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Rebecca J Sanders, experienced Estate Planning, Probate attorney in Scottsdale, AZ with 35 reviews
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44,64
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5.0/5
Avvo
5.0
20 Reviews
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5.0
15 Reviews
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21 Nov, 2024 by Steven foust
We had the best and most professional experience with Meagan! She know estate planning better than anyone we've ever worked with. Meagan has a unique ability to simplify the process and make everything easy to understand. She's also very responsive to emails, calls, and questions. The prices are very competitive and you will not be disappointed with the outcome and simplicity of the process. We definitely recommend Monarch and Megan for all of your Estate Planning needs.
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19 Nov, 2024 by Brittany webb
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14 Nov, 2024 by Len brown
We recently had our Estate Plan drafted with Monarch Estate Planning and Meagan did an outstanding job. She provided a thorough well documented Estate Plan and kept us well informed throughout the process. She kept us well informed from start to finish and provided a concise binder with easy to use reference tabs in both hardcopy and digital formats. I highly recommend Meagan McCraw if you're in the market for Estate Planning!
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Katrina Vitale, experienced Estate Planning, Probate attorney in Scottsdale, AZ with 6 reviews
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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.
43,19
star star star star star
5.0/5
Avvo
5.0
6 Reviews
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22 Feb, 2019 by Anonymous
Katrina was a delight to deal with, explained everything so I could understand. I have already sent her family members to handle their wills.
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25 Jan, 2018 by Anonymous
Although Katrina was not able to help with my specific issue, the office did contact me quickly and refer to another attorney. The advice was appreciated.
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01 Nov, 2012 by Joe
Katrina was a excellent advocate. She told me what I needed to hear not what I wanted to hear. The cold hard truth enabled me to make the smart decisions that ultimately brought about a favorable out come. Her courtroom performance was superb and she had sincere genuine empathy for my situation. I feel her 14 years of experience were also invaluable. I highly recommend Katrina.
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Luke Reynoso, experienced Business, Estate Planning attorney in Scottsdale, AZ with 4 reviews
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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.
43,12
star star star star star
5.0/5
Avvo
5.0
4 Reviews
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23 Aug, 2024 by Herbert janert
We were extremely satisfied with our results of having our trust revised by Luke. We felt he was very interested and was able to explain important aspects of the trust that would be important to us . I would highly recommend this attorney if you are interested in getting a trust.
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22 Aug, 2024 by John
Mr. Reynoso put together our family trust for us. It was very detailed and explained to us in a manner that was easy to understand.
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21 Aug, 2024 by Anonymous
Great on Estate Planning. Went in to make some changes to my Will and estate planning documents. Always appreciate Luke's advice and expertise.
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Rachel S Zaslow, experienced Estate Planning, Probate attorney in Scottsdale, AZ with 16 reviews
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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.
40,54
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4.8/5
Avvo
5.0
2 Reviews
Google Maps
4.8
14 Reviews
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17 Sep, 2024 by Christopher chad jennings
Well no one and I mean my former employer told me about the self service log on and still till this day I thought they were a Phoenix address not a Scottsdale address
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07 Jun, 2023 by Dr. lisa lorence del valle
Pay Tech has been a life changer! Everyone has been so professional and hard working and they go above and beyond with all of their services and communications. Very grateful to Cheryl and Julie and Pay Tech staff!
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04 Nov, 2022 by D svancara
Wonderful payroll company. Easy to use and great staff. They go above and beyond to help their clients. I highly recommend them.
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William S. Graves, experienced Estate Planning, Personal Injury attorney in Scottsdale, AZ with 20 reviews
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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.
39,62
star star star star star
5.0/5
Avvo
5.0
20 Reviews
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26 Jun, 2022 by Jeff and donna
Mr.Graves has been our families trust attorney for over 10 years. We have had 3 trusts with his expert guidance and he’s helped us on multiple occasions following major life changes. He and his staff truly care and we trust him implicitly. You can consult with him at no charge and we have no doubt his firm will be your end choice!
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12 Apr, 2022 by Christopher
Mr. Graves, and his staff, far exceeded our expectations, of legal representation. The whole process, was flawless. Start to finish! There office and team are extremely genuine humble people! (Hard to find these days) Very compassionate, knowledgeable, thorough, and provided excellent communication throughout the legal proceedings. It truly was truly a blessing to have this firm represent our case. 10 out of 10 Look no further
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06 Apr, 2022 by Bernard
As a retired physician, I can attest to the caring that Mr. Graves has for his clients. Through his questioning and listening, he develops a true understanding of the client and thus can personalize each situation. His suggestions were well thought out and gave me "peace of mind" that I was making the correct decision(s). I would highly recommend Mr. Graves, not just for his knowledge of the laws, but also because he is a remarkable individual. Bernard Lemieux M.D.
