Filter by

Adam Gates Kerr, experienced Business, Elder Law attorney in Greensboro, NC with 20 reviews
Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
46,75
star star star star star
4.8/5
Avvo
5.0
11 Reviews
Google Maps
4.6
9 Reviews
star star star star star
11 Nov, 2024 by Jake rose
Adam has been helping me with a complicated real estate inheritance. He is very knowledgeable in special proceedings and probate court. His office responds to all questions or concerns that I've had in prompt and respectful manner.
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
02 May, 2024 by Liz haff
Such a compassionate, competent, considerate attorney. So glad he is our chosen wills and estate lawyer!
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
13 Oct, 2023 by Joe
My wife and I had the pleasure of working with Adam Kerr, of KerrLaw, for the establishment of a living trust, and I can confidently say that our experience was outstanding. After speaking with several lawyers, we chose Mr. Kerr, and it was a decision that we’re extremely pleased with. The depth and breadth of the living trust that Mr. Kerr crafted for us were beyond our expectations. He also created new advanced health care directives, general power of attorney documents, last wills, and health care POAs for my wife and me. This comprehensive approach was not something we received about eight years ago when we engaged an online lawyer service. Mr. Kerr’s documents were not just superior in quality; they also exhibited a remarkable depth of understanding and attention to detail. His expertise and dedication to ensuring our legal documents were tailored to our specific needs were evident throughout the process. In summary, our experience with Adam Kerr was exceptional. If you’re in need of a lawyer for estate planning or related legal matters, we wholeheartedly recommend his services. His commitment to excellence, coupled with the superior quality of the documents he provides, sets him apart in his field. We are truly grateful for his expertise in helping us secure our family’s future.
Read more Avvo
See more
Blaire McClanahan, experienced Consumer Protection, Elder Law attorney in Greensboro, NC with 155 reviews
Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
43,88
star star star star star
4.9/5
Avvo
5.0
14 Reviews
Google Maps
4.9
141 Reviews
star star star star star
11 Dec, 2024 by Leah anderson-hewitt
Justin and Claudia are a dynamic duo. My husband and I recently worked with them and the experience with them is unmatched. They were both thorough in their explanations, Claudia made sure things were spelled correctly, checked and re-checked to make sure what we wanted was exactly what we stated. Justin didn’t try to persuade us to do or sign anything we didn’t want; yet, he still provided all important information to us so that we weren’t blind-sided. I HIGHLY recommend this team for legal proceedings in regards to trusts.
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
09 Dec, 2024 by Cathryn bennett
Every person is amazing at the Law Offices of Cheryl David. I feel such a tremendous level of relief knowing my will, estate, and powers of attorney are in order. Blair is so comprehensive and an expert, so every detail was seamless!
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
27 Nov, 2024 by Christy ricafrente
Google Maps
See more
Julia B. Walker, experienced Business, Elder Law attorney in Greensboro, NC with 246 reviews
Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
43,77
star star star star star
4.9/5
Avvo
5.0
7 Reviews
Google Maps
4.9
239 Reviews
star star star star star
23 Jan, 2025 by Gary feierstein
My wife and I were looking for the right law office in order to setup our Trust. There were many to select from, but we decided on Susan Hunt Law as it appeared to have good reviews. Well let me tell you….we couldn’t be happier. Susan and her entire staff are the best people you would ever want to work with for your estate planning. They are professional, have an awesome work environment and provide the absolute best customer service. They totally exceeded our expectations for the preparation of our Trust and the follow up afterwards.
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
23 Jan, 2025 by Jim burke
My wife and I setup an estate plan with Julia Walker. Julia walked us through the information needed and then explained the meaning of each step. She, and all the employees of Susan Hunt Law, were knowledgeable and friendly. We were extremely impressed and look forward to working with them in the future.
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
09 Dec, 2024 by Karen foster
Sue was very helpful in explaining our options and preparing for our estate planning options. Everyone in her office was efficient, friendly and kept us up to date with the process. Would highly recommend Susan Hunt Law for estate planning.
Read more Google Maps
See more
Susan L. Hunt, experienced Business, Elder Law attorney in Greensboro, NC with 245 reviews
Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
43,74
star star star star star
4.9/5
Avvo
5.0
6 Reviews
Google Maps
4.9
239 Reviews
star star star star star
23 Jan, 2025 by Gary feierstein
My wife and I were looking for the right law office in order to setup our Trust. There were many to select from, but we decided on Susan Hunt Law as it appeared to have good reviews. Well let me tell you….we couldn’t be happier. Susan and her entire staff are the best people you would ever want to work with for your estate planning. They are professional, have an awesome work environment and provide the absolute best customer service. They totally exceeded our expectations for the preparation of our Trust and the follow up afterwards.
