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30 Apr, 2013 by Anonymous
We contacted Ann T. Wilson for breach of trust issues. She was very responsive, focused on the facts, avoided getting caught up in the drama/personal issues. She kept costs down and was able to mediate our case, avoiding trial. Our issues were resolved and our dishonest trustee was replaced.
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14 Jun, 2022 by Mark glancey
Extraordinary legal services. If you are looking for expert and friendly legal advice you cannot do better than Dorsey.
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26 Jan, 2017 by Bryn waibel
22 Nov, 2024 by Eric ahrens
Andrew Huff is a top performer, I've used him 3 times at this point and won for every time for me. Go with the champion for all your traffic needs, he takes care of everything worry free and keep your driving record clean. Eric Ahrens
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19 Nov, 2024 by D j
I recently consulted with Damien regarding a severance agreement I had already signed after being laid off by my employer. A section in the non-compete clause had been keeping me up at night—it made no sense, even after running it through numerous analyses. Damien returned my call quickly, and I was immediately impressed by his responsiveness and dedication.
You can tell he works long, hard hours and is genuinely passionate about employee rights. He was generous with his time, actively listened to my concerns, and provided clear guidance to help me better understand the clause in question. Damien even pointed me toward additional resources to further unpack my concerns.
What stood out the most was his thoughtful and reassuring approach—there was absolutely no "hard sell." I left our conversation feeling like he truly cares about his clients and the people seeking his advice. I highly recommend Damien for anyone needing clarity and support during such a stressful time.
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12 Nov, 2024 by Clarence nelson
My experience was horrible. Wouldn’t recommend Lance Lee. Almost lost my home as a result of his incompetence and arrogance.
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30 Jan, 2024 by Sam jones
We are contemplating a move back to Washington state where we lived for many years. Without proper estate planning we would potentially be subject to the Washington estate tax. n our initial contacts with the firm, we clearly identified that we were residents in another state. We were instructed to provide our detailed financial picture as well as our current estate planning documents which we provided promptly and told that our information would be forwarded to the attorneys for evaluation. The following is the email response.
“Thank you for filling out and returning your Questionnaire.
I will forward your information to our attorneys for review. Once they have completed their review, I will be back in touch with you regarding a quote for services and the next steps for scheduling.”
Well over a month went by with no word back from STIB. I finally contacted them by email requesting a status update. Within minutes, I received the following reply.
“Thank you very much for contacting our firm. Unfortunately, we are not able to take on your case. Our firm does not advise out-of-state residents on tax issues. Our focus is estate planning and long term care planning.”
The STIB website clearly tax issues as part of estate planning. I also found no restrictions on attorneys in Washington state providing consultation to out-of-state residents considering residency in Washington.
Needless to say, I was astounded by what I consider to extremely poor communication and timely follow-up. If it is indeed not their policy to advise out-of-state residents on tax issues, I would have expected to have been informed of that policy up front thus saving us the time of compiling and sending detailed and confidential financial and estate planning information. In my opinion, this represents incompetent and totally unprofessional behavior.
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27 Jan, 2024 by Michelle tanco
As someone who has no experience with wills or lawyers and doesn’t understand the process, this was a bad fit. It’s quite possible that if you know what to ask or what’s happening that they will be great for you, but for me I ended up with a $120 invoice for two emails I didn’t understand what to do with, going to look for someone else to help us setup out family will.
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18 Jul, 2023 by Michael o'connell
30 Jan, 2024 by Sam jones
We are contemplating a move back to Washington state where we lived for many years. Without proper estate planning we would potentially be subject to the Washington estate tax. n our initial contacts with the firm, we clearly identified that we were residents in another state. We were instructed to provide our detailed financial picture as well as our current estate planning documents which we provided promptly and told that our information would be forwarded to the attorneys for evaluation. The following is the email response.
“Thank you for filling out and returning your Questionnaire.
I will forward your information to our attorneys for review. Once they have completed their review, I will be back in touch with you regarding a quote for services and the next steps for scheduling.”
Well over a month went by with no word back from STIB. I finally contacted them by email requesting a status update. Within minutes, I received the following reply.
