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14 Dec, 2024 by Chelsea henderson
Martha Dinwiddie was the best lawyer I could have gotten for my case. She was there with me through it all. It was a pleasure having her and sticking with me through out this journey. Definitely 10/10 would recommend 🤗
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24 Sep, 2024 by Lindsay mobley
I couldn't ask for a better lawyer! She has had my back through so much and always calls just to check on me, she fought for me harder than anyone else ever has! If your looking for am amazing lawyer who will go above and beyond this is the firm your looking for I promise!!!
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28 Aug, 2024 by Xubuntu
Mr. Cohen took the time to provide with me an answer and a suggestion very quickly. And I have already successfully used some of the information that he provided.
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05 Dec, 2024 by April stamper
I had a few simple issues that needed a professional touch in my papers. Although I have very little contact with Jed, he was compassionate, understanding, and professional. His staff is amazing. Thank you Ty and Jed.
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03 Dec, 2024 by Michael hunter
They were excellent and very helpful
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28 Nov, 2024 by Jonathan grady
Ty is extremely helpful and knowledgeable!
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06 May, 2024 by Anonymous
I reached out to a number of law firms regarding my legal matter, the majority of them failed to simply contact and discuss the matter. Seth Oakes contacted the same day, was courteous, professional, and willing to assist. Thank you Seth, I appreciate your assistance.
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19 Apr, 2023 by Anonymous
We hired Seth to help us settle a real estate deal gone bad. By the end of our initial consultation, we knew we had chosen someone with the right knowledge, expertise, and personality that we needed to support us. He successfully guided us through the process, and we had a signed settlement agreement within a matter of weeks. We would highly recommend Seth and intend to consult with him again on our estate planning.
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01 Jun, 2022 by Nancy
Seth Oakes was recommended to me as a very smart, kind and compassionate lawyer who excelled in writing wills. There aren't enough words to compliment his skill as a lawyer. After having problems with my old will and making him understand what I wanted to do, he immediately corrected documents that were upsetting to me and gave me the right to have the will written to my specifications. This was not a rush job, but a thoughtful and excellent presentation of my wishes. It was a wonderful experience, and I would use Seth for any other legal needs.
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06 May, 2018 by Jim
I needed an estate attorney for my 90+ year old parents to update Wills, prepare a Living Trust, and prepare Powers of Attorney, Healthcare POA's, Living Wills and Deed changes for the Trust. After interviewing 7 Knoxville attorneys/law firms, I settled on Stephen Carpenter at Carpenter & Lewis. He had fixed pricing (very reasonable for an entire Estate Package) and was impressive and personable on the phone.
We have now completed the process and we could NOT be happier with the result. My parents were so complimentary of the very process that they were dreading. Stephen is HIGHLY knowledgeable, tax and estate savvy, detail oriented and is so very down to earth, professional and responsive. His documents were amazing and needed very few changes. He is an avid listener and translated our unique needs into legal language so very well. He was great in explaining everything and answered all our questions in terms we could all understand. The process was painless!
I did my own estate documents 10 years ago in another state using a large, high powered law firm -- Believe me -- Stephen's process was 10 TIMES better - and a lot less expensive. Stephen knows how to do this and how to guide you through it VERY WELL! Also, Lorie, his assistant, was a joy to work with, so pleasant and service oriented.
I do NOT do reviews of things on the web...but, after using Carpenter & Lewis' services, I wanted all of you who are looking to do estate planning to know -- YOU WILL NOT GO WRONG WITH THEM!!!! So, do yourself a favor...if you want a great outcome, if you want super value for your money, if you want to deal with very pleasant, personable and responsive people who are experts and pros at what they do -- use Stephen Carpenter at Carpenter & Lewis. It's not a large law firm...it's a small, highly effective, service oriented group. You won't regret it...and perhaps afterwards, you'll also WANT to write a review of them to help others who are trying to decide who to use for some of the most important legal documents in their life.
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25 Apr, 2016 by Bob
5-Star rating. As long as I have know Stephen Carpenter and worked with him in a client-attorney relationship, he has consistently been helpful, caring, friendly, sincere, honest, fair and (generous) when it comes to charging for services, thorough in researching issues, and willing to refer out to others in areas where others may have more "niche" experience in dealing in certain legal areas. I would highly recommend his services.
