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145 Reviews
19 Sep, 2024 by Light touch chiropractic
I had the pleasure of associating (not a client) with Mr. Warren D Price. He is a man of rare integrity and humility. I would highly recommend him to anyone seeking his services.
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16 Sep, 2024 by Leanne snell
We were in need of a good criminal atty. Aaron Gaddis answered our call and turned out to be very knowledgeable and truly concerned about our case. He offered the most reasonable cost of over 6 other attys we spoke to. He is an attorney's attorney who fights for his clients.
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29 Aug, 2024 by Rafael martinez
Aaron Gaddis will get you results if you need criminal defense he is the One to fight for you. I recommend his lawfirm!!
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28 Sep, 2024 by Frieda heatherly
30 Mar, 2024 by Peter hiross
I am not one that readily writes reviews and will typically reserve writing them for extremely good or poor services rendered.
In this case, Luke has exceeded my expectations of my wife and myself. I first used Luke to prepare estate plans (trust, wills and power of attorney documents) seven years ago and recently had them revised). Luke continues to provide prompt and accurate services. He is easy to speak with and has an easy-going down to earth demeanor. He provided excellent council in addressing pressing concerns and puts legal terms and practices in layman terms that made it easy for us to follow. I highly recommend using Luke as an exceptional attorney and estate planner.
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31 Dec, 2023 by Christina
We worked with Luke for our wills and power of attorney. He was incredibly easy to work with and we would use him again.
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5.0
20 Reviews
5.0
38 Reviews
22 Aug, 2024 by Emilio gonzales
Mr weaver and his team really helped me out through the entire process. I would highly recommend peakstone law to anyone who is in need of a rocksolid law group!
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26 Jul, 2024 by Pat schemel
My experience was exceptionally great. A very well organized firm, experienced and professional. Customer service was excellent and my attorney's (Troy and Patterson) were great. They were both very thorough and very experienced. All in all, I had a positive experience and I highly recommend Peakstone Law firm.
Pat Schemel
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19 Jun, 2024 by Rick eaton
My experience with Peakstone Law Group was one of the best experiences that I could hope for. My case was handled with the utmost professionalism and handled personally by the owner himself Mr. Patterson Weaver. The first time I met with him in his offices he made me feel like my (DUI) case was very important to him and his firm. He expressed a great deal of confidence that they could represent me to the fullest and to trust that his firm could do so. Their services and pricing for his fees were reasonable and they earned it for sure. My case turned out to be a longer than expected case with several continuances and some extensive research involved to reach our desired outcome.
In addition, I was well informed as to important deadlines and information I needed to know about in a timely manner when I needed it. It also, helped that Mr. Walker knows everyone in the DA's department, the Probation department and judges with his over 20 plus years of experience! If his firm takes on your case, you can rest assured you and your case will be considered a high priority. I highly recommend his firm and already have recommended Peakstone Law Group to other people have asked about the attorney I utilized in my past case. If I ever need representation in the future, I will not hesitate to call them once again. Sincerely, Rick E.
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22 Aug, 2024 by Emilio gonzales
Mr weaver and his team really helped me out through the entire process. I would highly recommend peakstone law to anyone who is in need of a rocksolid law group!
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26 Jul, 2024 by Pat schemel
My experience was exceptionally great. A very well organized firm, experienced and professional. Customer service was excellent and my attorney's (Troy and Patterson) were great. They were both very thorough and very experienced. All in all, I had a positive experience and I highly recommend Peakstone Law firm.
Pat Schemel
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19 Jun, 2024 by Rick eaton
My experience with Peakstone Law Group was one of the best experiences that I could hope for. My case was handled with the utmost professionalism and handled personally by the owner himself Mr. Patterson Weaver. The first time I met with him in his offices he made me feel like my (DUI) case was very important to him and his firm. He expressed a great deal of confidence that they could represent me to the fullest and to trust that his firm could do so. Their services and pricing for his fees were reasonable and they earned it for sure. My case turned out to be a longer than expected case with several continuances and some extensive research involved to reach our desired outcome.