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Clint W Smith, experienced Business, Estate Planning attorney in Scottsdale, AZ with 10 reviews
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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.
39,31
star star star star star
5.0/5
Avvo
5.0
10 Reviews
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16 Oct, 2019 by Tiffanie
Clint helped us with our estate planning needs and clearly defined the process and we wrapped it up in a week. He was pleasant and knowledgeable. Would certainly recommend.
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16 Dec, 2015 by Karen
I had to file chapter 7 bk which was very humbling for me to do. Clint made me feel comfortable, explained how the whole process worked and even offered advice about how to re-establish your credit afterwards. He was good at communicating what information was needed and following up for me. Never once was I made to feel ashamed of the whole process, which I was. I would recommend him without reservation.
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09 Nov, 2015 by Erica
Extremely professional and did an excellent job explaining the entire process. Made a stressful situation go smoothly would highly recommend and if I ever need or would hire him again
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Whitney L. Sorrell, experienced Business, Estate Planning attorney in Scottsdale, AZ with 9 reviews
Average
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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.
39,28
star star star star star
5.0/5
Avvo
5.0
9 Reviews
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02 May, 2019 by Anonymous
After speaking with a number one estate planning lawyers I decided to hire Whitney Sorrel in large part based on his ability to communicate clearly. By "clearly" I mean he was able to explain exactly what he would be doing and the purpose of completing an estate plan. What followed was even better. He listened to what I wanted while at the same time challenging me, in a very positive way, as to the wisdom of my choices. In the end, the final document represents my wishes while protecting assets and future finances. In addition, his personal style direct yet friendly fit perfectly with the way I prefer to do things. I would recommend Mr. Sorrel very highly.
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09 Mar, 2018 by Scott
My father hired Whitney to update his trust in 2015. He recently passed away. Whitney and his team did an outstanding job helping myself and my brothers quickly settle the estate and deal with all of the little things that are required after someone passes. Whitney's advise and counsel helped us make sure that as the assets changed hands they were immediately protected. He definitely made things easy for us in a very difficult time.
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13 Nov, 2016 by Beverley
My experience with Mr Sorrell and his knowledgeable staff has been superb. Whitney and his paralegal Ben went above and beyond my expectations. They truly do care about their clients and their needs. I am amazed and grateful at the attention to details & dedication that was given towards securing my future. Thank you guys SOOOO much!!!
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Victoria E Ames, experienced Business, Estate Planning attorney in Scottsdale, AZ with 4 reviews
Average
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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.
39,12
star star star star star
5.0/5
Avvo
5.0
4 Reviews
star star star star star
28 Sep, 2021 by Gary
Victoria Ames is thoroughly amazing in every regard. I can't say enough for her unrivaled level of legal knowledge, fascinating legal, academic and high-level corporate experience. Her dedication to the core tenants and values of the Rule of Law are apparent in all that she does. Adding to this, Victoria is extremely passionate about her clients, their cases and pursuing the best possible outcome for them. She truly exemplifies what is best about a practitioner of the law on every level. You can't be in better hands or receive a better recommendation. Thank you again for the help. Gary
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29 Jan, 2016 by Cristie
Victoria has provided phenomenonal representation for me. She has guided me through one of the most stressful times of my life. Her passion for elite representation and advocating for special needs children involved in custody cases, shines through and through. She has alleviated worry and stress with her excellent skills in family law. Her willingness to go the extra mile has earned my trust and hopes for my case. My situation is complicated, involving custody matters across state lines. Previously, I've attained numerous lawyers. My frustration and stress mounted with waiting for return calls and preparedness for court. Victoria has responded promptly by calling me back and replying to emails. Also, she is fearless with handling challenges. She is confident in her abilities and it shows. As you know, attempting to navigate the legal system is overwhelming. Victoria has directed me step by step and provided encouragement to me. I'm so thankful that I retained her services. She is by far the best attorney that has represented me. I highly recommend her counsel. Her knowledge, passion, and patience truly go above and beyond.
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19 Apr, 2015 by Jodie
I met Victoria at a NAMI meeting and was immediately impressed with her knowledge and ability to present information so it can be easily understood by everyone. Victoria has the natural ability to evaluate information and provide valuable feedback based on needs. She has assisted me by providing legal guidance and assistance for my son who has schizophrenia. My son has struggled with taking his meds and has ended up in jail. She provided amazing support and guidance to help get him placed in a mental health program rather than staying in jail. She also wrote a letter to our HOA supporting the need for my son to stay in our home, when my neighbors wanted him evicted from the neighborhood. She is a wealth of knowledge when it comes to special needs. Her passion for people and as an attorney comes through in everything she does. I feel very blessed to have met Victoria and would highly recommend her.
