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16 Feb, 2024 by Joyclyn kananen, realtor
I highly recommend Bray Law PLLC for real estate services. They consistently provide great customer service to my clients and myself. Bray Law is thorough, provides communication throughout the process, and focuses on accuracy. Thank you, Bray Law, for taking care of my client's real estate needs and assisting my business.
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23 Oct, 2023 by Rhett bray
22 Feb, 2023 by Darren shackelford
I had Bill Bray and Hope Boyles handle the closing for our home sale, and I have to say that it could not have been any easier. They were upfront with the cost “very reasonable” and how things would proceed throughout the transaction. They stayed in touch via email and phone, where I was constantly updated on the progress. I highly recommend having Bray Law PLLC handle your home closings! Call Hope at extension #110, and you will not be disappointed.
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02 Jul, 2024 by Bryanna
Ms. Montgomery is an exceptional attorney. She knows the law and is confident and results driven. I couldn’t have asked for a better outcome for my case. Thank you!
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29 May, 2024 by Peter
I am deeply grateful for the exceptional legal representation I received from Ms. Stephanie Montgomery during my recently completed complex divorce process. Stephanie not only managed to secure a marital settlement agreement but also avoided the stress and financial burden of a prolonged courtroom battle. She had previously efficiently arranged a custody and visitation agreement early in the process, which was approved after the initial court hearing for child custody, visitation and support — but before an already-scheduled full hearing was needed. This strategic and proactive approach allowed me to focus on rebuilding my life and career, confident in the knowledge that I had a highly competent and compassionate attorney handling my case. If you're facing a difficult family law issue and need someone who can deliver results while minimizing conflict, Ms. Stephanie Montgomery is the attorney you want by your side.
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02 Feb, 2024 by Gil
...My research post sudden-need for divorce representation led to a consult w/well-regarded by peers, well-reviewed Ms. Jennifer Fox in Richmond, VA. Charisma and intellectual gravitas was my immediate impression. I made my "case"/communicated the financial groundwork from my dozen documents in hand. Ms. Fox was patient, then informative, relating the legal parameters for seperation leading to divorce, "amicable" or otherwise. Consumately professional, she intimated that I may be better served by Ms. Stephanie A. Montgomery, an attorney with a powerful skillset in divorce law, combined with passion and compassion regarding the protection and care of her clients. Ms. Fox had worked alongside Ms. Montgomery, and explained her advocacy also due to my divorce occuring geographically being in her jurisdiction, in case "amicable" went sideways, and local court apearences became neccesary. (meaning billable costs of travel-time for Ms. Fox to Williamsburg should be considered a factor) Ms. Fox "suggested" I speak less..let Ms. Montgomery's own professional intellectual agility do me the most service. ( This turned out to be great advice personally and professionally) Second consult appointment happened in few days.
...Thankfully, the 5 minute drive to Ms. Montgomery's location was a relief, and her office desk staff and paralegal were warm and cordial, in minutes, Ms. Montgomery escoted me to her adjacent office. I experienced a wave of relief, that "you're right were you're supposed to be" in that moment, her prescence/vibe, vocal tone and impression on point...effortlessly. I comfortably listened as the facts and "game-board" were confirmed. My then wife had retained counsel some months ago, and had produced a financial spreadsheet and preliminary legal agreement Stephanie could analyze for their intent and stategy.
There were several terms/demands not even legally appropriate involving shared married expenses, even in the face of opposing party's superior income and net worth. Ms.Montgomery then began the process to "qualify" my wants/needs/intent. Within minutes she had formed a viable counter-proposal to return to opposing council and client. I left relieved and finally in posiitive spirits.