In addition, I was well informed as to important deadlines and information I needed to know about in a timely manner when I needed it. It also, helped that Mr. Walker knows everyone in the DA's department, the Probation department and judges with his over 20 plus years of experience! If his firm takes on your case, you can rest assured you and your case will be considered a high priority. I highly recommend his firm and already have recommended Peakstone Law Group to other people have asked about the attorney I utilized in my past case. If I ever need representation in the future, I will not hesitate to call them once again. Sincerely, Rick E.
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20 Sep, 2024 by Lissette
WILLS AND TRUSTS: I went to Ashlea Goines Esq. because of my neighbors' referrals. She is so kind and professional in comparison to several people that I interviewed for wills and trusts. She has a great team of lawyers in her office to step in if anything should happen to her. You get a digital copy and a paper packet. Whether you get a will or a trust (she will explain what's best for your situation) - she would also be there for your family to assist if anything did happen to you. She was reasonably priced. She was very patient while I had so many questions and she recommended the best route for my situation. She is not forceful but quite the opposite. She truly loves what she does. If you do not have a will or trust- please call her and get a consultation. I'm only 56, but my dad passed without leaving legal instructions and documentation. This caused our family undue stress for about 1.5 years with probate court and red tape. If you should pass unexpectedly for whatever reason or become incapacitated- a Will and a Power of Attorney (medical and financial) would make life easier for your spouse or kids. We aren't guaranteed a tomorrow. AT LEAST- get a consultation now. Her number is 719-622-6162.
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10 Aug, 2024 by Anonymous
Ashlea was professional, straightforward and explained everything so that we knew exactly what we were signing. She made us feel very comfortable and there was no pressure whatsoever. Highly recommend!
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20 Jun, 2024 by Rich
Great job. Very professional and to the point. Just what I wanted and needed. Thanks.
Rich
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14 Dec, 2019 by Jack
Justin did a great job of helping us to understand our options while developing our estate plan in a very efficient and pleasant manner. He also engaged our remote Financial Planner and CPA in a manner that was productive and elicited nothing but favorable comments from them. We would definitely recommend him to anyone needed estate planning work.
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24 Oct, 2019 by Sherwyn
In my opinion, you could not find a more competent lawyer to help plan, develop, and produce estate management documents. I met with Justin individually, then he met with my family, my children, then he produced drafts for our review. The final product is a binder that contains all of the documents presented very professionally, accompanied by a flash drive that can be used to share the documents with my children.
Five stars out of five!
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03 Oct, 2019 by Elizabeth
After doing research on Estate planning help, I contacted Justin. He was up front about costs, services and process. I felt the other sites were ‘serving à la carte’ for services that were necessary thus pushing the actual cost up. I also liked Justin’s ability to really listen to my particular needs. His experience and creativity helped me find solutions that set my mind at ease. I feel confident in recommending Justin for Estate Planning.
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15 Mar, 2024 by Anon14
Will & Ancillary Documents
Informative & easy to work with
Welcoming atmosphere
Responsive to our concerns
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30 May, 2016 by Carolyn
My husband and I are extremely pleased with Catherine Hammond and her staff. They were all very professional and explained everything thoroughly. We felt that we could trust them and we would definitely refer others for the service she offers. We also like Catherine as a person and feel that she is a very hard working and honest attorney providing very worthwhile services. We had to call a number of times to accomplish funding of different components of our trust and designating beneficiaries correctly after our trust was completed and we were always assisted in a knowledgeable, expedious and efficient manner.
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30 Dec, 2015 by Carol
Having dealt with many attorneys during my 20 year career in the legal profession, I am very impressed with Catherine Hammond and her entire firm. Catherine is extremely knowledgeable and very professional in providing her services. We attended one of her estate planning seminars with a followup appointment in which she provided clear, concise insights which were extremely beneficial in our decision-making process. Catherine treats her clients like family. She continually provides seminars to ensure that you and your Successor Trustee understand all aspects of your trust and that you keep it up-to-date. She doesn't just make the document, collect her fee, and forget about you. I know I can call her or members of her staff with questions at any time. I am proud to recommend Catherine Hammond and her firm for any estate planning service you may need. She is the best of the best!!
