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29 Oct, 2024 by Sherri roberts
I had a great experience with Yolanda during this trying time in my life. She was very patient, understanding, and very informative, even if i asked the same question several times. I would recommend this law firm every chance i get. Yolanda is very good at what she does and is definitely an asset to the firm. I am happy the case is settled but will miss communicating with her. Yolanda built my faith and trust in this whole process. I was kept inform every step of the way. Again, the firm as a great asset in Yolanda.
Thank you,
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24 Oct, 2024 by Kellee butler
I worked with ELG after being injured in a car crash. I worked closely with Pre-Litigation Case Manager, Yolanda Correa and she was absolutely wonderful. From the time of her assignment until the closure of the case she kept me up to date and in the loop. She was very accessible and quick to answer any questions or address any concerns. This was the first time I've had anything like this happen and she walked me through the process. She was able to negotiate a lower medical obligation and get me a fair settlement. I hope to never be in this position again but if so I would definitely use ELG and Ms. Correa again.
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23 Oct, 2024 by Dolla hughley
5.0
10 Reviews
5.0
224 Reviews
07 Aug, 2024 by Britt wilson
03 Jul, 2024 by Joe dono
Mike Grife did an absolute wonderful job handling our case, very professional, kept us informed every step of the way, and top notch guidance. we are very satisfied with the outcome and would highly recommend Mike Grife!
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28 May, 2024 by Matthew kauget
06 Sep, 2024 by Gemma
They were amazing helping out with my green card application and made the process super simple and smooth. They were also available anytime to address my questions. Have since recommended them!
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05 Sep, 2024 by Adam lippman
Although everyone anticipates that estate planning can be stressful and complicated, we found that working with Michael Greenfield was the best choice we could have made. His process, deep understanding of the options available, and communication style made working through this project fulfilling. Thank you, Michael!
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04 Sep, 2024 by Cherry chandra
I am incredibly satisfied with the service provided by Solomon Immigration Law. They are always on top of things—meticulous, organized, and consistently reliable. Whenever I send a package, they promptly acknowledge receipt, even on weekends, which gives me great peace of mind. Allison, my paralegal, was exceptionally thorough, making sure every detail was covered. Their dedication and attention to detail are truly amazing. I highly recommend Solomon Immigration Law for their outstanding service!
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06 Sep, 2024 by Gemma
They were amazing helping out with my green card application and made the process super simple and smooth. They were also available anytime to address my questions. Have since recommended them!
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05 Sep, 2024 by Adam lippman
Although everyone anticipates that estate planning can be stressful and complicated, we found that working with Michael Greenfield was the best choice we could have made. His process, deep understanding of the options available, and communication style made working through this project fulfilling. Thank you, Michael!
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04 Sep, 2024 by Cherry chandra
I am incredibly satisfied with the service provided by Solomon Immigration Law. They are always on top of things—meticulous, organized, and consistently reliable. Whenever I send a package, they promptly acknowledge receipt, even on weekends, which gives me great peace of mind. Allison, my paralegal, was exceptionally thorough, making sure every detail was covered. Their dedication and attention to detail are truly amazing. I highly recommend Solomon Immigration Law for their outstanding service!
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09 Sep, 2024 by Heidi stewart
I had a very good experience with Steven Sanchez of Lytal, Reiter, Smith, Ivey & Fronrath. I was personally referred to him by someone who had also had a good prior experience. He was professional at all times, and genuinely concerned for my health and well being. I felt comfortable contacting him whenever I had any questions. Thank you, Steve!
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19 Aug, 2024 by Robert romano
Our experience with Lytal REITER Smith&Fronrath was that we were well represented.They were professional and very helpful as well as reassuring.They were patient with our concerns and guided us thru many decisions that were not what we were confident with.We had never been engaged in a legal matter like this and they helped bring the matter to a successful conclusion.We appreciate their efforts on our behalf Sincerely Therese & Bob Romano
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14 Aug, 2024 by Tori whidden
28 May, 2024 by Francesca
Excellent lawyer. He navigated us through a very sticky situation. He advocated for us fiercely throughout . I highly recommend Daniel Seigel!
