Lawyers map
>804
experienced lawyers
Filter by
11 Mar, 2024 by Steven geras
28 Dec, 2020 by Eic @amimagazine.org
21 Feb, 2018 by Stuart weichsel
Great attorneys..
Read more
21 Apr, 2019 by Anonymous
Mr. Mitchell provided legal advice and guidance for the evaluation of some family property. He was very helpful and responsive to all my questions and concerns. He’s a great person and a smart attorney. I would highly recommend him.
Read more
17 Apr, 2019 by Gregory
I have had the pleasure of utilizing the legal services of Mr. Mitchell for over twenty years. During that period he has handled various civil matters and estate planning issues. His breath and knowledge in these areas of law was second to none. I've subsequently referred many of my family, friends and business associates to him. Recently, I purchased a new home and again I called on Mr. Mitchell. His understanding of the nuances of real estate law where excellent. He is a very competent lawyer.
Read more
09 Apr, 2019 by Anonymous
Charles is an asset to my business, and a trusted advisor. His practical advice and counsel are invaluable.
Read more
30 Mar, 2015 by Jordan
Someone called me and said that a person I know had a plan to cheat me and others. They said someone who was in a position to do something was too intimidated to do anything to stop it. I said I would take action.
I needed a lawyer in NYC, and through Avvo I found Laura Lattman. I looked at her website, and liked her progressive values.
I called Laura, she listened. She explained why it was unlikely that the person who wanted to cheat would be able to carry out their scheme. It turned out she knew someone at another law firm, a trustworthy person who would have information about the situation. She talked to them, they told her nothing like what I heard was going on, and gave her a relevant document their firm had. She also got them to agree to send me updated versions in the future. Laura looked up another document from public records, and saw that things were being handled in a normal manner.
Laura explained to me how things work, which was very helpful. Then she said I didn't need her anymore. Now I can ask for the updated report directly. Great service.
Read more
19 Aug, 2011 by Davina
After meeting with several lawyers, we chose to lead with Laura due to her professional but personable and friendly manner. We feel it is important to not only have someone who is great professionally, but also to have someone who will be able to understand you as an individual. Every meeting with Laura was informative and we were kept up-to-date with every stage of our case. She was available for us when we needed her and helped us understand everything we needed to provide as well as to expect. The most important factor was that for our case, Laura ensured we were always over-prepared and one-step ahead so that we were ready for any situation. That is what you want from your lawyer. You do not want to be in a position of not having all the information needed, or for being without documents. Laura walked us through every part of the procedure and ensured we had everything we needed. She was a delight to talk to and had a wonderfully positive attitude. I cannot recommend her or her service enough and she will always be my first port of call should I need an attorney.
Read more
15 Mar, 2011 by Sarah
Ms. Lattman agreed to handle the petition for my husband's green card after we had been told by another lawyer that our case lacked sufficient evidence of co-habitation, and was too complicated to handle. Ms. Lattman was confident that we could demonstrate our bona fide marriage by alternate forms of documentation and was confident from the start that she could handle our case.
She personally drafted letters and affadavits in order to strengthen our petition, oversaw the compiling of seeming endless papers we presented as personal evidence such as photos, bills, letters, etc. She handled all of the "dirty work" herself, making copies, filling in our applications, handling our USCIS payments, preparing our case, in an incredibly efficient manner. Phone calls were answered promptly, and she dedicated time to each call, detail to each e-mail, and dispelled for us much of the myth and misinformation surrounding the immigration process.
We were able to reach Laura whenever we had a question, or whenever I felt overwhelmed by the process. The most outstanding quality of her service was her immediate response to my calls and e-mails; She handled each problem and question with a great degree of confidence and compassion.
Needless to say, our petition resulted in my husband's receiving his green card with no problem, almost four months after she submitted the application to USCIS. The complications of our case were related to our job, where we move two to three times a year, therefore changing USCIS jurisdictions. Laura handled the paperwork relating to transfering the case, which we had been informed by another attorney was too complicated.
We had been overwhelmed by other lawyer's prices, and Laura's fees were almost half of what we had been quoted when we were "shopping" for an immigration attorney.
In short, we have Laura Lattman to thank for my husband's green card, and will not hesitate to recommend her to our friends and co-workers, and to call her in the future.
