Lawyers map
>459
experienced lawyers
Filter by
14 May, 2021 by Sherene
I inquired for his services and not even a courtesy reply if he wasnt interested in case.
Read more
30 Nov, 2020 by David
Jeffrey has won several cases for me and my family i would recommend him again to my friends.
Read more
15 Aug, 2020 by Abigail
Wow, if I could give Mr. Mayfield 100 stars I would. He exceeded my expectations walked me through this delicate path to win primary custody of my son. He was always answered my emails for questions I had in a timely manner. He was always caring and knowledgeable in his answers. He’s no push over to whoever you’re against! He will stand up for you. He’s very Intelligent intelligent. He studies his cases and knows what to put in front of a judge for your favor. He has great and fair prices unlike other lawyers (that will tell you everything you want to hear take your money and treat you like you don’t exist) Mr. mayfield is the opposite!! You are a valued client to him! And He treats your case sensitive. I wish I had more words to describe my experience. There was no down part in hiring him. He did NOT disappoint me in any way. I’m beyond grateful for the work, time, and CARE he put in my case. Thank you, Mr. Mayfield!! I pray God will bless you 100 folds for your amazing work!! You went above and beyond for me and my case. Thank you SOOOOOOOOOOOO much! I finally have primary custody of my son!!!! Yay!
Read more
12 Jul, 2024 by Harlan burk
Got me out of a sticky situation and was always very responsive to my calls. Also, Bill was a bulldog in the courtroom.
Read more
07 Jun, 2024 by Ben guy
This man made it happen... Could not be more appreciative for his service.. in new Mexico he would be a high powered attorney
Read more
28 Mar, 2024 by Christian counterman
Amazing Defense Attorney. He made sure I honestly got the best possible scenario.
Read more
12 Nov, 2020 by Kryslyn burks
Elliott Burdette and his team assisted us with our estate planning needs earlier this year. We were extremely pleased with their responsiveness, patience and guidance in helping us understand our options and advising us how best to handle our affairs. Additionally, we did this all during COVID-19 and he and his team were verying accomodating and respectful of social distancing requirements. We would highly recommend him!
Read more
18 Oct, 2019 by Robin tolbert
Elliott took time answering all of our questions and comments. It was a good experience.
Read more
19 Dec, 2018 by Joyce collie
Mr. Burdette helped my husband and me understand the difference between a will and a living trust. He answered all our questions-and we had a lot of them! We were especially pleased with the prompt service we received and we are very appreciative of Elliott's clever ideas to help us accomplish our estate planning goals.We would recommend him highly.
Read more
25 Apr, 2024 by Alfred white
I recommend Ms Hafner for all my real estate needs.
Read more
02 Apr, 2024 by Jennifer baumann
Great attorney, thank you!!!
Read more
07 Mar, 2024 by Jasmin valdez
I came to Me. Barrera after several recommendations from other paralegals whom stated he was a good well known aggressive attorney. Which is not what I had a privilege to witness. When I hired Mr. Barrera he came off very strong which I was okay with due to my delicate case. The first time I called his office it was easy getting a one on one with him and he was able to see me right away, but once contracts were signed and fees were paid I was not able to meet with him to discuss my case. I made several attempts to go into his office so we could go over my case and he was never available. When he would call me and we would go over my case through the phone I would ask what his method would be to win my case or make the attempt to do so and none of that was applied during court when going up against the judge. I was so disappointed in my representation and signed papers that were not explained to me well despite my emotional distress due to my sensitive case. He may have been a great attorney once upon a time but this is no longer the case. I had to waste money, time, and most importantly almost lost someone so dear to me had i kept him as my representative. I hope this will help other families make a better decision when looking for someone to have as guidance especially during such delicate matters.
Read more
10 Feb, 2025 by Kelly sullivan
11 Jul, 2024 by Brittany foster
Ha!
Read more
24 Oct, 2023 by Xavier burgess
23 Dec, 2024 by Brandalyn haggerty
My gratitude goes beyond words for Sean and this law firm. I was treated with empathy, respect and transparency which helped make a difficult process be much more manageable. Throughout this journey, Sean was professional and successful in helping me to help me find peace in a such a heart wrenching experience. I highly recommend this law firm and their amazing staff that assisted!
Read more
15 Oct, 2024 by Shamus
Scams, manipulates and then changed the terms of my mediation. Clearly can't mediate in an unbiased manner. Definitely avoid using
Read more
22 Apr, 2024 by Kacie miller
Professional and very helpful.