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27 May, 2024 by Lucia
Dan is a no nonsense and very focused attorney. He doesn’t spend time with unnecessary chatter nor extraneous case matters. He believes that facts count and he sticks to that belief. A straight shooter who gets the job done!
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18 Oct, 2023 by Dan
If you need a tough and smart litigator for any disputed or complex Will, Trust, Probate or other Estate matter in Florida, call Dan Seigel. You will be glad that you did and you won't need to call anyone else. He is knows the law, he fights hard, he protects his clients and he wins. Beyond that, he is able to compassionately convey what is the right thing for you to do based on his decades of experience in this area of the law. When it comes to protecting yourself or a loved one who has passed away and they can't speak on their own behalf but you know what they would say, let Dan be that voice. You will not be disappointed, you will be better off that he was on your side, and the other side will quickly see they are in trouble.
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23 May, 2023 by Michael
Pam is the best. She responds immediately and calls if more information is needed. She provides the best advice, looking after my best interests. She is my trust attorney forever.
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10 Mar, 2023 by Melissa
I am forever grateful for the amazing experience we had with Pam Higer-Polani. She is extremely detail oriented, offered great service and was a true professional throughout. Highly recommend
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09 Mar, 2023 by Anonymous
Extremely knowledgable, accommodating, and a pleasure to work with. Definitely trustworthy with matters at hand.
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30 Jul, 2019 by Ted
I was referred to Howard Krooks by my attorney in Massachusetts. I need assistance in probating a relatives estate in Florida. I couldn't be happier with the services I received from the entire staff. They took the time to explain the process, they provided all the documentation and always explained where we were during the entire process. I would recommend Howard and his staff to anybody who asked me about needing legal assistance.
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10 Jun, 2019 by Krissy
I have a son with special needs & I wanted to secure his future by doing a Special Needs Trust and Will. Mr. Krooks was extremely helpful in guiding me through the entire process & I now have peace of mind knowing it is done. Mr. Krooks & his associates were very knowledgeable & also showed me patience & kindness. I would highly recommend working with them.
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18 Mar, 2019 by Chuck
My mother lived in Florida and my wife and I lived over 600 miles/11 hour drive away. After she died, we feared that in order to settle her estate, we would have to make multiple trips to Florida to sign documents and make court appearances, etc. However, Mr. Krooks and his wonderful assistant, Ms. Rubin, performed their services for us by e-mail, phone and U.S. mail--not once did we have to return to Florida to settle her estate!
Very professional and courteous and we would hire him again!
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16 Sep, 2020 by Lina
I received good explanations and I had my prenuptial agreement done quickly and professionnally. The contact was easy and pleasant. Can't ask for more.
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30 Apr, 2020 by Ed k
I've been divorced 4 times. Lost huge amounts of money. I did finally learn via expensive lawyers what a good prenuptial agreement is. David did a great job including everything I knew had to be there plus additional protection for a situation I am in. Great guy....responsive...no hesitation in recommending.
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05 Jun, 2019 by Anonymous
I worked with The Deutsch Law Firm recently to prepare a prenuptial agreement for my upcoming marriage. Mr. Deutsch was responsive, attentive and professional. With his help I was able to make the right decisions to get through the uncomfortable but necessary process. I would highly recommend The Deutsch Law Firm.
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04 Apr, 2017 by Anonymous
I had a consultation with Mr. Balsom last month. Mark listened and was sympathetic towards my situation, had good answers for all of my questions, and was able to provide a strong recommendation. I would recommend Mark to anyone looking for a family law attorney in the future.
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04 Apr, 2017 by Shalev
I was looking for a family law consultant in Miami, I was referred to Mark by a business associate. Mark is very professional and knew all the legal answers to issues. His advices saved me a lot of money.
Highly recommended!!
