Lawyers Near MeCaliforniaSanta Clara CountySunnyvaleHeritage DistrictSouth Murphy Avenue
438 S Murphy Ave, Sunnyvale, CA 94086, USA
Hi, I have asked ProPublica to investigate the attorney, James Efting, and the trustee, Richard Lambie, of the $6.5 million trust that my father left me and my brothers and sisters. It has been almost 3 years since my father passed, and I haven't received a dime of the principle. They have charged over $400,000 in administration fees, but have only itemized 1/3 of them. They are pursuing frivolous lawsuits in order to continue to bill the trust. My portion of the trust is about $750,000. I am in a very difficult financial position ( I have spent an enormous amount of money helping a family member that has had health problems for over 7 years) and I asked them to loan me $25,000 from my portion. They said they won't do it. I consulted an attorney regarding this and he told me that it not only CAN be done but it is OFTEN done. They will not provide bank statements showing that the money is actually in the trust account. They said that it doesn't matter if ALL beneficiaries agree to dissolve the trust. They won't do it. There are very questionable expenses on the year end accountings. Anytime I ask them any question regarding the trust, tell me that they can't answer it and for me to get a lawyer. One of James's colleagues, Michael Desmarais, called me a "malicious fruitcake" when I continued to try to get answers to these questions. I have created a picket sign, and I will be out in front of James's office at some point to let other people know about this situation so that they might reconsider their association with James Efting and Richard Lambie. Please, stear clear of them.
For individuals in the Sunnyvale area seeking legal assistance with estate planning and trust administration, the platform category "Lawyers Near Me" can provide a starting point for finding suitable legal counsel. Among the law firms listed, Efting & Godfrey, LLP, located at 438 S Murphy Ave, Sunnyvale, CA 94086, USA, offers services in this domain. It is essential for prospective clients to consider all available information when making a decision about legal representation.
Efting & Godfrey, LLP can be contacted at (408) 732-3114 or via their mobile phone at +1 408-732-3114. The firm's physical presence in Sunnyvale suggests a focus on serving the local community's estate planning and trust needs.
The available customer reviews offer contrasting perspectives on the services provided by the attorneys at Efting & Godfrey, LLP. One detailed review expresses significant dissatisfaction with the handling of a substantial trust by attorney James Efting and trustee Richard Lambie. This reviewer, identifying themselves as a beneficiary, alleges a prolonged delay in the distribution of the trust principal following their father's passing nearly three years prior. The review raises concerns about the substantial administration fees charged, with only a portion itemized, and suggests the pursuit of "frivolous lawsuits" that purportedly serve to generate further billings against the trust.
The beneficiary further claims to have been denied a requested loan from their share of the trust, despite consulting another attorney who advised that such loans are often permissible. The reviewer also alleges a lack of transparency regarding bank statements for the trust account and states that a unanimous agreement among beneficiaries to dissolve the trust was reportedly disregarded. Additionally, the review mentions "very questionable expenses" in the year-end accountings and claims that inquiries about the trust were met with unhelpful responses, allegedly advising the beneficiary to seek their own legal counsel. The reviewer also recounts a colleague of James Efting, Michael Desmarais, allegedly using a derogatory term towards them during their attempts to obtain information.
This negative review concludes with a strong warning to potential clients to "steer clear" of James Efting and Richard Lambie and indicates an intention to publicly protest the situation outside the office to inform others.
In contrast, another review offers a positive perspective specifically on the services of Marcus Godfrey. This reviewer states that Marcus Godfrey has served as their estate attorney and trusted advisor for the past six years. They describe him as "thorough, thoughtful, and takes the time to build trust with his clients." The review highlights the advice provided by Marcus Godfrey on various estate planning documents, including trusts, wills, advanced medical directives, and power of attorney. The reviewer expresses strong confidence in his services, stating they have recommended him to numerous family members and friends without hesitation. They conclude by emphasizing the "peace of mind" that Marcus Godfrey has brought to their family over the years.
Considering these two contrasting reviews, it is evident that experiences with Efting & Godfrey, LLP may vary depending on the specific attorney and the nature of the legal matter. While one client expresses severe dissatisfaction with the handling of trust administration by James Efting, another client offers high praise for the estate planning advice and services provided by Marcus Godfrey.
For local users searching for "Lawyers Near Me" in Sunnyvale for estate planning or trust services, Efting & Godfrey, LLP presents a physical office location. However, the significant negative feedback regarding trust administration by one of the firm's partners should be carefully considered alongside the positive experience reported with another partner for estate planning matters. Potential clients may wish to inquire specifically about the attorney who would be handling their case and seek further references or information to make an informed decision.
The environment of a law firm can often be inferred from client interactions. The negative review suggests a lack of transparency and communication, potentially creating a frustrating and distrustful environment for that particular client. Conversely, the positive review of Marcus Godfrey indicates a thorough, thoughtful, and trust-building approach, suggesting a more positive and reassuring environment when working with him.
The services offered by Efting & Godfrey, LLP, based on the positive review, include assistance with trusts, wills, advanced medical directives, and power of attorney. This indicates a focus on comprehensive estate planning. The negative review pertains to trust administration, suggesting that the firm also handles the management and distribution of trust assets. It is important to note that the firm's capabilities may extend beyond these specific areas within estate and trust law.
