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13 Oct, 2009 by Cher
Attorney Beecher was not only professional in the handling of my fathers estate, but he was compassionate as well. Attorney Beecher went above and beyond to assist our family with the closure of the estate and always maintained positive lines of communication.
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08 Dec, 2008 by Anonymous
Mr. Beecher is a very goof Probate attorney. He has been able to anwser all of my questions and has been fighting for the estate 100%. I would highly recommend him!
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26 Aug, 2013 by Marilyn
I have never met a more honest attorney than Leslie Arnal. She is reliable, conscious, and more fun than she looks. She is serious, highly productive, fair and probably honest to a fault which is a rare trait in an attorney as we all know. If you want a crooked attorney DO NOT SEE LESLIE! She is highly intelligent and if she does not know the answer to your question she will tell you. However, she also will find out the answer or refer you to someone who knows the answer. I would highly recommend her to anyone who needs a probate attorney.
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10 Jun, 2013 by Gerald
Leslie has represented me in my capacity as a court-appointed trustee in two complex estate matters. One case was successfully concluded several years ago and the other remains open.
Leslie is able to digest complex, convoluted information, and data to not only protect me in administering my fiduciary duties, but to offer alternative solutions. Leslie knows her limitations and does not hesitate to engage co-counsel to assist with matters that are outside of her comfort zone of expertise.
I recommend Leslie to anyone seeking an advocate with sound reasoning and attention to detail.
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28 Jan, 2021 by John j
We used them for our Estate and Trust work and found them to be very thorough, knowledgeable and more affordable than we would have expected. They also give you the sense that your concerns and privacy are a top priority. I would recommend them to anyone. Great feeling to have all of our estate planning concluded!
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19 Jun, 2020 by Troy
Ive had a continual issue with being harassed by my neighbor and Sam was able to step in and help me. Since taking Sam on as my attorney in this matter I have not been harassed once where before Sam got involved it was at least a weekly occurrence. Highly recommend.
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18 Sep, 2024 by Carl
We talked to Larry Dugoni about a family trust issue. His office was efficient on scheduling a appointment with Mr. Dugoni and he was very generous with his time and advice that shows the many years he has been in the practice of law. Larry will be our go to lawyer whenever we have any issues requiring legal help.
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06 Oct, 2009 by Anonymous
After consulting with other lawyers, I chose Mr. Dugoni to be my estate planning lawyer. Mr. Dugoni was the obvious choice, not only because he is clearly intelligent, thorough, trustworthy and otherwise professional, but because he is a decent human being through and through. He made a naturally unpleasant process (planning for your own demise) simple and painless. That he is a CPA in addition to a lawyer provided extra reassurance that I was in good hands and getting my money's worth. I highly recommend Mr. Dugoni to anyone and everyone who wants peace of mind knowing that their loved ones will be cared for after their death.
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12 Jun, 2017 by Deb & brian
Stephen's Law Group is a fabulous team! James Stephen's knowledge of "all the details", involved with our estate planning and trust, was well explained and gave us great direction!!! Its now easy to say... yes! When we have a medical procedure to have our documents up to date. We now have everything established as to how our estate will be dispersed. Thank you for great peace of mind!
Deb & Brian
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29 Mar, 2017 by Mark
I had James prepare my estate plan and review my parents at the same time. He was extremely thorough and patient with us through the process. I recommended James to two of my friends and they had a similar experience.
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01 Nov, 2017 by Hesham younis
Barbara Nesbet is an exceptional professional. We first attended her course about “Estate planning” in Los Gatos and we were so impressed by her professionalism and endless knowledge that we didn't think twice about hiring her to set up our will and our trust.
She guided us through the whole process with remarkable patience, explaining everything to us, giving us great advice, and making us feel secure and confident.
Our experience with her service cannot be better. Her rates are also very reasonable. She is the best and I would highly recommend her!