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09 Mar, 2017 by Arianna
It has been a positive experience working with Mark Balsom! He has been very helpful working on our case. He makes it easy for us to understand all the procedures involved, we appreciate all the work and effort he put into our case. We highly recommend him.
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04 Jan, 2018 by Anonymous
I could not have been more satisfied with the professionalism and action of Drew Fein. HE did a complete financial plan, explained everything completely, without rushing and was thorough and very efficient. I would strongly recommend him
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13 Feb, 2017 by Anonymous
Attorney Fein represented my sister and I in a very difficult and challenging lawsuit. Using skillful negotiation and tactics, he successfully defended our position leading to a successful outcome and conclusion. Throughout the course of events, Attorney Fein and his staff were diligent, professional, and very responsive with respect to our question or concerns. I highly recommend Attorney Fein and his law practice.
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20 Apr, 2010 by Anonymous
Andrew Fein is brilliant. He has handled my case with the utmost efficiency. He is easy to talk to, listens to what you have to say, and is really a top notch lawyer. He has integrity and honesty and handled my case with expediency and knowledge. I cannot say enough about this great man. Anyone would be very lucky to have him represent them. He is the best!
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16 Apr, 2015 by Jackie
When my grandfather passed away it was a difficult time in my life, Mr. Walser provided my family and me excellent professional services. He is very knowledgeable about the law and showed a great deal of compassion and understanding. If you are looking for someone you can trust and has your best interest in mind at all times you need to look no further contact Mr. Walser.
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16 Apr, 2015 by Lisa
No one likes to plan for their demise. I know, I put it off for quite some time. Mr. Walser and his staff took the time to explain to me the options I had and made sure I was comfortable with all of my decisions before finalizing my estate plan. I would recommend Mr. Walser to anyone.
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15 Apr, 2015 by Daryl
One of the most settling things I did with my parents was to sit with Mr. Walser and have him explain to all of us how to prepare my parent's estate. It put both my mother and father at complete ease knowing they had someone they could trust to call should they have any questions. My dad has since passed and everything went exactly as Mr. Walser told us it would with his estate. It isn't an easy task preparing for your parent's to leave you but it doesn't have to be filled with worry if you get good advice in advance. Thank you Tom, for all you have done over the last twelve years I have known you.
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25 Nov, 2014 by Family member of a client
Carl Rosen, long time partner with Broad and Cassel, assisted my mother with her estate when my father passed away 2 years ago. He was instrumental in the execution of his will as well as the creation of a new trust. He immediately secured all assets and structured the new trust to protect these assets for my children. Mr. Rosen’s technical knowledge of the law was exemplary which proved to be a great comfort to my family. I developed the utmost respect for the manner in which Mr. Rosen conducts business. It was extremely reassuring to know that my mom was working with an attorney that not only exhibited expertise in the field, but conducted himself with integrity while demonstrating compassion and understanding. He was a pleasure to work with; the perfect combination of mastery of the law with a pleasant demeanor. My mother has since moved all of her business to Mr. Rosen
Based upon my interaction with Mr. Rosen regarding my father’s estate, I have moved my own personal business to him and his firm. I highly recommend him to anyone seeking an estate-planning attorney or an expert in wills and trusts and tax law.
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16 Oct, 2014 by Daniel
I have had the pleasure of working with Carl Rosen on a number of trust and estate / tax matters for significant corporate and individual clients. In each case, Carl demonstrated mastery of highly complex trust and estate and tax issues. He is a proactive strategist and advocate for his clients. Clients praise him for his excellent results. In addition, it is extremely efficient and easy to work with Carl. Therefore, it is not a surprise that a number of our mutual clients have been with Carl at least a decade. I highly recommend Carl Rosen for trust, estate and tax matters.
