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17 Aug, 2019 by Antonio
Monica came highly recommended by a friend. In a city that is reputed to have as many attorneys are there are actors, I was a deer in headlights when I was an inaccurately named party to a small-business lawsuit. Monica genuinely listened to my side of the story, and explained my options for tackling the case. I had never been involved in a lawsuit before, and was relying entirely on her counsel. She explained her background, fees, and her assessment of the case. She was calm, collected, and presented my options. All my instincts indicated that she was the perfect lawyer to represent me, and I hired her on the spot.
Monica checked in with me regularly, explained what was happening, and never left me in the dark. After a few months, my case concluded in my favor, and I couldn't be happier.
Monica is an empathetic communicator, and executes. She is analytical, thoughtful, and a performer. As the first attorney I've ever hired for a lawsuit, I don't have a reference point for her attorney rates relative to others. However, there is no question that the value of her services are worth every penny. I highly recommend her.
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21 May, 2018 by Noel
Monica helped us with a trust sale on one of our property. Monica was Very professional and was always there for any questions or concerns. She guided us through the whole process which made us feel very comfortable.
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08 Sep, 2018 by Gabrielle
I had to hire a CA attorney for a complicated case involving 5 states. I’m based in Boston. I found Robyn after multiple referrals.
I was pretty well versed on the case law and was very prepared. Robyn was professional, compassionate, and fair. She followed with every note. She handled my case beautifully.
I could not happier. I would highly recommend Robyn Christo for your matter. She will not let you down!
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04 Feb, 2017 by Martin
My Siblings were the trust administrators of the family trust and I needed a Marin County Trust and Elder Law Litigator. It is unfortunate when your own sibling were not able to be fair, honest and decent as trust administrators. In this era of financial elder abuse, when your some of your siblings get their hands on the money, it's just too easy for them to not use it like their own personal checking account. It might get worse if your family attorney dies and they are able to hire their own attorney for themselves and the trust.
Robyn Christo was a quick study, knew the details of the case and was able to help me focus on a reasonable outcome. She went into the Marin County Probate Court and was able to get me a subpoena of the bank finanical records that I wanted. In the end, she was able to get me a final distribution of trust assets so I could move forward with my life.
Epstein Law Firm does not handle estate planning case, they specialize in trust and estate and elder ligitation. It is unfortunate that I did not find her earlier when one of my parents was still alive.
I would highly recommend Attorney Robyn Christo.
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07 Aug, 2017 by Paul
I hired this attorney two months ago and am very pleased with his performance thus far. He is straight forward and direct, and I feel he has my best interest in mind.
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21 May, 2016 by Mike
Scott Fisher is a very trustworthy and honest professional. My father passed away and he was able to assist in a timely manner and had great communication through the entire process. Very grateful for his professionalism as he assisted me during the loss of a family member and made this difficult situation seem effortless. If you need support with estate planning or probate you can trust that Scott will give you proffessional, honest, and timely results. Thank you again Scott.
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15 Apr, 2016 by Walter
Having been named Executor of Ramona Burns Estate by a legal Last Will and Testament,it became clear that the Estate had to go through the process of Probate according to California law.Sarah was recommended to me by a good friend who had engaged her services in a previous Probate case involving one of her own parents.She was highly recommended.
Because of my particular circumstances,it was essential that the advice I received from a legal professional was on point and helped me to navigate the unique problems that I faced when my good friend died and left me to wind up her affairs as nominated Executor.I might add that Ramona Burns nominated me as Executor with power for her health care decisions(she had suffered a cerebral hemorrhage and was hospitalized for several months before her death),but not with Power of Attorney over her Finances.Essentially,I was left with the maintenance of her home with very little income to maintain the property during the period that she was in intensive care and unable to make any decisions regarding her day to day financial obligations.
With this in mind,it was important that Sarah could counsel me in what I could and couldn't do in the use of assets belonging to the Estate.
The decision to hire Sarah after an initial consultancy was a fortuitous one.
Sarah advised me on what I needed to do.She told me exactly what paperwork I needed to find and provide her with.She informed me of important Court dates that I needed to be aware of and what powers the Court would provide me with in order that I could arrange for the wishes of the deceased to be met with.She performed all the legal State requirements that were incumbent upon her for me and all the paperwork that accompanied these.I never had to go to Court as Sarah made all of it unnecessary.
