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Geoffrey Hamilton Hoatson

Estate planning Attorney at Orlando, FL

4.8   17 reviews
  • Licensed for 15 years
    State FL
    Acquired 2008
    Status
    Member in Good Standing No misconduct found

We have not found any instances of professional misconduct for this lawyer.

About Geoffrey

Learn Geoffrey’s areas of practice.

ALWAYS BY YOUR SIDE

My name is Geoff Hoatson and I’m the founder of the Family First Firm. I grew up in Central Florida surrounded by all my extended family. Both of my grandfathers were veterans of World War II and my paternal grandfather received the Purple Heart and Silver Star from Fleet Admiral Nimitz for his heroism as a medic on the Pacific Front. I gained a deep respect for our service members and my elders, while listening to them recount their time in the service. I knew that I wanted to help these people I admired so much. Unfortunately, over the years, both grandfathers ended up with dementia and Alzheimer’s disease. My paternal grandfather was able to be qualified for Medicaid and my maternal grandfather was able to receive benefits from the VA. To call these benefits a blessing is a massive understatement; they allowed both of my grandmothers to age in their homes with dignity.  

Born and raised in the Orlando area, I attended a local high school and then the University of Central Florida. It wasn’t until I went to Emory University for law school that I left Central Florida for the very first time. However, that choice was an easy one, because Emory is ranked as one of the top law schools in the country and has one of the preeminent estate planning programs. After graduating from Emory, I returned to Orlando to marry my fiancée, start a family, and begin the practice of law. 

In 2009, I decided to go out on my own and open the Family First Firm to help seniors and service members protect themselves, their families, and their legacies from the unique problems that our seniors face.  We are proud to have helped countless families achieve their goals and gain peace of mind. We would be honored to help you too.

