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24 Aug, 2024 by Veronique racine
20 Jun, 2024 by Starseed
01 Aug, 2023 by Gonca latif
02 Sep, 2024 by Rabbi b
Great lawyers knowledgeable pleasant professional
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19 Jul, 2024 by Larry feldman
23 May, 2024 by Maria marcia
12 Dec, 2022 by Marina
Deborah has represented me for several years now. She is the most professional attorney I have ever dealt with and the most dedicated to her work. She is ethical and has had excellent communication with me through all of the work she has done for me. I would very strongly recommend Deborah Rosenthal without any hesitation. She’s absolutely the best!
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21 Jul, 2022 by Stuart
My Brother passed away suddenly & I was appointed Executor of his estate.
Dealing w/ a complicated Last Will, acquiring Letters of testamentary, amazingly detailed estate accounting, interaction/negotiations w/ 'other' lawyers, Deborah Rosenthal handled it all so professionally, She was always available to take your calls, answered all emails promptly & always so fair in the billing . I highly recommend her .
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10 Dec, 2019 by Jeffrey
Last year I was in the middle of a four year battle with my sister who was challenging our father's Will / Trust. Suddenly my lawyer passed away due to a tragic accident, and I needed to find new counsel. I did a search for lawyers with expertise in settling Will / Trust / Estates. I viewed several websites and when I came upon Ms Rosenthal's I knew I had struck gold. I learned of her thirty years of practice, and that her peers gave her outstanding marks, and clients gave her excellent reviews. I also learned that Deborah was past president, and current vice-president of N.Y. Women's Bar Association, and I was further impressed by her community service. I called Deborah, explained my predicament, and was relieved to hear her compassion, understanding, and optimism to reach a settlement which would honor the intention of my father's Last Will. After our first meeting, in which I gave her the four years of documents, Deborah quickly formulated a proposed settlement.
The first offer she made was so powerful and convincing, that when my sister made a counter offer, the result was a 90% victory for my side, which we accepted, and the battle was over
with dad's Will being fully realized without litigation, and amicably for both sides.
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24 Jan, 2024 by Nick ross
24 Dec, 2023 by Vincent ettari
Excellent Law Firm
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01 Nov, 2023 by Shannon brame
Great team to work with definitely recommend.
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12 Jun, 2024 by Zhibiao peng
03 May, 2023 by David tang
Worldwide Advantage
YOUR BUSINESS REQUIRES AN ADVANTAGE, AN EDGE, TO SUCCEED IN A HIGHLY COMPETITIVE WORLD.
Dorsey’s lawyers and staff can help you gain that edge by applying superb legal knowledge and skills with practical wisdom and a deep understanding of your business and industry.
We serve clients in nearly all industries, but focus on six industries in which we have great depth and a history of achieving client success. Our banking, development & infrastructure, energy & natural resources, food, beverage & agribusiness, healthcare, and technology industry groups help coordinate our teams serving these industries across geographies and practice areas, keeping them at the cutting edge of industry needs and trends and sharing collective experience and expertise.
With locations across the United States and in Canada, Europe and the Asia-Pacific region, we provide an integrated, proactive approach to our clients’ legal and business needs around the globe.
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10 Oct, 2022 by Michael raab
Melinda is top notch
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12 Jun, 2024 by Zhibiao peng
03 May, 2023 by David tang
Worldwide Advantage
YOUR BUSINESS REQUIRES AN ADVANTAGE, AN EDGE, TO SUCCEED IN A HIGHLY COMPETITIVE WORLD.
Dorsey’s lawyers and staff can help you gain that edge by applying superb legal knowledge and skills with practical wisdom and a deep understanding of your business and industry.
We serve clients in nearly all industries, but focus on six industries in which we have great depth and a history of achieving client success. Our banking, development & infrastructure, energy & natural resources, food, beverage & agribusiness, healthcare, and technology industry groups help coordinate our teams serving these industries across geographies and practice areas, keeping them at the cutting edge of industry needs and trends and sharing collective experience and expertise.
With locations across the United States and in Canada, Europe and the Asia-Pacific region, we provide an integrated, proactive approach to our clients’ legal and business needs around the globe.