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22 Jul, 2013 by Anonymous
Barbara is an excellent estate planning attorney. She was especially good at making sure we were informed about the factors to think about -- not just the tax and financial side, but also the personal issues -- care of children and pets, health-care issues, etc. She really does go out of her way to personalize the estate planning issues and documents for the situation, rather than the "document mills" that seem all to common these days. Her focus is making sure her clients' needs are met, and that the legal process goes smoothly after we pass away, rather than a quick one-size-fits-all approach which may cause issues for the folks left behind during what is likely to be an already difficult time.
Her rates are also quite affordable -- her priority is to provide a high-quality plan at a reasonable price, and also not nickel and dime her clients. For example, she didn't charge to notarize documents or to make copies of a plan we made with her.
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29 Apr, 2015 by Anonymous
Mr. Khoukaz helped my family during a difficult time. We have several siblings and he helped ensure our trust was fairly decided.
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02 Oct, 2014 by Jennifer
John has the perfect blend of people skills with depth of knowledge on estate planning, creating and administering trusts and wills, and doing what it takes to avoid a probate situation. I have referred a number of family members to him, and all have been extremely happy with their results.
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22 Oct, 2016 by Sophie
If you are looking for a Lawyer for Estate planning you should definitely consider Don Madson. He was very thorough, patient, and knowledgeable as he walked us through every step of the decision making process. Don was helpful explaining the often complicated documents in lamen terms and made sure we had enough information to make some important decisions. We even had a few laughs along the way.
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21 Oct, 2016 by Steve
I hire Don Madsen over the phone I live in oregon my parents lived in california when they passed my sister was in charge of my parents estate. She told me it was non of my business i am the son of these parents so it is my business. And Don Madsen was the lawyer to hire i worked with him over the phone he explained everything truthfully with me right from the start. All the fifteen other lawyers i called b4 him wanted me to give them 25,000 to look into it. That to me was crazy thank god i found Don Madsen he wanted 2000. That to me when he is a partner of the firm was very acceptable after many months of my sister not cooperating Mr Madsen put her lawyer in his place got my money and investments completly finalized for less than 5000. Were others wanted just to get a chunk of change out of my million dollar portion my parents left me Don Madsen did a honest fair and speedy recovery of my money from what i call a sister that did not honor my parents trust or personal wishes. He save me at least 20,000 dollars telling me the truth about the system and how it would end up in court if we had to go there. He will put every second of his time to get you the honest fair results your looking for a fair an honest charge of his time and you will get the truth from him always about your problem. If your haveing problems and need a real honest lawyer this man Don Madsen is your only choice. My name is steve i would be glad to tell you exacly what he did for me in detail to convince you to hire him if your problems need a lawyer. I have had to deal with many attorney's in my 54 years of life never have i found one that was honest at all but Don Madsen is bottom line
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02 Oct, 2021 by Cheryl
Erik provided much needed letters in a timely fashion to settle two disputes related to my notary public business. A good attorney letter goes a long way putting an immediate halt to those going down a path of ignorance who need clarification of sorts.
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17 Sep, 2020 by Bernd
Had a car problem with a dealership. They could not decide what VIN number was mine. Erik stept in and solved it excellent!
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23 May, 2017 by Mika
My husband and I worked with William Sauls to establish our family trust. He was very knowledgeable and professional and answered all of our questions and concerns. He made the process effortless. We are so pleased with his services and highly recommend William Sauls and his firm to our family and friends.
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10 Sep, 2013 by Anonymous
I am a retired attorney and needed to update my estate plan. Bill was very efficient and did a super job.
He is very professional and knows a great deal about this area of the law. I would highly recommend him to anyone.
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23 Oct, 2015 by Lisa
I worked with Jennifer on my estate plan. She was careful in addressing my priorities and concerns and ultimately helped me implement a plan that I know will take great care of my family.
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21 Oct, 2015 by Andje
My husband and I had Jennifer prepare our estate plan and trust. She is very thorough and thoughtful. Jennifer understood that my time is limited and she made the process seamless and required very little from me. I would highly recommend her for any of your estate planning needs.
