Lawyers map
>607
experienced lawyers
Filter by
08 Jul, 2024 by King chancellor
08 Jul, 2024 by Nana kofi acquah-asare
08 Jul, 2024 by Yvonne lewis
The Franklin Law Firm treated me as if I was the only client they had and I was so grestful for their kindness and love. The Firm is very loyal to their clients. Mr. Franklin is the best !!!!
Read more
16 Jun, 2024 by Patrick van pelt
Super dedicated legal counsel!
Read more
07 Mar, 2024 by Mark d
28 Feb, 2024 by D t
12 Nov, 2020 by Kryslyn burks
Elliott Burdette and his team assisted us with our estate planning needs earlier this year. We were extremely pleased with their responsiveness, patience and guidance in helping us understand our options and advising us how best to handle our affairs. Additionally, we did this all during COVID-19 and he and his team were verying accomodating and respectful of social distancing requirements. We would highly recommend him!
Read more
18 Oct, 2019 by Robin tolbert
Elliott took time answering all of our questions and comments. It was a good experience.
Read more
19 Dec, 2018 by Joyce collie
Mr. Burdette helped my husband and me understand the difference between a will and a living trust. He answered all our questions-and we had a lot of them! We were especially pleased with the prompt service we received and we are very appreciative of Elliott's clever ideas to help us accomplish our estate planning goals.We would recommend him highly.
Read more
10 Aug, 2022 by Anonymous
After thousands of dollars I felt that I was throwing money out the window. The attorney I needed was the one for the company I was suing. She was a bulldog. I had to repeatedly send the same information to Ms. Britton. I also believe Katherine should have been direct in TELLING me to see a psychiatrist/psychologist. Instead of asking had I seen oneâŚ.? I have since been diagnosed with PTSD. A direct result of the years of harassment and unfair treatment. After seeing the psychologist for several months, I was able to walk away from a job in January 2022 for threats of violence against me and another female employee. Management said they would do an investigation âbut they knew how that would turn outâ! I QUIT.
Read more
13 Jan, 2022 by Greg
Katherine was hired to represent me in obtaining equity compensation promised to me during the job recruitment process. After several years of loyal service to my employer, a decision to terminate me without any acknowledgement of the previously agreed compensation was made. Katherine thoroughly reviewed my case details and assured me a valid case against my employer existed. Obvious skepticism on my part loomed large, given that the employer was threatening to rescind severance pay for years of high level performance. After intense negotiation on my behalf she clearly exceeded my expectations with regards to a fair and equitable settlement. Katherine was an excellent communicator along every step in the process. I would highly recommend her services.
Read more
11 Jan, 2018 by Jennifer
I hired Katherine after consulting 6 other lawyers. I had planned to find a counselor in my home town thinking that a face to face relationship would be beneficial but changed my mind and hired her to handle my wrongful employment case. Everything was done via phone or e-mail directly with her. She was upfront and realistic in her advice to me at all times. I never felt bullied or foolish and relied on her expertise to guide me in the right direction. It was a pleasure working with her and she quickly accomplished an amicable agreement.
Read more
06 Mar, 2024 by Drew albert
04 Dec, 2023 by Dick record
Clint Schumacher and his team were excellent! They were diligent and creative in helping us with ATMOS and the City buying an easement for a pipeline and a corner of the property for a traffic circle. Clint communicated with us well and was able to more than double the initial offers we had received through his work. We highly recommend Clint and the firm!
Read more
14 Nov, 2023 by Joe smith
You can find a better firm in town, wouldn't recommend.
Read more
28 Sep, 2021 by Anonymous
Sheâs inexperienced. Really doesnât know what sheâs doing and instead of following the law she places her own personal twist on it. Hire an experienced board certified attorney.
Read more
29 Oct, 2019 by Anonymous
Deepti took my case a few days prior to my court date. I was blind sided with a case with no legal representation. She stepped in to assist when I really needed it.
She is very professional, and communicated well during the time she represented me.
Read more
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.
Read more
18 Jun, 2018 by Shelby
Mr. Rick Tubbâs is the only lawyer in Dallas that I would choose to represent me in a Dallas court room again. He is fair, honest, and very direct. I was comforted by his knowledge of the law and the care he took in explaining the proceedings of my case in detail. If the opportunity presented itself I would pick Rick time and time again.