My situation required a few office visits for signatures on dox, I was efficiently updated by Keidra A. Frazier, Ms. Montgomery's paralegal. It was always so pleasant to visit, to see the staff and get the ear of Stephanie on occasion, asking advice on this or that (home for sale deed was in wife's name)...the trust she inpires is priceless itself. Finally got the decree last week (court slog thru the holiday calendar)...I will continue to Sing Her Praise throughout the Land. Cheers, G.X.Fox
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03 Nov, 2018 by William
Mr. Zaremba takes time to explain the process and can do it in laymen's terms.He shows concern for the client.I also truly appreciate the Veterans discount that he gives.
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16 Jun, 2018 by John
Mr. Zaremba is a competent lawyer who is most helpful when dealing with aging clients. He has helped both my wife and me on several occasions.
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23 Mar, 2018 by Stacey
Walt and his team are top notch! Walt and Laurel helped us 10 years ago to navigate the guardianship for our autistic son. This process is a very difficult and lengthy process. Years later he has been assisting us with a revocable living trust and a special needs trust to protect our assets. Walt is retired military as our family is as well. There are special circumstances that Walt knows how to navigate in regards to military benefits. He is highly knowledgeable and professional as well as very friendly. Walt likes to share his stories and puts a very stressful situation at ease. My parents and many of my friends have also worked with Walt. I highly recommend him for estate planning for your family. His group is always there if questions arise. We will continue to work with him on more situations in the future.
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02 Aug, 2021 by Jennifer hindman
During the trust creation process, Helena Mock and Cathy Sears navigated our through the various topics, patiently and thoroughly answered our questions, and prepared various associated documents. We appreciated the pacing that allowed time for reflection, questions, and document review. From the paralegals to the attorneys named above, collegiality evident was evident as they engaged in client-focused work.
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23 Mar, 2020 by Mary
Ms. Mock worked with me to prepare a special needs trust to take care of my son in the future. Everyone with whom I dealt handled the task with the utmost professionalism and sensitivity to my son's special needs. My questions and concerns were dealt with in an expeditious and clear manner. I probably asked some questions more than once; each time the response was respectful as well as enlightening. This was a task to which I wasn't looking forward. Had I known how smoothly Ms. Mock and her staff handled the process, I would have taken care of this matter much earlier. I look forward to working with this group as time progresses and changes will inevitably have to be made.
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07 Feb, 2020 by Robert
This was our third engagement with TPC over the last 12 years. This time a complete restating of our Charitable Trust was needed, We were impressed throughout the nearly four-month engagement with the professionalism, knowledge, focus and depth of experience that the TPC Team brought to our effort. Helena, assisted by Cathy, Valerie and Barbara all contributed to what we fell was a very successful engagement.
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03 Nov, 2023 by Jennifer
Over the past decade, I have retained Heather Pederson for legal services on several different occasions. She exemplifies the utmost professionalism and is always in communication with her clients throughout the process. She delivers results! Not only has Heather resolved all of my issues, she has done so in a timely manner. While working with Heather, it is clear that she genuinely cares about her clients and their cases. No matter what your legal needs may be, I highly recommend Heather and her amazing staff!
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27 Jul, 2023 by Anonymous
Divorce is messy and it sucks, but Heather made it as smooth as she could. The attention to detail is unparalleled, when there was a hurdle she cleared it without missing a beat. You will not be disappointed.
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20 Apr, 2023 by Timothy
I would recommend Heather and her team without any reservation! Mrs. Pedersen has been a solid advocate for me in my divorce proceeding. Every question I've had has been thoroughly explained, and she truly made me felt heard and understood. She and her team always respond to any correspondence quickly and professionally. She's taken the time to explain my options legally and has shown me clearly what my options are. Her experience in this field gave me so much confidence that my side would be heard by the judge and that we had a strategy that would hold up for the duration of my case. Very pleased with my representation!
