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14 Aug, 2024 by Todd whalen
Jay helped us to write up our contract to sell our business. He does great work and worked quickly. I thought his fees were very reasonable. I find him to be an all-around pleasant person to work with that has a good attitude. I’m definitely going to use him for our family estate planning. For anyone else who’s looking for a good lawyer, I couldn’t recommend Jay Mukerji high enough.
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06 Aug, 2024 by Carolyn herrmann
She helped me understand the process and answered questions promptly. She was kind, compassionate, and plugged in every step of the way. A great person to have in your corner!
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29 Jul, 2024 by Tim hollon
He was so honest and helpful when all the big law firms didn't know diddly squat. He understood and could hear the trouble and irritation in my voice and was still willing to help.
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19 Jun, 2024 by Susan bird
Cevin Taylor is extremely knowledgeable about nonprofit tax law. His kindness patience and efficiency are outstanding
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07 Jun, 2024 by Crosscastle100
I received a letter from Mr.Taylor saying my non profit had lost its exemption. He asked if I wanted to reclaim the IRS exemption. I am in Texas-He Michigan,he is not personally known to me. I checked his law license status-good standing with the Michigan Bar.
My lawyer niece read his contract,she said it was fair.So I proceeded.The state of Texas work was extra but fair charge.Also I had to add a dissolution component to the by laws. ThenSubmitted in Feb to IRS to reclaim.
I had not received any notice so I recently emailed Mr Taylor-he checked the IRS website sent me a copy of reinstatement.I am excited.This work will continue.
So from the State of Texas I can vouche.He does good,reputable,fair priced work.
Betty J. Edwards,M.D.
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07 Jun, 2024 by Congolese community of worcester county
We are a non profit organisation, We lost our 501c statut since 2023 and we were notified by Tylor Legal PC office.
They asked us to provide what needed for them to apply on our behalf for reinstatement of our 501c. Within two weeks IRS approved our application for reinstatement.
We are so greatful for the result we got. We will not asitate to recomand people or organisation who may need your service.
Thanks a lot
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08 Sep, 2019 by Anonymous
I am writing to give my highest recommendation and endorsement of Mr. Peter C. Clark, of Ferguson, Widmayer and Clark, PC of Ann Arbor, MI, an outstanding estate attorney. I am a long-term (over 40 years) faculty member from the University of Michigan. My husband and I recently began work on our wills, powers of attorney for health care and on setting up a family trust. We received a very strong recommendation from trusted close friends and colleagues who referred us to Pete, who had been so helpful to them in the same process. What we have come to value most about Pete—besides his immense fund of common sense, his low-key expertise, user-friendliness, professionalism and thoughtful concern for his clients’ needs is his sense of humour—by which I really mean a sense of balance, his ability to help in a timely way—and, most of all, his deep integrity. Beyond the outstanding technical legal work from Pete and his team at FW&C, Pete puts a lot of expertise, thought and most importantly—heart- into what he does for clients. He has put a very personable human and humane face on a process that can be (in the wrong hands), intimidating and scary. In a relatively short time, Pete has made a positive difference for us, and has made our lives so much easier by alleviating many of our concerns over future (inevitable) issues, that we feel encouraged and a sense of calm for the first time in years. Both our family trust issues and health issues are complex and multifaceted. Pete is immensely capable as well as able to provide solutions and to explain these complex issues and reduce them to manageable and understandable plans of action. I am immensely grateful to my colleagues and friends for this referral. I come from a family of academic and government lawyers with a lot of expertise and enormous experience. Peter Clark is in every way comparable to my family members. He is first class and someone I trust and admire greatly.
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15 May, 2017 by Dmitrii
Peter was professional, courteous, and patient. He took the time to explain everything in great detail and was thorough in his analysis. Peter's knowledge level was above and beyond my expectations and I truly appreciated his personal care. I would absolutely recommend him to anyone seeking Estate Planning.
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12 May, 2017 by Gina maksimchuk
Pete was extremely helpful in preparing all the paperwork we needed. We asked him to create a trust in the event that my husband and I died at the same time as we have an infant daughter. He guided us through the whole process, taking his time to ensure that we understood everything and were comfortable. I did not know much about trusts when we started, and Pete was excellent at presenting all the information clearly and providing examples for me. He asked us questions that I did not know to ask, or had not considered, to ensure that we had a thorough document that would cover many contingencies.
