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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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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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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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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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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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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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20 Aug, 2009 by Jim
Alan is an excellent lawyer who has represented our extended family for years. He is a great lawyer, mentor and friend.
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21 Mar, 2018 by Carrie
My husband and I had the absolute pleasure in consulting with Katherine Rose as we discussed our estate planning needs. After talking to Katherine and reviewing her impressively detailed and organized estate planning process, we hired her. My husband and I both felt extremely comfortable with Katherine and enjoyed the entire process, which she explained every step of the way. Katherine is easy to work with and very professional as well as kind. Katherine is also very detailed oriented and executed our estate planning documents in a timely manner. We highly recommend Katherine Rose and will use her again.
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23 Oct, 2016 by Karen
Michael handled a complicated, contested Will and Probate of my late husband’s estate. It took over a year and a half, and through it all, he was always on top of things, and usually a step ahead. He patiently helped me complete our Assets and Balance Sheet, promptly answered my questions (even on weekends), and very skillfully guided Probate to completion. We avoided litigation and ended with a Family Settlement Agreement that left all parties satisfied. He had to deal with courts in two cities, and parties in two states. Retaining Michael and Gardere was expensive, but I had the confidence that I was hiring the Best, and was not disappointed. He has excellent people working with him, and I would hire him again in a heartbeat. He is very professional, personable, smart, easy to work with, kind, and understanding. He does not waste time or charge unnecessarily.
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08 Dec, 2010 by Anonymous
Larry Flournoy is very knowledgeable, competent and caring. Keeps you informed every step of the way and is happy to explain and answer questions regarding your case. I would recommend him highly.
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23 Sep, 2017 by Anonymous
I was off to a very ruff start with several big name law firms, and after squandering enough my money I could've purchased a small giraffe calf from northern Africa. I found myself fighting an uphill battle as father wanting primary custody of my 2 year old daughter. A friend referred The Law Office of La'Donna Harlan to me twice, This is where the MAGIC began to happen for me. Attorney Harlan took my case on short notice, we filed for an extension with my court date and prepared for battle. I was in complete disbelief the way she ascended and floated through the court room with a sense of calm and focus. She had accomplished in 2.5 hours in court, what I had had dreamed every night for the past 2 years.
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28 Sep, 2020 by Stephen
Bruce is a genuinely good man. Most attorneys of the attorneys I've encountered have a very fluid code of ethics, but Bruce is different. He has always given me good advice and as long as he has worked with me, I have grown to truly respect him. I can count on him. My divorce has been very ugly, lengthy and expensive, but Bruce has been like a rock. If you meet him ask him about his jaguar speech on your first visit and that will tell all you really need to know about this man and his experience.
I feel Bruce needs to be more aggressive sometimes, but I have learned to trust his experience more than my intuition. His paralegal Shelley is equally outstanding.
I am honored to give him my highest recommendation.
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19 Jan, 2011 by Kim
Mr. Hofheinz did a great job taking care of my family's estate planning and probate needs. He sets things up to minimize any possible conflict or disagreement down the road.
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08 Jul, 2010 by Mike
Maxine Aaronson is an outstanding professional who combines her expertise along with support, care, and dedication. She is confident, amazingly knowledgeable, thorough, and understanding. Maxine is keenly able to analyze situations and form a clear and well thought out course of action. She listens carefully to details, and is able to form an overall solution that encompasses the whole picture.
Maxine also shares many professional relationships with other highly qualified attorneys. These professional relationships allow Maxine to tap into resources as needed if there are any requirements that should fall outside of the realm of Maxine’s area of expertise.
Care and compassion along with Maxine’s amazing knowledge gave me the ability to work through difficult issues with a high level of comfort and confidence.
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07 Nov, 2022 by Anonymous
1st lawyer who listened more than he talked. Did what he said, on time and at the agreed on fee.
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15 Feb, 2017 by Brandi marino
I've always had this idea in my head about what 'attorneys' were like....until I met Amy (and her partner Jeremy). For some reason attorneys intimidated me, so I avoided them at all costs. Amy and her incredible team not only got me through the franchise process, but I was able to use this firm for other my other needs as a small business owner. Thank you Amy and team for going BEYOND and giving me your personal attention and getting my franchise offering set up! Amy always responds to requests in a timely manner and really has shown the personal level services I expect as a client.
Brandi Marino
Founder & owner of BEYOND Studios
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05 Nov, 2024 by Elizabeth marie
Thanks Wally!
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12 Feb, 2024 by Marquita holmes
Wally is the best!!