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
23 Jan, 2025 by Jim burke
My wife and I setup an estate plan with Julia Walker. Julia walked us through the information needed and then explained the meaning of each step. She, and all the employees of Susan Hunt Law, were knowledgeable and friendly. We were extremely impressed and look forward to working with them in the future.
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
09 Dec, 2024 by Karen foster
Sue was very helpful in explaining our options and preparing for our estate planning options. Everyone in her office was efficient, friendly and kept us up to date with the process. Would highly recommend Susan Hunt Law for estate planning.
Read more Google Maps
See more
Dennis J. Toman, experienced Elder Law, Estate Planning attorney in Greensboro, NC with 115 reviews
Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
43,57
star star star star star
4.9/5
Avvo
5.0
5 Reviews
Google Maps
4.9
110 Reviews
star star star star star
21 Nov, 2024 by Teri w
Google Maps
star star star star star
28 Sep, 2024 by Reece gordon
Dennis and his team did a great job setting up the estate plan for my wife and me. He was patient and thorough and listened carefully to our wishes. We highly recommend the Elderlaw Firm.
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
27 Sep, 2024 by David rosenfeld
Very professional with a touch of class as being understanding, caring, interested in my concerns. Coving the items important to me. Making sure I understand everything with out rushing me.
Read more Google Maps
See more
Michael Donnell Casterlow, experienced Elder Law, Estate Planning attorney in Greensboro, NC with 111 reviews
Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
43,45
star star star star star
4.9/5
Avvo
5.0
1 Reviews
Google Maps
4.9
110 Reviews
star star star star star
21 Nov, 2024 by Teri w
Google Maps
star star star star star
28 Sep, 2024 by Reece gordon
Dennis and his team did a great job setting up the estate plan for my wife and me. He was patient and thorough and listened carefully to our wishes. We highly recommend the Elderlaw Firm.
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
27 Sep, 2024 by David rosenfeld
Very professional with a touch of class as being understanding, caring, interested in my concerns. Coving the items important to me. Making sure I understand everything with out rushing me.
Read more Google Maps
See more
Cheryl K. David, experienced Elder Law, Estate Planning attorney in Greensboro, NC with 20 reviews
Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
39,62
star star star star star
5.0/5
Avvo
5.0
20 Reviews
star star star star star
29 Mar, 2021 by Deborah
I’ve been a lawyer in Greensboro, representing Social Security claimants, for over 30 years, have had several cases where my work with clients overlapped Cheryl David’s work. She is extremely competent and great to work with from my viewpoint and that of her clients I’ve heard from.
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
21 Mar, 2019 by Kristina hobgood-smith
I contacted Justin Plumer in 2014. He helped with an estate for my stepmother which was complicated. Justin and the team at Cheryl David and Associates got all the research I needed without me having to do anything. At the time I was living 200 + miles away and working full time. This was a huge help for me. I recently needed some receipts from their office and they dug through old files to once again save me time and effort. I would recommend this office to anyone who needs legal advise and estate planning and someone who truly cares. Kristina Hobgood Smith
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
28 Feb, 2018 by Michelle h.
I had to find an attorney quickly, since my brother passed without a will. Cheryl was quick to respond to me. Although, ultimately she referred me to someone else in her practice, that specializes in probate, Cheryl was caring and understanding and explained to me the process. I highly recommend her firm.
Read more Avvo
See more
Jennifer Carney Noble, experienced Estate Planning, Probate attorney in Greensboro, NC with 2 reviews
Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
35,00
star star star star star
5.0/5
Google Maps
5.0
2 Reviews
star star star star star
25 Jun, 2018 by Keyonna kelly
Google Maps
star star star star star
24 Jun, 2017 by Jim b
Very large Law Firm
Read more Google Maps
See more
Lora Michele-Foley Howard, experienced Estate Planning, Probate attorney in Greensboro, NC with 16 reviews
Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
34,43
star star star star star
4.5/5
Avvo
5.0
3 Reviews
Google Maps
4.4
13 Reviews
star star star star star
27 Nov, 2024 by Phya anderson
Google Maps
star star star star star
04 Oct, 2023 by Nancy
Lora was professional, friendly, and empathetic regarding my father’s estate needs. She took time to meet with me and answer all questions. Paperwork for Clerk of Courts was completed and turned in on time.
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
04 Oct, 2023 by Debbie
Lora Howard and her team are fantastic! They have helped me with two estates in the last few years and I was totally pleased with the service they provided. They break a complicated problem down into bite size pieces for good understanding and their fees are very reasonable. I hope I don't need an estate lawyer again soon, but when I do, I will call Lora! I highly recommend them.
Read more Avvo
See more
Gia Michele Gaster, experienced Car Accident, Discrimination attorney in Greensboro, NC with 39 reviews
Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
30,21
star star star star star
4.5/5
Google Maps
4.5
39 Reviews
star star star star star
19 Sep, 2024 by Gs auto
How hard is it to get security cam footage? Too hardfor this guy. Nothing filed. So called restricted driving was never filed. I cannot get a license ever again in the US for sleeping in a car so as not to drive. Also witnessed the officer beat up a woman. Nothing. Should have paid somone else.
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
29 Mar, 2024 by Donald willis
Very professional,makes sure you understand everything, and he's always there doing his job. Best attorney I've ever used and I highly recommend him and his practice.
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
24 Oct, 2023 by Baddie baddston
I paid this woman for a consultation to file a simple document for a simple civil case. I paid the consultation fee and after weeks I didn’t hear from her. Then she had the audacity to be rude through texts. I do NOT recommend
Read more Google Maps
See more
Theodora A Vaporis, experienced Estate Planning, Probate attorney in Greensboro, NC with 4 reviews
Below Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
28,83
star star star star star
4.3/5
Avvo
5.0
1 Reviews
Google Maps
3.6
3 Reviews
star star star star star
25 Jan, 2017 by Itay chupy
i don't think this is the ventriloquist.
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
14 Jun, 2016 by Ann
Theo does a thorough and exemplary analysis considering all the important aspects of estate planning. She is a combination of someone who cares and advocates on behalf of her client's best interest as a fiduciary. Working with Theo results in a longterm relationship with the benefit of well thought out implementation of your estate plans.
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
10 Feb, 2016 by 3 dolphins
Jeff Dunham how do you make those puppets talk my favorite puppet is the skeleton.
Read more Google Maps
See more
Andrew Miles Brower, experienced Elder Law, Estate Planning attorney in Greensboro, NC with 110 reviews
Below Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
23,04
star star star star star
3.8/5
Google Maps
3.8
110 Reviews
star star star star star
10 Dec, 2024 by Eve yang
Good communication. They helped and answer all questions. Recommend 100% prices also reasonable. Jim slaughter is one of the best at what he does and very knowledgeable.
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
01 Oct, 2024 by Prabhu selvam
It was great working with Holly. She gave heads up on things that need attention and also listed timelines to be met. Set the right expectation for 'mail away' remote closing. Prompt and quick response for all my queries. We closed the home on time. Thanks Holly and Lou !!!
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
15 Jul, 2024 by Princess barbie
This law firm is inhumane, heartless and deplorable. I called them a week and a half ago. The answering service says they will call back in 48 hours. No one responded. I called back to see if I could get 3 more days until I was paid to clear a balance because I HAD TO HELP BURY MY GRANDDAUGHTER and it took all of my money previous to this date ($5000 contribution ). I had mailed them payments which they did receive. I was told no. I could have provided proof if asked. Death comes to all of us at some point or another; I guess they are exempt. I feel my reason was valid for a little grace; I only asked for 3 days. Non the less I hope they never experience the loss I did. I will add that just within an hour of my first phone call the above post I received a phone call from the firm. I spoke with a young lady name C.J. She went over my account with me. She was professional, and very empathetic. In summary positive results!! Thank you so much for representing the firm in a more positive light. C.J definitely earned them 5 stars.
Read more Google Maps
See more
Steven Wayne Arrington, experienced Estate Planning, Probate attorney in Greensboro, NC with 3 reviews
Below Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
19,04
star star star star star
3.6/5
Avvo
3.6
3 Reviews
star star star star star
17 Dec, 2021 by Jeff
I had the pleasure of hiring a very professional attorney in Mr Steve Arrington that was recommended to us by another law firm. Mr Arrington from day one was on top of our very important emergency guardianship. He responded immediately to all our concerns, emails, and phone calls. He is professional, diligent, trustworthy and he explained to us thoroughly every step of the process. Without a doubt I would hire Mr. Arrington again and I highly recommend him to help you in your family matters. I can't thank Mr. Arrington and his staff enough for helping us through this guardianship.
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
18 Aug, 2016 by Anonymous
Mr. Arrington prepared my Will and Advance Directives. Working with him was a great experience. He is professional, diligent, and trustworthy. Mr. Arrington approaches his work with kindness and compassion. I found him to be very understanding and easy to talk to. I was extremely pleased with Mr. Arrington as my attorney and I would (and have) recommended him without hesitation to others seeking legal assistance.
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
17 Aug, 2016 by Anonymous
We had a delicate situation with our special needs son. Mr. Arrington made a very difficult time much more difficult. He lacks compassion, professionalism, and kindness. He also is very hard to contact or return emails or calls.
Read more Avvo
See more