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17 Nov, 2023 by Dan
My wife and I recently turned to Trey Parker to assist us in restating our revocable living trust, which was long overdue for top to bottom updating. Our family profile and circumstances present the types of complex considerations that are undoubtedly common to many families, involving the lives of adult children, grandchildren, individual needs, special health concerns, education costs, etc., and all the various asset distribution options. This requires the highly skilled legal analysis, thoughtful insights, extensive experience, and deep understanding of estate and tax laws that Trey displayed and delivered every time we met or talked with him. His ability to immediately connect with us as clients, listen intently, and come to understand our family situation so that he could craft a trust that best meets our specific needs was remarkable. We have tremendous respect for Trey and deeply appreciate his skilled handling of our trust. My wife and I would urge anyone seeking top-tier legal assistance with their trust and estate planning to meet with Trey at his offices in Williamsburg. He is a credit to the legal profession.
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13 Jul, 2023 by Anonymous
Trey did an outstanding job updating the Irrevocable Special Needs Trust for my disabled daughter. This was done on short notice and completed in a single office visit. Many thanks to Trey and your great team in Williamsburg!
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19 Aug, 2022 by Edward
TREY PARKER HELPED ME TO HAVE MY TRUST UPDATED
DUE TO LIFE CHANGES. VERY PROFESSIONAL AND FRIENDLY,
I WOULD HIGHLY RECOMMEND TALKING WITH TREY IF YOU ARE SEEKING A TRUST.
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09 Sep, 2016 by Emma
I recommend Donna Wilson to anyone who is looking for an estate planning or elder law attorney in the Williamsburg area. Although I am an elder law attorney in Tampa, how I met Donna told me everything I needed to know about her and her law firm. We spent several days at a professional “bootcamp” with the sole focus on becoming the best advocates we can be for the people that trust us with their lives as well as their post-mortem affairs. Donna stood out as an extremely capable attorney ready, able and willing to provide clients – not only the highest level of skill and expertise – but all the aspects of respect, empathy and attention lost today in our profession. If you are in need of genuine people who can meet your estate planning or elder law needs, do not look any further than Donna Wilson, and Wilson Law PLC.
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18 Feb, 2014 by Tony
We had our estate planning done by another attorney several years ago and needed to update documents. Donna Wilson found several errors and inconsistencies in our old documents that would not only have cost us more money, but could have left us and our child unprotected at the time of our death or disability. We now have piece of mind knowing we have had a thorough and professional review of our situation and that we now have a plan that is tailored to our needs.
As we were deciding what plans to make for our family several alternate scenarios were created to give us examples of what could happen depending on our choices and it was clear that Ms. Wilson clearly knows her field. The process was smooth, yet complete, and the office staff was quite responsive to questions and concerns. Communication has been wonderful and the documents we received were carefully explained and extremely well organized. We are relieved and confident that we made the best decision in choosing Wilson Law.
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22 Jan, 2014 by Anonymous
As a couple quickly approaching the age for retirement, we turned to Donna Wilson and her team for help in protecting our wealth. The process was painless and easy to understand. With children and grandchildren in the mix, we wanted to make sure our assets would be available to them upon our departure from this life. We were able to create an exceptional plan, legacy trust, and other components to make certain our wishes would be carried out. We were so impressed with the final outcome of this effort that we shared our experience (not all the details) with other family members. Three other family members have since turned to Donna and her team and completed very similar processes. It sure is a good feeling to know that our family will benefit from the fruits of our life-long hard work and not a bunch of bureaucrats.
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16 Feb, 2024 by Joyclyn kananen, realtor
I highly recommend Bray Law PLLC for real estate services. They consistently provide great customer service to my clients and myself. Bray Law is thorough, provides communication throughout the process, and focuses on accuracy. Thank you, Bray Law, for taking care of my client's real estate needs and assisting my business.
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23 Oct, 2023 by Rhett bray
22 Feb, 2023 by Darren shackelford
I had Bill Bray and Hope Boyles handle the closing for our home sale, and I have to say that it could not have been any easier. They were upfront with the cost “very reasonable” and how things would proceed throughout the transaction. They stayed in touch via email and phone, where I was constantly updated on the progress. I highly recommend having Bray Law PLLC handle your home closings! Call Hope at extension #110, and you will not be disappointed.
