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06 Jan, 2025 by Pat
I have always been intimidated when having to consult an attorney, but JulieAnn made me feel comfortable, and thoroughly explained every aspect of my estate planning in terms that I could easily understand. I would recommend her to anyone. My planning was seamless and would hire her again in a heartbeat!tee
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20 Oct, 2024 by Bonnie
When my family faced the difficult decision of placing our beloved mother into long-term care, it was emotionally challenging and financially daunting. Needing help, I contacted numerous attorneys in the Capital District and they all referred me to the same lawyer: JulieAnne Calereso, Esq., an experienced attorney with a depth of knowledge in Crisis Medicaid Planning. From the very first consultation, she put me at ease and reassured me that I was not alone in this journey. She took the time to understand our family's unique situation and provided us with a clear roadmap of what needed to be done. Her expertise was evident as she guided me through the complex process of asset protection, eligibility requirements, and application procedures. She also helped me complete various legal documents and forms, ensuring their accuracy and timeliness. Throughout this stressful time, Julie was not only a legal advisor but also a supportive, understanding, and kind presence. She always took the time to listen to my concerns and patiently clarify complex issues, and was incredibly responsive by phone and email. Her expertise, communication, and genuine care surpassed all of our expectations. I highly recommend her services to anyone in need of legal advice.
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26 Jul, 2024 by Sandy
JulieAnn has done two things for us (so far). First, she helped decipher some trust documents that had us baffled when we needed to make a quick decision. She was patient and thorough and a big help there. Second, she helped us prepare our estate planning docs, a task which we had been putting off for years. Those were relatively straightforward, but she did a nice job making sure we understood our choices and helping us finally get that done.
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5.0
4 Reviews
10 Nov, 2015 by John
My wife and I have used Tim and his firm for a number of years. He has provided support in the area of elder care services for my elderly mother, our personal estate planning and real estate transactions.
We have always been well served by Mr. Casserly and his staff. They are attentive to our needs, timely in their service and thorough in their efforts.
We strongly recommend Tim and the firm of Burke & Casserly!
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28 Oct, 2015 by Alan
Mr. Casserly has been my long time personal and business attorney. I have always found him reliable and responsive. His advise and guidance has been greatly appreciated and I would strongly recommend Tim to others needing legal and financial advise.
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27 Oct, 2015 by Carl
Tim and his firm recently navigated our family through a difficult lawsuit during a large real estate transaction. He lead the way with conviction and tenacity. His perseverance kept us out of court leading to the eventual closing of a property that has changed the lives of many.
Tim is not just a great lawyer, he is a nice guy who is easy to talk and down to earth.
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07 Jan, 2025 by Anne wager-rounds
Amazing service! Even when the going got a little tough they breezed right through it. Their professionalism and knowledge was so appreciated. It was very reassuring to know that I was with such a competent company. I will be calling them for any and all my legal needs. Thank you!!
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04 Jan, 2025 by Donna lochner
Jane-Marie Schaffer worked with me on estate planning. She was informative, yet never overwhelmed me with too much information. She was a good listener, patient, and seemed genuinely interested in understanding my goals. The results were exactly what I needed. Ms. Schaffer made the process smooth and within the time frame agreed to. Fees are very reasonable! I highly recommend her at the Herzog Law Firm, P.C.!
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23 Dec, 2024 by Donna rost
15 Jun, 2019 by Hudson
Casey helped me work through drafting a contract for the process of assisted reproduction with a close friend. I couldn't have asked for a better lawyer for this process. She helped me understand all the issues involved - on both a legal and a personal level - and she was extremely knowledgeable about the law as it stands and as it may change in the future. I was nervous about making sure that we drafted as strong a contract as possible. While she wasn't afraid to tell me when something I wanted wasn't possible, her supportive attitude during our conversations helped me feel much more comfortable with the document that we generated over the course of the process, and it ended up containing almost all of what I wanted. In addition, she was not only timely and responsive in our communication, she was also human - and a warm and caring human at that. It's clear that this field is important to her, and that she'll do her best for all of her clients. Casey is an excellent choice for anyone seeking legal counsel in this field.
