Charlotte Estate Planning Attorney Guide
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Elder Law & Medicaid Planning in Charlotte

Elder Law & Medicaid Planning in Gastonia, NC

Compare 20 elder law and Medicaid planning attorneys serving Gastonia, NC. Learn what the work covers, what to look for, and how our scoring works.

Elder law covers the legal problems that come with aging: paying for long-term care, protecting a spouse at home, naming someone to make decisions after a stroke or diagnosis, and handling guardianship when no one has that authority. Medicaid planning is the part most families come for. North Carolina looks back five years at transfers when someone applies for nursing home coverage, so timing matters. A plan made early can protect the house and savings. One made in a crisis has fewer options.

Gastonia has 20 attorneys listed in this category. When comparing them, look for:

  • A practice focused on elder law, not one that treats it as a side service.
  • Clear explanation of the five-year look-back, spousal protections, and estate recovery.
  • Experience with Gaston County Department of Social Services applications.
  • Upfront fee quotes, flat or hourly, in writing.

Our scores weigh review quality, specialization, and the completeness of each firm's public information, so you can shortlist quickly. Read how we calculate them on the methodology page, or go straight to the ranked guide to Gastonia estate planning attorneys.

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All elder law & medicaid planning in Gastonia, NC, ranked by score and relevance

We found 20 businesses offering elder law & medicaid planning in Gastonia, NC; 17 met the criteria for the scored directory. The order weighs each business's overall score by how much of its reviewed work is elder law & medicaid planning, so a lower-scored specialist can rank above a higher-scored generalist.

Neece Law Firm
#1
81

Neece Law Firm

4.6(78)✓ Google-verified

Reviewers consistently report quick resolutions and favorable case outcomes handled by named attorneys Michael Neece, Robert Wall, and Tyler. Staff stay communicative throughout the process and make clients feel supported, with particular praise for legal assistant Madison and admin team responsiveness. The firm handles traffic tickets, domestic issues, drug charges, and real estate closings with efficiency. Reviewers note set fee arrangements and appreciate transparent communication about legal strategy. Several mention being surprised by favorable outcomes relative to initial expectations.

Wills & TrustsElder Law & Medicaid PlanningEstate Planning Attorney
Katzenstein & Lorance
#2
79 low data

Katzenstein & Lorance

4.8(90)✓ Google-verified

Most clients praise the firm's attentiveness and professionalism, but one reviewer reported being left without support when their attorney departed mid-case, resulting in case loss.

Wills & TrustsElder Law & Medicaid PlanningEstate Planning Attorney
McIlveen Family Law Firm
#3
79

McIlveen Family Law Firm

4.8(92)✓ Google-verified

Top reviews praise specific attorneys like Sean McIlveen, Jennifer Palmer, Ashley, and Chelsi for meticulous case preparation, genuine empathy, and calm advocacy through difficult custody and family disputes. Strong five-star feedback highlights clear communication, transparent explanations of steps, and dedicated paralegal support from staff like Kim and Madison. However, multiple one-star reviews cite billing surprises (flat fees that became hourly), staff indifference to scope boundaries, and uneven performance across different attorneys, with some clients reporting months of inaction or weak negotiation tactics.

Wills & TrustsElder Law & Medicaid PlanningEstate Planning Attorney
Legacy Law Firm
#4
74 low data

Legacy Law Firm

5.0(10)✓ Google-verified

All 10 reviews award five stars. Clients praise Alyssa, the named attorney, for making estate planning and probate feel manageable by explaining matters clearly and showing genuine care for families in stressful situations.

Wills & TrustsProbate & Estate AdministrationElder Law & Medicaid Planning
Caulder & Valentine Law Firm, PLLC
#5
91

Caulder & Valentine Law Firm, PLLC

5.0(189)✓ Google-verified

Reviewers consistently report quick responses, clear explanations, and genuine concern for their cases. Named attorneys Blake Caulder, Josh Valentine, Jonathan Kidd, and Bradley handle custody and family matters with preparation and follow-through, with many clients obtaining favorable outcomes despite initial stress. The firm's team keeps clients informed at each step and settles cases efficiently. One reviewer felt cost took priority over guidance through affordable settlement options, though most describe professional, supportive representation through difficult family court proceedings.

Wills & TrustsElder Law & Medicaid PlanningEstate Planning Attorney

Let us connect you with elder law & medicaid planning in Gastonia, NC

No obligation, and it is free. Tell us what you need and we'll connect you with estate planning attorneys in Charlotte who handle your situation.

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Providence Law
#6
79

Providence Law

4.7(15)✓ Google-verified

Reviewers consistently praise the team's warmth and patience, particularly Misti Milburn and Jesse Bone, for guiding families through Medicaid and special needs planning with clear explanations and emotional support. The firm handles complex elder law and guardianship work with attentiveness, often resolving multiple issues that arise during the process and answering questions beyond business hours.

Wills & TrustsProbate & Estate AdministrationElder Law & Medicaid Planning
Mullen Holland & Cooper P.A.
#7
68 low data

Mullen Holland & Cooper P.A.

4.0(20)✓ Google-verified

Most reviewers report straightforward, attentive service from named attorneys like James Martin, Walt Grayson, and John H. Russell Jr., who explain steps clearly and follow through. One older complaint about contract cancellation and deposit return remains an outlier in the file.

