Barbara K. Wheaton, Estate Planning Attorney in Portland, Maine

Barbara concentrates on estate planning, estate tax, real estate, trusts, and tax. Each area below outlines the kind of case Barbara handles, typical outcomes to expect, and how the intake process starts.

• Estate Planning

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• Estate Tax

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• Real Estate

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• Trusts

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• Tax

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Barbara's primary office is at Merrill's Wharf, 254 Commercial St., Portland, ME, 04101. In-person meetings are by appointment; a phone intake usually comes first.

Working with a new estate planning attorney should feel structured. Here's how the first two conversations with Barbara usually go, from the moment you request a consult to the day representation begins.

Barbara discusses fees during intake so the arrangement fits the matter. Contingency, hourly, and flat-fee options are all common in estate planning practice — ask which fits.

• How much does it cost to hire Barbara for a estate planning case?

  Cost depends on the type of matter, the fee model (contingency, flat, hourly), and how contested the case becomes. Barbara walks through the likely range during the consult so there are no surprises.

• Does Barbara offer a free consultation?

  Barbara charges for the initial consult; that fee is credited toward representation if you retain Barbara's office. Some estate planning attorneys offer free consults — check Barbara's current terms during booking.

• How long do estate planning cases in Maine typically take?

  Simple estate planning matters can wrap in a few weeks; disputed cases can run 6–18 months from intake to resolution, longer if the matter goes to trial. Barbara gives a realistic estimate for your facts at the consult — vague answers here are a red flag.

• Can Barbara take my case if I'm outside Portland?

  Barbara is licensed in Maine. Matters governed by Maine law are the natural fit. Out-of-state matters are handled case-by-case, sometimes with local co-counsel. Ask during intake — Barbara will tell you if the case is a fit or refer you to someone closer to your court.

• What should I bring to my first meeting with Barbara?

  Bring every document that touches the dispute: contracts, correspondence, police or medical reports, filed pleadings, invoices, photographs, insurance letters. Also bring a written timeline of what happened, in your own words. Barbara will filter what matters — over-preparing at intake is always cheaper than needing a second meeting.

• Is Barbara accepting new estate planning clients right now?

  Barbara's intake status shifts week to week. Submit the form; the office will confirm availability or refer the matter out.