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Patrick Terence McGuire, experienced Business, Estate Planning attorney in Buffalo, NY with 148 reviews
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42,96
star star star star star
4.8/5
Avvo
5.0
7 Reviews
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4.8
141 Reviews
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16 Feb, 2025 by Willie holton
I want to express my gratitude for my attorney, Eric. He is always available, personable, and ensures everything is handled in a timely manner with great follow-up. I truly appreciate his dedication and professionalism. Plus, I love that they are local! Thank you for your excellent service.
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18 Dec, 2024 by Daveisha hunter
The best law firm
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09 Dec, 2024 by Michael kinsley
The firm was very timely with any questions that I had regarding my case.Very personable and informative 👍. Would recommend them to anyone.
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Jessica Michelle Peraza, experienced Elder Law, Estate Planning attorney in Buffalo, NY with 31 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
42,69
star star star star star
4.8/5
Avvo
5.0
2 Reviews
Google Maps
4.8
29 Reviews
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05 Jan, 2025 by Tom laska
Mazza law will get the job done. Listen and do what your told the results will come.
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10 Dec, 2024 by Kitt lady
Mazzu Law was the first firm that took me seriously. Listend to my story. Worked diligently, kept me informed, and got a settlement for me. If I ever have to go through this again. I would come back to this firm first. Treated me with kindness, respect, and honesty. Gave me options and never felt like I was lost. I was informed all the way through and was carefully explained all the steps we took together. It is a very professional and they prove productive services. Of your looking for a great firm look no further. This is one of the greats.
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11 Nov, 2024 by Nick garey
I had an excellent experience with Mazzu Law handling my case. From start to finish, they were dedicated, professional, and clearly committed to getting me the best possible outcome. Ed & his team went above and beyond, always keeping me updated and explaining every step. Thanks to their hard work and determination, they were able to secure a maximum settlement for me. I couldn’t be more grateful for their expertise and support throughout the entire process. If you’re looking for a law firm that truly cares about your case and your results, I highly recommend Mazzu Law.
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Rocco Lucente II, experienced Business, Entertainment attorney in Buffalo, NY with 2 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
39,06
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5.0/5
Avvo
5.0
2 Reviews
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03 Mar, 2014 by Anonymous
Rocco was highly recommended by a friend. We now understand why! Rocco helped us through an extremely complex real estate transaction. We give our highest praise and thanks to Rocco for his professionalism, expertise, attention to detail, patience in explaining legal jargon, options and ramifications and his sincere, caring demeanor!
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17 May, 2008 by Anonymous
I had another attorney for a while and then I had the opportunity to work with Rocco when my attorney wasn't available. Recently he handled a litigation matter for us and he always made me feel at ease even though he did not handle the trial directly. Rocco has handled numerous real estate deals for my husband and myself and he was always very helpful, knowledgeable, respectful to ALL parties involved.
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Jennifer Grace Flannery, experienced Estate Planning, Probate attorney in Buffalo, NY with 1 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
39,03
star star star star star
5.0/5
Avvo
5.0
1 Reviews
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25 Jan, 2017 by Deanna helie
I petitioned the court to placed my mother under guardianship due to various events that occurred that I was not made aware of. Jennifer was able to move the guardianship process through the court system at a very fast pace. She is VERY knowledgeable in the area of litigation, trusts, estate planning and guardianship and general law. She is very professional in dealing with clients and she demonstrates very high ethics in her field of practice. She was able to get all parties to the table for a settlement within a short period of time. She is amazing and I am very happy to have her as my lawyer. She is very fair with her fees and I am proud to say that she is MY LAWYER!
