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26 Aug, 2024 by Wise real
11 Jun, 2022 by D 71
Honestly I tried to seek help but, none was given. Have an active case with VA which is to expire soon. Sent all my paper work in as requested and nobody looked at it. Was given a response by email after a few attempts that had nothing to do with my case. Truly disappointed.
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15 Mar, 2022 by Veronica lopez
Monica has worked with me twice with family law of modifying my custody for my son! I could never find myself looking for any other attorney but Monica! She’s extremely knowledgeable and caring! Thank you Monica once again for all of you’re help! You are truly appreciated in my family!
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04 Apr, 2019 by Sylvia
I hired Silvia for my brothers case. Paid the $500 to go visit him in jail. Of course it wasn’t her it was her assistant. She suggested a Stay of Deportation which was a long shot that would cost $2000. I was hesitant and my brother kept saying they’re going to deport me with a few days. I kept asking Silvia’s assistant to verify if true before I pay and she kept telling me she didn’t see that he was scheduled to be deported. Finally I go ahead and pay and following day he’s deported. Frustrating that they weren’t aware of took my money. I asked for refund and she only credits me $1000. When asked why she made up a lot of false claims of work that was not done. To verify I called her assistant and she confirmed that nothing was filed as Silvia claimed. Truly unethical and very disappointed. Do not use her because it’s all about the money not truly representing you and doing the right thing.
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02 Apr, 2019 by Anonymous
Silvia es muy iresponsable. Consulte con ella y nunca respondio a los correos electronicos ni regresa las llamadas. Por demas de que llego casi un hora para mi consulta. No la recomiendo.
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08 Jul, 2018 by Anonymous
At first she will treat u nice and used the right words to persuade you to hired her service then once she has ur money she would not care about you, neglect your case and be late for appointments with clients. Maldigo el dia que la conosi, mi consuelo es Creer que Dios be las acciones y actitud de ella y Dios se vengara por mi....ami me rrobo $5000 dolares " SHE STOLE FROM ME $5000
Some of her staff are also no good
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20 Nov, 2023 by Rameen humza
20 Nov, 2023 by Priya p.
18 Nov, 2023 by Ray burchette
09 Aug, 2013 by Deborah
she was court appointed for my fathers estate and literally took a 2M estate down to nuts and bolts. when she realized what poor condition she had gotten the estate in she bailed and the incompetent judge let her. she did such a poor job she didn't even argue when I asked the judge to stop payment on her fees.
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11 Jun, 2011 by Anonymous
I retained Sharon Gardner to represent me in a trust probate matter here in Houston with respect to obtaining a distribution. I was very unhappy with her services and frankly believe that she violated ethics and the attorney-client priviledge in my case. I found Sharon Gardner to NOT to be trustworthy.
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30 Sep, 2010 by Becky
Sharon Gardner stopped an unneeded guardianship on my uncle and prosecution on me due to untruths that went on for 1.5 years. Sharon turned this nightmare in the courts, which included 4 other lawyers, all seeking huge fees, right side up, in 2.2 months. Sharon held everyone's feet to the fire, and had to do the job by herself. Her integrity is impeccable. Shockingly, the system was upside down for us, until Sharon Gardner arrived, and thank goodness she left no stone unturned. The great lawyers ARE still around. She is worth her fees!
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22 Jun, 2016 by Anonymous
I have to assume the other review was written by an employee or someone with a vested interest in the practice....because our family's experience was very different. After paying $3500 for services we were unable to get in touch with Ms Willie. Calls were never returned and we were always told she was out of the office. Sporadically she would re-surface out of nowhere with some new information on our case. Clearly when dealing with grieving family members this is not the experience anyone hopes for. Recently after not hearing from her all 2016 going back into 2015, she contacted us and when questioned about her disappearance we were told her mother was ill and she had to attend to her. Obviously, we wish nothing bad on her or her family, however what does that have to do with anything?? If that story is true there is a PROFESSIONAL way to handle that by reaching out to your current clients and making them at least aware of your inability to provide the services you have been PAID to do. It all seems to convenient, especially considering the fact that our family member whose estate is the topic of discussion is our deceased mother. Needless to say we regret ever approaching Ms Willie. I can't in good conscience recommend her to anyone in a similar situation because dealing with her will undoubtedly add to the emotional toll that these situations inherently bring. I advise anyone who will listen to stay clear and pick a more professional and seasoned attorney with more experience in estate planning. All we wanted and still want to do was take over control of our mother's home and for whatever reason, TWO YEARS LATER, we are still stuck in limbo smh.
