What families ask before calling
Fees, families and what happens next. If yours isn’t here, write to us.
Fees
What does a first meeting cost?
The first meeting has a set fee, quoted when you book, and it comes off your plan’s fee if you go ahead. For probate and trust administration, the first meeting has no charge.
Why a flat fee?
So you know the cost before we start, and so you never hesitate to call with a question. The letter we send lists what the fee covers and what it doesn’t.
Families
I’m helping my parents. Can I make the appointment?
Yes. We’ll still meet your parents, partly alone, because the plan has to be theirs. Many families do the first meeting together by video.
My parent has memory problems. Is it too late?
Not always. Someone can sign a document if they understand it at the time they sign. Hedda can meet them and tell you honestly. If it is too late, guardianship is the other path.
Planning
We spend summers up north. Does that matter?
It can. Property and residence in two states raise questions about where the estate is settled and which forms banks will accept. Tell us at the first meeting.
What happens to my plan if a lawyer here retires?
Your file stays with the firm, and the second reader on your plan already knows it. We’d write to tell you who your lead lawyer is now.
Do you do taxes or invest money?
No. We work with your CPA and financial adviser and copy them, with your permission, on the parts that touch their work.
Do you take other kinds of cases?
No. We do trusts and wills, special needs planning, Medicaid and long-term care, and probate and trust administration. For anything else, we’ll suggest someone to call.
Didn’t see your question?
Write a line or two, and the lawyer who leads that work will answer.