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Jeffery Bryan Galbreath, experienced Criminal Defense, Family Law attorney in Abilene, TX with 20 reviews
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39,62
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5.0/5
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5.0
20 Reviews
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08 Jul, 2021 by Colton ward
Contacted me after hours to help me out. Very professional and genuine guy definitely knows his job. He will go up and beyond for you to get you the best outcome!
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10 Jun, 2021 by Gidget
He's excellent He gave my daughter excellent advice and helped her. He was very at ease in the court room and made us relax. Thank you so much.
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08 Aug, 2019 by Bill
Jeff has represented me on several cases and has done a first class Job! his skills are beyond Reproach. If you need a good lawyer Jeff Galbreath is a phone call away from easing your worries.On a scale of 1-thur-10----I give him a20
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Victoria Lea Carter, experienced Business, Criminal Defense attorney in Abilene, TX with 1 reviews
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39,03
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5.0/5
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5.0
1 Reviews
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11 May, 2015 by Earl
I am an attorney. A couple of years ago I retained Vicky to represent my wife and I in a custody suit regarding my granddaughter. We had hired an attorney from our time to represent us. They quit, too hard to get done. I searched the web looking for someone who would represent us and not rip us off. Without reservation Vicky provided us with the BEST in representation. She was relentless, professional, and conservative in fees. She is a great lawyer!! Hire her if you need a great lawyer on your side.
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Jennifer S. Hartman, experienced Estate Planning, Probate attorney in Abilene, TX with 1 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
39,03
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5.0/5
Avvo
5.0
1 Reviews
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04 Feb, 2017 by Carla
Ms. Hartman gave excellent advice at a fair price. If needed I will be using Ms. Hartman.
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Mark Allyn Marshall, experienced Business, Estate Planning attorney in Abilene, TX with 2 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
39,00
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5.0/5
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5.0
2 Reviews
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13 Jul, 2022 by Samantha glaze
Absolutely love this man!! You do exactly as he asked and everything works out better in the end for you. He is blunt and to the point and will go to bat for you in the court room.
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09 Apr, 2018 by Cinda fowler
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Christopher P. Carnohan, experienced Estate Planning, Litigation attorney in Abilene, TX with 1 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
39,00
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5.0/5
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5.0
1 Reviews
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10 Sep, 2022 by Margaret deleon
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David Michael Hurst, experienced Business, Elder Law attorney in Abilene, TX with 1 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
35,03
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5.0/5
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5.0
1 Reviews
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07 Feb, 2014 by Norman
I contacted Mr. Hurst about my sister-in-law's small estate and what we needed to do. Without any hesitation he answered all my questions on the phone. Eased my mind and gave me excellent advice. If we have any other problems settling the estate, David Hurst would be my first choice as a lawyer. Thank you very much.
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Jeremy Lane Shipp, experienced Family Law, Juvenile Law attorney in Abilene, TX with 51 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
34,44
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4.6/5
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4.6
51 Reviews
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03 Dec, 2024 by Jamie shearer
I cannot say enough amazing things about Barrett & Kristy! They were both so amazingly helpful over an issue that occurred on a weekend. They were extremely comforting, kept me at ease in the situation and helped my fiancé and I out. They both even texted us to check in and make sure we were doing okay and were extremely reassuring. They are extremely knowledgeable in their field and they are the only attorneys that I trust. I’ve never had an attorney work so diligently and earnestly for me. These attorneys CARE! They truly care about you and helping you with whatever it is you’re going through. We are so so grateful for them.
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15 Nov, 2024 by Fae hardy
Taylor, Kaye, and all others that helped resolve my case always responded to my emails and calls, even on weekends. I am active duty military, but that didn't change anything. They were able to make phone calls and hold virtual meeting(s) for the entire process. With their help, my case resulted in a dismissal. I am very greatful for everything they did. Thank you, all members of Lighthouse Legal.
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23 Oct, 2024 by Chuck farina
Lighthouse represented me in an Estate probate case. They were extremely helpful and handled the case with efficiency and professionalism. They were great to work with and even gave a portion of my fees to New Hope Church (my chosen charity). I think they were top notch!
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Donald L. Anderson Jr., experienced Business, Probate attorney in Abilene, TX with 51 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
34,44
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4.6/5
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4.6
51 Reviews
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03 Dec, 2024 by Jamie shearer
I cannot say enough amazing things about Barrett & Kristy! They were both so amazingly helpful over an issue that occurred on a weekend. They were extremely comforting, kept me at ease in the situation and helped my fiancé and I out. They both even texted us to check in and make sure we were doing okay and were extremely reassuring. They are extremely knowledgeable in their field and they are the only attorneys that I trust. I’ve never had an attorney work so diligently and earnestly for me. These attorneys CARE! They truly care about you and helping you with whatever it is you’re going through. We are so so grateful for them.
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15 Nov, 2024 by Fae hardy
Taylor, Kaye, and all others that helped resolve my case always responded to my emails and calls, even on weekends. I am active duty military, but that didn't change anything. They were able to make phone calls and hold virtual meeting(s) for the entire process. With their help, my case resulted in a dismissal. I am very greatful for everything they did. Thank you, all members of Lighthouse Legal.
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23 Oct, 2024 by Chuck farina