“Thank you very much for contacting our firm. Unfortunately, we are not able to take on your case. Our firm does not advise out-of-state residents on tax issues. Our focus is estate planning and long term care planning.”
The STIB website clearly tax issues as part of estate planning. I also found no restrictions on attorneys in Washington state providing consultation to out-of-state residents considering residency in Washington.
Needless to say, I was astounded by what I consider to extremely poor communication and timely follow-up. If it is indeed not their policy to advise out-of-state residents on tax issues, I would have expected to have been informed of that policy up front thus saving us the time of compiling and sending detailed and confidential financial and estate planning information. In my opinion, this represents incompetent and totally unprofessional behavior.
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27 Jan, 2024 by Michelle tanco
As someone who has no experience with wills or lawyers and doesn’t understand the process, this was a bad fit. It’s quite possible that if you know what to ask or what’s happening that they will be great for you, but for me I ended up with a $120 invoice for two emails I didn’t understand what to do with, going to look for someone else to help us setup out family will.
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18 Jul, 2023 by Michael o'connell
26 Feb, 2025 by Rachel del rio
Janelle was great! She answered all my questions and always responded. Highly recommend!
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26 Feb, 2025 by Ashley hendrickson
I highly recommend working with Janelle! She’s the best!
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07 Feb, 2025 by Victor pedroza
Amanda and Javier are helping me with my case. They are awesome. Always updating me with information.
I highly recommend this Law Firm.
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17 Nov, 2024 by Stephanie
I’ve referred a number of people to the Marshall Defense Firm over the years and, without exception, their feedback concerning the firm’s service has been exceptional. The terms I hear consistently are expert, professional, intelligent, sensitive and caring. Honestly, it’s a combination of traits which I see rarely see in law firms I deal with. What a huge compliment to the firm’s legal and life philosophy.
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05 Nov, 2024 by Tonya edwards
SMDH .. no wonder why attorneys are broke😂
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08 Oct, 2024 by Kellie erlandson
I was involved in a collision with an uninsured motorist in Fall 2023. At the advise of a friend, I contacted Andrew Cherin to assist me with the claim mediation with both my auto insurance and my health insurance. He was able to claim me the maximum payout from my auto insurance, and got my health insurance to waive any reimbursement out of the auto claim! I am positive things would not have gone as well as they did without his help. I pray that I never need his services again, but for sure know that he's the one I would call if I do!
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04 Dec, 2024 by Dan gerl
I have known Tim Leary for over two decades. He is one of the best Seattle area criminal defense attorneys in my opinion. He takes on difficult cases and gets amazing results. You are in good hands with him in your corner!
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04 Dec, 2024 by Rajinder singh
I was going through a tough time in my life when everything looked like a lost cause. Then, my family found Defense Attorney: Chris Black. At our first meeting, Mr. Black gave me hope. With him on our side, we felt assured that our case would be handled swiftly and smoothly.
He kept us updated and was always available to answer our calls and emails promptly. Mr. Black went above and beyond—efficient, courteous, and professional. I highly recommend Chris Black’s legal services to anyone in need.
As a unique case, I have truly never met a lawyer like Mr. Black. He keeps it real and is a genuine advocate for his clients.
Thank you, Chris, for your solid support and for being such a positive force during that difficult time.
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13 Nov, 2024 by Mick holsbeke
These folks are just great! I urgently needed to understand my rights. A lawyer friend recommended Macdonald Hoague & Bayless, and I will always call them first. Jesse Wing, Adarsh N. Parthasarathy, and their team were warm, empathetic, generous, friendly, efficient, and extremely competent. I honestly couldn't have asked for better legal advice and support! Working with them solved my issues and empowered me with strategies to advocate for myself! I couldn't imagine going anywhere else for legal representation.
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23 Feb, 2025 by Iza k
I was immensely grateful to have Shannon Polley represent a loved one who was at risk of 2+ years, minimum, of prison for unlawful possession of a firearm. She advocated for his truth with unwavering dedication, a wealth of knowledge, and genuine warmth. Her composure and sharp intellect instilled a deep sense of confidence and trust from beginning to end. Shannon possesses the unique ability to connect with clients on a personal level, making you feel supported, respected and truly heard throughout the entire process. Her ability to adapt and act with precision amidst trial gave us the peace of mind we needed during an extremely stressful experience. I recommend her with high regards if you are looking for a defense lawyer who will go above and beyond, she is a relentless advocate for her clients and was an absolutely powerful force in the court room.
