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29 Jan, 2024 by Jose bermudez
No communication what’s so ever. Nobody gets back to you. They screen calls if you call more than once. They send you to extensions that go to voicemail. Very bad customer care. Once they have their money they don’t care about you.
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15 Oct, 2023 by Queen
I would like to thank field law group , Marlon and his associate for helping us receive compensation for my bf leg injury. It’s been a long journey but it was all worth it. Marlon is the best injury attorney in New York. Hands down.
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31 Aug, 2023 by Jeff joseph
This a good law firm. Very knowledgeable and not afraid to fight for every penny for you. These are serious and hardworking employees. Highly recommend and big up to Brittany, Leslie, Marlon and the rest of the team!
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29 Jan, 2024 by Jose bermudez
No communication what’s so ever. Nobody gets back to you. They screen calls if you call more than once. They send you to extensions that go to voicemail. Very bad customer care. Once they have their money they don’t care about you.
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15 Oct, 2023 by Queen
I would like to thank field law group , Marlon and his associate for helping us receive compensation for my bf leg injury. It’s been a long journey but it was all worth it. Marlon is the best injury attorney in New York. Hands down.
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31 Aug, 2023 by Jeff joseph
This a good law firm. Very knowledgeable and not afraid to fight for every penny for you. These are serious and hardworking employees. Highly recommend and big up to Brittany, Leslie, Marlon and the rest of the team!
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19 Aug, 2024 by Robert zeisler
04 Apr, 2024 by Tayla archer
24 Dec, 2023 by Peter rossi
I found Ms. Richards to be highly unprofessional, highly unethical and highly prejudicial in the execution of my parent's estate.
In my opinion, resorting to threats and bullying in an attempt to intimidate a particular beneficiary is beneath the conduct you would otherwise expect from a member of the Bar Association.
To be clear, I was not "unhappy with my parent's estate", I was shocked by Ms. Richard's behavior.
Her handling of the estate relative to administration and advice given was deplorable, and in no way represented what my parents would have wanted. If you're in the market for an estate attorney that you can trust to do the right thing upon your passing, I recommend that you look elsewhere.
I would not have even given Ms. Richards a "1 star" review, but Google doesn't accept anything less.
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24 Mar, 2021 by Christine swan
Very pleased with the professional, informative meet we had with Gina Raio Bitsimis on March 18, 2021 to review how to proceed with our Dad's small Estate after he passed. Gina listened and answered questions very specifically. Giving extra details to help with Small Estate Court. We felt comfortable, and would recommend Gina and Burner Law.
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25 Sep, 2017 by Mark
Dear Nancy I am very pleased with Kera Reed who helped me Resolving my Issue of My sister who took money from me and my mom.She got My sister off of my trust and mom as our trustee.I am grateful to Kera Reed advice she gave me to persue my judgement against my sister. We were able to get atleast $61,000 for me and $5,000 she took from my mom on credit card which she made charges on it for her.Kera Reed had advised me about getting Life Lock for me and my mom.She answered all of my questions proffesionally and informative.We are at the end now.Just have to see Kera one more time sometime in October to go over some more things.I give Kera Reed and ur Law firm a 5 star rating.Thank u so much for ur help.
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18 Sep, 2015 by Anonymous
ATTORNEY BURNER AND STAFF HAS BEEN VERY HELPFUL AND VERY PROFESSIONAL. THEY ARE KNOWLEDGABLE OF ELDER LAW, & ESTATE LAW. SHE CONTINUES TO WORK ON MY CASES FOR ESTATE/TRUSTS & HAS BEEN VERY HELPFUL AND QUICK ON GETTING THE WORK DONE. QUICKER THAN MY ORIGINAL LAWYER. SHE AND HER STAFF ARE OUTSTANDING! I AM SO GLAD I HIRED THEM!
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07 May, 2023 by Kirabear
I needed to obtain a professional .But after documents were found on this so called 5 star attorney I must warn the public. I can be sure that he will remove this asap.But then you can see him on you tube, and Facebook.He to say the least is not a credible person especially his desires to like young girls and pursue them.5 stars he created on his own.
