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15 Aug, 2024 by Kevin saenz
Hello! Just wanted to say that this law firm is highly recommended! The communication and the general care for me as a person was always available! Her staff in her office are super responsive and kept me updated every single day. If you someone that needs an attorney that will go to bat for you and have your best interest then I highly suggest this law firm! Very professional and hard working! They really do a great job with documents and information. Thank you to the team at Babains Law firm!
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06 Aug, 2024 by Ms. ebony realtor
Babaians Law Firm is one of the best in business. Knowledgeable, thorough and professional they were at my service. Cynthia and Natalia made sure to answer all my questions or get back to me within a timely manner. This team took time to explain to me how processes work and not to mention stayed consistent with correspondences. I’m grateful to have had this law firm representing me. I would definitely use them again if I had to. They were able to help be acquire the compensation due to me.
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07 Jul, 2024 by Ventura de los santos
La verdad la recomiendo es muy buena representante en casos de accidentes automovilísticos ella me a ayudado con 2 casos y la verdad estoy muy agradecido con todo su equipo de trabajo
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15 Aug, 2024 by Kevin saenz
Hello! Just wanted to say that this law firm is highly recommended! The communication and the general care for me as a person was always available! Her staff in her office are super responsive and kept me updated every single day. If you someone that needs an attorney that will go to bat for you and have your best interest then I highly suggest this law firm! Very professional and hard working! They really do a great job with documents and information. Thank you to the team at Babains Law firm!
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06 Aug, 2024 by Ms. ebony realtor
Babaians Law Firm is one of the best in business. Knowledgeable, thorough and professional they were at my service. Cynthia and Natalia made sure to answer all my questions or get back to me within a timely manner. This team took time to explain to me how processes work and not to mention stayed consistent with correspondences. I’m grateful to have had this law firm representing me. I would definitely use them again if I had to. They were able to help be acquire the compensation due to me.
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07 Jul, 2024 by Ventura de los santos
La verdad la recomiendo es muy buena representante en casos de accidentes automovilísticos ella me a ayudado con 2 casos y la verdad estoy muy agradecido con todo su equipo de trabajo
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01 Sep, 2024 by Bonnie chlowitz
Advo Law is an extremely caring, respectful, responsible, trustworthy law firm. Hov Kachatoorian is an amazing knowledgeable attorney. He led me in the correct direction regarding my personal injury case. I highly recommended Hov and his firm for your personal injury case. You will love the professionalism they all have. Bonnie Chlowitz
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22 Aug, 2024 by Valentina shahbabyan
I had an excellent experience with Advo Law and my attorney who handled my accident case. From start to finish, the attorney was highly professional, attentive, and efficient. They provided great help throughout the entire process, ensuring that all aspects of my case were managed with the utmost care. I am very satisfied with the outcome and would highly recommend their services to anyone in need of legal assistance.
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22 Aug, 2024 by Gloria suka
Advo Law with my attorney Hov K. was nothing short but amazing! Communication was always quick and efficient. Customer service was 10/10. They were always kind and courteous and very professional. And the fact that we won our claim was just the cherry on top of the cake. Thank you Hov and your team for helping me out! Even a year later, I received a gift in the mail from their office. They are truly amazing! Thanks again.
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07 Oct, 2017 by Anonymous
We consulted with Sona and she did an excellent job at consulting our issues regarding where we stood with Probate.
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07 Jul, 2014 by Michelle
I have two daughters and was very concerned about setting up a trust that would take care of them should something unspeakable happen to my husband or me. Sona was very helpful and walked us through every step of the estate planning process while answering every question we had. Her approach to creating our estate plan was well organized and easy to follow. We were able to wrap up the entire process in about two months with a total of four meetings. I have every confidence that if and when the trust needs to be enforced, everything is properly in place.
