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26 Nov, 2024 by Catherine selinsky
Highly recommended. Very knowledgeable, efficient and thorough.
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19 Nov, 2024 by Beth lang
Michelle is amazing! She has extensive experience dealing with special needs issues as they relate to trusts, wills, etc. and is truly a pleasure to work with, answering questions and providing wisdom and guidance in areas where you might not know all the options. We highly recommend her!
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22 Oct, 2024 by Linda brooks
Great experience working with Ms. Adams at Colorado family Legacy. Professional and thorough process that was completed in a timely manner. Felt she really cared and worked to provide best product for my specific situation.
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17 Dec, 2024 by Zachari kilcoin
She is great awesome to wrk with fight her best for her clients affordable prices flexible she is all around great from my experience
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01 Nov, 2024 by Donovan sykes
Abby Brown , 5 stars ⭐️, she knows the law and she fights very hard for you. She did an amazing job with my case and we won the case . She is amazing and easy to talk to .definitely recommend her
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19 Sep, 2024 by Elizabeth endicott
I can't recommend Liz Hart enough. When you've been in an accident, the last thing you want/need is to be dealing with insurance, and Liz was such a champion, helper, and guide. She is so knowledgeable, tough, kind, communicative, and skilled at what she does. The peace I felt from knowing she was on top of things was invaluable.
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20 Dec, 2024 by Rebekah blas
Mike was beyond amazing to work with. He is an incredible attorney and we got a favorable outcome on my case. From our first phone call he listened to me and was very sympathetic for my situation. I had spoke with several lawyers prior and they were not as kind or compassionate as he is.
This was my first time needing a lawyer. Mike helped make the entire process smooth and not intimidating. He is very good at his job and does it with ease. He is also very reasonably priced.
I fully recommend Mike if you are in need of an attorney. I hope to not need a criminal defense attorney in the future but if I do, Mike will be the one I call and who I refer people to.
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16 Dec, 2024 by Micah w
Mike helped me a lot settle 3 cases with no jail time! He worked with me and was really on top of getting my cases solved. Thank you again Mike for all your help.
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13 Dec, 2024 by Kristen payne
David & Hayden were phenomenal in their handling of my 16 year old son’s traffic case. If you need representation for anything traffic related, this is the place. Thank you!
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19 Dec, 2024 by Kimberly tacke
Mr. Luneau is the ‘Absolute Best Defense Attorney in Denver’! His professionalism, & promptness with any and all of our questions and concerns was greatly appreciated! We cannot Thank him enough for what he has accomplished for my son! Thank you Danny for everything! We wish you only the Best in the Future, Forever Grateful! His team is pretty great too! =D
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19 Dec, 2024 by Louis
Everything went as Danny L. said it would. I received the minimum possible punishment. Other moving violations were dropped, and Danny stayed with me the entire way, recommending actions I could take that would have a positive impact on my ultimate decision. He clearly knows the system and is well respected.
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19 Dec, 2024 by Jorge perez
Danny really saved me on my last case. A serious charge carrying jail time was dropped to a non criminal offense with a minor fine and community service! I highly recommend him and his team for all traffic offenses.
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08 Jul, 2024 by Al nathan
08 Jul, 2024 by The lizabeth reagan collection
Doug Marsh with Cambridge Law is simply brilliant at what he does. When it comes to HOA’s or small business needs he is the one to see.
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08 Jul, 2024 by Matthew eidemiller
Reid Allred has provided exceptional legal services to my company ZIP Consulting for more than a decade. He is personable, considerate, highly responsive, and has a great attention to detail. Reid assembled an impressive portfolio of ZIP Consulting business contract templates that were succinct while including the requisite protective language. I have introduced many of my peers to Reid and recommend his services without reservation.
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17 Nov, 2024 by Michael fisk
So grateful for the service they provide! Professional, and answered all my questions quickly!
