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23 Sep, 2024 by Rubenn calixte
Best in town
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23 Sep, 2024 by Aliyah upshur
23 Sep, 2024 by Serge g
They were really nice and attentive. Definitely recommend them .
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13 Aug, 2024 by April muse
My livelihood was on the line I needed legal representation fast and I needed someone very knowledgeable regarding my situation. I went online in search of an attorney and I chose Howell, Buchan, and strong because of their reviews. Attorney Brown and Attorney Buchan went over the entire process of a case such as mine and reassured me that they would get the best possible results and when I tell you they did that and more. I'm a true believer in God I had never heard of this law firm , but when I was in search of legal representation I was lead to them. I didn't even chose a lawyer from the city where I live. I highly recommend this law firm and let me not forget their legal secretary Helen Blandon she is phenomenal.
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08 Jun, 2024 by La juli
Hands down to this law firm for having the BEST secretary, paralegal and attorneys. I was very pleased on how fast and easy you made this process.
Helen, I am truly grateful for everything you did to help me with this process. You never dodged my calls or emails, you were always there and willing to help me even if it was just with your encouraging words in my time of desperation.
Thank you, many blessing
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20 May, 2024 by Marie conrad
Let me start by saying, I needed all the help I could get. A lot of processes when dealing with the state can get frustrating and overwhelming. My experience with this firm has been amazing! I cannot say enough about the attention to detail, the time with responses, and the thorough approach to each and every aspect of my situation.
I am soo grateful to Howell, Buchan and Strong and the way Helen has just been by my side throughout the whole process! SHE is a powerhouse and I would literally recommend anyone in need of the services they provide, to use them.
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04 Sep, 2024 by Chris joseph
You simply cannot ask for a more knowledgeable, or professional law firm. Each member of the Bloodworth Law family takes time to truly care about “your case”, walk you through the processes of our legal system, and deliver results unmatched by others.
I simply cannot recommend this firm highly enough. In a confusing, sometimes frustrating situation, the experts here always have your back!
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04 Sep, 2024 by Daniel shif
We had an excellent experience working with Reed and the team at Bloodworth Law!
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31 May, 2024 by Christopher halavacs
I wholeheartedly recommend Bloodworth Law for any and all probate matters. From our very first meeting, his expertise and dedication was apparent.
Reed offered clear, concise explanations and promptly answered all my questions. His professionalism and meticulous attention to detail ensured everything was handled smoothly. Reed’s patient and empathetic approach made a very stressful process much more manageable.
Thank you, Mr. Bloodworth, for your exceptional service!
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04 Sep, 2024 by Chris joseph
You simply cannot ask for a more knowledgeable, or professional law firm. Each member of the Bloodworth Law family takes time to truly care about “your case”, walk you through the processes of our legal system, and deliver results unmatched by others.
I simply cannot recommend this firm highly enough. In a confusing, sometimes frustrating situation, the experts here always have your back!
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04 Sep, 2024 by Daniel shif
We had an excellent experience working with Reed and the team at Bloodworth Law!
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31 May, 2024 by Christopher halavacs
I wholeheartedly recommend Bloodworth Law for any and all probate matters. From our very first meeting, his expertise and dedication was apparent.
Reed offered clear, concise explanations and promptly answered all my questions. His professionalism and meticulous attention to detail ensured everything was handled smoothly. Reed’s patient and empathetic approach made a very stressful process much more manageable.
Thank you, Mr. Bloodworth, for your exceptional service!
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03 Oct, 2018 by Dawn
I can't thank Mr. Bolves enough for providing my family with the peace of mind in a time of uncertainty. With my Mom in a rehab facility, and in and out of the hospital a couple of times, I knew we needed to get legal papers in order and do it quickly! Mr. Bolves prepared all the legal documents for both my Mother and Father. He patiently guided us through each of the Elder Law Portfolio documents, and now we are ready for to take care of all their future needs!
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30 Sep, 2018 by Kia
No one expects sickness to come. My father was hospitalized and unable to make sound decisions for himself. After a consultation with Mr. Bolves, I was able to obatin the propoer paperwork that would allow me to ensure proper care for my father.