Read more
13 Aug, 2023 by Anonymous
We had George on our case for 2 years and he accomplished absolutely nothing! He always had an excuse for why he didn't return calls or respond to emails from the opposing Attorney, One of the most aggravating experiences I have ever had. Would not recommend!!
Read more
15 Mar, 2021 by Josh
I had an unfortunate incident where I found myself needing legal help. From the first time I spoke with Mr Carroll it was very clear that he sincerely wanted the best for me and my family and made it clear he would do whatever was needed to achieve that goal. He was very receptive to my needs and very knowledgeable on what needed to be done. Mr Carroll kept me updated every step of the way. I was and I still am VERY impressed with the help he provided!!
Read more
07 Aug, 2017 by Phyllis and sam
George Carroll was involved in our recent contested custody case. His knowledge of the law and his experience in the courtroom allowed him to dominate opposing counsel. Our case was extremely complex and had issues that involved both civil and criminal in multiple counties. He was able to coordinate it all and his expertise allowed the timing to all come together perfectly. He was a professional at all times, always available to give counsel and advice. Through the most stressful year of our lives he kept us calm and was the voice of reason when nothing else seemed to make sense or be even remotely reasonable. He's honest and ethical and it was glaringly apparent in the courtroom when others became dishonest and seemed to have no moral compass. His strategy during the trial unfolded beautifully and because he and Rebecca Jaroszewski were so well prepared we won our case. His drive, commitment to the case, commitment to honesty and justice is beyond impressive. He stood with us as we fought the fight of our lives and brought about justice. We won a hard fought case because of him, Rebecca Jaroszewski and their entire office. We would recommend him or anyone with Carroll and Hinajosa to you. The entire office works together to bring about the best possible result. We were given honest counsel throughout and given choices that would allow us to control fees and feel in total control of our case, yet felt comfort knowing we were in experienced legal hands.
Read more
09 Apr, 2022 by Anonymous
She was very limited in the information provided for and too focused on scheduling a paid consultation. It felt like I was speaking to a salesperson rather than someone focused on my situation.
Read more
10 Jan, 2020 by Dora
Ms. Lamar's knowledge was a blessing throughout my divorce. She answered all my questions through out the journey (and there were many). She impressed me with her professionalism both leading to the trial and during the trial. She helped me to remain calm and feel very prepared for that day. I would not hesitate to recommend her services to anyone.
Read more
05 Dec, 2019 by Anonymous
She is very non-responsive. Before hiring her, I was able to reach her almost instantly even on weekends to answer my questions. After hiring her, none of my emails were responded to. Took her almost 3 months to make any sort of progress in my case despite the fact that all the information she needed to pursue the case were provided to her immediately. I would not hire her or recommend her to anyone. I wish I had done my due diligence before paying her.
Read more
02 Oct, 2024 by Eric martinez
David was available to answer all my questions and concerns. A very professional attorney that solved my issue quickly and efficiently. Highly recommend!
Read more
19 Jun, 2024 by Mika celestial
David Enos was very efficient and helpful in handling my case. Always willing to answer any questions I had in a timely manner.
Read more
17 Feb, 2024 by John walters
Very highly recommended. Thank you Mr David Enos for the awesome representation
Read more
05 Feb, 2024 by Lawrence latham
25 Aug, 2023 by Only veronica
The law practice with the worse lawyers in texas. Third tear lawyer that barely scrapped the bar is the only thing you are going to find in this sad law firm. Avoid at all cost
Read more
09 Jun, 2023 by Judith nees
The best law firm
Read more
20 Dec, 2023 by Holly kinney
16 Aug, 2023 by Cheri dennis
Great attorney and will exceed your expectations!
Read more
23 Aug, 2022 by Ramon de jesus acuã±a herrera
Excelente información para poder llegar sin contratiempos al lugar referido lo recomiendo .
Read more
11 Jan, 2025 by Roxanne barlow
I had a highly concerning experience with the attorney Ty Sheehan He attempted to pressure me into signing documents for $25,000 to ‘keep things quiet,’ which I believe is unethical and potentially illegal. When I refused, he threatened to involve law enforcement. This behavior felt unprofessional and intimidating, and I cannot recommend his services to others
Read more
29 Sep, 2023 by Seth prescott
I have worked with several of the attorneys here and they are all outstanding!
