a priority and everything was accomplished very quick. He is a real pleasure to work with and I will be hiring him for future legal matters.
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26 Jun, 2016 by Carmel
I used David as the attorney for the closing on my house and also for estate planning. He was very friendly, helpful, conscientious and knowledgeable. His fee was also very reasonable. Would definitely recommend, and plan on using in the future as needed.
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05 Nov, 2014 by Anna
Thank you very much for your patience and understanding with this crazy case. Your quality of council is much appreciated. Your can-do attitude exemplifies your true dedication in providing professional legal services. Best of luck and success in your future endeavors. Your awesome!
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28 Feb, 2013 by Sue
I was the successor trustee for my deceased aunt's trust. Midway through the process the original attorney handling the trust left the law firm and Colleen Henes was assigned to us. Although we never met in person, we were able to conduct our business via email until completion. Colleen was always up on everything and responded to my emails in a timely manner, even on weekends. I felt I was always kept up to date. It was a pleasant experience working with Colleen.
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21 Jan, 2013 by Elizabeth
Colleen has helped me with all my estate planning needs. She's very responsive and thorough in her professionalism toward her clients. I would no doubt use her again as things change or need updating in my life. I also feel completely comfortable telling friends and family that Colleen is the lawyer to choose.
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02 Jul, 2018 by Kelly
Kelly is very knowledgeable in her field. She kept up-to-date with any new changes to existing laws that would be affecting my case. She is not afraid to speak up for her clients best interests and question the judge's reasoning as to why he would rule in a certain way and Kelly was still able to get the opposing party to agree to more than what the judges opinion was. She is truly dedicated to what is right. Not only is she patient with her clients, she is a good listener, and just pleasant to work with. I appreciated that she took the time to explain things and made sure I understood. There was no pressure for me to accept anything I wasn't comfortable with. I am thankful I chose her to represent me in my divorce.
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03 Dec, 2017 by Anonymous
Was beyond professional and on top of everything. Also was a great guide during the negotiations. Got more than I thought we should ask for. Kind. Nice. Made it super easy.
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07 Nov, 2017 by Anonymous
Selecting Kelly to represent my case was THE right thing to do. She has very good knowledge of what it takes, and guided me through the process. Very transparent throughout the case, which made me feel very much at ease. She was very reasonable, patience, and supportive to the case needs. I would recommend her to anyone who is looking for a reliable, prompt, professional and overall an excellent lawyer. Thank you Kelly !!
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25 Oct, 2019 by Michael
Very helpful actually cared about my concerns. I was given information and lawyers that can help in my situation, all over the phone. THANK YOU!>
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07 Apr, 2017 by Anonymous
Matt Caruso came highly recommended to us, and we in turn would recommend him, without reservation, to anyone dealing with inheritance issues. We were treated with unflagging courtesy. Our concerns were carefully noted, and we were given clear explanations that didn’t downplay negatives or exaggerate positives. Matt and his colleagues answered all our questions and concerns. We appreciated Matt's integrity, as well as his knowledge and experience, and are grateful for all the work Matt and company did resolving our case.
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11 May, 2015 by James l. ryan jr.
Matt is very good at accurately portraying the litigation process both from probable outcome and time frame to accomplish; so that as a client I can make a sensible business decision on how to proceed.
Once we decide how to proceed Matt and his team are very thorough and and committed to achieving the anticipated result.
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01 Feb, 2023 by Anonymous
Wonderful Professional man. Joel was there for me after my car accident. He was 100% responsive to all of my communications, easy to talk to and walked me through exactly what to do right after I was hit...knew I was taken care of and didn't have to worry. Very honest and very knowledgeable. I knew he was not afraid to try my case if it came down to it (which it almost did)...which was incredibly relieving to me after a super stressful accident. Joel kept in contact until I got my settlement check sent in the mail. Great great service...and I will continue to use him for all legal needs in the future. Highly recommend to friends/family.
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15 May, 2015 by Anonymous
Awesome! Incredibly knowledgeable and accommodating! Was very prompt in all correspondence and kept me informed every step of the way. Made me feel very valued, respected and represented at his fullest capability!