Read more
06 Jul, 2014 by David
I have engaged Rick Tubb on three occasions, and I found him to be highly professional and very helpful. On the last occasion he was able to diffuse a threatened lawsuit by quickly getting to the heart of the issue and organizing a fact-filled face-to-face discussion with the other party and his attorney. As a result of that, the matter quickly went away. Rick was very helpful in explaining options to me and helping me make some informed decisions. I felt very comfortable with his approach. I would not hesitate to recommend him as an attorney.
Read more
04 Jul, 2014 by Stephanie
I have known J. Richard Tubb for many years and have called on him for legal help twice. In each case he handled my matter in a responsible and expeditious manner. His professionalism and integrity make him one of the more trusted lawyers I have ever met or worked with. Unlike others, he takes the "stop, look and listen" approach before responding to a legal issue. I would not hesitate to recommend Mr. Tubb or utilize his services in the future.
Read more
17 Apr, 2014 by Michelle
I had a consultation with Lisa, she was very responsive and encouraging.
Ms. Leffingwell was a pleasure to be around and clearly very knowledgable.
I was introduced to Lisa through a personal referral from a prior Dallas County DA, who is now one of the most respected criminal defense attorneys in the region.
I was unable to retain Ms.Leffingwell's services at the time of consultation, and seriously regret it. From my understanding she is one of the best Family Law attorneys in Dallas.
Read more
24 Mar, 2024 by Lvb01
My issue dealt with probate. This lawyer is excellent in listening and really considering your concerns. A rarity these days! After hearing your concerns, he gives informative answers to help you see what your options are so that you can make the best informed decisions as possible. On top of everything else, he is very personable. I would not hesitate for a second in recommending him to others!
Read more
02 Feb, 2024 by Tri nguyen
Receptionist was so rude I never wanna work with a law firm like this.
Read more
18 Sep, 2019 by Edwin kumar
12 Sep, 2024 by Sukha sodhi
0 star
Read more
02 Sep, 2024 by E
I received a no insurance ticket due to falling on hard times and got pulled over for allegedly not having a front license plate on my vehicle even tho I had one. the policy enforcer found an excuse to pull me over and have my rights violated on top of threatening me to take me to jail with my child in the car. I signed under duress and with all rights reserved to challenge jurisdiction and hired these incompetent idiots in hopes I could have it dismissed and because I would be at work and could not attend. Jimena Anaya withheld the fact that if I got insurance within 20 days I could have it dismissed and now it went against me as a CDL HOLDER out of pure spite and jealousy. Not to mention the policy enforcer could not even verify if I actually didnât have a front license plate because I actually showed him.
These courts and bar members only work together to make money. Not to mention as a CDL HOLDER I was driving within my personal capacity and not in commerce.
And to add to the greediness they charge a $100 fee if you pay the ticket through them when you can just call the court and make a payment over the phone
****DO NOT HIRE THEM IF YOU HAVE A CDL THEY WILL TAKE ADVANTAGE OF TRUCK DRIVERS. YOURE BETTER OF CALLING YOURSELF FOR A HEARING AND FIGHT IT WITH CHALLENGING EVIDENCE ESPECIALLY IF THE COPS VIOLATED YOUR PROTECTED RUGHTS WITH THREATS, INTIMIDATION AND COERCION *******
THESE PEOPLE WORK WITH THESE TRAFFIC COURT$$$$
Read more
21 Aug, 2024 by Jeremy dowe
Above and beyond! Ana Gonzalez assisted me with every concern up to court, Blake Stone my attorney came in to court and basically lit up the whole courthouse just with his incredible good-natured presence. Mr. Stone is the best attorney I have ever met, handling ancillary matters with ease, and giving me affordable options for more results. I cannot thank them enough and I have never been so impressed I donât think that will ever wear off.
