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08 Aug, 2024 by C c
I had tried several area Attorneys before getting to Mr. Scharf with no success. It was a fairly complicated situation involving 3 different states. Mr. Scharf was VERY helpful and professional. Because it involved the care and financial well being of my 88 year old Mother, it was crucial that everything went perfectly. And it did. Mr. Scharf seemed to handle things as if it were his OWN Mother. I can't say enough good things about how we were treated. While I hope I never need another Attorney, it would only be Scharf Law Group to represent me or my loved ones.
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06 May, 2024 by Tetyana cherneta
Great professional representation. I am very happy I selected Michael to represent me. All my concerns were handled in the timely matter and everything was explained in details. I admire composure, work ethic and most of all excellent representation.
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22 Dec, 2023 by Dylan jones
Used him for our estate planning and he was awesome. Very quick and accurate along with being very knowledgeable. Made everything very easy didn’t even have to leave the house!
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07 Apr, 2024 by Anonymous
I had the honor of working with him. He is a brilliant down to earth Attorney. He taught me how to learn faster, at a moments notice. He always zealously advocates for his clients, gets results, and puts his clients at ease. Good Dad jokes too!
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27 Sep, 2019 by Traci
The most amazing lawyer ever. I was completely satisfied and more than happy how he took time and cared deeply about my future and well being. I hired Mr Urbani as my divorce attorney and we spent almost two years together going through a horrible part of my life. We hung in there and he put up with me and a few tears along the way. Always, had a Kleenex box for me and a joke to make me smile. He was amazing in trial. I wish I had a video of it all. He will take special care of you and his staff is wonderful and prompt. I was blessed to have him by my side. I will forever be grateful for this man. He's the number one attorney in my book.
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02 Jan, 2019 by Anonymous
I have known and used Anthony for over 21 years. I have recommended many clients to him - and never has there been a complaint. He wins. He cares about his clients, but tells you like it is. Doesn't sugar coat anything, tells you the law.
I find myself needing to use him again - and I will prevail. I will not stress over my current situation, because he is that good. His life is in his hands and I'm completely comfortable with that.
Can't say enough about him and his firm. His entire form are talented and knowledgeable. Wish there was a 10 star rating.
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26 Dec, 2012 by Diane
Excellent attorney. A true expert in his profession, my experience as a client has been a great one and my confidence level for Attorney Kirk is very very high. A true example of an honest, loyal and professional attorney is Bob Kirk.
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27 Aug, 2013 by Matt
David has helped me and my family through multiple challenges in life, my small business, my grandmother's death and even divorce. He's been extremely easy to work with and has made those difficult times seem easier because I know that things will be handled the right way, and always in my favor. I've grown to consider Dave a friend and wouldn't hesitate to recommend him to my closest inner circle.
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31 Aug, 2019 by Sylvia h
11 Nov, 2024 by Jane wright
My first impression was amazing however after being blown off and sent to voicemails for over a week, I highly recommend not using this agency. Mr. Michael Taylor blows off clients and lacks integrity and is lazy. He is not a fighter and lacks a fire and drive within to help people. His secretary is very sweet but just sends you to voicemail. I sent paperwork for him to review and he never got back with me. Quite honestly you would be better off going to court on your own then to have lazy lawyers like this . Zero stars
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17 Jun, 2024 by Erin ramsey
Steevie and attorney Mike Taylor are first-rate professionals. The entire staff was pleasant and welcoming. They helped me navigate a challenging probate case, especially given recent law changes in Michigan. If you have a probate case, I highly recommend their services. They were courteous, efficient, and demonstrated excellent communication and determination. I would gladly recommend them to my friends and family. Thank you, team!
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13 May, 2024 by Daniel alton
Zero-Star Review for Robert Huth at Kirk, Huth, Lange & Badalamenti, PLC**
I feel compelled to express my profound dissatisfaction with Robert Huth's performance as the city attorney for the Charter Township of Shelby. In 2023, I initiated a formal complaint and was assured of a supportive meeting with Mr. Huth by the township supervisor, promised during a recorded call. Unfortunately, this meeting never transpired, and my attempts to communicate with the township supervisor were met with prolonged radio silence. This lack of engagement persisted into the next year, 2024, raising serious concerns about the transparency and integrity of the township’s leadership. Based on my experiences, I suspect there may be deeper issues of misconduct or corruption that are being concealed. I believe an investigation by an outside agency is necessary to uncover the full extent of what might be serious corruption within our township. This is purely my opinion, formed from the distressing lack of accountability and responsiveness I have encountered.
