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17 Aug, 2018 by Cameron
After losing property in my home due to the negligence of my apartment complex I was forced to seek out legal representation. I cannot express how lucky I am to have had Brad and his team working on my case. During our over-the-phone consultation Brad was able to give me concise legal options as well as estimated costs that would be associated. Being that I was out of the country, Brad was always sensitive to my time restraints by providing immediate and straight forward responses. After only a couple weeks of negotiations he was able to reach an agreement with my apartment complex to pay compensation for lost property
The candor and genuine thoughtfulness from Stum Law Firm made an unfortunate situation manageable and almost effortless. I would recommend this team to anyone looking for legal representation they can trust.
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10 Aug, 2018 by Vanessa
I was referred to Brad Stum Law Firm by a coworker of mine.
Brad was instrumental in creating our LLC. This was my first business venture, and he ensured that I understood every step of the process and offered great advice for the future of the business as well! Brad was incredibly responsive, professional, and made the entire process very easy and painless. I loved his boutique style approach and felt instantly at peace once I knew everything was in his hands. I would absolutely recommend him to anyone looking for a knowledgeable and trustworthy attorney.
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04 Nov, 2015 by Michael
I contacted Stum Law Firm for help with credit matters I was disputing on my credit report. I had tried to resolve several erroneous and false reportings on my credit report on my own but had absolutely no luck getting through to the creditors to receive proof of my debt(s) in an attempt to resolve the matter.
I was in the process of needing to secure a larger line of credit for business purposes but was unable to do so due to the errors on my credit report. I contacted Stum Law Firm and realized I was in good hands from the very first phone call. They took the time to get all of the details regarding my issue and made the retention process really easy and simple and they started working to resolve my credit matters almost immediately. The next time I spoke with the attorney about a week later, he was calling to inform me that he had contacted one of the creditors and they were removing their claim from my credit report immediately. The second was removed about a week after that. Completely removed from my credit report!
I can honestly say their customer service and professionalism really stood out throughout their time handling my case and I have recommended them to so many of my friends and co-workers who are experiencing the same issues with their credit. They didn't waste time and they truly cared about helping me resolve the credit issues I was having.
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23 Jan, 2020 by Tyson
I was in a custody dispute with the mother of my child, were I was seeking full custody. After apperaing in court multiple times, the Judge brought Ms. Moman in to mediate over the case. Ms. Moman an the staff are very professional, and available to anwser any concerns or questions. Ms, Moman was through, completing house visit's, reviewing school documents, and interviewing all parties involved including my daughter. Once we appeared in court again, Ms, Moman recommanded that I ( father ) should receive full custody. I am truly thankful, and would recommed Moman Law to anyone looking for there service.
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19 Oct, 2017 by Akaiya
Jenny is a very professional and knowledgeable attorney. I appreciate the advice and strategic approach while representing me during child custody/support modification.
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06 Sep, 2017 by Anonymous
Jenny was hired to represent me in my divorce and child custody cases. She was very efficient and trustworthy. My cases were handled with care and the outcome was satisfactory.
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28 Apr, 2014 by Anonymous
Very knowledgeable and extremely patient. She helped my mother with her estate planning and made sure all the necessary documents were signed to follow my mother's wishes in case my mother becomes unable to handle her own affairs. She made the whole process not seem so overwhelming.
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17 Oct, 2013 by Christie
Lora is amazing! She helped me stand up to my ex-husband and do what is right for my kids. She got my ex to start paying for my kids heath insurance and he now pays me child support. She was there every time that I needed her. I couldn't have found a better lawyer!
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14 May, 2013 by Anonymous
Extremely smart and quick on her feet. After my last lawyer disaster, she was breath of fresh air! I really have only great things to say about her. She handled my divorce efficiently and discovered assets my husband was hiding. Then she got the court to make him pay some of her fees. Yeah!! Worth every cent.
She has also helped me on and off since the divorce, both in dealing with my ex and with another small matter.
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12 Dec, 2008 by Anonymous
Mr. Clark walked us through and was there for us every step of the way. I have recommended many friends to him.
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10 Dec, 2008 by Anonymous
Michael is an experienced and knowledgable who has the highest character and work ethics.
