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09 Aug, 2024 by Jimmy trieu
Helpful and professional
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08 Aug, 2024 by Tien nguyen
Very knowlegeable lawyer. Highly recommended
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25 Jun, 2024 by Michelle phan
Our lawyer has been outstanding. Ms Anita always there for us, incredibly knowledgeable, and quick to respond. My family deeply appreciates her unwavering support and expertise. She has been especially helpful to my parents, who do not speak English, ensuring their needs were fully understood and addressed despite the language barrier. We highly recommend her.
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12 Dec, 2021 by Jennifer
During the hardest time of my life, Jennifer was amazing, helpful, understanding, empathetic, kind, and truly a pleasure working with. She took the time to explain things to me over and over if I did not understand them, and she completely understands the grief process and how we all go through it differently. She never once told me that I was a bother to her and she worked on a personal, yet professional level 100% of the time. I would highly recommend Jennifer for all Estate Planning, in fact, she came to us through a referral from a family member who used her services. Truly a kind and understanding attorney.
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29 Apr, 2021 by Ronald
i was fortunate to have had Jennifer referred to me by a friend of my wife who is Brazilian to prepare a Will for me.. Jennifer and her assistant Haneen are very easy to deal with and are very detailed oriented.i would recommend them highly to anyone who needs a lawyer.Jennifer speaks portuguese fluently which was a big plus for my wife.Their fees are very reasonble.
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10 Apr, 2021 by Em
Jennifer is a great attorney and very professional. She helped me tremendously in my divorce case, explained every step clearly during the process and made it so easy. I developed such a great and friendly relationship with her and I will be using her services in the future. I would recommend her to everyone and I can assure you that you would be in good hands and you will not regret your decision. She is very prompt with her responses and always takes care to communicate and follow up. To say the least, I’m glad that I chose her to handle my case. Without her expertise, I’m not sure if it would’ve been possible for my case to be wrapped up quickly and have a positive outcome. Thank you, Jennifer!
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30 Apr, 2021 by Samuel
First legal relationship I ever had in 1986 with a new real estate investment and incorporating my company: since I have retained Counselor Bennett for estate planning with my parents, in-laws and my Personal family wills. He was at my wedding and my parents funerals: a family friend for 36 years!
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20 Apr, 2021 by Michael
It seems that I have known David forever. I have retained him over a number of years from time to time and been very happy with the results that he was able to obtain for me. My first experience with him as an attorney many years ago was when my father retained him to pursue a fire damage claim to our family’s seashore summer house in New Jersey. In the offseason, workmen were renovating the interior of the house and, specifically, installing a new kitchen. After they had left for the weekend, a fire started in the house in the middle of the night and there was significant fire damage. David had the moxie to retain the retired Fire Marshall for the City of Philadelphia as an expert witness who confirmed David’s suspicion as to the cause and origin of the fire. Before they had left for the weekend, the workmen had decided to have a party in the living room to celebrate the end of the work week. Along with the empty beer cans, one of the workers inadvertently dropped a lit cigarette inside the living room couch to smolder for several hours resulting in the fire. In proving the origin and burn pattern of the fire, David was able to secure a sizable and unexpected settlement from the insurance carrier for the renovation company. The latest matter that David handled for me was the administration of the estate of my late mother who owned personal and real property in the States of New Jersey and Florida. His administration of the estate in those separate jurisdictions was seamless. His particular knowledge of New Jersey income tax procedure saved me tens of thousands of dollars that my accountant was prepared to have me hand over to the tax authorities in that State. Even when the Florida estate administration became complicated by the homeowners association action to foreclose on the Florida house for alleged non-payment of HOA fees, David was able to have that matter resolved and dismissed. He is quite a talent and I would highly recommend him to anyone.
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16 Apr, 2021 by Phil
I am a CPA in the suburban Philadelphia are, and have known David personally for over 50 years and professionally for more than 30 years. If I have a particularly complex estate or trust matter which may or has included fiduciary litigation, income, gift or estate taxation, and has litigation between beneficiaries, creditors or as against the Internal Revenue Service, I have David on my speed dial. Ultimately, these matters are referred to him, and our office has retained him on any number of related files. Not only a good friend by his deeds, I once had to explain to my father that the reason we were good friends was that he was and is fearless, no matter the adversary in and out of business. So it was no surprise to me when he took on the fifth largest law firm at the time in Philadelphia and beat them representing a contestant in a will contest over a several million dollar estate even though his adversaries had the advantage financially and with a far more extensive staff at their disposal. I would enthusiastically recommend him to any potential client.