Read more
19 Feb, 2020 by Robert nelson
11 Jan, 2025 by Roxanne barlow
I had a highly concerning experience with the attorney Ty Sheehan He attempted to pressure me into signing documents for $25,000 to ‘keep things quiet,’ which I believe is unethical and potentially illegal. When I refused, he threatened to involve law enforcement. This behavior felt unprofessional and intimidating, and I cannot recommend his services to others
Read more
29 Sep, 2023 by Seth prescott
I have worked with several of the attorneys here and they are all outstanding!
Read more
19 Feb, 2020 by Robert nelson
21 Apr, 2024 by Lanora coats
Mr John was very friendly and very respectful but I can't afford him
Read more
10 Apr, 2024 by Patrick lee
John is great.. does a terrific job and is easy to work with
Read more
17 Feb, 2022 by Troy lopez
02 Feb, 2024 by Tri nguyen
Receptionist was so rude I never wanna work with a law firm like this.
Read more
18 Sep, 2019 by Edwin kumar
28 Jul, 2019 by Laura
Ellen never took any action toward resolution .
Her philosophical approach did nothing to resolve my case. I called for an update and Ellen was at a conference on how to take a deposition....really, instead of working on my case she is "learning how to take a deposition?"
Communication was poor and the only time I received any communication was an invoice which usually had double billing, one for her work or philosophies and her mentor or a Christmas card which did nothing toward case resolution . I had to bring the double billing to the attention of Burdette and Rice in order to receive restitution. She and her mentor" could not wrap their heads around an accounting" but they had no issue double billing. It is her job to "get her head around the accounting". When I asked for an update on a promised letter from her, she had forgotten and said I was now on her radar....but every month when she prepares her bill.....I AM ON HER RADAR. Money driven not results driven.
I hired an accomplished Austin, Tx Litigator who immediately hired a forensic accountant to dissect the accounting. This attorney is aggressive and takes steps to accomplish our goal, he files motions to compel and issues subpoenas for discovery etc, He DOES something to conclude the case.
Would not recommend Ellen who is notvresults driven but money driven.
Read more
30 Jan, 2025 by Jeanette sims
BEWARE !! Waiting on a case settlement since 2018. I get a call from central office of administrative and filed current paperwork. Stated settlement in December 2024. No one is returning calls and for me I 'm done with these scammers . God will deal with this injustice!!
Read more
24 Jan, 2025 by Cherie bettencourt
My case has been settled, however I have not received my money. When you call nobody returns calls. Very unprofessional. DO NOT USE THIS LAW FIRM!
Read more
23 Jan, 2025 by Mawgraw (mk1mod0)
I am not sure how to rate this firm, or if they even read these reviews. I have called, sent emails, and attempted to message them on their website, and not received any response beyond "I will send a message to our legal team", which is starting to feel like a way of passing the buck. I realize that they have many clients to manage in the 3M class action, the lack of professionalism is not a good sign.
Read more
11 Oct, 2024 by Justina bruzgulytė
27 Oct, 2023 by Kayla scott
Complete JOKE! They filed suit without our permission. They do not communicate at all. They do not follow directions. And they lie! Horrible service. Do not use them unless you want your situation to get worse.
Read more
24 Oct, 2023 by David pena
Did not show up to court. Lost all our paperwork and emailed copies 3 times. Resending not a big deal but annoying. Communication through out the whole process was horrible. Now we lost the case and it's very hard to over turn. He has promised to return our money in payments. First check was denied by the bank. And now he says I forgot. I have the emails to prove it.
Read more
01 Nov, 2024 by Rob
Hiring Nicholas Saranto was a terrible decision. I paid him $1,750 as a retainer, trusting he would represent me as agreed. Instead, he did almost nothing to move my case forward. Key filings like the motion to dismiss and countersuit were never submitted, despite his repeated assurances. In the end,I had to draft and file these documents myself—something no paying client should ever have to do.
To make matters worse, Mr. Saranto attempted to charge me an additional $1,155 for a plane ticket to attend a service hearing, claiming he would be out of town trick-or-treating with his niece. The hearing date was known since the start of his representation, yet he thought it was acceptable to stick me with this unethical charge. These fees weren’t part of our agreement and felt like a blatant attempt to squeeze me for more money.
Finally, just two days before the service hearing, he withdrew as my attorney, abandoning me when I needed representation the most. This was both unprofessional and unethical, especially considering I had paid him for work he never completed.
