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01 Sep, 2024 by Jesse walker
Great attorneys
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23 Nov, 2022 by Finis tatum iv
25 Aug, 2020 by Michael heims
At times I was quite frustrated with responsiveness (relatively small client), but actions speak louder than the (lack of) words. Got beyond the settlement we wanted, Harley is a great attorney.
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26 Sep, 2024 by Grant
We used Cohen & Malad for the adoption of my daughter and couldn't be more pleased. The case itself was pretty straightforward but there were a few speedbumps along the way that they worked out for us flawlessly. We couldn't be happier with their representation.
Tara Cragen, our lawyer, was phenomenal with great communication. She walked us through the whole process very smoothly. Would highly recommend for family law. Her assistant Tonya Brock also went way above and beyond for us. Tonya was also fast to respond and give updates on everything.
Had a small issue after the case was closed that came up that they helped put to bed. Again great communication and effort on their part.
Seems like their entire firm has good communication and is extremely well run. Would highly recommend and will use in the future.
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16 Sep, 2024 by James collins
Jeff Hammond was excellent to work with. We called him right after my injury and he guided us through the whole process with remarkable patience and professionalism. I had never been involved in a lawsuit before, so I had no idea how any of this works, but that didn't bother him at all. He answered all our questions, checked in on us, and made sure that we knew everything we needed to know. He made this entire process extremely easy and convenient. Best of all, he was able to get me a lot more than I was expecting! Overall, I am extremely happy with how things turned out. I would highly recommend this firm and specifically Jeff Hammond.
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23 Aug, 2024 by Hillary davis
Cohen & Malad represented us in a medical malpractice case. They were very thorough, and answered every question we had. From the very first consolation with Justin he was very open and honest about the timeline and that it wouldn't be a fast process. We have nothing but fantastic things to say and we would hands down reccomend them to anyone!
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13 Aug, 2021 by Bob donnelly
Good food but short staffed...met with a friend at another restaurant but where not open no staff.
Paragon clean friendly staff
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11 Aug, 2021 by Roberto c
29 Apr, 2024 by Brittany sease palmer
28 Nov, 2023 by Erik little
Glaser & Ebbs offer paid parking for the Colts games for a cost of nearly $40 if you pay for it advance on Parkwhiz. When buying a parking pass to a Colts game in advance online, they falsely promote that they have restrooms for paid parkers in their lot...this is only partially true.
The bathrooms (and the building itself) are unlocked before the start of the game. When the game ends, they immediately lock their doors, and even people who paid to park in their lot can't get in to use a bathroom. Don't they realize people might need to use the bathroom before they leave?
Also, they have multiple people help park cars before the game. After the game, there is literally a free for all leaving with no staff in sight to guide people out. Expect to wait an hour just to even get out of their lot and to make it to Interstate 70 when the game is over.
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30 Mar, 2023 by Lateef griffin
02 Mar, 2023 by Brian o'hair
08 Dec, 2022 by Joseph hutching
19 Apr, 2020 by Ven g
I believe Josh Tatum and Peter Racher are unethical attorneys. I strongly warn all prospective clients to stay away from these attorneys; find someone else to help you! As I have ran the case details by several prominent attorneys, we feel that this can be proved in both a legal case and complaint with the State Board against Josh Tatum, Peter Racher and their Firm (PSRB).
