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03 Oct, 2024 by Albie berk
atCause Law has the best team! Starting with the receptionist. We worked with Sarah who held our hands throughout the Trust process. After we were done she has been available to answer any questions that came up so we have no doubts about the future. And thanks to Ashly for having this all in place
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24 Sep, 2024 by John sullivan
Excellent assistance. Great people very helpful and professional
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29 Apr, 2024 by Dan brown
Such a great office here. While yes, they are attorneys, they are at the same time very down to earth while also being very knowledgeable, intelligent, and extremely helpful. I have used them for all of my companies, and I will keep coming back. I highly recommend.
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17 Sep, 2024 by Ela k
Bardzo polecam, pełny profesjonalizm, przemiła obsługa i sprawa bardzo szybko zalatwiona
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09 Sep, 2024 by Aleksandra holub
I had a pleasure of working with Agnieszka Piasecka on multiple occasions and I can honestly say she is incredible. Each time I've worked with Agnieszka Piasecka she has consistently provided exceptional service. Agnieszka Piasecka is reliable, thorough, knowledgeable and compassionate. If you are looking for an effective lawyer, look no further. I will be forever grateful for her expertise, support and help. THANK YOU Agnieszka Piasecka for your amazing service!
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23 Aug, 2024 by Duane kicak
Saved my career !!! Amazing ability to get the results I needed!! Truly Blessed by his expertise and Knowledge !!
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23 Jan, 2024 by Melissa
Great response time. Made the work quick and easy for us. Would recommend for having wills and/or trusts done!
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12 Jan, 2024 by Andre
Michael Heider and his staff delivered a fast and efficient solution to my familie's Trust and Estate planning issues. Attentive, knowledgeable and concision are qualities found in his practice of the law.
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08 Dec, 2023 by Anonymous
We had a great experience working with Heider law. Communication was excellent. I had all questions quickly and professionally answered. We worked closely with Caroline and she was attentive, professional and kind. My matter was resolved quickly and with care. I would definitely use them again. Highly recommend this firm.
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23 Mar, 2024 by Evelin
Cynthia's experience and professionalism were crucial for making the very complicated immigration process smooth and easy for us. Also her staff is highly competent, professional and responsive. It was a pleasure to work with Cynthia and her staff. I highly recommend Ms. Cynthia Waisman, Esq., to address any immigration matter.
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19 Jun, 2022 by Dwayne
I would recommend Cynthia to everyone and anyone seek help with their immigration process. She is consistent, reliable and affordable. She is hands on and have alot of experience that is needed to help you chart the waters to get you to where you need to be. Her staff members provide great customer service as well make no mistake, she is indeed your number one choice to guide you through your process while allowing you to learn and participate in every way to best help yourself. Thank you for helping me.
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29 Nov, 2018 by Peg
We were very pleased to have Atty Waisman handle our trust and estate matters. Ms. Waisman is very detail oriented and knowledgeable about estate planning. Ms. Waisman genuinely cared about us as her clients and made the planning process less stressful for us as we are an older couple.
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26 Aug, 2023 by Robert
Our estate planning documents were recently completed by Attorney Rankin.
The entire process was excellent!
Attorney Rankin was very easy to communicate with, was readily accessible and provided clear and easy-to-understand answers to all of our questions.
Each document was written with very careful attention to details and reviewed with us.
We appreciate her work and highly recommend Attorney Rankin.
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04 Sep, 2019 by Neal
Christina was referred by my financial advisor when working on settling my grandmothers estate. When my grandmother passed, I did not really know what I needed to do. Christina walked us through each step in detail and was very timely in her responses. We lived out of state and she made the process very smooth for us and was always available for questions.
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28 Aug, 2019 by Anonymous
We hired Christina Green Rankin to assist us with our Estate Planning Documents, along with additional legal planning. Attorney Rankin was extremely professional, knowledgeable, and patient. She communicated well with us and was very responsive. We are so grateful to her and her staff for their service. We highly recommend Christina Green Rankin for your Estate Planning, Probate and Guardianship needs.
