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18 Oct, 2024 by Christopher wall
I recently had the pleasure of working with Gordon Law, P.C. for my family law case, and I cannot recommend them highly enough. From the very first consultation, the team demonstrated a deep understanding of the complexities involved in my situation.
If you are looking for a dedicated and knowledgeable family and divorce lawyer in Brooklyn, Gordon Law, P.C. is an excellent choice. They made a challenging time much more manageable, and I am grateful for their support and guidance.
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18 Oct, 2024 by Brandon barrett
I was nervous about navigating my divorce, but Gordon Law, P.C. provided exceptional support throughout the process. Their team was professional, compassionate, and gave me clear advice every step of the way. They handled everything smoothly, and I am pleased with the outcome. I truly felt like they cared about my case and my well-being.
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14 Oct, 2024 by Mara lopez
Going through this process isn’t easy and can be very intimidating but Gordon Law, P.C. was there for me every step of the way and made me feel comfortable with my case even when times were at a low. Thank you to all the staff for your professionalism and kindness. Highly recommended!
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5.0
21 Reviews
5.0
15 Reviews
03 Sep, 2024 by Mark
Mr. Bohm exceeded all expectations during this difficult time. He navigated the course system to expedited the paperwork needed to settle the estate. if needed in the future, I would not hesitate to call on him again. His professionalism and compassion during this difficult time was very much appreciated
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13 Jan, 2024 by Anonymous
After using a prior law firm that billed in excess of $40,000 in legal fees and could not get the job done, we retained Mr. Bohm who quickly got the job done without issue.
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18 Dec, 2023 by Robert capizzi
We’ve known Pinni and have been his clients since 2016, and he has never, ever, not once, disappointed us,
We wanted to put our Mother's house on the market for sale, so we chose, Pinni Bohm, he handled the roles of Real Estate Broker, Trust Administrator, Closing Attorney,
Extremely knowledgeable, he knows the law, and how the courts work, and ultimately what could have been a very difficult experience was a success due to Pinni Bohm's professionalism, knowledge, expertise and perseverance,
Thank you, Pinni, for making it happen, and for always steering us toward the goal and always reminding us of the big picture.
Pinni Bohm’s contribution to our family’s interests was massive, I couldn’t think of anyone we’d rather have representing us, he is that effective and more,
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04 Apr, 2024 by Daniel pino
01 Mar, 2024 by Darlene bonsignore
Would recommend for estate planning. Accessable, good lawyers, always knowledgeable
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23 Dec, 2022 by Jonathan harris
My experience was extremely positive. Giovanni and his team helped me to handle all of my mother’s affairs. He advised me when she was still alive from dealing with the LTC Facility to all the steps that needed to be done in preparation for our death, to now getting all the necessary paperwork in order. Giovanni and his team have gone above and beyond my expectations and helped me through a very difficult time. I know my mother would have been happy and pleased. I would highly recommend Silvagni & Como.
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22 Jun, 2021 by Gregory kardos
Mr. Rubin did a great job! I would highly recommend him to my friends and family. Thanks again!
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12 Jun, 2017 by Martina m
Thanks for helping navigate legal processes and holding fast.
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12 Jun, 2015 by Margoth b.
Alexander Rubin is dedicated, determined, and willing to go the extra mile. As part of our Legal Team, Alex was instrumental in resolving a complex Real Estate matter for our Cooperative.
Alex Listens to his clients, and at Court was always well prepared. His positive disposition made us feel comfortable and reassured. We were very fortunate to have him by our side, and he will forever be my Attorney of choice...
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14 May, 2024 by Anonymous
William Gillen updated my will and established a trust for me. He also handled the change in ownership of my coop apartment to the trust abd advised me about how to handle many issues involved in these changes.
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30 Apr, 2024 by Anonymous
Mr. Gillen is very experienced and professional. He guided me through the process with patience and expertise. He competently and comprehensively answered all questions and always responded promptly to my additional inquiries. His office was diligent in following up and keeping me advised of all steps taken and development until completion.
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30 Apr, 2024 by Sharon
We used Will for closing on the house we sold, and the house we bought. He was extremely helpful and knowledgeable, and always got back to me when I had a question to ask.