Briefly, I hired a partner attorney (Shelley Jackson) at the Law Firm, Plews Shadley Racher & Braun (PSRB) regarding an employment discrimination case. Shelley extensively reviewed the case and contacted the opposing attorney to negotiate a settlement agreement. Shelley then suddenly resigned from the Firm in the middle of the negotiations to take a position at a different company and handed the case over to an associate attorney (Josh Tatum) at the Firm. Josh did not know the details of the case well at all and it disturbed me greatly especially given that I had paid a very large amount of legal fees (18k) to the original partner attorney to know the case well. I was nervous at this point given my discussions and correspondence with Josh and his lack of understanding of the case and so I spent some extra time with him before he made contact with the opposing attorney to ensure he was up to speed as much as possible at least on the important details of the case. I asked Josh if he would listen to the audio of various meetings and review emails that I had already paid the original partner to listen to and review; Josh responded that he would have to re-charge me to do those things. Then he contacted the opposing attorney and made a huge mistake during negotiations in suggesting that we were ok with no non-disparagement clause. He also tells me the opposing counsel did not agree to the main items of the agreement as the partner attorney stated they did before she left the Firm. I immediately halted all activity with the PSRB Law Firm and contacted the managing partner (Peter Racher) and expressed my numerous concerns. I told Peter and the Firm that I would hold off on paying any outstanding invoices until everything was satisfactorily resolved. Peter stated he would get back to me. Weeks and weeks went by, still no response. Eventually, Josh forwarded me correspondence from the opposing counsel and during that time I found out from Josh that PSRB had terminated our attorney-client relationship and would not be representing me any longer. They advised me to seek successor counsel. The managing partner eventually wrote me a 1.5-page letter not stating much but that he investigated my concerns, reiterating that our attorney-client relationship had ended, and that they would not be refunding me any fees paid and basically good luck.
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02 Mar, 2023 by Brian o'hair
08 Dec, 2022 by Joseph hutching
19 Apr, 2020 by Ven g
I believe Josh Tatum and Peter Racher are unethical attorneys. I strongly warn all prospective clients to stay away from these attorneys; find someone else to help you! As I have ran the case details by several prominent attorneys, we feel that this can be proved in both a legal case and complaint with the State Board against Josh Tatum, Peter Racher and their Firm (PSRB).
Briefly, I hired a partner attorney (Shelley Jackson) at the Law Firm, Plews Shadley Racher & Braun (PSRB) regarding an employment discrimination case. Shelley extensively reviewed the case and contacted the opposing attorney to negotiate a settlement agreement. Shelley then suddenly resigned from the Firm in the middle of the negotiations to take a position at a different company and handed the case over to an associate attorney (Josh Tatum) at the Firm. Josh did not know the details of the case well at all and it disturbed me greatly especially given that I had paid a very large amount of legal fees (18k) to the original partner attorney to know the case well. I was nervous at this point given my discussions and correspondence with Josh and his lack of understanding of the case and so I spent some extra time with him before he made contact with the opposing attorney to ensure he was up to speed as much as possible at least on the important details of the case. I asked Josh if he would listen to the audio of various meetings and review emails that I had already paid the original partner to listen to and review; Josh responded that he would have to re-charge me to do those things. Then he contacted the opposing attorney and made a huge mistake during negotiations in suggesting that we were ok with no non-disparagement clause. He also tells me the opposing counsel did not agree to the main items of the agreement as the partner attorney stated they did before she left the Firm. I immediately halted all activity with the PSRB Law Firm and contacted the managing partner (Peter Racher) and expressed my numerous concerns. I told Peter and the Firm that I would hold off on paying any outstanding invoices until everything was satisfactorily resolved. Peter stated he would get back to me. Weeks and weeks went by, still no response. Eventually, Josh forwarded me correspondence from the opposing counsel and during that time I found out from Josh that PSRB had terminated our attorney-client relationship and would not be representing me any longer. They advised me to seek successor counsel. The managing partner eventually wrote me a 1.5-page letter not stating much but that he investigated my concerns, reiterating that our attorney-client relationship had ended, and that they would not be refunding me any fees paid and basically good luck.
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26 Aug, 2024 by Jennife acosta
I would recommend Chris and Ben. They both were amazing and always explained things thoroughly when I didnt understand something. I was so worried I would have a felony on my record but Chris made sure to take care of it and he did an amazing job! My case got dismissed and everything turned out how I wanted it to! Thank you all so much!!!
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15 Aug, 2024 by Nomad bee
02 Aug, 2024 by Tyler lunsford
A very knowledgeable law firm able to help with just about any question you have and would highly recommend for legal representation!!!
