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Steven Trolard, experienced Bankruptcy, Estate Planning attorney in Westlake Village, CA with 21 reviews
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44,44
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5.0/5
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5.0
14 Reviews
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5.0
7 Reviews
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15 Apr, 2024 by Gabby renteria
Randall possesses an innate ability to alleviate the apprehension that comes with legal consultation. His approach seamlessly combines accessibility with extensive expertise. His meticulous attention to detail and decisiveness not only streamline processes but also yield resolutions that are comprehensive and definitive, minimizing financial expenditures for his clients. Entrusting Randall with my business as well as my personal matters has been the best decision by far as he has since evolved into an invaluable confidant and advisor for my husband and I. Without hesitation, I extend my highest recommendation to the Cohen Law Firm, a bastion of unparalleled proficiency and integrity.
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09 Apr, 2024 by Brendon garcia
Randall is amazing. It can be intimidating to reach out to an attorney and Randall makes it easy. Not only that, he's thorough and decisive, which saves time and money since he solves issues the first time and for good. I engaged Randall for my business formation and he's continued to be a trusted advisor. I can highly recommend Cohen Law Firm.
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22 Jul, 2022 by Daisy
Being my first time ever needing a lawyer, Mr.Trolard went above and beyond to answer any questions I had throughout my case. His patience and way of explaining things to me was clear and I am very happy to have hired him as my lawyer! :)
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Grant Steven Pederson, experienced Estate Planning, Probate attorney in Westlake Village, CA with 10 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
39,31
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5.0/5
Avvo
5.0
10 Reviews
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15 Mar, 2024 by Bambi
I just worked with Pederson Law Offices to update my estate documents and the entire team was amazing. Grant, Sereth and Jake were all so helpful throughout the entire process. They were thorough, professional and are all kind people to work with. Grant explained everything in detail and really helped me to understand different aspects of estate planning that I wouldn't have even considered. I highly recommend Pederson Law Offices to anyone looking for an excellent estate planning firm, because on top of everything else, they gave me peace of mind.
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30 Aug, 2023 by Gary
Grant was fantastic! He took the time to walk us through everything and made the process easier then expected. He is very knowledgeable and willing to spend the time with his clients. Would strongly suggest using him to all my friends and family!
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15 Mar, 2016 by Anonymous
Grant has helped my family with our estate planning needs over the past several years. There are many things I like about working with Grant, but honesty is at the top of my list. Grant is always up front about costs of services, and what he can and can’t deliver. I never feel pressured when working with Grant. He takes the time to answer my questions – all of them. I’m one of those people who actually reads everything, so I can be very detail oriented in what I want. Grant carefully explains the “legalese” to me, as well as pros and cons of the choices I have at my disposal, making it easy to make estate decisions. Grant really knows his stuff. Grant and his office staff are friendly, available, and professional, making the decision to continue use Pederson Law Offices a no-brainer.
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Mary Patricia Kulvinskas, experienced Business, Elder Law attorney in Westlake Village, CA with 2 reviews
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39,06
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5.0/5
Avvo
5.0
2 Reviews
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07 Nov, 2023 by Damon
Met with Mary once so far with a tangled up trust situation also I was so upset about it all I could barely get the words out she caught on right away to what was going on. Very attentive and preceptive also very reasonable fees. Highly recommend.
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03 Aug, 2022 by Marina
Mary took over my case in a very difficult probate situation and solved it to my entire satisfaction. I can honestly say that she saved my share of the family estate. She is knowledgeable, supportive and an excellent strategist in probate matters.
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Karl Henry Knickmeyer Jr, experienced Estate Planning, Probate attorney in Westlake Village, CA with 1 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
39,03
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5.0/5
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5.0
1 Reviews
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09 May, 2016 by Anonymous
Karl produced prompt and impeccable legal documents that were instrumental in successfully navigating a very tricky real estate issue among family members. Not only did he accomplish what we needed he also provided valuable insight about other potential areas of concern that might arise that none of us had imagined. I highly recommend Karl and am so glad to have such an intelligent and caring lawyer onboard.
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Roya Dehghani, experienced Estate Planning, Probate attorney in Westlake Village, CA with 1 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
39,03
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5.0/5
Avvo
5.0
1 Reviews
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28 Apr, 2016 by Anonymous
Roya is an excellent attorney who was always there for us during the legal matter. She explained the whole process for us and made sure we understand all the pros and cons. She always answered all of our e-mails on time and treaded us like her family. We are extremely happy with her legal services to our family.
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Jeffrey Scott Rosen, experienced Estate Planning, Trusts attorney in Westlake Village, CA with 1 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
39,03
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5.0/5
Avvo
5.0
1 Reviews
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30 May, 2021 by Scott
Jeff worked with us on creation and update of several Estate plan trusts and related documents, including a Special Needs trust and IRA trusts. We found Jeff to be knowledgeable and professional as well as personable. He was exceptionally patient with my never-ending detailed questions and clearly explained laws, tradeoffs and options throughout the process.