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Contact Geoffrey

Family First Firm
1901 West Colonial Drive
Orlando, FL, 32804

Reviews

4.8 / 5.0
  17 customer reviews
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Posted by Anthony | September 20, 2016
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Set up for success
My wife and I went to see Mr. Hoatson shortly after we got married to set up our estate plan. Geoff was very thorough in explaining our many options. As business owners, we really needed to get the right answers to the "what if" questions. What would happen to our business, our home, our assets!? After meeting with Mr. Hoatson, I am positive that we made one of the most important decisions. Setting up our estate with The Family First Firm. Thank you Geoff and Family First.
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Posted by Robert | September 20, 2016
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Great Service and Compassion during a Difficult Time
When my Father, a 90-year-old WWII veteran, indicated that, he was no longer able to manage his affairs I had to act quickly. I had never been privy to my Father’s finances or affairs until he asked for help. Furthermore, I live out of state. I was stressed handling this matter from afar. Luckily, Attorney Geoff Hoatson was recommended by my father’s longtime attorney as a specialist in Estate Planning. From the beginning, Geoff and his staff were clear, efficient, professional, and caring. Geoff and his staff worked quickly and offered solutions to issues I did not even know we had. He and his staff accommodated my schedule to ensure all matters were well attended. They are attentive to detail and responsive. I highly recommend Attorney Geoffrey Hoatson and The Family First Firm!
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Posted by Vivant Senior Living | June 22, 2020
This review is from a potential client who consulted with this attorney.
| Consulted Attorney
Excellent guide for Medicaid and VA benefits
We recommend Geoff and Family First Firm to all of our residents' families. They navigate families through the qualification process for VA and Medicaid benefits. These benefits can be a great way to supplement care costs for memory care services like ours. Geoff's team is excellent to work with, and they always answer our questions with proven experience and knowledge.
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Posted by Dana | September 26, 2016
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Excellent Experience and Professional Firm
Geoffrey just did A-Z estate planning for my family and we were very pleased with his firm. They met with us at our convenience and got everything squared away for us in a timely manner and before we left the country on vacation. Needless to say; we were able to relax even more on our vacation knowing that our family affairs are in order should anything happen. We absolutely recommend the Family First Firm to our friends, family, and anyone needing to plan for their families future. They made this experience about as easy and enjoyable as it can be.
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Posted by Maricela Pizarro | September 2, 2015
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Honest and diligent attorney
I came across Geoffrey and his team using avvo, one of my requirements was that the attorney had to be honest and I found that with Geoffrey. He and his team handled my case in very professional and diligent manner. I came to them towards the end of May 2015 to petition a divorce and by the third week of August 2015 I was officially divorced. His team was always available to me and answered any questions or concerns that I had in a timely manner. Very friendly staff and most important very honest, you won't be disappointed. If I ever come across any other legal issues Geoffrey and his team will be the first one's on my mind. Thank you Geoffrey and your wonderful staff for all your help.
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Posted by Maricela | September 2, 2015
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Divorce
I found Geoffrey and his team on Avvo, I was looking for a christian lawyer as it was a requirement of mine, I had read the reviews of the other clients and they seemed happy with his services. Geoffrey and his team worked diligently to get my case resolved as soon as possible and were always available to me whenever I had questions regarding my case. They say lawyers aren't the most honest people out there but if you decide to go with Geoffrey and his team you won't regret your decision. Thank you for all your help!
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Posted by Alexander Pearson | May 15, 2015
A Trusted Friend and a Talented Attorney
I have sent numerous clients to Geoff and I will continue to do so. It's a wonderful feeling when someone I refer calls me later and thanks me for introducing them to the person I referred them to. This has happened with Geoff more times than I can count. He is a solid family man and just as solid of an attorney. I'm privileged to call him a friend and I'm more privileged to call him a colleague as I consider him top shelf.
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Posted by Joseph | April 13, 2015
If you want honesty and brains choose him.
Geoff Hoatson is a very honest man, who won sugar coat anything. He will work hard for you and when times may feel hard and you feel like as if nothing is going anywhere Geoff will always come through. He took my situation from where I wasn't seeing my daughter only 1 day a month due to her mother withholding her from me and turned it into almost 50 percent time shared. I highly recommend Geoff and will change your situation as he did mine. It's not exactly over with my case, but with the amount of faith I have in him I know that everything will be alright. Thanks .
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Posted by Cori | January 1, 2014
Divorce Attorney
Geoff is an excellent attorney who is professional, insightful, and extremely knowledgeable about the intricacies of the law. He always kept me updated and always answered my emails and/or phone calls in a timely manner. He gave me advice based on the boundaries of the law and took the time to clarify anything I might not have understood. Mr. Hoatson will continue to represent me through this process and if there is any other legal issue I have I will hire him to represent me and no one else.
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Posted by anonymous | December 7, 2013
Great family law attorney!
Geoff represented me in a difficult family law dispute. He kept me informed and involved in the process and resolved the case favorably for me. We didn't even have to go to trial which saved me a bunch of money. Of course, if we had, I'm confident that he would have done well as he was always very well prepared.
Posted by Ryan | October 22, 2013
First time hiring a Lawyer and if I need one again...I will call Geoff.
