good-law-firm

Stories from our clients: Why they chose Good Law Firm

Thu, 04 Sep 2025 17:29:09 GMT

Real experiences from those we've served

At Good Law Firm, we believe that every client’s story matters.

For more than 40 years our practice has been built on relationships by listening, guiding, and walking alongside our clients. The words of those we serve speak louder than anything we could say ourselves. Below you will find stories from clients who trusted us with their legal needs, sharing in their own words why they chose Good Law Firm and how we were able to help.

Wendell M.

Colonel (PA) Retired

u.s. Army

"A friend recommended Doug’s firm to me and based on his recommendation, I made an appointment with Doug to redo my will and my dad’s will. Doug and Kim were willing to come to my dad's retirement home and work through his outdated will. Later, when Dad passed, they helped administer his estate with me as executor. Doug and Kim were excellent. Kim was invaluable, so good and so on it. I was almost sorry when we completed the estate because we had such a positive rapport. It was a seamless experience and done so well."

Derek M.

“I first met Doug professionally through work. I work at Landis Technologies and about four years ago I started working with Doug, Kim, & Nichole for IT needs. When I got married, Doug let me know it would be important to get a will done. Doug, Kim, and Nichole went over it with me, drew it up, and got it done. They knew exactly what needed to be done and asked all the right questions. I had no idea what was involved. Everything was done right there, including the notarizing. It was a seamless process, and everyone was very friendly and helpful. If people ask for a recommendation, I always say Good Law Firm - Doug is very friendly to work with. I enjoy working with them on a business level and personal level.”

Randi H.

I’ve been here since 1985. Doug has been my primary contact for business and wills. I’d absolutely recommend him. Very pleasant, professional, but laid-back atmosphere. If you want an honest, experienced attorney who works quickly and thoughtfully, Doug is it. Working with Doug is a great experience. He showed us a different side of attorneys -not your typical attorney.

Wanda G.

“Doug set up our LLC for Gossert’s Homemade Goodness when we had just started our business as an in-home kitchen. He’s helped us transition from an in-home business to a commercial kitchen. He’s answered questions about contracts and NDAs and helped us with real estate transactions, wills, and more. He always explains and goes over things so I understand. What stood out is that Doug is very easy to talk to and personable. He’s patient with all my questions. He is always looking out for me in our contract transactions. He’s got my back no matter the situation. Everybody in the office is very professional, but down-to-earth, and they’re always willing to answer questions.”

Lisa & Randy M.

"Randy and I were both raised in the Lancaster area and have been building our business for over 40 years. We’ve been with Doug since we started our family and our business. He’s handled our wills, business dealings, and home settlements at his office. He’s honest, kind, and we’ve felt like we had a friendship as well as a business relationship. He’s interested in what we’re doing and has always gotten back to us promptly when we had questions or problems. They’re very trustworthy and honest. We’ve highly recommended him over the years to clients, friends, and family."

Your story matters to us as well.

Whether you are planning for the future, navigating a real estate transaction, or settling a loved one’s estate, we are here to provide trusted guidance every step of the way. If you are ready to begin the conversation, call our office today. We would be honored to serve as your law partner for life.

All the Best,

The staff at Good Law Firm

132 W Main St

New Holland, PA 17557

717-354-4456

When Do I Need a Will?

Fri, 25 Oct 2024 07:19:08 GMT

Creating a Will is an Essential Part of Planning for the Future

Having a will is a key part of ensuring that your wishes are respected and your loved ones are protected. Good Law Firm in New Holland, PA, with over 40 years of experience, is here to guide you through the process of estate planning and answer the common question: When do I need a will?

Why a Will is Important

A will is a legally binding document that outlines how your assets will be distributed after your death. It ensures that your property and possessions are passed on according to your wishes, reducing potential conflicts among heirs and giving you peace of mind. Without a will, the state determines how your estate is divided, which may not align with your intentions.

When Should You Create a Will?

Starting a Family: One of the most significant milestones that should prompt the creation of a will is the arrival of children. A will allows you to appoint a guardian for your minor children, ensuring their well-being in the event that you and your partner are no longer there to care for them.

