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15 Jun, 2024 by Jonathan
It's all about relationships and Doug is a master. We absolutely love him and the entire Martinson & Beason team. They've been an absolute joy to work with in both planning and in this case making changes to our family trust. Thank you!
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23 Oct, 2023 by Richard
Doug provided clear factual answers to all our questions in a timely a manner. He took the time to Listen to our questions and concerns and help us to understand the issues involved and options available so that we could make informed decisions regarding the trust we wanted to establish. Multiple copies of the trusted documents were provided the day we signed the documents, and an electronic file copy was emailed to us. The total amount charged was very reasonable and affordable. We highly recommend Doug and his team.
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18 Sep, 2023 by Arthur
Mr. Doug Martinson first represented me many years ago. Since then, I have run into him often, and he has prepared a legal will for me. Each time that he provided legal services, he was agreeable to work with, trustworthy and charged fairly. Also, he is amicable, and well known and respected within the local community. The office of Martinson & Beason is even conveniently located right on the courthouse square. I highly recommend his firm to anyone in the area needing a lawyer.
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17 Jun, 2019 by Darrin
Mr. Frank Ward is an extremely professional attorney. His knowledge of Alabama laws on DUIs are amazing. Mr. Ward went above and beyond to help me avoid a DUI. He kept in contract with me during the whole time. Always was available to me by phone and email. Frank is a dedicated, diligent and professional attorney. I would highly recommend him. Thank you!!!
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23 May, 2019 by Anonymous
Mr. Frank Ward is an honest and sincere lawyer who I will entrust with any future needs. On calling to discuss a speeding ticket (21 over), he provided advice on how to personally approach the issue and have the ticket dismissed. He did so without requesting any compensation, and offered his services if I had any problems. He is both professional and personable. I have great respect for Mr. Ward as he ensured that everything I needed was taken care of efficiently and effectively. I have no doubts that I recommend him.
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20 May, 2019 by Trudy
We contacted Mr. Ward after I received a DUI while driving through Alabama. These reviews are no joke and we checked all of them before contacting Frank. If there were more stars I would give them to him. Having to use an out of state attorney I thought would be tricky but he made everything as easy as possible. I talked to him quite a few time by phone and then met him in person on my court date. He is very concerned for your well being as well as working hard to get the best outcome for your case. In the end, all my charges were dismissed and I can't thank him enough.
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28 Aug, 2024 by Reuel
Fast, efficient, knowledgeable and totally reasonable. Second time here. Would recommend in a heart beat.
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01 May, 2024 by Marisha
I recently worked with Attorney Plyant on resolving a dispute regarding a real estate transaction. He did a superb job in answering all my questions within a timely manner and making sure I understood my choices. It was important to me to not feel rushed or pushed into making decisions too quickly. He showed great patience and care in representing me and working to resolve the issue at hand in a satisfactory manner. I am so impressed with him that I plan to go back for future estate planning services.
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17 Aug, 2020 by Kathy
I had the pleasure to work with attorney Will Pylant to handle an estate case for me. He did an outstanding job and I would highly recommend him and the firm he represents.
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21 Aug, 2024 by Cassandra
I found myself in a situation that no mother thinks could happen to her children and when I truly needed someone to listen and help Adam was that person! He went above and beyond. He took on my case like it was his own children. When I truly felt like there was no hope Adam didn’t stop. He made sure the judge heard the truth and without him I don’t think my outcome would’ve been the same. Even after a victory in court I found myself still needing Adam’s counsel, he stayed with me through it all and did not stop until my daughter was back in my arms! If you find yourself in need of an attorney who will take on your case and truly not stop fighting for you Adam is the guy! I can never thank him enough for helping me and my daughters!
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21 Aug, 2024 by Jeff
Adam is as good as they come. He's fair, he's straight forward, and he will go fight for you each and every day. When everyone else had turned their back on me, Adam stood with me and helped me negotiate an ugly divorce into a settlement that was fair and in the best interest of my kids! Would/Will recommend any and every opportunity I can!
