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15 Oct, 2021 by Beth
I was very impressed with my experience at Weber Law. I was looking for an attorney to help me with my estate planning. Mr. Weber was very professional and communicated everything about estate planning, reviewing all options and giving me the best advice. His secretary was also very kind and gracious, answering any questions I had about appointments and expectations. Thank you for your exceptional service and professionalism. I would recommend Weber Law to anyone seeking estate planning.
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11 Nov, 2019 by Dennis
We needed some legal work done on short notice. I contacted the Weber Law Office and explained our situation. They said they could get the work done by the time we needed it. we met with them and gave them the details of what we needed. they were able to get the work done before we needed it. We were very pleased with them and the work they did for us.
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29 Mar, 2019 by Andrea
Wow!! I am amazed at what Weber Law Office did for me. First, April. Amazing. I needed help, right away for my son(traffic). I called Weber law because of the ratings I saw online. April immediately assisted me during this emotional time and related. I work in customer, so to engage, and make me feel welcomed is not something that can be easily done. It wasn't transnational, all of my interactions with April and Mr. Weber were extremely memorable. That's what you need when you're going through a tough time. You want to know that you can trust and depend on the lawyer that you're hiring. I called on a Wednesday morning, probably when they first opened. By the afternoon, I had been in office, retained Mr. Weber, and had a court date for the next day. Literally Mr. Weber was able to do a walk in docket, and have the issue taken care of. Afterwards, he visited with me, my son, and mom, and we had a conversation about travel or something.
It's been a little over 2 weeks since I first called Weber law. The follow up has been phenomenal, both email and phone. If you're looking for a lawyer who will actually LISTEN to you, and make sure that you understand the process, with amazing follow through, Weber Law is what I who I would choose. They deserve more stars than 5! Thank you!!!!!!
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27 Feb, 2024 by Anonymous
I was facing some very rough and tough circumstances. My parents left an inheritance and my siblings didn’t want me to have my fair share, in fact they didn’t want me to have a dime. Keenan let them know he was representing me and I would not be taken advantage of. Within a month of closing an irrevocable trust, I had money in the bank and am debt free. Had Keenan not been my lawyer I’d still be waiting for what is rightfully mine. He turned an awful time for me that could have ended up with many sleepless nights into a walk in a flower garden on a summers night. He did so gracefully and honorably. He will be my first go to lawyer for all situations. Trustworthy, honest, forthright, forthcoming, intelligent and knowledgeable all in one highly respectful package. I feel complete confidence in handing him the reins on all of the trusts created for me and my family. My world is definitely a better place because Keenan is in it! He is the total package, par excellence!
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06 Dec, 2023 by Bob & joyce
Keenan has always given us as much time as needed for us to understand and be comfortable with the details of our trust. He has given us confidence that our and our family's interests have been provided for.
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04 Dec, 2023 by Shonna
Keenan came to me as a referral from a friend. My dad's wife petitioned to be administrator of my dad's estate. Keenan helped with all aspects of this case in order for her not to take advantage (which she was trying to do) of my siblings and I. Every step of the way he was kind and compassionate. He had been in my shoes so was very empathetic. He's extremely intelligent in all matters of Estate Planning. I've already recommended him to family and friends. If you're needing to take care of end of life planning you won't go wrong with this lawyer.
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10 Dec, 2013 by Anonymous
Mr. Hall was my attorney who handled the foreclosure case on my house and my father's probate. He worked with the lender's attorney and appeared at the Judge's conference to help me obtain a mortgage modification for my house. The mortgage foreclosure case was dismissed. On the probate case, he was very good with explaining about the probate process as the case went through probate. His fees were reasonable and affordable.
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16 Oct, 2024 by Kay leah (kaypricot)
Rick cleared up so many questions and concerns for me in a compassionate, comprehensive way and I will definitely be utilizing Rick's services if I have anything to file.
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20 May, 2024 by Robert sands
Rick helped me immensely with some desperately needed legal advice when I suddenly found myself dealing with my deceased parents estate. They had little to no estate plan, and I had to learn, and do, a lot in a short period of time.
His advice , and compassionate support, was truly a Godsend.
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20 May, 2024 by Kurt guth
Your willingness to explain and explore topics touching on both of our areas of expertise were admirable. I had a very good professional exchange every time we talked.