Marriage or Divorce: Life changes such as marriage or divorce can impact how you want your assets distributed. Updating or creating a will ensures that your current wishes are legally recognized and that your estate is managed in accordance with your new circumstances.

Purchasing Property: If you buy a home or other significant assets, having a will helps you dictate who will inherit these items. An attorney in New Holland, PA, from Good Law Firm can help you assess your situation and create a comprehensive will that protects your investments.

Business Ownership: For those who own a business, a will is essential to outline succession plans or specify how your stake in the company should be handled. This step can prevent disputes and ensure the smooth transition of your business interests.

Health Concerns: While it can be difficult to think about, facing health issues or a diagnosis can be a reminder to get your affairs in order. A will helps communicate your wishes, reducing the burden on your loved ones during a challenging time.

How an Experienced Attorney Can Help

Creating a will involves more than just writing down your wishes—it requires navigating legal terms and ensuring that your document meets the requirements of Pennsylvania law. That’s where Good Law Firm comes in. As a trusted attorney in New Holland, PA, we offer personalized estate planning services to ensure your will is thorough, clear, and legally sound. With our 40+ years of experience, we guide you through every step, offering expert advice that fits your unique needs.

Why Choose Good Law Firm?

For over four decades, Good Law Firm has served the New Holland, PA community with dedication and integrity. Our deep roots in the area and comprehensive legal knowledge make us a reliable partner in your estate planning journey. We understand that every client’s situation is different, and we tailor our services to meet your specific circumstances, providing peace of mind for you and your family.

Take the Next Step

If you’re considering whether now is the right time to create or update your will, don’t wait. Contact Good Law Firm , your trusted attorney in New Holland, PA, to schedule a consultation and take the first step toward securing your legacy.

As a trusted attorney in New Holland, PA, we offer personalized estate planning services to ensure your will is thorough, clear, and legally sound. With our 40+ years of experience, we guide you through every step, offering expert advice that fits your unique needs.

Estate Planning 101

rachel.highley@gmail.com (Rachel Kline) — Sun, 20 Oct 2024 07:19:08 GMT

What You Need to Know from an Experienced Legal Team in New Holland, PA

Estate planning might sound complicated, but it’s really about one thing: making sure your wishes are respected and your loved ones are taken care of. At Good Law Firm, we’ve been helping the New Holland, PA community navigate estate planning for over 40 years. We believe that understanding the basics can empower you to take charge of your future with confidence.

What Exactly is Estate Planning?

Simply put, estate planning is the process of arranging how your assets—your house, finances, heirlooms, and other possessions—will be managed or distributed after you’re gone. It can also include planning for who will make important decisions on your behalf if you’re unable to do so.

An estate plan typically includes documents like:

A will to outline who receives your assets.
A power of attorney to designate someone to make financial or legal decisions if you’re unable.
An advance healthcare directive (or living will) to guide medical decisions if you’re incapacitated.

Why is Estate Planning Important?

Many people put off estate planning, thinking they don’t have enough assets or that it’s something only older people need to worry about. But the truth is, estate planning is important for everyone. Here’s why:

Peace of Mind: Knowing that your family will be taken care of and your wishes will be respected can give you tremendous peace of mind.
Avoiding Probate Issues: Without a will, your estate could end up in probate court, leading to delays and potential conflicts among family members.
Clear Communication: Estate planning helps eliminate confusion for your loved ones by clearly outlining your wishes.

When Should You Start Estate Planning?

If you’re over 18, now is a great time to start. Life can be unpredictable, so the earlier you set up your estate plan, the better. Major life events like marriage, the birth of a child, buying a house, or starting a business are also good opportunities to create or update your plan.

Common Estate Planning Mistakes to Avoid

As an experienced law firm in New Holland, PA, we’ve seen some common pitfalls that people encounter when planning their estate:

Not Updating Your Plan: Life changes—so should your estate plan. If you’ve gotten married, divorced, or experienced other major life events, make sure your plan reflects those changes.
Overlooking Beneficiaries: Be sure your beneficiary designations on accounts like life insurance or retirement plans match your estate planning documents.
DIY Planning: While it may be tempting to use online templates, estate planning can be nuanced. Having an attorney’s guidance ensures your plan is legally sound and personalized to your needs.