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Neil Anthony Pawlowski, experienced Criminal Defense, Estate Planning attorney in Buffalo, NY with 1 reviews
Average
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
39,03
star star star star star
5.0/5
Avvo
5.0
1 Reviews
star star star star star
17 Mar, 2014 by Anonymous
Neil handled a traffic violation for me with great expertise. He ensured the best possible outcome. I would definitely call him again, though of course I hope that I won't have to ;-)
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David J. Luzon, experienced Estate Planning, Family Law attorney in Buffalo, NY with 1 reviews
Average
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
39,03
star star star star star
5.0/5
Avvo
5.0
1 Reviews
star star star star star
03 Dec, 2008 by Anonymous
Very knowledgeable and helpful. He and his firm are great.
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David H. Alexander, experienced Business, Estate Planning attorney in Buffalo, NY with 1 reviews
Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
39,00
star star star star star
5.0/5
Google Maps
5.0
1 Reviews
star star star star star
14 Mar, 2024 by Hibbard agency
Great choice for counsel! Very professional and effective attorneys. We were sued by a competitor. Our 1st attorney( Woods, Oviatt, ) had the case for 4 years and did nothing but send us invoices...Dave E got our lawsuit dismissed in less than half the time and half the cost. In my opinion very honest...I wish I could say the same for our experience with William Savino.
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John Patrick Dee, experienced Estate Planning, Family Law attorney in Buffalo, NY with 12 reviews
Average
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
35,01
star star star star star
5.0/5
Google Maps
5.0
12 Reviews
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10 Jan, 2024 by Kariann hickein
Thoroughly impressed with Mr. Brown. Complete pleasure to talk to and work with. I would HIGHLY recommend this firm! You won't be disappointed!
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26 Apr, 2023 by Dutch osgood
Great law firm. Made a transition of property ownership very easy for us and would highly recommend them to anyone. Will definitely use them again if needed.
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29 Mar, 2023 by Michele pratt
Professional, friendly, boutique firm. Working with the attorneys here I felt like I was in the best hands for my transaction.
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Molly Ann Sleiman, experienced Estate Planning, Family Law attorney in Buffalo, NY with 159 reviews
Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
34,55
star star star star star
4.6/5
Google Maps
4.6
159 Reviews
star star star star star
29 Jan, 2025 by Lizzette govenettio
Jennifer and Vicky were awesome to work with. Jennifer took on my case when my other lawyer took off to practice somewhere else. After years of going back and forth with my case since 2018 and no resolution. They responded quickly when I called or messaged them, and always kept me up to date with my case. Jennifer always answered any concerns I had in a respectful, and professional manner. I'm thankful for her taking on my case. I recommend Jennifer Runfola from LoTempio..You won't be disappointed!
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07 Jan, 2025 by Frank white
the best law firm in buffalo ny with them I can take on the world thanks so much .....D.Reeves
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19 Dec, 2024 by Kevin green
Great service, and very professional. Frank stood with me through out my whole case.
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Jennifer Alicia Kelleher, experienced Elder Law, Estate Planning attorney in Buffalo, NY with 132 reviews
Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
34,52
star star star star star
4.6/5
Google Maps
4.6
132 Reviews
star star star star star
16 Feb, 2025 by Willie holton
I want to express my gratitude for my attorney, Eric. He is always available, personable, and ensures everything is handled in a timely manner with great follow-up. I truly appreciate his dedication and professionalism. Plus, I love that they are local! Thank you for your excellent service.
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09 Dec, 2024 by Michael kinsley
The firm was very timely with any questions that I had regarding my case.Very personable and informative 👍. Would recommend them to anyone.
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07 Dec, 2024 by Logan fleming
Highly recommend. Thank you Chris!
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William J. Magavern II, experienced Estate Planning, Real Estate attorney in Buffalo, NY with 85 reviews
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info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
34,47
star star star star star
4.6/5
Google Maps
4.6
85 Reviews
star star star star star
27 Nov, 2024 by Marlen batista
Muy satisfecha con el trabajo del señor Andrew Slepian muy profesional, me ha ayudado a tener mi estatus legal en los Estados Unidos, hemos ganado mi caso de acilo, muchas gracias un excelente abogado.