I can't imagine having a better professional experience with an Attorney .She was exemplary.More than Highly Recommended.5 Stars.
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20 Nov, 2014 by Kristi
Sarah Kirland successfully represented me in a tough case for conservatorship of my 18 year old son with a traumatic brain injury. She was very informative, honest, available and thorough. Very professional with a personal touch, she seems to really care for her clients and their families best interests. I would most definitely recommend her and call on her in the future if needed.
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11 Mar, 2009 by Anonymous
Kathleen was very helpful during a very new experience. She helped me understand what was happening during my claim and kept me informed of all of my options. She did her homework and was completely prepared. Kathleen made a very stressful time less terrible. I would recommend Kathleen Panek and her firm, Knapp and Viola, to anyone who needs a guiding light through an unfortunate time.
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03 Dec, 2008 by Anonymous
Kathleen was very knowledgeable and great to work with.She took her time answering all my questions and kept me informed on everthing that was going on.I highly recommend her.She is the best and I promise you will not be dissapointed.
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21 May, 2015 by Anonymous
Mr. Bidwell helped me tremendously on getting my ex-husband's name removed from a time share deed. I had searched other attorneys online, and was at a dead end. I sat on this issue for a long while, and then started looking again online for an attorney who would take my case. Bingo! Mark was there to help me get through this very involved, arduous process completed. His rate was very reasonably. Forever grateful to Mark Bidwell. Hard work and perseverance really does pay off!! Thanks again Mark.
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20 May, 2015 by Ellen
Mr. Bidwell was instrumental in the distrubution of a very complex trust.
He represented me in a law suit brought on by family members. He listened to a rather emotional defendant and followed u wishes. He was very knowledgeable of the laws involved. He made suggestions but the decision was respectfully mine.
He also was instrumental in forming a trust for me and my family.
I know I could call him for any attorney advice and he would give the best solutions.
He has always shown to be extremely trust worthy and compassionate.
I high recommend Mr. Bidwell. I have referred him to friends and they were completely satisfied.
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26 Jun, 2014 by Assly sayyar
As a business attorney, I knew I needed to prepare a trust and did not want to attempt being my own attorney. I utilized Patty instead and she was knowledgeable, diligent, and even went above and beyond looking into what I needed to set up a practice manager for my own business in the event of my death or incapacity. Being the client in this situation was eye opening and I could not have asked for a better attorney than her.
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16 Sep, 2010 by Anonymous
Particia is one of the smartest and best attorney's in San Diego for wills, trusts, estate planning and probate. She has high interity and eithics. Highly recommend her!
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19 Mar, 2018 by Ann
Ms. Choudhury provided excellent legal work for the estate of my children's father. She asked pertinent questions and kept our family in the loop during all of the proceeding and filing processes. She was very personable and never made us feel like we were asking dumb questions. I would recommend her for any estate planning work!
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15 Feb, 2018 by Leslie
I hired Devika Choudry after my mom passed away when I wasplaced in charge of her estate. There were several issues I needed help navigating, and Devika was not only knowledgeable and skilled at handling my probate case, but also kind and understanding. Devika ensured that all debts that were able to be were written off, and that the investment company released my mother's funds to her estate when they were resistant to doing so. I doont believe I would have been successful in handling this case closing the probate without her.
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28 Sep, 2016 by Pam
My husband and I hired Rebecca to create a Family Trust for us. She was very thorough in leading us through this process. She asked questions and took notes. She asked us to fill out paperwork and send her copies of documents which we gladly did. The whole experience was very professional and pleasant. We highly recommend Rebecca because of her skills as a lawyer and knowledge of California Estate laws.
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15 Jul, 2016 by Patty pottenger
Rebecca is a wonderful lawyer that is patient, listens and makes you feel very comfortable with your personal planning. I will be recommending her to my friends.
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07 Aug, 2009 by Anonymous
I have worked with Kendall VanConas for many many years. She is truly wise and experienced beyond her years and . When it comes to Kendall's clients, her communication, responsiveness, and quality service are a top priority. Kendall's perspective is valuable, and I have gained so much insight as a result. It is always a great pleasure to work with Kendall VanConas.
