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30 Oct, 2024 by Gretchen byrne
Ashley and team were simply amazing! Straightforward, professional and were always available with any questions I had while going through my divorce. They made the process quick and easy. Highly recommend. Thanks Ashley and Team!
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30 Oct, 2024 by Frederick anderson
Ashley helped me through a difficult divorce. She not only navigated through a plethora of paperwork but did so with a sympathetic ear at a reasonable cost. She and Lindsey are a great team. The kind you want on your side.
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30 Oct, 2024 by Christopher munyan
I worked for over a year with Ashley Eckert on my divorce. She is a phenomenal lawyer and person. She guided me with patience and kindness through what is a challenging and stressful process. I would highly recommend Ashley and her firm.
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23 Feb, 2024 by Caroline coladonato
I know Michelle personally and on a business level and she goes above and beyond for her clients. She is extremely knowledgeable in her field, while also providing service with a smile! 11/10 would recommend!
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18 Feb, 2024 by John coladonato
I highly recommend Michelle and the team at Charleston Firm. Their knowledge and expertise with estate planning and wills are unmatched. They emphasize the utmost professionalism with a commitment to excellence with every client they serve
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28 Nov, 2023 by James goslee
April and her team are top notch lawyers. Highly recommend
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01 Apr, 2024 by Maureen snook
WGFLAW delivers crisp, professional and timely services. Would definitely recommend them.
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22 Jan, 2024 by Pinky mcgreevy
We have been clients of WGFL for over 10 years. John Gagliardi and John Wetzel and staff have provided us with the utmost professional and courteous service throughout that time, and we look forward to a continued relationship with WGFL. We have been extremely satisfied and highly recommend their services for both business and personal needs! Sincerely, Bob & Pinky McGreevy - EffectivEnergy Solutions
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14 Dec, 2023 by Shawn taylor
Estate law, Elderly law and Real Estate Law can be confusing. John Gagliardi guided my family through a very difficult time. He was professional and caring. I will forever be thankful for his great work. ~The Taylor Family
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07 Jan, 2025 by Jason menditto
Nick Beeson has been very communicative with me. We talked frequently and emailed just as often. I've had my share of lawyers unfortunately but none conducted themselves the way Nick did. He always kept me in the loop and was very honest and forthcoming. Don't pass him by.
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28 Nov, 2024 by Mason
Mr. Beeson was very helpful and professional. He went above and beyond to help me. Very highly recommend
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19 Nov, 2024 by Michael
I had a VOP and he was very helpful staying in contact I will recommend him to anyone
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18 Jan, 2013 by Anonymous
Kevin is a creative, insightful, efficient and ultimately practical lawyer, very professional and results oriented. I would recommend him highly.
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16 Jan, 2013 by Seamus m. lavin, esquire
I knew Kevin Ryan by his good reputation for years before actually meeting him. Upon meeting him, I began to understand why he was held in such high esteem in the local legal community. He is a gentlemen and a first rate attorney. I trust both his integrity and his knowledge of the law. It is the combination of these two traits that enables him to represent his clients so ably. It is also the reason I chose to work with him. Both I and my clients have benefited ever since.
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02 Jan, 2013 by Anonymous
I have worked with Mr Ryan for years and I can attest to his proactive approach to estate and tax planning. He has kept me informed and up to date on my business and personal affairs as they change as well as changes in the laws and regulations. I trust his expertise and he is an overall pleasure to work with. I have and will continue to recommend his services to others.
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02 Sep, 2015 by Linda
Karyn was recommended to my Family by a coworker of my husband. We needed guidance and legal advice after my Mother moved in with my sister. This occurred after my Father's death and the sale of their home in 2012. Karyn has truly done an outstanding job in assisting us in establishing a Family Care Agreement. Her manner is completely professional, calm, helpful, and genuine. Karyn has also made suggestions that has made a tremendous difference in my sister's caretaking of our Mother. Karyn is pleasant and always treats us with respect. Our Mother loves her! Recently, we needed to arrange for a daily caretaker to assist Mom. Once again, Karyn guided us through that process. Her responses to phone calls and emails has been great. We see Karyn as an advocate, and not "just a lawyer". We are so grateful to her !
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28 Aug, 2015 by Priscilla