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14 Oct, 2014 by Bernice
I initially met with Mr. Rosen from Broad and Cassell when my husband passed away in 2012. I was originally working with another local estate-planning attorney but was not completely satisfied. I found myself leaving our meetings confused and with more questions than when I arrived. After meeting with Mr. Rosen, I was able to fully comprehend not only the documents we created, but the entire process as well. His knowledge of the law was extensive and he demonstrated a great deal of patience during this very difficult time in my life. He returned my phone calls and emails in a very timely manner and was accessible to me at all times. Mr. Rosen also helped coordinate correspondences between my other attorney, my accountant and my financial advisor which was a tremendous burden lifted off of my shoulders. He is an extremely knowledgeable and thorough attorney and was a pleasure to work with. My experience could not have been more positive considering the sad circumstances. I highly recommend Mr. Rosen to anyone in the market for an estate-planning attorney and would absolutely use him for all of my business in the future.
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13 Jun, 2019 by Krissy
I have a son with Autism & MD and in order to protect him I hired Elder Law to do my Will & a Special Needs Trust for my son.
Ms. Sans was extremely knowledgeable and guided me through the entire process. She was very kind and patient with me and I would highly recommend working with her and everyone at Elder Law.
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30 Nov, 2018 by Joe
Dayami helped my family with the conversion of a traditional will to a revocable trust. Thi also involved all new supporting documents. Because of the complexities with the estate, this would have otherwise been a complicated matter. Dayami helped navigate us through the process and to a successful conclusion. My family and I are very pleased with the results.
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27 Jun, 2018 by Anonymous
I inquired as to what options were available for my estate planning, the attorney was able to provide a break down of the options and walk me through the legal process.
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07 Jun, 2015 by Todd
Mr. Millhauser was extremely thorough with all of our personal and business planning needs. He helped us develop a comprehensive plan tailored to our specific needs instead of a one size fits all strategy and also helps us maintain it throughout the year. I would recommend Mr. Millhauser to anyone whether they have complex or basic planning needs.
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07 Jun, 2015 by Adam
I now have great peace of mind knowing that a professional like Mr. Milhauser has set up my family trusts, Will, etc. He is very easy to get in touch with and extremely knowledgeable. He gets an A+. Highly recommended.
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20 Mar, 2013 by David
I hired Brad for legal work related to a business in which I was becoming a new partner. Brad gave me sound advice and did an excellent job in representing me throughout the entire transaction. He was professional, responsive and an absolute pleasure to work with. I highly recommend him.
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24 Jul, 2018 by Marcia & harold
When we changed our residency from NYS to Florida it was suggested that we update our Wills, Powers of Attorney, Health Directives, etc. While we were looking to choose an attorney, Greg was recommended by a friend.
We found him to be extremely knowledgeable and very helpful as we went through the process. He knew the right questions to ask us and his suggestions were excellent. In addition he was patient as we kept going over the details and he easily answered our follow up questions. What's more he was always dependable, discreet and cooperative by getting everything done within our time limit. If all that was not enough, we found him to be very personable and have already recommended him to someone.
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05 Aug, 2008 by Anonymous
Greg is an excellent attorney and I highly recommend him.
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22 Sep, 2016 by Barbara
Pursuing a claim against our financial advisor was something we were not eager to pursue, but with the passage of time the clarity of how badly we were wronged was undeniable. We contacted an attorney who, after reviewing our case, felt the extensive experience of Mr. Zuckerbrod would best serve us. It was a long and laborious process that included a mediation designed for the two parties to come together and agree on a settlement. There was no agreement because the broker was not interested in what we would have considered a fair settlement. The next step was for a panel of FINRA arbitrators to hear the case and make a final, binding decision. The FINRA panel’s decision resulted in an unsuitable trading and negligence judgment against the broker and an award to us. The arbitration was an exhausting 9-10 day hearing. Mr. Zuckerbrod’s ability to remember details was nothing short of amazing. His background and understanding of FINRA rules was absolutely crucial to the presentation of our case. We feel very, very fortunate to have had someone of his caliber advocating on our behalf. He was always professional, supportive, and patient, and he always stressed honesty above all else. That was just more reassurance for us that we were working with the right person.