I am furious with how I was treated and feel completely taken advantage of. If you’re considering hiring Mr. Saranto, save yourself the money, stress, and disappointment. Look elsewhere—you deserve better.
Read more
31 Oct, 2023 by Anonymous
Mr. Sarantos does indeed come off as someone that cares and is the right guy. Don't be tricked. I will attest to my personal experience, one that I still am dealing with.
2 weeks ago I consulted. On 10/24 I paid $1000 for just a demand letter for a denied $20k claim against my carrier that I intend to take to small claims. I am new father, a student, fighting cancer, and have a full time job. I got weaseled by my renters insurance on some bs after I had my home invaded and was robbed of almost everything of value. Due to the loss I have had to drop two classes and probably will drop the others to save my gpa because the situation got me very far behind and without any electronics to do online coursework. He knew this and after receiving payment has gone radio silent ***except when I called off my friends number , he answered , asked me if I had given him the loss inventory and some contact info that had already sat in his inbox for 4-5 days. He said he was on it and has gone back to zero communication(no text, email, or phone call back).
Taking money with intention of not rendering service or with the intention and delivering this quality of service is just wrong and why I give one star.
Read more
18 Aug, 2023 by Josh
Nick is everything you’d hope to find in a lawyer. I couldn’t be more thankful & blessed for all he did for me & my civil litigation case.
Read more
14 Jul, 2022 by Anonymous
He was paid the retainer fee to settle an estate. I waited over 6 months, with nothing being filed at the courthouse (I kept a check on that). I called several times to get updates, but never had a call returned. His secretary always said he was busy with another client, or on the phone with one. We had to ask to get our retainer fee back, and eventually did. We hired another lawyer who got the ball rolling as soon as he was paid his retainer fee. The estate was settled in a timely manner.
Read more
10 May, 2021 by Anonymous
Steve seemed to have a have a plan for my case and I paid him a retainer. However in one month he didn't do any work on my case. He didn't respond to emails, phone calls, or text messages until I asked for my money back. I'm still waiting to see my refund. I would not recommend him.
Read more
08 May, 2020 by David
I was adverse to Stephen in a highly contentious case for about 2 years. I found him to be knowledgeable and ethical in defending his client. He did what he said he would do and was reliable. He did what was necessary to defend his client and appropriately assessed the risks and benefits of his various litigation options. I would recommend Stephen to my defense clients.
Read more
09 Aug, 2013 by Deborah
she was court appointed for my fathers estate and literally took a 2M estate down to nuts and bolts. when she realized what poor condition she had gotten the estate in she bailed and the incompetent judge let her. she did such a poor job she didn't even argue when I asked the judge to stop payment on her fees.
Read more
11 Jun, 2011 by Anonymous
I retained Sharon Gardner to represent me in a trust probate matter here in Houston with respect to obtaining a distribution. I was very unhappy with her services and frankly believe that she violated ethics and the attorney-client priviledge in my case. I found Sharon Gardner to NOT to be trustworthy.
Read more
30 Sep, 2010 by Becky
Sharon Gardner stopped an unneeded guardianship on my uncle and prosecution on me due to untruths that went on for 1.5 years. Sharon turned this nightmare in the courts, which included 4 other lawyers, all seeking huge fees, right side up, in 2.2 months. Sharon held everyone's feet to the fire, and had to do the job by herself. Her integrity is impeccable. Shockingly, the system was upside down for us, until Sharon Gardner arrived, and thank goodness she left no stone unturned. The great lawyers ARE still around. She is worth her fees!
Read more
22 Jun, 2016 by Anonymous
I have to assume the other review was written by an employee or someone with a vested interest in the practice....because our family's experience was very different. After paying $3500 for services we were unable to get in touch with Ms Willie. Calls were never returned and we were always told she was out of the office. Sporadically she would re-surface out of nowhere with some new information on our case. Clearly when dealing with grieving family members this is not the experience anyone hopes for. Recently after not hearing from her all 2016 going back into 2015, she contacted us and when questioned about her disappearance we were told her mother was ill and she had to attend to her. Obviously, we wish nothing bad on her or her family, however what does that have to do with anything?? If that story is true there is a PROFESSIONAL way to handle that by reaching out to your current clients and making them at least aware of your inability to provide the services you have been PAID to do. It all seems to convenient, especially considering the fact that our family member whose estate is the topic of discussion is our deceased mother. Needless to say we regret ever approaching Ms Willie. I can't in good conscience recommend her to anyone in a similar situation because dealing with her will undoubtedly add to the emotional toll that these situations inherently bring. I advise anyone who will listen to stay clear and pick a more professional and seasoned attorney with more experience in estate planning. All we wanted and still want to do was take over control of our mother's home and for whatever reason, TWO YEARS LATER, we are still stuck in limbo smh.