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24 Oct, 2024 by Marta korba
Very professional and knowledgeable team. Working with Dallin was a pleasure. Every step of the process went very smoothly. Highly recommend this law firm
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18 Aug, 2024 by Nelson castillo
20 Jun, 2024 by Rene vela
21 Sep, 2024 by Stephen kalamotousakis
I used the law office of Lacey LLC, in 2014 it's been awhile but I have a right to my review Ms Lacey was a terrible lawyer for me if I didn't speak up for myself I would have been in jail and the judge never got mad I spoke out several times at different hearings he knew she wasn't doing a good job for me or the judge would have told me to shut up and he never did, I should have never hired a female attorney me being a male, so men do not hire this woman for your divorce because I felt she was working for my ex wife, the only time she had objections is when I threw a fit in court she wasn't doing a job again the judge never said anything to me, Ms Lacey look like a hillbilly in court wearing culottes every single hearing which lasted 3 (+) years and I was wearing a suit extremely unprofessional and disrespectful towards me when I complained she was doing a terrible job for me , I wish I could have fired her but I couldn't
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19 Sep, 2024 by Chris locander
Professional, friendly, and patient. From the time we made the call to the conclusion of our situation, the entire staff was not only understanding, but knowledgeable and very helpful with all the steps that needed to be completed. We are already planning a return appointment to get our end-of-life documents filed. Thank you so much!
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30 Jun, 2024 by Brittany teter
So grateful for the work Jessica and her team did for me and my family!
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14 Jun, 2024 by Ronald parker
I found myself needing a lawyer and not able to cover the expenses outright Matt was able to work out payment arrangements to get started. A second case popped up about a month into the first case.
Matt got my son in my life after almost a decade and a lot of odd circumstances and I am over the moon.
Thanks Matt
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16 Apr, 2024 by Ashley mundy
The entire practice feels just like family. Any legal situation is stressful but Mr Roberts and Jen walked me through the process and was able to resolve my case very quickly.
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16 Apr, 2024 by Kbeechler
Matt Zentz is an amazing attorney! I’m so glad we found him. He’s no nonsense, straightforward and honest. He worked hard behind the scenes and got our case dismissed faster than anticipated. He called me after hours to give updates and just went above and beyond for our family. I can’t thank him enough!! His assistant Jen is wonderful as well. She answered me back right away whenever I had questions or concerns. Highly recommend!!
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19 Feb, 2024 by Abigail munsell
Reached out for consultation/potential aid but was immediately dismissed. No one bothered to contact for more information. Was told “call the police if you’re a victim”. How do you ask for a brief explanation then run with only that information? Poor business model. I wouldn’t recommend them if you’re looking for someone to listen and understand.
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06 Nov, 2023 by Megan denoyer
Whoever answers the phone calls to set up consultations are rude as hell. Also, false advertisement on website for adult guardianship.
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17 Oct, 2023 by Steven bussen
Took a wee wrong turn - so to speak- in Hendricks County, Indiana while I was stranded at a truck stop. Not the driving kind, either! I’ll spare you readers the details, but I ended up in the slammer for a night with some ugly but not too serious criminal charges , chief among them DUI. I’ve never been in trouble in this fashion so I was not only devastated but n all levels, financially etc- but I was a foreigner in a foreign land. I’m an out-of-state resident (New York City) on top of that, adding additional stress and expense to an already treacherous situation. Of course, I thought the whole affair was a bunch of nonsense, unfortunate the Law, and particularly the District Attorney, strongly disagreed with my position. They intended to throw the book at me. Not only did I face some potential jail time if I tried to flake my way through this one, I was facing certain destruction of my life and work opportunities. Oh I was bankrupt - basically - as well, at the time. It was not awesome, folks, lemme tell you! Add to that woefully, dangerously incompetent Public Defendwr and you have real recipe for trouble. I believe I could have beaten the case at trial, but thanks to her total incompetence - I lost I my opportunity and right to a jury trial. Now would be a good time to tell you all, especially you Noobs: DO NOT EVER GAMBLE YOUR FREEDOM, LIFE, and FUTURE ON A PUBLIC DEFENDER. The criminal justice system is not the place to play games of chance. Burrow the money from the devil if you have to. Things were getting way, way