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05 May, 2023 by Jonite denis
Mr. Richard Burton and his son Marc are truly the best. I had a very complicated case about a dispute with a Homeowner association pending for almost five years. I  was at risk of losing my possession. When I called their office, they immediately began working on the case, and they were able to get me what I deserved. I appreciate the assistance I received from these two excellent attorneys.
I Â highly recommend this firm. They are very responsive and will keep you informed of every step.
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24 Dec, 2022 by Aleksei reiman
20 Jul, 2022 by Jeffrey schnitman
Thank you for taking the time to talk to me.
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08 Feb, 2024 by Mike
I had to find a new lawyer midstream on a case that was taking forever and going nowhere because the initial law firm that I had hired failed me due to their lack of conscientiousness and avarice. Michael came onboard and immediately turned things around by digging in and giving the case the attention it needed. He collaborated as appropriate and led the way where necessary. He is a skillful lawyer and has a personable attorney/client manner that was a refreshing change from my previous representation. He diligently moved the case forward and got to a resolution with an intransigent opposition. Michael is that rare combination of a competent and fair attorney who prioritizes his client and gets the work done. He is one of the good ones.
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08 Feb, 2024 by Frank
I was lucky to find PINNACLE CREDIT SPECIALIST and they raised my credit from 580 to 801. Also, my parents have no established credit reporting. They went bankrupt like 15 years back. I started planning to help them rebuild their credit. Made them credit karma accounts, my dad’s was not reporting anything on TU but Equifax was showing 563, Experian 549 with one closed account, JCPenny from 1995. Thank you PINNACLE CREDIT SPECIALIST for the help, he also helped my parents raise their credit score to over 240 points and he made sure he deleted all negative items on their credit profile. I now have 100k in credit limit and plenty of massive cards that I now use very carefully, don’t miss payment. My parents are now financially safe. Thank you PINNACLE CREDIT SPECIALIST for your help! Here is his contact info:
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25 Jul, 2023 by Nidia
Michael Cotzen is professional, reliable, and knowledgeable. He was responsive and got my case resolved fast. He reached out to me during his vacation and took the time with me to explain the entire process of a lawsuit and explained his approach and why. I highly recommend him to anyone who wants fast and efficient service from someone who deeply knows the law. I can't thank him enough and am happy to have him in my back pocket if I ever need him again!
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30 Jun, 2022 by Lucia
My experience working with Jerry was very successfull. He worked hard to solve my case and was very responsive the whole time. I live in Buenos Aires and we communicated vía email, however this was not a problem since he was able to solve my case remotely. Thank you!
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16 May, 2022 by Maria
Jerry very kindly guided us through the entire process of our probate. He always responded to our doubts on time and was patient in the face of our ignorance of any term or path to follow. Thank you Jerry for making this process as smooth as possible.
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12 May, 2022 by Mark
Jerry was recommended to me by another attorney I know in the community. We were setting up a trust for our pets and heirs. The process was simple, quick and painless. I have gone through this twice before and often times attorneys spend hours going through unnecessary details. I am an attorney and while not practicing I am pretty quick with documents, so Jerry was thorough, but to the point. I would highly recommend him.
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10 Jan, 2018 by Vickey
Mr. Kane helped me to "survive" all that went into settling the estate of my late father. I would have been unable to accomplish what needed to be done without his invaluable guidance and assistance.
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11 Nov, 2017 by Jean-claude
Mr.Kane was quite considerate and patient. He educated me during the process of preparing the Revocable Trust. I feel that my heirs should be very grateful to him also because his labor would have saved them considerable probate time and expenses. In addition, Mr. Kane has a great personality and I felt comfortable dealing with him. I will highly recommend him.
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24 Jul, 2017 by Susan
Eric is one the most professional, timely and thorough attorney that I have been fortunate to work with. As a CPA, it is very important that we receive accurate and timely responses from the attorneys we deal with. Eric has met all our expectations.
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16 Mar, 2022 by Anonymous
I contacted Mr Snihur and his wonderful Law firm, Cain& Snihur when I was in a very difficult time of my life, when I needed legal help and guidance in my case. I was a desperate mother with a minor child in a very delicate legal situation.
My case was very complex and difficult, a relocation overseas with a minor child while having my ex husband making things impossible in court for me and our lives a nightmare.
Mr Snihur and his Law firm not only that took my case immediately, but WON my case in court by showing professionalism, competence, knowledge of law, compassion, and kept my legal goals in mind at all times, giving my case all of their attention and always explaining things to me in detail, staying in constant touch and answering my emails quickly, being extremely available to me always. I trust them with my life.
I highly recommend attorney Snihur and his Law firm, if it wasn’t for them I would have never won my case and relocated to my home country with my child. I owe them my child’s happiness and safety, our freedom, our security, I owe them my life and I will eternally be grateful, they are simply wonderful and The Best!
Thank you, Cain&Snihur Law firm!
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18 Aug, 2020 by Kathy
Mr. Snihur takes care of my personal requirements, such as living wills, wills and advises me on any all other legal matters that occur. He is thoughtful, thorough and manages to keep me calm when I don't feel it! His advice has always been spot-on and helpful, helping me understand the legal issues and make proper decisions. He makes consulting the legal profession pain-free.
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18 Aug, 2020 by Anonymous
Mr. Snihur created his first contract for one of my businesses in 1989. Over the years he continues to handle all our Real Estate and corporate matters, contracts and business agreements. All documents are carefully crafted and structured. His level of attention to detail ensured that not one of these documents has been successfully challenged. I am always left confident that my business is in the best position possible.