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09 Jul, 2009 by Anonymous
I've known Ms. Van Conas for several years and have had an extremely satisfying experience with her and her staff. Both Ms. Van Conas and her associates have been the most professional and courteous attorney firms that we've had the pleasure of working with. A 10!
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01 Jan, 2021 by Jeff
Dan advised me on some foreclosure and bankruptcy issues as well as employment contract. He is brutally honest and ethical to a T!
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20 Oct, 2020 by Anonymous
Great lawyer affordable I saved my house! I was in foreclosure and needed help. I was able to get a low repayment. Dan explained everything to me.
Thanks Dan!
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22 Sep, 2016 by Frank
Mark helped communicate the options in a complicated situation. His knowledge of the non profit world and the complexities of 501(c)3 regulations both Federal and State is considerable. His ability to communicate clearly the options was excellent.
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01 Apr, 2013 by John
Mark helped my family through a very tricky situation. He was always patient with us. He explained complex issues in language we could understand, and he helped us feel comfortable making important decisions. Several attorneys were involved in the situation, but Mark's advice was always the most practical and helpful.
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27 Jul, 2015 by Anonymous
Mr. Stubbs took over a complicated Trust Administration after my husband died a year ago. Years ago, we put virtually all our wealth into irrevocable trusts to avoid estate taxes. Unfortunately this labyrinth of trusts imposed significant restrictions on my access to our money. Mr. Stubbs worked out a solution to give me a sufficient monthly payment to maintain my lifestyle for my remaining years. I feel comfortable knowing John Stubbs has my back!
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08 Jul, 2015 by Wendy
I have know John Stubbs for over 15 years. Although I'm an attorney myself, I consult with Mr. Stubbs whenever I have issues in the areas in which he has greater expertise. I have referred friends to Mr. Stubbs for estate planning, and they all have been thrilled with his work. Mr. Stubbs gets my highest recommendation.
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18 Sep, 2015 by Robert
I have referred Alden to my closest friends and others who need a helping hand. The results have been excellent. Alden embraces new disputes and solves problems with enthusiasm, pragmatism and skill. I will continue to recommend Alden.
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01 Apr, 2013 by Monica
If you happen to be in the market and need a lawyer, I would highly recommend Mr. Knisbacher. Through a referral was how I meet Alden K., who worked on my compensation case for a few months. My former employer denied paying my last compensation/ commission check and this is when Mr. Alden came in. He was confident, extremely intelligent and seemed to always know what was coming next. Very knowledgeable of the law, he represented my case which was resolved with a very satisfactory out of the court settlement, which in turn saved money and time for both parties.
He is honest, considerate and looking for his clients’ best interest.
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5.0
2 Reviews
16 Apr, 2019 by Dennis
I hired Julie to review trust documents, change trustee, write new power of attorney, and file changes with county. Julie was clear with explanations of steps needed to accomplish changes and efficient in completing required documents.
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26 Dec, 2012 by Mrs. m
I had tried for over several months, to find an Attorney that would handle Medi-Cal, and not be afraid to fight the system. Most Attorneys said, "You will never win with Medi-Cal - give up". When I called Julie (referred by another attorney), she told us she would be at our house for a consultation. That happened within 24 hours. She took a load off our shoulders that can't be put in words. Her very capable staff called the next morning and let me know what the next step was. To make a real long story shorter, she was able to facilitate and stop the possibility of us being on the streets within a few months. My husband suffered a massive stroke 5 1/2 years ago and is still totally disabled. I truly don't know what we would have done without finding her. Miss Fiedler is caring, knowledgeable, attentive, and knows the system, which can be very nasty and non-caring. Just ask me I know! I am this wonderful man's wife and his best and most tenacious friend. Thank you Julie - Don't even hesitate to call her!
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19 Aug, 2021 by Anonymous
After contacting and consulting the Law Office of Attorney Brianna Giliberto-Hermann, I am very well-pleased with the level of professionalism, politeness, respectfulness, empathy/sympathy, urgency, product knowledge she has demonstrated. Her services are reasonable and fits all budget-types. She is flexible. I was very well-pleased. She went out of her way to please me and provide Legendary Service. She is personable and approachable; outstanding and trustworthy. She has your best interest as a client, gives options, and creates a win-win situation for all parties involved. I would recommend her to others time and time again.