Amy S. Klass, experienced Estate Planning, Tax attorney in Greensboro, NC with 3 reviews
Below Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
18,35
star star star star star
3.7/5
Avvo
1.0
1 Reviews
Google Maps
5.0
2 Reviews
star star star star star
25 Jun, 2018 by Keyonna kelly
Google Maps
star star star star star
24 Jun, 2017 by Jim b
Very large Law Firm
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
05 Feb, 2014 by Anonymous
This attorney (Amy Klass), handled a family law estate case in an unethical manner. Upon my father's death, she seemed more concerned with charitable contributions than she did about competently explaining and executing the aspects of the will. She also had names of organizations that she suggested my family donate to, instead of trusting us to make these decisions. It seemed as if she had a hidden agenda regarding these particular organizations. When my mother changed the power-of-attorney from myself (her only child and daughter), to a distant family friend, Ms. Klass did not bother to notify me via mail or by telephone. I did not discover that I was no longer the power-of-attorney until my mother had been admitted to the hospital and the distant friend made the decision as to where to place my mother in a nursing facility without my input, after my mother was discharged from the hospital. I was not even notified that my mother had been admitted to the hospital until another friend of hers eventually called me. At the time, I lived out of town. Upon consultation with another attorney in North Carolina as to Ms. Klass' actions and decisions, I was informed by this attorney that Ms.Klass demonstrated unethical behavior by not notifiying me, either by mail or otherwise, that I had been removed as power-of-attorney for my mother. Additionally, my mother was extremely vulnerable and compromised in many aspects at the time these changes were made. Several friends of my mother approached me with questions abouit the person who was appointed power-of-attorney due to concerns that she may take advantage of my mother. Ms. Klass was an attorney as part of a firm that my father hired to execute his will and settle his estate fairly and within the law, in the event of his death. Ms. Klass counseled my mother in a questionable manner, according to concerned friends of my mother, as well as my tremendous concerns of the decisions made regarding the nature of counsel that Ms. Klass provided to my mother.
Read more Avvo
See more
James Bryant Haynes, experienced Real Estate, Trusts attorney in Greensboro, NC with 2 reviews
Below Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
16,25
star star star star star
3.0/5
Google Maps
3.0
2 Reviews
star star star star star
06 May, 2017 by Minton motor cars
Simply one of the best firms.
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
22 Dec, 2016 by Hajrije berisha
Google Maps
See more
Abraham F. Johns Jr., experienced Elder Law, Estate Planning attorney in Greensboro, NC with 0 reviews
Below Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
4,00
star star star star star
0.0/5
See more
David B. Spangler, experienced Business, Estate Planning attorney in Greensboro, NC with 0 reviews
Below Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
4,00
star star star star star
0.0/5
See more
Thomas Patrick Hockman, experienced Real Estate, Trusts attorney in Greensboro, NC with 0 reviews
Below Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
4,00
star star star star star
0.0/5
See more
April Epley Kight, experienced Real Estate, Tax attorney in Greensboro, NC with 0 reviews
Below Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
4,00
star star star star star
0.0/5
See more
Hannah Vaughan Averitt, experienced Elder Law, Estate Planning attorney in Greensboro, NC with 0 reviews
Below Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
4,00
star star star star star
0.0/5
See more
Christina Freeman Pearsall, experienced Government, Real Estate attorney in Greensboro, NC with 0 reviews
Below Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
4,00
star star star star star
0.0/5
See more
Maurice O. Green, experienced Estate Planning, Tax attorney in Greensboro, NC with 0 reviews
Below Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
4,00
star star star star star
0.0/5
See more
Stacey A. Brady, experienced Real Estate, Trusts attorney in Greensboro, NC with 0 reviews
Below Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
4,00
star star star star star
0.0/5
See more
Thomas C. Watkins, experienced Business, Real Estate attorney in Greensboro, NC with 0 reviews
Below Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
4,00
star star star star star
0.0/5
See more
David B. McLean, experienced Elder Law, Estate Planning attorney in Greensboro, NC with 0 reviews
Below Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
0,00
star star star star star
0.0/5
See more
Adrianne Edmonds, experienced Estate Planning, Real Estate attorney in Greensboro, NC with 0 reviews
Below Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
0,00
star star star star star
0.0/5
See more
W. Erwin Fuller Jr., experienced Appeals, Real Estate attorney in Greensboro, NC with 0 reviews
Below Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
0,00
star star star star star
0.0/5
See more
Brittany Ann Reeder, experienced Estate Planning, Family Law attorney in Greensboro, NC with 0 reviews
Below Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
0,00
star star star star star
0.0/5
See more
Discover the ideal lawyer
You can search a lawyer by practice area, lawyer name, city, state, or ZIP code
FAQs
Questions? We have answers

