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01 Dec, 2024 by Sil weaver
If you are in search of a Bankruptcy attorney who is knowledgable, professional, caring, empathetic, cost conscious, walks in your shoes, going that extra mile with you;… Yet is tenacious in resolution approach with each of your creditors, then you should secure the representation of attorney, Maura Zalc and the ZALC Law Firm, located in Wheaton, IL - DuPage County. I have no desire to ever file for Bankruptcy again; However, I would recommend ZALC Law in a heartbeat to anyone who unfortunately needs to go down that same grievous road. Thank you.
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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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09 Dec, 2024 by J malissa jm
Mr. Therman provided tailored and thorough answers to my questions. I now understand my options based on my situation, time and location. I appreciate his personalized approach and feel comfortable about what I need to do next.
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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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09 Dec, 2024 by J malissa jm
Mr. Therman provided tailored and thorough answers to my questions. I now understand my options based on my situation, time and location. I appreciate his personalized approach and feel comfortable about what I need to do next.
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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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01 Feb, 2025 by Daniel okafor
The best way to describe her is Shakespeare's character of ''Shylock'' in The Merchant of Venice. In 2024, I hired her for a DCFS hearing before an administrative judge and after collecting my hard earned money, she changed completely! As an Attorney she was supposed to carry out interviews prior to the hearing to help give my case a chance, but she didn't. During the hearing I was the one that brought one person to support me. My advice to anyone, DO NOT HIRE her, she will do TERRIBLE JOB!!!!
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17 Jan, 2025 by Nick o'connor
Alex Rothenberg served as the court-appointed GAL (Guardian ad Litem) in my case, and my experience with her was deeply troubling. Despite initially appearing engaged by asking questions and taking notes, she failed to address any of my concerns, displayed a clear bias toward my ex-wife, and accepted her statements as truth without requiring any supporting evidence.
Alex prematurely removed herself from the case, leaving critical issues unresolved and contributing to an outcome where my daughter has been denied fair and equal time with both parents. Her actions violated several key statutes and guidelines that GALs are required to follow in Illinois, including:
750 ILCS 5/506(a)(2): GALs must conduct an independent investigation, including interviews and a review of relevant documents, and provide an objective recommendation to the court. Alex failed to conduct a thorough investigation or verify evidence, instead relying on unchecked statements from my ex-wife.
Best Interest of the Child Standard (750 ILCS 5/602.7): GALs are required to prioritize the child’s well-being and ensure meaningful relationships with both parents unless there is clear evidence to the contrary. Alex’s biased and incomplete recommendations directly harmed my daughter’s ability to have a fair and balanced relationship with both parents.
Ethical Obligations of Attorneys and GALs: GALs are required to avoid personal bias, remain neutral, and act in a professional manner that serves the child’s best interests. Alex’s personal bias against me was evident and unprofessional, resulting in recommendations that prioritized her own prejudice over the needs of a 5-year-old child.
To make matters worse, Alex’s conduct was part of a broader pattern within her firm. Other members of her firm displayed similarly unethical behavior, including inflated billing practices, misrepresentations to the court, and a general failure to uphold professional standards.
Alex’s unprofessional and unethical behavior, combined with her failure to follow required statutes, caused irreparable harm to my daughter’s well-being. Her actions were not only a disservice to the court but also a direct violation of the trust placed in her to act in the best interests of the child.
Avoid Alex Rothenberg and her entire firm. Their lack of professionalism, integrity, and accountability makes them unfit for any legal matter, particularly those involving children.
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03 Jan, 2025 by Piff piff
Rude people absolute no customer service at all. Run from this place. Luckily I didn’t spend money on them I almost did.
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09 Jan, 2025 by Beth
Please do not use Andy. I never give reviews and I got divorced a long time ago but I have to let people know how bad this attorney is. Between my horrible experience and a friend of mine whose husband used Andy, he is just really bad at what he does. I was in a long term marriage and Andy was only able to get me a 2.5 year reviewable. If I was making any money, I can see how something like that could happen, but I was a stay at home mom for most of my marriage. Basically, I had to go through the financial and emotional burden of a court divorce twice. My new attorney was exceptional and did an amazing job. She was such an advocate and was able to undo much of what Andy allowed. It only emphasized just how bad Andy was. I highly recommend that you try someone else.