I am POA for a dear friend who has moved into Medicaid level of care. We had no idea how to start the process. We had the good sense to hire Kayrn Seace to guide us through this emotional and time consuming process. How do you rate an angel? Kayrn has set the bar very high: Karyn is very knowledgeable. Right from the first meeting, Kayrn gave us our marching orders through: the Federal, State, and Township guide lines. Who knew it took a village to guide one little 80 year old gem through the maze? Kayrn Seace. Kayrn was always there when needed, knowledgable and caring. My dear friend is well situated in her new home. Thank you Kayrn
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27 Aug, 2015 by Roseanne
The passing of our father 5years ago was an eyeopening experience. Our Dad was the most organized person on the planet. His personal safe was so perfect that it was like he was in the room with us when we started to unravel What his intentions were. Leaving my mom in good shape we needed legal advice to have Mom's personal affIairs in order for the future. As a family we thought we were in good shape. We were but we not well versed on estate planning, power of attorney, living will etc. The difference between Medicare & Medicaid was a mystery to us and we needed to be on tract for the future. Karyn was recommended to us by a business associate of my brother in law. Being the youngest of the family I have the resposonbility of being the primary care taker for my mom. To descibe me I am a butterfly with a sper. Tough individual who is a hard sell. After our first family meeting I was releaved and happy to have her signed on as our attorney. Wonderful with my mom ,she showed nothing but compassion and CLEARLY outlined what steps needed to have in place. My Dad would have really liked her. she is smart. Well versed. professional but down to earth. We now operate like a well oiled machine and have our ducks in a row with the ability to handle obstacles. HIGHLY recommend Karyn. In this day and age it's hard to find integrity.
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08 May, 2024 by Mr. 100
A so call person name Joelle Shanesy said she is a partner with this law firm Lamb McErlane but she is not you can go onto the website and see for your , this not so honest person worked for three law firms in the year and now she is here at Lamb McErlane ready to steal more money but this time I did not follow her to this law firm. She promise to call me back and she don't, kept telling me that she is going over my case and she didn't but bills me for time that she wasn't working on my case and I have all the proof to show it. For 5 months Joelle didn't even get a discovery done for a simple divorce case but billed me $2600.00 So I will tell you , your friends and family to not hire her as your lawyer she will lie and if you lie you will cheat and if you cheat you will steal and she did . Joelle Shanesy is the name and look here profile up on the company website and you will see she is not a partner Ask her about her other two law firms she worked for, I don't have to lie JC Law and Berman/Voss
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02 Apr, 2024 by Samsung device
BEWARE. Corrupt to its core. If involved in custody they are very Father's Rights across the board and will not hesitate to use criminal action in their arsenal. VERY UNETHICAL.
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04 Mar, 2024 by Cristina perone
Wonderful law firm, friendly office staff and trustworthy attorneys!
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27 May, 2022 by Anonymous
Neil was very responsive and listened carefully to our issues regarding a complicated estate. He followed through with everything and would highly recommend him.
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12 Jun, 2019 by Anonymous
Something that should have been processed two years ago, wasn’t done. We’ve been trying to contact him since March about it. He refuses to return phone calls. I suppose we aren’t a big dollar client, so apparently common courtesy doesn’t matter. We can’t even get someone else from his office to call back with an update or explanation. It’s just plain rude to ignore your client.
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30 May, 2019 by Vicki hoxter
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08 May, 2024 by Mr. 100
A so call person name Joelle Shanesy said she is a partner with this law firm Lamb McErlane but she is not you can go onto the website and see for your , this not so honest person worked for three law firms in the year and now she is here at Lamb McErlane ready to steal more money but this time I did not follow her to this law firm. She promise to call me back and she don't, kept telling me that she is going over my case and she didn't but bills me for time that she wasn't working on my case and I have all the proof to show it. For 5 months Joelle didn't even get a discovery done for a simple divorce case but billed me $2600.00 So I will tell you , your friends and family to not hire her as your lawyer she will lie and if you lie you will cheat and if you cheat you will steal and she did . Joelle Shanesy is the name and look here profile up on the company website and you will see she is not a partner Ask her about her other two law firms she worked for, I don't have to lie JC Law and Berman/Voss
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02 Apr, 2024 by Samsung device
BEWARE. Corrupt to its core. If involved in custody they are very Father's Rights across the board and will not hesitate to use criminal action in their arsenal. VERY UNETHICAL.
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04 Mar, 2024 by Cristina perone
Wonderful law firm, friendly office staff and trustworthy attorneys!
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FAQs
Questions? We have answers

