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09 Jul, 2018 by Robert
I highly recommend Catherine for your Trust/Will requirements. Very professional and knowledgeable.
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26 Jan, 2011 by Craig
Catherine assisted my parents in setting up a new "Living Trust". She and her staff were responsive to our questions and very knowledgeable regarding trusts. She was able to identify numerous "holes" in my parents current paperwork and made sure that all documents were up to date and correct. In doing so, she was able to give my parents the peace of mind they needed regarding their wishes once they pass on.
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19 Mar, 2015 by Brian
Craig is a very competent and compassionate attorney. His understanding of the law, combined with his kind and considerate manner, made our recent experience not only productive but enjoyable.
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16 Mar, 2015 by David
For the last two years I have been taking care of a Aunt with dementia. Before she got sick she executed a complete trust package, will, trust, Medical POAs etc. It was a huge help in taking care of her.
My wife and I had always put off getting our "Stuff" in order till I met Craig. He walked us through the whole process and now we are prepared like my Aunt was. Craig answered all of our questions, took his time to make sure both my wife and myself felt very comfortable with our decisions etc. The staff was friendly and professional yet brought some humor into a what could of been a tedious process. I would highly recommend Craig and will use him for all my legal needs.
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03 Sep, 2019 by Eric
Kent was amazing. He excelled in communication, and he was very understanding and listened to or unique situation. He explained everything in detail and was an amazing advocate for what we wanted to do. I would highly recommend him and his services.
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03 Sep, 2019 by Anonymous
Kent and his staff were friendly and very professional. From the first meeting we had a high degree of confidence in their expertise and knee we had landed in the right place. I wouldn't hesitate at all to recommend Phelps Estate Planning to close friends and family members or to complete strangers!
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06 Feb, 2024 by Diana
Jimmy D. Rohde is the best attorney I have ever worked with and I was so fortunate to find him.
I was overwhelmed trying to settle my mother’s estate she died unexpectedly, witout a will. I don't live in Arizona, so I had to find an attorney who could help me “long distance”. After making numerous phone calls, I found that most attorneys either didn’t want to tackle my particular situation, or they wanted money up front before they would talk to me, I found Jimmy Rohde.
My first “meeting” with Jimmy was by phone. I had so many questions to ask i.e. where to start, what can I do and not do etc? He immediately seemed to grasp my situation, and explained things clearly and thoroughly. I never felt rushed, nor did he limit the number of questions I asked.
After the 1st phone call, I knew Jimmy was the person I wanted to consult. When I flew back to Phx. to meet with him, Jimmy took the time to understand the "difficult dynamic" that is my family. He was 100% professional, but exuded a warmth and friendliness, that made me feel totally relaxed during that meeting. He displayed an exceptional level of expertise and provided me with clear explanations. He encouraged me to ask questions, no matter how insignificant or simple I thought they were. Since I'm out of state, I wasn’t sure what papers of my mother’s I needed to keep vs. what to get rid of, so at that 1st meeting I brought a box "filled with folders". Jimmy didn’t say a word, he just looked over the “mounds” of paperwork (most of which he probably didn’t need to see), and gave me sound advice. He asked detailed questions, and then gave me several options on how to proceed. He explained everything in terms I easily understood. I left feeling well informed and having a clearer direction of how best to proceed.
It was clear from the onset that Jimmy was very knowledgeable and truly wanted the best for me. After the estate was "settled", family (from another country) entered into the scene. I was ruffled and emotional. Again, Jimmy was a Godsend. He was calm and empathetic while remaining professional. Jimmy's legal experience, along with his warmth and kindness, gave me hope at a time when my options appeared limited and the likelihood of a good resolution seemed next to impossible. He went above and beyond his obligation, and I couldn’t have asked for better advice or services.
I know this is a long review, but it comes from the heart. I would recommend Mr. Jimmy D. Rohde to anyone needing a lawyer for probate and/or trust law without reservation.
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04 Dec, 2020 by Stacy
My case was a contentious guardianship/conservatorship dispute, where some members of the family were trying to block my mother with Alzheimer's from getting memory care. It was a heartbreaking, traumatic, and long-drawn out process. Jimmy literally saved the day, by doing everything legally possible to ensure that my Mom got the care she needed. Throughout it all, he was kind, thoughtful, and committed to seeing the right thing happen for my mother. He is excellent at this work. Very strongly recommended!