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15 May, 2015 by Anonymous
Making a decision to file bankruptcy is nerve wrecking, a different kind of stress. Mr. Stephen is knowledge coupled with immeasurable customer service that helped to ease the stress. He is very thorough in explaining the options. He is not forceful. He wants to make sure your are comfortable with the decision that will best fit your financial situation. His patience and follow through helped make filing bankruptcy more accepting. Once it was all said and final, I reflect back on his services and realize that he helped to change my life. I highly recommend his services to anyone needing bankrupcy or any legal advice!
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26 May, 2019 by Deb
We were so blessed to have found Peggy a during a family emergency. We interviewed a few attorneys and knew they were not the right fit. After talking to Peg we felt confident we were in good hands right from the start. She knew exactly what we needed and didn't hesitate to come to our rescue. Peg guided us and provided us with all the documents we needed to avoid a crisis. She never failed to show up in court at a moments notice and was totally prepared. As our case progressed, we never hesitated to contact Peg and always felt like we had her undivided attention. We had to rely on Peg for more than 5 years and she never tired of our questions. I have worked in the legal field for about 30 years I can say that and Peg is certainly one of the good ones!
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01 May, 2019 by Jill
After a glowing recommendation from her prior client, I contacted Peggy regarding my probate/will situation. Her warm and friendly manner put me at ease from the start. And even after learning that my case is in an area she no longer practices, Peggy continued talking with me for almost an hour, offering incredibly valuable advice that helped me make some key decisions. By the time we ended our conversation, I had a stronger understanding of my case, a realistic outlook on my options and two contacts for local attorneys. All this and a reassurance that if they couldn't assist, I could call her back for new leads.
Even though I haven’t had the privilege to work with Peggy yet, she was such a crucial and significant part of my process. I will be forever grateful for the time she took to help me -- an otherwise total stranger. Thank you again, Peggy!
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03 Jan, 2024 by Erjon morava
Review of Michael Scalzo, Scalzo Law Office in Naperville:
Michael Scalzo from Scalzo Law Office, assisted me on a very important legal matter in DuPage County, and I am thoroughly impressed with his legal expertise and professionalism. Here's a breakdown of my assessment based on various factors:
1. Experience/Resume: Michael Scalzo brings a wealth of experience to the table, having practiced law since the late 70s and early 80s. His extensive background is evident in the way he handles cases.
2. Reputation (DuPage County, unsure of other counties): Michael is well-known in the legal community, and his name carries weight. His previous role as a Guardian ad Litem (GAL) further emphasizes his standing in the legal field.
3. Credentials: As an Air Force veteran and Judge Advocate General's (JAG) officer, Michael's military background adds a uniqueness to his legal practice. His service in the military reflects his commitment to discipline and integrity.
4. Communication Skills: Michael's communication skills are excellent. He follows a straightforward approach - listening to his clients and ensuring they understand the legal process, what to expect and what is expected from them. This open dialogue allows for effective communication and mutual understanding.
5. Availability: While Michaels time is valuable, he remains accessible as long as there is clear communication. Whether through email (preferred) or phone (leave a voice mail), he is responsive and ensures that clients can schedule appointments conveniently.
6. Fee Structure: Michael's has a transparent fee structure that includes an upfront retainer and a per-hour charge. The office provides detailed invoices, ensuring everyone is aware of the breakdown of charges.
7. Success Rate (personal opinion): Michael's impressive success rate in my case speaks for itself about his legal expertise. With over 30 years of experience and a background as a JAG, it's reasonable to assume a high success rate in various legal matters.
8. Ethical Standards: Michael exemplifies high ethical standards throughout the legal process. His background as a JAG underscores his commitment to honor, courage, and commitment, making ethics a cornerstone of his practice.
9. Compatibility: From the beginning, I felt comfortable in Michael's presence. His Air Force veteran status adds a layer of trust, and his approachable demeanor makes him easy to work with.
10. Referrals: While I didn't initially consider referrals, I would wholeheartedly recommend Michael Scalzo to others based on my positive experience. His professionalism, ethical approach, and legal expertise make him a standout choice for anyone seeking legal representation. Michael Scalzo of Scalzo Law Office is a seasoned attorney with a stellar reputation, and I am grateful for the successful resolution of my case under his guidance.