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12 Mar, 2024 by Donna
This is a 5 star professional office. Explaining, preparing, and executing whatever you need legally prepared, in a kind and caring way.
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22 Nov, 2021 by Bj
Spencer Gresham and his assistant Sheila ask the right questions, know how to ask leading questions so the documents will be personalized and address YOUR VERY OWN situations. Their knowledge and honesty and dependability are admirable! Thank you!
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12 Aug, 2021 by Connie
Updated my family Trust and my Will. I feel very confident that I'm being taken care of.
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04 Jan, 2024 by Michael ellis
I had a very intricate legal situation, and Clyde Zamir from Family Law Group provided outstanding support. His explanations were clear, he kept his promises, and went above and beyond by working after hours one several occasions! Clyde ensured I understood every detail, offering trustworthy guidance throughout the process by making calls, sending emails, and offering overall guidance/support. Kudos to April and Kenah for their prompt responses to my emails and phone calls no matter what the issue was, making me feel like Family Law Group was more than just a name—they treated me like family. Highly recommended!
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03 Oct, 2023 by G watkins
This law firm is amazing! They helped me in such a dark time in my life and make this whole process so much easier. Would recommend to anybody.
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20 Sep, 2023 by Thomas mellow
Very helpful. Honest and straightforward and answered all my questions. All I could ask for.
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17 Mar, 2024 by Gm barr
I've known and worked with Mr Eastland several times over many years, both in the past and recently as well. He is extremely knowledgeable and thorough in all he does, and explains things in a manner that someone who's not well versed in law understands. I appreciate him and his staff very much and would (and have) recommend him to anyone!
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13 Dec, 2023 by Denise lange
Mr. Eastland is the best, and I have recommended him to others. He has prepared my Will, as well as some other documents for me over the last 10 years.
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27 Oct, 2023 by Gail barr
I've known Mr. Eastland for years so naturally when I needed legal assistance with estate matters, he was/is my choice! He and his legal assistant are so helpful and knowledgeable which puts me at ease! Anyone needing these services will be so pleased, as I am, with Mr. Eastland!
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04 Mar, 2024 by Anonymous
Alyssa was great to work with for estate planning and a contract negotiation. I appreciated the flexibility to work through things over the phone and via email. This was my first experience working with a lawyer, and she ensured all of my questions were answered along the way.
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13 May, 2022 by Susan
She was extremely efficient and helpful and she was able to swiftly understand the situation and help me resolve a matter without long expensive litigation. She helped reach a settlement agreement and a declaratory judgment that was able to provide me with peace of mind during a very difficult time after my father passed away.
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02 May, 2021 by Anonymous
Alyssa was very professional and thoughtful throughout my construction defect case. I appreciated her offering different perspectives, which were helpful in planning for contingencies. I also appreciate that she was thorough and prompt in her responses to my questions. That gave me a lot of confidence. I definitely recommend her!
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08 Dec, 2014 by Saunya wenger
Michael responded to our inquiry and answered all of our questions about our legal matter the day we called. He helped to find us another attorney who had more expertise while still remaining available for consultations along the way. We appreciated his approach to finding us the best counsel for our specific situation.
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02 Dec, 2014 by Brooke
My experience with Michael Smith was great. He was very personable and professional. He assisted in a matter and had it resolved in a short period.
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19 Nov, 2014 by Brooke
Mike is a person of quality who has the highest regard for families. He is responsible, trust worthy, and dependable. Mike cares about people and commits himself and his time to the families he serves. He upholds truth and is committed to understanding the wants and desires of his clients. He seeks to counsel with wisdom.
