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04 Jan, 2025 by Jason profitt
Needing a lawyer is something no one ever hopes for, but when the situation arises, having someone like Brian Teed by your side makes all the difference. I recently required legal representation for my daughter, and I couldn’t have asked for a more dedicated, compassionate, and skilled advocate. From the very beginning, it was clear that Brian had my daughter’s best interests at heart. He genuinely cared about her well-being and the outcome of the proceedings.
Brian’s extensive knowledge of the law and legal process gave me invaluable peace of mind. He always took the time to explain every step in clear, straightforward terms, ensuring we understood what to expect and felt prepared at every turn. His communication and attention to detail were exceptional, making an otherwise overwhelming situation much more manageable.
I also need to acknowledge Allison Jankowski, who was instrumental throughout this process. Her meticulous attention to detail ensured that we never missed any filings or deadlines, which was critical to our success. Allison’s support and efficiency behind the scenes played a key role in helping us cross the finish line. We couldn’t have achieved the outcome we did without her assistance and dedication.
Thanks to Brian’s and Allison’s unwavering support, we achieved a successful outcome in our case. My family and I feel incredibly fortunate to have had such an outstanding team in our corner during this challenging time. While I hope I never need a lawyer again, if I do, I know exactly who I’ll call.
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29 Nov, 2024 by The best kids
Ish was competent and prepared for my case which he presented before the judge in a totally professional manner. In addition he followed up and successfully finalized some outstanding issues I had. I highly recommend Ish to represent you.
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26 Nov, 2024 by Elizabeth
James McQuade at Burnham Law was great to work with on my estate planning documents. He answered my numerous questions and helped me restate a Trust that had a number of changes. Samantha Durham, paralegal, was also prompt to respond to emails and pleasant to work with. Both James and Samantha were easy to talk to and put me at ease while working on updating my Trust documents. I highly recommend James McQuade for his legal expertise and Burnham Law firm for any estate planning.
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06 May, 2024 by Tom and carol
Carla knows, and shares, everything we needed to know about the documents we need to leave for our survivors. It is a wonderful feeling to know that we have provided a thorough map for our heirs. Carla also helped us discern the Catholic end of life decisions we wish. She is very patient and understanding.
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15 Oct, 2023 by Mike k
I hired Carla for Estate Planning purposes. She helped me organize my thinking around this critical area and completed all pertinent documents. During the interview she took great care to fully understand my needs and wishes, explained any choices I needed to make, and summarized my final decisions for me clearly and accurately. When the paperwork was presented to me I found zero mistakes. Everything was just as we had outlined. Carla was personable and engaged throughout the process and willing to spend all the time with me that I required. The whole experience was easy and quite pleasurable actually.
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06 Sep, 2023 by Aspen
Carla and her staff were amazing from start to finish in handling Wills for my husband and I. She solved a lot of problems and made it all miraculously come together. Carla and her staff are professional, responsive, efficient, patient, and wonderful. Since we are Catholic, Carla prepared complete Catholic Wills for us. We even learned some new things along the way, which boosted our confidence in her even more. Carla is extremely knowledgeable, trustworthy, personable, and concerned about her clients. We've never met another attorney like her before, and we appreciate her so much. We will always be grateful to her, and would highly recommend her.
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23 Dec, 2024 by Megan hart
My husband hired Michael for a very complex child custody case with his ex wife. We worked with Michael for 3 years because of the complexity of the case, and continued unnecessary filings on the the ex wife's side. Him and his paralegal, Benjamin, held our hands the entire way through the process. They were very attentive and responsive when we had questions. They were very knowledgable about case law, and how we could get the best outcome. In the end, my husband won the case and got pretty much everything he requested because Michael put together a solid case that could not be refuted. We hope that we never need a family attorney again, but if we do, we will absolutely return to Michael and his team!
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22 Oct, 2024 by Nate rockitter
I never imagined feeling this good leaving the courtroom this morning. Nicholas Geman turned a potential DUI into a reckless driving charge with minimal restrictions (6 month unsupervised probation, classes & community service). I don't know how he did it, but I am extremely grateful. Hopefully I will never need a lawyer, but if I do I'm contacting Geman Law.