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28 Oct, 2024 by Carlos arteaga
11 Jun, 2024 by Carol coglianese-rinker
Andy Cores is quickly able to pick up and go to work with tricky/sticky dynamics.
His 30+ years experience shines in the conference room, courtroom and private conversations. Much deliberation is emotinally based and Andy has a VERY high emotional intellignence combined with diplomacy and legal experience. It was a true pleasure and my priviledge to watch him in action as he implemented strategies and worked to move a 'stuck' process forward. He also showed encouraging leadership to the opposing team as well. You must see for yourself and put him on your 'go to list'!
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06 Feb, 2025 by Momtchil petrov
So glad I chose Corey to help me with my case. From the very first call during a nerve wracking time. He made me calm down and reassured me that he could help me out and that everything was going to be alright.
He was is confident in his work and knows what he is doing.
He even went out of his way to go to court to change my court date due to a trip to Bulgaria that was booked prior to my big mistake I made.
He was able to get me out of this mess without having my three precious children taken from me. I will be forever grateful for that.
Also after my case was closed he called to check in with me and to reassure me again that this would be off my record. Also that he is there for me if I ever need anything not just as a lawyer but also a friend, that truly made me feel good.
Greatly appreciate his support and service. Would definitely recommend.
Thank you again 🙏from Diana Dimitrova
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15 Jan, 2025 by Joanna kenyon
Corey was an excellent attorney for my divorce case. He walked me through every aspect of my case and put me at ease throughout the entire process. He made me feel comfortable and was incredibly patient with all my questions.
Hopefully I will never have to hire him again, but he is great!
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10 Jan, 2025 by Ryan north
There is no better lawyer. Mr. Tallent will take care of you.
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01 Feb, 2025 by Daniel okafor
The best way to describe her is Shakespeare's character of ''Shylock'' in The Merchant of Venice. In 2024, I hired her for a DCFS hearing before an administrative judge and after collecting my hard earned money, she changed completely! As an Attorney she was supposed to carry out interviews prior to the hearing to help give my case a chance, but she didn't. During the hearing I was the one that brought one person to support me. My advice to anyone, DO NOT HIRE her, she will do TERRIBLE JOB!!!!
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17 Jan, 2025 by Nick o'connor
Alex Rothenberg served as the court-appointed GAL (Guardian ad Litem) in my case, and my experience with her was deeply troubling. Despite initially appearing engaged by asking questions and taking notes, she failed to address any of my concerns, displayed a clear bias toward my ex-wife, and accepted her statements as truth without requiring any supporting evidence.
Alex prematurely removed herself from the case, leaving critical issues unresolved and contributing to an outcome where my daughter has been denied fair and equal time with both parents. Her actions violated several key statutes and guidelines that GALs are required to follow in Illinois, including:
750 ILCS 5/506(a)(2): GALs must conduct an independent investigation, including interviews and a review of relevant documents, and provide an objective recommendation to the court. Alex failed to conduct a thorough investigation or verify evidence, instead relying on unchecked statements from my ex-wife.
Best Interest of the Child Standard (750 ILCS 5/602.7): GALs are required to prioritize the child’s well-being and ensure meaningful relationships with both parents unless there is clear evidence to the contrary. Alex’s biased and incomplete recommendations directly harmed my daughter’s ability to have a fair and balanced relationship with both parents.
Ethical Obligations of Attorneys and GALs: GALs are required to avoid personal bias, remain neutral, and act in a professional manner that serves the child’s best interests. Alex’s personal bias against me was evident and unprofessional, resulting in recommendations that prioritized her own prejudice over the needs of a 5-year-old child.