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25 May, 2021 by Barbara
Mark Friedman sifted through the fluff and got down to no nonsense legal issues I had confronted with my siblings. He helped me be awarded letters of Administration in court despite challenges from foes of equal strength. I was able to control the case with his guidance and keep the estate safe from harm. Although he did most of the heavy lifting, I got paid as an administrator a tidy sum. Thank you!
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28 Jul, 2016 by Stephanie
Mr. Friedman helped me put my sisters Estate in order. He helped me get family members to cooperate and helped solve so many issues that faced my sisters Estate, left which unsolved by a prior attorney. His fees were not cheap but worth it based on results. He had a friendly demeanor in the courtroom (I think the judges like him) and aura when I met him for the first consult I knew I found my attorney. I was just hoping I could afford his expertise ! He seems flexible with payments and is very fair.
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12 Jul, 2024 by Desipience
14 Jun, 2022 by Tina murphy
Maureen Dougherty is a wonderful attorney! I needed her expertise on several occasions and was elated with each outcome. I was very impressed with her knowledge, honesty, thoroughness and understanding. I highly recommend her. Maureen is a gem!
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17 Feb, 2022 by Troubled solutions
Maureen Dougherty is 100% top Lawyer. She is a pit bull when she needs to be. What ever was promised and explained she went way beyond to help. I wouldn’t waste my time with any other lawyer. Go directly to the main source. You’ll thank me in the end.
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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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08 Apr, 2024 by Batsheva
He represents the hasidic community, the gangsters and the thugs. The individual can go wherever. Justice? Why do you even expect it. It becomes a popularity contest.
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21 Aug, 2019 by Asi azizi
Fourth of July
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31 Jan, 2019 by Joseph taschereau
28 Mar, 2024 by Audrey kogut
If you want someone to screw you out your monies go to her I dealt with deformation and she sat there and allowed it everything I asked of her I get told wait for ops to expire guess what when ops expire she told me to do it myself no less the courts went to me the case is closed. I still don’t have my belongings and stuff I told her my sister’s manipulation of mom and sister’s intentions and guess what all my gut feeling no less proof was correct. Her going you don’t want to go to trial you’ll be embarrassed save your pride well I too when I could I contacted my nieces legal aid also had a nice chat she wasn’t thrilled my sister played her daughter a child I took care of since she was a infant to teens that live with me and mom on to hurt me I filled out a foil with family and children services found out even more lies told to me untrue. Thanks to a honest staff. At headquarters of family and children services telling me fill out a foil immediately. And after that year too my mother has had a fall and surgery and my sister walked just like she did when I lived there. Gosh on top my sister made sure other stuff was false all papers Natasha didn’t share with me just helped them scare me more and go I am happy you got your own place and move on with your life while my sister hovers over mom and controls her gains moms house when mom dies but while mom alive mom paying for all the food, the house costs as well the yard work even a electrical
Pole outside on mom and the town’s property was about to snap sister didn’t report it to make sure yard safe for mom to mom able to do everything she said she was too old to do when I lived there but not I ain’t there she doing it and sister is living on her and oh well where is the justice huh when my mother ends up in a wheelchair or worse and then people will go why wasn’t anything done. Natasha you knew the lies etc gosh even I had audio proof to clear my name no less the first police report and others could been fought since I lived in that house 7 months after first time sister attacked me and flipped the storyline to accuse me no one would have someone live in there home for 7 month after that accusation no less order the person to stay home with them the person would have been removed immediately and Natasha you know it. I would think after all this time you’d make things right for me I was even told no attorney charges a retainer fee for each op so you did more then lie you scammed me and even communication between you and other attorneys you pulled out my file on top she love canceling your appts with her last minute like 5 minutes prior so for me to drive in pain to my sister in law taking time off work to go with me lost her wages for that time to never available on the phone it is a tag game so she could charge me for the office to take the call for her then she get back when fits her to cause her staff would know nothing. I am putting it on here to