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10 Mar, 2021 by Amanda
Kenneth Farino was my lawyer on a case that lasted 2 years and 3 months. And while that is a chunk of time, I can only imagine how long it would have dragged on if not for him. No question was ever too small (or too anxiety riddled). This is by far one of the best professional experiences I have ever had, and I am saying that coming from an unexpected awful situation. I am a cup half empty gal but he always had me seeing the cup half full. He is thoughtful, caring, passionate, accessible, considerate, transparent, knowledgeable, tenacious, the list goes on and on. I knew every step of the way I was prioritized. When it came to settling the case, I was in awe watching him work on email. He was relentless to the opposing counsel. I cannot recommend him enough. He gave me my life back. Thank you will never be enough. I will never forget the care you put into this horrendous ordeal.
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02 Oct, 2019 by Andrew
Kenneth Farino was very accessible, responsive, and provided tons of helpful info when we needed a deed/payout contract written up to buy our home. I can’t recommend him highly enough!
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15 Mar, 2019 by Jason
Mr. Kenneth Farino Jr. was extremely efficient in setting up my partner and I's LLC offering not only his services but also his expertise and knowledge of how to structure it properly. He was very timely and responsive when asked any questions and was available every time when needed. It is extremely difficult to find a good lawyer you can trust however Mr. Kenneth Farino Jr. has far beyond exceeded my expectations and will not only work with him on all other future endeavors but will highly recommend him to any and all who need an honest, trustworthy, efficient, knowledgeable lawyer on their side.
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15 Mar, 2023 by Tom
Ms. Hartman was recommended three years ago by a local financial advisor as we were in need of updated wills, medical directives, and powers of attorney. The resultant effort and final products were flawlessly prepared and reviewed in detail to insure compliance with our intentions. All questions and clarifications were addressed thoroughly and in an unhurried manner.
Retaining Ms. Hartman's services two years later for trust development was an obvious selection and the complex and yet ongoing process is proceeding extremely well. Initial interviews and explanations of the effort were masterfully tailored to our specific circumstances, saving time and avoiding "boilerplate" and jargon. Months after trust execution, we have required numerous answers and professional opinions to complete the process of funding the trust; a continuing necessity. In every instance Ms. Hartman has been interested in our progress as well as prompt and helpful in addressing our evolving requirements, in spite of our repeated requests for assistance.
Ms. Hartman has our full and unqualified recommendation.
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03 Feb, 2023 by George
Mrs. Hartman exceeded all of our expectations. Professional, thorough, patient. She developed all of our estate documents: Trust, Will, Powers of Attorney and Health Directive. She reviewed all possible options, answered all of our questions, and we could not have asked for a better lawyer. She is simply the best we've ever had the pleasure to work with.
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04 Nov, 2019 by Gary
My wife and I consulted Rhiannon for estate planning. We have been delighted with the services she has provided. She clearly and methodically explains the issues and responds quickly to any questions we have, providing detailed answers. Trustwortiness and responsiveness are paramount for us, and we think Rhiannon excels with both. She has given us both great peace of mind. We have been so pleased with Rhiannon that we have had her provide services to both of our daughters.
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16 Dec, 2021 by Rachel p.
Cathy, Leslie, and her team were awesome from 2020 through 2021. I couldn't ask for a better team. My mom went to the hospital in April 2020 end up in a medical coma for months. My mom didn't update her estate planning to allow for me to assist her in daily life. Mind you this is the first time I ever had to deal with something like this, I am a young 34 year woman. They educated me on different options on what to do, assist me with everything I had to do for my mom. I end up having to go to court to get guardianship/conservatorship for my mom. Leslie was awesome in assisting me with what I needed to do for court paperwork, accounting, etc. When my mom recover and she was able to get her rights back, Cathy took the time to speak with my mom to get her estate planning done as well get her rights back. My mom was impressed by the service they provide to her. Unfortunately, my mom passed away in April of this year, and again I went back to Cathy and her team for more guidance on what is best to do to avoid any issues. When it came to family disagreement on the Last Will, I ask for Leslie to help out to speak with my family. She was able to get them to come to an agreement to move things smoothly. I couldn't get through this mess in the last past two years without them. I would give them 10 stars if I could. They were very reasonable on price with me. Thank you so much for everything you have done!