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20 Nov, 2024 by Ekman danujan
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07 Oct, 2024 by Shourob hossain
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Donald Joseph Egan, experienced Business, Estate Planning attorney in Buffalo, NY with 85 reviews
Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
30,67
star star star star star
4.6/5
Google Maps
4.6
85 Reviews
star star star star star
27 Nov, 2024 by Marlen batista
Muy satisfecha con el trabajo del señor Andrew Slepian muy profesional, me ha ayudado a tener mi estatus legal en los Estados Unidos, hemos ganado mi caso de acilo, muchas gracias un excelente abogado.
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20 Nov, 2024 by Ekman danujan
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07 Oct, 2024 by Shourob hossain
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Henry D. Gartner, experienced Elder Law, Medical Malpractice attorney in Buffalo, NY with 70 reviews
Below Average
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
29,05
star star star star star
4.3/5
Google Maps
4.3
70 Reviews
star star star star star
31 Jan, 2025 by Felicia reddick
I've dealt with this law firm since 2001, I love their professionalism obviously, I love their willingness to answer all in any questions you may have, they always return your calls relatively fast if not the same day within the next day, all of the staff are great. I've met all of the lawyers at least once at some point in time. I would definitely recommend them.
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08 Jan, 2025 by Tracy beebe
John Federice is an amazing attorney! Couldn't and wouldn't ever handle a workers comp case on my own. I recommend John Federice to handle any claim. He is professional, timely, knowledgeable, and he cares. Thanks again, John. I appreciate all you did for me!
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22 Aug, 2024 by Row briggs
John Federice has been working with me for existing comp case for about 4 years now. He always answers my questions (and there are many) and helps me to understand this whole process. He is incredibly knowledgeable in his trade and is an ongoing asset for the comp case with which I am involved in. I am glad that he and his practice are there and available and honestly have my best interests and on my side. Very appreciative of his services and sound judgement
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Jean Harris, experienced Elder Law, Estate Planning attorney in Buffalo, NY with 5 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
25,12
star star star star star
4.2/5
Avvo
4.2
5 Reviews
star star star star star
15 Apr, 2023 by Jeff
Our family has had the pleasure of working with Jean Harris at PB Elder Law for the past 4 years. She helped us navigate the complexities of estate and care planning for our aging parents: from the initial consultation to following through on the details of one’s passing, Jean has always had our best interests in mind. Jean is a strong advocate, empathetic listener, and is sensitive to the nuances of family dynamics. This is also true of the entire team at PB Elder Law; everyone we’ve interacted with is responsive and leverages their expertise without pause. We made a great choice when we selected PB Elder law, and are extraordinarily lucky to have Jean on our team.
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21 Sep, 2022 by Steve
I could not be happier with my experience of hiring Jean Harris of Pfalzgraf Beinhauer Elder Law. Jean and her team successfully and professionally handled the approval of Medicaid benefits for my mother who is in a nursing home. I was informed of the progress along the way, which turned out to be a very difficult battle. They assured me not to worry, since they none of the Medicaid applications that they handled were ever denied. It quickly became evident that Jean and her team knows how to win. I must mention one valuable team member, Mackenzie Brown. Mackenzie is great! I am grateful for her skills and performance as well. Jean sure knows how to surround herself with a team of winners! I am so thankful to have found and hired Jean Harris. You will be too!
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30 Apr, 2015 by Lee
Jean has handled both my mother's and father's estates for me when they passed within the past two years. She has always tried to sort everything for me as quickly as possible, and has always had the patience to explain everything to me which would otherwise go over my head. Jean has extensive knowledge of her field and has aided me in getting legal help in other states when it was needed. She also has always kept up on all my affairs without me even having to ask. In addition to her professionalism, she has a rare kindness and sensitivity which was so appreciated during these difficult times that I have needed her services.
