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23 Feb, 2025 by Diane baker
Great service very informative the staffs are knowledgeable and professional.
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01 Feb, 2025 by Lisa compe
He service was prompt, professional and achieved very positive results. I would highly recommend him to anyone in need of representation.
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25 Jan, 2025 by Michael
I have known Peter since law school. He is an extremely competent trial attorney who is not afraid to take a case to verdict.
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04 May, 2021 by Vadim
Sophia helped us plan and apply for Medicaid, took the time to explain the process and stayed with us every step of the way.
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23 Oct, 2018 by Faina
My mother is 95 years old and the city of NY incorrectly assumed it’s ok to remove her 12 hour a day home attendant services to 8 hours. I was greatly upset and was referred to Sofiya’s law practice from a family friend. Sofiya was very detail oriented in checking on all specific day and times of correspondences with Integra and in her due diligence found mistakes they made and immediately returned the 12 hour home attendants for 7 days a week again. I greatly recommend her to anyone looking for help in this area.
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28 Jul, 2017 by Anonymous
I served as a guardian for a family member and retained Ms. Nozhnik when the time came to finalize the guardianship. Ms. Nozhnik diligently reviewed all pertinent documents, confirmed the underlying facts, and patiently explained the entire process to me, which included an overview of legal documents she would need to draft and file with the court. She then drafted the required motion with great accuracy and attention to detail and submitted it within the time frame that she committed to. The entire process was very transparent and we were in constant communication. Also, Ms. Nozhnik provided a great sense of comfort to our family during such difficult and emotional times. I highly recommend her.
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29 May, 2023 by Tifanie bennett
29 May, 2023 by Joseph lord
Very Professional, highly recommend.
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29 May, 2023 by The johnson's
12 Sep, 2016 by Mike
I used Marcel Sager and his team to handle the closing of my house sale in Flatlands Brooklyn. He is a profession tenured lawyer who made this cumbersome process painless. He accommodated several changes I made without nickel and diming me on fees and I appreciated his flexibility and outstanding support. His team of paralegals were excellent as well. I strongly recommend Marcel Sager!!
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26 Jun, 2014 by D.
Marcel Sager, is a very hard worker and has many case loads. He was very knowledgeable and charismatic, but his listening skills needs improvement. I will need his assistance again, but he needs to be aware when his clients need to speak he should be attentive and listen to all facts.
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15 Dec, 2013 by Vlad
I'm new to the New York real estate market and came across Mr. Sager's office as I previously lived around the block. Mr. Sager represented me in the purchase of a Condo earlier this year. Communication was always clear and direct, Mr. Sager was always attentive to my repeated e-mails with questions along the way. He helped us navigate an otherwise complicated process, and I'd highly recommend him for any real estate transaction that you're doing.
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23 Jan, 2025 by Aide audrey
The selection of Mr. Morgan as an attorney was a wonderful choice! Throughout the course of our interactions, it was abundantly clear that he possessed an extensive legal experience and an unambiguous comprehension of the law. In the event that I had any questions, he promptly responded with explanations that I was able to comprehend without much difficulty. As someone who is dealing with commercial difficulties or who requires services relating to trust litigation, I would strongly suggest Mr. Morgan to anyone who is in need of such services.
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19 Dec, 2024 by Ekaterina sukhina
I had the pleasure of working with Rusell Morgan at Morgan Legal Group to set up my family's estate plan, including wills and trusts. Rusell’s professionalism and attention to detail made the process stress-free and straightforward. He explained complex legal concepts in a way I could easily understand and tailored everything to meet my needs. I feel so much more secure about the future now. If you’re looking for estate planning services in NYC, Rusell is the attorney to trust!
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27 Nov, 2024 by Jeffery renard allen
Mr. Gershon, is an excellent lawyer. Thoughtful and concerned, he gives your case his full attention. He knows the law in and out, and he is always honest and forthright, even as he develops a strategy to win. I give him my highest recommendation.
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29 Mar, 2019 by Candess
Yana is one of the most compassionate people you will ever meet. She takes the time to explain the hard processes - whether you are looking to plan out you future or need help through losing a loved one. I highly recommend her.
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06 Jul, 2018 by Marc
Yana is a very professional, knowledgeable, and flexible lawyer. During the process of making a will for my mother, she gave me many options for what I can do. It was very personalized to my needs and was an all-around wonderful experience.
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22 Aug, 2017 by Alex p
Yana very knowledgeable ,professional and accommodating person. I had used her services on couple of occasions. She helped my family ones with the trust and then again with trust/will. As far as price I think she was pretty reasonable too. The most important quality that she has ... she will uphold her promise. You can definitely rely on her she will not let you down. I would recommend Yana Feldman to anybody.