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10 Oct, 2022 by Michael raab
Melinda is top notch
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12 Jun, 2024 by Zhibiao peng
03 May, 2023 by David tang
Worldwide Advantage
YOUR BUSINESS REQUIRES AN ADVANTAGE, AN EDGE, TO SUCCEED IN A HIGHLY COMPETITIVE WORLD.
Dorsey’s lawyers and staff can help you gain that edge by applying superb legal knowledge and skills with practical wisdom and a deep understanding of your business and industry.
We serve clients in nearly all industries, but focus on six industries in which we have great depth and a history of achieving client success. Our banking, development & infrastructure, energy & natural resources, food, beverage & agribusiness, healthcare, and technology industry groups help coordinate our teams serving these industries across geographies and practice areas, keeping them at the cutting edge of industry needs and trends and sharing collective experience and expertise.
With locations across the United States and in Canada, Europe and the Asia-Pacific region, we provide an integrated, proactive approach to our clients’ legal and business needs around the globe.
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10 Oct, 2022 by Michael raab
Melinda is top notch
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09 Jun, 2024 by Charles phelps
14 Dec, 2023 by Matt
I contacted this office for assistance with a legal concern. While my case wasn't a fit for his office, Mr Splain still took the time to call and talk with me about my situation for a few minutes. He was kind & helpful and offered some advice on what I could do.
I was able to get the matter resolved based mostly on the advice I was given. I really appreciate the help & will keep this office in mind if I ever need anything else!
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14 Jul, 2023 by Nick higbee
13 Sep, 2023 by Diana patrick
Mr. Connors, we want to thank you for everything you have done for us from the beginning to end. We want to thank you and your wonderful staff. You treated us like family and we really appreciate it. We would recommend you to anyone looking for a wonderful, compassionate and knowledgeable attorney. Again thank you for the work you did for us and your kindness.
-Don & Diane Patrick
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10 Feb, 2023 by Mike & andrea ubok
The Law Office of Jerome D Patterson was with me right from the start until I received compensation. Mr. Patterson was highly recommended to me and now I understand why. Jerry and his office staff worked vigorously on my behalf, updating me frequently re. my case. His knowledge, professionalism, sense of humor and suggestions put me at ease. Mr. Patterson’s firm gathered all of the reports and data, kept me apprised and got me a settlement better than I ever expected.
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24 Aug, 2022 by Sheik dickerson
15 Feb, 2023 by Sabrina novick
10 Aug, 2022 by Nina goldman
Very pleased with Dede Martin and her staff. They were friendly, patient and professional. I wouldn't hesitate to use them again.
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19 Sep, 2020 by Ivan r
Great people.
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21 Sep, 2023 by Ken & gail francis
09 Aug, 2023 by Ronald schutt
He did a great job on assisting us with our wills! Good guy!
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29 Aug, 2020 by L js
14 Oct, 2024 by Keri schweiger
Krentsel Guzman & Herbert llp Law firm was nothing more then amazing!!! The entire staff kept me well informed from the start. Highly recommended Law firm. Pleasure to talk to and was always there when I needed a simple answer..
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12 Oct, 2024 by Stuart ebanks
Good guys to have in a messed up world!
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07 Oct, 2024 by Sheda brown
Jason and Nick was the best lawyers. They got me back a lot of money Krentsel and Guzman
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22 Aug, 2024 by Ulrike laubner-kelleher
I am very impressed with Mr. Slepian's work ethic. I consulted him with a question about possible actions to take, and he took the time to thoroughly understand the background of my immigration process. He was the first lawyer to do this, and as a non-native speaker, I really appreciated that he spoke slowly and clearly. He also didn’t try to push his services on me. Instead, he made me feel very relieved. If I ever need an immigration lawyer, he will be my first choice.
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11 Jul, 2024 by Tammara gardner
My husband and I had a very positive experience with Andrew Slepian, who assisted us in adjusting my husband's immigration status from visa to green card. Andrew made the process smooth and easy to understand. He answered all of our questions thoroughly and clearly outlined exactly the steps we needed to take. We look forward to continuing to work with Andrew on the next steps in our journey, as my husband works toward obtaining his U.S. citizenship.
