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28 Sep, 2022 by Allison
My husband and I have been advised by Kavita for our will and trust. She was incredibly knowledgeable and was very comprehensive in answering our questions. She made us feel very comfortable and confident throughout the consultation. I highly recommend Kavita.
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19 Jan, 2022 by Alicia
My family hired Kavita in 2018 to handle the probate process and updating of estate documents after my mom unexpectedly passed away. Kavita's kindness and thoroughness were a lifesaver during an incredibly difficult time. She had the patience and knowledge to ensure that the probate process was as smooth as can be. Also, she was with us every step of the way to update all of the documents pertaining to the estate in the same detailed and thorough manner.
We hired Kavita again in 2021 when we were looking to set up an LLC for a new line of business. Once again, Kavita came to our aid and took us through every step of the process with patience, knowledge, and insight to ensure we had all of the documents we needed for our new business. And while going through the process of creating what would become our Operating Agreement for our new business, we learned a lot from her as well!
We will definitely hire Kavita again for future estate planning as well as when we set up our next business venture to make sure we have all of our I's dotted and our T's crossed - we know we can count on her to listen, to help guide us, and to execute our needs flawlessly.
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11 Jan, 2022 by Richard
Kavita... a good lawyer? I think more, but you tell me. It's difficult when you have to count on a stranger at the worst moment in your life. It's a terrible feeling. Weather it be a death, possible loss of your freedom, some type of lawsuit. Having to instantly confide in and trust a stranger; whom additionally you are having to pay..... that can be tough to swallow and deal with.
I lost my mother and nothing seemed fair or right. Kavita made the probate process make sense. She wasn't doing a "job". She was helping a stranger get through the toughest point in their life with understanding, compassion, patience, explanations and knowledge of law. When I paid for a lawyer I paid for and expected someone to help me quickly and efficiently close out my mothers estate. I got that.... but i also got a shoulder to lean on for strength when I needed it most, a voice of reason that dumbed it down enough for me to understand when it didn't seem fair and I didn't get it, someone that put me back in my place when I got out of line because of my pain... I got so much more than a lawyer I am forever grateful. My family continues to count on Kavtia today. Kavita tells you what you need to hear but more importantly cares what you heard. Kavita is a great person and better Lawyer.
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05 Mar, 2016 by Anonymous
Bill represented me. He got me everything I wanted and deserved. I never thought I'd say this about an attorney's bill, but he was worth every penny. I'd recommend him to anyone.
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29 Jan, 2025 by Jessica skoropinski
My husband and I bought a car from a used car dealer in early 2024. Obviously it didn’t go very well! After months and months and MONTHS of waiting to get our title, (we truly gave them way too much patience) we finally decided it was time to proceed with legal action. I honestly just searched “car title fraud lawyer dallas texas”- the first two firms we reached out to instantly declined to work with us. Matt took the time to consult with us in detail before deciding whether or not to take our case, and thank god he did, otherwise we never would’ve ended up getting our money back! We were at the point that we didn’t even want the car anymore, we just wanted the whole thing reversed, and Matt helped us achieve that.
Our fraud dealer was doing god knows what while stringing us along and Matt really dug deep to figure out just what in the world was going on- the car hadn’t been inspected in the last THREE years, so they never should have sold it to us in the first place, and could not transfer the title to us. He told us straight up what our best options were every step of the way, and was extremely understanding and willing to work with us when scheduling conflicts arose (my husband is active duty military and was actually deployed while we were working everything out). Working with Matt feels like having somebody who is truly in your corner, fighting enthusiastically for you. His confidence in his ability to do a good job and right whatever wrong has happened is infectious- and true!
If you’re in a similar position, waiting for a title from a fraud car dealer who just won’t get it done, I honestly cannot recommend Matt enough. Hiring him to represent us was the only bright spot of this entire fraud title debacle.
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06 Dec, 2024 by Laura castillo
29 Oct, 2024 by Barden family
My daughter and I purchased her first vehicle that she saved her own money up for and we paid in full cash for the vehicle from what we thought as a reputable dealer. Turns out the used car dealer went out of business shortly after our purchase and never transferred the title into our name. Furthermore, we learned from the state that there was still a lien on the vehicle from the previous owner. After a quick google search on title fraud, we found Mr. Valeriane and set up a time to meet with him to discuss our case. In that meeting, it was clear to us that Mr. Valeriane knew how to handle cases like ours. We reviewed what to expect throughout the process of suing the dealership. Mr. Valeriane was very experienced and knew the process inside and out, explaining each step to us. We felt he was the right individual to handle our case. Mr. Valeriane was able to achieve a successful outcome to our benefit. He provided us updates throughout the process and was quick to answer our questions along the way. While our patience were test, Mr. Valeriane assured us there would be an end eventually. If you ever have an issue in getting your car title from a dealer, give Mr. Valeriane a call to know your options. We are so thankful we found him on google and this nightmare for our daughter is behind us!
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03 Aug, 2023 by 69 sawgrass chowdhury (69 sawgrass)
Excellent Estate Planning Law Firm
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06 Jan, 2023 by Ashley young
I have not had the need for their law services. However, I did call to ask about a package left at a neighboring office. Kelly is SO nice! You couldn't get any nicer. Thank you for being so sweet, professional, and willing to help.
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19 Feb, 2022 by Daniel & danielle durbin
03 Aug, 2023 by 69 sawgrass chowdhury (69 sawgrass)
Excellent Estate Planning Law Firm
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06 Jan, 2023 by Ashley young
I have not had the need for their law services. However, I did call to ask about a package left at a neighboring office. Kelly is SO nice! You couldn't get any nicer. Thank you for being so sweet, professional, and willing to help.
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19 Feb, 2022 by Daniel & danielle durbin
18 Dec, 2024 by Janiyah toombs
the process happened very quickly i am very pleased with the results and will always keep them in mind in the future
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17 Dec, 2024 by Monica napier
Neal and the team were excellent. I highly recommend this firm!
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13 Dec, 2024 by Victor cook
I thought the Jackson Spencer Law group had done a very good job of finding where I could best benefit from the unjustified termination of my job recently. I give them a five-star rating for their efforts in this matter. I am sure, provided there was concrete evidence found, they could have negotiated much more than was finally negotiated. They remained in contact with me every step of the way and advised me as well on the best course of action to take. Although I believe there is more to my case than just a simple mediation process, such as a lawsuit if brough in front of a physically presence Judge. The entire process was conducted by computer communications, so was the termination, which I believe one law circumvented the purpose and effect of other designed to protect my civil rights. Basically, the AT Will employment law circumvented and went around my civil rights by allowing a termination without cause. This was the case, and they had to deal with it as best they could without the benefit of having the preponderance of evidence to invoke judgmental decision as would a physical presence (sitting judge) with all parties' presence. There is a big difference between hiding behind a computer and having a physical presence when making such a type of decision. More is revealed both by body and the preponderance of evidence presented. Hats off for the Jackson Spencer Law firm for their success in getting me more than was offered. Thanks
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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:
-
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. -
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. -
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. -
What steps will you take to manage and distribute the estate?
Ask about the lawyer’s approach to handling debts, taxes, and asset distribution. -
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. -
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.
