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11 Sep, 2024 by Thomas breach
Scott At Snider law group took really good care of me.him in his staff was very attentive and did everything.
That I need it and ask for definitely recommend them.
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11 Sep, 2024 by Abonesh beyene
11 Sep, 2024 by Tiffany c
Great attorneys, friendly staff, beautiful office and fantastic results! I Highly recommended TSLG!
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19 Sep, 2024 by Thomas
Mr. Reichert initiated and processed a warranty deed for me. Stephen guided me through the process and the deed was updated in a seamless and timely manner. He provided me with a copy of the finalized deed and warned me about the potential of scams where copies of the deed could be acquired for a fee.
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26 Aug, 2024 by Wally
Basically talked me through the process and it was easier than expected. I was hesitating but he literally hand held through the process.
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11 Jun, 2024 by Anonymous
Made adding my husband to my deed flawless. He answered all of our questions without hesitation.
Great to work with!
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25 Jan, 2021 by Deanna harrison
He was the best attorney I ever had. He truly cares about his job. Mr Kaplan always wins. He’s the best. He’s not money hungry. He cares about each one of his clients. He will work with you. I trust of Mr. Kaplan on with my life. He’s good at everything he does. He used to have his own practice at law offices of Fisher and Kaplan now he works for legal aid in the city. He loves helping people his father was an attorney also. His grandfather and his uncle were both judges. So he’s grew up knowing everything about the law . Mr. Kaplan truly cares about his job. He’s the best attorney I ever had. He won case he did for me. I highly recommend him for anything. He specializes in custody, divorce ,estates, wills,Accident cases. You name it he does it. He is the absolute best at Everything he does. He is a young attorney. So his mind is fresh. He does not forget things like older attorneys do. I trust Mr. Catherine with my life. He’s the best I ever had.He also answers questions he is always there no matter what time it is you can text him late at night.He does not charge you for each text message you get free consult. He’s not all about the money. He also develops relationships with his clients. He told me that he has wanted to do this since he was a little boy. I could go on and say so many more great things about Jeff Kaplan.You will just have to hire him and find out. I promise you won’t be disappointed. Hiring him was the best day of my life. He got me Full legal so custody of my son. He texted me all week he practiced all week on my case. He stayed up all night we were on the phone. He made sure I won. He did not charge me extra for that. He knew that my child belongs with me. He put 100% effort into my case like he does everyone’s case. He deserves to be recognized he truly is the best attorney I’ve ever met.
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08 Jan, 2019 by Arnetha
Mr.Kaplan represented me in a custody case and he was such a great attorney. He was very knowledgeable and always answered my questions quickly. I would highly recommend him to anyone. He helped me get the results that I wanted, he is very personable, and thorough. He makes sure he’s available when you need. I really loved him representing.
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28 Nov, 2018 by Anonymous
Jeff Kaplan is by far the best attorney!!! My husband has been in back forth custody disputes for almost 10years, and has had his fair share of different attorneys, but when Jeff became his attorney, it was a complete game changer. He worked with us even on weekends. Via texting, in person, and emailing if needed. Don’t assume that if you get an attorney through Legal Aide that you won’t get excellent results, because this clearly wasn’t the case. My husband gained full sole custody of my stepdaughter fighting a really ugly custody dispute. Jeff works a lot of different cases, but he made time to help us win our case. I would DEFINITELY recommend him to anyone looking to win!
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01 Sep, 2011 by Anonymous
Mr. Ginsburg was able to communicate graciously under very complicated circumstances. He went out of his way to be accessable, and collaborated well with one of his partners while handling my case. I fully intend to use his services in the future for my own estate planning.
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05 Aug, 2011 by Thomas
Adelberg, Rudow, Dorf & Hendler handled our mothers' estate. It was an emotionally difficult time, and Yale provided legal, as well as thoughtful, stewardship. He handled all the details and filings such as Petition for Probate, Notice to Creditors, etc. In short, Yale lifted the burden of our mother's passing. If you're seeking legal counsel, talk to Adelberg, Rudow, Dorf & Hendler.