After the initial consultation, documents were prepared and ready for review within a matter of a few days. I appreciated the care taken in explaining the process of what needed to be done and the professional manner in which it was done. Even after business was concluded, a follow-up conatct was made to ensure all was well.
I would definitely recommend Mr. Bolves for legal matters regarding elder law.
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15 Nov, 2013 by Jennifer
Eric and his team have been very helpful to me since I came to him in 2010 and still have helped to date 2013 with situations. I have no doubt in my mind that if/when I recceommend someone to him that they would receive the same outstanding service as I have. :)
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15 Mar, 2024 by Myob2222
I called Ms. Sundberg to ask advice about another probate case. She gave me her full attention even though I called her directly without an appointment. She was extremely helpful and genuinely cared about our situation. I appreciate the time she spent with me.
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05 Apr, 2016 by Brent
I was referred to Ms. Sundberg to review a Trust Fund that was set up by my father before he passed away. She was very prompt, concise, courteous and professional. She explained the nature of the Trust and, unfortunately, the failings of the Trust. She provided advice that will be very helpful going forward. I was very pleased with her approach to the issue at hand and the advice she provided.
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27 Feb, 2015 by David
Living in another part of Florida and needing a second opinion from an experienced trust litigator I contacted Ms. Sundberg. Since I am involved in a trust but am not the grantor, the local attorney who created the trust had been (rightly so) keeping me a bit at arms length.
Ms. Sundberg was available to take my call and did. She listened patiently while I explained my situation and questions regarding the trust, and my concerns about what might cause an adverse decision to the trust and myself should it be challenged. She then very calmly, but obviously from a place of experience, gave me her take on the pitfalls I might encounter. Importantly, she clearly differentiated between those items and courses of action that were middle of the road and safe and those that might be at the edge of the road and could go either way should the trust go to litigation. That distinction was hugely helpful.
Finally, much like the character in "Miracle on 34th Street" who advises a Macy's customer who couldn't find the item they were looking for at Macy's that they could find it at Gimbels, she pointed out that an attorney who was certified in elder law and practiced in my geographic area would be the best attorney to consult for my remaining questions, since that is where the trust would be litigated if it came to that. Zimmerman Kiser Sutcliffe is lucky to have her and anyone who needs her assistance in her area of expertise cannot do better.
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19 Apr, 2023 by Kevin
When it comes to elderly Guardianships and Estates David has the legal acumen required to protect your loved ones. He fights for what is right and isn’t afraid to bring his firms full weight to bear. My only issue was I didn’t initially chose him , but my father and step-mother were in the end well served. Great job David to you and your team.
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26 May, 2020 by Sean
After seeing no results using a different attorney, David started fighting for me as soon as he took my case. As soon he stepped in things started moving. His name carries a reputation of respect and professionalism. I got the result I was looking for within 24 hours. He was extremely professional and respectful to all parties involved. I highly recommend him and would be happy to be used as a reference to anyone thinking of hiring him
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23 Feb, 2018 by Aaron
After inheriting my grandmothers property, it was a tough time as you could imagine and I had no idea who to turn to with the process. We originally hired a lawyer whom could not answer basic elementary estate questions, which lead us to replacing her. We then hired Mr. David Yergey, we were very pleased how imformative he was and knew we made the right decision. Mr. David Yergey was very professional, responsive, and urgent with every bit of the process. The legal work that goes into transferring property can be stressful but David made it easy to get through. The probate process went very smoothly and was completed, I could not have been more happy with the service.
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11 Jun, 2013 by Carl
I have known Don for close to 30 years. He has always been extremely professional, well versed, honest and ethical. I've been a client of his and no doubt will be again as well as a person who referred business to him and he has always represented himself and his practice with the utmost of professionalism, courtesy, and knowledge. He has my unqualified recommendation.
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04 Jun, 2013 by David
Don Jacobs is without a doubt one of the finest lawyers that I have ever known. He is one of a select few that I have trusted to handle my personal legal matters. He is exceptionally intelliigent and highly ethical. He has an attention to detail that is unsurpassed.
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11 Aug, 2009 by Anonymous
We requested Last Will and Testament, Durable Power of Attorney, Living Will and Health Care Surrogate legal documentation to be drafted based on our rather uncertain desires for eventual satisfaction of our personal final decisions.
