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26 Reviews
14 Dec, 2024 by Chelsea henderson
Martha Dinwiddie was the best lawyer I could have gotten for my case. She was there with me through it all. It was a pleasure having her and sticking with me through out this journey. Definitely 10/10 would recommend 🤗
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24 Sep, 2024 by Lindsay mobley
I couldn't ask for a better lawyer! She has had my back through so much and always calls just to check on me, she fought for me harder than anyone else ever has! If your looking for am amazing lawyer who will go above and beyond this is the firm your looking for I promise!!!
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28 Aug, 2024 by Xubuntu
Mr. Cohen took the time to provide with me an answer and a suggestion very quickly. And I have already successfully used some of the information that he provided.
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05 Dec, 2024 by April stamper
I had a few simple issues that needed a professional touch in my papers. Although I have very little contact with Jed, he was compassionate, understanding, and professional. His staff is amazing. Thank you Ty and Jed.
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03 Dec, 2024 by Michael hunter
They were excellent and very helpful
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28 Nov, 2024 by Jonathan grady
Ty is extremely helpful and knowledgeable!
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12 Mar, 2024 by Shane haun
Joel is a fantastic Attorney. He is very knowledgeable and a great person
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24 May, 2023 by Elizabeth cooper
I appreciate the work Joel Cannon and Ed Anderson do for people in Knoxville TN.
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23 Sep, 2015 by Shannon m. holland
My family takes their legal business to Cannon & Anderson and we have never been disappointed. Attorney Ed Anderson represented my brother in worker's comp case when the insurance company refused to pay. Ed took it to trial and made them pay. Attorney Joel Cannon represented my mother when she was wrongly sued and the case was eventually dismissed. If my family has another legal problem, I will call Cannon & Anderson first.
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06 May, 2024 by Anonymous
I reached out to a number of law firms regarding my legal matter, the majority of them failed to simply contact and discuss the matter. Seth Oakes contacted the same day, was courteous, professional, and willing to assist. Thank you Seth, I appreciate your assistance.
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19 Apr, 2023 by Anonymous
We hired Seth to help us settle a real estate deal gone bad. By the end of our initial consultation, we knew we had chosen someone with the right knowledge, expertise, and personality that we needed to support us. He successfully guided us through the process, and we had a signed settlement agreement within a matter of weeks. We would highly recommend Seth and intend to consult with him again on our estate planning.
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01 Jun, 2022 by Nancy
Seth Oakes was recommended to me as a very smart, kind and compassionate lawyer who excelled in writing wills. There aren't enough words to compliment his skill as a lawyer. After having problems with my old will and making him understand what I wanted to do, he immediately corrected documents that were upsetting to me and gave me the right to have the will written to my specifications. This was not a rush job, but a thoughtful and excellent presentation of my wishes. It was a wonderful experience, and I would use Seth for any other legal needs.
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06 May, 2018 by Jim
I needed an estate attorney for my 90+ year old parents to update Wills, prepare a Living Trust, and prepare Powers of Attorney, Healthcare POA's, Living Wills and Deed changes for the Trust. After interviewing 7 Knoxville attorneys/law firms, I settled on Stephen Carpenter at Carpenter & Lewis. He had fixed pricing (very reasonable for an entire Estate Package) and was impressive and personable on the phone.
We have now completed the process and we could NOT be happier with the result. My parents were so complimentary of the very process that they were dreading. Stephen is HIGHLY knowledgeable, tax and estate savvy, detail oriented and is so very down to earth, professional and responsive. His documents were amazing and needed very few changes. He is an avid listener and translated our unique needs into legal language so very well. He was great in explaining everything and answered all our questions in terms we could all understand. The process was painless!
I did my own estate documents 10 years ago in another state using a large, high powered law firm -- Believe me -- Stephen's process was 10 TIMES better - and a lot less expensive. Stephen knows how to do this and how to guide you through it VERY WELL! Also, Lorie, his assistant, was a joy to work with, so pleasant and service oriented.
