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Harold Jacobi III, experienced Probate attorney in Lexington, MA with 2 reviews
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13,69
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3.0/5
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3.0
2 Reviews
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08 Mar, 2011 by Anonymous
My initial meeting with this attorney was pleasant and subsequent follow-up emails were usually timely, but as my meeting day approached, I'd not received the promised final materials necessary to be prepared. Even after contacting him about this, I did not receive the items for my meeting in a timely fashion (at least the day prior) so that I could study them, become familiar with the materials and be able to respond intelligently. Since I received them only just prior to the meeting, my stress level made it impossible for me to perform well in the situation and the meeting was a complete failure. I was forced to start over with new representation and subsequently learned that Mr. Jacobi had missed a major flaw in the materials, which could have cost me dearly. To this extent, I paid two attorneys to do the same job, thankfully with the latter performing excellently and in a very timely fashion. I later approached Mr. Jacobi based on his lack of timeliness and major oversight and asked that he re-visit what he charged. Things became quite ugly soon after.
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15 Apr, 2008 by Anonymous
Handled a real estate transaction. Incredibly professional and timely as to our needs.
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Rickie T. Weiner, experienced Personal Injury, Probate attorney in Worcester, MA with 2 reviews
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13,69
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3.0/5
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3.0
2 Reviews
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19 Mar, 2021 by Anonymous
Attorney Rickie Weiner represented me in a car accident. He always informed me of the status of my case and gave great attention to work hard to get me what I deserved & a great settlement. Very professional, knowledgeable, and personable. I would highly recommend!
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25 Dec, 2020 by Anonymous
I left a lengthy review explaining my experience with this guy on Yelp. I wouldn't wish this kind of representation on my worst enemy. I witnessed him and the insurance CO's attorney in some extremely suspicious behavior directly after he convinced me to agree before the judge to settle for a tiny settlement. You must read my Yelp review for a full explanation of my experience. If you don't , then please for your own good PLEASE JUST STAY AWAY!!!!
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James F. Scola, experienced Civil Rights, Criminal Defense attorney in Worcester, MA with 2 reviews
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13,69
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3.0/5
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3.0
2 Reviews
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04 Aug, 2010 by Jane
Jim is one of the best lawyers I have ever had the pleasure to deal with. I can not speak highly enough about this compassionate man. He was very devoted to my husband and I, he helped us out in every way possible. HIGHLY RECOMMEND JAMES SCOLA for whatever your real Estate issue may be.
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31 Mar, 2010 by Dana
Sorry but how can you recommend someone who took the most straightforward practice of refinancing a home and turn it into a ten month saga between two banks, title insurer, bar association and two lawyers? Jim Scola handled the refinance of my home in 2008. A month after signing the paperwork, my old lender still did not receive the payout. Lots of excuses later Jim finally revealed to me that he screwed up and lost the money from my new lender. His accounts were a total mess and he was way overdrawn. This violates many regulations for handling mortgages as I understand it. Mr Scola left me with TWO mortgages both who wanted to be paid. I hired another lawyer and lost more then $4000 in legal fees and a lot of sleep over this. We filed a complain with the Massachusetts Bar association and I believe that he was given some kind of legal warning but that is it. Mr Scola on many occasions said he would pay me back for the legal costs but he did not come through and is now ignoring my phone calls.
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Theresa K. Capobianco, experienced Business, Estate Planning attorney in Northborough, MA with 2 reviews
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13,69
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3.0/5
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3.0
2 Reviews
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30 Sep, 2024 by Vevans
I hired The Capobianco Law Firm when I lived in MA a few years ago, and they were excellent, very comfortable to deal with, and no concerns about taking advantage of me financially; as TWO (2) previous attorneys in the area had done big time. I actually spoke with Mr. Capobianco a few weeks ago, and will call the office as soon as I complete this.
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22 Apr, 2011 by Anonymous
I've worked with many real estate lawyers in many states. The Capoboiancos are by far the worst. Avoid them at all costs.
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Bernard T Loughran Jr, experienced Estate Planning, Probate attorney in Watertown, MA with 1 reviews
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11,72
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2.0/5
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2.0
1 Reviews
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23 Jun, 2016 by David caira
Mr Loughran handled a Workers Comp case for me - Motor vehicle accident at work - In the beginning, he was good, professional, and got the job done but as soon as he was paid he refused to continue with the follow-up on my case. I still have damage (broken teeth) which was in all the reports. My employer refuses to fix them. I have been calling for 4 years, leaving messages - and have been completely ignored by this attorney. If you have an open and shut case, I would recommend him but if you think that you are going to have problems in the future - seek someone else.
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Charlene A. Caldeira, experienced Family Law, Litigation attorney in Lexington, MA with 5 reviews
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10,89
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1.8/5
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1.8
5 Reviews
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08 Nov, 2023 by Anonymous
She has been in so many firms in the last 2 years she stopped listing them on her LinkedIn profile. Cervizzi, Kajko, Callahan Barraco, Halks Firm, Blue Fort, Melcher (no longer on website). Probably more. She will burn through your hard-earned money and waste your time and everyone else's including the judge.