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01 May, 2018 by Anonymous
Is gunna talk me thru the process to help me and my husband adopt my daughter
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18 Nov, 2016 by Nicole
Hands down the best lawyer around. I had previously hired another lawyer for my divorce and adoption of my son, and after 5 months and several thousand dollars, nothing was accomplished. I was referred to Casey from a friend who had a great experience as well. Casey was able to break everything down and go over everything until I could understand the complicated situation I was in. With her by my side, we were able to accomplish our goals and finalize everything in a timely matter. She was never one of those lawyers who wanted to drag anything out just to drain me of more money (Like my previous lawyer). She was always available to reach when needed, even on a Saturday night!! I would recommend Casey to anyone who needs any sort of legal help. Hopefully I will never need legal services again, but if I did, I will be right back with Casey. Thank you again!!
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27 Apr, 2010 by Brigid
I wouldn't hesitate to recommend David to anyone. He is a very thorough, ethical, knowledgeable, well spoken attorney. At court there was no comparison to the other attorney! David outshone him in every area!
He always treated me with dignity, kindness and compassion, and always made time to explain things to me in a way that I could understand.
Recently I had occasion to use the firm for a real estate deal and David again- in a supervisory position for one of the associates- ( who in her own right was excellent)- was an a great resource and available for questions all the way through the transaction.
I am delighted to have such a wonderful attorney in my corner and plan to call on David Siegfeld any time I need legal help.
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19 Apr, 2010 by Anonymous
Mr. Siegfeld helped my family with my grandmother's estate. He was able to balance the personalities of all family members in a compassionate and efficient manner to timely resolve my grandmother's estate. I would whole-heartedly recommend him to anyone!
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14 Apr, 2010 by Ross
David has been trustworthy and reliable legal council both professionally and personally.
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26 May, 2015 by John
We cannot say enough about our experience with Judy. She was very helpful and honest. She did not try to "sell" us an estate plan, but listened carefully to what we wanted and honored our wishes. Her staff were lovely and polite, and also helped us a great deal. We have already recommended this office to several of our friends, and give Judy the highest recommendation.
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17 Mar, 2015 by Donna
I highly recommend this lawyer. She helped me last year during a very difficult time in my life. Answered all my questions in a way which I can understand, returned my phone calls and emails in a timely manner, and kept me informed on the status of the issues I had and what I needed to do and how she was handling it. She has a great personality and makes you feel comfortable from the very first meeting. Please do not hesitate to call her. You will not be sorry.
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19 Nov, 2024 by Nancy schroeder
The Pfeiffer Law Firm originally developed a family trust for us in 2018. We decided to include a few more assets into the trust in 2024. Bill Pfeiffer and his staff were prompt in responding to all our needs, including questions on the process. Bill has a very pleasant personality which makes it easy to ask questions and understand the process. I would recommend this firm to anyone.
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19 Oct, 2024 by Glenn gilbert
Thank you for your professional and personal guidance in our Estate planning process. We very much appreciate your experienced legal counsel and guidance, your thoroughness in detail and ability to put us at ease through something we had postponed for too long. Glenn Gilbert.
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11 Sep, 2024 by Brian zweig
Bill has handled a variety of issues for our family and in all cases handled them in a very competent and professional manner. Bill is very helpful, knowledgable, and personable.
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19 Nov, 2024 by Nancy schroeder
The Pfeiffer Law Firm originally developed a family trust for us in 2018. We decided to include a few more assets into the trust in 2024. Bill Pfeiffer and his staff were prompt in responding to all our needs, including questions on the process. Bill has a very pleasant personality which makes it easy to ask questions and understand the process. I would recommend this firm to anyone.
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19 Oct, 2024 by Glenn gilbert
Thank you for your professional and personal guidance in our Estate planning process. We very much appreciate your experienced legal counsel and guidance, your thoroughness in detail and ability to put us at ease through something we had postponed for too long. Glenn Gilbert.
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11 Sep, 2024 by Brian zweig
Bill has handled a variety of issues for our family and in all cases handled them in a very competent and professional manner. Bill is very helpful, knowledgable, and personable.