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04 Oct, 2024 by Mary-anne van berkum
Olson Personal Injury Lawyers are the best! Attorney's are top notch as is the rest of the team!
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11 Jul, 2024 by Angel apodaca
Does Olson Law use a call center to answer their phones? I had someone named Jalen, an extremely young male, answer that didn't tell me where he was answering the phone at and didn't answer even one question i asked, he just kept kinda using a script. He said he was a receptionist for Olson Law, but did not sound like someone id let answer a phone. I needed to know if i had already called this particular firm and if so what they're reason for not filing a complaint or getting one started was. I have a TBI im almost done with but finding a lawyer to get started on that while still receiving care as a legal newbie is hard work because im not getting hepful people (across the board) im getting push back instead. Like someone should be like omg lets get started, ill start the review, you continue care, and ill ask questions along the way before i start a complaint. But im not getting that. im getting a lot of pointless conversation. If im in the wrong location, maybe someone can point me in the right direction. Is it the city, the neighborhood, is the case too hard, are they too busy, is there a conflict of interest with the hospital im suing or something? Like scared to sue? I dont get it... Its JUST a lawsuit that needs to get filed. Is it the Denver area? Are they like no, she doesnt live in this neighborhood so im not dealing with this? Like family oriented? Im so confused right now.
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25 Jan, 2025 by Dominick tognotti
Cost 4k for one appearance. Needed help from out of state and got fleeced. So much so that I needed to contact the State Bar which is how I know I got fleeced. If he had helped you that's great. Don't give him that much money up front if you need help from out of state. The person I spoke with at the bar can't give legal advice only told me "yes what he did is wrong," Just be careful. You may get completely ripped off if you need help from out of town. I was told it cost 3k to drop his client as a client? He thought he could just hustle me out of over 3k. A good person doesn't do these things. If he can get you out of trouble is all you care about. Fair enough. If you want a good person look elsewhere. This is not a good person. He lied, he ripped off people desperate for help. We happened to have moved and are out of state and we're in need of help. HE RIPPED US OFF with no qualms about it. I'll leave it up to the general public. Does as decent human being do this?
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17 Dec, 2024 by Deanna locke
Jeff is an excellent attorney. He helped a friend with a tough case. He was very effective in achieving a desirable outcome in a timely manner. Thank you, Jeff!
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08 Nov, 2024 by Jamison lippolis
Wolf Law is the best in town, hands down. Cassandra was extremely knowledgeable, and is clearly well connected throughout Denver and larger Colorado.
We had a very technical case, with a lot of moving pieces, and this legal team knew their stuff - I recommend this team to anyone seeking to work on their record, case, or general inquiries into any type of defense proceedings. The cost was very economical, made sense, and I felt like I got even more representation than expected. No nonsense, practicality, and a whipping of the technicals is what you want to win, they helped our family win, maybe you will be so lucky too!
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18 Jan, 2025 by Nadija rutar
This was the best decision I ever made! I worked with Stacy Earp during my journey through my lawsuit and she was absolutely amazing! She was great about communicating with me and updating me with any new information. I didn’t know much going into all of this and Stacy was so patient with me. She helped me understand every part of the process and both Dianne and Stacy did a great job. Thank you guys for really making a big impact on how this all turned out!
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28 Dec, 2024 by Justin brown
I had to find a divorce attorney quickly, very tough to call everyone on google randomly, trying to find help in a fast moving horror situation. Most firms tell you money right now or 250-4000 dollars upfront, but then I found Jasmine with Modern Family Law. She didn’t talk dollars & was an angel to speak with, after Christmas of all times. She listened to everything, never making me feel like time was up. Unfortunately, I couldn’t use her moving forward because of state rules in divorce, but she explained whatever she could, leaving the door open to reach out again. Great advice, going above and beyond.I feel very grateful to speak with Jasmine. Thank you.
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27 Dec, 2024 by Marina cardoza
Called for a free consultation and spoke wirh Cynthia Griffin. She was very kind and extremely helpful!
