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17 Apr, 2024 by Gina louis
Matt represented husband and I during our bankruptcy, he is very professional, listen to all of our concerns and answered all of our questions. He communicated with us throughout all the phases of our bankruptcy.
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02 Apr, 2024 by Lesa yeager
I needed advice and I called
TruLaw in a panic and was given clear and straight forward assistance.
Thanks to them I now have a piece of mind .
Thanks TruLaw!
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29 Jan, 2024 by Jasmine martinez
06 Jul, 2016 by Jill
Having to find legal representation is about as fun as going to the DMV. I'm glad I found Shauna because she made my life a whole lot easier. My ex-husband ran away with my kids which wasn't what we had agreed to. She and her staff found the court documents and summoned him to court. Needless to say it didn't turn out well for him. It was a tough situation made much easier by Shauna's professionalism and go getter attitude!
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01 Jun, 2016 by Brent
I have had to use way too many lawyers over the years just dealing with my business and getting divorce and it's never fun. Shauna I wouldn't say was fun but she did make it easy. I felt she kept me in the loop which I can't say for a few other lawyers I have used in the past. Being out of the loop is a total feeling of helplessness and it really bugged me to no end. Her team called me on a regular basis not only to keep me updated but to see how I was doing. How cool is that? It looks like I found my lawyer for the future.
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07 Apr, 2016 by Jamie
She's very friendly, nice and easy to work with. Explained everything to me so I could understand the legal jargon. The process can be a bit overwhelming at times which made it nice to have an excellent attorney and staff who took me step by step.
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06 Dec, 2015 by J.t.
Counselor Tyrell helped us through a very scary guardianship and adoption process. We had never been through anything like that before and the waters were extremely difficult to navigate as we worked to get all the necessary documents, signatures, interviews and court orders in place. Adopting a child, especially a child with which you've bonded, can be incredibly stressful and worrisome because until it is all done there is the constant fear some agent or agency may deny your application for a myriad of possible reasons! Add our unfamiliarity with the adoption process as a whole and you get the fearful, frantic couple that was us for the 3 years that it took to complete the adoption. The difficulties stemmed from the number of transactions that needed to take place between the State of Nevada, our daughter's birthplace and the current location of the birthparents which encompassed 3 different states altogether. Counselor Tyrell was very thorough and precise in providing guidance to us and helping us meet every requirement put forth by all jurisdictions/agencies involved! She was accommodating and informative EVERY step of the way. She held our hand through the entire process and was our constant rock when we would have bouts of discouragement! Her determination and concern for the success of our adoption application was clearly genuine to us. She became far more than just legal counsel. She became family to us and it's a relationship we will continue to maintain for the rest of our thankful lives! We cant say enough about her competence, drive, character, and compassion! Counselor Tyrell is everything we could have hoped for in a lawyer and in a friend affectionately known by our daughter as "Auntie Elyse"! My family greatly recommends her and the entire law firm of Trent, Tyrell & Associates!!
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30 Nov, 2015 by Richard
The adoption of our grandchild was a very emotional and stressful time for my wife and me. We consider ourselves very fortunate that Elyse Tyrell was our attorney in this matter. We found Elyse to be not only extremely competent and professional in handling the legal aspects of our case but also very caring and compassionate during a difficult time for us. Taking into account that it was necessary for me to retire in order to stay home and care for a 7 year old child, Elyse did much of the work pro bono. I highly recommend Elyse Tyrell and would not hesitate to seek her counsel if the need should ever arise again.
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19 Nov, 2015 by Kristal
I had a great experience with Mrs. Tyrell and her staff. She put together my advance directive and living will prior to the birth of my baby. She answered my questions and made me feel comfortable with decisions made. Her and her staff were efficient and timely with putting together the documents and recording them. I would definitely recommend her and her staff .
