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Richard Allen Dezio, experienced Business, Estate Planning attorney in Alexandria, VA with 62 reviews
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44,39
star star star star star
5.0/5
Avvo
5.0
11 Reviews
Google Maps
5.0
51 Reviews
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20 Aug, 2024 by S
Peter has excellent communication skills and is incredibly knowledgeable. He is candid and will always give you the full picture as it stands. Whilst showing the utmost professionalism, the thing that has and continues to stand out for me is Peter’s human side; always showing genuine concern for the client. He will always go over and above to help. Mine was a difficult case which Peter helped to navigate in the best way possible. I would not hesitate to recommend Peter’s services - you will be in safe hands!
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02 Aug, 2024 by Gjergj dollani
Peter has been my go-to for the past 6-7 years. He has helped me tremendously with various issues from contracts to litigations, and has always pushed hard to represent my interests. His integrity is paramount, which is of huge importance to me and my family.
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06 May, 2024 by Lyudmyla topcha
We loved our experience with Jabaly Law. Peter provided exceptional quality of work, excellent customer service. Any questions we had, Peter made sure to answer all of them and prioritized our case! I highly recommend Peter as a lawyer, won’t regret it.
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Rachel Joan Baer, experienced Estate Planning, Probate attorney in Alexandria, VA with 146 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.
44,18
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5.0/5
Avvo
5.0
1 Reviews
Google Maps
5.0
145 Reviews
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20 Dec, 2024 by Karen wood
I fell and hurt my knee so I went to get a lawyer and I got Tom Curcio and he was wonderful. I would recommend him to anyone he did a great job. I want to thank him again for taking care of me. I was glad of the out come of this case. If ever I need another Lawyer for anything I would go back to him. Wonderful job can't ask for better
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20 Dec, 2024 by Isaac togba roberts jr
All I have to say is that their work is not short of excellence and professionalism. Thanks Justin!
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09 Dec, 2024 by L hull
If you're seeking excellent representation for a dog bite claim, I highly recommend Curcio Law of Alexandria. Rakin Hamad, Esquire, provided outstanding legal services and ensured I received fair compensation for a serious dog bite injury. Mr. Hamad was thorough, clearly explained the legal process, and promptly followed up on all action items. If you’re dealing with a personal injury related to a dog bite, Curcio Law and Mr. Hamad are the team to trust.
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Olesya Olegovna Sidorkina, experienced Business, Estate Planning attorney in Alexandria, VA with 37 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.
44,16
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5.0/5
Avvo
5.0
4 Reviews
Google Maps
5.0
33 Reviews
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17 Jan, 2025 by Passionately pets
Olesya was easy to work with and took the time to discuss our options and explain everything she put in writing before we signed our final documents. Highly recommend!
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14 Nov, 2024 by Carl r
Great work and easy to work with! Olesya lets you work at your own pace (it took a long time for me to confirm aspects of my will) but she kept checking in on me and ensured everything was confirmed with me before signing! 10/10
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30 Jul, 2024 by Stella giambo
I worked with Olesya Sidorkina and I couldn’t be more pleased with the experience. Olesya’s communication and professionalism were exceptional throughout our interactions. She was always prompt, clear, and thorough, ensuring that I fully understood every step of the process. If you are looking for a dedicated and professional attorney, you’ll be in good hands.
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Girum Tesfaye, experienced Estate Planning, Probate attorney in Alexandria, VA with 20 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.
39,62
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5.0/5
Avvo
5.0
20 Reviews
star star star star star
23 Jan, 2024 by Anonymous
The best Lawyers in one Office, Thank you for amazing work. Happy customer
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25 Mar, 2021 by Yosef
Girum and his team are professionals, understanding and most of all, they treat their clients with respect. I was very satisfied and impressed by the service this Law firm provided me. Thank you
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12 Dec, 2020 by Casey nichole
Everyone at this law firm was so good to me and my family. I did my homework and talked with three other lawyers. In fact, the third lawyer I talked to referred me to this firm and I'm grateful. They were upfront with their prices and took their time explaining what type of estate plan my family needs. After thinking about this for so long, I'm so glad i found the right people to help me protect my family. Easily the best money I've spent in a long time.
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Guy Alfred Bowe III, experienced Business, Elder Law attorney in Alexandria, VA with 32 reviews
Average
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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.
39,26
star star star star star
4.6/5
Avvo
5.0
13 Reviews
Google Maps
4.3
19 Reviews
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25 Apr, 2024 by Katt k
Google Maps
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08 Mar, 2024 by Zauhirah tipu
I met with David Hagan for a consultation and he was incredibly helpful, genuine, informative, and honest! I would definitely recommend him to my friends and family. He looks out for the best interest of the client.