Read more
28 Jan, 2014 by Christine
I have come to rely upon Joe Andolino for any tax-related issues and I've recommended him to friends and business associates. He has this natural ability of seeing what will and won't work , and has a great sense of how to accomplish even the most difficult task. What I appreciate most is his no-nonsense view but specific remedies to reach my goals. Joseph Andolino belongs in every business rolodex.
Read more
04 May, 2013 by Delmar
Many business owners rely on third parties to take care of everything, which I did, and Mr. Andolino was very forthright and pointed out all the things I had done wrong or had not done over the years.
For example, his firm prepared paperwork for a Joint tenancy with rights of survivorship to protect my wife. Set up the paperwork to transfer property upon death without going through probate. His firm also completed the paperwork to reduce future estate taxes through exclusions. That was only the work for my personal estate; his firm also handed all the paperwork that needed to be filed for my business and partnership.
Sometimes it pays to get a second set of eyes to go over your financial documents and see what was missed and Joseph Andolino and Associates did an outstanding job.
Read more
01 May, 2013 by Joan
Outstanding Tax Consultant! Worked through all the problems of my grandparents Estate and helped resolve the tax issues with their small business and the partners. Saved thousands of dollars in the end and then helped put together a feasible plan for my immediate family.
Read more
13 Nov, 2020 by Bobby
I had a small entertainment legal problem and consulted with Miss Corvisiero and she was patient and professional helping me solve that problem almost immediately, she’s very good at what she does and I would recommend her completely.
Read more
19 Oct, 2020 by Renee
I have been using Marisa Corvisiero for 10 years. She has prepared personal documents for both myself and my family members and she has given us excellent legal advice various times throughout the years.
Read more
01 Mar, 2019 by Deborah
She answered my question very quickly and clearly for me. I understand each and every point she made. Her response was greatly appreciated and informative.
Read more
01 Nov, 2021 by Dominic
Micthell was referred to my aunt and I through another attorney. We had a very difficult case and Mitchell guided us through the process and we came out very successful.
Mitchell has some amazing qualities and those qualities gave us the confidence we needed to continue with the lawsuit. His communication skills were impeccable, he would always provide updates through calls or emails.
I would recommend Mitchell to anyone, he is a good listener and always take the time to answer any questions we might have. We were very appreciative to have such a wonderful lawyer like Mitchell. I will never forget what he did for aunt.
He is one of the most honest lawyer i every came across.
Thank you
Read more
10 Jul, 2020 by Thomas
I am the spokesperson for a group of “alleged heirs” who were seeking to be declared “legitimate heirs” and receive equal dispersement of our relative’s estate, who had passed away, leaving no will.
This process was “glacial” and took many years to finalize, but Mr Wilensky stayed with it, and met our objectives.
Mr Wilensky did this with the highest degree of professionalism and experience.
The most important quality from our viewpoint, after we retained Mr Wilensky, was that he communicated all the facets of this case to us all , as it progressed, with excellent explanations, in a timely and very professional manner, that was especially important, as none of us are New York State residents, where this case took place.
In summary, we felt very fortunate to have Mr Wilensky take our case, and provide his service, that met and even exceeded our expectations.
We are all extremely satisfied, and recommend his firm with absolutely no reservation.
Read more
26 Jan, 2016 by Ginny
I had been appointed as Executor of my father's estate. At first, I made the mistake of retaining a local attorney. After I realized that he wasn't experienced enough, I retained Mitch Wilensky. The difference was astounding. From the moment I first had contact with Mr. Wilensky, everything went smoothly. He was always available to answer my many questions, handled everything in the most professional manner, and completed relieved all the stress involved in a complicated matter. Not once did he ever lost patience or fail to answer my questions and concerns completely and quickly. I was always able to reach him by email or phone and I never felt that I was just another client to him. He took an interest in settling the Estate in a timely and competent fashion. The lesson I learned was to find and retain the most experienced attorney. I cant recommend him highly enough.
Read more
14 Jul, 2017 by Mary
We are a couple with two young children and finally got around to doing a will. Robert was recommended to us from our financial advisor and we are so happy he did.
