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20 May, 2024 by Tina
I was given Christine’s name by a family lawyer and I am so happy they referred me to her firm. I couldn’t ask for a more kind and professional team that truly cares about their clients than her. Anyone who is in charge of taking care of an aging parent should consult her.
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20 Mar, 2023 by Diane pierce
Christine provided me with a service that is often overlooked - creating a trust. It is a lot of work but you walk out of Christine's office reassured that every detail was covered. Christine educates as she works with you. The topic is overwhelming but she truly knows her line of law. I have advised her services to friends and familes
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22 Jan, 2023 by Tina
Christine and her team helped our family through a difficult time by helping us navigate a number of legal complexities. The team was always there to help with great communication - we appreciated their quick responses to emails, phone calls and any questions we had!
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12 Apr, 2020 by Anonymous
I have been working with Mr. Chartrand managing the Family Trust. He is extremely professional and makes complex legal issues understandable. Mr. Chartrand is open with communications and is prompt with returning calls. I feel he treats me like I am his only client.
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24 Mar, 2020 by Darlene
He helped with my estate with precise understanding for me. This attorney Mr. Chartrand, is very professional, well spoken and very understanding and I would highly recommend him to anyone I know.
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11 Jul, 2015 by Mark
I have had reason to retain the legal services of Attorney Daniel B. Chartrand several times in the past thirty years. I have found Attorney Chartrand to be very professional and adept in his ability to maneuver in the many situations that arise in the legal system. Attorney Chartrand brings with him many years of experience and insights that enhance his representation in court, legal advice and other insights that I appreciated; and that, I am very thankful for.
Attorney Daniel Chartrand is one those very rare persons that think of others, instead of himself. With that said; Attorney Daniel Chartrand is an excellent attorney and a very fine person.
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27 May, 2018 by Anonymous
When, as a widow, I was forced into a lawsuit through no fault of my own, it was overwhelming. I needed a very knowledgeable lawyer who could calmly handle the volatile defendant. Caleb Petersen was that lawyer. He handled the lawsuit in the best manner possible and I am grateful that I had his expert assistance.
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30 Jan, 2018 by Kimmy
Caleb was very friendly and professional. He made feel very comfortable in a tough situation. Most importantly he won my case. I highly recommend him!
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05 Sep, 2014 by Keith
Caleb Petersen is hands down one of the best you will find in St. Louis. I hired Caleb to handle a complex family law matter and could not have been more satisfied with the level of professional work that he delivered. As things progressed in my case, Caleb was always on top of the relevant information regarding my case. He was extremely knowledgeable and was always very upfront and realistic when we discussed the aspects of my case. The biggest selling point for me was that he was always quick to respond to my questions which was a very big issue that I had with my previous attorney in my initial divorce. I have and will continue to recommend Caleb to those needing an attorney.
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31 Aug, 2020 by Lance cole
Mike has been a true professional and a great friend. When I was unjustly beaten and maliciously denied medical assistance, Mike made sure they paid with justice. January 25, 2005, I seen my day in court. Against all odds, Mike got our family a victory. We love you Mike and thank you
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27 Jan, 2020 by Anonymous
Attorney, Michael T. George, represented me and my family in an estate will and trust dispute. The case was challenging to the extent that other attorneys I interviewed declined to represent us, but after a series of detailed interviews Michael accepted the challenge. He was compassionate, aggressive, undaunted by the opposition, and finally obtained the resolution in probate court we felt we were entitled to.
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10 Jan, 2017 by Anonymous
Kindly responded w/ in a few days. First to provide me w a hint about how Mo. looks at a common practice used in settling an estate, that pointed to a concern I need to look into. Wasn't stated like an ad for hiring him or any other lawyer. thanks
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26 Jul, 2015 by Anonymous
Mike Gunn and his entire staff has been a godsend for our family. He has kept us informed, kept us sane during some really trying times, kept us encouraged, and reassured us that the situation we find ourselves in will one day be over. In addition, he and his son, John, have been very fair to us, yet challenged us in many ways of things we need to be more aware of going forward. They have not seemed to be just interested in "money," as is so frequently the buzz on the street about lawyers. We would highly recommend The Gunn Law Firm, along with their able office assistants, for anyone's estate planning needs.
