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02 Oct, 2024 by Michelle
I am thoroughly impressed with Attorney Buckley! His keen attention to detail, extensive knowledge, and empathetic approach truly sets him apart in his field. Attorney Buckley is not only highly skilled and knowledgeable, but he also demonstrates an unwavering dedication to his clients. His ability to simplify complex legal processes, combined with his empathetic nature, makes him an outstanding advocate. I would highly recommend his services to anyone seeking an expert attorney with a compassionate approach.
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25 Jun, 2024 by Thomas holt
Just a great experience all around ,Mark was a pleasure to work with and he was so knowledgeable about everything pertaining to what we were having done ,we would definitely work with him and his staff again.
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18 Mar, 2024 by Marion mihalko
It was a pleasure working with Attorney Mark Buckley. He provided exceptional legal services and made the process of our Estate Planning a wonderful experience and would definitely use for future needs.
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30 Sep, 2024 by Clarissa swepson
Definitely the best out there! Very thankful for the outcome that I’ve received. Thank you Conte Law Firm!
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18 Sep, 2024 by T mt
So many good things to say about Anthony Conte and his law firm. My family and I can’t thank him enough for his expertise and guidance. Anthony doesn’t treat you like a number or a case; he treats you like family. He approached our case with an open mind and was very efficient in assessing and navigating its complexity. Moreover, he was able to connect the dots in a world where another well-known law firm had failed. He was fearless and unreserved in his pursuit of understanding the facts of our case. His expertise, resources, and commitment to justice are second to none. He is driven by a true passion to help others, not by greed. He stands out in a field full of his peers. Just when we thought there was no hope for justice, he became the light we needed. We had almost given up until we were fortunate enough to have Anthony on our side. At the end of the day, he checks all the boxes. Thank you, Anthony!
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31 May, 2024 by Carlos ortega
The Conte Law Firm exceeded my expectations in legal counseling. I would recommend The Conte Law Firm to anyone looking for professional, trustful legal counseling in the areas of insurance claims, personal injuries, civil litigation, and other areas of law. Thank you, Anthony and the great people at Conte Law Firm for everything you have done for me and my family.” They are Professional, courteous, friendly, fast, knowledgeable, punctual, very empathic to my situation, and offer top-notch legal advice. A pipe burst in my house and my insurance company denied my claim. Immediately Conte Law Firm took up my case and started demanding action from the Insurance Company. I was amazed by the professionalism that Conte Law Firm provided. Everything Anthony advised me happened! There wasn't one moment throughout this process where I felt that Anthony didn't prepare me or advise me correctly. He tells you that it is not what you want to hear and I admired and respected that about Anthony. He was very thorough and very experienced. Anthony knows what he’s talking about. The Conte Law Firm was a step ahead of the competition and the insurance company. When I spoke to Anthony I felt like I was talking with a family member or a good friend. He is that easy to talk to! You could genuinely feel that Anthony wanted the best for me and more importantly wanted to maximize the return on my claim. The Conte law firm is a law firm that is not driven or motivated by money. Anthony is a genuine person with a good moral compass that puts the customer's needs before his needs. He is willing to work with your situation and come to an agreement that best fits the client's needs. This is by far my go-to law firm if I need any legal representation in the area of personal injury or insurance claims. I recommend Conte Law firm without a doubt.
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06 Mar, 2023 by J j
An amazing law firm with a great reputation
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27 Feb, 2021 by Fred issa
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19 Sep, 2024 by Chris lotz
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15 Aug, 2024 by Jay blackburn
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09 Aug, 2024 by Malika celestin
Great lawyer , worked with me the whole way and followed through. He is amazing at what he does and I am grateful to have worked with him for my case.
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18 Aug, 2024 by Tom gridley
My wife and I met with Charles Redihan jr to prepare our wills and to talk about a fairly complicated real estate matter. He explained everything so it was easy to understand and made us feel very comfortable.
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08 May, 2024 by Judy wiza
I had the pleasure of collaborating with Charles Redihan III and his firm recently, and I couldn't be more impressed. Charles's professionalism and responsiveness truly set him apart. He not only addressed my legal needs with expertise but also ensured that every interaction was efficient and effective. Without hesitation, I highly recommend Charles Redihan III and his firm for anyone seeking top-notch legal representation.
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19 Nov, 2022 by Kudos
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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:

  1. 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.
  2. 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.
  3. How do you charge for your services?
    Clarify the fee structure and request an estimate of the total cost.
  4. 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.
  5. How long will it take to set up the trust?
    Ask for a timeline for creating and finalizing the trust documents.
  6. 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.
  7. 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.

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