arm people she destroys your life with those doing perjury. Like her saying the legal aid for my niece wants and doesn’t say all but see doesn’t even play the proof to the child’s legal aid that the kids needs help but Natasha does go to me something wrong with my sister year to call me crap since she pregnant with her child but leaves me caring no less for the child but the child to live with me 24/7 for me to take child out for me to have calls that she needs me to help the child’s doctor with medical cause I use same doctor to she calling it aunt days meaning I am to no only take child out to movies lunch dinner alone with me but to pay for it etc and no I will not be threatened to take down review you destroyed my life with the monster and lied to the courts and let me take a beating for stuff I find do like I said 7 months in that house something completely wrong no less what was done once sister thought court mediation was done no less I was mislead it was a judge when it wasn’t. Now see it I was lying then why she doesn’t see her grandsons like she did when I lived there seems to be my other siblings saw the truth
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02 Nov, 2023 by Melissa felice
24 Oct, 2023 by A r
I had the privilege of working with The Meyers Law Group for my divorce and subsequent Trust formation. I can confidently say that their exceptional professionalism, caring attitude, efficiency, and deep knowledge set them apart from the rest. From the moment I stepped into their office, I was greeted with warmth and courtesy, making me feel immediately at ease. The team's caring and compassionate approach truly shines as they take the time to understand their clients' needs and concerns, fostering trust and confidence. I was hugely impressed by their remarkable efficiency. The firm managed my cases with a level of organization and swiftness that I had never experienced before. They were always one step ahead, ensuring that every detail was addressed promptly and accurately. The attorneys at The Meyers Law Group are incredibly knowledgeable. They possess a profound understanding of the law, which, combined with their experience, gives clients peace of mind. They answered my questions with clarity and guided me through the legal intricacies, making daunting processes seem manageable. In my experience with The Meyers Law Group, their commitment to professionalism, caring nature, efficiency, and knowledge has transformed my perception of legal services. I wholeheartedly recommend them to anyone seeking outstanding legal representation.
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16 Mar, 2024 by Edmond alphonse
One of the most, professional
Community guidance, neighborhood friendly ; resourceful, integrity honestly
Every family and those members unable to defend their lives within the Criminal Justice System Moreover,
God has blessed this Lawyer Group of dedicated women and men.
Respectfully yours
Frederick Alphonse Edmond Sr
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07 Mar, 2024 by Shakima b
If I could give Zero stars, I would. Do not waste your time with this Law Firm. They do not return clients calls. You can never get through to Mr. Hopkins when you call. You leave messages and he never calls you back. Doesn’t keep in touch with the other party’s lawyer. Very unprofessional law firm. Please do not waist your time.
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07 Mar, 2024 by Shakima b
If I could give Zero stars I would. Do not waste your time with this Law Firm. They do not return clients calls. You can never get through to Mr. Hopkins when you call. You leave messages and he never calls you back. Doesn’t keep in touch with the other parties lawyer. Very unprofessional law firm. Please do not waist your time.
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07 Jan, 2023 by Hirsch meadow
07 Jan, 2023 by Bill williamson
Cares about your money and that’s all.
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28 Jul, 2022 by Rob jachimiak
Talked a big game, but accomplished so little for what I was charged. I'm grateful for my costly mistake, as it eventually led me to counsel that helped me achieve the immediate and critical results in my divorce I was seeking.
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08 Jul, 2024 by Pete lomanto
08 Jul, 2024 by Dd b
08 Jul, 2024 by Dilli mandi
This Firm will make sure both yours and your lawsuit opponents wealth drained enough for their profit.
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15 Apr, 2023 by Jeff
Our family has had the pleasure of working with Jean Harris at PB Elder Law for the past 4 years. She helped us navigate the complexities of estate and care planning for our aging parents: from the initial consultation to following through on the details of one’s passing, Jean has always had our best interests in mind. Jean is a strong advocate, empathetic listener, and is sensitive to the nuances of family dynamics. This is also true of the entire team at PB Elder Law; everyone we’ve interacted with is responsive and leverages their expertise without pause. We made a great choice when we selected PB Elder law, and are extraordinarily lucky to have Jean on our team.