That he or she would be in good hands and if they were a mutual client of ours, I'd have confidence that the advice and work would be solid and fully executed.
I've enjoyed our conversations about the legal process itself and about practice management. I hope you find great success in Utah.
The process of settling an estate is always seemingly complex and bespoke to the situation. In addition to dealing with a grieving relative and unhelpful financial institutions, there are due diligence aspects that are just heck to figure out. I never look forward to these situations while knowing they are unavoidable.
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19 May, 2024 by Luke forth
I will leave a honest review not because I feel I was misrepresented or anything but my truth
She is damn good in family court val can be ruthless when needed however don't ask her any questions or she will drop you as a client and leave you with nothing like you found her. Again val is damn Good but 80$ a question with little info given about your case isn't worth your time if you are being alienated by the other parent
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10 May, 2024 by Robin etheridge
Absolutely loved working with Amy Vinton. She handled the Guardianship procedure for our special needs son, and created our living trust that included a special needs trust within it. She’s easy to work with, affordable, and she explains all the “legal speak” so you really understand what’s going on. I highly recommend Vinton Moore.
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23 Apr, 2024 by Laney mcfarland
Amy was my lawyer and got our adoption done fast and was a great experience!
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24 Sep, 2019 by Gerry
Several years ago, we were looking for an attorney to update our wills and other legal documents. Everything was completed to our satisfaction. We've since returned to Jon to address an estate as well as several Trusts. He's always listened to our needs and concerns, provided fantastic advice, alternatives and complete documentation in a timely manner. We would highly recommend Jon Daugharthy for any of your legal needs without reservation.
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23 Nov, 2018 by Gary
My sister and I were looking for a attorney to help us settle our parents' estate. After some recommendations, we interviewed Jon Daugharthy. We immediately felt at ease and comfortable with him. He worked on our case right away with excellent results. He even gave us the option of doing some of the legwork ourselves to save some money.
Throughout the entire process, Jon kept us informed, and was responsive to our questions ad concerns. He was fair with his pricing and billed us in a accommodating manner. I have worked with many attorneys over the yeas and have never felt so comfortable and cared about as with Jon.
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16 Nov, 2018 by Ronald
Jon Daugharthy handled some legal business for myself and my family. I was extremely satisfied in his manner, his competence, his timely completion of issues that arose or needed resolving. I would have no reservations in recommending Jon Daugharthy.
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02 May, 2023 by Dirk
Corey offered useful advice concerning a charitable trust issue I was dealing with. He understood my objectives as well as my concerns and I will definitely follow up on his recommendations.
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15 Mar, 2017 by Anonymous
In December, my world was turned upside down. My best friend, my mentor, my dear father passed away. I needed legal assistance to guide me through the probate process. I called Corey's office on a Sunday and left a message on his answering machine. Because it was a Sunday I didn't expect to receive a call back until Monday at the earliest. I was pleasantly surprised and extremely grateful when I received a call within a few hours on the same day. I was so emotional and sad and needed legal advice. The minute I started explaining my situation, Corey immediately put me at ease and took a considerable amount of time explaining the probate process to me.
I retained his services and he made a painful situation bearable. His level of professionalism, his people skills and compassion far exceeded my expectations. I will always remember how he took the time on a Sunday afternoon to return a phone call. He sensed the sadness in my voice. He kept me informed and answered all of my questions from start to finish.
I would recommend this wonderful lawyer without hesitation. Not only does he offer outstanding legal services, he also offers free seminars which are very informative and open to the general public. I would recommend anyone with estate planning needs or anyone who wants to empower themselves with valuable information to attend one of his seminars. Over the years I have heard a lot of bad comments and jokes about lawyers and used car salesmen, but Corey is definitely one of the good guys.
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01 Jan, 2015 by Todd
Corey came highly recommended to us when we were looking for an estate planner. After our first meeting, we understood why. He's very knowledgeable, thorough and enjoyable to work with. He took the time to understand our wants and needs and created an extensive plan personalized to our young family that reached far beyond our expectations. Not long after, Cory also helped us through the probate process for a loved one. Through both experiences, he gave a clear understanding of each process and what we should expect, was quick to answer our questions and kept us updated along the way. We are glad we found Corey and have since recommended him to our own family and friends.
