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06 May, 2024 by Samantha esparza
01 Mar, 2024 by Pharouk hussein
11 Feb, 2024 by Ra jessop-goodrich
Nice
Guy
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27 Sep, 2024 by Steve ingram
Kind
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08 Jul, 2024 by Nicholas coram
This is an email sent to me from Paul Faraci
Mr. Coram,
Your access to MyChart was terminated for misuse. You have been provided with copies of all your records on several occasions. If you want additional copies of your records in any format, please provide me with a HIPAA compliant release and let me know in what format you want those records and DHHA will provide them.
I did not provide him with the form he requested and he still accessed my private information. He's is currently being employed by Denver Health as a defense attorney. YOU CANT DO THAT PAUL!
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08 Jul, 2024 by Rodney jones
18 Jul, 2024 by Stephanie colborg
I met Mr Eldridge 30yrs ago at the time he handled 3 cases did excellent job.
Recently, I was represented by Wade Eldridge in a court case where I was falsely accused and was facing three years in jail. I felt betrayed scared and small up again such accusations. Wade Not only took my case and helped me through this trying situation. He showed compassion and heartfelt case for me as a person he became my protector. He was there for me in my difficulties like no one else was, and he fought hard to bring me justice and defend my innocence, all through this he rest assured me that he would be there for me and give me his best effort, even though he had many other cases I always felt that I was important to him and he is going to save me as it all turned out he did be protecting me so very well that I was given no jail time at all, and even after the case Was ended he pursuing some injustice he discovered on my behalf. I have a friend who is a retired assistant US attorney who went ahead to head with Wade in federal court, and even though they were on opposite sides, my friend said he had great respect for the way Wade represented his clients if you find yourself in need of a strong man to defend you and your troubles, this person who is free because of his devotion and Care highly recommends that you enlist Wade Eldridge as your champion, he will immerse himself in your case if you are his only one he will fight For you. With all Sincerity , Stephanie Colborg.
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27 Jun, 2024 by Joeffery ibisagba
Worst attorney to date I’ve actually had the displeasure of speaking to. Extremely dismissive and would not hear the claims to the case. Please avoid by all means you have a better chance of going elsewhere. On the initial call I should’ve avoided the instance you started with oh I’m rude..by choice
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19 Jun, 2024 by Kayla ricardy
I got in a car accident where my car was totalled and my wrist and hand were broken. The other driver was at fault and I knew I needed a lawyer to help with this. I went to see a handful of lawyers about this and it didn’t feel right until I met Wade. Wade took the time to explain the process we would go through in detail. Wade & his paralegal Dawn are absolutely awesome. Dawn is unbelievable at organizing things and requesting what she needs from you. I don’t know how she keeps it all together. I really thank Wade and Dawn and I am very happy with the outcome of my case. I will be referring anyone I know who needs lawyer help to them.
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27 Sep, 2024 by Steve ingram
Kind
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08 Jul, 2024 by Nicholas coram
This is an email sent to me from Paul Faraci
Mr. Coram,
Your access to MyChart was terminated for misuse. You have been provided with copies of all your records on several occasions. If you want additional copies of your records in any format, please provide me with a HIPAA compliant release and let me know in what format you want those records and DHHA will provide them.
I did not provide him with the form he requested and he still accessed my private information. He's is currently being employed by Denver Health as a defense attorney. YOU CANT DO THAT PAUL!
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08 Jul, 2024 by Rodney jones
08 Oct, 2024 by M m
11 Sep, 2024 by Jennifer
Hi you guys! You’ve been doing my Mom’s Estate since she passed. It’s been a year, Sept 2023-Sept2024, you said it wasn’t much $ and not complicated and yet, it’s been a year. You’ve charged us a lot and given only $240k from a $430k home with 40 acres in Strasbourg Colorado. I don’t want to be charged more for enquiring, when is this done? You said it would take 9 months.
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03 Sep, 2024 by Natasha mata
27 Sep, 2024 by Steve ingram
Kind
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08 Jul, 2024 by Nicholas coram
This is an email sent to me from Paul Faraci
Mr. Coram,
Your access to MyChart was terminated for misuse. You have been provided with copies of all your records on several occasions. If you want additional copies of your records in any format, please provide me with a HIPAA compliant release and let me know in what format you want those records and DHHA will provide them.
