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25 Sep, 2022 by Les
We hired Randall to complete our estate plan that would carry over into generations to come. He was very responsive to any questions we had during the process. He never once failed to provide updates on any status changes throughout the process. Randall provided sound and informed advice the whole way through. I highly recommend Randall for any estate planning services you may need.
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25 Sep, 2022 by Warren and carol
With the need for an Estate Attorney, we were introduced to Randall. After meeting with Randall, we were convinced that he was the man to put our Estate in order. Randall is very thorough with all explanations and upon completion, he did follow up with meetings to get us and keep us pointed in the right direction.
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24 Sep, 2022 by Carmine
Randall has a wealth of knowledge and experience he brings to the table. He patiently guided me on this complex path of Estate Planning. I would highly recommend Randall.
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10 Sep, 2024 by Karma
Damian Huettl assisted us with estate planning. His professionalism and caring was greatly appreciated as we discussed and had our questions answered. We would highly recommend Damian as he is extremely knowledgeable and wonderful to work with.
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14 Aug, 2024 by Lucy
Damian was very knowledgeable and personable to work with. He was very organized and good at explaining things. I would work with him again.
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08 Mar, 2024 by Jim
I needed a North Dakota attorney to file a deed transfering property to my daughter, we both live out of state. Damian was highly recommended so I chose him. He was excellent in his advice and his work. Very professional.
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18 Aug, 2022 by Anonymous
Redmann law attorney Pat Brooke handled my case in North Dakota. Kept me informed with all issues. Very professional. DUI charges were dropped to a minimal traffic violation.
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02 Aug, 2021 by Anonymous
I was very pleased with the time and effort Patrick Brooke put in on my case. I would recommend Redmann law to handle your case.
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20 Apr, 2021 by Jessica
Pat Brooke, Esq. is an amazing mediator and his engagement with his clients is above par. He definitely will give you the time of day and he is prompt with responding to ANY and every question. Responding with haste and simplifying any legal jargon that is lost in those of us not privy to legalese. I give him 10 stars out of 5! Him and his team at Redmann Law are wonderful and quick witted. They helped me tremendously and working with my circumstances and helping me through my confusion. I highly recommend Pat Brooke’s legal counsel services. Thank you, Mr. Brooke!
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28 Aug, 2019 by Roger
If you need a competent attorney to write up a will, including complicated trusts, James is your man. Highly recommend!
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24 Sep, 2015 by Jim
Mr. Marten took my case for an aggravated assault charge I had. Mr. Marten did an awesome job reviewing all of the facts and not just the charges against me and was able get the charges reduced to a disorderly conduct. Mr. Marten was very polite and professional the whole time I delt with him and did a excellent job keeping me informed of my options. I would defiantly suggest Mr. Marten to anyone that is in need of a lawyer. Thank you again for your help with my case Mr. Marten
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18 Sep, 2015 by Bella
James handled my husband's probate in North Dakota. I live in New Mexico so it was important that I have someone I could rely on. Each issue that arose was handled in a very timely manner and with very little fuss and furor.He was totally reliable and did an excellent job for me. I highly recommend James for you legal needs.
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21 Jun, 2017 by George
Our company retains Zimmerman Law for tax and accounting services. Isaac Zimmerman is an extremely knowledgeable attorney with strong ethic and moral values.
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20 Jun, 2017 by Chris
I consulted with Isaac regarding tax startegies as it related to my personal taxes along with a pending land transfer between multiple parties.
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29 Jan, 2024 by Patti yellow boy
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03 Jan, 2024 by Nicole fischer
Just finally finished my claim with Kaylen, and she got the highest amount the policy would allow! She's walked me through each step and has given an update each step of the way explaining what to expect. Kaylen is great at what she does and is also so kind when I have any questions or concerns. Thank you so much again, I am beyond grateful for you and this amazing Law Group!
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24 May, 2023 by Evan quam
I was in a rollover accident thanksgiving of 2020 and the Lowe law group came first and I called and got an attorney to fight for me. They were so very helpful and kept me updated on the situation of my case. I am so grateful and happy that they worked tirelessly for me and I couldn’t be happier with the outcome of the settlement
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02 Apr, 2024 by Kim meyer
Very quick response, great communication and a helpful guide for legal questions. A professional attorney.
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01 Oct, 2023 by Chad
He'll of an awesome guy and lawyer
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13 Dec, 2021 by Kari bradley
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12 May, 2024 by Tim gabrysh
Justin goes above and beyond he got my record corrected because it didn't sit right with him, even though I didn't hire him
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11 Apr, 2024 by Deanna muth
Mr. Vinje and his staff are wonderful! Very informative and helpful! He truly went above and beyond!! Highly recommend this firm!!!
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17 Feb, 2024 by Carmaine kleppe
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04 Oct, 2024 by Sumit bawa
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17 Jun, 2024 by Mason schulz
Attorney Severin is very knowledgeable in all areas of law. I highly recommend reaching out to him for your needs.
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17 Jun, 2024 by Drew stoddart
Mr. Severin is THE BEST
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19 Mar, 2023 by Elizabeth harrison
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08 Jun, 2022 by Rebecca curtiss
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27 Apr, 2022 by Ross argent
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19 Mar, 2023 by Elizabeth harrison
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08 Jun, 2022 by Rebecca curtiss
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27 Apr, 2022 by Ross argent
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11 Sep, 2024 by Karma thomas
Damian Huettl is excellent to work with. We appreciated his time in explaining things that helped with decisions in estate planning. We would highly recommend Mr. Huettl to anyone who is in need of Legal services.
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18 Jun, 2024 by C ibach
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18 Jun, 2024 by Angela zumrovska
I went here with a friend who needed a translator. Tyler Is her lawyer and he was very professional and helped her with all her questions and concerns. Very friendly in the same time given you the chance to ask and go trough everything you need.
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What a Probate Lawyer Can Do for You