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17 Oct, 2024 by Nick herbst
Working with the team at Geman Law was so helpful and easy. I worked directly with Nicolas and Sarah, and from start to finish the communication was fantastic. I always have a lot of questions about everything and they’re happy to talk through every single one of them, keeping my mind at ease about the whole situation and throughout the process.
They also don’t just settle at the first sign of an offer, they want to be sure you get what the case should be worth. Not only did they do that for me, but they beat my expectations by a long shot. I’m extremely happy with them and the results, I highly recommend them to anyone else.
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17 Jul, 2020 by Tim
Daniel and his team were great. Very detailed and instructive. They did a good job of off site presentation and requirements.
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08 Apr, 2020 by Mike
We recently worked with the Mckenzie Law Firm for estate planning and to develop our family trust. Daniel and his team were great.
Daniel and Tienne were excellent at identifying our wishes, understanding our circumstances, and crafting a trust and related documents that captured what we needed. They accomplished all of this under the difficult circumstances related to Covid-19, going to extraordinary lengths to keep the process moving forward, while at the same time protecting our health.
Daniel, Tienne and Rachel are very personable and a pleasure to work with. We look for and love good process, and they have created a straightforward and efficient process that made developing our trust simple for us. We also found their fees to be extremely reasonable. We can’t recommend them enough.
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26 Feb, 2020 by Joan
Dan and his team did an outstanding job completing our estate planning documents. Rachel was proactive on setting appointments, following up and making sure our experience was a good one. Dan thoroughly explained our options, made excellent recommendations and put our wishes into legal format. I am convinced he and his team created a plan that will make managing our estate as easy as possible. In addition to being highly professional, Dan and his office are very friendly, approachable and reasonably priced.
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01 Mar, 2021 by Cedrick
Mr. Barkman has served our family as an attorney for many years, and we cannot imagine working with anyone else. He is incredibly knowledgeable and will always guide you through whatever services you need with professionalism and compassion. He is great at explaining complex legal issues, and we have never left his office wondering what to expect. With legal matters large or small, he will take care of you the whole way through.
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24 Feb, 2021 by Shearon
Patrick worked magic in the courtroom with my son’s challenging case. His extensive knowledge of the law is unsurpassed and he layers in historical value behind his reasoning. He can out-debate anyone who challenges his intelligence and he can back up everything he says with precedence and facts. He is an amazing attorney who cares about his clientele. I’d hire him again and recommend him to anyone! I trust that he will always make the right decision for his clients. I hired him via Avvo.
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23 Feb, 2021 by Anonymous
Mr. Barkman handled my child custody case, he was professional and compassionate to my case. Barkman spent the time to educate me on the law and what to expect during the proceedings. I would recommend Mr. Barkman to any friend or family member in need of a Family lawyer. Very happy with the results from his representation in my case!
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06 Jun, 2020 by Yanhwa yang
It’s such a pleasant experience when working with Kristen Burke on establishing the escrow instructions and then the amendment projects for an unusual international trading business situation due to the challenging economic downturn. What made Kristen so special to me is that she put herself in the client’s position and understood the client's concerns and needs in addition to her well trained knowledge and professionalism. Kristen’s effort of accommodating the urgent timing required for both projects was greatly appreciated.
I would also like to express my appreciation to Julian Izbiky who replied to my phone call and email, and provided initial consultation.
Overall, it’s a great law firm for those who might need legal advice and assistance.
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27 May, 2020 by Cortni ward
Excellent team to work with. Julian and Kristen are top notch M&A lawyers with years of experience who made my deal a success. Fantastic communication and very responsive. These professionals are THE team to work with in Denver.
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31 Mar, 2020 by Jed1
Best experience with a law firm ever! We were a small client and yet we were treated as VIPs. Calls were returned after hours and on weekends, all as quickly as possible. We always felt important and that they always were looking out for our best interest. We cannot recommend this company enough. They are truly terrific!!!
