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28 Jun, 2024 by Konstantin titov
11 Jun, 2024 by Jaqueline rodriguez
Avloni law helped me through one of the most difficult times in my life. Very professional and knowledgeable. Literally the best !!!!
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02 May, 2024 by Verdim s
01 Nov, 2024 by Urian schimmeyer
Sam Gellar is an amazing attorney. Explains everything very thoroughly. Will go above and beyond for you as his client. Highly recommend!
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29 Oct, 2024 by Player dash
“Thank you, Mr. Samuel. He is very cooperative, professional, intelligent, and respectful. Thank you, and I wish him continued success.”
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09 Sep, 2024 by Margarita andino
Having Nick as a Lawyer was a pleasure. His honesty made a Big difference in helping me understand my case. Although it was very stressful I felt he had my best interest at heart and that helped.
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22 Jan, 2025 by Yessica gonzalez
22 Jan, 2025 by Lizeth serrano
22 Jan, 2025 by Kevin aguillón
22 Jan, 2025 by Yessica gonzalez
22 Jan, 2025 by Lizeth serrano
22 Jan, 2025 by Kevin aguillón
02 Dec, 2024 by Juliette porter
Delivered an unprofessional and disorganized service.
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02 Aug, 2024 by Lucy muthoni
Am very grateful to Harrison Law office, he helped me with my case and didn't take long and was approved. I recommend him to anyone who needs assistance with their immigration case. Blake is very professional, reliable. Am very thankfu to him
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16 Jul, 2024 by Emma pham
Amazing immigration lawyer in the Bay! Blake responded to our questions in a timely manner. He provided a very professional and smooth service. Our case got approved quicker than we expected. My husband and I are very grateful for all of Blake's help!
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13 Sep, 2016 by Mark
We retained John's services because he was highly recommended by an USF Law Professor. And with that said, we are very pleased that we did because he if very professional, knows how to get it done, returns calls in a timely manner, cares about what he does with integrity & sincerity, and cares about us (the client). If it wasn't for John, I don't know whom I would've gone to assist our family in a very complicated probate case...
If you do decide to retain John's services, then you will know what I am saying...
All the best
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26 Jun, 2016 by Linda
From the time we met John Boessenecker, we found him to be professional, knowledgeable, honest and hardworking. John answered our emails and phone calls in a timely fashion. He took the time to answer all of our questions and guided us to a resolution of our estate problems in a most thorough, courteous and respectful manner. We have and will continue to recommend him to anyone who is in need of help with their estate, trust or probate.
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03 Apr, 2016 by Michael
John Boessenecker was recommended to us by a law professor at San Francisco University School of Law. After consulting with John and a few other probate attorneys we decided he was the right person to handle my father’s estate that I was appointed co-executor over. Soon after opening probate it was discovered that my father never closed his father’s estate (1968) which made the situation extremely complicated. This meant that we had to open probate for my grandfather. When the judge looked the situation over she said it was one of the most convoluted cases she had ever seen. Step by step John methodically pieced together the order in which matters had to be executed to make things happen and happen smoothly. During this time I became the executor over my step-father’s estate (yes, pretty insane!) and of course there was no question who to use. That estate also had challenges as multiple beneficiaries were named in a will but John knew exactly what, when and how to handle each step. If anyone is a wiz at this stuff, it is him. I honestly don’t think we could have made it through those tough times without John and am please to give him five stars here. His talents, character and work ethics are what make him successful and it has been a pleasure to work with him.
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03 Jan, 2025 by Kai c
Thank you from the bottom of our family’s heart to Atty. Russ Goodrow at Goodrow Law firm.
Atty. Goodrow is an honest, professional, and a knowledgeable attorney. He took the time and always communicated with our family. Atty Goodrow helped me to stay calm and absolutely lessened my stress during the process. Not only is Atty Goodrow an excellent attorney but he also possesses a great amount of emotional intelligence as an attorney. He provided tremendous guidance to our family and extremely patient and organized. I highly recommend Atty Goodrow at Goodrow Law Firm.