— Bob
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22 Apr, 2016 by Corrie
We use Carpenter and Lewis for our small business. Over the years our business has grown and changed, Stephen Carpenter has helped us through these changes with sound advice and quick responses. Stephen has experience in the CPA world as well so is able to give a perspective that contributes in many areas of our business. What I like the most is the personal attention and response. There is no red tape or hoops to jump through - it is just straight honest answers.
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03 Nov, 2021 by Anonymous
I attended a virtual presentation where Ms. Patel offered free advice on legacy planning. I was impressed with the detailed knowledge.
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01 Nov, 2021 by Cindy
I have called Mital Patel for advice for an aging parent and she was great and told me what we needed to do. I have also referred others and she was able to help them too.
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11 Jul, 2020 by Kacey
I worked with attorneys for years, but when it came to starting my own business and needing help with setting up my business and making sure I was protected while giving me the best opportunity to succeed I picked Ms. Patel! I cannot thank her enough. I am two years into my new business and couldn’t have done it with her. My fiancé recently went to her after working with other attorneys for his lawn care business for years and was beyond grateful to have met her and he now says she won’t go anywhere else.
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09 Feb, 2023 by Anonymous
Julia was very knowledgeable and extremely helpful. She knew all the complex rules associated with Medicaid and helped me find the best course of action. She explained things clearly and simply. And, there were several issues which she highlighted that none of the people that I had spoken with (various agencies, TennCare reps, medical care, insurance agents, funeral home personnel, and social workers, etc) were aware of! We quickly developed a strategy which I believe is the best going forward. Thanks Julia.
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04 Aug, 2022 by Sam pittenger
Julia and her team were very responsive to my faimile's needs and understood the urgency of their living situation. They worked together in every facit to place my parents in a much better enviroment while offering all the services needed for thier estate a planning. I am truly grateful for their professional approach to imporove both of my parents quality of life.
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12 May, 2019 by Megan
We contacted Julia when we found out a member of our family who has special medical needs was losing her health insurance. Julia was extremely knowledgeable and took the time to explain the issues to us. We are so grateful for her assistance and I cannot recommend her highly enough. If we ever have another issue, we would go to Julia for sure!
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21 Sep, 2020 by Sherry
I have had the privilege of hiring Mr. McKenrick for representation. I have to say I am quite impressed by the his professionalism, work ethic, completing tasks efficiently and quickly. Not only is he respectful but also extremely knowledgeable. He is able to answer questions and speak to me in a way that I can understand the situation and the laws.
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01 Jan, 2019 by Leigh ann
Patrick represented me in a probate case. This was all new to me, and Patrick was always patient and kind to explain terms and processes. I feel as though he represented me well and was prompt and available to respond to phone calls and emails. I recommend him.
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27 Dec, 2018 by Anonymous
I needed to revisit my estate planning and update my trust. Patrick was able to simply everything and give some great advice for the changes in my estate. Everyone was friendly and patient. I would definitely recommend!
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05 Dec, 2021 by Devin
I hired Adam for a Landlord-Tenant dispute with my landlord. Adam was quick to respond, very knowledgeable, and was able to get me the resolution that I sought. I would highly recommend him.
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19 Aug, 2021 by Paul
Adam went above and beyond to help settle a business dispute I had with a customer. He reviewed the contract between myself and my customer and sent a letter of demand that quickly resulted in a settlement. He always responded promptly and took time and care in my case. He spared me months of legal litigation and court fees with his counsel and action. I highly recommend Adam and will use him anytime in the future when I need legal counsel.
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19 Sep, 2016 by Ed
I used Adam to settle a dispute with a rehab center. He resolved the dispute and I received a fair judgement. I will use Adam as my attorney.
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18 Jun, 2015 by Ryan
We are a financial firm in Knoxville. James has worked with us and he was great. We have also referred James to our clients and they reported back positive comments as well.
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11 Jun, 2015 by Alfred
If you are looking for an honest attorney look no further. James Lawrence help straighten out all my mother's affairs and gave us peace of mind. I also used Mr Lawrence to look over a franchise contract he did a great job. I highly recommend him.