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07 Dec, 2016 by Anonymous
Attorney John Patrick DeMoor helped me out so much in St. Charles City Municipal Court back in November. He showed up at my hearing, as well as getting my probation changed from limited to bench. He's nice, he listened to me, and, he got the job done. I'd recommend him to all my friends and family.
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11 Apr, 2014 by Joan
Mr. Burcke was very well informed. He helped me resolve a complex estate problem with excellent results. I highly recommend him.
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20 Feb, 2018 by Amanda
My experience with John Fritz exceeded my expectations. He handled my car accident case when I was 6 months pregnant. Not only was John professional, but he also negotiated a settlement that was higher than we anticipated without having to go to court. I would definitely recommend John to anyone ahs been in a car accident.
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29 Aug, 2024 by Sue hunt
I've had the opportunity to work with Scott and his team from time to time. Scott is not only a brilliant, thoughtful, committed, knowledgeable attorney, but he is one of the kindest attorneys I know. He and his team go above and beyond to assist clients. I highly recommend St. Louis Estate Planning.
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14 Jun, 2024 by Julie riebow
Our experience with St Louis Estate Planning was exceptionally positive. Scott and his team exhibited a high level of professionalism, efficiency, and profound expertise. I wholeheartedly recommend their services!
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28 May, 2024 by Elijah keyes
Scott and his team are outstanding attorneys and provide the highest level of care and attention to their clients. As a trusts and estates attorney, I know they provide great service. I highly recommend them.
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13 Sep, 2019 by A lo (a-lo)
I purchased a 2019 Toyota Tacoma that was sold as a Toyota Certified Pre-Owned vehicle. Immediately upon noticing the damage the next day, I began efforts to try and seek a remedy for this situation from the dealership. This included contacting the salesperson, used car sales manager, dealership general manager, dealership corporate customer relations representative, and Toyota corporate customer relations. The dealer claimed that the damage did not exist upon purchase. I had recovered a photo from the original dealer posting which displayed a portion of the damage. Thus, I decided I would seek to take legal action.
I became aware of NJ Smith Law, LLC when discussing this issue with a friend from St. Louis. Noah was recommended to me in high regard. I contacted Noah to discuss my situation and he confirmed that he could handle my case as he holds BAR Certification to practice in Wisconsin. Noah promptly began efforts within days of my completion of our Attorney-Client Engagement Agreement. He was concise with his requests for documentation which made it easy for me to gather the necessary information. He was up-front with me with his findings after the initial review of my documentation. He told me that the purchase agreement was written such that the vehicle was sold “As Is” and therefore it would be extremely difficult to get the dealer to commit to any sort of monetary remedy short of filing a case to prove mis-representation. This was very important to me, as I then understood, that his attempts to seek a remedy would be all that could be done without committing to a costly amount of representation. He was in contact with the dealership within the initial week. He kept me updated throughout the escalation of his interactions with the dealership and explained my options as they progressed. Despite the major lack of professionalism and participation from the dealer, Noah was able to get the dealer to agree to a contribution to the repair costs. Considering he had very little legal leverage, I consider this outcome to be substantial.
For the entirety of my case, Noah maintained a high level of professionalism, answered any and all of my questions, was timely in all correspondences, and did his best to keep my legal costs low despite the lack of dealer participation. In sum, I asked Noah to obtain a monetary reward in an instance where I had no legally binding documentation which required such an outcome and he was able to do so in a matter of months. I further pass on the high regard for NJ Smith Law, LLC to anyone seeking legal representation.
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12 Oct, 2017 by Joan ruppert
Mr. Smith's office was conveniently located near me in Kirkwood, MO. I arrived early for my appointment and he took me right away. I appreciate his kind, courteous, and professional manner in helping me with my concerns. I recommend Mr. Smith for all your legal needs.
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05 Oct, 2017 by David sprout
Mr. Smith was most thorough in writing my Will and Testament. He insured all my desires and needs were met without rushing me. I highly recommend Noah Smith to all my friends and family.