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26 Jun, 2018 by Jeremy
I am an attorney in Washington State and I hired Kari to set up a conservatorship for my mother who lived near Wichita. Kari was extraordinarily helpful and professional, and she made the process as easy as possible. I recommend her without reservation.
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05 Aug, 2013 by Becky
Kari was incredibly knowledgable and efficient in working with us in the complicated world of estate planning. She was careful to ask detailed questions to fully understand our wishes and find ways to meet our legal needs. I wouldn't work with anyone else!
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03 Aug, 2013 by Anonymous
I have known Kari Coultis personally for a number of years. She has much integrity and that made me feel confident that my business with her would remain confidential. I know without a doubt that she will be professional in her assistance when I need to contact her. The final product she provided was thorough, concise, and excellently prepared. I have and will continue to highly recommend Kari to my friends and family.
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14 Jun, 2021 by Ml stilley
https://stilleyfamilyhistory.proboards.com/thread/3/stilley-family-history
https://stilleyfamilyhistory.proboards.com/thread/3/stilley-family-history
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23 Nov, 2014 by Shari
I had tried to sell my house through a real estate company with no luck. I decided to try to sell my house by myself. Within a week I had an offer. Bill was able to handle all of the for sale by owner paperwork. He looked over contracts and explained everything to m; he made sure I was protected during the process.
I plan to use Bill for my estate planning, I trust him completely. I know he will explain step by step the process, to make sure I am happy and satisfied when we are finished.
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23 Oct, 2014 by Mark
My mother had Mr. Stilley create estate documents for her after the death of my father in 2002. When her health started to fail I took over her financial affairs (as I had power of attorney) and Mr. Stilley helped me understand my range of authority. Once she passed away in 2013, he worked with me to settle her estate. Since I live in central Missouri we communicated mostly by telephone and e-mail. His responses were usually timely and many of my questions did not require an immediate reply, so e-mail worked fine. He seems to have a busy practice, and if I needed a more immediate response I would call the office and if he was not available I could always get a response within 24 hours. I found his fees reasonable, think his work is good and I would use his services again.
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01 Nov, 2019 by Lili
It was a pleasure working with an attorney who made everything easy to understand and executed our wishes exactly how we envisioned them. My husband is a financial advisor who is not easily impressed! Jon was a perfect fit for both of us!
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26 Jul, 2019 by Anonymous
Jon prepared all my estate planning documents. He was thorough, efficient and made good use time during our two appointments. Jon is professional and knowledgable - he anticipates questions before you even ask them. His personality puts you at ease and you can tell he is committed to making sure the people he works with are treated fairly and with kindness.
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11 Apr, 2019 by Patrick
Hired Jon and worked with him for over a year. Jon is very professional and knowledgeable on military and civilian law. I worked with him in the civilian and military courts. Jon was always on time in response to the courts and fair when giving advise on the options of the situation. When it came time for the military appearance the odds were against us. Jon’s expertise and knowledge of the law resulted in winning the case with the most favorable result. His knowledge of the rules, regulation, and current policies in place proved the the action presented by the military unlawful, and unfair. Overall I am highly satisfied with my time spent with Jon and would recommend him to any one.
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13 Sep, 2024 by Hiseyes7
I went to this law office to create a will. The whole team in this law firm is extremely professional and friendly. A job well done within a reasonable completion time. I would high recommend this law firm and use them again in the future.
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12 Sep, 2024 by Anonymous
Gabe truly seems to care for your needs and concerns. He listens to all the concerns you have and processes your desires accordingly. I would use this lawyer again in the future. I was completely satisfied with his service. He is very profession.
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17 Jul, 2024 by Karen bischoping
Gave Hubbard listens, advises and implements our requests. Thankful to have access to his expertise in trusts. .
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29 Jun, 2017 by Vicki
Kim is excellent in court. She is always prepared to a fault. She listens intently in court. She presents herself as fair, reasonsble, & balanced. Judges appreciate her calm & humble demeanor. She is honest, sensible, & conducts all business with integrity. She has never padded her billing hours, when her hourly rate is already more than reasonable. She is not your routine unscrupulous attorney.
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06 Aug, 2015 by Anonymous
Kim, is professional, knowledgeable, understanding & great to have as a lawyer when you are going through a huge life change. She made our separation go as smoothly as possible & I am so grateful
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04 Aug, 2015 by Ida
Kim Westhusing-Kass was efficient, fast and extremely clear on what our options were regarding guardianship through the court. She processed our paperwork in an incredibly short amount of time and helped us to make a dead-line we thought was unreachable. I would highly recommend Kim for anyone needing the services of a great lawyer!