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Steven Michael Jackson, experienced Estate Planning, Probate attorney in Scottsdale, AZ with 4 reviews
Average
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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.
39,12
star star star star star
5.0/5
Avvo
5.0
4 Reviews
star star star star star
08 Jan, 2020 by Renee
Steven met my brother and was hired by him to construct his last will and testament. My brother named me as his personal representative of his estate. After my brother's passing, Steven was there to help. The case turned out to be a difficult and complicated one. Steven was extremely good at listening to me and communicated with me often. It was clearly obvious to me that he genuinely cared about my case. He continuously went above and beyond to help me in any way he could to get me through the process. I would HIGHLY recommend him to others in my similar situation. I was confident in his experience and knowledge and would definitely hire his services in the future.
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30 Jun, 2016 by Melissa
Steve helped my husband and I with our wills, power of attorney and trusts. He was extremely thorough and explained how to avoid probate. I'm pleased with all the information provided since we both had questions when we walked in. He took the time out of his busy schedule to help out our family. We will be forever grateful for the energy and time he put into bringing assurance and peace of mind for us. We were able to walk away more knowlegable and having a great plan.
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13 Apr, 2016 by Justin
Mr. Jackson was very helpful in assisting me with a probate matter. I was unsure of what steps to take with regard to my specific situation as I had never dealt with any probate matters before. Mr. Jackson not only guided me where I needed to go, but took the extra time and effort to consult with one of his colleagues so I would not make a misstep. I can not recommend him enough thanks to his helpfulness and kindness during this process.
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Libby Hougland Banks, experienced Appeals, Estate Planning attorney in Scottsdale, AZ 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
14 Jun, 2017 by Robert kolander
After the birth of our son, we had Libby establish our family trust. She made it very easy, was extremely patient, and answered all of our questions along the way. I would highly recommend Libby for any of your estate/will/probate or other related legal needs.
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15 Apr, 2016 by Robert
Libby handled all the questions and concerns we had about setting up our trust, and presented us with our trust in a professional, bound book complete with digital versions to store in safe places. A professional experience throughout the entire process - I wouldn't hesitate to recommend Libby.
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08 Apr, 2014 by Howard
As an attorney practicing in a different area of law, it is nice to find an attorney that is as compassionate, experienced, knowledgable about probate, wills, and estates. Many people hope for the best when planning their wills. Libby will walk them through the process and make them comfortable thinking about the things that must be done so the family won't be fighting after the fact.
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Kevin J Falvey, experienced Business, Estate Planning attorney in Scottsdale, AZ with 85 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
Google Maps
5.0
85 Reviews
star star star star star
04 Nov, 2024 by Jared whittenberg
Brant was great to work with. He was very knowledgeable and bent over backwards to assist me during a difficult situation. I sincerely appreciate his assistance and knowledge, he lives up to his business’ name.
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31 Oct, 2024 by Jenn price
Brant is absolutely amazing! He really went to bat for us and set clear expectations and deadlines. He was available and easy to contact. I would recommend Brant to anyone that need help with debt settlement. 100% worth every penny!
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13 Oct, 2024 by Marlys schwartz
I highly recommend compassionate counsel. They helped me get thru my dilemma. They were very prompt in returning phone calls and emails. You could feel compassion and caring in the replies.
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Kent S. Phelps, experienced Estate Planning, Probate attorney in Scottsdale, AZ with 2 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.
39,06
star star star star star
5.0/5
Avvo
5.0
2 Reviews
star star star star star
03 Sep, 2019 by Eric
Kent was amazing. He excelled in communication, and he was very understanding and listened to or unique situation. He explained everything in detail and was an amazing advocate for what we wanted to do. I would highly recommend him and his services.
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03 Sep, 2019 by Anonymous
Kent and his staff were friendly and very professional. From the first meeting we had a high degree of confidence in their expertise and knee we had landed in the right place. I wouldn't hesitate at all to recommend Phelps Estate Planning to close friends and family members or to complete strangers!
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Tara K. Miller, experienced Elder Law, Estate Planning attorney in Scottsdale, AZ with 1 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.
39,03
star star star star star
5.0/5
Avvo
5.0
1 Reviews
star star star star star
09 Jan, 2018 by Anonymous
We consulted with Tara regarding several of our client contracts. She reviewed our business documents and made recommendations and changes based our needs and the services we provided. She was professional, efficient and knowledgeable. We will definitely work with Tara in the future regarding our business contracts and transactional needs.
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Megan A Thornes, experienced Estate Planning, Probate attorney in Scottsdale, AZ with 267 reviews
Average
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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.
38,58
star star star star star
4.9/5
Google Maps
4.9
267 Reviews
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14 Feb, 2025 by Jo
