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06 Apr, 2024 by Candace vaughan
12 Mar, 2024 by Jeanne o (jenny)
Such a pleasure once again visiting the offices of Walker Lambe. Everyone is professional, kind and expert at their jobs. Shout out to Shirley & Lisa, a dynamic team. Thanks for all the hard work!
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16 Feb, 2024 by Blake adkin
It's been a pleasure to work with Rupe Gill and Kim Sain over the last several years. They take the time to answer client questions and their follow through is very strong. I highly recommend that individuals and business owners reach out to the offices of Walker Lamb to receive a proposal for service.
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17 Jan, 2025 by Kadarus rone
One of the best experiences ever. You Don’t have to worry with Mr.Belton handling your case. He is going to make sure you are well taken care of.
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08 Dec, 2024 by Dixie childers
01 Nov, 2024 by Daphne pareas
Did the absolute bare minimum as slowly as possible. Honestly couldn’t even tell you if they’re any good because they haven’t done anything in nine months. Told them they could keep my retainer since that’s obviously the only thing they care about.
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18 Apr, 2023 by Gigi
Jeff helped us create our first POA and Will and Testament. He was immensely helpful in the process, answering our questions and providing guidance. He was prompt, professional, and personable with excellent communication skills.
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06 Feb, 2023 by Neva
Jeffrey L. Austin, Law Office of JLA, was most helpful in representing me in the matter of my late husband’s estate. He answered my questions, was accommodating in arranging meetings, and updated me on the progress of matters at the courthouse whether I had filed them or he had on my behalf.
With the legal work completed, Jeff informed me that I have access to the case file at the courthouse as well as access to electronic copies of the case files through his client portal.
I will continue to ask his help when needed with other matters.
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23 Aug, 2022 by Keith
Jeff accepted our business to build out our estate planning. He is relatable, professional and compassionate. He was incredibly flexible to meet our needs. He answered our questions in a timely manner and made the entire process seamless. We highly recommend Jeff!
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29 Jun, 2021 by Nina
I can't get enough of Heather. My spouse and I went through the whole estate planning shebang with Heather, who made the process completely painless. When a recent change in circumstances arose, we made some edits to our wills and yet again, it was so easy. And then it happened again. The third time was even smoother than the first and second--she even made flowcharts so that we could visualize what our unique plans were!
While these conversations and decisions are not easy, working with Heather sure is.
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07 May, 2021 by Ann
Very clear and streamlined process for creating the documents that no one wants to talk about...Heather was friendly, professional, and efficient. I highly recommend for your estate planning needs.
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04 May, 2021 by Carrie
I was overwhelmed by the idea of estate planning and unsure where to start. Heather made the whole process clear and simple. She's approachable and competent, and I'm so glad I went with Heather and finally crossed this off my to do list.
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24 Jun, 2015 by Sam
Sonya handled estate planning for my wife and me. She is knowledgeable, efficient and (you read this right) fun. An attorney who is fun. Imagine that. Highly recommend Sonya.
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22 Jun, 2015 by Katie
We hired Sonya to review and update our estate documents. We already had an existing plan, but it was drawn up in another state and we had since had several more children. She reviewed our existing plan and made some very insightful recommendations. It was very clear very quickly that she is very well versed in all aspects of estate law. She is very kind and fun to work with as well. I would highly recommend her to anyone looking to develop or update their estate plan.
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08 Jun, 2015 by Jaimie
My husband and I were in search of a lawyer to help us with estate planning and were very lucky to have found Sonya. She was extremely personable and very thorough during our consultation. Throughout the process, she was always quick to respond to any questions we had and made the task of preparing our estate less daunting. I would recommend Sonya to anyone looking for a good, affordable lawyer to provide them with estate planning help.
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27 Jul, 2019 by Dana
Recently Vail helped us navigate through the will and estate of our loved on who recently passed. She took the time to answer all of our questions with patience and love. She made us feel heard and gave us all the information we needed to understand what the will stated in terms we could process. She was super attentive and easy to work with. I felt very much at peace working with her.