Pete was very professional, friendly, and sensitive to our needs. We greatly appreciated his help and will definitely work with him again. We would recommend him to anyone who would like to plan for the future.
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20 May, 2022 by Rosalin
Mara Kent has been a pleasure to work with on our estate planning. She’s been thorough, knowledgeable, efficient, great at answering our questions, clear in her explanations, and helpful in all aspects of our estate needs. I would highly recommend her for legal advise and certainly, estate planning.
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21 Jan, 2022 by Kristi
Mara is amazing! I have utilized her services multiple times.
Most recently, she represented me in a dispute with my financial institution. She had to educate this financial institution about the law and was able to resolve the dispute in my favor. She had a better grasp of the financial law than this institution with its team of professional lawyers.
Previously she handled my estate planning & was delightful to work with. She enjoyed fielding my many questions and explaining legal terms to me.
She not only knows the law backwards & forwards, but she has infinite patience to explain it to people in a very respectful, considerate manner.
I would highly, highly recommend her.
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26 Jun, 2018 by Tracy
Mara handled my estate planning needs and was very clear in explaining what can be a very confusing subject. I appreciated her knowledge, thoroughness and friendly demeanor. I highly recommend Mara.
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08 Dec, 2019 by Carol
My mother abruptly passed away and she unfortunately did not leave a will. I had met Chris previously through a networking group in the area and desperately needed help with the probate process. Chris jumped right in, explained everything throughout, walked me through the process and was extremely helpful. I wished my mother had left something with her final wishes on it because no one can afford not having it. I have referred many family and friends to Chris and I can not speak more highly enough about his professionalism and service.
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01 Sep, 2018 by Anonymous
Over the past decade, I have engaged Mr. Julliet for help with several legal matters, including estate planning, end of life planning for my elderly parents, and with various aspects of launching a small business. In each matter, I've found Mr. Julliet to be a thorough attorney with an excellent understanding of the law, capable of explaining complex matters in plain English, and always willing to go above and beyond. I would highly recommend him.
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31 Aug, 2018 by Jan
When my father-in-law, Chuck, was suddenly taken to the hospital with heart issues, he realized that he needed to "get his affairs in order." I called Chris. He met us at the hospital that afternoon to discuss Chuck's wishes.
My mother-in-law, Ann, was there as well. Chris discussed with them their options for medical and financial power of attorney and estate planning. He was compassionate, understanding and understandable, without a lot of "legal speak" that can be confusing. All the documents were drawn up for both of them.
Chris met us the next day, again at the hospital, to get everything signed. We were fortunate that Chuck recovered and is doing well. We are also fortunate that we are now ready for whatever does happen. Chris made everything painless. I would highly recommend him to anyone needing estate planning.
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29 Nov, 2022 by Roger
If you are looking for an attorney to provide legal assistance and advice for a real estate transaction then William Ager should be your first and only choice!
His knowledge, experience and legal expertise will save you more money than his legal fees.
My son and I hired Mr. Ager when we purchased a home in Gregory, Michigan. We were so impressed and pleased with his service that we hired him a second time when we sold the same home.
William Ager is smart, thorough, professional, personable and honest.
He treats everyone with dignity and respect and his integrity is beyond reproach.
Mr. Ager will promptly keep you informed of his progress and always responds to phone calls, texts and emails very quickly.
I can’t imagine that you can find another attorney that will provide you with the same service for twice the money.
William Ager is quite simply the best attorney I have ever worked with!
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25 Aug, 2020 by Lisa
At an emotional time when my grandmother passed and I was appointed to be her Personal Representative, Mr. Agar was kind, sensitive, and thorough in explaining the entire probate process to me. He worked with me patiently and fairly helping me to close out my grandmother’s estate. I can’t thank him enough for the guidance, exceptional service, and professionalism he displayed. I highly recommend Agar Law for your Estate needs.