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19 Nov, 2024 by Mayia bartoli
Chris is the best of the best and he’s given the best service for my case and others that I have referred him to. He really is top notch with communication. Professional and he’s constantly on top of what ever the circumstances are and he’s always been able to handle anything with confidence and that helps ease your stress levels as a client. I couldn’t have asked for better representation.
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15 Nov, 2024 by Stephen hunt
They never did anything for my case. Ride out Statute of limits instead of paying these sharks
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18 Jan, 2025 by N m
I originally hired Sean because a plumbing company had caused structural damages to floor joists during a renovation and they would not accept responsibility. What happened instead was Sean transferred me to Joe and the lawsuit lasted 2 1/2 years. We ended up going to arbitration and I won all damages but zero lawyers fees.
Incredibly frustrating experience.
I wouldn’t hire nor recommend them.
I regret hiring Sean and Joe.
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27 Dec, 2024 by Brian c
I worked with Will Reingold, Jr for my divorce, who was recommended to me by a friend. He was friendly and knowledgeable for a process that is painful for most. The guy always works and never seems to miss a beat. He is always on top of it and prioritizes to get things done/executed like you're his only client. He made efforts to resolve more complicated challenges like parental rights of embryos even though it's not his wheelhouse.
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29 May, 2024 by Cheryl nodland
I'd like to thank William Reingold for beautifully handling my daughter's divorce appeal case. His professionalism, legal knowledge and compassion brought a horrible situation to a successful end. We both highly recommend Mr. Reingold.
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11 Jul, 2024 by Lifen chen
I have been with Max Soi nearly ten years, and have had the best experience since. He is incredibly professional, detailed, thorough, and knowledgeable. He has helped me across numerous events and assisted from a range of topics. I could not recommend a better person best suited to assist you than Max Soi. Thank you!
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20 May, 2024 by C. brooks
Attorney Max Soi and the Legal Team at Integrity Law Group provided outstanding legal services for a recent Eviction Action. Attorney Soi has an extensive background in Landlord Tenant disputes in King County. Through the expertise provided by Attorney Soi and his firm we were successful in the resolution of our tenant eviction. The eviction process is confusing and difficult to navigate and can be extremely costly without an attorney knowledgeable about the law and required processes and procedures. Do not go it alone - we are extremely appreciative of Attorney Max Soi and Integrity Law Group and highly recommend their services.
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12 Apr, 2024 by Levere searles
One of the best law firms in the Seattle area. I needed a lawyer to help me and integrity law group got me the relief I needed. Hopefully I would never be in another situation where I need a family lawyer but if I do integrity would be my first option.
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12 Feb, 2025 by Hajia lami
Amsale Aberra Law PLLC is the best in the Pacific Northwest, effective communication and genuine care for the client's situation, ability to achieve positive results, and consistent availability to answer questions, She helped me Win my Immigration Case and I will recommend her always.
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03 Dec, 2024 by Jony alem
Amsale Aberra law PLLC is one of the best law firm in Seattle .
In 2019 I had a very tough immigration case and I hired another law firm and it didn’t go well, I spend more than 3k and finally my case got denied due to the lawyer’s irresponsible action. A few months later a friends of mine suggested to contact Amsale’s law firm. She was very kind, positive , thoughtful and a good listener. She listened the entire issue with the previous law firm, and what surprised me was her focus to resolve the problem instead of nailing down.
After a brief discussion and consultation, I hired her to represent me the same case which I got denied previously.
It took her shorter time comparing with the previous lawyer and successfully won my case. Not only that, through the entire process of my case with Amsale I was getting an update based on the information timeframe of each steps from immigration office.
The best part of her consultation, if she thinks your case doesn’t worse to continue, she doesn’t wanna waste your money! This is how she does business !
I will always refer to Amsale law firm for friend and family because she is trustworthy!