Read more
12 Mar, 2012 by Kathy
Mrs. Willie has always returned my call in a timely manner. Usually within a day or 2. She discusses your options and helps you decide which is best for your situation. It is not all about getting as much as she can get from you. I like her honesty, her empathy, her demeanor, her advise and I will call on her each time I need legal help.
Read more
16 Dec, 2024 by Cedric mccoy
I usually don't write reviews but this man has to be the rudest attorney I ever came across. I was trying to see if he is in the field of law that I need he ask me questions but then cut me off and told me to go find a lawyer and hung up on me. Sir I don't know what is going on in your personal life but maybe you should seek help, no one should be this rude. There is obviously some deeper issues that you are dealing with
Read more
02 Jul, 2024 by Jae woodwork
21 Nov, 2023 by Mentoria cunningham,
This man is unprofessional he is all about taking your money. I repeat, do not hire him it's not worth the headache. You will be stressed out dealing with this person. communication "off" he likes to brush you off when you are asking him questions about your case. It's sad because he doesn't know much about your case because he doesn't look into it like he should. He will send you all your information for you to review it yourself. Shows up to court late and doesn't fight for you just setting back waiting on what the DA is going to do. I asked for a refund half my money back he agreed to it then turned around and told me he isn't going to pay me anything back.
Read more
09 May, 2022 by Anonymous
Someone recommended Jack Hales to me when I needed some deeds transferred. Mr. Hales did eventually get the transfers done, but the deeds he originally sent me to sign and have notarized did not even get grantor's name right -- as though they had been largely cut and pasted from unrelated deeds. In addition, an associated affidavit needed to be updated with recent events, but in doing so Mr. Hales also altered facts which were correct in the original affidavit and which had nothing to do with the needed updates. Once those issues were straightened out, Mr. Hales emailed me that he would let me know when he got the paperwork back from me, but he did not. A week or so after I got FedEx confirmation that he had signed for the paperwork, I checked with him and he said (emailed) that all the deeds had been filed, including one which was filed electronically and thus should have been recorded pretty much immediately. When 10 days passed without any word I called the county clerk's office for the county which took electronic submissions, and they denied having received anything, so I called Mr. Hales -- had to leave a voice message -- about my call to the clerk's office. Mr. Hales did not return my call. A couple of days later when I finally got in touch with him, he insisted everything had been filed and made excuses entirely blaming the various counties. Skipping ahead (this review has gone on long enough) when the deeds finally where recorded I spoke again to the county clerk's office and got some specifics which didn't seem to fit what Mr. Hales had told me. When I confronted Mr. Hales with those specifics he gave me a different explanation than he had originally given me -- maybe true this time, maybe not, I don't know.
So, yes, the work got done, but I am disappointed in Mr. Hales.
Read more
11 Sep, 2024 by John
I met with attorney Trimble some time ago on a consultation and he was very dismissive and unsupportive.
Read more
10 Jun, 2024 by Anonymous
Michael cloud hit my car from behind at the intersection of Nelson Way and Pin Oak Dr around Katy area this June 6th around 5:10 pm. Right after the accident, he admitted it was all his fault for this accident and stated he would pay the repairing cost for my car with his own money instead of going through the insurance. By taking his driver licnese ID and his lawyer business card, I took his words for real and agreed that we didn't need to go through the insurance and he would pay the cost once I sent him the repairing quote. However, after I sent his the quote from Friday, he chose not to respond to my calls, texts and emails and have blocked my phone number. With such a dishonest behavior, I don't see any reason this dude shall be consulted or hired for any law service.