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10 Dec, 2008 by Anonymous
Mike is very knowledgeable and responsive, two things that I believe are a requirement in an attorney. Mike will lay out all the possible scenarios and outcomes to allow you to make an informed business decision, and he accepts your business decision to move forward on the matter.
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07 Mar, 2015 by Jan
Paulette Mueller recently helped us with revising trust, power of attorney, will, etc. documents. We were not previous clients, and an issue came up that we needed help with on short notice. She returned my call after hours on a Friday night, and worked on our issues over the weekend. She made a house call to my elderly housebound mother's residence, and had all matters resolved by Monday. Her knowledge, expertise, and service were truly superb, and her fees were very reasonable. I would highly recommend Ms. Mueller.
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13 Apr, 2012 by Anonymous
I divorced several years ago without representation. I came to a point in my life where I needed legal assistance regarding my ex-husband, child support and custody. I have always been the type to lean back and not push for what I or my children deserved, instead I just thought somehow everything would work out. After a friend talked to me about Paulette and how she had helped her through her legal situation I gave her a call. Right away I knew I had someone that understood my circumstances and more importantly made me believe in myself. Paulette gave me the emotional strength I needed to push forward with what was in the best interest of my children and myself. Sometimes in life there comes a time when we need another to look you in the eyes and tell you that together the situation can be overcome. We started working together on my case and she was with me every step of the way. Encouraging me, giving me the best legal advise and at court standing by my side. My case was a complete win and am looking forward to my brighter future for me and my kids. I cannot thank my friend enough for recommending Paulette to me. I only hope I can pay it forward and tell others about how wonderful an attorney she is. I cannot praise her enough for every effort she has set forth for my children and I. Thank you Paulette for everything!
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07 Oct, 2010 by Mark
Ms. Mueller is an excellent attorney and I would highly recommend her to anyone one that may need her services. She was the best attorney that I've ever been associated with and went above and beyond what was expected when it came to resolving the difficult case that I was involved in. When comparing her services to other attorneys that I've used in the past Ms. Mueller is by far the one I would chose to represent me again if ever needed.
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30 Jul, 2017 by Anonymous
This is only attorney who called in response to my message. Even though she couldn't take my case, she took the time to call and explain why she couldn't help me and suggested where I needed to look instead.
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10 Aug, 2011 by J.j.
Lori is an attorney our firm goes to when we are dealing with issues outside of our expertise in the fields of complex probate matters and guardianship. We gladly have recommended her to our clients that we cannot assist. She has certainly the respect of the probate bar and the others in the legal profession.
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05 Jul, 2011 by Hicks
Lori has handled both mental health and estate planning matters for our family. She is smart, empathetic and passionate in her advice and her advocacy. I am also an attorney, and I have recommended and continue to recommend Lori to anyone needing a guardianship or a will or trust.
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09 Aug, 2016 by Matt
Ellen helped me work through a series of estate planning documents. In addition to getting the work completed on a timely manner, the best part I believe has been the education I have received in the process. Whether is her blog on the subject matter that she shared or the communications we had, Ellen was there to provide info and make thoughtful suggestions after listening to my needs. Highly recommended!
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17 Oct, 2014 by Sb
Ellen is one of the most efficient lawyers that I have worked with, and I have worked with a few. She was extremely responsive (less than a day, hours to get back to us) and had our details and information readily available. Never a misstep with anything that we had shared. She sought feedback, was accessible and made it easy for us to address some fairly complex situations. I would recommend her services highly.
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17 Oct, 2014 by Philip
I highly recommend using Ellen Williamson when legal services are needed. Ellen will let you know upfront what her services will be and what the associated costs will be. Ellen always responded promptly to my calls and emails. In fact, I sent information via email knowing she was on a family vacation and would not respond for several days, but she responded that same day. Ellen is an attorney you can trust and have confidence in.
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14 Nov, 2018 by Charles
Marsha Hunter represented me as a lone entity who felt I was wrongly done in a business deal with an international company. She prevailed as a tenacious and skillful tactitcian in the legal discipline..it truly was David Vs Goliath...thank you Marsha!
