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01 Sep, 2024 by Maria creel
Excellent experience. Staci was very thorough and professional, went over all details and patiently answered all our questions. We definitely recommend her services.
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24 Jul, 2024 by Elizabeth mauro
We highly recommend Staci Hershey for your estate planning needs. She was very knowledgeable and did a great job in helping us understand the complexities of the law to ensure we were protected and made the best decisions for our family.
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22 Jul, 2024 by Ignacio saenz lancuba
Best Estate planning Attorney in the Country. Always keeping up with the system to provide the best advice to their clients.
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29 Aug, 2024 by T chelvan
Attorney Mr. Sherman defended my HOA complaint Orlando court case very diligently and carried it through mediation and finally made it dismissed. Excellent Attorney and the Law Firm. He charged me fixed fee that I could afford based on calendar year representation. I recommend highly Mr. Sherman for defending any real estate/HOA related legal issues in Florida. Thank you very much for all your help Mr. Sherman.
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23 Aug, 2024 by Mila shpyrko
I had a great experience working with Sherman Law Firm. Their professionalism and expertise were evident from day one. The team was always responsive, explained everything clearly, and made me feel like a priority. Thanks to their dedication, my case was resolved successfully. I highly recommend Sherman Law Firm for anyone in need of reliable legal assistance!
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23 Aug, 2024 by M b
I had an excellent experience working with Bryan J. Sherman . he was knowledgeable, professional, and always responsive to my questions. Bryan J. Sherman, made a complicated legal process much easier to understand and navigate. I highly recommend their services to anyone in need of legal assistance.
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05 Sep, 2024 by Anonymous
Haneen is an excellent choice for anyone seeking legal assistance with eldercare issues, and I am grateful I connected with her. Haneen's expertise in this area of law is very appreciated, and I can't say enough about her flexible approach and patience. I met with her numerous times, and she was able to explain intricate legal concepts in a clear, easily understandable way, not only to me but to my elderly parents as well. Consider working with Haneen to plan for long-term care, deal with estate matters, or address immediate eldercare needs.
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14 Aug, 2024 by Anonymous
The first meeting with my attorney proved to be the best thing that happened to me because immediately I felt that I was in good hands. All my questions were answered and I knew my worries were over regarding my estate. Every step along the way progressed in a professional manner. Along the way my family and I were treated with respect and we were assured that we would get through in a professional manner with all the court documents and assignments. Advice given to me as the personal representative was completed with the careful guidance of my attorney. I am very grateful for all the support I had through this difficult time from my attorney. I highly recommend my attorney and will always seek advice in the future if the need arises.
I thank my attorney so much for all that she did for me.
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14 Aug, 2024 by Natalia
Janeen really helped my sister and I navigate an incredibly challenging and stressful situation with our father. She was kind, compassionate, and very responsive.
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5.0
20 Reviews
25 Mar, 2022 by Catherine
Adrian and his team deserve our highest recommendation for their resourceful representation in a probate case that we were ready to write off as impossible. Adrian's "out-of-the box thinking" and positive "can-do" approach proved to be a very refreshing approach Sure eough, he and his team came through like champs--pretty quickly too--to ensure that our deceased loved one's wishes wewre honored. And throughout the process he and his team kept in close touch. A rare gem!
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16 Sep, 2021 by Deet
Adrian Thomas thought of lots of potential problems and protected us tidily from all of them. He’s brilliant and on the ball. His company took care of the info and advice, filings, paperwork, audit, beneficiary agreements—everything to wind up my mother’s at-risk trust successfully. AND gave back change from the retainer. He’s the best in every way. He also generously called back with helpful advice years later when I had a question about something else.
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17 Sep, 2019 by Jacqueline
Adrian Philip Thomas has been a Godsend! Our experience continues to reveal the most dedicated,
heartfelt,efficient and motivated group of attorneys with Adrian Phillip Thomas at the helm, always open,available & acting with undoubtably the most professional attributes available by far.
He and his staff are clear and consistent beginning day one. I've never met a more professional, dedicated, persistent & family minded organization.
This review is long overdue and is here to encourage others to rest assuredly when deciding to move forward with A.T.Philips & their most important decisions ahead.