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15 Jul, 2022 by Latosha walker
21 Jun, 2022 by Mark w
17 Jan, 2020 by Jeff reeves
Betty was very nice and effective. She has long term determination and ethics that comes from her heart.
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14 Sep, 2018 by Luanne brickey
I work here. It's a great place to work and I hope they make the official list again.
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12 Sep, 2024 by Bryan krueger
I have known Rachna for years, working with her on multiple occasions when she was with the Jane Doe Advocacy Center. Therefore, when I decided to get a divorce, it was a no-brainer to go to this acquaintance I had known for years. At first, my experience with The Lien Law Firm was excellent. You can make payments in installments, but they will start the proceedings once everything is collected. When I was able to get an in-person visit, everything went well.
Since 10/23/2022, I have been diligently pursuing my divorce proceedings.
Unfortunately, she was unavailable to take my call almost every time I called the office. I would leave a message for a callback, which I rarely received on multiple occasions. There were a couple of phone appointments that she missed, and I never received a callback.
The client portal is a joke because I have sent messages to Mrs. Lien, the office staff, or both and never received a response.
It has taken a little longer because initially, I had a paternity test involved in my divorce proceedings, and they would need to try and serve her. This was difficult because she was not living in the same state as I, and I did not have an exact address for her.
Eventually, divorce paperwork was completed in June 2023—multiple attempts to contact afterward without responses.
On October 24, 2023, I had a phone appointment, and she said she could not find my wife to serve her. I provided updated info that I was able to find, and she said I could hire a PI in Florida, which could cost me a couple thousand dollars more. She also provided me with the information of three aggressive lawyers if I still wanted to try to track her down.
On January 25, 2024, I went to the courthouse on other business. While there, I checked out the status of my case, and I was informed that it was on the dismissal pile. I made a follow-up appointment in February, which she missed.
I eventually was able to get an in-person appointment on June 14, 2024, and decided to forgo the paternity test and finish the divorce. I had to refile the paperwork because it was dismissed in January. She said it was left on the dismissal pile on purpose to see if my wife would come out of the woodwork and be caught and served.
It is now September 12, 2024, and multiple attempts to contact her since the June meeting have failed. I am still in limbo on whether she has resubmitted my divorce paperwork or not.
This has been an extremely frustrating and draining experience. Another reason not to get married.
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27 Aug, 2024 by Maria marino
Absolutely the best lawyer ever !
I have had a few different lawyers through child custody and modification cases and he is by far the best I’ve ever had super quick to communicate with you gets the job done doesn’t dawdle very reasonably priced very honest and just a good person in general he is not one of those money, hungry lawyers he actually cares ! You won’t ever regret hiring him !
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15 Aug, 2024 by Charlie redding
Neil is a great. He shared his expertise and attention to detail with me when I was in a bind, and his honesty, and kindness are second to none.
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16 Sep, 2024 by Ricky politte
This lawyer handles really big accident cases in St Louis. He is a lawyer, accountant and has his masters in tax so he gets the injury cases for individuals that can never go back to work or individuals own a business and cannot run it due to injury. He specializes in valuations of massive loss. Thank goodness a firm like this exists.
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10 Sep, 2024 by Kasandra harmon
You are a great lawyer! Thank you.
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30 Aug, 2024 by Brandon whittley
Asked a trauma surgeon who operates on car accident victims who are the best injury lawyers that have taken his deposition. He said “by far” it was Mr Hoffmann. Interviewed several attorneys and this was a correct assessment. In a league of his own!
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21 Jun, 2022 by Mark w
17 Jan, 2020 by Jeff reeves
Betty was very nice and effective. She has long term determination and ethics that comes from her heart.
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14 Sep, 2018 by Luanne brickey
I work here. It's a great place to work and I hope they make the official list again.
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21 Jun, 2022 by Mark w
17 Jan, 2020 by Jeff reeves
Betty was very nice and effective. She has long term determination and ethics that comes from her heart.
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14 Sep, 2018 by Luanne brickey
I work here. It's a great place to work and I hope they make the official list again.
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21 Jun, 2022 by Mark w
17 Jan, 2020 by Jeff reeves
Betty was very nice and effective. She has long term determination and ethics that comes from her heart.
