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12 Oct, 2022 by Anonymous
Attorney Owens has been invaluable in improving my daughter's life. Having someone who I trusted to represent me through this difficult process was absolutely game-changing. He is extremely hard working, thorough, strategic, thinks outside the box, and has a very high attention to detail. He truly cares about his clients and I am forever grateful for all of his work. He truly understand the psychopathology of narcissists and how to effectively navigate them in court. He fights the good fight, and I am so lucky to have found him.
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13 May, 2021 by Bill mcmahon
15 Sep, 2010 by Lorrie-jeanne
Many legal cases, especially those involving 15 years! of retroactive child support can be daunting to say the least. And having Five, yes Five (5), previous attorney's over all these years NOT being able to get the job done has been very disillusioning and disheartening. However, Attorney Jason V. Owens without hesitation took intelligent command of what appeared to be a "lost" cause and quickly re-esatablished the legal legitimacy and worthiness of my child support case with clear, concise direction. And along the way, his integrity and dedication to all aspects of the case, including those very human elements many clients bare on their sleeves, have been nothing short of sincere, purposeful and committed.
It is not easy to entrust an attorney with such an important issue as child support which clearly affects your child's everyday quality of life. Yet, Attorney Owens has restored my faith and trust not only in the process, but in having an attorney who protects your and your family's best interests. I have found Attorney Owens to be open, receptive, communicative, respectful and willing to partner in a team effort to acheive what is fair and deserved. Of equal importance to the law, I have found that Attorney Owens' vast experience, knowledge, and grasp of adjunct areas in business and finance have also had a tremendous positive impact on his ability to quickly assess and discern all the angles of my case. Truly, the total package!
Without hesitation, I sincerely recommend Attorney Owens!
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10 Jul, 2018 by Anthony (boomer)
Highest recommendation on every level. DGVE Law - Danielle G. Van Ess and her staff -- are the complete package. Extremely knowledgeable and effective, no-nonsense yet incredibly personable, honest, and ethical, and they always follow through. We felt like we were heard, understood, and advised perfectly.
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24 May, 2017 by Wendy
My husband and I recently updated our will and I can say that I was not looking forward to it (hence, putting it off for more than 5 years!) Danielle made the whole thing painless. She is a smart, highly competent professional but also adds a "human factor" to her practice, and that is what makes her unique. Her staff is great to work with as well, and carry through her practice philosophy.
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07 Apr, 2017 by Jessica
We felt that all of our legal needs for which we sought were met. The main benefit from working with DGVE was that we know that in any event our wishes have been communicated via a will and will be carried out as written. Additionally, DGVE made sure to bring up scenarios and possibilities that we hadn't considered and now those are also planned for. We feel that our children's needs will be taken care of in the event of an emergency/tragedy and that our wishes will be communicated to our loved ones and executed. Additionally, the process was so easy. It was not difficult to understand the choices we were making, every step of the way was explained to us in language we understood and what we needed to do in order to have the best experience was given to us in a checklist. This made it so easy for us to complete while juggling work, pregnancy and life in general. In all, we felt that our wishes were heard and understood!
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16 Jun, 2015 by Jack
My wife and I engaged Leanna to update and establish several legal documents. We found her to be quite knowledgeable and sincerely interested in helping us to achieve our goals. Our meetings with Leanna were very helpful in arriving at a number of decisions and her follow up was both timely and thorough. We are very pleased with the advice and service that we received and we recommend Leanna Hamill without hesitation.
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08 May, 2015 by Elizabeth
I came to Leanna because I wanted to ensure that my wishes would be followed upon my passing. Leanna listened with a keen ear to my intentions and suggested doing a Will, Power of Attorney, and Health Care Proxy. She met with me and listened to my wishes, took that information and within a short time called me in to review.
Leanna took the time to not only listen to my needs but to consider the family dynamic (considering carefully the fact that my husband and I have a blended family). She explained everything to me in lay men's terms so I truly understood the purpose of each document. I would highly recommend Leanna to anyone looking to have peace of mind. Leanna is trustworthy, thorough and considerate. No better choice for your peace of mind.