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16 Aug, 2024 by Ryan
I was charged with 2 Felonies, both heinous in nature. I was able to speak to Mr. Cumberworth about the case and I felt immediately like he would be a major asset for our team. During my trial, we demolished the State. He gave the most brilliant cross-examination in an extremely tense affair, but the course of my case turned instantly. It was abundantly clear that we had won after that moment.
My exposure to all legal proceedings is fairly limited, but I will say that watching him dismantle to the 2 prosecutors was like watching a professional athlete take on a varsity athlete. They were “playing the same sport”, but at far different levels.
If you want an attorney who will listen to your concerns and go to battle for you, I promise you will not be disappointed in Mr. Cumberworth. The state/opposing attorneys may wish you had gotten someone else, but you will be glad you retained this man.
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23 Jan, 2022 by Jake
Good day,
I am currently in need of an attorney to handle a purchase of construction equipment agreement. Let me Know if you can be of great assistance?
Regards.
Jake Williams
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19 Mar, 2018 by Ginger
I hired Ty Shepard to help me with a serious business legal problem. He did a great job and was very understanding and supportive throughout the legal process. A great lawyer to have on your side!
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13 Feb, 2014 by Michelle
Mr. Shepard is knowledgeable in both tax and insolvency matters, which is exactly what we needed. I am very happy with the results he got for us.
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18 Nov, 2020 by Joy
I could not be more pleased with Mr. Howie's legal services. I worked in Government Contracting for 25+ years and interfaced with attorneys on a daily basis. Mr. Howie is, by far, the most knowledgeable and pleasant lawyer I have ever worked with. My explained the seriousness and implications of filing bankruptcy. He definitely eased my anxiety about the process. I would highly recommend him to anyone seeking legal assistance. Also, his staff (especially Kim) was friendly and responsive every time I called with questions, which was probably 7 or 8 times.
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23 Sep, 2020 by Jolissa felver
Mr. Howie took on my on the job injury case in july 1999 and he never stopped working for me. He and his staff made sure that my children and myself were financially taken care of until the day of my court date and on that day he fought for me til the end and we won... i have been ever so grateful for the job that he and his staff did for me i couldnt have done it without them, i did become 100% disabled due to that injury but i am forever grateful for what they did to keep me financially afloat for some time.. thanks Mitch and staff....
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08 Nov, 2018 by Anonymous
Mr. Howie heard all of my concerns & took care of everything for me! Dealing with court & legal issues is really stressful but him & his staff made me feel so comfortable & at ease dealing with a stressful situation. I couldn't ask for a better lawyer. He knows what he's doing & how to handle the most difficult situations.
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29 Sep, 2019 by Anonymous
Jason and Jennifer McCartha went above and beyond our expectations! They were organized, thorough, and experts at explaining all the legal terms and requirements we needed to know. I feel confident beginning my new business that they have helped me form.
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13 Jul, 2017 by Josh
Mr. McCartha was a HUGE help in getting my LLC started. We went over the ins and outs of my company, he gave me wonderful advice, and I left with full confidence that I knew what I was doing. He took all the time had needed to (almost 4 hours) when explaining everything and I will now recommend him to anyone and everyone I talk to!!
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28 Jun, 2017 by Linda
I live across the country and needed a Lawyer in Huntsville to Probate my Mother's Estate and I was fortunate to find Mr. McCartha and his wonderful wife Jennifer. They walked me through the process very thoroughly and gave me excellent advice and information every step of the way. I found them to be very genuinely nice, caring people and felt like I could trust them as soon as I met them. They went out of their way to expedite the initial filings so that I only had to make one trip to Huntsville and made me feel confident that they would continue the process expertly - which they did. I highly recommend Mr. McCartha and would not hesitate to contact him again should I need to.