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14 Sep, 2018 by Luanne brickey
I work here. It's a great place to work and I hope they make the official list again.
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21 Jun, 2022 by Mark w
17 Jan, 2020 by Jeff reeves
Betty was very nice and effective. She has long term determination and ethics that comes from her heart.
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14 Sep, 2018 by Luanne brickey
I work here. It's a great place to work and I hope they make the official list again.
Read more
21 Jun, 2022 by Mark w
17 Jan, 2020 by Jeff reeves
Betty was very nice and effective. She has long term determination and ethics that comes from her heart.
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14 Sep, 2018 by Luanne brickey
I work here. It's a great place to work and I hope they make the official list again.
Read more
21 Jun, 2022 by Mark w
17 Jan, 2020 by Jeff reeves
Betty was very nice and effective. She has long term determination and ethics that comes from her heart.
Read more
14 Sep, 2018 by Luanne brickey
I work here. It's a great place to work and I hope they make the official list again.
Read more
21 Jun, 2022 by Mark w
17 Jan, 2020 by Jeff reeves
Betty was very nice and effective. She has long term determination and ethics that comes from her heart.
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14 Sep, 2018 by Luanne brickey
I work here. It's a great place to work and I hope they make the official list again.
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22 Apr, 2024 by Mike obrien
Very good multi step process for family trust. Knowledgeable, professional and friendly service.
I would highly recommend.
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15 Apr, 2024 by Tom skyles
Paul was very concise in his review of our will, financials and beneficiaries. Every one is always friendly and on time.
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09 Apr, 2024 by Michael neitzert
Great organization to belong to. On my last encounter with Paul Gantner he cleared up some issues I had with what I was trying to accomplish. Very knowledgeable and helpful in regards to the Trust we created. I would highly recommend this company if you are looking for a Trust or Living Will, many services available.
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12 Sep, 2024 by Bryan krueger
I have known Rachna for years, working with her on multiple occasions when she was with the Jane Doe Advocacy Center. Therefore, when I decided to get a divorce, it was a no-brainer to go to this acquaintance I had known for years. At first, my experience with The Lien Law Firm was excellent. You can make payments in installments, but they will start the proceedings once everything is collected. When I was able to get an in-person visit, everything went well.
Since 10/23/2022, I have been diligently pursuing my divorce proceedings.
Unfortunately, she was unavailable to take my call almost every time I called the office. I would leave a message for a callback, which I rarely received on multiple occasions. There were a couple of phone appointments that she missed, and I never received a callback.
The client portal is a joke because I have sent messages to Mrs. Lien, the office staff, or both and never received a response.
It has taken a little longer because initially, I had a paternity test involved in my divorce proceedings, and they would need to try and serve her. This was difficult because she was not living in the same state as I, and I did not have an exact address for her.
Eventually, divorce paperwork was completed in June 2023—multiple attempts to contact afterward without responses.
On October 24, 2023, I had a phone appointment, and she said she could not find my wife to serve her. I provided updated info that I was able to find, and she said I could hire a PI in Florida, which could cost me a couple thousand dollars more. She also provided me with the information of three aggressive lawyers if I still wanted to try to track her down.
On January 25, 2024, I went to the courthouse on other business. While there, I checked out the status of my case, and I was informed that it was on the dismissal pile. I made a follow-up appointment in February, which she missed.
I eventually was able to get an in-person appointment on June 14, 2024, and decided to forgo the paternity test and finish the divorce. I had to refile the paperwork because it was dismissed in January. She said it was left on the dismissal pile on purpose to see if my wife would come out of the woodwork and be caught and served.
It is now September 12, 2024, and multiple attempts to contact her since the June meeting have failed. I am still in limbo on whether she has resubmitted my divorce paperwork or not.
This has been an extremely frustrating and draining experience. Another reason not to get married.
Read more
27 Aug, 2024 by Maria marino
Absolutely the best lawyer ever !
I have had a few different lawyers through child custody and modification cases and he is by far the best I’ve ever had super quick to communicate with you gets the job done doesn’t dawdle very reasonably priced very honest and just a good person in general he is not one of those money, hungry lawyers he actually cares ! You won’t ever regret hiring him !
