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11 Oct, 2024 by Anonymous
Very thorough and professional! Answered all our questions in a manner we could really understand.
THANK YOU
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30 Aug, 2024 by Anonymous
Mr. Diedling and his team were professional, knowledgeable, and very easy to work with. They were very patient, thoroughly explained everything to me. Highly recommend!
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30 Jul, 2024 by Jennifer
My husband Jeff and I consulted with Chris Diedling regarding a trust. Chris did such an excellent job of explaining what a trust can do for our family and we knew we wanted to go forward with the process. After finishing the Trust, it gave us such a great feeling that our children and their future will be safe. Thank you to Chris Diedling and his team for guiding us through this process.
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5.0
20 Reviews
4.9
84 Reviews
29 Jul, 2024 by Karen krieger
I was very pleased with rhe experience. All my questions were answered. They were all very nice.
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27 Jul, 2024 by Maryjean vonderbrink
I was very happy with my experience with Olivia Smith. She was very understanding of needs and gave me excellent advice. She was very thorough as well as patient with answering my questions.
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04 Apr, 2024 by Virginia jones
Christopher and his team were great to work with. They took the time to make sure I understood my choices. I will recommend them.
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18 Jun, 2024 by Kyle b
31 May, 2024 by Mandy pisano
Jennifer was amazing! She helped us navigate a tricky system and provided exemplary legal assistance every step of the way!
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24 May, 2024 by Nancy jackson
She helped me through everything!
She is an AMAZING attorney who makes sure everything is taken care of from start to finish.
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27 Sep, 2024 by Dennis
My wife and I found Beverly Stull to be very easy to work with. We had a few unusual issues with our estate planning, and she was very helpful in finding solutions.
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23 Jul, 2024 by Anonymous
I hired Beverly to manage the probate on my mother's estate. I found her by searching on Google, read her website which linked this profile, and saw the glowing reviews on this Avvo site, which convinced me to hire her.
Beverly made managing the probate for my mother's estate very easy. I was very lost when I was starting to manage everything and had no idea how any of the estate process worked, especially as I am managing all of it by myself. Beverly worked remotely on most things, and has office space to meet for initial meetings and signing papers as needed. She was quick to respond to all questions I had during the process via phone, text or email, and was very flexible and easy to work with. I would not hesitate to work with her again.
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22 Jul, 2024 by Angie
My husband and I contacted Beverly to both update and create some family documents. She was very patient in explaining her recommendations and our options. We both had several documents created. I have already recommended Beverly to other family members.
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31 Jul, 2024 by Lynette
I would recommend Michael Bailey to anyone who needs a great attorney he did a wonderful job with the services he provided for me. He is very professional and gets what you need done in a timely manner. He has over 20 years of experience. I have hired him to do a few things for me over the years and he is very reasonably priced.
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03 May, 2024 by Leah
Mr Bailey represented me for my divorce, then again for the probate of my grandmother's estate. He is very knowledgeable, professional, thorough, organized, and patient. He had to send me many reminders and prompts to keep things moving along, which he did gently, but firmly. I would highly recommend Mr Bailey, and fully intend to utilize his services if needed in the future.
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02 May, 2024 by Cheryl whitehead
Mr. Bailey definitely walked me through a rough time. Handling the paperwork, answering any questions I had and by my side during court. I appreciate everything he did for me. Blessed! I will definitely recommend him to family and friends.
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23 Oct, 2021 by Jeffrey
Daryle and the entire team at Tibbs Law Office helped me during one of the most important family matters I’ve ever had to deal with.
I absolutely adore Daryle Tibbs. I can’t imagine feeling any more confident during my case with her by my side. Daryle is extremely professional and thorough with her work. I never once felt unprepared working with her.
I also need to shout out that as a gay man seeking child custody, Daryle and her team were extremely supportive and experienced in my case.
I 100% recommend this firm and this amazing group of women.
I’m hopeful that I will not need legal representation again, but I do know that I will reach out to Tibbs Law Office if anything changes.
SO thankful to Daryle Tibbs and her entire team for making such a crazy process less daunting and painful.