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07 Dec, 2023 by Melissa
I have worked with John for many years and I can confidently say that he is not your average lawyer. John is OUTSTANDING at making sure that he is providing the best legal services paired with the best customer service. He truly wants to take care of his clients and make sure that they are protected and enriched by their association with his firm. But, it's not only this! He is so fun and personable to work with! There are many professionals that I dread having to talk to--John is not one of those! He is very warm and approachable.
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06 Dec, 2023 by Geoffrey
I've worked with John and his form for years on various different topics and I would say that one thing that always resonates is that they just care. It's not about the client's money or the prestige with this firm its all about helping the client. I can honestly say that I've worked with many attorneys over the years and it doesn't feel like a client / attorney interaction it's just nice. I'd highly recommend Michaelson Law
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06 Dec, 2023 by Jessica
John really helped my family out! He was very attentive and caring about our family and our case, and we really appreciate him
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22 Apr, 2021 by Salvatore
Needed a demand letter reviewed to ensure I was approaching a matter appropriately. She reviewed and gave me phenomenal feedback on not only what I should change in the letter, but the process itself.
Both Nikki and her assistant Ginger were super responsive, knowledgeable, polite and followed up very quickly.
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16 Nov, 2017 by Stephanie reynolds
She seemed very knowledgeable. Told me exactly what I should expect and and seemed sencere in keeping costs down for a single mom.
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20 Nov, 2016 by Lane
Nikki explained the process and my options. As soon as she was hired, I felted relieved and things immediately started looking up. So glad I hired her to do my bankruptcy.
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02 Jul, 2020 by Carlos
Jason was very professional and hands-on. He was always available and answered my emails promptly. I would definitely recommend him.
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01 Jul, 2020 by Virginia
I needed an attorney to help me pursue my interests in my Mother’s estate.
Jason was so kind and understanding after I explained my situation. He handled everything with kindness and patience. I felt very confident and sure of his knowledge and experience.. I would highly recommend him to anyone who needs an attorney that puts your needs first. He truly cares. Thank you, Jason.
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02 Jul, 2015 by Laurie
One look at his profile picture will tell you - Jason is genuine.
I felt valued as a person (not just $$$) by everyone in this office. Jason understood my concerns, my emotional roller-coaster, and my lack of legal understanding, and offered sound advice and guidance as he accompanied me through the process.
It's a shame that my parents hadn't been referred to this office for competent estate planning services prior to their passing. Lacking an understanding of the implications of a vague trust agreement, my parents (may they rest in peace) could not have foreseen the exploitation of their assets by their poor choice of a successor trustee. Thanks to Jason and this formidable team of professionals, the assets that hadn't been sold, stolen, or gambled away were salvaged and my rights as beneficiary were successfully defended against the threat of disinheritance.
After being "sold down the river" for fourteen months by my previous attorney (that's what E.T. calls herself), Greg, a respected attorney on AVVO, responded to my questions and recommended Grant, Morris, and Dodd. I extend my heartfelt thanks to all of them, especially Jason.
Being a party to any litigation can be stressful and confusing. It's worth the investment of time to research credentials and reviews to find a law firm that is knowledgeable and trustworthy; Grant, Morris, and Dodd is all of that and more.
Jason is as authentic as a person can be. He is a valuable member of this firm as an attorney and a blessing to me as an individual. For all that you are and all that you do, Jason, I thank you.
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19 Nov, 2021 by Enrique
Mr. Burr is not only an expert and a professional but also proved to me that there are still compassionate and generous Lawyers in the world. As a disabled senior citizen living below the poverty level with serious health issues, I was seeking to establish a Will and/or a Trust to leave my modest estate to. Mr. Burr listened to my wishes and outlined a comprehensive plan with easy to understand answers. The proposed fee was Very reasonable and one I was happy to take out a loan to pay for. After learning the details of my financial situation Mr. Burr wouldn't hear of it and both surprised and deeply moved me with his offer to put me in touch with 2 pro bono organizations to help people like myself. He expressed genuine concern and well wishes for my health and a hopefully longer life. God Bless Mr. Burr and may others be inspired by his example.
