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01 Aug, 2024 by Damara ferguson
Ryan provided me with sound and wise counsel and responded immediately to my call. He’s a skilled and seasoned attorney!
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15 Jul, 2024 by Becky woods
Ryan was amazing! So helpful and knowledgeable.
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09 Jul, 2024 by Melissa cooper
The last thing anyone wants to do is file bankruptcy. But the right attorney makes all the difference. Ryan was amazing from start to finish! His knowledge makes the process easy and he eases the stress of the process. He makes sure you are completely prepared for your hearing to ensure a smooth process. I cannot enough good things about my experience and would highly recommend him to anyone in search of a great bankruptcy attorney.
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10 Oct, 2024 by Diondra
the best attorneys in Ohio
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02 Feb, 2024 by Joelle
Jeff meticulously researched all aspects of the case, listened carefully to client and family, and was able to think outside the box. He was caring and compassionate, and made exceptional presentations in court. I am grateful to have had him represent my family member.
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30 Jan, 2024 by Steve johnson
13 Sep, 2023 by Tiffany
Darrin provided me great legal advice and information I needed for my contracts. He was very pleasant and extremely knowledgeable about the information given. I appreciate his quick responses and listening to me with patients and giving clear instructions on how to resolve the situation.
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12 Jul, 2023 by Stephanie
Attorney Darrin Dimoff is A very straight forward Attorney. He helped me with my case which involved my father's Estate. Attorney Dimoff let me know exactly what I could do and what I couldn't do. He's very prompt and Sufficient and very affordable too. I'm so glad I found him and that he is my Attorney he doesn't Sugarcoat anything and that's what I also liked . Thank you so much Attorney Darrin your the Best!
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07 Dec, 2022 by Paul
Highly Recommend! Dimoff Law helped me with a quick turn on a notary to meet a deadline. Not only was the service quick and professional, but all my questions were answered, and I left more knowledgeable and prepared for future business dealings. Use Dimoff Law if you want to feel valued as a person and not just another number.
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16 Sep, 2024 by Dawn
After dealing with 8 other incompetent attorney's, I trusted Brian Skidmore with getting a complex foreclosure case dismissed. He was able to accomplish in 2 weeks, what my previous attorney was unable to do in 9 months. He did not talk down to me, as other's did. He explained everything very well, was quick to return phone calls, emails, questions etc. He was kind, efficient, & his expertise was apparent. I highly recommend his services. Thanks to Brian, my mother's 1969 home was saved from an illegal foreclosure in the nick of time. We are so thankful!
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14 Jul, 2021 by Joe
I retained Brian after a previous general practice lawyer had destroyed my case with improper/poorly timed filings and insufficient pleadings. The last thing I wanted to do was switch lawyers in the middle of a case but I had no choice, I had no trust/faith. Brian Skidmore was able to flip my case around and get me to an end result that I was happy to live with. REASONS WHY TO USE BRIAN: When this guy starts a case he goes ‘full throttle’ This lawyer will do everything he can to always have an upper hand. He takes the extra step to know every fine detail and weighs every possible option. Possibly his best characteristic is that I truly believe he cares about his clients, you’re not just a number and a paycheck. It’s difficult to find people passionate about their career but when it comes to a real estate lawyer, do yourselves a favor and retain this one.
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03 Oct, 2020 by Cb
Brian was awesome to work with and his professionalism was top notch. As we worked together to resolve the matter of a property controversy. I experienced how he easily handled the fumbling, easily confused, person that attempted to be challenging to work with. Brian would professional get the person back on track and move the matter forward to agreeable resolution. Great job!
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03 Nov, 2023 by Nora
We had an amazing experience working with Atty Jaclyn Palumbo and highly recommend her to anyone looking for an estate attorney. She genuinely cares about people - Scott and I appreciate everything she helped us with.
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27 Oct, 2023 by Ilona feinstein
I cannot say enough good things about Jaclyn and the outstanding legal services she and her team provided for my family. Jaclyn is not just a legal expert but also a compassionate and understanding professional. I highly recommend her!
If you are in need of an elder law attorney, do not hesitate to contact Palumbo and Sweet. You won't find more dedicated and caring professionals.
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14 May, 2023 by Peggy wilhite
25 Jan, 2013 by Anonymous
Justin really helped me out of a sticky situation. I had some issues with my mother estate after she passed away. Justin was extremely knowledgeable in this area and helped resolve the situation quickly and perfect. He is a young attorney who carries himself like he has been practicing law for 20 years!
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02 Oct, 2013 by Jim
I have known Attorney Benedict for many years. I trust his judgement and have been very pleased with his services. I strongly recommend him to anyone. He is thorough, knowledgeable and expeditious. He recently gave me good insight on a commercial lease. He was terrific in handling my mom's estate.
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18 Mar, 2014 by Jason
I needed some documents written and reviewed for a property transaction and my documents were delivered in a matter of hours. I am very pleased with the very fast turn around.
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26 Jun, 2020 by Linda
Mr. Vasilatos was very helpful in resolving a problem we had with our Estate Planning. He explained exactly, and in plain language - not legal jargon - what we needed to do to ensure our wishes would be taken care of.