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08 Aug, 2024 by Cd
Bailey has been a wonderful resource for our family. She is patient and always answers all of our questions (which are often quite a lot). She is very knowledgeable and easy to talk to. She helped us establish a Special Needs Trust for our daughter, and we felt very comfortable throughout the entire process with Bailey and her Team on our side.
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28 Oct, 2019 by Sheri
If your feeling overwhelmed with the process involved in handling your loved ones elder care issues, I highly recommend you contact these experienced professionals. In my first meeting with Bailey, she reassured me that I wasn’t in this alone. Along with her wonderful
staff including Hailey and Cindy, they guided me thru the process, handled issues with the nursing home, held my hand during the difficult times and even provided a class for caregivers which was extremely valuable. I highly recommend this group of very talented caring people.
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23 Dec, 2024 by Alex harness
After getting myself into serious enough trouble that it could have derailed my life, I couldn't be happier or more relieved after Mr. Grady Smith handled my case. After speaking with Mr. Morrell about my case, he recommended Mr. Smith as he was the most familiar with my local law enforcement and it certainly worked in my favor. Mr. Smith was very polite, knowledgeable, and explained everything in a way I could easily understand. I can't stress enough that the outcome was much better than I, or my family and friends, could have ever expected. I'll be recommending this law firm to anyone who asks for as long as I'm around.
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21 Dec, 2024 by Lisa schwarz
Timothy Baldridge and Tiffany Engel was great..they took car of my car accident..was always there to answer questions when i needed...always returned calls the same day..I would recommend them over and over
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20 Dec, 2024 by Hugh cansler
I have to say Andrew did his best and was very good at what he did. Managed to get my charges reduced.
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16 Jan, 2015 by Jonathan
I hired Heidi for a modification seeking joint custody of my 4 year old daughter. The mother of my daughter and I were never married. This made my situation bad as far as any given rights by the state. Heidi had my case settled in a timely manner and fought the court system to keep my daughter for moving 400 miles away wifh her vindictive mother. She helped mme expand my rights to a joint custody agreement and did an awesome job keeping me up to date prepared and ready for anything that could be thrown at me by the mother, which was alot! I could not have done it without her. Her prices are competitive but we'll worth what you papat for. I will never hesitate to do business with her again.
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06 Oct, 2016 by Jose
Matt helped in a tough probate matter recently and his attention to detail was a real difference maker. I would recommend Matt and I cannot thank him enough for all he did for my family
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01 Nov, 2013 by William
Robert did an excellent job representing my son in a criminal charge related to drug addiction. He listened to our desires and was able to negotiate a settlement all sides were happy with.
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23 Feb, 2016 by Twannia
Jon Mac is helping my mother with my stepfathers estate. He has been extremely helpful, prompt and very friendly so far. He always returns calls or answers his calls. We couldn't have made a better choice for legal representation!
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30 Jul, 2024 by S n
We worked with Shannon Van Tol regarding construction litigation following a recent move to the Knoxville area. She was incredibly responsive, knowledgable, easy to communicate with, and effective. Her legal skills helped us to resolve our issue with grace and professionalism. She is a kind and honest lawyer that I would highly recommend to individuals in the Knoxville area.
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30 Dec, 2023 by Ember grace
The staff offer respect, friendliness, and great knowledge, we were treated so well and our case was handled very professionally, don’t hesitate to contact them.
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19 Sep, 2024 by Jennifer patterson
Justin Bell represented me in a case where I was charged with felony possession. I was offered a felony plea, but Mr. Bell held a preliminary hearing and fought very hard for me because he knew I was not guilty of what I was charged with. After the hearing, the Class-B Felony charge was reduced to a misdemeanor. I've never seen another attorney get that done. If you are over-charged with a crime you are not guilty of, I would definitely recommend having Mr. Bell represent you because he gets results.