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06 Jun, 2024 by Syed raza
My journey to U.S. citizenship, facilitated by Andrew Slepian Law, was remarkably smooth and successful. His knowledge of immigration law and commitment to personalized client service made a potentially overwhelming process feel manageable. A special thank you to Andrew, His dedication and empathy shone through in every interaction, making a significant impact on my experience. Andrew expertise not only helped navigate the complexities of my applications but also provided a reassuring presence throughout. The firm's professionalism, clear communication, and proactive approach were instrumental in the successful outcome to citizenship applications. Meetings and emails were scheduled as needed, very lenient with payments and ensuring I was well-informed and prepared at every step. Andrew not only acted as advisors but as advocates, genuinely invested in my success. I can recommend Slepian Immigration Law highly enough for anyone navigating the immigration process there exceptional service and the personal dedication provided invaluable peace of mind and results...
thank you Andrew for all the help..
Raza
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22 Aug, 2024 by Ulrike laubner-kelleher
I am very impressed with Mr. Slepian's work ethic. I consulted him with a question about possible actions to take, and he took the time to thoroughly understand the background of my immigration process. He was the first lawyer to do this, and as a non-native speaker, I really appreciated that he spoke slowly and clearly. He also didn’t try to push his services on me. Instead, he made me feel very relieved. If I ever need an immigration lawyer, he will be my first choice.
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11 Jul, 2024 by Tammara gardner
My husband and I had a very positive experience with Andrew Slepian, who assisted us in adjusting my husband's immigration status from visa to green card. Andrew made the process smooth and easy to understand. He answered all of our questions thoroughly and clearly outlined exactly the steps we needed to take. We look forward to continuing to work with Andrew on the next steps in our journey, as my husband works toward obtaining his U.S. citizenship.
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06 Jun, 2024 by Syed raza
My journey to U.S. citizenship, facilitated by Andrew Slepian Law, was remarkably smooth and successful. His knowledge of immigration law and commitment to personalized client service made a potentially overwhelming process feel manageable. A special thank you to Andrew, His dedication and empathy shone through in every interaction, making a significant impact on my experience. Andrew expertise not only helped navigate the complexities of my applications but also provided a reassuring presence throughout. The firm's professionalism, clear communication, and proactive approach were instrumental in the successful outcome to citizenship applications. Meetings and emails were scheduled as needed, very lenient with payments and ensuring I was well-informed and prepared at every step. Andrew not only acted as advisors but as advocates, genuinely invested in my success. I can recommend Slepian Immigration Law highly enough for anyone navigating the immigration process there exceptional service and the personal dedication provided invaluable peace of mind and results...
thank you Andrew for all the help..
Raza
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28 Aug, 2024 by Kate scahill
01 Aug, 2024 by Kirk farrell
Peter's approach to our interaction was refreshing; he was upfront about transparency and ensured my questions were answered. I highly recommend him as an attorney for employment law matters.
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10 Jul, 2024 by Kristen kruger
29 Apr, 2024 by Baby chari
05 Feb, 2024 by Joe garcía serrano
Esto sí es seriedad
Gracias mi Doctor a usted y sus colaboradores,Dios los guarde les estoy haciendo una nueva remisión.
Estamos muy contentos porque no hemos fallado en nada éxitos Éxitos por siempre
Felicidades por
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14 Nov, 2023 by Oskar delacruz
13 Jun, 2023 by Ray peterson
Alison Besunder is a practicing Trusts and Estates attorney (Goetz Fitzpatrick) with remarkably impressive skills. She assertively engages her clients’ needs while at the same time offering reassuring and researched support. Our endorsement of her is without qualification.
Ray and Ann Peterson
Brooklyn Heights, New York
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26 Apr, 2023 by Harry hollander
Today we had a court appointment for Oral Arguments at Surrogate Court. Our attorney Alison was excellent and totally prepared in presenting all the facts of our case to the judge and the court clerk. Though we will have to wait for the judges final decision, our family could not have wanted anyone else by our side today and during these last trying two years.