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28 Apr, 2017 by Anonymous
I had Merrie do my estate work, with a living trust. She was very thorough, timely and easy to work with. She was helpful with me getting my thoughts organized on this whole topic. Very good!
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22 Apr, 2017 by Martin
I contacted Merrie Kippur to help with my Estate Planning Profile. She was very knowledgeable and asked all the right questions in order to complete the profile to my satisfaction. I would highly recommend her for any future legal work. Thanks for a job well done.
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20 Apr, 2017 by Anonymous
Merrie has been working with our family for years. We can't say enough good things about her and the help she's provided us, regardless of the ask. She's always very professional, but also caring and kind. We needed a trust drafted to protect our mom's estate and assets, she had everything updated and taken care of quickly. She left nothing for us to worry about, which made the process seamless and stress free.
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20 Sep, 2017 by Lynn
My aging parents needed updated wills and a trust for real estate, and I was referred to Dave by a friend. We had our initial meeting with Dave a few years ago to discuss their individual desires. The meeting could be described as 'painful' at best, since my parents had made decisions as to their respective beneficiaries without discussion between themselves before the meeting. There was a look of shock on both my parents' faces as they each described how they wanted their property divided. Dave was extremely sensitive to the situation when he realized there was more going on than just a standard will and trust for two people in their 80s. He very diplomatically pointed out the possible legal issues with their choices of beneficiaries and how they wanted property disposed, and also brought up in a sensitive manner the personal ramifications. After a very frank and robust discussion, both parents were satisfied with Dave's recommendations, and the wills and trust were put in place.
My mother passed away a few years after the meeting. Dave and his paralegal Brenda were very responsive to my needs as executor and trustee, which was complicated by my living out of state. They arranged their schedules so I could meet with them when I was in town. Dave was pragmatic in advising me as to what I could/should handle versus what they could do as lawyers for my mother and the trust. I got the sense that he was not looking to do simple tasks just to generate billable hours. They responded quickly to questions about forms to be filed, possible issues with the trust selling the family home, and additional documents needed by the realtor.
It is very hard when a parent passes away, and the groundwork laid by Dave a few years ago made the estate settlement process less complicated than it would have been without the will and trust. Dave and Brenda helped throughout the settlement process, from the time of her death to the trust distribution. Working with them was one of the more pleasant aspects during this trying time.
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13 Feb, 2012 by Chris
Dave Osterman is one of the finest attorney's I've worked with. He came recommended to me by a friend, who Dave had just completed a Living Trust for. Dave's fee structure was simple and he delivered far more value than I felt he charged. The Living Trust he prepared for my wife and I was incredibly detailed and covered aspects of our assets I had not even thought of. He continues to answer questions on my trust, to this day, years after preparing it. I would highly recommend Dave to anyone, particularly with a large portfolio of assets.
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17 Aug, 2011 by Anonymous
Since I first hired Dave, he has been extremely helpful, answering numerous questions by phone at no charge even though they were not always related to the original issue.
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30 Oct, 2023 by Anonymous
Suzanne was an amazing consultant in my divorce. I had never worked with a lawyer before and Suzanne helped me walk through the process with such compassion and patience. She helped me to learn how and what I needed to do to stand up for what I deserved. I am so grateful for her expertise and confidence. I would refer her to anyone I know.
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26 Oct, 2023 by Anonymous
Suzanne helped me with my divorce last year. She is professional, sharp, and extremely effective. I was able to keep my retirement accounts because she pointed out that my ex and I had always kept our accounts separate from day 1 of the marriage, and that I should be able to retain my own accounts. The judge accepted this and signed off on it, and I feel safe and financially secure as a result.
As contentious as divorce can be, she helped keep everything fair and civil. She is a wonderful person who wants to help.
I cannot recommend her enough!
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25 Oct, 2023 by Rodger
It is a pleasure to compliment the legal work that Susanne Ewy has done for me.
