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17 May, 2017 by Iman
I highly recommend Ahmed Shaikh for Islamic inheritance and trust planning. He is extremely knowledgeable and was very patient with us as we asked him a myriad of questions. He was very generous with his time, and at no point did we feel rushed. He is also very thorough and professional and is open for us to call him with any questions or modifications. We asked for a quick turnaround, and he promptly delivered. Also, I must mention that Leslie Mills, Ahmed's legal assistant, went above and beyond to make the process easy for us - she went out of her way to come to the house on several occasions for our convenience. Thank you!
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12 Apr, 2016 by Anonymous
Mr.Shaikh was able to quickly and effectively move a fairly nasty dispute over inheritance through the court with minimal impact on me. I was so pleased to turn the emotionally upsetting matter over to him, and receive my settlement at the end! He kept me updated, followed my wishes, and advised me on the most prudent steps to take- all the while sparing me the headache and drama of the ordeal, so that I could remain focused on my life and family. I hope I never have to hire an attorney again, but if I did, I would not hesitate to contact Mr. Shaikh. Ahmed Shaikh and his kind assistant Leslie were extremely accommodating, professional, and compassionate; everything you would want in a law office.
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08 Oct, 2015 by Noha alshugairi
If you are an American Muslim and would like the peace of mind from knowing that your loved ones will have a clear Islamic Inheritance plan to follow, I highly recommend utilizing the services of Ahmed Shaikh. As a practicing Muslim who was lost between the Islamic and the Legal perspectives with regards to inheritance planning, I found Ahmed Shaikh to be be knowledgeable, thorough, and organized. He knows both perspectives very well and he was able to answer and address all of my concerns and questions. I definitely felt at peace once my inheritance planning was in place. I highly recommend his services.
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28 Aug, 2019 by Darla
Truly the best Lawyer I have ever encountered! We needed a Lawyer, we looked and researched Lawyer’s. We made an appointment, met with him and hired him right then. No more headaches for me. David took over and guided us. He is a both a good person and Lawyer. I highly recommend him.
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31 May, 2017 by Hector
I have worked closely with David for over 10 years. He is my “go to” guy when it comes to all matters involving real estate disputes, trust disputes and probate matters. I have referred him many clients and they have always been glad I did. David is not afraid to take on complicated and difficult matters. He’s sensitive to client’s concerns and is aggressive when he needs to be. Not only have I referred him to others, I have used him many times for my own personal legal matters that have come up from time to time.
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26 May, 2017 by Damon
I used David for a probate that involved the sale of real estate. True to his word, he advanced the costs and fees and helped me navigate the tricky tax and legal issues that arise in these complicated matters. David is a consummate professional who always looks out for the best interest of his clients. I highly recommend him.
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30 Nov, 2020 by B.g.
Ethical, conscientious, professional and knowledgeable. I can't say enough about Cathy Kim, she definitely does her job extremely well. Words alone can't express my gratitude for not only all of her diligent work, but for always going above and beyond. Cathy had to deal with several unscrupulous individuals on my behalf, and she had a big hand in saving my sanity. She often had to deal with me when I was an emotional mess, and she was able to calm me down and explain things in a manner that was always reassuring. She advised me of my fiduciary responsibilities as a Trustee and guided me through painful probate and litigation matters. I was very blessed to have Cathy represent me, and I will be forever grateful. You will not regret choosing her as your attorney, she is simply the best.
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16 Jan, 2014 by Barbara s.