I do NOT do reviews of things on the web...but, after using Carpenter & Lewis' services, I wanted all of you who are looking to do estate planning to know -- YOU WILL NOT GO WRONG WITH THEM!!!! So, do yourself a favor...if you want a great outcome, if you want super value for your money, if you want to deal with very pleasant, personable and responsive people who are experts and pros at what they do -- use Stephen Carpenter at Carpenter & Lewis. It's not a large law firm...it's a small, highly effective, service oriented group. You won't regret it...and perhaps afterwards, you'll also WANT to write a review of them to help others who are trying to decide who to use for some of the most important legal documents in their life.
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25 Apr, 2016 by Bob
5-Star rating. As long as I have know Stephen Carpenter and worked with him in a client-attorney relationship, he has consistently been helpful, caring, friendly, sincere, honest, fair and (generous) when it comes to charging for services, thorough in researching issues, and willing to refer out to others in areas where others may have more "niche" experience in dealing in certain legal areas. I would highly recommend his services.
— Bob
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22 Apr, 2016 by Corrie
We use Carpenter and Lewis for our small business. Over the years our business has grown and changed, Stephen Carpenter has helped us through these changes with sound advice and quick responses. Stephen has experience in the CPA world as well so is able to give a perspective that contributes in many areas of our business. What I like the most is the personal attention and response. There is no red tape or hoops to jump through - it is just straight honest answers.
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21 Oct, 2024 by Rebecca williams
They helped with my mom, then my sister, and now my husband and me. Legal stuff is not my thing, but they are so good to walk you through the Power of Attorney documents and wills, then probate. There are a lot of hard questions to answer but it is better now than later.
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16 Jun, 2024 by Staci blackburn
06 Jun, 2024 by Kristy ritch
Great group of professional individuals . I highly recommend them for your seniors planning.
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11 Oct, 2023 by Samir guindi
31 Aug, 2023 by Kara davis
Reliable and sincere . . .
He has been a wonderful advisor to our family on several legal matters over 20+ years now.
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23 May, 2023 by Cancer culture
Sherif is the GOAT. Best lawyer in knoxville. You CANNOT go wrong choosing him to represent you. This is the man you want at your side in front of the judge GAURANTEED. Very thankful
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10 Jan, 2025 by Paula frater
14 Dec, 2024 by Steven
Wonderfully happy with my representation from Burks and Ogle. Beyond being an incredibly knowledgeable lawyer, Mr. Ogle is a respectful and relatable person that will work with you to get the best outcome that he can deliver.
I was incredibly nervous walking into his office the first time, but his calm demeanor and knowledge of the law made me feel much more comfortable, all while conveying the seriousness of the situation and outlying all of the possibilities of the case and the path that laid before me. We ended up reaching a very favorable outcome in my case, and I am thrilled with the representation I received.
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04 Dec, 2024 by Zach schu
Nate is extremely professional and available. Best lawyer in Knoxville!
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26 Jan, 2025 by Reginald blackstone
I am so pleased with Cotter law Courtney, is the best at what she do I highly recommend Cotter law thanks for everything..
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22 Jan, 2025 by Patricia worley
They were professional. Easy to work with and I received more on my case than expected.Coutney was great.I highly recommend her.
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18 Jan, 2025 by Melissa childress
I contacted Cotter Law Firm and spoke with Courtney Fuller about an accident I was involved with. My claim was not being paid, and past due. Courtney was very knowledgeable and professional, and the advice she gave me led to my claim being paid. Thanks Courtney!! I would highly recommend her.
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10 Jan, 2025 by Paula frater
14 Dec, 2024 by Steven
Wonderfully happy with my representation from Burks and Ogle. Beyond being an incredibly knowledgeable lawyer, Mr. Ogle is a respectful and relatable person that will work with you to get the best outcome that he can deliver.
I was incredibly nervous walking into his office the first time, but his calm demeanor and knowledge of the law made me feel much more comfortable, all while conveying the seriousness of the situation and outlying all of the possibilities of the case and the path that laid before me. We ended up reaching a very favorable outcome in my case, and I am thrilled with the representation I received.
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04 Dec, 2024 by Zach schu
Nate is extremely professional and available. Best lawyer in Knoxville!
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01 Jul, 2024 by Brandon
Wes helped Myself and my family when in need and was beyond professional at all times day or night. He will be sure to take care of any and all of your concerns that you may have. The best part of our experience with Wes was the fact that he always made us feel important and not a waste of his time. On many occasions he would reassure us that no question is a dumb question and always ask no matter how big or small. Wes thank you for everything and being the best Lawyer in town!!!! I would recommend Wes and his services to any and every one that needs an amazing attorney that will work for you and help you through the entire process.