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25 Oct, 2018 by John
This attorney's wise advice and skillful negotiation avoided a lawsuit that likely would have turned out badly for me. She would have made a lot more money if I had sued the person who was causing me problems, but she did what was in my best interest and persuaded the problem person to quit. I wholeheartedly recommend this attorney without reservation.
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29 Aug, 2019 by Neicy
I absolutely love Ms. Kerr!! She came on as my attorney a few days before my trial and got me exactly what I wanted from my divorce. I can't thank her enough for what she has done for my child and I. I was completely stressed to the max and didn't know what I was going to do. She is my hero and cares more about you as a person, than what she can get out of you. If you need a great attorney, she is the one. THANK YOU!!
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31 Jul, 2015 by Kai
She is a great attorney. Looking to help others. And just a nice woman in general. I would definitely recommend her to people. Thank You Avvo.
-Kai
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21 Jun, 2016 by Rebecca
I have hired Richard several times for work related legal issues. Every time he has achieved a favorable outcome for me/our business. I find his fees to be very reasonable and he is very responsive to client correspondence...both phone calls and emails. I would have no hesitation in referring him to friends and/or family and plan to use him in the future (as needed)!
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21 Jun, 2016 by David
Over a 10 year period of time, our family had the responsibility of providing care for my parents who both were suffering with dementia. They required assisted living and eventually a nursing home up until the time of their deaths. Like many, we were not equipped to understand the legalities around protecting their estate. Fortunately, we were referred to Richard and he led us effectively through many months of heart wrenching decisions. Richard was timely in his responses and advice along with showing great compassion for our situation. I remain extremely thankful we found Richard and highly recommend his services to anyone in need.
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04 Jun, 2018 by Anonymous
For the last four years, Lauren Brown has provided excellent legal counsel during a protracted and complicated legal battle involving a very large estate. Throughout the process, I was amazed by Lauren’s command of the smallest details in the multitude of complex documents. Lauren’s depth of legal knowledge and command of the facts made her invaluable to my team. She frequently spotted issues and unintended consequences of proposed actions that impacted our decisions. Her work is superior, and her work ethic is phenomenal. Every task is completed ahead of schedule and all emails and phone calls are promptly returned. Lauren has also assisted in the preparation of my own estate plan, seeking common sense solutions to complicated issues. Lauren received the ultimate compliment from one of the older attorneys involved in the litigation when he said, “She’s a great young lawyer and I’d love to hire her away from her firm.” If I was still practicing law, I’d want her in my firm as well. But, I’ll settle for keeping her as my attorney.
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07 Feb, 2017 by John
My wife and I hired Lauren Brown and Bob Kroney to defend our rights in a complex case regarding the resolution of my mother's estate in Dallas. My wife and I are not Texas residents, so we used Avvo.com to find the best lawyers. The opposing counsil was one of the toughest, highest paid lawyers in Dallas at one of the largest law firms. It was a difficult case, and I have only superlatives to describe for the work that Lauren and Bob did. My emails and phone calls were answered promptly, even on weekends. They were highly professonal and effective in resolving the case to my satisfaction in the shortest amount of time. If you are looking for results in a case regarding estates or trusts, you need to contact -- individually or collectively -- Lauren Brown and Bob Kroney.
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18 Sep, 2019 by Alexxis
Melissa is the best lawyer to have on your side! She fought for me to get custody back for my kids after a CPS case. And I got my kids back after years of dealing with other lawyers who done nothing, she got it done!!..she really cared about me not just my case..she made me feel important...I'm so thankful for her!! If u really need a great lawyer who really is committed to helping you...melissa is the lawyer you better have!!
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29 Jun, 2015 by Anonymous
I felt Melissa genuinely wanted to help me resolve my divorce and often guided me to better decision. She was very intelligent, professional, knowledgeable about the court process and accurate with the filings, submissions and follow through. She is definitely NOT like a lot of other awful attorneys who just want to run up the billable hours, present you with a nasty bill and still not resolve your issue. Melissa resolved my divorce in a timely manner with very reasonable costs.
I would recommend her highly and without reservations.
