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5.0
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5.0
127 Reviews
20 Jan, 2025 by Ludmila petrova
Irina helped us a lot with the sale of our property. She was always in touch, answered questions quickly, and quickly resolved the closing of the contract. We recommend her to everyone.
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27 Oct, 2024 by Anna malinskaya
I called several attorneys during my search to represent me at closing for a family coop transfer. Irene stood out as very knowledgeable, knowing all the ins & outs of the process & providing quick answers to all of my question. Her fee was also the most reasonable of all. If you are buying or selling a coop apartment in Brooklyn Irene is the attorney you need. I already did my search!
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28 Sep, 2024 by Partha chowdhury
Irene helped us with the joint purchase of two adjoining co-op apartments in Brooklyn recently for us and our son. We chose her based on our internet search for real estate lawyers in the area, as all her reviews were uniformly excellent. And we wholeheartedly concur. Beyond just being super-efficient throughout in helping us navigate clunky big bank loan department bureaucracies and paperwork, she went out of her way to calmly help us with our own last minute fund transfer emergencies on the closing date itself to ensure a smooth process. We would absolutely go to her for future needs and recommend her in the strongest of terms.
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5.0
22 Reviews
5.0
17 Reviews
16 Nov, 2024 by Anonymous
Pinni Bohm is not just an attorney; he's a beacon of professionalism and empathy in the often daunting world of estate planning and probate. Meeting Pinni Bohm changed not only how I viewed legal services but also how I felt about securing my family's future. His blend of legal acumen, heartfelt service, and dedication makes him stand out. He's not just building estates; he's building trust and peace of mind. If you're looking for someone who will truly care about your estate situation as if it were his own, Pinni Bohm is the estate attorney you need. He was for me.
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12 Nov, 2024 by Andrea doria kale
My experience with Mr. Bohm has been superb. I first came to know him the summer of 2019 when he handled my long time partner's probate when his brother passed away. He took over from another attorney and handled everything professionally and compassionately including the sale of the home in Brooklyn. My partner and I retained my Bohm for our estate planning. He did a will and Trust for me. I again needed his services when I discovered in 2022 money in NY State unclaimed funds. My mother had passed away in 1990 and this was hers. It took two years with many twists and turns but I finally was appointed as fiduciary over my mother’s small estate in February. Pinni also seamlessly represented me in the sale of my New York home in June of 2022. The story is not over yet and Pinni has been there for me every step of the way. His knowledge and expertise in all these areas far exceeds any other attorney that practices in these areas I have ever known. He is patient and explains everything thoroughly when you ask questions. I highly recommend him.
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03 Sep, 2024 by Mark
Mr. Bohm exceeded all expectations during this difficult time. He navigated the course system to expedited the paperwork needed to settle the estate. if needed in the future, I would not hesitate to call on him again. His professionalism and compassion during this difficult time was very much appreciated
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20 Dec, 2024 by Lyudmila kirova
Amazing lawyer very friendly
Very happy with her services will recommend to anyone who needs a trust.
Helped me and my family
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02 Dec, 2024 by Nathalie fairbanks
01 Dec, 2024 by Mikhail lioznov
I am very happy to have come to this law office as per federal from my son. Inna is amazing trust and will lawyer who helps clients all over Brooklyn and New York. She helped me to set up living will, healthcare proxy and Power of Attorney in NY. Her office assistant is very nice and very kind as well. Wonderful office
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04 Apr, 2024 by Daniel pino
01 Mar, 2024 by Darlene bonsignore
Would recommend for estate planning. Accessable, good lawyers, always knowledgeable
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23 Dec, 2022 by Jonathan harris
My experience was extremely positive. Giovanni and his team helped me to handle all of my mother’s affairs. He advised me when she was still alive from dealing with the LTC Facility to all the steps that needed to be done in preparation for our death, to now getting all the necessary paperwork in order. Giovanni and his team have gone above and beyond my expectations and helped me through a very difficult time. I know my mother would have been happy and pleased. I would highly recommend Silvagni & Como.
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30 Jan, 2025 by Steven lerner
Gary was very professional, very knowledgeable for what we needed to get done, and very quick to respond when we had questions and concerns. He gets the job done.