At 92 years of age my ability to deal with Boulder (Colorado) County authorities is quite limited. When I received notice this year that my home valuation had just risen by 50% I was shocked. This meant my home real estate taxes would also rise by this same 50% amount!
Boulder (Colorado) County displayed “comparable” nearby home properties that had recently sold as justification despite the significant differences in comparisons. I engaged Suzanne Ewy to help me deal with Boulder County over this gross exaggeration.
She developed a plan, gathered materials, both statistical and visual, and, within the County-stated strict limitations, delivered my request for re-evaluation. She prepared, I think, about forty-five pages of information for the County.
The County Assessor rejected her request for re-evaluation completely, requiring her to file an appeal and appear before the Board of Equalization. She prepared me for that virtual hearing, making sure that I could hear and understand the proceedings.
Long story shortened, the BOE granted me the totality of my evaluation amount – the entire reduction of 50%. Virtually unheard of in this county. This will result in a reasonable tax amount that will have an immediate and a long-term effect on this aging citizen who has paid Boulder real estate taxes since about 1970.
My many thanks and admiration for her reasoned and effective work is unbounded.
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31 Aug, 2024 by Robert
Paul completely understood our legal situation which involved a bridge loan, and had an associated promissory note, a deed of trust and a borrower's guaranty, all three legal documents were originally drafted by the borrower. Paul provided significant betterments/protections and sagely substituted the Colorado Real Estate Commission form for the deed of trust. He instills confidence, explains issues in layman terms and guided us to a timely and successful closing. He is highly recommended.
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12 Nov, 2018 by Glenn
Mr Durr is a consummate professional. He is an expert negotiator, and has tremendous common sense. Mr Durr has assisted me with trusts, wills, business transactions and contract agreements. Tremendous business lawyer; I highly recommend.
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15 Aug, 2016 by Mike and pam
We needed assistance getting an estate settled where the attorney for the estate was very difficult to work with.
Mr. Durr was excellent at working easily with a contentious person. We were so impressed with him that we had him plan our estate and get our papers in order. A year later Mr. Durr helped us with our Real Estate needs instead of using a realtor. He has always done a great job for us and been more than fair billing us.
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30 Mar, 2016 by Siena
After interviewing and pricing out a few different attorneys, my husband and I felt very confident in hiring Lyndsey and her team to assist us with our estate planning. Lyndsey and Heather made this process so easy for us- we had procrastinated this for years because it seemed so overwhelming, but Lyndsey explained things in terms that made sense, put things in context with helpful anecdotes and metaphors, and guided us though the decision making process like a pro. She is a great listener and seemed to truly have our best interests at heart. We are so grateful for her guidance through this process and and have such peace of mind knowing she is our trusted advisor.
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04 Jul, 2015 by Brian
They took my situation and made it simple and pleasant. Lyndsey's
expertise and personality provided me the confidence I was looking for.
Very convenient and very professional.
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26 Feb, 2015 by Anonymous
Lyndsey Richard was recommended when we needed legal help in an urgent situation. She was very helpful, even willing to meet our family at our home. She is sensitive, thorough, responsive and smart.
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17 May, 2013 by Anonymous
Though Matthew is a younger attorney, he is extremely knowledgeable and professional. He replied to all of my voice messages or emails promptly and always made me feel like my case was a priority. I was dealing with my siblings who were trying to sue me as the personal representative for my father's estate, and Matthew did an excellent job of guiding me through this process. Our outcome was successful and I would recommend him to anyone that needs a good attorney.
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19 Mar, 2015 by Anonymous
Ms. Law is a clear, personable communicator. She understands probate law and is able to explain client's rights so that the client can make decisions with full information. She shows that she values client's time by being prompt for in person appointments and phone discussions. She makes exemplary use of email and text. As a client, I feel that I have a partner who is working with me to guarantee that my best interests are served.