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23 Aug, 2023 by E w (ew)
I had the pleasure of retaining Attorney Rebecca Wade several times since 2016. She is awesome. I wouldn't seek the advice from any other attorney in Northern Virginia. Highly recommended.
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Sharon Moss, experienced Criminal Defense, Estate Planning attorney in Alexandria, VA with 3 reviews
Average
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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.
39,09
star star star star star
5.0/5
Avvo
5.0
3 Reviews
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14 Sep, 2021 by Tijuana
Sharon Moss is a outstanding Attorney, very reliable, anytime I had a questions and I called or emailed her she got right back to me. Mrs. Moss always explained to me what was going to take place when we were in court, and she would explain it to me so that I understood just what was going to happen. She is very knowledgeable and so kind. If every I need a Family Attorney again I would not hesitate to call on her. The BEST.
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24 May, 2021 by Anonymous
Never let me down. She is dependable, and even when times were tough, she kept pushing. She got me half of my house, and a lot more. If you are looking for a lawyer, I suggest you hire Sharon and let her work her magic!
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17 Feb, 2019 by Anonymous
It’s hard to know where to start and who to trust when you find yourself in need of a divorce attorney. I was in that situation and luckily I found Sharon Moss, who did a great job representing me. Since my ex-spouse was a military member it was extremely helpful to me that she had knowledge and experience in that area. She was dependable and trustworthy and I am very happy with the service she provided me during a difficult transition.
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Juliana Rose O'Neill, experienced Estate Planning, Probate attorney in Alexandria, VA with 3 reviews
Average
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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.
39,09
star star star star star
5.0/5
Avvo
5.0
3 Reviews
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01 Feb, 2020 by James
I would like to first thank Juliana O'Neill for her legal services with my divorce. She was very helpful and understanding to address all of my legal questions during my divorce process. I would recommend her to anyone who needs help with there divorce. James
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20 Jan, 2020 by Anthony
For the past year I have retained Mr. Tesfaye services. I have looked at different lawyer's and everything kept pointing back to him. I believe in God that it was meant for us to cross paths and work together. He went above and beyond the call of duty to assist me with my case. So, he has my highest recommendation to anyone seeking his services. He is the best at what he does and I will be forever grateful to him for what he did for me. Best, Anthony P.S. - God bless you Mr. Tesfaye
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13 Jan, 2020 by Virlene
Good Afternoon, I thought I was working with another attorney but was given the run around so the next day I called Juliana's office and I had an appointment the following day. I was truly impressed how she was so down to earth when I arrived at her office. She was well in tune to what I needed to happen with my divorce and she made it happen. If you are searching for a good attorney look no further, she is one of a kind. Thank you so much Juliana for all your help.
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Norman Guthrie Schneider, experienced Car Accident, Elder Law attorney in Alexandria, VA with 1 reviews
Average
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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
star star star star star
5.0/5
Avvo
5.0
1 Reviews
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15 Dec, 2012 by Anonymous
I highly recommend Norman Schneider as an attorney. He is very knowledgeable in a wide variety of areas. I have used his services for estate planning, and employment issues as well as other topics. He is an experienced attorney and I have used his services since 1995.
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Christopher Michael Hanks, experienced Business, Consumer Protection attorney in Alexandria, VA with 9 reviews
Average
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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.
37,88
star star star star star
4.8/5
Avvo
4.8
9 Reviews
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29 May, 2021 by Garrett
Chris was great to work with! Very professional, responsive, timely and he gave great advice throughout the process. At our signing he made a could be stressful situation very seamless! Keep up the great work and thank you for helping us!
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27 May, 2021 by Richmond
Christopher was great! Nice guy and very thorough. Have referred him to others. Thank you Chris. Your help and professionalism was much appreciated.
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22 May, 2021 by Stephan
Chris and his staff are truly amazing at what they do. Anytime I have needed something done for my mom, they were there helping me with what I needed to be completed. Chris even went to visit my mom in a nursing facility while I was out of state to help along our trust process. The staff always pick up the phones and respond to emails promptly. I cannot stress how professional this law office is and I would recommend them to anyone that needs estate planning.
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Gretchyn Gay Meinken, experienced Business, Estate Planning attorney in Alexandria, VA with 26 reviews
Average
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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.
34,46
star star star star star
4.5/5
Avvo
5.0
7 Reviews
Google Maps
4.3
19 Reviews
star star star star star
25 Apr, 2024 by Katt k
Google Maps
star star star star star
08 Mar, 2024 by Zauhirah tipu
I met with David Hagan for a consultation and he was incredibly helpful, genuine, informative, and honest! I would definitely recommend him to my friends and family. He looks out for the best interest of the client.
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23 Aug, 2023 by E w (ew)
I had the pleasure of retaining Attorney Rebecca Wade several times since 2016. She is awesome. I wouldn't seek the advice from any other attorney in Northern Virginia. Highly recommended.