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19 May, 2015 by Jorge
I hired Todd to represent me in a case involving litigation against one of the largest companies in the planet. Todd was aggressive in litigating my case and refused to back down or be intimidated by opposing counsels. At a mediation, I was floored when I saw how Todd not only stood up for my case, but also intimidated the opposing side with his conviction and firm manner of litigating. He challenged individuals in positions of authority at FINRA and the Securities and Exchange Commission whenever they failed to follow the law. Todd fears no one! Personally, Todd is very trustworthy and professional. He didn't always tell me what I wanted to hear, but he always told me the truth. The outcome of his representation was above expectation and the giant company dropped the action against me. I strongly recommend Todd for all matters involving securities litigation, FINRA arbitration, etc.
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20 Dec, 2017 by Christine
We are so pleased with the highly efficient and thorough services provided by A. Michael Wargon. We went for a review and consult initially and decided to hire him without reservation. It turned out to be such a wise decision and now have peace of mind. He picked up on 3 very serious issues that were overlooked in our previous arrangements and he was diligent in accurately providing what we needed in our best interest. We are truly grateful for the recommendation to consult with him and so happy that we hired him for a job well-done!
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31 Oct, 2017 by Arlene
We worked with attorney A. Michael Wargon on developing our wills and trusts in accordance with Florida law and in protecting our estate from unnecessary tax burdens. He was very knowledgeable, provided clear information and was responsive to our needs and goals. I would recommend him highly.
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29 Jan, 2024 by Joshua
I had a very contentious divorce where relocation of my child out of state was in play. I retained Toni Ross to handle my case. She devoted her heart and soul into making sure that my child would remain in Florida. I felt as if she were part of my family. Needless to say there were many nerve racking days when I needed some reassurance that everything would work out. Toni Ross would ALWAYS return my calls within moments. If she was in court, she would text and tell me when she will be available. At the end of the day, not only did Ms. Ross prevent the relocation, all the other issues ended in my favor. I cannot thank her enough for what she did for myself, my child and my family. She is not only hard working, but she is extremely ethical and fair with her billing. Sincerely, Joshua H.
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25 Jan, 2024 by Alina
Toni can do it all! From family trusts, wills, POA’s, health “advocacy”, real estate, title work, LLC’s to business law. I’ve hired her for all of the above and successfully completed all these transactions.
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07 May, 2015 by Lee
When I talk with Chuck on the phone, he was open and honest, and provided me excellent direction with some preliminary questions I had. I also liked the fact that he had a tax background to help me understand the tax implications for my questions about a Trust. At no time did I feel pressured.
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05 Aug, 2017 by Mike
I recently did a closing with Racole. She is very knowledgeable and has an extremely competent and confident presentation which calms the borrowers at closing which makes for a smooth transaction. I strongly recommend Racole.
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28 Nov, 2017 by Aaron
I work with Eamonn on the sale of two properties in Probate. She is prompt, professional, and detail oriented. She always was available and did everything necessary to make the process smooth and efficient.
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23 Mar, 2015 by Anonymous
Debbie is a absolutely fantastic attorney and person.
She was very responsive and extremely knowledgeable.
I would recommend her to anyone.
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06 May, 2013 by Anonymous
He handled a PI case for me. Very calming personality and willing to work hard to get his clients the best possible outcome.
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04 Aug, 2015 by Edmund
I have used John in the past and found him to be very professional and did a good job in compromising a fair resolution. He always answered my calls and questions. I would strongly recommend him and I certainly will use him if I need legal services again in the future.
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09 Sep, 2024 by Heidi stewart
I had a very good experience with Steven Sanchez of Lytal, Reiter, Smith, Ivey & Fronrath. I was personally referred to him by someone who had also had a good prior experience. He was professional at all times, and genuinely concerned for my health and well being. I felt comfortable contacting him whenever I had any questions. Thank you, Steve!