Attorney Jacobs stipulated a fee, arranged a personal interview with us in quiet, comfortable office, and comperhensibly briefed us on the broad ramifications of end of life legal documentation and the decisions to be made by each of us. He followed the interview some days later in another informal meeting when our ideas were finalized and personalized in documents he later developed.
In the third and final session, again in a quiet, comfortable office, Attorney Jacobs explained in detail the documents put before us, introduced us to competent witnesses he had arranged to be present and guided us through each document, our approval of each document, the formal signing and witnessing of each document while responding objectively to any questions we offered.
As we would say in the Navy; Well Done, Attorney Jacobs!
We highly recommend Attorney Donald F. Jacobs to all needing legal counsel.
Signed: Linda L. Barnes; Captain James H. Barnes, U. S. Navy (Retired).
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08 Jun, 2020 by Anonymous
Another local attorney quoted me 2,500 – 3,500 for a small bank account and Florida Probate quote was only 995.00 and we are handling most everything online. James explained everything we needed help with and was so thorough! What a relief! Thank you, Mr. Flick at Florida Probates.
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13 May, 2020 by Dimitri
The team over at Florida Probates is dedicated to providing high-quality service at very reasonable prices. I was very pleased with James and Brendan's transparent and organized process that kept me informed and kept everything on track. I would recommend anyone looking for help and advice on how to handle an estate to give them a call.
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13 Apr, 2015 by Anonymous
Great people, and family friendly atmosphere. Highly knowledgeable in his field and well understood. Hard working and determined are great traits he has which will benefit you.
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26 Jul, 2022 by Anonymous
Robert Magill was recommended to me after the death of a close family member.
His expertise was crucial for achieving a correct and seamless administration of the family member's will. If I had a question, Robert returned my email immediately, if he could. If he was in court, he contacted me as soon as possible.
Robert's legal fee was reasonably priced. He was always pleasant to work with.
He far exceeded my expectations in every regard. If I could give him 100 stars, I would.
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23 Jan, 2014 by Anonymous
This man has been taking care of all of our family attorney needs for several years, and I have never felt mistreated, or has he ever over charged me for any services
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18 Apr, 2016 by Milca
Cesery Bullard and the entire team at Bullard Law are very compassionate and knows their stuff. Bullard Law and Cesery have represented the company I work for in multiple cases. She is efficient and knowledgeable. They are always reachable and responsive reassuring us throughout the process. We owe most of our success, as a company, to the hard work that is put into our cases, by Cesery and her legal team. I would highly recommend her firm.
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15 Apr, 2016 by Maria
Cesery has done legal work for me for many years. As a client, I always feel appreciated. Her work ethic is exemplary and her knowledge of the law is very broad.
Her staff is very knowledgeable, and courteous.
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05 Aug, 2022 by Anonymous
Mr. Brinson is a professional and skilled attorney who made me feel comfortable and informed throughout the legal process. He provided me all of my options and explained everything to me so that I could make the best possible decision for my case. He is personable and not your normal stuffy lawyer. I highly recommend Mr. Brinson for your legal needs.
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05 Aug, 2022 by Anonymous
My wife and I hired Kemp to assist with a complex business dispute that had been in litigation for two years. He succeeded where my previous attorney failed at a fraction of the cost. I could not possibly recommend Kemp highly enough.
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08 Mar, 2018 by Anonymous
Amanda Simpson was my attorney on several occasions. The legal services I received from Amanda was exceptional, she addresses every concern in a professional and knowledgeable manner. When I first met Amanda she was very concerned to understand my objectives and was my advocate on that basis. She is always prompt to return my phone calls, emails and is always accessible. Given the number of attorneys, I have dealt with over the years in my business she is by far the best of the best with qualities such as her ability to communicate to me in a way that I can understand the law, give me meaningful feedback and is extremely detail-oriented. I am continually amazed at her combination of high intelligence and analytical skills with the various legal challenges she handled for me. I was very, very happy with her services.
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26 Jun, 2013 by David
Outstanding attorney. Provided excellent communication and advice. Recommend for any corporate tax structure work.
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07 Sep, 2015 by Kislene
I was very satisfied with Miss Lomax work ethics,diligence and professionalism. She is highly recommended. She is very down to earth and a kind person.she took time to understand me and the issues and always had my best interest in mind.