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26 Apr, 2016 by Susan
Jeffrey Burr is the best of the best. He was honest, straightforward, professional and he made a not so fun process - enjoyable. Always has others' best interests in mind. I couldn't have had a better representative for my family and me.
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17 Jan, 2013 by Anonymous
Jeffrey Burr was professional, insightful and responsive to our concerns.
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08 Jun, 2018 by Kris
Greg Morris did our Family Trust and we were very pleased with the service and how he handled all the sensitive areas.
Very knowledgeable and courteous.
Would recommend to anyone.
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28 Feb, 2018 by Gary
We found Morris Estate Planning Attorneys through an online search. Taylor responded quickly and after the initial meeting, we felt confident that our estate was in great hands. Taylor answered any questions we had and went over all documents thoroughly to ensure our understanding. We really appreciated his professionalism, as well as the personable staff! Everyone we interacted with was fantastic! We would highly recommend Morris Estate Planning Attorneys, particularly Taylor!
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17 Nov, 2013 by Ed
I would absolutely recommend Greg. He handles all of my estate planning needs and is on the cutting edge of what is happening in estate planning and probate. His fees are very reasonable, especially considering his high level of experience and the significant demand for his services.
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29 May, 2016 by Marie f.
I appreciate the help Mr. Larsen and his staff provided when my mother passed away. They were very helpful and kind. Probate isn't something that you want to go through, but they made the process as easy as I imagine it could be. I recommend them.
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28 Jan, 2016 by Anonymous
I don't live in Nevada but Mr. Larsen helped with probating my father's estate in Las Vegas. He and his staff made the process understandable and as efficient as possible. They were very helpful.
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10 Apr, 2019 by Michele
Ms. Roland and staff were sufficiently professional with my mom and dad estate. Highly recommended.
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10 Jul, 2015 by Corey synagogue
I went to Harriet on consultation on Elder Law and estate planning for my mother who was going through a very difficult medical situation. My brother and I needed to get her qualified for Medicaid ASAP and Harriet was very informative and knew her stuff. My situation was a bit less involved than what she usually works with but she still took the time to help me in any way possible. Take the time to talk to her and find out for yourself.
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14 Oct, 2018 by Adam
I was introduced to John Callister by Mutual acquaintance. Since that time I have retained him on several different issues also refer to others to him for complicated contract law and other situations. He always answers the phone himself when called goes out of his way to excel in his profession and is one of the most straight up people and honest I've ever met and I'm not a huge fan of lawyers. This one however you can take to the bank one of the best people I've ever met and proud to call him a friend.
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31 Oct, 2017 by Anonymous
He was suspended for something he didn’t even do and the corrupt judges and bar of Nevada and corrupt attorneys are to blame. It’s sickening and gives me no faith in judges or attorneys or any person or group that affiliates with Nevada attorneys. So sad to see this in our community. He is an honest person who is being made an example of by crappy people. Be careful. But feel at ease hiring Jonathan Callister. He is seriously one of the only honest people left.
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16 Nov, 2018 by Kayeleen
Jonathan Barlow was recommended to me for help with setting up a charitable organization. He is very knowledgeable and helpful. We'll be able to make the necessary changes to our organization to continue to grown and be successful. He is also very personable and easy to relate to. He makes things easy to understand so that we can get things done in a timely manner.
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15 Nov, 2018 by Anonymous
I have relied on Jonathan multiple times for simple advice to complex legal situations. He was always willing to help, offer his genuine feedback, and give effective direction. He has advised me on my estate and helped us set up a non-profit.
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20 Jul, 2015 by Quinn
Jesse is very thorough and thoughtful in his approach to my legal needs. I recommend him to everyone I know.