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17 Aug, 2019 by Antonio
Monica came highly recommended by a friend. In a city that is reputed to have as many attorneys are there are actors, I was a deer in headlights when I was an inaccurately named party to a small-business lawsuit. Monica genuinely listened to my side of the story, and explained my options for tackling the case. I had never been involved in a lawsuit before, and was relying entirely on her counsel. She explained her background, fees, and her assessment of the case. She was calm, collected, and presented my options. All my instincts indicated that she was the perfect lawyer to represent me, and I hired her on the spot.
Monica checked in with me regularly, explained what was happening, and never left me in the dark. After a few months, my case concluded in my favor, and I couldn't be happier.
Monica is an empathetic communicator, and executes. She is analytical, thoughtful, and a performer. As the first attorney I've ever hired for a lawsuit, I don't have a reference point for her attorney rates relative to others. However, there is no question that the value of her services are worth every penny. I highly recommend her.
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21 May, 2018 by Noel
Monica helped us with a trust sale on one of our property. Monica was Very professional and was always there for any questions or concerns. She guided us through the whole process which made us feel very comfortable.
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08 Sep, 2018 by Gabrielle
I had to hire a CA attorney for a complicated case involving 5 states. I’m based in Boston. I found Robyn after multiple referrals.
I was pretty well versed on the case law and was very prepared. Robyn was professional, compassionate, and fair. She followed with every note. She handled my case beautifully.
I could not happier. I would highly recommend Robyn Christo for your matter. She will not let you down!
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04 Feb, 2017 by Martin
My Siblings were the trust administrators of the family trust and I needed a Marin County Trust and Elder Law Litigator. It is unfortunate when your own sibling were not able to be fair, honest and decent as trust administrators. In this era of financial elder abuse, when your some of your siblings get their hands on the money, it's just too easy for them to not use it like their own personal checking account. It might get worse if your family attorney dies and they are able to hire their own attorney for themselves and the trust.
Robyn Christo was a quick study, knew the details of the case and was able to help me focus on a reasonable outcome. She went into the Marin County Probate Court and was able to get me a subpoena of the bank finanical records that I wanted. In the end, she was able to get me a final distribution of trust assets so I could move forward with my life.
Epstein Law Firm does not handle estate planning case, they specialize in trust and estate and elder ligitation. It is unfortunate that I did not find her earlier when one of my parents was still alive.
I would highly recommend Attorney Robyn Christo.
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07 Aug, 2017 by Paul
I hired this attorney two months ago and am very pleased with his performance thus far. He is straight forward and direct, and I feel he has my best interest in mind.
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21 May, 2016 by Mike
Scott Fisher is a very trustworthy and honest professional. My father passed away and he was able to assist in a timely manner and had great communication through the entire process. Very grateful for his professionalism as he assisted me during the loss of a family member and made this difficult situation seem effortless. If you need support with estate planning or probate you can trust that Scott will give you proffessional, honest, and timely results. Thank you again Scott.
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29 Jan, 2016 by Jennifer hnatonko
He was very helpful throughout the entire process and guided us along the way to make sure we were making the best decisions. When we hit any bumps in the road, he was right by our side to walk us through any steps needed.
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26 Nov, 2012 by Nathan
Kevin is very professional and was only a phone call away. Gave me personal cell phone and was very reasonable for a closing ($850).
Helped me with personal closing as we as investments. Has stayed in touch and is very professional. Also noticed multiple things that came up during a title search and took it upon himself to fix them before they even became issues. Exactly what you want with a real estate attorney
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28 Sep, 2016 by Pam
My husband and I hired Rebecca to create a Family Trust for us. She was very thorough in leading us through this process. She asked questions and took notes. She asked us to fill out paperwork and send her copies of documents which we gladly did. The whole experience was very professional and pleasant. We highly recommend Rebecca because of her skills as a lawyer and knowledge of California Estate laws.
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15 Jul, 2016 by Patty pottenger
Rebecca is a wonderful lawyer that is patient, listens and makes you feel very comfortable with your personal planning. I will be recommending her to my friends.
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22 Sep, 2016 by Frank
Mark helped communicate the options in a complicated situation. His knowledge of the non profit world and the complexities of 501(c)3 regulations both Federal and State is considerable. His ability to communicate clearly the options was excellent.