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12 Nov, 2024 by Carol evered
28 May, 2024 by Erin mcintyre
Skip is very knowledgeable and helps put everything into perspective and layman’s terms when planning for the future. Would highly recommend him for all of your estate planning needs.
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28 Mar, 2024 by Joanne hart
Excellent information and care to process my Trust, Will and other estate documents!!
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13 Mar, 2018 by Heather
I hired this Mr. Newman for a probate issue after my boyfriend's death . The most awful experience of my life. He and Aaron Case did nothing but string me out for 8 months and after their lack of attention to my case had the nerve to charge me thousands to read my emails. I was told that my insignificant case did not warrant thier time or attention but they were so hopeful and attentive when they wanted my retainer!
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FAQs
Questions? We have answers
What a Probate Lawyer Can Do for You
A probate lawyer assists with the legal process of administering a deceased person’s estate. This often involves guiding executors (if a will exists) or beneficiaries (if no will exists) through the probate process to settle the estate according to the deceased’s wishes or applicable laws. Probate lawyers can help validate the will, distribute assets, resolve disputes among heirs, handle outstanding debts or taxes, and ensure the estate is legally and efficiently administered.
Whether you’re an executor of an estate or an heir facing probate proceedings, a probate lawyer can help you navigate the often-complex legal process to ensure the estate is settled correctly.
When Should I Hire a Probate Lawyer?
You should consider hiring a probate lawyer when you are responsible for managing the estate of a deceased individual, especially in the following situations:
- The estate has substantial assets: If the estate includes significant assets like real estate, investments, or business interests, legal assistance is often necessary to handle the distribution properly.
- The will is being contested: If there are disputes among heirs regarding the validity of the will or the division of assets, a probate lawyer can help resolve the conflict.
- The estate includes complex or unclear provisions: If the will contains complicated instructions or there are no clear beneficiaries, a lawyer can ensure that the estate is administered according to legal requirements.
- There is no will (intestate estate): When a person dies without a will, the estate is subject to intestacy laws, which determine how assets are distributed. A probate lawyer can help navigate this process.
- Debt or tax issues exist: If the estate owes significant debts or is subject to estate taxes, a probate lawyer can help ensure debts are paid appropriately and taxes are minimized.
- Probate disputes: If family members or other parties are disputing the distribution of assets or challenging the executor's actions, legal representation is crucial to defending your rights and ensuring the estate is handled properly.
Hiring a probate lawyer early in the process can help avoid costly mistakes and ensure the estate is settled efficiently.
What Does a Probate Lawyer Do?
A probate lawyer provides a wide range of legal services to help manage and settle an estate. Their tasks can include:
- Validating the will: Filing the will with the probate court and ensuring its legal validity.
- Guiding executors or administrators: Advising the person responsible for managing the estate on their duties, including inventorying assets, notifying creditors, and paying debts.
- Filing necessary paperwork: Preparing and submitting the legal documents required to initiate and complete the probate process.
- Resolving disputes: Mediating or litigating disputes among heirs or between beneficiaries and executors, including challenges to the will or disagreements over asset distribution.
- Handling debt and tax matters: Ensuring that outstanding debts, taxes, and estate taxes are properly calculated and paid from the estate’s assets.
- Distributing assets: Ensuring that assets are distributed to the beneficiaries according to the will or intestacy laws, and that all legal requirements are fulfilled.
- Closing the estate: Completing the final steps of the probate process, including filing a final accounting with the court and formally closing the estate.
How Are Probate Lawyers Paid?
Probate lawyers typically charge for their services based on the complexity of the estate and the nature of the legal work involved. Common payment structures include:
- Hourly rate: Most probate lawyers charge by the hour, with rates depending on the lawyer’s experience and the complexity of the estate. Hourly rates can range from $150 to $500 or more.
- Flat fee: For simple estates or straightforward probate tasks, some lawyers may charge a flat fee that covers all of the necessary legal work.
- Percentage of the estate: In some states, probate lawyers are allowed to charge a percentage of the estate's value as their fee. This percentage typically ranges from 2% to 5%, depending on the size of the estate and state regulations.