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07 Nov, 2023 by Damon
Met with Mary once so far with a tangled up trust situation also I was so upset about it all I could barely get the words out she caught on right away to what was going on. Very attentive and preceptive also very reasonable fees. Highly recommend.
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03 Aug, 2022 by Marina
Mary took over my case in a very difficult probate situation and solved it to my entire satisfaction. I can honestly say that she saved my share of the family estate. She is knowledgeable, supportive and an excellent strategist in probate matters.
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11 Mar, 2024 by David
Ms. Bursk was extremely helpful in clarifying my options for me in our meeting. She was to-the-point and quickly led me to the best course of action. For me, the best course of action isn't legal action at this time, but I would certainly consult with her and/or hire her as my attorney if the need arises.
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24 Mar, 2020 by Janiece
Ms. Bursk helped me wade through a painful probate process. She even informed me that I could do what was needed by myself without going through the entire Probate Court process. She also referred me to an out of state attorney who will be able to complete settling this estate. Can't ask for a nicer, more professional attorney!
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24 Apr, 2015 by Linda
Walt helped my husband and I establish a living trust and wills for both of us. He is very knowledgeable; offering suggestions and situations for our consideration so that we had a comprehensive final product. He ensured that we understood the all aspects of the documents. He even called us on a Friday evening to answer our last minute questions so that everything was ready to be signed when we went to his office the following week. He kept us informed throughout each step and told us how to proceed in moving bank accounts into the trust. Both my husband and I are Navy Veterans and it was a plus that he too, is a Navy Veteran. Because of his expertise, he made this process easy.
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18 Nov, 2014 by Bill kollar
My wife and I needed legal advice and then preparation of our Living Trust and Will during a period when we were very busy with career, family, and elder care. Walt understood the situation and provided a great presentation regarding 1) the function of the Living Trust and Will; and 2) how these critical documents would be prepared for our unique situation. All of the documentation was provided in a timely way. Thanks to Walt's professional guidance, our family has the peace of mind that comes with being professionally and legally prepared in the face of what may be very difficult life events.
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20 Jun, 2014 by Fred
After cancer entered our lives we thought everything was over. All are dreams were destroyed and then we turned to Matthew. His professionalism and manner was a life saver to us to find. His understanding of our predicament allowed us to willingly place our fate in his hands. That decision has led us to debt-free status today.
Whatever you decide, ensure you sit down and have that serious conversation with Matthew. He is truly an honest and forthright lawyer, and I do not say that too often.
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09 Aug, 2013 by Mlf
I felt very comfortable that I was in good hands. He made a difficult situation, not difficult!
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27 Aug, 2014 by Cheryl
Outstanding help from Lisa Russ and her legal assistant Denise Lopes in helping me in my duties as executor of my friend's estate. Everything was new to me, and Lisa and Denise guided me in all the right directions and were always there whenever I needed them.
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27 May, 2014 by Rogan
I had the pleasure of working with Lisa and her staff as the executor of my father's estate. Her compassion and capabilities were immediately obvious from our first meeting, and given the choice again I wouldn't choose anyone else to guide my family through this difficult process. Lisa was willing to go the extra mile time and time again, through multiple house sale attempts and other significant surprises, and honestly I couldn't have done it without the knowledge and the efforts of her office. Thanks so much for everything~
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30 Nov, 2020 by B.g.
Ethical, conscientious, professional and knowledgeable. I can't say enough about Cathy Kim, she definitely does her job extremely well. Words alone can't express my gratitude for not only all of her diligent work, but for always going above and beyond. Cathy had to deal with several unscrupulous individuals on my behalf, and she had a big hand in saving my sanity. She often had to deal with me when I was an emotional mess, and she was able to calm me down and explain things in a manner that was always reassuring. She advised me of my fiduciary responsibilities as a Trustee and guided me through painful probate and litigation matters. I was very blessed to have Cathy represent me, and I will be forever grateful. You will not regret choosing her as your attorney, she is simply the best.