I did not provide him with the form he requested and he still accessed my private information. He's is currently being employed by Denver Health as a defense attorney. YOU CANT DO THAT PAUL!
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08 Jul, 2024 by Rodney jones
5.0
3 Reviews
4.2
143 Reviews
01 Oct, 2024 by Sasha zavada
I worked with attorney Heather Landauer and paralegal Brianna Griffey for my family court case. They were always attentive and on top of the issues I was having. Kept me at ease and took my concerns seriously. I was pleased with the knowledge, service, and time I received. I would recommend them to anyone going through a contested family court case.
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24 Sep, 2024 by Caroline dermon
Erika and her team were amazing!! They went above and beyond in every way possible. Erika was always available to answer my questions no matter what time of day it was. She explained the process every step of the way and was a true advocate for my son and I. I knew she always had my back and she made what was possibly one of the most difficult times in my life, as smooth and seamless as possible. I couldn't have asked for a better outcome and it's all because of Erika. She's professional, down to earth, relatable, crazy smart and the best at what she does. She is my knight in shinning armor and I will forever be grateful for everything she did for me!!
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24 Sep, 2024 by Amy kixmiller
In the beginning it felt like this firm truly had my children's best interest at heart. My case played out for over 3 years. After "winning" at trial with further litigation to take place, I was struck with an uneasy feeling. I felt bullied into a settlement as the attorneys were fed up with my case. Many people had told me over the duration of my case that things weren't quite adding up and that my attorney did not seem to have our best interests at heart. I began to reflect on the case and all the inconsistencies, placating to the other side and capitulating to them as well. I then conferred with another attorney and ended up retaining her services to finish out my case. Upon the new attorney's review of my case, she stated this case was a mess, and she was flabbergasted at all the litigation that was allowed to take place. She mentioned there was a much more direct way to have gone about this case, less money and time wasted, not to mention my children's mental and emotional health. My worst feelings had been confirmed. It is a relief to finally have someone on my case who is truly for the children and not the money.
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01 Oct, 2024 by Sasha zavada
I worked with attorney Heather Landauer and paralegal Brianna Griffey for my family court case. They were always attentive and on top of the issues I was having. Kept me at ease and took my concerns seriously. I was pleased with the knowledge, service, and time I received. I would recommend them to anyone going through a contested family court case.
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24 Sep, 2024 by Caroline dermon
Erika and her team were amazing!! They went above and beyond in every way possible. Erika was always available to answer my questions no matter what time of day it was. She explained the process every step of the way and was a true advocate for my son and I. I knew she always had my back and she made what was possibly one of the most difficult times in my life, as smooth and seamless as possible. I couldn't have asked for a better outcome and it's all because of Erika. She's professional, down to earth, relatable, crazy smart and the best at what she does. She is my knight in shinning armor and I will forever be grateful for everything she did for me!!
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24 Sep, 2024 by Amy kixmiller
In the beginning it felt like this firm truly had my children's best interest at heart. My case played out for over 3 years. After "winning" at trial with further litigation to take place, I was struck with an uneasy feeling. I felt bullied into a settlement as the attorneys were fed up with my case. Many people had told me over the duration of my case that things weren't quite adding up and that my attorney did not seem to have our best interests at heart. I began to reflect on the case and all the inconsistencies, placating to the other side and capitulating to them as well. I then conferred with another attorney and ended up retaining her services to finish out my case. Upon the new attorney's review of my case, she stated this case was a mess, and she was flabbergasted at all the litigation that was allowed to take place. She mentioned there was a much more direct way to have gone about this case, less money and time wasted, not to mention my children's mental and emotional health. My worst feelings had been confirmed. It is a relief to finally have someone on my case who is truly for the children and not the money.
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01 Feb, 2024 by Thom
11 Jul, 2022 by Jen falar
Caring and compassionate professionals
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30 Sep, 2021 by Clint f
30 Apr, 2024 by Chuck gavin
Great firm with even better people! Highly recommend Trent and his team!!