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03 Aug, 2023 by Anonymous
Please do your due diligence before referring this attorney. She ghost calls and is not responsive.
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05 Feb, 2021 by Anonymous
This Aggressive lawyer Took 500. 00 from me and when I met her she refused my case. I asked for refund and she gave me her personal check that bounced for last year and half to this day. This Aggressive attorney stunk of booze at 10am in morning and slurred through whole "meeting " Sent to Bar Association via Rep. Mark Montignys office
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Ellen M. Winkler, experienced Probate attorney in Swampscott, MA with 3 reviews
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10,53
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2.3/5
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2.3
3 Reviews
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09 Nov, 2017 by Anonymous
I was asked to sign a release on a distribution of an estate. One paragraph was an issue, Ms. Winkler clearly explained why it was a problem and suggested how to have it deleted. Other attorney promptly deleted the problem paragraph and the issue satisfactorily resolved.
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24 Jun, 2015 by Nancy
Attorney Winkler created what I thought was a simple trust for me. The problem was she omitted a required form for the state of Delaware and the trust was not able to be finalized without it. Attorney Winkler was unapologetic and actually rude when I pointed out her omission. I had to finish it myself. Very disappointed to say the least.
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23 Jun, 2013 by Anonymous
Ellen Winkler was used as the probate lawyer for my fathers estate. Just to give you an idea of how good she really is, she will charge you up. and today 4 years after my fathers death I just found out she missed 7200 of back taxes which now are out of my pocket. THANKS ELLEN. TERRIBLE LAWYER
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Marc Fitzgerald, experienced Family Law, Probate attorney in Boston, MA with 1 reviews
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9,77
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1.0/5
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1.0
1 Reviews
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23 Apr, 2018 by Anonymous
Marc was my attorney in a contentious child support modification case. He is personable but not terribly ethical. For example, there is a law in MA that if you are over 70 then one is entitled to a “speedy trial” under MA Rule 59F. A year and a half of stalling and delays later; that he could have stopped dead via Rule 59F, I finally got a trial date. Imagine the billable hours he racked up. But wait, there’s more: As we approached the trial, this hot shot decided that we needed his junior associate to help litigate. Again, many more billable hours. In hindsight, associate was essentially useless in the process. Under the stress of the litigation process, I yielded to having his associate join the show. Marc could have easily done what needed to be done - alone. Save yourself untold sums of money and seek ethical counsel elsewhere.
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Sheila L. Mulholland, experienced Probate attorney in Springfield, MA with 2 reviews
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9,14
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2.0/5
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2.0
2 Reviews
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12 Apr, 2016 by Anonymous
i hired this lawyer to represent me in a divorce and it was the worst decision I could have made. She did absolutely nothing for me and charged me an arm and a leg. She is not knowledgable about divorce law. My advice, hire someone who cares. She doesn't.
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22 Apr, 2013 by Joshua
This attorney took over $20,000 of my money and was a complete failure. She is so old she can't even pay attention to her case and so in the sack with the other attorneys that even if she could put up a fight she wouldn't! STAY AWAY!!!
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Jason Carrozza, experienced Divorce, Estate Planning attorney in Franklin, MA with 0 reviews
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8,00
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Osler (Pete) L. Peterson, experienced Consumer Protection, Family Law attorney in Newton, MA with 0 reviews
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8,00
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Christine M Nicastro, experienced Estate Planning, Family Law attorney in Dedham, MA with 0 reviews
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8,00
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Michelle A. McHale, experienced Personal Injury, Probate attorney in Lynnfield, MA with 0 reviews
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8,00
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0.0/5
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Carah K. Kiley, experienced Estate Planning, Probate attorney in Andover, MA with 0 reviews
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8,00
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Kimberly A. Pisinski, experienced Business, Education Law attorney in Enfield, MA with 0 reviews
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8,00
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0.0/5
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Joshua H. Bearce, experienced Probate attorney in Boston, MA with 0 reviews
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8,00
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Timothy J Erasmi, experienced Elder Law, Estate Planning attorney in Hyannis, MA with 0 reviews
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8,00
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Margaret L. Beliveau, experienced Elder Law, Estate Planning attorney in Waltham, MA with 0 reviews
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8,00
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Cynthia O. Eynon, experienced Family Law, Probate attorney in Worcester, MA with 2 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
7,19
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1.0/5
Avvo
1.0
2 Reviews
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15 May, 2024 by Anonymous
Not an effective lawyer. All about taking your money with no true value in return. Won't do what you ask her to do. Never met a attorney like this one. Would not recommend this attorney.
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07 Mar, 2024 by Anonymous
I would not recommend this attorney at all. Will not return calls, does not do what you hired her to do, and will outsource your case to other not competent attorneys that will drain your assets.