less awesome by the day, and I was woefully despondent. That’s when I fired that public defender and hit the White Pages. I called many attorneys and I had some decent success, but many were outrageously expensive or gave me a bad feeling. I’ve got good horse sense and finally decided on Hessler law - they were reasonably priced, had plenty of trial experience, and took the time to answer all of my questions. Sean Hessler, the head fella over there has a soft and professional manner on the phone and acted as therapist as well as attorney, calming my raging New York neuroses and calmed me down, bringing me back to my senses. He bought me tons of time to get my act and finances together. Like 20 months, I needed it desperately, too. In the end he got me the best deal possible, way Way better than the public defender. He has a lovely secretary who is massively patient and prompt with responses. Even my probation officer let out a long sloooow whistle - so impressed was he with your professional performance the deal you put together. WOW! You got easy, he admired. Yes! I agreed, that Sean Hessler was a REAL SCORE! And he sure was, with his fee plus his weight in gold. I assured him on many occasions that in spite of my passion for liquor, I got a good eye for attorneys. It was far better than what I would have gotten from that dangerously useless but very sweet public defender … though I think she meant well, they just aren’t sufficiently compensated by the system to give you the attention you need. If you slip up on the greater Indianapolis area, go with Hessler Law, you’ll thank me down the line in your head. Your future and reputation hang in the balance as once you’re in the scary and strange world of criminal justice. You couldn’t find a better guide. Nobody made me write this. I took the time because I’m very relieved that I’m on track to have a clean record and didn’t get incarcerated. It could have been so much worse. And I owe it to proper legal counsel I should have gotten from the beginning. Take it from me, folks- A BAD LAWYER IS AN EXPENSIVE PROPOSITION. Get it right the first time with Hessler Law.
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29 Aug, 2024 by Robert raschke
Barnes and Thornburg is a pleasure to work with and addresses all concerns with the upmost professionalism.
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14 Jul, 2024 by Vanessa borgman
29 Jun, 2024 by Jessie petaway
Grate and friendly place. They are about there business, but they will always stop to say hi
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25 Oct, 2020 by Bryan stumpf
04 Mar, 2020 by Steve eastburn
Good law firm.
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27 Dec, 2019 by Chris carter
25 Oct, 2020 by Bryan stumpf
04 Mar, 2020 by Steve eastburn
Good law firm.
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27 Dec, 2019 by Chris carter
25 Oct, 2020 by Bryan stumpf
04 Mar, 2020 by Steve eastburn
Good law firm.
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27 Dec, 2019 by Chris carter
25 Oct, 2020 by Bryan stumpf
04 Mar, 2020 by Steve eastburn
Good law firm.
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27 Dec, 2019 by Chris carter
12 Sep, 2024 by Brenda roberts
Charged way too much and Shane’s assistant needs to be fired! She was terrible to me and my family.
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12 Sep, 2024 by Brenda r
HORRIBLE CUSTOMER SERVICE! Maricel was very rude she yelled at me and wanted to argue with me when all we wanted were answers after they told us wrong things. Don’t recommend!
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12 Sep, 2024 by Bren roberts
DON’T GO HERE!! If I could give 0 stars I would. Shane’s assistant Maricel was very rude and unprofessional. She called me with an attitude because I missed an appointment because I had a family death and my head was elsewhere. She had an awful attitude towards me, got smart with me, yelled at me, then hung up on me like a child.
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28 Jun, 2024 by Mattie1095
24 Jun, 2024 by Tammy rickenbach
After a previous horrible experience with an attorney, 20 years ago, working with this firm was such a breath of fresh air. I felt caring, respect, and compassion through every step. Thank you to the entire team.
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14 Apr, 2024 by Ignacio ortega
21 Mar, 2024 by Terry long
Maria matters represented my X-wife in divorce proceedings. I almost felt sorry for my x with her choice of attorney. Notice I said ALMOST. She’s incompetent at practicing law and loves to tell you what you want to hear.
I wouldn’t recommend her to represent anyone in traffic court much less anything of substance. Do your research on her, you’ll thank me later!
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20 Dec, 2023 by Robin lynn
Just had so questions.
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06 Aug, 2022 by Mohammed rajabi
Great Attorney .... Thanks
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21 Mar, 2024 by Terry long
Maria matters represented my X-wife in divorce proceedings. I almost felt sorry for my x with her choice of attorney. Notice I said ALMOST. She’s incompetent at practicing law and loves to tell you what you want to hear.