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21 Jan, 2018 by Scott janik
Best Attorney
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20 May, 2019 by Valerie
I found Douglas through Hyatt Legal Services which is a benefit through my employer. Initially, I was told to steer away from attorneys that participate in services like these but from the very beginning I knew I had hit the jackpot with Doug. Doug was so very knowledgeable, approachable and most importantly available. He told me from the beginning he would protect my interests and he FAR exceeded my expectations. Doug is by far the best Real Estate attorney that I have worked with and I had another excellent attorney on two other prior closings. You will not be disappointed with Doug whether you are paying him out of your pocket or your employer pays him.
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21 Oct, 2014 by Andy
Doug was very knowledgable and trustworthy. He kept us informed of what was going on during our home purchase and he took the time to explain how certain procedures work to make us nervous newbies more comfortable. We would highly recommend Doug for anyone looking for a real estate lawyer. Thanks again Doug!
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02 Sep, 2015 by Anonymous
I hired Mr. Fezzey for a bankruptcy filing, and he was great every step of the way. Easy to communicate with, and always looked professional.
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11 Jul, 2014 by Anonymous
Kirsten and staff are always friendly and helpful. They have a great process that aided me in creating my estate planning documents with ease. Highly recommended !
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23 May, 2013 by Pierre dunn
i had called countless chicago abusive ,laxed,greedy attn:whhhhohhhw!!!i called mr gutzke off the whelm and asked questions back to back.he never scamed me with the :you gotta give me $200.00 bucks manuever.he answered all my questions and even gave indepth insight to avenues i didnt even research prior to the conversation and hes a great guy.i recommend him to everyone!!thanks John!
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27 Mar, 2016 by Paul
I reached out to Mr. Pfeiffer concerning some matters and his office quickly got back to me and set up a convenient appointment. During the consultation Mr. Pfeiffer was very knowledgeable and concerned about my situation and provided several options to me. Although I did not retain his services, I kept his card for any other matters that may come up.
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15 Dec, 2013 by Ken
I am a single parent who hired Ms. Peck after having already been through the ringer with the wrong attorney and had pretty much given up hope in the legal system and TOO MUCH money towards the fight for common sense (let kids have both parents and stop fighting just for the fight,which will only cause us both to be broke). My X didn't care about our dwindling 401k and our son crying to talk to his dad nightly. Everything was a volleyball game to her, money and our kids. Her attorney played the game too, which showed he had no agenda other than to make money. Peck was so decent I was worried, could a "decent" attorney help me win in this disaster? The end result was that Peck stopped the games and knew exactly what steps to take so the legal system did actually work! The games were no longer played and the best possible outcome was reached, in believe it or not, a fairly quickly manner based on the circumstances. I learned that big firms are just that, big. I learned that "popular" names don't make the attorney great. Peck is the best! I am forever grateful to her.
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25 Jul, 2024 by Jhoie tayag-chin
Atty Mitch Peskin and team help me a lot to navigate my case. I could never ask for more! Thanks!
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11 Jun, 2024 by Cindy walker
I can truly say that Attorney PieRina Infelise works with integrity, accuracy, and most of all compassion. I was 30 days away from adopting a child I had for two and a half years to only be falsely accused of child abused. Attorney PieRina was very detailed about finding the truth and presenting it to the judge with all the facts. Thank God for her due diligence I won my case! Thank you Attorney PieRina Infelise for all the hard work you've done.
Truly grateful, Cindy Walker
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16 May, 2024 by D l
Rina is an exceptional and extremely knowledgeable lawyer. You will be in excellent hands by hiring Rina. She is a powerhouse of an attorney with an impressive legal mind. She will treat you with respect; compassion and kindness. I will be forever grateful to have found, met and hired Rina. She was a God sent to help me thru one of the most stressful periods of my life. Rina defended and won my case against DCFS, where I was wrongly accused of child neglect. Rina confidently and successfully fought the case all the way into the appeal process. Thank you, Thank you, Thank you Rina for your invaluable expertise and tireless work. I could not be happier with the outcome and highly recommend Rina!