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04 Oct, 2017 by Bill
My father and I worked with Chris Jones in his estate planning needs. We found Chris to be extremely knowledgeable and professional. As importantly, my father was an elderly man and Chris took the time to listen with interest to my father's wishes and explain options in a manner that was easily understood by novices. When my father changed his mind on some of the items, Chris again showed great patience and outstanding communication to ensure that the trust documents were crafted as desired. I could not have asked for a more knowledgeable and outstanding person to help my father and I through a difficult process.
My father passed away a short time ago and once again Chris has shown the patience, perseverance, and comprehension of the estate laws to help my family maneuver through the many IRS obstacles. Being out of state I had to deal with this estate via email and phone calls. Chris recommended an outstanding CPA firm who has handled all of the paperwork involved. He did this under his purview which has made a difficult process much easier.
All-in-all I could not recommend Chris Jones any more highly than to say he has made a very difficult process much easier to deal with. His personality and knowledge allowed us to make our own decisions while he was there to guide the ship like a good captain. All of the horror stories I have heard about estate attorneys have not been true of Chris. Anyone in need of his professional services will not be disappointed in his services.
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19 Aug, 2024 by Ray bud
I had the pleasure of working with Robert H. and Lindsey L…They were both easy to work with with the utmost professionalism, dedication and knowledge of my needs..I called them both several times in which I was unsure of procedures, and they were both extremely patient and helped me throughout this process..I highly recommend Olsen Law..
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19 Aug, 2024 by Maxwell wright
19 Aug, 2024 by Denise sparkman
Excellent advice and professional.
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08 May, 2024 by Prince-khristan fenn
No Bueno!
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08 May, 2024 by Business preservation
TOO YOUNG - SCARED TO SPEAK UP IN COURT - UNPREPARED - BUT DEFINITELY DISCUSSED PRICE - WHILE GIVEN A DISCOUNT FOR MY DAD MILITARY BACKGROUND. $1500.00 FOR A SUPPOSEDLY MOTIVATED MOTION AFTER DENIAL CALLED A "WELL WE KINDA KNEW THIS OUTCOME" IS MALICIOUS BUT ITS WHAT LAWYERS DO! EVEN THOUGH THE MAIN INGREDIENT FOR THE MOTION WAS LEFT OUT. NOW $3500 LATER SAME RESULTS I COULD HAVE GOTTEN MYSELF. YHEY SPEAK A BIG GAME ON THE OHONE PRIOR TO PAYMENT THEN ALL MOTIVATION DIVES WITH YOUR BANK BALANCE!
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30 Apr, 2024 by Luis feliciano
Muy professionales y un exelente servicio
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22 Aug, 2024 by J
I had such a great pleasant experience with Kirson & Fuller. Natasha who answered the phone was very nice, patient, and helpful. Then later I spoke with Mr. Christian Fahrig, Senior Associate, he was very nice, kind, approachable, and professional! Jessica N.
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15 Aug, 2024 by Mary ann corrado
15 Aug, 2024 by Cindy corrado
Thank you for being very professional, caring and understanding.
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04 Sep, 2024 by Howard roman
03 Sep, 2024 by Joe luckett
Lousy experience, one lawyer threatened me, the other bloviated in my opinion for an hour then refused to answer a followup phone call.
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29 Aug, 2024 by Nl cabrera
Great team!! They were always quick to answer all my questions and ensure that understood all the details!!
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04 Sep, 2024 by Howard roman
03 Sep, 2024 by Joe luckett
Lousy experience, one lawyer threatened me, the other bloviated in my opinion for an hour then refused to answer a followup phone call.
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29 Aug, 2024 by Nl cabrera
Great team!! They were always quick to answer all my questions and ensure that understood all the details!!
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04 Sep, 2024 by Howard roman
03 Sep, 2024 by Joe luckett
Lousy experience, one lawyer threatened me, the other bloviated in my opinion for an hour then refused to answer a followup phone call.
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29 Aug, 2024 by Nl cabrera
Great team!! They were always quick to answer all my questions and ensure that understood all the details!!
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04 Sep, 2024 by Howard roman
03 Sep, 2024 by Joe luckett
Lousy experience, one lawyer threatened me, the other bloviated in my opinion for an hour then refused to answer a followup phone call.