What a Trusts Lawyer Can Do for You

A trusts lawyer specializes in creating and managing trusts, which are legal entities that allow individuals to transfer assets to beneficiaries while maintaining control over how and when those assets are distributed. Trusts are used for estate planning, asset protection, tax planning, and ensuring the financial security of loved ones. Trusts lawyers help clients choose the right type of trust for their needs, draft trust documents, and advise on the administration and management of trusts.

Whether you're planning to pass on your assets to your heirs, protect your wealth from creditors, or provide for a disabled family member, a trusts lawyer can help you establish a trust that meets your financial and personal goals.

When Should I Hire a Trusts Lawyer?

You should consider hiring a trusts lawyer in various situations, particularly when you're planning for the future distribution of your assets or protecting your wealth. Common reasons to hire a trusts lawyer include:

  • Estate planning: If you want to ensure that your assets are distributed according to your wishes, a lawyer can help you create a revocable or irrevocable trust to avoid probate and provide for your heirs.
  • Asset protection: If you want to protect your assets from creditors, lawsuits, or potential future liabilities, a lawyer can help you establish a trust to shield your wealth.
  • Special needs planning: If you have a disabled family member, a lawyer can create a special needs trust to provide for their care without affecting their eligibility for government benefits.
  • Tax planning: If you're looking to minimize estate taxes or manage tax liabilities, a lawyer can help you create tax-advantageous trusts, such as a credit shelter trust or charitable remainder trust.
  • Charitable giving: If you want to leave a legacy through charitable donations, a lawyer can help you set up a charitable trust to ensure your donations are managed according to your wishes.
  • Business succession planning: If you own a business and want to ensure a smooth transition of ownership, a lawyer can help you establish a trust to pass the business on to your heirs or chosen successors.

Hiring a trusts lawyer early in the estate planning process ensures that your assets are protected and your wishes are clearly documented, reducing the chances of disputes after your death.

What Does a Trusts Lawyer Do?

A trusts lawyer provides a variety of legal services to help individuals create, manage, and administer trusts. Their responsibilities often include:

  • Drafting trust documents: Preparing the legal documents needed to create the trust, ensuring it is tailored to your specific goals and complies with state and federal laws.
  • Choosing the right type of trust: Assisting clients in selecting the most appropriate type of trust for their needs, whether it's a revocable trust, irrevocable trust, living trust, or special needs trust.
  • Trust administration: Guiding trustees through their legal responsibilities, including managing assets, making distributions to beneficiaries, and filing tax returns.
  • Modifying or terminating trusts: Helping modify or terminate trusts if circumstances change, such as changes in tax laws, family situations, or personal preferences.
  • Protecting beneficiaries' interests: Structuring trusts to protect the interests of beneficiaries, especially if there are concerns about financial management, disability, or dependency issues.
  • Minimizing estate taxes: Assisting clients in structuring their trusts to minimize or avoid estate taxes, ensuring more of the estate passes to beneficiaries.
  • Handling disputes: Mediating or representing clients in court if disputes arise among beneficiaries or between trustees and beneficiaries.

How Are Trusts Lawyers Paid?

