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11 Apr, 2024 by Deborah
Whitney Glaser did our estate planning, she answered any and all questions that we were concerned with. She told us the best options for our needs and was very professional yet personable to work with. She was able to have papers organized in a timely manner and without hassle, I would definitely recommend her for any estate planning needs.
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11 Apr, 2024 by Mary
Ms Glazer was very knowledgeable and sensitive to our needs. She was most helpful and easy to work with, giving us peace of mind through each process.
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13 May, 2023 by Pamela
I recently retained Ms. Glaser to help me with my estate planning. Not only does Ms. Glaser have the perfect combination of legal expertise and compassion for this area of law, but she patiently listens to your concerns and offers real world solutions for you to consider. This is the attorney you want helping you when deciding end-of-life options and the disposition of your estate assets.
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08 Jun, 2024 by Anonymous
I want to share my positive experience with Rodney Gerling, the exceptional lawyer who helped me create my will. After getting married, I needed to update my will, and Rodney guided me through the process with expertise and care. Our initial meeting on Zoom was convenient, and he asked all the right questions to ensure my will accurately reflect my wishes. I met with him once more to finalize the details, and I can confidently say that he is truly the best
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05 Jun, 2024 by Barbara
We highly recommend Rod Gerling of Gerling Law Group aka Affordable Attorneys as an estate attorney. We were in need of having a trust established and having our wills and other related docs updated. He proved the utmost in professional service and advice. His staff, particularly Shauna Smith, were also very courteous, helpful and professional. In terms of meeting our requirements at a reasonable price, we felt we got excellent service and all the things we needed. Again, we strongly recommend Affordable Attorneys if you need a will, trust or other related estate issue addressed.
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26 Jan, 2024 by Anonymous
Mr. Gerling made the process of preparing our Wills and Power of Attorney's very easy. He explained all aspects in a language we can understand and then we were able to decide what's good for us.
He really knew the proper way to draw up our documents to our desire and satisfaction. His staff was also excellent to make the process easy.
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17 Aug, 2021 by Elizabeth
Dana and the Staff were just wonderful. Explained everything, walked me through what needed to be done, very personable and timing was spot on! Had no worry with this team on my side.
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26 Apr, 2021 by Sylvia
I’m a widow and moved to Florida about 3 years ago and so glad I found Dana to help me with my Eatate will. She’s very knowledgeable, friendly, patient and very reasonable with the fee. Now I’m so relieved that everything is organized for my estate. I strongly recommend her if ever needs to sort out your Eatate will.
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22 Feb, 2021 by Michael
My wife and I moved to area recently and wanted to set up a trust to ease the burden on our heirs. Doing so with Dana Gerling proved to be extremely easy as well as cost effective. Ms. Gerling was very knowledgeable and thorough. The entire process was both efficient and enjoyable. I would highly recommend the Gerling Law Group if their services meet your needs.
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25 Oct, 2020 by Lisa
I had the pleasure of working with Lori Dorman at the beginning of 2020. When I met Lori at her office, she was quick to review the documents I brought in, and immediately began making calls. She wasted no time in getting answers and results. She got further in five minutes than I was able to get in five months. She took control of my case, and successfully produced an outcome even I could not have anticipated. I would HIGHLY recommend her to anyone. She knows what she's doing!!!
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10 Jul, 2018 by Kelley
I first met Lori on recommendation from a colleague nearly ten years ago. The circumstances at that time were such that she was unable to assist with my desired outcome of an employment contract situation. However, having already sized up a good sense of her astute knowledge of employment law and empathetic presence, five years later on when I was in a better position to move forward in my career dreams she was the first individual I turned to. She has since provided me and my company with numerous consultations, defense support, and other personal legal services. Lori has always been keenly aware of or quickly done the research to inform herself of the legal statutes, interpretations, and precedents at stake; and if not her area of expertise, made this known and referred me to other highly qualified individuals. Over time we developed a strong mutual respect and have made a number of cross-referrals for our respective areas of expertise. This is one lawyer you would be proud to call yours.
