Eric Dixon Smith, Estate Planning Attorney in Charlottesville, Virginia

Eric concentrates on estate planning, estate tax, general, poa, and probate. Each area below outlines the kind of case Eric handles, typical outcomes to expect, and how the intake process starts.

• Estate Planning

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• Estate Tax

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• General

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• POA

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• Probate

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• Trusts

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• Tax

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Eric's primary office is at Queen Charlotte Square, 250 East High Street, Charlottesville, VA, 22902-5178. 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 Eric usually go, from the moment you request a consult to the day representation begins.

Eric 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 Eric for a estate planning case?

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

• Does Eric offer a free consultation?

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

• How long do estate planning cases in Virginia 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. Eric gives a realistic estimate for your facts at the consult — vague answers here are a red flag.

• Can Eric take my case if I'm outside Charlottesville?

  Eric is licensed in Virginia. Matters governed by Virginia law are the natural fit. Out-of-state matters are handled case-by-case, sometimes with local co-counsel. Ask during intake — Eric 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 Eric?

  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. Eric will filter what matters — over-preparing at intake is always cheaper than needing a second meeting.

• Is Eric accepting new estate planning clients right now?

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