A probate lawyer assists with the legal process of administering a deceased person’s estate. This often involves guiding executors (if a will exists) or beneficiaries (if no will exists) through the probate process to settle the estate according to the deceased’s wishes or applicable laws. Probate lawyers can help validate the will, distribute assets, resolve disputes among heirs, handle outstanding debts or taxes, and ensure the estate is legally and efficiently administered.

Whether you’re an executor of an estate or an heir facing probate proceedings, a probate lawyer can help you navigate the often-complex legal process to ensure the estate is settled correctly.

When Should I Hire a Probate Lawyer?

You should consider hiring a probate lawyer when you are responsible for managing the estate of a deceased individual, especially in the following situations:

  • The estate has substantial assets: If the estate includes significant assets like real estate, investments, or business interests, legal assistance is often necessary to handle the distribution properly.
  • The will is being contested: If there are disputes among heirs regarding the validity of the will or the division of assets, a probate lawyer can help resolve the conflict.
  • The estate includes complex or unclear provisions: If the will contains complicated instructions or there are no clear beneficiaries, a lawyer can ensure that the estate is administered according to legal requirements.
  • There is no will (intestate estate): When a person dies without a will, the estate is subject to intestacy laws, which determine how assets are distributed. A probate lawyer can help navigate this process.
  • Debt or tax issues exist: If the estate owes significant debts or is subject to estate taxes, a probate lawyer can help ensure debts are paid appropriately and taxes are minimized.
  • Probate disputes: If family members or other parties are disputing the distribution of assets or challenging the executor's actions, legal representation is crucial to defending your rights and ensuring the estate is handled properly.

Hiring a probate lawyer early in the process can help avoid costly mistakes and ensure the estate is settled efficiently.

What Does a Probate Lawyer Do?

A probate lawyer provides a wide range of legal services to help manage and settle an estate. Their tasks can include:

  • Validating the will: Filing the will with the probate court and ensuring its legal validity.
  • Guiding executors or administrators: Advising the person responsible for managing the estate on their duties, including inventorying assets, notifying creditors, and paying debts.
  • Filing necessary paperwork: Preparing and submitting the legal documents required to initiate and complete the probate process.
  • Resolving disputes: Mediating or litigating disputes among heirs or between beneficiaries and executors, including challenges to the will or disagreements over asset distribution.
  • Handling debt and tax matters: Ensuring that outstanding debts, taxes, and estate taxes are properly calculated and paid from the estate’s assets.
  • Distributing assets: Ensuring that assets are distributed to the beneficiaries according to the will or intestacy laws, and that all legal requirements are fulfilled.
  • Closing the estate: Completing the final steps of the probate process, including filing a final accounting with the court and formally closing the estate.

How Are Probate Lawyers Paid?