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30 Dec, 2024 by Joseph vinisky
I can recommend Mohanad Elmassalemah for child support situations. He was professional, knowledgeable, and supportive.
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06 Dec, 2024 by Derek raposo
Honestly words can not describe the lack of professionalism I experienced with this group, but let’s try. Firstly, a retainer of $7,000 was given and off we went. I started with one attorney a Rebecca Edward’s who for whatever reason quit the law firm about three months into my litigation. I sent emails and explained everything in my case to her. After several weeks I was contacted by a team manager attorney (Sebastian Piedmont). This gentlemen came across as completely incompetent. I felt like I was talking to a used car salesman. He Basically just talking up what he was going to do and how he knew the opposing attorney and all this mambo jumbo. Asked me what was going on in my case. I was explaining my self for the second time not to mention I was being billed for explaining yet again. My first attorney never submitted my long form financial affidavit, that comes later. At this point the billing had exceeded my retainer. I had to keep the minimum retainer balance so $2500 needed to be in the kiddy. The bills kept pouring in. It was crazy. We went to court 4 times virtually. One with Rebecca and two with Mr. Piedmont, and the fourth with Mr. Mohammed(which by the way was the only honest person I can across working with that firm.). After not hearing from Mr Piedmont I get an email notifying me they would be breaking in yet another attorney( Mr . Mohammed)! What’s interesting is that we were on a three way call(while being billed and had to explain myself yet again.). The judge on the final meeting even said something to the point of attorney billings because it was obvious that this was a cash grab. We settled thanks to Mr Mohammed. Never heard from Rebecca or Sebastian Piedmont again. Oh and by the way it fell short of $15000 dollars. Stay away from these people. I can’t believe what happened to me and the stress put my in the hospital!!
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02 Dec, 2024 by Raul rodriguez
Great firm expensive but you pay what you get.recommended
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25 Nov, 2024 by Vee
Samuel helped my son fight his ssi case and he was kind and their for us every step of the way . I did have different lawyers we have been fighting social security for the last 3 years and I was feeling hopeless until I met with Warner&Warner explained my situation and Samuel took our case and because of him my son finally received his SSI. We are grateful to him and I would recommend him to anyone. Thank you Samuel it's truly is a blessing.
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27 Sep, 2024 by Family martial arts academy
Jonathan was so helpful to me with advice regarding SBA loan questions. I was very concerned about a few issues and he spent time with me patiently going over facts. I can't endorse him strongly enough. Thanks, Jonathan!
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16 Sep, 2024 by Linda cherry
Jonathan Werner has been awesome. He is handling my brother's bankruptcy case and everything has been going very smoothly. I emailed him one week and I didn't realize he was on vacation. He emailed me right back. I would highly recommend his firm. His secretary Alice is wonderful and very helpful. Unfortunately, my brother has developed health issues that may not allow him to go back to work. Jonathan's brother handles social security disability cases. He will be the one I would have handle that case. I have complete confidence in this firm. I would highly recommend them.
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22 Feb, 2024 by Bridget keeler
I would 100% recommend Brian as an attorney. Due to the nature of my case, I had to recount numerous serious events with Brian, and he always made me feel at-ease and comfortable while doing so. What really shone through was his experience in the field. I felt he was able to provide very useful feedback due to his knowledge around cases like mine that led the outcome of my adjudication to be a success. Additionally, his response time was always super quick (I don't think I ever waited longer than two days for a response without extenuating circumstances). I asked a lot of questions about the legal process, my best options at any given point in time, evidence, etc. and Brian gave me very thoughtful answers every time. Overall, I had an extremely positive experience.
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28 Nov, 2023 by Vera cohen
Excellent attorneys!
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25 Sep, 2023 by Michael r
I had a really good experience using this firm. They were able to adjust their schedule to meet with me on a short notice. All the staff that I interacted with were very professional and pleasant to work with. I would highly recommend this law firm to anyone who may benefit from their offered services.
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12 Oct, 2023 by Brandi cockfield
Dennis is an amazing attorney. He felt like family during and after our case was over. I would recommend him to anyone!