Read more
20 Aug, 2021 by Erica romero
27 May, 2021 by James oduor
23 Mar, 2021 by Adebola wale abayomi
26 Mar, 2021 by Anonymous
After following Mr. Chern's advice we lost our court battle. I should have let him go 6 months ago after red flag after red flag. Throughout my dealings with Mr. Chern he consistently was not timely in responding to emails or phone calls. Not once or twice but dozens of times! He had some major office drama later last year which was his excuse for not getting back to me for 3 weeks at one point. Buyer beware find another lawyer to use. I work with 4 different law firms for work and have for 10+ years and the biggest problem in dealing with Mr. Chern is he doesnât send out regular statements and overbills! In the 6 months I dealt with him I received 2 statements!
Read more
20 Aug, 2019 by Suzy
I was referred to Dan Chern by a friend after I had a very unpleasant experience at work. I spoke to several attorneys but I decided to go with Dan because I felt like he took a personal interest in me and in my case.
I felt like Dan was very thoughtful, open, and it was easy to discuss difficult situations with him. He was also very accessible, which I did not find with attorneys I have worked with in the past. Danâs paralegal, Tracie Harrison, was always so sweet and helpful throughout this process.
For my situation, I really liked that Dan had experience representing big companies and âthe little guyâ, like me. He was able to predict what the other side was going to do because he had been there. It felt like he was really in charge of the situation.
In the end, I feel like Dan fought hard and negotiated well for me. I believe all parties were satisfied with the outcome. I would highly recommend Dan Chern if you are looking for a litigation attorney.
Read more
29 Jul, 2015 by Ernest
Dan Chern was recommended to me by Keith Harvey. My dealings with Mr. Chern has been quick and professional. I will recommend him to anyone. Thanks Dan.
Read more
23 Feb, 2022 by Rachael moffitt
This is the expert in family law
Want the best outcome? Then hire Dawn, you wonât be disappointed.
I had two attorneys refer me to her. Thereâs a reason for that.
Sheâs watches out for you, and her years of experience show are reflected in how wonderfully you are represented. She gave me my piece of mind back when I was going through a very difficult time in my life.
Dawn is the absolute best in Dallas. Donât let anyone tell you otherwise. Thank you Dawn, you are an angel!
Read more
29 May, 2020 by Shane z
A terrible parent facilitator. Iâm not sure whether she is unwilling, or merely lacks confidence to actually facilitate. She is unable to make a professional decision and stick to it. She will do anything to avoid conflict but will take your money without taking a stance. I am imperfect, and at times was in the wrong, but even then she wouldnât ever âcall a spade a spade.â She frequently hides behind the fact the she âisnât a judge,â so she wonât even make simple clear cut recommendations. A complete waste of my time and money, and a shame that I ended up refiling in Court largely because she is unwilling/unable to stand up and âfacilitateâ ad it means you may offend one parent. Parents go to PFs when they canât negotiate, but itâs the kids that ultimately suffer when parent facilitators are ineffective. Ms. Fowler is ineffective as a parent facilitator.
Read more
05 Nov, 2018 by Loudsilence t.v hattiemae
Beautiful relaxed setting, and great customer service..
Read more
06 Aug, 2020 by Sandra
I would have given Gaylynn 5 stars had she not completely taken my money and now I haven't heard from her since March 31st. I have emailed, called, and texted and have not gotten one response. We are now in August and I paid for something to be done last year and nothing has been done. Gaylynn has worked with me several times and has always been slow to respond but this time to get completely ripped off by her I am just confused as to why someone would take money from a single mom and not care of how this effects my kids.
Read more
26 Jan, 2017 by Tony
Gaylynn Gee represented me in my divorce case. In a state where guys usually get the short end of the stick, Gaylynn fought extremely hard on my behalf, she's extremely knowledgeable in all aspects of family law, I would highly recommend her to anyone needing a tough smart lawyer.
Read more
22 Jul, 2015 by Anonymous
I was aghast to hear someone had lambasted Ms. Gee on this review. Ms. Gee is such a conscientious attorney who works diligently and vigorously for her clients. I am a paralegal at another firm in Dallas County. We frequently refer individuals to Ms. Gee for representation in the Collin and Denton county courts. We have only gotten positive feedback from these referrals and can confirm those clients have also referred Ms. Gee to assist with their family law matters. Thank you Ms. Gee -- you are a 'Goo-gerl'... (DKL-Dallas Texas)
Read more
02 Feb, 2024 by Tri nguyen
Receptionist was so rude I never wanna work with a law firm like this.
