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13 Jun, 2023 by Julie
I highly recommend Amy for your estate planning. She is very thorough, thoughtful, and professional. I have peace of mind knowing our affairs are in order with a trusted and experienced lawyer! Thanks Amy!
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12 Jan, 2022 by Donald
Amy did an outstanding job is writing our will with person property, power of attorney, health care power of attorney and hippa. She was very detailed in her explanation and written documents. We would highly recommend her. Total cost was $1,500 .
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12 Aug, 2016 by Anonymous
I contacted Ms. Neaher for estate planning advice. She asked a lot of questions and took the time to find out what my wife and I trully needed. She explained clearly what her recommendations were and why. We felt educated and heard. Ms. Neaher is very personable and real. If you are expecting stuffy and pompous you will be disappointed. Our documents were professionally done and accurate to our expectations. Recommend her to anyone.
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04 Nov, 2024 by Joe clime
I had the pleasure of working with Jessica over the phone, she took great care of us on a civil matter and had us up and running for that Monday.
Everything happened so fast over the weekend, that Monday I meet Mr. Wetter. What an honor!! He was very professional and quickly rule out the strategies in play.
Long story short I waited longer for my turn in court, once it was my turn it went by so fast. If I was you and found my self in a jam, I would definitely give Mr. Wetter a call. Take it from my experience...
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13 Oct, 2024 by James serrano
Steven Wetter is by far. The best attorney I have ever had to call for. I should know because I’ve used him three times. And has come through for me every single time😀👍
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04 Oct, 2024 by Austin underwood
Used him twice... both times he talked me Into the same plea deal the public defender got me. So I guess I spent over $5,000 on 2 separate cases to get the same result a $50 public defender would have gotten me..... edit based on his response. I never went to jail for any crime he represented me for. I had a violation probation out of Broward county which my attorney in Broward got me released while fighting the misdemeanor charge here in lee county, which you represented me for. You got me 9 months probation which is the same offer the PD gave me during my first appearance. Sorry this is just the truth others may have different experiences but it was a waste of money for me.
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09 Sep, 2024 by Viv
What a great experience. I was anxious about the whole thing estate probate etc and David's professionalism, efficiency and overall calm presence helped me tremendously. The work was done quickly and professionally.
I highly recommend him!!!!
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29 Feb, 2024 by Mike
David, helped us with a builder that was not performing on his contractual obligations with a home warranty. He went up and beyond to get everything rectified in a timely fashion and even got us a check for out of pocket repairs without the need to go to court. I highly recommend!! He is compassionate, cares and gets the job done!!
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15 Dec, 2023 by Sandee
I am a licensed practicing Attorney in PA. I am the trustee for a mentally challenged 73 year old second cousin in FL. This cousin is running out of money and desperately needs to be on Medicaid. After about four attorneys , ( one later disbarred) I was almost giving up hope that I could get competent legal help in FL. Then I hired Mr David Jones. He was an amazing lawyer who took an interest in the welfare of my cousin. He then researched and gave me solid legal advice, with clear step by step directions on what was needed to be done. Mr Jones was available, responsive, and directed me with solid legal advice. When he needed to research an issue, he did it fully and completely. My recommendation is as strong as possible for Mr. Jones. Thank you
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03 Dec, 2024 by Steve jean
23 Jun, 2024 by Wesner
14 Jun, 2024 by Lovel brown
29 Jan, 2025 by Josselyn herrera
26 Jan, 2025 by Patricia damico
We would highly recommend attorney Scott Kuhn. After speaking with his legal staff who were very pleasant and professional a free consultation was scheduled.We spoke on the phone with Attorney Kuhn about possibly pursuing a lawsuit. He took his time and after listening to the details he felt we might have a case and asked us to sent supporting documentation so he could review it. We signed a retainer and sent the required fee. After reviewing the documents Attorney Kuhn called us to say he thought that the cost and time may not be beneficial for us, but, if we chose to go forward he would support our decision. After discussing our options we decided not to pursue the lawsuit. He said he would be returning our full retainer. We said he should keep some money as he did spend time looking over and discussing our options. He said he would not. It was so refreshing to come across an honest lawyer! Thank you Attorney Scott Kuhn!
