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03 Nov, 2024 by Carmene
Ms. Dawson-Davis is professional. She helped clarify areas where I was unsure, and explained the law as it pertained to my situation. My Trust was prepared quickly and hand-delivered to my home. All instructions were clear and simple. I would highly recommend Ms. Dawson-Davis to my friends and family.
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13 Oct, 2024 by Shawn terris
Annette genuinely cares about you and ensures your Trust includes everything you want done upon your death by asking you questions, answering your questions in terms that anyone can understand, and advising you. Because of Annette, I sleep well at night knowing my Trust was created in accordance with the laws and will not run into any legal problems. Lastly, she charges a few hundred dollars less than the 3 other Trust attorneys I contacted.
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08 Oct, 2024 by David ames
Annette can do it all. She is fast, professional, and is an expert at attention to detail. She helped me through several legal documents that I needed with a very fast turnaround time (and I wasn't even local to the area). If you want your documents to be done right & quickly, I highly recommend Annette for any of the services that she provides.
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13 Nov, 2023 by Savanah stockton
I have been working with Christopher Young at the Alvarez Firm for a few years now and he has been outstanding. Extremely knowledgeable, professional and compassionate. He cares about his clients and will get the job done for you!
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29 Jul, 2023 by Stephen
I had interviewed several attorney's that were referred to me, and I selected Chris for his candor and thoughtfulness. Chris and his staff were always responsive to my inquiries and their resourcefulness led to a very positive outcome for estate settlement issue I was dealing with. Chris is an outstanding attorney and successfully defended my rights against a strongly adversarial counterparty.
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21 May, 2023 by Mark maxwell
Integrity and expertise! The Alvarez Firm got me a very favorable probate settlement. Justin Alvarez has a 3D chess legal mind. It was an honor and pleasure being their client!
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22 Oct, 2023 by Terry poland
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28 Aug, 2023 by Dean richardson
Wonder attorney and staff!
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11 Aug, 2023 by Sharon willett
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12 Jun, 2017 by Michelle
Mr. Lechman helped my husband and I create trusts. He was patient and walked us through the entire thing, answering all of our questions thoroughly. He was available in Westlake Village as well as Camarillo which was convenient for us.
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17 Feb, 2011 by Linda
Joe is a very patient lawyer who explains everything to you. He is not like an average lawyer in a fancy business suit. He is down to earth and is very fair. He is looking out for your best interest and can tell he cares about what is best for each individual.
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31 Jan, 2024 by Haydence thompson
Guy Bayley is an excellent attorney who gave me solid advice during a consultation that worked out in my favor. He was available to me by text or call to answer any questions I had and help guide me along the way as I worked towards a resolution with my previous landlord. Guy was very honest & upfront & gave me a blueprint on how to resolve my issue on my own & then if it didn’t work, he would step in on my behalf. He is sincere & not just out for the money as I only got a consultation. I ended up following his advice & it all worked out in my favor without having to go to court, retain an attorney, plus the resolution that I ended up agreeing to was almost triple what I initially requested for the troubles the management company caused. I highly recommend Guy Bayley.
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22 Oct, 2023 by Terry poland
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28 Aug, 2023 by Dean richardson
Wonder attorney and staff!
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31 Jan, 2024 by Haydence thompson
Guy Bayley is an excellent attorney who gave me solid advice during a consultation that worked out in my favor. He was available to me by text or call to answer any questions I had and help guide me along the way as I worked towards a resolution with my previous landlord. Guy was very honest & upfront & gave me a blueprint on how to resolve my issue on my own & then if it didn’t work, he would step in on my behalf. He is sincere & not just out for the money as I only got a consultation. I ended up following his advice & it all worked out in my favor without having to go to court, retain an attorney, plus the resolution that I ended up agreeing to was almost triple what I initially requested for the troubles the management company caused. I highly recommend Guy Bayley.
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22 Oct, 2023 by Terry poland
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28 Aug, 2023 by Dean richardson
Wonder attorney and staff!
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23 Jan, 2024 by Jessica melendrez
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06 Oct, 2023 by Jose antonio gomez