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29 Nov, 2017 by Kimberly
By time I found Steve Ari had already been through two different lawyers. It seemed as if every lawyer will tell you exactly what you wanted to hear and then after you gave them their retainer they instantly already stopped fighting for you. He is the most down to earth attorney I have ever and believe I will ever come across. I honestly can tell you he truly cares and he will fight for you. He stands his ground and knows his cases front and back. Be prepared if you see him on the street you’ll have no idea he’s even an attorney. As long as he is an attorney there is hope.
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26 Apr, 2024 by Alan brown
Fantastic couldn't ask for a better experience from the front desk to Burke Williamson.
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18 Apr, 2024 by Lauren mathews
18 Apr, 2024 by Paul king
01 May, 2024 by Joe ripoll
Ryan is the best experience you can have. He is a 10+++.
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19 Apr, 2024 by Lisa meikle (thefactorykb3)
Attorney Laura was very informative with me my whole case. She was always in contact with me and let me know everything that was going on in a way I could understand. She kept on the insurance company for a higher offer and achieved an offer I was very happy with. VERY PLEASED CLIENT!
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25 Mar, 2024 by Catalina macklin
I highly recommend Laura!! She was very knowledgeable and kept me informed on my case the whole time. Always answered my calls and texts. I am very pleased with my settlement.
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14 Aug, 2024 by Harmony johnson
Thank you so much to the Marshall Injury Law family. JD, Lacey and Eric were so kind and helpful in my hit and run case. They're so welcoming and patient when you enter those doors.Me and my family were a bit shaken after the incident but they gave us hope and showed so much generosity and support in helping us.I now cherish them and would recommend their efforts and help to anyone that goes through a hardship like I did. We really appreciate everything you guys have done for me and my family. -H Johnson
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10 Jun, 2024 by Toxic taichi
Mr. Eric and his team, Lacey and JD, had helped my brother and I after a hit-run accident where our car was totaled. We were volleyball players and the injury set us back on months of chiro and medical appointments. His team made sure to take care of us, keep us updated, and was direct and professional. Never doubted his abilities, commitment, and will to ensure that we were properly taken care of. Though I hope to never see any legal office again, if I do have to in the future, you can bet I’m coming back here. Thank you so much Marshall Injury Law.
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08 May, 2024 by Taylor scios
Eric and his team did amazing work! I got into a car crash and they took my case and ran. They have helped me in so many ways more than I could even imagine! They are super friendly and respond quickly! Thank you for all your work!
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12 Sep, 2022 by Maria del carmen
Robert L Morris is someone I highly recommend in giving advice, he is a very good listener, writer and communicator, he steers me down the high road. I feel like he is looking out for my best interest and he earned by respect and trust.
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06 Sep, 2022 by Anonymous
I hired Robert Morris recently to handle the probate estate of my deceased mother's, and was very pleased with the results. During our initial meeting, he seemed to be quite knowledgeable about the probate laws that would apply to this particular type of probate estate, and took the time to explain them in detail. He had a patient, personable manner during this meeting, and was very upfront about everything. He charged very reasonable fees for this case overall. My deceased mother's probate case was approved without any issues, at every step, and all of the assets from her estate were subsequently released without any delays; this is the ultimate goal of any probate case, and his exceptional legal expertise absolutely helped bring about this successful outcome.
I later decided to have Mr. Morris prepare some trust administration documents for an irrevocable trust which I am currently serving as the trustee of. Again, he charged fair, reasonable fees for these, and also took the time to add some critical, necessary updates needed to conform to Nevada law (the trust had originally been drafted in a different state). I have since used these documents to handle a number of financial banking matters, and have had no issues at all with the banks when doing so. Having these properly drafted, well-prepared documents on hand to use for such matters made a very significant difference in terms of time, hassle, and stress when it came to administering this irrevocable trust; I have since realized how crucial it is to hire a skilled estate planning lawyer for these situations.
Mr. Morris provided outstanding work for my particular probate and trust matters overall, and I couldn't have been more impressed. I would definitely recommend hiring him and his firm.