I wouldn’t recommend her to represent anyone in traffic court much less anything of substance. Do your research on her, you’ll thank me later!
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20 Dec, 2023 by Robin lynn
Just had so questions.
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06 Aug, 2022 by Mohammed rajabi
Great Attorney .... Thanks
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21 Mar, 2024 by Terry long
Maria matters represented my X-wife in divorce proceedings. I almost felt sorry for my x with her choice of attorney. Notice I said ALMOST. She’s incompetent at practicing law and loves to tell you what you want to hear.
I wouldn’t recommend her to represent anyone in traffic court much less anything of substance. Do your research on her, you’ll thank me later!
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20 Dec, 2023 by Robin lynn
Just had so questions.
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06 Aug, 2022 by Mohammed rajabi
Great Attorney .... Thanks
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20 Jul, 2022 by Anonymous
She took my retainer. Appeared in court 1 time and then dropped my case a few weeks before the final hearing! I was forced to pay another Attourney to file a motion for a continuance and now my case has been pushed back to January 2023! She didn’t even give me the log in information for my case. She didn’t bring up any of the issues I wanted in my case and wouldn’t file any motions I asked her to. Please talk my advice and run! She’s not a good Attourney.
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03 Aug, 2021 by Jeff
In spring 2020, I hired attorney Locke to complete some expungement petitions because out of everywhere I called, I found her assistant at the time to be very professional and responsive. There's nothing worse than spending money on an avoidant attorney. Anyway, I paid her nearly $3900 (paid up front from day 1) to file the expungements, along with the filing fee of $650. It was a lot. It was my entire spending stash for summer actually. Well, by June of 2021, she still hadn't filed a single petition. She wouldn't return my emails, and the first time she called me in months, it was after 9:30 p.m. I immediately called her back, but she always calls from a non-returnable office number. Thereafter, she simply checked out. I got super pissed one day last month and used an unknown number to call - I live in Colorado now, so they simply weren't answering my 720 numbers...but I would have a friend in Indiana call immediately after me, and they would pick up!! I essentially demanded that her assistant either file my cases or give me my over $4000 back. She assured me she would have them together by the next day because they were partly started...14 months later!!! And get this...after 14 months of ignoring a paid client, she had the audacity to fire me as a client and keep all money!
In the midst of my plight, around October last year maybe, I left a super crappy review- much like this one- and after not returning my calls for months, she had the courage to call and threaten me to take it down because, of course, COVID. But rather than apologize for not even starting a single petition by that time, she actually chewed me out. She assured me that she was now on top of it, and everything would be filed within days. Again, I hired her 14 months ago.
Here we are in August of 2021, and she has only drafted a single petition in one of five counties that she promised, and she still has all my money. My parents are telling me to file a case neglect complaint with the Indiana Bar, but I just wanted to get the service I paid for. What would you do if a 'prominent' Indy lawyer stole over $4000 from you?
I have phone records documenting dozens of unreturned calls, all of my emails that she ignored, and even proof that I flew 1100 miles home to Indiana to provide her a single piece of paper, and she literally has never even sent me a piece of mail, a case update, or even a shred of respect.
Dude, guys, this lady literally took over $4000 from me (luckily on an insured credit card) and ghosted. I've been robbed in the past, but it's usually like a Nintendo. This lady took thousands from me on a contract of guaranteed services that she absolutely did not, and still has not, completed, and then she fired me. I think that she thinks that because I'm out of state, I'll forget, or maybe that she's invincible.
These are the professionals that are supposed to be protecting us, not baiting us with the promise of a service and then stealing from us! So profoundly disrespectful.
Again, I can provide phone records and numerous ignored emails, as well as proof that she hasn't actually filed a single petition.
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08 Nov, 2019 by Michael
This is a message to Attorney Locke that I don't mind others seeing. I really don't know what I would do without you. You have been representing me with my custody case that has changed shape and scope over a year long process so far. I love how in the midst of all the legalities at play, you start every conversation with, "how are the kids", which lets me know you care about what I care about the most.. You are always prepared and make sure that I am prepared before we enter the courtroom. You came from a referral who had a similar positive experience and outcome. It's my pleasure to recommend you and your firm to others in need.