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30 Sep, 2010 by Anonymous
We used Ms. Buxton this last year to guide us through Medicaid planning strategies for our parents. She offered options that would allow us to protect as many assets as possible while qualifying for the closest possible date for benefits to begin. We found her to be very knowledgable, resourceful, responsive and sensitive to our needs.
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19 Apr, 2011 by Travis
Datan helped with with my Probate needs. The experience was easy to handle and Dorot seemed to take pride in his work. I recommend him to anyone needing assistance with probate. I would give him an A+ rating in everything. He was always on time whether phone call or appointment and had a very professional aura and honor about him I found remarkable.
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14 Mar, 2017 by Susan
Jamey is a vibrant can-do attacker. His go-getting and socially adept personality aid in his ability to resolve conflict and law matters in an efficient time frame. I am very pleased with his tenacious progress with my current law matters.
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08 Aug, 2017 by Mrs preston reiss
During my initial consultation with David, which concerned a very delicate and intricate legal matter, he allayed all my fears about going into a seemingly unwinnable court battle. He prepared me for what was ahead in a potentially long legal fight against a defendant with a staff of "high-powered" lawyers on his side. Clearly, my new lawyer took the time to do his research and stayed in constant communication (we never had to chase him down).
I didn't expect the extensive and intensive deposition preparation, yet I felt extremely confident after three meetings with his impressive team that I made the right choice hiring Vogel Law Firm. What a relief to have him in my corner. David devoted more than ample time to my case and carefully explained every potential outcome until I felt comfortable, and left me feeling like I was in extremely capable hands with his firm and his supportive and professional staff of caring paralegals and assistants.
Mr. Vogel is clearly devoted to his law practice, giving each client (my sister, and co-worker, too!) the time to explain our position - and with openness and candor. We never felt hurried, or like he was "watching the clock."
When the "other side" kept filing their ridiculous motions to try to force me to withdraw and just go away, I knew had the best lawyer in south Florida in my corner, at every court appearance with me or attending on my behalf, arguing back - usually with a more winnable position than theirs...ultimately securing for me a very successful (and surprisingly favorable) result, for which I will be eternally grateful. Thank you David, my go-to attorney, and my new friend!
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27 Jun, 2024 by Cindy gilpin
Fleurinord Law assisted me with a will and trust. Kia guided me through all my options to keep my assets secure and to ensure my beneficiaries receive their inheritance without going through a costly probate process. I was able to disinherit any relative that might come out of the woodwork. I was able to handle the entire process remotely!
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03 May, 2024 by Anne skurnick
Working with Kia and her staff has been a seamless and tremendously easy process! She came highly recommended and I would recommend her office to ANYONE looking to set up an estate plan moving forward. Her knowledge of the ins and outs of the process is phenomenal and we couldn't have done this on our own. If you're looking for a firm to help with your estate planning - look no further!
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29 Jan, 2024 by Lynn j
I had a pleasant experience working with Fleurinord Law. Communication was good and process went smoothly.
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23 Jul, 2024 by Véronie cazeau
This law office did a good job handling our case. They were professional and took good care of my mom and me. We felt supported and well-informed throughout the process. Four stars for their reliable services, though there were some delays that affected the overall timeliness.
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21 May, 2024 by Marie piverger
Everyone at this place is very knowledgeable and helpful.
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15 May, 2024 by Marvelus tha god archelus
They are the best!!!
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13 Dec, 2021 by Rick
I hired Stephen Schwartz to do a Probate Case and paid him additional fees for him to clear the Deed by removing my mother's name from the Property, and he never did it. When I informed him that he was not done with the work and that my mother's name still appeared on the Property as a co-owner, he blatantly told me that he was done, and that I needed to move on. I told him that the job I paid him for was not completed but he refused to follow through, and I ended up going to the Court House myself, paying for getting the Certified Copy of the Order of Discharge, having it Recorded, and obtaining the Book/Page number the Office of Appraisal asked for, in order to have my mother's name deleted from the Property. I would never recommend anyone to Attorney Stephen Schwartz. He never completed all the work that I paid him for, and left me out in the cold.
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12 Oct, 2015 by Anonymous
Steve helped my husband and me solve our problems regarding our wills and trusts. He listened to our problem and proposed solutions. His advice was invaluable. We are fortunate to have been his clients.
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03 Oct, 2015 by Miles
I hired Steven K. Schwartz to pursue a family inheritance conflict. He helped me clarify the issue so that I could vent my emotions and then make sensible decisions. He prepared an inventive course of action that motivated the other side to resolve the dispute to my satisfaction without having to file a lawsuit. He achieved that goal completely.
Steven K. Schwartz was responsive to my questions in a timely way and his fee was fair and not in any way excessive. I highly recommend him and would hire him again myself.
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17 Oct, 2023 by Anonymous
I hired Natasha Shaikh for a Guardianship/Probate Litigation matter. The negligence this case endured was astounding. Missed deadlines which resulted in financial loss to her client we also lost this part of the case to the legal technicality of missing a 90 day deadline. Ms. Shaikh appeared zealous in her pleadings however, that quickly waned once she entered the courtroom to advocate for those pleading where she was quickly overwhelmed. Ms. Shaikh has a nice demeanor that is not an asset in a highly contested case. Is this what you want in an 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.