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17 Nov, 2024 by Stephanie
I’ve referred a number of people to the Marshall Defense Firm over the years and, without exception, their feedback concerning the firm’s service has been exceptional. The terms I hear consistently are expert, professional, intelligent, sensitive and caring. Honestly, it’s a combination of traits which I see rarely see in law firms I deal with. What a huge compliment to the firm’s legal and life philosophy.
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25 Dec, 2023 by Caroll
I hired Carol Vaughn to help with a particularly difficult probate case. She was not only competent but also settled the matter in an expeditious manner. I highly recommend her!
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13 Dec, 2007 by Anonymous
There have been very few times in my life where I have needed an attorney. The occasion upon which I needed Ann's assistance, I found to be pleasent in light of the circumstances. Ann was responsive, communicative, and exceeded my expectations in handling the situation.
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01 Jul, 2022 by Bruce
Michelle has represented me over the last year, and made the process of become my mother's guardian very smooth. Michelle always kept me aware of the next steps, and there were no surprises. I am 100% satisfied with her representation.
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06 Jun, 2007 by Anonymous
My husband and I are extremely pleased with the estate planning work that Heidi Orr provided to us. Heidi is very professional, confident, knowledgeable and personable. She was able to answer all of our questions and concerns regarding our estate plan. I would HIGHLY recommend Heidi to others.
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21 Mar, 2024 by Josh
Tom and Meredith were the best people imaginable to help with my mother's estate. Walked me through the whole process in a caring and personal way. No one else I'd rather have represent me or my mother's estate. One of these days I'm going to stop procrastinating and get my estate planning done and know exactly who to go to.
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06 Oct, 2022 by Pitchaya phapanon
Great law firm for my state planning needs.
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08 Nov, 2021 by Mstislav seligman
01 Aug, 2024 by David fingerhut
Sam is an excellent real estate lawyer and someone you definitely want in your corner when negotiating complex real estate transactions or disputing a contract.
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13 Mar, 2024 by Nikki newby
01 Nov, 2023 by Natalie cielle
I had a wonderful experience with Ms. Woolery. She is extremely well-versed in law, bright, helpful, responsive, thoughtful, and kind. In other words, exactly what you need in a family law attorney!
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06 Dec, 2024 by Preston hoxie
I received the services I paid for. The team was very responsive every step of the way. If I need future legal services I will use them again.
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18 Nov, 2024 by Marie broten
I contacted Zuanich Law about 22 months ago to get my gun rights back. We covered all the pertinent information they needed to start the case. I paid the retainer and left them to do what they needed to do without my interruptions. After several months I hadn’t heard anything, I was worried so I contacted them to see what the progress was. They filed a motion in my county, it was review and denied as there was a law change prior to their filing. Brian Zuanich talked to me in depth about refiling in Pierce County as that is where my initial felony was signed. Again I left them alone to file the motions and hoping this would happen. Again several months later, I was thinking this was a lost cause then I received an email from their office telling me that the Courts signed the motion to restore the right to own and possess a firearm in Washington State. Yeah!! I was really surprised and happy. It took longer than I thought it would but they stayed the course. There were other options I could have taken if this motion was denied as well but Brian Zuanich knew what he needed to do and how to move forward. That’s the important thing with you hire an attorney, make sure they know the system for the type of law you need to have help with. Yes, I am very satisfied with their office and will recommend them everytime!
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15 Nov, 2024 by Dane cook
Mister Brian Zuanich and his paralegal Kristy were an integral part of my civil rights restoration. Without sharing too many personal details of my case, I can say I had a rather unique complication with my process involving a move between Washington and Oregon that the Zuanich team were able to help me navigate and understand. Legalities between states and documents from one state to another are not always equal. For myself, and most others I'd wager, these are complicated matters and were something that I personally wasn't too knowledgeable of.
The Zuanich law team, however, clearly laid out what options I could take and, after choosing what to do, along the way ensured to keep me informed and give me a clear understanding of what needed to be done, as well as what parts I could do to make things smoother in the process. Their know-how in what needed to be done got the matter resolved. I would recommend their services to anyone attempting to restore their civil / firearm rights in Washington or Oregon.
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12 Aug, 2023 by Nora crisera
15 Oct, 2022 by Anonymous
Hired him. $600 per hour with no office. Legal assistant committed suicide in 2022. Thinks client is ignorant.