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19 Apr, 2018 by Brandon
Having risked everything we had to start a company that I was terminated from, I felt that my whole world come crashing down. That was until Lori met with my wife and I and explained that we had a right to what we had sacrificed so much to build... even though we had no written agreement. Three weeks later we regained almost all of what we were due and was able to move on with our lives. With her help we have been able to BENIFIT from what was originally thought to be a life shattering event. Thank you!!
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10 Mar, 2024 by Eileen
Marla Stewart Owczarek was wonderful helping my husband and I with our planning. She was thorough, professional and knowledgeable. We would highly recommend her for your estate planning needs
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15 Sep, 2023 by Ned
Marla was very helpful and knowledgeable in completing my estate plan and making recommendations to avoid probate as much as possible. She went over plan to be sure I understood everything.
I would recommend Marla to anyone that needs assistance with this type of service at a reasonable cost.
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14 Aug, 2023 by Arthur
Marla Stewart Owczarek and the staff at Affordable Attorney's were super sharp, attentive to our needs, and knowledgeable. We highly recommend them for all areas of Estate and Trust Planning. The customer service and communications were great, answered all our questions in language we could understand. Excellent !
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29 Sep, 2015 by Anonymous
I am a local Realtor in Manatee County and based on the experience I had working with Donna with my elderly mother, I have referred several friends, family, and clients to her to assist them with their family members. Donna tells it like it is and walks you through the process step-by-step. I can't recommend her enough! Such a blessing!
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12 Feb, 2015 by Elizabeth
I have worked with Donna for over 20 years, in the matters of Estate Planning, and Elder Law. She is knowledgeable, competent, easy to work with, and she truly cares about the people she helps! She is not only the attorney I recommend to my clients, she is my own attorney as well. I have worked with other attorneys in town, but none can compare to her level of compassion and competence. She is down to earth and takes time to explain complex issues. She is just excellent!
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12 Aug, 2014 by Mary beth
For eight years, Donna Sobel has helped me as a POA managing my elderly father's affairs.
I highly recommend her. She helped in an emergency situation in 2006 and in all the years since. She is caring, competent, efficient, and affordable.
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18 Mar, 2022 by Niaja
He won my case and he did a great job. I wanted to thank him for the work that he did.
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08 May, 2015 by Andrew
Mr Fleck has handled several mortage foreclouser cases for me . His knowlege of the law is amazing. The outcome of each case was past anything that I would of expected. I would highley advise speaking to John prior to making any other decisions .
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15 Jul, 2014 by Anonymous
I used Mr. Fleck for my divorce and he was excellent in making sure I was protected. I recommended him to a friend for his divorce and his guidance was flawless. I recommended him again to another friend for bankruptcy and he protected him without fail. I asked him for legal guidance on another issue and his response time was impeccable along with his legal recommendations. I live in another state and the lawyers here are horrible. I highly recommend him. His approach is a no nonsense approach and his legal knowledge is impeccable.
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01 Dec, 2022 by John
When my mother passed away, I hired Brandon to assist me with the administration of her trust. He was very respectful in working through the process, and he was always quick to respond to my questions. There were some unforeseen challenges that arose, but Brandon worked effectively to resolve those. I highly recommend him!
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20 Jul, 2020 by Anonymous
Brandon had the patience of a saint as I was dealing with my aging parents. Professional, always courteous, he went above and beyond my expectations. I would definitely recommend Brandon, and I would definitely hire him again :-)
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14 Jul, 2020 by Jayne
Following my husband’s sudden death I met with Attorney Robinson. Overwhelmed and grief stricken I relied on Brandon who was not only well equipped professionally but showed empathy and compassion.The Trust was from another state and very complicated. An effective communicator, my financial advisor in New Hampshire complimented me on choosing Brandon and his firm. I am profoundly grateful.