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17 Oct, 2022 by Todd
On a good day Guardianship can be confusing and challenging, especially for a new Guardian. You are constantly familiarizing yourself with new information pertaining to a wide array of topics that come along quickly and consistently. At times you require help and insight from those with more experience specific to the legal intricacies that you may suddenly be encountering. I am thankful that in the vast sea of attorneys to choose from, that I was referred to Alison Arden Besunder of Goetz Fitzpatrick to assist me and the Guardianship in addressing an appeal brought on unexpectedly. Appellate work appears: unique to your case, detail focused, time consuming and requires nuanced skill and approach in response and execution. Ms. Besunder and the members of her team understood the record at hand and responded professionally, with a tone that was very much welcome and tracking with my efforts and focus as Guardian. They were: kind to me, understanding of the situation, communicative, along with being clear in their directions and in the answering of my questions. Ms. Besunder's experience and knowledge along with the efforts and kindness of her team in dealing with this legal matter were welcome during this unexpected and challenging time. Ms. Besunder and Goetz Fitzpatrick have represented me as Guardian and responded to the appeal on my behalf- which I'm very thankful of their efforts. Highly recommended and much appreciated.
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16 Oct, 2021 by Brad richards
16 Feb, 2020 by Tom walsh
your always in great hands here
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24 Oct, 2019 by Michael battaglia
25 Feb, 2024 by Eduardo rojas
03 Feb, 2023 by Nk udogwu
11 Feb, 2020 by Myron glucksman
07 Aug, 2024 by Debra schmahl
My husband, the executor of an Estate, retained Novick & Associates for a probate matter and worked with Al Messina. Al Messina is a top notch attorney, very knowledgeable on Estate and Trust Laws and the procedures for Suffolk County Surrogates Court. Al responds quickly to emails, returns phone calls promptly and answers all questions professionally. Al Messina worked diligently to resolve a complicated estate matter, every step of the way he kept the executor informed. The results of Al Messina’s hard work exceeded our expectations. Do not hesitate to retain, I highly recommend.
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01 Aug, 2024 by Kathy smalling
John Graffeo gave us superior service and achieved things for us that others could not do. The smartest thing we ever did was retain him and his firm to handle our probate case. We highly recommend him to anyone needing his service. He kept us up to date and sent monthly detailed bills for us to see. Thank you very much John.
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04 Oct, 2023 by Renee taylor
29 Jul, 2024 by Gillian williams
I used this law firm to represent me in purchasing my home The lawyer came to my home and explained the entire procedure to me step by step which proved to be very fruitful. All my questions were answered, questions I did not know I had to ask were brought up. Everything was done in a timely and organized manner. There was none of the usual hiccups that you would have because things were being done in a timely manner and I was being kept in the loop. Whenever I had a question I was able to call and speak with someone.
In the end when I needed further assistance it was given. I will most definitely refer this law without hesitation. Very professional and knowledgeable.
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23 Feb, 2024 by Y c
Had a good experience working with Ryan and Lee, they explained every part of my house closing documents in detail and had a smooth closing.
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28 Sep, 2022 by B m
My Aunt and Uncle want to thank you very much Ryan and Albert, for a super smooth well-done house closings!!
You made it look so easy and you are so organized...!!
We will be recommending your expertise, to our Family and friends.. !!
Bravo Ryan & Albert !!
God Bless!!
M & H.
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23 Feb, 2023 by Michael finamore
25 Aug, 2017 by Anastasia chykileva
20 Apr, 2017 by Jamie powell
23 Feb, 2023 by Michael finamore
25 Aug, 2017 by Anastasia chykileva
20 Apr, 2017 by Jamie powell
22 Oct, 2024 by Jonathan p
Helene is the best lawyer on Staten Island to help you out with traffic tickets! I was fighting a ticket for a 1yr+ that was given to me unfairly and she helped me go to court and get my ticket dismissed. Helene and her office are the best and get back to your questions in a timely matter. Highly recommend !!!
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18 Oct, 2024 by Bob lyon
Amazing Amazing The Best
Highly recommend, they know what they are doing
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09 Oct, 2024 by Dave weiss
Savino and Smollar did an A+ job on my workers comp claim. Very clear and attentive and answered all my questions clearly. Highest rating!!
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04 Oct, 2024 by Tonya lambert
Jay knispel law firm is the Best they were a very friendly law firm .thank you Jay knispel.
