Filter by

Seth Adam Bier, experienced Elder Law, Estate Planning attorney in Redondo Beach, CA with 56 reviews
Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
44,12
star star star star star
5.0/5
Avvo
5.0
2 Reviews
Google Maps
5.0
54 Reviews
star star star star star
03 Dec, 2024 by Sheila sluk
Seth was amazing helping my mom set up her trust. He was kind, patient, and explained everything clearly. His expertise and attention to detail gave us so much peace of mind. Highly recommend!
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
10 Oct, 2024 by Ida bonsol
My husband and I are both thankful and felt privileged for having attended one of Seth Bier Law's seminars on Trusts, Wills and Estate Planning. We have attended many similar seminars before but his sets apart from others because of the way he presented cases by telling us stories in some scenarios that went bad for the families who were left behind because there was no proper life plan. He is very easy to talk to, he made us feel like we are family, very accommodating, professional and knowledgeable. He encourages us to ask questions for anything unclear to us. He knows the right protective language for our life plan ensuring family protection, asset protection, and that government can't rip us off. We thank you Seth Bier and your wife Leann for your warmth and sincerity and for helping us and guiding us in this journey. Doing business with you is the best decision we ever made. We highly recommend you.
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
20 Sep, 2024 by Constance rayna
I’m not one that typically attends anything free as I believe "you get what you pay for" especially when it comes to something as important as protection of assets. However, I attended Seth’s free education seminar on estate planning and was impressed with him and his knowledge. Since then, I have met with Seth to discuss my personal needs regarding estate planning and found him to be honest, knowledgeable, and willing to provide planning options. It is refreshing to find someone in this field who genuinely cares about people and who listens to your needs. If you have been looking into estate planning and postponed getting it done because you don't know who to go to and/or you don't trust lawyers, call Seth at Bier Law.
Read more Google Maps
See more
Karen Trimble Krause, experienced Estate Planning, Family Law attorney in Redondo Beach, CA with 5 reviews
Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
43,15
star star star star star
5.0/5
Avvo
5.0
5 Reviews
star star star star star
20 Dec, 2022 by Mr.s
Not only is Karen Krause a loving and caring person, she is also determined to do the best for her clients and treats them like family.
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
18 Dec, 2018 by Sarah
I hired Karen to represent me in my divorce case. I was treated very well by Karen's staff and especially by Karen, herself. Karen explained the processes to me very clearly and I always felt very informed of what was going on in the case. We met some contention toward the end of the case by the other party, and Karen demonstrated a mastery of the law and guided me to better results than I'd even hoped for. During an emotional time as a divorce, I felt amazingly supported and taken care of. Would highly recommend Karen's office!
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
22 Jan, 2016 by Jenelle
Karen provided consultation services to me over 15 years ago and was amazing. She was helpful, very patient and kind during my legal proceedings. In 2012 I went back to Karen for legal assistance. She was unavilable for my court date but provided me with a list of attorney's she would recommend, but she was always available if I needed her help with any of the issues with my case. I retained a different firm and regret it completely. Once the divorce was over and the other firm substituted out of my case, I retained Karen for the custody issues. Karen and her staff are easy to talk to, reliable and very knowledgable about Family Law. Karen has always been fair, not just to me but to both parties, ensuring the children are the number one priority in the case.
Read more Avvo
See more
Daniel Patrick McAlister, experienced Business, Estate Planning attorney in Redondo Beach, CA with 3 reviews
Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
39,09
star star star star star
5.0/5
Avvo
5.0
3 Reviews
star star star star star
06 Apr, 2016 by Alex hunter p
Mr. McAlister helped me to the most stressful situation I face in my life. After many attempts of finding a right attorney for landlord/tenant dispute, I finally found Mr. McAlister. He is very honest and trustworthy. His response is super fast and his knowledge in the legal field is extensive. He clearly explained what my options are and how I could pursue favorable outcome successfully. Throughout the process, he is very professional and truly cares about his client. I would recommend Mr. McAlister in case anyone ever need a legal advice. Thank you so much Mr. McAlister!
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
28 Jul, 2015 by Anonymous
I obtained consultation from Dan regarding my vehicle accident. He was very patient and warmhearted, relieving my anxiety greatly. What's important is that he doesn't exaggerate what he can do and help me clearly analyze my options. I will definitely recommend him to people seeking reliable lawyer.
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
08 Jul, 2015 by Sachi
I know him for a long time as a honest, nice, thoughtful person as a friend. When I asked him a lawyer's job, his attitude has not changed, always trustworthy, kind, eager to work, and of course, perfect! His response was quick, did all the research I needed, and gave me a solution within a day. After that, even it was a small case, he followed up several times to make sure everything went well. I recommend to anyone who needs lawyer advise Dan, he is the one!
Read more Avvo
See more
Gregory Ian Becker, experienced Estate Planning, Probate attorney in Redondo Beach, CA with 0 reviews
Below Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
4,00
star star star star star
0.0/5
See more
Grace Greer St. Clair, experienced Estate Planning, Probate attorney in Redondo Beach, CA with 0 reviews
Below Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
4,00
star star star star star
0.0/5
See more
Eric James Harris, experienced Estate Planning, Probate attorney in Redondo Beach, CA with 0 reviews
Below Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
0,00
star star star star star
0.0/5
See more
Amy Ruth Pleatman, experienced Business, Trusts attorney in Redondo Beach, CA with 0 reviews
Below Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
0,00
star star star star star
0.0/5
See more
Discover the ideal lawyer
You can search a lawyer by practice area, lawyer name, city, state, or ZIP code
FAQs
Questions? We have answers

What a Trusts Lawyer Can Do for You

A trusts lawyer specializes in creating and managing trusts, which are legal entities that allow individuals to transfer assets to beneficiaries while maintaining control over how and when those assets are distributed. Trusts are used for estate planning, asset protection, tax planning, and ensuring the financial security of loved ones. Trusts lawyers help clients choose the right type of trust for their needs, draft trust documents, and advise on the administration and management of trusts.