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23 Jul, 2024 by Dave
Ciccolini & Associates Co., L.P.A.
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Ciccolini & Associates Co., L.P.A.
4.7
(26)
Law firm in Akron, OhioOpen
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Dave Smith
5 reviews
My aunt passed away unexpectedly, and had not updated her will for 18 years. By default, I was named administrator of her estate. She had dealt with Ciccolini & Associates for prior legal matters, so that's who I chose to help with the … More
Carl Weber
6 reviews·1 photo
5 months ago
Maria and the staff have done a great job of thoroughly and efficiently updating all of our estate documents. They also did a great job in handling a real estate transfer, and worked through the holidays right up to the last minute to get our in-laws trust closed out by year end. Highly recommend Ciccolini and Associates.
Laura Lyn
Local Guide·48 reviews·2 photos
10 months ago
We worked with Maria for estate planning and deed work. Maria was referred from the title company. I am so happy that they did refer her! … More
James Stith
3 reviews
a year ago
Decided to move forward with estate planning after attending a local seminar presented by Ciccolini & Associates. We then met with Maria at her law offices for an initial estate planning and information sharing meeting. I have know … More
Ciccolini & Associates Co., L.P.A. (Owner)
a year ago
Thanks,Jim! It was a pleasure working with you.
Dave Smith
5 reviews
My aunt passed away unexpectedly, and had not updated her will for 18 years. By default, I was named administrator of her estate. She had dealt with Ciccolini & Associates for prior legal matters, so that's who I chose to help with the estate. Maria Ciccolini and Lori Palermo made it very easy to navigate through the legal ins and outs from start to finish. They are professional, knowledgeable, and personable. They explained the process in easy to understand terms, and were quick to respond to questions, by phone or email. I highly recommend Ciccolini & Associates.
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08 Jul, 2024 by Carl weber
Maria and the staff have done a great job of thoroughly and efficiently updating all of our estate documents. They also did a great job in handling a real estate transfer, and worked through the holidays right up to the last minute to get our in-laws trust closed out by year end. Highly recommend Ciccolini and Associates.
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08 Jul, 2024 by Audrey herston
28 Feb, 2022 by Anderson martin
21 Oct, 2021 by Autumn carter
13 Oct, 2020 by Joseph dennison
12 Oct, 2022 by Julie
I was referred to Michael Elliott. He did amazing work on my case, and I was very satisfied with the outcome. Thank you, Michael Elliott, for all your hard work.
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27 Jul, 2022 by Anita stevens
Thank you Michael Elliott for all your hard work on my case. You worked hard on my behalf and we settled the case to my satisfaction. I highly recommend Scanlon & Elliot to anyone who needs a law firm to fight hard for you.
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23 Dec, 2021 by Todd kotler
True professionals. Expert in their field
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21 Aug, 2022 by Michelle
I paid $3,000.00 for an OVI case. He told me that Judge McKenney required as a condition of my bond I would have to wear a SCRAM unit on my ankle, otherwise, I would spend the entirety of my case in jail until resolved. That was the 2nd week of November 2021. Since State Trooper Sweazy (Sleazy) lied in his report, proved by the video and audio recordings, he was going to "argue, request, demand, plea, fight for, etc." for a "motion to dismiss," essentially drop the charge. I wore a SCRAM alcohol monitor on my ankle. I had to buy new hair products, lotion, and toothpaste, and avoid EVERYTHING that contained alcohol. I developed a severe rash, skin rotted away, and was bleeding from the SCRAM ankle bracelet (They should be illegal !!). Then, I was switched to a unit I had to carry and blow into every couple of hours. My February court date (1st week of February) he canceled because Walter said he had COVID, but when I talked to him, he was on vacation! He said he couldn't get another court date until March 15th, 6 weeks later. On that day, when he is to interrogate the State Trooper in the court in front of Judge McKenney and present the evidence of the officer lying (he said the cop didn't lie, he "embellished"), he told me the judge "doesn't like to grant dismissals." Grant? This isn't a "grant." Also, he tells me this after being subjected to the SCRAM unit for 4 1/2 months, which is punishment without judgment, and having to go back to work at my seasonal office job, I conceded (regrettably) to accepting the charge of an OVI first offense. Walter Benson manipulated me, lied to me, and put me through torture to wear me down because he got paid $3,000.00 upfront and didn't and wouldn't do anything for me nor in the case of justice. He also threatened a liability case against me when I wrote a negative review on Google. I ABSOLUTELY WOULD NOT RECOMMEND HIM. I believe most of his reviews are fake since most of the people have only given 5 or fewer reviews and all write the "same" sentences. Anybody can create emails/identities and write reviews. Do your research if you don't believe me. Look at the Barberton court docket, read the proceedings, and see the outcomes of his cases. DON'T waste your money, time, and peace of mind on this attorney.