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24 Jan, 2025 by Elliot holceker
I hired the Gary Melamed Law Firm to sell my mother's apartment in Brooklyn, New York. Initially, when I met Gary, I wasn't even considering listing the apartment for sale. However, after sitting down with him and listening to his insights, my wife and I were so impressed that I signed the contract with him that very
I also engaged Gary to secure Letters of Administration for my mother's estate. This was a significant advantage as it meant I did not have to hire two separate lawyers.
Gary is highly knowledgeable and very easy to work with. I highly recommend him.
Elliot
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23 Jan, 2025 by Jacob steingart
Vaysbaum & Kazakevich law firm helped us get through our closing and literally worked around the clock with us to get the necessary paperwork to close the sale. Their staff is amazing, knowledgeable and available when needed. I had a positive experience and will recommend to my family and friends. thank you for all your hard work!
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14 Jan, 2025 by Jennifer haggerty
I don’t know where I’d be without Gordon Law, P.C. They saved me during one of the hardest times of my life. My divorce was messy, and I was scared I’d lose everything. But Steven fought for me like no one else could. He was relentless in court and made sure I got what I deserved. It wasn’t just about winning—it was about making sure I was okay. I’ll never forget how hard they worked for me. If you need a lawyer who truly cares, this is the place to go.
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09 Jan, 2025 by Klara whitacre
I was very satisfied with the team of family law attorneys at Gordon Law. Alex was responsible and hard working and was great handling my child custody and support case.
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06 Jan, 2025 by Claudio parrott
Mr. Gordon at Gordon Law, P.C. helped me so much with my parents' uncontested divorce! He explained everything clearly and was really nice. I felt much better after talking to him. Thank you!
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03 Dec, 2024 by Mike coyne
Great staff ! Zoe Freireich and Dawn Bidetti were super. Very knowledgeable !
Trusts and Wills are complicated . You need the experts like these guys to get it right .
Pauline Yueng-Ha leads a great group !
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19 Nov, 2024 by Henry
Scheduled an appointment/consultation regarding Trust. On the day of the appointment no contact. Called the office to find out that they tried to call me last week to reschedule. Did not receive any calls nor voicemail from them. Asked if there is an available time for the week or following week. None. Thanks for wasting my time and being "reasonable" on reschedule
Edit 19Nov24: Wish I would've known about that when discussing with the operator. However when calling the office twice. There was no mention of intake form and questionnaire
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11 Feb, 2024 by Larry chan
Ms. Yeung and staff were exceptionally responsive to all of our questions and concerns.
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02 Dec, 2024 by Daryl
Will is very knowledgeable about Brooklyn real estate. He made the buying process easy and fast for this out-of-town buyer.
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01 Dec, 2024 by Anonymous
Extremely thorough patient. Great personality, making clients relaxed. I very rarely recommend any business. Any individual I do recommend Will.
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01 Dec, 2024 by Nick
We hired Will Gillen as we were selling our coop in Bay Ridge, and had a wonderful experience with him and his associate, Christina Fratangelo. We interviewed 4 attorney’s and knew right away we wanted to retain Will. He was quick to respond (available by phone, text, email), answered all of our questions, and when we ran into some delays on our buyers side, Will stepped in to make sure we had a smooth closing.
I would definitely recommend Will Gillen!
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16 Aug, 2024 by Brian
I HIGHLY recommend Judy Mock for your estate planning needs.
Judy is highly efficient, communicative, and detail oriented. She's super-intense about the process and everything that you'll need to do on your end, but that's what you want in a lawyer, right?!
She made the whole process so easy, and sent us home with all of our documents in a cute and easy to locate estate planning file.
Her pricing is completely transparent and you know what you're getting into. Judy never tried to upsell us on services that we didn't need and explained the processes so well.
Now, the only thing left for us to do is die!
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11 Aug, 2024 by Kevin
I am a first time home buyer and I was lucky enough to have been able to work with Judy. The process was extremely easy and almost no work was needed on my part. Judy explained everything she was doing and what was happening throughout the home buying process.
Overall when I buy my next property I would be looking for Judy again.
