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5.0
13 Reviews
5.0
84 Reviews
10 Dec, 2024 by Lynn christopher
31 Oct, 2024 by Bob p
REVIEW UPDATE 11/18/24: After posting my earlier review below, Justin Gilbert literally contacted me within less than 30 minutes to follow up. I was very surprised to hear from him and impressed that he cared enough to immediately contact me. He apologized for the horrible experience(s) I encountered and offered his help regarding my initial request for a trust.
I accepted his apology and hesitantly decided to hire him to handle our trust and wills. I must admit, I am happy I did. We had a phone consultation the next day, drafts were sent about ten days later and today we met in person to finalize everything. All committed timelines were met as planned.
The entire experience today with Justin was very good - he was thorough, patient and detail oriented. He did not rush the process and effortlessly made last minute adjustments as we fine tuned details.
Justin is worthy of a 5 STAR rating but combined with my prior experiences, I changed my initial review to an overall 4 Star.
As a side note, Justin did explain the issues with their answering service and is making a change going forward.
I can now confidently recommend using this firm and specifically after working with Justin, I believe you would be very satisfied like we are.
I am not one to normally write a review but found my experiences with this firm to be horrible. Hopefully I can spare someone else the aggravation and frustration I have experienced, as well as the wasted time based on their inability to return calls.
INITIAL REVIEW: Looking for a law firm, I read positive reviews about this firm and reached out to have a consultation regarding a trust. Scheduled the phone consultation and then they changed the appointment two times before I was actually able to speak with Madelyn, an attorney at the firm. And the day of the scheduled call set for 12:30, no call, I waited 10 minutes and called the firm only to be told she would call me at 1:00. Not the scheduled time of the consultation, and no apology offered when she did actually call. Should have been my first clue about this firm,
We had an informative conversation but towards the end of the call, her phone disconnected. She did not call back to follow up to determine if we were finished or if I had additional questions.
I called this week on Monday morning - asked for Madelyn and was told to leave name and number: she would get the message. No call back - waited 48 hours and called again Wednesday morning. Same process with another receptionist - left name and number - no call back for another 32 hours. I missed the call back but received a pleasant message from someone else (Jenna possibly, name did not come across clearly on the voice message) where she asked to call her back. So two hours after receiving the message, I called back, the receptionist was unable to get me the person that I spoke with and said leave my name and number again. Completely frustrated, I explained my multiple calls to the firm, response was he would take my name and number and pass on the message.
Sadly, I have wasted 4 days this week trying to speak with an attorney at this firm to prepare a trust. I can only assume that their business is so good that they do not have time for a new client. And if I were a client, would I have to go through the same horrible process to speak to my attorney?
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14 Oct, 2024 by Lynn sixx
Very professional. Explained all aspects of the planning process and gave precise advise for moving forward. I would recommend there service and would use them again.
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5.0
2 Reviews
4.9
241 Reviews
23 Jan, 2025 by Lalah taylor
22 Jan, 2025 by Thomasina ramey
Always a fantastic experience working with her.
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07 Dec, 2024 by Renee white
Shanone is a hard worker, and I have complete confidence in her ability to represent me in court
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30 Nov, 2023 by Fady nagib
Jill the best lawyer in Tennessee this the best law firm around she finished my case early like she promised and I’m really thankful to her ❤️
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15 Jun, 2018 by Mary d
Jill Hudson helped me with my situation and explained everything in a way that was easy to understand. I have recommended her to my friends and they too said she was wonderful to work with. It's refreshing to work with an attorney who is very knowledgeable, but isn't arrogant.
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15 Nov, 2017 by Nancy
Woodrow Trondsen was an exemplary attorney when we purchased another business and merged the two companies together. He provided us with outstanding support, knowledge, and guidance before, during, and after the acquisition and merger. His attention to detail and knowledge of the law were only surpassed by his honesty, honor, and integrity. We highly recommend him and would not hesitate to contact him again for our future business needs.
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19 Nov, 2024 by Courtney radford
05 Sep, 2024 by Keaton hatcher
Mr. Carter has been such a huge help in my case! Super knowledgeable and not afraid to talk to you and give valuable advice. Highly recommend!