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24 Sep, 2021 by Lawn and snow guilderland
Dennis was an absolute professional, knew my situation worked with the additional party involved and came to a great resolution. I Would HIGHLY recommend
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09 Aug, 2019 by Meggy arroyo
08 Jul, 2024 by Pete lomanto
08 Jul, 2024 by Dd b
08 Jul, 2024 by Dilli mandi
This Firm will make sure both yours and your lawsuit opponents wealth drained enough for their profit.
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06 Jun, 2013 by John
When I hired Mr. Dennis Habel to contest my mother's fake will I thought I was getting a good lawyer. I did NOT receive any help at all. He was not knowledgeable in a parent's complex estate case, he was very expensive, and did not keep me informed as the case moved very, very slowly because of his lack of commitment. I finally had to fire him and go with a different attorney. Please do not make the same mistake as I did in hiring this lazy man.
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04 Dec, 2012 by Max
I have always been afraid of just find a lawyer out of the phone book so I asked some friends to recommend someone, it was Dennis. He was very professional and he is knowledgeable. I would hire him again and highly recommend him.
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19 May, 2009 by Anonymous
Was totally ripped off of 9,000.00 $. Was the worst lawyer I ever had. NEVER did a thing in my behalf. Did lots for the other side though. Didn't follow thru, didn't return calls. overpriced, bad advice, lied, and just a mess that i had to live with. I did complain to the state. But, the damge this man already did was huge.
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25 Jan, 2024 by Anonymous
All around horrible experience. If anything, she made things significantly worse for me and my children.
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07 Dec, 2021 by Francesco
i am recently divorced , and although i didn't always like or understand Eileen's methods but am i glad that she didn't give up on me, After being displaced from my home for a year while another man lived in my house with my ex wife and her and his children as i payed the bills Eileen got me the justice i deserved! when i thought the world was against me at my darkest moments in life she helped me pull thru! i still get emotional as i type this and talk about it today. she truly saved me! the system i felt (and still do) is broken! i am so lucky to have had the help of Attorney Eileen Marie Stiglmeier , who i can say has PROVED ME WRONG in my assumption that all lawyers are sharks and thieves she sure as hell IS NOT!
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16 May, 2019 by Connie
After a recommendation through an experienced family court attorney, I hired Ms. Stiglmeier after filing a petition to enforce a separation and opting out agreement that survived my divorce. A month after I filed this, my ex husband went to court and requested emergency custody on false allegations and domestic violence allegations I had with another individual that did not occur when I had my children and my children never met this person. I contacted police and police did not arrest. Subsequently, attorney for the children and judge (agreeing with AFC, which is not allowed), said due to my “poor decision making I’m not having the man arrested.” My children were immediately removed from my physical custody with a no contact order and he received temporary full custody. Ms. Stiglmeier (I have full evidence to support these claims) told me to sign documents that the courts afterward deemed me to have waived my right to my $30,000 in maintenance, child support, and primary custody...she also caused me to miss an appearance in a support matter. She was always unavailable an in open court acknowledged not reading a significant part of my separation and opting out agreement specifically detailing custody, even though she charged me for review of such. 5 years later and I am still fighting for my children and the irreparable harm caused by her ineffective counsel. My ex husband would hold visitation against me if I didn’t sign subsequent agreements, and she never responded or defended such. My ex husband said he hoped she was stupid enough not to read the agreement and didn’t realize she actually was...
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21 Aug, 2023 by Rich
Once his fee is paid, does bare minimum and is unresponsive to emails and phone calls. It took me sending certified return receipt letters to him, the court, and the trustee to get some answers to questions. If I get answers 95% of the time they are incomplete and/or inaccurate. If I send an email, I have to follow up multiple times. More than a month can go by with sending follow ups, and still won't get an answer. Was patient when this happened during the pandemic considering everything going on but, that's not an issue now and, still very unresponsive. Phone calls get answered buy an assistant who says they'll forward the messages on to him because he's in court but, then a phone call is never returned 99.99% of the time. Documents needed by trustee on annual basis one year did not get submitted or addressed by him for a whole entire year after they were due. He got paid thousands of dollars and, does work that is truly worth a fraction of what he got paid. True feeling that after he gets his money, he doesn't care about the hardship created for his clients or letting them know what's going on.
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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.