To make matters worse, Alex’s conduct was part of a broader pattern within her firm. Other members of her firm displayed similarly unethical behavior, including inflated billing practices, misrepresentations to the court, and a general failure to uphold professional standards.
Alex’s unprofessional and unethical behavior, combined with her failure to follow required statutes, caused irreparable harm to my daughter’s well-being. Her actions were not only a disservice to the court but also a direct violation of the trust placed in her to act in the best interests of the child.
Avoid Alex Rothenberg and her entire firm. Their lack of professionalism, integrity, and accountability makes them unfit for any legal matter, particularly those involving children.
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03 Jan, 2025 by Piff piff
Rude people absolute no customer service at all. Run from this place. Luckily I didn’t spend money on them I almost did.
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02 Jun, 2023 by Bill fischer
Great lawyers to work with
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01 Apr, 2023 by J lapinski
Grant Eckhoff was a great help with a recent real estate transaction. He was knowledgable and explained what to expect throughout the process. Real estate negotiations are inherently stressful, but with Grant's tenacity, expertise and guidance, the process was much easier. I would highly recommend the firm of Eckhoff & Massarilli.
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25 Jul, 2022 by Edward ubelhor
Grant Eckhoff represented us in a recent home sale. Grant was very professional, gave very good advice, was prompt on responses to us and to the buyers attorney. Grant has a lot of experience which helped make this transaction successful.
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02 Jun, 2023 by Bill fischer
Great lawyers to work with
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01 Apr, 2023 by J lapinski
Grant Eckhoff was a great help with a recent real estate transaction. He was knowledgable and explained what to expect throughout the process. Real estate negotiations are inherently stressful, but with Grant's tenacity, expertise and guidance, the process was much easier. I would highly recommend the firm of Eckhoff & Massarilli.
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25 Jul, 2022 by Edward ubelhor
Grant Eckhoff represented us in a recent home sale. Grant was very professional, gave very good advice, was prompt on responses to us and to the buyers attorney. Grant has a lot of experience which helped make this transaction successful.
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13 Mar, 2024 by Autumn
Genuinely one of the most caring people I have met. I had no clue where to even begin to navigate a court case or how to get help. He not only helped advice me with what to do next with my fiances case, but he also walked me through the entire process so I understood all possible outcomes. He checked up on me emotionally as well and took the time to fully understand my situation, something every other lawyer didn’t even consider. He answered every call even if he was busy and he would make sure he made time later if he couldn’t talk. I am beyond grateful for your help getting my fiance out and keeping my head on straight through the process. I’d recommend him to everyone no questions.
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13 Mar, 2024 by Jason
Hi everyone, I want to sincerely appreciate PINNACLE CREDIT SPECIALIST for the dedication and time they put in working my credit. I had 4 charges off accounts (3 cc and 1 installment loan). I do have 2 cards with longevity and bad payment history though lower limits ($1200 and $850) and a car loan with 7 late time payments reflecting. During my financial struggles NFC closed the 2-credit card accounts I had with them. I also had a chapter 7 BK in 2020. I did have high utilization and few late payments (over more than 10 days late). The account closure dropped my scores because the balances took my utilization to 990%. I continued making payments on time until a friend read about PINNACLE CREDIT SPECIALIST on Quora and informed me, I contacted them after reading some testimonies about them, they ran my credit report, analyzed my credit score and determined which action will have the greatest impact. They raised my credit score to 803 and deleted all negative items on my credit report including the chapter 7 BK, within 6 days. They made it work and I have a clean profile now. My heart is full of gratitude. You can reach them via:
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17 Feb, 2024 by Tony
We hired Dan for a bankruptcy case. He was very kind and explained all the pros and cons of bankruptcy, guiding us through the process. He is very knowledgeable, experienced, and highly competent. I highly recommend Dan.
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03 Aug, 2021 by Singh
Christine represented me for my recent home closing; she was able to handle all details and made it very simple and straightforward, even though the buyer had some challenging situations to deal with. I had to leave out of town prior to closing, but Christine was able to smoothly close the transaction and even paid my water bill (which you have to do in person). Would absolutely recommend that you work with her. She knows the law very well and will represent your best interests!