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19 Jan, 2024 by Tinesha ladson
I truly appreciated the services I received from the law office of Wally Wadsworth. Wally, Larry and Rick were very attentive, patient and knowledgeable, and thorough. I received great advice throughout the whole process.
The office worked with me through all my hardships and congratulated me upon discharge. I would totally recommend this law office to anyone.
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06 Apr, 2022 by Emily wilson
Great personal service!
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29 Apr, 2021 by Shelby borden
After a death, the last thing you want to do is worry about someone liquidating your fathers assets. This is what my sisters and I had to face a week after burying our dad. Due to him not having a will things where really complicated and his wife tried to take advantage of the situation. A family friend referred us to Bill and he has been a breath of fresh air throughout this entire process. Her attorney has been procrastinating the entire time and Bill has been on him like white on rice! Bill is very much to the point- no BS so if you want to be coddled then this one isn't for you. But, if you want the facts and someone that is going to give it to you straight while fighting for what's right then Bill is your guy. I highly recommend his team to anyone going through probate or a family settlement agreement. He's expensive but well worth the money I promise!
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30 Sep, 2020 by Chã©rie green deyoung
There are few things as personal as a family dispute. There are even fewer people with integrity that will ethically represent you during an extremely difficult time. I interviewed many firms, as it was not only important to me that a positive outcome occurred, I also wished for someone that understood my plight and had character throughout the process. Bill was professional, thorough and honest from the start. He pointed out facts that no one else did as he had a grasp of the intricacies of our family trust and the law. He advised me openly along the way and I am grateful that he got an extremely positive outcome in a relatively short timeframe and at a fair fee. Highly recommend Houser Law Firm.
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29 Apr, 2021 by Shelby borden
After a death, the last thing you want to do is worry about someone liquidating your fathers assets. This is what my sisters and I had to face a week after burying our dad. Due to him not having a will things where really complicated and his wife tried to take advantage of the situation. A family friend referred us to Bill and he has been a breath of fresh air throughout this entire process. Her attorney has been procrastinating the entire time and Bill has been on him like white on rice! Bill is very much to the point- no BS so if you want to be coddled then this one isn't for you. But, if you want the facts and someone that is going to give it to you straight while fighting for what's right then Bill is your guy. I highly recommend his team to anyone going through probate or a family settlement agreement. He's expensive but well worth the money I promise!
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30 Sep, 2020 by Chã©rie green deyoung
There are few things as personal as a family dispute. There are even fewer people with integrity that will ethically represent you during an extremely difficult time. I interviewed many firms, as it was not only important to me that a positive outcome occurred, I also wished for someone that understood my plight and had character throughout the process. Bill was professional, thorough and honest from the start. He pointed out facts that no one else did as he had a grasp of the intricacies of our family trust and the law. He advised me openly along the way and I am grateful that he got an extremely positive outcome in a relatively short timeframe and at a fair fee. Highly recommend Houser Law Firm.
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22 Aug, 2017 by Richard brown
Outstanding Law firm in Rockwall. This is the go to guy.
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29 Apr, 2021 by Shelby borden
After a death, the last thing you want to do is worry about someone liquidating your fathers assets. This is what my sisters and I had to face a week after burying our dad. Due to him not having a will things where really complicated and his wife tried to take advantage of the situation. A family friend referred us to Bill and he has been a breath of fresh air throughout this entire process. Her attorney has been procrastinating the entire time and Bill has been on him like white on rice! Bill is very much to the point- no BS so if you want to be coddled then this one isn't for you. But, if you want the facts and someone that is going to give it to you straight while fighting for what's right then Bill is your guy. I highly recommend his team to anyone going through probate or a family settlement agreement. He's expensive but well worth the money I promise!
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30 Sep, 2020 by Chã©rie green deyoung
There are few things as personal as a family dispute. There are even fewer people with integrity that will ethically represent you during an extremely difficult time. I interviewed many firms, as it was not only important to me that a positive outcome occurred, I also wished for someone that understood my plight and had character throughout the process. Bill was professional, thorough and honest from the start. He pointed out facts that no one else did as he had a grasp of the intricacies of our family trust and the law. He advised me openly along the way and I am grateful that he got an extremely positive outcome in a relatively short timeframe and at a fair fee. Highly recommend Houser Law Firm.
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22 Aug, 2017 by Richard brown
Outstanding Law firm in Rockwall. This is the go to guy.
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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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31 Jan, 2024 by Farshad marzban
He is an incredible resource! Very knowledgeable and helpful.
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05 Sep, 2023 by Adi pop
Great attorney!
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13 Mar, 2020 by Steven hedlund
Discover the ideal lawyer
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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.