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31 Mar, 2019 by Jim
Vail is incredibly knowledgeable, helpful, and meticulous. She's also great fun to work with. She answered all of our questions, and made the estate planning process easy. We are so grateful to have worked with Vail--and so relieved to know that we have put in place plans that will help our family in the future.
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29 Jan, 2019 by Katie
Vail took time to walk me through her process and hear my current situation and needs. She will come to clients for meetings and offered great flexibility, which I value greatly.
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21 Mar, 2012 by Francis
Dori was extremely helpful in navigating the workings of my late parents affairs. In this very stressful time I was guided by Ms, Wiggen through all the legal requirements and issues that came up during the processes. Her skilled dexterity in communicating to other heirs who were not cooperative during the probate process was evidence of her legal competence and her abilities in handling elder law.
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19 Feb, 2012 by Mindy
Dori took the time to listen to my husband and me and really understood what we were looking for in making out a will and setting up a special needs trust for our son. She responded to our questions in a timely fashion and was very thorough in her treatment of the matter. She anticipated potential problems I hadn't even considered, and when we found things we wanted to change, she did so without any hesitation. Her presentation was professional. We would highly recommend her to others.
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18 Feb, 2012 by Robbie
Attorneys Dori Wiggen and Jack Wiggen are very professional, knowledgeable, detailed, and courteous. We reviewed with Dori our high level goals and needs as husband, wife, and parents of two children (one child with special medical needs). She assessed our goals and needs in great detail. She organized our Estate Wills, Living Wills, Financial POA's, Health POA's, Trust Fund, Medical Disability, Guardianship Plans (if needed), etc. The entire WLG team follows up with our questions, concerns, and provides legal advice and suggestions beyond our goals. We have the utmost respect for the whole WLG team. They are sensitive to our needs, compassionate, and demonstrate their knowledge to the highest degree. I had already learned that attorneys having experience with special medical and medicaid needs children are very rare. WLG's attributes are rare, too! We highly recommend the WLG team without any hesitation. Their services extend beyond the walls of their office. They are involved in community activities and speeches due to their sincere desire to help others. Five Star Plus Rating!!!
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30 Aug, 2018 by Polly/mark
Ethan Timmins was engaged to review and possibly rewrite a will as well as to provide clarity and identify any issues in existing trust and health care documents. His clear and comprehensive analysis of our situation was extremely helpful, well presented and fairly priced for the service provided. We will use his expertise and services for other upcoming matters. We strongly recommend Ethan in his areas of practice.
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20 Jul, 2018 by Amy
Ethan did a fabulous job handling my parent's estate in Florida. Both of my parents died within 9 months of each other and did not have a will. My step-sister and I called Ethan and he helped us through the process and explained the process thoroughly to us. Ethan always kept us updated and was very persistent. We will be forever grateful for his dedication to our family matter. It was a pleasure to work with Ethan and would recommend him to anyone.
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12 Jul, 2018 by Nichole
Mr. Timmins was amazing at assisting us with legal documents regarding my elderly grandparents. He was kind and understanding in not only the way he handled asking questions but in also posing questions that we didn't even know to ask (which was extremely helpful in navigating the process). We also appreciate Mr. Timmins' sense of urgency in meeting with us quickly as this was a time sensitive matter. I would highly recommend him and will certainly call on him again in the future.
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06 Mar, 2019 by Anonymous
I can't sing enough praises about this kind and knowledgeable man !!
My sister is the executor of my mothers estate. I was already having issues with her taking advantage of her position.
I was pretty disappointed that she would even do this ... but before I called out the Marines, Doug went thru some options that he wanted me to be aware of. Clear headed thinking is always the best.
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13 Jul, 2016 by Geraldine
Mr.Koenig was knowledgeable and professional as we reviewed policies
on home ownership rights and problems. The need to possibly change
or transfer the deed, the pros and cons associated with any change;
the other possible options: refinancing or sale of the home. He provided
specific facts and costs of each options, facts of NC law relative to each option, and positive and negative financial and/or personal consequences related to each of those options. We reviewed local housing levels of care options for seniors, from rentals to assisted living.
Lastly we reviewed the NC law on tenancy; the right to rent out a room
to either stranger or family; when and how one might evict if necessary.