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02 May, 2019 by Linda
I have used Vicki Redden for all my child support needs. She has been a great Attorney. She is very intelligent and well versed in the law. I am in need of her help again and am not even looking for another to help me.
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07 Mar, 2016 by Sonni
Our business had a difficult vendor who was threatening to sue. Redden Law intervened and worked a settlement agreeable to both parties. We're grateful for their very professional assistance and resolution.
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10 Sep, 2021 by Carolyn
I was the administrator of three of my relatives (all three were probated during a nearly two-year fiasco). Mr. O'Briant did an amazing job getting us through this process. The obstacles encountered had nothing to do with Mr. O'Briant but with the new judge who had no previous experience. I would highly recommend Mr. O'Briant. He went above and beyond in every way possible.
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23 Jun, 2020 by Ted
My family and I first met Mark in 2007 when completing some closing paperwork for the refinance of a couple of properties. We were referred to him by a friend. Since then he has assisted us with estate planning and additional real estate needs. He has never once failed to return a phone call in a timely manner. His pricing has been fair and up front. I feel we were lucky to be referred to him which is why he is the first call we make when we need legal assistance.
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26 Jul, 2023 by David
Brett has been a mentor and counselor to me for over 20 years. He is very skilled at what he does and has provided many benefits for our family. I would very highly recommend him. In addition, he once referred us to another lawyer to resolve a workers comp claim. He set up our LLC and has provided estate counsel.
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21 Dec, 2015 by Kevin
Brett has been my attorney for many years. Over the years he has completed corporations, LLC, and my own personal will. I have found his office to be honest, trustworthy, and efficient in all my legal matters. I will be using him in the future.
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30 Jan, 2018 by Alexis
William Pace was extremely knowledgeable and helpful with various areas of opening my medical practice. He is prompt to respond, and he explains things thoroughly and patiently. I highly recommend him for all aspects of your business/corporate needs.
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01 Aug, 2013 by S.n.
I had a consultation with Mr. Pace on a small business dissolution. He helped me understand my options and gave me confidence on what I was planning to do was correct. I would go back to him for further assistance. His help was beyond my expectations.
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22 Dec, 2022 by Martin reyna
23 Jan, 2020 by Wendy holder
Excellence at it's best!
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18 Nov, 2014 by Barry
My wife's sister passed away unexpectedly in Dallas, Texas. There was no will so the estate went to probate. We live in Ohio which meant the process needed to be handled through correspondence. The pleasant and professional communications we had with Dawn made a difficult situation much more tolerable. To have an honest representative in Dallas overseeing my sister in law's estate meant a lot to the family.
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02 Aug, 2012 by Anonymous
Atty Dawn Fowler was recommended to me when my divorce was finished but nothing was being executed per my original decree. I needed someone who could give me sage advice and help everything come to a fair and equitable resolution. She was always very steady when everything got tense and always had my children's best interest at heart. I know that my children are better off because she was my attorney, and I know everything is now fair to both parties. I highly recommend Dawn Fowler.
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22 Dec, 2022 by Martin reyna
23 Jan, 2020 by Wendy holder
Excellence at it's best!
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28 Aug, 2015 by Robin
Ira is a great listener. He asks important questions to help his clients better understand their goals.
He is always kind and compassionate.
He has advised our family on important matters for over twenty years.
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26 May, 2015 by Anonymous
Silverman helped my father prepare a will, trust and related documents. After my father died, Silverman handled probating the will and helped with estate and trust administration. I can't say enough good things about Silverman and his office. The work was done timely, for a reasonable price and was of the highest quality. I have worked with several lawyers over the years. Silverman is one of the very few who returned calls promptly and took a genuine interest in both my father and me. I can give him my unqualified recommendation.
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15 Apr, 2020 by Jody rae
The process was quick and easy. After the consultation, we were able to get the will fully executed 2 weeks. It would've been sooner but I had a conflict. I explained that I needed the documents quickly and she made it happen. Thanks!
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20 Feb, 2020 by Jessica jones
She was awesome. She processed my divorce quickly and at the most reasonable price around. I'm so glad I found her! I would highly recommend her office for your legal needs!