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29 Apr, 2021 by Anonymous
Daryle helped me through a dissolution, and through the whole process she was open, honest, direct, professional and extremely responsive to my needs. I intend to work with her in the future on probate. Highly recommended.
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07 Apr, 2021 by Rita
Daryle Tibbs prepared an updated will for us and we received excellent service. The process was very streamlined and clearly presented and fees were discussed up front. When we met to review the final product Daryle’s explanations were concisely presented and she answered all off our questions satisfactorily. We have already recommended her services to others which is the best testament to the legal service she provided.
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30 May, 2020 by Josh
John was extremely helpful and always had my best interests in mind. Kind courteous and a very smart guy. I would recommend him to anyone.
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20 Jun, 2016 by Gen
John has a very thorough understanding of the methods and laws surrounding a variety of situations. Consulting him on short notice and with very little time to grasp an understanding of the options that were available for me in my situation, he was patient and kind. He provided a couple options as well as the repercussions of each so that I could make an informed decision about what was the right solution for me. He also provided some reading material so that I could be a better informed client; and in doing so, he pointed out and allayed my concerns that were irrelevant to the case at hand. Because he is a very knowledgeable lawyer with more than one area of expertees, I have already added him to my Rolodex contacts shortlist so that I can come back to him quickly and easily should the need arise for me to consult or engage him in future. You are one lawyer to whom I can now confidently say "I Trust You", Thank you John. (I should hope we never have to meet again, but if we do, I appreciate you and your skills as a lawyer.)
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10 Mar, 2016 by Jay
I was looking at purchasing a home with an IRS tax lien on it. John took the time and went over the pros and cons of going through the process of purchasing the home. I am still considering the options, but if I decide to follow through with the purchase, I will continue to work with John. As a matter of fact, I will continue to work with John on all legal issues within his expertise. He is a good man. Thank you.
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22 Dec, 2022 by David
Attorney Michael Smith made filing an easy step by step process. Deciding to file bankruptcy was stressful, but having such a knowledgeable attorney to answer all of my questions and prepare the documents made it simple and stress free. I’d highly recommend Michael Smith to anyone seeking an attorney for bankruptcy.
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07 Dec, 2017 by Joe and shelly
Michael Smith recently helped guide us through our bankruptcy. His knowledge of Bankruptcy Law was exceptional. We had some unusual circumstances, and if he didn’t know the answer, he told us that he would research it and get back with us. Each time the answer was prompt. Most of all, Michael’s compassion and empathy for what we were going through was very appreciated. He was patient, understanding, and assured us we were not alone. We would highly recommend Michael for any legal proceedings dealing with bankruptcy. He is a pleasure to deal with and we now consider him a friend.
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04 Jan, 2017 by Edward
My wife started the bankruptcy process about 4 years ago, before we were married. After we were married, Mr. Smith honored the initial retainer! After which, he took the time to walk myself through the steps and we decided to include myself in the filing. We worked together for 11 months making sure that the timing was correct for when to file. When the time was right, Mr. Smith quickly submitted the paperwork. Additionally, Mr. Smith accompanied us the the initial hearing himself. He did not send a representative, or leave us on our own. He stayed by our side the entire time. Extremely dedicated, open, and honest, with the patience that is seldom seen. I would definitely recommend his services.
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03 Feb, 2023 by John
Just finished working with Joe to finalize my father's Will, POA, Living Will and other important documents. As always Joe was knowledgeable, helpful, professional, and friendly.
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20 Oct, 2021 by Geraldine
I hired Mr. Candito to help probate my husband's estate. He helped me throughout the process and get me through a very difficult time.
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01 Feb, 2016 by Anonymous
I hired Joseph to represent me in a custody case. He found some errors from my previous attorney and addressed them to the court. If at any time I had a question, he was prompt to reply or address the issue. Joseph is very knowledgeable of the law. He is to the point on issues. I will use him again if I ever need another attorney. Great job!!!
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08 Aug, 2018 by Anonymous
I spoke to Steve a year ago about a matter That I wanted to resolve. He helped me sort out important details very quickly and was upfront that he might not be the best fit for my situation. Although Steve and I didn’t work together, I respect his professionalism and would recommend him as well.