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16 Jan, 2014 by Barbara s.
I count it a great pleasure and privilege to express to others my experience with the Ernest Joon Kim Law Firm, and in particular the services rendered my family by Attorney Catherine Kim.
I had just lost my dear sister and found myself experiencing for the very first time, the daunting process called Probate. Desperately seeking answers I discovered AVVO and submitted my concerns in hopes that someone would enlighten and assist me in my efforts. Attorney Ernest J. Kim responded with a full page summary addressing all my questions and concerns. I immediately felt that with an empathetic and understanding attorney as this, how could I go wrong with retaining their services. They were the fourth firm I had contacted, and the only ones that were not offended by my need to know and understand the Probate process so I could effectively provide what was required of me to the attorney representing me. I telephoned the firm and Ms. Catherine Kim responded.
From our first encounter I felt very comfortable in discussing all the issues with Ms. Kim. Oftentimes I was overwhelmed with grief, the probate process, the difficulty in finding a genuine, caring attorney who was not too busy to answer my questions with courtesy, professionalism and patience. I could not have found a more skilled and adept attorney than Ms. Kim. She is knowledgeable, conscientious, courteous, trustworthy, kind, patient, and compassionate. She addressed all my concerns and the many questions plaguing me regarding this intimidating Probate process. She quieted me and guided me through all my anxiety. No amount of words can express my sincere and deepest gratitude for her support and assistance.
Ms. Kim was always available to me and responded promptly to my telephone calls and emails. She was there to help me at every juncture going above and beyond the call for Probate services. I always felt at ease, burdens lightened and encouraged that I could do all that was required of me.
As busy as Ms. Kim may have been, I never felt rushed off the telephone or that she was too busy to assist me in working through every issue. Rather, she patiently took the time to explain in laymen terms what I needed to know, ensuring that all concepts were clear, concise, and understandable, so that I would be in a position to make good informed decisions.
Within only three days after retaining her services Ms. Kim represented me in court. She kept me informed and abreast of all court actions. She provided easy and understandable explanations of issues and provided legal counsel in all areas of concern to me, some even being outside of Probate. There is no doubt in my mind that these past two years of going through the probate process, the encouragement and support I received from Ms. Kim is immeasurable. She exudes integrity in all she does.
Ms. Kim successfully brought my family through the probate process and we are very pleased with her services. She was upfront and truthful about all statutory fees and cost, and also offered us the option for a discounted rate.
We highly esteem and recommend Ms. Kim to anyone requiring Estate Planning Services. I have also personally retained her to do my Will and Trust, and is recommending her to one of my good friends. Her services are outstanding and her work impeccable. Put your mind at ease and allow Ms. Kim the opportunity to service all your estate planning needs. She’s the best. Thank you Ms. Kim.
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04 Feb, 2020 by Stephanie bader
I have had the pleasure of getting to know Preston Marx III through the Roseville Business Networking Group. He is a Bar Certified Estate Planning/Trust attorney. I find him to be passionate and knowledgeable in helping families in the difficult tine following the death of a loved one. I look forward to working with his firm more in the future.
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11 Apr, 2012 by Anonymous
I recently had the pleasure of working with David Kelly on a case where my client, who is a resident of Washington, needed the help of California attorneys. Mr. Kelly has a very in-depth knowledge of estate planning in California. He is also a gentleman and shows compassion for the client.
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30 May, 2022 by Blue
Laurel has been an exceptional attorney for my family and for my corporation. She has helped me start and complete a living trust for my wife and kids which meant the world to us! Several years later she helped me form a corporation and has helped me write successful contracts for 5 years now! She has a basic approach and yet extensive knowledge in multiple areas of law. I highly recommend her!!
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12 Aug, 2016 by Anonymous
I used Laurel for my trust & will documents. I was very happy with my experience. She is clearly smart, knowledgable, & a real go getter. I felt confident in her abilities & would definitely recommend her to a friend.