Trust in their most valuable staff & expertise!
Thank you all !!!
Patti & Jacqueline
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03 Oct, 2018 by Anonymous
Gary handled our trust and estate planning with ease, professionalism, and attention to detail.
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07 Mar, 2018 by Erik
Gary Mansfield and his staff are amazing. His office was highly professional and responsive. Gary kept me informed throughout the process. I would highly recommend Gary and his firm.
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01 Mar, 2018 by Alan
Gary was responsible for the transaction work involving the sale of membership interests for two entities, as well as providing lease negotiations and documentation for a new entity. He did an exemplary job with every aspect of the transactions. Our best interests were always foremost and the documents were spot on. The transactions went very smoothly, and I could not be happier with the experience. I will use him for all of our legal work going forward.
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29 Sep, 2018 by Joel
I have always been wary of attorneys, as I have heard horror stories of over charging and drawn out processes. I can confidently say that I experienced none of that with Mr. Rosenthal. I am confident that I have found my life long attorney. From start to finish Mr. Rosenthal made me feel calm and confident that I was going to be ok. Mr. Rosenthal was very good about keeping me informed on where we stood in the process. To come accross a professional so knowledgeable, honest, and efficient has been a breath of fresh air.
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28 Apr, 2018 by Roger
When other lawyers were unable to decipher the legal complexities in the matter that I sought representation for Mark and his team invested countless hours to come up with the appropriate answers needed in order to represent my side and ultimately prevail in a supremely complex matter that absorbed hundreds of man hours researching a legal question that had very little explanation nor understanding.
Prior to acquiring Mark's assistance I reached out to several other law firms all were inconclusive in the matter or lacked complete and total understanding of it refusing to help me in any way.
I am extremely grateful for Mark and his team not giving up on me and taking the time that clearly was needed in order to gain a complete understanding of my position and approaching our matter supremely informed over the opposing parties allowing us to prevail.
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20 Nov, 2017 by Jesse goldstein
I was given Mr. Rosenthal's name by a family member.
Mr. Rosenthal was diligent, through and always available to us.
His support team was also most pleasant and made our home closing smooth and simple.
We are most satisfied with our experience and would recommend him and use him again, in the future.
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28 Oct, 2018 by Frances
It was a very pleasant experience to have Attorney Staci Hershey to restate my Revocable Trust. I could not have asked for a more professional attorney, yet she was so personable. She went above and beyond when explaining the documents I needed (things my original attorney did not explain). I highly recommend Attorney Staci Hershey. You wIl not be disappointed.
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03 Jan, 2016 by Stephanie
Ms. Hershey advised me on a variety of topics. She was friendly, prompt and courteous. I was put at ease with her knowledge and able to make informed decisions thanks to her guidance and support. I would definitely recommend her to anyone!
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15 Dec, 2015 by Elena
I contacted Ms. Hershey regarding estate planning. I am so pleased with this firm. Ms. Hershey is extremely knowledgeable and very effective. She made sure to explain the entire process to my family and myself, so we understood each detail. She is approachable, and I felt comfortable asking her all of my questions. She took care of everything we needed quickly, and efficiently. I would recommend the Hershey Law and will continue to use her services.
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22 Jan, 2020 by Kira
Mrs. Arneson is an exceptional attorney. I could not be happier with her representation. I utilized her services for a divorce incorporating a distance time-sharing plan for one minor child. Mrs. Arneson's legal advice was unparalleled. I spoke with several attorneys prior to retaining her and she by far had advice; which (in my case) saved me the legal battle of fighting Florida's relocation statute. It was her expertise and savvy counsel; which turned a frightening and frankly anxiety-ridden situation, into one of ease and comfort. Divorce is not simple and certainly not enjoyable, but Mrs. Arneson represented me avidly and even informed me when I was incorrect in my personal assessment of the situation. Mrs. Arneson was respectful and made herself available on pretty much any occasion for questions and concerns. Please do not hesitate to retain her, you will not regret it.
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15 Jun, 2016 by Gregg borak
I met Margaret Arneson and has been a empathetic advocate for the underdog in my disagreement with my former employer.
