FAQ
General
What should I expect during my first consultation?
We’ll talk through your situation, your goals, and what options might be available. It’s a conversation — not a sales pitch.
Do I need to bring anything with me to our meeting?
If you have paperwork related to your issue (like a will, court notice, or immigration documents), bring it along. If not, that’s okay — we’ll figure it out together.
Estate Planning & Probate
Do I need a will if I don’t own much?
Yes — even a simple will can help make sure your wishes are followed and ease the burden on your family.
What’s the difference between a will and a trust?
A will goes through probate and takes effect after death; a trust can manage assets while you’re living and help avoid probate.
Can you help with powers of attorney or healthcare directives?
Yes — these documents are a key part of any complete estate plan and ensure your voice is heard if you’re unable to speak for yourself.
How often should I update my estate plan?
Every few years, or whenever you experience a major life change like marriage, divorce, a new child, or a move.
Guardianships
When is a guardianship necessary for an adult?
If someone can’t make decisions for themselves due to age, disability, or illness, a guardianship may be needed to help manage their care or finances.
What’s the difference between guardianship of the person and guardianship of the estate?
Guardianship of the person covers medical and personal decisions; guardianship of the estate handles financial matters.
How do I begin the guardianship process for a parent or loved one?
It starts with a petition filed in court. From there, we work through the legal steps to determine what’s appropriate for their situation.
Will I need to go to court to become a guardian?
Yes — guardianship requires court approval, but I’ll guide you through each step.
Can a guardianship be modified or ended later?
Yes — guardianships can be changed or ended if circumstances improve or if they’re no longer needed.
Immigration
Can you help with family-based immigration?
Yes — I assist with petitions for spouses, children, parents, and other close relatives seeking lawful status.
What’s the process for adjusting my immigration status?
It depends on your specific situation, but it often involves filing with USCIS and attending an interview. We’ll walk through it together.
How long does it take to get a green card?
Timelines vary based on category and country of origin. I’ll give you a realistic sense of timing based on your case.
Do you offer services in other languages?
I speak both English and French. If interpretation is needed for other languages, we’ll coordinate what’s best for your case.