Cameron has personally handled my divorce and custody case. My case was very challenging and sensitive. This law firm has helped restore my parent rights and the relationship with my child. I am beyond thankful for everything.
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22 Sep, 2023 by Marcello v
Moriyah Christie is the voice for those whose words fall on deaf ears in the legal system. She fights for her clients with passion and integrity.What Moriyah has done for me can't be quantified. Life is priceless and I wouldn't be here today without her. I can concentrate on my daughter and rebuilding my life after divorce.Thank you Moriyah!!
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01 Jun, 2014 by Carol
Theresa McConville is very professional in everything she does. She explains everything so you can understand exactly what is going on. She handled several things for my husband and I and when he passed away I felt like I was dealing with a professional friend. She was so patience with me at a time when my brain wasn't exactly working to full capacity. I will never forget her compassion and professional handling of all the legal matters that had to be taken care of. I would never use any other lawyer.
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03 Mar, 2014 by Elaine
My family and I hired Terry to administer my dad & mom's A/B trust after his death. She also helped to dissolve a Family Limited Partnership he had created. All of this was followed up with a new will and trust for my mom. Later, things needed changing as my mom's capacity declined. Terry supported us through that, legally and as a trusted friend and advisor. Everything was done as fast as we needed and was appropriate to our needs. Terry has handled sensitive issues with aplomb, where circumstances could have caused a very volatile situation or a rift in the family. I have complete trust that Terry will solve our problems in her usual no-nonsense manner, but with extreme diplomacy. Terry is very easy to reach either by phone or email, which she replies to quickly. Even if I have an issue that is non E&T, she can generally advise me or point me in the right direction. I would consider her our family attorney now, since 2008. She remembers me and details about me and my family, including the dynamics. Terry looks to me like she's about in her 50s, and if you saw her in the grocery store you wouldn't think, "There's an attorney..." It's likely she'll greet you wearing slacks and a camp-shirt with a pull-over sweater and loafers. Frankly, I appreciate that all her fees aren't going into Ralph Lauren suits and Gucci pumps :-) Her demeanor is very practical and she will talk loud enough that your grandma can hear her. She has had the same admin / paralegal for quite some time. I mention this because retention indicates that she's easy to work with and non-drama. BTW, her admin is more than a gate keeper. She will remember you and will be familiar with your matter. You couldn't pick a more caring and conscientious attorney. BTW, I have worked with several attorneys in the past and can say, Terry does not nickel and dime you, and her rates are lower than average for the area. I've had attorneys burn through a retainer with 10 minutes here and there to "read and evaluate" an email or answer the phone. In other words, you get value for what you pay with Terry's law office.
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07 Jul, 2012 by Bob
My family recently required legal assistance and sought guidance from Ms. McConville. We found her to be extremely responsive, accessible, and also passionate about resolving our legal issue. I found the passion extremely refreshing as I have used legal services in the past, and have never previously experienced that behavior in a lawyer. Ms. McConville expressed genuine concern for our issue and took immediate steps that one wouldn’t ordinarily expect. She was extremely engaged in resolving our problem, and in just a few days had us on the right path. This is not your normal attorney; she delivers gold plated service, receives a five star rating, and gets two thumbs up!!
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What a Probate Lawyer Can Do for You

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

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

When Should I Hire a Probate Lawyer?

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

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

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

What Does a Probate Lawyer Do?

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

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

How Are Probate Lawyers Paid?

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

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

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

How Much Does a Probate Lawyer Cost?

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

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

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

Top Questions to Ask a Probate Lawyer

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

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

How to Check the Credibility of a Probate Lawyer

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

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

What Should I Prepare for My First Consultation?

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

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

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

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