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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 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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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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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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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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12 May, 2024 by Leanna rolappe
04 Apr, 2018 by Joseph mancuso
Mr. Romano was very professional and meticulous. Helpful from the beginning to end.
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25 Nov, 2024 by Mike rizzo
Words can't describe how happy I am that I used Mr. Perskin. I was in a pretty gnarly situation (to say the least) and from the moment we met, he showed immense confidence, listened to me, and fought super SUPER hard for me. It was a relief and gave me so much satisfaction to see how much he got my back (which i didn't have previously). His communication was A+ and in the end I was able to avoid a trial because of him. He kept me honest, managed my expectations, and also i really loved working with his son Jared, that dude is GOING PLACES! I will recommend Brian to everyone and also has an awesome book! thank you thank you!!
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29 Oct, 2024 by Sean paul
Terrible law firm. Did not even take the time to listen to my case he just rushed me off the phone. Do not use this law firm. Horrible!!!
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29 Jan, 2024 by B n
Paid to have my review removed! Cried in court about the truth of their firm ignoring my calls and emails, threatened to give it to judge to further hurt my child custody case, but rachel will speak up in court to give the judge a copy of the google review... looser liberals firm that quit when i went to law enforcement courses. Does not back the Blue...
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09 Nov, 2024 by Salome johannes
Stay away from this law firm. Their m.o. has not changed in years. Someone posted five years ago how Mr. Goldberg gave them the run around. He does the same to me and I am his client! He never returns my phone calls or my emails. I called the office recently and left a message for his partner and nothing. They don't value their clients. Go elsewhere. Had I known what I know now, I would have gone to a different law firm.
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29 Jul, 2018 by Adriane simmons
19 Mar, 2018 by Jassy pha
18 Feb, 2025 by T young
I had the pleasure of working with Nick Khalifeh and his team for Estate Planning needs. From the consultation to document signing, Nick took the time I needed to explain my options so I could make an educated decision on what would work best for my family. The care shown was much appreciated. I would highly recommend and will definitely be working with him for future needs.
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10 Feb, 2025 by Butrus maayah
I hired attorney Nick to assist me with the deed transfer of my property. Nick was very knowledgeable in real estate law and estate planning. Reasonable fees and great service! I will use attorney Nick again for other matters in the future.
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29 Jan, 2025 by Jehad jaffal
I used attorney Nick to prepare my family estate plan. He did an amazing job and got everything done quickly. Highly recommend
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06 Sep, 2024 by Christina barkachi
I had the privilege of working with Basil on my first home purchase, and I am thoroughly impressed with his exceptional legal expertise and professionalism. He was consistently available to address my questions, providing insightful guidance and clear explanations at every step. The fact that he was so patient throughout the process meant the world to me! If you need a lawyer who is not only knowledgeable but also genuinely committed to your best interests, I highly recommend Basil. His outstanding service and personal touch make him an excellent choice for anyone seeking top-tier legal representation.
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05 Sep, 2024 by Carolyn horsam
My local physician recommended Basil to me for the closing of my co-op. I wasn't able to attend the closing, and Basil stood in as my power of attorney. Everything went flawlessly. Would highly recommend.
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05 Sep, 2024 by Michael culyba
Basil was a real pro in handling the purchase of our home in Bay Ridge. As first time homebuyers, Basil patiently guided us through the process and helped us negotiate a number of concessions with the sellers in our favor. He and his staff handled the closing in an efficient and thorough manner. He was even there for us on the phone while he was on vacation as the closing date came about quickly in order to avoid a rate extension. Basil was also honest and transparent with his fees right from the start so there were no surprises at the end. I highly recommend his services!
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09 Oct, 2015 by Anonymous
Ms Charles was easy to talk to about my marital problems. She advocated for me to receive an allowance, health and dental insurance and other well needed services from my estranged husband.
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10 Aug, 2015 by Anonymous
I came to know Ms. Charles through the recommendation of a very satisfied client that had custodial and support needs similar to mine. She was very professional and well versed in the relevant laws. Ms. Charles has tremendous negotiation skills. Her strategy sessions made me feel like my needs were in good hands and I can trust they would be met. I’ve never known another lawyer more prepared or focused. Nothing seems to rattle Ms. Charles or distract her from the goal on a case, which of course, makes her extremely tough to beat. I strongly recommend Ms. Charles for her highly strategic and professional representation.