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17 Dec, 2019 by Ankur
I was able to utilize her services for a real estate closing. She was extremely helpful and efficient. She responded professionally and promptly regularly. Her advice and legal acumen was excellent.
She exceeded my expectations and I would recommend her again.
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18 Nov, 2019 by Kevin
Christine helped us with our real estate transactions and I could not have picked a better lawyer for these transactions. Her rates are very reasonable and she was extremely helpful during the negotiations and execution of the contracts. Two thumbs up!
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05 Nov, 2024 by Jamie moses
My husband needed someone in DuPage County to represent him for a child support case bc we live a few hours away. We found Mr. Davi & could not have asked for a better attorney. We feel incredibly grateful for his knowledge, patience & guidance while navigating our legal matter. Everyone we spoke to over the phone from his office was kind, professional & helpful. We spoke with a handful of attorneys before we found Mr. Davi and none of them seemed to have the same level of expertise required for our child support matter. Yes, hiring a lawyer is expensive, but we felt he was worth every penny we spent!
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01 Nov, 2024 by Jamie swanson
My husband needed someone in DuPage County to represent him for a child support case bc we live a few hours away. We found Mr. Davi & could not have asked for a better attorney. We feel incredibly grateful for his knowledge, patience & guidance while navigating our legal matter. Everyone we spoke to over the phone from his office was kind, professional & helpful. We spoke with a handful of attorneys before we found Mr. Davi and none of them seemed to have the same level of expertise required for our child support matter. Yes, hiring a lawyer is expensive, but we felt he was worth every penny we spent!
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14 Aug, 2024 by Esteban ramirez
Mr Dvi is by far the best lawyer I have ever hired. I got caught driving on a revoked 2 times in less than a month he got 1 case thrown out and 40 days EM on the other one even with it being my 5th offense. Not to mention I hired him once before this, he beat the case in trial for another driving on a revoked. I’m supposed to have 6 offenses but in the eyes of the court i only have 3. Keep up the great work Mr.Davi not many like you who really care about they’re clients
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02 Jun, 2023 by Bill fischer
Great lawyers to work with
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01 Apr, 2023 by J lapinski
Grant Eckhoff was a great help with a recent real estate transaction. He was knowledgable and explained what to expect throughout the process. Real estate negotiations are inherently stressful, but with Grant's tenacity, expertise and guidance, the process was much easier. I would highly recommend the firm of Eckhoff & Massarilli.
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25 Jul, 2022 by Edward ubelhor
Grant Eckhoff represented us in a recent home sale. Grant was very professional, gave very good advice, was prompt on responses to us and to the buyers attorney. Grant has a lot of experience which helped make this transaction successful.
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14 Jul, 2021 by Anonymous
I don't typically review online but this experience was the worst and others need to know to not be taken advantage of. Do your homework on this lawyer and talk to other attorneys as ask about him. I fell for his fancy website and long resume. My next attorney laughed about it and said "Dion is known for putting down any conversation or meeting he ever sat in and claiming he was a member or influential position, no other attorney has to try and build themselves up like him." "Dion spends more time trying to make up his own accolades and write his own press releases. Its a joke in the courthouse."
My attorney took a mess that Mr. Davi messed up and cleaned it up quickly because the Judge actually respected him.
Well the experience he built up was not accurate at all and all I got was excuses, delays, and rudeness from Mr. Davi and his staff that kept turning over.
I was very uncomfortable around him and just wanted my case resolved. I eventually was creeped out enough by his advances and then rudeness when I said "no". He claimed he was the only one that could help and that it looked bad getting a new attorney. He was wrong it was the best decision for me and my family and couldn't have been happier to be done with this firm.
I hope this helps someone.
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14 Jun, 2021 by Anonymous
He is excellent. I would hire him again. He helped me at my worst time. My last attorney left a mess and Dion fixed everything.