How Good Law Firm Can Help

Navigating estate planning on your own can be overwhelming, but that’s why we’re here. At Good Law Firm, our goal is to make the process straightforward and stress-free. As a trusted attorney in New Holland, PA, with over 40 years of experience, we take a personal approach to understand your unique needs and guide you every step of the way.

Whether you’re starting from scratch or need to update an existing plan, we’re here to make sure you and your family are protected. Our friendly, knowledgeable team is ready to answer your questions and help create a plan that gives you peace of mind.

Take the First Step Today

Estate planning is one of the most loving things you can do for yourself and your family. If you’re ready to start or want to learn more, contact us at Good Law Firm, your trusted attorney in New Holland, PA. Let us help you plan for tomorrow so you can live fully today.

Subdividing in Lancaster, PA: What You Need to Know

Tue, 15 Oct 2024 07:19:08 GMT

Whether you’re looking to sell a portion of your land, create lots for family members, or develop an investment opportunity, subdividing can be a smart move.

Thinking about subdividing your property? Whether you’re looking to sell a portion of your land, create lots for family members, or develop an investment opportunity, subdividing can be a smart move. However, the process can be complex, with zoning laws, local ordinances, and regulations that need careful attention. At Good Law Firm, an attorney in New Holland, PA with over 40 years of experience, we’re here to break down what you need to know about subdividing in Lancaster County.

What is Subdividing?

Subdividing involves splitting a larger piece of land into smaller lots that can be sold, developed, or gifted. It’s common for property owners to explore this option when they want to increase the value of their land or create opportunities for new development. The process can lead to great benefits but comes with its own set of legal and logistical challenges.

Understanding Zoning and Land Use Regulations

One of the first steps in subdividing property is understanding zoning laws and land use regulations. These laws determine how land can be used (e.g., residential, commercial, agricultural) and often place restrictions on lot sizes, building setbacks, and other aspects of development. In Lancaster County, zoning regulations vary significantly from one township or borough to another.

Before you start the subdivision process, consulting with an experienced attorney in New Holland, PA, like those at Good Law Firm, can help you navigate these regulations to ensure your plans align with local requirements.

The Subdivision Process: What to Expect

Here’s a brief overview of what the subdivision process entails:

Initial Feasibility Study:
This step involves assessing whether your property can be subdivided based on zoning laws, land topography, and utility access.
Hiring Professionals:
Working with a surveyor or land planner is essential to create detailed plans that meet local codes and standards.
Submitting Plans:
Your plans will need to be submitted to the local planning commission or township authority for review.
Review and Approval:
The local planning commission reviews the plans and may require revisions before granting approval. This stage can include public hearings or additional input from community members.
Recording the Subdivision:
Once your plans are approved, they must be recorded with the Lancaster County Recorder of Deeds to make the subdivision official.
Development and Sales:
After recording, you’re free to develop or sell the new lots according to your approved plan.

Common Challenges in Subdividing

Subdividing can be rewarding but isn’t without potential hurdles. Some common challenges include:

Compliance with Environmental Regulations: Certain properties may have wetlands, protected species, or other environmental factors that impact development.
Meeting Infrastructure Requirements: Ensuring that utilities like water, sewage, and electricity can service new lots is vital and can be costly.
Community Concerns: Neighbors or community members may have objections that could influence planning commission decisions.

Why Work with Good Law Firm?

Subdividing property involves more than just dividing land. It’s a complex process that requires attention to legal details and careful coordination with local authorities. At Good Law Firm, we bring over 40 years of experience serving the New Holland, PA, and Lancaster County area. Our in-depth knowledge of local regulations and strong community ties help us guide clients through the process smoothly.

Our team works closely with property owners, surveyors, and local officials to ensure all aspects of the subdivision process are handled correctly. With a focus on personalized service, we make sure your goals are met while protecting your interests.

Ready to Start Your Subdivision Journey?

Whether you’re considering subdividing for personal reasons or as an investment, partnering with an experienced attorney in New Holland, PA, can make all the difference. Contact us today to schedule a consultation. Let us help you turn your subdivision plans into reality with confidence and ease.