Read more
03 Oct, 2024 by Anonymous
Ryan Russo was assigned as my attorney for a DWI case in Collin County when he worked for Dunham and Jones and it was a very poor outcome! This was my 1st time in my life being in trouble with the law, but he seem to not take the case serious making snarky comments about the whole situation. He illustrated not to be prepared for a motion before the judge getting destroyed by a new asst DA in training, it was so bad the judge stopped him questioning the police and told the type of questions he shouldve been asking. I ended up having to go to jail, paying fines, being on probation for a 12 months with community service for a first offense DWI that didnt include an accident. In the plead deal the judge found an error in the paperwork that showed me going to jail for months and made the DA change it. In some of the classes i was required to attend, I talk to other offenders that said they were on their second DWI some with accidents and their attonery got them only probation. For $4000+ one would expect better representation for such a serious case as well as competences along with more compassion from their attorney for this life altering experience, Ryan was absolutely none of that; he was horrible and would steer clear of his represenation for lawyer in any situation!
Read more
Browse lawyers
Cities in Texas - Find a Lawyer Near Me
-
Houston
-
Dallas
-
Austin
-
San Antonio
-
Fort Worth
-
Plano
-
El Paso
-
Irving
-
Lubbock
-
The Woodlands
-
Arlington
-
Corpus Christi
-
Tyler
-
Spring
-
Richardson
-
Waco
-
Sugar Land
-
Beaumont
-
Frisco
-
McAllen
-
Amarillo
-
McKinney
-
Midland
-
Conroe
-
Denton
-
Katy
-
Edinburg
-
Addison
-
Brownsville
-
Laredo
-
Round Rock
-
Southlake
-
Bellaire
-
Galveston
-
Georgetown
-
Richmond
-
West Lake Hills
-
Longview
-
Abilene
-
Pearland
-
Texarkana
-
Bryan
-
Corp Christi
-
Carrollton
-
New Braunfels
-
Allen
-
Garland
-
San Angelo
-
Wichita Falls
-
Rockwall
-
Coppell
-
Grapevine
-
Odessa
-
League City
-
San Marcos
-
Flower Mound
-
Lewisville
-
Victoria
-
Bedford
-
Kingwood
-
Boerne
-
Temple
-
Cypress
-
Harlingen
-
Sherman
-
Waxahachie
-
Cedar Park
-
College Station
-
Friendswood
-
Humble
-
Kerrville
-
Weatherford
-
Colleyville
-
Angleton
-
Grand Prairie
-
Lufkin
-
Pasadena
-
Huntsville
-
Euless
-
Belton
-
Missouri City
-
Nacogdoches
-
Granbury
-
Mansfield
-
Seguin
-
Hurst
-
Keller
-
Killeen
Browse lawyers
Practice Areas in Texas
-
Business
-
Real Estate
-
Personal Injury
-
Criminal Defense
-
Litigation
-
Family Law
-
Estate Planning
-
Government
-
Intellectual Property
-
Probate
-
Consumer Protection
-
Immigration
-
Appeals
-
Tax
-
Debt Collection
-
Lawsuit / Dispute
-
Child Support
-
Insurance
-
Juvenile Law
-
Elder Law
-
Civil Rights
-
Mediation
-
Car Accident
-
Child Custody
-
Entertainment
-
Wrongful Death
-
Workers Compensation
-
Social Security & Disability
-
Medical Malpractice
-
Domestic Violence
-
Trusts
-
Divorce
-
Adoption
-
Bankruptcy
-
Federal Crime
-
Sex Crime
-
Financial Markets And Services
-
Class Action
-
Employment / Labor
-
DUI / DWI
-
Discrimination
-
Foreclosure
-
Drug Crime
-
Construction
-
Wrongful Termination
-
Sexual Harassment
-
Debt Settlement
-
Cannabis Law
-
Copyright Application
-
Admiralty / Maritime
-
Landlord & Tenant
-
Life Insurance
-
Credit Repair
-
Environmental Law
-
Education Law
-
Wills
Discover the ideal lawyer
You can search a lawyer by practice area, lawyer name, city, state, or ZIP code
FAQs
Questions? We have answers
What a Trusts Lawyer Can Do for You
A trusts lawyer specializes in creating and managing trusts, which are legal entities that allow individuals to transfer assets to beneficiaries while maintaining control over how and when those assets are distributed. Trusts are used for estate planning, asset protection, tax planning, and ensuring the financial security of loved ones. Trusts lawyers help clients choose the right type of trust for their needs, draft trust documents, and advise on the administration and management of trusts.
Whether you're planning to pass on your assets to your heirs, protect your wealth from creditors, or provide for a disabled family member, a trusts lawyer can help you establish a trust that meets your financial and personal goals.