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20 Oct, 2020 by Anonymous
Extremely bad experience. Very rude man. Didn’t listen to client. Never hire him.
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04 Feb, 2019 by Anonymous
My husband and I contacted Tim on a recommendation and we're glad we did. He helped each of us set up a will, financial power of attorney and medical power of attorney. His advice during the process was much needed and beneficial. He was accommodating to our schedules for in-person appointments.
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25 Oct, 2017 by Anonymous
I was in the process of evicting a tenant. I had attempted it on my own but ran into a problem when in court on 8/31/17. The judge indicated I needed an attorney and called out 2 of them in court, Tim was one of them. Tim stated he charges $500 for an eviction in court. When I reached out to Timothy M Barnes after court, he charged me $650 to finish my eviction and he charged me more than double for a process server. The average cost is $70 and he charged me $150. Timothy M Barnes took advantage of me because he knew the situation I was in. I would not use Tim to handle any issues I have in the future. Note: Tim is no longer at Guthrie & Brady, however, Guthrie & Brady law firm did reimburse me $150 for the eviction but did stand on the $150 charge for the process server.
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18 Sep, 2016 by Anonymous
I was so pleased with the consultation via phone. Timothy really took the time to explain in detail and answered all of my questions. I will definitely keep him in mind for future opportunities!
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02 Nov, 2020 by John jansen
Doug represented us for the sale of our old home and the purchase of our new home, and we had a number of issues that came up along the way that had to be dealt with, and he and his assistant handled everything really well.
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22 May, 2018 by Patrick maloney
We were very pleased with Doug’s service in buying our new home and selling our former home. Doug is very professional and helped us understand each step along the way. We would recommend Doug to anyone needing real estate legal assistance. Doug and Cathy, thank you again for your help.
Pat & Mary
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21 Mar, 2017 by Kevin mcdonell
07 Jun, 2024 by Vicky
I highly recommend Ryan to fight for you. He won a case for me that the other party continually came up with new fights to try to get back and to take over guardianship for a relative which they originally took advantage of which they tried to spin as false. Even the judge had put a separate attorney to question everyone involved, even police, the county the assisted living facility and the all of us, as well as the relative being taken advantage of. After numerous new filings by the other side, Ryan filed and fought for us to win each case. Plus we also hired him for a separate case that the same party filed against me and my husband this time, for far out money in the hundreds of thousands. Ryan won us that case as well especially with being so emotional. And may I say, I totally disagree with another review stating Ryan charges way too much. That client needs to know Ryan himself does NOT set the costs. The office that he works at has a set pricing for any particular job that he must follow.
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25 May, 2021 by Anonymous
Hello, I hired this attorney in a case I had in 2020, in which I regret to this day. He sold me a pipe dream and I had faith in him. However, this immediately altered once he gave a set date. Upon this date he never carried out what the letter he himself set into play. I paid 750.00 only for a letter, and I expressed this was my savings and please assist me or send me too another lawyer. He took my money and According to the person I was suing . He stated to him how he totally disliked me and shared with him things I shared with him.
I asked why , he denied saying things. I reminded him of Attorney client privilege. Well in making this brief I went on too find another attorney. To whom I absolutely rate him with 5 stars .
What took me so long to post is my health issues. I just ask if you hire him get a contract and underline and make sure you understand and agree what you will receive from him before giving dollars.
Get in writing that your and his conversation is between you and him and. If he share with the others he will owe you what you paid him.
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13 Aug, 2015 by Anonymous
I feel so fortunate to have had the pleasure of working with Mr. Kipfer. He is incredibly knowledgeable and provided me with excellent advice. Through every step of the process, he kept me informed and was readily available for any questions I had. I would highly recommend him to anyone.
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30 Jun, 2017 by Anonymous
I am the financial planner for one of Suzanne's legal clients, and I am also a former attorney). Suzanne called me about those clients, who needed to coordinate finances given some significant changes in their lives. Suzanne knew many details about her clients' situation, the applicable, complex laws, and how best to help the clients. She clearly took the time to fully understand the situation before we spoke. I was impressed with her knowledge and thoroughness, and I look forward to working with her further to help her clients.