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18 Mar, 2024 by Brian smith
I am very happy to leave a Super Review on this firm. Hands down this is best law firm in Denver Metro area. I had a personal injury case pressing the statute of limitations of 2 years from a car wash accident. I called this law firm got a hold of Trent in September 2023 with a February deadline he literally and his staff got going on this case ASAP. His staff and Trent found who the insurance carrier was from Car wash fast and talked
To all witnesses. This law firm is honest snd sincere they made sure the client got more than the law firm and Trent and his staff were amazing to work with. They always communicate with the client and update do not hire the famous TV Attorneys call this firm before you call any other Attorney you will be amazed my case settled just recently and i would have never done this without this firm. Trent made my case strong when i lost hope incant thank this law firm enough for they did for me . Thanks Ros
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08 Feb, 2024 by David caldwell
My relationship with Bloch and Chapleau goes back nearly 20 years. I consider them the finest “men’s rights” attorneys in the country. Always responsive with excellent and sound legal advice. Outstanding staff! They have helped me through several challenging family law situations, and I couldn’t give a higher recommendation. Can’t miss!
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23 Feb, 2024 by Karen
If you're reading this review, you are probably feeling pretty bad already and the idea of having to get a lawyer only makes you feel worse.
I spoke with several lawyers and most of them are full of hype. "Oh yes! We can win this case! Just give me a $5000 retainer."
Liz was completely honest and explained the reality of litigating.
Because Liz is razor sharp, honest, compassionate and sees every facet of the situation, she offered me an option no other attorney had thought of. She was incredibly responsive and I felt that she really cared about getting the best result possible for me.
I am so grateful to have found Liz German and as we wrapped up my case today, I am reconnecting with the happy, peaceful person I used to be.
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14 Feb, 2024 by Jamie
Liz German is very smart and gets right to the point without wasting any time at all. So don’t bill her for therapy! Ha, ha. Seriously she is terrific and if she doesn’t have the answer- professional and kind enough to admit it’s not her forte. I appreciate that she recommended an equally qualified colleague.
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11 May, 2015 by Anonymous
On behalf of my wife and I, I would like to post a review of our case with Elizabeth. During the case process to convert our Bankruptcy filing, we worked with Elizabeth which was a delightful experience. Our case ended up successful and with our unemployment condition was a blessing to our family. Liz was very professional and knowledgeable of our case and the proceedings necessary to bring about the goal we were striving to achieve. She was very courteous and personable and easy to work with. She was prompt and available when we needed, and her guidance was spot on in determining how to approach the courts to understand our situation to help attain the best results. We would recommend Liz to any of our friends or acquaintances to represent them in her legal disciplines. We appreciate the opportunity to work with Liz and will contact her in the future should our legal needs change. I can be contacted if any questions arise.
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31 Jan, 2017 by Nick
Simon helped me out twice with 2 civil cases for my company in Denver. He's very knowledgeable and strong when it comes to dealing with third parties battling against you. I'll use him again in the future.
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22 Jan, 2017 by Nickcolus martin
Mr. Tolbert was recommended to me by the CEO and Co-Founder and one of the most prestigious Cyber Security companies in America, Mike Fleck. Given the circles in which Mr. Tolbert is affiliated I knew to expect good things from him once I made the decision to take him under retainer. That is not why I am writing this review. Mr. Tolbert surprised me, even with the high expectations I held, with how he took such scrupulous measures to insure I was well cared for. At our first meeting he provided me his personal cell phone number and told me to call him directly if I had any questions; no need to keep me waiting for his secretary to forward the call, he said. Not even half a day after our first meeting Mr. Telbert had an resolution to my Real Estate needs planned and had communicated with the Real Estate Agency I was at odds with. Less then one week later the issue had been resolved. I did not know this was a quick turnaround. My wife on the other hand, who works in the mortgage industry, was astounded Mr. Tolbert could push the paperwork so quickly. Even after the paperwork had been finalized Mr. Tolbert and his office contacted me on a couple different occasions to ensure I had all my questions answered and to assure me they were ready, willing, and able to assist me with my Real Estate legal needs again if I needed them. When you need clear and concise answers from lawyer with real heart in the matter; hire Simon Tolbert.
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20 Dec, 2016 by Amy
I had the privilege of working with Mr. Tolbert last Summer when he helped me with an employment contract issue that I was having. He went above and beyond to explain to me what my options were and ended up getting me out of a potentially complicated lawsuit. He was very professional, reliable, efficient, and easy to work with. He clearly explained everything from the documents he wrote up to how I was going to be billed. Everything he did was more than fair and I don't regret following his advice for any step of that process. I highly recommend him to anyone who needs good quality legal advice from an honest person who is also a pleasure to work with.