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Christopher Thomas Leighton, experienced Estate Planning, Government attorney in Alexandria, VA with 98 reviews
Average
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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.
33,70
star star star star star
4.8/5
Google Maps
4.8
98 Reviews
star star star star star
24 Jan, 2025 by Susan beyer
Marina Medvin is an exceptional criminal defense lawyer and I would recommend her to to anyone without hesitation. She is an excellent communicator and very responsive to questions and deeply knowledgeable in the workings of the legal system and knows how to get her clients the best outcomes. She takes the time to explain everything so that her clients have the least amount of uncertainty possible to face. I feel fortunate to have found an attorney who is so dedicated to both her profession and clients. Thank you Marina.
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24 Jan, 2025 by Clayton hildebrand
Caring, empathetic, respectable, and efficient is how I would describe Ms. Medvin. She worked quickly and with great care to provide me the best service and representation. I'm so grateful for her efforts in my defense!
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24 Jan, 2025 by Garth walton
Five Stars is not enough for Marina Medvin! The scariest and darkest day of my life was when the FBI picked me up. I felt helpless and didn’t even know where to begin to find legal representation. Fortunately for me, I found Marina Medvin. She has been a light throughout this entire process. Marina is an exceptional attorney and a fierce advocate for her clients. She is also a genuinely lovely person. My case was ultimately dismissed and I am free man today. For that, I am forever grateful to Marina. I do not know what I would have done without her. If you are searching for a defense attorney you will not find a better one than Marina Medvin.
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Foster Samuel Burton Friedman, experienced Estate Planning, Probate attorney in Alexandria, VA with 21 reviews
Average
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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.
33,30
star star star star star
4.3/5
Avvo
5.0
2 Reviews
Google Maps
4.3
19 Reviews
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25 Apr, 2024 by Katt k
Google Maps
star star star star star
08 Mar, 2024 by Zauhirah tipu
I met with David Hagan for a consultation and he was incredibly helpful, genuine, informative, and honest! I would definitely recommend him to my friends and family. He looks out for the best interest of the client.
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23 Aug, 2023 by E w (ew)
I had the pleasure of retaining Attorney Rebecca Wade several times since 2016. She is awesome. I wouldn't seek the advice from any other attorney in Northern Virginia. Highly recommended.
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Lisa Mathews, experienced Estate Planning, Probate attorney in Alexandria, VA with 7 reviews
Below Average
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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.
29,76
star star star star star
4.4/5
Avvo
4.4
7 Reviews
star star star star star
07 Sep, 2022 by Anna
I hired Lisa to represent me in a complex, high-conflict divorce and custody case. I was already in the middle of the case when I hired her, and she got up to speed quickly. She was knowledgeable, diligent, and patient with all of my questions, and I felt confident with her by my side in court. Lisa negotiated a settlement that helped protect my children, and I’m happy to have had her as my family law attorney. I would recommend her to anyone looking for an attorney they can trust, and I plan to hire her again in the future for my estate planning needs.
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20 Jul, 2022 by Anonymous
Lisa will not prepare for your hearing. I heard lisa and she did not represent my best interest. She took my money and wasted time. She will make you loose. I lost more days that I already had. Dont hire her
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02 Dec, 2021 by Dom
This is our second time working with Lisa. She did a great job preparing our estate documents. She led us through the planning process to ensure we fully understood all our options and made the best decisions for us and our family.
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Amanda Hayes Rudolph, experienced Business, Estate Planning attorney in Alexandria, VA with 14 reviews
Below Average
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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.
23,49
star star star star star
3.9/5
Google Maps
3.9
14 Reviews
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23 Feb, 2024 by Gabriel jalil
A bit lacking on customer service and manners. Every time I call them my "hellos", "good mornings" and "have a nice day" are greeted with silence, a hang up click or some snarky response. Do they know they're talking to paying customers? I wonder.... Call me old fashion, but I do appreciate a respectful exchange and greeting. Especially if I am paying top dollar for boilerplate templates I could potentially fill out myself.