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13 Jan, 2015 by Anonymous
I have a couple of important issues that I need good legal advice on. I hired Cahalan to write a simple will for me first, to see if she was trustworthy, responsive, knowledgeable, and kept me informed. She did that with little problem, although her lack of a professional office made things difficult because all the interactions where by phone. I had to find some location to have the will signed and witnessed that was convenient to her because she offered no place. However, when I asked her to do second job, which should have just required a letter challenging the unsubstantiated claims of a company known for illegal practices, she readily agreed to take the case, saying that lawyers are licensed as generalists. I didn't hire anyone else because I thought she was on it, and then SHE DID NOTHING FOR AN ENTIRE YEAR except to send the company a letter stating that she was my attorney and they should send all communications to her. I called her many times to ask her what was going on, and she claimed that she'd have some results, "just wait until Tuesday." Tuesday came and went, and after several months, I finally got her to respond to the messages I left on her machine (no one answers her phone, so if you make the poor decision to hire her, expect to not be able to get hold of her until she darn well decides to call you regardless of any prior timeline promises.) I finally left a message saying that i needed to find someone else to do this work, since she hadn't done anything for over a year (I don't think that's being impatient since all I expected was for her to write a letter.) She did respond to that, but showed up at my home on a Sunday without any advance notice (I was taught that this is impolite and very unprofessional), dropped off a letter full of lies into the hands of the person who answered the door, and took off before I even got there, the letter stating that she had never agreed to take my case because that's not her area of expertise (not withstanding the letter she sent to the company saying she was my lawyer!), and complaining that it was my fault that she didn't do anything. She has gone downhill since she did my will, and I recommend you do not trust her with any important business. She claimed to have health problems for many months, as an excuse, but I've had health problems for decades, and whenever I've been hospitalized, I found some way to notify people with whom I had appointments that I wouldn't be able to make it. The nurses, a family member, use your own cell phone, the hospitals have phone! Nothing from her, so I find it difficult to believe. I had a divorce attorney once who left me hanging like this. Luckily for her clients, she worked with a law firm, and they finally informed me that she was on a mental health leave. Ms. Cahalan might wish to consider a mental health leave.
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22 Mar, 2021 by Susan
I placed a phone call to this lawyer to inquire about legal help. While his receptionist was helpful, Mr. Stock did not have the professionalism or courtesy to even return my telephone call. Having worked with prominent attorneys for over 20 years, I expected to hear back from him whether or not he could provide legal services to me. What a disappointment.
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09 Jul, 2014 by Kevin
Failed to show for a custody hearing. No show and no answer to my calls. Later blamed his "day planner". His office is or was across the street from the Wheaton courthouse. Later in the case I find out Mr. Stock talked directly with my ex without my knowledge and not through her attorney! When I confronted him about this his reply was " You two need to quit fighting". I hired him because we couldn't and don't. Took one more retainer knowing case was over. This guy is worthless. I believe he mentioned a son perhaps following in his footsteps. Watch YOUR step if you see the name Stock!
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16 Aug, 2011 by Nina
He carefully reviewed my case and made several insightful and helpful recommendations. I would highly recommend him.
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24 Oct, 2023 by Monika
Worst lawyer you can think of. Scammer lying to everybody . Karma will get to you
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FAQs
Questions? We have answers
What an Estate Planning Lawyer Can Do for You
An estate planning lawyer helps individuals plan for the management and distribution of their assets after death or during incapacitation. Their services involve drafting important legal documents, such as wills, trusts, powers of attorney, and healthcare directives. Estate planning attorneys work to ensure that your assets are transferred according to your wishes, minimize tax liabilities, and avoid probate court. They also help clients plan for potential long-term care needs and protect their estate from being diminished by healthcare costs.
