Business Details
23 Years
experience
Your Trusted Estate Planning Attorney in Portland, ME
Lisa J Friedlander, Attorney at Law, has dedicated her career to providing compassionate and effective legal representation in estate planning, elder law, and probate matters. With over 25 years of experience practicing in Maine's District, Superior, and Probate Courts, she combines deep legal expertise with a client-first approach. Her practice focuses on helping families navigate complex legal challenges, including wills, trusts, guardianships, and MaineCare planning.Clients consistently praise her ability to explain intricate legal concepts in accessible terms, deliver cost-effective solutions, and prioritize their needs throughout every case. Her background as a former judicial officer in Maine's Family Division further enhances her understanding of family law dynamics. Lisa's commitment to timely, personalized service has earned her recognition as one of Southern Maine's most trusted attorneys.
Services
Estate Planning
Probate Matters
Elder Law
Wills & Trusts
Guardianships
Details
- Year established: 2003
Highlights and features
- We offer 25+ years of specialized experience in Maine estate law
- Our team provides clear, jargon-free legal explanations
- Proven track record in probate court proceedings
- Flexible service options including home visits
- Client-first approach with personalized attention
What people say
Compassionate and practical
Efficient and cost-effective
Speedy and detailed service
Empathetic and professional
Stellar results
Services
Estate Planning
Comprehensive estate planning services including wills, trusts, and power of attorney documents. We help clients protect assets, minimize tax burdens, and ensure their wishes are honored. Our approach combines legal expertise with personalized guidance to create tailored solutions for families of all income levels.
Probate Matters
Expert probate court representation for estate administration and asset distribution. We guide executors through Maine's probate process, handle contested wills, and resolve complex estate disputes. Our experience streamlines what would otherwise be a lengthy and complicated legal procedure for grieving families.
Elder Law
Specialized elder law services including guardianships, conservatorships, and MaineCare planning. We help families navigate long-term care challenges while protecting assets and maintaining eligibility for government benefits. Our compassionate approach balances legal requirements with clients' personal needs.
Wills & Trusts
Custom will and trust creation to ensure proper asset distribution. We offer revocable and irrevocable trusts, special needs trusts, and life insurance trusts. Our expertise ensures documents meet legal requirements while providing peace of mind for clients and their beneficiaries.
Guardianships
Guardianship and conservatorship establishment for incapacitated adults. We assist families in obtaining court-ordered authority to make personal and financial decisions while protecting vulnerable individuals' rights and assets through Maine's probate court system.
People
Lisa J Friedlander
Attorney at Law
Licensed attorney with 25+ years of Maine legal experience. Former judicial officer in Maine's Family Division (1998-2003). Specializes in estate planning, probate, and elder law. Graduated from Maine Law School in 1992. Known for compassionate client service and practical legal solutions.
Questions
What estate planning documents do I really need?
Every adult should have a will, financial power of attorney, and healthcare directive. Depending on your situation, trusts or special needs planning may be recommended to protect assets and ensure your wishes are followed.
How does probate work in Maine?
Maine's probate process validates wills and oversees estate distribution. As your attorney, I'll guide executors through inventorying assets, paying debts, and distributing inheritances while minimizing delays and court complications.
Can I create a guardianship for an elderly parent?
Yes, we can establish guardianships and conservatorships for incapacitated adults through Maine's probate court. This legal process allows family members to make critical healthcare and financial decisions for loved ones who can no longer do so themselves.
How does MaineCare asset protection work?
MaineCare planning involves strategic asset transfers and trust creation to qualify for long-term care benefits while preserving family wealth. Proper planning must account for Maine's 5-year lookback period and asset limits.
What makes your legal services different?
I combine 25+ years of courtroom experience with personalized service, explaining complex legal matters in plain language. My background as a former judicial officer provides unique insights into family and probate court processes.