Mr. Koenig provided dates of upcoming appropriate information sessions. He explained a remedy to an incomplete Will and Power of
Attorney. I surely will recommend him to others and will return to use his
services as needed.
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28 Apr, 2016 by Ken
We found Doug to be respectful of our wishes, knowledgeable, thorough, careful and considerate. Beyond this, he offered suggestions that we had considered and were glad to accept to ease future estate settlement. He also made appropriate adjustments in our POA's and Directive. We highly recommend him.
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12 Sep, 2017 by Anonymous
Jennifer is sharp as a tack, fun, friendly, and leathal with legalese. Which makes her the perfect attorney to bring your estate, guardianship, elder law, and medical directives needs to. I've never stumped her with a question she couldn't answer, and I gladly refer my inner circle to her.
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16 Sep, 2015 by Tina
Jennifer is WONDERFUL to deal with. My Husband and I love the way she listens to details. Let's face it.....estate planning can be stressful. Jennifer takes the STRESS out of it. She is knowledge and helps you through the tough moments. I feel more confident our plans will be followed because of Jennifer's wonderful planning. Jennifer connects with you. I appreciate her and her wonderful staff. Tina Travis
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01 Sep, 2015 by Anonymous
Jennifer prepared my estate plan and I was very satisfied with her attention to detail and how she listened to my needs. Her explanation of each part of the plan was clear and concise and I have recommended her to my friends and relatives. I enjoyed working with her. She has such a calm and positive personality. Clearly she knows what she is doing.
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01 Jul, 2010 by Anonymous
Mr. DeWitt has helped me with numerous legal issues. He has prepared my will/estate plan, assisted with my home refinance, and helped set up my business. He was extremely knowledgeable and did an excellent job. He has a very direct and honest style that is refreshing. I highly recommend him.
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17 Jan, 2020 by Anonymous
Excellent in considering all aspects of my family’s estate plan and other end of life planning needs.
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27 Feb, 2024 by Rose
As one of the clients of Attorney Hirsh in the realm of real estate, my experience with him has been exceptionally positive and noteworthy. With his extensive knowledge and profound experience in real estate law, he managed my legal needs with unparalleled precision and professionalism. He not only had a precise understanding of my goals and concerns as a client but also ensured that I achieved the best possible outcome through tailored strategies and consultations.
Throughout the process, Attorney Hirsh provided a sense of assurance and peace with constant and transparent communication. He was responsive and accessible at every stage, always ready to address my questions and clarify any doubts.
In conclusion, my experience with Attorney Hirsh exceeded my expectations not only professionally but also on a human level. I felt I had not just an outstanding legal advisor but also a strong advocate by my side. I would unequivocally recommend Attorney Hirsh to anyone seeking legal counsel and representation in real estate matters. He stands out not just as a lawyer but as a committed and trustworthy consultant.
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14 Nov, 2024 by Johnte white
I highly recommend this lawyer for their exceptional service. They handled my case professionally, fought hard for a successful outcome, and treated me with respect and understanding. Their expertise and dedication were clear from start to finish, making the entire process smooth and stress-free.
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12 Nov, 2024 by Alishba imran
Currently in a lawsuit with this company representing the other party, not sure if they read the accident report but I'm sure this firm encouraged their client to lie based on claims they made that aren’t matching up to the accident report. When I spoke to Mrs.Rameriez to see why after being paid out by my insurance they’re trying to claim more I was met with hostility. Already spoke to my insurance who verified all payouts have been paid & documents have been signed. Very interesting & will be counter suing her & her client for fraudulent claims. Sad to see people abusing the system and this law firm encouraging it.
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05 Sep, 2024 by Jay baker
I highly recommend Kevin Ginsberg. I spoke with him at length about a claim for an auto accident, and he took the time to help me understand in detail how these cases work, what we could (and could not) recover, and offered several avenues to proceed. Because the claim was so straightforward, Kevin provided me with the information I needed to be confident in settling it on my own. The case ultimately settled exactly as Kevin suggested it would with a fair and reasonable settlement. I greatly appreciate his clear and straightforward guidance. It helps that Kevin came highly recommended to me by a law firm my family has worked with for years. They always steer us right and definitely did so in sending us to Kevin Ginsberg. Highly recommend.