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30 Sep, 2024 by Janet
She did an amazing job of putting together a Trust , a Will, powers of Attorneys, and my last wishes for my medical care. All were done very professionally. She explained them all to me.
I highly recommend her services.
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03 Dec, 2023 by Chad
Sarah made the process of setting up my estate just about as simple as it could get. Sarah was very intelligent, efficient and easy going through the whole process. I would highly suggest her for anyone needing estate planning.
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29 Nov, 2023 by Thomas
Sarah was fabulous. She took the extra time to explain every detail of every document we were signing. She made this process seamless and very easy.
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22 May, 2024 by Denise
I contacted Patrick for help with questions about a family member’s estate. Patrick was kind, generous with his knowledge and time, and helped me find what I was looking for. He answered my questions in clear and understandable ways and was simply a delight!
Thanks, Patrick!
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12 Jun, 2018 by Michael
Patrick handled my Medicaid preservation of assets and spent a lot of time explaining the process and reduced a lot of my stress.
He was quick, efficient and always available.
A rare and great attorney.
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17 Apr, 2017 by David
I was very pleased with the experience and results in several areas of law. I am retired from a contracting business where I dealt with a number of lawyers over the years. Mr Quarles and his associate / partner bring a mix of knowledge, patience and pleasant demeanor to complement their knowledge of the law. I can recommend them in the areas in which I interacted with them for advice.
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03 Apr, 2017 by Kris parker
Mr. Parri has a knack for making his clients feel welcome when they visit him for legal advice. He is very knowledgeable about elder law and estate planning. I've known him for many years and know first-hand that you can trust him to always do what is in the best interest of his clients.
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22 Jan, 2016 by Larry
Dan was very accessible and knowledgeable regarding elder law, trusts, and estate planning that he set for my parents. I would not hesitate in recommending his services. He provided solid advice for me and my family over a number of years.
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15 Oct, 2015 by Anonymous
Dan Parri is the lawyer to hire for Elder Law and Estate Planning.
So knowledgeable and efficient.
Dan has always assisted our family for any questions and help with elder and estate planning.
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13 Jul, 2012 by Amanda
I needed assistance with a business law matter pertaining to a corporation I had ownership in. Corey Silverman came highly recommended to me from another very prominent attorney with whom I am friends with. This business matter has been very difficult for me to deal with and Corey has gone above and beyond to make this process as painless as possible and has done a great job at keeping me focused on the end result when I become frustrated with the situation. Corey certainly has a passion for what he does and he is knowledgeable of business law inside and out. I have also hired Corey to set up my new business venture because I trust that he will ensure it is done correctly. Thanks Corey!
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09 Apr, 2012 by Julie rogers
I was very impressed with the Silverman Law Firm. Corey Silverman was extremely detailed when customizing my estate planning to meet my family’s needs. We currently have one child and wanted to make sure she was adequately protected, but also wanted our estate documents to include any future children. Corey was well versed in this subject and helped my husband and I think of situations we wouldn't necessarily have thought of. He also explained each document thoroughly to ensure that we were in full understanding. Corey went above and beyond for us when he communicated with our Financial Advisor to make sure all parties received the documents that was required. I would highly recommend Corey Silverman. He is clearly an elite professional.
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14 Mar, 2012 by Ken
Mr. Silverman was very thorough in his preparation of our estate plan. He made certain that we completely understood everything. I am confident that our wishes will be carried out the way we intend them to when we are gone.
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27 Jul, 2019 by Bruce
I've had numerous occasions in which I required legal representation. Brandon, by far, equaled or exceeded my expectations and needs and excelled without having to be enticed or prodded to do so. Very easy to talk to and he's excellent at explaining procedures in layman's terms. Great guy!
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26 Jul, 2019 by Lori
Brandon and his team (Caitlein & Karen) were the perfect fit for handling my trust litigation. Brandon was extremely knowledgable, capable, and was able to help me keep my emotions out of the equation. I would highly recommend Brandon to anyone needing someone well versed in any aspect of estate issues.
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20 Jun, 2019 by Jk
I was referred to Brandon to help me handle a Probate case that was already in litigation. He was extremely professional and knowledgeable. He listened to my goals and was able to quickly reach an agreement with the other side that was exactly what I was looking for. He was responsive to all of my questions and concerns along the way. He did an outstanding job!