Geoff was professional and to the point. Geoff took care of a probate case with my deceased father back in April 2013. The probate process is usually a flat fee. I had looked into pricing before meeting with Geoff. Geoff was a little more than the lowest bottom of the barrel price out there. Geoff stayed in contact with me by emails through the paper signing process. I finally got the final notice to pick up all the final paper work and it was done. Geoff told me a time frame for finished court papers and was super close on time. I believe you get what you pay for in life and Geoff was worth every penny. I'm glad I didn't go looking for the bottom of the barrel priced lawyers. I would recommend Geoff to a friend or family member that would need his services.
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Posted by Marisa | September 11, 2013
Excellent attorney - accurate, concise and honest - A RARE FIND.
Geoff Hoatson has been a Godsend for me and my two beautiful boys. He assisted me with a matter still pending from my 2010 divorce, and we are still currently in litigation on this unresolved issue. Any other lawyer would have walked away, given my financial limits in being able to even afford a lawyer, and a case that just keeps building and building unfortunately, but he continues to fight for our rights. He is incredibly flexible as far as payments, and makes himself available for any legal questions/concerns at all times. He is very knowledgeable of the law, family law in particular, handles each issue in the most professional manner, and is extremely concise and accurate in all his work. He doesn't leave one stone unturned, and will do everything within his power to get you what you deserve. I HIGHLY recommend his legal services, and urge you to make an appointment TODAY.
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Posted by Brandon | August 4, 2013
Want the best attorney for family matters? Choose Geoff
I am in the on-going process of my case involving time sharing arrangements and all I can say is that Geoff has kept me up-to-date with everything that he's promised. He's very reasonable with his prices and he's very relatable. He will give you realistic expectations and not try and sell you the moon. He's the best attorney that I've ever dealt with and I HIGHLY recommend him to anyone and everyone that has family law matters. Even though I am in the middle of my matters I have high expectations for Geoff only because he's made me have that much confidence in him. Again, I HIGHLY recommend him.
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Posted by Brendaliz | July 29, 2013
The Best Lawyer!!
I have to say that working with Geoff Hoatson has been a great experience for me and my family! I needed to domesticate my foreign divorce and settle an ongoing child support and parenting plan issue that had been haunting me for over 5 years. I had previously hired and extremely expensive attorney who instead of providing me confort abused me emotionally up to the point where I could not stand it anymore and had to fire her and in the process lost over $3K without a resolve. Needless to say I was done with attorneys until I found Geoff. He has made the process so much easier. When I have been down he has been re-assuring and there for me. He is very consious, he is not out to get anyone wrongfully, he is realistic in his decisions, calls you on your bad choices and has your best interest at heart, which is very rear to find in an attorney. I have to say that I owe so much to him. Even though we are currently in the process of resolving my issue, I have the upmost confidence in him and faith that he will get the justice that I have been looking for. You will not go wrong hiring him. I guarantee it!! Geoff is the Best!!
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Posted by Dan | May 31, 2012
A surprisingly positive experience
After numerous consultations and a very poor experience with one prior attorney, I was surprised and extremely pleased to find Geoff. From our first conversation I found him to possess a responsive and consultative demeanor. Geoff worked very closely with me to help resolve an extremely frustrating and potentially volatile situation that resulted in the filing of multiple motions against my ex-wife to bring about a modification of our time sharing agreement and enforce compliance with many items detailed in our original judgment. It goes without saying that this situation was emotionally charged but Geoff, while demonstrating great understanding and compassion for my situation, remained a consistent voice of reason. On a number of occasions he really demonstrated that he had mine and my family’s interests at heart. He consulted with me on all of the potential outcomes so there was never any real fear or uncertainty. In fact, while discussing one course of action over another, he once told me “the only one who would really win in this scenario is me”, referring to the length of time and costs involved. That candor and level of honesty is an all too uncommon quality in the legal profession! During the entire process Geoff never failed to keep the little details in sight; another trait I have found lacking among others in his profession. In the end, Geoff’s diligence and preparation led to a successful outcome. I would highly recommend Geoff Hoatson for his client-centric focus, his knowledge, his communication and follow up, and above all, his integrity. I should also note that Geoff did a phenominal job for me and accomplished all that I have mentioned while assisting me as an out of state client.
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Posted by Crystal | May 30, 2012
I got exactly what i set out to get
I set out ot move to Texas with my son & I got what I wanted, even more time than I suggested in my 1st petition. My case was suppose to take up to a year, I filed in Sept. & May 24th it was over!
Posted by Pam | September 16, 2013
DO NOT HIRE GEOFF TO REPRESENT YOU!
I hired Geoff to represent me on behalf of my deceased father in April 2013. Seemed like he wasent for me, only to have me settle the case. He didn't want to do what I asked to do. Point blank lied to me about issues that were talked about but never backed them up. The trust was broken when he did what he wanted done instead of what needed to be done. Always asking for money. I could have done myself what he supposedly did. Hes young and I was just stupid to think he was going to get the job done. Geoff was hired to contest a will. He filed the suit, failed to stand up with any issues, failed to investigate any issues. Tried to scare me into settling the case in a situation of assignment of mortgage that he had zero knowledge of and did zero investigations on.
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Response from Geoffrey Hoatson September 30, 2013
I'm unsure who wrote this review as this situation does not sound like any client of the Hoatson Law Firm. Please contact the firm at 407-574-8125 so that we can either help you determine which attorney you actually used or help you resolve any other legal issues you may be encountering.
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Contact for Details