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12 Mar, 2012 by Kathy
Mrs. Willie has always returned my call in a timely manner. Usually within a day or 2. She discusses your options and helps you decide which is best for your situation. It is not all about getting as much as she can get from you. I like her honesty, her empathy, her demeanor, her advise and I will call on her each time I need legal help.
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25 May, 2023 by Mario
Had Rob on retainer. Called him after I got arrested and he didn’t return or acknowledge my call for 2 weeks then blew if off. I had a court date for child support he did not tell me about and I missed it which led to my case getting dropped and I had to start over. He and his assistant get very rude if you call them out for work not being done. Don’t waste your money like I did
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08 Apr, 2010 by Anonymous
Rob has always been straight forward with what to expect either be good or bad. I feel he is looking out for my best intrest and not how much he is going to make. He is reasonable priced and very efficent in getting things done. He is also very understanding in the affects of life and gives great comfort to finding a solution to the facing issue.
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26 Feb, 2020 by Anonymous
I would like to recommend Pauline Ike she is a great divorce lawyer patient very attentive and very understanting she does not go around the bush she says it straight like it is and her payment options are great they work with you
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04 Sep, 2019 by Jennifer
I can't recommend this Attorney for anyone at all.She is so Terrible with a poor client relationship.She will work against you. Everything I told her about my case and my personal life,she told the other Attorney breaching my confidentiality and ruining my case with the Court.She is so unprofessional. She is too greedy and will continue to charge you outside of Agreed Money Contract and can't even defend you. BE WARNED. DON'T WASTE YOUR MONEY AND TIME WITH THIS ATTORNEY. STOP DON'T MAKE THAT MISTAKE AS I DID.
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11 Jul, 2023 by Kendall hollrah
08 Mar, 2022 by Gee brown
30 Jun, 2018 by Anonymous
Title says it all. Legal secretary doesn’t respond to emails either, unless you follow up with a phone call, and even then, it’s just a phone call, no email. There are plenty of other attorneys out there who DO respond to emails. I don’t pester, but a once in a blue moon “hey, what’s the status of X?” is not hard to respond to, either with a phone call or an email. I guess he has enough rich clients, he doesn’t have to worry about anybody else.
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05 Nov, 2009 by Stephen
Bob Frank has advised me personally as well as a number of my clients. His years of experience and personality result in the right plan and careful handling of all his clients. I recommend him 100%
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01 Sep, 2014 by Anonymous
Mr. Jaworski handled a case for a close friend of mine, with excellent results. My friend insisted that I get in touch with Mr. Jaworski. At this point, I have worked with him on a limited basis, but have researched his advise and find him to be knowledgeable and on target.
I have worked with several attorneys in the past and have found Mr. Jaworski to be personable, respectful and knowledgeable. He answers questions with patience as he tries to educate the client. He does not condescend or make the client feel rushed.
After my previous experiences, he has quickly commanded (notice I did not say "demanded") my respect.
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25 Jan, 2013 by Anonymous
This attorney handled a custody case for me. He had no idea what he was doing and custody case went on for over a year. He did not know that mediation was required and had no knowledge of custody cases in general. The case dragged on while Mr. Jaworski collected money and did nothing. With 30+ years of experience in law, I thought I was getting an experienced, knowledgeable attorney. I was disappointed. After 1 year and no progress in the case, I hired another attorney and he got the job done in two weeks. I could not believe how quickly the process could have been. I would definitely not recommend Jaworkski. He might be a good criminal lawyer, but DEFINITELY avoid him for family law.