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16 Mar, 2021 by Adeline
Always takes the time to return my calls and answer my questions. Mr. Morris is professional yet caring. I am from out-of-town, and he helped me through a very difficult time. I truly appreciated now he and his staff was always there to help me.
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14 Aug, 2024 by Harmony johnson
Thank you so much to the Marshall Injury Law family. JD, Lacey and Eric were so kind and helpful in my hit and run case. They're so welcoming and patient when you enter those doors.Me and my family were a bit shaken after the incident but they gave us hope and showed so much generosity and support in helping us.I now cherish them and would recommend their efforts and help to anyone that goes through a hardship like I did. We really appreciate everything you guys have done for me and my family. -H Johnson
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10 Jun, 2024 by Toxic taichi
Mr. Eric and his team, Lacey and JD, had helped my brother and I after a hit-run accident where our car was totaled. We were volleyball players and the injury set us back on months of chiro and medical appointments. His team made sure to take care of us, keep us updated, and was direct and professional. Never doubted his abilities, commitment, and will to ensure that we were properly taken care of. Though I hope to never see any legal office again, if I do have to in the future, you can bet I’m coming back here. Thank you so much Marshall Injury Law.
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08 May, 2024 by Taylor scios
Eric and his team did amazing work! I got into a car crash and they took my case and ran. They have helped me in so many ways more than I could even imagine! They are super friendly and respond quickly! Thank you for all your work!
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14 Aug, 2024 by Harmony johnson
Thank you so much to the Marshall Injury Law family. JD, Lacey and Eric were so kind and helpful in my hit and run case. They're so welcoming and patient when you enter those doors.Me and my family were a bit shaken after the incident but they gave us hope and showed so much generosity and support in helping us.I now cherish them and would recommend their efforts and help to anyone that goes through a hardship like I did. We really appreciate everything you guys have done for me and my family. -H Johnson
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10 Jun, 2024 by Toxic taichi
Mr. Eric and his team, Lacey and JD, had helped my brother and I after a hit-run accident where our car was totaled. We were volleyball players and the injury set us back on months of chiro and medical appointments. His team made sure to take care of us, keep us updated, and was direct and professional. Never doubted his abilities, commitment, and will to ensure that we were properly taken care of. Though I hope to never see any legal office again, if I do have to in the future, you can bet I’m coming back here. Thank you so much Marshall Injury Law.
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08 May, 2024 by Taylor scios
Eric and his team did amazing work! I got into a car crash and they took my case and ran. They have helped me in so many ways more than I could even imagine! They are super friendly and respond quickly! Thank you for all your work!
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09 Sep, 2024 by Diana alatorre-nieto
Jason and his team were amazing! His assistant Ana was always so helpful and answered a lot of my questions. I couldn’t have asked for a better and less stressful experience and I definitely recommend hiring Jason and his team. Will be recommending this law office to anyone looking for a great lawyer. Thank you Jason and Ana for your amazing help! :)
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29 Aug, 2024 by Amanda aguilar
19 Aug, 2024 by Audez lozano
The Law office of Jason H. Weinstock were a great choice of lawyer and team to handle my case they did everything right to win my case, they were very informative , very kind , honest and professional . I definitely would use them again if needed and I highly recommend them and I just don't say this about all lawyers.
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5.0
20 Reviews
4.5
33 Reviews
23 Jul, 2024 by Chadd charbonneau
Go elsewhere. Terrible. No communication. Lots of bills!!!! There is better out there, so disappointed. I was threatened to be sued by my attorneys own office. My credit card number changed over the course of time I was working with 'leave-it' , instead of a phone call explaing things, I get a letter from Brandon, you come at your own clients. I'm sure I was charged for hours as well for him to threaten me with litigation. They will milk you dry with minimum results, if your in the Leavitt office, leave it for better options!!!!