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09 Dec, 2023 by Breana
I would 110% recommend Wesley Stone to anyone!! He went above and beyond for my little brother. Such a kind guy that actually cares about his clients.
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05 Dec, 2023 by Anonymous
Wesley was responsive and answered our questions. He was reachable and followed through with what he said he would do. He provided directions for next steps or information.
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16 Apr, 2024 by Jennifer
We hired Carin for estate planning. She is an expert, she patiently answered all of my questions, and her team was great as well. Highly recommended (from two attorneys).
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22 Mar, 2024 by Mark
Carin Brio Law Office helped me setup a Trust for my
estate. I didn't have much background knowledge about
Trusts, and they were very patient with me and answered
any questions I had. As with the creation of any lenghty
legal document, there were a few hiccups along the way,
but they were handled appropriately and efficiently
by Carin and Paxton, her paralegal. I would definitely
consider them again for further legal tasks I might
encounter in the future.
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16 Mar, 2024 by Anonymous
Excellent communication and demonstrated professionalim when addressing all my questions and concerns. I will definitely get back for legal support as needed in the future, because I trust this lawyer. I highly reccomend.
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03 Nov, 2021 by Anonymous
I attended a virtual presentation where Ms. Patel offered free advice on legacy planning. I was impressed with the detailed knowledge.
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01 Nov, 2021 by Cindy
I have called Mital Patel for advice for an aging parent and she was great and told me what we needed to do. I have also referred others and she was able to help them too.
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11 Jul, 2020 by Kacey
I worked with attorneys for years, but when it came to starting my own business and needing help with setting up my business and making sure I was protected while giving me the best opportunity to succeed I picked Ms. Patel! I cannot thank her enough. I am two years into my new business and couldn’t have done it with her. My fiancé recently went to her after working with other attorneys for his lawn care business for years and was beyond grateful to have met her and he now says she won’t go anywhere else.
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10 Dec, 2014 by Jack
Gary Dupler is a great attorney and a fine person. He represented me in an estate case was complicated and drawn out over two and a half years. Gary was very methodical in researching and building the case, and clearly explained his reasoning for everything. When it was time to present the case to a jury, Gary was tremendously better prepared than opposing counsel. After the trial Gary went well beyond anything he was required to do in assisting in the retrieval of property.
I never thought I would need the expertise of an attorney or be involved in a legal dispute. Gary was very patient with my naïve questions and my occasional annoyances. I would highly recommend Gary Dupler for your legal needs!!
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09 Dec, 2014 by April
I hired Mr.Dupler this year for my divorce. He is very knowledgable of the law, and very professinal. He was there if I had questions or concerns. He always answered my calls if he was available. If not, he would return calls promptly. i have never had to hire an attorney for this type of situation before. He done everything he could to make things work and go as smoothly as possible. If I ever need an attorney again, it will be Gary. He did a great job.
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12 Oct, 2014 by Rebecca
Mr Dupler was so helpful in my case and always answered the phone when I called. He did everything in a timely matter and was very pleasant to deal with. I've NEVER herd anything good about any lawyers but that was not true at all in this case. I read reviews on Gary and they very true and would recommend him to any person looking for legal help from a Great Lawyer. THANK YOU SO MUCH !!!
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23 Mar, 2015 by Philip
Mr. Fox reviewed my employee handbook for federal and state law requirements and best practices. He has always done an excellent job.
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08 Mar, 2015 by Joe
Mr. Fox has been an excellent and knowledgeable attorney to work with regarding my case. I will be using Mr. Fox's legal advice again in the near future. I have appreciated his legal advice immensely and his professional attitude. Very good attorney, that looks out for his clients best legal interests,
Top recommendation here...
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07 Mar, 2015 by Anonymous
Mr. Fox has been such a wonderful person to work with. Not only
is he extremely personable, but he's very professional as well. He works hard to ensure that every need of his client is not only met, but exceeded. He truly understands that all cases are not the same, and will work hard to assure you that he's providing you with the best legal representation around. I've had the opportunity to meet with other lawyers in the past, but none carry themselves like he does; it's more than just another case to Mr. Fox.