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01 Apr, 2013 by John
Mark helped my family through a very tricky situation. He was always patient with us. He explained complex issues in language we could understand, and he helped us feel comfortable making important decisions. Several attorneys were involved in the situation, but Mark's advice was always the most practical and helpful.
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27 Jul, 2015 by Anonymous
Mr. Stubbs took over a complicated Trust Administration after my husband died a year ago. Years ago, we put virtually all our wealth into irrevocable trusts to avoid estate taxes. Unfortunately this labyrinth of trusts imposed significant restrictions on my access to our money. Mr. Stubbs worked out a solution to give me a sufficient monthly payment to maintain my lifestyle for my remaining years. I feel comfortable knowing John Stubbs has my back!
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08 Jul, 2015 by Wendy
I have know John Stubbs for over 15 years. Although I'm an attorney myself, I consult with Mr. Stubbs whenever I have issues in the areas in which he has greater expertise. I have referred friends to Mr. Stubbs for estate planning, and they all have been thrilled with his work. Mr. Stubbs gets my highest recommendation.
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14 Feb, 2020 by Anne
I hired Sabrina to help actualize a plan to resolve family issues related to a trust. Sabrina not only provided very astute professional services but she demonstrated a level of care and concern for me that a I did not expect from an attorney. Sabrina was also a great emotional support to me during a very difficult time. I greatly appreciated the comforting component of her services as well, and the fact that she cared about my personal welfare and called just to check up on me and see how I was doing. That alone was priceless!
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07 Mar, 2016 by Chad
Sabrina Beg's professionalism, depth of knowledge and transparency in her actions can not be over stated. Her tenacious dedication to my case saved myself and my family a lengthy litigation action that would have been costly and time prohibitive. Her team and associates were absolutely top notch.
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23 Mar, 2018 by Anonymous
Her and her office did a fantastic job with our estate planning. Thanks so much
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27 Jan, 2015 by Victoria scarth
My husband is a small business owner who's business has continued to grow over the last few years. And with this continued growth we have experienced many common legal issues that arise for small business owners. My husband is a busy man and was worried how he would be able to handle the legal issues arising around us. Kariann came to us from a referral from a friend. She quickly took over and was able to get everything under control for us. She kept us in the loop at all times. We felt very confident with her by outside. She is well organized and very trust worthy. She works hard and puts her clients first. We call her when ever we need help and we have other friends who now use her legal services!!!
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02 Apr, 2019 by Ray
If you need someone to not only provide a well executed trust as well as knowing he will support the wishes when siblings arrive, Mr. Hill is the best. He created a trust for my father. When my siblings decided decide they wanted things done differently, David stepped in and guided me through it all. So not only did Mr. Hill prepare exactly what my father wanted, but his abilities to help during difficult times of distribution was a godsend for me.
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02 Jan, 2019 by Todd
Attorney Hill was professional and timely in preparing all of the necessary documents to avoid probate and was thorough in the funding of my trust.
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29 Jun, 2022 by Michele klein
I would personally like to thank my attorney, Jaleh Piran-Vesseh for her expertise and knowledge in elder care. My journey started from New York to Florida and she had walked me through all the difficulties and task that i wouldn’t of been able to do with out her. Her attentiveness to details is right on point. During this difficult time with my parents being so ill, she had insured confidence in me to preform my duties as a trustee to the estate of my parents. No question has been unanswered. Every phone call has been answered. I would also like to thank Amanda for all her hard work and kindness. I highly recommend Jaleh Piran-Vesseh to all in need. You will never be disappointed. Thank you Jaleh for your kindness and understanding from the bottom of my heart.
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03 Jul, 2018 by Alvin au
Jaleh is an excellent lawyer and helping me to solve some issues of trust property. She always discuss and explain my case to me very patiently. She took very high responsibility to my case. Also Her Paralegal, Mary L. Andersen, FRP , has a very experienced and knowledgeable helper. Even my case is not closed yet, so far she is a lawyer I can trust. I strongly recommend her to everyone if you need a lawyer. I need to appreciate with their help!
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02 Feb, 2018 by Larry
Lee Werner is truly an outstanding attorney. During his representation Mr. Werner displayed the following characteristics, was extremely knowledgeable, reliable, incredibly prepared, strategic, diligent, attentive, compassionate, trustworthy, engaging, experienced, optimistic, patience, skillful, provided good advice, was quick to respond to my needs, respected, maintained perspective, reassuring, honest, displayed integrity, and stood by my side throughout a long and emotional case, which we won! Mr. Werner is not only a good attorney, he is also a good person.