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15 Dec, 2023 by Anonymous client
Bottom Line - Colleen Haddow is the BEST attorney I could have ever wished for --my only regret is that I didn't start with her from the beginning. Ms. Colleen Haddow came as a recommendation from my previous law firm following failed mediation in a highly complex, contentious, and financially draining divorce and custody case. The opposing counsel - whose professional reputation precedes her as a person devoid of ethics and civility, made finding a willing, capable, and affordable replacement daunting. Colleen personally and immediately took my call for an intake interview. When I opened by informing her of who opposing counsel was, she simply laughed with complete confidence, accepted my case, and immediately got my case moving on the right track. Unlike opposing counsel in this case, Colleen is a legal professional with impeccable integrity and ethics; but not to be confused with someone who submits to bully tactics or shies away from confrontation in or out of the courtroom. In contrast, Ms. Haddow is emotionally intelligent and well versed in the rules of the court to effectively persuade and, if need be, compel cooperation from even the most difficult of personalities. In doing so, she also remained a steadfast, approachable, and responsive attorney (often responding to me within minutes), who consistently addressed my concerns, provided objective perspective, and gave absolute sound guidance amidst the evolving challenges within the case. In short, she kept me sane and grounded in arguably the most stressful and emotionally draining period of my life. In addition to her superior soft skills, Colleen also demonstrated unmatched expertise and experience in distilling and framing the key issues of my case (fully explaining the legalities), to include those I hadn't initially seen, understood, or considered. She proved invaluable in interpreting and exposing financial information, indiscretions, and activities. She was also proactive, strategic, anticipatory, and prepared always and on all fronts. I am convinced that she and her abilities alone are the REASON that ultimately resulted in my case outcome far surpassing my initial expectations from failed mediation, and resulting in a final settlement that exceeded my best-case scenario in court (albeit that she was fully prepared and willing to execute). Colleen saved me thousands in legal expenses, but more importantly, she helped me overcome a series of short-term losses in exchange for an overwhelming long-term gain in my journey to a new and better life. In the strongest terms possible, I highly recommend Colleen Haddow for all family litigation.
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09 Dec, 2023 by Mike dinwoodie
Colleen Haddow came recommend from a family member. She is very personable and was able to provide sound advice for my difficult situation.
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H. David Soble, experienced Estate Planning, Probate attorney in Alexandria, VA with 2 reviews
Below Average
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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.
4,55
star star star star star
1.0/5
Google Maps
1.0
2 Reviews
star star star star star
05 May, 2021 by Ms. b
I find this attorney, Shirley A. Norman-Taylor extremely unethical. She was appointed to me, I contacted her, shared details about my case that if used against me could be detrimental to the outcome of my situation. She stated she had no time to take on new cases, I told her I would wait until she could, instead she took my-out-of-state estranged brother as a client who is opposing me on a family matter. My entire family will not speak to my brother and his girlfriend who are out to financially gain out of a pandemic crises I found myself in. This attorney took them on as new clients completely throwing me under the bus. Family lawyers are already shady characters, why choose this dishonest one? She holds no loyalty and is lacking with integrity and is far from trust-worthy. I’ve asked her to remove herself in form of email, attorneys have asked her to remove herself and she refuses. Save yourself the future horror I’m about to face in court. I filed a bar complaint on her this morning. She won’t be able to erase that. If you need further details or would like to share your experience please contact me...
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05 May, 2021 by B. a.m
This attorney was appointed to me. I spoke to her about my case, later she comes to me saying she has no time to take on new cases, but decides to take on my opposing party who happens to be my estranged brother and his money seeking girlfriend.. These are people no one in my family associates with for obvious reasons. They are around to financially gain from our pandemic crises. I told Shirley Norman-Taylor things that she could use against me. I find her highly unethical, an opportunist who will throw her own clients under the bus. Most family attorneys are already shady characters to begin with why hire one you already know has a track record of disloyalty. I filed a complaint on her this morning with the Virgina bar.
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Lisa Mathews, experienced Estate Planning, Probate attorney in Alexandria, VA with 0 reviews
Below Average
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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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John Turner Donelan, experienced Bankruptcy, Estate Planning attorney in Alexandria, VA with 0 reviews
Below Average
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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 Gordon Williams, experienced Business, Criminal Defense attorney in Alexandria, VA with 0 reviews
Below Average
info
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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William Lane Babcock, experienced Probate attorney in Alexandria, VA with 0 reviews
Below Average
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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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Destiny A. Brown, experienced Estate Planning, Probate attorney in Alexandria, VA with 0 reviews
Below Average
info
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
star star star star star
0.0/5
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Gretchyn Gay Meinken, experienced Estate Planning, Probate attorney in Alexandria, VA with 0 reviews
Below Average
info
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
star star star star star
0.0/5
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Foster Friedman, experienced Estate Planning, Probate attorney in Alexandria, VA with 0 reviews
Below Average
info
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
star star star star star
0.0/5
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Suzanne Wightman Doggett, experienced Probate attorney in Alexandria, VA with 0 reviews
Below Average
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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
star star star star star
0.0/5
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Barbara Sattler Anderson, experienced Elder Law, Estate Planning attorney in Alexandria, VA with 0 reviews
Below Average
info
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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Christine Durney Mason, experienced Probate attorney in Alexandria, VA with 0 reviews
Below Average
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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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David Donald Elsberg, experienced Business, Consumer Protection attorney in Alexandria, VA with 0 reviews
Below Average
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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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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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