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23 Sep, 2019 by Peter schaffer
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26 Aug, 2016 by Thomas mccarthy
Was able to make room in her schedule to take my case at the 11th hour. Defending clients is not a big money maker but that did not matter. The outcome was a success
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25 Oct, 2023 by Karla
Rachel Caldwell has shown me continual support throught a long and arduous divorce process. I appreciate how she listens and takes in all the info, even the emotional aspects, and then keep it all so clear and grounded. Furthermore, I appreciate how she bring helps me keep things in perspective. Rachel is well versed in family law and thrives in creative solutions for challenging situations. I am so lucky to have her on my team! I highly recommend her as a family law attorney.
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02 Jul, 2020 by Jon
I hired Rachel to assist in a motion to restrict parenting time. She was most responsive and helpful. Showed a tremendous amount of patience as we worked through the issues with my ex-wife. I think I most appreciate the fact that even though I was her client it felt like Rachel was really looking out for my daughter's best interest above anything else. She is highly recommended by me!
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29 Jun, 2020 by Lindsey
Courtney and Rachel have been incredible with my divorce case. Both women are supportive, empathetic, intelligent and give sound advice. My divorce would've been messy without their clear and compassionate guidance. I'm so grateful their team represented me.
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15 Oct, 2013 by Sean
I work with many clients in developing their retirement and savings goals. I partner with Steve as his knowledge, professionalism, and expertise in the field of estate planning has proven to be very valuable to my clients. Most of my clients have either not established a legacy plan or their plan is outdated. I have comfort in knowing that I can refer my clients to Steve and his office will provide them with the best counsel. All the clients that I have referred to Steve have stated that he is easy to converse with and approachable. He puts the client at ease and is straightforward in his approach. Steve, thanks for what you do for my clients!
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08 Oct, 2013 by Mike
Steve explained the estate planning process in terms that my wife and I could understand. Making decisions to protect and guide our estate were much easiser than I expected. I don't know why I put it off so long, but I feel great knowing that we have our estate planning up to date.
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30 Sep, 2013 by Judi
Steve Owens is very knowledgeable in regards to wills and estate planning for special needs. He helped us to make a plan for the future and set up a special needs trust.
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05 Jan, 2017 by Colleen thomas
Lisa was very prompt and efficient and helped clarify many questions. She accommodated our unique needs.
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06 Jun, 2019 by Nate
My wife and I have used Stuart on two different occassions. Originally to create a will and various other estate documents and recently to update those documents. Stuart has always been easy to work with and is very knowledgeable. What impresses me the most is his honesty and integrity. He isn't interested in selling you services or drafting documents you don't need. He will take the time to explain what you do and do not need and why. My wife and I are very happy we hired Stuart and would strongly recommend him to others needing estate planning, probate or trust assistance.
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09 Sep, 2024 by Stephen ganison
The best in legal help I’ve ever used for help Thank you.
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01 Aug, 2024 by Whitney holtan
Ross was exceptional to work with. He was calm and comforting in a time of uncertainty and pain. He was able to use his expertise to bring us much needed peace and resolution. I could not recommend him and his team more for their compassion and professionalism.
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26 Jul, 2024 by Summers hutsell
We are super happy with the service we were given with Gelman Law. Weston Cole was our attorney and we highly recommend him and his team. We are in the PDR industry and were owed several thousands of dollars and thanks to the hard work of Mr Cole we were able to settle this matter. Thank you Weston.
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09 Sep, 2024 by Stephen ganison
The best in legal help I’ve ever used for help Thank you.
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01 Aug, 2024 by Whitney holtan
Ross was exceptional to work with. He was calm and comforting in a time of uncertainty and pain. He was able to use his expertise to bring us much needed peace and resolution. I could not recommend him and his team more for their compassion and professionalism.
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26 Jul, 2024 by Summers hutsell
We are super happy with the service we were given with Gelman Law. Weston Cole was our attorney and we highly recommend him and his team. We are in the PDR industry and were owed several thousands of dollars and thanks to the hard work of Mr Cole we were able to settle this matter. Thank you Weston.
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01 Mar, 2024 by J. michael suter
Attorney Waldrip and Paralegal Keesee prepared a will and trust package for my late uncle; the work product was very good. Later they helped with administration of his estate. Always professional, always timely, I was fully satisfied with their services. I also appreciated the prompt, detailed billing. I highly recommend this team.
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13 Nov, 2023 by Di ann mcpherson
This firm is super. They did my husband’s and my will. Now they are helping me tie up some things due to my husband’s death. They are so kind and understanding. Great communication.
