Peter Charles McGinnis, Estate Planning Attorney in Poughkeepsie, New York

Peter concentrates on estate planning, government, landlord/tenant, litigation, and real estate. Each area below outlines the kind of case Peter handles, typical outcomes to expect, and how the intake process starts.

• Estate Planning

  View other Estate Planning attorneys

• Government

  View other Government attorneys

• Landlord/Tenant

  View other Landlord/Tenant attorneys

• Litigation

  View other Litigation attorneys

• Real Estate

  View other Real Estate attorneys

• Zoning

  View other Zoning attorneys

Peter's primary office is at 515 Haight Ave., Poughkeepsie, NY, 12603-2468. 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 Peter usually go, from the moment you request a consult to the day representation begins.

Peter 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 Peter for a estate planning case?

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

• Does Peter offer a free consultation?

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

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

• Can Peter take my case if I'm outside Poughkeepsie?

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

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

• Is Peter accepting new estate planning clients right now?

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