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28 Jan, 2017 by Harry
Ms. Gilliam was retained to assist with a conservatorship / probate matter involving a vicious dispute between siblings. She demonstrated insight and knowledge and provided sound advice. She has consistently correctly predicted the actions of the opposing parties and court.
I am an attorney licensed in another state. I highly recommend Ms. Gilliam.
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15 Jan, 2017 by Jeanette
My husband and I were referred to Ms. Gilliam for legal advice in setting up documents to cover situations as we age. She met with us for just 1/2 hour to establish our needs and advise us on which documents are needed (e.g., Power of Attorney, Last Will and Testament, Living Will). In addition, she explained the importance of establishing beneficiaries on savings accounts and when it is important to set up Trusts.
After this short, but informative meeting, she conveyed additional information via email so that we could decide on the basics of how we wanted these documents prepared.
Ms. Gilliam used our next meeting to finalize our agreements so that she could prepare the documents. Then we closed out this important process with another short meeting where he staff stayed after hours to make last minute changes and print the final documents for our signatures.
In addition to her efficiency, she was very pleasant and professional to work with. She kept us on task with a good sense of humor. And, the cost for her services were slightly less than other attorneys we are aware of that provided similar services.
My husband and I highly recommend Ms. Gilliam for professional legal services. In fact, our daughters plan to use her services when they are ready to complete these documents for themselves.
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13 Jan, 2017 by Tom & colleen
We engaged Carolyn to prepare a trust and power of attorney documents for us and then documents for our kids and future son in law. She has been great to work with in getting these important documents completed. We will continue to engage Carolyn in the future as we need updated documents. We highly recommend her services. She and her staff were very professional and timely.
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18 Sep, 2016 by Melissa
Mr Cannon was very friendly, easy to talk to and understand, and even after he helped me win my disability benefits went the extra mile to give solid advice about going forward. I appreciate him tremendously. He was sensitive to my emotional fragility and helped me to communicate effectively at my hearing. He's a good man and I would highly recommend him to anyone in need of representation.
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12 Sep, 2016 by Shane
Joel, is a fantastic lawyer and person, he is the type that takes a personal interest. He kept me informed on all news on my disability claim as soon as he heard anything. He is very knowledgeable on the laws and procedures. His client
consultation are very informative on how things are processed. He got me my claim the first time. In my opinion
I could not have found a better attorney than Joel Cannon.
I will definitely use and recommend him again and again.
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05 Sep, 2016 by Randall
Mr. Cannon reduced my property taxes from $2100 to $1400 annually due to a square footage mistake made by the Knox County property assessor's office. He fought them and won my case. I was absolutely thrilled with the results of my appeal !!! A+
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21 Sep, 2020 by Sherry
I have had the privilege of hiring Mr. McKenrick for representation. I have to say I am quite impressed by the his professionalism, work ethic, completing tasks efficiently and quickly. Not only is he respectful but also extremely knowledgeable. He is able to answer questions and speak to me in a way that I can understand the situation and the laws.
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01 Jan, 2019 by Leigh ann
Patrick represented me in a probate case. This was all new to me, and Patrick was always patient and kind to explain terms and processes. I feel as though he represented me well and was prompt and available to respond to phone calls and emails. I recommend him.
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27 Dec, 2018 by Anonymous
I needed to revisit my estate planning and update my trust. Patrick was able to simply everything and give some great advice for the changes in my estate. Everyone was friendly and patient. I would definitely recommend!
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26 May, 2013 by Anonymous
I fully agree with the previous review on all counts, I could not have said it better.
Mr. Butler's expertise and experience, along with the respect and trust he has earned with tax authorities, provide the very best representation. You will be pleased as well as relieved and reassured by the prompt personal attention, kind support and respect Mr. Butler provides his clients. Having worked with over 20 attorneys, I know how rare that is.
It's said only two things are certain—death and taxes. If you have a problem with taxes, I urge you to see Mr. Butler because there is a third certainty—that Mr. Butler and his firm will provide you with the finest and most professional representation possible.