I couldn't imagine going through this process without the patience and guidance of Mr Adler. He walked us through all of our options and was so caring and sincere about our best interest. He is extremely thorough and we had zero concerns that we have implanted the best will for the future of our family. We highly recommend!!
Read more
09 May, 2017 by Susan
Hire Robert Adler only if you want the best care imaginable. Adler was extremely diligent in uncovering our needs through caring and insightful conversation. He used those conversations to creatively craft and refine the best plan for us with contingencies -- for now and the longer term.
Of special note is Rob's business acumen, having been an entrepreneur serving the needs of the trust and estate sector as a whole -- a true "professional's professional".
Needless to say, he has the highest integrity, with meticulous due diligence.
Read more
11 Dec, 2016 by Tn l
After interviewing 10+ attorneys, I was glad to find Mr. Alder. He is one of the few who cares and is willing to help client with his best. His knowledge in depth and prompt response made me fortunate to have his help. Highly recommend him to anyone who looks for any legal help in estate planning! For sure you will be in good hands.
Read more
20 Apr, 2019 by Anonymous
While on an overseas deployment, I had received a citation for a Dept of Buildings violation that I was not responsible for. Due to my deployment, I was unable to appear at hearings to defend myself. For a year, Samantha diligently reviewed my case and appeared at hearings on my behalf. Upon my return, I met with Samantha and we discussed how we would proceeed. Once we had a plan in place, we went to the hearings which resulted in a dismissal. Thank you Sam!
Read more
19 Oct, 2018 by Anonymous
Samantha diligently worked on my behalf to achieve my dream of becoming a U.S. citizen. The process was a long and strenuous one. Frustration led me to a point of hopelessness, seriously considering giving up on this endeavor. For Samantha this was not an option for me. Instead, her positive attitude and continued encouragement pushed me to continue with my dream. On July 30, 2018 I was officially sworn in as a U.S. citizen. This date just so happened to also be the day of my son's birthday, which made this occasion that much sweeter.
Read more
08 Nov, 2014 by Anonymous
Gale Elston helped me and did excellent contract work for me. I found her to be very responsible, effective, and ethical. Highly recommended.
Read more
07 Oct, 2014 by Anonymous
Gale Elston represented me when an art gallery owing me money failed to pay. Although the gallery went bankrupt Gale Elston was knowledgable and understanding of the artist- dealer relationship and the art world challenges for an artist.
Read more
03 May, 2024 by Miriam abraham
Simply the best! We are blessed to have found this firm. They go above the rest of the law firms out there. Their fees are very fair for what they offer.
Read more
06 Feb, 2023 by Lorraine brown
A wonderful experience. All my issues and concerns were addressed
and I walked out quite satisfied. A very educationl experience.
Read more
02 Nov, 2022 by Aaron hibberd
Ethan is an excellent lawyer. He's very knowledgeable and professional. Great communication, and prompt response time to any questions. It's clear he's very experienced and knows what he's doing.
Read more
13 Aug, 2015 by Nicholas
I had a wonderful experience working with Neil on several complicated and involved matters. In addition to being consistently professional and responsive, Neil is an excellent attorney: deeply knowledgeable, thoughtful, methodical and efficient. He takes a true interest in attaining the best possible outcome for his clients and provides expert judgment and guidance along the way.
Read more
23 Aug, 2012 by Anonymous
Neil is an expert and a gentleman. Working with Neil was a pleasure and he handled my matter with expertise, professionalism, an attention to detail and a real zeal for his clients' interests. I would reccomend Neil without any hesitation.
Read more
10 Jun, 2021 by Joseph david elder
Grimaldi and Yeung (Judy and Michelle) assisted me in creating an estate plan for my property and finances--in addition to advising me about about documentation such as living will, health care proxy and power of attorney.
Judy and Michelle were very helpful in guiding the process and prompt in answering questions and advising.
The process was smooth and efficient and the Judy, Michelle and their staff were not only very professional, but also personable. They made the process really quite easy and the final product of my documentation were prepared and packaged beautifully.
I highly recommend this firm and these lawyers for any needed estate planning.