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25 Mar, 2021 by Lm
Mr. Baxter has handled diverse personal and corporate legal work for me over a number of years. He is a rare blend of hard to find attorney attributes; he is honorable, impeccably reliable and decorous while executing sharp legal strategies that are both aggressive and effective. He has substantial, broad experience and is a long established member of the legal community, both of which are utilized to his client's benefit. In short, he has earned my confidence with hard work, dedication to my interest and with fair, detailed billing.
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25 Mar, 2021 by Larry
I am a homebuilder and Mr. Baxter handles all of our legal work which includes 20-25 loan closings per year, another 20 -25 construction loans per year, and 1 or 2 development loans which includes title work, clearing title, contracts to purchase land and lots and anything related. He has been and continues to be a trusted and very competent part of what it takes to make our business successful.
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22 Sep, 2011 by Anonymous
My business is mostly real estate and real estate management. I have used Tom Baxter on a number of occasisons for legal matters ranging from evictions to condominium document development to HOA rules and regulations. I recommend him without reservation.
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02 Nov, 2023 by Pat
Mr. Montgomery and his staff have been amazing in helping me through my son's motorcycle accident. The were very up front and honest about the case and gave good and sound advice. I had an issue on a Saturday that I emailed him on and he took the time that day to call me to talk through it. To me that's amazing that a lawyer would do that on the weekend on his day off. His staff is as amazing. Quick responses and other communication reaching out to me to give updates and advice. The other lawyers in the firm have been equally as amazing in helping me through this very difficult process. My son was in a motorcycle accident that was not his fault 7 months ago and has TBI and is currently incapacitated. This firm has done an outstanding job representing my son and I. Highly recommended.
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31 Oct, 2023 by Christie
The staff at Martinson & Beason were very professional, friendly, and extremely knowledgeable. Their assistance in my legal matters was greatly appreciated and their professionalism and skill unmatched. Erin Stewart and Carter Montgomery's expertise was clear and they were happy to answer all my questions. My options were well presented and thoroughly explained. I am extremely satisfied with the service that they provided and highly recommend this practice for any legal needs.
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28 Jul, 2022 by Anonymous
Mr. Anderson worked with us to set up a life trust and living will. He gave us his email address if we had questions, which he responded to. He followed up with us after we had paid him making sure we had done everything we were suppose to on our trust. He was great. Very pleasant.
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15 Feb, 2022 by Dale
My wife and I have putting off getting our wills done for a while. After the holidays, we finally decided to get it done. Mr. Anderson asked us many questions, listened to our concerns, and drew up the paperwork to get it done. It was surprisingly painless. I would highly recommend Zach Anderson.
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25 Apr, 2015 by Jay
My company and I have used Jim Philips as an attorney for many years. He is prompt, knowledgeable and effective in relation to the matters he handles. He has represented us in construction and commercial contract, employment, personal injury, immigration, corporate and other matters. He is an innovative and skilled negotiator. He is always prepared and, when appropriate, does not back down. His keen instincts contribute to delivering predictable and optimal results in every situation.
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25 Apr, 2017 by Claudinette
I sought the services of Attorney Williams. I was very pleased with the service as well as the professionalism of her as well as staff. She provided wills, POA (financial and medical) as well living wills.
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07 Nov, 2022 by Brittany chavarria
Such sweet people at this firm....
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04 Nov, 2021 by Mary e. grubbs
Ms. Hall saw us when we had no appointment. We appreciate that so much, and we have confidence that she is going to represent us well. She has been a very big help. Her new location is convenient, and the area is nice.
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25 Dec, 2024 by Casey alford
Professional, organized, and everything was easy thru electronic documents when working drafts... She is amazing attorney who is very knowledgeable, confident, and experienced. Never had a doubt of who we needed to do our estate planning after going to a seminar she held .. she's amazing 😍!!!! Don't wait to get your Will done, get it done now.. her videos were the best!! I've never had an attorney do a video to explain the process, that makes it so personable and easy to understand the process.. can't say enough good things ...