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12 Aug, 2013 by Anonymous
I have many friends in the local Sarasota and Bradenton Florida legal communities. When it came time for my wife and I to update our complex estate planning, I first asked my friends for recommendations. The one resounding recommendation was Attorney Todd Kaplan. I was told that he would not only serve my needs, but that he is the area's premier estate planning, probate, trust administration, business and tax attorney. I couldn't agree more, and my wife and I found Todd to be personable, respectful, professional, knowledgeable and that he obviously possesses a solid report in the legal community. Like Todd, his staff is easy to deal with and exemplify excellence. When it came to our disabled child, Todd was not only compassionate, but we were surprised to find that Todd is highly involved in a local charity for people with disabilities. Seeing such a busy attorney giving so much back to the community was very impressive. Likewise, his tax planning for our child's disability and my several businesses is the epitome of a skilled practitioner. After completion of my estate planning, I chose Todd to represent my businesses as well, and he has shown the exact same diligence and high standard that I have become accustomed to. When my mother passed away several months after we discovered Todd, he also represented me as personal representative in the probate of my mother's estate. He has that "x-factor" magnetic personality that makes everyone seem to gravitate toward him. I have dealt with many attorneys in the past, and I realized quickly that Mr. Kaplan is the attorney that I want on my side. For the reader of this review, if you take anything away from what I have written above, it should be that Mr. Kaplan is one of the few well-rounded and highly skilled attorneys that represent what the rest of the legal industry should strive to be.
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08 Jan, 2013 by Joan
Todd was reccomended by a neighbor and friend to update my will and trust since it had not been updated since my husband passed away 8 years ago. I had put off making revisions to my will and trust since my husband passed away because my last experience with another local attorney who had drafted our first will and trust (and then handled my husband's estate) was not a positive one. Based on that last experience, I was intimidated to see an attorney by myself but knew that i needed to get this accomplished. When i got to the offices of Icard Merrill in Lakewood Ranch, I was greeted warmly by the receptionist and then by Todd's legal assistant. Mr. Kaplan was on time for the appointment and from the first minute, I was comforted by his demeanor. He took the time to explain the relevant laws, review my documents and make good suggestions that will save my children alot of time and money upon my passing. He provided me with a flat fee quote (and actually charged me a little less than quoted) and my work was completed relatively timely. Overall, I was extremely happy with the and comforted by the experience. If you are like me and heistant to see an attorney, I would not hesitate to suggest and reccomend Todd.
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16 May, 2012 by Jennifer
I came to see Todd for issues and advice regarding my company. We have grown substantially over the past few years but did not have all of the necessary documentation to protect myself and my business. I have partners and Todd took the time to explain a number of issues and problems with the current structure. He also had several suggestions to reduce our current tax liability. Todd ultimately drafted a well needed operating/buy-sell agreement that was specific to our business needs. This new operating agreement was far better than the cookie cutter Operating agreement (full of errors) that I got when I set up my company with another local attorney.I also just made an appointment to update mine and my husband's wills and trusts since they have not been looked at in over 10 years. I presume that this experience will be as successful as the first one. I definately recommend Todd to anyone looking for a smart, knowledgeable (and affordable) attorney.
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09 Nov, 2016 by Adria
Kathy was very thoughtful and thorough in attaining the information she needed to help me, and she did so in a kind, caring manner. Thank you Kathy.
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02 Jul, 2015 by Manny
Kathleen Herbach is an extremely knowledgeable and professional attorney. Her attention to detail really inspired my confidence. Her compassion sealed the deal!
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18 Feb, 2013 by Amy
Kathy is extremely professional with a HEART! She will answer any and all questions no matter how stupid you think they are. If she can't talk to you by phone at the moment, she gets back to you very quickly. She's funny and fun but really knows the law and has some great ideas to help out. I'm very fortunate I found her. My friend is now seeing her also. I recommend her to anyone that needs a caring, trustworthy attorney. I'm one of the lucky ones!!!