She cares /she listens and she is very reasonable in her charges and is a brilliant lady who knows the law and has great composure.
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31 Jan, 2013 by Ashley
She is very knowledgable & always has a solution to the problem. She always puts her clients best interest first. Love Mrs. Arneson & will continue to recommend!
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22 Aug, 2018 by Richard
My sisters and I hired Mr. Bunin to get a squatter out my father's residence so we could finish the probate and sell the home. Mr. Bunin did an amazing job for us. He always kept us informed, and was always honest with us even if it hurt. He promptly returned phone calls and responded to e-mails. His style was to get to the point quickly, and not waste time. Within just a few short months, we were able to get the matter resolved and got the squatter out of the house. We had to pay the squatter a little money in order to get him out, but we were okay with that because it would have cost us a lot more if we had to go to trial. I would definitely recommend Mr. Bunin for any legal matter.
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18 Apr, 2012 by Anonymous
Mr. Bunin has done an amazing job for me in my case. He always keeps me informed and is a tireless advocate for his client. You should consider yourself lucky if Mr. Bunin decides to take your case!
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11 Aug, 2010 by William
Jeffrey was very knowledgable and helpful. He handled my case with the highest level of professionalism. He answered all my questions and didn't pretend to know everything. If he didn't know the answer, he went out of his way to find it. I would definitely use his services again.
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15 Aug, 2017 by Raymond
I'd confidently recommend Greg to anyone seeking legal counsel in Estate Planning or a Probate case. He has a high level of knowledge & experience.
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11 Jan, 2016 by Tom
I am a lawyer myself but without a special expertise in estate planning which is the advice I was seeking, specifically revising my will and establishing multiple trusts. I found Greg's advice to be clear and well reasoned. He explained how he felt my current estate documents could be improved under FL law to better meet the expectations I sought. And he was right. I'm a stickler for careful drafting and I found Greg's abilities first rate in wordsmith which is so very important in wills/trusts. I was impressed with his clarity in draftsmanship which exceeded my previous documents. Bottom line, he understood what I wanted to accomplish and provided the necessary explanations and drafting to be sure I achieved my goals. I was totally satisfied.
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21 Jan, 2013 by Scott
Terry is an outstandng attorney who worked with my parents and made sure that all issues were covered thoroughly. She has completed my estate work as well and I sleep well at night knowing everything has been done, and done right!
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17 Dec, 2012 by Bonnie
I went to Terry initially for estate planning and she was very knowledgable, informative and helpful. I've since referred her to others for issues with their elder parents. She is kind, compassionate and caring and was able to help with all of their needs including guardianship and trust. She really cares about people!
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07 Mar, 2017 by Paul
I called Christopher Wintter for a consultation. Mr. Wintter was not the first attorney I had spoken to. I had spoken to several others. After he reviewed my mothers will and trust, he actually gave me unexpected advice, and relieved the terrible pressure I had thinking that litigation was imminent. All other lawyers l had spoken to were pushing me to litigate. Christopher Wintter spent over an hour on the phone patiently explaining to me that things weren't as bad as I was thinking. He translated and clearly explained the legal language of the will and trust. All of this was done prior to me retaining him for anything. I felt incredibly grateful and I'm writing this letter to show my gratitude of having the luck to run into this honest attorney If you're looking for someone that's not going to take advantage of their advantage, and actually seems to have compassion and integrity, I highly recommend this gentleman. I am sure he saved me a great deal of hardship.
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22 Jun, 2016 by Mike
I highly recommend Christopher Wintter and his law firm. I was referred to Mr. Wintter by word of mouth as he is well regarded in Probate and Estate Litigation. I had a rather difficult estate issue and on my first contact with Mr. Wintter he gave me excellent legal advice while putting me at ease and giving me hope during a difficult time.
He made his fees clear to me and approached our consultation with a very practical perspective that made
it easier for me to understand the circumstances.
After retaining Mr. Wintter and his firm I found that he and his associates were very professional and knowledgeable in the practice of Estate Law. Being specialists in this area of law turned out to be a great advantage to me and I was extremely satisfied with the outcome of my case. I wish I would have found Mr. Wintter’s firm sooner as it would have saved me a good deal of time and effort.