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29 Jul, 2024 by Anonymous
Judy took the time to fully explain all of the aspects of our case. While it may not have been what we wanted to hear, it was all facts and what we needed to hear! 100% recommend.
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08 Aug, 2024 by Eve
I expected stuffy; found a relaxed environment. The attorney was professional but relaxed. The paralegal was efficient and knowledgeable.
The matter at hand was disposed of in record time
I highly recommend this firm.
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27 Feb, 2024 by David
Thorough, professional, responsive, and efficient. Ted explained everything to me along the way and was respectful and pleasant to work with
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25 Feb, 2024 by Andy
Helpful good work done peace of mind for me and my family thank you for his advice save a lot trouble in the future
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30 May, 2019 by Alexander
Leo’s knowledge of all aspects of multiple branches of law are very impressive. He helped our family with creating a trust that will protect family’s wealth. Highly recommend!
Thank you, Leo!
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18 Feb, 2019 by Anonymous
I had a consultation with Leo about parents. He is very knowledgeable in the field and gave me good solid advice regarding my invention. I highly recommend him for all patent issues.
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26 Sep, 2018 by Anonymous
I am a long time seller on Amazon, and needed an attorney to help me protect my brand from being infringed on by other companies, who are copying my product. I researched online for an attorney who is local in Brooklyn, and also experienced in trademarks and brand protection, and is a registered patent attorney with uspto. I came across Leo Mikityanskiy, who has an impressive resume and a long list of accomplishments. He is Electrical Engineer (which to me means that he understand my line of business and product), and a USPTO attorney. He worked in big law, and has many years of experience working with business owners, trademarking, and patent law.
I scheduled an appointment for a consultation with him, and I have to say that he was extremely professional and knowledgeable. He took time to listen to my concerns, and already had a plan of action that we needed to take against the company that was infringing on my brand. I am very satisfied with the outcome of this matter, and will be using Leos services for brand protection, and my trademarking need. Thanks again Leo Mikityanskiy.
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09 Jul, 2021 by Ann
I found Yeva online, without any references. I am very happy I chose her as my lawyer. She is very professional, knowledgeable, and I was not disappointed with her rates as well - she did not overcharge me, which I greatly appreciate. My husband said that his lawyer had commented that the document Yeva put together for us was done very thoroughly too. Yeva was not only helpful professionally, but also provided me emotional support during my separation process. I highly recommend her.
I highly recommend her.
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07 Jun, 2020 by Vadim
Yeva was recommended to me by one of her previous clients, that was very satisfied with her service for a civil court case.
Being a business owner, seen other lawyers before. Yeva is the most knowledgeable, professional, and responsible lawyer I've ever seen.
Will highly recommend her to anyone who needs legal help for civil matters.
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01 Jun, 2020 by Mp
After consulting many attorneys decided to work with Yeva Rakhamimova. She is very knowledgeable, attentive and professional.
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07 Jan, 2020 by Vadim
Me and my wife needed a legal help for our estate planning purposes. So we have decided to choose Marianna Schwartsman at Schwartsman Law Group. She did what we needed and did it very professionally. She have answered all the questions we asked.
Plus she was very nice and friendly with. We are very happy with this firm. Would recommend to our friends. Thank you.
Vadim
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06 Jan, 2020 by Collin morgan
I had the pleasure of working with Marianna after the death of my mom. It was a difficult time, and I appreciated Marianna’s thoughtful counsel and excellent guidance throughout that period. The entire process went very smoothly. Each step along the way was clearly explained. Recommend!
I had the pleasure of working with Marianna after the death of my mom. It was a difficult time, and I appreciated Marianna’s thoughtful counsel and excellent guidance throughout that period. The entire process went very smoothly. Each step along the way was clearly explained. Recommend!
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30 Dec, 2019 by Damian greer
Marianna Schwartsman was great to work with. She helped us feel comfortable understanding the different options. She also made sure we were taken care of. She responded very quickly and was always available when we had questions
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26 Dec, 2023 by Izabella
Our experience with Irena – she’s a gem in the legal world! From day one, Irena impressed us with how professional she is. She's not just any lawyer; she really knows her stuff. What really struck me was how she always had everything done right on time. In the legal world, where things can drag on, that's a big deal!