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15 Dec, 2024 by Travis
Adam and his firm are truly exceptional. Adam is a caring and compassionate attorney who guided me through a terrifying and intricate legal matter and secured the best possible outcome. I am utterly grateful for his and his firm’s exceptional work.
If you seek further proof of Adam’s reputation, simply ask any attorney in the San Francisco area about him. You will witness the immense respect and admiration he holds within the legal community.
Thank you once again, Adam, and John, for everything.
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10 Dec, 2024 by Heather kenna hall
Valery was truly phenomenal in her support and guidance to me in an unfortunate accidental legal situation involving what was technically a felony crime on my part. Having never been in trouble with the law before, she was especially kind and supportive to me, and was successful in getting my charges dismissed. Valery is my savior and has my wholehearted endorsement.
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02 Sep, 2016 by Mary jane pascual
Jeff helped my siblings and I tackle a very personal probate issue. He listened to us and told us like it is. No sugar-coating on difficult things that needed to be discussed but he was with us all throughout the chaos to assure us that he has our back. Very effective, smart and a great person, inside and out. Thank you!
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06 Mar, 2015 by Charles
Jeffrey M. Woo has been tirelessly assisting us in providing sound advices and valuable counsel, in the recent Landlord/Tenant Ellis Case when he interned briefly but superlatively with the THC and left the institution, still rendering us alternative directions and hope against the 'infectious' Ellis, pointing out useful strategy and its legal application pertinent to the case, thus truly manifesting & upholding his personal and professional convictions as definitely , a qualified and commendable Attorney-at-law.
One doesn't feel the walls between the relationship and the rapport is naturally spontaneous and tangibly productive......an exceptional personage in this field.
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24 Jul, 2014 by Claudia tirado
Jeff Woo is my hero because he took our case when others wouldn't. Not only did he stop the eviction but extended our stay. Furthermore, he helped me gather evidence for an affirmative lawsuit. He even met me and my family at our home to discuss our situation. He is very trustworthy and was there every step of the way. I felt comfortable to call him with any questions. I have sent a friend that needed help and he solved her problem very fast. He is a bright, intelligent, knowledgeable lawyer and will strategize and fight for your best defense. He will position your case to win. I will be grateful to him for life.
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24 Mar, 2022 by Mary
Anne was a referral from a colleague of mine. From the beginning to the end, Anne was very informative,efficient, and helpful! She is very knowledgeable and walks you through the entire process seamlessly. It was a pleasure working with her!
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30 Mar, 2021 by C
Walked my wife and I through the process. She was super organized.
Not sure we would have completed it so quickly (or at all) if she didn’t guide and explained every detail.
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06 Aug, 2019 by Donna
Anne Shiau prepared my estate documents. I found her smart, efficient, and precise. She is well-informed and experienced. I recommend her highly.
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01 Nov, 2024 by Urian schimmeyer
Sam Gellar is an amazing attorney. Explains everything very thoroughly. Will go above and beyond for you as his client. Highly recommend!
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29 Oct, 2024 by Player dash
“Thank you, Mr. Samuel. He is very cooperative, professional, intelligent, and respectful. Thank you, and I wish him continued success.”
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09 Sep, 2024 by Margarita andino
Having Nick as a Lawyer was a pleasure. His honesty made a Big difference in helping me understand my case. Although it was very stressful I felt he had my best interest at heart and that helped.
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17 Dec, 2023 by Megan
Amy is an excellent communicator and she’s also highly intelligent with great integrity. I really appreciate all of her legal expertise with Special Needs Trusts and Trustee services. I am glad I can trust Amy to do whatever she can to help me, with my best interest in mind. I highly recommend her for Trustee/Special Needs Trust services.
