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FAQs

Working With Us: Process & Fees

Q: Do You Offer Free Consultations?

A: Yes. I offer a complimentary 15-minute initial consultation via phone or Zoom. This “meet and greet” allows us to discuss your situation briefly, determine if we are a good fit, and outline the next steps.

Q: How Do You Charge for Your Services?

A: It depends on the nature of the case.

For Estate Planning: I typically work on a Flat Fee basis. You will know exactly what your plan costs upfront—no surprise bills for phone calls or emails.

For Probate & Business Litigation: These matters are often unpredictable, so they are typically billed on an Hourly basis.

We will always be transparent about the fee structure before we begin any work.

Q: Do I Have to Come to Your Office in Person?

For the initial consultation and strategy sessions, no. I offer virtual (Zoom) and telephonic appointments to fit your schedule. However, for the final signing of Estate Planning documents (Wills, Trusts, etc.), we generally require an in-person meeting. Florida law has strict requirements regarding witnesses and notarization to ensure your documents are legally valid and “challenge-proof.”

Estate Planning (Wills & Trusts)

How Long Does It Take to Create an Estate Plan?

My process is streamlined and efficient. Once we have your information and design decisions, I can typically have your documents drafted and ready for signing within 1-2 weeks.

I’m Not “Wealthy.” Do I Still Need an Estate Plan?

Yes. Estate planning is not just for the wealthy; it is for anyone who has minor children, a home, or specific wishes for their healthcare. Without a plan, the State of Florida determines who raises your kids and who gets your assets. A plan puts you in control.

What Is the Difference Between a Will and a Trust?

A Will is a set of instructions left for a judge. It guarantees that your assets will go through Probate court before they reach your heirs.

A Trust acts like a private “bucket” for your assets. If properly funded, a Trust allows your family to avoid the time and expense of Probate entirely.

During our consultation, I will help you decide which tool is right for your specific goals.

Probate & Administration

What Is Probate?

Probate is the court-supervised process of paying off a deceased person’s debts and distributing their remaining assets to the rightful heirs. In Florida, if you die with assets in your own name (without a beneficiary listed), those assets usually must go through probate.

How Long Does Probate Take in Florida?

It varies by county and complexity, but you should generally expect the process to take anywhere from 6 months to a year. While I work diligently to move cases forward, the court system moves at its own pace.

Do You Handle Contested Probate Cases (Litigation)?

Yes. Unlike many planning firms that only handle paperwork, I handle any type of probate matter. Whether it is a routine uncontested administration or a complex dispute involving family conflict or creditor claims, I can represent your interests in court.

Business Law

I Have a Small Business. Can I Hire You for Ongoing Advice?

Yes. I offer what is often called “Outside General Counsel” services. This is ideal for business owners who need regular legal advice on contracts, employee issues, or risk management but aren’t ready to hire a full-time in-house lawyer.

Why Do I Need an Operating/Shareholder Agreement?

If you have business partners, an Operating/Shareholder Agreement is your “business pre-nuptial.” It dictates what happens if a partner wants to leave, dies, or if the business dissolves. Without one, you are stuck with Florida’s default rules, which may not favor your specific situation.

Client Reviews

After trying to navigate the Florida Court System and US Law on my own, I decided to hire a lawyer to take on my case. I called multiple Law Firms in the Fort Lauderdale area, and Paul Kogan was eventually recommended to me...

Christina Delbianco

He is responsive, caring, diligent and compassionate. Mr. Kogan is very knowledgable regarding all aspects of law. He is experienced, dedicated and has great follow-through. My family and I appreciate the help and advice he has...

S.G.

Our Office

The Kogan Firm, P.A. is proudly based in Fort Lauderdale, serving clients across Broward, Miami-Dade, and Palm Beach counties.

Fort Lauderdale Office
500 NE 4th St #200

Fort Lauderdale, FL 33301

Contact Us

  1. 1 Free Consultation
  2. 2 Payment Options Offered
  3. 3 Over 15 Years of Experience
Fill out the contact form or call us at (954) 281-8888 to schedule your free consultation.

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