If you’re looking for someone who’s going to be on your side and make sure everything's handled perfectly, Irena’s your person. We are super grateful for her help and honestly, I’d recommend her to anyone in a heartbeat!
Thanks a lot again.
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08 Mar, 2023 by Natalia
highly recommended! professional
helped me figure it out.
nice woman, very attentive and smart
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25 Aug, 2022 by Natalya
Hired Irena for my dual-State LLC registration and ongoing business-related services. Couldn’t be happier with her diligence, professionalism and expertise. Would definitely recommend to anyone looking for an exceptional attorney.
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09 Jan, 2025 by Daryth
Michael and Gennady were both extremely helpful during a rough time while navigating some of the challenges of my relative's estate. Michael is very knowledgable about the estate planning process, and handled our situation very professionally. Would recommend.
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29 Aug, 2023 by Sean
Bankruptcy is a scary and depressing situation. Mr. Kanzer and his associate Gernaldi walk you right through it. They have been doing this a long time. They help you out all the way through. They always get back to yo promptly.
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29 Aug, 2023 by Anonymous
Excellent service, Mr Kanzer and Mr Gennady delivered the service that they promised.
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08 May, 2019 by Lisa
Renata Landskind has been my family counsel for just about 17 years. When I first met Renata, she was handling a lawsuit for my great aunt. Since that time Renata was always my go-to attorney in any of my legal matters. She is consistently knowledgeable, professional, pleasant, kind, patient, responsive, trustworthy, intelligent and sharp. Renata will without question look after your best interest.
For 17 years I have reached out to Renata with professional matters and personal family matters. I have referred clients, family members and friends to her for legal representation. I have never once been disappointed in the feedback I received. She takes nothing lightly and whatever is important to you is essential to her.
I say this with full confidence that Renata Landskind is one of the best in her field. I consider her an asset in my circle and in the community she represents. If you decide to retain Renata, you will surely have an accomplished, competent and talented attorney in your life.
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26 Apr, 2019 by Mike
I would like to add to add to the many positive reviews of Renata Landskind. We recently used her firm for a real estate closing of my mothers' home in Brooklyn. She was the ultimate professional. She advised on legal issues as well as tax and obviously real estate issues . She was very attentive to our concerns and utilized emails, text and phone to keep us informed of the negotiations. Most importantly, her experience and advice proved invaluable in our negotiations with the buyer.The closing could not have been any easier due to her preparation and negotiation skills . I highly recommend her firm to all. Mike
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14 Feb, 2019 by Juliana
I first used Renata’s services some 15 years ago to prepare my will and some other related documents. More recently, I hired Renata’s services to prepare my family’s Estate Planning documents. The entire process was a stress-free experience. Simply put, Renata never disappoints. She is knowledgeable, courteous, accessible and responsive to all our needs – even making a house-call when my husband was unable to travel. I have, and continue to recommend her to my extended family members as well as neighbors and friends.
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17 Nov, 2016 by Anonymous
I reached out to Yana with a question about the optimal ownership status of a house for tax filing purposes after a divorce. She asked clear questions that got to the heart of the matter and helped me see the way forward (which didn't require an attorney). However, when I do need to hire someone down the road, I will most certainly start with her.
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20 Jun, 2016 by Marina
If you are looking for a knowledgeable, highly professional and dedicated attorney specializing in Trusts and Estates, look no further. Yana Pechersky has all of those qualities and so much more. She is very personable and puts in effort and time to represent your best interests. I highly recommend her services.
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09 Sep, 2014 by Robert
Yana listened to my concerns about how best to construct the last will and testment for my worldly estate and assets, especially considering the protection I wanted to afford to my children. She also considered that I didn't want them to experience division and bitterness over my worldly legacy once I was gone. Yana also listened to my concerns about my own healthcare and what I'd want my health proxies to do. She crafted documents that addressed all these concerns, and more that I hadn't even considered.
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03 Mar, 2015 by Philip
Ms. Latkovskaia has demonstrated many times her professional expertise and competence in matters I have referred for her. She has offered excellent advice, produced top quality work and the feedback to me from those referrals was routinely excellent. I have worked cases together with her and the same results were achieved. She doesn't delay work. She responds to interrogatories promptly and treats both clients and peers in a a professional manner.