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16 Nov, 2021 by Lois diane
Ms. Sears listened to our specific needs for estate planning and made many good recommendations. The whole process was smooth and done in a timely manner. The whole cost was explained up front and there were no hidden charges. We were very pleased with the efficiency of her whole staff. We would highly recommend Ms Sears.
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13 May, 2020 by Janna
Catherine was a pleasure to work with. She's a good listener, patient, wonderful at explaining, and follows through. It's obvious she is there to serve your needs and willing to go the extra mile. Everyone we dealt with at the firm was competent and cared about customer service.
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17 Sep, 2023 by Anonymous
Jeremy offered exceptional service for my wife and I’s estate planning. He was very thorough and took care of all of our concerns. Top notch!
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17 Sep, 2023 by Nathan
Jeremy made everything easy while being thorough! If you’re looking for an estate planning attorney or business attorney there is no one better!!! If you’re wondering if you should call someone… call now and get the best!
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13 Apr, 2017 by Anonymous
Jeremy helped my wife and I obtain a guardianship for our son. He was very knowledgeable and quick to get the guardianship in place. He even made sure that our other son was put in place as standby guardian and helped explain to him what to do if he ever needed to step in.
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19 Oct, 2019 by Joseph stojanov
Patricia Dart was dedicated to providing me with the best possible outcome and kept me informed of all potential options. I felt comfortable and well represented during a very stressful time. She knows how to get a job done and is not lazy. I was impressed with her superior communication skills amongst her colleagues and the obvious respect that Mrs. Dart was receiving on my behalf. I cannot thank her enough. She protected my future, family, and career from damning, yet false allegations.
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28 Sep, 2024 by Corbin granger
I cannot recommend Mr. Spirn enough. He is an incredible advocate for his clients, breaks down complicated legalese into English, and works tirelessly on behalf of his clients in every case. Thank you Mr. Spirn!
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08 Feb, 2023 by Gerard abate
Great attorney. Highly recommend him!
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07 Jan, 2023 by J k
14 Oct, 2017 by Anonymous
Highly recommend! I hired Attorney Carmines to help with settling my mother's estate. Her estate was fairly large, and was going to me and my brother and to our step-sisters. The step-sisters were fighting everything I tried to do. They even threatened to take me to court. He stepped in, and calmed the situation down. Then he helped me with a plan to settle the estate, handling the court filings, and was always there to help. And I never had to speak to the step-sisters again (what a relief!). I was confident that he was protecting me.
His fees were reasonable, and the end result was exactly what I wanted.
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01 Apr, 2017 by Diane
Will helped me with settling my mother's estate. I was the executrix and was having difficulty with a sibling - with getting information, getting responses... Will helped me a lot with negotiating with her partner to finalize the estate, as well as guiding me with probate filings. He's not always the most responsive, and his great guidance and clear explanations outweigh this. I definitely recommend Will.
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22 Dec, 2016 by Deborah
I am beyond satisfied with William Carmines. He helped me and my husband update our will, and he was thorough and competent. He made us feel at home with the whole process and answered every question we had. Very professional and polite.
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28 Sep, 2024 by Corbin granger
I cannot recommend Mr. Spirn enough. He is an incredible advocate for his clients, breaks down complicated legalese into English, and works tirelessly on behalf of his clients in every case. Thank you Mr. Spirn!
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08 Feb, 2023 by Gerard abate
Great attorney. Highly recommend him!