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19 Aug, 2024 by Robert romano
Our experience with Lytal REITER Smith&Fronrath was that we were well represented.They were professional and very helpful as well as reassuring.They were patient with our concerns and guided us thru many decisions that were not what we were confident with.We had never been engaged in a legal matter like this and they helped bring the matter to a successful conclusion.We appreciate their efforts on our behalf Sincerely Therese & Bob Romano
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14 Aug, 2024 by Tori whidden
21 Aug, 2024 by Anonymous
I had the pleasure of working with Alina, and I couldn't be more satisfied with the service provided. From the start, she was incredibly attentive, knowledgeable, and professional. She took the time to thoroughly understand my case and provided clear, expert guidance every step of the way. Communication was always prompt, and I felt confident knowing that my legal matters were in capable hands.
Thanks to her expertise, the process was smooth and successful. I highly recommend Alina to anyone in need of legal representation.
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21 Aug, 2024 by Johanna
Alina is a very professional lawyer. She helped us with important documents and she took the necessary time to explain the meaning of the documents. I liked her values and moral in all aspects.
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21 Aug, 2024 by Courtney v.
Alina was very patient listening to our concerns. She presented solutions and followed through on every item expeditiously. Alina was always accessible, and always the professional yet personable. We would definitely refer her to our friends.
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06 Sep, 2024 by Gemma
They were amazing helping out with my green card application and made the process super simple and smooth. They were also available anytime to address my questions. Have since recommended them!
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05 Sep, 2024 by Adam lippman
Although everyone anticipates that estate planning can be stressful and complicated, we found that working with Michael Greenfield was the best choice we could have made. His process, deep understanding of the options available, and communication style made working through this project fulfilling. Thank you, Michael!
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04 Sep, 2024 by Cherry chandra
I am incredibly satisfied with the service provided by Solomon Immigration Law. They are always on top of things—meticulous, organized, and consistently reliable. Whenever I send a package, they promptly acknowledge receipt, even on weekends, which gives me great peace of mind. Allison, my paralegal, was exceptionally thorough, making sure every detail was covered. Their dedication and attention to detail are truly amazing. I highly recommend Solomon Immigration Law for their outstanding service!
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28 Oct, 2019 by Donna
I contacted Ellen at the suggestion of two different attorney friends when Hospice recommended I seek guardianship of my mother due to interference from a sibling. Ellen handled the guardianship quickly and effectively administratively, but more important, she was highly responsive every time I called or e-mailed her with a question or issue. She always made time for me and responded with both kindness and professionalism. I was so pleased with her work, my husband and I plan to use her to do our estate planning as well.
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09 May, 2019 by Stace katzman
Ellen was very helpful with my brother’s situation of disability
She spent time with me and gave me valuable resources to assist his needs.she is very caring and treated my case individually.
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25 Nov, 2018 by Alan
I met Ellen Morris in 2005 after wasting a lot of time and money with another lawyer who said he was an elder law lawyer but actually was a general practitioner with a subspecialty in elder law.
Within a short time Ellen developed a new and proper plan and put it in place.
Since 2005 I have referred approximately six other clients who all were completely satisfied with her work and thanked me for the referral. My referrals also referred their friends and again everyone was completely satisfied.
Ellen is a consummate professional. She is efficient, she knows her business, and she returns phone calls in a timely manner.
I highly recommend her. You will be happy with her service.
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29 Aug, 2024 by Phil ricciardi
Bruce Silver BY FAR exceeds expectations. He is the most driven person you could ever meet. He does not stop when it’s not easy, he goes harder because Bruce is about doing what is right. No stone is left unturned. Bruce then reaches out to you, himself, to update you because he cares. You can use another lawyer and just be a number or you can call Bruce and get results.
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28 Aug, 2024 by Trev r
Need a lawyer? Look no further!!!