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07 May, 2015 by Mary
I had been struggling for over a year to find someone local who does family law. Messages not returned, etc. Found Ms. Hamill in the Hingham Journal. Under "Responsive" I would underscore that by saying "prompt" which is kind of the same, but maybe not. She counseled my husband and me about what documents we needed, beyond what we realized we needed, and now everything is nailed down: wills, POAs, & names changed out to include our sons, now grown, in legal matters. I not only would recommend her, but I have. And the office is elegant!
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16 Jun, 2018 by Amy
I went through a divorce. She was a guiding light at a very dark time. She was professional and knew what she was doing. I slept at night knowing she was in my corner. I can't say enough about her. She was the only good thing about going through a divorce.
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03 Aug, 2015 by Anonymous
I had a complicated family matter that several lawyers turned down my case. She handled my case and knew the right approach to settle my case without going to trial. She was amazing! I am so thankful for all her efforts which ultimately solved our case.
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13 May, 2021 by Bill mcmahon
11 Nov, 2019 by Cindi
Stephanie is a phenomenal lawyer. I hired her for a real estate closing. She performed and delivered in a tight timeline. She went above and beyond her normal duties. I highly recommend her as she will tirelessly advocate for you.
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21 Jan, 2022 by Donna
Ron listened to what I needed and produced a quality product in a very timely manner. Would definitely recommend him.
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31 Oct, 2023 by Melissa ryan
Leanna makes the process of getting wills, a trust, guardianship documentation, etc. in place simple. She answered all of our questions and helped us personalize what we wanted.
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22 Oct, 2021 by Jonathan kelly
Great no nonsense service. Highly recommended for your estate planning needs. Leanna really knows her stuff!
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24 Apr, 2024 by Eduardo henrique carvalho
14 Nov, 2023 by Dan s
I dealt with Steve when I sold my house in 2023 and found Kellem and Kellem to very professional, response, and helpful - as well as easy to deal with. I recommend them highly.
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03 Jul, 2023 by Colleen fiumara
02 Dec, 2015 by Anthony
Jessica seamlessly championed my case and I could not have been more satisfied. Being my first experience with the court system, I was terrified; Jessica put me at ease from our very first meeting. She patiently answered all of my questions in a manner I could understand which addressed any concerns I had. Being from out of state added another layer of stress; however, throughout my ordeal Jessica kept up regular communication and pushed through any logistical issues including opening up her schedule to accommodate changes. Jessica saw my case through to dismissal and I was ecstatic; regardless of this outcome I recommend her completely. Her professional demeanor, knowledge and expertise is combined with her personal attention to provide her clients with a balanced approach.
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20 May, 2014 by Anonymous
I hired Attorney Foley for a probable cause hearing. The case was out of Dorchester District Court. She did an excellent job. She is tremendously hard working and and on top of her cases. She kept me informed throughout the process and was able to keep me calm during the proceedings. She always responded to my calls and emails in a timely manner and made me feel like i was her only client.
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21 Sep, 2013 by Anonymous
This past spring I met with Jessica Foley to represent me on my first time criminal matter and in speaking with her was convinced that she was more than capable of handling my case. Boy was I ever wrong on hiring her. On my first court appearance she shows up 20 minutes late (mind you I am freaking out that she is not here well ahead of time and in knowing where the courthouse is). In going before the Judge, she looks to get the trial pushed out and asks me my availability for the next date. I told her anytime, she pushes it out a month further than what was initially offer by the court.
When we leave the court, she speaks to me for about 10 minutes and just says “Oh well, this is the way the court system works” and leaves. I then get a call later in the day from her office looking for payment of the balance due on the flat fee agreement amount. Really concerned about her clients well-being and just looking to line her bank account. I could have stood before the court and accomplished the same result as she did without having to pay for it.
A week later I send her an email asking her to explain herself and what happen and get no response back. As my next trial date approached, I ended up speaking to two other attorney’s and learned far more than anything Jessica initially told me. At that point I decided to terminate my representation as I knew I would be better served going with someone else.
We are now in dispute over her legal fees and getting nowhere to resolving it. If you read this, be advised and do not make the same mistake I made as it will cost you spend your hard earned money and get nothing in return. Jessica is an unresponsive, unsympathetic and typical self-absorbed attorney.
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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.