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21 May, 2024 by David morphy
Brad went up and above the call of duty for my family. He was there for us and did an incredible job explaining every step of the process with us. If you ever need a competent lawyer that will give 150%, Brad is that person. Thank you Brad for making this difficult process an easy one for us!!
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14 Jun, 2024 by Lisa
Tiffany Johns did a great job with my family matters! would Highly recommend! Thank you, Tiffany!
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22 Sep, 2021 by Carie w
Tiffany went above and beyond when it came to my sons divorce and custody battle. My son gained primary custody with her help and her knowledge. We are so very thankful for everything she did and I HIGHLY recommend her as a divorce attorney. Thank you again Tiffany!!!
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21 Sep, 2021 by Anonymous
Amazing lawyer. She looks out for her clients and fights to the last breath. Truly terrific and super sweet and blunt. Thank you so much Tiffany for everything you have done for me and my little girl.
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01 Apr, 2021 by Teresa
Daniel is very good with helping his clients understand their options and the best way to proceed. He answers every question they have and makes sure they are comfortable with the decisions they make. Having never gone through the process before, I never understood how important and how many details are involved. With his experience and understanding of how much we want to protect our family, he made going through the process a very pleasant experience.
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01 Apr, 2021 by Kenneth and linda
Daniel spent time with us to determine our needs in such a professional manner I would not hesitate to refer him to others. We appreciate his expertise in this area and walking us through the different aspect of writing and implementing our final wishes.
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23 Jan, 2017 by Ciana vandyke
All in all he's reasonably priced & straight forward. No sugar coating and he doesn't beat around the bush. Communication was a little hectic but it's very understandable considering how busy a lawyer is and the system at the jail was all out of wack. When you call him about questions and concerns he doesn't rush you! That's a huge plus for me being as I've had quite a few attorneys for different reasons and they've all seemed too busy to hold more than a 5min phone call.
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16 Apr, 2016 by Tom
Working with Jeff on our estate plan was a very pleasant experience. He explains things thoroughly and in manner easily understood. He is personable and most knowledgeable. Jeff went the extra mile to bring our plan to fruition and we are happy and satisfied with the results. I can recommend him without reservation.
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14 Aug, 2015 by Jim
Jeffrey was congenial, precise and explained everything we needed to know regarding our will. He wasted no time in completing our will. We were very pleased with his work.
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12 Aug, 2015 by Stephen
Jeff provided complete estate planning for me, including Last Will and Testament, Durable Power of Attorney for Management of Property and Personal Affairs, Durable Power of Attorney for Health Care and a Living Will. Through each step of the process, he was careful to respect my wishes and ensure that I understood each form. Although we had talked through each form several times, at the final meeting when the documents were signed and witnessed, he once again took the time to go over each form and validated that I was comfortable and understood the legal vernacular. I am very appreciative of the excellent service and attention that I received from Jeff and strongly recommend him to other perspective clients. I completed the process feeling very confident that I had done all I could do to make ensure an orderly transition to my heirs when the time comes.
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22 Feb, 2023 by Srellifordtn
They are excellent at what they do... professional, patient with clients, very knowledgeable, thorough with helping client to understand the processes from beginning to end. Very compassionate about you and definitely working for you. I received exceptional results in a timely fashion and they always follow up with you to keep you the loop. Hats off to keep... I have no complaints... none. Staff was great and I'm very very happy, elated with our relationship and outcome of settling my case. Thanks so much and God Bless.
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26 Jul, 2022 by Cory mascari
Marabeth was wonderful and helped me through every part of the process with knowledge and determination. Highly recommend.
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06 Jul, 2022 by Junya smith
Marabeth was great. She helped me get the best deal possible. Definitely recommend!
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23 Jan, 2025 by Lalah taylor
22 Jan, 2025 by Thomasina ramey
Always a fantastic experience working with her.
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07 Dec, 2024 by Renee white
Shanone is a hard worker, and I have complete confidence in her ability to represent me in court
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23 Nov, 2023 by Marina velez
Erica Davis was so helpful in a really stressful time. She was kind and supportive while providing excellent legal support. I highly recommend her for anyone needing help!