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27 Apr, 2017 by Vincent
Was involved in a BK from a previous marriage.
From the start Steve was great. I valued and trusted his judgement every step of the way. Albeit a small case, my liability could of been substantial. I emerged unscathed.
Steve's experience and knowledge was key to this.
I hope I never put myself in a position like that again, but I wouldn't hesitate to call Steve Schuh, likewise anyone in a similar situation I would give them his name.
Like I told him," never thought I would say this about a lawyer but it was a pleasure to work with and get to know him"
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04 Jan, 2016 by Nathalie
Mr. Schuh resolved an inappropriate collection on my credit report within days of my initial consultation with him. The favorable agreement he reached resulted in the collection being removed from my credit report within one month. During this process Mr. Schuh maintained excellent communication, keeping me abreast of the status of negotiations and what to expect going forward. I highly recommend Mr. Schuh.
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26 Jun, 2020 by Holly
Sarah went above and beyond for myself and my kids for TWO YEARS. She invested a lot of time and care into our case, in and out of the courtroom. Not only did she keep me informed but she was of constant support. She helped in any way she could, all the way through. Without Sarah, I can’t say things would’ve turned out the same. If you find yourself in need of a hero, Sarah is the attorney for you! Thanks to Sarah, my children are HOME and our case is CLOSED!
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27 Feb, 2020 by Anonymous
Sarah was able to provide legal advice and reassurance which got me through a very contentious divorce. She talked me through the toughest moments and explained the legal process to me with explicit details that allowed me be prepared for the next steps. Everyone in that office supported me but it was Sarah's unending words of wisdom and reassurance that led me through the rough times. Thank you.
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15 Oct, 2018 by Tara
Sarah was super helpful when it came time for my husband and I to create our wills. We enjoyed our experience working with her.
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06 Feb, 2022 by Amanda
Jonathan is incredibly knowledgeable and we'll versed legally. He is by far the best lawyer I have ever dealt with and there have been quite a few. He is not my favorite because he is nice. I have been upset with him more than once. This was because he was honest with me and I was unhappy with what he was telling me. Jonathan is fair and honest. Finding that in a lawyer is rare.
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25 Jul, 2016 by Anonymous
I have frankly not had good experiences with lawyers in the past. Jonathan is the exception to the rule. He worked with me on a custody case that could have been prolonged, painful and expensive. Yet his depth of knowledge, breadth of experience and strategic thinking led to an outcome that was as optimal as I could have hoped for and quickly brought to a conclusion. And, on top of that, he is one of the most ethical people I have met. *Gasp* - yes, I did put those two things together: 'ethical' and 'lawyer'. I highly recommend him and am thankful he was recommended to me.
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23 Jun, 2016 by Stephen farfsing
I have worked with small firms and large firms in my professional carer and I wouldn't give many a positive review. Jonathan is one of the exceptions. Mr Smith guided me through a process with advice that saved me a lot of time and money. He put it in prospective and outlined potential outcomes in layman terms. We got the job done quick and without pain. He is man of reason and integrity that I would highly recommended to anyone seeking legal advice. He might even change my opinion on lawyers.
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08 Nov, 2019 by Lealie
Shelia stepped in to defend our daughter during a theft case. Shelia was diligent, confident and very assuring to us that she was presenting the best defense as we could and her warm personality and genuine smile was very reassuring. I would definitely use Shelia again if ever needed
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07 Nov, 2019 by Sandra
Mrs. Dean was diligent in the pursuit of justice. The first lawyer we hired left us in a mess and she turned the case backwards against false accusers. The result was full custody for my daughter.
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09 May, 2018 by Minnisa
Sheila Dean was exceptional to work with to get my divorce completed in a timely manner. There were some legal requirements that I would not have understood without her guidance. She was able to fully explain all of my options for proceeding and she helped me to make the best decisions for accomplishing my goals within a reasonable time frame. I am grateful for her skill and knowledge, as well, as her continued communication throughout the process. I will be contacting her for all of my future legal matters.