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18 Jan, 2011 by Marla
I personally worked with Joe and I have to say that he is down-to-earth, and easy to get along with. He is trustworthy. If you have a problem, you can bet he will try his best to solve it for you to your satisfaction.
He has excellent writing, analytical, and research skills. If Joe doesn't have the answer, he knows how to find it.
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15 Oct, 2018 by Victor stewart
My wife Lora and I consider Ralph and the rest of his office to be LIFESAVERS! We had to fight to keep our home after the seller breached our contract & were literally trying to steal our home from us! During this INCREDIBLY stressful time, not only was Ralph always the voice of experience, counsel & reason, but also of comfort, allowing us to digest this ordeal with wisdom instead of emotion. Thank you Ralph & all at Cantafio Law! We will refer you to anyone in need of your services.
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03 Oct, 2018 by Greg doser
Overall a very good experience. The law firm was going through a transaction so there was a couple of times things were confusing but as a lawyer, Mr. Cantafio is knowledgeable, caring and down to earth.
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21 Jul, 2018 by Troy leonard
This is the worst law firm in Denver. You have to watch Ralph like a hawk to be sure he doesn’t over bill you. Then once you catch him good luck on getting your money. He will for get your name address every thing he can to not pay you. And of course his staff will fallow his direction in an attempt to save there jobs. CLIENTS BEWARE DO NOT US THIS LAW FIRM. IT WILL GO BADLY ME DOMESTIC LAWYER TOLD ME NOT TO. USE HIM OH HOW I SHOULD HAVE LISTENED. If you want the full store hit me you. Late to every phone call if at all late to every meeting we ever had the very worst.
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15 Oct, 2018 by Victor stewart
My wife Lora and I consider Ralph and the rest of his office to be LIFESAVERS! We had to fight to keep our home after the seller breached our contract & were literally trying to steal our home from us! During this INCREDIBLY stressful time, not only was Ralph always the voice of experience, counsel & reason, but also of comfort, allowing us to digest this ordeal with wisdom instead of emotion. Thank you Ralph & all at Cantafio Law! We will refer you to anyone in need of your services.
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03 Oct, 2018 by Greg doser
Overall a very good experience. The law firm was going through a transaction so there was a couple of times things were confusing but as a lawyer, Mr. Cantafio is knowledgeable, caring and down to earth.
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21 Jul, 2018 by Troy leonard
This is the worst law firm in Denver. You have to watch Ralph like a hawk to be sure he doesn’t over bill you. Then once you catch him good luck on getting your money. He will for get your name address every thing he can to not pay you. And of course his staff will fallow his direction in an attempt to save there jobs. CLIENTS BEWARE DO NOT US THIS LAW FIRM. IT WILL GO BADLY ME DOMESTIC LAWYER TOLD ME NOT TO. USE HIM OH HOW I SHOULD HAVE LISTENED. If you want the full store hit me you. Late to every phone call if at all late to every meeting we ever had the very worst.
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16 Sep, 2024 by Chris clemens
Thank you to your team you have given us a peace now about our trust and our family planning Thank you
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13 Sep, 2024 by Renee d
Great team!!
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11 Sep, 2024 by Stef tollefsen
Anastasia and team helped my husband and I put together a trust and will after the birth of our daughter. They made a complicated process very simple and smooth. Definitely recommend!
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08 Sep, 2023 by Duffy
Just because you have a firm and Cherry Creek address does not mean you know what you’re doing very good example of is this this so called firm.
I have so issues issues with this firm, especially Marco the arrogant showoff who never wants to go to court.
Marco and he’s very young staff knowing little about law coerce you into hiring other unnecessary companies to finish their case.
Marco firm cost my daughter over $50,000. I finally had to fire him. Is it actually nothing for us except fraternize with the other attorney.
He’ll probably try to sue me over this review that’s a Marco move
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23 Aug, 2014 by Kathleen
I was going through a very messy and sinister divorce. My ex filed a Petition for Guardianship in Summit County pertaining to my son with Down Syndrome. In the petition my ex claimed that my son had been living with him for the past 2 years , while in fact, my son was living with me in Centennial , Colorado. In the petition my ex had stated he was the "psychological" father. My ex was not his father. nor had he made any attempt to adopt him during the 17 year marriage. I am so fortunate to have had this attorney referred to me. He was referred by another Attorney not a past client. Marco immediately took control of the situation. He is extremely intelligent , results oriented, and aggressively represents his clients. His confidence gave me hope. The haze and smoke generated by my ex never confused Marco. I can not say the same for a most of my other attorneys. I was so fortunate to have had him as an attorney. My ex was evil and Marco protected me and my son from this villain. I wish he could have been my divorce attorney!!I My daughter may have had a chance too. My ex venomously pursued taking both my children for one purpose and that was out of shear hate and revenge. He did get custody of my daughter and at age 16, dumped her in a condo to live by herself. Who knows what would have happened to my son? I count my blessings every day that my son is with me, happy, and safe. Marco was HANDS DOWN THE BEST!