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17 Mar, 2022 by Jonathan
I hired Amy to represent me in a high conflict case. Amy assessed all the details and drafted pleadings to move my case forward. Because she listened to me, I felt confident that my case was fully understood by the Court. Going to Court is always difficult. Having a experienced litigator working with me on my case reduced the length of time my case persisted. I was able to resolve the case shortly after Amy began representing me.
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09 Mar, 2022 by Franza
Amy is perfect for my law practice, which is exclusively focused on fiduciary services. She is available to answer my questions whenever they arise and knows the law thoroughly in all aspects. Her moral code and ethical standards are excellent and in line with this area of practice that relies on Trust. Anything to do with probate, trusts, and fiduciary services Amy knows about and can advise quickly and competently. I am lucky to have her counsel.
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06 Dec, 2015 by Mary
I was very impressed with Mr. Tormey's professionalism and knowledge. I met with Mr. Tormey for a Free 30 min. consult about a possible patent idea. Come to find out, he is an Electrical Engineer, has his MBA and an attorney. My idea did not pan out but if I go through the steps he suggested, I will be going back to him with the background work I need to do. I would have wasted a lot of money with another attorney if I had not spoken with him first. He has great business savvy and know how to get things done!
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12 Jun, 2014 by Catherine
Met with Mr. Tourmey and was very impressed with his well-thought out advice and expertise. He is also a profession at JF Kennedy school of Law. Very humble man that wasn't quick to retain us and expressed the challenges that we were up against and advised us to "sleep on it," before deciding what direction we wanted to go. His free 30 minute consultation convinced us that "he" is the perfect person to handle our complex patent issues. +++++ Recommend highly!!
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17 Jan, 2012 by Scott
Mr. Tormey worked with me to write a contract for distribution of products in the US that were manufactured outside of the US. The complexity of this situation was not a issue for Mr. Tormey. He broke down the complex parts of the contract and explained each one to me. This allowed me to make an informed decision as to how I wanted each part to be written. In a complex world having an advocate is very important. Mr. Tormey was that advocate. I believe I got the most favorable contract for my situation.
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31 Aug, 2017 by Doug
As a business attorney, I know many estate planning attorneys in San Francisco. But when it came time to do my own estate plan there was only one firm I spoke with - The Atashi Rang Law Firm. Amir and his team took the time to not only craft an estate plan that gave me and my family a great deal of piece of mind, but did a great job of explaining its key provisions to help make sure we understand our plan and that it matches our wishes. If you are looking for an exceptional estate planning law firm, give The Atashi Rang Law Firm a call. You will be very glad that you did.
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18 May, 2010 by Audrey
Amir Atashirang, as my attorney, was excellent and comfortable to work with. He was accessible, understanding, and provided useful information and guidance. He even assisted me with other law-realated matters that was not related to the main reason that I was soliciting his services. He also referred me to other lawyers in my county for other personal issues I needed to deal with.
Amir is also concerned about his clients, professional, approachable, and make you feel at ease about everything. He was the first attorney I've worked with and it was a great experience.
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13 Jul, 2017 by Anonymous
Hiring Yuen and Yuen and working with Erika and Frank Yuen to help us settle our parents’ complex estate was the best decision my brother and I made. We found Erika and Frank to be very knowledgeable, easy to work with and available to us for in-person meetings and phone consultants throughout every step of the process. We couldn’t have settled the trust without their help. Thank you Erika and Frank!
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23 Jun, 2016 by Anonymous
We hired Erika in 2014 and the ongoing legal relationship has continued to this day. Our Probate was VERY complex and sensitive, involving interactions with additional litigators in different fields. As a former Assistant DA, Erika has experience and contacts outside the Probate arena, which proved helpful to our situation. She is professional and knowledgeable, along with the stamina to 'get the job done' for you. Most importantly, she is sincere about your personal well-being during this difficult process. Our highest recommendation.
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11 Aug, 2010 by Anonymous
Ms. Wenzel prepared a complete trust package for me, including a will and advance health care directive. I chose her because she was recommended both by colleagues and clients, because she specializes in this type of law and because she was not in a large firm. I found her very easy and comfortable to work with and was very satisfied with the work that she did. I recommend her with no reservations.