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10 Jun, 2024 by Marilyn o'neill
Dennis McNicholas is a superb estate attorney- 50 years experience. He fully explained options and details of my Last Will and Testament. Highly recommend!
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17 Mar, 2023 by Jaroc179
My wife and I first retained Dennis 24 years ago for a real estate purchase and were incredibly impressed by his professionalism, knowledge, and relaxing yet take-charge demeanor. He set everyone at ease at the closing while he handled the legal matters. We just sat back and watched the show, and the next thing we knew, we were owners of our new home. And we never forgot him.
Since then, we have used Dennis for reference on numerous occasions regarding real estate, estate planning, elder law and estate administration. He knows the law and gets things done efficiently, and he follows up matters on his own initiative.
He is also respectful, compassionate and principled, and has a sense of humor that makes dealing with him a pleasure rather than a chore.
When we have an issue that may require legal representation, Dennis J McNicholas is always the first person that comes to mind... always. He does not disappoint, and he has our absolute highest recommendation.
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04 Feb, 2023 by Walt b
Dennis is professional, efficient and personable.
His calm demeanor and his ability to enumerate the needed requirements in simple terms for the sale were explained and if there were options the pros and cons were discussed and recommendations made.
Dennis went beyond expectations and worked tirelessly to resolve village and title company demands to complete the sale of our property.
We feel very lucky to have had Dennis as our lawyer.
He will get it done for you.
Walt and Hope
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19 Feb, 2024 by Roger
Me and my wife faced challenges in buying our dream house but through Atty. Carlo solid experience, reliability, ongoing support and guidance, all issues were addressed effectively and were able to usher transaction to closing. We highly recommend Atty. Carlo for his superior service and care. Thank you very much. We finally have a space for our family, our dream home!
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30 Jan, 2024 by Eddie morales
100% highly Recommended Atty Carlo Fr the beginning to End he’s always in our side He makes sure we got the right Deal and most of the time if he can he will make it Happened,His Work Ethics as a Lawyer Very Knwoleadge by Laws,He will discussed it with you piece by piece any paper work before signing any documents and we notice very easy to understand he make sure we got it right,Atty Carlo Is Above and beyond Lawyer,Superb and we are so EXTREMELY SATISFIED with the outcome,He’s very jolly and easy to be with SALUTE Atty Carlo hope to have another transaction with you by the future,5 stars!!!
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18 Jan, 2024 by Jason hermoso
Carlo was super helpful and insightful throughout the entire time. He made sure everything I was concerned about was taken care of and closing went super smooth. Thanks for all the help, Carlo!
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10 Jun, 2024 by Marilyn o'neill
Dennis McNicholas is a superb estate attorney- 50 years experience. He fully explained options and details of my Last Will and Testament. Highly recommend!
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17 Mar, 2023 by Jaroc179
My wife and I first retained Dennis 24 years ago for a real estate purchase and were incredibly impressed by his professionalism, knowledge, and relaxing yet take-charge demeanor. He set everyone at ease at the closing while he handled the legal matters. We just sat back and watched the show, and the next thing we knew, we were owners of our new home. And we never forgot him.
Since then, we have used Dennis for reference on numerous occasions regarding real estate, estate planning, elder law and estate administration. He knows the law and gets things done efficiently, and he follows up matters on his own initiative.
He is also respectful, compassionate and principled, and has a sense of humor that makes dealing with him a pleasure rather than a chore.
When we have an issue that may require legal representation, Dennis J McNicholas is always the first person that comes to mind... always. He does not disappoint, and he has our absolute highest recommendation.
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04 Feb, 2023 by Walt b
Dennis is professional, efficient and personable.
His calm demeanor and his ability to enumerate the needed requirements in simple terms for the sale were explained and if there were options the pros and cons were discussed and recommendations made.
Dennis went beyond expectations and worked tirelessly to resolve village and title company demands to complete the sale of our property.
We feel very lucky to have had Dennis as our lawyer.
He will get it done for you.
Walt and Hope
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10 Jun, 2024 by Marilyn o'neill
Dennis McNicholas is a superb estate attorney- 50 years experience. He fully explained options and details of my Last Will and Testament. Highly recommend!