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29 Jul, 2011 by Juda
We have worked with Yale Ginsburg for almost 2 years.
We are extremely pleased with his knowledge and counsel.
Every step of the way he was available if we needed to speak with him. He and his staff handled everything in the most professional way, which gave us confidence that we were in good hands.
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07 Jan, 2019 by Anonymous
I hired Mr. Freiman after paying another attorney $2,500 with no results. Mr. Freiman understood the details of my case, and guided me through the process. His knowledge of the system and local trustees helped me get the best outcome. I would recommend him to anyone.
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02 Jan, 2019 by Anonymous
I've used Mr. Freiman before in the past and as usual he gets the job done and he knows the law so I would highly recommend him as an attorney!
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19 Apr, 2018 by Andrea bond
Attorney Freiman represented me in my Chapter 7 Bankruptcy in February of this year. He was personable, friendly, knowledgeable. Anytime I called or emailed he answered immediately. I would recommend him and I do recommend him to anyone who is contemplating filing Chapter 7 or 13.
He maintains a flexible schedule and was always there to ease my stress of the process. As long as he is practicing I will use him as my attorney.
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27 Oct, 2011 by Anonymous
Tara did an outstanding job with my case and am truly indebted to her. She was very professional and more than exceeded my expectations. Thanks Tara for all your hard work and help.
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20 Oct, 2011 by Anonymous
Tara Clarke was a godsend to me. In a word, she was awesome. She listened to me, worked through my problems, and got me an excellent results on several matters. I highly recommend her to anyone looking for assistance with a trust and estate matter, and her partners are equally excellent.
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25 Mar, 2011 by Anonymous
I was in alot of debt and needed help. Tara negotated with the people I owed money to, and worked out really great payment schedules for me. It saved me money and alot of stress. She also was good at keeping in touch with me the whole time and explianing what was happening.
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24 Apr, 2015 by Robert
Ms. Shemer handled my estate and trust account. She considered all options and presented an unbiased and impartial plan for my wife and myself. Every detail was handled meticulously and much worry and anxiety was eliminated. I felt very comfortable with her soft low key approach to a very difficult project. I would highly recommend her to anyone in need of a trustworthy advocate when for planning for the future.
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07 Apr, 2012 by Steve
Very knowledgeable and polite attorney. Has handled my family affairs for years. Would recommend.
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02 Sep, 2024 by Alisha edwards
I can only respond to how fast they responded back with me and that was excellent
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26 Aug, 2024 by M m
01 Aug, 2024 by Umar
Does not listen to client treated my case like a money grab her main focus was to get as much money out of me as possible
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02 Sep, 2024 by Alisha edwards
I can only respond to how fast they responded back with me and that was excellent
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26 Aug, 2024 by M m
25 Jul, 2024 by Sule jaja
I am satisfied with the way my legal representative presented during the conference with CPS regarding my case of unsubstantiated child maltreatment, I am satisfied with how my divorce case is handled by the legal team, the only issue with this law firm is that it charges a lot of money even before the case goes to court so if i have any questions it will be about billing
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12 Aug, 2024 by Pocohontas 410
First off let me say if you are looking for an attorney you have found him!
I’ve hired many attorneys in Maryland of the years and NOT ONE can compare to Ian Valkenet. He is honest, straight forward, and the most educated attorney in his field we’ve ever spoken to. Which was over a dozen for this particular case. Most of them even told my husband and I that there was nothing we could do that we were in the wrong. Deep down we knew that couldn’t possible be true. After speaking with Ian it was confirmed. There was something we could do. A lot actually and Ian was knocking them out like Muhammad Ali in the ring.