My fiancee and I were rear ended on I-95, the other driver traveling in excess of 85 mph. Police showed up and placed the other driver at fault for the accident. My fiancee and I were blessed to escape with relatively minor injuries, but still aching and in pain. Bruce was recommended to me from a friend of mine and I couldn’t be happier with the results. Bruce did the grunt work and got us 100 times more than we ever expected. He’s always available and just a phone call away, honest and professional throughout the whole process. If you’re injured and need a lawyer, look no further, Bruce is the man for the job!
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25 Aug, 2024 by Designer versa
I have had a great experience with this law firm, they treated me like family and I was very satisfy with them helping me with my case. Overall if you’re looking for a trustworthy law firm that’s considerate and gets down to business, then Bruce and his team is your guy.
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FAQs
Questions? We have answers
What a Trusts Lawyer Can Do for You
A trusts lawyer specializes in creating and managing trusts, which are legal entities that allow individuals to transfer assets to beneficiaries while maintaining control over how and when those assets are distributed. Trusts are used for estate planning, asset protection, tax planning, and ensuring the financial security of loved ones. Trusts lawyers help clients choose the right type of trust for their needs, draft trust documents, and advise on the administration and management of trusts.
Whether you're planning to pass on your assets to your heirs, protect your wealth from creditors, or provide for a disabled family member, a trusts lawyer can help you establish a trust that meets your financial and personal goals.
When Should I Hire a Trusts Lawyer?
You should consider hiring a trusts lawyer in various situations, particularly when you're planning for the future distribution of your assets or protecting your wealth. Common reasons to hire a trusts lawyer include:
- Estate planning: If you want to ensure that your assets are distributed according to your wishes, a lawyer can help you create a revocable or irrevocable trust to avoid probate and provide for your heirs.
- Asset protection: If you want to protect your assets from creditors, lawsuits, or potential future liabilities, a lawyer can help you establish a trust to shield your wealth.
- Special needs planning: If you have a disabled family member, a lawyer can create a special needs trust to provide for their care without affecting their eligibility for government benefits.
- Tax planning: If you're looking to minimize estate taxes or manage tax liabilities, a lawyer can help you create tax-advantageous trusts, such as a credit shelter trust or charitable remainder trust.
- Charitable giving: If you want to leave a legacy through charitable donations, a lawyer can help you set up a charitable trust to ensure your donations are managed according to your wishes.
- Business succession planning: If you own a business and want to ensure a smooth transition of ownership, a lawyer can help you establish a trust to pass the business on to your heirs or chosen successors.
Hiring a trusts lawyer early in the estate planning process ensures that your assets are protected and your wishes are clearly documented, reducing the chances of disputes after your death.
What Does a Trusts Lawyer Do?
A trusts lawyer provides a variety of legal services to help individuals create, manage, and administer trusts. Their responsibilities often include:
- Drafting trust documents: Preparing the legal documents needed to create the trust, ensuring it is tailored to your specific goals and complies with state and federal laws.
- Choosing the right type of trust: Assisting clients in selecting the most appropriate type of trust for their needs, whether it's a revocable trust, irrevocable trust, living trust, or special needs trust.
- Trust administration: Guiding trustees through their legal responsibilities, including managing assets, making distributions to beneficiaries, and filing tax returns.
- Modifying or terminating trusts: Helping modify or terminate trusts if circumstances change, such as changes in tax laws, family situations, or personal preferences.
- Protecting beneficiaries' interests: Structuring trusts to protect the interests of beneficiaries, especially if there are concerns about financial management, disability, or dependency issues.
- Minimizing estate taxes: Assisting clients in structuring their trusts to minimize or avoid estate taxes, ensuring more of the estate passes to beneficiaries.
- Handling disputes: Mediating or representing clients in court if disputes arise among beneficiaries or between trustees and beneficiaries.
How Are Trusts Lawyers Paid?
Trusts lawyers typically charge for their services based on the complexity of the trust and the type of legal work involved. Common payment methods include:
- Flat fee: For drafting basic trusts, such as revocable living trusts or special needs trusts, many lawyers charge a flat fee. This can range from $1,000 to $5,000 or more, depending on the complexity of the trust.