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19 Dec, 2024 by Kim h
Tanya is amazing! I met with her regarding estate planning. Very friendly and knowledgeable. After discussing my goals, she suggested the options I had and helped me decide which one was best for me. The documents were ready for signatures quickly, and were sent to me prior to signing. The best part, Tanya prepares a video to go over your documents step by step, and includes another video on what to expect at signing. I highly recommend Tanya for any estate planning needs.
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17 Dec, 2024 by Wayne snoddy
Tanya prepared our estate planning documents with a very professional and friendly manner. We were very satisfied with the results. We would highly recommend her for everyone's estate planning.
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10 Sep, 2023 by William holmes
Great attorney.
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07 Mar, 2021 by Wendy g
Utilized Mr Hoopers services 2 weeks ago and he was very helpful. Absolutely professional and no nonsense. I appreciated his honesty and straightforward approach.
His assistant Gail was also amazing- very thoughtful, thorough and polite.
I would definitely recommend and use again.
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06 Nov, 2020 by Peaches caudle
This office was very helpful.
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04 Jan, 2025 by Eric warren
When my father passed away three years ago John Brinkley handled the estate. There were a few sharp turns. But John guided me through them without difficulty. He kept me informed during the whole process. I didn't have to guess or wonder about things.
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04 Jan, 2025 by Bob ross
04 Jan, 2025 by Anner turner
I was very impressed with John Brinkley’s professionalism and dedication. He took the time to understand the full extent of my shoulder injury and aggressively pursued my claim. I am extremely satisfied with the outcome.
From the initial consultation to the final settlement, Mr. Brinkley provided excellent legal representation. He was always available to answer my questions and kept me informed throughout the entire process. I would not hesitate to recommend him to anyone facing similar circumstances.
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22 Nov, 2024 by Anonymous
Would definatly recomend using John as your lawyer. He told me what he could do in my situation and did all that he said. I had FTAs for traffic violations that could have caused me to go to jail and affected my probation in another county. He was able to get me a new court date and handled all requirements before i ever showed up to court. I was even 1st and and 1st out in court because of his dilligently work and was able to avoid sitting in jail over a missed court date. Couldnt have asked for a better outcome.
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21 Nov, 2024 by Deontray
Mr. Brinkley did a great job getting me what I deserved in my case. He also has a great sense of humor. I will highly recommend him to anyone searching for an attorney.
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04 Sep, 2024 by Bob
After calling Mr Brinkley, he met me at my home. We discussed my need of legal assistance. From there on I had no doubt I was in good hands. It was without stress, with no question unanswered, and with full disclosure of the case flow. Case closed in my favor at a settlement exceeding our expectations. Mr Brinkley has my highest endorsement. Sure, I would call him again , you bet.
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14 Mar, 2021 by Jeremey
Jerry never stops fighting for his clients. I've had a few attorneys in my life and he's the standard bearer in this city, a true professional, if you're in a pinch and you have the capability Jerry S. Barclay is the best you're gonna get, he has a great paralegal as well...you'll be in good hands.
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12 Sep, 2019 by Anonymous
I used Mr. Barclay to help my husband and myself with our estate planning. He is extremely knowledgeable but didn't try to lawyerese us and talk down to us. He made us immediately comfortable. He made sure we understood everything and felt comfortable about the decisions we were making. His office staff is friendly and courteous. I would highly recommend him to anyone. Heaven forbid I ever need a criminal lawyer, but if I do I'm calling him.
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12 Jun, 2021 by Susan
I have been very impressed with Mickey’s knowledge and professionalism. He is usually available when I call with questions or returns my call in a reasonable time.
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21 Jan, 2025 by Tom lockard
excellent service and great people, have used their services for several years and same great service every time. Just completed some estate planning documents.
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16 Dec, 2024 by Marjie davis
What a fantastic team to work with! Carter Montgomery went above and beyond to help me resolve an urgent situation promptly. The office took the time to thoroughly explain all options and made sure I fully understood each step of the process along the way. The entire team has been responsive, efficient, and always available to answer questions. I highly recommend Carter for anyone seeking expert guidance in estate and will planning! Hands down, THE BEST!