Features of the firm, as perceived through the reviews, are contrasting. For James Efting, a lack of transparency, alleged excessive fees, and unresponsiveness are highlighted. For Marcus Godfrey, thoroughness, thoughtfulness, and a focus on building client trust are emphasized. These differing accounts suggest that the individual attorney's approach and expertise may significantly influence the client experience.
No specific promotional information is provided in the given text. The reviews themselves serve as testimonials, albeit with starkly different conclusions depending on the attorney involved and the nature of the legal service provided.
In conclusion, Efting & Godfrey, LLP, located in Sunnyvale, offers legal services in estate planning and trust administration. While one client review expresses severe concerns regarding trust management by James Efting, another offers high praise for the estate planning services of Marcus Godfrey. Local users considering Efting & Godfrey, LLP through the "Lawyers Near Me" platform should be aware of these differing experiences and conduct thorough due diligence, potentially seeking to work specifically with Marcus Godfrey based on the positive feedback received about his estate planning services, or seeking alternative counsel if their needs align more closely with the negative experience reported.
438 S Murphy Ave, Sunnyvale, CA 94086, USA
Get directionsHi, I have asked ProPublica to investigate the attorney, James Efting, and the trustee, Richard Lambie, of the $6.5 million trust that my father left me and my brothers and sisters. It has been almost 3 years since my father passed, and I haven't received a dime of the principle. They have charged over $400,000 in administration fees, but have only itemized 1/3 of them. They are pursuing frivolous lawsuits in order to continue to bill the trust. My portion of the trust is about $750,000. I am in a very difficult financial position ( I have spent an enormous amount of money helping a family member that has had health problems for over 7 years) and I asked them to loan me $25,000 from my portion. They said they won't do it. I consulted an attorney regarding this and he told me that it not only CAN be done but it is OFTEN done. They will not provide bank statements showing that the money is actually in the trust account. They said that it doesn't matter if ALL beneficiaries agree to dissolve the trust. They won't do it. There are very questionable expenses on the year end accountings. Anytime I ask them any question regarding the trust, tell me that they can't answer it and for me to get a lawyer. One of James's colleagues, Michael Desmarais, called me a "malicious fruitcake" when I continued to try to get answers to these questions. I have created a picket sign, and I will be out in front of James's office at some point to let other people know about this situation so that they might reconsider their association with James Efting and Richard Lambie. Please, stear clear of them.
Jan 20, 2025 · Janice Rea, MATMarcus Godfrey has been our estate attorney and trusted advisor for the last six years. He’s thorough, thoughtful, and takes the time to build trust with his clients. He has advised us on our trust, will, advanced medical directives, and power of attorney documents. I’ve strongly recommended his services to multiple members of my extended family and friends and would not hesitate to do the same again. I can’t speak strongly enough about the peace of mind that he has brought our family over the years.
Feb 18, 2022 · Chris WheelerAfter working with Marcus Godfrey for four years, handling the estates of two relatives, I enthusiastically give him my highest recommendation. The SHORT REVIEW: Marcus is very professional, knowledgeable, and technically precise. Even more importantly, he is ethical and trustworthy. Marcus is responsive and has a quick turn-around time in fulfilling tasks such as drawing up legal documents and conducting filings. Marcus is calm, which is so important in the handling of estates, and a good listener. The LONG REVIEW: My younger brother passed away suddenly and with no will or trust. We initially thought this would be a small estate matter and Marcus was kind enough to agree to help us. As assets were discovered this became a full-on probate matter, which stretched into the pandemic when the courts came to all but a grinding halt. Marcus helped us navigate through this process in such a supportive and professional manner and always responded quickly to our inquiries. About a year later, my father passed away suddenly. We worked with dad’s attorney, who we eventually had to let go. Marcus agreed to help us resolve some very sticky errors the other attorney had made. Marcus achieved in two months what the other attorney could not resolve in three years – wow! I plan to hand over my personal trust to Marcus as well. Our family is deeply grateful to Marcus and I am thrilled to be able to submit this review. If I could give him 10 stars I would!
Aug 13, 2022 · Donna LewisMarcus provided top-notch legal service and promptly prepared our family's trust. He was straightforward and transparent about the process and timeline. I found him to be very professional, highly knowledgeable, and efficient. He and his staff were very attentive and easy to communicate with. I would definitely recommend Marcus for your estate planning needs.
Feb 16, 2022 · morgan steppWe used Marcus Godfrey for our estate plan and also referred him to other friends and family for their plans as well. Despite all being in different situations with different needs, we've had incredibly positive experiences with Marcus. He was able to translate difficult concepts into something that my wife and I could understand, and I especially appreciated his push for simplicity. We've had estate lawyers in the past recommend complex (and expensive) approaches, whereas Marcus provided a range of options and recommended simplicity. We left with a clean, straightforward plan based on what we wanted that will grow with our family. Also a genuinely nice guy. Would recommend.
Apr 20, 2022 · Jon Lieberman
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