I count it a great pleasure and privilege to express to others my experience with the Ernest Joon Kim Law Firm, and in particular the services rendered my family by Attorney Catherine Kim. I had just lost my dear sister and found myself experiencing for the very first time, the daunting process called Probate. Desperately seeking answers I discovered AVVO and submitted my concerns in hopes that someone would enlighten and assist me in my efforts. Attorney Ernest J. Kim responded with a full page summary addressing all my questions and concerns. I immediately felt that with an empathetic and understanding attorney as this, how could I go wrong with retaining their services. They were the fourth firm I had contacted, and the only ones that were not offended by my need to know and understand the Probate process so I could effectively provide what was required of me to the attorney representing me. I telephoned the firm and Ms. Catherine Kim responded. From our first encounter I felt very comfortable in discussing all the issues with Ms. Kim. Oftentimes I was overwhelmed with grief, the probate process, the difficulty in finding a genuine, caring attorney who was not too busy to answer my questions with courtesy, professionalism and patience. I could not have found a more skilled and adept attorney than Ms. Kim. She is knowledgeable, conscientious, courteous, trustworthy, kind, patient, and compassionate. She addressed all my concerns and the many questions plaguing me regarding this intimidating Probate process. She quieted me and guided me through all my anxiety. No amount of words can express my sincere and deepest gratitude for her support and assistance. Ms. Kim was always available to me and responded promptly to my telephone calls and emails. She was there to help me at every juncture going above and beyond the call for Probate services. I always felt at ease, burdens lightened and encouraged that I could do all that was required of me. As busy as Ms. Kim may have been, I never felt rushed off the telephone or that she was too busy to assist me in working through every issue. Rather, she patiently took the time to explain in laymen terms what I needed to know, ensuring that all concepts were clear, concise, and understandable, so that I would be in a position to make good informed decisions. Within only three days after retaining her services Ms. Kim represented me in court. She kept me informed and abreast of all court actions. She provided easy and understandable explanations of issues and provided legal counsel in all areas of concern to me, some even being outside of Probate. There is no doubt in my mind that these past two years of going through the probate process, the encouragement and support I received from Ms. Kim is immeasurable. She exudes integrity in all she does. Ms. Kim successfully brought my family through the probate process and we are very pleased with her services. She was upfront and truthful about all statutory fees and cost, and also offered us the option for a discounted rate. We highly esteem and recommend Ms. Kim to anyone requiring Estate Planning Services. I have also personally retained her to do my Will and Trust, and is recommending her to one of my good friends. Her services are outstanding and her work impeccable. Put your mind at ease and allow Ms. Kim the opportunity to service all your estate planning needs. She’s the best. Thank you Ms. Kim.
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05 Apr, 2014 by Michael
Did a family illness lead to a legal and financial nightmare--as though you had walked onto the stage of an absurdist play? And then, when you turned to a lot of professionals for help, they gave you the wrong advice or absurd decisions and then turned their backs on you? The Kim team to the rescue! In my case involving a family trust, they went to work immediately, with Mrs. Kim taking down my details by phone; they stayed in very close contact by both phone and email; they were able quickly to write the legal opinion I needed even better than I had imagined. Unlike another lawyer I had previously hired, the Kim team wasn't stumped by a trust with a provision somewhat different from the usual. They also have been clear on their fees. Only when you've felt utterly legally and financially helpless can you understand the value of what Mr. Ernest J Kim's team can do for you: the peace their competence, speed, attention to detail, and communication skills provide. They immediately understood my predicament and were thinking ahead; they were never hard to reach by phone or email. Only the word "excellent" suffices to describe my experience with Mr. Kim's team. [I have not been paid anything to write this review--it is MY pleasure to do so!]
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30 May, 2024 by Ahmed hussain
Maxine fought hard for me and won at every single milestone. She will aim for the things that are beneficial in the long run and not let you get stuck in the useless emotional drama that comes along in divorce. Highly collective & calm, professional, tactical and combative when needed. She had the strength to go and fight a case in another county with a top notch opposing attorney who unfortunately was a pathological liar with no ethics or character, driven solely by the pursuit of money who unsuccessfully tried to separate me from my son for almost 3 years by utilizing every loophole of the family law. I am grateful to Maxine and her assistant Leslie for the support they have provided and wish them the very best in their life!
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16 Apr, 2024 by Ann shin
Divorce was a very emotionally painful experience and I was often unable to make calm decisions on my own. She guided me through these situations with strength, calmness, and integrity at all times. Without her support, I would not have been able to overcome this difficult challenge. Because of her prompt responses and the steady stream of frank and calm advice you provided, I felt I could trust and accept whatever end result I got with her support. Before I hired her, it was difficult to trust my former attorney because he was slow to respond and seemed to be little more than a clerical messenger. Although I was not satisfied with the service I received from the former attorney, I was afraid of changing attorneys in the middle of the divorce process. But after meeting with her and interviewing, I immediately felt in my gut that this was the right person for the job and I am so glad I made the choice to change attorneys at that time. I would highly recommend her to anyone who needs solid help with family law.
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26 May, 2023 by Hamza k
Maxine saved my life, I had a bad experience with another lawyer and I moved to work with Maxine, she gives you reasonable prices with the best service ever. Thank you Maxine I really appreciate your business!