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14 Jan, 2019 by David
Everyone at Shepherd Elder Law Group is top notch in my opinion, from the staff to the attorneys. Ms. Shepherd is extremely knowledgeable and was a godsend in handling my disability compensation case with the sometimes slow and frustrating Veterans Administration. Without her insight, I am sure my case would not have had such a positive outcome and for that, I am eternally grateful. I am now rated service-related Vietnam Agent Orange disabled and because of Ms. Shepherd's sincere compassion, knowledge and determination, I can rest easy knowing my family will be taken care of. I look forward to working with Shepherd Elder Law Group in the near future and highly recommend her.
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18 Jan, 2017 by Diane
"Samantha Shepherd and her team at Shepherd Elder Law Group came into our lives at a critical point for our parents' care and life choices. I can say with heartfelt conviction that the firms extreme skill (particularly in the area of veteran benefits) combined with creative caring guided us to the answers we needed to move forward. I recommend the firm to you whole-heartedly."
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09 Mar, 2015 by Cheri
When I heard that my mother-in-law might be eligible for VA benefits, a friend suggested calling Shepherd Elder Law Group. They were able to provide me with all paper work that was required, a list of items that would be needed and then explained how to obtain needed documents. After paper work was completed, we had a meeting to check that all was done correctly, so that process would not be slowed down by missing or incorrect documentation. The benefits were received very quickly and I could not have done it without them.
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20 Oct, 2016 by Vanessa
Austin Kent Vincent has helped us through 2 adoptions and almost another adoption. He is very easy to work with, responds quick to text, emails or calls, he has exceptional-high character and does his upmost to stay above board on every aspect of the adoption process. During these two years of working with him we have considered him a friend and would recommend him to anyone.
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19 Oct, 2016 by Leah
I have worked with Kent on several adoptions. Always professional, polite, friendly and so supportive of these girls as they make life-changing decisions.
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18 Oct, 2016 by Sara
Vincent went above and beyond in his service to us. He does excellent work and genuinely cares for his clients. We are so grateful that he was there for our adoption journey.
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20 Jul, 2020 by Jing
Michael is very very knowledgeable and experienced! I have a messy situation. When I consulted other lawyers, it took quite a bit time and sometimes, an unreasonable amount of cost to get some answers. But it took Michael less than 15 minutes to get everything clarified. Very efficient! He may sounds rude, but he is working for your chance to win!
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08 May, 2019 by James
Had a free consultation regarding choosing a legal structure for a new business, and related questions. Michael was very easy to talk to, down-to-earth, seemed very experienced, generous with his time and knowledge, and I left with all my questions roundly answered and the feeling that I would be very comfortable turning to him for any business-related legal needs going forward.
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14 Jan, 2019 by Cynthia
Mike has taken care of couple of tickets for me. One he talked it down to a non moving violation. I sent him the tickets along with a check. Very honest man!!! I received and e mail from him he was sending back $100 to me :) Could have kept it I would have never know. Highly recommend him. You can't go wrong with a person who does the right thing by you. Thank you Michael very much appreciate your honesty.
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29 Feb, 2016 by Marissa
I highly recommend Lee. He walked me through the process of getting an LLC for my business, as well as creating contracts to help protect me in my business endeavors, educating me throughout the way. Not only is he highly responsive to phone calls and e-mails but he is very helpful in answering all of my questions or concerns. I have full trust in Lee and would recommend him to anyone.
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27 Feb, 2016 by Sheri
Lee took on my estate settlement and he had a lot to sort through. He worked very closely with me to get me through the legalities I was faced. He always had my back! I would highly recommend Lee as a reliable and efficient attorney!
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27 Feb, 2018 by Jim
Ben is fantastic, thorough, and as smart as they come. He has helped me understand the legal process on a variety of issues.
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25 May, 2017 by Aaron
Ben is an expert and the guidance he provides is thorough and well thought out. He does an excellent job analyzing an issue and assisting his clients with understanding the legal and practical ramifications of their options and decisions.
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20 Aug, 2014 by Scott
Michael Coffman is an experienced attorney who has protect my family's interests and our business's interests. I would and have recommend him to anyone in need of legal assistance. He and his team are knowledgeable and professional. Top shelf.