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Marisha Nicole Charbonnet, experienced Estate Planning, Probate attorney in Westlake Village, CA with 1 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
39,03
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5.0/5
Avvo
5.0
1 Reviews
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12 Feb, 2025 by Anonymous
My husband and I met Marisha through a family members recommendation. We had a complicated family Trust which included one of us residing in a different state, and several real estate properties in two different states. Marisha, Raquel, and Becky made it a very easy process! I highly recommend this firm.
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David Esquibias, experienced Estate Planning, Litigation attorney in Westlake Village, CA with 96 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
38,95
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4.7/5
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4.7
96 Reviews
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26 Sep, 2024 by Steven zhang
Kent helps me communicate to my insurance company and get me back the right amount from them. He is very helpful and professional!
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28 Aug, 2024 by Daniel rignack
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18 Aug, 2024 by Rene servin
Great service, prompt response, always available for questions
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Camille M. Aceituno, experienced Estate Planning, Probate attorney in Westlake Village, CA with 78 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
38,38
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4.9/5
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4.9
78 Reviews
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27 Jan, 2025 by Cathy way
We came to the right place in July of 1993 for a Trust Account. Couldn't be more pleased than I am today. Our attorney, Todd and staff are exceptionally easy to work with and I highly recommend them to anyone.
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03 Jan, 2025 by Michael thomas
After the passing of my father, everything legal was easily navigated as my position as executor of the estate with their help and expertise. They staff made the entire process quite easy. Without question, I’ll have them do my trust and will. Michael
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12 Nov, 2024 by Larry turner
We appreciate the professionalism and time dedicated to explain key issues. I have recommended the firm to family and friends.
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Todd Christopher Hunt, experienced Business, Civil Rights attorney in Westlake Village, CA with 48 reviews
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38,35
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4.9/5
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4.9
48 Reviews
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17 Jan, 2025 by Houston callen
The best lawyer for wrongful termination cases is Scott Miller! His strategic approach guarantees the best possible outcome, and his legal expertise is unmatched. During such a trying time, I couldn't have asked for a more informed and encouraging advocate.
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11 Dec, 2024 by Anika salazar
GREAT WORK I APPRECIATE ALL THE WORK YOU AND YOUR TEAM DID FOR ME THANKS SO.MUCH YOU THE BEST
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07 Dec, 2024 by Brennan dominguez
Rob was great! From the moment I contacted him to wrapping up my case. This took well over two years, but he was able to get me the best possible outcome.
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Stephanie Michelle Manis, experienced Estate Planning, Probate attorney in Westlake Village, CA with 22 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
35,02
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5.0/5
Google Maps
5.0
22 Reviews
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28 Feb, 2025 by Vanessa lopez
I'm so glad Oak Crest Law Group helped my grandfather with his trust. He lives in California and owns property in Nevada and they were still able to help him!
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27 Feb, 2025 by Danielle cruz
Ed Cainglit and his team at Oak Crest Law Group are truly the best! They are extremely knowledgable, accurate, thorough and great people to work with. They know their trade so well that it makes the overwhelming living trust process feel so easy. There are so many people out there advertising wills and trusts that you never know what you are going to get. With Ed and his team, I know exactly what I am going to get and always know that my family and our assets are in good hands when working with them.
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24 Feb, 2025 by Christian norman
My wife and I were referred to Ed and his team at Oak Crest Law Group to set up our living trust. Rachel answered all of our pre-meeting questions and organized/scheduled our appointments. Ed himself was very professional and also answered our questions (even proposing questions we didn't know we should be asking). My wife and I feel very well taken care of and we look forward to working with their team. I would recommend working with Ed and his group without any reservations.
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Tamara Lynn Harper, experienced Business, Estate Planning attorney in Westlake Village, CA with 34 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
33,14
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4.3/5
Avvo
4.5
15 Reviews
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4.2
19 Reviews
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19 Oct, 2024 by Matty m.
Be warned, extremely shady and questionable billing methods. Seems like once they have your money, they’ll just ignore you. She used to be good in the past but maybe it’s the lack of business and/or greed that she prioritizes money over great customer service. Would stay far away from this deceptive, manipulative and money hungry lawyer!