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29 Aug, 2024 by Nl cabrera
Great team!! They were always quick to answer all my questions and ensure that understood all the details!!
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27 Aug, 2024 by Angie gonzalez
Michael DeVoe madre the proper recommendations on Citation and there was 0 pts. 10/10. Ticket was dismissed. Would definitely recommend to family and friends.
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15 Aug, 2024 by Kimy williams
I am very displeased with John Crone. I hired him in 2022 to take on a probate case and have been disappointed with the lack of communication. I have been trying to run him down only to get brushed off every time. I have emails stating that due to the amount of assets my father has this would be a couple month long case. I have been so stressed out due to lack of communication and being in the dark about everything that I have started seeking therapy. I go through the reviews and notice that those that are very pleased with his work have the opposite ethnicity of me. I want to put into perspective that he was paid up front exactly what he asked for and has been dragging my case for almost 2 years. He says my case is unique and promises to get back with information and never does. This has added unbelievable stress to me. I would not recommend him to any African American people. This already bad situation has gotten worse. I pray he finally gets back to me because it does not take months and months to answer questions or acknowledge my concerns.
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20 Jul, 2024 by Tyler robinson
John Crone is nothing but a pleasure to work with. Extremely knowledgeable, dilligent, and caring. If a higher rating were possible live oak law would get it.
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28 Aug, 2024 by Monique washington
15 Aug, 2024 by Joanne adamo
We used him for our HOA meeting very good
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02 Jul, 2024 by Debbie knowles
We had used this firm and they were excellent. They answered all our questions, were so informative and reassuring. Speak to these professionals before you make any decisions. They will give you the best advice and steer you in the right direction.
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20 Aug, 2024 by Mipples gäloré
Update* first and foremost, I have not had time sharing with my son since I asked Mouse to file contempt. That was 26 days ago. This was the action that Longwell advised against. Then the moment he filed for withdraw, the opposing side figured they don’t have to follow any time sharing. They know he has my $, and they know I can’t hire another lawyer without that $.
Second, abusive? How does being disrespectful magically upgrade to abusive? Oh I wrote a review, so you lied. Get over it. Let’s define abuse. Improper use of something. You quit, you’re holding onto TWELVE THOUSAND DOLLARS, with zero legal ability to charge against it, and you refuse to return it to your former client so he can hire a new lawyer. That’s abusing funds. My pool boy returns the money within a week if he doesn’t provide the service.
Third, you did not call me Mr Longwell, which means you could not have left a message. If you did, prove it cause I can prove you didn’t. Why would you lie about something so trivial.
I’ve updated to include the most recent billing after they quit. It is an indisputable fact that they have now paid themselves more in one month to quit, than any of the other previous months they claimed they did diligent work.
I hired Longwell lawyers early 2021 for a paternity trial. It is August 2024, no parenting plan agreement. No Trial, Carson Mouser is withdrawing claiming I am rude and disrespectful. I never hired him, I had hired a different attorney in their firm and my case was eventually “assessed to benefit” from being appointed Mouser. I had no choice in the matter.
He had agreed to go to trial, I paid him $2000 to “prepare” and then Mouser requested $10,000 for trial. Eventually the opposition hired a lawyer and requested an update within 30 days or I was going to default. I sent an email to Mouser asking what I needed at the beginning of the work week. He never responded, at all. I sent him two more emails after the mother refused to exchange at the end of the work week, he didn’t respond. I had to call Mousers office, once he got on the phone I had asked him why he didn’t answer me and he said that I sent my email directly to him. My exact words were, “that’s a problem?” And Mouser said he’s done, he’s withdrawing. So I asked for a return of my money, he said to call the office.
I call the office and they tell me they will ONLY RETURN MY MONEY AFTER I SIGN CONSENT and then they have 90 days to return it after the motion is granted. I ask for my file and they said they only turn it over after withdrawing.
Let’s be super clear. They were paid since 2021 to go to trial. They have 12k specifically for trial. They have made their intentions clear they will NOT go to trial. But will NOT return money they do not intend to use. They are aware I have to respond to the courts within 24 days or I default.