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16 Oct, 2024 by Jennifer engel
Four months ago my husband and I retained Scott Kuhn to handle an estate matter where time was of the essence. By the third month of no action taken, we became concerned. Set up two conference calls in a row to get a status update and were rescheduled the first time, and then left standing by waiting for a call for an hour and a half to learn that Scott wasn't even in the building and would need to reschedule again. We asked for our file and were returned our work product going into month 4 he drafted an email! to us saying we didn't have much of a case. Meanwhile we needed representation at a meeting and Scott failed to return our calls. We were completely abandoned and his neglect damaged our bargaining strength. Have consulted 3 different attorneys who think the case has merit and all willing to get to work! Regret the day we retained Scott- who has ghosted our request for return of our retainer- Not a harsh critic of other attorneys because I am an attorney- but this man tooknour money and sis absolutely nothing- - I fell for the good reviews- I hope you don't!
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25 Nov, 2024 by James holderness
Very thorough and professional.
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23 Nov, 2024 by Tbt lee
I have had a terrible experience!
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21 Nov, 2024 by Marianne gorton
Dorcey Law has been the absolute best!! If you need help with your Estate planning,, this firm is your greatest choice. My uncle passed away and Dorcey Law was there for me as the Trustee every step of the way. I am so pleased with their service, always compassionate. You will be completed taken care of.
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01 Mar, 2023 by Johnny marshall
23 Feb, 2023 by James gaasch
Filled out the online inquiry because I need to file a suit against a car dealership for misrepresentation and fraud. Over a month later and no response at all. Not even the courtesy to tell me they will not represent me.
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29 Nov, 2022 by Sandra novak
They are nice at first. Then they change their prices without letting you know. Up from 150 an hour to 375 an hour. Not professional at all!
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17 Jan, 2018 by Anonymous
I THANK HIS ATTENTION, HIS UNDERSTANDING, HIS PATIENCE! NO OTHER PROFESSIONAL HAS BEEN WITH ME LIKE MR. COHEN. HE TOLD ME THAT THE WORLD THAT WAS OVER MY SHOULDERS WHEN THE INTERVIEW STARTED, WAS ON HIS HANDS AT THE END, TO SOLVE MY SITUATION.
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14 Dec, 2016 by Sonya
Cost me 450. For a 30 min bankruptcy consultation. No refunds if you don't continue you case. Be careful what you sign or pay him down !!
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03 Feb, 2016 by Anonymous
ATTORNEY ROBERT S. COHEN'S IDEA TO SIMPLY WRITE A LETTER TO THE OWNER OF A RENTAL PROPERTY DIRECTLY ACROSS THE STREET FROM OUR RESIDENCE STOPPED THE
DRUMMER AND CONTINUOUS LOUD MUSIC FROM BEING HEARD BY US ON A DAILY BASIS !
WITHIN TWO WEEKS OF RECEIVING ATTY. COHEN'S LETTER,
THE PROBLEM RENTER'S WERE EVICTED BY THE LANDLORD AND THE MUSIC STOPPED !
THANK YOU ATTORNEY COHEN FOR A SIMPLE SOLUTION TO WHAT COULD HAVE BEEN AN UNSOLVABLE PROBLEM.
WE SAY THIS BECAUSE AS SOON AS THE LEE COUNTY SHERIFF WAS CALLED BY US TO STOP THE NOISY NEIGHBORS, THEY WOULD STOP JUST BEFORE THE SHERIFF ARRIVED AND START THE MUSIC AFTER THE SHERIFF LEFT THE SCENE !
WE APPRECIATE ATTORNEY COHEN'S INTERVENTION IN THIS MATTER BY BEING THE MIDDLE GROUND BETWEEN OUR BAD NEIGHBORS , THE OWNER OF THE RENTAL PROPERTY ( WHO WAS NOT AWARE OF THE PROBLEM ) AND OURSELVES WHO ONLY WANTED PEACE AND QUIET !
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26 Feb, 2020 by Anonymous
I hired Mr. Dugan to help me recover my loss. Excellent lawyer! He did exactly what he said he would. He was always there when I needed him. I highly recommend him.
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08 Mar, 2017 by Michelle
I hired Ryan Dugan in 2015 for small claims against a construction contractor. Ryan NEVER returns calls purposely avoids the calls when I call then I immediately use another phone and he answers! I even had friends standing there and witnessed such action. I sent emails text messages NOTHING back no response. It is now going on 2 years and still no progress. I showed at his office twice only to get the run around and lies that he is waiting on the judges office. Surprise I call the office and they know of no such thing and have not received any request by my attorney. Matter fact they cannot speak to me it must go thru my attorney. This man not even attorney will not give an answer as to why such odd behavior and lack of communication and response. I even advised him of my intentions to file with the Florida bar and go as far as Washington and he gives no response and does not care. I would never recommend him to anyone and he should not be practicing law and harming individuals and the public.