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30 May, 2024 by Ahmed hussain
Maxine fought hard for me and won at every single milestone. She will aim for the things that are beneficial in the long run and not let you get stuck in the useless emotional drama that comes along in divorce. Highly collective & calm, professional, tactical and combative when needed. She had the strength to go and fight a case in another county with a top notch opposing attorney who unfortunately was a pathological liar with no ethics or character, driven solely by the pursuit of money who unsuccessfully tried to separate me from my son for almost 3 years by utilizing every loophole of the family law. I am grateful to Maxine and her assistant Leslie for the support they have provided and wish them the very best in their life!
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16 Apr, 2024 by Ann shin
Divorce was a very emotionally painful experience and I was often unable to make calm decisions on my own. She guided me through these situations with strength, calmness, and integrity at all times. Without her support, I would not have been able to overcome this difficult challenge. Because of her prompt responses and the steady stream of frank and calm advice you provided, I felt I could trust and accept whatever end result I got with her support. Before I hired her, it was difficult to trust my former attorney because he was slow to respond and seemed to be little more than a clerical messenger. Although I was not satisfied with the service I received from the former attorney, I was afraid of changing attorneys in the middle of the divorce process. But after meeting with her and interviewing, I immediately felt in my gut that this was the right person for the job and I am so glad I made the choice to change attorneys at that time. I would highly recommend her to anyone who needs solid help with family law.
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26 May, 2023 by Hamza k
Maxine saved my life, I had a bad experience with another lawyer and I moved to work with Maxine, she gives you reasonable prices with the best service ever. Thank you Maxine I really appreciate your business!
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13 Apr, 2024 by T p
Ilian took a difficult situation and made it easier to comprehend and calm my thoughts. Trying to do this alone or with someone who doesn’t have compassion would be a scary dangerous road. He broke things down so they were easy to comprehend. Yes, he had to give me the truth as he talked me off the ledge (so to speak). There is happiness after this process. I’m definitely there and quicker than I thought possible.
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19 Feb, 2023 by Anonymous
In a nutshell, I do not recommend Giammichele Law. Steven Giammichele and his staff are nice and friendly, but their work is haphazard. The number of drafts we had to review due to their sloppiness was time-consuming, frustrating, disappointing, and concerning. I spent dozens upon dozens of hours reviewing, making corrections, emailing, and speaking in person, trying to get the drafts close to what we asked for and Steven recommended. Mind you, the first several set of drafts were 56 pages for each trust, not including all the other document drafts that coincide with each trust. After the second round of drafts, I advised Steven it was taking such a long time for me to read almost 200 pages of language that is foreign to me, and have to track and explain all the mistakes. He decided to find a new template with fewer pages. Regardless if they are 40 pages or 56 pages each, plus the other document drafts, it takes a lot of time to read and make note of the mistakes or questions, especially when you’re not a lawyer or an estate planner. That's why I hired Steven, to explain, advise and help us through the process. Unfortunately, we felt stuck with Giammichele Law because we paid thousands of dollars for the three trusts upfront and in full, that was a red flag we regret. We received many drafts that had countless mistakes and Steven would blame the mistakes on us changing our minds or miscommunication during our meetings. I would show him our submitted paperwork and our notes, and I would compare them to the drafts, and he still wouldn’t take ownership of the mistakes. It’s now been over eight months and our trusts are not up to par. We asked Steven to please fix them after we were advised by his notary that we still could sign the paperwork, and he would fix the areas that are not correct and go over the language we didn’t understand. Steven offered 30 minutes of his time and if we needed more time, he required a retainer because we signed the drafts, hence he is no longer required to revise them. I would not use Giammichele Law if you want your trust to be created in a timely, accurate, and professional manner, keeping your beneficiary’s best interest at heart. I didn't want to leave a negative review, but the way Steven has ignored our attempt to rectify the situation, I feel he is not taking the severity of his ways. I hope he will do the right thing.
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21 Nov, 2022 by Brady runyon
My wife and I had an extremely positive experience working with Steve and his staff. They made the process easy and were able to clearly explain each step, without making it confusing. Start to finish they were extremely responsive, professional, and personable and I will definitely be referring my friends and family!
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06 Jun, 2024 by Anonymous
Kate did my full estate planning package last year. Yesterday, I was at my yearly physical and the doctor asked if I had an advanced healthcare directive submitted through their portal. I did and, so she opened it and started to read it. She said " Oh- this is a good one. I see lots of these that don't cover the bases adequately. This one is really good!" Kate was great to work with, fair, and responsive to me and my husband and our needs. She's my family law firm now!
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18 Apr, 2024 by Adalberto ramirez
I've had the misfortune of dealing with Kelso never returned my phone calls or emails and to this date Kelso and a family member have behaved very mysterious and secretive still missing $ 17,000. Would not recommend this establishment to settle Trust.