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15 Aug, 2024 by Charlie redding
Neil is a great. He shared his expertise and attention to detail with me when I was in a bind, and his honesty, and kindness are second to none.
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29 Jul, 2024 by Gia diorr
06 Apr, 2024 by Sharon stecher
Very helpful
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27 Aug, 2023 by Alyssa green
Wendell and his team were so helpful, supportive, knowledgeable, and overall amazing! He made an uncomfortable and overwhelming situation a great and easy experience. I would recommend his office to anyone.
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12 Sep, 2024 by Bryan krueger
I have known Rachna for years, working with her on multiple occasions when she was with the Jane Doe Advocacy Center. Therefore, when I decided to get a divorce, it was a no-brainer to go to this acquaintance I had known for years. At first, my experience with The Lien Law Firm was excellent. You can make payments in installments, but they will start the proceedings once everything is collected. When I was able to get an in-person visit, everything went well.
Since 10/23/2022, I have been diligently pursuing my divorce proceedings.
Unfortunately, she was unavailable to take my call almost every time I called the office. I would leave a message for a callback, which I rarely received on multiple occasions. There were a couple of phone appointments that she missed, and I never received a callback.
The client portal is a joke because I have sent messages to Mrs. Lien, the office staff, or both and never received a response.
It has taken a little longer because initially, I had a paternity test involved in my divorce proceedings, and they would need to try and serve her. This was difficult because she was not living in the same state as I, and I did not have an exact address for her.
Eventually, divorce paperwork was completed in June 2023—multiple attempts to contact afterward without responses.
On October 24, 2023, I had a phone appointment, and she said she could not find my wife to serve her. I provided updated info that I was able to find, and she said I could hire a PI in Florida, which could cost me a couple thousand dollars more. She also provided me with the information of three aggressive lawyers if I still wanted to try to track her down.
On January 25, 2024, I went to the courthouse on other business. While there, I checked out the status of my case, and I was informed that it was on the dismissal pile. I made a follow-up appointment in February, which she missed.
I eventually was able to get an in-person appointment on June 14, 2024, and decided to forgo the paternity test and finish the divorce. I had to refile the paperwork because it was dismissed in January. She said it was left on the dismissal pile on purpose to see if my wife would come out of the woodwork and be caught and served.
It is now September 12, 2024, and multiple attempts to contact her since the June meeting have failed. I am still in limbo on whether she has resubmitted my divorce paperwork or not.
This has been an extremely frustrating and draining experience. Another reason not to get married.
Read more
27 Aug, 2024 by Maria marino
Absolutely the best lawyer ever !
I have had a few different lawyers through child custody and modification cases and he is by far the best I’ve ever had super quick to communicate with you gets the job done doesn’t dawdle very reasonably priced very honest and just a good person in general he is not one of those money, hungry lawyers he actually cares ! You won’t ever regret hiring him !
Read more
15 Aug, 2024 by Charlie redding
Neil is a great. He shared his expertise and attention to detail with me when I was in a bind, and his honesty, and kindness are second to none.
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13 Sep, 2017 by Anonymous
My family hired Debra to represent them in a guardianship case. After months of nothing and tens of thousands of dollars, absolutely nothing was accomplished and we have now been restricted from any contact with our family member (whom was placed in a home against her will). She did not do any research for our case, emails sent with incorrect information, did not follow through with the witnesses, did not argue State and Federal regulations that are being violated, etc.. She accepted this case to get her foot in the door with her new law firm and collected the money!
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31 Jul, 2015 by Gail
Deb Schuster was recommended by the Alzheimer's Assn and was SO helpful in advising my husband and I on geriatric issues that will be coming up for us. Her expertise made us feel in control of our situation and up-to-date with health care initiatives, power of attorney and will. Her office and support staff are knowledgeable and helpful.
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30 Jul, 2015 by Trish
Ms Schuster has been an enormous help to our family and provided the research, information and actions necessary to deal with our issues. We are grateful to her for her willingness and help.