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31 Mar, 2021 by Stephany barbosa
My husband and I worked with Brianna on our estate plan. We had a fantastic experience. She was diligent and answered every single question we had. Moreover, she was extremely flexible with our work schedule - huge help! We look forward to continue working with Brianna in the future. I highly recommend her. She is effective, everything she does is in a professional manner, and she communicates with you every step of the way.
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23 Mar, 2018 by Anonymous
Her and her office did a fantastic job with our estate planning. Thanks so much
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27 Jan, 2015 by Victoria scarth
My husband is a small business owner who's business has continued to grow over the last few years. And with this continued growth we have experienced many common legal issues that arise for small business owners. My husband is a busy man and was worried how he would be able to handle the legal issues arising around us. Kariann came to us from a referral from a friend. She quickly took over and was able to get everything under control for us. She kept us in the loop at all times. We felt very confident with her by outside. She is well organized and very trust worthy. She works hard and puts her clients first. We call her when ever we need help and we have other friends who now use her legal services!!!
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02 Apr, 2019 by Ray
If you need someone to not only provide a well executed trust as well as knowing he will support the wishes when siblings arrive, Mr. Hill is the best. He created a trust for my father. When my siblings decided decide they wanted things done differently, David stepped in and guided me through it all. So not only did Mr. Hill prepare exactly what my father wanted, but his abilities to help during difficult times of distribution was a godsend for me.
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02 Jan, 2019 by Todd
Attorney Hill was professional and timely in preparing all of the necessary documents to avoid probate and was thorough in the funding of my trust.
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22 Apr, 2021 by Kam haghi
He is the best attorney I had. He will do the job right
And he will get you more than you expect.
It is a mistake not to hire him.
He is the best in Bay Area and I recommend him
To every one.
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29 Sep, 2011 by Josephine
I contacted Mr. Scire because I needed a will, health care directive and power of attorney done. My job transferred me to Ireland, therefore I wanted to ensure that my affairs were in order. Domenico went out of his way to come to my home and explain every document in great detail.
He was timely, courteous and knowledgeable. His rates are extremely competitive also, which is something that appealed to me. I have since recommended his services to my friends and family.
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06 Jun, 2013 by Darlyn
Mr. Noel is awesome! He helped me clean up a very big mess my previous attorney made by failing to timely file an important document. I was pleased with the way he was able to persuade the judge to allow us more time, resulting in a much better outcome than I expected. My case took quite some time and Mr. Noel's patience and level of expertise in this area gave me great comfort. I have recommended him to a friend of mine and she has been pleased with him as well. I highly recommend him for issues that are complicated and tricky. I never expected to be in this mess, but I am sure glad that he was there to pull me out of it. Kudos to Mr. Noel! Great job!
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07 Mar, 2013 by Anonymous
We were very pleased with Mr. Noel's attention to detail and thoroughness. I have already recommended him to a friend and am very pleased with his performance.
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24 Feb, 2020 by Jennifer
Working with Lars on my family's wills and estate planning was a very positive experience. He was professional, courteous, efficient, and extremely knowledgeable. I won't hesitate to use Lars again for future legal needs and would strongly recommend him to others.
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12 Feb, 2020 by Sabrina
Lars created a will for my family after the birth of my daughter. It was complicated due to our extensive family. Lars was very patient with us. More importantly he was very knowledgeable about the intricacies of family law. I can’t say enough good things about him. Would highly recommend him to anyone!
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07 Oct, 2016 by Jeff
She was more then willing to speak to me on the phone and give me what information she could bestow. It was a massive help and i really appreciate it, in these hard times.
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01 Jun, 2015 by Anonymous
We completed trust and will work with Ione. We were very pleased with her efficiency, trustworthiness, attitude, availability and reasonableness.
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30 Mar, 2017 by Anonymous
I have known Matt for nearly two years working on a contested probate case. He is diligent, smart and effective. I believe he is the only lawyer I have had that I could say with confidence is a "good person". He also is very sharp and to the point. I hired him after firing a disaster of an attorney. Matt is certainly the most competent attorney I have had.
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25 Jul, 2015 by Anonymous
Longtime friend (30 plus years) died, had left me everything in his will for the previous 15 years. In the last days of his life, his neighbor took him to an attorney to change the will to leave everything to her. Mr. Toth was able to get that last will overturned/nullified and got me what my friend wanted to have.