I highly recommend this firm and I will use Christopher Wintter and Associates again in the future.
Sincerely,
Michael.N
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01 Apr, 2021 by Daniel
I used Menendez Law Firm, in particular Nydia Menendez for my estate planning and trust. I have also used Nydia for two different real estate transactions and could not be happier. First, the real estate transactions were very through, complete and professionally handled. Nydia offered her professional advice on a few cloudy issues with the transactions. I'm so glad she found them and corrected them. Second, because of Nydia's professional and personnel connection to each client, it was a easy decision to choose Nydia for my estate planning.
Again, Nydia's professional, personnel and caring way so impressed me during the entire estate planning and trust process. Her through and complete knowledge of all the different rules and laws really put me at ease. Made me feel confident that the estate planning and trust would meet all me needs.
I would highly recommend Nydia and the Menendez Law firm for your real estate, estate planning and trusts.
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13 Oct, 2020 by Steve
Ms. Menendez is a professional in every sense of the word. She handled a real estate closing for me. It was tricky, but everything went smoothly. The seller and I were both pleased.
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02 Nov, 2020 by Shana
Mr. Dishowitz was quick to draft and finalize my documents. He was a pleasure to work with and gave me great peace of mind! I highly recommend him to anyone else seeking a probate attorney.
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05 Jun, 2015 by Anonymous
Ken got back to me the day after I contacted him, using both email and phone. I felt that he was extremely well-versed in his specialty, and within a few minutes had identified some areas of vulnerability with respect to my successor trusteeship and made me feel confident enough to engage his firm, which I will do upon reviewing his agreement. He has been in the business since 1969, so he "knows the rules." I will review Ken again after we have had some experience together warding off a litigious beneficiary.
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13 Mar, 2024 by Ewing3
I hired Sarah to complete a Probate matter and she did an excellent job. Sarah was easy to work with and was very thorough in making sure that the job would be completed without any issues or delays. She had detailed knowledge of the law and was always very easy to communicate with. I would recommend using Sarah if you have a probate or estate matter.
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15 May, 2010 by Anonymous
Mr. Semenick represented me more than once. Each time his knowledge of the court system and the law impressed me. He's the attorney you want sitting beside you in court. I'd hire no other attorney to represent me or my family. Mr. Semenick's tenacity is evident in his ability to win his client's case. There was a time in our situation when we were faced with confusing consequences. Mr. Semenick repeated the details to us until we understood, he was never impatient, he communicated with us on a level we understood. His calm, knowledgeable, very professional manner gave us the feeling of security we needed. Unfortunately this site doesn't allow for the availability of a higher rating score. Excellent/10 is what Mr. Semenick deserves and would get from me and my family.
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01 Feb, 2024 by Samantha slone
Arthur Vincent is a wonderful attorney. I felt that he always had my best interest in mind and explained things well and in a timely manner. It is a stressful time when an attorney is needed, and his staff and him made it a lot less stressful. Not only did he represent me as a lawyer, but Arthur saw my true heart and represented me as a friend.
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22 Nov, 2023 by Alvaro j. hurtado
30 Dec, 2022 by Gary feinberg
Vincent Law was able to successfully defend me in my landlord-tenant dispute. After vacating my unit and leaving the premises in impeccable condition, the landlord had decided not to follow the statue and not return my security deposit. With the help of Arthur Vincent I was able to receive my full security deposit and legal fees. Mr. Vincent was a reassuring presence throughout the legal proceedings and made sure that the law was followed. Based on my experience, I would certainly recommend Vincent Law to others who may need legal assistance in similar matters. It is always reassuring to have an experienced and knowledgeable lawyer on your side, and Mr. Vincent was that lawyer.
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22 Aug, 2024 by Rolando suarez
Dr DMS and her staff were absolutely professional during the long process that I had to take to court..All the steps in the process were detailed explained and discussed with me. Dr DMS set the goals from the beginning and always worked hard to get there. In my case all the goals were achieved and the whole process was very satisfactory. I after years of being in a family court hardly recommend her services....thanks Dr Diksha
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16 Aug, 2024 by Yolanda gonzalez-claro
Diksha and her team were an intricate part in bringing our family together. We are so grateful and thankful for all the hard work, dedication, and integrity we experienced from everyone at her firm! "All things come together for good..." and we are thrilled to have her on our family team!