You don’t get that a lot anymore with attorneys. They tell you things and don’t follow through . Not Ian! If he says he’s doing something it’s done. This man knew our rights and was honest with us. We have been in a lawsuit since Feb 2023. From the day we met Ian for a consultation we knew that this man was who we needed. He knew the law in every aspect you can imagine. It was incredible we were actually looking forward to seeing him in trial. For pure satisfaction of seeing the defendants faces. 😂 This man won without having a trial which saved us money but it would’ve been epic to watch him in this case. If you hire him and get to see him in that courtroom it will be pure satisfaction. Even in our case for motions to dismiss he was incredible. When he speaks you listen he makes you feel safe like you can really sit back and not stress because you know he is protecting you. Because let’s face it anything that involves going to court can be stressful. Everything he told us happened without hesitation. His phone calls were prompt always on time, didn’t send someone else from his office to court. We’ve had that happen on many occasions with other firms. He understands the importance of his clients needs and wants. Breaks everything down for you and ensures you understand step by step. We really appreciated that too. This man isn’t just in law for a paycheck he goes above and beyond for his clients. He is worth every dollar! We would hire him over and over again. Our only regret is that we didn’t find him a year sooner. The end result of our lawsuit was we won everything we asked for and then some. Ian we cannot thank you enough you will alway be on our speed dial. We will refer you over and over again because you deserve it!
When I tell you there was nights I cried over this case before hiring Ian Valkenet I’m not exaggerating. My husband and I felt so helpless in this matter. After many phone calls with attorneys. We thank god we found Young & Valkenet. I don’t typically write reviews but after watching Ian represent us and our amazing outcome I just had to. For anyone feeling the way we felt this is the attorney you want on your side.
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11 Jul, 2024 by Abhisek nandy
extremely rude and condescending toward potential clients, cannot provide referrals. want to provide some clarification since the owner was bothered enough to reply. was looking for a firm to help under tenants rights this firm is listed under the second search result. contacted them and was met with a supposed arrogant lawyer who was extremely rude. have found a much friendlier firm since. i dont know what services this firm can offer definetly not customer service atleast.
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04 Jan, 2024 by Melvin rose
Mr. Valkenet provided amazing service. He is extremely knowledgeable and was helpful with our Real Estate issue. A true professional in his field!
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16 May, 2024 by Bjt
Called for a consultation and the lawyer was very rude and hung up in my ear. Don’t waste your time.
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16 Mar, 2024 by Jay elite
09 Aug, 2023 by Elaine gerstenfeld
Mr. Goldman was easy to work with and very helpful.
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24 Jul, 2024 by The prolific maryland kid
12 Jul, 2024 by Shelley-rose moghrabi
That won't happen to me, I said. I am not of that race, nationality, or ethnicity, and so I did not speak out. That won’t happen to me, I said, I don’t practice that religion, and so I did not speak out. That won’t happen to me, I said, I’m not of that sexual orientation, and so I did not speak out. That won’t happen to me, I said, I’m not part of that income bracket, and so I did not speak out. That won’t happen to me, I said, I don’t have that disability, and so I did not speak out. That won’t happen to me, I said, until it was physically in my face, had me backed into a corner, and was spewing utter vitriol at me. That won't happen to me, I said, he'd never lay a hand on me, until one day the physical aggression caused me physical pain and injury. That won’t happen to me, I said, until thirteen months ago, when I found myself on the phone with a domestic violence hotline. That won’t happen to me, I said, until thirteen months ago, when I found myself hurriedly packing a bag and fleeing my home, and boarding an aircraft out of state, because I feared for my life and safety. Fifty years ago, when my mother and her family escaped their war-torn country with nothing but the clothes on their backs and one bag per person due to religious persecution, I never imagined that one day, fifty years into the future, that I too would one day find myself following in her footsteps, quite literally.
I never imagined that I would one day find myself fleeing my home with nothing but the clothes on my back and one small carry-on bag, and boarding a same-day aircraft bound for 1,000+ miles away, because I too feared for my life and safety. Thirteen months ago, when I found myself on the phone with a local domestic violence agency in my state, I never imagined that the proverbial door would get slammed in my face, on the basis that I earned too much money to qualify for any help or support. Since I was born and raised abroad, and with my own family still living halfway around the world, it was in that moment that I truly realized, and that it genuinely sunk in, that I was going to be completely and entirely alone in the process of escaping the cycle of violence.