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24 May, 2021 by William boggs
I was a nervous wreck about my court case and Walt put my mind at ease. He answered all my questions and was very professional. He was readly available when I called and handled my case with real professionalism. I would certainly recommend Walt to anyone who needs an excellent attorney.
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25 Mar, 2021 by Anonymous
I cannot thank Mr. Benson enough for the amount of time and effort he put into my case. He was very knowledgeable and helpful in regards to any questions I had. He left no stone unturned. I would highly recommend Walter Benson Attorney at Law.
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08 Jul, 2024 by Chinna parker
FRAUD ALERT!!!!!!!
I was initially very pleased with my case, so much so that I referred many others to this firm.
I began to receive emails with personal information regarding another clients case. When my bill came charges pertaining to the other client were on my bill. I had to call the office weekly from 9/18 to 12/18 to have the charges of approximately $250 that had nothing to do with my case and have the money that was due me returned to me.I spoke with several people from the office who made several false promises to handle it for me every week.
Not one person in the office was the least bit professional or knowledgeable on billing or on how to handle removing the other clients charges. I stopped by the office to check the status of my bill being corrected and was told that stopping by was rude and unnecessary. After finally being feed up I sent a long heart felt email pleading with the firm to remove the other clients charges and return to me the remainder of my retainer because my case was closed. I received a call from Tracy stating the charges were removed and my check was ready. On my lunch I went to get the check and to my surprise they finally removed the $250 in charges that weren't mine but added over $600 in charges they claim to have missed over 8 months ago.
I'm the type of person who never likes to complain, but if I can help another single parent of being robbed of her hard earned cash I feel like I have done my job.
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08 Jul, 2024 by Amber johnson
I’ve had a handful of Attorneys when it comes to family law and Lynda is hands down the best. She is so available and communicative, it’s so easy to get a hold of her when you need her. Her office staff are friendly and professional. She knows the law front to back and is extremely organized and detail oriented. But above all, she conducts herself ethically and with the utmost integrity. She truly cares about you, and doing what is best for your child. She will set realistic expectations and be honest with you, but will work hard on your behalf. I am so grateful to Lynda. She is an amazing Attorney and person.
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08 Jul, 2024 by Greg b
25 Jan, 2017 by Ryan
Attorney Koehler spent very little time with my case and this was evident in every situation we spent in court, and there weren't many. He seemed to be an attorney who was experienced so I assumed I wouldn't have to investigate every move made but that turned out to be a huge mistake on my part. I had very little experience with this type of thing, have never had a relative pass where I had to take on the responsibility of administrator so I decided to attempt to hire an attorney that I felt would do the right thing. I've been a kind person my entire life and have always been taken advantage of, I just assumed that losing my father in the way I did would motivate someone to do the right thing. I am very hurt by this, I lost my father in a horrible way. All I wanted was closure and I feel now that that will never be possible for me. Thank you for listening, this is something I felt I needed to get out.
Sincerely,
Ryan
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05 Aug, 2015 by Jean
I found Ron 's ad in the phone book to be very helpful, answering many questions before I called. I found him to be meticulous, professional, extremely knowledgeable and working for my best interests. He came to my home, gave me 4 copies of all documents, filed a deed, and charged a reasonable fee. The whole experience was very good and I will recommend him to my relatives and friends.
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18 Apr, 2024 by Anonymous
Hired attorney and complete waste of time. Did not want to handle difficult issues with child custody case. He would mention needing a mediator when talking to him about complex issues. Ended up not getting a response back from him he completely ghosted me and told me he was no longer my attorney and to look elsewhere. Very unprofessional!!
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02 Sep, 2022 by Matt
DO NOT HIRE THIS GUY!!!
If you just need an attorney to show up to court this your guy! Don’t expect any actual effort to be put forward.
This clown will not go to bat for you. He charged me to have 5 witnesses subpoenaed for court yet not a single one was subpoenaed. The morning of our most recent court appearance he made me scramble to contact the previously stated witnesses to ask them if they would be able to join via telephone for the hearing (this was at 5:00 A.M.) I was able to contact two of them at that time and both were extremely confused as they hadn’t heard from him and weren’t in a position to give their testimony. In a year and a half he never appeared as if he was actually prepared. when push comes to shove he would blame me for changes in circumstances. Silas and his office staff are extremely unorganized. I had to repeatedly send him the same information and documents. I finally had enough and fired this lazy piece of crap yesterday.
Please don’t make the same mistake that I made.
DO NOT HIRE THIS GUY!!!!
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24 Jul, 2020 by Brian
Silas has been instrumental in successfully guiding me through the probate system on two occasions. I was executor on my father & his wife's estate, and Silas was great throughout the whole, painful, bureaucratic, legal nightmare of probate.
As others have said his response time is excellent. I was NEVER left hanging and every E-mail was responded to quickly, sometimes way after normal hours. I would send a message late, assuming he would respond in the A.M., but often got a response instantly.
Silas also prepared Wills for many family members, Powers of attorneys, et cetera, His treatment of my very elderly and not-very-trusting-of-lawyers Mother and her husband during the estate planning process, was very professional and personable at the same time. He won them over in a single meeting!
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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.