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15 May, 2013 by Anonymous
I have been a medical professional for 30 years. During those years I have been involved with many attorneys both professionally and personally for many different situations. My experiences with attorneys have consistently been unpleasant. Most of the attorneys I have encountered have also been unpleasant.
Although not every practicing attorney falls into this category, unfortunately the legal profession is replete with unpleasant, unscrupulous individuals practicing with lack of communication and due-diligence who have created a negative image of the profession with the public in general, and my previous experience confirms this is rightly so.
Enter Attorney John Eric Butler. I first met Mr. Butler two years ago when my wife and I saw him for consultation for personal business matters. It was immediately evident that he was an attorney much different than we had encountered before.
Over the two years that we have been his clients, he has demonstrated unequivocally that he is a true gentleman. He is of the highest character and at all times conducts himself in the most moral, ethical and professional manner. He has shown us heart-felt compassion for our situation. His counsel and guidance have been invaluable in the difficult life decisions that we have had to make.
Mr. Butler represents the essence of what an attorney should be and is the highest credit to his profession, a profession that desperately needs more individuals like him.
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26 Apr, 2013 by Ruby
Eric Butler provided excellent service in preparing a revocable living trust for me. His rates were reasonable. His turnaround time was responsive to my needs. I appreciate Eric for assisting me with this important project.
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03 Feb, 2021 by Rob
Julie is one of the smartest, well qualified, and empathetic attorneys that I have ever worked with. She listened to my needs and got straight to work on crafting the necessary estate planning documents. Recently, I had a family member that needed legal services in another city. I called Julie. She consulted with her colleagues to find my family the best fit for the legal issue that they were confronting. Julie is there for me and goes out of her way to help. Highly Recommend!
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25 Sep, 2020 by Alda
Julie helped us with a new will and understood our wishes and gave us the guidance we needed. She was very prompt and easy to contact.
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01 May, 2020 by Charlie
Ms. Eisenhower has partnered with another attorney at her firm to prepare and file a family court appeal on behalf of my wife and me. The brief was extremely thorough and well written. The facts are laid out succinctly and no minor detail was omitted. The process for this appeal was even more tedious than normal because transcripts of the cases were not provided, instead Ms. Eisenhower and team used the video and audio recordings from the trials to compose the appeal brief! I truly appreciate the time and effort that has been afforded my case and I highly recommend Ms. Eisenhower if you desire or need the same attention to detail.
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18 Jun, 2015 by Ryan
We are a financial firm in Knoxville. James has worked with us and he was great. We have also referred James to our clients and they reported back positive comments as well.
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11 Jun, 2015 by Alfred
If you are looking for an honest attorney look no further. James Lawrence help straighten out all my mother's affairs and gave us peace of mind. I also used Mr Lawrence to look over a franchise contract he did a great job. I highly recommend him.
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08 Aug, 2024 by Cd
Bailey has been a wonderful resource for our family. She is patient and always answers all of our questions (which are often quite a lot). She is very knowledgeable and easy to talk to. She helped us establish a Special Needs Trust for our daughter, and we felt very comfortable throughout the entire process with Bailey and her Team on our side.
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28 Oct, 2019 by Sheri
If your feeling overwhelmed with the process involved in handling your loved ones elder care issues, I highly recommend you contact these experienced professionals. In my first meeting with Bailey, she reassured me that I wasn’t in this alone. Along with her wonderful
staff including Hailey and Cindy, they guided me thru the process, handled issues with the nursing home, held my hand during the difficult times and even provided a class for caregivers which was extremely valuable. I highly recommend this group of very talented caring people.
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06 Dec, 2022 by Diane
When my family member suddenly died, I was the executor/personal representative and living in another state. I received a recommendation from a friend who lived in the same state as my deceased family member to contact estate attorney Matthew McDonald. After Mr. McDonald accepted me as a client, he quickly began a step by step process of taking the estate through probate because of some of its complications. He gave me a questionnaire which helped organize the assets and liabilities of the estate. He explained in understandable terms why I had to fill out certain court forms or had to put an announcement in the paper to notify possible claimants about my family member's death. Mr. McDonald was excellent at keeping me up to date on a tentative timeline to get through probate and sent me the necessary documents to sign, notarize, and return. When he notified me that the probate had closed, I felt an immense sense of relief. Mr. McDonald had made the probate process manageable at a very difficult time for my family. Due to his knowledge of the probate estate process and concern for his clients well-being, I recommend him to anyone needing an estate attorney.
