John Decker Bristow, Estate Planning Attorney in Richmond, Virginia

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

• Estate Planning

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• Estate Tax

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• Probate

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• Tax

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• Trusts

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John's primary office is at 1807 Libbie Avenue, Suite 200, Richmond, VA, 23226. 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 John usually go, from the moment you request a consult to the day representation begins.

John 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 John for a estate planning case?

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

• Does John offer a free consultation?

  John charges for the initial consult; that fee is credited toward representation if you retain John's office. Some estate planning attorneys offer free consults — check John'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. John gives a realistic estimate for your facts at the consult — vague answers here are a red flag.

• Can John take my case if I'm outside Richmond?

  John 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 — John 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 John?

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

• Is John accepting new estate planning clients right now?

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