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06 Aug, 2024 by Turabek
Assalomu allekum Farrux aka kattakon raxmat sudni tez va oson yutib berdiz umringiz uzoq bo’lsin raxmat kattakon
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12 Sep, 2022 by Joshua
I was lucky to come across to Farrukh with my nephew’s immigration case. Farrukh’s fee seemed reasonable to me and we decided to give it a shot, although I was not sure if need to hire him. But he did great job. He was superb. My nephew is happy as we work through our case.
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10 Sep, 2022 by Joel
Mr. Nuridinov vacated my warrant without any problems. I was very afraid that I will be arrested upon my return from the airport. But Mr. Nuridinov had skillfully done everything. I had no problems whatsoever. My case was dismissed. Finally I can sleep well.
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29 Dec, 2022 by Diego j
Mr. Reinhardt was perfection. On our first contact over the phone he was well spoken very informative and gave us very good advice. At our closing he was punctual and very well dressed. He was very professional and kind to us he took his time explaining each and every contract we were signing. Also took extra time to explain some other questions I had about the property and some tax questions I had. After the closing he made himself available if we had any other questions or any problems with the property. I would not only recommend his services but he got a client with me for life.
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14 Oct, 2022 by Carolee
Mr. Reinhardt is very thorough, he ensured that myself and my mom has 1st time homebuyers understood what was asked of us before signing any paperwork. He took the time to explain each document one at a time.
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23 Sep, 2022 by Richard freeman
Mr. Reinhardt was great..he handled everything without a hitch with the closing of my house. Special thanks to Rosa, she is absolutely amazing, professional and thorough. On top of that a great personality.
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07 Jan, 2020 by Vadim
Me and my wife needed a legal help for our estate planning purposes. So we have decided to choose Marianna Schwartsman at Schwartsman Law Group. She did what we needed and did it very professionally. She have answered all the questions we asked.
Plus she was very nice and friendly with. We are very happy with this firm. Would recommend to our friends. Thank you.
Vadim
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06 Jan, 2020 by Collin morgan
I had the pleasure of working with Marianna after the death of my mom. It was a difficult time, and I appreciated Marianna’s thoughtful counsel and excellent guidance throughout that period. The entire process went very smoothly. Each step along the way was clearly explained. Recommend!
I had the pleasure of working with Marianna after the death of my mom. It was a difficult time, and I appreciated Marianna’s thoughtful counsel and excellent guidance throughout that period. The entire process went very smoothly. Each step along the way was clearly explained. Recommend!
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30 Dec, 2019 by Damian greer
Marianna Schwartsman was great to work with. She helped us feel comfortable understanding the different options. She also made sure we were taken care of. She responded very quickly and was always available when we had questions
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08 Nov, 2023 by Svetlana and leonid
Mr. Steven Guerra is an amazing lawyer. He is very knowledgeable, professional , always gives appropriate advice, and explains in great
detail all the questions we have, without us feeling like we are rushed !! ( This was important to us because English is not our first language). Mr.Guerra also works with your time frame and responds promptly to any emails and/or phone calls. He takes care of all the guessing and our concerns and uncertainties, which made it easy and a positive experience to work with Mr.Guerra !
Thank you Mr.Guerra for all of your time and your help !!! We could not have done anything without you!
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08 Jun, 2023 by Jeffrey
Steven is by far the most competent, caring and efficient attorney I've met in a long time. I highly recommend Steven for any and all legal issues within his knowledge base.
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03 May, 2022 by Sam
Mr. Steven Guerra is such a brilliant lawyer. I am so grateful for his passion, dedication, and professionalism. Mr. Guerra took his time explaining every item we discussed.
Thank you, Steven!
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29 Aug, 2023 by Sean
Bankruptcy is a scary and depressing situation. Mr. Kanzer and his associate Gernaldi walk you right through it. They have been doing this a long time. They help you out all the way through. They always get back to yo promptly.
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29 Aug, 2023 by Anonymous
Excellent service, Mr Kanzer and Mr Gennady delivered the service that they promised.
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07 Mar, 2023 by Orest zapototsky
Was very peaticular on each creditor, always answers my calls,no extra charge for not planning visit.
Very low cost compared with previous time.
Even with my high income made it go through. Excellent job in reasonable cost .
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08 Aug, 2023 by Mohammed
Stephen is an excellent attorney with decades of valuable experience. He brings a human touch to all of his cases and transactions. Highly recommend working with his office.