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07 Jun, 2024 by Jorge barreto
This was my first time using A criminal attorney, but I found a friend that just happens to be an attorney... Josh is.
Always available to you 24/7 great guy. Puts himself in your shoes always... I recommend him to everybody. Has empathy for your situation. I guarantee
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12 Aug, 2024 by Mike jackson
Great experience from start to finish! Performed above and beyond my expectations. I found Dave off the internet, but he treated me as if we had known each other for years. Highly recommended! 5***** all the way!
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08 Jul, 2024 by Josh l. leal
Over and over, Mr. Simmons keeps winning all my motions. He’s a force to be reckoned with. Truly a humble guy, but he’s as fearless as any. I cannot recommend anyone as much as I do Mr. Simmons. He’s truly my piece of mind.
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05 Jul, 2024 by April bovard
Words can’t even express how happy and blessed we are that we found Dave Simmons! From the get go he was very communicative and answered any questions I had no matter how little they were, and he always got back with me very quickly. We couldn’t have asked for a better outcome in our case. My husband was able to come home and meet our sweet 4 day old. Beyond blessed to have found him!
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24 Jul, 2024 by Zacharias cohen
24 Jun, 2024 by Gennnybravo
Would avoid working with this firm if at all possible. They are extremely slow to respond, completely disregard emails, and show a complete lack of empathy or understanding. If you are not consistently following up, you will be hard pressed to receive any type of response. If you do receive a response, it will be short and often times not even answer your questions. It consistently felt like we had to chase them down for the most simple requests. Go elsewhere if you have the option.
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14 Jun, 2024 by Zetar0b0t
Angela was super professional and helped me with my questions. I met her at an event and recommended the establishment.
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29 Jul, 2017 by Gina
I was recommended to attorney Blacke from another probate attorney due to limited funds. My father's estate valued at about one million was obsconded from me by my sibling. My story was featured in all the local papers and all local news stations. After leaving all documents at his office, he reviewed them over a few days and stated he would take my case on a contingency basis. My sibling was arrested on May 27th 2015. The state of FL is prosecuting her. I will appear for the first time in the that criminal case in about a year and a half, Sept 8th, 2017 where I am hopeful we will get a date for trial. I last spoke with Attorney Blacke on Thurs. July 20th when he stated he was taking an extended weekend and would get back to me on Tues.(July 25th). I waited, did not hear back from him so I called his office on Wed., the 26th and again on Thurs. The 27th. I had yet to receive a returned phone call so on Fri. July 28th, I emailed him at 1:37pm. I never received a response as of the time I am posting this review (July 29th 9:43pm)
I completely understand if he and his partner, had a change of heart but honestly I believe this is a very poor standard of practice and extremely unethical.
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04 Jul, 2017 by Danny
I met Larry in the late 80's when I first opened my real estate company. Larry has helped countless clients of mine from contract to closing. I have always appreciated Larry for his thoughtfulness and abilities. I would highly recommend Larry Blacke and feel fortunate to know him.
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11 Feb, 2017 by Thom
I have had the pleasure of consulting and hiring for Mr Blacke over 20 years as a Real Estate professional and for personal purposes. He has always been a sage advisor as well as a compassionate and knowledgeable professional. Mr Blacke has conducted many closing for my clients, all of which were smooth and successful. He handles all matters with a calm and informative manner. Mr Blacke tells you what you need to hear and continues to guide you through the process.
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20 Sep, 2023 by Nick
Exquisite. Knowledgeable, compassionate and efficient, Daniel McDermott is an engine of helpful information. A gentleman and a scholar, Mr. McDermott assisted me with info re estate planning. You simply won't find a better attorney. The best there is.