I recommend Mr. Werner without reservation.
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26 Jan, 2018 by Anonymous
A person who failed to qualify for founding shares of our company, brought a law suit against the founders, claiming he was owed equity. Lee crafted a defense strategy, executed and delivered a bench trial verdict in our favor. He additionally navigated us to a successful outcome on the plaintiff's appeal.
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07 Oct, 2016 by Jeff
She was more then willing to speak to me on the phone and give me what information she could bestow. It was a massive help and i really appreciate it, in these hard times.
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01 Jun, 2015 by Anonymous
We completed trust and will work with Ione. We were very pleased with her efficiency, trustworthiness, attitude, availability and reasonableness.
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03 Mar, 2020 by Anonymous
Kevin Taheny provided excellent legal advice for my son who was dealing with an acrimonious separation. He got back to us immediately, and was able to explain the applicable laws clearly.
We took his advice and the situation is now resolved.
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05 Apr, 2008 by Anonymous
Mr. Taheny was professional, prompt and competent. His fees were extremely reasonable. I recommend him without reservation.
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11 Apr, 2018 by Anonymous
Even though this was an initial consult, she took plenty of time to answer my questions and give me information. I will be using her for my family trust work.
I am looking forward to working with her.
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12 Jan, 2015 by Heather
Dylan helped me create a will and detailed trust for husband and I. It is not the most fun thing to think about (our demise), but she made it actually an enjoyable experience! She was very professional, quick, easy to work with and thorough. Our trust in particular was complicated and she was effortlessly able to grasp our wishes and even enhance them to create a detailed trust which I feel serves us very well. I rest easier knowing that we have this all taken care of, even though I am only 37 years old! I would highly recommend her to anyone seeking legal advice and indeed recommend her to all my friends and family. It is just the right thing to do to prepare for the future and not let our kids or strangers spend their energy deciphering over our estate.
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09 Jul, 2021 by Jeff
Did an estate trust for my wife and me. The entire process from start to end was professional, accurate, thorough, well explained, well documented, timely and done at a reasonable price. She was knowledgeable and a great explainer with regards to options. She done this process many times and is highly proficient and patient with the inevitable questions from clients.
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06 Aug, 2012 by Anonymous
Margaret Demorest is a rare Lawyer who does everything by the book . She handled our very complex estate skillfully!
If you want a lawyer with the highest integrity, hire Margaret for all your Trust and Estate needs.
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20 Mar, 2020 by Andrea
I considered going with one of the larger firms in town, but I am so glad that I saw sense and found Leigh Hudson. I was terrified and struggling after becoming disabled, and I definitely waited too long to attend to the financial situation in which I found myself. Leigh put me at ease immediately and was truly enjoyable to work with. She is very knowledgeable and she truly cares about the people she helps. She worked with me and my cognitive disability without ever making me feel judged and I left feeling glad that my case was in good hands. I really appreciate everything Leigh did to help me out of a tough situation.
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22 Dec, 2016 by Cindey
I was scared to file bankruptcy. Ms. Hudson was both professional and personable, and alleviated my fears. She was always available to answer my questions and made the process so easy. I was kept informed of the progress of my case every step of the way. She was accurate, efficient and I started sleeping again! Don't bother looking further than Ms. Hudson. AND the fee was perfect.
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14 Dec, 2023 by Teresa
I can say that I am very pleased with Chris and my experience in the two different case's I acquired from Him. He explained everything in detail and made sure I understood the processing and costs, which is very much the best price for each. Very professional with great integrity and great quality of service. Refer Him for and to other's.
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23 May, 2014 by Don
Attorney Capps has helped me in several instances, each different, each one civil. In every case he seemed to be well informed and fully advised me of my several choices. In all cases where there was a win/lose opportunity he was able to come out with a win.
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05 Dec, 2014 by Donna
When contacting Mr. Banks I had already been told by another firm that there was very little if any hope for our case...I knew our case was different in that it involved not just investment fraud..but real estate property. There were many pieces to the puzzle..and at times was hard to put together. Mr. Banks and his team spent countless hours putting things together..many times calling me after hours to go over things. He spent hours going over police records and talking with people that could one day be called as expert witnesses.