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08 Mar, 2020 by David
My case involved probate. The attorney who had the case passed away before resolution. Lisa picked up the unfinished case. She was very effective and provided efficient legal service to close the matter to my satisfaction.
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24 Jan, 2020 by Blackrock
Ms. Blattner was the only attorney who had the courtesy to respond to our request regarding the transfer of a minor guardianship from Nevada to Colorado. She is friendly, courteous and professional, and has the experience our client needs to bring this matter to a successful conclusion. Thank you!
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11 Oct, 2019 by John
I needed to sell some land which my wife and had owned for several years. My wife died about 20 years ago. I was impressed by how quickly Lisa Blattner communicated with me and worked through some unexpected problems which came up.
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05 Jan, 2017 by Roger
After attending one of the Hammond Law Firm seminars on Estate Planning we decided to contract with to create our Living Trust. Jessica was the attorney that assisted us in creating the documents needed to create this Trust. Due to an impending six week visit to family and friends we were is somewhat of a shortened time schedule. Jessica took the time to talk us through the critical aspects of creating a living trust and was able to schedule the follow-up meetings so as to accommodate our schedule. We are very satisfied with the work she has done and look forward to a long association with her in the future.
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17 Aug, 2016 by Garry & sharon
My wife and I attended the introductory workshop conducted by Jessica and decided she and the Hammond Law Group were the ones we wanted to work with in creating our estate plan. She guided us through the process and actually made it painless, if not a little fun. She helped us get through the “Five Wishes” which can be a little emotional. We look forward to working with her in the future to help us keep our plan on track.
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27 Jun, 2016 by Jennifer
Jessica represented me in a dIvor cell after 22 years of marriage. She had to deal with every possible le aspect from properties, retirement, military, custody,maintenance, money, debts, probate, and even an accident settlement. She always had the answers and helped me stay calm in a very stressful situation. I was happy with the outcome of the proceedings. Nobody wins in divorce. She is an excellent attorney and I highly recommend her services.
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22 Dec, 2017 by Edwin budge
I reached out to Mr. Holder for assistance in forming estates on relatively short notice, and was extremely pleased with his efforts. He displayed great skill and promptness and was communicative and thorough. He provided excellent service at a good value, and I would highly recommend him to anyone who needs to navigate the legal process concerning estate formation.
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18 Dec, 2017 by Anonymous
I hired Michael Holder to create a thorough estate plan that would protect my family and especially my two young children. Mr. Holder was so kind and generous with his time, and his excellent work represented my specific requests exactly. I was delighted with his practice and would highly recommend his counsel.
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15 Dec, 2017 by Dennis
We needed Michael and could not be more pleased with the results. He was presented with several problems and was able to resolve everything. He worked with us on a professional and personal level giving guidance and advice as was necessary. He has a large network of individuals to use as referrals and they were quite useful to us. I would recommend him to anyone
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05 Jun, 2017 by Anonymous
Aryn assisted my best friend's grandmother with water and property rights. When my friend's grandmother passed away last year, all of the details were neatly in place and my friend has experienced no problems administering her grandmother's estate.
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30 May, 2017 by Mary
My husband and I met with Aryn Fitzwater, not knowing what to expect. She was very patient and helpful and took the time to explain things we did not understand. We felt like we were in very good hands. We would recommend Aryn to anyone who has lost a loved one.
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26 May, 2017 by Amy
Aryn handled the probate for my grandmother. She handled the work while I was allowed to grieve. I am appreciative of her help.
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15 Apr, 2015 by Jim
Catherine has been our Lawyer (my brother and I) for the last 6 months or so and our relationship has been excellent. She helped us through a very sticky Guardianship case and continuous to provide needed legal advice and support. Catherine's understanding of the legal system is one of the best I've seen. We will continue to use her services to the maximum extent possible.
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29 Dec, 2014 by Ken
Catherine's expertise and confidence in Elder Law was extremely helpful in this emotionally trying situation. She was able to hit the ground running and was able to negotiate several situations with the opposing lawyer and reach an acceptable settlement that will help my father's future needs.
