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12 Aug, 2024 by Katha pfaff
What a great experience. Very professional and knowledgeable. We would not have been able to navigate this without Suzanna Tiftickjian.
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16 Jul, 2024 by Teri downard
Suzie's help though a frustrating situation was a God send. She is professional, knowledgeable, reassuring and kind. We're so grateful we found her.
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09 May, 2024 by Mary waller
Suzie helped me with my will and estate planning with great detail and knowledge, ensuring I understood and was comfortable with all decisions.
Suzie was lovely to work with and I'm very grateful to have had such a knowledgeable and compassionate person help me with such an important part of life.
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27 Sep, 2024 by Hunter townley
Russel is the best of the best. There is a reason he has such good ratings and reviews because his professionalism shows in every way. He is extremely communicative from beginning to end. I highly recommend him and his team.
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11 Sep, 2024 by Derek smyth
Russell was an outstanding advocate during my recent legal needs,thoroughly professional and helpful, he communcated frequently and helped me through a very difficult situation. I would say he is is the only lawyer I would contact should I need any future legal assistance.
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26 Aug, 2024 by Alex chavez
Russel made the whole process easy and less nerve wracking for our whole family. He is an amazing lawyer. He put us at ease with any questions we had and helped us get our son the least amount of punishment.
We really recommend Russel!!
Thanks Russel!!!
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31 Aug, 2024 by Dyson pullins
24 Aug, 2024 by Jim wong
05 Aug, 2024 by Meredith maxwell
Katie assisted me with a private matter. She is prompt and very helpful. Highly recommend.
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17 Aug, 2024 by Kelly byrom
Working with Liz Hart and Mel Valle has been an exceptional experience. I was initially intimidated by the idea of hiring legal representation, but Liz put me at ease from our very first meeting. She took the time to thoroughly explain all possible scenarios and options, answering every question I had. Thanks to her guidance, I felt prepared and confident moving forward.
Throughout the entire process, Liz and Mel kept me informed and addressed any additional concerns I had, never making me feel like a burden. In addition to their in depth legal expertise, they handled all the paperwork and administrative tasks, which was a huge relief and allowed me to focus on recovering from my injuries without added stress. Their dedication and expertise were crucial to achieving a successful outcome.
I am incredibly grateful for the recommendation to work with Liz and Mel, and I wholeheartedly recommend them to anyone in need of legal representation. Their commitment to fighting for their clients and their genuine care make them outstanding advocates.
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31 May, 2024 by Todd bice
07 May, 2024 by Michael owens
Jenn was the only attorney that was strong and ethical enough to stand with us and represent us against overwhelming odds. She really was our strength to fight through the obstacles and achieve a respectable outcome.
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17 Aug, 2024 by Kelly byrom
Working with Liz Hart and Mel Valle has been an exceptional experience. I was initially intimidated by the idea of hiring legal representation, but Liz put me at ease from our very first meeting. She took the time to thoroughly explain all possible scenarios and options, answering every question I had. Thanks to her guidance, I felt prepared and confident moving forward.
Throughout the entire process, Liz and Mel kept me informed and addressed any additional concerns I had, never making me feel like a burden. In addition to their in depth legal expertise, they handled all the paperwork and administrative tasks, which was a huge relief and allowed me to focus on recovering from my injuries without added stress. Their dedication and expertise were crucial to achieving a successful outcome.
I am incredibly grateful for the recommendation to work with Liz and Mel, and I wholeheartedly recommend them to anyone in need of legal representation. Their commitment to fighting for their clients and their genuine care make them outstanding advocates.
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31 May, 2024 by Todd bice
07 May, 2024 by Michael owens
Jenn was the only attorney that was strong and ethical enough to stand with us and represent us against overwhelming odds. She really was our strength to fight through the obstacles and achieve a respectable outcome.
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14 Jul, 2024 by Karen trekell
05 Jul, 2024 by Ryan dossey
Really enjoyed working with Brandon. He did a great job understanding our finances, goals, and how we wanted our estate set up. I’d recommend him in a heartbeat.
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10 Apr, 2024 by Stephanie wing
27 Sep, 2024 by Hunter townley
Russel is the best of the best. There is a reason he has such good ratings and reviews because his professionalism shows in every way. He is extremely communicative from beginning to end. I highly recommend him and his team.