Trusts lawyers typically charge for their services based on the complexity of the trust and the type of legal work involved. Common payment methods include:

  • Flat fee: For drafting basic trusts, such as revocable living trusts or special needs trusts, many lawyers charge a flat fee. This can range from $1,000 to $5,000 or more, depending on the complexity of the trust.
  • Hourly rate: For more complex trust planning, ongoing trust administration, or resolving disputes, some lawyers charge by the hour. Hourly rates typically range from $150 to $500 or more, depending on the lawyer’s experience and location.
  • Retainer: For long-term trust administration or complex estate planning cases, some lawyers may require a retainer, an upfront payment that covers ongoing services.
  • Contingency fee (rare): In rare cases, particularly in disputes involving the administration of a trust, lawyers may work on a contingency fee basis, getting paid only if they successfully recover funds or resolve a legal dispute in your favor.

Always discuss the fee structure with your lawyer during the initial consultation to understand the total cost of services.

How Much Does a Trusts Lawyer Cost?

The cost of hiring a trusts lawyer depends on the complexity of the trust, the lawyer’s experience, and the fee structure. General cost estimates include:

  • Basic trust creation: For simple trusts, such as revocable living trusts, fees may range from $1,000 to $3,000.
  • Complex trust creation: For sophisticated estate plans involving multiple trusts, tax planning strategies, or special needs considerations, legal fees may range from $5,000 to $10,000 or more.
  • Trust administration: If you are serving as a trustee and need ongoing legal advice, hourly rates for trust administration can range from $150 to $500 or more.
  • Dispute resolution: Costs for litigation or mediation in trust disputes may range from $5,000 to $50,000 or more, depending on the complexity of the case.

Be sure to get a detailed cost estimate from your lawyer during the consultation to ensure the services fit within your budget.

Top Questions to Ask a Trusts Lawyer

Before hiring a trusts lawyer, consider asking the following questions:

  1. What experience do you have with creating trusts?
    Ensure the lawyer has experience drafting trusts and managing trust administration for clients with similar goals or asset structures.
  2. What types of trusts do you recommend for my situation?
    Ask the lawyer to explain the different types of trusts available and which ones best suit your needs.
  3. How do you charge for your services?
    Clarify the fee structure and request an estimate of the total cost.
  4. What are the tax implications of the trust?
    Ensure the lawyer can explain how the trust will affect your taxes and strategies to minimize tax liability.
  5. How long will it take to set up the trust?
    Ask for a timeline for creating and finalizing the trust documents.
  6. Will you handle the trust administration?
    If ongoing management is required, inquire whether the lawyer will assist with trust administration or if you'll need a separate trustee.
  7. Can you help resolve disputes if they arise?
    Ask about the lawyer's experience in resolving trust disputes.

How to Check the Credibility of a Trusts Lawyer

To ensure you are hiring a reputable trusts lawyer, take the following steps:

  • Verify their bar status: Check with your state bar association to confirm the lawyer is licensed and has no disciplinary actions.
  • Look for trust law experience: Review their website or professional profile to ensure they specialize in estate planning and trusts.
  • Read client reviews and testimonials: Look for feedback on platforms like Avvo, Martindale-Hubbell, or Google.
  • Ask for references: Request references from past clients who can speak to their experience with the lawyer.
  • Check for certifications: Look for certifications such as Certified Estate Planning Law Specialist (EPLS) or memberships in organizations like the American Academy of Estate Planning Attorneys (AAEPA).

What Should I Prepare for My First Consultation?

To make the most of your first consultation with a trusts lawyer, bring the following:

  • List of assets: Prepare a list of all your assets, including real estate, bank accounts, investments, retirement accounts, and personal property.
  • List of beneficiaries: Provide names and contact information of individuals or organizations you want to name as beneficiaries.
  • Existing estate planning documents: Bring copies of any existing wills, trusts, or other estate planning documents.
  • Financial information: Bring financial statements, tax returns, and other relevant financial documentation.
  • Questions for the lawyer: Prepare a list of questions about the trust creation process, fees, and how the trust will protect your assets and beneficiaries.
  • Goals for the trust: Clearly outline your objectives, such as asset protection, tax minimization, or provisions for beneficiaries, so the lawyer can tailor the trust to your needs.

By preparing thoroughly for your consultation, you can help the lawyer assess your situation effectively and receive the best possible legal advice for creating and managing your trust.

Scroll to top