Wills & TrustsProbate & Estate AdministrationElder Law & Medicaid Planning
W. Marshall LaFar, Attorney At Law
#8
63 low data

W. Marshall LaFar, Attorney At Law

4.7(14)✓ Google-verified

Most clients report quick, straightforward work at fair rates with a personable approach. One older complaint flags a cash-only policy for certain deals.

Wills & TrustsProbate & Estate AdministrationElder Law & Medicaid Planning
Hance & Hance
#9
71

Hance & Hance

4.3(44)✓ Google-verified

Most reviewers praise Hance & Hance for knowledgeable, responsive real estate counsel and attention to detail that has caught costly errors before closing. Two recent complaints allege unprofessional behavior and dispute over fee structure and tax guidance on family property transfers.

Wills & TrustsProbate & Estate AdministrationElder Law & Medicaid Planning
Gray Layton Kersh Solomon Furr
#10
70 low data

Gray Layton Kersh Solomon Furr

4.5(40)✓ Google-verified

This Gastonia firm has kept clients for decades through steady professional work and polite service. Some people report long delays returning intake calls and occasional staff friction, but 85% of reviews are five-star.

Wills & TrustsElder Law & Medicaid PlanningEstate Planning Attorney
King Law
#11
71

King Law

4.5(31)✓ Google-verified

King Law has strong counsel in DaVon Maddox and others who listeners find patient and attentive, particularly in estate planning and family matters. However, recent disputes centre on fees: clients report being billed for extended periods with minimal case progress, and concerns about upfront consultation charges followed by high retainers and partial refunds when cases weaken.

Wills & TrustsElder Law & Medicaid PlanningEstate Planning Attorney
Robinson Law Firm
#12
65 low data

Robinson Law Firm

4.8(15)

Reviewers praise Robinson Law Firm for professional service and efficient work. Named staff members Lamar and Mrs. Lauterbach are recognized as strong practitioners in real estate and estate planning.

Wills & TrustsProbate & Estate AdministrationElder Law & Medicaid Planning
Pickard Rachel
#13
71

Pickard Rachel

4.3(76)✓ Google-verified

Rachel Pickard's firm excels in Social Security disability cases where staff connect quickly and secure wins that matter. Outcomes are polarized: some clients credit the team with life-changing results after prior rejections; others report abrupt case termination, minimal outreach, and a gap between initial warmth and later responsiveness.

Wills & TrustsElder Law & Medicaid PlanningEstate Planning Attorney
Robinson and Lauterbach, PLLC
#14
63 low data

Robinson and Lauterbach, PLLC

4.6(14)✓ Google-verified

Most clients praise the firm for professional, welcoming service at estate closings and probate work. One reviewer noted cost as a barrier.

Wills & TrustsProbate & Estate AdministrationElder Law & Medicaid Planning
The Law Office of Geoffrey A. Planer
#15
73

The Law Office of Geoffrey A. Planer

4.4(67)✓ Google-verified

Geoffrey Planer earns strong praise for his expertise, attentiveness, and compassion in handling custody, bankruptcy, and estate matters. Reviewers consistently highlight his listening skills and goal-oriented advice. However, office staff inconsistency creates friction: some clients report condescending, unprofessional communication and contradictory information, while others praise the entire team as warm and responsive.

Wills & TrustsElder Law & Medicaid PlanningEstate Planning Attorney
Keeter Morris W
#16
54 low data

Keeter Morris W

3.4(19)

Work with Morris Keeter produces strong outcomes for clients who connect well with him: detailed explanations, responsive answers, and follow-through on wills, home closings, and general counsel. However, reviews consistently flag interpersonal friction-some clients report being spoken to rudely, dismissed outright, or hung up on during sensitive consultations, leaving them frustrated and seeking help elsewhere.

Wills & TrustsProbate & Estate AdministrationElder Law & Medicaid Planning
Griffing Leazer, PLLC
#17
51 low data

Griffing Leazer, PLLC

2.3(3)✓ Google-verified

One client praised Emily's detailed work and investment of time. Two others reported she became unresponsive after initial meetings, with emails and voicemails going unanswered.

Wills & TrustsElder Law & Medicaid PlanningEstate Planning Attorney

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Common questions about elder law & medicaid planning

How much does an elder law or Medicaid planning attorney cost?
Expect an initial consultation that is free or a modest flat fee, then roughly $2,000 to $7,000 or more for a Medicaid plan, depending on assets and complexity. Powers of attorney and simple wills cost much less. Ask for the fee in writing before you sign.
When should I start Medicaid planning?
Ideally at least five years before care is likely, because North Carolina reviews asset transfers made in that window. If care is already needed, a lawyer can still often protect some assets, so do not assume it is too late.
What happens at a first elder law meeting?
You will go over income, savings, the home, health, and family. Bring recent bank statements, deeds, insurance policies, and any existing wills or powers of attorney. The attorney should outline options, risks, and costs.
How can I judge an elder law attorney's quality?
Ask what share of the practice is elder law, how many Medicaid applications they handle each year, and who does the work. Check state bar standing and read recent reviews for communication and clear billing.

Last updated 2026-10-02