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14 Aug, 2014 by Jeremyh
After experiencing being taken advantage of a very prominent law firm here in Denver , we were introduced to the Marco Chayet whom put us at ease within the first meeting with he and staff. I felt we covered more ground in one week then we did in nearly 9 months with our other attorney. We were treated professionally, I never was judged and we were always informed throughout the whole ordeal. Not once did we ever question the service being provided.
It is my duty to tell this to others so maybe you do not make the same mistake as we did. Do not be fooled by the fancy suits and the pretty receptionist in thinking that you are in good hands because theres a lot of money hanging around.. My family was vulnerable and as a result were taken advantage of which in turn paid for those fancy suits. Do yourself a favor and go meet a real human being named Marco D Chayet who will do everything in his power to make sure that you are well taken care of. My only regret is that we didn't go to him first. If you read this Marco and staff, Bravo.....Thank you.
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09 Jan, 2021 by Sondria terra
Never picked up, Never called me back
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24 Jun, 2020 by Jonathan garcia
Excellent resource in the community for disadvantaged single parents. Great people running the legal night and lawyers donating their time! Thank you all!
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22 Feb, 2020 by Nawal thompson
09 Jan, 2021 by Sondria terra
Never picked up, Never called me back
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24 Jun, 2020 by Jonathan garcia
Excellent resource in the community for disadvantaged single parents. Great people running the legal night and lawyers donating their time! Thank you all!
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22 Feb, 2020 by Nawal thompson
12 May, 2022 by Anonymous
I had hired Alison Zinn Sheahen at Lathrop GPM - Denver to contest my stepfather‘s will/trust when I found out upon his death that he had changed it prior to passing away but 22 years after the initial one was written. This was a multi million dollar estate so there was a lot of money involved.
I believe he had changed it due to undue influence and lack of testamentary capacity and I needed medical records to prove the latter. Alison had given me hope of at least a settlement and had told me that people settle all the time. I asked her to start the process so that we can get copies of my stepfather‘s medical records. (He was most likely going through cancer treatments and there were some signs that he might have had dementia/Alzheimer’s – he wrote Merry Christmas on the birthday check he had sent to me in the month of May.)
She however did not do that. Instead after she had spoken with the other attorney (my Stepfather’s attorney who was handling the estate), Alison did a complete 180 and told me that my stepfather had every right to change his will. If that were the case, then the right to contest a will would not exist. However, the right to contest a will does exist and people are able to contest wills based on undue influence, lack of testamentary capacity, etc..
Also, after Alison Zinn / Sheahen had spoken with the opposing attorney, she told me that the opposing attorney told her that my stepfather was of sound mind when he changed his will. I had asked her to start the process of contesting the will so that we could get my stepfather’s medical records…… not get the opinion of the opposing attorney on the soundness of my stepfather’s mind. He is a lawyer, not a doctor. His word is an opinion, it is not fact.
This was a case I believe in which lack of testamentary capacity would’ve been easy to prove if I had been able to obtain my stepfather’s medical records. However, once again, Alison did not start the process of contesting the will for me and she did not start the process of obtaining my stepfather’s medical records like I had asked. She had only proceeded to tell me that my stepfather was of sound mind because the other attorney told her so and that my stepfather had every right to change his will.
I had one shot at this and unfortunately I trusted this attorney and this firm to do as I had requested and to help me contest my stepfather’s will/trust and to help me obtain my stepfather’s medical records and they did neither. Alison is a lawyer who was supposed to have fought for me on my behalf and she did not.
When I filed a complaint with Lathrop GPM corporate, after telling my side of the story, I was told that I was well represented. I cannot believe that taking the word of the other attorney on medical issues and not doing what I had asked her to do, was being well represented.