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26 Jan, 2024 by Brittany nieberg
DON’T listen to anything but this review: Everyone at K. Kelso law cares so much about each client, you’ll never need another attorney. Any negative review is clearly from somebody who can appreciate this new way of approaching legal services which will totally change your worldview and make you feel completely at home. Kate is the best thing that ever happened to me and her law firm is now family. Call them. Be a part of their movement.
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05 Oct, 2020 by Peggy
Suzanne became my parents estate attorney in 2010. When a financial elder abuse situation occurred, Suzanne handled a very confusing, contentious and heartbreaking situation with calm, reason and the utmost professionalism. Her skills with the law and estate planning are unsurpassed. I never had any concerns with her expertise. She is also a very warm and compassionate person who has her client's best interest at the forefront. Very happy with Suzanne.
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27 Jan, 2020 by Anonymous
Suzanne created my families Estate plan. She was very detailed and answered all the questions we had. We would recommend her to anyone.
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13 Sep, 2019 by Lynn
You cannot hire a better attorney for your probate and trust matters than Suzanne Rehmani. I know because I have endured a 9 year + horrible legal battle including trial. Ms Rehmani is the best - by a mile. Everything from creating your Family Trust to representing you in the most contentious conservatorship court matter . Do not even think about hiring anyone else!
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21 Aug, 2024 by Jenny
Giovanni, was very helpful he took the time to listen and explained the process moving forward
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09 May, 2024 by Angel davis
Choosing Mr. Milan was the best decision I made for my family's well-being. Co-parenting with a narcissist felt like an insurmountable task, but his unwavering support and expertise provided a beacon of hope during a tumultuous time. With his guidance, I found strength I didn't know I had, and together, we crafted a plan that put my child's happiness and stability first. Mr. Milan didn't just represent me in court; he became a trusted ally and source of comfort throughout the journey. For anyone facing the daunting challenge of co-parenting with a narcissist, I wholeheartedly recommend Mr. Milan for his unparalleled dedication and genuine compassion.
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05 May, 2024 by Allison wooldridge
I cannot recommend the Law Offices of Giovanni Milan highly enough! From the moment I stepped into his welcoming office in Tustin, California, I knew I was in good hands. Giovanni is not only incredibly kind but also a master at breaking down complex legal matters into simple, understandable terms. His fun and relatable personality made the entire experience surprisingly enjoyable. Giovanni is a stellar communicator who kept me constantly updated throughout the process, ensuring I was never left in the dark. Thanks to his expertise and diligent work, he got me the result I desperately needed and truly saved me in a bind. If you're looking for a lawyer who combines professionalism with a personal touch, Giovanni is your go-to. I’d highly recommend him to anyone in need of legal assistance.
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26 Aug, 2024 by Ky
Robert Pearson is absolutely the worst attorney I have ever dealt with. He is the worst communicator and is completely useless. The most non responsive attorney I have ever seen. I would totally stay away from this attorney. He is shady in his business practices and no help at all. Worst attorney ever!!
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30 Dec, 2014 by Jan
Robert Pearson was recommended to me by my long-time tax professional following the death of my husband in a traffic accident. He was extraordinarily patient in explaining to me the various options available, as neither my husband nor myself had established a will. I could not have asked for better service in dealing with the numerous documents and situations relating to my husband as well as in establishing a will and trust in my own name. Over the years, I have contacted his office for updates and other matters, with nominal fees (if any). His associate, Cindy, has also been very helpful. I do not hesitate to recommend this attorney.
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31 Jan, 2024 by Anonymous
I called Mr. Magro for a consult after another attorney i respect referred me. Mr. Magro was extremely rude from the start, and yelled at me when I attempted to ask a question. He said he could not work with me because I don't listen. I could not work with him because he is rude. I took my business, which was considerable, elsewhere.
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03 Mar, 2023 by Anonymous
I called this lawyer for assistence and I couldn't get a word in, He was rude and very foul mouth.
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24 Sep, 2015 by Colleen
My husband called several attorneys before speaking with Mr. Magro about our estate plan. Mr. Magro was caring & very professional when we talked to him about our wishes & plans. We decided to hire him to prepare our trust & wills. There are so many decisions to be made when making a plan like this, like, who should be in charge if something happened to us and what choices we would like that person to make for us. Mr Magro was very patient with us and answered our questions in a way that was really easy to understand. We received the documents from him on the date he promised and his fee was super reasonable. I would totally recommend Stephen M. Magro if you need estate planning.
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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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