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03 Mar, 2015 by Ari
I asked Anna Latkovskaia for advice regarding home care situation for my mother-in-law. She responded quickly, read all relevant documents and gave me very good advice. As a result, we choose a proper managed care option for my mother-in-law.
Anna Latkovskaia is a very professional and experienced attorney. She helped my family Big time!
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10 Jan, 2014 by Anonymous
I went to Ms. Latkovskaia to have my will done. I don't like or trust lawyers in general and have had bad experiences in the past. This experience was completely different. Our consultation was lengthy, friendly and informative. I had not committed to paying her anything but she treated me like I was a VALUED client, even though I had just met her that day. I ended up not only getting my will done but I brought in my wife and got her's too. And at a later time we had a trust creatived to protect our assets and our children's future. I still call Ms. Latkovskaia from time to time for advise. She has always been prompt, professional and someone who tells me the truth, NOT just what I want to hear. I have found that a rare trait in today's society. I have recommended Ms Latkovskaia to both other family members, friends and even co-workers.
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26 Jan, 2016 by Phyllis
Michael Kaplan is more than just a professional; he is a kind, caring person who will always be there for you. The friends I have recommended said that it is the first time they ever left an attorney's office understanding and remembering what was said. He is very much appreciated.
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09 Aug, 2012 by Stacy
I have mutual clients with Mr. Kaplan and they are all very pleased with the service that he provides. I plan on using him myself for my Estate and Trust needs.
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09 Aug, 2012 by Jeffrey r. miller, esq.
Michale has a leadership role in a community organization in which I am involved. Michael works tirelessly to both innovate and inspire the organization. He can be counted on to listen to the group's needs and then make sure those needs are met. These skills make him a great lawyer - and a great leader.
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19 Apr, 2016 by J. h.
Mr. Gray saved the day! I recently hired Peter Gray to overturn a fraudulent deed that was filed against my property in Brooklyn. He swiftly filed all of the necessary documents in supreme court, argued my case and WON. Fraudulent deed overturned and the thief that filed the deed is now in jail. GREAT JOB!!!! Mr. Gray went above and beyond the call of duty. Outstanding attorney and great guy to deal with. I've since referred him to a number of friends and business associates. They've all had similar results.
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16 Apr, 2016 by John
Pete was able to handle the issues presented to him in a timely and efficent manner. His thoroughness and attention to detail and ability to handle a difficicult situation stand him well above any other attorney I have ever known. I don't know what we would have done without him.
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19 Oct, 2022 by Jennifer mundo
Excellent lawyer made for the job. He is professional and always gets back to you when he says he will. He is never afraid to speak up for his clients and is very patient. Approachable and never cut dry or dismissive. More lawyers need to be like him!
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15 Oct, 2015 by Anonymous
Excellent attorney, well versed, highly professional. Very satisfied with his work and negotiations in my case. Would recommend to others. Should really branch out on his own.
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25 Sep, 2023 by Piki piki
One of the things I like about Mark is his ability to provide sound and practical insights about legal issues. He is extremely resourceful and knowledgeable. His duty of care to clients goes beyond the formal requirements- but he shows empathy and understanding of client’s needs. Lastly, Mark is simply a kind human being.
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27 Aug, 2023 by B. bryson-weir
I had a unique and extremely complicated issue, Mark took care if it with good humor and wisdom. He succeeded where I did not think it was possible. Thank you thank you.
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01 Jan, 2022 by Joseph k
23 Jan, 2025 by Aide audrey
The selection of Mr. Morgan as an attorney was a wonderful choice! Throughout the course of our interactions, it was abundantly clear that he possessed an extensive legal experience and an unambiguous comprehension of the law. In the event that I had any questions, he promptly responded with explanations that I was able to comprehend without much difficulty. As someone who is dealing with commercial difficulties or who requires services relating to trust litigation, I would strongly suggest Mr. Morgan to anyone who is in need of such services.