Read more
05 May, 2017 by Anonymous
One of the most important reason I hired the firm of Grimaldi and Yeung is that they are very knowledgeable and very good in the area of Estate Planning and Elder Law. Michelle Yeung was assigned to my case and dealt with her if I had any questions or concerns. She was great. Whether I called her on the phone or emailed her she always responded in a timely fashion. When I visited the office she always took a few minutes to sit with me and explain in detail what I needed to know and what to do. She took a personal interest in me in that she reassured me during this trying time that everything was going to be OK, that she was there to help me whenever a needed her and so she was. The staff is also wonderful. Very professional and very caring. I whole heartedly recommend Ms. Yeung and the firm.
Read more
16 Feb, 2022 by Mark
My father's estate has been well taken care of, and it involved sale of property and dealing with beneficiaries through Mr. Simon. He's gone above and beyond in explaining and executing everything. He's answered every question immediately, and taken care of everything. Immediately. He and his staff has made it possible to do almost all of it with email, which saves time.
Read more
15 Jan, 2016 by Peter
I an very satisfied with the services I receive from Mr. Simon. If I had chosen a different lawyer I would probably still be at square one. As it is we are nearing conclusion of the issues he is handling for me. I find him to be knowledgeable and incredibly patient.
Read more
24 Oct, 2014 by Philip
Michael's level of professionalism, knowledge, compassion and overall results in helping me to properly navigate through a multitude of family issues before the Surrogate Court, was outstanding! He was able to guide me through a very stressful and life altering situation to perfection. I would highly recommend his services to anyone I know.
Read more
23 May, 2012 by Dave
The lawyer work with my wife and I, creating a will, health care proxy and trust for our family. He was patient, kind and insightful helping us reach a very satisfactory result despite some thorny issues. I and my friend use him, and all are happy with the results. True none of us have had our wills read after our demise, but my wife and I feel secure that our children will be cared for and secure should we not be here to look after them.
Read more
22 Apr, 2013 by Anonymous
I highly recommend Attorney Dandridge as an attorney. She provided a 2-hour free consultation that resulted in me hiring her as my attorney. She worked around my financial constraints that was greatly appreciated. She discussed the strengths and weaknesses of my case and strategy to build a successful case. She included me in the process whereby I read all drafts prior to filing. I really gained an understanding about employment law.
Read more
26 Jul, 2015 by Estate planning client
Mr. Corbett created a will for our family which was complex due to the fact that we have a large blended family. He worked with us to find out what our wishes were and gave us legal and sound guidance as to what would work best for our children. He explained exactly what our beneficiaries and legal guardians should do when we passed and gave us lots of information on estate planning as well. We were very happy and relieved to have all our affairs in order thanks to Mr. Corbett.
Read more
29 Dec, 2023 by Jonathan
Greg exhibited profound expertise in estate law, explaining complex concepts with remarkable clarity and ensuring that my specific wishes were meticulously addressed. His CPA background provided made the process exemplary, with prompt and clear communication that made me feel both valued and well-informed.
Read more
29 Jan, 2009 by Anonymous
Always returns phone calls, knows what he's talking about when it comes to nyc real estate.
Read more
13 Feb, 2015 by Dennis
Mr. Komitee is a wonderful attorney who addressed our estate planning needs in a professional manner, in depth and in a speedy manner. He was available for phone conferences and even made house calls when we were unable to meet with him in his office due to the weather. He is one of the best attorneys we have ever encountered and we would highly recommend him to anyone seeking estate planning advice.
Read more
28 Sep, 2017 by Roger
I have worked on cases with Martin Lerner and found him to be exceptionally well versed and practical in New York trusts and estates law.
Read more
02 Dec, 2015 by Mark
The service I received was excellent and I am sincerely grateful. Irwin Klein was very knowledgeable and efficient!!! I would definitely recommend Irwin to friends and family.
Read more
28 Mar, 2014 by Anonymous
My wife and I retained Mr. Weiner, Esq. many years ago and we would like to say that he is a very good attorney. We would definitely trust him with anything, very nice and good at what he practices. We have dealt with numerous attorneys.
Read more
13 Apr, 2015 by Gayla
Ms. Kembell was the most knowledgable and informative attorney we have ever had to hire. She helped our family with some complicated Trust issues and brought our wills up to date. Every conversation with Emily was productive, but at the same time, lots of fun. We feel we made a friend for life.