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30 Jul, 2024 by Whitney huggins
I was referred to this legal team. For an estate matter my attorney was Lindsay. She is polite but mislead me in valuable Knowledge. I had to require Input a and do hours of research on my own behalf. To require what I'm entitled to. Then attorney JARED PEARCE was extremely rude and demanding that I sale. A 40 thousand dollar vehicle of my spouse's.To pay him for his services and out of a ten thousand dollar check he demanded 6 of it and if I didn't agree to that he would keep it all. So I've paid this form 7 thousand dollars this year. And have received 4 thousand dollars. You know. What they say the devil wears Prada. Before you hire this firm. I strongly suggest you know your P's n Q's.BEWARE!!!!!!!
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20 Jun, 2024 by Allie o (allieo)
I hired Wallace Pierce to help me with my case and I am very pleased with the handling of my case and satisfied with the out come. I am truly grateful for the time and effort Ryan put into it even though it doesn't replace what I lost I feel accountability was taken and I highly recommend using their services.
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10 Apr, 2024 by Hahn oslo
This is the highest quality law firm in NC in my opinion. So thankful that Mr. Pierce is a lawyer and helping NC to keep peace and equanimity.
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17 Jan, 2025 by Kadarus rone
One of the best experiences ever. You Don’t have to worry with Mr.Belton handling your case. He is going to make sure you are well taken care of.
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08 Dec, 2024 by Dixie childers
01 Nov, 2024 by Daphne pareas
Did the absolute bare minimum as slowly as possible. Honestly couldn’t even tell you if they’re any good because they haven’t done anything in nine months. Told them they could keep my retainer since that’s obviously the only thing they care about.
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19 Dec, 2024 by Annette
Kenneth did an outstanding job representing my case. It was dismissed, for which I am most grateful.
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19 Dec, 2024 by J c
16 Dec, 2024 by Ali lamar
Gary Berman is very knowledgeable, thorough and fair with his pricing. Handles my real estate and estate issues. Easy working with him.
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27 Feb, 2024 by Breanne b.
I found Rhonda through my MetLife legal plan offered at work. I called her directly and she worked hard to get my documents completed in a short amount of time, I explained to her I had a time crunch and she was very understanding. Rhonda was very communicative and extremely detail oriented throughout the whole process. Highly recommend this firm!
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28 Oct, 2023 by Paula obie
Attorney Rhonda Kelley provided excellent service to me and my family. She was thorough and operated in a trust-worthy atmosphere in which to get all of our legal needs met. Attorney Kelly's professionalism is paramount, and she is truthful and reliable. I strongly recommend her as she has the skillset, patience and passion to ensure you are expertly legally represented as she displayed with my family. She leaves "no stone unturned". Thank you so much Attorney Rhonda for your great service to us!
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26 Oct, 2023 by Cheryl woodard
Walked me through the process and executed my case in a timely and professional manner.
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20 Dec, 2023 by Kimberley fenton
Been closing on real estate with this firm for 10 years. My clients never fail to tell me how pleased they've been with the friendliness, communication, and attention to detail. Paula and Bill are simply terrific. Highly recommended.
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14 Nov, 2023 by B c
09 Oct, 2023 by Amy thomas
Paula and Bill are the best!! Very informative our company always received excellent service.
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28 Sep, 2023 by Mark evans
13 Sep, 2022 by Monica harrington
What can I say about this office . I’m still waiting on my estate planning documents and no email responses from lawyer . Save your money
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29 Jan, 2022 by Papa' rob menasco
These folks did my Will and other document. They did a very good. Kathryn Wilson filled in or correct my previous attorneys missing pieces. I would use her again if she would return my calls.
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28 Sep, 2023 by Mark evans
13 Sep, 2022 by Monica harrington
What can I say about this office . I’m still waiting on my estate planning documents and no email responses from lawyer . Save your money
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29 Jan, 2022 by Papa' rob menasco
These folks did my Will and other document. They did a very good. Kathryn Wilson filled in or correct my previous attorneys missing pieces. I would use her again if she would return my calls.