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16 Jul, 2021 by Scott
After my father passed away unexpectedly in 2019, I immediately began the work of acting as his personal representative. Unfortunately, my father had no legal Will which led to a contested estate. The estate attorney I hired initially was not interested in handling litigation filed by another heir, and recommended David Garten for the job. Calling David Garten was the best decision I could have made. David Garten is an expert in Florida State Estate Law. He is a litigation attorney who handles contested estates and defends his clients with zeal. He exudes the calm confidence and total professionalism of an expert in his field. There are none of the blustering or hyperbolic statements that you will find with unqualified attorneys who are just trying to get your business. David will never leave you with a false sense of confidence on any issue. David’s credentials are impeccable, and he is a regular contributor to Florida State Bar Association publications. David’s staff is top notch and well organized, a sure sign of an excellent attorney. I also found David and his staff to be approachable and easy going, not stuffy or hard to communicate with as some attorney’s offices can be. David’s work on my father’s estate was exemplary. He successfully negotiated settlements and diffused or won the unnecessary litigation brought against the estate. At one point David parlayed a pre-trial deposition into a settlement that enabled me to continue my work to close the estate without interruption. This is one of many examples of David’s expert handling of my father’s estate. David is very cost conscious and employs other Estate Attorneys to handle the more routine aspects of estate administration. You can rest assured that you won’t be gouged. David’s calm approach to angry opposing counsel, random unnecessary litigation, and wary nerve-wracked clients, was incredibly reassuring as we worked through various issues. I would highly recommend David Garten to represent you if you are the executor or personal representative of a contested estate. In fact, I would say that if relatives are likely to litigate after the loss of a loved one, skip the standard Estate Attorneys and call David Garten for the representation that you really need.
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09 Mar, 2016 by Pat
I was living out-of-state when notified of my estranged husband's death. I needed to be advised and represented by an attorney who was familiar with Florida's state statutes for elective shares regarding the surviving spouse. My situation required a lot of special research. David made me feel comfortable and confident that everything was covered. He kept me appraised of the current status, even though there were time issues holding up our progress. Given the circumstances of my case, I felt David was attentive, personable and gave my case the required attention to detail needed. I was especially impressed with the follow up on David's part and his paralegal, Cheryl. At the conclusion of my case, they both made me feel like I would want to use there service again and/or would refer my family and friends to them. David and Cheryl, thank you again.
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08 Mar, 2016 by Anonymous
After being victimized by several other attorneys regarding Trusts, Elder Law and Guardianship I did extensive research prior to finding a West Palm Beach attorney with the expertise and experience of David M. Garten, Esq. He was very responsive regarding scheduling and thoroughly knowledgeable in his field of law. He was always sympathetic and concerned to act in my best interest. His fees were reasonable and there was never a suspicion that his time billed was inflated. Hiring Mr. Garten actually turned out to be an extremely excellent value when at our first meeting he suggested he would, and actually did notify my insurers who ended up carrying a significant portion of my case with Mr. Garten's supervision. I now know how fortunate I was to have been represented by such a caring, compassionate, and expert attorney. I would never hesitate to encourage anyone needing the type of legal services offered by Mr. Garten to meet with him. Although it was very unpleasant going thru a lawsuit, David Garten’s advocacy made the situation a lot more tolerable. I will remain forever grateful for his services.
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28 Aug, 2020 by Jane
I hired Prestige Land & Law, PLLC and they were wonderful. They took care of everything and made sure everything went smoothly. I highly recommend this firm. They were knowledgeable, both responsive and proactive, negotiated successfully on my behalf. I can't say enough good things about them.
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19 Mar, 2020 by Bridget
Lindsay was recommended to me by my divorce attorney under pressing circumstances. Lindsay acted swiftly and worked with me on the sale of my house. Because of her due diligence she uncovered issues that could have severely impacted the closing which probably would have resulted in losing the buyer. On top of all that she saved me a considerable amount of money on the closing and which almost made her fees a wash. I cannot imagine going thorough this experience without the council of Lindsay.
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02 Mar, 2015 by Anonymous
Mrs. Demmery recently helped me with a complicated sale of a commercial building. It involved a difficult situation (family) that could have put the sale and then the proceeds from the sale in jeopardy. Her calm yet professional mannerisms were key to accomplishing the task at hand. She did an amazing job! It was a relief knowing that her top notch knowledge regarding real estate law was there to guide the process in an efficient manner. Additionally, the office environment is welcoming and friendly. I highly recommend Mrs. Demmery.
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30 Jul, 2023 by Tanya lofton
So far so good...
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25 Jan, 2019 by Bernie oliver
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28 Nov, 2012 by Anonymous
Keith has overseen several refinances for me, as well as a corporate matter. Now, I have just contacted him again to complete another transaction for me. Always reliable. Always friendly. He makes sure that I have no misunderstandings about my transaction. I have referred my friends to him for years.
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20 Jul, 2012 by Anonymous
have a 30 year relationship with Mr Austin. Has handled several real estate situations; easement issues, short sale, mortgage closing, etc. Very intelligent and down to earth man.