By working with an estate planning lawyer, you can have peace of mind knowing that your loved ones will be cared for and that your estate will be managed efficiently and according to your desires.
When Should I Hire an Estate Planning Lawyer?
Hiring an estate planning lawyer is beneficial in many situations, especially when you want to ensure that your assets are handled properly after death. Common reasons to hire an estate planning lawyer include:
- Drafting a will: If you want to clearly define how your assets will be distributed after death, an attorney can draft a legally sound will.
- Creating a trust: For those looking to avoid probate or provide for loved ones over time, setting up a trust can help manage the distribution of assets.
- Planning for incapacity: An estate lawyer can help draft powers of attorney and healthcare directives so that your financial and medical decisions are made by someone you trust if you become incapacitated.
- Minimizing estate taxes: If your estate is large, a lawyer can help create strategies to reduce or eliminate federal and state estate taxes.
- Special circumstances: If you have minor children, blended families, or complex assets like businesses, an estate planning lawyer can create tailored solutions.
- Guardianship or conservatorship: If you want to designate guardians for minor children or ensure proper care for incapacitated adults, an attorney can help.
Hiring an estate planning lawyer is especially important if your estate is complex or if you want to ensure that your wishes are properly followed.
What Does an Estate Planning Lawyer Do?
An estate planning lawyer provides a range of services designed to help you organize your affairs and ensure your estate is managed according to your wishes. They can:
- Draft wills and trusts: Creating legally binding documents that dictate how your assets will be distributed and managed.
- Create powers of attorney and healthcare directives: Appointing someone to make financial or medical decisions for you if you become incapacitated.
- Minimize taxes: Developing strategies to reduce estate taxes, gift taxes, and other financial liabilities for your heirs.
- Help avoid probate: Structuring your estate plan to avoid probate, which can save time and money for your beneficiaries.
- Advise on long-term care planning: Helping you plan for potential healthcare needs in the future, including Medicaid planning and protecting assets from being depleted by nursing home costs.
- Assist with beneficiary designations: Ensuring that life insurance policies, retirement accounts, and other financial instruments are correctly designated.
- Handle probate and estate administration: If a loved one has passed away, an estate planning lawyer can help guide you through the probate process or act as an executor.
How Are Estate Planning Lawyers Paid?
Estate planning lawyers typically charge for their services in one of several ways, depending on the complexity of your estate and the type of services you need. Common payment structures include:
- Flat fee: Many estate planning services, such as drafting a will or trust, are charged on a flat-fee basis. The fee covers all work related to preparing the document.
- Hourly rate: For more complex planning, such as estate tax strategy or trust administration, lawyers may charge by the hour. Rates vary based on the lawyer’s experience and location.
- Retainer: Some lawyers require a retainer for more complex cases, such as ongoing trust management or estate administration. The retainer is an upfront payment that covers future legal services.
It’s important to discuss fees with your lawyer upfront to avoid unexpected costs.
How Much Does an Estate Planning Lawyer Cost?
The cost of hiring an estate planning lawyer depends on the complexity of your estate and the services you require. Here are some general guidelines:
- Simple wills or powers of attorney: A straightforward will or power of attorney may cost between $300 and $1,500, depending on your location and the lawyer’s experience.
- Trust creation: Establishing a trust, such as a living trust or revocable trust, can cost between $1,000 and $3,000 or more, depending on the complexity of your assets and estate planning needs.
- Comprehensive estate planning packages: Some lawyers offer packages that include wills, trusts, powers of attorney, and healthcare directives, which may range from $2,000 to $5,000 or more, depending on the estate’s complexity.
- Hourly rates: For ongoing services like estate administration or tax planning, lawyers may charge hourly rates ranging from $150 to $500 or more, depending on the lawyer’s experience.
Always get a clear estimate of costs during your initial consultation to ensure the services fit within your budget.
Top Questions to Ask an Estate Planning Lawyer
Before hiring an estate planning lawyer, it’s important to ask questions to ensure they are the right fit for your needs. Here are key questions to ask during your consultation:
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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.