Have rung multiple time and on 4 different numbers over 5 working days and no one every answers they all end up going to message. Very frustrating
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11 Feb, 2025 by Steven jenkins
Was decent in the beginning, decided to get cocky about his 250 / 5 star reviews when asking about price telling me to go find someone cheaper. That's how you lose business. My advice have a better attitude. Will never recommend this guy or his law firm!
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11 Feb, 2025 by 710 snob
Zero reply to emails and calls to the son and father, we have an Aunt looking for a trust and help with real estate. No emails or calls returned
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Andrew C Spitler, experienced Business, Estate Planning attorney in Scottsdale, AZ with 3 reviews
Below Average
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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.
19,04
star star star star star
3.6/5
Avvo
3.6
3 Reviews
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22 Jan, 2024 by Patricia
Andrew and his team are very professional. He came highly recommended by several top doctors in Arizona. His team was very thorough and gives you a great estate planning product in the end. This is his area of expertise and you don't have to have millions to get a well planned estate. Great attorney who knows trust and wills!
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30 Nov, 2023 by Michael
I was very impressed with the ease of setting up my Trust. I met with Andrew via zoom, all docs were reviewed and submitted, dates scheduled to sign, the hardest part was deciding who gets what. I was very pleased with Andrew and his office performance.
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01 Jul, 2022 by Laura
I had been in communication with Andrew regarding an issue and we spoke on the phone and exchanged several emails about the next steps. Then he stopped communicating, all together. I reached out multiple times and he failed to call me back. Very unprofessional. I have MetLife Legal Plans in which they will pay upon completion, if that was going to be a problem for Andrew, he never indicated that to begin with.
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Ilene L. McCauley, experienced Business, Estate Planning attorney in Scottsdale, AZ with 0 reviews
Below Average
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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.
8,00
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0.0/5
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Bradley Squires Braun, experienced Business, Estate Planning attorney in Scottsdale, AZ with 1 reviews
Below Average
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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.
7,17
star star star star star
1.0/5
Avvo
1.0
1 Reviews
star star star star star
23 Jul, 2015 by Dylan
Took far too long to settle after documentation had been approved. No communication, short answers, one sided-ness. Billed month after month for in house billing, during that time I had zero communication from attorney.
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Lawrence F Scaringelli, experienced Estate Planning, Probate attorney in Scottsdale, AZ with 1 reviews
Below Average
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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.
4,57
star star star star star
1.0/5
Avvo
1.0
1 Reviews
star star star star star
15 Feb, 2017 by Anonymous
Horrible lawyer. He is a bully! He absolutely did nothing. He should not be practicing in family law. I tried several times to try and get a hold of him during my case.
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Kenneth Joseph Peace, experienced Estate Planning, Probate attorney in Scottsdale, AZ with 0 reviews
Below Average
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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
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0.0/5
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Justin John Wall, experienced Estate Planning, Probate attorney in Scottsdale, AZ with 0 reviews
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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
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0.0/5
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Kelley Lenore Cathie, experienced Business, Estate Planning attorney in Scottsdale, AZ 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
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Jayme Kyla Fisher, experienced Estate Planning, Trusts attorney in Scottsdale, AZ 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
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Mark C Bohn, experienced Estate Planning, Trusts attorney in Scottsdale, AZ 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
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0.0/5
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Scott R Santerre, experienced Estate Planning, Probate attorney in Scottsdale, AZ 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
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Phoebe Moffatt, experienced Estate Planning, Probate attorney in Scottsdale, AZ 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
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J Noland Franz, experienced Business, Estate Planning attorney in Scottsdale, AZ 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
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Robert W Jones III, experienced Estate Planning, Probate attorney in Scottsdale, AZ 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
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Michele L Goens, experienced Business, Estate Planning attorney in Scottsdale, AZ 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
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0.0/5
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Donald T Scher, experienced Business, Estate Planning attorney in Scottsdale, AZ 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
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Kristin Moye, experienced Business, Estate Planning attorney in Scottsdale, AZ with  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
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0/5
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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:

  1. What experience do you have with creating trusts?
    Ensure the lawyer has experience drafting trusts and managing trust administration for clients with similar goals or asset structures.
  2. What types of trusts do you recommend for my situation?
    Ask the lawyer to explain the different types of trusts available and which ones best suit your needs.
  3. How do you charge for your services?
    Clarify the fee structure and request an estimate of the total cost.
  4. What are the tax implications of the trust?
    Ensure the lawyer can explain how the trust will affect your taxes and strategies to minimize tax liability.
  5. How long will it take to set up the trust?
    Ask for a timeline for creating and finalizing the trust documents.
  6. Will you handle the trust administration?
    If ongoing management is required, inquire whether the lawyer will assist with trust administration or if you'll need a separate trustee.
  7. Can you help resolve disputes if they arise?
    Ask about the lawyer's experience in resolving trust disputes.

How to Check the Credibility of a Trusts Lawyer

To ensure you are hiring a reputable trusts lawyer, take the following steps:

  • Verify their bar status: Check with your state bar association to confirm the lawyer is licensed and has no disciplinary actions.
  • Look for trust law experience: Review their website or professional profile to ensure they specialize in estate planning and trusts.
  • Read client reviews and testimonials: Look for feedback on platforms like Avvo, Martindale-Hubbell, or Google.
  • Ask for references: Request references from past clients who can speak to their experience with the lawyer.
  • Check for certifications: Look for certifications such as Certified Estate Planning Law Specialist (EPLS) or memberships in organizations like the American Academy of Estate Planning Attorneys (AAEPA).

What Should I Prepare for My First Consultation?

To make the most of your first consultation with a trusts lawyer, bring the following:

  • List of assets: Prepare a list of all your assets, including real estate, bank accounts, investments, retirement accounts, and personal property.
  • List of beneficiaries: Provide names and contact information of individuals or organizations you want to name as beneficiaries.
  • Existing estate planning documents: Bring copies of any existing wills, trusts, or other estate planning documents.
  • Financial information: Bring financial statements, tax returns, and other relevant financial documentation.
  • Questions for the lawyer: Prepare a list of questions about the trust creation process, fees, and how the trust will protect your assets and beneficiaries.
  • Goals for the trust: Clearly outline your objectives, such as asset protection, tax minimization, or provisions for beneficiaries, so the lawyer can tailor the trust to your needs.

By preparing thoroughly for your consultation, you can help the lawyer assess your situation effectively and receive the best possible legal advice for creating and managing your trust.

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