Probate lawyers typically charge for their services based on the complexity of the estate and the nature of the legal work involved. Common payment structures include:

  • Hourly rate: Most probate lawyers charge by the hour, with rates depending on the lawyer’s experience and the complexity of the estate. Hourly rates can range from $150 to $500 or more.
  • Flat fee: For simple estates or straightforward probate tasks, some lawyers may charge a flat fee that covers all of the necessary legal work.
  • Percentage of the estate: In some states, probate lawyers are allowed to charge a percentage of the estate's value as their fee. This percentage typically ranges from 2% to 5%, depending on the size of the estate and state regulations.
  • Retainer fee: Some lawyers may require an upfront retainer fee, which is billed against as the probate process progresses.

It’s important to clarify the fee structure during your initial consultation to understand how you will be charged and avoid unexpected costs.

How Much Does a Probate Lawyer Cost?

The cost of hiring a probate lawyer depends on several factors, including the complexity of the estate, the type of legal issues involved, and the lawyer’s fee structure. General cost estimates include:

  • Simple estates: For estates with straightforward assets and no disputes, probate legal fees can range from $2,500 to $10,000, depending on the lawyer's fees and the state's probate laws.
  • Complex estates: For larger or more complicated estates with multiple properties, business interests, or disputes, probate costs can exceed $10,000 and may reach $20,000 or more.
  • Hourly rates: If charged by the hour, expect rates between $150 and $500, depending on the lawyer’s expertise and geographic location.
  • Percentage fees: In some cases, a probate lawyer may charge 2% to 5% of the estate’s value, particularly for larger estates or those involving complex legal matters.

Always ask for a clear estimate of fees during your initial consultation to understand the total cost of probate representation.

Top Questions to Ask a Probate Lawyer

Before hiring a probate lawyer, it’s essential to ask the right questions to ensure you’re hiring someone qualified to handle your estate needs. Key questions include:

  1. What experience do you have with probate cases like mine?
    Ensure the lawyer has experience with estates of similar complexity, especially if disputes or high-value assets are involved.
  2. How do you charge for your services?
    Ask whether the lawyer charges an hourly rate, a flat fee, or a percentage of the estate, and request a cost estimate.
  3. What is the likely timeline for my probate case?
    While it’s hard to predict exactly, an experienced lawyer can give you a general idea of how long the probate process may take based on the specifics of your estate.
  4. What steps will you take to manage and distribute the estate?
    Ask about the lawyer’s approach to handling debts, taxes, and asset distribution.
  5. Will you be handling my case personally?
    In larger firms, junior attorneys or paralegals may handle some aspects of your case, so it’s important to know who will be working on your probate case.
  6. What are potential challenges we may face?
    A good lawyer will be able to anticipate possible issues, such as will contests or creditor claims, and explain how they would handle them.

How to Check the Credibility of a Probate Lawyer

To ensure you’re hiring a reputable probate lawyer, follow these steps to check their credentials and experience:

  • Verify their state bar status: Check with your state’s bar association to confirm the lawyer is licensed to practice and has no history of disciplinary action.
  • Look for probate experience: Review the lawyer’s website or professional profile to ensure they specialize in probate law and have experience handling estates of similar complexity.
  • Read client reviews and testimonials: Look for online reviews on platforms like Avvo or Martindale-Hubbell to see what past clients have said about the lawyer’s probate experience.
  • Ask for references: A credible lawyer should be able to provide references from past clients who can vouch for their professionalism and expertise in handling probate matters.
  • Look for membership in professional organizations: Membership in organizations like the American Academy of Estate Planning Attorneys (AAEPA) or the National Academy of Elder Law Attorneys (NAELA) can indicate a lawyer's commitment to estate and probate law.

What Should I Prepare for My First Consultation?

To make the most out of your first consultation with a probate lawyer, it’s important to come prepared with relevant documents and information. Here’s what you should bring:

  • A copy of the will or trust (if applicable): Bring any estate planning documents left by the deceased, including wills, trusts, or powers of attorney.
  • List of assets and debts: Prepare a detailed list of the deceased’s assets (e.g., real estate, bank accounts, investments) and outstanding debts (e.g., loans, mortgages, credit cards).
  • Death certificate: Bring a certified copy of the deceased person’s death certificate.
  • Contact information for heirs and beneficiaries: Have a list of all individuals or entities named in the will or who are entitled to inherit under intestacy laws.
  • Questions about the probate process: Write down any questions you have about the process, costs, and potential issues you might face.
  • Relevant financial records: If available, bring any relevant financial documents, such as bank statements, property deeds, and tax returns.

By coming prepared, you can ensure a productive consultation and allow the lawyer to provide the best advice for your situation.

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