After over a year of countless hours of work our case was settled. I appreciate all that was done for us. Mr. Banks never stated it was a sure thing...BUT let me know it was worth the fight...AND IT WAS
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01 Oct, 2014 by Avtar-hari
I have been fortunate to have had the opportunity of working very closely with Bob Banks for the past three years. He has represented, as a plaintiff, the nonprofit organization of which I am a board member in two highly complex malpractice suits against professionals - one a lawyer and the other a business appraiser. In both cases, Bob delivered highly satisfactory results.
Not only is Bob exceptionally knowledgeable and skilled, he is also one of the best human beings I have met. He is a person of the highest principles and integrity. He is sublimely respectful, caring and considerate. He is a talented strategist, and a highly effective communicator and relationship builder. He is tough, but fair.
Without any reservation whatsoever, I would enthusiastically recommend him to any individual or organization in need.
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20 Mar, 2012 by Anonymous
I hired Thompson's firm to represent me in an audit with the IRS. He kept me informed of what was going on, was knowledgable about the circumstances of my case, and produced a favorable result.
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10 Dec, 2009 by Anonymous
Mr. Thompson was hired to recover a substantial sum taken from our clompany wrongfully as part of a credit card scheme. He recovered all ours funds plus substantial additional monies.our
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02 Nov, 2023 by Pat
Mr. Montgomery and his staff have been amazing in helping me through my son's motorcycle accident. The were very up front and honest about the case and gave good and sound advice. I had an issue on a Saturday that I emailed him on and he took the time that day to call me to talk through it. To me that's amazing that a lawyer would do that on the weekend on his day off. His staff is as amazing. Quick responses and other communication reaching out to me to give updates and advice. The other lawyers in the firm have been equally as amazing in helping me through this very difficult process. My son was in a motorcycle accident that was not his fault 7 months ago and has TBI and is currently incapacitated. This firm has done an outstanding job representing my son and I. Highly recommended.
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31 Oct, 2023 by Christie
The staff at Martinson & Beason were very professional, friendly, and extremely knowledgeable. Their assistance in my legal matters was greatly appreciated and their professionalism and skill unmatched. Erin Stewart and Carter Montgomery's expertise was clear and they were happy to answer all my questions. My options were well presented and thoroughly explained. I am extremely satisfied with the service that they provided and highly recommend this practice for any legal needs.
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28 Jul, 2022 by Anonymous
Mr. Anderson worked with us to set up a life trust and living will. He gave us his email address if we had questions, which he responded to. He followed up with us after we had paid him making sure we had done everything we were suppose to on our trust. He was great. Very pleasant.
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15 Feb, 2022 by Dale
My wife and I have putting off getting our wills done for a while. After the holidays, we finally decided to get it done. Mr. Anderson asked us many questions, listened to our concerns, and drew up the paperwork to get it done. It was surprisingly painless. I would highly recommend Zach Anderson.
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02 Mar, 2021 by Christopher
Sarah was incredibly professional and efficient. She was incredibly helpful and answered all of my questions.
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09 Dec, 2019 by Carole
Sarah has been guiding me through the trust making process. She is always professional, knowledgeable, trustworthy, and kind. She has taken time to answer all my questions clearly and patiently. She truly cares about her work and her clients. It’s a pleasure to work with her.
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31 Aug, 2022 by Luz
I hired Sam for probate (Jan 2022) and I was absolutely in good hands. He is very good in communicating, he emails back or calls back promptly.. no long wait. He handled the issues in an excellent way. He is very knowledgeable that we came out in the good end of mediation (June 2022). Big WIN. He was very open how I can save attorneys fees too . That really surprised me and I’m thankful of that of course. It was a smooth journey with this lawyer. HIGHLY RECOMMENDED…
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09 Jul, 2021 by Lee
After having serious concerns about a Trustee for 8 years, and having contacted 12 different attorneys, I finally found Mr. Samuel E. Sears. Along the 8 year journey I had learned that Trust Litigation is a very specific area of the law, and there were only 3 attorneys in the Pacific Northwest that were experts. I contacted them all but after being referred to Mr Sears by an actual probate Judge I was fortunate to be able to hire Mr. Sears. His was wonderful, affordable, and handled my case perfectly. I strongly suggest anyone with concerns about Trusts, and specifically Trust litigation contact Mr. Sears. He is the best in the business, and although he was 50 miles away in Salem, Oregon, he was a much better choice than the other two experts who were both located locally in Portland. He was honest, fair, compassionate, and the best possible choice for the task. I would further encourage anyone in need to contact him early. Civil claims often have a short life expectancy, so don't make the mistake I did, and hire counsel as soon as you suspect problems exist.