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17 Mar, 2023 by Jaroc179
My wife and I first retained Dennis 24 years ago for a real estate purchase and were incredibly impressed by his professionalism, knowledge, and relaxing yet take-charge demeanor. He set everyone at ease at the closing while he handled the legal matters. We just sat back and watched the show, and the next thing we knew, we were owners of our new home. And we never forgot him.
Since then, we have used Dennis for reference on numerous occasions regarding real estate, estate planning, elder law and estate administration. He knows the law and gets things done efficiently, and he follows up matters on his own initiative.
He is also respectful, compassionate and principled, and has a sense of humor that makes dealing with him a pleasure rather than a chore.
When we have an issue that may require legal representation, Dennis J McNicholas is always the first person that comes to mind... always. He does not disappoint, and he has our absolute highest recommendation.
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04 Feb, 2023 by Walt b
Dennis is professional, efficient and personable.
His calm demeanor and his ability to enumerate the needed requirements in simple terms for the sale were explained and if there were options the pros and cons were discussed and recommendations made.
Dennis went beyond expectations and worked tirelessly to resolve village and title company demands to complete the sale of our property.
We feel very lucky to have had Dennis as our lawyer.
He will get it done for you.
Walt and Hope
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07 Nov, 2017 by Denise
Gary is an excellent resource to your legal needs, he is knowledgable, trustworthy and provided suggestions that steered me in the right direction.
I'm so relieved to finally have my affairs in order and wouldn't hesitate to recommend him. Thank you Gary!
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16 Mar, 2017 by Paul and esther
Gary's depth of knowledge and extensive experience is impressive. The amazing thing is, he really listens to what you have to say and comes up with a strategy on how best to resolve your problem. He helped us recover funds from a rehab fiasco where the builder was refusing to refund our investment money even after breaking the contract agreement. We were even able to avoid going to court! Not only did we get ALL our money back, but Gary also helped us close on a new house several months later. Our real estate agent was so impressed with him, that she said he was the best lawyer she has ever worked with and now recommends him to everyone. Gary graciously listened to our complicated predicament and actually did something to help. He cared for our family and went above and beyond our expectations. We highly recommend him!
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14 Mar, 2017 by Alicia
Gary is an excellent resource to your legal needs, he is extremely thorough and can easily explain and advise the terms during his consults. His professionalism and character is exactly who I want to advice you on any legal matters.
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21 Aug, 2024 by Day time
18 Sep, 2023 by Taja davis
Dan Collins. I’m making this post out of free will. I wasn’t asked from anyone to make this review.
I am making this review because I want everyone looking for an attorneys support to stop and call Dan. I’ve known Dan for about 7 years I want to say. I’m 4 years from 30. I was referred by my sister who was referred by everyone else in the dupage area that she knows who’ve had from traffic violations, dui to so much more.
Dan is honestly the absolute best, he’s got the type of personality that makes you comfortable. He’s the
most reliable, the most caring, the most understanding, the most motivated, the most intelligent , honest, lawyer I’ve ever had. I’ve had lawyers before for the same cases that I had to hire Dan for because the previous attorneys gave me option that I couldn’t take. Dan gave me better option. Ever since I’ve had him represent me, he has helped me tremendously from life lessons to not extreme results to my consequences.
Dan is for the people 1000% and I’m not the only one who has said this. Dan is a my Harvey Specter.
Dan is truly the man when it comes to the law. That’s what my sister and I always say. He will help you when you feel like there’s no way out and he is currently doing that with me and exceeding expectations. No attorney has given me the comfort Dan has.
Mr Collins, I don’t think I’ll ever be able to thank you enough, if you are reading this I am forever in debt to you. thank you so much.
It’s almost 11pm at night. I just got done texting Dan about my court date tomorrow. He calmed me down and assured he that he will take care of it. That’s the type of attorney Dan Collins Is. Most attorney don’t care and only will reply during buisness hours but Dan Collins is truly for this clients and gives his all into his clients cases from what I’ve experienced for myself and others who referred me to Dan.