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10 Feb, 2018 by Byron
Bryan and I have worked together on various matters over the years. Recently we were both involved in an extremely difficult probate case. I have found Bryan to be an extremely intelligent, thoughtful and ethical attorney.
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11 May, 2018 by Andrew
Hello. Please use Rebecca Shandrick's legal services without hesitation! She is the epitome of professionalism, supreme knowledge of the law, and for right-sizing the legal solutions to your needs. She won't try to sell, etc., only deliver what's needed for your particular needs. She is very responsive, courteous, and a very good person indeed. We will always happily recommend and refer folks to Rebecca (in fact we already have). You'll be happy to do the same.
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08 Jun, 2016 by Philippa
It never occurred to me that without owning real estate that I would benefit from an estate plan. But by putting a plan together it helped me get my arms around both my current assets and liabilities as well as putting together a plan to reach future goals. Wiegand Attorneys did an exceptional job in delivering an Estate Plan and Medical Directive. But they are so much more. They are constant guides and have helped me to achieve financial, lifestyle and security goals incrementally and steadily over the past few years and are now by my side as I step into purchasing my first property within a living trust with my family. This is a firm you want to not only handle stand-alone transactions, but to have on your team for the long-haul. They truly have their client's interests at heart and are exceptionally experienced, honest, and wise.
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05 Oct, 2022 by Marissa russell
Ball Morse Lowe is an incredibly thorough firm; everyone I've worked with there have been the best at what they do and consummate professionals. Chris Michael, the attorney I've worked close with various times is second to none at what he does; as well as being timely, efficient, and an all around incomparably knowledgable legal mind. Could not recommend more!
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14 Jan, 2020 by Doug hall
Top notch lawyers
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30 Jul, 2019 by Nate lawrence
Very professional.
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17 Dec, 2024 by Veronica sagarnaga
Estoy muy agradecida por todo El trabajo que se ha hecho Para mi , fue Exelente lo recomiendo 100% muchisimas gracias es un gran equipo
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19 Nov, 2024 by Nadia zabadne
Olga was great she met all of our expectations! I highly recommend Balaban law.
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22 Oct, 2024 by Sheila parker
20 Dec, 2021 by Daniel graves
Great attorneys and great people work with. I have very much enjoyed working with Gabe.
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31 Jul, 2021 by Rorschach 81
Excellent law firm!
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04 Aug, 2020 by Sean murphy
Great law firm and receptive to your needs. They will go above and beyond to handle any situation that you are dealing with. Kristen Shields out of Nashville personally handled some legal work for our firm and has done an excellent job in protecting a claim for us. Thank you!
Sean Murphy - Financial Controller - MT2 LLC
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21 Jan, 2025 by Alex lavoie
Spoke with Michael today, super guy. Steered my int eu right direction. Spent time with me over the phone and really spoke to me like a human and not a paycheck. He charged me zero dollars for the guidance. 10/10 firm.
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16 Jan, 2025 by Jessica melford
Pretty disappointed since I was referred to this law firm by a friend/ coworker. Communication has been poor, appears ball has been drop while the firm has been handling my case and still no solution as of it. I will update my review accordingly but as of right now not please with the service.
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08 Jan, 2025 by Candice marley
Tim Tarr and David Turner did an amazing job with my husband’s case. We ended with a much better deal than even expected. They made us feel calm and secure during the whole process. Highly recommend.!!
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07 Jan, 2025 by Traci graff
reasonable price to put a guardianship in place. Really accommodating office.
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06 Jan, 2025 by David falconer
Nick has always been available and helped us with our Family Trust as well as my mothers Trust. Excellent service!
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06 Jan, 2025 by Rod mead - cdot
Really fantastic experience. Good communication and Chad makes the "legalese" easily understandable to the layman. Highly recommend them if you are looking for estate or trust planning options!
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5.0
3 Reviews
4.3
177 Reviews
16 Oct, 2024 by Jason roben
Highly recommend this firm for any and all legal family matters. Multiple attorneys did a great job representing me on various cases. They’re a great asset if you need help. Thanks again!