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02 Oct, 2017 by Anonymous
I had the great fortune to work with Jarrod Mohler following a very unfortunate car accident where the car I was driving was hit head on by another vehicle. I suffered broken vertebrae and other injuries and was off work in a back brace for weeks. A colleague recommended Jarrod's firm. From my first meeting with him, Jarrod was incredibly pleasant, supportive, professional and knowledgeable. He answered all of my questions and was very responsive. Jarrod was a great listener and understood the fragile emotional and physical state I was in. He explained the nuances of a very complicated situation involving multiple insurance companies and health care institutions. I always felt like Jarrod was working incredibly hard to make a very challenging situation less so, and he fought for everything I was entitled to. The outcome of the case was much better than I anticipated, thanks to his tireless work, understanding of the subject matter, and commitment to me as his client.
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04 Sep, 2015 by Amy
As a small business owner, every penny is valuable. When I was informed that a former employee of mine was not only applying for unemployment benefits, but also threatening a civil lawsuit, I was nervous and not sure where to turn for counsel. From our first meeting, Jarrod was dedicated to helping me navigate through the intimidating process. He ensured that I was prepared and he himself was always prepared. We were successful in minimizing financial losses. I would/have recommend Jarrod and his firm.
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03 Sep, 2015 by Sue m.
Jarrod handled my personal injury case that happened on a government site which made everything with the case much harder to pursue. But recently, we won the case and were able to agree to a settlement with the government and I am very satisfied. Throughout the case, Jarrod was great with keeping me informed and asking for my input which I appreciated. He also showed me kindness during reviewing my accident and at all times after that. It is nice to work with a good lawyer that is also kind.
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27 Jan, 2015 by Amy
Graves and Graves helped my family last year navigate a difficult issue during a difficult time. I was so impressed by their professionalism, helpful knowledge - and above all - how much they genuinely cared about our situation and wanted to help us through it. Thank you!
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21 Jan, 2015 by Robin
There are no words to express our appreciation for Lindsay. She helped at a time when we had issues going on with both our parents.
Our Dad had dementia. It made it very difficult getting him to understand about the Medical POA, Living Will, etc...Lindsay was very patient going over everything until she knew he understood about all the documents. She also fit us in to take care of this without an appt. (what lawyer have you ever heard of would do that). Someone who has dementia you never know what the day will bring. If Lindsay hadn't been so understanding what happened next would have been unbearable.
Our father broke his hip, had surgery, went into a home and died two days before Christmas. Just 2 weeks after everything had been completed. We were able to make the right medical decisions for him, pay his bills, etc... without any additional stress.
In regards to our Mother. I had taken upon myself to get my mom on Medicaid in 2010. Not realizing that we would lose an additional 50,000. All because I wasn't informed about what documents I would need to protect my parents and future generations. I even used a regular lawyer to write my dad's will. All of which was a bad idea.
Someone I knew mentioned using an Elder Lawyer and recommended Lindsay. Which I am forever grateful for. Lindsay takes care of making sure my mom stays on Medicaid every year. She made sure we had the right Will for my dad so that when he passed. My mom wouldn't be kicked off of Medicaid.
She is also helping us take care of Probate, etc...for my dad. Taking a huge burden off my family.
We tell everyone we know that is taking care of their parents. Don't make the mistakes we did. Go To Lindsay Graves and she will protect you and their parents.
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20 Jan, 2015 by Monika
I worked with Lindsay beginning three and a half years ago, when my mother was diagnosed first with cancer, through present when she suffered a debilitating stroke. None of my mother's legal affairs were in order, and I had no idea where to start on figuring things out. With Lindsay's help, we were able to retire my mother from her job, secure her insurance and property, and ultimately find a wonderful nursing home where she's receiving top-notch care. I can't say enough about how willing Lindsay was to take the time to answer all my questions, big and small...with a big dose of compassion too.
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5.0
2 Reviews
5.0
1 Reviews
05 Sep, 2024 by Anthony castelli
Top notch business, estate lawyer and CPA. He introduced me to attorney David Moening of his office. David helped me with a codicil to my will, changing the name of the executor. and secondary executor if necessary. He changed the name on a power of attorney, and changed the name on a health care power of attorney . This was changed since my children were minors when I made my will. He prepared a declaration for funeral arrangement, and gave me three clean copies of everything. He spent several hours with me at the initial meeting and the execution meeting knowledgeable staff . It was professionally done.