Can you imagine your former lawyer holding onto the only $ you had for trial after they filed for a trial date, $ which they don’t even intend to use? I don’t make a lot of money. They know that though. I have been the sole provider for daycare for the entire year, and barely can pay that.
I see Mark Longwell has responded to a previous poor review about Carson Mouser. His argument will be I was rude and disrespectful. Even if your lawyers assumed I was disrespectful, their response is to blow the case for their precious client? Hold onto money I’ve paid for trial after filing for a trial? If anything I said here is untrue, you should sue me. Cause I’ve been left with the choice to either pay for a new lawyer, or pay for VPK.
$12,000 being held. 40kish more already wasted. I should have never hired them and fired them the moment they stuck Mr Mouse on the job without my consent.
I should have just bought oceanfront property in Colorado. The same exact result would be happening right now. No parenting plan, no trial, money for trial stuck with in a useless spot.
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09 Aug, 2024 by Joanna korgul
I can’t say enough about this firm. If you’re looking for an attorney that will make the most out of your case and is also compassionate look no further. This firm has the best attorneys in the area. They are always there when you need them and answer calls and e-mails right away. One of the attorneys in particular, Muna Abraham has gone above and beyond to fix something that was handled incorrectly by another firm. She not only fixed the issue in a timely manner, but kept touching base with us to make sure everything is going the way it should. She is extremely knowledgeable and updated in the changing laws and will work hard for you! Not every firm is the same, and if I could give this one a 10 star I would. Thank you so much!!
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25 Jul, 2024 by Cristian cantillana
09 Sep, 2021 by Nu sound recone
Excellent advice, very helpful.
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27 Oct, 2020 by Multiservices apopka
07 Feb, 2020 by J tejada
09 Sep, 2021 by Nu sound recone
Excellent advice, very helpful.
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27 Oct, 2020 by Multiservices apopka
07 Feb, 2020 by J tejada
29 May, 2024 by Anonymous
I reached out to Meredith, no one answered the phone so I left a message. Nobody returned my call. After a week went by, I reached back out again. I spoke to Mary. Mary was clueless to say the least. After much back-and-forth with her, an appointment was made for a Teams meeting.
I joined the teams meeting at the appropriate time and waited over 15 minutes. No one joined the meeting, I called the office and was told that I was to call 30 minutes prior to make a payment which I knew nothing about.
I was called a liar abd was told that Mary had sent me an email worker at the law firm. No email was received with payment request.
Meredith requires a payment before any interaction. An initial consult should not be charged as it is finding out if we are a good fit, and if the client feels that the attorney is competent and able to tackle the task.
I do not recommend this law firm.
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19 Oct, 2015 by Scott
Ms. Smith provided me with invaluable & useful input as to how to go about ending a period of legal guardianship which as gone on for too long & is very obviously motivated by profit. I would recommend her to review any case dealing with this subject.
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25 Mar, 2015 by Sheri
Meredith is the best lawyer that I have ever met. I have had dealing with many lawyers in Orlando and hands down, Meredith is the best. Don't bother using some one that won't give your case their all. Meredith is on top of the case.
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15 Apr, 2024 by Marian&stuart
They took good care of us when we really needed help. The attorneys and office staff are the best!
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07 Feb, 2024 by Anne hamel
Leighton Law, Max Panoff and associates were wonderful and worked diligently to resolve my case in a timely manner.
Throughout this difficult time, they were always readily available to answer any questions and I had many.
I was very pleased with the outcome, and it will make my life a little easier. I just wish it would not have happened in the first place.
Thanks again to everyone I worked with at Leighton Law.
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23 Apr, 2023 by Andie
My mom and I had the displeasure of talking with Cynthia Nunn from Leighton Law to discuss going after Orlando Health for their negligence in treating my dad's cancer, which led to his passing. Not only did she make us relive our nightmarish story that we had already submitted online, she wasted our time by shutting us down immediately. If she was going to say no, why make us relive the trauma? To add insult to injury, she was actually defending the negligent doctors in question and straight up told us that our loved one was going to die anyway. Whether that was true or not, you do not just say that so nonchalantly to other people. You would not like that if someone said that about your dad. I am almost glad they did not take our case because I would rather deal with the devil himself than deal with Cynthia and Leighton Law after the added emotional damage she did to us.
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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.