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Thomas J. Donahue Jr, experienced Family Law, Personal Injury attorney in Worcester, MA with 1 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
7,17
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1.0/5
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1.0
1 Reviews
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26 Oct, 2013 by Anonymous
Hired for estate planning. Got a bunch of canned program printouts none of which were reviewed by him. All done by secretary and incorrect and not professional. We had to scrap them all and have them done over. Good thing he is in probate because none of these documents which should have eliminated it were correct. He was sure to be there for taking the money though. Don't hire this guy for professional concise work. Best to do it yourself on a canned program for fifty bucks.
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Joblin Christopher Younger, experienced Business, Estate Planning attorney in Beverly, MA with 1 reviews
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7,17
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1.0/5
Avvo
1.0
1 Reviews
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03 Jun, 2024 by Joe
This is the worst Lawyer ever! So rude and arrogant! Preys on the elderly. Hire anyone but him.
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Kathleen M. Mulvey, experienced Estate Planning, Probate attorney in Plymouth, MA with 1 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
7,17
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1.0/5
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1.0
1 Reviews
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27 May, 2022 by Anonymous
Be very careful when hiring this attorney. She will turn on you and try to take all your money all your family's money in the guise of helping when in actuality she's only helping herself! She is rude ,abrasive, tends to border on violent I was in tears daily with this woman and there was no need of it at all! Steer clear of this person. I don't know if the company realizes who they actually have in their employee with this person.
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Robert H Ryan, experienced Elder Law, Estate Planning attorney in Marlborough, MA with 1 reviews
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7,17
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1.0/5
Avvo
1.0
1 Reviews
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12 Nov, 2017 by Anonymous
Bob wrote up a trust for my parents in 2008 and gave me advice on administrating the trust in 2013. I contacted him again in June 2017 but he has been unresponsive. His website was taken down and I don't think he is in practice anymore. Not a happy ex-client.
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John A. Shea, experienced Family Law, Mediation attorney in Worcester, MA with 1 reviews
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7,17
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1.0/5
Avvo
1.0
1 Reviews
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01 Nov, 2018 by Anonymous
Client beware You may be pushed off to an associate that lacks experience. Many overcharges. Typical big business will get all they can out of you then sell you out
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Robert J O'Regan, experienced Business, Estate Planning attorney in Boston, MA with 1 reviews
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7,17
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1.0/5
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1.0
1 Reviews
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26 Apr, 2015 by A probate client
I was extremely disappointed in this attorney's handling of my case. Once he received his retainer, his initial interest and indignation over my situation quickly subsided. In fact, the retainer issue itself was very deceptive. He first told me that his retainer was half of what most firms charge. A few weeks later I got a call from him asking for another ten thousand dollars. Then yet another call of "Hey, when you get a chance can you send us another five thousand". So I was enticed by a lower number (presumably to avoid "sticker shock") and then billed incrementally, ultimately paying the same amount he'd criticized other firms for charging. After a year I was in pretty much the same situation where I was when I'd started but out a tremendous amount of money. Sadly, there was a young attorney assisting on the case who was smart, energetic and extremely perceptive who I believe would have had a genuine chance at prevailing. I sent her a letter asking if she could handle my case independently, and she responded that she could not as she was still an "associate" and thus not able to take cases independently. Shortly afterward, I received a further bill from Atty. O'Regan charging me for the time it took her to write her response. I think this last incident pretty much sums up my experience with this individual.
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Janna K. Saad Esq., experienced Child Custody, Child Support attorney in Kingston, MA with 1 reviews
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7,17
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1.0/5
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1.0
1 Reviews
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10 Apr, 2018 by Anonymous
My gut told me go with someone else but I did not due to the money spent and time. She did make some gains but on our motions let opposing counsel control narrative. Was afraid to bring up vital information which could have damaged opposition's case. Sometimes you need to take a chance and throw stuff at the wall to see what will stick. Opposition did that to me, she was afraid to.
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Elizabeth A. Roberts, experienced Business, Family Law attorney in Boston, MA with 1 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
7,17
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1.0/5
Avvo
1.0
1 Reviews
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19 Dec, 2020 by David
My experience with Elizabeth Roberts, over a four-year period, is that she falls short of basic professional standards in terms of both document management and client representation. She operates with a chip on her shoulder and cannot properly keep organized successive versions of documents. Further, she caused her client significant monetary and material damage by virtue of her lack of skill or ability to engage in productive negotiation.
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Benjamin H. Dowling, experienced Business, Estate Planning attorney in Attleboro, MA with 0 reviews
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7,00
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Robert Andrew Lane, experienced Divorce, Estate Planning attorney in East Weymouth, MA with 0 reviews
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6,00
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Mary Clements Pajak, experienced Estate Planning, Probate attorney in Boston, MA with 0 reviews
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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:

  1. 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.
  2. 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.
  3. 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.
  4. What steps will you take to manage and distribute the estate?
    Ask about the lawyer’s approach to handling debts, taxes, and asset distribution.
  5. 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.
  6. 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.

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