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13 May, 2024 by Don frayser
Very poor Service,not willing to help the people it who need the Help! I will never ask them for Help again ! 😡
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12 May, 2024 by Soni cordova
Según veo cada caso es diferente desde texas estoy muy agradecido con esta oficina en menos de un año le arreglaron ami hijo llego su permiso de trabajo y social
Lo recomiendo no todos los casos son iguales debemos entender q aveces las cosas no son como queremos 🤷 si yo no pude arreglar al menos mi hijo si pudo hay q agradecer por todo bendiciones
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01 May, 2024 by Mrs,mr none yo business
They denied me I got a law suit on my own destiny didn't do paper work right ..they lie to you
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31 Jul, 2024 by Larry ivy
Very unprofessional. Was trying to give a short explanation on the reason for my call. She replies, “ got to go, take care” and proceeds to hang up. Literally a 45 second call
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25 Jun, 2024 by John reeves
In one word, "Excellence". Attorney Stacey M. Davis comes with my highest recommendation. Her and her staff handled my case in the most professional and timely way possible. Very reasonable rates. I'm extremely pleased with my experience.
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25 Jun, 2024 by Evict your disease
Not a good experience. She kept mentioning about how long she was on call with me and how much her fees were. When asked questions about bankruptcy.
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03 Oct, 2024 by David apple
Unresponsive, unhelpful, not answering phone calls, emails and voicemails.
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16 Jul, 2024 by Elijah
Submits data to the Human Rights Campaign.
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19 Jul, 2022 by Duane daringer
03 Oct, 2024 by David apple
Unresponsive, unhelpful, not answering phone calls, emails and voicemails.
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16 Jul, 2024 by Elijah
Submits data to the Human Rights Campaign.
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19 Jul, 2022 by Duane daringer
03 Oct, 2024 by David apple
Unresponsive, unhelpful, not answering phone calls, emails and voicemails.
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16 Jul, 2024 by Elijah
Submits data to the Human Rights Campaign.
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19 Jul, 2022 by Duane daringer
04 Oct, 2024 by Jamie ladd
Does not return phone calls or emails. Feels like a scam. Can't believe this is a real business.
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06 Feb, 2024 by Synika redd
They are for Lynhurst. They are going to rule in Lynhurst Park apartments favor all the time! Trashy lawyers to represent a trashy company. They put these lawyers on the case because they are working in their favor already. Only trashy people would represent a trashy property!!!! Lynhurst is full of mold and leaks in more then half their apartments. They don’t care about the tenants and a lot of them are senior citizens!
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02 Jan, 2024 by Bill wendling
04 Oct, 2024 by Jamie ladd
Does not return phone calls or emails. Feels like a scam. Can't believe this is a real business.
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06 Feb, 2024 by Synika redd
They are for Lynhurst. They are going to rule in Lynhurst Park apartments favor all the time! Trashy lawyers to represent a trashy company. They put these lawyers on the case because they are working in their favor already. Only trashy people would represent a trashy property!!!! Lynhurst is full of mold and leaks in more then half their apartments. They don’t care about the tenants and a lot of them are senior citizens!
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02 Jan, 2024 by Bill wendling
25 Sep, 2024 by Joseph gloczak
Called for some basic information and got hung up on they wanted all my information when I just wanted to consult to see if my claim was legit. Very professional guys I highly recommend going else where if this is how they treat new people that are inquiring about your services
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18 Sep, 2024 by Guiolber diaz
Bald
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02 Sep, 2024 by Jack
Benjamin Ellis was extremely helpful. However my situation seems to be a grey area between personal and legal his professionalism and perspective on my situation gave me the direction I needed to feel hopeful again. I was hesitant to spend the money on the consultation but I’m glad I did. Benjamin had no issues answering my questions and never during our conversation did I feel rushed. I rarely leave reviews but with so many negative experiences with other companies I hope this review puts your doubts at ease.
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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:
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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.