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11 Sep, 2024 by Derek smyth
Russell was an outstanding advocate during my recent legal needs,thoroughly professional and helpful, he communcated frequently and helped me through a very difficult situation. I would say he is is the only lawyer I would contact should I need any future legal assistance.
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26 Aug, 2024 by Alex chavez
Russel made the whole process easy and less nerve wracking for our whole family. He is an amazing lawyer. He put us at ease with any questions we had and helped us get our son the least amount of punishment.
We really recommend Russel!!
Thanks Russel!!!
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25 Sep, 2024 by Scott
It was great working with Brian, he knew the right questions to ask and what solutions are available. Also looked at the bigger picture to give me more to think about. I could tell he cared about my situation and was quick on taking care of things. He kept me in the loop and was good about communicating in a timely manner. I would recommend him.
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16 Aug, 2024 by John
My elderly mother needed to update her power of attorney. As she is in a nursing home, not mobile, and 1,200 miles from me, I was concerned about accomplishing this. I saw online that Brian offered mobile services, and I reached out to him. He was very supportive and quickly scheduled a visit for the following week. He took the time to confirm mom’s needs and produced the document on site. We really appreciated how easy and efficient Brian completed this for us – big task accomplished. Brian’s charge was very reasonable, and we’d use his services again without question.
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11 Jun, 2024 by Michael
I recently had the privilege of working with Brian Landy during a challenging financial period, and I cannot speak highly enough of the exceptional service and expertise provided. Here are several reasons why I highly recommend Brian Landy:
Thorough Understanding of Bankruptcy Law
Effective Communication
Compassionate Support
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28 Nov, 2022 by Veronica owens
Cory helped me with a Prenup Agreement. He was thorough even educated and corrected my fiancé attorneys on the documents they presented to me.
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27 Sep, 2021 by Anonymous
Cory and the team at Curtis law firm were absolutely lovely to work with. Their team feels like family and I felt very welcome the moment I walked in the door. They explained everything about my will very clearly to me as well. I highly recommend Curtis law firm for drafting your will, etc!
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20 Jul, 2021 by Tony
This is the second time we have used Cory...first for a Will and now for what we considered a complicated Trust set up. He is extremely personable, explains things exceptionally well in layman's terms and is more accessible most lawyers we have dealt with. HIGHLY recommended!
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10 Jun, 2024 by Joe
Rachel helped get through a very messy estate due to a live in that was not married to my mother. Her attention to detail and her caring ways, allowed my sibling and I to retain what our mother left us. Not only is Rachel amazing at her career but is very personable and down to earth. She is great at explaining the law and situations in terms that anyone can understand. I truly feel that our business relationship has led to a friendship. Grateful for Rachel and would recommend her for any of your legal needs!
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07 Jun, 2024 by Derek
Rachel was incredibly thorough and easy to work with. I plan on referring her to all of my friends. Thanks Rachel!!!
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05 Dec, 2023 by Kevan
I cannot express enough gratitude for the exceptional legal representation provided by Rachel Young in our custody case. Her expertise, insight and dedication were instrumental in securing a favorable outcome for our family. I wholeheartedly recommend her services.
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30 Jul, 2024 by Jordan hansen
I spent around two hours talking to Jason and the team at Jordan Law. At first, I thought I was walking into any other law firm – I was wrong. Jason and his team are kind, compassionate, direct? yes. But in such a way I knew he was the perfect lawyer for my situation. Highly recommend – He's the guy you want in your corner, I promise you.
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15 Jul, 2024 by Lr s
Jordan Law is one of the most experienced firms in Colorado. They helped me when a texting distracted driver slammed into my car on the highway. They worked with my doctors in the process to ensure all of my bills were paid on a timely basis. They kept in close communication and gave me constant updates. Ashley on the paralegal staff was very professional and amazing. I highly recommend this firm, Jordon Law.
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11 Jul, 2024 by Jason cheyne
Commutative team! Professional work!
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31 Jan, 2020 by Andrina
We had the wonderful opportunity to work with Kim when we decided to go through Wills & Wellness for our estate planning. She clearly guided us every step of the way, so instead of facing a difficult and emotional process, we were able to smoothly transition all of our assets and finally get peace of mind. Kim is professional, kind and listened to us and our concerns. She also is excellent at explaining the details in a way that we could comfortably understand. Everyone we worked with in her office was also just as helpful and friendly. I highly recommend her and promise your best interests will be her focus.