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21 Oct, 2014 by Laurel
I've tried a few business attorneys over the years. They're often too big, too expensive or too inattentive for my small business. Ryan Dugan is the only lawyer I would currently recommend. He's very knowledgeable and focused on my business needs. He's helped me make sound decisions on legal issues from real estate deals to contract review and saved me from making a sizable mistake on at least one recent real estate negotiation. I recommend you never make a real estate purchase, or sign a contract without your attorney and I highly recommend hiring Ryan Dugan.
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11 Jul, 2022 by Anonymous
Extremely unprofessional. It is unbelievable that this laywer supposed to help abused people. Terrible. Beware! Never hire this laywer. Worst.
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03 Nov, 2021 by Deborah
She helped me with a stalker who just would not give up after 2 years. She kniws her stuff abd was prompt and professional.
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19 Oct, 2020 by Anonymous
My abusive situation got worse since I involved her. She has no heart for children. I have to live with what came about my case. She is pretty rude too.
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04 Mar, 2019 by Anonymous
As a realtor, I had previously worked with Nicole on a transaction that went smoothly. She is located close to my farm area, so I referred her when I thought a transaction warranted an attorney vs a title company. I received a listing from a client with a criminal history, and it was a quick-close cash contract (3 weeks). She agreed to take the closing. I had told her it was a sticky closing and the client was an alcoholic. I delivered the docs to her office, and then she went silent. No one from her office would return my calls when I had questions pertaining to the transaction. I was concerned after a week, but since they had been so efficient with my other closings, I hoped everything was moving along smoothly on her end. Finally, after nearly 2 weeks (a week before scheduled closing date), her assistant called to say they would not handle the transaction because Nicole didn't want to work with a client who had a "violent" criminal record. I understand everyone has their standards, and she has a right to refuse a client but she left me hanging in a pinch. When I stopped by the office to pick up the paperwork that afternoon, I asked her assistant if Nicole could recommend another attorney who would be willing to handle the case. Nicole refused to answer the question. In fact, when she saw me, she turned around and ducked into another room, outright refusing to even speak with me. I was calm and respectful and was just trying to find a way to get the property to close for my client, asking for a recommendation since she was not comfortable handling the transaction. I was completely baffled by the experience and really disappointed. I have never referred her again. That experience showed me that she can not be reliable or consistent ... that kind of behavior lacked professionalism or respect for a professional peer.
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29 May, 2013 by Anonymous
I am sorry, but this woman was very rude. She made me feel as if every question I asked was stupid and that I'm not supposed to inquire about the law, just hand over a great deal of money without knowing exactly what steps she would be taking in a very important legal matter. She obviously has very little experience dealing with people especially helping those who want to know anything about their legal issues.
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09 Apr, 2013 by Robert
Nicole handled my legal matter in a efficient and professional manner. I have had the opportunity to deal with many lawyers over the years up north. Nicole was diligent in my representation and the best communicator I have had the good fortune to deal with. I highly recommend her.
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01 Jul, 2024 by Anonymous
I do not live in Florida and needed advice on an Irrevocable Trust that was prepared in Florida, by my mother and her second husband. I met with Attorney Brown for advice and guidance on what needed to be done. The Irrevocable Trust, made by my mother and her husband, involved his two children and my mother’s three children.
After meeting with Attorney Brown, I retained her services. She felt it was necessary, because the trust involved two separate families, and she informed me that Florida law is very different than MI law.
Once I retained her, there was absolutely no communication unless I initiated it. She had taken all the paperwork I had given her, copied them and sent them to all five of us, even though all of us already had copies (the trust papers, prenup, etc.). I was charged for the copies, for sending everything by registered mail, and for the time spent on all of this. This is an example of so many things that I was charged for. There truly was nothing that was done that was helpful.
I requested a telephone call, once I finally received an itemized bill, to express my concern on all the charges totaling over $3,000. She took off $300 and said she was protecting me from being sued by “his children” or my siblings. After that conversation, I told her I did not want her to do any more until she heard from me. We did not speak again. After being charged almost $3,000, I was done! I would not recommend Attorney Brown at all!!
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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.