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06 May, 2020 by Michael
Have been working with Walter and his team now for about 3 years on an estate for a cousin of mine that I am trustee of. Have found that Walter is very honest, knowledgeable and has been extremely helpful thru this entire process. His team is also exceptional.
Would highly recommend him to anyone needing an elder care attorney.
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26 Feb, 2020 by Joan
I went to Walter Shurden’s office to get help with knowing what to do because my husband was in a nursing home and I and the family were no longer able to care for him. Walt as he likes to be called, was VERY efficient in putting me at easy and helping me down the path that I needed to go. His efficient office girls Neelam (paralegal) and Jennifer Ake took my calls to bring me up to date on the ongoing case. Since I am a worry wart, the office girls were assuring and informative. Thank you girls and Walt.
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31 Oct, 2016 by Anonymous
My husband and I worked with Walter Shurden to establish a plan for distribution of our assets and future health care. After a detailed review of our complicated family situation, asking pertinent questions about our priorities and goals and offering options he prepared a revocable trust, wills and medical directives for us.
Once the estate plan was established he offered any future services that might be necessary to update or change the plan or to meet with family members to give an overview of the plan.
Mr. Shurden is an insightful, detail oriented estate planning attorney who we felt had our best interest at heart.
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29 Dec, 2020 by Eric
Excellent attorney who returns calls. The office paralegal is a gem. Communication with his office on a guardianship mater was superb.
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01 Jul, 2016 by Carminericca
Mr. Thompson is the most professional FL Attorney I've met, referred by excellent attorneys, relaxing family and I enough for a big lunch. Actions Mr. Thompson took relieved all doubts concluding with very successful results, he takes then returns calls immediately, Mr.Thompson is reliable and dependable he looks and acts like a real attorney if not the best.
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17 Sep, 2015 by Anonymous
I hold Robert Thompson at the highest regard. He is very prompt, very knowledgeable, and took all the time I needed to explain everything in great detail to me. His communication skills are excellent. I felt at ease the entire time. I would recommend Robert 100% to anyone in need of his services.
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05 Jul, 2022 by Katherine
I had an excellent experience working with the Covert firm for my mother’s estate probate. I initially found him online, I called him and a few others. I had the pleasure of talking with Chris, and decided to go with them. They were helpful, kept me informed about all procedures and needing any new information from me. It turned out to be a longer process because of Covid-19 , mostly hurry up and wait for the courts. I then had issues with a relative that further delayed things, so I had a probate case for 4.5 years. Neil’s son Chris is excellent in the office, I enjoyed dealing with him by phone or email. I highly recommend!
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13 May, 2022 by Peggy
He did everything in a very thoughtful and a precise manner. Would highly recommend him.
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23 Aug, 2021 by Robyn
The Covert Team came highly recommended. From start to finish, they were professional and responsive. Being a continent and 3 time zones apart should have been challenging, but it wasn't an issue. They never made me feel like I was asking a silly question or taking too much of their time. Chris always made it clear that I could call any time and ask any question or ask for clarification. Probate closed as scheduled, and the entire process was painless, thanks to their expertise. I also highly recommend Neil and his staff!
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30 Apr, 2021 by Drbob
Attorney Hitchcock is a man of personal and professional integrity. His knowledge of the law and legal system is complete and competent. Despite his case load, he is a "client-centered" attorney who strives to accomplish the best possible outcomes for his clients. The first time I spoke with Attorney Hitchcock, he was easy to talk with, most reassuring and a very fine gentleman. Attorney Hitchcock is the consummate professional. I highly recommend him.
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02 May, 2018 by Mark
Steve is an excellent attorney I have known for many years, I had him create my own estate documents and referred others to him as well. His fees are very reasonable but his knowledge is superior. I don't think you can ask for more than that.