Lighthouse represented me in an Estate probate case. They were extremely helpful and handled the case with efficiency and professionalism. They were great to work with and even gave a portion of my fees to New Hope Church (my chosen charity). I think they were top notch!
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Matthew E. Ritchie, experienced Appeals, Insurance attorney in Abilene, TX with 1 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
32,03
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4.0/5
Avvo
4.0
1 Reviews
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03 Apr, 2015 by John
Mr. Ritchie was easy to speak with. He provided informative guidance and stayed on top of our legal issue regarding the probate of my Father's Will.
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David Allen Sprott, experienced Business, Estate Planning attorney in Abilene, TX with 139 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
28,51
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4.2/5
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4.2
139 Reviews
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09 Oct, 2024 by Tara mcginty
Horrible customer service. Zero care for clients and do not value your business. Will not work with you in anyway - will cancel your account for making a request to update the billing email incorrectly. Sheila is not an employee a profitable company would want working for them.
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02 Oct, 2024 by Jerry black
Great attorney and staff!
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25 Jul, 2024 by Jacob padilla
Kevin helped me win custody of my child. Great Attorney. would recommend.
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Bobby Chad Williams, experienced Child Custody, Estate Planning attorney in Abilene, TX with 41 reviews
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25,62
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4.3/5
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4.3
41 Reviews
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22 Dec, 2024 by Jill kuck
I cannot express enough gratitude to Chad Williams and his incredible paralegal, Michelle, for their unwavering dedication and expertise in handling our family law case. Chad’s deep knowledge of family law and his straightforward approach were pivotal in navigating a complex and emotionally charged situation. However, Michelle truly became the heart and soul of our journey. Michelle’s compassion, meticulous attention to detail, and tireless effort went far beyond our expectations. She was the glue that held everything together, ensuring we were thoroughly prepared to help the court see through the lies and games presented by the opposition. Her astounding knowledge and ability to prepare and present the truth in a clear and impactful way made all the difference. Michelle gave her heart and soul to our case, going above and beyond to fight for what was right. This team didn’t just treat us as another case number; they treated us like family. They knew our children’s names, their stories, and cared deeply about the outcome of our case. Their personal touch and genuine investment in our family’s well-being were extraordinary. Without them—especially Michelle—we know we wouldn’t have been able to achieve this outcome or reunite our family. If you’re looking for a team that will fight tirelessly and with compassion to ensure justice prevails, look no further. Chad and Michelle truly saved our family, and we will be forever grateful to them.
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13 Dec, 2024 by Jennifer oneal
Chad and Michelle have been life altering for our family in the best of ways! Truly grateful we have had their support and insight over the years. Frequently recommend them to other people and continue to turn to their long history of helping families.
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28 Oct, 2024 by Gina lara
Thank you Don for the plea deal you got me!!
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John Tyler Montgomery, experienced Car Accident, Criminal Defense attorney in Abilene, TX with 4 reviews
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25,57
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4.0/5
Avvo
5.0
3 Reviews
Google Maps
1.0
1 Reviews
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10 Oct, 2023 by Dusty
I would like to apologize for my previous review. Mr. Montgomery as my defense attorney, did get a dismissal of the primary charge in my case and did provide proper legal representation. He and his partner were excellent in the court room.
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31 Jan, 2020 by Sherry
Great job and fair price. Made revisions a couple of times but we got it done no increase in price
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10 Dec, 2018 by Gomez gomez
Just made a phone call repeatedly to this number and kept getting hung up on until the 3rd time I started saying hello and the lady by the name Janie finally responded and was actually quite rude and when I was done asking her my question I thanked her for constantly hanging up on me.
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Blaise Nathaniel Regan, experienced Business, Estate Planning attorney in Abilene, TX with 38 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
24,03
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4.0/5
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4.0
38 Reviews
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24 May, 2024 by Geneva garcia
Worst experience ever. Does not communicate with clients will not respond to phone calls ever or emails. Will not fight for you in court. Seems to be sidding with the prosecution. Ridiculous. Would not refer kristen postell to my worst enemy.
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03 May, 2024 by Jessica bowen
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30 Dec, 2023 by Dustin jenson
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Stephanie Kay Bradley Fryer, experienced Business, Estate Planning attorney in Abilene, TX with 6 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
23,81
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4.0/5
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4.0
6 Reviews
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21 Apr, 2024 by Lanora coats
Mr John was very friendly and very respectful but I can't afford him
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10 Apr, 2024 by Patrick lee
John is great.. does a terrific job and is easy to work with
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17 Feb, 2022 by Troy lopez
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Catherine Ann Kim Fowlkes, experienced Elder Law, Probate attorney in Abilene, TX with 1 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
21,00
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3.0/5
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3.0
1 Reviews
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18 Nov, 2017 by Joe jenks
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Allicyn Ivy Evans, experienced Business, Elder Law attorney in Abilene, TX with 1 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
21,00
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3.0/5
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3.0
1 Reviews
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18 Nov, 2017 by Joe jenks
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Samuel L. Moore, experienced Criminal Defense, Family Law attorney in Abilene, TX with 13 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
15,73
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3.4/5