Mr Collins, Dan. Thank you for always being a text away. Thank you for making sure I get the best Outcomes from my consequences. Thank you for being understanding. Thank you for not being judge mental. Thank you for goin into the court room and giving it your all for me. Your work ethic, your intelligence, your advice, your guidance has never steered me wrong. Thank you Dan. You truly helped me become a better person
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05 Aug, 2023 by Uroosa anwar
Very helpful and easy
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29 Aug, 2024 by Brad r
I had the pleasure of working with Attorney Kevin McSwain and Paralegal Nicole Tkachuk during my real estate closing, and I couldn't be more impressed. From the very beginning, they demonstrated exceptional communication skills, ensuring that I was informed and comfortable throughout the entire process as a first time homebuyer.
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26 Jul, 2024 by Elizabeth serdar
Highly recommend MNGR Law! Lisa and the firm are extremely knowledgeable and will execute a plan in your best interest. They are quick to respond and put their clients first.
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18 Jul, 2024 by David b
Lisa Giese is a very knowledgeable, well informed, intelligent, and efficient attorney. She crafted a solution to accomplish my goals in short order after assessing the situation. And she was successful in delivering results.
I highly recommend Lisa!
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5.0
10 Reviews
4.6
42 Reviews
16 Jul, 2024 by Lauren mclaughlin
Maura and her team are amazing! I had a dispute with a local car dealership and she was knowledgeable, attentive and prompt in helping me with the issue! With her help, we were successful in finalizing the issue with good terms! HIGHLY Recommend!!!!!!!!
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17 May, 2024 by Nc cn
The absolute worst will go through hell and back on the internet but won’t look at your case or pick up the phone ignorant and incompetent. Would you hire a lawyer being investigated for improper use of her law degree? Disgusting morals and lack of respect for ethics the reviews posted within the last 4 months were written by her acquaintances BEWARE she removes bad reviews then will find and stalk you AFTER doing bad business and keeping your money
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03 May, 2024 by Monika lefever
I can’t speak highly enough of Maura. She took a unique situation that, although I was wronged, I was anxious of how we could prove our case and make it right. Maura made it happen, and I’m happy to say we were victorious. She was very honest and open throughout the whole process, meaning she kept my expectations in check. She’s a gem!
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08 Aug, 2024 by Linda beatty
We had such a great experience with Stephen Brundage! An attorney is not something we want, but Stephen was the absolute best!! He listens well, is so supportive and reassuring, but also very honest. He explained things and I was so very impressed with how he handled everything. He was kind and respectful to my father. I couldn’t recommend him enough! 10 stars! He made a difficult issue less stressful and we are very to him!! His paralegal was amazing as well!! Thank you!!!!
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11 Jul, 2024 by Tina romero perez
Best decision to hire Stephen A. Brundage, very professional, reasonable rates and over all top notch! My husband had a very difficult situation with identity theft and a driver's license and he was able to get the charges dismissed. We are beyond grateful. This IS the lawyer to hire!!
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18 Jun, 2024 by Addicted angler
Strongly recommend , help me out in rough times and always had my best interest
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29 Aug, 2024 by Brad r
I had the pleasure of working with Attorney Kevin McSwain and Paralegal Nicole Tkachuk during my real estate closing, and I couldn't be more impressed. From the very beginning, they demonstrated exceptional communication skills, ensuring that I was informed and comfortable throughout the entire process as a first time homebuyer.
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26 Jul, 2024 by Elizabeth serdar
Highly recommend MNGR Law! Lisa and the firm are extremely knowledgeable and will execute a plan in your best interest. They are quick to respond and put their clients first.
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18 Jul, 2024 by David b
Lisa Giese is a very knowledgeable, well informed, intelligent, and efficient attorney. She crafted a solution to accomplish my goals in short order after assessing the situation. And she was successful in delivering results.
I highly recommend Lisa!
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04 Sep, 2024 by Yoo silvxr
Comes thru during rough times !
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24 Aug, 2024 by Anonymous anonymous
Do not recommend
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10 Aug, 2024 by Danii latuszek
Thank you!!!!! The one of The Best Attorney Ever!!! He is absolutely knowledgeable and very inclusive and diverse client and attorney relationship. He doesn’t get the recognition (Mr. Corey Tallent) he deserves as an owner and attorney. We are appreciate you and your work. Keep up the work!
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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:
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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.