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28 Sep, 2023 by Mark evans
13 Sep, 2022 by Monica harrington
What can I say about this office . I’m still waiting on my estate planning documents and no email responses from lawyer . Save your money
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29 Jan, 2022 by Papa' rob menasco
These folks did my Will and other document. They did a very good. Kathryn Wilson filled in or correct my previous attorneys missing pieces. I would use her again if she would return my calls.
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10 Jun, 2023 by M
Not sure why Rick would be running an ad for clients when he ignores the ones who hire him. I had a phone conversation with him and he was very nice. I dropped off my wills for his review and nearly 2 months later we still didn't have any progress on our new trust and new wills.. I notified him that we had a closing coming up and we needed the trust for the closing. he completely ignored me and I finally just went over and picked up the documents I had left for him. when I called him back I got connected to a Google voice. people who are paying for these ads are passing that cost on to their clients.
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FAQs
Questions? We have answers
What a Probate Lawyer Can Do for You
A probate lawyer assists with the legal process of administering a deceased person’s estate. This often involves guiding executors (if a will exists) or beneficiaries (if no will exists) through the probate process to settle the estate according to the deceased’s wishes or applicable laws. Probate lawyers can help validate the will, distribute assets, resolve disputes among heirs, handle outstanding debts or taxes, and ensure the estate is legally and efficiently administered.
Whether you’re an executor of an estate or an heir facing probate proceedings, a probate lawyer can help you navigate the often-complex legal process to ensure the estate is settled correctly.
When Should I Hire a Probate Lawyer?
You should consider hiring a probate lawyer when you are responsible for managing the estate of a deceased individual, especially in the following situations:
- The estate has substantial assets: If the estate includes significant assets like real estate, investments, or business interests, legal assistance is often necessary to handle the distribution properly.
- The will is being contested: If there are disputes among heirs regarding the validity of the will or the division of assets, a probate lawyer can help resolve the conflict.
- The estate includes complex or unclear provisions: If the will contains complicated instructions or there are no clear beneficiaries, a lawyer can ensure that the estate is administered according to legal requirements.
- There is no will (intestate estate): When a person dies without a will, the estate is subject to intestacy laws, which determine how assets are distributed. A probate lawyer can help navigate this process.
- Debt or tax issues exist: If the estate owes significant debts or is subject to estate taxes, a probate lawyer can help ensure debts are paid appropriately and taxes are minimized.
- Probate disputes: If family members or other parties are disputing the distribution of assets or challenging the executor's actions, legal representation is crucial to defending your rights and ensuring the estate is handled properly.
Hiring a probate lawyer early in the process can help avoid costly mistakes and ensure the estate is settled efficiently.
What Does a Probate Lawyer Do?
A probate lawyer provides a wide range of legal services to help manage and settle an estate. Their tasks can include:
- Validating the will: Filing the will with the probate court and ensuring its legal validity.
- Guiding executors or administrators: Advising the person responsible for managing the estate on their duties, including inventorying assets, notifying creditors, and paying debts.
- Filing necessary paperwork: Preparing and submitting the legal documents required to initiate and complete the probate process.
- Resolving disputes: Mediating or litigating disputes among heirs or between beneficiaries and executors, including challenges to the will or disagreements over asset distribution.
- Handling debt and tax matters: Ensuring that outstanding debts, taxes, and estate taxes are properly calculated and paid from the estate’s assets.
- Distributing assets: Ensuring that assets are distributed to the beneficiaries according to the will or intestacy laws, and that all legal requirements are fulfilled.
- Closing the estate: Completing the final steps of the probate process, including filing a final accounting with the court and formally closing the estate.
How Are Probate Lawyers Paid?
Probate lawyers typically charge for their services based on the complexity of the estate and the nature of the legal work involved. Common payment structures include:
- Hourly rate: Most probate lawyers charge by the hour, with rates depending on the lawyer’s experience and the complexity of the estate. Hourly rates can range from $150 to $500 or more.
- Flat fee: For simple estates or straightforward probate tasks, some lawyers may charge a flat fee that covers all of the necessary legal work.