Avvo
3.4
13 Reviews
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18 Jul, 2017 by Ali
Ive been in the legal business 17 years. If I were to need a criminal attorney, I damn sure don't want some sweet talking, hand holding attorney that isn't straight forward and honest concerning the possible outcome of my case. I want a bulldog!! I want a fighter! I don't need or want a babysitter to talk sweet and soft. I need a go getter. An attorney that will push it to the absolute limits to see his client gets a fair trial and exhausts to insure his client received the best representation possible. Also, I don't need an update or a call everyday with some useless bs. I need him working for me. That's why I hired him. Not wasting time calling or emailing with insignificant redundant information that is only wasting his time instead of focusing all his attention on his job. Plus the courts are stacked with pending cases so when Mr. Moore knows something relevant to the case he will contact you. He cares about his clients and represents each to the best of his ability. He takes his oath very seriously bcz his clients have chosen to put their trust with their life, future, well-being etc...in his care. I know I'm just now to began my first year of law school but Sam Moore You taught more than any law school will ever teach me. Represent each client always remembering the sworn oath taken. To take pride without fear and stand in front of a jury or judge knowing that's the absolute ultimate an attorney can do for his client. Thank you!! I couldn't ask for a better Mentor.
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26 Jan, 2017 by Anonymous
I hired Mr. Moore in 2015 and it's now 2017. The level of care I was accustomed to receiving left with the paralegal, Athena, back in the spring. Now when I call in to check on my case, Mr. Moore either doesn't take my call or flips out because I'm disturbing him. I feel like I have the right to question what's going on since I paid the old grump $5,000.00. I know my case was an uphill battle, but I would like to know someone was working for the hard earned money that was paid. The few times I've been able to catch Mr. Moore, he smells like a bottle of whiskey and is totally rude. Good or bad, I just want my case to be over.
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27 Aug, 2016 by Anonymous
I hired Sam Moore last year and it's now the end of August 2016, however my case is far from being over. During the initial consultation, Mr. Moore indicated that he would take care of my case quickly and efficiently, but that hasn't happened. My wife's attorney has told her that she can't get a hold of him on the phone nor are her emails or phone messages acknowledged so I know that it isn't just me that is being screwed over. I paid Mr. Moore $2500 plus fees and can't afford to hire anyone else or I would have already taken my case and bailed. The buffer between Sam and the public (his paralegal Athena) was laid off when he sold his office and I'm afraid he has gone off the deep end. Anytime I call the office Sam is very abusive, screams on the phone, and implies that I'm interrupting his afternoon schedule which I'm sure is just his nap time given his old age. Athena was the one person in that office who actually cared about what I was going through and took the time to actually listen to me when I called or dropped by. In closing, spend your hard earned dollars on some other attorney instead of an old, mean, loud drunk who smells like a brewery whether in the office or when you go to court with him. Mr. Moore is the type of attorney who gives lawyers a bad name!
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Danna Elizabeth Lambert Wolfe, experienced Criminal Defense, Family Law attorney in Abilene, TX with 1 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
7,17
star star star star star
1.0/5
Avvo
1.0
1 Reviews
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20 May, 2021 by Anonymous
This lady was court appointed in my cps case and she did a very poor job non professional. She was never at any of the meetings, that's when she did inform me of a meeting. I missed very important meetings for my voice to be heated because she never kept us up to date on the case. She is the reason my rights were terminated. Her and cps case worker were more worried about argun in front of my daughter at the visits, or at court in front of cps lawyers because she did not want to inform the judge about me wanting to address the court of ongoing problems. Also she handled my appeal Wich I was never in person at none of the court for that. She just sent me a big yellow envelope in the mail notify me of terminated rights. So sad this lady needs to quit her dam job and quit ruing and taking the states money. Shame on you.
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Matthew Royce Zimmerman, experienced Business, Consumer Protection attorney in Abilene, TX with 0 reviews
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4,00
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0.0/5
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Thomas W. Watson, experienced Criminal Defense, Probate attorney in Abilene, TX with 0 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
4,00
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0.0/5
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S. Clinton Nix, experienced Elder Law, Probate attorney in Abilene, TX with 0 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
4,00
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0.0/5
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Matthew Royce Zimmerman, experienced Business, Consumer Protection attorney in Abilene, TX with 0 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
4,00
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0.0/5
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David L. Buhrmann, experienced Business, Probate attorney in Abilene, TX with 0 reviews
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4,00
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Anne Elizabeth Niblo Wallace, experienced Business, Elder Law attorney in Abilene, TX with 0 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
4,00
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Chester Abbott Caldwell III, experienced Business, Intellectual Property attorney in Abilene, TX with 0 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
4,00
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0.0/5
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Christopher P. Carnohan, experienced Estate Planning, Personal Injury attorney in Abilene, TX with 0 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
0,00
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0.0/5
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Robert Grant Cunningham, experienced Business, Estate Planning attorney in Abilene, TX with 0 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
0,00
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Charles T. Hagin, experienced Business, Probate attorney in Abilene, TX with 0 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
0,00
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Gary H. Shahan, experienced Probate, Real Estate attorney in Abilene, TX with 0 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
0,00
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0.0/5
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Christopher Michael Riley, experienced Business, Probate attorney in Abilene, TX with 0 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
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FAQs
Questions? We have answers