I recommend Bill Hesch and David Moening as two of the very best attoneys in their field.
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17 Apr, 2020 by Kathi
I had an unusual situation that needed to be handled in Ohio after I had moved to Mississippi. I contacted Bill online, who assigned my case to Josh Graber, and I couldn't be happier with the results! Josh acted on my behalf and was professional, personable and thorough, and got the matter wrapped up like a neat package with a bow wrapped around it! I highly recommend William E. Hesch Law Firm, and in particular, Bill Hesch and Josh Graber! Kudos!
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28 Aug, 2015 by David
Bill and his team have served our family for several years. Bill brings a strong team of experts in the tax and legal field. I have recommend Bill and his organization to a number of colleagues. Bill has also supported my personal and professional businesses.
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30 Apr, 2021 by Anonymous
This is a highly professional, intuitive and personable man. You do want this man to represent you in a court of law.
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28 Sep, 2015 by Cary o'reilly
Bob has been our family's attorney for more than a generation and he has never let us down. From simple traffic tickets to complex litigation that kept my elderly aunt in her home, Bob is always there for us
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20 Feb, 2015 by David
Mr. Gutzwiller is not just an outstanding attorney but an outstanding gentlemen that will not lead you wrong. He saved my life and my career. He gives great advice and is very strong in court! You will not be disappointed in his representation.
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08 Nov, 2012 by David
Katrina was extremely professional in handling my client’s estate planning needs.
She was thorough and had a very good understanding of the client, their wishes, and their situation to develop an estate plan customized for their situation.
She took the time to walk through all of the estate planning documents and explain in layman’s terms each section of each document and how it related to them and their estate plan.
I would highly recommend her services to those in need of an estate plan.
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06 Nov, 2012 by Sheila
I have been a client of Katrina's for over 20 years. I have utilized her services and expertise for everything from small legal questions /clarifications to estate planning and trust preparation. She has always been accessible, knowledgeable and honest. She makes complex legal issues easy to understand and always makes sure my interests are protected. She operates with integrity and is tough when a situation demands it, but remains compassionate and gentle in dealing with all the emotions of estate work. I have complete faith and confidence in Katirna to take care of my business and my family.
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23 Aug, 2016 by Josh
For many years, Jake has been a dependable, expert source of advice for our privately-held company. We rely on his business acumen as a strategic asset and are better for it. Personally, Jake provides us with estate planning assistance, in collaboration with our financial planner and accountant. He is thorough and personable.
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25 Mar, 2014 by Karl
Mr Samad is by far the most helpful attorney I have ever worked with. He is incredibly responsive, very knowledgeable and quite congenial as well. He is never brusque or arrogant with my frequent questions. We have retained Mr Samad to assist with an ongoing legal matter and he has been very helpful at helping manage ongoing fees at a reasonable rate. In short, I highly recommend as an attorney.
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04 Dec, 2018 by Brian h.
Mike is very knowledgeable well versed in matters relating to Social Security disability. He lead me through the whole process. With a "Fully-Favorable" decision.
Thank you Mike.
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15 Sep, 2017 by Gina
Mr Wirthlin is very knowledgeable concerning social security, he answered any questions that I had in a timely manner and was always available. I had positive results as well as a friend I referred to him.
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14 Nov, 2015 by Mary
Joshua is both compassionate and resourceful. I initially engaged him to ensure that documents for a guardianship filing were thorough and professional. When the situation suddenly became more complex, Joshua used his probate expertise to obtain a unique ruling (within 24 hours) which relieved anguish and re-inspired confidence in the judicial system.
I would recommend Joshua Goode to anyone who wants high caliber legal representation from an attorney who is sincere and remarkably fair.
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19 Mar, 2015 by Anonymous
Joshua is an extremely knowledgeable attorney in the area of probate law. As a past Probate Magistrate, he has the experience needed to handle all areas of probate cases . His enthusiasm for his client's best interest is outstanding. He is a professional in every way and I would highly recommend him.