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09 Apr, 2024 by Dan farias
The Leavitt Family Law Group was recommended by someone close to me.It has been the one of the best decisions I made during this whole ordeal. Brandon and his team have been honest and informative in my case. I highly recommend anyone who is going through this to reach out.
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06 Apr, 2024 by J. barnewolt
Great firm. They were very professional and kept me informed of every step. Highly recommend.
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17 Apr, 2024 by Gina louis
Matt represented husband and I during our bankruptcy, he is very professional, listen to all of our concerns and answered all of our questions. He communicated with us throughout all the phases of our bankruptcy.
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02 Apr, 2024 by Lesa yeager
I needed advice and I called
TruLaw in a panic and was given clear and straight forward assistance.
Thanks to them I now have a piece of mind .
Thanks TruLaw!
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29 Jan, 2024 by Jasmine martinez
12 Sep, 2017 by Jody
I hired Michael Carman on a referral from my trust attorney in NV. Mike and I met on a Monday, I hired him on the spot, my complaint was filed 3 days later and he and his team (Maria, Missy, Emma, Stephanie and Robin) worked diligently to successful gain an annulment for me in 35 days!! Mike is crystal clear, to the point & most importantly does NOT waste your time or money. Mike is very approachable and available. He ONLY wants what is best for the client and encourages his clients to move on when the divorce is done. This was the BEST experience I have ever had with an attorney. Thank you Mike and team.
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02 Jan, 2017 by Donna phillips
Mike partnered with Corinne in 2016, They are currently and have been working on my case for over a year. He has been a great asset to me with my family law case(child support, custody, and evaluations). The circumstances of my case still bring us to court because of my ex . With his abilities, Mike was able to get the court to see my side and help my children. I recommend Mike and Corinne at The Fine, Carman & Price Family Las Attorneys to anyone looking for a family attorney.
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02 Jun, 2016 by Ian
I actually met Michael by accident. I was a single father trying to get custody of his son after my girlfriend was advised by legal council to leave the state without consent. The way the laws were written, there are nearly no protections afforded single fathers. I was actually using a different lawyer, and due to a very biased judge, I was only allowed to see my son 9 days a month, and I was ordered to pay $693 a month Child support.
Michael worked very hard on our appeal to the state supreme court, and while we were not able to overturn the decision of the original judge (one who is no longer serving as a family judge in the state of Nevada), we were able to get legislation introduced to help cement the rights of unwed fathers in Nevada.
I see the people that gave him low reviews complained that he overcharged them. I can't speak for that, but I can tell you that he did all the work on my case, which would have been well in excess of $100k completely Pro Bono.
While he was unable to get help for me, I do not believe it was due to anything he did wrong, but due to an incorrect decision by the state Supreme Court of the State of Nevada.
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09 Feb, 2023 by John
Contacted his office on December 20th 2022, spoke to his secretary and emailed the documents regarding my case the same day. I called the office back on the 29th and 30th of December and left messages, I called again on January 3rd 2023 and reached his secretary who asked me to resend the documents. got an email from his secretary on the 19th of January stating that it would cost 450 dollars to speak with Richard Chatwin to see if he would take the case. Contacted a different firm and had my case accepted and a letter of demand sent out within a week.
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21 Jul, 2011 by Anonymous
Mr. Chatwin did a wonderful job on my case! After dealing with many Lawyers in my life, I have found him to be the most ethical and truthful. The Judge denied our case, asking for a hearing. In order to conserve time and funds, Mr. Chatwin, re-presented more evidence to the Judge which he accepted and sided with what we were asking for. I was really surprised that it went in our favor, without a hearing, and so were other Attorney friends I told this to. On top of that I received a refund from Mr. Chatwin...never have I ever dealt with an Attorney who is so honest as to issue a $67.35 refund, but he was trustworthy down to the very last penny. You have heard the old saying, "99% of Lawyers give the rest a badd name." I tell you Mr. Chatwin is in that 1 percent.....I would highly recommend him to all, as he is very Professional.
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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.