Resume

AVVO RATING 10.0 (Superb)

Work Experience

  • Owner and Founder
  • Family First Firm
  • 2009 - Present
  • Associate Attorney
  • A. Anthony Giovanolli, P.A.
  • 2009 - 2009
  • Associate
  • Crowell & Carmona
  • 2008 - 2009

Education

  • Emory University School of Law
  • JD - Juris Doctor
  • 2008
  • University of Central Florida
  • BS - Bachelor of Science
  • 2005

Legal Cases

  • Redacted v. Redacted
  • My client won the ability to relocate with her children

Associations

  • Academy of Florida Elder Law Attorneys
  • Member
  • 2016 - Present
  • National Academy of Elder Law Attorneys
  • Member
  • 2016 - Present
  • Florida Bar, Elder Law Section
  • Member
  • 2015 - Present
  • ElderCounsel
  • Member
  • 2015 - Present
  • Hospice of the Comforter Foundation
  • Vice President
  • 2014 - Present
  • Orange County Bar Association, Trusts and Estates Section
  • Member
  • 2014 - Present
  • Florida Bar, Real Property, Probate and Trust Law Section
  • Member
  • 2014 - Present
  • WealthCounsel
  • Member
  • 2014 - Present
  • Orange County Bar Association, Family Law Section
  • Member
  • 2012 - Present
  • Volie A. Williams American Inn of Court
  • Member
  • 2012 - Present
  • Orange County Bar Association
  • Member
  • 2011 - Present
  • Florida Bar, Family Law Section
  • Member
  • 2010 - Present
  • Seminole County Bar Association
  • Member
  • 2010 - Present
  • Emory University Law School Alumni Association
  • President
  • 2014 - 2015
  • Emory University Law School Alumni Association
  • Vice President
  • 2013 - 2014
  • Orange County Bar Association
  • Secretary - Young Lawyers
  • 2011 - 2012
  • Florida Bar, Real Property, Probate and Trust Law Section
  • Secretary
  • 2011 - 2012
  • Seminole County Bar Association, Young Lawyers Section
  • Vice President
  • 2011 - 2012
  • Emory University School of Law Review
  • Editor
  • 2007 - 2008
View all associations

Languages Spoken

  • English
  • Spanish

Honors and Awards

  • Rising Star
  • SuperLawyers
  • 2019
  • Top 40 Lawyers Under 40
  • American Society of Legal Advocates
  • 2018
  • 10 Best Elder Law Attorneys - Client Satisfaction
  • American Institute of Legal Counsel
  • 2017
  • 10 Best Elder Law Attorneys - Client Satisfaction
  • American Institute of Legal Counsel
  • 2016
  • Lawyer of Distinction nominee
  • Lawyers of Distinction
  • 2016
  • Best Probate Attorney
  • Expertise
  • 2016
  • First Place - YLS tournament
  • Orange County Bar Association
  • 2014
  • Client Choice Award - Estate Planning
  • Avvo
  • 2013
  • Client Choice Award - Probate
  • Avvo
  • 2013
  • Client's Choice - Elder Law
  • Avvo
  • 2013
View all awards

Publications

  • FamilyFirstFirm.com
  • Why Consider Long-Term Care Planning
  • 2015
  • Family First Firm
  • Creating a Plan for Your Incapacity
  • 2015
  • Family First Firm
  • Creating a Plan for Your Incapacity - Part 2
  • 2015
  • Emory Law Journal
  • Editor
  • 2008
  • Emory Law Journal
  • Editor
  • 2008
View all publications