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01 Oct, 2024 by Sasha zavada
I worked with attorney Heather Landauer and paralegal Brianna Griffey for my family court case. They were always attentive and on top of the issues I was having. Kept me at ease and took my concerns seriously. I was pleased with the knowledge, service, and time I received. I would recommend them to anyone going through a contested family court case.
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24 Sep, 2024 by Caroline dermon
Erika and her team were amazing!! They went above and beyond in every way possible. Erika was always available to answer my questions no matter what time of day it was. She explained the process every step of the way and was a true advocate for my son and I. I knew she always had my back and she made what was possibly one of the most difficult times in my life, as smooth and seamless as possible. I couldn't have asked for a better outcome and it's all because of Erika. She's professional, down to earth, relatable, crazy smart and the best at what she does. She is my knight in shinning armor and I will forever be grateful for everything she did for me!!
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20 Sep, 2019 by Wayward bill chengelis
Terrific law firm.
Love their office...
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30 Aug, 2018 by Chris geist
It was good
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20 Sep, 2019 by Wayward bill chengelis
Terrific law firm.
Love their office...
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30 Aug, 2018 by Chris geist
It was good
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21 Jun, 2024 by David jones
12 Feb, 2024 by Stephanie linn
Mr. Cornell Johnson exceeded my expectations as a personal injury attorney. Cornell was always available to answer any questions I had about my motor vehicle accident - responding promptly to all phone calls and written communications. He carefully laid out the various options and strategies that he thought would be most productive and helped me to come to a much better understanding of what I could expect in terms of obstacles, time frame, and what I could expect from him. Cornell carried his vast legal knowledge and expertise with humility and also with confidence. I felt he truly cared for my well-being as I was healing from my injuries. I cannot recommend Cornell highly enough - he was a blessing to me and my family during such a difficult time.
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24 Jan, 2024 by Robertta lawler
Mr.Johnson and his staff are gracious,strong,honest,dedicated, trustworthy and will stand for what is just. Mr. Johnson helped me through a very difficult time and experience in my life that I could never have imagined going through,having him on my side was a light during a dark time!! I am forever grateful.
Best Regards,
Ms. Lawler
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21 Jun, 2024 by David jones
12 Feb, 2024 by Stephanie linn
Mr. Cornell Johnson exceeded my expectations as a personal injury attorney. Cornell was always available to answer any questions I had about my motor vehicle accident - responding promptly to all phone calls and written communications. He carefully laid out the various options and strategies that he thought would be most productive and helped me to come to a much better understanding of what I could expect in terms of obstacles, time frame, and what I could expect from him. Cornell carried his vast legal knowledge and expertise with humility and also with confidence. I felt he truly cared for my well-being as I was healing from my injuries. I cannot recommend Cornell highly enough - he was a blessing to me and my family during such a difficult time.
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24 Jan, 2024 by Robertta lawler
Mr.Johnson and his staff are gracious,strong,honest,dedicated, trustworthy and will stand for what is just. Mr. Johnson helped me through a very difficult time and experience in my life that I could never have imagined going through,having him on my side was a light during a dark time!! I am forever grateful.
Best Regards,
Ms. Lawler
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13 Feb, 2023 by Ryan james
Rafael made it a quick point to call me when I had concerns about our 1099s and a few of our vendors. I really appreciated the calls to get our resolution with out all the back and forth. Thanks Rafael!
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14 Jun, 2022 by Roy mcfarland
Amazing service. Highly recommended! Peter is incredibly knowledgeable and compassionate. Helped with all our legal and tax questions! Thanks!!!
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12 Oct, 2020 by Dean dubach
We've been using LongLG for years. Very knowledgeable and professional. Their staff goes the extra mile for their clients and of course I highly recommend them.