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18 Jun, 2014 by William
Excellent in all phases of our estate planning, trust and probate resolution. Go to him first and avoid problems later!!!
When in a complicated situation he referred us to a colleague who was able to resolve the situation.
In a word, Michael has integrity !
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25 Oct, 2011 by Larry
Michael provided fast efficient service for a flat fee, not billable hours. There was no guessing or estimated costing. He took effective notes about our needs and desires at our initial meeting, there was no need to repeat or review our situation or requirements during the preparation of the trust. Well-written instructions and/or description of the documents and information needed for preparation of the trust minimized the need for follow-up meetings or phone calls.
Michael provides good explanations of trust options and the reasons behind them. Ours was a simple basic trust employing mostly routine options and planning. Work also included powers-of-attorney, and health care directives. While reviewing the final trust documents with us, he found two minor errors, not of a legal nature, and had them corrected on the spot. In addition to the paper documents, he provided a back of the signed written documentation on a CD.
When we met with Michael to map out the trust, we came prepared with all the requested financial information that was to be included in the trust, in writing, and organized with a written summery. This made the preparation of the trust easier, so he volunteered some addition assistance of a minor nature at no additional cost.
I can recommend Michael to those needing estate planning services.
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15 Jul, 2022 by Bruce & debra
We would like to highly recommend the law firm of Copenbarger & Copenbarger to anyone considering an estate plan.
Attorney, Larry Copenbarger, was attentive, knowledgeable, and explained all of the components of our estate plan thoroughly. Most of our questions were answered before we even asked them.
Paralegal, Rachael Sharp, was a pleasure to work with as well; promptly responding with clear and concise answers to our correspondence.
We now feel completely confident that our assets will pass to our heirs as intended.
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15 Dec, 2021 by Anonymous
Extremely professional, helpful, thoughtful and kind. He takes the time to explain everything in an easy to understand way.
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01 Oct, 2018 by Anne
I am resident in Ireland and must commend Michael for his work in looking after my interests in California. He is hard working and diligent in all he does. Quite honestly I don’t know how I would have got through these last months without his professionalism and his friendliness.
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26 Feb, 2014 by Anonymous
Very responsive, listen to what I had to say. Took care of my situation and kept me informed through the whole process. Very happy with this firm!
THANK YOU Michael!! Your a LIFE SAVER ..
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14 Jun, 2022 by Anonymous
A friend of mine recommended Kevin for some help that I needed with trust administration and estate planning. I found him to be super helpful - very on top of details, and good at explaining things in layman's terms. I highly recommend him.
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13 May, 2022 by Monica
Mr. O’Connor was an excellent lawyer and help to me and my family. He helped my husband to write a will, soon after he unfortunately passed away. Then Mr. O’Connor helped me with estate planning and a trust. He remained professional at all times and explained to me throughly the process and importance of everything I inquired about. He was an amazing lawyer and he even helped me in my main language, Spanish. I would strongly recommend him to anyone.
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07 Mar, 2013 by Keith
Melinda is a total professional she knows her stuff and anyone that gets her services is lucky i cant say enough good about her and she gets an A+ from me
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08 Feb, 2013 by Nicole bustamante
Melinda Bell helped me fight for and be awarded 50/50 custody of my daughter. Melinda fought with a level of professionalism that was immeasurable. Any mother seeking custody of their child/children has the VERY Best chance of success if they have Melinda Bell on their side.
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15 Oct, 2019 by Douglas
John Balian has saved me so much $ over the years. There is no question my tax liabilities were far less than they would have been if a CPA had been advising me.
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16 Nov, 2012 by Greg
I met with several lawyers and he has been the best. I am a small business owner. The IRS was trying to say that I owed over 90k in taxes due an audit which i was was represented in effectively. He saved me and my family. Also, he set up an estate plan for me so that my family and the business would be taken care of in the event that anything happens to me or the business.