Read more
09 Mar, 2016 by Michael goitein
I had extensive conversations with Bruce both via email and in person, and he has key knowledge and expertise in the three states that mattered most to our affairs - New York, New Jersey, and Florida.
Would very highly recommend him.
Read more
12 Aug, 2016 by John
I recently came into possession of a building that had an illegal basement apartment. After offering them time and money to leave, they refused and I had an issue in my hand.
The first lawyer I went to was in Chinatown and I assumed that it would be cheap but after a consultation with him and the price he was asking, I learned that he was going to rip me off, rather than it being a bargain.
Searching google I stumbled upon Jakubowitz and Chuang by accident and decided to give them a try. I had a free consultation with William Chuang and found that he was very professional and reasonable. I did my own research about holdover cases before looking for lawyers and found that he told me everything and cleared up some misconceptions I had. I was about to do something stupid and he saved me from that mistake.
The best part of the consultation is that he itemized all his fees. The first lawyer I went to merely gave me a price and expected me to pay. I saved around 600 dollars for the first legal steps with William.
When in court with my tenants, he told me what would happen and I received exactly the result that I expected.
Evicting my tenants was a very arduous journey but William made it easier by explaining all the steps involved and doing what he said he was going to do.
Always available by phone, text, or email.
When I received a letter from the housing department about the illegal basement tenants, I emailed William and he got back to me within an hour. Even on Sundays he responds which is rare for lawyers or any professionals.
I'm going to have him be my personal go to lawyer from now on.
Read more
03 Sep, 2016 by Cindy
I had a complex estate matter involving assets in NY, UK and France. Mr Miller put together a team of superb professionals, including lawyers, accountants, real estate agents and investment advisors that did a great job. He also helped me establish a sophisticated estate plan that is tax efficient and meets my goals.
Read more
26 Apr, 2017 by Anonymous
James was present, honest and thorough. Found solutions to some difficult issues. Impressed with his work.
Read more
27 Jun, 2017 by Sandra
My father was in need of an attorney to get more details on a trust. We ended up going with an attorney recommended by a family member but we had a great consultation.
Read more
30 Aug, 2024 by Jamie blau
I highly recommend hiring Laura Cowan as a trust and estates attorney. She was exceptionally patient, understanding, skilled and knowledgeable. Laura took the time to carefully explain my options, and ensured I felt comfortable and informed throughout the entire process. Her attention to detail, responsiveness, and professionalism were outstanding. Her expertise gave me peace of mind that my estate planning was in good hands. I am so grateful for Laura’s assistance and would not hesitate to recommend her to anyone in need of a skilled and trustworthy trust and estates attorney.
Read more
20 Sep, 2023 by Steven gregory
Laura is one of the most highly-qualified estate planning attorneys in Manhattan. Moreover, she is an excellent teacher of estate planning.
Read more
20 Sep, 2023 by Campa ltd
Excellent Estate Planning attorney. She is both knowledgeable and a pleasure to work with. Highly recommended!
Read more
01 Sep, 2024 by Naomi johnson
If you are looking for an attorney who will be prepared, move with compassion and efficiency then I highly recommend her services. Choose an attorney who cares and has a proven track record. Choose her!
Read more
20 Aug, 2024 by Saba kahsay
Stephanie is the type of lawyer you would want on your side whenever you are facing an unfair justice, She took me under her wings during a time of need and cared enough to further research better terms for my stipulation agreement working strategically with the the opposing attorney to finish the matter outside of court, saving me time, money and unnecessary energy. You won't find a lawyer who is human and cares the way this firm does, I highly recommend it.
Read more
23 Jul, 2024 by Candy johnson
I had a criminal law matter and needed some assistance as I've never dealt with a situation like this before. I reached out to SL Nelson Law Firm to assist me with the matter. Stephanie didn't hesitate to assist. She is extremely patient, knowledgeable and compassionate. She assured me that everything would work out. She kept in touch with me every step of the way. I never felt like I was in the dark, she answered all of my calls and responded to all emails in a timely fashion. She was sure to always answer any and all questions I had. The outcome worked in my favor and I'm extremely pleased with the service provided. 10/10. I would highly recommend Stephanie to advocate for you! I truly value her services!
Forever grateful ! Thank you Stephanie !!
Read 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:
-
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.