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05 Oct, 2022 by Marissa russell
Ball Morse Lowe is an incredibly thorough firm; everyone I've worked with there have been the best at what they do and consummate professionals. Chris Michael, the attorney I've worked close with various times is second to none at what he does; as well as being timely, efficient, and an all around incomparably knowledgable legal mind. Could not recommend more!
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14 Jan, 2020 by Doug hall
Top notch lawyers
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30 Jul, 2019 by Nate lawrence
Very professional.
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FAQs
Questions? We have answers
What a Trusts Lawyer Can Do for You
A trusts lawyer specializes in creating and managing trusts, which are legal entities that allow individuals to transfer assets to beneficiaries while maintaining control over how and when those assets are distributed. Trusts are used for estate planning, asset protection, tax planning, and ensuring the financial security of loved ones. Trusts lawyers help clients choose the right type of trust for their needs, draft trust documents, and advise on the administration and management of trusts.
Whether you're planning to pass on your assets to your heirs, protect your wealth from creditors, or provide for a disabled family member, a trusts lawyer can help you establish a trust that meets your financial and personal goals.
When Should I Hire a Trusts Lawyer?
You should consider hiring a trusts lawyer in various situations, particularly when you're planning for the future distribution of your assets or protecting your wealth. Common reasons to hire a trusts lawyer include:
- Estate planning: If you want to ensure that your assets are distributed according to your wishes, a lawyer can help you create a revocable or irrevocable trust to avoid probate and provide for your heirs.
- Asset protection: If you want to protect your assets from creditors, lawsuits, or potential future liabilities, a lawyer can help you establish a trust to shield your wealth.
- Special needs planning: If you have a disabled family member, a lawyer can create a special needs trust to provide for their care without affecting their eligibility for government benefits.
- Tax planning: If you're looking to minimize estate taxes or manage tax liabilities, a lawyer can help you create tax-advantageous trusts, such as a credit shelter trust or charitable remainder trust.
- Charitable giving: If you want to leave a legacy through charitable donations, a lawyer can help you set up a charitable trust to ensure your donations are managed according to your wishes.
- Business succession planning: If you own a business and want to ensure a smooth transition of ownership, a lawyer can help you establish a trust to pass the business on to your heirs or chosen successors.
Hiring a trusts lawyer early in the estate planning process ensures that your assets are protected and your wishes are clearly documented, reducing the chances of disputes after your death.
What Does a Trusts Lawyer Do?
A trusts lawyer provides a variety of legal services to help individuals create, manage, and administer trusts. Their responsibilities often include:
- Drafting trust documents: Preparing the legal documents needed to create the trust, ensuring it is tailored to your specific goals and complies with state and federal laws.
- Choosing the right type of trust: Assisting clients in selecting the most appropriate type of trust for their needs, whether it's a revocable trust, irrevocable trust, living trust, or special needs trust.
- Trust administration: Guiding trustees through their legal responsibilities, including managing assets, making distributions to beneficiaries, and filing tax returns.
- Modifying or terminating trusts: Helping modify or terminate trusts if circumstances change, such as changes in tax laws, family situations, or personal preferences.
- Protecting beneficiaries' interests: Structuring trusts to protect the interests of beneficiaries, especially if there are concerns about financial management, disability, or dependency issues.
- Minimizing estate taxes: Assisting clients in structuring their trusts to minimize or avoid estate taxes, ensuring more of the estate passes to beneficiaries.
- Handling disputes: Mediating or representing clients in court if disputes arise among beneficiaries or between trustees and beneficiaries.
How Are Trusts Lawyers Paid?
Trusts lawyers typically charge for their services based on the complexity of the trust and the type of legal work involved. Common payment methods include:
- Flat fee: For drafting basic trusts, such as revocable living trusts or special needs trusts, many lawyers charge a flat fee. This can range from $1,000 to $5,000 or more, depending on the complexity of the trust.