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19 Oct, 2024 by M bishop
I have known Tamara for almost 20 years, and at one time professionally worked with her. I held her in the highest regards. Tamara set up an Irrevocable Trust for our family 15-16 years ago. Prior to the trust expiring, we contacted her to set up an appointment to meet, and go over our options. We received a random bill, prior to our appointment for $600.00 with a description of "RESEARCH." Keep in mind that she represented herself as one of the leading expert in CA in Trust Law at the initial meeting, even stating she taught Trust Law at a local law school. When we called for an explanation, we were informed that she had to research our options, as what to do at the end of the trust. It was at this point, that we informed her that her services were no longer needed! We contacted another attorney, who knew exactly what to do, and had the necessary paperwork completed, and electronically submitted to the county in 3 days for $289.00. It took only 1 telephone call, and 2 emails, with no Federal or State tax consequences. We continue to receive bills as of this review, with accrued interest, violting Rule 2-107 of the Rules of Professional Conduct of the CA State Bar Association. Neither Tamara, or her staff will return telephone calls, or emails, just continued random billing. We never signed a retainer agreement with her concerning this matter. Just a call to set up an appointment to meet with her, which never took place. Unfortunately this has resulted in a complaint with the California Bar Association, with supporting documentation. We will update this website on their findings. Again I am so disappointed! It appears that Tamara has now expanded her field of practice, and no longer cares about her clients, as evident by their lack of communication. The office screens calls, and refuses to return repeated telephone messages, and emails. I sent an email directly to Tamara, explaining my position, whereas I informed her if I did not hear from her within 30 days, I would consider the account zeroed out, and closed. Did not hear anything for over 2 months, and all we received was an additional bill with interest. I would highly recommend to anyone looking for legal services with Tamara, not only to do your due diligence, but also compare the fast response of other attorneys, and fee schedules. It just appears to me that they are out for money, and really no longer cares about the clients, once they have collected their legal fees! Lincoln once said "the lawyer has a superior opportunity of being a good man." or woman! ⭐
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19 Oct, 2024 by Brandon
We had a positive experience with Tamara over a decade ago when we first set up our trust. When the trust was nearing its term, we reached out to see if we can set up an appointment with her to discuss what our options would be when the trust expires. After making an appointment for a few weeks out, we get a random invoice for $600.00 when we haven’t even had a chance to sit down with her yet. When we called the office to find out what this bill was for, she stated it was for “research.” First off, this is your specialty & field yet you had to go out and do research on the trust that YOU set up?? Second, shouldn’t you at least advise or get permission from your client before taking the initiative to do something like this then turn around and blindly send us a bill without any explanation or heads up? After a few back and forth with their office, we were under the impression that they understood we no longer wanted their service and they would adjust the bill. Nope! After six months, they had the audacity to send us a new bill with occurred interest on top of the original bill!!! AFTER SIX MONTHS OF NO CONTACT!!! We tried numerous times to get a hold of someone in their office for weeks. But they screen their calls and emails so once they have your money, they tend to not call you back or follow up. And when you call them out on it, they blame their phone system being down or some other BS they can think of. Needless to say, I’ll be filing a bar complaint and highly advise people to stay away from this money hungry firm!
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Blaine M Gunther, experienced Business, Estate Planning attorney in Westlake Village, CA with 19 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
31,94
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4.8/5
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4.8
19 Reviews
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22 Sep, 2024 by Renzo rossello
Great work and professionals
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05 Jun, 2024 by Briana bernhardt
Marc was very straightforward, honest, and thorough. I greatly appreciate his expertise and advice. Highly recommend!
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18 Oct, 2022 by Frank tomlinson
One of my clients was working with Emily Robinson on her divorce settlement. My client decided to refinance her home to satisfy the agreed buyout. Emily was very helpful through the entire process, I really don't think we would have been able to pull this off without her help. Thank you.
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Donald William Flaig, experienced Business, Estate Planning attorney in Westlake Village, CA with 0 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
8,00
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0.0/5
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Kenneth Edward Devore, experienced Elder Law, Estate Planning attorney in Westlake Village, CA with 0 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
4,00
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Daniel C Lorenzen, experienced Business, Estate Planning attorney in Westlake Village, CA with 0 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
4,00
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John M Andersen, experienced Estate Planning, Probate attorney in Westlake Village, CA with 0 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
4,00
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Jonathon S Cherne, experienced Civil Rights, Discrimination attorney in Westlake Village, CA with 0 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
4,00
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Cary Weston Spencer, experienced Business, Estate Planning attorney in Westlake Village, CA with 0 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
4,00
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Jeffrey M. Zabner, experienced Estate Planning, Probate attorney in Westlake Village, CA with 0 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
4,00
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Adam Sean Gauthier, experienced Estate Planning, Probate attorney in Westlake Village, CA with 0 reviews
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4,00
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Robert Morgan Triplett, experienced Estate Planning, Probate attorney in Westlake Village, CA with  reviews
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4,00
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William Gordon Lieb, experienced Business, Insurance attorney in Westlake Village, CA with 0 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
0,00
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Barbara Louise Taaff, experienced Elder Law, Estate Planning attorney in Westlake Village, CA with 0 reviews
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0,00
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Fabiola Brauna Karls, experienced Estate Planning, Probate attorney in Westlake Village, CA with 0 reviews
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John Gregory Blackburn, experienced Estate Planning, Real Estate attorney in Westlake Village, CA with 0 reviews
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Christopher Willard Patterson, experienced Business, Real Estate attorney in Westlake Village, CA with 0 reviews
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Max H Schulze, experienced Family Law, Trusts attorney in Westlake Village, CA with 0 reviews
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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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