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06 Mar, 2017 by Thomas
Steve and everyone in is office are the best. When my wife and I first met with him at the initial consultation, he determined that he couldn't help us. However, he still took time to explain our options to us even though he wouldn't receive any benefit. When our situation changed, I went back to Steve for help. This time he said that he could help my wife apply for medicaid. We became clients of his and I'm glad we did. A couple of issues came up during the application process and Steve knew exactly what to do. He was very thorough and made sure everything was in order before submitting the application. When medicaid eligibility was denied, he knew that the reason given wasn't valid. Steve challenged the denial and they tried another reason for denial, but Steve knew that wasn't right either. Steve kept fighting for what he knew was right and after challenging three reasons for denial, Steve finally got my wife's application approved. Steve is an experienced Elder Law Attorney. He and everyone in his office are very patient and caring. I highly recommend them.
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11 May, 2016 by Derrick luke
Mrs. Clancy has helped me a couple times and was available when I needed her. She was able to handle my cases with the highest level of professionalism and care. She was able to get the best possible results I could get for my situations and without her level of expertise, I'm sure the end result would have been worse with any other attorney. Frankly, I'm amazed she doesn't charge more for her level of service she provides. She is a winner all around.
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04 May, 2016 by Philip
Great job handling my personal situation. Kept me informed in a timely manner an explained clearly what options were available. I would not hesitate to seek her legal consul or hire her.
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04 May, 2016 by Mr m patel
Mrs. Clancy provided me with an excellent service which resulted in a positive outcome. I highly recommend her as she is reasonably priced, brilliant at her work and treats you as an individual, not a number! I have used other attornies before and they were below the standards I expect. If you are looking for an attorny, Mrs. Clancy is highly recommended.
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20 Sep, 2017 by Doug workman
Mr. Richert was engaged to defend a small claims case and immediately put my mind at ease. He found a few defects in the case and explained in great detail the "lay of the land." We were successful in our case and the Plaintiff's claims were dismissed with prejudice.
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25 Apr, 2017 by Maroof
John worked with me on a securities case and made me feel comfortable throughout the process. He communicated promptly and took his time to explain all the options and strategies thoroughly. He was extremely professional and helped me out a lot.
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14 Apr, 2017 by Sam
john stepped in when my originalo attorney died in a plane crash.i was nervous because of his youth,but he was so proffesional and accomadating,that i felt completely comfident.he accomplished our goals competently with minimum cost,i was very impressed.would recommend him without hesitation-sam ft lauderdale
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10 Apr, 2016 by Jon
Charles performed outstanding services for MagLev Energy, Inc. throughout our early IP processes. His research and follow-through helped our company secure our original patents in alternative energy; a particular difficult industry to gain significant stature. I recommend him for any task.
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09 Apr, 2016 by Anonymous
I hired Mr. Lykes to handle a personal injury case that was a result of a car accident. I was fairly young when it happened so I was pretty over my head when it came to legal matters. The whole process took about two years and throughout the entire process, I was informed about what was going on. Whenever I had questions I called his office and if he wasn't available at the moment, his secretary would relay the message and he would quickly get back to me. When all was said and done, I was very happy with the outcome -- especially after hearing other stories from other people in that have been in the same position as me.
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13 Aug, 2014 by Anonymous
This attorney was a great help with moving my patent forward in a quick and efficient matter. I had previously consulted a different attorney but he was very slow and unresponsive to my questions and ideas. I am now working with him on another project.
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21 Jun, 2018 by Anna
I hired Deborah Valentino to take care of my Sister' Will.
She took care of all my needs at a very stressful time in my life.I really appreciate her & all she did .
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19 Jun, 2018 by Steven
Deborah L. Valentino has been absolutely the best attorney I've ever hired. She was instrumental in setting up my Will, my Living Will and Power of Attorney.
When ever I had legal questions, she was always very prompt getting the answers for me in a very expedient manor. She is very intelligent, and a great communicator. "She Cares" I would definitely recommend her to anyone.
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08 Dec, 2009 by Charity
David helped me when everything seemed to be falling apart. Unlike most attorneys he is fair when it comes to fees and he amazed me with what he did with my case! I recommend David to everyone. GREAT attorney!!!