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16 Nov, 2010 by William
I contacted Jason to help me with the tough and sad times of caring for my grandmother in her finals months. Jason was very compassionate to my situation and helped immensely in preparing all the necessary documents for her.
Jason's demeanor and compassion were a very welcomed change to the normal "turn and burn" attitude with which most attorneys these days approach these types of situations.
I would highly recommend Jason for any and all services for which he is an expert.
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04 Nov, 2010 by Joseph
Mr. DePaola's depth of knowledge and professionalism were evident by the way he handled different engagements, including purchasing real estate and fielding numerous questions/concerns related to the complex estate of a loved one. His timeliness and the rate of information flow far exceeded my lofty expectations. As a result of my experiences working with Mr. DePaola on more than one occasion, I have absolutely no qualms recommending him, and I will no doubt call upon him again as the needs arise.
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27 Sep, 2010 by Britta
Over the years, Jason DePaola has handled several legal matters for my family and my business. I always find him to be extremely responsive and clear-sighted, with a solid knowledge of the law. And here's the bonus: he's personable and communicates like a human being. When it comes to choosing a lawyer, I want someone who can put me at ease with whatever situation may arise. That's what I get with Jason.
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09 Feb, 2022 by Elizabeth
My 104-year old Mother, on Medicaid for years, was suddenly Medicaid disqualified. Sierra was able to resolve the problem quickly and effectively. I highly recommend her for any Medicaid issues.
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17 Aug, 2017 by Yvonne
I can not rave about Sierra Butler at Butler Elder Law enough. Sierra helped my family and I through an extremely difficult time in our lives. We had two other lawyers who had neglected to do their jobs accurately and had failed to file important documents in a timely matter. I was panicking and stressed and Sierra came through in a big way. She literally fixed everything for us. We had a complicated situation and what started out as something we thought was going to take multiple court visits and multiple pleadings ended up being handled quickly and efficiently by Sierra. She was patient and kind and thorough in her explanations. She knew her what she was talking about and after the first conversation with her, I knew we'd picked the right lawyer. She was always easily accessible, both on the phone and through email, and got back with me promptly. All of these are things we had not experienced with our other lawyers. I can say without conviction that you will not be disappointed with her.
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28 Mar, 2015 by Debra
I highly recommend Anne Sheffler Douglass for anyone needing an attorney who is well versed on all legal matters. Anne is empathetic, responsive, and highly qualified to give you the best client service experience you will ever have with an attorney. I needed immediate legal advice, and Anne more than exceeded my expectations for the situations I presented to her. She is a problem solver, and her knowledge and expertise is exceptional. Due to that immediate help, our family has made Anne our legal counselor for all legal matters.
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22 Feb, 2012 by John
Attorney Anne Sheffler Douglass is an outstanding lawyer. She not only is extremely competent in her field, but demonstrates a caring concern for her clients. She is an excellent communicator and has been very responsive to our needs.
In our dealings with Attorney Douglass we were made to feel comfortable and we felt that she listened to our concerns, answered questions and solved difficult problems that we presented.
I have used the services of several attorneys, but have never been as pleased as I have with Attorney Douglass.
I recommend her most highly and without any reservations.
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26 Jan, 2018 by Dennis
I used Mr Elliott on some personal documents that I needed for my will. He was quick and thorough. I would recommend and do recommend him to my friends and family
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22 Jul, 2013 by Jackie
I contacted Mr. Elliot for a matter that needed prompt handling- he was quick and responsive and helpful.
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16 Jul, 2009 by Anonymous
Bob has great research skills and was able to find out statues and information that really helped my case. His down-to-earth personality and instant rapport made it very easy to understand the more complicated parts of the law regarding my case. He was quick to return phone calls and emails; I always felt like I was in good hands. I will be sure to turn to him whenever the need arises.
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03 Feb, 2011 by Russell
John has assisted me and my company with various types of legal work over the years. He has been our attorney of choice for more than 10 years. His broad knowledge allows us to paint a general outline and receive a great legal framework and document back from John. He has made a critical difference in protecting our interests more than once.