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05 Aug, 2015 by Amir
This letter, testimonial, is to express my satisfaction with the Law office and personal work of attorney Vernita Charles.
My family and I met Ms. Charles at a time when we were in a very stressful situation, with our house being in foreclosure. We had consulted with brokers who weren't always informative or as professional as they should have been. We had already consulted with real estate attorneys who asked for lots money up front, without much of a commitment on their end. People who were very slow in returning emails and phone calls. We were just about at wits end.
Alas, we were referred to the law office of Attorney Vernita Charles. From the very first day we met her we knew we were in good hands. She took charge immediately, with professionalism, courtesy and respect. The confidence that she exhibited gave us a sense of confidence and well being that we had not felt in a long time.
Ms. Charles took us from not being able to afford the monthly mortgage, and being faced with eviction from our home, to a new mortgage that is very affordable for us.
We are now enjoying our house again, looking forward to facing every day with confidence and a sense of security.
Sincerely,
Amir
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23 Feb, 2025 by Diane baker
Great service very informative the staffs are knowledgeable and professional.
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01 Feb, 2025 by Lisa compe
He service was prompt, professional and achieved very positive results. I would highly recommend him to anyone in need of representation.
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25 Jan, 2025 by Michael
I have known Peter since law school. He is an extremely competent trial attorney who is not afraid to take a case to verdict.
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23 Feb, 2025 by Diane baker
Great service very informative the staffs are knowledgeable and professional.
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01 Feb, 2025 by Lisa compe
He service was prompt, professional and achieved very positive results. I would highly recommend him to anyone in need of representation.
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25 Jan, 2025 by Michael
I have known Peter since law school. He is an extremely competent trial attorney who is not afraid to take a case to verdict.
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23 Feb, 2025 by Diane baker
Great service very informative the staffs are knowledgeable and professional.
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01 Feb, 2025 by Lisa compe
He service was prompt, professional and achieved very positive results. I would highly recommend him to anyone in need of representation.
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25 Jan, 2025 by Michael
I have known Peter since law school. He is an extremely competent trial attorney who is not afraid to take a case to verdict.
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09 Nov, 2024 by Salome johannes
Stay away from this law firm. Their m.o. has not changed in years. Someone posted five years ago how Mr. Goldberg gave them the run around. He does the same to me and I am his client! He never returns my phone calls or my emails. I called the office recently and left a message for his partner and nothing. They don't value their clients. Go elsewhere. Had I known what I know now, I would have gone to a different law firm.
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29 Jul, 2018 by Adriane simmons
19 Mar, 2018 by Jassy pha
07 May, 2023 by Kirabear
I needed to obtain a professional .But after documents were found on this so called 5 star attorney I must warn the public. I can be sure that he will remove this asap.But then you can see him on you tube, and Facebook.He to say the least is not a credible person especially his desires to like young girls and pursue them.5 stars he created on his own.
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25 May, 2021 by Barbara
Mark Friedman sifted through the fluff and got down to no nonsense legal issues I had confronted with my siblings. He helped me be awarded letters of Administration in court despite challenges from foes of equal strength. I was able to control the case with his guidance and keep the estate safe from harm. Although he did most of the heavy lifting, I got paid as an administrator a tidy sum. Thank you!
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28 Jul, 2016 by Stephanie
Mr. Friedman helped me put my sisters Estate in order. He helped me get family members to cooperate and helped solve so many issues that faced my sisters Estate, left which unsolved by a prior attorney. His fees were not cheap but worth it based on results. He had a friendly demeanor in the courtroom (I think the judges like him) and aura when I met him for the first consult I knew I found my attorney. I was just hoping I could afford his expertise ! He seems flexible with payments and is very fair.
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09 Jul, 2022 by Geeta
Nadia Desyatnikova helped me with my Condo closing and also my daughter, with her Condo purchase. She is diligent, detailed and upfront. She goes out of her way to find violations that the Seller may not have disclosed , and prevented us from getting into situations that I may have regretted after purchase.
I recommend her wholeheartedly, please do not hesitate to use her for all your Real Estate needs.
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25 Jun, 2022 by Olga
Nadia helps me to sell the apartment. She is very professional, accurate,
response on questions you may have quickly and professionally.
She makes sure you have copies of everything you sign and explain every single page during closing. She also kindly pick me up from home and drives me to place of closing and back to home. Thanks again Nadia.
I strongly recommended Nadia to my family and friends.
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19 Jun, 2022 by Lilia
Nadia is Not Just a Lawyer She is a Kind Compassionate Humsn Being You Want To Have Tea With Her and Tell Her Your Life Story. Thank You Nadia For Your Kidness For Your Integrity. The Best
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16 Dec, 2024 by Global electronic
“I had a very disappointing experience with Lawyer’s Brian (Baruch) Y. Greenwald.