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23 May, 2014 by Sam
My wife and I had been looking for someone to redo our estate plan for far too long. After a considerable search for the right attorney, we found Sona Tatiyants. Sona is a smart, engaging person and a very capable attorney. Once you’ve met her and her staff, the reasons for the consistency of positive reviews for Sona is apparent. My wife and I echo every positive review. It was simple to arrange a free consultation with Sona, who took all the time necessary to listen to what we wanted to accomplish, and then explain a plan to accomplish our goals. It was an easy decision to engage her as our estate attorney. The process went smoothly. Meetings were always timely. There was always time to allow for questions and discussion. Email was returned within a few hours. Telephone follow-up, when needed, was, again, easily scheduled and always prompt. At all times during the process, we felt connected to and cared for by either Sona, herself, her excellent office manager Ellen and her law clerk, Lilith. Our estate plan is in place. Our assets are protected, as are each of us. We received exactly the advice and the outcome we sought. We highly recommend that anyone looking for estate planning advice, contact Tatiyants Law, P.C., and arrange an appointment with Sona before deciding to go anywhere else.
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15 Aug, 2024 by Edgar
Nyree is one of the best and most caring attorneys we've dealt with. And yes, we had our share of good and bad attorneys throughout our business and personal matters. Nyree is super professional, courteous, and very caring. She came through for us on many occasions, whether it was a business decision or a personal matter. My wife and I highly recommend Nyree and her firm for all your legal needs.
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14 Aug, 2024 by Jaime
Working with Nyree Kolajian was a wonderful experience from top to bottom. Not only does she exude knowledge and in-depth experience, she has a magnetic personality which added a friendly and light air, to what is considered a heavy task for anyone to plan. She's matter of fact, balanced, professional and friendly. We would recommend Nyree over and over again.
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25 Jan, 2019 by Andreh
Look no further. Nyree was excellent! She spent valuable time with us and addressed our questions and concerns very thoroughly. She delivered as promised and more! She is very attentive to details, and that is what you can expect from a seasoned attorney. We were delighted to work with her and had an incredible experience! Definitely recommend!
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02 Aug, 2021 by Stephanie
I have been so blessed to have been referred to Ellen. Not only has she handled very delicate family matters in a prompt and professional manner, she has such a friendly kind personality I always feel like I'm talking to a close family member. I give my highest recommendation! I am well taken care of!
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30 Jul, 2021 by Dave
Ms. Farewell and her firm provided professional and caring legal assistance at a time when my family required immediate expert help. My mother suffered a life-threatening medical emergency in the midst of the COVID crisis, and my father - in his 90’s - was unable to make the required medical and financial decisions. With the able assistance of Ms. Farewell’s firm, we quickly created and executed needed Power of Attorney and Advance Medical Directive documents, which allowed me to ensure appropriate care for both my parents. Ultimately, again with the guidance of the Farewell firm, we were able to sell my parents’ home and move them to an assisted living facility near my home in Santa Barbara. They are now in a safe environment and most importantly, together. I relied on the Farewell firm throughout the process of safeguarding my parents and their assets, and will happily use them again for my family’s estate and related legal issues.
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25 Jul, 2021 by Carol
Ellen Farewell has helped me in different stages of my life for several years. She helped me with a new will and trust after my divorce. Ellen explained everything and answered all of my questions so I clearly understood. She was always willing to address any concerns. Ellen recently helped our family with another family member's estate . Her knowledge and professionalism were exceptional during a very difficult time.
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03 Jun, 2014 by Lee
Lauriann and her team were our lifesavers as we navigated though a probate, a conservatorship and a second probate filing over the span of 4-1/2 years. We had never had to do anything like this before and had the added complication of living out of the state of California. Lauriann coached us through every proceeding and explained what would happen next so we were prepared up front. Lauriann was very knowledgeable and highly skilled when dealing with the expectations of the Court and the Judges that handled our cases. We never had to go back and re-do or re-file anything....in fact, our paperwork was done so well that our filings and petitions were almost always "recommended for approval" eliminating our need to appear and make a trip from out-of-state. My wife and I highly recommend Lauriann and her team.
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23 Apr, 2013 by Janet
Wow! Ms. Wright is an energetic and tireless advocate for Seniors. Even though the Probate Case was pro bono, she treated us with amazing dignity and respect. Ms. Wright went above and beyond to ensure that my mother's estate would not be usurped. Thank you Lauriann for keeping expenses in check and making the best use of your time!! We are grateful.