Catherine also negotiated with the other lawyers to find a Conservator that I feel is trustworthy in handling my father's money.
As a Guardian is something new to me I have asked Catherine to stay on as my lawyer and help guide me through the upcoming year. This is a big comfort knowing I have somebody that cares and understands my needs.
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24 Jun, 2015 by Anonymous
Meadows has been a good lawyer for my family over the years - despite being in a Chinese family, he has always been patient with us and will work towards what we need. He's hard to reach and to keep in touch but he's honest, down to earth, and good to work with.
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16 Jul, 2011 by Jon & brenda
When we met Tim in 2006 we were really in a bind. We had a mountain of debt, our house was in foreclosure, we were facing wage garnishment, and we were dealing with the possibility of being sued. To say the least, we were desperate and hopeless. After our first consultation with Tim we started to see light at the end of the tunnel, and for the first time, believed it was not a train. To start with, Tim became a shield between us and the creditors that were constantly calling. I cannot even begin to tell you what a relief that was!
Tim not only handled our bankruptcy with professionalism and intelligence, but also with class and grace. He is very knowledgeable regarding bankruptcy laws and litigation. He did not treat us as deadbeats, in fact, he made us feel like we were not bad people. He helped us understand sometimes good people go through difficult financial times and need to just start over. He did that for us.
Now, five years later, we are on the verge of buying a house, we have had no trouble getting decent cars, and we are completely back on our feet. Thank you Tim for not only what you did for us, but also how your handled our case with kindness and understanding!
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28 Jul, 2019 by Sarah s.
Competent representation and zealous advocacy! When you need someone to fight for you, look to Cobalt Law.
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15 Jan, 2018 by Karen b with iination
Great people in this office. Truly helpful.
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28 Jul, 2019 by Sarah s.
Competent representation and zealous advocacy! When you need someone to fight for you, look to Cobalt Law.
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15 Jan, 2018 by Karen b with iination
Great people in this office. Truly helpful.
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26 Jul, 2024 by Nancy sanders
I would absolutely recommend that you consult with this attorney and retain his services. I'd your having issues with real estate and or shared ownership any type of civil dispute or disagreement. My experience has been like a light on the darkness.
I had issues with shared ownership of a home.
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10 Jul, 2024 by Claire schroeder
We’ve worked with Tim Priebe with our construction company. When we’ve had homeowners not pay invoices, Tim has always advised us with our best interests first. Highly recommend!!
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01 May, 2024 by Hannah van roekel
Stephen is an excellent attorney and mentor. He is constantly looking for innovative ways to get justice for his clients. I would not hesitate to recommend The Longo Firm!
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21 Aug, 2024 by Roxanne ahlbrecht
Kevin is very thorough and professional. He explains complicated details in layman terms, and is patient with endless questions.
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20 Aug, 2024 by Ron mitchell
We worked with Matthew Collett at this firm to create a trust. The entire experience was first-class; Matthew is a real pro. The service he has provided since the trust was formed has been excellent. This firm stands by its mission; it is highly recommended!
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02 Aug, 2024 by Starla sanchez
2.3
3 Reviews
5.0
145 Reviews
19 Sep, 2024 by Light touch chiropractic
I had the pleasure of associating (not a client) with Mr. Warren D Price. He is a man of rare integrity and humility. I would highly recommend him to anyone seeking his services.
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16 Sep, 2024 by Leanne snell
We were in need of a good criminal atty. Aaron Gaddis answered our call and turned out to be very knowledgeable and truly concerned about our case. He offered the most reasonable cost of over 6 other attys we spoke to. He is an attorney's attorney who fights for his clients.
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29 Aug, 2024 by Rafael martinez
Aaron Gaddis will get you results if you need criminal defense he is the One to fight for you. I recommend his lawfirm!!
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27 Sep, 2024 by Tish quattlebaum
Had a great experience with Joshua. He helped me with all of my steps in my case. I didn’t have to worry about anything in the end & was the best relief I’ve gotten since the ticket. Suggest, him to friends & family of Colorado.
