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05 Dec, 2024 by Peggy worcester
We are very thankful for Mr. Crow and his team as they handled our Estate planning, taking care of all our needs with ease. (Estate, Will’s, POA’s, LLC’s, etc.) He came highly recommended, and we quickly learned why. Mr. Crow and staff were knowledgeable, professional, informative, and understanding of our situation. Highly recommend!
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13 Oct, 2024 by Caron rice
Gracious and understanding to ones Estate
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02 Oct, 2024 by Janice shockley
Kyle Shannon was very professional and personable. The end product was nicely laid out. Would recommend.
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22 Jan, 2025 by Arthur geathers
I cannot express enough gratitude for the exceptional support and expertise provided by my lawyer, Marti, and the entire team at Patton & Pittman. From the very beginning, they have been a steadfast ally in my legal journey, consistently demonstrating professionalism, dedication, and compassion.
Marti's handling of my child support case was nothing short of remarkable. Her deep understanding of the law, coupled with her strategic approach, led to the dismissal of my case – an outcome that exceeded my expectations. Throughout the process, Marti was not only an outstanding advocate but also a reassuring presence, always taking the time to explain the complexities of the case and ensuring I felt supported every step of the way.
The team at Patton & Pittman is equally commendable. They have always stood by my side, providing invaluable guidance and support. Their commitment to their clients' well-being is evident in every interaction, making me feel like more than just a case number.
If you're seeking a law firm that combines legal excellence with genuine care for their clients, I wholeheartedly recommend Marti and the team at Patton & Pittman. They have truly made a positive impact on my life, and I am forever grateful for their unwavering dedication.
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18 Jan, 2025 by Joel nolen
Greg has been determined, diligent and very wise dealing with our legal issues. He is compassionate and yet very professional. We have been very pleased with the work Greg did for our family
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18 Jan, 2025 by Jim fussell
In the course of life and business I have worked with many attorneys across the country. My experience with Greg Patton and his firm was hands down one of the best experiences that I have had. Greg is extremely knowledgeable of the law, aggressive, well-connected and above all, just a great human being. You cannot go wrong with Greg and his team for your legal needs.
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01 Aug, 2017 by Stephanie
Denise was with me, ever step of the way, through my divorce. She listened, helped advise me, and took care of all my needs. Throughout the process, Denise was not only my lawyer, but became a friend. If i ever need a lawyer again, she will be the first person I call.
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24 Jan, 2025 by Tiana bowlyn
I had the pleasure of working with Mr. Zenker and Mr. Burman from this firm and I must commend their work ethics. They were very transparent from the beginning, everything was clearly explained throughout the entire process. They worked endlessly in making sure I was treated fairly and given the right judgement. They always made themselves available to address any issues/concerns I had. I would 10/10 recommend.
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27 Dec, 2024 by Pat shutts
They are awesome people to deal with
They went above and beyond for me
I would definitely recommend them
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26 Dec, 2024 by Alana pries
Morgan had been nothing but kind and truly cares for his clients.
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19 Dec, 2024 by Steven finley
11 Dec, 2024 by Han han
Thanks attorney Jennifer Scribner, she's very attentive, detail and very easy to communicate with to resolve the case. Im very pleased with her hard working effort toward my case..I am glad I found her online from the beginning with 5 stars...I'm glad I make the right decision...I would recommend Mrs. Jennifer Scribner, once again thank you much
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25 Oct, 2024 by Ronnie hoover
Started out with Matthew Armstrong. My very first Mediation he was not at Mediation to give me guidance on anything. When trying to contact him, he was never available.
At my last mediation I got transfered over to Justin and lets just say it was no different. Went to court, he left the court room to "go get a drink". While he was out of the court room the judge called for my case. I was there, opposing counsel was there but my Lawyer was not. I got charged an extra hour due to him "going to get a drink". Got that somewhat resolved. I asked about my record and getting it esponged. He said he would check on that. To this day the charges that I had on my record, that I paid for to have esponged off my record are still there. Havent heard a word from the lawyer on what is going on with it and its been over 6 months since Ive paid to have the charges esponged.
They do not communicate with their clients at all.
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29 Apr, 2023 by David clark
Great Sushi!