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01 Jul, 2022 by Anonymous
Stephen handled a closing on the sale of a house that was in an irrevocable trust. House was located in NY, I was out of state, so this wasn't a simple transaction. Their office was easy to deal with and everything went smoothly.
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20 Jun, 2020 by Dean
Steve represented me in a real estate and matrimonial matter. He is very knowledgeable and cares about his clients. I would not hesitate to use his services again.
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06 Jun, 2017 by Morgan
I would highly recommend ShoshanA Brenenson she is very professional and makes you fully understand the process I am going to recommend her to all of my friends and family.
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28 Feb, 2017 by Jacob
Shoshana Brenenson was hired by our family to execute a will and trust for the estate of my brother which she did in a most professional manner.I would recommend her for anyone that"s looking for an excellent attorney for estate planning.
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10 May, 2016 by Diac
As the executor of my uncle's will, I would have been swamped except for Attorney Shoshana Brenenson. She managed the process, including probate, with diligence, skill and efficiency. She communicated with family members effectively and with grace and diplomacy. I am very happy that Shoshana handled my case.
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08 May, 2019 by Lisa
Renata Landskind has been my family counsel for just about 17 years. When I first met Renata, she was handling a lawsuit for my great aunt. Since that time Renata was always my go-to attorney in any of my legal matters. She is consistently knowledgeable, professional, pleasant, kind, patient, responsive, trustworthy, intelligent and sharp. Renata will without question look after your best interest.
For 17 years I have reached out to Renata with professional matters and personal family matters. I have referred clients, family members and friends to her for legal representation. I have never once been disappointed in the feedback I received. She takes nothing lightly and whatever is important to you is essential to her.
I say this with full confidence that Renata Landskind is one of the best in her field. I consider her an asset in my circle and in the community she represents. If you decide to retain Renata, you will surely have an accomplished, competent and talented attorney in your life.
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26 Apr, 2019 by Mike
I would like to add to add to the many positive reviews of Renata Landskind. We recently used her firm for a real estate closing of my mothers' home in Brooklyn. She was the ultimate professional. She advised on legal issues as well as tax and obviously real estate issues . She was very attentive to our concerns and utilized emails, text and phone to keep us informed of the negotiations. Most importantly, her experience and advice proved invaluable in our negotiations with the buyer.The closing could not have been any easier due to her preparation and negotiation skills . I highly recommend her firm to all. Mike
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14 Feb, 2019 by Juliana
I first used Renata’s services some 15 years ago to prepare my will and some other related documents. More recently, I hired Renata’s services to prepare my family’s Estate Planning documents. The entire process was a stress-free experience. Simply put, Renata never disappoints. She is knowledgeable, courteous, accessible and responsive to all our needs – even making a house-call when my husband was unable to travel. I have, and continue to recommend her to my extended family members as well as neighbors and friends.
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17 Nov, 2016 by Anonymous
I reached out to Yana with a question about the optimal ownership status of a house for tax filing purposes after a divorce. She asked clear questions that got to the heart of the matter and helped me see the way forward (which didn't require an attorney). However, when I do need to hire someone down the road, I will most certainly start with her.
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20 Jun, 2016 by Marina
If you are looking for a knowledgeable, highly professional and dedicated attorney specializing in Trusts and Estates, look no further. Yana Pechersky has all of those qualities and so much more. She is very personable and puts in effort and time to represent your best interests. I highly recommend her services.
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09 Sep, 2014 by Robert
Yana listened to my concerns about how best to construct the last will and testment for my worldly estate and assets, especially considering the protection I wanted to afford to my children. She also considered that I didn't want them to experience division and bitterness over my worldly legacy once I was gone. Yana also listened to my concerns about my own healthcare and what I'd want my health proxies to do. She crafted documents that addressed all these concerns, and more that I hadn't even considered.
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07 Dec, 2016 by Donette
Mr. Brown is very knowledgeable in estate planning. He was extremely patient in answering our questions and clarifying all the nuances of our estate planning. He was prompt in answering emails and made himself quite accessible for follow up questions. his fees are also very reasonable.