When Should I Hire a Trusts Lawyer?
You should consider hiring a trusts lawyer in various situations, particularly when you're planning for the future distribution of your assets or protecting your wealth. Common reasons to hire a trusts lawyer include:
- Estate planning: If you want to ensure that your assets are distributed according to your wishes, a lawyer can help you create a revocable or irrevocable trust to avoid probate and provide for your heirs.
- Asset protection: If you want to protect your assets from creditors, lawsuits, or potential future liabilities, a lawyer can help you establish a trust to shield your wealth.
- Special needs planning: If you have a disabled family member, a lawyer can create a special needs trust to provide for their care without affecting their eligibility for government benefits.
- Tax planning: If you're looking to minimize estate taxes or manage tax liabilities, a lawyer can help you create tax-advantageous trusts, such as a credit shelter trust or charitable remainder trust.
- Charitable giving: If you want to leave a legacy through charitable donations, a lawyer can help you set up a charitable trust to ensure your donations are managed according to your wishes.
- Business succession planning: If you own a business and want to ensure a smooth transition of ownership, a lawyer can help you establish a trust to pass the business on to your heirs or chosen successors.
Hiring a trusts lawyer early in the estate planning process ensures that your assets are protected and your wishes are clearly documented, reducing the chances of disputes after your death.
What Does a Trusts Lawyer Do?
A trusts lawyer provides a variety of legal services to help individuals create, manage, and administer trusts. Their responsibilities often include:
- Drafting trust documents: Preparing the legal documents needed to create the trust, ensuring it is tailored to your specific goals and complies with state and federal laws.
- Choosing the right type of trust: Assisting clients in selecting the most appropriate type of trust for their needs, whether it's a revocable trust, irrevocable trust, living trust, or special needs trust.
- Trust administration: Guiding trustees through their legal responsibilities, including managing assets, making distributions to beneficiaries, and filing tax returns.
- Modifying or terminating trusts: Helping modify or terminate trusts if circumstances change, such as changes in tax laws, family situations, or personal preferences.
- Protecting beneficiaries' interests: Structuring trusts to protect the interests of beneficiaries, especially if there are concerns about financial management, disability, or dependency issues.
- Minimizing estate taxes: Assisting clients in structuring their trusts to minimize or avoid estate taxes, ensuring more of the estate passes to beneficiaries.
- Handling disputes: Mediating or representing clients in court if disputes arise among beneficiaries or between trustees and beneficiaries.
How Are Trusts Lawyers Paid?
Trusts lawyers typically charge for their services based on the complexity of the trust and the type of legal work involved. Common payment methods include:
- Flat fee: For drafting basic trusts, such as revocable living trusts or special needs trusts, many lawyers charge a flat fee. This can range from $1,000 to $5,000 or more, depending on the complexity of the trust.
- Hourly rate: For more complex trust planning, ongoing trust administration, or resolving disputes, some lawyers charge by the hour. Hourly rates typically range from $150 to $500 or more, depending on the lawyer’s experience and location.
- Retainer: For long-term trust administration or complex estate planning cases, some lawyers may require a retainer, an upfront payment that covers ongoing services.
- Contingency fee (rare): In rare cases, particularly in disputes involving the administration of a trust, lawyers may work on a contingency fee basis, getting paid only if they successfully recover funds or resolve a legal dispute in your favor.
Always discuss the fee structure with your lawyer during the initial consultation to understand the total cost of services.
How Much Does a Trusts Lawyer Cost?
The cost of hiring a trusts lawyer depends on the complexity of the trust, the lawyer’s experience, and the fee structure. General cost estimates include:
- Basic trust creation: For simple trusts, such as revocable living trusts, fees may range from $1,000 to $3,000.
- Complex trust creation: For sophisticated estate plans involving multiple trusts, tax planning strategies, or special needs considerations, legal fees may range from $5,000 to $10,000 or more.
- Trust administration: If you are serving as a trustee and need ongoing legal advice, hourly rates for trust administration can range from $150 to $500 or more.
- Dispute resolution: Costs for litigation or mediation in trust disputes may range from $5,000 to $50,000 or more, depending on the complexity of the case.
Be sure to get a detailed cost estimate from your lawyer during the consultation to ensure the services fit within your budget.
Top Questions to Ask a Trusts Lawyer
Before hiring a trusts lawyer, consider asking the following questions:
-
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.