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11 Jul, 2023 by Kendall hollrah
08 Mar, 2022 by Gee brown
11 Jul, 2023 by Kendall hollrah
08 Mar, 2022 by Gee brown
25 Aug, 2015 by Crystal johnson
Mr. Ross is an excellent attorney. Unfortunately i have had my run ins with the laws a few times. He saved me every time. I dont know what i would have done without him. 10/10 whoever disagrees needs to put a sock in it. He answers my phone calls, texts, & voicemails. The best in Houston. I pray all lawyers will someday have a heart like his. His communication with his clients are phenomenal. If you want a dismissal, or a no bill. Stop playing with yourself, and your future.
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05 Feb, 2013 by Anonymous
E. Ross Craft has been zero help for my family. He is does not know what he is doing nor does he care! He doesn't even answer our calls and does not call us back. He didn't speak to me once on my court date even left court and failed to let me know! I sat there for an hour and a half before someone let me know he left and that my court date was rescheduled. This man is ignorant and unhelpful. I am extremely disappointed that this man continues to receive a paycheck from the state for doing absolutely nothing. I truly hope he reads this and realizes that he is an awful person for claiming to be there to help a person and just leaves them hanging. He'll get his eventually.
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17 Jun, 2022 by Victoria
He was my Mother lawyer for more than 20 year she was in her 90 at the end he keep all her money I can not understand how he is still working he lost his job at the Cenatiempo law firm
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13 Apr, 2022 by Wild bill
26 Jan, 2022 by Anonymous
Yes my mom is 81 years old Mr dude has been her attorney for many several years now he's just blowing her off we paid him $1,900 8 months ago we have yet to have an appointment with him he keeps telling us that he'll see us and he never calls he never returned calls we've gone to his office several times and we've gone to another attorney now he doesn't do what he says he's going to do and I guess my mother is not worth his time even though we pay him always on time and even asked up for a payment up front before he even did anything and that's not how it works cuz he knows what my mother wants to do she just needs a couple an hour or two with him and he can't even give her that and this has been going on for 2 years now so I would not suggest using him
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09 Nov, 2023 by Beatrice torres
07 Sep, 2023 by Anahi villaseca
I would like to give a special thanks to Ashley, Valerie, Tyra, and Gisel for helping us out on our case. I got involved in a car crash in September 2022. Ashley & Valerie quickly got to work to help my mother and I get the proper treatment we needed. Then my case was transferred to Tyra & Gisel and they were patient and answered all of my questions. My case has been recently closed and I couldn't be happier. Thank you so much!
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05 Sep, 2023 by Debra smith
Excellent choice for representation after a car backed into me. Each person who handled my case was proficient and extremely helpful.
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04 Aug, 2023 by Fallon s
Took about 3 years to barely make a file. When fired charged all the hours to retainer fee. Basically took all the money and did not do work
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29 Jan, 2020 by Mo jag
Don't deal with this firm. I was impressed with the way they held my hand and helped me get my case approved 15 years ago. I made a mistake by giving them the job of applying H1B for my employee. I had practically everything. The staff is very rude. Jerry Zhang is not even in USA. We had to call several times to get the job done. He should be paying money to us. They just send you a DIY template and we have to work on it. They don't offer any help. They are in the business of just charging money. Don't waste your time by dealing with them. I am a successful businessman take my advise. I've seen how success has hit this company. They don't care for customers any more like they used to. They offer "0" support and no customer service plus they are all very rude. The attorney I was dealing with yelled at me several times. Their team is in China, they just outsource everything.
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05 Nov, 2019 by Felix banguera
Working day
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07 Feb, 2017 by Gary yancey
He basically just held my hand while the other side screwed me over.. lied to me and said once the protective order has expired all your visitations are normal but little did I know he signed me up for the safe program until my kids were 18. Do not waste your time or money with this guy. Four years now and I'm still fighting to see my kids because this clown couldn't help me. Not only did he not fight for me to see my kids he basically rushed through mediation and she ended up with almost everything.