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04 Feb, 2021 by Mary lou
Matt McDonald prepared legal documents for me and he was very helpful in assisting me through the legal wordage. I really appreciated his explanations and willingness to spend time answering my questions. I am completely happy with his services.
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20 Jan, 2018 by Mike
David did a thorough and professional job in helping me with my mom's probate and closing of her estate.
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30 May, 2017 by Anonymous
David Noel was referred to me by a collegue. I was VERY impressed by his representation of my case. He made sure I was well informed and understood what to expect. I am thankful I was able to hire him. His fees were far more affordable than other attorneys I had inquired with. He was direct, even with matters I was not happy with, which I respect because I was able to understand the law better and how it would effect my case. He was professional and I never had to call his office more than once to get a response to a question or whatever it may have been. His staff is great and I felt as if my case mattered and my lawyer knew what he was doing. I didn't get everything I wanted in my case, but I was informed up front of the situation, but I did get the outcome that I needed for my family.
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23 Dec, 2024 by Alex harness
After getting myself into serious enough trouble that it could have derailed my life, I couldn't be happier or more relieved after Mr. Grady Smith handled my case. After speaking with Mr. Morrell about my case, he recommended Mr. Smith as he was the most familiar with my local law enforcement and it certainly worked in my favor. Mr. Smith was very polite, knowledgeable, and explained everything in a way I could easily understand. I can't stress enough that the outcome was much better than I, or my family and friends, could have ever expected. I'll be recommending this law firm to anyone who asks for as long as I'm around.
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21 Dec, 2024 by Lisa schwarz
Timothy Baldridge and Tiffany Engel was great..they took car of my car accident..was always there to answer questions when i needed...always returned calls the same day..I would recommend them over and over
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20 Dec, 2024 by Hugh cansler
I have to say Andrew did his best and was very good at what he did. Managed to get my charges reduced.
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16 Jan, 2015 by Jonathan
I hired Heidi for a modification seeking joint custody of my 4 year old daughter. The mother of my daughter and I were never married. This made my situation bad as far as any given rights by the state. Heidi had my case settled in a timely manner and fought the court system to keep my daughter for moving 400 miles away wifh her vindictive mother. She helped mme expand my rights to a joint custody agreement and did an awesome job keeping me up to date prepared and ready for anything that could be thrown at me by the mother, which was alot! I could not have done it without her. Her prices are competitive but we'll worth what you papat for. I will never hesitate to do business with her again.
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30 Nov, 2017 by Richard
If you had any idea how many emails of correspondence between all parties involved are on Mark's server you'd be simply amazed. Yet he took it all with stride, never got upset (I think I would have) and actually tried to understand the problems at hand.
He works extremely well with the elderly. My mother was 93 or 94 when she meet him and there was a sincere feeling of caring and admiral respect for my mother. She had no hesitations from the moment they met and neither did I.
I felt safe leaving her in his care as he took care of her estate issues which were in need major improvements after having realizing what she signed without full disclosure. That original "Trust" didn't know the definition of "trust" let alone relay HER desires.
Mark help her "fine tune" an understandable document over the course of a month. She was left understanding what she had in front of her and more than pleased with all his work forming a new "Living Trust" that was exactly as she wanted it.
Professional, courteous and in the top 1% of lawyers that actually listen to people and do what is asked. Couldn't be more pleased.
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14 Sep, 2013 by Robert
Larry's an excellent attorney. Experienced. Professional. Excellent in the courtroom and out. I wouldn't hesitate for a moment to hire him again, because we won a very long and complicated case by jury trial! I think that says it all. God Bless you Larry. Thanks for being there.
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02 Mar, 2016 by Galina
We have worked with the lawyer Brooke Givens to establish trusts and organize the estate planning of my disabled son.
She was very professional, competent and client- oriented in our complicated case. It was pleasant to communicate with her
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06 Oct, 2016 by Jose
Matt helped in a tough probate matter recently and his attention to detail was a real difference maker. I would recommend Matt and I cannot thank him enough for all he did for my family
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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.