Read more
18 Sep, 2019 by Edwin kumar
28 Jul, 2019 by Laura
Ellen never took any action toward resolution .
Her philosophical approach did nothing to resolve my case. I called for an update and Ellen was at a conference on how to take a deposition....really, instead of working on my case she is "learning how to take a deposition?"
Communication was poor and the only time I received any communication was an invoice which usually had double billing, one for her work or philosophies and her mentor or a Christmas card which did nothing toward case resolution . I had to bring the double billing to the attention of Burdette and Rice in order to receive restitution. She and her mentor" could not wrap their heads around an accounting" but they had no issue double billing. It is her job to "get her head around the accounting". When I asked for an update on a promised letter from her, she had forgotten and said I was now on her radar....but every month when she prepares her bill.....I AM ON HER RADAR. Money driven not results driven.
I hired an accomplished Austin, Tx Litigator who immediately hired a forensic accountant to dissect the accounting. This attorney is aggressive and takes steps to accomplish our goal, he files motions to compel and issues subpoenas for discovery etc, He DOES something to conclude the case.
Would not recommend Ellen who is notvresults driven but money driven.
Read more
09 Oct, 2023 by Bill
Linstrom stated that âthese cases in Dallas County are typically taking around 4 months, so we should be done in five months.â That was March 2, 2023.
On March 4th he wrote âThank you for this. Iâm still organizing my week so I will let you know soon as I can.â This was in response to me Offering on both March 3rd and fourth to bring him the documents. It seem to me that he was going to get with me soon, but after waiting seven and half weeks, I contracted him. Finally after two Emails on April 25th he agree to meet me April 28th where I meet with him in the lobby and gave him the documents.
Did not contact him again until June 26th, On June 27th I received a Card from Jesse wanting to buy my deceased motherâs house with the PR number. I look up the number and saw that 6 documents were listed and that he paid $388. I now felt that he was doing all he could. I said, âI guess we are waiting for the judge to set a date.â He text and said âYesâŚsorry, wish things were faster but the court is the court.â I interpret that as him saying we are waiting on the judge, but later I learn on August 16th that the court was waiting on him to submit the probate hearing document and we were never waiting on the judge.
On August 18th, he wrote âBill, it does take some time between filing and acceptance, but we are working on it and should have a hearing date some time next week.â Have not had a hearing date at this time.
Read more
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!
Read more
30 Sep, 2020 by ChãŠrie 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.
Read more
01 Sep, 2024 by Arlen sauer
These scamming pieces of trash, continuously send me warnings, I've already contacted the city I apparently have a warrant from. No warrant. Already paid YEARS AGO! Yet they continue their scare tactics. There's a special place in hell for companies like this. Just wait when I get to actually talk to someone, whatever nonexistent god they believe in better protect them that day.
Read more
21 Aug, 2024 by Rupert m
I received a letter from them. I got a red light camera violation in my name for someone elseâs random car in a city Iâve never been to. The camera misread the license plate.
Read more
25 Jul, 2024 by Michael vu
These people sent us a notice of delinquent property taxes when we didn't owe anything! This has to be illegal...
Read more
30 Aug, 2024 by Vivtec
Zehl law had an outstanding team on their hands. My friend spoke mostly with Mr Warner and Mt Clinton and they were able to walk him through the legal process from beginning to end with little difficulty.
Read more
08 Mar, 2024 by Jessica callan
10 Oct, 2023 by Kelly zell
30 Aug, 2024 by Vivtec
Zehl law had an outstanding team on their hands. My friend spoke mostly with Mr Warner and Mt Clinton and they were able to walk him through the legal process from beginning to end with little difficulty.
Read more
08 Mar, 2024 by Jessica callan
10 Oct, 2023 by Kelly zell
11 Apr, 2018 by Anonymous
Mr. Ashmore met with my husband and I for a complimentary consultation. During the meeting he gave us our options along with pricing. He was very knowledgeable about our possible case. We decided not to pursue the case but based on our experience we would recommend him! Overall very friendly and helpful.
Read more
25 Jan, 2018 by Anonymous
For the most part, he was unresponsive and when he did respond he was clueless. He had no grasp on even the most basic elements of my case. The expense invoice was unreasonable and inaccurate. I was billed multiple times for the same item and billed for expenses which had already been paid. He lied to the court, opposing counsel and to me. He was rude and condescending. He and his staff attempted to bully me in signing a false document. He constantly put his interests above mine. The level of incompetence and negligence is unbelievable.