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06 Sep, 2024 by Kevin renick
I can honestly say I was completely satisfied with the work Mr. Bretz did for me. He took an interest in the case, kept me up to date with what was going on, and was always a straight shooter. Most impressively, when one particular "requirement" came up for the dispensation of the case towards a certain outcome, that I was NOT particularly thrilled about, Mr. Bretz got that requirement tossed out. So that all I had to do was pay my required fine. And I was even able to do that in two payments, due to my challenging financial situation. So, the outcome was totally favorable, and I would absolutely recommend Bretz Legal if you find yourself in any kind of driving situation that may look bad at first. Mr. Bretz did right by me, for sure...
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06 Sep, 2024 by Rudy duncan
To adam Gizzi Thanks so much for helping me with my injury. Case in the beginning, I was so nervous about the Ian result after the medical Bills started adding up and it became higher than the settlement itself. But Adam, you made me feel comfortable in knowing Everything would be done possible to bring the medical bills down and I was able to get me a nice settlement check. And was satisfied with the amount of the check.Thanks again Adam and your team.I would give you all ten stars
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30 Aug, 2024 by Zam
I'm so glad I chose Bretz Legal, to help with my traffic ticket. They were professional, knowledgeable, and kept me informed every step of the way. Thank you
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06 Sep, 2017 by Kristin
Just settled my case for a lot more than a friend of mine with an almost identical claim! Nice guy, works hard, did a great job.
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02 Apr, 2017 by Carl
Mr. Harvath took care in a few e-mails and phone calls what two other attorneys told me were "big deals" that would cost me thousands of dollars. I am not sure where I would have been otherwise, but Dan is my "go to" in St. Louis
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01 Mar, 2017 by Kevin
We were in litigation for almost a year with no end in sight. Mr. Harvath was retained in place of previous counsel and the entire face of the litigation changed -- in our favor. The resolution he obtained was far beyond what our previous attorney had said was even possible.
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06 Jul, 2024 by Jennifer thomas
Sarah Stock and her team are simply the best!
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08 Apr, 2024 by Theresa russell
They didn't listen to my concerns or let me know options. I didn't feel like I received any assistance.
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08 Feb, 2024 by Kyle
I was not satisfied with my experience with Stock Legal and would not recommend. I did not receive much value or benefit from their services, especially considering the amount they billed me for. They advertise themselves as more cost effective and client- and people-focused than large law firms but I did not find that to be the case. They were just as or even more expensive and focused on hourly billing than other attorneys I have worked with. I would have been more ok with paying their fees if they would have actually helped me with my issue but it quickly became clear it wasn't really their expertise. Their website says the initial meeting is complimentary but they charged me because I had worked with a lawyer who is not even with their firm any longer on a separate issue years ago, which felt kind of sneaky to me. The website also says they will avoid sticker shock when seeing their fee invoice, but I was definitely surprised to be charged when I had really received very little in the way of helpful legal advice or services in return.
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16 Sep, 2024 by Otfasa
Best lawyer me and my family have dealt with.
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06 Sep, 2024 by Kyle davis
03 Sep, 2024 by Pasana secic
I made a big mistake getting this lawyer daydream me out of my savings my checking account they send me invoice every 2 weeks I mean all big numbers I lost 30,000 on top of that it took them 9 months to do nothing and then call me to say is nothing they can do unbelievable did the worst lawyer you can ever think the name is cricket they will turn you into a nightmare for a year or sometime long so if you got it now go up there close the case find you another lawyer you have time if you ready just to just give the money only thing they going to say we care for our client don't go for that I had Adam then the change to a lady name Mia Malone she closed my case and still send me an invoice I'm telling you if you ready to go down that rabbit hole that this is the lawyer to find there are no good I mean the worst one you can ever think they took my money every two weeks for 9 months I lost $30,000 I'm giving this message to get more awareness of people that get lawyers please review first before you get it I made a mistake and I lost I am in the nightmares right now Mia Malone told me she can't do nothing but took all my money and make me steady put money in my trust account at least four or five times for 2200 knowing they're going into my checking account remind you that I do not have no words to say how experience I had with them she told me send those invoice so I can go through them they double charge me all that time I asked for dispute they denied it I've seen about 20 to 30 invoice for her to go through them to get some of my money back only things she can say is nothing we can do
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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.