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25 Feb, 2021 by Andy callis
We have referred numerous clients to Nelson Boyd over the years. They are prompt, courteous, empathic, and battle to the end for their clients. Its no surprise that they have won multiple industry acknowledgements. I highly recommend them as they truly care for their clients’ interest first.
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11 Oct, 2024 by Tura cevik
14 Aug, 2024 by Karen powers
I have trusted Nancy Cahill with my real estate and estate planning for 40 years. She is a great listener and good at explaining the nuances of legal documents. I am always reassured that she has my best interest in mind.
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16 Nov, 2023 by Ramon coss y leon
Gretchen and the rest of her team were great.
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01 Aug, 2024 by David fingerhut
Sam is an excellent real estate lawyer and someone you definitely want in your corner when negotiating complex real estate transactions or disputing a contract.
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13 Mar, 2024 by Nikki newby
01 Nov, 2023 by Natalie cielle
I had a wonderful experience with Ms. Woolery. She is extremely well-versed in law, bright, helpful, responsive, thoughtful, and kind. In other words, exactly what you need in a family law attorney!
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26 Jan, 2025 by Don haselwood
Just Amazing
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18 Oct, 2024 by A p
No body help
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26 May, 2024 by Peyton mannin
06 Dec, 2024 by Preston hoxie
I received the services I paid for. The team was very responsive every step of the way. If I need future legal services I will use them again.
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18 Nov, 2024 by Marie broten
I contacted Zuanich Law about 22 months ago to get my gun rights back. We covered all the pertinent information they needed to start the case. I paid the retainer and left them to do what they needed to do without my interruptions. After several months I hadn’t heard anything, I was worried so I contacted them to see what the progress was. They filed a motion in my county, it was review and denied as there was a law change prior to their filing. Brian Zuanich talked to me in depth about refiling in Pierce County as that is where my initial felony was signed. Again I left them alone to file the motions and hoping this would happen. Again several months later, I was thinking this was a lost cause then I received an email from their office telling me that the Courts signed the motion to restore the right to own and possess a firearm in Washington State. Yeah!! I was really surprised and happy. It took longer than I thought it would but they stayed the course. There were other options I could have taken if this motion was denied as well but Brian Zuanich knew what he needed to do and how to move forward. That’s the important thing with you hire an attorney, make sure they know the system for the type of law you need to have help with. Yes, I am very satisfied with their office and will recommend them everytime!
Read more
15 Nov, 2024 by Dane cook
Mister Brian Zuanich and his paralegal Kristy were an integral part of my civil rights restoration. Without sharing too many personal details of my case, I can say I had a rather unique complication with my process involving a move between Washington and Oregon that the Zuanich team were able to help me navigate and understand. Legalities between states and documents from one state to another are not always equal. For myself, and most others I'd wager, these are complicated matters and were something that I personally wasn't too knowledgeable of.
The Zuanich law team, however, clearly laid out what options I could take and, after choosing what to do, along the way ensured to keep me informed and give me a clear understanding of what needed to be done, as well as what parts I could do to make things smoother in the process. Their know-how in what needed to be done got the matter resolved. I would recommend their services to anyone attempting to restore their civil / firearm rights in Washington or Oregon.
Read more
01 Aug, 2024 by David fingerhut
Sam is an excellent real estate lawyer and someone you definitely want in your corner when negotiating complex real estate transactions or disputing a contract.
Read more
13 Mar, 2024 by Nikki newby
01 Nov, 2023 by Natalie cielle
I had a wonderful experience with Ms. Woolery. She is extremely well-versed in law, bright, helpful, responsive, thoughtful, and kind. In other words, exactly what you need in a family law attorney!
Read more
24 Sep, 2024 by Cesia quintanilla
23 Sep, 2024 by Britni russo
I wanted to share that the experience I had with the view ridge law- more specifiacally with the attorny Elaina T. was far from well. I had to end my session with her early and request my money back. I paid her to help me and instead she spent time telling me why I couldnt get what I wanted and defending the other party. I also found out she did not read all the paperwork I sent in which she claimed was irrelevant to the case which was entirely unture. I was shocked at the lack of professionalism and care that was given to me. Our meeting was not recorded so I was not able to prove that way she was speaking to me to her superiors. The only positive that came from this was that the office did refund me my money. I lost out on a very timely situation due to their lack of attention.