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10 Nov, 2017 by Pat
My husband and I hired Alison Zinn at a very difficult time in our lives. We needed immediate action and did not know what to do next. Alison outlined an effective plan or us and started execution immediately. Almost two years later we are on the other side of our crisis with all positive outcomes. I hate to think of where we would be today if we hadn’t met Alison. I very highly recommend her.
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01 Jul, 2024 by Jerry hershfeldt
"Who knows why we were taught to Fear the Witches
And not those that burned them
Or those who stood by, watching."
Hertz paid $168 million two customers who we're wrongfully arrested and prosecuted. Some of them by this office. Hertz paid- U-Haul is next. Shame on the DA.
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25 May, 2024 by George mac
The DA's office lets child abusers off the hook with no consequences of any kind if they are white women. DPS also allows the same white women to stay on the job, working in proximity to other children and their victim.
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13 Apr, 2024 by N lang
27 Mar, 2024 by Anonymous
If I could give no stars I would. He’s a fraud and scams elders! Waste of time and money. Steers you in the wrong direction but happily takes your money!
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16 Nov, 2022 by Pitrone
Rickey has done magnificent work for myself, family and friends over the last 25 years. In this age when honesty and integrity aren’t the norm Rickey has these qualities in abundance!!!
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26 Jun, 2022 by Anonymous
If I could give a 0 rating I would this man should have retired 10 years ago all he does is talk to you like you're a friend and he gives you advice but never actually helps you with your court case. He sat in on a mediation with me and talked to my sister the entire time about her living in New York and then turned around and tried to charge me thousands of dollars for it. I ended up having to complete my entire case alone with the courts. He should be disbarred if you ask me and he should give his services away for free.
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07 Oct, 2015 by Denise
I have had the exact same experience as another reviewer. As a Personal Representative I hired Carl to represent myself and the estate. He has repeatedly failed to act timely, gone months without doing anything and does not respond to emails or phone calls from me as his client. It is beyond my understanding, he is has a lot of knowledge but it does no good at all because he clearly doesn't care about representing his client. My advice is to find someone else, after 10 months and a very simple estate not being settled I am going to have to fire him and get a new attorney.
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07 May, 2015 by Anonymous
She and her staff failed to keep all of us informed of important actions. They have spent years closing the estate. She outsourced some work to another firm at even more costs. The estate was a "three month to four months tops" issue. They went over two years. Once they got their big payday (we have yet to get ours) they completely ignored and avoided all attempts to move the settlements forward. They left the estate/trust incomplete and became antagonistic when asked about promises made but not delivered. Their billable hours are exorbitant too.
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07 Apr, 2020 by Anonymous
I have filed a formal complaint against this firm with the Colorado Office of Attorney Regulation Counsel. At first Mr Hutchins said he could help me but he needed the $2,000 retainer before he could say anything to me. After I paid the retainer, I never received any substantive advice or direction from Mr Hutchins, but somehow they came up with almost $2,500 of fees. It has been almost 2 months and they will not return emails or calls. I even got a revised statement with an additional $1,200 of fees from the initial statement. DO NOT WASTE YOUR TIME OR MONEY ON THIS ATTORNEY!
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07 Mar, 2018 by Geoff
I hired Michael to put together a will and trust several years ago. He assured me his fees to do the work would cover any changes in the future. He specifically mentioned that a change in marital status would be covered.
The reason I give him a low rating is that he did not keep his promise. Several years later after getting married, he wanted to charge me full price to modify my will and trust. While I’m unsure if this is industry standard, it is irrelevant as he baited me with the promise of a comprehensive package. He specifically explained that the initial fee was high because it was a one time, lifetime fee.
The last thing I want when hiring an estate attorney is to be taken advantage of after I’m essentially “locked in”.
I spoke directly to Mr Meurer about this and he said he’d “cut me a deal” for the misunderstanding - which after comparing to other attorneys was more than double what they charged. Very frustrating.
Stay away from this operation!
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29 Jan, 2014 by Anonymous
Iwashco was hired to handle a small estate of less than $200,000.00. Rather than represent all
heirs she aggressively represented the young and inexperienced personal representative against the other heirs. Final legal fee was nearly $40,000.00 when it could have been handled for $1,500.00.
She did a terrible disservice to our family and accomplished nothing except to balloon her fees, also costing us heirs another $40,000.00 in outdide representation.
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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.