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23 Mar, 2016 by Kirstin
We worked with Bill to purchase a home and to sell a home FSBO. Bill was very detailed in explaining the process to us and advised us on each issue that arose. He was very quick to respond to questions and requests and we were so glad we had him to look over everything and protect our interests. He offers flat fees so you know what you are paying at the beginning. I would highly recommend his services to anyone needing an attorney for a real estate transaction.
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19 Jan, 2016 by Julie
Rebecca provided a thorough approach to me and my siblings with regard to the creation of Power of Attorney for our stepmother, and Will and Trust documents for our father. She asked relevant questions and provided a detailed understanding of the contents of the documents and their purpose. She also did a good job of explaining the entire process to us which eased our minds. She maintained a professional demeanor and was patient when, at times, we asked the same questions over and over. She met the timeline that she committed to even with a limited timeframe due to a planned trip to visit my stepmother and father out of town. I plan on hiring her for other estate type planning.
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14 Jan, 2016 by Camille
Ms. Wrock was wonderful! As a small business owner and independent consultation, I needed a variety of contracts to ensure that my interests would be protected when dealing with clients and employees. Ms. Wrock refined business contracts that were important for my line of work, which has given me tremendous peace of mind. I couldn't recommend Ms. Wrock more highly.
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15 Jul, 2015 by Laura
Terrence Bertram prepared my Mother & Father's trust many years ago. The advice he gave and work he provided made all the difference in the end. Because of this, just recently, I chose to have Mr. Bertram do his same good work for me and my beneficiaries'. I'm very pleased to have someone who cares so much for his client's welfare and peace of mind.
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07 Jul, 2014 by Anonymous
My family used Dillon & Dillon for a few different things throughout the past decade. I met with Paul Dillon and had a case that was a little tricky. He did everything in his power to overcome any obstacles, that were in his way. Paul Dillon was reliable, pro-active, honest, patient and fearless in court. I would HIGHLY recommend him! My parents on the other hand, completed a trust with Angela Space and told me that she was very knowledgeable, caring, compassionate, and straightforward. This law firm was recommended to me and now I'm paying it forward by recommending them.
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08 Nov, 2023 by Brittany thacker
I cannot say enough good things about attorney Ryan Sweeney. He helped me after my dad passed away & was so kind, professional, very patient with me as I asked him many questions. I highly recommend Ryan Sweeney. His staff was also very kind & helpful.
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28 May, 2022 by Jay folske
Very professional.
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29 Oct, 2020 by Shannon wellman kuehnl
Very intelligent, Fast, kind and professional service
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14 Aug, 2024 by Ross spragg
I had an issue regarding social security, so I decided to reach out to Basset Murray Law. Unfortunately, there was just a total lack of communication, and it would be a while before I would get any updates, and when left a message, it wasn't always returned. I wasn't even advised that the paralegal working my case left. I would not recommend them.
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18 Jul, 2024 by Susan segur
They truly care. Would recommend them with no hesitation.
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18 Jul, 2024 by Carrie miller
I don't know what Sheila Hazlett is talking about, I had a wonderful experience with Amanda Murray, she is very thorough and definitely knows what she is doing. DEFINITELY IS NOT A MONEY STEALER!! Sheila you are so very WRONG AND I HIGHLY DISAGREE!!!
THANK YOU FOR HANDLING MY CASE AMANDA MURRAY!
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13 Jun, 2020 by Lorrice k.
Words cannot describe how grateful I am for Attorney Terrence Quinn and TGQ Law for taking on my very difficult case. After being appointed for only 3 days, I had lost guardianship and conservatorship of my father. That fast, my case had gotten turned upside down. I was crushed. It was the most messiest and twisted up situation I've ever experienced, on top of having the most toughest and intimidating guardianship judge in my town. It was all because of a misunderstanding and the courts not hearing my side of the story. First thing I thought was "Only God can fix this one"! Thank God he led me to the right place. Attorney Terrence Quinn listens, he's extremely professional, he's a supportive attorney that truly cares, understands his clients, very insightful and is an expert in his field. He took on an extremely difficult case and encountered issues that no one expected and few had ever seen. He worked tirelessly to make sure that the truth was told and presented it perfectly. My opinions were valued and my doubts were always reassured. My nerves were calmed and the process was always explained. Attorney Quinn fought hard for me. He went above and beyond and did everything he could to ensure a great outcome. After our first court hearing, I was regranted full guardianship and conservatorship, thanks to him!