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24 May, 2016 by Louise
I hired Mr. Brown in 2015 to find if my Mom was entitled to pension from a closed company. At the time I only wanted to find the information for my elderly mom. She belong to a union when she was employed by this company. I approached Mr. Brown and provided very little information. I was amazed Mr. Brown worked on this case with limited information. He was able to contact the union and provided all the necessary documents to the union. My mom was able to received the pension retroactive from April 2003 to now. I am very satisfied with his excellent services. I will now need his services on probate the will and transfer of Coop Apt. I am confident he will provide excellent services again!
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19 May, 2016 by Justin
Mr. Brown went the extra mile in getting answers and discovering information necessary to bring the case to a favorable and fair conclusion. He was very patient, cordial, respectful and professional. We would recommend him to anyone. We are very pleased with his work.
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08 Aug, 2024 by Elena
Lina was very professional representing me when I was both purchasing and later selling my Manhattan studio. She walked me through each process, and she was knowledgeable and attentive to details. I would definitely recommend her to our friends or anyone looking for a real estate attorney.
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18 Sep, 2020 by Elyse
I was told by everyone I knew to file bankruptcy, including several attorneys, but Lina came in to save the day! She helped me escape the clutches of a monstrous mortgage in 2013 and helped me get into a way better one in 2020! She is so humble and diligent. I love her and her work ethic!!
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16 Nov, 2018 by Anonymous
Words cannot express our gratitude to Lina E. Singer for her excellence in representing us. Steadfast, dilligent, and persistant, professional, Lina's concern, attention to detail, and care for our case (which we won, thanks to Lina) were beyond our expectations. Highly recommend Lina to anyone. Thanks, Lina!
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09 May, 2019 by Lisa
I first met Terence in 2016 following the death of my father. I was distraught and required assistance with my father’s estate. Terence was knowledgeable, kind and took control of the challenges involved in the estate process and obstacles. Terence and his team treated me with kindness, patience, respect, and a careful and accurate legal process. Terence got the job done and did not drag his feet. He consistently greeted me with a smile as did the rest of his team. The team returned phone calls and never did I feel rushed or a bother.
Terence is the type of attorney you could be confident and proud of in representing you or your loved ones.
I highly recommend Terence as a competent, intelligent, compassionate and respectable attorney who can undoubtedly provide anyone with ethical and honorable representation.
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29 Apr, 2019 by Mike
I've used the services of Terence Ricaforte over the past several years. He was instrumental in advising us on how to receive Medicaid Benefits for my mother and all the associated Estate and trust preparations. Terence provided excellent service and advise and this resulted in us receiving the needed benefits for my mother in a relatively short period of time. Terence was instrumental in diffusing a potential situation with the Administrative Judge and HRA attorneys . Terence provided consultation and support in spite of issues I had with his previous employer. Upon my mother's passing, Terence also advised on real estate and tax issues associated with the selling of my mother's home and saved us significant monies and time. I highly recommend his firm Landskind& Ricaforte for all these issues.They do care about their clients and I would not hesitate to recommend them for their honesty ,integrity, and professionalism. And the staff is courteous and responsive.
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11 Feb, 2019 by Corinne
My family has used Terence's services on several occasions. Not only has Terence provided expert legal advice, but he's taken the time to present all of our options and raised points we hadn't previously considered, or even known we should be thinking about. Estate planning for aging relatives can be a challenging and emotional process, but Terence's smart, thoughtful and customer friendly approach made the process easy. I've recommended him and his practice to many friends and colleagues, and the feedback I hear from those who use his services is also consistently positive.
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21 Feb, 2024 by Julie
My grandparental visitation case took place in multiple states and lasted almost 10 years. Susan is a fierce advocate. Her knowledge of the law and understanding of nuances and intricacies in the judicial process make her formidable. Susan’s expertise and skillful filings allowed me to keep in contact with my only grandchild. Susan fought in multiple courts, up to the State Supreme Court. She presented exceptional arguments through multiple appeals and ultimately secured that our Order was upheld. When my case moved to another state, Susan worked, often at her own cost, to help my new attorney. Susan ensured that we prevailed, thereby securing our Order would be enforced across states. Susan is a principled person. She has a strong moral compass and considers all options carefully. I was confident that whatever course of action or guidance she recommended to me was well thought through. Susan always had my best interest at heart. She followed through our legal battles with conviction because she believes in what she does, she believes in fairness and justice. I recommend her without reservation.