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31 Jan, 2011 by Robert
I have known Jerry for over 35 years. He has always been responsive to my needs. Always honest and willing to help.
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22 Nov, 2016 by B. thomas
Mrs. Kelly, Handle my case in a very efficient manor. The worked performed was done in a timely fashion. I would retain her services again when needed.
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02 Jul, 2013 by Jeff
I hired him to help with some complicated real estate problems I was having. He kept me informed and involved in the decisions as we went along. The bills were fair. It was nice to have an attorney who would really talk with me and who didn't just look at me as a check-writer.
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19 May, 2017 by Kristy
Professional. Compassionate. Personal. All of these qualities define our experience with Rachel this past year as she helped walk us through probate and estate management.
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10 Dec, 2019 by Karissa
Cody is a very personable, knowledgeable attorney. He listened to my concerns with my custody case and provided the best solution. I would recommend him 100%.
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01 Dec, 2015 by Mike
Dean Ryan handled my bankruptcy smoothly and without any problems. During the free consultation he explained the bankruptcy process and all my options. I have to say he was very organized as we went through all the allowances and paperwork. There were no problems and the bankruptcy went through without a hitch. A year later, I was sued by a previous landlord for past rent because I forgot to list them on the bankruptcy. Dean took care of it immediately and this debt was discharged too. If you want an attorney who is not only friendly and understanding, but dedicated and professional, then I recommend Dean Ryan highly!
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05 Oct, 2010 by Anonymous
Gregg is a fine attorney and was very responsive to my needs.
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17 Jan, 2020 by Anonymous
We have used Steve for several years for our small business, reviewing contracts, advising on corporate and tax issues, as well as to prepare our estate plan, wills and so on. He is responsive and helpful in guiding us through the legal maze.
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08 Aug, 2024 by Casey
I had the pleasure of working with Jack, and I can't say enough about the incredible job he did for me. As a plaintiff’s attorney, Jack truly goes above and beyond for his clients. He took on my case on a contingency fee basis, which was a huge relief since it meant I didn’t have to worry about paying costly fees upfront.
From the start, Jack was not only professional but also incredibly compassionate. He took the time to understand every detail of my case, always made sure I felt heard, and provided clear explanations of what to expect throughout the process. His dedication to fighting for justice was evident in every interaction we had.
Jack’s expertise and determination led to a successful outcome, and I am beyond grateful for his hard work. He was always accessible, kept me informed, and made me feel like I was his top priority. If you’re looking for an attorney who genuinely cares about his clients and will fight tirelessly on your behalf, I highly recommend Jack. He is an outstanding attorney who delivers results!
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15 Feb, 2024 by C. midgett
Our litigation took years because we weren't in it for a quick settlement. Jack and his team worked with us every step of the way. He gave honest feedback in the preparation of what was to come and didn't rush the process. He wasn't just our lawyer, he became a trusted family friend. I am both pleased and proud of the work done. I would recommend him and his team to anyone.
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11 Sep, 2023 by Selena corpuz
Kraft Law offers reliable, trustworthy and efficient counsel. Eric Kraft understands Real Estate Law and has not only provided expert legal representation with my business but has also helped my clients with their commercial transactions and done so with the utmost professionalism and care.
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02 Jul, 2024 by Kenzie hyatt
J.R is the best attorney I could’ve asked for.
I would recommend him to any and everybody.
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06 Aug, 2019 by Undefined jo
Best attorney, very informative! Great job!
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24 Jan, 2019 by Katia hobbs
19 Jan, 2024 by Vince redinger
He worked very hard and made sure we understood every thing we were looking at and reading
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11 Oct, 2023 by Ryan stringfellow
I contacted Lane Palmateer to help with a debt situation that I let go too long. He helped me tremendously over the phone by giving me options going forward. Even though he was very busy, he gave me the utmost service to help me find the right lawyer for my case. I highly recommend Lane as he is compassionate to the needs of his clients. Thank you Lane. I appreciate your time and help in this matter.
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11 Jun, 2023 by Dream makers llc
Always appreciate the help with legal help and advice on the homes!! Thanks
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08 Jul, 2024 by Jonathan alexander
Best of the best
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08 Jul, 2024 by Michael sanders
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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.
