The top-rated estate planning attorneie in Amherst, Massachusetts is Law and Mediation Office of Oran Kaufman/Amherst Mediation Services, rated 4.9 stars across 46 reviews. Other highly rated options include Attorney Julia Rueschemeyer Divorce Mediation, Michael J Serduck Attorney at Law, Ziomek Jr. S. Peter. This directory lists 16 estate planning attorneies serving Amherst.
Comparison
| # | Name | Address | Phone |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Law and Mediation Office of Oran Kaufman/Amherst Mediation Services | 417 West St #110 | (413) 256-1575 |
| 2 | Attorney Julia Rueschemeyer Divorce Mediation | 409 Main St | (413) 253-7484 |
| 3 | Michael J Serduck Attorney at Law | 409 Main St #116 | (413) 537-5547 |
| 4 | Ziomek Jr. S. Peter | 27 University Dr | (413) 549-0080 |
| 5 | Peter Vickery, Esq. | 30 Boltwood Walk | (413) 256-8429 |
| 6 | Farber & Lindley LLC Attorneys at Law | 30 Boltwood Walk | (413) 256-8429 |
| 7 | Jankowski & Spencer, P.C. | 6 University Dr #201 | (413) 549-0041 |
| 8 | David Levenstein Law | 100 Woodside Ave | (413) 210-2877 |
| 9 | Greta Lamountain Esq | 27 Pray St | (413) 230-3842 |
| 10 | The Law Offices of Daniel M Sandell | 228 Triangle St STE 6 | (413) 549-3883 |
Law and Mediation Office of Oran Kaufman handles estate planning matters throughout Amherst and Hampshire County. As a local firm, it assists individuals and families with the creation of wills, trusts, and other foundational documents. The office also offers probate guidance and estate administration support for clients navigating the legal process after a loss. Specific services commonly addressed include drafting powers of attorney and healthcare proxies.
Attorney Julia Rueschemeyer Divorce Mediation provides legal services focused on estate planning for clients in Amherst, MA. The firm assists with drafting wills, establishing trusts, and preparing powers of attorney documents. Ongoing maintenance plans include document reviews to reflect changes in family circumstances or tax laws. Such plans help ensure that assets are distributed according to the client's wishes. This attorney services single-family homes, apartments, retail properties, and restaurants.
In Amherst, Massachusetts, estate planning clients choose between preparing a single will or trust and establishing an ongoing plan that adapts as life changes. Michael J Serduck Attorney at Law serves individuals and families throughout the Hampshire County area with this local practice focused on wills, trusts, and probate matters. Service runs on a one-time, scheduled, or as-needed basis depending on the specific legal needs of each client.
Serving Amherst, Massachusetts, and the surrounding communities, Ziomek Jr. S. Peter handles estate planning, including wills, trusts, and powers of attorney. The practice also assists with probate administration and asset protection planning for local individuals and families. When managing an estate planning matter, it begins with a thorough initial consultation to clarify the client's wishes and then drafts the necessary legal documents to align with state laws. Attention is paid to the particular structure of each family's assets before finalizing the plans.
Peter Vickery, Esq. serves homeowners, business owners, and individuals in the Amherst area who need to plan for the future. The practice focuses on drafting wills, establishing trusts, and managing probate proceedings to ensure clients’ assets are distributed according to their wishes. General attorney services also include guidance on power of attorney documents and healthcare directives. This firm additionally provides estate planning services for clients throughout the surrounding Hampshire County communities, including Northampton.
Farber & Lindley LLC Attorneys at Law in Amherst, MA focuses its practice on drafting wills and establishing trusts for clients who need to direct their assets. The firm also handles general estate administration matters such as probate proceedings for local families. As a year progresses, many individuals seek its counsel on updating beneficiary designations following a significant life event or a change in Massachusetts tax law.
When winter storms in Amherst disrupt daily routines, reviewing estate plans often takes a practical back seat. Jankowski & Spencer, P.C. helps local families prepare for spring by organizing wills, trusts, and powers of attorney suited to western Massachusetts law. They offer guidance on naming guardians for minor children and designating health care agents. Their initial assessment typically involves a document review conference to identify coverage gaps and confirm beneficiary designations are current.
David Levenstein Law in Amherst, MA works with individuals and families on preparing wills and trusts. Each matter is approached with attention to estate tax implications and the management of asset transfers. The firm also handles the development of powers of attorney and health care directives. Its practice serves commercial offices, warehouses, and food service businesses, helping those operators structure succession plans for their holdings.
Greta Lamountain Esq provides estate planning services to residential clients in Amherst, Massachusetts, while also covering commercial needs for local businesses throughout the surrounding Hampshire County area. Legal tools such as wills, trusts, and powers of attorney are prepared to help clients manage asset distribution and healthcare directives. This practice serves individuals and organizations from a fixed location, ensuring that documents remain current through periodic updates offered between regular visits.
The Law Offices of Daniel M Sandell in Amherst, MA, is known for guiding clients through the legal complexities of planning for the future. Its attorneys assist with drafting wills, establishing trusts, and managing powers of attorney. The firm also handles matters of asset protection and healthcare directives. An additional specialty service the practice offers is assisting with the administration of estate probate proceedings.
What Does an a Estate Planning Attorney in Amherst Cost?
Estate planning attorney fees in Massachusetts vary widely based on complexity. A simple will and basic documents typically cost between $300 and $1,200. A comprehensive plan with a trust may range from $1,500 to $5,000 or more. Some attorneys charge flat fees while others bill hourly at rates of $250 to $500 per hour. This is general information, not legal advice.
About estate planning attorneies in Amherst
Estate planning attorneys in Amherst, Massachusetts help residents create wills, trusts, and powers of attorney to protect their assets and family. Massachusetts has specific laws regarding estate tax exemption, which is currently set at $1 million as of 2024. Local attorneys understand the unique needs of Amherst residents, including those affiliated with the University of Massachusetts and Pioneer Valley communities.
Frequently Asked Questions
What documents are typically included in an estate plan in Massachusetts?
A standard Massachusetts estate plan usually includes a last will and testament, a durable power of attorney, a health care proxy, and a living will. Some plans also include a revocable living trust to avoid probate. Massachusetts law requires two witnesses for a valid will.
How does Massachusetts estate tax affect Amherst residents?
Massachusetts imposes an estate tax on estates valued over $1 million as of 2024, which is lower than the federal exemption. This tax applies to all assets owned by the deceased, including real estate and retirement accounts. Proper planning can help reduce or defer this tax liability.
Do I need an attorney to create a will in Massachusetts?
While Massachusetts law does not require an attorney to create a will, using an estate planning attorney is strongly recommended. A lawyer can ensure the will meets all legal requirements and avoids common mistakes. An improperly executed will may be invalid in probate court.