Read more
17 Jun, 2022 by Anonymous
Did not hear my side of the story and supposed to been defending me I did everything he asked every court date when he tell me not to come or leave the courthouse I've done that I reported twice a week I did all that I'm in a wheelchair with one leg I had a court day Wednesday me and him talk Wednesday Tuesday and Wednesday he even sent me a police report I'm just now getting a police report from November 26th but it's not nothing on there that I said that I'm the one call the police so if I call the police that mean they supposed to have gave me a chance to say something I was in the house A man jumped up in a piece of glass broke and scratched him on his hand or he scratched his stuck himself with that ice pick he said over there but he picked up a 40 oz bottle so I throw some plastic season is to try to knock it out his hand went back and call the police but my law you don't he I don't know he text me at 11:00 this morning and said we have court she going to issue a warrant she issued a one I'm out of town and I'll be gone for 3 weeks that's what he said now the bonding company trying to figure out why m i getting off a warrant.. he seem like he was a pretty good cool guy but I don't know what happened I'm quite sure he was real busy but I'm not trying to go to jail after I've been going through all the treat seizures and everything that he asked of me I liked him but seem like he just dropped my cage today my court date was Wednesday how did I have a court date Friday Wednesday I told him I didn't want to pay no money to take no class because he haven't even listened to my side of the story and we've been dealing with this for 6 months. He done told me at least three times oh you don't need to come you don't need to come you know he keep telling me that and then when I show up he said oh I'm going to be at least 3 hours late leave and I stand in for you that's what he's been doing that's why I kind of thought he was okay. For for me.
Read more
28 Apr, 2015 by Philip
Glenn was, to me, an excellent attorney. He knows the law well. He takes the needed time to counsel with you to obtain all needed information and gives excellent legal advise. There were many times Glenn was more than an attorney but also a caring friend. Often he said just the right words that I needed to hear to help me gain wisdom, strength and endurance. He not only has an excellent reputation as a skilled, successful, wise attorney but he is also known for his caring, good heart. He will fight hard for justice and the rights of his client.
Read more
03 Aug, 2022 by Thr seeker
The older caucasian receptionist who answered the phone was extremely combative and yelled at me while trying to see if I could retain this lawfirm for assistance. I felt very uncomfortable and strongly suggest finding a lawfirm that does not yell at potential clients. This receptionist needs anger management at a minimum.
Read more
13 Sep, 2020 by Loretta flores
26 Feb, 2024 by Robby green
12 Apr, 2023 by Anonymous
He was unresponsive to calls and to emails. He was initially working in the San Antonio area. Then later I found out he had relocated to another city.
I had paid my retainer fee but ended receiving half of it.
Read more
04 Mar, 2023 by Maria belen veliz
01 Sep, 2024 by Arlen sauer
These scamming pieces of trash, continuously send me warnings, I've already contacted the city I apparently have a warrant from. No warrant. Already paid YEARS AGO! Yet they continue their scare tactics. There's a special place in hell for companies like this. Just wait when I get to actually talk to someone, whatever nonexistent god they believe in better protect them that day.
Read more
21 Aug, 2024 by Rupert m
I received a letter from them. I got a red light camera violation in my name for someone elseâs random car in a city Iâve never been to. The camera misread the license plate.
Read more
25 Jul, 2024 by Michael vu
These people sent us a notice of delinquent property taxes when we didn't owe anything! This has to be illegal...
Read more
01 Sep, 2024 by Arlen sauer
These scamming pieces of trash, continuously send me warnings, I've already contacted the city I apparently have a warrant from. No warrant. Already paid YEARS AGO! Yet they continue their scare tactics. There's a special place in hell for companies like this. Just wait when I get to actually talk to someone, whatever nonexistent god they believe in better protect them that day.
Read more
21 Aug, 2024 by Rupert m
I received a letter from them. I got a red light camera violation in my name for someone elseâs random car in a city Iâve never been to. The camera misread the license plate.