What a Trusts Lawyer Can Do for You

A trusts lawyer specializes in creating and managing trusts, which are legal entities that allow individuals to transfer assets to beneficiaries while maintaining control over how and when those assets are distributed. Trusts are used for estate planning, asset protection, tax planning, and ensuring the financial security of loved ones. Trusts lawyers help clients choose the right type of trust for their needs, draft trust documents, and advise on the administration and management of trusts.

Whether you're planning to pass on your assets to your heirs, protect your wealth from creditors, or provide for a disabled family member, a trusts lawyer can help you establish a trust that meets your financial and personal goals.

When Should I Hire a Trusts Lawyer?

You should consider hiring a trusts lawyer in various situations, particularly when you're planning for the future distribution of your assets or protecting your wealth. Common reasons to hire a trusts lawyer include:

  • Estate planning: If you want to ensure that your assets are distributed according to your wishes, a lawyer can help you create a revocable or irrevocable trust to avoid probate and provide for your heirs.
  • Asset protection: If you want to protect your assets from creditors, lawsuits, or potential future liabilities, a lawyer can help you establish a trust to shield your wealth.
  • Special needs planning: If you have a disabled family member, a lawyer can create a special needs trust to provide for their care without affecting their eligibility for government benefits.
  • Tax planning: If you're looking to minimize estate taxes or manage tax liabilities, a lawyer can help you create tax-advantageous trusts, such as a credit shelter trust or charitable remainder trust.
  • Charitable giving: If you want to leave a legacy through charitable donations, a lawyer can help you set up a charitable trust to ensure your donations are managed according to your wishes.
  • Business succession planning: If you own a business and want to ensure a smooth transition of ownership, a lawyer can help you establish a trust to pass the business on to your heirs or chosen successors.

Hiring a trusts lawyer early in the estate planning process ensures that your assets are protected and your wishes are clearly documented, reducing the chances of disputes after your death.

What Does a Trusts Lawyer Do?

A trusts lawyer provides a variety of legal services to help individuals create, manage, and administer trusts. Their responsibilities often include:

  • Drafting trust documents: Preparing the legal documents needed to create the trust, ensuring it is tailored to your specific goals and complies with state and federal laws.
  • Choosing the right type of trust: Assisting clients in selecting the most appropriate type of trust for their needs, whether it's a revocable trust, irrevocable trust, living trust, or special needs trust.
  • Trust administration: Guiding trustees through their legal responsibilities, including managing assets, making distributions to beneficiaries, and filing tax returns.
  • Modifying or terminating trusts: Helping modify or terminate trusts if circumstances change, such as changes in tax laws, family situations, or personal preferences.
  • Protecting beneficiaries' interests: Structuring trusts to protect the interests of beneficiaries, especially if there are concerns about financial management, disability, or dependency issues.
  • Minimizing estate taxes: Assisting clients in structuring their trusts to minimize or avoid estate taxes, ensuring more of the estate passes to beneficiaries.
  • Handling disputes: Mediating or representing clients in court if disputes arise among beneficiaries or between trustees and beneficiaries.

How Are Trusts Lawyers Paid?

Trusts lawyers typically charge for their services based on the complexity of the trust and the type of legal work involved. Common payment methods include:

  • Flat fee: For drafting basic trusts, such as revocable living trusts or special needs trusts, many lawyers charge a flat fee. This can range from $1,000 to $5,000 or more, depending on the complexity of the trust.
  • Hourly rate: For more complex trust planning, ongoing trust administration, or resolving disputes, some lawyers charge by the hour. Hourly rates typically range from $150 to $500 or more, depending on the lawyer’s experience and location.
  • Retainer: For long-term trust administration or complex estate planning cases, some lawyers may require a retainer, an upfront payment that covers ongoing services.
  • Contingency fee (rare): In rare cases, particularly in disputes involving the administration of a trust, lawyers may work on a contingency fee basis, getting paid only if they successfully recover funds or resolve a legal dispute in your favor.

Always discuss the fee structure with your lawyer during the initial consultation to understand the total cost of services.

How Much Does a Trusts Lawyer Cost?

The cost of hiring a trusts lawyer depends on the complexity of the trust, the lawyer’s experience, and the fee structure. General cost estimates include:

  • Basic trust creation: For simple trusts, such as revocable living trusts, fees may range from $1,000 to $3,000.
  • Complex trust creation: For sophisticated estate plans involving multiple trusts, tax planning strategies, or special needs considerations, legal fees may range from $5,000 to $10,000 or more.
  • Trust administration: If you are serving as a trustee and need ongoing legal advice, hourly rates for trust administration can range from $150 to $500 or more.
  • Dispute resolution: Costs for litigation or mediation in trust disputes may range from $5,000 to $50,000 or more, depending on the complexity of the case.

Be sure to get a detailed cost estimate from your lawyer during the consultation to ensure the services fit within your budget.

Top Questions to Ask a Trusts Lawyer

Before hiring a trusts lawyer, consider asking the following questions:

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

How to Check the Credibility of a Trusts Lawyer

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

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

What Should I Prepare for My First Consultation?

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

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

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

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