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02 Dec, 2022 by Robert j. subbiondo jr.
Faith Brown is honest, wise, and concise. Her ability to analyze the facts of the case and law through a compassionate but realistic framework is mitigating the pain and trauma that can occur through legal representation and the process. By refraining from legalese salesmanship she has saved me time, money, and aggravation.
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20 Dec, 2021 by Ty burns
Jim kept me informed and up to date. He checked on me often. It was my first experience with this type of law and was not sure if i needed it as we were never going to go to court etc. I am so happy I went to him! I would NEVER have known what to do, where to go, or how to maneuver thru the complexity of it. I would never have received the compensation I did with out Jim Dodson Law. There are too many things I would have never known on my own. I was concerned about paying a lawyer one third but he MORE than took care of that.
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19 Apr, 2021 by Jason mcdaniel
24 Apr, 2024 by Lorena betancourt carbonell
Muy buena la atención, los consejos, buen servicio en general
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24 Apr, 2024 by Jose alberto 1970 gonzalez
Nuestra experiencia con el abogado Arnoldo de rate y su equipo fue muy exitosa, nos devolvió la confianza y la tranquilidad.verdaderamente un ejemplo de profesionalidad todo su equipo ,nos quitó la corte a mi esposa y nos limpio el camino en este gran paÃs... agradecidos de todo corazón y k dios me lo bendiga..un abrazo
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23 Apr, 2024 by Jendy macia
Mis más profundo agradecimiento a mi abogado defensor de la justicia que lucha por un mundo más justo y equitativo, defensor de los derechos y excelente abogado Arnoldo Arrate y a su equipo legal les envÃo mis más sinceros reconocimientos en su invaluable labor estoy impresionado por su talento , habilidad y la eficiencia de su trabajo al llenarme de felicidad y hacerme residente de este hermoso paÃs en un récord de tiempo. Muchas felicidades y éxitos profesional por la gran labor que realizan . Muchas gracias! aprecio su arduo trabajo y con gusto recomiendo sus servicios a otras personas q puedan necesitar asistencia legal por su diligente representación en mi reciente caso judicial su experiencia y determinación fueron fundamentales para el resultado favorable que hoy disfruto. Muchas gracias aprecio profundamente su arduo trabajo!
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31 Aug, 2024 by Peter billie
In a very trying time for myself, looking for some Expert legal advice. Mrs.Sandaire and the Black Rock Legal Group were not only there in a timely manner, they were offering me advice to get results. You will receive patience, clarity, and understanding from this firm. I was very impressed, and I WILL stand by the work that they put in on the regular. These individuals don't just go to work, they get the job done. Thankyou so much for all your help, it was more than I could even hope or ask for.
Sincerely and Appreciatively, Peter J. Billie Jr.
B.S. in Finance
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27 Jun, 2024 by Dasha gordon
I can only say very good things about this law firm. They did a great job negotiating the settlement amount for my personal injury case following an auto accident. My attorney was Daniel Murphy, and I highly appreciate all his dedicated work, as well as his assistant Lorraine. Daniel was very patient with all my questions and concerns throughout the process, always expressed a lot of knowledge and responded in a timely manner, I felt like I was in good hands from start to finish. Definitely would recommend this office.
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28 May, 2024 by Marie wiggins
Very knowledgeable, affordable great atmosphere the lawyers are very professional and the front desk receptionist is very welcoming and makes your wait time go by fast she will definitely have a conversation with you customer service here is excellent thank you to the team that assisted me. Ms Lorraine thank you for everything and Mr Walsh thank you for helping me with my case thank you to everyone....
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06 May, 2024 by Scott godwin
Libby is a Rock star! She Got an Emergency Motion done for Custody for my 3 kids. She is fast and efficient and me being in North Carolina and have never met her in person she does not let that stop her and slow her down. Sean is great to he helped out a little during my hearing. This place is great and you should definitely use them!!!! Thank you again!