What a Probate Lawyer Can Do for You

A probate lawyer assists with the legal process of administering a deceased person’s estate. This often involves guiding executors (if a will exists) or beneficiaries (if no will exists) through the probate process to settle the estate according to the deceased’s wishes or applicable laws. Probate lawyers can help validate the will, distribute assets, resolve disputes among heirs, handle outstanding debts or taxes, and ensure the estate is legally and efficiently administered.

Whether you’re an executor of an estate or an heir facing probate proceedings, a probate lawyer can help you navigate the often-complex legal process to ensure the estate is settled correctly.

When Should I Hire a Probate Lawyer?

You should consider hiring a probate lawyer when you are responsible for managing the estate of a deceased individual, especially in the following situations:

  • The estate has substantial assets: If the estate includes significant assets like real estate, investments, or business interests, legal assistance is often necessary to handle the distribution properly.
  • The will is being contested: If there are disputes among heirs regarding the validity of the will or the division of assets, a probate lawyer can help resolve the conflict.
  • The estate includes complex or unclear provisions: If the will contains complicated instructions or there are no clear beneficiaries, a lawyer can ensure that the estate is administered according to legal requirements.
  • There is no will (intestate estate): When a person dies without a will, the estate is subject to intestacy laws, which determine how assets are distributed. A probate lawyer can help navigate this process.
  • Debt or tax issues exist: If the estate owes significant debts or is subject to estate taxes, a probate lawyer can help ensure debts are paid appropriately and taxes are minimized.
  • Probate disputes: If family members or other parties are disputing the distribution of assets or challenging the executor's actions, legal representation is crucial to defending your rights and ensuring the estate is handled properly.

Hiring a probate lawyer early in the process can help avoid costly mistakes and ensure the estate is settled efficiently.

What Does a Probate Lawyer Do?

A probate lawyer provides a wide range of legal services to help manage and settle an estate. Their tasks can include:

  • Validating the will: Filing the will with the probate court and ensuring its legal validity.
  • Guiding executors or administrators: Advising the person responsible for managing the estate on their duties, including inventorying assets, notifying creditors, and paying debts.
  • Filing necessary paperwork: Preparing and submitting the legal documents required to initiate and complete the probate process.
  • Resolving disputes: Mediating or litigating disputes among heirs or between beneficiaries and executors, including challenges to the will or disagreements over asset distribution.
  • Handling debt and tax matters: Ensuring that outstanding debts, taxes, and estate taxes are properly calculated and paid from the estate’s assets.
  • Distributing assets: Ensuring that assets are distributed to the beneficiaries according to the will or intestacy laws, and that all legal requirements are fulfilled.
  • Closing the estate: Completing the final steps of the probate process, including filing a final accounting with the court and formally closing the estate.

How Are Probate Lawyers Paid?