Read more
25 Jul, 2024 by Michael vu
These people sent us a notice of delinquent property taxes when we didn't owe anything! This has to be illegal...
Read more
27 Oct, 2023 by Kayla scott
Complete JOKE! They filed suit without our permission. They do not communicate at all. They do not follow directions. And they lie! Horrible service. Do not use them unless you want your situation to get worse.
Read more
24 Oct, 2023 by David pena
Did not show up to court. Lost all our paperwork and emailed copies 3 times. Resending not a big deal but annoying. Communication through out the whole process was horrible. Now we lost the case and it's very hard to over turn. He has promised to return our money in payments. First check was denied by the bank. And now he says I forgot. I have the emails to prove it.
Read more
05 May, 2023 by Aja holman
BEWARE they will take your money and will not do anything!!!!
Read more
21 Oct, 2023 by Stacy mc
20 Oct, 2023 by Darren england
Very professional, would recommend other than, oh yeah, she literally tried to overthrow the government. Other than that, no complaints đ
Read more
19 Oct, 2023 by Prepper kween
I am giving you A One star because innocent people should not plead guilty a recent court case out of Michigan Substantiated that fifty thousand dead people voted for biden. Why did you plead guilty you're not guilty of anything. The voting system has been rigged for many years dead people Voted for Hillary Clinton as well, but not enough dead people. I do not believe Biden got the most votes of Is any president in the history of voting. He is dead from the neck up. Nobody showed up to his campaigning rallies. However, trump has miles and miles and miles and miles of traffic going to his rallies.
Read more
30 Jan, 2024 by Vanessa cabrera
Do not waste your money!
Read more
18 Sep, 2023 by Tina wolf
Horrible experience, I do not recommend. Please do not give these people your money. My Chase Horton didnât even show up to court today
Read more
15 Apr, 2023 by Rosanne miller
Emily negotiated great changes for me in a contract with a TV production company. We ended up saving a lot of money and Emily was Very professional. Her knowledge of the industry is a definite asset for anyone looking for an Entertainment Lawyer.
Read more
08 Nov, 2023 by Maria angel
12 May, 2023 by Duane lawrence
Very rude staff that won't follow the law
Read more
20 Dec, 2022 by Chance turner
terribly rude staff, gives you the run around constantly, the attorney Thomas Sellers will even interrupt and hang up on you when youâre trying to clarify the debt and what youâre needing. I was told to further my âreading comprehensionâ and that he âdoesnât careâ about my questions. He proceeded to tell me how good I had it with the debt, even though weâre still negotiating it. You sure would think they could answer some questions in trade of a 1 lump sum payment. He went on to explain how I could get around the $3000 court fee, yet any other basic question I asked, I was talked over or told thatâd be legal advice.
Read more
27 Oct, 2023 by Kayla scott
Complete JOKE! They filed suit without our permission. They do not communicate at all. They do not follow directions. And they lie! Horrible service. Do not use them unless you want your situation to get worse.
Read more
24 Oct, 2023 by David pena
Did not show up to court. Lost all our paperwork and emailed copies 3 times. Resending not a big deal but annoying. Communication through out the whole process was horrible. Now we lost the case and it's very hard to over turn. He has promised to return our money in payments. First check was denied by the bank. And now he says I forgot. I have the emails to prove it.
Read more
05 May, 2023 by Aja holman
BEWARE they will take your money and will not do anything!!!!
Read more
Discover the ideal lawyer
You can search a lawyer by practice area, lawyer name, city, state, or ZIP code
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 personâs 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 deceasedâs 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 youâre 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 estateâs 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 lawyerâs 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.
Itâs 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 lawyerâs 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 lawyerâs expertise and geographic location.
- Percentage fees: In some cases, a probate lawyer may charge 2% to 5% of the estateâs 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, itâs essential to ask the right questions to ensure youâre 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 itâs 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 lawyerâs 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 itâs 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 youâre hiring a reputable probate lawyer, follow these steps to check their credentials and experience:
- Verify their state bar status: Check with your stateâs bar association to confirm the lawyer is licensed to practice and has no history of disciplinary action.
- Look for probate experience: Review the lawyerâs 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 lawyerâs 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, itâs important to come prepared with relevant documents and information. Hereâs 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 deceasedâs 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 personâs 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.