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21 Sep, 2022 by Steve
I could not be happier with my experience of hiring Jean Harris of Pfalzgraf Beinhauer Elder Law. Jean and her team successfully and professionally handled the approval of Medicaid benefits for my mother who is in a nursing home. I was informed of the progress along the way, which turned out to be a very difficult battle. They assured me not to worry, since they none of the Medicaid applications that they handled were ever denied. It quickly became evident that Jean and her team knows how to win. I must mention one valuable team member, Mackenzie Brown. Mackenzie is great! I am grateful for her skills and performance as well. Jean sure knows how to surround herself with a team of winners! I am so thankful to have found and hired Jean Harris. You will be too!
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30 Apr, 2015 by Lee
Jean has handled both my mother's and father's estates for me when they passed within the past two years. She has always tried to sort everything for me as quickly as possible, and has always had the patience to explain everything to me which would otherwise go over my head. Jean has extensive knowledge of her field and has aided me in getting legal help in other states when it was needed. She also has always kept up on all my affairs without me even having to ask. In addition to her professionalism, she has a rare kindness and sensitivity which was so appreciated during these difficult times that I have needed her services.
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08 Jun, 2024 by Carol gizzi
Met with Cressida Dixon to update and sign our wills. She is beyond professional, organized and personable. So glad we did our update with her....
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26 Sep, 2023 by Darryl dewolff
Don't trust them. They lied to me & are trying to play me
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04 Sep, 2023 by Marilyn miran
08 Jun, 2024 by Carol gizzi
Met with Cressida Dixon to update and sign our wills. She is beyond professional, organized and personable. So glad we did our update with her....
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26 Sep, 2023 by Darryl dewolff
Don't trust them. They lied to me & are trying to play me
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04 Sep, 2023 by Marilyn miran
08 May, 2024 by Gina gina
Most unprofessional attorneys I've ever dealt with in my life very abrasive very unprofessional very rude they minimize who you are and what your problem is as a human being
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30 Jan, 2020 by Sophocles papasophocles
28 Nov, 2019 by Robia altaf
13 Sep, 2024 by Austin wurmb
Crazy group no good values
Willing to do what ever for money.
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20 Aug, 2024 by Jeremy henegan
29 Feb, 2024 by Brittney clarke
19 May, 2021 by Nicole van der tuin
24 Oct, 2019 by Mby by
11 Oct, 2019 by Chang b “atto” kim
25 Aug, 2024 by Steve weimar
08 Jul, 2024 by Esmilce cabrera
27 May, 2024 by Samantha o'connell
28 Oct, 2023 by Keith
I had the privilege of working with Jennifer Rando Cristiano for my recent real estate transaction, and I am extremely satisfied with the exceptional service provided. I felt as though she was a true expert in her field, and I couldn't have asked for a better advocate for my interests. I have also recommended her services to others for which I have heard accolades from their experiences.
From the very beginning, it was evident that Jennifer had an in-depth understanding of my circumstances and guided me through the transaction with clarity and confidence. Jennifer explained legal jargon in a way that was easy for me to grasp and made me feel much more at ease during the process.
One of the standout qualities of Jennifer is her unwavering dedication shown to me as a client. She was responsive, approachable, and always available to address any questions or concerns I had. I never felt rushed or ignored, which translated into a smooth and stress-free experience.
A thorough review of the contract, meticulous due diligence, and a sharp eye for potential pitfalls were instrumental in protecting my interests and ensuring a successful outcome.
Thanks to Jennifer's expertise and guidance, my real estate transaction was executed smoothly and without any major hitches. I owe a great deal of gratitude to her for a job well done.
I wholeheartedly recommend Jennifer to anyone seeking a legal council. If an issue is not in her domain of expertise, she is resourceful and provides recommendations for outstanding professionals.
In brief, Jennifer Rando Cristiano is definitely the right person for the job.
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09 Oct, 2022 by Roland
Top notch lawyers
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14 Jul, 2022 by Kevin leon
19 Apr, 2024 by Gina marlowe
Always professional and easy to work with.