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27 Dec, 2019 by Karin
My husband and I used Kim and her firm to set up our estate plan. We were impressed with the entire process - from the tools they give you to compile the information they needed to the estate plan package itself. A great experience - we would highly recommend Kim and her team.
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24 Oct, 2019 by Misty
Kimberly and her team completed my Trust this summer. Beyond the standard lawyer work that I expected, I felt like my specific concerns and priorities were given honest and devoted attention. Kimberly both addressed my priorities, and then gave me new things to consider and plan for beyond those base concerns. She eased all of my questions with answers and action items, and overall, she made this generally uncomfortable process of Estate Planning warm and fulfilling.
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23 Feb, 2022 by Jonathan
David Urban helped me with a marital agreement, as my wife and I pursue our Estate Plan. It was necessary for my wife and me to each have our own representation creating the agreement. David worked with me and developed a solid agreement that my wife approved and passed it to her attorney for review. David was extremely reasonable in his pricing. He was very easy to work with and we had to go back and forth on a few issues. But overall, my experience with Urban Law was excellent. I would highly recommend his firm. While my wife and I have a different estate attorney, I would contact Urban Law in a heartbeat for any other legal needs.
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06 Feb, 2021 by David
Our financial advisor recommended that we work with David Urban as our estate attorney and we are SO glad that we took her advice. David was terrific to work with and did exactly what we asked him to do in a timely manner. He has strong expertise in estate planning and gave great advice regarding our specific financial and personal goals. He answered all of our questions, spoke in lay-person’s terms, and helped us to think through some of the details about current and future plans. It was easy to schedule remote appointments with him during the time of COVID and his office followed COVID safety protocols when it came to signing documents. Most importantly, he did not push “extras” on us and did not have an agenda of his own.
We highly recommend using David Urban for your estate planning needs.
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22 May, 2020 by Sean
I have consulted David Urban for years to provide me with business documents and estate planning. He provides his clients a great service when you need a document to secure your business or your estate. When someone asks me about a partnership agreement, obtaining a will or planning their estate for their loved ones, I consistently tell them that if you need a document, David is your attorney. He is professional and responds fast to his clients.
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02 Feb, 2017 by Timothy
Mr. Okunade helped me with a contract dispute I had with an interior designer I hired to assist in a house remodel. Her promise to reimburse me the unused portion of my deposit went unfulfilled and after repeated attempts to contact her for a quick resolution, I decided to hire Mr. Okunade.
He reviewed my case, the contract, all emails involved and felt confident my complaints had merit. He handled everything in a timely manner, kept me informed of every step in the process and resolved the dispute much more quickly than I could have ever hoped.
The designer agreed to return my unused deposit in full without the necessity to settle in court. He is a top notch and extremely professional attorney and I will absolutely use him in the future and recommend his services.
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26 Jan, 2017 by Dennis
I am writing review of tayo okunada . he did a very good job for me. Iwas fully informed thru the entire process. The job was completed in a very timely manner. Iwould recommend Tayo to any one in need of a quality attorney. thank you
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24 Jan, 2017 by Anonymous
I hired Tayo as my attorney for a difficult case against a wrongful termination case against a large corporation. Tayo fought hard for me and I received a settlement in the end. Tayo is very honest and forthright. I would definitely hire him again as my lawyer.
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28 Apr, 2017 by Anonymous
I had Merrie do my estate work, with a living trust. She was very thorough, timely and easy to work with. She was helpful with me getting my thoughts organized on this whole topic. Very good!
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22 Apr, 2017 by Martin
I contacted Merrie Kippur to help with my Estate Planning Profile. She was very knowledgeable and asked all the right questions in order to complete the profile to my satisfaction. I would highly recommend her for any future legal work. Thanks for a job well done.
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20 Apr, 2017 by Anonymous
Merrie has been working with our family for years. We can't say enough good things about her and the help she's provided us, regardless of the ask. She's always very professional, but also caring and kind. We needed a trust drafted to protect our mom's estate and assets, she had everything updated and taken care of quickly. She left nothing for us to worry about, which made the process seamless and stress free.
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15 Mar, 2024 by Ac investment group, inc
Nick is thoughtful, caring and thorough. Thanks for taking care of our family!
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25 May, 2023 by Adam knoper
We had a great experience working with Will. He helped us set up our will and family trust.
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13 Feb, 2023 by B. marcin
Professional, knowledgeable, and very helpful, highly recommend.
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11 May, 2021 by Elias harr
05 Jul, 2020 by Eric kenna
Best vet in Arvada. Piko loves them!