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19 Dec, 2024 by Ekaterina sukhina
I had the pleasure of working with Rusell Morgan at Morgan Legal Group to set up my family's estate plan, including wills and trusts. Rusell’s professionalism and attention to detail made the process stress-free and straightforward. He explained complex legal concepts in a way I could easily understand and tailored everything to meet my needs. I feel so much more secure about the future now. If you’re looking for estate planning services in NYC, Rusell is the attorney to trust!
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27 Nov, 2024 by Jeffery renard allen
Mr. Gershon, is an excellent lawyer. Thoughtful and concerned, he gives your case his full attention. He knows the law in and out, and he is always honest and forthright, even as he develops a strategy to win. I give him my highest recommendation.
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06 Jun, 2017 by Morgan
I would highly recommend ShoshanA Brenenson she is very professional and makes you fully understand the process I am going to recommend her to all of my friends and family.
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28 Feb, 2017 by Jacob
Shoshana Brenenson was hired by our family to execute a will and trust for the estate of my brother which she did in a most professional manner.I would recommend her for anyone that"s looking for an excellent attorney for estate planning.
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10 May, 2016 by Diac
As the executor of my uncle's will, I would have been swamped except for Attorney Shoshana Brenenson. She managed the process, including probate, with diligence, skill and efficiency. She communicated with family members effectively and with grace and diplomacy. I am very happy that Shoshana handled my case.
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20 May, 2017 by Melanie
Richard Bonfiglio has been my divorce case lawyer for almost 7 years. He is genuinely skilled in the practice and never miss the opportunity to educate me about the law. On trial, he circumvented his opponent without an inch of attitude in order to gain respect and agreement from judge. Capable of quickly process large volumes of information due to solid professional knowledge and calm attitude, Richard is also blessed with excellent math, writing and memory skills. During the course of the trial, the judge noted Richard's unusually modest fees request, to which this lawyer answer was : "I can work by myself, no need for extras ". Richard Bonfiglio is now happily retired and lives in a peaceful country environment with his family. I am glad that I could leave this review today
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15 Sep, 2010 by June
This is an attorney who truly cares about the client. Extremely professional, knowledgeable, great attention to detail and gives 100% to the client. I am very proud to have been represented by Susan during my recent home purchase. Not to mention her staff Sara who is also capable and knowledgeable. I am confident in saying that the fees paid to Susan was worth every penny. Good Job.
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27 Dec, 2010 by Will
I was in dire straits when I was directed to Mr. Kopito I met with him explained my situation. He gave me his direct opinion of the case, asked if I was in for the long haul. And he stuck with it for four long years. We won that case thanks to knowlege of the probate system. I hope I never need him again but I would not hesitate to call.
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01 Feb, 2025 by Lisa compe
He service was prompt, professional and achieved very positive results. I would highly recommend him to anyone in need of representation.
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25 Jan, 2025 by Michael
I have known Peter since law school. He is an extremely competent trial attorney who is not afraid to take a case to verdict.
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24 Jan, 2025 by Jose baez
Peter Kolp and his team at Kolplaw are exceptional attorneys. Whether you have been injured by a car or are the victim of medical malpractice they stop at nothing to get you the compensation you deserve. Without question, they are second to none!
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07 May, 2023 by Kirabear
I needed to obtain a professional .But after documents were found on this so called 5 star attorney I must warn the public. I can be sure that he will remove this asap.But then you can see him on you tube, and Facebook.He to say the least is not a credible person especially his desires to like young girls and pursue them.5 stars he created on his own.
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25 May, 2021 by Barbara
Mark Friedman sifted through the fluff and got down to no nonsense legal issues I had confronted with my siblings. He helped me be awarded letters of Administration in court despite challenges from foes of equal strength. I was able to control the case with his guidance and keep the estate safe from harm. Although he did most of the heavy lifting, I got paid as an administrator a tidy sum. Thank you!
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28 Jul, 2016 by Stephanie
Mr. Friedman helped me put my sisters Estate in order. He helped me get family members to cooperate and helped solve so many issues that faced my sisters Estate, left which unsolved by a prior attorney. His fees were not cheap but worth it based on results. He had a friendly demeanor in the courtroom (I think the judges like him) and aura when I met him for the first consult I knew I found my attorney. I was just hoping I could afford his expertise ! He seems flexible with payments and is very fair.
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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:
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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.