Gabriel Goldenberg
Associate Attorney while they were representing both parties in drafting an agreement. I trusted them to act fairly and honestly, but unfortunately, that was not the case.
It was evident that their actions were not neutral, which is especially concerning given their role as a mediator in this process. This lack of integrity and professionalism caused significant stress and complications. I would not recommend Brian (Baruch) Y. Greenwald to anyone who is looking for an impartial and trustworthy attorney.”
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12 Mar, 2023 by Raizelm
28 Jun, 2021 by Sidney markowitz
Nice people great service
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04 Oct, 2024 by Joanne carrasquillo
I met Nicole Donnelly back in September 2021 when my mom and I had our first consultation with her. Not only was Nicole bilingual which was a huge blessing, but she was so thoughtful and patient as mom and I had a million questions to ask. She has remained my attorney after the loss of my mom and I wouldn’t have it any other way.
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16 Sep, 2024 by Ricardo de albuquerque
Our attorney, Gladys, is very competent, efficient, and gives practical advice. Highly recommend
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08 Aug, 2024 by Shaka ben david
10 May, 2017 by Allen
My family and I have worked with Patrick for many years, and find him to be the most honest and forthright attorney I have ever met. Patrick always provides me with an honest assessment of whatever issue I bring to him, even if his assessment is that I don't need to hire an attorney. Patrick's practice is one of the very few businesses that has survived all these years on Third Avenue because it is a family business and a part of the Bay Ridge community. They really treat everyone like a neighbor and truly care about our neighborhood. Patrick is and always will be my family's first stop in a crisis. Even if he doesn't have an answer, he always knows where to find one.
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26 Oct, 2016 by Anonymous
I retained this attorney to take over an existing litigation case. From the beginning I was displeased with this attorney's behavior. He is extremely rude, thinks he knows everything and was constantly belittling me. The first time I asked to terminate services and receive my retainer back, he outright refused, insisting that I give him 2 more weeks so he can prove to me that he "is a good lawyer." For those 2 weeks he was avoiding my phone calls until one day I had enough and went to his office, requesting my retainer back in person. He was still giving me a hard time over returning the retainer and kept changing the amount withheld. His clerk first told me $750 would be held back, then the attorney raised it to $2700.00. I disputed this amount and sent him a formal letter of termination and told him that I would possibly seek litigation and other remedies to acquire my rightful refund. It was after receiving my letter that he sent me a letter offering only $6261.00. From $750 that his clerk told me to $3739.00 is a huge difference. To date I have yet to receive anything in regards to a refund and the matter has been handed over to the Brooklyn Bar Association and 2nd District Grievance Committee. I do not recommend this attorney to anyone.
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22 Sep, 2013 by Anthony
More than a lawyer, a sincere friend that understands my situation and fights hard to see that justice is served.
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07 May, 2021 by John
Mike Reinhardt and Abbey Earhard handled my closing professionally and thoroughly. Highly recommend their services
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07 Mar, 2021 by Anonymous
Stay as far away from this law firm and this lawyer. They lie about their price then charge you more in the end. They do less than the bare minimum then want more money to actually work. This guy should lose his license.
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01 Jan, 2021 by Anonymous
This guy is terrible and a liar. Quoted me one price, never contacted me and did nothing for me. Wanted me to get documents for his office and had his secretary call me to push me to do his job. He then told the realtor that I’m making his job difficult for him. He then wanted to charge me double because I told him I’m not getting documents for him that he’s supposed to get himself. I never spoke to him once and ended up switching lawyers. The 2 weeks I was gonna go with him he didn’t do one thing. Should get his law license taken away.
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16 Oct, 2014 by Anonymous
Do not use at all cost. Edmund Fong is lazy, not knowledgeable and will not represent the client. He showed up in court verifying if this is the correct case. Reciting all the facts that are not true. We lost the case and he just walked off pretending nothing happened. Two days later, he called me to remind me of the balance. SeriouslY!?
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16 Oct, 2014 by Anonymous
Do not use at all cost. Edmund Fong is lazy, not knowledgeable and will not represent the client. He showed up in court verifying if this is the correct case. Reciting all the facts that are not true. We lost the case and he just walked off pretending nothing happened. Two days later, he called me toremind me of the balance. SeriouslY!?
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Discover the ideal lawyer
You can search a lawyer by practice area, lawyer name, city, state, or ZIP code
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.