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26 Dec, 2016 by Anonymous
CAGGIN ISVERY TERRIBLE ATTORNEY. HE BLEW UP MY DIVORCE CASE. HE WAS TOTALLY UNPREPARED FOR MY TRIAL. HE COULD EVEN READ W2 STATEMENTS. HE ASK THE OPPOSITE COUNSEL IN TRIAL HOW TO READ MY STATEMENTS. HIS ASSISTANT IS BETTER PREPARED THAN HIS. NEVER HIRETHIS ATTORNEY,IF YOU WANT TO SCREW UP AND WASTE YOUR MONEY HIRE HIM. DONT WASTER YOUR TIME IN GOING THERE
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19 May, 2015 by Glenda
I rate this attorney with the highest recommendations that can be given. He proofed that I would not only be vindicated, but that he would do his best to represent the case... We won!!! Although, I gave my son's father joint-custodianship, favor in the court room proofed that I was not guilty of what I was being accused of and neither did I have to pay for the opposing parties fees that brought suit. Attorney Caggins not only did his job, but he proofed his points in the court of law. I would recommend him highly... Outstanding job and definitely worth every penny spent. He gets the job done.
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11 Aug, 2024 by Lucy
For months Attorney Jones worked untiring to see that the paperwork was in order ( all i’s dotted and t’s crossed) to get us a fair deal. We’re very pleased with the results
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25 Mar, 2024 by Anonymous
I hired this lady for a pre nup. It was never done and I kept on calling and no one ever picked up the phone or called me back. Basically out of money for nothing.
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28 Oct, 2023 by Anonymous
This company employes someone that is posing as an attorney and has never been an attorney according to the state of TEXAS law BOARD, his name is ANTHONY WAYNE HAWKINS. If he is showing a degree that he is, it is FAKE.
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25 Jul, 2022 by Caleb izdepski
Experience matters. This is the right maritime law firm.
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31 Jul, 2021 by Anonymous
I asked for a contract to be reviewed because I didn't like some of wording. All I got was a one line email with the lawyers first name only as the closing. Waste of money, time and useless feedback. Buyer beware.
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06 Feb, 2019 by Donovan
I would highly recommend not using this lawfirm. My attorney wouldn’t return phone calls or respond to emails. When I attempted multiple times to contact Mr. Silberman he told me that he does consults all day and didn’t have time to take my phone call. I wish I could give them a -5 stars.
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27 Feb, 2024 by A m
Ms. Lan and Mr. Michael are fantastic Lawyers. I am not saying this because They were able to help me to received everything that I asked from the court in my divorce case, because in reality there is no lawyer exist who can guarantee the result in your favor. I humbly assure you that if Ms. Lan “can’t” help you in your divorce case, probably no one else could. Highly educated , highly experienced, highly moral. I teared up in her office trying to get the custody of my 6 year old son as the respondent against all the odds and as a father. She calmed me down and offered me a napkin and told me everything is going to be alright.
On the court day she was able to convinced the court to dismiss the case before my x wife’s attorney had a chance to show up. I give no glory to any individual as all the glory goes to the Lord Jesus for answering my prayers; However God used Ms. Lan and Mr. Michael to answer my prayers. The firm is very expensive, but this is indeed the price of a highly trustable and fantastic lawyer.
God bless you all and always stand for truth and righteousness!
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14 Nov, 2023 by Silvia gamble
08 Oct, 2023 by Linh nguyen
Tôi thấy luật sư Michale rất nhiệt tình và giúp đỡ case của tôi rất nhiều mặc dù bị văn phòng khác làm hư. Tôi rất hài lòng về sự tư vấn trước khi quyết định có đi với văn phòng hay không. Tôi sẽ cập nhật tình trạng case tôi săp tới. Divorced
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15 Dec, 2014 by Anonymous
I engaged with Deborah for a case 6 months ago and haven't heard from her at all- even after I emailed and called her. This is super frustrating because my project was very minor, and it could have been completed in a few weeks. I would not recommend her.
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10 Feb, 2024 by Grace.kelli
26 Mar, 2023 by Jeff l
09 Jun, 2020 by Skylar elizabeth
24 Feb, 2015 by Mamy wade
J adore
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24 Feb, 2015 by Mamy wade
J adore
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24 Feb, 2015 by Mamy wade
J adore
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11 Aug, 2016 by Anonymous
Thomas is inconsistent, disingenuous, and is more worried about his reputation than helping you. He will not listen to any ideas you have because you are the not the attorney. He will not admit fault when he makes mistakes because he never makes mistakes. He said this to me one day after I pointed out a glaring error. This man is self-righteous and egotistical. Stay away!!