Speaking Engagements

  • Sailing into your Senior Years
  • Estate Planning and Elder Law
  • 2016
  • Provide and Protect
  • Estate Planning and Elder Law
  • 2016
  • Planning over 50
  • Estate Planning and Elder Law
  • 2016
  • Let's Talk Future - 96.5
  • Probate
  • 2016
  • Growing Your Garden
  • Elder Law & Estate Planning
  • 2016
  • Ask an Attorney
  • Probate
  • 2016
  • Ask an Attorney
  • Elder Law
  • 2016
  • Ask an Attorney
  • Estate Planning
  • 2016
  • Recent Developments in Advanced Healthcare Directives
  • Advanced healthcare directives
  • 2015
  • Florida Conference Association of Seventh-Day Adventists Annual Meeting
  • Estate Planning
  • 2015
  • Northwestern Mutual Education Seminar
  • Estate Planning in Today's Economy
  • 2013
View all speaking engagements

Attorney endorsements

Received (22)
Given (27)
Endorse Geoffrey
Elder law Attorney | Sep 09
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"Geoff is an outstanding lawyer. Geoff practices with a professionalism and attention to detail that is not often found in today's legal environment. The care and communication he provides to his clients is second to none. I highly endorse him for your elder law or estate planning needs."
Estate planning Attorney | Sep 12
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"Geoff Hoatson is professional and welcoming. He dedicates his time to each client rather than attempting to go strictly for a larger number of clients. He understands the important of Estate Planning and Probate and ensures that his client's feel comfortable through what generally is an uneasy process. Geoff is great at thinking outside the box and understanding what your priorities are."
Estate planning Attorney | Jul 25
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer. Geoff is intelligent, caring, and capable. I know his clients are in very good hands."
Estate planning Attorney | Mar 01
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer."
Estate planning Attorney | Feb 28
Relationship: Other
"I highly recommend and endorse Geoff. I heard him speak about Estate Planning, Elder Law and Probate and I was very impressed with his expertise and professionalism."
Estate planning Attorney | Feb 28
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer."
Estate planning Attorney | Feb 28
Relationship: Other
"I endorse this lawyer."
Estate planning Attorney | Feb 28
Relationship: Other
"Geoff and I are part of the same estate planning organization. He is a great attorney and very knowledgeable about estate planning. He is often answering questions for younger attorneys. He is passionate about his work and I would strongly recommend him to people looking for an estate planning attorney in his area."
Estate planning Attorney | Apr 30
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"Geoff is extremely professional and personable. I would highly recommend this attorney."
Estate planning Attorney | Apr 21
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"A highly respected professional in estate planning. You can rest assured you are in good hands with Mr. Hoatson. I recommend him with no reservation."
Estate planning Attorney | Dec 17
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"Geoff is a dedicated and knowledgable professional who I have referred my client and friends to, knowing they will receive the best representation. I endorse Geoff!"
Elder law Attorney | Sep 14
Relationship: Friend
"Geoff is a colleague and friend. His firm has established a solid reputation in family, estate, and elder law. His conscientious and assertive approach to the practice of law has earned him the respect of the Central Florida legal community. His clients are fortunate to have him on their side."
Unknown Attorney | May 28
Relationship: Other
"I endorse this lawyer for being a top-notch attorney in the community."
Estate planning Attorney | May 15
Relationship: Worked together on matter
"I do not hesitate to refer clients to Geoff for their estate planning needs. He does an excellent job in guiding clients through each step of the process, making them feel comfortable and informed about all aspects of the process."
Estate planning Attorney | May 14
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"Geoff is knowledgeable and dedicated to helping clients with both immediate issues and securing their future well being."
Unknown Attorney | Feb 06
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"Geoff is an intelligent and hardworking attorney. I have no hesitation in recommending Geoff to any prospective clients."
Family Attorney | Dec 06
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer."
Unknown Attorney | Nov 14
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"Mr. Hoatson is a knowledgeable attorney with good judgment. I recommend him."
Family Attorney | Nov 14
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"Geoff is energetic and driven lawyer. On top of that, Geoff is a great guy. I have a great deal of faith in Geoff Hoatson."
Family Attorney | Nov 06
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"Mr. Hoatson is a thoughtful, aggressive, competent attorney, and I gladly endorse him."
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