I very much appreciate and thank attorney Terrence Quinn and attorney Laurie Brewis for all of your hard work and time you spent handling my two separate cases that were happening at the same time. My mom AND dad's. I am proud to be a TGQ Law client and highly recommend them. From my experience, just know you will be in the best hands. TGQ Law will NEVER be my first choice. They will always be my only choice.
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18 Jan, 2016 by Anonymous
Terrence is a patient and knowledgeable man. When the time comes, I'll be sure to use his firm to help me sort out the estate and button up the loose ends. Thanks Terrence, it was a pleasure to talk to you today.
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19 Nov, 2015 by Cj
Terrence is always willing to help. He has provided service for my immediate family as well as my extended family. He is thorough, patient, kind and knowledgable. We trust him wholeheartedly and would (and have) absolutely recommend him to anyone who needs Estate Planning services.
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16 Apr, 2021 by Candice
Divorces are never nice but definitely in hands of the right lawyer the transition can be really smooth. Thats what i found in Veronica, she worked fast, extremely efficient and professional on all the journey. I was informed , i felt safe and as a woman you need that: another person to trust and make the smart choices, thats what she did for me.
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13 Feb, 2017 by Anonymous
Veronica took charge of defending me in a frivolous civil lawsuit. She put in a lot of time preparing for the case and I felt prepared as well. I felt confident in her ability to win, which we did win!
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01 Jul, 2015 by Shaina
Our expirence with Veronica lasted just about 13 months. She was extremely helpful and took on our difficult case with ease. She was very knowledgeable and did not back down. Our end result was better than we could have expected. She was amazing, and heaven forbid we have to do it again, she would be the first call we make.
Diffinitly worth the money.
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16 Jan, 2019 by Karen
My mother and I were very pleased with Mrs. Graziano's services. She gave specific and clear explanations as to why my elderly mother needed certain documents and guided us through the process of creating power of attorney, medical power of attorney, a pour-over trust and will documents. Both my mother and I feel much more at ease moving forward.
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10 Aug, 2015 by Anonymous
I hired Liz to assist me in the process of buying my first home. She was very helpful in answering all of my questions about the process and reviewing the closing documents. It was reassuring knowing an expert looked over the mountain of paperwork that greeted me at closing! I would recommend Liz to anyone looking to buy a home.
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05 Jun, 2015 by Sandra
Ms. Graziano kept me apprised through out my legal process. She was extremely communicative and responsive. Her professionalism and demeanor allowed met to put the slow legal journey in the back of my mind rather than ruminate on a daily basis. I always felt my interests were a priority.
I would highly recommend Ms. Graziano.
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25 Jul, 2023 by Al p
Tom has been my lawyer for a lot of years. He's a good lawyer, and a good person. Debbie is great too.
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16 Jun, 2022 by Gino lombardo
24 May, 2022 by Gabriel schray
12 Aug, 2024 by Lyle bashaw
My name is Danyelle. I have to use lyles phone and e mail to exercise my freedom of speech because mine was blocked from warning everyone of my experience at fessler law. I went to fessler because there were missing bank accounts for my dad's estate. The greedy personal representative tried to keep everything she could from the estate. Fessler petitioned the bank and when the evidence came in, fessler changed his mind ABSOLUTELY DID NOT WANT THE jUDGE TO KNOW! He told me for 6 weeks that we would set a hearing after we receive the evidence then changed his mind. He is unprofessional, corrupt, unethical and was useless in my case.
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22 Feb, 2024 by Schacole aliko
I called for a consultation and they were super helpful! I highly recommend them!
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14 Nov, 2023 by Mrock rice
If you need a divorce lawyer look elsewhere.
Paul C. Fessler is neglectful, unethical, and the only thing he’ll provide is a lack of representation. All the things I signed for in the retainer with Paul C. Fessler of Fesser Law P.C. (aka Paul Fessler) were never honored. 1. Diligent representation by the firm. 2. Mediation and Discovery. 3. Bill rates.