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Adam Louis Bojak, experienced Estate Planning, Personal Injury attorney in Buffalo, NY with 107 reviews
Below Average
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
23,90
star star star star star
4.1/5
Avvo
3.0
2 Reviews
Google Maps
4.1
105 Reviews
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22 Jan, 2025 by Ty evans
Mr. Daniel Tarantino succeeded with my felony case, including three additional misdemeanors by digging deeply into every aspect of information that was put in front of him. My case was dismissed due to Mr. Tarantino’s Dedication to determine my innocence and not be claimed as a criminal. Thank you so much Mr. Tarantino for the hard work of and for my case.
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16 Jan, 2025 by Facts jr
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10 Dec, 2024 by Jaime difrancesco
I did not intend on posting a negative review, until every other means I have taken was ignored by this law firm. I was a client of Ms. Hawthorne for approximately 6 years between 2015 & 2021. I thought she represented me well in child custody matters at that time. A new issue arose in July of 2024, so I contacted her office to retain her for the new matter. I paid the full retainer fee up front, and Ms. Hawthorne agreed to represent me. Long story, but here is the point of the review, & caution to others who rely on reviews to choose an attorney. 1) Ms. Hawthorne repeatedly dropped the ball when it came to being prepared for court dates. I would ask a simple task be handled, & she arrived at court telling me she didn't have the information needed to pursue. It could have been addressed by a quick phone call so the information would have been presented on that court date. 2) Ms. Hawthorne avoided ALL of my emails with questions regarding legal representation & how to proceed with our Court matter. I was only able to get basic responses and interaction with her staff member, Ann. 3) I ended up having to fire Ms. Hawthorne 3 months after retaining her due to ZERO direction and follow up from her on Court deadlines. I was left on my own, when I hired her for legal representation. 4) I fired Ms. Hawthorne before all the retainer fee was used up, and by law, & by the legal code of attorney conduct, any monies paid has to be earned. Refunds are to be issued for any unused portion. 5) I terminated Ms. Hawthorne's services on October 3, 2024 & requested a current statement of services rendered. I requested a refund on that date. It was nearly a month before I received the requested statement. It showed that I had $855 CREDIT. 6) I sent several emails to Ms. Hawthorne & her office, requesting the refund, as I had to retain a different attorney to represent me for the job she failed to do. I was charged double for work Ms. Hawthorne didn't complete, and new attorney had to follow through on. 7) I filed an attorney grievance for her unethical standards pursuant to the Attorney Code of Conduct. Ms. Hawthorne lied in that case & claimed she WAS representing me. 8) When emails were repeatedly ignored for my refund, I called the Office & left a message (10 weeks after initial requests) This is why I am resorting to a public review. No other means I have followed through with are being received and dealt with. I am just asking for the money I paid UP FRONT to be returned to me for the unused portion of $855. I have other attorney bills to cover thanks to Ms. Hawthorne not doing her job.
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Edward Charles Northwood, experienced Business, Domestic Violence attorney in Buffalo, NY with 16 reviews
Below Average
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
18,54
star star star star star
3.5/5
Google Maps
3.5
16 Reviews
star star star star star
02 May, 2024 by Scott wilcox
I have worked a very complex case with this firm (and Hogan-Willig before it) for over a decade. The case had it is ups and down but throughout it I was impressed by the professionalism and care that they showed me as a client. As the case draws to a close, I wanted to leave a review to say I would definitely recommend them and the staff to others and say thank you for sticking with me.
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18 Mar, 2024 by Ciji vandyke
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03 Oct, 2023 by Mario avarello
Barb, is old school with pad and paper she knows her stuff.. made progress while the 2 other attorneys stumbled and were more interested on”in their bills then moving the case along…I would recommend her … honest and fair attorney…
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Mark Joseph Longo, experienced Trusts attorney in Buffalo, NY with 3 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
10,53
star star star star star
2.3/5
Avvo
2.3
3 Reviews
star star star star star
09 Jan, 2019 by Janet
The best closing attorney and office. Fully explained details of our transaction. Went beyond what we expected to help our daughter with her purchase of her first home.