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21 Aug, 2023 by Shannon
This attorney and owner are impersonal, they overcharge and have been told by more senior attorneys, they don’t know what they’re doing. I retained Ryan Grubich through my counsel after my husbands untimely death. 10 months into the case, he’s never met me in person or done a zoom call, he is impersonal and used his $485 per hour fee to do all the administrative paperwork which should’ve been done by a paralegal for a fraction of the cost. He doesn’t care about an advantageous outcome for his client but continually sends outrageous bills to a widow with 2 children.
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05 Sep, 2019 by Anonymous
So glad we chose this law firm.
This law firm was professional, thorough, provided options, and made solid recommendations on how to proceed with the case each step of the way.
Danny McDermott was aggressive and serious. He was very knowledgeable, always prepared, and was the driving force behind winning our case.
I highly recommend Danny and this law firm.
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22 Sep, 2019 by Aaron
I went through my divorce years ago with Teresa and she not only help me get back on my feet again but she definitely help me negotiate a much better deal. I was at the point where I just wanted out and was willing to pay a lot more than I really should have and she calmly reminded me that I needed to look out for my family and make decisions that would not hurt my family on my side of the relationship either. At the time my ex's attorney was trying to play hardball, Theresa shut her down real quick. Absolute 5 star attorney!!
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30 Jun, 2017 by Anonymous
Did as much as could be done, and then some, for foreclosure.
On another foreclosure case, after some 5 years, the results were . . . . very good.
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22 Feb, 2015 by Anonymous
Phoned with a old file and was told that she would help me and look into it( since she was the one that handled it years ago) well, she informed me she knew who I was and would look it up for me! Thought great! Answers... Well, week after week of calling and messages she never phoned once. Very disappointed and thought she would have been professional and even if she had no answer call me and give me some kind of information.
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21 Dec, 2022 by Anonymous
Inattentive, difficult to get ahold of, and unable to resolve the case after almost four years (!), Mr. Pinnock also had trouble meeting legal deadlines and put me in further jeopardy. I was only able to get the matter resolved after dismissing Mr. Pinnock and hiring new counsel.
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24 Jun, 2015 by Bl
Mr. Pinnock is incredibly knowledgeable as well as compassionate and understanding. Being the Trustee of a Trust that was greedily attacked was by far the most difficult event of my life. Thanks to Mr. Pinnock, I prevailed 100%
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27 Apr, 2023 by Richard
She obviously doesn’t need any new clients. I left a phone message 10 days ago. No return call. I left a message on her web site 2 days ago. No return message.
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03 Jan, 2018 by Anonymous
I needed help to clear up an old issue in South Florida, and I needed help. Because of the pending charges in Florida I was trapped in a dead-end job, making not enough money to pay attention. I actually made a list of the top appearing lawyers on AVVO, and Google, and spent 3 days off (over three weeks) to try and find help. In telling of my frustration and wasted days, I was referred to Norliza Batts by a family member. She called me back the same day, we discussed the case, and was much less expensive than the few lawyers that had called back. I Sent in my retainer the same day, and suddenly things started happening, Good things. The Norliza Batts Firm began researching my case immediately, had to go to Court multiple times to assume my case as the original lawyer was no longer practicing. Because of Ms. Batts experience, she was able to navigate the prosecutors, Judges, and legal defenses that applied. Norliza, personally attended to my pleadings and proceedings and resolved my case, her personal attention to the matter was the only thing that got things DONE. She personally picked me up from the airport, and we discussed the case and drove to court. I consider her the most valuable business connection I have made in years, and am currently using her firm for corporate affairs. You will not find a lawyer ore skilled in the intricacies, and personalities of the Broward county justice system. I cannot recommend her strongly enough. I am posting this review anonymously, to move on with my life, BUT I am writing this review in the hopes to pay it forward and save you the aggravation I went through elsewhere.
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03 Jul, 2015 by Anonymous
Douglas Kniskern was hired to settle my father's estate for a flat fee of $15,000. He made several significant errors, including one that was MAJOR, and then billed me an additional $10,000 to "investigate" and "fix" his own mistakes! He made several threats to charge me even more if I didn't release him from liability for his multiple screw-ups. It's taken 11 years to undo the legal and financial disaster he left me with. He is well-known in in South Florida for over-billing clients and for extremely unethical business practices. He should be disbarred.
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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.