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25 Sep, 2024 by Mary poppins
James is AMAZING & has always helped us to “fight the good fight” when it comes to legal battles.
James Newby is very relatable, skilled, full of knowledge and frankly- you just can’t help but like the guy.
Thank you for doing all that you have done for our family, for our son and for all that you continue to do.
It is worth mentioning that his assistant Ruth is also consistently helpful.
Thank you for reading.
#TeamNewby
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16 Sep, 2024 by Tyler eberhart
Michael Young was AMAZING! He helped advocate for me and saved my license when my rights weren't properly conveyed to me. Would HIGHLY recommend Austin, Michael and James to represent you. If they ever need to buy or sell any real estate in Colorado, I would hook these guys up BIG TIME for how much they helped me out!
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26 Jul, 2024 by Nancy sanders
I would absolutely recommend that you consult with this attorney and retain his services. I'd your having issues with real estate and or shared ownership any type of civil dispute or disagreement. My experience has been like a light on the darkness.
I had issues with shared ownership of a home.
Read more
10 Jul, 2024 by Claire schroeder
We’ve worked with Tim Priebe with our construction company. When we’ve had homeowners not pay invoices, Tim has always advised us with our best interests first. Highly recommend!!
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01 May, 2024 by Hannah van roekel
Stephen is an excellent attorney and mentor. He is constantly looking for innovative ways to get justice for his clients. I would not hesitate to recommend The Longo Firm!
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10 Oct, 2024 by Izaha vigil
10 Oct, 2024 by Destiny browder
Very kind and very knowledgeable
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01 Oct, 2024 by Tyler johnson
Have nothing but good words about this group. They will be on your side 100 percent of the way and make your journey easier. Request Gannon if in need. Definitely recommend .
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5.0
1 Reviews
4.7
135 Reviews
25 Jul, 2024 by Mark brambila
24 May, 2024 by Jai
I found Mary while searching YouTube for steps for a name change. Not to sound like a hippie but I gravitated towards her energy. I set up a consultation and in that initial meet I felt as if I was talking to a long time friend. Needless to say, she accepted me as a client and our journey began. Mary made things very easy for me. She laid things out step by step. She was speedy and prompt in answering any questions and walked me through the entire way. I have told her privately how much I appreciate her and now I publicly! Mary, thank you again!
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01 May, 2024 by Jk patterson
Mary was very helpful and efficient with my name change! She is extremely kind and made this process painless for me. Thanks so much, Mary!
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29 Jan, 2024 by Sean parker
09 Dec, 2023 by Todd casey
You cannot go wrong hiring Lisa. She’s Incredibly responsive and efficient (Carrie too!). She truly understands how devastating divorce can be and I always felt like she was looking out for my best interest. She was always professional (even in challenging situations) and made sure all my bases were covered. Hire her. You won’t regret it.
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04 Dec, 2023 by Stacie kwitek
Lisa Dailey handled a potentially contentious legal issue for me with brilliant ease. She and her team were easily accessible and quick to respond to inquiries. Lisa is a top notch attorney!
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02 Oct, 2024 by Jose alfaro
Mr. Visser was assigned to me as a public defender, and his level of professionalism is unparalleled in his line of work. He's honest when setting expectations and instills confidence effortlessly. This gentleman exceeds expectations by a wide margin.
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26 Aug, 2024 by Matt olson
The team at Joyner Law was an absolute pleasure to work with, specifically Tim Lindstrom. He handled my case with the utmost professionalism and had extreme attention to detail. His knowledge of the law is what ultimately led my case going to a motions hearing and getting dismissed. I would recommend absolutely anyone going through legal troubles to call Joyner Law immediately. They will work hard for you to assure justice is served in your favor.
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21 Aug, 2024 by Natalie hollister
Kellie took call and got me in touch with a great lawyer. Kellie was very informative and set expectations for the process.
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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.