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16 Jul, 2007 by Anonymous
Ms. Wenzel is extremely knowledgeable and helpful. She even makes housecalls for her elderly clients who find travel to her office difficult. Ms. Wenzel works very well with clients, who due to their age or condition, are sometimes difficult (and crochety). She is very patient, answers all questions completely and returns calls very quickly. I have been very pleased with her help for my parents and my uncles. I recomend her very highly.
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09 Jan, 2020 by Michael
I inherited an art collection, my two partners were both thieves. I was terrified of dealing with these two evil people. Autumn Engles was an amazing representative. She was able to make my abusive partners, back down and when we distributed the art collection I was able to get the best of the collection. Autumn Engles was the reason it all went so smoothly. I was so worked up the day we dissolve my partners trust, but Autumn Engles made it a walk through the park. She kept all the emotions under control and in less than an hour we were done. Thank you Autumn Engles was my savior. Than you for making this really hard situation for me an easy process.
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30 Oct, 2010 by Mike
I had Autumn Engel develop my trust. During the initial visits, she answered all of my basic questions expertly. Later, I had more detailed questions in email, which she responded to very promptly. She has a friendly, yet professional, demeanor and was always easy to talk to -- never rushed. I would recommend her to anyone looking at establishing a trust.
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15 Jun, 2016 by Lia locasto
Upon our first encounter I knew I'd be hiring Mara. We shared our experiences in the professional world and her strong moral judgement is exactly what I was looking for.
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07 Jan, 2012 by Anonymous
Michael is quite responsive as an attorney and is a fervent advocate which are necessary attributes for an attorney. I believe he has close to 30 years of legal experience and willingly gives fee reductions. He is a sensitive person which I believe is an asset as an attorney, in any profession or generally in life. He seems to care beyond simply obtaining attorney fees. I have been his client for over one year.
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02 Jul, 2010 by Jerry
Typically don't choose the low bid, but in hiring Loren this worked out very well for me. I was prepared, so during our first meeting Loren collected most all the info needed to ascertain what I needed and to complete the job. He understood that I wanted an Estate Plan that is robust and simple. After the initial meeting there were a couple emails and phone calls. At our second meeting, all the documents were completed accurately and signed. Loren took the time to listen and make sure I understood my options. I would easily recommend him for estate planning.
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26 Sep, 2022 by Trevor potter
I needed help resolving a serious Car-Bicycle accident case and Shaana and her team delivered knowledge, expertise, patience, guidance and ultimately an outcome that left me and my family very pleased. "Big Firm" expertise with "Small Firm" care and accessibility.
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10 May, 2022 by Steven h
I never wanted to be crushed in between a utility bed truck and my work trailer but guess what, life happens..
It was a rough few months dealing with insurance companies and doctors.
I never dealt with anything like this before!
I was at my wits and realized I needed help.
After meeting with Shaana personally I knew I was in good hands. Not only as a lawyer, but as a friend. Every step of the way she and her team made sure that I was not only comfortable but made sure I was taken care of in my best interest.
I plan to call again if needed and I highly recommend Shaana Rahman Law.
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17 Sep, 2020 by Jeremy pasternak
My firm represents employees exclusively and Ms. Rahman's firm is one of just a couple of firms to which we refer clients who have been injured. Over the years, we have referred many clients to her, and have received nothing but stellar feedback about her work. I will enthusiastically continue to refer cases to Ms. Rahman.
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30 May, 2024 by Nick nassim
1.0
1 Reviews
4.9
48 Reviews
26 Nov, 2024 by Ralph downs
I was in a serious accident in The Mission District (San Francisco) on my bicycle that involved being hit by a car which resulted in paramedics, a major bone break, a major surgery, a multiple nights hospital stay, hardware being placed in my arm, physical therapy, and a follow up surgery (amongst many other headaches and heartaches). I actually turned to my dad (a lawyer himself) to help me find someone to take on my case in San Francisco. He ultimately linked me to Choulos Choulos & Wyle. Claude Wyle gladly took on my case and, I must say, it was the right choice.