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22 Jun, 2022 by Traci mason
22 Jul, 2021 by Carl sterrett
These guys are all about the money they will get not your outcome. We were hit by a woman running a red light in Chicago. We had some minor injuries with ER bills, therapy bills, transportation bills since car was totaled and other small personnel losses. They accepted our case, we gave them everything they asked for and that was about all they did. We always had to contact them to get any kind of update. They never contacted us and most times it took several times to actually talk to a lawyer. They tried to hand case to another firm and they also did nothing. It will be 2 years in July which is the statute of limitations and they told me last week that they decided they didn’t want the case. Blah, blah, blah. Absolutely useless firm for us. Wouldn’t recommend for anything except sorriest law firm I’ve ever experienced. Save your time and get someone that will actually do something to help your case. 👎🏻👎🏻👎🏻 Carl Sterrett
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19 Mar, 2024 by Truth be told
What an amazing experience! Megan was absolutely wonderful!!! Can not express enough how thankful I am for her. I've had dealings with Megan for over two years now and I can tell you now, some of these negative reviews are either, flat out lies, or Google claims old reviews from years ago when she had partners as "recently ". There are no men operating out of this office as some of these reviews claim. It's just Megan, her paralegal, and a large friendly dog. Megan is a rare gem in the legal community. A God fearing, horse riding, pistol packing, dog loving, southern belle, who will look you in the eye and speak the honest truth. And she will do it for less of the cost than any other attorney in Williamson County.
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27 Dec, 2023 by Dan owens
Worst scam attorneys ever.. after 6 months of prolonging are case only to get more money.we had a trail date. The night before the trail we were out of town. me, wife and witnesses was to meet for a reveiw. They showed up drunk and high on meds. The next day Tim was confused asking question's. The Judge was trying to make since of what he was saying.. Tim couldn’t even remember my name on the stand…How embarrassing !! They even asked for personal Favors. shouldn’t be allow to practice law.
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28 Jun, 2023 by Alex legendflame
I wouldn’t recommend this law firm at all I wouldn’t even let them handle a dog’s case that’s how unprofessional they are Tim was the worst one
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19 Dec, 2024 by Alissa
Horrible human being. Scammed my mother out of a ton of money and didn't help her at all. Use literally anyone else.
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19 Dec, 2024 by Dee williams anderson
This lawyer will act so caring and then she will pounce! She did (her paralegal) paperwork, I did the footwork. I carried, so my case would go quicker, paperwork to Chattanooga, paid a notary and brought paperwork back to Parker. She charged me. Then on the court date, she was 45 minutes late to meetme, we went to the court house, she charged me for meeting her when we only said hello and left for the court house. At the beginning of the whole case she said she would only charge me a certain amount, which I immediately paid in full. She said if there was nothing substantial happens, she would not charge anymore. Well she decided she needed more. I would try to talk with her or her assistant and they were not available. Then after almost 7 years she takes me to court because I wouldn't pay her for all of the work I did. I had a wedding I had to attend in FL on the court date, she would not talk to me nor would her lawyer. Of course I lost when I could not show up. Not sure how she sleeps at night, but people like this do not care. Stay away!!!!
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04 Sep, 2021 by Loutisha jones
Who is Jackson Welch Jr
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04 Sep, 2021 by Loutisha jones
Who is Jackson Welch Jr
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19 Jul, 2017 by Corey king (investigator)
This is a great firm to work with! I have worked with Mr. Silva on many occasions and have always come away impressed.
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19 Apr, 2017 by Anonymous
Jack was hired to be an unbiased manager of my parents' estate. We had properties that required selling. We not only paid the realtor and inspector fees, but Jack charged us for work that only they were supposed to do. He racked up an unbelievable amount of hours. He even hired his son to work on the properties. He does not have a paralegal, so you will be charged $360 an hour for work that a secretary would normally do for $12 an hour. Every time he had a 5 minute phone call with any of us (beneficiaries), he charged close to 15 minutes. I was forced to get an attorney because my sister was trying to steal portions of the estate from me. My attorney had to find an outsider who we allowed the other beneficiaries help pick. Jack was the one we picked. He realized how crooked my sis was. Yet when she took me to court to make me pay my atty fees, he showed up and fought on her side against me knowing full well that she forced me to fight her by being crooked. He even so from the books where she'd stolen tons of money from the estate and didn't make her repay it. The only good thing about Jack is his ability to get very high dollar for the properties. That's the only reason I gave him a star at all. I wouldn't hire him again for anything. After this is over, I hope to never ever be in another situation where I have to gave another attorney.
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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.