4. Communications, and 5. Refundable retainer.
He performed no mediation or discovery in 9 months, he wouldn’t even have a conversation with me during this time, never spoke other than to hire him. He took advantage of me by draining my retainer. I was charged the higher! of the 2 rates the lawyer rate of $250/hr vs, the paralegal rate of $100/hr. She was doing the work, yet not a single $100/hr. paralegal charge, even the frivolous charges were billed high. Second, in over 9 months I only received 3 invoices which should have been coming monthly, this way I wouldn’t see he was draining my account. I had no communications, no emails regarding correspondence from opposing counsel or the court system. Emails I sent were never followed up, phone calls very slow or not returned at all. A refundable retainer? It’s just bait. Once you pay he just made $1500. He stole my money and won’t reply to my request for it back. Super Lawyer? Rising Star? they expect firms to pay for their press, so I was fooled.
I fired him and got another attorney who immediately performed discovery and set mediation. I began receiving communications from opposing counsel and the courts within days, what a difference! My new lawyer also witnessed firsthand how Paul C. Fessler lacks professionalism ethics when he didn’t respond for almost 2 weeks after being called and emailed several times, so it’s not just me.
I believe I would have lost everything staying Paul C. Fessler. Since mediation wasn’t performed, I was unknowingly being placed into a position where I was just one day away from heading to court to have the judge divide everything in half. The courts don’t have time to mediate cases, this is why mediation so important to work things out before that Settlement date or final judgement day, and discovery is part of that. So, looks like he took my money to let the judge do the work. Paul is the type that gives lawyers a bad name.
In hindsight, I should've found a lawyer with hundreds of reviews, not like Paul C. Fessler’s 5 or 6 reviews.
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30 Aug, 2024 by Anonymous
She insulted me using sexist, belittling language, and her defensiveness about this negatively affected the subsequent legal services I received. Additionally, she went on vacation to Africa without any form of notice (I actually feared for her well-being, only to find her at her desk weeks later), failing to provide timely response to issues she had been retained to address.
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17 Jun, 2015 by Wes
Debra Keehn was able to bring reason and resolution to my my case, this was an extremely complicated case with a high conflict opposing party. Debra exhibited high ethical morals, clear concise direction and last but not least a measure of compassion I had yet to find in the 4 years of litigation in the family court system. Debra was more than my lawyer, she was the advocate for myself and my children, I give her the highest possible endorsement!
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25 Aug, 2013 by Anonymous
Deb Keehn is a brilliant attorney with the highest level of integrity. Deb handled an extremely complex, extremely high-conflict custody case for my family and through every difficult twist and turn of the case she managed to keep her cool and composure. Deb’s sensitivity to others makes it possible for her to persevere through the most difficult cases. She is highly respectful, courteous, and insightful. Her calm demeanor allows her to manage extremely stressful situations with diplomacy and kindness.
In addition to her exceptional talents as an attorney, Deb’s unique professional background in psychology and social work also serves her well. Deb has the most finely tuned instincts and insights of anyone I know and her ability to empathize with others helps minimize the damage inherent in a high-conflict custody case. Most importantly, these abilities allow Deb to help the most vulnerable people in high conflict divorce and custody cases, the innocent children caught in the middle of warring parents. This unique ability certainly served Deb well in my family’s case, and more importantly it served my child well. I cannot recommend Deb Keehn highly enough. She is quite simply the best!
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24 Apr, 2024 by Glen williams
Predatory law firm! How much money have you made off taking a disabled vet to court for McKinley properties!! All you do is serve notices that cause low income residents more hardship!
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06 Aug, 2021 by Steve sandy
The best sushi deals in metro Detroit
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14 Feb, 2021 by Jourdan mcdonald
I have used this office many times. They always go above and beyond. I absolutely recommend to anyone needing legal help!
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08 Oct, 2021 by Anonymous
Mr. Fahrner may have been a good attorney at one time but be is not helpful once he draws up your documents! He prepared my parents documents and rarely returned my calls or emails. Twice when I contacted him for questions he would ask me if I could call him back because “he was on vacation” or because he “had a call in few minutes”. That seems pretty arrogant to me! He always seemed bothered when I would ask for clarification on documents. If you have clients and can’t help them at that time it seems the proper action is to take a message and call your client back! I think he’s retired and will only help you if he feels like it. Save yourself the fees and hassles, get a better attorney!
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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.