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17 Apr, 2024 by Joshua lavigne
18 Dec, 2023 by Mary mckane
Highly recommend this firm. Knowledgeable and professional. Thank you for all you do!
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09 Oct, 2022 by Roland
Top notch lawyers
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14 Jul, 2022 by Kevin leon
02 Apr, 2021 by Zoreaga team foch
Not a good experience, these lawers are crooks with a license. My criminal lawyer died on me and the estate lawyer didnt help me at all trying to get my money back. Said hes broke all of a sudden, but where did my $6000 go that fast? I hired him 2 months prior ro him passing away, but the same lawyer has been hired by the widow to handle all his affairs now thats hes deceased.
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04 Jun, 2024 by William bee
The team at Latham and Watkins are not only subject matter experts in what they do, but they are compassionate and dedicated.
They represented me in a fight against the Department of Defense, and have consistently ensured that not only were my wife and I kept abreast of every development, but fully understood each step of the way.
I cannot express enough how much I appreciate all of their work, and I haven't even received a ruling yet. Just wanted to post this review so they know how much their work means to my family, and if they're willing to do all this for some old broken Grunt they'll do the same.for you.
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14 May, 2024 by David abadie
01 Dec, 2023 by Rocco tundo
Poor representation for people greedy company
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25 Aug, 2024 by Steve weimar
08 Jul, 2024 by Esmilce cabrera
27 May, 2024 by Samantha o'connell
02 Dec, 2023 by John nielsen
27 Nov, 2023 by Isaiah dumars
This guy John Murphy is upset because i didn't choose him to be my attorney. I was looking for different attorneys and i called him and he wants $500 for a consultation while other lawyers will give a free consultation over the phone. He is also rude and nasty and calls me a "looser" his spellings not my spelling and to go get a legal aide. He was disrespectful in his text message. He is very unprofessional. I hope people will considered choosing a lawyer who is kind and is for the client best interests.
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11 Jan, 2023 by Makarand abhyankar
No one bothered to return the call
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15 Sep, 2024 by Samantha miller
28 Jan, 2024 by The mic
Does not have your best interest at heart and only wants your money. No matter what they say, I was certainly a client and have the paperwork to prove it; denying that I was a client clearly shows they're not trustworthy. Imagine, instead of making things right, they deny the issues. Extremely unprofessional all around, I just want to make people aware so they can find better legal assistance.
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18 Jan, 2022 by Tom and pri gamer
Mr. Martin Philippine is knowledgeable, patient and I trust him, his advice and work. He also has a human side that I appreciate very much. I recommend his law firm to anyone looking for a good, trustworthy lawyer.
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20 Jun, 2024 by Tyler jones
Ms vesper was assigned to my custody case it was the most unpleasant experience I could have imagined. Guessing her law degree came through education connection.
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09 May, 2024 by Jason
She is horrendously unable to respond in the timely manner. If you need a divorce and you want it done in the timely fashion this is the worst person you could possibly choose
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08 Jan, 2024 by S w
20 Aug, 2024 by Luis diaz
Incredibly disrespectful, inconsiderate, and unprofessional. After years of using his services and paying thousands of dollars, he had the nerve to scream and belittle my 60 year old mother. Terrible two faced lawyer and will NEVER be returning.
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11 Aug, 2024 by Carmin gutierrez
05 Jul, 2024 by Alejandra vazquez
19 Jul, 2023 by Beth bailey
Very experienced, helpful Attorneys.
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07 Dec, 2022 by Liz pool
04 Apr, 2022 by Vedo cartel
09 Apr, 2024 by Bob seitz
10 Aug, 2023 by Louise pavlock
Reinhardt & Bray handled our mom's estate. Attorney Christopher Bray and the entire staff were attentive to our needs and alleviated our concerns and anxiety. Everyone was friendly and patient with us. We highly recommend Attorney Bray and this law firm for estate and related real estate matters.
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14 Jul, 2023 by Barry hewitt
I can't comment on their performance because I called them a week ago and they never responded. Not good business practice.
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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.