Whether you're planning to pass on your assets to your heirs, protect your wealth from creditors, or provide for a disabled family member, a trusts lawyer can help you establish a trust that meets your financial and personal goals.

When Should I Hire a Trusts Lawyer?

You should consider hiring a trusts lawyer in various situations, particularly when you're planning for the future distribution of your assets or protecting your wealth. Common reasons to hire a trusts lawyer include:

  • Estate planning: If you want to ensure that your assets are distributed according to your wishes, a lawyer can help you create a revocable or irrevocable trust to avoid probate and provide for your heirs.
  • Asset protection: If you want to protect your assets from creditors, lawsuits, or potential future liabilities, a lawyer can help you establish a trust to shield your wealth.
  • Special needs planning: If you have a disabled family member, a lawyer can create a special needs trust to provide for their care without affecting their eligibility for government benefits.
  • Tax planning: If you're looking to minimize estate taxes or manage tax liabilities, a lawyer can help you create tax-advantageous trusts, such as a credit shelter trust or charitable remainder trust.
  • Charitable giving: If you want to leave a legacy through charitable donations, a lawyer can help you set up a charitable trust to ensure your donations are managed according to your wishes.
  • Business succession planning: If you own a business and want to ensure a smooth transition of ownership, a lawyer can help you establish a trust to pass the business on to your heirs or chosen successors.

Hiring a trusts lawyer early in the estate planning process ensures that your assets are protected and your wishes are clearly documented, reducing the chances of disputes after your death.

What Does a Trusts Lawyer Do?

A trusts lawyer provides a variety of legal services to help individuals create, manage, and administer trusts. Their responsibilities often include:

  • Drafting trust documents: Preparing the legal documents needed to create the trust, ensuring it is tailored to your specific goals and complies with state and federal laws.
  • Choosing the right type of trust: Assisting clients in selecting the most appropriate type of trust for their needs, whether it's a revocable trust, irrevocable trust, living trust, or special needs trust.
  • Trust administration: Guiding trustees through their legal responsibilities, including managing assets, making distributions to beneficiaries, and filing tax returns.
  • Modifying or terminating trusts: Helping modify or terminate trusts if circumstances change, such as changes in tax laws, family situations, or personal preferences.
  • Protecting beneficiaries' interests: Structuring trusts to protect the interests of beneficiaries, especially if there are concerns about financial management, disability, or dependency issues.
  • Minimizing estate taxes: Assisting clients in structuring their trusts to minimize or avoid estate taxes, ensuring more of the estate passes to beneficiaries.
  • Handling disputes: Mediating or representing clients in court if disputes arise among beneficiaries or between trustees and beneficiaries.

How Are Trusts Lawyers Paid?

Trusts lawyers typically charge for their services based on the complexity of the trust and the type of legal work involved. Common payment methods include:

  • Flat fee: For drafting basic trusts, such as revocable living trusts or special needs trusts, many lawyers charge a flat fee. This can range from $1,000 to $5,000 or more, depending on the complexity of the trust.
  • Hourly rate: For more complex trust planning, ongoing trust administration, or resolving disputes, some lawyers charge by the hour. Hourly rates typically range from $150 to $500 or more, depending on the lawyer’s experience and location.
  • Retainer: For long-term trust administration or complex estate planning cases, some lawyers may require a retainer, an upfront payment that covers ongoing services.
  • Contingency fee (rare): In rare cases, particularly in disputes involving the administration of a trust, lawyers may work on a contingency fee basis, getting paid only if they successfully recover funds or resolve a legal dispute in your favor.

Always discuss the fee structure with your lawyer during the initial consultation to understand the total cost of services.

How Much Does a Trusts Lawyer Cost?

The cost of hiring a trusts lawyer depends on the complexity of the trust, the lawyer’s experience, and the fee structure. General cost estimates include:

  • Basic trust creation: For simple trusts, such as revocable living trusts, fees may range from $1,000 to $3,000.
  • Complex trust creation: For sophisticated estate plans involving multiple trusts, tax planning strategies, or special needs considerations, legal fees may range from $5,000 to $10,000 or more.
  • Trust administration: If you are serving as a trustee and need ongoing legal advice, hourly rates for trust administration can range from $150 to $500 or more.
  • Dispute resolution: Costs for litigation or mediation in trust disputes may range from $5,000 to $50,000 or more, depending on the complexity of the case.

Be sure to get a detailed cost estimate from your lawyer during the consultation to ensure the services fit within your budget.

Top Questions to Ask a Trusts Lawyer

Before hiring a trusts lawyer, consider asking the following questions:

  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.

Scroll to top