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14 Jun, 2019 by Rhonda
I learned more in a 10 minute phone call than I have with the last 2 attorneys I've hired!
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07 Apr, 2016 by Anonymous
I hired Attorney Pamela Bennett regarding an elder law matter. She provided excellent legal counsel and I was able to obtain a favorable outcome.
She was prompt in replying to my initial inquiry and took immediate action. She is very knowledgeable in this area of law, and her experience and contacts helped to expedite the matter.
She is very thorough and has given legal advice through the completion and resolution of the case.
She has a pleasant and friendly demeanor which was very welcoming and made me comfortable to discuss the case with her.
I felt she really cared about my case and I would highly recommend her legal services.
I cannot say enough good things about Attorney Pamela Bennett.
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08 May, 2024 by Sarah ford
I highly recommend Kirk Jocham for your attorney needs. He possesses the quality and character of a true professional. He applies his knowledge and expertise to fight for you. His generosity and work ethic is unmatched. My family and I are grateful for his services.
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06 May, 2024 by Jim kolotka
What I enjoyed about my meetings with Mr. Kirk Jocham, was how at ease he made me feel. He guided me through the process and his staff, very friendly, got me through the paperwork. It was simple and very efficient.
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01 May, 2024 by Richard smith
Very knowledgeable and helpful in writing our Wills and Healthcare and Durable Power of Attorney. Highly recommend this Attorney Group.
Richard and Rita Smith
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21 Jun, 2024 by Missy mayes
David Murphy was my attorney several years ago and he did a wonderful job representing me in a very difficult divorce case.
He is so respectful and professional. I could never thank him enough, my main objective wasn’t ever money or material gain, it was strictly full custody of my children and he helped me to achieve that. He is a very ethical attorney and a genuinely good person.
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10 May, 2024 by Josh mccall
My family had funds tied up in the courts from my mother's house being sold in a sheriff's sale. We had a collection company reach out about getting those funds for us. They were going to charge a VERY high rate and it seemed like a scam really. I reached out to Mr. Martin and he quickly advised me on next steps to get those funds and the fee he charged was much less and the service was fantastic!! If you find yourself in a situation like do not hesitate to call. 100% recommend Mr. Martin and his associates.
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10 May, 2024 by Chris ream
Craig was amazing helping us navigate Medicaid.
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10 Apr, 2024 by Bill barowsky
30 Mar, 2024 by Tabitha wemple
No call back bc a partner is representing my ex husband in criminal case
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13 Dec, 2023 by Vicki cupp
Holly , This has been a long hard journey ! Holly and Monica are the best ! My Divorce has been so Complicated at times I got so frustrated Holly you are so smart ! At the end we won ! Way to go you are the best . I would absolutely recommend Holly to handle any legal situation just be patient let her do her job you will be just fine !
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28 Feb, 2024 by Kevin knight
Chris is very friendly and approachable. Chris's knowledge of the law and his ability to explain or are top notch.
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26 Dec, 2023 by Darius guzulaitis
I have/had been a client of Chris for almost four years. In all this time he had been compliant in filing most things. Though he was observant and tactful and knew the respective judicial body—which is helpful for most matters—I would characterize him as unanticipating and not too creative. I have a couple of OWIs(20yrs separate) but was immediately called out for currently being a drunk—not my favorite thing. Otherwise, he is a semipro, knows the local circuit, can get small meaningful things done and hold up his hand of conversation with the locals. For anything above a minor dalliance with the law or if you might have a meaningful case with child custody or visitation—I’d personally look elsewhere. Again I had to spark Mr Smith into action on my behalf several times, then provide him with the necessary legal arguments(not my specialty). After the first time or two, I began to sorrow on Mr Smith, then began to ask about alternative strategies. I had always paid my bill and always would but then he wouldn’t file a contempt motion until the previous month was paid—after three years of paid bills. Nevertheless I paid the bill and asked about the contempt motion. It was never heard in a courtroom, just behind closed doors. 30 days later still no visitation and still no progress I call again for a new motion. I beg holler and plead….again same thing no difference. Can you please pay last months bill and by the way—what do you want me to say??? Wow. Again? I make my case to my own lawyer again, this time and only after more money wants to file a new motion Though—he’s not sure what he would say…?? Wow. Thanks so much lesson learned enough. After speaking with Mr Smith, reviewing the casework and what not, I’d also carefully review the billing to be sure the billing clerk got things down correctly as a few minute talk with the judge got marked down as an 1.4 hour bill. The bills are erratic, not made out on the day or for the amount of time you spent so please watch those as well. Not a bad lawyer. Just uncreative, can’t create his own arguments, might be a bit presumptuous that you or any client is a looser, definitely a part of the small town system, and definitely knows the police, sheriffs, prosecutors, and all the people anyone would that worked a small town would for twenty years. Does that make him a good lawyer? Can he help out with some minor stuff here and there? Do you want him when your family and your right to see your own kids is on the line?
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21 Jan, 2023 by Jennifer hale
14 Sep, 2023 by Bryan
I hired Sarah Wolf for a custody case and paid her $2000. She did not answer one single question I had in my emails but charged me to read them. She filed 2 motions that looked lazy and just horrible and did not show up to a single court date before telling me I have to pay more money and she withdrew from my case. She robbed me and should not be an attorney.if your choice is her or yourself choose yourself because you are better off that way.
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06 Nov, 2018 by Anonymous
Took over a year for this lawyer to file my order. Only to find out a year later that I owe my ex child support when she told me no one will pay support. Wasted my money and my time on her and she was awful.
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28 May, 2014 by Anonymous
STAY AWAY!!! Cheapest retainer in town, but when she won't get off her rather generous rear end in court to submit evidence, you pay dearly in the end! She doesn't even present evidence you talk about in meetings, she doesn't present evidence you take the time to gather for her, she over-charges for everything...she made me agree to terms I wasn't agreeable to in order to "try to make it look like I was willing to work with the other party", but in the end, the other party got EVERYTHING they were asking for, and I got NOTHING I asked for! I could prove my ex is mentally unstable and unfit with a 2 inch binder of evidence - not one item was submitted to the judge. I have 3 witnesses which were sequestered - she never called on any of them...likely because it would require her to get off her butt and hand something to the judge. Then, she walks out of the courtroom and has the nerve to say "I am shocked at the judge's decision"!
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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.