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12 Sep, 2019 by Neal favorite
Liz represented me in a very personal matter. She went above and beyond, and I am fortunate enough to say that with her help, I was able to meet the goals I'd set for myself. She is an amazing attorney!
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28 Sep, 2023 by Justin
My Mother passed away and Natacha help guide our family through this difficult process. She handled all the complex probate issues and sold my mother's house because she's also an experienced realtor! I highly recommend Natacha for any legal matters.
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03 Sep, 2020 by Natasha
Natacha executes my will and powers of attorney. She was professional and thoughtful and provided me with the information I needed to make the right decisions.
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05 Mar, 2020 by Stephanie
For both divorce and child support/custody issues, I was represented better than I could have ever imagined. My needs were put first, my opinions were valued and my doubts were always reassured. My nerves were calmed and the process was always explained. Natasha fought hard for me. She went above and beyond and did everything she could to ensure a great outcome. I couldn't have asked for a better attorney!
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20 Sep, 2017 by Lynn
My aging parents needed updated wills and a trust for real estate, and I was referred to Dave by a friend. We had our initial meeting with Dave a few years ago to discuss their individual desires. The meeting could be described as 'painful' at best, since my parents had made decisions as to their respective beneficiaries without discussion between themselves before the meeting. There was a look of shock on both my parents' faces as they each described how they wanted their property divided. Dave was extremely sensitive to the situation when he realized there was more going on than just a standard will and trust for two people in their 80s. He very diplomatically pointed out the possible legal issues with their choices of beneficiaries and how they wanted property disposed, and also brought up in a sensitive manner the personal ramifications. After a very frank and robust discussion, both parents were satisfied with Dave's recommendations, and the wills and trust were put in place.
My mother passed away a few years after the meeting. Dave and his paralegal Brenda were very responsive to my needs as executor and trustee, which was complicated by my living out of state. They arranged their schedules so I could meet with them when I was in town. Dave was pragmatic in advising me as to what I could/should handle versus what they could do as lawyers for my mother and the trust. I got the sense that he was not looking to do simple tasks just to generate billable hours. They responded quickly to questions about forms to be filed, possible issues with the trust selling the family home, and additional documents needed by the realtor.
It is very hard when a parent passes away, and the groundwork laid by Dave a few years ago made the estate settlement process less complicated than it would have been without the will and trust. Dave and Brenda helped throughout the settlement process, from the time of her death to the trust distribution. Working with them was one of the more pleasant aspects during this trying time.
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13 Feb, 2012 by Chris
Dave Osterman is one of the finest attorney's I've worked with. He came recommended to me by a friend, who Dave had just completed a Living Trust for. Dave's fee structure was simple and he delivered far more value than I felt he charged. The Living Trust he prepared for my wife and I was incredibly detailed and covered aspects of our assets I had not even thought of. He continues to answer questions on my trust, to this day, years after preparing it. I would highly recommend Dave to anyone, particularly with a large portfolio of assets.
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17 Aug, 2011 by Anonymous
Since I first hired Dave, he has been extremely helpful, answering numerous questions by phone at no charge even though they were not always related to the original issue.
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17 Feb, 2017 by Scott
Zach really helped me figure out my rights according to the law. He was very professional and outlined all the options I had in an easy to understand way. After weighing my options with Zach's assistance, we chose a path that was best for my case. Zach's analysis was correct and modification I sought, I received.
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13 Feb, 2015 by Bill
Handled my case and went well above my expectations for an attorney. Explained to him that my ex wife wanted to drag this out to cost me as much money as possible. Zachary had it wrapped up and finalized in record time. I highly recommend him.
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11 Feb, 2015 by Dave
I retained Zach as my attorney as I was in a custody battle after my divorce. I had been going it alone for about six months and although I felt I had a good case, there is always the "what if" Many factors regarding my case brought me to Zach. I had relocated to another state, had a new job, paperwork to locate and file, many things had to be addressed and considered. It was overwhelming.
From the moment I made the decision to get help, I knew that Zach was the attorney to represent me. The initial conversations we had by phone were comfortable and productive. The fact that I was 1400 miles away and that I was placing my children's future and well being in someone's hands was scary at first but Zach, I felt, was the one that could get it done for me.