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21 May, 2022 by Anonymous
Handled a matter with the State of TN for me that initially we got a bad ruling on but he handled an appeal to 2 levels. Did a great job, won the case, was good at communicating back to me and let me have input to the decisions.
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11 Aug, 2016 by Joseph carlson
Great person and great professionalism!
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17 Sep, 2018 by Kelly willbanks
We recently created our estate plan with Makenna. She was incredibly helpful and made the process super easy! We loved working with Makenna and would recommend her to everyone.
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24 Oct, 2017 by Vanessa
Mr. Key helped me tremendously with my complicated law situation. He is quick on his feet and knows the laws inside and out. Extemely professional and will fight for your rights! If you need a good lawyer, keep looking. If you need an OUTSTANDING lawyer, Howard Key is your man! I will ALWAYS go to Mr. Key first no matter what my legal situation is. If he doesn't focus on the are you need help in, he will dang sure help find someone who does. I trust this man with ALL I have and my future....if only ALL lawyers were as wonderful as Howard Key!
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12 Jan, 2017 by Anonymous
Robert is a top notch attorney that has handled numerous legal issues for me.
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26 May, 2016 by Anonymous
Mr. Kauffman has a fantastic grasp on business, family and real estate law. I have used his services in all three areas and can say that his background and knowledge is unmatched in comparison to any other attorney I have come into contact with. He is very thorough, knowledgeable, experienced, and effective and has made a great difference for my business and my personal peace of mind. Highly, highly recommended.
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25 Sep, 2017 by Sandie
It is hard to express how thankful we are that we were referred to Brian for our case. We were in a rough situation with a will that was not probated in time, a house to sell as my Mother moved into assisted living, and decedent's children making claim to 50% of the proceeds of the house that was purchased by my parents over 40 years prior. Brian was excellent, he reviewed our situation, explained all our options, helped us find the best approach, educated us continuously throughout the process, kept us updated on all progress, kept the case moving, and went over and above to take as much of the burden of the case off my Mother and myself. Brian works in real time, we never had to wait hours or days to hear from him if we had a question, he spent several hours throughout the case on the phone with me, explaining the process and providing expert advice, he connected us to additional expert attorneys as needed and coordinated all the information and documents for us. This was a very emotional situation for us and Brian was supportive and compassionate but was able to keep us on a fact focused professional level. We would recommend anyone who is dealing with Estate planning, a will to probate or other family issue in his field to talk to Brian.
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25 Sep, 2015 by Cary
Having recently moved to Texas, my spouse and I were in need of updating our estate plans. Ms. Raggio did an excellent job and developed a plan and necessary documents that accomplished everything that we needed.
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30 Oct, 2009 by Lily
Ryan told me once, "Part of my job as an attorney is also as counselor. The best way to handle this stress and this feeling of being overwhelmed is to break things down to smaller issues. Try not to focus on the car wreck or what you've been through, focus on what you are doing now. Your goal should be to keep working and functioning so that you can get a paycheck -- first priority. Second priority -- work with your doctors to find a treatment plan to help you. Third priority -- find ways to clear your mind of all the negativity and stress, whether it be through meditation, quiet time, or long walks... this is more important than people realize." I was able to get on with my normal life and all the obligations without worrying about the case or whether I was supposed to be doing something.
He'll do his best to look out for you as my client, but also with anything else that may or may not be related to your case. Everything is in your best interest. He is insightful, experienced and well versed in the harsh realities of the legal system and its outcomes.
I am 27-yr-old head of household and have so many responsibilities and stressors in my life. I support my family and was trying to graduate college when I was involved in this accident. I had been thru two really crappy lawyers working on my case before, who didn't do anything but kept telling me to go get chiropractic surgeries with preferred clinics no doubt. Anytime I would call to ask for an update they would brush me off or tell me they would call back when they got something. They were not doing a single thing. And here I am sharing my potential reimbursement. Ryan worked around my schedule and scheduled meetings that would work for me. Ryan quickly reorganized their mass of copies and wrapped up calling the necessary people right away. Anytime I would call with a question or status update, he would return my call via phone or mail within 1 day (2 if he was in court). Don't let his age fool u. He's knowledgeable, professional and very thourough in working his cases to the full extent.
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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.