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06 Apr, 2016 by Anonymous
I consulted with Ford and Bergner and Thomas Horton was assigned to my case. Thomas provided inconsistent information, was sometimes unreachable, acted annoyed when asked about the process. Thomas made it clear that my case was not important to him. He has a lot to learn when it comes to keeping clients happy. I agree with the previous review, he still needs to remain an assistant until he proves himself worthy. I too had concerns about a conflict of interest with Thomas.
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12 Apr, 2015 by Anonymous
I hired Ford/Bergner and they let Thomas Horton handle my probate case. I have gotten inaccurate answers to questions, emails not always answered timely, and seen actions that could probably be termed as conflict of interest. I'm going to give him the benefit of doubt that it's because he is young and doesn't have much experience. Don should probably keep him as a legal assistant until he becomes more knowlegable.
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22 Mar, 2018 by Catalina jaramillo
He is horrible over charged and never really informed me of my case. Never return the call
Not follow my case
Bad
No have any thing in file.
Charge $200.00
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21 Jun, 2014 by Aaron
OMG. This POS was the agent for the owner of my apt. Not only did he not introduce himself, personally, he was slow to respond to my concerns. Had upstairs neighbors with kids, who would "play football", in the wee hours of the morning. Informed him, and he dismissed it. At the end of our lease, raised the rent $150, and would not rent to me, month to month. Then held my deposit for 3 months, stalling on returning it. He couldn't represent the rat I presently have in my new apt.
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20 Aug, 2010 by David
He is horrible over charged and never really informed me of my case. was horrible at returning my calls. didnt follow through with the work he said he would do
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20 Sep, 2019 by Anonymous
I hired Carol Bailey for my high profile case , i paid her $8000 total just to hand my case over to another lawyer who i did not know or ever met, a month before trial and had to pay an additional 10,000 for trial to a lawyer i did not choose but i had no choice because since the case was so far along no lawyers wanted to sign off & work on the case last minute & the lawyer she put in charge of my case was terrible and didn't even show up on court dates and had to reschedule due to being out of town on a different trial , worst lawyer wish i could give no stars , she also tried to scare me by saying the prosecuter wants to drop my bond but if i paid extra $250 she would stay late and talk to the judge but i thought thats what lawyers were for
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27 Jan, 2019 by Anonymous
She quoted me $2500 at 1st and kept changing the cost I ended up paying $6,000. She would cover up the writing on my reset papers, that said 500 fine telling me they wanted to give me 5 years. We kept coming to court me paying her $1,500 every time we go.
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23 Sep, 2013 by Julian
Mrs. Bailey misled me as to what she would charge , basically agreed to represent me for a disclosed amount and doubled her fees on the day of court after I had compensated her for original amount , she withdrew from my case. never to return my calls
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21 Dec, 2017 by Anonymous
Over charges and is not current on law proceedings. Filed incorrect documents and always emailed he will not show up in court unless additional funds were deposited. Prolonged our proceeding and did not follow through causeing additional issues. He waited to the day before court to supeana witnesses that could not show up due to short notice. Michael also refuses to return documents or reply to emails from our new attorney.
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21 Sep, 2016 by Anonymous
This idiot filed for divorce in the wrong county. I told him to fix it and he wouldn't. On top of that, he charged me for the error and wouldn't continue work until I paid for what was done incorrectly in the first place.
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30 Mar, 2013 by Bruce hudeck
All I can say about withem is,...well, hire a real attorney.Don't waste your money on this dude. Its a shame I had to give withem even one star,I had no choice.
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23 May, 2009 by Anonymous
Withem tried to handle my divorce in 2001-2002 ! Withem would never return calls,and it became very obvious that he wanted this divorce to go on indefinitely. The only thing Withem seemed to be on top of his game about is mailing out his statements and wanting to get paid,right now ! Withem was totally pitiful in the courtroom and allowed my ex-wifes attorney to request and granted one B.S.continuance after another,never opening his pie hole once. The judge finally told us to go out in the hallway and settle, and that is just what me and my ex did with no help from Withem at all. (Withen would had been no help anyway) Any of you people that have to get a divorce by all means find a competent attorney. Withem damn sure don't fit that bill.
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Discover the ideal lawyer
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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.