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13 Nov, 2023 by Austin leong
Working with Lisa Hardin has been an absolute pleasure. She is professional, knowledgeable and responsive. I have worked with her in the purchase of my practice, and to start up a new business, and she has always made it an easy process. I cannot recommend this firm enough.
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24 Sep, 2024 by Tina
I had a great experience with Ilya, I worked with him on my will. He explained everything thoroughly, answered all of my questions, and was very professional. Ilya is a very knowledgeable attorney and I really enjoyed working with him!
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19 Sep, 2024 by Yuliya
Thank you for your service and knowledge. If you are looking for estate attorney I am recommending Ilya, he can answer all necessary questions, explain better solution in your situation, give you a proper recommendations, connect you with necessary organizations. He is taking time to get know you to give you a proper resolution in your need. Thank you!!!
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16 Jun, 2024 by Anonymous
Ilya made the trust process easy, and brought up things we hadn't thought of.
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28 Feb, 2024 by Esther copeland
What a waste of time. He did not answer my questions, and I felt intimidated in subtle ways.
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12 Jul, 2021 by Beth sanchez
These folks know how to navigate the monsterous Medicaid applicaiton and approval process. They also help you find the right placement for your elder parent as they did for mine. Mary Beth Leitzman is a gem to have on your side and is also a trained social worker with lots of experience in Elder Care. Though the cost may be rather high ($6800) for our family, that cost is less than 1 month in a facility in Colorado and well worth the headache of navigating multiple agencies, rules, laws and so forth. Full endoresement here! Thank you Vincent, Romeo & Rodriguez, LLC!
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09 Jun, 2021 by Scott raub
VRR has been a great help in planning for my father’s move to a Senior Community. I could not have done it myself. From drawing up his Power of Attorney documents to developing a plan to pay for my Dad’s housing and associated needs they have been timely and compassionate. The biggest benefit in working with VRR is their Social Worker, Marybeth Leitzman. She understood my Dad’s needs and financial situation. She found us several options that fit our criteria.
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28 Feb, 2024 by Esther copeland
What a waste of time. He did not answer my questions, and I felt intimidated in subtle ways.
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12 Jul, 2021 by Beth sanchez
These folks know how to navigate the monsterous Medicaid applicaiton and approval process. They also help you find the right placement for your elder parent as they did for mine. Mary Beth Leitzman is a gem to have on your side and is also a trained social worker with lots of experience in Elder Care. Though the cost may be rather high ($6800) for our family, that cost is less than 1 month in a facility in Colorado and well worth the headache of navigating multiple agencies, rules, laws and so forth. Full endoresement here! Thank you Vincent, Romeo & Rodriguez, LLC!
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09 Jun, 2021 by Scott raub
VRR has been a great help in planning for my father’s move to a Senior Community. I could not have done it myself. From drawing up his Power of Attorney documents to developing a plan to pay for my Dad’s housing and associated needs they have been timely and compassionate. The biggest benefit in working with VRR is their Social Worker, Marybeth Leitzman. She understood my Dad’s needs and financial situation. She found us several options that fit our criteria.
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03 May, 2024 by Nicolas aguilar
I called Baker Law Group for some initial advice on a potential legal problem, and my experience was fantastic. Michelle was great to speak with initially. Robert, senior counsel, was very knowledgeable and spent extra time with me helping me strategize and giving me preliminary advice. Would 100% recommend.
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29 Apr, 2024 by J platt
I recently contracted with this firm for an HOA dispute. During the consultation, the attorney said we couldnt litigate it due to language in our HOA rules. The billing after the initial consultation took advantage of us and I will never recommend this firm to any colleagues, friends or family members. We were told that our consultation fees should cover most of the letter that we agreed on to have sent out. We were asked to put a deposit of $1500 for potential negotiations with our HOA after the letter process. No negotiations took place and we were charged over 2K for a letter that we basically gave all the information to supply. After we were denied to negotiate from the receivers of this letter, the attorney told us that if we wanted to sue, they would send us to litigation. But I thought we couldn't sue? They phoned it in and then had the audacity to charge us for asking a question about the billing on top of that. If we were originally told one letter would cost us over $2600 we would have never retained their services.
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25 Apr, 2024 by Kelley
Couldn’t recommend Brian at Baker Law more if I tried! He took the time to explain the steps I would need to take in the future so that I’m not floundering the moment I lose a loved one, or feel lost in where to start first. He took the time to listen to my situation with zero judgement. He was very honest, and knowledgeable, and never once tried to “sell” me on a service I wouldn’t need. Highly highly recommend!