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08 Jul, 2012 by Anonymous
This guy did not charge me a lot. He used to work in the public defenders office. My mom hired him for some type of will and I got in trouble with the law. He was great! I made a big mistake, but thanks to this guy, I got another chance. So nice too.
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01 Feb, 2024 by Stephanie faust
Cory Strolla is the ultimate top tier firearms instructor. Not only is his knowledge and experience in firearms training, safety and law beyond excellent levels, his teaching tactics are on point. He is well educated, dedicated and perceptive. You get great training tailored to your needs for firearms, self-defense and safety awareness. Not only will you grow at any level under his instruction, you will also have the best time of your life. Most fun and exciting experience ever. He truly puts his heart into helping others learn to be comfortable, confident and safe in the ability to protect themselves and all they love.
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27 Jan, 2024 by Kevin kreuter
It was so very worth spending a half day with Cory going through the firearms safety training course. He was super professional & knowledgeable, including the relevant laws (of course, since he's an attorney), and packed in a wealth of knowledge and practice into 4 hours. What I appreciated was his ability to adjust & tailor the session to each individual's specific prior experience -- I had some experience shooting, but not any formal training, and learned an incredible amount, and feel much more confident about moving forward. Thank you!
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27 Jan, 2024 by Tammy o'rourke
What an amazing and educational experience! As an absolute beginner (never have shot a handgun) to feeling confident in simply holding a gun to shooting within the 4 hour safety training was so rewarding! Cory tailors to your exact experience and goals and inspires the importance of knowledge and safety to create confidence and competence in gun usage. Super excited to continue to the next level. I highly recommend Cory for any level of gun usage for his expertise and quality of safety.
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01 Feb, 2024 by Stephanie faust
Cory Strolla is the ultimate top tier firearms instructor. Not only is his knowledge and experience in firearms training, safety and law beyond excellent levels, his teaching tactics are on point. He is well educated, dedicated and perceptive. You get great training tailored to your needs for firearms, self-defense and safety awareness. Not only will you grow at any level under his instruction, you will also have the best time of your life. Most fun and exciting experience ever. He truly puts his heart into helping others learn to be comfortable, confident and safe in the ability to protect themselves and all they love.
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27 Jan, 2024 by Kevin kreuter
It was so very worth spending a half day with Cory going through the firearms safety training course. He was super professional & knowledgeable, including the relevant laws (of course, since he's an attorney), and packed in a wealth of knowledge and practice into 4 hours. What I appreciated was his ability to adjust & tailor the session to each individual's specific prior experience -- I had some experience shooting, but not any formal training, and learned an incredible amount, and feel much more confident about moving forward. Thank you!
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27 Jan, 2024 by Tammy o'rourke
What an amazing and educational experience! As an absolute beginner (never have shot a handgun) to feeling confident in simply holding a gun to shooting within the 4 hour safety training was so rewarding! Cory tailors to your exact experience and goals and inspires the importance of knowledge and safety to create confidence and competence in gun usage. Super excited to continue to the next level. I highly recommend Cory for any level of gun usage for his expertise and quality of safety.
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15 May, 2024 by Jodi feliu
This is a highly reputable firm that provides an extraordinary amount of support and knowledge. They always put their clients best interest first. I would highly recommend this firm and trust their guidance.
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15 May, 2024 by David kerner
As a local practicing attorney in the civil arena, I have referred many clients charged with criminal violations to Farkas and Crowley. I have personal knowledge of their superior criminal law legal skills and trial skills, and will continue to refer clients to their care. You will be very well served by this firm and they come highly recommended!
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15 May, 2024 by Venita ackerman
The attorneys at Farkas & Crowley PA go above and beyond for their clients. They work tirelessly to provide the best service.
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10 Nov, 2023 by Kendramarie anthony
Called my spouse and I at 8:30PM with more energy than we were prepared for, to reluctantly ask us if we were interested in hiring him to handle probate and litigation, asked if we had any questions (sorry it’s 8:30, everyone is half asleep no we don’t currently have any questions) so he follows with, “okay goodnight” and hung up the phone. He follows up with an email saying “I’ll pass”. This “gentleman” did not give a reason as to why when he was asked in a responding email. It took us over a month I want to say pretty close to 2, for us to be told “I’ll pass.” The $XXX amount at stake is more than enough for any attorney to jump on. But us not even getting a response as to why passing the opportunity, is just down right rude. At least telling us why, would give us some insight on where everything is standing right now.
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29 Sep, 2023 by James wigg
John Pankauski stated he would accept a case and then wrote an email two minutes later stating "I'll pass" with no explanation. Arrogant and abrasive character with a total lack of professionalism.
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20 Aug, 2023 by Leah t
Looking for the easy straight forward work.
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21 Aug, 2012 by Anonymous
shelly was hired for our family's estate. she does not perform on a timely matter, as she should. she does not return phone calls, her assistant does but they are fluff answers. she does not reply to e-mails for weeks. not your typical law firm, which is normal PAID to be timely.
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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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