As a San Francisco resident who has predominately commuted and gotten around SF on his bicycle since 2006, it was refreshing to be in the hands of a law firm who are fellow cyclists (both pedal- and motor-) who understand bicyclists' rights in the city and the many hazards that are put in front of cyclists in a city full of potential dangers. I had never been in an accident in all of my 15+ years of bicycling in the city so this was uncharted territory for me. Claude and his team were very responsive throughout the process (which dragged due COVID's impact on the world and the legal system). Claude and his team were empathetic, patient, and gave sound advice in response to all of my questions and my occasional anxieties throughout the process.
Claude ultimately helped me settle my case handsomely which was a balm to all the pain and suffering I endured during and after my accident. I will probably always have some difficulties arising from my injury but Claude fighting for a fair settlement made my physical losses a much easier pill to swallow. Claude went above and beyond! He tenaciously fought for me in settling the case with the driver's insurance company and in negotiating bills down with my own medical insurance company to help me maximize my settlement! He's a Bay Area man and was extremely knowledgeable and savvy when it came to navigating the legal system, insurance companies, and my case. If you want a local on your side in a personal injury case, then this is the place to go. I couldn't have been more pleased with my decision to go with Choulos Choulos & Wyle.
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26 Nov, 2024 by Lauren
I'm grateful to Claude, a partner at Choulos Choulos and Wyle. He patiently listened and provided thoughtful, constructive advice. While I hope I won't need to contact them again in the future for representation, I'm happy to know of them and have confidence that they would provide the same treatment to anyone who would seek their counsel.
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26 Nov, 2024 by Steven childs
I had the pleasure of working with Claude, who provided me with exceptional legal advice during a challenging situation. Claude’s expertise and attention to detail were evident from the very start. He took the time to listen carefully, analyze all aspects of my situation, and offer clear, practical guidance.
What truly stood out was his ability to explain complex legal matters in a way that was easy to understand, making me feel confident and well-informed every step of the way. His professionalism and responsiveness were second to none.
I am incredibly grateful for Claude’s support and would highly recommend his services to anyone in need of outstanding legal counsel.
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26 Mar, 2024 by Shauna mcculloch
26 Mar, 2024 by Cathee wolford
Jay Greene did an excellent job with my case. Professional, knowledgeable, and informative of the legal process. Highly recommend this business.
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26 Mar, 2024 by Paul robert zink
I am from Santa Barbara and wanted a SF local Attorney to assist with our Uncle's financial and medical affairs as he ages. Jay and his team was prompt, courteous, and relaxed our nerves. Thank you.
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21 Oct, 2021 by Howard
I first worked with Frank in 2000 when he gave my family guidance on how to deal with a very complicated inheritance issue regarding some rental properties in SF. Not only did he save our family enormous estate taxes, but he showed tremendous patience in explaining the various trusts concepts to achieve our goals.
Fast forward +20 years later, we needed help in selling some properties to minimize taxes again. We were concerned that that Frank might have retired but thankfully, not only was he still active in practice but to our pleasant surprise, his daughter Erica had joined him. Again they helped us navigate a very complex situation which was made more difficult by the Covid restrictions. Needless to say, he connected us to the right people, saved us a ton of money, and simplified things for us by doing all the heavy lifting.
I’m generally am not one to write reviews but I wanted to share my experience with everyone about Yuen Law. There is absolutely no hesitation on my part in recommending Frank and Erica Yuen when it comes to estate planning and trust creation. That have a unique skill set that few attorneys can match. I’m very confident that you will be pleased with them to say the least.
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21 Jul, 2018 by Don
Frank Yuen has been my attorney for 15 years. He first drew up a living trust for me in 2003. He was able to provide a trust document that would would insure my assets will pass on to my spouse/sons without complications.