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16 May, 2019 by Rashida
I didn't know Nathan, but he was really good to work with. He answered a bunch of questions I had (no charge which was cool), and walked me through how a revocable trust worked. We also took care of my health directive and he told me what was up with choosing a guardian for my child if I died so that was cool but not great to think about. But he actually gave me some questions and we worked it out in about 15 minutes. SO yeah, dude was cool for a lawyer.
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23 Apr, 2019 by Michael
OK, if you want an attorney who is really smart, friendly, and will listen to you, give this guy a call. I have hired Nathan for a number of different legal matters. He defended me when I was sued twice, he walked me through my estate planning, and he helped me negotiate a lease for a commercial space. I think he is an outstanding attorney because he actually LISTENS to me, he calls me back whenever I reach out, and he sends me periodic updates on the legal matters I have hired him for without me having to call first. He also saved me huge hassle when I got divorced, he called me and walked me through what I needed to do to stop my ex-wife getting my assets if I dided, I had no idea changing my living will wasn't enough to accomplish this. If he hadn't walked me through everything, she would still be listed as a beneficiary for my insurance, meaning she, not my sister, would've received the proceeds if I died. The other attorney I spoke with didn't say a word about this. Anyhow. Good luck with your legal issues no matter who you hire.
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17 Nov, 2016 by Travis
I'm Administrating my uncles estate and am not legally savvy. Every questions I asked was answered to a 'T'. I caught Barry at the airport and he went out of his way to talk to me. Thanks Barry, Travis
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15 Jun, 2015 by Steve
Mr. Adams(Barry) handled our legal issue w/ professionalism, care and enthusiasm. He told us all of our options and clearly discussed our rights. He is very patient with questions, and treats you like a person, not a number. I highly recommend Barry for any legal issues you may have.
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27 Dec, 2023 by Warren
Robert helped me with estate planning and far and away I noticed he was the most helpful, patient, and communicative of any attorney I've ever worked with. Most importantly, Robert explained everything very, very clearly, and used that same communication skill to thoroughly answer my questions. Now I know when I have questions, Robert Ashikyan has answers.
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08 May, 2023 by Anonymous
Robert is an amazing attorney! He recently wrote our will and trust and we couldn’t be a happier. He is very on top of everything. He answered any questions that we had and always made himself available to us. He is very detail oriented and meticulous. A lot of attorneys make critical errors when doing estate planning that go unnoticed but Robert makes sure he does a perfect job for all of his clients
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02 Sep, 2015 by Michelle
Marleen helped me through the probate process after losing my mom. She was very simple, and helpful. In a state of shock and grief she took over and handled everything for me! She charges an estate flat free and any extra services such as if she negoitates with a creditor. She saved me a lot of money! Very pleasant lady . I did not have do much, except sign a few documents. She has a wonderful assistant, Dakota. Who makes the process as easy as possible and is very knowlegable of the legal process as well. i would highly recommend Marleen.
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16 May, 2015 by Diane
I had Ms. Brady assist me with setting up my Trust and a few revisions to my trust. She assisted me in areas where I wasn't clear and answered my questions thoroughly. She was very patient with me because I just wasn't clear as to some specifics of my trust. Her legal assistant is also very knowledgeable and I can tell that they have an excellent working relationship because she treats her staff with respect. In addition, Ms. Brady pretty much charged me a flat fee for the hours she put in. And when she says it will take approximately so many hours to complete a task, it's pretty much what the total bill will be; i.e., not extras for calling and asking a basic question and certainly no surprises when you open the final bill. In other words, everything is pretty straightforward. Ms. Brady is a true professional and what I like even more is that she is a real down-to-earth person.
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12 Apr, 2024 by Engraving wizard
This man was a total profesional, there wasn't a question he could not answer and his sugguestion where right on the mark that I would have never though of to be placed in my trust
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09 Nov, 2018 by Tim gillihan
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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.