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19 Sep, 2024 by Dennis k
24 Sep, 2024 by Cesia quintanilla
23 Sep, 2024 by Britni russo
I wanted to share that the experience I had with the view ridge law- more specifiacally with the attorny Elaina T. was far from well. I had to end my session with her early and request my money back. I paid her to help me and instead she spent time telling me why I couldnt get what I wanted and defending the other party. I also found out she did not read all the paperwork I sent in which she claimed was irrelevant to the case which was entirely unture. I was shocked at the lack of professionalism and care that was given to me. Our meeting was not recorded so I was not able to prove that way she was speaking to me to her superiors. The only positive that came from this was that the office did refund me my money. I lost out on a very timely situation due to their lack of attention.
Read more
19 Sep, 2024 by Dennis k
30 Jan, 2024 by Sam jones
We are contemplating a move back to Washington state where we lived for many years. Without proper estate planning we would potentially be subject to the Washington estate tax. n our initial contacts with the firm, we clearly identified that we were residents in another state. We were instructed to provide our detailed financial picture as well as our current estate planning documents which we provided promptly and told that our information would be forwarded to the attorneys for evaluation. The following is the email response.
“Thank you for filling out and returning your Questionnaire.
I will forward your information to our attorneys for review. Once they have completed their review, I will be back in touch with you regarding a quote for services and the next steps for scheduling.”
Well over a month went by with no word back from STIB. I finally contacted them by email requesting a status update. Within minutes, I received the following reply.
“Thank you very much for contacting our firm. Unfortunately, we are not able to take on your case. Our firm does not advise out-of-state residents on tax issues. Our focus is estate planning and long term care planning.”
The STIB website clearly tax issues as part of estate planning. I also found no restrictions on attorneys in Washington state providing consultation to out-of-state residents considering residency in Washington.
Needless to say, I was astounded by what I consider to extremely poor communication and timely follow-up. If it is indeed not their policy to advise out-of-state residents on tax issues, I would have expected to have been informed of that policy up front thus saving us the time of compiling and sending detailed and confidential financial and estate planning information. In my opinion, this represents incompetent and totally unprofessional behavior.
Read more
27 Jan, 2024 by Michelle tanco
As someone who has no experience with wills or lawyers and doesn’t understand the process, this was a bad fit. It’s quite possible that if you know what to ask or what’s happening that they will be great for you, but for me I ended up with a $120 invoice for two emails I didn’t understand what to do with, going to look for someone else to help us setup out family will.
Read more
18 Jul, 2023 by Michael o'connell
27 Jan, 2025 by Ryan riggins
This company was retained to assist someone trying to steal my land. They clearly have a losing case. This firm has delayed every email and settlement offer presented to them. They takes weeks or months to respond to calls and emails if at all. It is clear they are doing this to delay the process to rack fees for their clients. Read all the horrible reviews about this firm online and how they treat their own clients and opposing counsel offering them more than generous settlements. We have 7 attorneys and have never experienced this kind of unprofessionalism. Even our property insirance company and the firm retained said this is the most unprofessional communication ever. All they have to do is agree to a settlement but they delay the process to rack of trial fees and do not communicate with clients or opposing counsel. Read all the horrible reviews before hiring these people.
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03 Jan, 2025 by Mitch keszler
I retained their services for help with business contracts, and business partner discussions. They were extremely prompt, thorough, and helped me succeed with positive outcomes. I first worked with Imants, then mostly with Phil Neale. Phil was very easy to get a hold of, and constantly updated me on progress. Every time I called in, he either answered the call right away, or called back very shortly afterwards. Highly recommend, and we will retain their services when needed again in the future!
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02 Jan, 2025 by Erin galeno
We greatly appreciate the practical and responsive legal support that we receive from Imants and the entire legal team at Holmquist & Gardiner PLLC.
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20 Jun, 2024 by Starseed
24 May, 2024 by Greg p
Leading international law firm. Best places to work award for decades
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22 May, 2024 by Jaz hindu
The views on the 48th floor is so breathtaking very peaceful work environment with the catering team♥️
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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.