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02 Nov, 2011 by Collier
In late 2009 I entered the legal offices of Blaha, Hartford, and Perry an absolute train wreck. My wife of 20 years wanted a divorce and I thought my life was over. At 52 with 2 young children, I saw no future for myself as a divorced man. For those who never experienced the divorce process from start to finish in a long term marriage with children, you will never know how it can break you down. For those who have, you know what I am talking about. The pain. Erene saved my life and helped me see the future. She was not just my Lawyer, she became my friend when I really needed one. Erene negotiated a final judgement for me that was a perfect fit. And to feel like a winner in court system that seems to somewhat favor the female, is no easy task. My divorce was final in May of 2011, and today, I am very, very happy. Life is good. Thank you Erene.
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02 Nov, 2011 by Victor l.
Erene is a wonderful attorney. She is knowledgeable, and very responsive to all our needs. Most important of all, I trust her.
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03 Mar, 2020 by Anonymous
Kevin Taheny provided excellent legal advice for my son who was dealing with an acrimonious separation. He got back to us immediately, and was able to explain the applicable laws clearly.
We took his advice and the situation is now resolved.
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05 Apr, 2008 by Anonymous
Mr. Taheny was professional, prompt and competent. His fees were extremely reasonable. I recommend him without reservation.
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11 Apr, 2018 by Anonymous
Even though this was an initial consult, she took plenty of time to answer my questions and give me information. I will be using her for my family trust work.
I am looking forward to working with her.
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12 Jan, 2015 by Heather
Dylan helped me create a will and detailed trust for husband and I. It is not the most fun thing to think about (our demise), but she made it actually an enjoyable experience! She was very professional, quick, easy to work with and thorough. Our trust in particular was complicated and she was effortlessly able to grasp our wishes and even enhance them to create a detailed trust which I feel serves us very well. I rest easier knowing that we have this all taken care of, even though I am only 37 years old! I would highly recommend her to anyone seeking legal advice and indeed recommend her to all my friends and family. It is just the right thing to do to prepare for the future and not let our kids or strangers spend their energy deciphering over our estate.
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10 Jan, 2015 by Veronica
Lael Brown responded within a few hours to my email from Avvo. She needed additional information and is evaluating that before she proceeds. Her rapid response and clear instructions were very helpful.
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09 Feb, 2010 by Tammy
Ms. Brown gave me candid advice and was reasonably priced for an attorney. Will use her again and would recommend to others.
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24 Sep, 2018 by Tanya
She was excellent as my attorney for my chapter 7. She has a wonderful staff and she made a difficult situation easy. I highly recommend her!
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14 Jan, 2018 by Edith
I consulted with and then hired Mrs. Victoria Li for my Estate Planning. From the very first contact to schedule an appointment to the last stages of the Estate Planning process, Mrs. Li and her team were highly organized, very knowledgeable, informative, time-efficient, cost-effective, and immediately responded to any questions that arose. I greatly and especially recommend her services because Mrs. Li walks you professionally and very patiently through all the stages of the process.
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20 Dec, 2023 by Gregorio
Few days ago my wife and I went to Timothy D henry office to ask for his help in preparing our living trust,from the first moment he inspired us great confidence ,we were able to see that he is a great human being,and an excellent attorney we are very pleased with his services,thank you so much Timothy ,
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06 Oct, 2015 by Mike
Tim has been great I had a horrible situation with a family probate case. He has been competent professional and personal I would highly recommend him.
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08 Apr, 2024 by Clinton
Under promise and over deliver…should be Loriann’s mantra. She assisted in my case when it was down to the wire and my back was in the corner. I did not know what to do.
She easily looked at my file and on the next court hearing, things to a dramatic change. In my favor and thanks to her I have my baby girl in my arms. I owe you the world Loriann and if there’s any one looking for a stellar attorney who knows what she is doing in the court room this is the one to get!
With gratitude and I am forever in your debt. Thank you and God bless you!
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26 Mar, 2024 by Brad
Ms. Owens is an incredible lawyer and person. She truly cares and isn’t in it for the money. She is passionate, knowledgeable, patient, empathetic and supportive through the entire court process. Thank you Ms. Owens!
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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:
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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.