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27 Sep, 2024 by Sidy kante
Hi
I had a very good experience with Mr Jay Knispel he helped get a very good amour of money for my case, I’m so happy With the result !!!!
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27 Sep, 2024 by Pedro flores
Awesome staff got me more than I ever thought first class service highly recommended
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16 Aug, 2024 by Torii eley
Clair from this law firm was very rude and I don’t understand how she is working in law firm her communicating with her. Client is very disrespectful. I could barely get a word out because all she wanted to do was hear her voice. I was trying to get a breakdown and understanding of my payments and she wasn’t trying to hear anything that I had to say which I find is very rude and discriminating of my work situation and what I’m able to afford and payments at this time I do not recommend this law firm at all
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14 Aug, 2024 by Deborah cayetano
Professional, clear about the details, and respectful as an Elder Lawyer
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07 Aug, 2024 by Shelley rees
We were not given any costs upfront and assumed we were just doing a meet and greet. We decided to go with a much cheaper option. We received a bill for $600 for the one meeting that was less than an hour.
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20 Nov, 2023 by Roxane mosleh interior design
Professionalism, hard work and dedication is epitome of this team. Steven and Scott Silverberg have handled legal matters for our family for years and are always available, problem solving, understanding and performing with incredible knowledge of NY and FL law. We have referred them to many friends and family and would not work with anyone else. Highly recommend!
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30 Nov, 2022 by Sl foxscout
Misses court dates and overcharges
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14 Nov, 2022 by Carrie bronsther
Scott prepared our wills and estate documents. He was terrific! He was extremely kind, flexible, and knowledgeable, explaining the process/documents and answering all our questions along the way. We would highly recommend him!
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06 Aug, 2024 by Gale patricia
Dana did a seminar at my local library and I was impressed with her presentation so I called with a legal question regarding my existing estate plan. She was able to update and revise the plan while going above and beyond to make sure that I understood every step and was clear and comfortable with the revised documents. From my experience, Dana is a thorough, knowledgeable, personable, and a skilled attorney. I highly recommend her.
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20 Jun, 2024 by Evaloukable
I had a great experience with Dana. She helped me with my mother’s trust. For me she went above and beyond and was always available to talk. My mom is mobility disabled and Dana would come to my house to complete the process. Dana is very personable and professional. She made sure to explain everything so that it made sense for us. I highly recommend Dana, especially if you require a more personal experience with someone who is flexible like I did with my mom.
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03 Mar, 2024 by Louis pugliese
Quite frankly a most positive experience. Dana explained all matters quite thoroughly. I will be working with her firm again in the near future.
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09 Oct, 2024 by Jesus flores
06 Sep, 2024 by Moreen lyttle
Very professional, very nice and courteous.I would recommend this agency and these people for your immigration needs they are amazing!Thanks girls!
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06 Sep, 2024 by D t
I want to say thank you to the law office of Spar & Bernstein.
It was a pleasure and the best decision having Shannon & Johanna representing me legally, during my immigration process. Phenomenal team. They are detailed, patient and understanding. But most importantly, I trust the team. You can rest assured that you can take their word. I had a difficult case, 26 yrs of trying and now I can say thank you all for holding my hand straight across the finish line.
I recommend my friends & family. I am confident to recommend this immigration team to those in need of proper representation.
AGAIN THANK YOU SHANNON & JOHANNA.
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04 Oct, 2024 by Karahan zorbey
Eğer bir göçmenlik avukatı arıyorsanız hiç düşünmeyin ve Metin Bey’e bir danışın derim. 1 sene süren greencard sürecimde aklımdaki soruları günün her saati onlara sordum ve anında cevap aldım. Metin Bey ve çalışma ekibi hem çok profesyonel hem de çok güler yüzlü. Onlara çok teşekkür ederim.
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28 Sep, 2024 by Sala uddin
I am really happy the day that is today. Yes I received my long expected Green Card. Thanks Elizabeth mam.
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27 Sep, 2024 by Veronica gomes
Absolutely wonderful service. We came to Elizabeth, believe we will be successful and that’s the result I have Green Card in my hand today.
I am suggesting everyone to come to Elizabeth to fulfill your dream.
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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:
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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.