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15 Jan, 2012 by Sarah
I have had business or personal relationships with 8-10 attys. in my life, in 4 states, and I had a professional relationship with Mr. Pearse. Yes, I think he lived up to his reputation as one of the 3 best guardianship attys. in Pinellas County, and, by far--by a way-way long shot--the most efficient in my time and costs. I was so glad he handled my case. He was so good to us that my husband, who suffered from dementia, trusted him before his OWN attorney afterwards. And I think that attests to what a straight arrow Mr. Pearse is. We put our trust in his personal integrity and honor, and we were glad, all through and in the end, that we had done so. I would recommend him in a heartbeat.
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01 Feb, 2024 by Annelise defrank
David was wonderful for my FL bar C&F situation and exactly what I needed. I’m so happy I hired him and had him by my side during my hearing. David used to be on the board and knows what they’re looking for so his advice is invaluable. His fee was very reasonable too! I’m so glad I found him and cannot recommend him enough!
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28 Nov, 2023 by Justin downing
I just wanted to share what a pleasant experience I had using Dave and his firm. Dave recently handled my divorce and I must say, as far as attorneys go, he’s the guy you want . He made sure to address all of my concerns , listen and work with me through the tough process and was able to convey to opposing counsel without causing issues . We have kids in my marriage / divorce and I knew things needed to be handled delicately to achieve the best situation for our children and he did just that . He’s prompt , direct , respectful, friendly , listens to your concerns and guides you through the process as well as making sure to get things accomplished in a timely manner . I’m very please with how things turned out thanks to Dave and not once did I feel he didn’t have my best or my children’s best interest at heart . This is your guy. Hands down
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17 Nov, 2023 by David perkins
27 May, 2015 by Nancy
I could not sing enough praises about Jeff Coleman of Coleman Law Firm in Clearwater, FL.
I received an exceptionally high level of professional care throughout the process of dealing with the handling of my Dad's estate in FL while I reside in NY. With Jeff at the helm with his ever present intelligence and expertise, I forged through an extraordinarily difficult 2+ years sprinkled with more than its fair share of "never before seen moments". Jeff calmly and smoothly navigated the turbulent waters of dealing with incredibly difficult people and situations, never ceasing to be compassionate, kind, patient, fair, honest and thorough. I must also give kudos to Jeff's paralegal and "right-hand person" Emily, who shares the same qualities of excellence. Emily adds and additional dose of empathy and is thoroughly professional, kind, and caring with superb listening skills.
Together they make a great team and will forever be my "legal hero's" for successfully getting me through the most challenging experience of my life!
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10 Mar, 2015 by Robert
My estate planning was complicated after my lovely wife died, and I wanted to remarry. Mr. Coleman gave me the guidance I needed to protect all of my loved ones
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12 Dec, 2014 by Alex
Mr. Coleman is obviously very knowledgeable in his field, but he is also very approachable, and easy to talk to. He takes the time to explain things fully in a way that is easy to understand. He kept me very well informed of the progress of my case, and then made a superb presentation at my final hearing. I cannot recommend his services highly enough.
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11 May, 2022 by Zyblfryx wvkquieoayn
Kind, patient, and competent. I would definitely recommend the Dogali law group. The amount of time and effort they put into my case is amazing. it was really nice to know they are completely willing to go to court to seek justice. Thank you, Dogali Law Group.
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21 Jan, 2020 by Colin
08 Jul, 2024 by Jeff antous
Very detail oriented and helped me remember how much I don't know.
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08 Jul, 2024 by K m
My lawyer Alvin Foreman was Great in handling my case.!! He made sure I understood everything. I would definitely recommend this Law Office!
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08 Jul, 2024 by Rachelle dyson
Would 10/10 recommend Dina time and time again! She was great with our trademark needs and walked us through the entire process. Always quick to communicate with updates and kept us informed every step of the way. Thank you Dina!
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24 Jun, 2024 by Sven t
DINA is a fantastic Attorney. She setup all the paperwork for LLC and lease for my rental property. Very thorough. She was there to answer all my questions in a helpful and professional manner. I enjoyed the interaction while putting together this project. I shall consult Dina for all my future legal matters.