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28 Apr, 2024 by Anonymous
Shelley Thompson was hired to help my 84-year old mother to update her estate planning documents. At an initial consultation, preliminary decisions were discussed. However, upon further reflection, my mother desired material changes. Per my mother's request, I asked Shelley to incorporate these changes into the first-draft plan. Shelley sent a first draft of the estate plan completely that ignored my mother's requested changes. Instead, Shelly scheduled a signing meeting. My mother requested my presence at the signing meeting to help her understand things that were very complex and overwhelming to her and to help ensure her desires were reflected in the plan. In the signing meeting, Shelly attempted to make changes to the plan to reflect my mother's desires. However, my mother was at times overwhelmed and confused and still unclear about some key decision points. Points of uncertainty for my mother included material decisions including who to choose as Trustee and Durable Power of Attorney. To my surprise, instead of encouraging us to take the time to be very clear about very important life decisions, Shelley strongly pressured my mother to sign on that day. Shelley had a strong opinion about how certain parts of the plan should look, and at times discouraged open discussion about alternatives. Instead of offering counsel on how to gain clarity on key decisions, and contrary to my advice to avoid rushing, Shelley pushed my mother to make final decisions in the meeting and to sign the documents immediately, Shelley seemed to me to be more interested in getting something signed hastily than ensuring that my mother and her family were clear and confident. Knowing that I (as her son and attorney-in-fact) had very strong reservations, Shelly nonetheless pressed forward and got my mother to sign documents in the meeting. When voicing my concerns with my mother during the meeting in an attempt to make sure she understood what she was signing with crystal clarity, Shelley became defensive and insisted she knew best without asking clarifying questions. She did a terrible job of presenting options and seemed to do the bare minimum based on things my mom knew to ask--instead of helping her understand what needed to be in place. In my opinion, this is a cookie cutter service designed to get people in and out without taking individual care for the people involved. This was a radically different and exceptionally disappointing experience compared to the firm I recently used to obtain my own estate docs.
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17 Nov, 2015 by Liza
Shelley is an excellent attorney. She is that rare person who really takes the time to listen and help and take the "legal" speak out of things. My father passed away unexpectedly and we reached out to Shelley for help. She made a very hard and emotional time for my mom much easier to navigate through. Shelley has made something that the normal person doesn't do every day, easier to handle. She also helped my elderly mother understand what needs to be accomplished for her will, not just financially, but also from a health standpoint. I trust Shelley and highly recommend her.
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11 Sep, 2015 by Anonymous
Shelly is compassionate lawyer. She was there when we need an advisor to help us with our medical power of attorneys and set up our estate planning with trust for our children. At the time I had just been diagnosed with cancer and was a wreck. I knew with a blended family it would be complicated. When Shelly was done I felt confident that my wishes and my family would be taken care of no matter what the outcome would be. Shelly helped me feel in control when everything around me felt out of control. She was kind and patient. I consider her not only a great attorney but a friend.
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20 May, 2024 by Betsy worstell
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13 Mar, 2024 by Alexi touloumis
I had two different law firms prior to coming to Heckenback Law. My case was a complete mess, and I had about lost all faith that there was anything I could do in the courts to get things to change. Dave and Ian turned my case around, albeit over a few years, starting with winning an appeal that had a very low chance of success. They then systematically continued to get small victories of facts and truth over deception and fraud. Eventually things flipped and I was able to turn everything around, for the sake of the kids and their futures as much as my own. My biggest regret with hiring them is that I didn’t do it from the start of my case.
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23 Feb, 2024 by Kristen cardillo
Heckenbach Law PC stands out as a reputable firm, and Ian Shea exemplifies professionalism, knowledge, consistency, and helpfulness. Throughout my challenging post-divorce matters, Ian's expertise and assistance proved indispensable. He consistently demonstrated exceptional knowledge and unwavering support, serving as a reliable, honest, and dedicated advocate. In every interaction, Ian's professionalism shone through, providing not only legal guidance but also concise and helpful feedback. His assistance offered stability and comfort during a tumultuous time, reflecting his commitment to his clients' well-being. Beyond offering legal advice, Ian empowered me to effectively advocate for myself. His impact extended far beyond the conclusion of my case, leaving me deeply grateful for his dedication and personal commitment. Ian's guidance was instrumental in navigating the complexities of post-divorce issues, highlighting his value as an invaluable asset to anyone in need of legal assistance.