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21 Nov, 2022 by Isabella bragg
21 Apr, 2022 by Betsy1 wright
15 Feb, 2024 by Frances mays
07 Jul, 2023 by Dante diley
Was a GAL in my custody case. A complete nut job (one instance was yelling screaming and shaking) that lied and was released from our case due to her being incompetent. Steer clear of this woman.
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13 Apr, 2022 by Cindy ellis
10 Apr, 2024 by Anonymous
My ex and I split up and I tried to work out things and be amicable, but you know some people everything fight. That's what this was a fight. Unlike the 2 other reviews for me, John was a bulldog. He made sure I got the agreement I wanted and nothing that I did not. He kept me informed, emailed me consistently, and scheduled appointments around my schedule. Then when my ex refused to pay child support he fought in court to ensure I did. After the judge revoked his visitation I was sued by his parents for grandparents rights. I was angry and of course sad because I felt wronged by his family. After fighting that John was honest with me that we were going to win, but did I want that, for my child? Did I want my bitterness to impact his life? Those aren't his words of course they're mine, but he made me realize that my inlaws weren't the problem, my ex was and they did kick him out of their house when they found out he was using which was my issue all along. So I called my mother-in-law, we cried, and we worked it out. Most lawyers may not have been so blunt, but it saved my relationship with them. Although my ex is not around I am still close to my inlaws, even since I've remarried. He was on top of it for me and I'd hire him again if the need arose.
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07 Apr, 2015 by Anonymous
I hired John to assist in establish a parenting plan. His knowledge was somewhat good but when it actually came time for trial it seemed as if he was not prepared for the case. Also in numerous attempts to contact him via email and phone calls to ask questions pertaining to the judgement they went unanswered.
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09 Dec, 2013 by Kathryn
Good legal mind good legal strategies but awful manners. He is very sarcastic and has an odd sense of humor. He told two other attorneys what we spoke about which I found odd since he is a grown man and I am a housewife. I guess gossip is gossip. He has a real smartmouth on him but he knows his stuff when it comes to the law.
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06 Feb, 2023 by Anonymous
Joseph Weyant took on my case and talked a good talk at the beginning, but he did very little to resolve it. He would evade my questions about what he was doing like a career politician, or just completely ignore my emails and calls for months to the detriment of my case. I eventually realized it was because he wasn’t doing anything on it. In the rare event that he responded to my many attempts to reach him, he still managed to evade my questions about what he did, and where we were at, and instead talked about what he was going to do and then didn’t do. I would get off the phone feeling like I just spoke to a sleezy, career politician. I would have been better off acting as my own lawyer.
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15 Mar, 2017 by Frieda
I live out of state and needed a local attorney for a real estate matter concerning my deceased brother's home. Other attorneys I contacted in the area either told me it would be a several month process costing me exorbitant fees or failed to return my inquiry calls. I had researched all the attorneys I contacted. Then I called Mr. Weyant.
He was knowledgeable and professional. After a consultation, Mr. Weyant advised me of the process to transfer ownership. Later the same day, I received a detailed e-mail from him after he'd visited the office of the Registrar of Deeds. I was provided with a detailed outline for resolving the specifics of my situation to effectively transfer the property. The fee for his service was reasonable. I met with Mr. Weyant the following week when I came to town to conclude the matter.
I was impressed with Mr. Weyant because of his courteous, direct, and efficient manner. I felt he was doing his best for me in resolving my problem. He was also very accessible by phone when I called with questions.
I highly recommend Mr. Weyant for those with needs in his areas of expertise. I was most pleased I found him.
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15 Oct, 2016 by Michelle
I was referred to Joe by a friend who had an excellent experience using him for her divorce. I was hesitant because of the other review on this site. I knew my friend would not steer me wrong, so I decided to hire Joe. I am very glad I did. He was upfront with me about what Tennessee law allows. He fought hard for everything I wanted even though some requests were out of the ordinary. Some things we succeeded on and some things we didn't but he gave it his all. He always returned my calls if I had to leave a message and was always very professional. I would recommend Joe to anyone who asks me if I know a good lawyer!!
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10 Jan, 2025 by Anonymous
I don’t recommend this man for anyone in any circumstances of the law! He will not work for you
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30 Oct, 2024 by Anonymous
Mark is not a good lawyer he is a sell out, he will not fight you!!! he doesn't try to help you at all and when you call him he is very arrogant. Not dependable at all will not keep you up to date on you case. Just will not fight for you all.
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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.