In 1848, divorce was practically unheard of. Most states had fault-based divorce laws outlining the requirements and criteria permitting divorce: lunacy, adultery, desertion, or cruelty. This meant that couples could only pursue divorce IF they could prove, in a court of law, that one or the other had committed one of these offenses. However, given the laws (or lack thereof) governing women's rights and freedoms at the time, divorce was far more complex for women, as they remained at risk of being unable to regain their last names, unable to retain property acquired prior to their marriage, or unable to obtain custody of their children. These fault-based grounds are in stark contrast to the no-fault system that exists across most states today. Today, after decades of tireless advocacy, and thanks to incredible attorneys like Laurie Wasserman and Virginia Yeoman, people are no longer required to remain shackled to their spouses, and have the freedom to escape the cycle of violence. Thanks to the fabulous support of Laurie and Virginia, I've not only been able to survive, but I am slowly on my way to thriving again. The words "happiness" and "divorce" are the last two words you'd expect to see in the same sentence, but that is exactly what Virginia and Laurie have facilitated for me.
For anyone considering engaging the services of Laurie Wasserman and her team, from the bottom of my heart, I wholeheartedly recommend them and their entire office. They'll not only save your life, but they will also help re-unlock your door to freedom, health, independence, and joy again.
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07 Jul, 2024 by Sandy beres
Before I hired Martha, I was working with another attorney for my divorce process, and I just didn't feel like they were on my side and looking out for my best interests. Someone referred me to Martha White, and once I met with her, I made the decision to end my retainer agreement with my current attorney and hire Martha White. Martha White listened to me and to my concerns and what I wanted out of dissolving my marriage. She was always responsive to my calls or emails and took the time to explain things to me, so that I understood all of terms and possible outcomes of this process. I feel that she helped me reach a fair settlement and I was happy with the final settlement agreement. I wish I would have hired her in the first place. She didn't drag the process out any longer than it needed to be. I was very pleased with her representation of me in my divorce case. If I ever would have another family law issue, she would be the first attorney I would contact. You can't go wrong having Martha White as your attorney.
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15 Aug, 2024 by Richard marzo
Our son had previously been denied by the AAMC for the same accommodations he had received throughout college. We searched for an attorney that could best present our case, and we were immediately drawn to Brown, Goldstein & Levy from their online profile. Once we met Neel Lalchandani and discussed our situation, we knew we had found the right partner. Neel is an excellent listener and his team is very thorough. Neel presented a very compelling case on behalf of our son, and he was recently awarded the full accommodations that we had requested. We could not have achieved our goal without the help of Neel Lalchandani and Brown, Goldstein & Levy.
They were the difference-maker and it was the best decision we ever made. Our son's confidence has been restored and his dream to go to medical school continues.
Thank you Neel!
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14 Mar, 2024 by Sinceare starks
If I could give a zero I would this has been my worst experience ever in my entire life. I’ve dealt with smaller injury lawyers who had less and did ten times more. My case is a slip and fall easy the hotel admitted fault right out the gate. There were ample evidence and every thing. I had put my self in therapy not my lawyer I couldn’t work so I fell into financial ruin. My lawyer tells me don’t worry because all of that will be accounted for in the lawsuit just be patient. I go months before I find out that the lawyer I had no longer worked for the company. My case is now over a year and I have a new lawyer who has to be updated on my case. The lack of communication is unbelievable I’ve repeatedly ask to speak to a partner and that has gone unheard. I’m almost three years in and after a horrible display of competence they are now trying to close my case.
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05 Sep, 2023 by Tyrone lester
12 Oct, 2024 by Mónica m. sandoval
A Miracle in Baltimore City: Our Journey to the Right Educational Support
Our story began in 2021 when we relocated from New Mexico to Baltimore City during the height of the pandemic. We were in search of educational and health services for our five-year-old daughter who is on the autism spectrum and has special needs. As physicians, balancing both the stresses of the pandemic and the complications of the educational system was a struggle. Our frustration grew when we couldn't get our daughter screened for Kindergarten through the Child Find Office, and after several disheartening interactions, we were unsure of where to turn.