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02 May, 2024 by Heather freed
So nice to work with and answered all of my questions quickly and with a smile. It’s not easy to need a lawyer, but it sure felt that way 😊
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02 May, 2024 by Kathy bustle
My sister lives in Bradenton and referred me to Libby. I needed a Durable POA and also Health Care POA for a relative in assisted living and I would only be in town a few days. We got it all signed, witnessed and notarized — and with less than a week’s notice. Very kind people who work efficiently.
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19 Apr, 2024 by Sally wood mcdonald
As a Realtor, I have always recommended Barnes Walker to my clients because they provide excellent service.
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18 Apr, 2024 by Karen mcmichael
Great professional title/closing agency in Manatee County with many years experience.
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10 Apr, 2024 by Dan diggins
Barnes Walker prepared all our trust documents, wills, powers of attorney, etc. They also set up my new business LLC and reviewed my business lease. All items were completed flawlessly and on time. Barnes Walker have represented us since 2012 we will continue to have their representation in the future.
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02 Oct, 2024 by Stu parker
Great attorney, very responsive and on point. Handle the entire motorcycle accident from start to finish. Very easy and smooth to work with. Always got a response from her personally, and even checked in the see how I was doing and if I needed anything. Went well above and beyond to help.
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02 Oct, 2024 by Stuart
I was involved in a hit and run motorcycle accident back in March, she made dealing with everything extremely smooth. She would even reach out personally to see how I was doing and if there was anything she could do to help above and beyond. Took care of all the insurance and medical needs.
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11 Aug, 2024 by Jean marie hoppe
I was very scared about my financial future as I went through my divorce and into retirement. Daphane and the Army behind her fought for me and everything I needed financially. She's a fighter. Couldn't be happier with my representation.
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13 Apr, 2021 by Anonymous
Does not return calls or emails, and does not keep me updated. I really had high hopes for this attorney. I thought that he was really going to go to bat for me, but he has let me down. I just don't hear from him.
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17 Apr, 2017 by Michelle
Great attorney. Thankful that God lead me to him as I was in a nightmare divorce involving three small children. My case also involved CPS and a pending foreclosure. I couldn't have been in better hands than with Bart who was very experienced and versed in family law and the family court system. He also was able to masterfully negotiate repayment of the loan with my bank and get us out of foreclosure while the divorce pended. His secretary was always wonderful with me and had the patience of a saint with my endless calls. His assistant was also diligent and did a great job. I would definitely recommend him!
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03 Feb, 2017 by Anonymous
Bart Ray was wonderful and very helpful. Fought for what we wanted and wasn't going to give up. Very thankful for this attorney.
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21 May, 2023 by Andrea trapp
Outstanding services
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02 Jul, 2022 by Dustin kaufman
Renee has been so helpful while handling my grandparents estate. She is always nice and respectful when I call for updates. Highly recommended
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28 Aug, 2019 by Seascape cottage
I used Mr. Pratt sue my brother in sister for stealing ftom my mother. One day before the closing of the property, Mr. Pratt file legal paperwork to keep the $$$ from being dispersed to traitors. He did a good—-very fast job to get the paperwork filed in less than 24 hrs. However, he asked me if I wanted to immediately
investigate the finances or ask my brother what happened to the finance. He suggested I ask my brother—-$$$ later I realized He had advised me to choose the wrong answer which costs me $$$ when we could have gotten down to the nitty gritty by doing financial investigation. I became frustrated at spending so much money and figuring out my lawyer was manipulating the case........I completely dropped it and prob out $200k because of lawyer after i had i interviewed 7 others!...
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17 Jul, 2021 by Anonymous
The lawyer filed all of our legal documents incorrectly with the state. We had to hire another lawyer to help clean up the mess. It was a 3 month delay. He still kept the retainer and charged fees. However, everything he did had to be redone. Unprofessional, made appointments and didn’t show up.
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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.