The biggest concern I had was that I had given him less than 3 months to prepare. In that short amount of time he compiled all the documents, filed all the paperwork, conducted the interviews with the witnesses. He did that and so much more. When we entered the courtroom I was confident and WE were prepared. In court Zach was direct, to the point and was able to "paint the picture" for the Magistrate. He asked the right questions of every witness called to the stand and when the proceeding was complete there was no "what if" left in my mind.
When the court made their decision and I received the call from Zach that we had won, I knew I had made the right call. I cannot express enough my gratitude, nor the respect I have for Zach. I put my trust in him and he delivered. I could not be more pleased.
Sincerely,
Dave
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26 Nov, 2015 by Paul
John and his staff led me through the alternatives and the bankruptcy process. They were very supportive and patient with my questions and concerns, including attending court with me. My responsibilities were clearly described and this helped me to get through bankruptcy.
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17 Nov, 2015 by Anonymous
John and Dzen (paralegal) are my heros! From day 1 meeting with John he always made me fell comfortable in a very uncomfortable situation. Not only did he provide excellent legal services, but any advice he gave me was always on point. John is the the best!
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17 Nov, 2015 by Laura
I have known Mr. Berman for many years as an attorney and client. He is highly intelligent, hard working and ethical. His knowledge base is amazing! I would recommend him.
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10 Apr, 2023 by Anonymous
Shari has been my attorney since May 2020 and the probate case finally closed this March 2023! I don’t live in Colorado so having to handle this all on the phone or electronically isn’t the norm. She was instrumental in giving great advice on next steps and which way to handle all the legal roadblocks. She always explained the most cost effective way versus just trying to log billable hours. I couldn’t have asked for a better attorney and would recommend her as a probate/estate attorney.
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04 Jan, 2013 by Scott
Shari helped us out in an emergency situation and she was responsive and made our family feel as if we were her only client. The highest recommendations are not enough.
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03 Jan, 2013 by Gary
My mother passed away on January 6, 2005, and I was appointed the Personal Representative of her Estate on January 31, 2005. On April 4, 2005, the State of Colorado Department of Health Care Policy and Financing filed a claim against my Mother’s Estate in the amount of $22,000.00 for Medicaid services rendered while she was alive. She also had a couple of debt collectors attempting to get paid twice by the estate. My attorney at the time couldn’t handle a case this size so he backed out.
On September 8, 2005, I engaged Shari Caton as my attorney for my Mother’s Estate who helped me prove to the State of Colorado Department of Health Care Policy and Financing that I had received a disability on my back during active military service and that I was receiving disability compensation from the Veterans Administration. This was grounds for the State of Colorado to drop their claim against the estate and so they did. Thanks to Shari Caton and her high degree of legal professionalism, for blocking the State’s Claim against my Mother’s Estate and stopping a couple of money hungry thieves from getting paid twice.
Shari Caton is an excellent attorney with a vast knowledge of the legal system, a high degree of legal professionalism and works diligently in helping her clients win their cases. Shari is a great person as well as a great attorney who is second to none. A real WINNER!!! I very highly recommend her to anyone needing legal help.
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31 Aug, 2024 by Robert
Paul completely understood our legal situation which involved a bridge loan, and had an associated promissory note, a deed of trust and a borrower's guaranty, all three legal documents were originally drafted by the borrower. Paul provided significant betterments/protections and sagely substituted the Colorado Real Estate Commission form for the deed of trust. He instills confidence, explains issues in layman terms and guided us to a timely and successful closing. He is highly recommended.
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12 Nov, 2018 by Glenn
Mr Durr is a consummate professional. He is an expert negotiator, and has tremendous common sense. Mr Durr has assisted me with trusts, wills, business transactions and contract agreements. Tremendous business lawyer; I highly recommend.
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15 Aug, 2016 by Mike and pam
We needed assistance getting an estate settled where the attorney for the estate was very difficult to work with.
Mr. Durr was excellent at working easily with a contentious person. We were so impressed with him that we had him plan our estate and get our papers in order. A year later Mr. Durr helped us with our Real Estate needs instead of using a realtor. He has always done a great job for us and been more than fair billing us.
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30 Mar, 2016 by Siena
After interviewing and pricing out a few different attorneys, my husband and I felt very confident in hiring Lyndsey and her team to assist us with our estate planning. Lyndsey and Heather made this process so easy for us- we had procrastinated this for years because it seemed so overwhelming, but Lyndsey explained things in terms that made sense, put things in context with helpful anecdotes and metaphors, and guided us though the decision making process like a pro. She is a great listener and seemed to truly have our best interests at heart. We are so grateful for her guidance through this process and and have such peace of mind knowing she is our trusted advisor.