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22 Jul, 2021 by Jim
My wife and I had a hard time knowing where to start, but we knew we needed to get our will redone. I got referred to Mike and Moulton through a friend. I started by watching the webinar online and we met with Mike the next week. He was a very friendly guy and not what I was fearing in an attorney, but I had watched the webinar so I had some idea. He helped us put together our Living Trust and I just cannot say enough about the peace of mind that comes with knowing it was done right. I talked with a friend who recently went to a different elder law group and they charged three times as much and they didn't even get a trust. Start with Moulton, you won't be disappointed.
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17 Jan, 2014 by Cheryl
As I have no knowledge of trusts or how to go about the final affairs of my dad passing, my dad always told me to "just call the card in the front of the book and he will tell you what to do!" I will say I have had a lot of questions for Michael Gunning and he is very friendly, informative, and helpful with any question I have either called or emailed! I have been surprised at how swift he answers my emails and his amount of patience he has with explaining in detail how to handle each question or situation I have encountered! I am sure I will have more questions, but he puts me at ease with the knowledge he will take the time to help me through this difficult task! My dad loved him and trusted him with his final affairs and I now understand why!! Michael is a wonderful lawyer with a kindness that I would recommend to anyone who needs to set up a will or trust!
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26 Apr, 2013 by Alonzo
Alex handled my divorce case in 2012. He is very organized and kept me informed at all times. Alex did an outstaning job for me. I highly recommend Alex. Thank you once again Alex.
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09 Aug, 2012 by Anonymous
Mr. Fasching is helping me with my family law case and is very good at managing my case. He listens to my concerns and addresses them in the best way possible to both reduce the conflict and obtain the results I am requesting.
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FAQs
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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:
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What experience do you have with creating trusts?
Ensure the lawyer has experience drafting trusts and managing trust administration for clients with similar goals or asset structures. -
What types of trusts do you recommend for my situation?
Ask the lawyer to explain the different types of trusts available and which ones best suit your needs. -
How do you charge for your services?
Clarify the fee structure and request an estimate of the total cost. -
What are the tax implications of the trust?
Ensure the lawyer can explain how the trust will affect your taxes and strategies to minimize tax liability. -
How long will it take to set up the trust?
Ask for a timeline for creating and finalizing the trust documents. -
Will you handle the trust administration?
If ongoing management is required, inquire whether the lawyer will assist with trust administration or if you'll need a separate trustee. -
Can you help resolve disputes if they arise?
Ask about the lawyer's experience in resolving trust disputes.
How to Check the Credibility of a Trusts Lawyer
To ensure you are hiring a reputable trusts lawyer, take the following steps:
- Verify their bar status: Check with your state bar association to confirm the lawyer is licensed and has no disciplinary actions.
- Look for trust law experience: Review their website or professional profile to ensure they specialize in estate planning and trusts.
- Read client reviews and testimonials: Look for feedback on platforms like Avvo, Martindale-Hubbell, or Google.
- Ask for references: Request references from past clients who can speak to their experience with the lawyer.
- Check for certifications: Look for certifications such as Certified Estate Planning Law Specialist (EPLS) or memberships in organizations like the American Academy of Estate Planning Attorneys (AAEPA).
What Should I Prepare for My First Consultation?
To make the most of your first consultation with a trusts lawyer, bring the following:
- List of assets: Prepare a list of all your assets, including real estate, bank accounts, investments, retirement accounts, and personal property.
- List of beneficiaries: Provide names and contact information of individuals or organizations you want to name as beneficiaries.
- Existing estate planning documents: Bring copies of any existing wills, trusts, or other estate planning documents.
- Financial information: Bring financial statements, tax returns, and other relevant financial documentation.
- Questions for the lawyer: Prepare a list of questions about the trust creation process, fees, and how the trust will protect your assets and beneficiaries.
- Goals for the trust: Clearly outline your objectives, such as asset protection, tax minimization, or provisions for beneficiaries, so the lawyer can tailor the trust to your needs.
By preparing thoroughly for your consultation, you can help the lawyer assess your situation effectively and receive the best possible legal advice for creating and managing your trust.