- Retainer fee: Some lawyers may require an upfront retainer fee, which is billed against as the probate process progresses.
It’s important to clarify the fee structure during your initial consultation to understand how you will be charged and avoid unexpected costs.
How Much Does a Probate Lawyer Cost?
The cost of hiring a probate lawyer depends on several factors, including the complexity of the estate, the type of legal issues involved, and the lawyer’s fee structure. General cost estimates include:
- Simple estates: For estates with straightforward assets and no disputes, probate legal fees can range from $2,500 to $10,000, depending on the lawyer's fees and the state's probate laws.
- Complex estates: For larger or more complicated estates with multiple properties, business interests, or disputes, probate costs can exceed $10,000 and may reach $20,000 or more.
- Hourly rates: If charged by the hour, expect rates between $150 and $500, depending on the lawyer’s expertise and geographic location.
- Percentage fees: In some cases, a probate lawyer may charge 2% to 5% of the estate’s value, particularly for larger estates or those involving complex legal matters.
Always ask for a clear estimate of fees during your initial consultation to understand the total cost of probate representation.
Top Questions to Ask a Probate Lawyer
Before hiring a probate lawyer, it’s essential to ask the right questions to ensure you’re hiring someone qualified to handle your estate needs. Key questions include:
-
What experience do you have with probate cases like mine?
Ensure the lawyer has experience with estates of similar complexity, especially if disputes or high-value assets are involved. -
How do you charge for your services?
Ask whether the lawyer charges an hourly rate, a flat fee, or a percentage of the estate, and request a cost estimate. -
What is the likely timeline for my probate case?
While it’s hard to predict exactly, an experienced lawyer can give you a general idea of how long the probate process may take based on the specifics of your estate. -
What steps will you take to manage and distribute the estate?
Ask about the lawyer’s approach to handling debts, taxes, and asset distribution. -
Will you be handling my case personally?
In larger firms, junior attorneys or paralegals may handle some aspects of your case, so it’s important to know who will be working on your probate case. -
What are potential challenges we may face?
A good lawyer will be able to anticipate possible issues, such as will contests or creditor claims, and explain how they would handle them.
How to Check the Credibility of a Probate Lawyer
To ensure you’re hiring a reputable probate lawyer, follow these steps to check their credentials and experience:
- Verify their state bar status: Check with your state’s bar association to confirm the lawyer is licensed to practice and has no history of disciplinary action.
- Look for probate experience: Review the lawyer’s website or professional profile to ensure they specialize in probate law and have experience handling estates of similar complexity.
- Read client reviews and testimonials: Look for online reviews on platforms like Avvo or Martindale-Hubbell to see what past clients have said about the lawyer’s probate experience.
- Ask for references: A credible lawyer should be able to provide references from past clients who can vouch for their professionalism and expertise in handling probate matters.
- Look for membership in professional organizations: Membership in organizations like the American Academy of Estate Planning Attorneys (AAEPA) or the National Academy of Elder Law Attorneys (NAELA) can indicate a lawyer's commitment to estate and probate law.
What Should I Prepare for My First Consultation?
To make the most out of your first consultation with a probate lawyer, it’s important to come prepared with relevant documents and information. Here’s what you should bring:
- A copy of the will or trust (if applicable): Bring any estate planning documents left by the deceased, including wills, trusts, or powers of attorney.
- List of assets and debts: Prepare a detailed list of the deceased’s assets (e.g., real estate, bank accounts, investments) and outstanding debts (e.g., loans, mortgages, credit cards).
- Death certificate: Bring a certified copy of the deceased person’s death certificate.
- Contact information for heirs and beneficiaries: Have a list of all individuals or entities named in the will or who are entitled to inherit under intestacy laws.
- Questions about the probate process: Write down any questions you have about the process, costs, and potential issues you might face.
- Relevant financial records: If available, bring any relevant financial documents, such as bank statements, property deeds, and tax returns.
By coming prepared, you can ensure a productive consultation and allow the lawyer to provide the best advice for your situation.