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08 May, 2008 by Anonymous
I hired Ms. Wright for a complex family law matter involving a conservatorship and substituted trustee action. She is very intelligent and honest and her work is of the highest caliber. I strongly recommend her.
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03 May, 2017 by Donna
Laura had answer to all my questions and more. Thank you Laura~
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25 Oct, 2016 by Laura
Mr. Tomsic is amazing. Not only is he a Probate and Estate lawyer. He is a Real Estate lawyer as well. In addition he is a Real Estate Agent, a Real Estate Investor and a CPA. My mother n law's probate had complex tax issues that I needed advice on. Mr. Tomsic is a gem! You will not be disappointed. In addition he is not an opportunist. He gave me solid advice that would settle the matter instead of the opposite which would have costed more lawyer fees. All around great guy!
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07 Nov, 2017 by Anonymous
Christina has extensive knowledge in Estate Planning and went through our trust documents page by page explaining complex language in a way we could understand. We were so grateful to have had such a wonderful lawyer be so patient and sensitive to our questions and needs. We would highly recommend her to anyone looking for an Estate Planning Attorney.
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05 Sep, 2024 by Ramona lup
The lawyers at Stephan Filip were exceptionally helpful at getting the outcome I wanted in my case! So grateful!!
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04 Sep, 2024 by Avik tumikyan
My experience with Stephan was exceptional. A very well organized firm, both experienced and professional.
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04 Sep, 2024 by Sarkis khachatryan
I received great advice and representation and have happily referred this firm to family and friends. Excellent and professional law office!
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29 Aug, 2024 by Elizabeth osterwisch
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26 Aug, 2024 by Brian fleming
My wife and I are very pleased with Larry and the job he did for us. Keep up the GREAT work Larry!
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18 Aug, 2024 by Johnny valles
Extremely unprofessional and uncommunicative. I was severely injured in an accident almost two years ago and was suggested the Shirvanian Law Firm from my partner's co-worker. The first couple of months they were very attentive and did all they could to help me with my case but that quickly changed and lead to almost zero contact. Since January of this year they have completely stopped responding to any and all of my questions and have completely left me in the dark wondering what is happening to my case. Answers to simple questions seem to be in obtainable and the complete and total lack of respect and professionalism towards their clients is truly disappointing. Had I known this is how they operate their business I would have avoided them completely in the first place.
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14 Apr, 2024 by Brandon usher
I got a DUI and was referred to David Chesley by a colleague who also had a previous case. I must say I am satisfied by the results and it was cheaper than other law offices. Communication was key and I felt like I wasn’t alone in this case. When I got the DUI, I thought my consequences would have been the worst. My lawyer informed me that she will do her best and not to worry. In the end, she delivered and I highly recommend Law Offices of David Chesley.
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23 May, 2023 by Gael
contacted Anthony about a neighborhood nuisance issue. After the first appointment for which the first thing he did was to charge me a fee (it's okay), we discussed my case and he gave me instructions to document and gather evidence. After sending him everything, he simply stopped answering me, he has disappeared. I understand this was probably not the most exciting case of his career, but he’s also a burbank lawyer and not exactly a rockstar, if you know what I mean. So there is no reason to be that difficult. I find it a bit harsh to be ghosted by a lawyer who has neither the courtesy nor the decency nor the professionalism to clearly refuse a case, but evade and waste everyone's time. This is definitely not an adult behavior.
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07 Dec, 2022 by Cb
I am a landlord, and while I usually get along well with my tenants, I had a difficult tenant who caused significant damage to my property (among other things). I consulted with Anthony, and he calmly guided me through a difficult situation. His knowledge of current local real estate laws was very helpful for my issue. His communication was clear, and his recommendations were practical. His office was professional. He replied promptly to any questions I had, and wrote out an important legal document for me in these regards. I am very pleased with his work on my case, and I will certainly hire him again in the future. Thank you, Anthony.
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14 Oct, 2024 by Vincent garcia
We’re so helpful in many ways! They took care of everything and let me know what’s going on the process. Great firm to represent you!