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10 Sep, 2024 by Kenna martin
He answered the phone being very rude. He was very unprofessional I would never recommend him
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17 May, 2024 by Rebecca cook
I was the victim of a domestic assault and was physically injured as a result. however, I was falsely accused and charge with a class D felony for as legally providing a false report to the investigator officer. But Mr. Bell believed in me and fought for me and my rights and having a hearing general sessions court. After question the officer on the stand, Mr. Bell was able to establish that any information given to the officer claimed was not true, had nothing to do with whether or not the assault occurred. So the judge dismissed the case right on the spot. If you want a good lawyer, one that really kind, intelligent and Works fast Mr. Bell is your man!
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06 Oct, 2023 by Larry h
Outstanding firm and staff, 40 years experience. All in the top10%! Why would you go any where else.
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06 Oct, 2023 by Larry h
Outstanding and over 40 years experience. None better anywhere.
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16 Sep, 2023 by Javad neakta
Attorney office
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27 Feb, 2024 by Jay smith
The closing of an estate in TN while living quite a distance away and having no experience with the process made me very fearful. Went to the internet for help and selected “Family Law Practice of David A. Montgomery”. Glad I did. I was panicking on the first phone call to David but his kind calm manner and patience put me at ease right away. Plus, I only had to travel 2 times throughout the year of closing. The second trip would not have been needed but there was a difficult bank. David’s guidance made my job as executor easy and stress free. He was very quick to answer emails. I also appreciated that he kept information and directions short and pointed. I highly recommend David A. Montgomery and would gladly have him as my attorney again.
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04 Jan, 2024 by Kay king
When my husband and I needed some estate planning and probate work done, we searched the internet and came up with David Montgomery. We went to our first meeting with high hopes of finding the right person who would understand our needs, address our concerns, and protect our interests all while charging a fair price. David has not only fulfilled our hopes, but exceeded our expectations. My husband has worked with more than 20 attorneys over the years and his biggest complaint has always been the responsiveness he has gotten. That is not the case with David. He might not have the answer right away, but he gets back to you in an expected amount of time and keeps you informed of his findings. That is huge to us! Our estate planning was not easy, but David dug deep with his research and, after every stone was turned, offered us the options he thought were best and we could not have agreed more. During probate, he exhibited professional and knowledgeable experience and knew how to interact effectively with the judge and other attorneys to get the best possible outcome for everyone involved, not just us.
We feel that David's high morals and strong Christian beliefs are lived out in his daily practice and makes him our first choice for an attorney. Because of our confidence in David, even though our estate and probate work is done, we have decided to keep him on as our general counsel for our personal business matters and would highly recommend him to anyone.
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11 Dec, 2023 by Leo
David was great. I hired him to write our prenup and am really happy with that decision. The prenuptial agreement was well written, thorough, and accurately reflected my intent. The price was very reasonable for a top notch attorney
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11 Jan, 2025 by Pamela smith
31 Oct, 2023 by Deborah smith
Only talked on the phone but they were very nice.
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29 Aug, 2023 by Sheila kelso
I am impressed with Todd Moody and staff he kept me up on all matters and resolved my Mother’s Lawsuit. I highly recommend him and his staff very honest and respectful towards me and my family. He sets the stage for a powerhouse Lawyer and staff. Thank you Highly Recommended
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04 Nov, 2024 by Greg
Shannon Holland went out of her way to help me on a matter just outside her expertise and then referred a firm better suited to my needs. At all times she was personable and cheerful, not common traits now a days. Recommend!
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15 Aug, 2024 by Kelly
I had to retain Ms. Holland's counsel in 2016 for help with a child custody dispute. I was blown away by her kindness, her extensive knowledge of the law, and the reassurance she provided me during a pretty scary period in my life as a mother. She is a beautiful human being inside & out. She treated me with tremendous respect, was efficient & professional. I was proud to be represented by her during a meeting with my daughter's father & his attorney. Since 2016, I've had to consult her on a couple other occasions and she's remained genuinely empathetic & dedicated to my daughter's best interests. She's an inspiration & a fierce litigator & I wholeheartedly recommend Ms. Holland to anyone in need of legal counsel.
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01 Nov, 2023 by Anonymous
Shannon was very knowledgeable and answered all of my questions. She guided me through the process and provided sound advice.