- Hourly rate: For more complex trust planning, ongoing trust administration, or resolving disputes, some lawyers charge by the hour. Hourly rates typically range from $150 to $500 or more, depending on the lawyer’s experience and location.
- Retainer: For long-term trust administration or complex estate planning cases, some lawyers may require a retainer, an upfront payment that covers ongoing services.
- Contingency fee (rare): In rare cases, particularly in disputes involving the administration of a trust, lawyers may work on a contingency fee basis, getting paid only if they successfully recover funds or resolve a legal dispute in your favor.
Always discuss the fee structure with your lawyer during the initial consultation to understand the total cost of services.
How Much Does a Trusts Lawyer Cost?
The cost of hiring a trusts lawyer depends on the complexity of the trust, the lawyer’s experience, and the fee structure. General cost estimates include:
- Basic trust creation: For simple trusts, such as revocable living trusts, fees may range from $1,000 to $3,000.
- Complex trust creation: For sophisticated estate plans involving multiple trusts, tax planning strategies, or special needs considerations, legal fees may range from $5,000 to $10,000 or more.
- Trust administration: If you are serving as a trustee and need ongoing legal advice, hourly rates for trust administration can range from $150 to $500 or more.
- Dispute resolution: Costs for litigation or mediation in trust disputes may range from $5,000 to $50,000 or more, depending on the complexity of the case.
Be sure to get a detailed cost estimate from your lawyer during the consultation to ensure the services fit within your budget.
Top Questions to Ask a Trusts Lawyer
Before hiring a trusts lawyer, consider asking the following questions:
-
What experience do you have with creating trusts?
Ensure the lawyer has experience drafting trusts and managing trust administration for clients with similar goals or asset structures. -
What types of trusts do you recommend for my situation?
Ask the lawyer to explain the different types of trusts available and which ones best suit your needs. -
How do you charge for your services?
Clarify the fee structure and request an estimate of the total cost. -
What are the tax implications of the trust?
Ensure the lawyer can explain how the trust will affect your taxes and strategies to minimize tax liability. -
How long will it take to set up the trust?
Ask for a timeline for creating and finalizing the trust documents. -
Will you handle the trust administration?
If ongoing management is required, inquire whether the lawyer will assist with trust administration or if you'll need a separate trustee. -
Can you help resolve disputes if they arise?
Ask about the lawyer's experience in resolving trust disputes.
How to Check the Credibility of a Trusts Lawyer
To ensure you are hiring a reputable trusts lawyer, take the following steps:
- Verify their bar status: Check with your state bar association to confirm the lawyer is licensed and has no disciplinary actions.
- Look for trust law experience: Review their website or professional profile to ensure they specialize in estate planning and trusts.
- Read client reviews and testimonials: Look for feedback on platforms like Avvo, Martindale-Hubbell, or Google.
- Ask for references: Request references from past clients who can speak to their experience with the lawyer.
- Check for certifications: Look for certifications such as Certified Estate Planning Law Specialist (EPLS) or memberships in organizations like the American Academy of Estate Planning Attorneys (AAEPA).
What Should I Prepare for My First Consultation?
To make the most of your first consultation with a trusts lawyer, bring the following:
- List of assets: Prepare a list of all your assets, including real estate, bank accounts, investments, retirement accounts, and personal property.
- List of beneficiaries: Provide names and contact information of individuals or organizations you want to name as beneficiaries.
- Existing estate planning documents: Bring copies of any existing wills, trusts, or other estate planning documents.
- Financial information: Bring financial statements, tax returns, and other relevant financial documentation.
- Questions for the lawyer: Prepare a list of questions about the trust creation process, fees, and how the trust will protect your assets and beneficiaries.
- Goals for the trust: Clearly outline your objectives, such as asset protection, tax minimization, or provisions for beneficiaries, so the lawyer can tailor the trust to your needs.
By preparing thoroughly for your consultation, you can help the lawyer assess your situation effectively and receive the best possible legal advice for creating and managing your trust.