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06 Jul, 2015 by Tara
Bob Buechner is an incredible lawyer and person overall. He's extremely active in his community and carries a full schedule, yet he is always surprisingly responsive to any questions I have. He is clear in his communication and his understanding of the law is outstanding. He has reviewed many legal documents for me, his proficiency of contracts and legal terms is wonderful. He drew my attention to, and put in layman's terms, important aspects of the contracts I would have overlooked otherwise. He has offered sound legal advice in many areas of my life over the years and is enjoyable to work with. Lawyers can be intimidating, but his combination of professionalism and approachability makes it easy to work with Bob. I highly recommend Bob Buechner and his firm.
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18 May, 2015 by Tom
My company has relied on Howard's expertise for many years, and his work and advice have been critical to our success. In addition, I have personally learned a great deal from Howard during the time that I have known him. I am consistently impressed with the depth and range of his legal knowledge, his attention to detail, and his professionalism. I highly recommend Howard for those seeking legal assistance with their business or with estate planning.
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30 Oct, 2020 by Christopher
I have practiced law for 35 years. My wife and I engaged Amy for estate planning. She is smart, well organized and to the point. No overselling like some of these “living trust” mills with one-size-fits-all solutions that curiously require annual updating at a hefty additional fee. Skip them and call Amy!
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02 Oct, 2018 by Debra
Mr. Krugler has advised me more than once when I had some tough legal questions. The first time was regarding issues I was having with a close family member who was recently admitted to a long term care facility. He listened patiently to my story and made me feel that he truly cared, and also that he was able to empathize having gone through similar healthcare issues in his family. He took notes, did some research and reached me with the information that I needed. A few months later, I was involved in a mass layoff and needed someone to review my severance contract. Even though this was not his specific field of practice, he again patiently listened to me explain all the details of what had happened, offered kind words of sympathy and advice and reviewed the paperwork and contact relating to my severance. After a thorough review he shared his opinion with me and it helped me determine my course of action. I am forever grateful for his advice. He even went out of his way to follow up later and inquire further about my wellbeing. Mr. Krugler is not just a good and knowledgeable lawyer; I believe that he is as good and honorable a man as I have ever met. I became acquainted with him through my former employer and as I have gotten to know him better, my opinion of him has increased. I highly recommend him as someone who goes out of his way to find answers, to give good advice, and who truly cares about his clients.
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11 Jul, 2023 by Miranda cooper
01 Mar, 2017 by Nick
As our situation is fairly complicated with having interests in Europe, Eric did a great job of guiding us through making our US wills and ensuring all our questions were answered. We are now able to relax knowing that if the worst happened then our family will be taken care of.
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23 Aug, 2024 by Peggy butler
Beckman, Weil, Shepardson LLC are exceptional attorneys. I highly recommend them.
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10 Jul, 2024 by Emia spencer
The most rudest guy I ever talked with, he wouldn’t let me get a single word out. Every time I went to speak he spoke right over me. He told me I didn’t have a guy but a different practice did. Save your money and time and find a better place.
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26 May, 2024 by Trae masten
I highly recommend John Gueltzow if you are looking for a trustworthy person to prepare your will and/or estate planning. He is caring, knowledgeable, and is dedicated to making the process as easy and straightforward as possible.
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05 Sep, 2024 by Anthony castelli
Top notch business, estate lawyer and CPA. He introduced me to attorney David Moening of his office. David helped me with a codicil to my will, changing the name of the executor. and secondary executor if necessary. He changed the name on a power of attorney, and changed the name on a health care power of attorney . This was changed since my children were minors when I made my will. He prepared a declaration for funeral arrangement, and gave me three clean copies of everything. He spent several hours with me at the initial meeting and the execution meeting knowledgeable staff . It was professionally done.
I recommend Bill Hesch and David Moening as two of the very best attoneys in their field.
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21 Apr, 2024 by Luke libbee
Christine and the entire staff were very helpful and professional throughout the process
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20 Apr, 2024 by Sarah mccall
I highly recommend Kathleen and Christine Mezher as an attorney They go beyond to help you
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17 Apr, 2024 by Melvin lamonte' kidd
Very efficient very professional Kathleen , Christine and Michael. They are the people you need to see when you have legal matters
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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.