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07 Jan, 2023 by J k
02 Oct, 2024 by Jill whitten
I am very unhappy with my experience at JGB. They neglected to follow up on appointments and the attorney was not pleasant when I has questions about the estate documents and I ended up with a final product which is unusable for our wants.
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26 Sep, 2023 by Sandy
Jeremy Johnson was wonderful to work with. Very thorough in the entire process. Explained everything extremely well, and was very helpful and understanding in any questions I had. Highly recommend him so you can feel confident and secure in your estate plan!!
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18 Apr, 2023 by Anonymous
When my husband and I decided it was time to have our Estate Plan reviewed, we also decided it was time to look into getting a new attorney. We asked two of our dear friends who they used. They both gave us the name of Jeremy C. Johnson of Johnson, Gasink & Baxter (JGB). We decided to schedule an appointment just for a consultation. We met with Jeremy and were very impressed, not only with his knowledge but how comfortable he made us feel. He took the time needed to answer all of our questions, never making us feel rushed. His staff is just as welcoming, friendly and very capable of answering questions also. We are very thankful we listened to the advice of our friends. If you have any doubts just schedule an appointment with Jeremy and then decide.
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02 Oct, 2024 by Jill whitten
I am very unhappy with my experience at JGB. They neglected to follow up on appointments and the attorney was not pleasant when I has questions about the estate documents and I ended up with a final product which is unusable for our wants.
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18 Jan, 2024 by Kathryn
Dan Gasink is a seasoned Estate Planning attorney who embodies the perfect mix of knowledge, empathy, and skill. He was kind, focused, and helped me clarify exactly what I needed to do to put together all my estate planning documents. He and his staff were responsive to all inquiries and did an excellent job helping me finish what felt like a daunting project. Thank you Dan and JGB, LLP staff!
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31 Oct, 2023 by April m.
Dan was patient, personable, knowledgeable and thorough and has made extra effort to ensure our assets are handled properly and the way we have requested. He was referred to our family by friends and we are now the third generation to utilize his services. He is the expert and never hesitates to answer any questions we may have at any given time. We are very pleased and have no regrets in putting our trust in him.
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18 Aug, 2024 by Pamela taylor
08 May, 2024 by Patricia urso
Kyle Burcham. Wills and Trusts is experienced,Professional and affordable.I have recommended him to friends.
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31 Jan, 2024 by Nathalie
02 Oct, 2024 by Jill whitten
I am very unhappy with my experience at JGB. They neglected to follow up on appointments and the attorney was not pleasant when I has questions about the estate documents and I ended up with a final product which is unusable for our wants.
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15 Sep, 2023 by Liz howard
We recently hired Michael to do our Trust and discuss issues relating to estate planning. Michael was very patient and offered some sound advice. We were so impressed we even decided to use him as the Executor of our estate. We were lucky we got him since we just called the law office not knowing which attorney to use.
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08 Feb, 2023 by Branklin
After my husband passed I was unsure of who to help me with my finances, trust fund, and will. I was told that this company was a good place to start so I contacted them and met this wonderful man. He was very patient with me and helped with everything I needed to get done. Mike thank you so much for your help.
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29 Jul, 2024 by Howard lightfoot
Horrible
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17 Jul, 2024 by Larry davis
Mrs. Natalya, we are immensely grateful for the exceptional service provided by you and your paralegals. From the beginning you demonstrated a profound understanding of our case. Thank you for going above and beyond for our family!!
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11 Jul, 2024 by Monica daniel
My lawyer is Mrs. Natalia Dennett. Going into the process of finding a lawyer was very stressful and hard might I add. I’ve never had to deal with any of that (legal matters/court systems) in my life. Mrs. Dennett helped me throughout the way assuring that I get the best for my son. She listened to me and helped me through the way with her legal expertise. I will say that she is very kind, patient, and considerate of what’s best for the child and your needs and wants. She always made time for me whenever I reached out or needed a little more direction. Most importantly, Mrs. Dennett stayed on top of everything that I presented to her making it so much easier for me not to endure so much added stress. I highly recommend her. -De’Monica
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13 Apr, 2024 by Harley
I have known Kelli on a personal level, since 1995, she is very professional, knowadgeable, caring and sensitive to your needs. In a time in my life I needed someone, she became my friend.
her friendship turned my life around. she will always have a special place in my heart!