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29 Jul, 2021 by Debra re newman trust
My disabled Niece and Nephew's mother passed away and they were having a difficulty with their Trust. I hired attorney Brian Petz who refused to respond to a motion on time which resulted in a unfavorable judgement. Brian Petz indicated that because of his error, I would not be billed any further from their firm and they were getting rid of the current bill. Jereme Baker took over the case and three months later my card was charged almost 5k. Last week, again, they were asking for more money and I became upset because I wasn't supposed to have been charged in the first place and I had hired them nearly a year ago, with nothing good to show for it. I called and spoke to Attorney Heather Warren whom was very nice, I explained my issue and sent her a copy of the email from Brian Petz, admitting that he forgot to respond to the motion and that I would no longer be billed any further from their firm. Heather Warren said that Jereme had left for the day but that she would call him on his cell phone and call me back. Heather Warren called me back 10 min later and said that she spoke to Jereme Baker and that he would call me on Monday and that I would be refunded. Jereme Baker finally did call toward the end of the day on Monday, indicated that he would not be refunding me, indicated that the email Brian Petz sent was misunderstood. I asked him why did he tell Heather Warren that I would be getting a refund and he indicated that this had nothing to do with Heather Warren. This has been my experience with the baker law group, Brian Petz and most of all, Jereme Baker. There has been untruths, saying they are going to do one thing and then doing the opposite or not doing anything at all. I have not had a good experience with this law firm and unfortunately, my disabled Niece and Nephew are the ones who are sufferings. In my opinion, Jereme Baker is not an ethical person and I do not recommend him. You should be able to trust your lawyer and I do not trust or recommend Jereme Baker or his law firm
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30 May, 2020 by Space
The staff is very professional and courteous. Baker Law Group was outstanding in their legal performance and finesse, and they lived up to their incredible reputation. One simply cannot go wrong with choosing them based on this alone. However, I knew I was in great hands because of the knowledge and care they gave to me in communicating the advice I needed. They explained things to me in layman's terms. So much so that I walked away from our consultation with more confidence and insight than ever before. They showed me that my time was as valuable to them as their time was to me by being diligent and delivering their services with gratitude. In the end, I was just as impressed with the staff’s integrity. My rating is based on two words. Exceptional. Experienced. "I highly recommend Baker Law Group, LLC." -SAE
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06 May, 2017 by Judy washington
I had just lost my husband and Jereme made me feel comfortable about myself to feel like I will make it. THANK YOU VERY MUCH JEREME!!
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11 Aug, 2021 by Soojina
Heather is awesome with consulting and coaching for your divorce case. She was aggressive when fighting for your family and getting a fair settlement. Heather is very knowledgeable about legal cases and expect realistic outcome of your case. She answered calls and emails even late weekend nights. She is definitely worth the money.
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14 Oct, 2016 by Bret
Been trying to get her to start my claim for over 14 months, she's received $1000 and not done a thing. So many promises and NEVER A THING DONE??? If you can just give her money and expect NOTHING she's your lawyer
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09 Dec, 2022 by Anonymous
He did nothing for me in my divorce case. He literally did NOTHING!! I lost because of his incompetence and lack of actually caring. Do not use this attorney for anything if you plan to win.
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27 Feb, 2022 by Kristen
Brian missed deadlines, neglected to inform me that the Initial Status Conference was changed from courtroom to conference call, went dark on communication with me for a month, and then withdrew my case. Bad lawyering in every aspect. I would look elsewhere.
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15 Aug, 2019 by Bob
At the start Brian seemed competent and confident, but sent me on a course in a custody battle that costed me more time, money, and loss than I could have ever imagined. I sent him everything he needed to pursue my case but he showed up to the hearing unprepared, sweating profusely, and as the judge described "woefully inadequate." Please look elsewhere. He says he cares, but only about billable hours.
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26 Jan, 2020 by Anonymous
My wife and I retained Ms. Conover to do our Estate Planning. We needed to have some changes made to our plan. We left many voice messages and emails for her. She did not return any of them. Finally, I was able to get through her on her phone. We set up a meeting with her. While always friendly, she informed us that she no longer did estate planning. But, as a favor to us, she would make the changes. She did not do anything. We had no further communication from her nor, did she respond to any of our messages. We would never recommend her.
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25 Feb, 2017 by Sheri
I received bad advice after my father died. She told me to leave his accounts for a year, that Medicaid would take the estate. When I tried to contact Tammy Connover to clear up some confusion, she never answered phone or e-mail messages. Now I am stuck trying to clean things up. I had worked with Tammy prior to this when my father received an inheritance. She seemed nice at that time. I wouldn't work with her again.
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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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