- Hourly rate: For more complex trust planning, ongoing trust administration, or resolving disputes, some lawyers charge by the hour. Hourly rates typically range from $150 to $500 or more, depending on the lawyer’s experience and location.
- Retainer: For long-term trust administration or complex estate planning cases, some lawyers may require a retainer, an upfront payment that covers ongoing services.
- Contingency fee (rare): In rare cases, particularly in disputes involving the administration of a trust, lawyers may work on a contingency fee basis, getting paid only if they successfully recover funds or resolve a legal dispute in your favor.
Always discuss the fee structure with your lawyer during the initial consultation to understand the total cost of services.
How Much Does a Trusts Lawyer Cost?
The cost of hiring a trusts lawyer depends on the complexity of the trust, the lawyer’s experience, and the fee structure. General cost estimates include:
- Basic trust creation: For simple trusts, such as revocable living trusts, fees may range from $1,000 to $3,000.
- Complex trust creation: For sophisticated estate plans involving multiple trusts, tax planning strategies, or special needs considerations, legal fees may range from $5,000 to $10,000 or more.
- Trust administration: If you are serving as a trustee and need ongoing legal advice, hourly rates for trust administration can range from $150 to $500 or more.
- Dispute resolution: Costs for litigation or mediation in trust disputes may range from $5,000 to $50,000 or more, depending on the complexity of the case.
Be sure to get a detailed cost estimate from your lawyer during the consultation to ensure the services fit within your budget.
Top Questions to Ask a Trusts Lawyer
Before hiring a trusts lawyer, consider asking the following questions:
-
What experience do you have with creating trusts?
Ensure the lawyer has experience drafting trusts and managing trust administration for clients with similar goals or asset structures. -
What types of trusts do you recommend for my situation?
Ask the lawyer to explain the different types of trusts available and which ones best suit your needs. -
How do you charge for your services?
Clarify the fee structure and request an estimate of the total cost. -
What are the tax implications of the trust?
Ensure the lawyer can explain how the trust will affect your taxes and strategies to minimize tax liability. -
How long will it take to set up the trust?
Ask for a timeline for creating and finalizing the trust documents. -
Will you handle the trust administration?
If ongoing management is required, inquire whether the lawyer will assist with trust administration or if you'll need a separate trustee. -
Can you help resolve disputes if they arise?
Ask about the lawyer's experience in resolving trust disputes.
How to Check the Credibility of a Trusts Lawyer
To ensure you are hiring a reputable trusts lawyer, take the following steps:
- Verify their bar status: Check with your state bar association to confirm the lawyer is licensed and has no disciplinary actions.
- Look for trust law experience: Review their website or professional profile to ensure they specialize in estate planning and trusts.
- Read client reviews and testimonials: Look for feedback on platforms like Avvo, Martindale-Hubbell, or Google.
- Ask for references: Request references from past clients who can speak to their experience with the lawyer.
- Check for certifications: Look for certifications such as Certified Estate Planning Law Specialist (EPLS) or memberships in organizations like the American Academy of Estate Planning Attorneys (AAEPA).
What Should I Prepare for My First Consultation?
To make the most of your first consultation with a trusts lawyer, bring the following:
- List of assets: Prepare a list of all your assets, including real estate, bank accounts, investments, retirement accounts, and personal property.
- List of beneficiaries: Provide names and contact information of individuals or organizations you want to name as beneficiaries.
- Existing estate planning documents: Bring copies of any existing wills, trusts, or other estate planning documents.
- Financial information: Bring financial statements, tax returns, and other relevant financial documentation.
- Questions for the lawyer: Prepare a list of questions about the trust creation process, fees, and how the trust will protect your assets and beneficiaries.
- Goals for the trust: Clearly outline your objectives, such as asset protection, tax minimization, or provisions for beneficiaries, so the lawyer can tailor the trust to your needs.
By preparing thoroughly for your consultation, you can help the lawyer assess your situation effectively and receive the best possible legal advice for creating and managing your trust.