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16 Feb, 2024 by Anonymous
I had the pleasure to work with Susan on a very challenging custody case that lasted almost 3 years. She was extremely professional, aggressively representing her client, fair in her dealings with the opposing counsel, deeply knowledgeable on the law and very courteous and responsive. I highly recommend her to anyone seeking high quality representation in Divorce or Family Court proceedings .
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19 Apr, 2016 by J. h.
Mr. Gray saved the day! I recently hired Peter Gray to overturn a fraudulent deed that was filed against my property in Brooklyn. He swiftly filed all of the necessary documents in supreme court, argued my case and WON. Fraudulent deed overturned and the thief that filed the deed is now in jail. GREAT JOB!!!! Mr. Gray went above and beyond the call of duty. Outstanding attorney and great guy to deal with. I've since referred him to a number of friends and business associates. They've all had similar results.
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16 Apr, 2016 by John
Pete was able to handle the issues presented to him in a timely and efficent manner. His thoroughness and attention to detail and ability to handle a difficicult situation stand him well above any other attorney I have ever known. I don't know what we would have done without him.
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13 Apr, 2020 by Meaghan
I am so thankful we found Daniel. Daniel helped us decide between creating a trust or a will. Never did I feel like he was trying to sell me anything. Just advising us on what would be best for my family and I. Daniel was thorough, reliable, patient, communicative, always reachable, and answered every question I had. He spent time explaining everything in depth until I understood it. We really felt we were in excellent hands and I would recommend him to anyone looking to do estate planning.
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01 Jan, 2019 by Sarah
Hiring Mark was the best decision i ever made. He is an expert in his field his determination and ambition led me to getting everything i requested and more!! He is a real professional and will get the job done. I strongly recommend hiring him for all your needs!!!
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10 Aug, 2016 by Anonymous
Excellent lawyer Thorough and compassionate.
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26 Nov, 2016 by Rachel
excellent and caring. I have had the pleasure of retaining Mr. Good for a variety of real estate transactions...as a buyer and seller. I would strongly recommend him for any type of legal transactions that require an attorney. Genuine nice guy , very intelligent
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05 Nov, 2016 by Anonymous
Both partners of the firm have helped me. Ms. Taffe has been great in helping with our immigration difficulties. She takes the time to accommodate our schedules and advise us through the complex process. She is very blunt, transparent, and diligent in her communication, and representation.
Lincoln, excellent criminal defense attorney. He was able to negotiate an excellent plea for my son. It feels great having a fellow West Indian on your side advocating on your behalf.
Taffe and Walters you Rock! The firm that cares indeed....
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19 Oct, 2022 by Jennifer mundo
Excellent lawyer made for the job. He is professional and always gets back to you when he says he will. He is never afraid to speak up for his clients and is very patient. Approachable and never cut dry or dismissive. More lawyers need to be like him!
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27 Dec, 2010 by Will
I was in dire straits when I was directed to Mr. Kopito I met with him explained my situation. He gave me his direct opinion of the case, asked if I was in for the long haul. And he stuck with it for four long years. We won that case thanks to knowlege of the probate system. I hope I never need him again but I would not hesitate to call.
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08 Sep, 2015 by Anonymous
I had a last will and testament drawn up by them and they were very professional and thorough. They made me feel completely taken care of and I would highly recommend their services for people looking for wills or estate planning.
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25 Sep, 2023 by Piki piki
One of the things I like about Mark is his ability to provide sound and practical insights about legal issues. He is extremely resourceful and knowledgeable. His duty of care to clients goes beyond the formal requirements- but he shows empathy and understanding of client’s needs. Lastly, Mark is simply a kind human being.
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27 Aug, 2023 by B. bryson-weir
I had a unique and extremely complicated issue, Mark took care if it with good humor and wisdom. He succeeded where I did not think it was possible. Thank you thank you.
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16 Aug, 2021 by Yuri yudin
A thorough and thoughtful fighter...
Mark just won my family case that lasted a year. His perseverance, experience and insight helped achieve this. A thorough and old school lawyer, hard to find these days.
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12 Mar, 2023 by Raizelm
28 Jun, 2021 by Sidney markowitz
Nice people great service
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18 Mar, 2019 by Charles weiser
His expertise is second to none and most importantly he is as responsive as any lawyer I know!
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12 May, 2024 by Leanna rolappe
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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.