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19 Sep, 2024 by Jennifer patterson
Justin Bell represented me in a case where I was charged with felony possession. I was offered a felony plea, but Mr. Bell held a preliminary hearing and fought very hard for me because he knew I was not guilty of what I was charged with. After the hearing, the Class-B Felony charge was reduced to a misdemeanor. I've never seen another attorney get that done. If you are over-charged with a crime you are not guilty of, I would definitely recommend having Mr. Bell represent you because he gets results.
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10 Sep, 2024 by Kenna martin
He answered the phone being very rude. He was very unprofessional I would never recommend him
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17 May, 2024 by Rebecca cook
I was the victim of a domestic assault and was physically injured as a result. however, I was falsely accused and charge with a class D felony for as legally providing a false report to the investigator officer. But Mr. Bell believed in me and fought for me and my rights and having a hearing general sessions court. After question the officer on the stand, Mr. Bell was able to establish that any information given to the officer claimed was not true, had nothing to do with whether or not the assault occurred. So the judge dismissed the case right on the spot. If you want a good lawyer, one that really kind, intelligent and Works fast Mr. Bell is your man!
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23 Jul, 2017 by Todd
Nicole handled a complex closing for me and knew more than any attorney I have ever dealt with. WhenI received the bill at closing, it was reasonable and almost exactly what she told me to expect. Definitely recommend her.
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23 Jan, 2013 by Jeff
Nicole was very down to earth and easy to deal with. She did not talk down to me and explained to me what to expect and why. It was nice to have a good lawyer and not some pompass lawyer to handle my case as has happened in the past.
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13 Sep, 2014 by Anonymous
Ms. Jones has reviewed wills and powers of attorney for me . She has also provided guidance and helped resolve legal issues so I could get appropriate care for someone who has alzheimer's. She was insightful, asked excellent questions. She was persistent. She effectively resolved the problems. I felt the amount she charged me was fair and less than I would have paid elsewhere, because she was so efficient.
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16 Sep, 2011 by Anonymous
When things looked dim for our family dealing with all the issues in retaining custody of a beautiful baby boy Ms. Boyd's knowledge of law and her ability to function in the court room against the hostility of opposing counsel and DCS won us the case and our child. Thank God for an attorney who truly stands for what is right and fights to the end.
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08 Dec, 2020 by Anonymous
Erica is one of the best lawyers I have ever had the pleasure of working with. Not only does she excel greatly at her profession but she also has a high sense of integrity and is very adept at her work. Anyone who has given her a bad review is obviously out of spite and talking out of their rear. 5/5 Would definitely recommend
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14 Dec, 2024 by Chelsea henderson
Martha Dinwiddie was the best lawyer I could have gotten for my case. She was there with me through it all. It was a pleasure having her and sticking with me through out this journey. Definitely 10/10 would recommend 🤗
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24 Sep, 2024 by Lindsay mobley
I couldn't ask for a better lawyer! She has had my back through so much and always calls just to check on me, she fought for me harder than anyone else ever has! If your looking for am amazing lawyer who will go above and beyond this is the firm your looking for I promise!!!
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05 Aug, 2024 by Abayomi akinleye
Always keep there promises and are very reliable
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11 Jan, 2025 by Pamela smith
31 Oct, 2023 by Deborah smith
Only talked on the phone but they were very nice.
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29 Aug, 2023 by Sheila kelso
I am impressed with Todd Moody and staff he kept me up on all matters and resolved my Mother’s Lawsuit. I highly recommend him and his staff very honest and respectful towards me and my family. He sets the stage for a powerhouse Lawyer and staff. Thank you Highly Recommended
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08 Feb, 2025 by Penny breeding
07 Feb, 2025 by Jessica brower
Did a great job, so thankful for all the work put into the case! Great at keeping us updated on everything. Very friendly. Would definitely recommend 100%
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05 Feb, 2025 by Crystal swearingen
Garrett is by far one of the nicest attorneys I’ve ever met and I deal with attorneys daily for a living. He is super responsive, respectful, and he doesn’t give up on you or ghost you like so many when something shinier comes along. I would recommend him to anyone needing a personal injury attorney.
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06 May, 2022 by John routh
Discover the ideal lawyer
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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.