It was not until 2024 that I received a callback from Mr. Huth. The interaction was unexpectedly brief and unsettlingly nonchalant, as if prior discussions had taken place or resolutions offered neither of which was the case. This approach not only hindered progress on pressing issues but also left me feeling overlooked and undervalued as a concerned resident.
From my perspective, the level of engagement and urgency demonstrated by Mr. Huth falls significantly short of what is expected from someone in such a pivotal role. The responsiveness and dedication to resolving township matters efficiently and transparently are crucial, yet seem to be lacking. My experiences have led me to question whether our community's needs are genuinely being prioritized.
Based on these interactions, I believe that our township would greatly benefit from a change in this position. Someone with a robust commitment to community issues and a proactive approach to communication is sorely needed. We deserve a city attorney who not only addresses our concerns promptly but does so with the seriousness and attention they warrant.
In conclusion, I am of the opinion that Mr. Huth is not the right fit for his current role as city attorney. It is my sincere hope that our township will consider making a change that better aligns with the needs and expectations of its 80,000 residents. We need leadership that is both responsive and responsible qualities that are essential for the health and well-being of our community.
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04 Sep, 2012 by Anonymous
Worked a lot with this attorney's assistant (paralegal). Hired him and his assistant to help me settle a dispute over an estate matter. He was often unavailable and away on vacations. I hired him and his assistant for legal advice and felt that they were not direct and strait forward with me regarding the fastest and most practical solutions. This created a lot of back and forth communication resulting in phone calls and emails that added hundreds of dollars to my bill.
At one point they asked me "what do you want us to do?" I was very disappointed in this question because I had no idea what to do, that's why I hired them for well over $3000, so that I didn't have to worry about what to do. They were supposed to be the experts that could tell me what was best and most practical.
Over all, I ended up feeling like they strung me along for more money instead of helping me to quickly resolve the matter. I'm not saying that they did nothing, I'm just saying that for over $3,000 they should have been able to equip me with services that satisfied my needs. Instead I felt lost and therefor was constantly having to call or email for more information that inflated the cost of their services.
Even after I "closed the file" with them, a few months later I received a request from the assistant to call them, so I did and was charged $50.00 for the call that they requested from me. That just didn't feel right. I closed the file because I was finished with their services, if they request to communicate with me after that, it should not be my job to pay them for a 5-10 minute phone call that they requested.
Very tricky business! Because of this experience I have very little faith in attorneys being ethical in their business practices and charging their customers a fair price.
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07 Mar, 2017 by George
I hired this lawyer for a driver license restoration. After I hired this him, he announced me that he'll travel out of country for a month..... He didn't tell me about that trip before, probably he didn't want to lose the money! Than, when he returned, Bozimowski asked me to postpone the Appeal for another 6 months. I was amazed by his guts, and I fired him. I hired another lawyer and got back my driver license privileges. I wouldn't hire Bozimowski not even he'll do that for free. I asked him once to exchange messages and documents by email. He wouldn't send you any emails, because "that stuff can be used against one's" . That's a proof of his character right there! Look for a lawyer in another place! Also, look for him in Facebook and you'll find what kind of human being is this individual!
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23 Mar, 2014 by Karen
My mother in law Passed July 2013, let an estate night mere for my husband to untangle. I work for a city where I knew this Lawyer. Since he knew me and had mentioned he was back into practice after leaving the City Attorney position, I thought he would be a great help to my husband. NOT. Just got a letter from court saying we did not complete proper documentation time. We have called e mailed and even written Mr. Gilsenan since the day we hired him after lst meeting he took our documents and never called again. Don't know how to make him give us our stuff back so we can go to another attorney. If anyone can contact him please let me know how. Very upset especially since I recommended him to my family.
WE HAD GIVEN EVERYTHING TO THIS LAWYER IN ENOUGH TIME TO SATIFIY THE COURT BUT HE NEVER TOOK TO MACOMB COUNTY TO FILE.
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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.