That's when we reached out to the office of Mark Martin and connected with the remarkable Alexandra Rosenblatt. From that moment on, things began to shift. Alexandra was a beacon throughout the long and difficult road. She attended every step of our IEP development, providing insight, advocacy, and unwavering support. Her approachable nature made it easy for us to ask questions, and she was always ready with answers and a clear plan forward. Alexandra guided us through what often felt like an impossible maze of bureaucracy.
After two turbulent years, we finally achieved a breakthrough, our daughter secured placement in a non-public school that meets her unique needs, complete with a comprehensive ABA program. This was no small victory, and we know that none of this would have been possible without Alexandra’s expertise and dedication. We had been prepared to relocate to another state in search of better services, but her involvement ensured that our daughter could thrive right here in Baltimore City, where families of children with special needs face uphill battles.
We are forever grateful for Alexandra's role in this miracle.
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05 Sep, 2024 by L m
I received Mr. Ledyard magnet in the mail, and was actually about to throw it out when I got a call. I had a long conversation with the person who called me, then when I was done, I went back to sorting my mail. I had the thought that I should call him, and I did, that was a little over 3 years ago. For 3 long years his law firm has worked with me, and been a wonderful support group during the process.
Mr. Ledyard is a stubborn wonderful man who will not back down, and will go to the bat for his clients. During the whole process I listened carefully to what he wanted me to do/say and not do/say. The outcome was better than I thought it would be.
I am very glad I was led to you and your team Mr. Ledyard, and I agree with that person you are a very good at your profession.
Thank you for caring for and about me as a person.
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26 Jun, 2024 by Tausha bruce
Awesome team of Lawyers! Thanks you!
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05 Jul, 2024 by Urania williams
Wonderful service if it wasn’t for the attorney I had I would not know where I would be right now
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01 Apr, 2024 by Jhon valero
08 Dec, 2023 by K m
They are amazing 🤩 attorneys and Staff Paralegal they are wonderful God bless them 🙏🙌
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05 Jul, 2024 by Urania williams
Wonderful service if it wasn’t for the attorney I had I would not know where I would be right now
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01 Apr, 2024 by Jhon valero
08 Dec, 2023 by K m
They are amazing 🤩 attorneys and Staff Paralegal they are wonderful God bless them 🙏🙌
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30 May, 2019 by Edward
I was referred to Hurst Hessey by a friend of mine once my ex-wife decided she wanted to separate and divorce. From the beginning I found Hurst to be straightforward and honest. He stated from the beginning it would be a challenging case and it would be better to litigate the marital separation agreement out of the courtroom. What began as a case with very little in my favor — ended with an agreement that was in the best interest of my child and me. I know that if it was not for Hurst’s consistent presence and counsel the agreement would not have ended with the same result.
Hurst always made me feel as if I was the most important case he had even though I knew he was quite busy. For that I am grateful.
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04 Jun, 2015 by Charles
Nice enough over the phone, I retained Hurst Hessey to help me with a custody case. Paid my retainer and met with him an hour the day before court to discuss the case. All down hill from there. We met at the Towson courthouse and he was late. He appeared disheveled and while I cannot prove it I would swear he'd been drinking. The fact of the matter is that I was going into court with an attorney that did not even know I had twins! Yes, he actually forgot that we were going to court for custody of my son and daughter TWINS. How do you forget that? Court was a joke, lasted a few minutes, and I accomplished less than I would have if I would've just filed some do-it-yourself forms on my own. Hurst walked me out to the garage after court and I asked if we were done and he told me "I think I might actually owe you some money." Weeks later I received another bill for over $900. To this day I still have no clue what this bill is for. For fear of an attorney's wrath I thought of paying it, but why, when I legitimately did not owe it? I received no follow up, no nothing. To this day Hurst Hessey refuses to return copies of documents to me that I provided to him at the start of the case. These were the only copies that I had. He has literally blackmailed me and said he will not return my documents until I pay this mystery balance. I've been waiting for my documents for 5 years, yes - FIVE YEARS. This is the most no-professional lawyer I have ever encountered. I asked for a break down of the services that created this bogus invoice and I was simply told that he did not have to furnish one because his books were in order. He may be good in other matters, but in terms of family law do yourself a favor and skip Hurst Hessey.
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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.