Probate lawyers typically charge for their services based on the complexity of the estate and the nature of the legal work involved. Common payment structures include:

  • Hourly rate: Most probate lawyers charge by the hour, with rates depending on the lawyer’s experience and the complexity of the estate. Hourly rates can range from $150 to $500 or more.
  • Flat fee: For simple estates or straightforward probate tasks, some lawyers may charge a flat fee that covers all of the necessary legal work.
  • Percentage of the estate: In some states, probate lawyers are allowed to charge a percentage of the estate's value as their fee. This percentage typically ranges from 2% to 5%, depending on the size of the estate and state regulations.
  • Retainer fee: Some lawyers may require an upfront retainer fee, which is billed against as the probate process progresses.

It’s important to clarify the fee structure during your initial consultation to understand how you will be charged and avoid unexpected costs.

How Much Does a Probate Lawyer Cost?

The cost of hiring a probate lawyer depends on several factors, including the complexity of the estate, the type of legal issues involved, and the lawyer’s fee structure. General cost estimates include:

  • Simple estates: For estates with straightforward assets and no disputes, probate legal fees can range from $2,500 to $10,000, depending on the lawyer's fees and the state's probate laws.
  • Complex estates: For larger or more complicated estates with multiple properties, business interests, or disputes, probate costs can exceed $10,000 and may reach $20,000 or more.
  • Hourly rates: If charged by the hour, expect rates between $150 and $500, depending on the lawyer’s expertise and geographic location.
  • Percentage fees: In some cases, a probate lawyer may charge 2% to 5% of the estate’s value, particularly for larger estates or those involving complex legal matters.

Always ask for a clear estimate of fees during your initial consultation to understand the total cost of probate representation.

Top Questions to Ask a Probate Lawyer

Before hiring a probate lawyer, it’s essential to ask the right questions to ensure you’re hiring someone qualified to handle your estate needs. Key questions include:

  1. What experience do you have with probate cases like mine?
    Ensure the lawyer has experience with estates of similar complexity, especially if disputes or high-value assets are involved.
  2. How do you charge for your services?
    Ask whether the lawyer charges an hourly rate, a flat fee, or a percentage of the estate, and request a cost estimate.
  3. What is the likely timeline for my probate case?
    While it’s hard to predict exactly, an experienced lawyer can give you a general idea of how long the probate process may take based on the specifics of your estate.
  4. What steps will you take to manage and distribute the estate?
    Ask about the lawyer’s approach to handling debts, taxes, and asset distribution.
  5. Will you be handling my case personally?
    In larger firms, junior attorneys or paralegals may handle some aspects of your case, so it’s important to know who will be working on your probate case.
  6. What are potential challenges we may face?
    A good lawyer will be able to anticipate possible issues, such as will contests or creditor claims, and explain how they would handle them.

How to Check the Credibility of a Probate Lawyer

To ensure you’re hiring a reputable probate lawyer, follow these steps to check their credentials and experience:

  • Verify their state bar status: Check with your state’s bar association to confirm the lawyer is licensed to practice and has no history of disciplinary action.
  • Look for probate experience: Review the lawyer’s website or professional profile to ensure they specialize in probate law and have experience handling estates of similar complexity.
  • Read client reviews and testimonials: Look for online reviews on platforms like Avvo or Martindale-Hubbell to see what past clients have said about the lawyer’s probate experience.
  • Ask for references: A credible lawyer should be able to provide references from past clients who can vouch for their professionalism and expertise in handling probate matters.
  • Look for membership in professional organizations: Membership in organizations like the American Academy of Estate Planning Attorneys (AAEPA) or the National Academy of Elder Law Attorneys (NAELA) can indicate a lawyer's commitment to estate and probate law.

What Should I Prepare for My First Consultation?

To make the most out of your first consultation with a probate lawyer, it’s important to come prepared with relevant documents and information. Here’s what you should bring:

  • A copy of the will or trust (if applicable): Bring any estate planning documents left by the deceased, including wills, trusts, or powers of attorney.
  • List of assets and debts: Prepare a detailed list of the deceased’s assets (e.g., real estate, bank accounts, investments) and outstanding debts (e.g., loans, mortgages, credit cards).
  • Death certificate: Bring a certified copy of the deceased person’s death certificate.
  • Contact information for heirs and beneficiaries: Have a list of all individuals or entities named in the will or who are entitled to inherit under intestacy laws.
  • Questions about the probate process: Write down any questions you have about the process, costs, and potential issues you might face.
  • Relevant financial records: If available, bring any relevant financial documents, such as bank statements, property deeds, and tax returns.

By coming prepared, you can ensure a productive consultation and allow the lawyer to provide the best advice for your situation.

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