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01 Jan, 2018 by Daniel
I had a tangled web of things to be resolved and it was overwhelming.Kelli helped me get all my legal issues organized and methodically tackled each one.
I would highly recommend her.
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08 Nov, 2017 by Sharon
Kelli King has worked with my family for over 3 years helping us achieve our goals in getting custody of my granddaughter and also seeing thru her adoption she has been outstanding in her performance in and out of the courtroom I highly recommend her in every way to anyone that needs an outstanding professional lawyer.
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11 Oct, 2024 by Trudy quinto
I have worked with Helena Mock for years and she is a wonderful attorney. She is always knowledgeable and professional but she was also very kind and patient with my elderly mother and mother in law. She has assisted with my personal needs and helped many friends I have referred over the years. I would highly recommend The Peninsula Center for Estate and Lifelong Planning if you need advice.
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10 Oct, 2024 by Dara beaulieu
We retained TPC to draft a will for mother. They made numerous errors. Instead of fixing the errors, they fired my mother as a client. Then TPC tried to charge her nearly $500 for drafting the termination letter.
I filed a complaint with the Virginia State Bar.
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09 Aug, 2023 by Val pennington
There are no words to describe how disappointed we were with this office.
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30 Jul, 2024 by Krista rhoades-vasquez
11 Jul, 2024 by Ardert guevara
This lawyer don’t really does anything , charge and don’t fight for what really is, the mother of my child’s it’s still doing what ever she wants I been trying to get in touch with this lawyer and the office say we’ll call you back but they never do. Don’t wast your time I am really disappointed I’m going through lot making everting complicated .
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18 Jun, 2024 by Victor garrett
Mr. Freeman was beyond knowledgeable helpful and there for my case and me. Against all odds my case went well and he made sure I got the best results. Thank you sir!
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13 Aug, 2024 by Tara card
15 May, 2024 by Alexis mcloughlin
Mr. Dansby is amazing at what he does. If he's assigned to you as a public defender and you give him something to work with ,you'll be ok. Highly recommend.
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20 Mar, 2024 by Stephanie hall
Ivan is the best attorney literally EVER! Would recommend him to anyone! Listens, works hard for you, and communicates directly with you. Hands down 10/10.
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02 Oct, 2024 by Jill whitten
I am very unhappy with my experience at JGB. They neglected to follow up on appointments and the attorney was not pleasant when I has questions about the estate documents and I ended up with a final product which is unusable for our wants.
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24 Sep, 2023 by Heather
Laura helped me update my Will, Durable Power of Attorney, and Medical Directive. I'm an expat living and working abroad which can make this kind of work challenging. Laura and I had a Zoom meeting to go over the updates/changes to my documents (originally made 6 years ago). We communicated via email for follow-up. She then shipped all the documentation to my brother's home as I spent two weeks visiting family in the summer. I was able to get the documentation notarized and returned. Laura and her team were available throughout the process to answer all questions in a timely manner. I'm grateful for their work and for the ease of getting it done.
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27 Jul, 2023 by Anonymous
Laura updated our family will/estate plan. During our initial in-house consultation we needed to update/change prior information in the wills. She explained to us any potential complex issues in very simple terms that we could understand. A few weeks later, we held a very fruitful Zoom meeting to resolve any remaining questions on our part. Once again she clarified any ambiguities and properly answered all of our questions. This carried into our final face-to- face meeting in her office. She is very easy to speak with and is obviously well rounded in the Estate Planning field. We would gladly recommend Laura to others requiring Estate Planning guidance.
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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.