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04 Jul, 2015 by Brian
They took my situation and made it simple and pleasant. Lyndsey's
expertise and personality provided me the confidence I was looking for.
Very convenient and very professional.
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26 Feb, 2015 by Anonymous
Lyndsey Richard was recommended when we needed legal help in an urgent situation. She was very helpful, even willing to meet our family at our home. She is sensitive, thorough, responsive and smart.
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27 Oct, 2022 by Timothy
I am very pleased with the estate planning services provided by Andrew Bedell. He updated my will and added new documents to meet my needs, making the process quick and easy. He took time to answer my questions and explain the legal requirements. I highly recommend Andrew Bedell for estate planning services.
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19 Aug, 2022 by Mario
It has been a pleasure working with Andrew Bedell . His communication, patience and kind nature is exceeded By his professionalism and ability to take a case full on with motivation and determination to give his client the best outcome . Andrew was very prompt and timely when it came to new Information pending my case .did a great job explaining the details in a cordial and respectful manner . He’s a man of his word … and that’s hard to come by these days . Will definitely acquire his services again In The future .
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14 Jan, 2020 by Marita
Keenan is not only helpful with her knowledge but was wonderfully open and honest with me when I had questions about my mother's affairs. We talked for a long time candidly about everything. I feel very confident in referring her to any one who needs even even the basic of questions asked. She is completely a joy to work with. I would also refer her especially to any of my LGBTQIA folx who need estate planning and all that entails. She is sensitive to our needs and is a huge ally.
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11 Nov, 2019 by Alex
Keenan was wonderful to work with - professional, communicative and very detail oriented. She skillfully helped my wife and I complete an estate plan, guiding us through the process efficiently. I feel a lot better having it in place, and I'm sure our kids will be thankful for it too!
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04 Nov, 2016 by Amy
Paul has in-depth knowledge of the German legal system and culture, and excellent German language skills. He also has significant experience in cross-border deals with other countries. You'll enjoy his sense of humor and calm demeanor!
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16 Apr, 2014 by Alena
Paul Maricle has been legal counsel of Wasson-ECE Instrumentation over 5 years. During that time he has assisted us with various corporate matters, contract issues, and he assisted us in forming a wholly-owned subsidiary in Singapore. Paul has been very responsive to our needs and I can recommend him without hesitation.
Alena Hruskova, Controller
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16 Apr, 2016 by Anonymous
Our family was facing a Medicaid and later estate matter concerning the family matriarch. We were dealing with an unpleasant, stressful, and often bewildering legal and family situation. Ms Mitchell helped navigate and manage.
When I first searched for an attorney in the needed specialty, I contacted about 4 or 5 lawyers and firms. Ms Mitchell was the only one who returned my call and then made herself efficiently available for an intake phone call. She and her staff made the initial outreach easy and pleasant. I cannot say the same about others I contacted.
Ms Mitchell’s and her firm’s professionalism continued to shine after the family hired her and as she helped us through the difficult matter. She did what was needed to be done, pleasantly, effectively, efficiently, and with utmost respect. Her competence and that of her staff in this particular area of law is complete. Having this level of competence provided additional assurance in a time of turmoil. The family could trust her, and that means a lot in times of distress. The situation was tough. Without her assistance, it would have been impossible.
I have been and will continue to recommend Ms Mitchell to anyone who is asking for lawyer referrals. In the very near future, when my own family is getting ready for estate planning matters, we will hire her. No need to shop around any further.
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26 Oct, 2012 by Anonymous
Beth is a wonderful Estate Planner. She has great listening skills. She was also wonderful in assisting my mother with her Estate Plan. We would highly recommend her to anyone with a complicated estate portfolio.
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30 Jul, 2020 by Karen lamprey
Elizabeth helped me with my father-in-law's probate. She was great at explaining the process, and was there for all of our questions with empathy and expertise.
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30 Jul, 2020 by Justin davis
Super helpful, and great to work with, thank you!
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07 Oct, 2010 by Jim
A few years ago, Jeremy helped my wife and me form our construction and consulting companies. He walked us through every aspect of the process, including the tax ramifications of our options. To this day, I can e-mail him a contract in the morning and he has comments for me by lunch. Also, due to my work schedule, on many occasions, Jeremy has worked with me on the weekends or late at night.
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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:
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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.