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22 Oct, 2015 by Anonymous
We've never had a chance to communicate with Mark Longo. All communications occurred through one of his paralegal assistants. They sent us blank documents to sign in order to represent us and we were the last informed about the status of our case. That is not how a company should treat its clients.
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23 Jul, 2012 by Rich
Mr. Longo and his firm agreed to hold in trust and escrow funds which were placed for a period to evaluate a contemplated investment. At the point the investment was determined to not be viable a request was made to return the escrowed funds. At that time Mr. Longo indicated they were no longer available and had been transferred. Upon review of the documentation it was determined that the funds were released based on a forged signature from the investment group. Mr. Longo nor any other member of his firm failed to request from me, the owner of the funds, if the authorization was valid or if I was authorizing the transfer. Such was required in the escrow agreement. Mr. Longo refuses to take responsibility for his fraudulent activity relative to his legal requirements.
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Jay Charles Pletcher, experienced Business, Estate Planning attorney in Buffalo, NY with 1 reviews
Below Average
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
7,17
star star star star star
1.0/5
Avvo
1.0
1 Reviews
star star star star star
01 Mar, 2017 by Michael b
Sought Jay's office seeking a PAID HOURLY attorney to assist with a educational disabilities consultation. Never returned call when secretary told me attorney was available at his desk. Called again next day was told I was being transferred to a lawyer, when I connected with the woman she told me she wasn't a lawyer but another administrator.
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Peter J Brevorka, experienced Estate Planning, Trusts attorney in Buffalo, NY with 0 reviews
Below Average
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
4,00
star star star star star
0.0/5
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Joel I. Berson, experienced Business, Real Estate attorney in Buffalo, NY with 0 reviews
Below Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
4,00
star star star star star
0.0/5
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Nathan William George Berti, experienced Estate Planning, Tax attorney in Buffalo, NY with 0 reviews
Below Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
4,00
star star star star star
0.0/5
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Jeffrey B. Andrus, experienced Business, Estate Planning attorney in Buffalo, NY with 0 reviews
Below Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
4,00
star star star star star
0.0/5
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Richard Barry Dopkins, experienced Business, Estate Planning attorney in Buffalo, NY with 0 reviews
Below Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
4,00
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0.0/5
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Dennis Patrick Cleary, experienced Business, Estate Planning attorney in Buffalo, NY with 0 reviews
Below Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
4,00
star star star star star
0.0/5
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Nicole R. Tzetzo, experienced Business, Tax attorney in Buffalo, NY with 0 reviews
Below Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
4,00
star star star star star
0.0/5
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Britta L. McKenna, experienced Elder Law, Estate Planning attorney in Buffalo, NY with 0 reviews
Below Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
4,00
star star star star star
0.0/5
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Allison P. Gioia, experienced Real Estate, Trusts attorney in Buffalo, NY with 0 reviews
Below Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
4,00
star star star star star
0.0/5
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Catherine B. Eberl, experienced Business, Tax attorney in Buffalo, NY with 0 reviews
Below Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
4,00
star star star star star
0.0/5
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David B. Liddell, experienced Estate Planning, Trusts attorney in Buffalo, NY with 0 reviews
Below Average
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
4,00
star star star star star
0.0/5
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Lucy M. Berkman, experienced Elder Law, Trusts attorney in Buffalo, NY with 0 reviews
Below Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
4,00
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0.0/5
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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:

  1. 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.
  2. 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.
  3. How do you charge for your services?
    Clarify the fee structure and request an estimate of the total cost.
  4. 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.
  5. How long will it take to set up the trust?
    Ask for a timeline for creating and finalizing the trust documents.
  6. 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.
  7. 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.

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