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12 Oct, 2024 by User15
Really satisfied with JT legal group services!!
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11 Oct, 2024 by Sophina villela
I am pleased with my experience with the team overall.They were able to work with me and find the best possible outcome for the team and I.Everyone was so patient and caring during the time we’ve worked together.I would definitely come back if I ever needed it.
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09 Jan, 2024 by Jackie
I hired Stephen after my father passed. And he was very patient with my crazy family. He was on top of everything the whole step of the way. Always had answers to any of my questions.
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22 Jun, 2023 by Anonymous
People!!! Do not spend your time, money and nerves at this unprofessional, aggressive sociopath who called himself a lawyer! He is not even close to this term! Protect yourself from his unprofessional rude team! They are really don't have to be the office of law!
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04 Feb, 2016 by Anonymous
Mr Drucker was personable, informative and helpful every step of the way in my Estate Planning venture. The process was something avoided... until my husband and parents all suddenly died and I was alone. Stephen helped guide me through the process of protecting my inherited assets by creating a trust. Likewise, my children are now protected from a probate situation should something happen to me in the future. Additionally, he prepared my advanced directive which details my wishes and further protects my children from having to second guess what it is I would want should my health decline. None of this was something I looked forward to... However, I must say that Mr Drucker and his staff made it painless.... and I am now able to sleep well at night!!!! Thank you Legal Action Workshop
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04 Aug, 2014 by Paul
I used the services of Mr. Chappell for my divorce which had dragged on for a number of years under prior representation. Mr. Chappell handled the matter and got it resolved, once and for all. Subsequent to that, he has handled my estate planning, completing my will and establishing my living trust. Overall, I give Mr. Chappell top ratings and would utilize his services in the future, without hesitation.
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02 May, 2014 by Anonymous
unfortunately this is not the lawyer to hire if you need someone to advocate for you in a divorce. lawyers are expensive and court appearances are scary so one hopes to be fully informed and have their options well explained as they go along. I trusted that he was the 'expert' as i have never divorced before. Mr chappell had a habit of making promises to me as his client which i see now he had no business doing. he was continuously unprepared and vague and if it werent for the fact that my judge is very good and fair i would have walked away with only a bill. i am still divorcing and had to fire him and hire a mediator on my own to try to get things moving. perhaps his other fields of speciality are ones he is better at but sadly i would never reccommend him for a divorce.
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29 Nov, 2023 by Tina o'brien
Jeff is a really good Negotiator, calm in the face of adversity and always trying to reach a resolution. We're in a bit of an ugly lawsuit and have had lots of damage to our house by our soon to be neighbors... one violation at a time. It was great to see that our attorney was compassionate enough to come by our home (twice) to make sure he understood the entire situation, first hand. Sometimes its hard to explain the small details that tell a story, therefore we feel really lucky to have found Jeff! He's able to see the big picture without losing sight of the detail. To top it off, he has a great sense of humor. grateful we found him!
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31 Oct, 2021 by Anonymous
Attorney Cohen was hired to start immediately to try to recover money that my Mother left me as inheritance. I was in a hurry, tight time line. After he was hired he screwed me around for around 7 months . He took notes and we discussed but he would be very busy or traveling. As I found out later he basically kept me at the back of the line and placed a higer priority on the firms favorite clients. I begged him to get the case in court before my father passed away, he didn't. So, I lost $225,000. that now is in the trust. The trust amont gets divided by 50 % , so I lost $113,000. to my sister. When this happened the firm FMBK would not return my money for this mess. Over $7,000. I have fallen into depression and have not recovered any of my Mothers money. Seyfarth Shaw hired him , I guess either didn't check out his past performance or didn't care. I wonder what this says about another Law Firm and their attorneys. He really screwed me over. I have all the e mails between Jeff and myself, proof of what took place. Find another attorney ! I should of sued him for Malpractice. These are my allegatioins
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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:

  1. 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.
  2. 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.
  3. 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.
  4. What steps will you take to manage and distribute the estate?
    Ask about the lawyer’s approach to handling debts, taxes, and asset distribution.
  5. 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.
  6. 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.

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