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24 Jun, 2024 by Jessica bartolini
Unfortunately, I had a bad experience. The initial consultation with Mrs. McDonald went well enough. But her assistant/husband was awful. His correspondence was slow and he was condescending. The final straw was when he told me to "get creative" when I asked for help figuring out a way to get tax transcripts from an ex. I found another lawyer which made me realize how bad this experience was. If you're on the fence wondering, I'd look elsewhere.
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19 Jun, 2024 by J willett
We are very please with the legal work Ms. Arvanitakis provided us with. We would recommend her for her competence as well as her thorough knowledge and ability to make us understand.
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4.9
161 Reviews
08 Jul, 2024 by Jeff antous
Very detail oriented and helped me remember how much I don't know.
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08 Jul, 2024 by K m
My lawyer Alvin Foreman was Great in handling my case.!! He made sure I understood everything. I would definitely recommend this Law Office!
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08 Jul, 2024 by Rachelle dyson
Would 10/10 recommend Dina time and time again! She was great with our trademark needs and walked us through the entire process. Always quick to communicate with updates and kept us informed every step of the way. Thank you Dina!
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18 Apr, 2024 by Kathleen hyer
25 Mar, 2024 by Howard batt
We closed the sale with Amy Hill and it was a pleasant experience. I spent a good part of my 40 years of law practice handling real estate transactions so I know the effort that's required to make a closing go smoothly. All the real work of brining it together is invisible to the client. When Amy sat down at the table she had all the papers ready to go and, with a pleasant demeanor, guided us quickly and efficiently. The mark of a professional is making it look easy. Ours was an easy closing because it was run by a professional
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15 Nov, 2023 by Dave g
Amy Hill was professional, pleasant and did a great job communicating with us prior to the closing. I would highly recommend Colen & Wagoner.
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27 Sep, 2024 by Leonard deprima
I had a problem with my HOA and found that Florida government agencies could not help
A friend recommended McFarland Gould so I called. They quickly directed me to a paralegal. Sam Pagan who works with attorney Phillip Dragonetti, who is expert in HOA and condominium disputes. Sam was very patient with me and spent a lot of time listening and gathering relevant documents. After Mr. Dragonetti reviewed my information, they arranged a conference call to discuss my case. He was very thorough and patient with me to discuss the pros and cons of my case. Although we decided that going forward with legal action would be premature , at this point, I was educated about my options and given guidance on next steps. I would highly recommend Mr Dragonetti to anyone who has issues with their HOA or condominium association.
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16 Sep, 2024 by Jenna bell
16 Sep, 2024 by Peter perkins
We are proud to be the third generation of our family to be clients of this outstanding law firm. Over the decades, McFarland, Gould, Lyons, Sullivan and Hogan has provided counsel, guidance and many services to us in a wide variety of circumstances. Most recently, the settling of our uncle and aunt's estate was executed with compassion, professionalism and sensitivity. All of the members of the staff here are superbly knowledgeable, friendly and approachable. Fees are appropriate for services rendered and we feel included in each process. We cannot say enough about how fortunate we are to have these great folks at our side and at our back as we move into this next senior phase of our own lives.
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16 Aug, 2024 by Misty o'brien
Lovelace and associates are all amazing! We needed legal papers drawn up asap and these guys made it happen the SAME DAY and even delivered them to the hospital for my family member to sign! Further, we needed the paper amended and he made it happen in 5 minutes as well. Thank you all for all of the fast, friendly, on-point service and advice. I'll definitely spread the word!
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28 Jul, 2024 by David fino
I've first met Bob over the phone and was already pleased took time to answer some questions and then had an appointment and again very pleased with Bob very professional knowledgeable and I never felt rushed had a great experience would highly recommend this firm.Bob always takes the time to explain things and makes sure I understand. Thank you Bob continue doing a great job.
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20 Feb, 2024 by Patty allen fannin
Their knowledge and care is incredible. I would highly recommend them.
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30 Dec, 2014 by Jennifer
David Griffin held my $1000 earnest money for a real estate purchase contingent on my getting a mortgage. Mortgage was denied and David Griffin sent me $750.00 back, claiming $250 of my earnest money for work he had done on behalf of the SELLER. Unethical
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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.