He is a trusted adviser. Over the years I have sought out his advice on a variety of legal matters pertaining to my family's business and financial interests. He has a vast knowledge of taxation laws which he applies to my particular situation. Recently he provided counsel on our family partnership. He advised us on what essentials should be included in the legal documents on the withdrawal of multiple partners and taxation implications of such a withdrawal.
Besides estate planning and taxation advice, Frank has shared his expertise on legal matters related to having income properties. He advised me about landlord and tenant relationship and allowable expenses
His daughter Erica has joined his law practice. Frank believes that her presence with provide continuity in meeting the needs of long time clients into the future.
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23 Jun, 2016 by Anonymous
We hired Frank in 2014 and he has been helping us with a 'beyond complex' Probate case that continues to this day. After hiring Frank, we read on our own that he was listed as 'Super Lawyer' for his field, and we can attest that he is true to this title. We found Frank to be professional and knowledgeable, and most especially the service he provided was friendly and supportive. He had that rare ability to engage with people of all types (other litigators, law enforcement, real estate agents, the elderly), to handle sensitive situations (with families, for instance), and to deal with court matters efficiently. Our highest recommendation.
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30 Sep, 2018 by Steve
I used James and his law firm on two separate occasions, a living trust which involved my mother and my divorce. Neither occasion was simple but James handled both with helpful insight and guided me to the correct answers through thoughtful questions. Not once did I feel he was just suggesting things to make the process move quicker or easier on his law firm to execute. Both times I left his office feeling as though things were handled fairly and correctly. Whatever legal issue I may have in the future, I will definitely consult with James first to see if his firm can take it on. I have a high degree of trust and faith in his competence to handle any legal issue after his work on my living trust and divorce.
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23 Aug, 2018 by Anonymous
HE DID WHAT WE ASKED FOR AT AN ACCEPTABLE RATE
DID HAVE A LITTLE TROUBLE HAVING HIM GET BACK TO ME
BUT ONCE WE CONNECTED HE GOT THE JOB DONE
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16 May, 2019 by Rashida
I didn't know Nathan, but he was really good to work with. He answered a bunch of questions I had (no charge which was cool), and walked me through how a revocable trust worked. We also took care of my health directive and he told me what was up with choosing a guardian for my child if I died so that was cool but not great to think about. But he actually gave me some questions and we worked it out in about 15 minutes. SO yeah, dude was cool for a lawyer.
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23 Apr, 2019 by Michael
OK, if you want an attorney who is really smart, friendly, and will listen to you, give this guy a call. I have hired Nathan for a number of different legal matters. He defended me when I was sued twice, he walked me through my estate planning, and he helped me negotiate a lease for a commercial space. I think he is an outstanding attorney because he actually LISTENS to me, he calls me back whenever I reach out, and he sends me periodic updates on the legal matters I have hired him for without me having to call first. He also saved me huge hassle when I got divorced, he called me and walked me through what I needed to do to stop my ex-wife getting my assets if I dided, I had no idea changing my living will wasn't enough to accomplish this. If he hadn't walked me through everything, she would still be listed as a beneficiary for my insurance, meaning she, not my sister, would've received the proceeds if I died. The other attorney I spoke with didn't say a word about this. Anyhow. Good luck with your legal issues no matter who you hire.
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21 Jul, 2017 by Anonymous
Raymond is a well-credentialed and experienced estate planning and probate attorney. His experience and academic degrees in engineering, Master of Business Administration, and law makes him a rare bird in the legal profession. I have and will continue to refer him clients.
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22 Jan, 2025 by Yessica gonzalez
22 Jan, 2025 by Lizeth serrano
22 Jan, 2025 by Kevin aguillón
24 Sep, 2020 by Gripstser mastermind
Because it's fun
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15 Jun, 2019 by Tammy buhler
Honest...real nice lady...
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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:
-
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.