- Percentage of the estate: In some states, probate lawyers are allowed to charge a percentage of the estate's value as their fee. This percentage typically ranges from 2% to 5%, depending on the size of the estate and state regulations.
- Retainer fee: Some lawyers may require an upfront retainer fee, which is billed against as the probate process progresses.
It’s important to clarify the fee structure during your initial consultation to understand how you will be charged and avoid unexpected costs.
How Much Does a Probate Lawyer Cost?
The cost of hiring a probate lawyer depends on several factors, including the complexity of the estate, the type of legal issues involved, and the lawyer’s fee structure. General cost estimates include:
- Simple estates: For estates with straightforward assets and no disputes, probate legal fees can range from $2,500 to $10,000, depending on the lawyer's fees and the state's probate laws.
- Complex estates: For larger or more complicated estates with multiple properties, business interests, or disputes, probate costs can exceed $10,000 and may reach $20,000 or more.
- Hourly rates: If charged by the hour, expect rates between $150 and $500, depending on the lawyer’s expertise and geographic location.
- Percentage fees: In some cases, a probate lawyer may charge 2% to 5% of the estate’s value, particularly for larger estates or those involving complex legal matters.
Always ask for a clear estimate of fees during your initial consultation to understand the total cost of probate representation.
Top Questions to Ask a Probate Lawyer
Before hiring a probate lawyer, it’s essential to ask the right questions to ensure you’re hiring someone qualified to handle your estate needs. Key questions include:
-
What experience do you have with probate cases like mine?
Ensure the lawyer has experience with estates of similar complexity, especially if disputes or high-value assets are involved. -
How do you charge for your services?
Ask whether the lawyer charges an hourly rate, a flat fee, or a percentage of the estate, and request a cost estimate. -
What is the likely timeline for my probate case?
While it’s hard to predict exactly, an experienced lawyer can give you a general idea of how long the probate process may take based on the specifics of your estate. -
What steps will you take to manage and distribute the estate?
Ask about the lawyer’s approach to handling debts, taxes, and asset distribution. -
Will you be handling my case personally?
In larger firms, junior attorneys or paralegals may handle some aspects of your case, so it’s important to know who will be working on your probate case. -
What are potential challenges we may face?
A good lawyer will be able to anticipate possible issues, such as will contests or creditor claims, and explain how they would handle them.
How to Check the Credibility of a Probate Lawyer
To ensure you’re hiring a reputable probate lawyer, follow these steps to check their credentials and experience:
- Verify their state bar status: Check with your state’s bar association to confirm the lawyer is licensed to practice and has no history of disciplinary action.
- Look for probate experience: Review the lawyer’s website or professional profile to ensure they specialize in probate law and have experience handling estates of similar complexity.
- Read client reviews and testimonials: Look for online reviews on platforms like Avvo or Martindale-Hubbell to see what past clients have said about the lawyer’s probate experience.
- Ask for references: A credible lawyer should be able to provide references from past clients who can vouch for their professionalism and expertise in handling probate matters.
- Look for membership in professional organizations: Membership in organizations like the American Academy of Estate Planning Attorneys (AAEPA) or the National Academy of Elder Law Attorneys (NAELA) can indicate a lawyer's commitment to estate and probate law.
What Should I Prepare for My First Consultation?
To make the most out of your first consultation with a probate lawyer, it’s important to come prepared with relevant documents and information. Here’s what you should bring:
- A copy of the will or trust (if applicable): Bring any estate planning documents left by the deceased, including wills, trusts, or powers of attorney.
- List of assets and debts: Prepare a detailed list of the deceased’s assets (e.g., real estate, bank accounts, investments) and outstanding debts (e.g., loans, mortgages, credit cards).
- Death certificate: Bring a certified copy of the deceased person’s death certificate.
- Contact information for heirs and beneficiaries: Have a list of all individuals or entities named in the will or who are entitled to inherit under intestacy laws.
- Questions about the probate process: Write down any questions you have about the process, costs, and potential issues you might face.
- Relevant financial records: If available, bring any relevant financial documents, such as bank statements, property deeds, and tax returns.
By coming prepared, you can ensure a productive consultation and allow the lawyer to provide the best advice for your situation.