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04 Dec, 2024 by Ahmed bakr
The firm of Martinson and Beason, P.C. did a wonderful job resolving our Auto Accident settlement.They did it professionally and to our total satisfaction and in an efficient timeline.
They kept us appraised with all the progress they were making.The staff was very friendly and knowledgeable. The attorney handling our case Mr Morris Lilienthal was very attentive and did a great job explaining the process and did it from start to end. His assistant Ms Sara Barnes always kept us updated.
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30 Oct, 2024 by Anthony malone
I use Uhrig law firm whenever I can for commercial and residential loans. They are always professional, timely and knowledgeable.
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03 Oct, 2024 by Aūander
Fantastic attorney, wonderful staff. As long as Ray practicing I will always go to him first. His knowlege and experiance is excellent.
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24 Jul, 2024 by Frances young
22 Nov, 2024 by B ad
Sarah Meigs has been defending my sons and I for 3 years seemingly non stop over multiple cases, depositions, and trials. Answered now 1000s of questions, gotten my children back in the state, returns emails, and treats me with the upmost respect. She is not only a fantastic lawyer, but great council as well. I will not hesitate to lean on her expertise, grace, and experience in the future to defend my son’s rights for access to their father. I owe her and the rest of the staff at Amy Slayden Law a great debt of gratitude for my wonderful life with my sons while defending my peace with them over and over from constant litigation from multiple much more costly lawyers. She truly is a great human first and a respectful lawyer second. No games, no nonsense, and doesn’t believe she has to be hostile and disrespectful to be a great lawyer. Truly a credit to her profession.
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17 Nov, 2024 by Mr c
Big mistake hiring this law firm. My case was stretched out for a very long time, a lot longer than it should have. Ended up with a horrible settlement after being assured that wouldn’t happen and paying a huge amount of money. This firm only cares about how much they can bill you for, not in trying to help their clients.
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18 Oct, 2024 by Sarah cottrell
I obtained and required the services of Amy A. Slayden Family Law over the past 2 years, specific to a divorce. I interacted with everyone in the office at one point during this process and have a single phrase for the team: top-notch professionals! Throughout my divorce Amy and her team were there guiding me through the numerous challenges that come with this process. I found everyone exceptionally knowledgeable and responsive. This was such a stressful time in my life, but Amy and her team set me up for success. Amy really listened to my goals and concerns. She helped me set realistic expectations and priorities. Her knowledge on Family Law was evident in every discussion and interactions we had. I felt confident and supported with Amy and her team in my corner. Regardless of the Family Law issue you may find yourself confronted with, I strongly encourage you to meet Amy, Sarah, Dawn and Hannah.
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29 Apr, 2024 by E. ferguson (dindrane)
29 Oct, 2024 by Joseph ramsey
Sara and her office staff are great to work with. They helped me open an estate for my brother She listed and addressed all of my concerns. If you need to open an estate for a loved one, give them a call.
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19 Oct, 2023 by Michelle
How would you like to go to court and your attorney does not know your name? Her assistant did all the work and made excuses when the attorney did not deliver and would not give me my money back. Handle your personal affairs or tell the client you are unable to help them. Awful Awful and then the courts sold my home on auction without notice. Sad. No stars
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23 Jan, 2020 by Clark
Sara and her staff made things so easy for me. She made it easy to open my mother's estate. She broke everything down perfectly throughout the whole process. I was very impressed and would definitely recommend to anyone who needs representation.
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28 May, 2015 by Jennifer
When I called to schedule an appointment initially, he was available right away. During the call, I asked what his hourly rate was and the number that was provided to me turned out to be much less (over $100) than what was billed. We had a 30 minute meeting that only took 20 minutes and were charged for the whole 30 minutes. Also, Mr. Wisner researched our issue for almost 20 minutes on another day and at the end of this, we have nothing to show but a large bill and wasted time.
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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.
