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17 Jun, 2014 by Karen
Remembered all the details we had discussed and carried through with our plan. Sensitive and helpful in making short and long term estate plans. Very detail oriented.
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12 Jun, 2014 by Jenny
Brendan was fantastic, He really thinks of everything. Planning our estate was long over due and lets face it,who wants to think about these things. After our first meeting with Brendan we knew we could not wait any longer. He really explained all of things that can go wrong if something happens to both parents and do not have a solid plan in writing. We can breath a little easier now that our estate and child will be in good hands. Thank you so much Brendan for making such a tough thing painless. I would recommend you to anyone.
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12 Nov, 2017 by Magaret
Mr. Lally was our lawyer during a difficult time in my family’s lives. He patiently explained the complicated legal paperwork executing our mothers will, our mom always spoke highly of him setting up all of the will/trust information for her while she was still here. While it was under difficult circumstances we met, l would strongly recommend him to anyone looking for a capable, compassionate, and highly qualified lawyer.
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05 May, 2017 by Kim
My husband and I worked with Jeff to create our estate plan. Jeff was great to work with from the start. He took the time to explain all our option and reviewed all the documents with us. He made the whole proceeds easy. I could tell he really wanted to help use and made a difficult subject easy to handle. I would highly recommend Jeff.
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17 Nov, 2008 by Anonymous
I would recommend Phil very highly. He helped us through a very difficult and important time or our lives and his expert legal really helped our family.
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16 Nov, 2008 by Anonymous
Attorney Summers helped me defend my position as the Executor of my uncle's estate and ensure that his final wishes were followed. He was great and his office was very attentive.
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21 Jan, 2017 by Anonymous
Attorney Massengill took on a complex situation for us with unprobated deaths, properties to be sold, trusts to set up0, brother buying from sister, etc, etc. He was calm and focused and discovered pitfalls that would have haunted us down the road. Wow!
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26 Nov, 2012 by Anonymous
We used Attorney Massengill to handle refinancing our mortgage. He was comprehensive, kept us informed, and ensured the process went very quickly and without a bump.
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15 Mar, 2018 by Amy
We have used this firm over several years to handle two different estate planning projects. My husband and I found them to be well-informed, highly responsive and well-organized. We have recommended them to friends.
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21 Dec, 2017 by Anonymous
I engaged Attorney Marshall to assist with my estate plan. His extensive knowledge and responsiveness to my questions and needs made what I had thought would be a difficult process quite easy. I am beyond pleased with his services.
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14 Aug, 2013 by Christopher
I was first referred to Donna Turley and Glickman-Turley by my now deceased partner during the sale of my condo in Boston, in January, 2012. As a result of some of life's "unexpected twists and turns", we were prompted to consequently sell the townhouse that we had purchased together, and so we naturally called upon Donna and Company to execute that transaction, as well. During the course of that sale, in November 2012, several personal challenges ensued, including the untimely death of my partner, a job change, and a relocation for me to the West Coast. Throughout it all, Donna Turley and Kristine Grimes (Office Manager, Paralegal) were concrete in their resolve to successfully navigate this process for me, even in my absence, and to provide the necessary professional (and in my case, a very personal) support to close on the sale on schedule. Aside from the expected outcomes above, this dynamic duo also uncovered a complex and confusing lot-line abnormality on the second property, and are still in the process of correcting a mis-filed poperty loan pay-off by another attorney from the purchase of my first home back in 1999.
After having hired Donna and Kristine's services for 2 consecutive home sales, I can honestly relate that they provide a level of attention FAR ABOVE AND BEYOND the norm, and that their excellent customer focus really stands out, especially in this day and age when service lapses and impersonal practices are commonplace by many companies. I am prompted to shout their praises load and clear on this forum, and will most certainly recommend their services to prospective clients whenever possible. Thank You.
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07 Apr, 2008 by Anonymous
I have been using Atty. Turley since 1997. She is excellent. Very intelligent, knowledgeable, VERY honest and trustworthy.
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08 May, 2014 by Anonymous
I consider myself fortunate to have found Matthew Moore - after having worked with many other lawyers he is by far the easiest to work with. For the first time, I felt I was understood. He really works with you and for you. He is also very pleasant - I would recommend him to anyone.
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08 May, 2014 by Anonymous
My wife and I could not be more pleased with Mr. Moore's services. We asked Mr. Moore to create family trusts, wills etc. for estate planning purposes. We found Mr. Moore to be knowledgable, experienced and above all, patient with us. Being novices, Mr. Moore took the time to breakdown the applicable state and federal laws in order to fully explain our different options as well as the pros and cons of each option. Mr. Moore allowed us to control the process. Instead of just being told what we should do, Mr. Moore utilized his experience and expertise to educate and guide us. We will continue to call upon Mr. Moore for all of our estate planning needs.
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06 Apr, 2021 by Lucas
Attorney Modestino made the home buying process easy. He went out of his way to make sure we fully understood the entire process!
Would highly recommend.
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24 Jul, 2020 by Barbara
I've had a great working relationship with Mr Modestino since 1989, he's patient, empathetic and gets results. He's been there for my divorce, my buying my home, writing my will ,and handled my neighbor's financial issues.
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02 Aug, 2016 by Anonymous
My experience with Troy Sullivan is that he is a 'straight shooter' and gets the job done in an efficient, no nonsense way. He is also a personable fellow -- and his fees are by no means exorbitant. I would recommend him to anyone needing an attorney's assistance in settling an estate.
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17 Jun, 2016 by Sharon
Working with Troy Sullivan to develop our
estate plan and set up our trust was an excellent experience. Troy was very professional and responsive to all of our needs. He spent time gathering financial information and understanding our wishes regarding Power of Atty, DNRs, Health Care Proxies etc. He provided us with a comprehensive plan, offered to work with two out of state attorneys to deal with titles for us, and provided us with all documentation in a very timely manner.
The end product is something that really works for us. Troy even went on to assure us he was there to help us with any future questions.
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27 Mar, 2017 by Elizabeth
Mike was very helpful with my estate planning needs. He walked me through all aspects of the documents and made sure that I understood everything as we went through. His fee for the services was reasonable and his work was thorough.
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23 Mar, 2017 by Colleen
Mike was very helpful with my estate planing needs. His fee for the service was reasonable. Highly recommended!
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28 Jan, 2023 by Lauren
As trustees of my mother’s property, we hired Attorney Dixon to assist us with the sale of her home. He executed the real estate transaction flawlessly. Attorney Dixon was methodical, thorough, and extremely responsive. He explained the process and issues well and was patient and kind when responding to our questions. He added levity with his dry sense of humor. It was a pleasure to work with him. We trust Attorney Dixon 100% and unreservedly recommend him.
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27 Jul, 2017 by Cb
Attorney Dixon took time to consult with me regarding a landlord-tenant dispute. He took the time to listen to the history of the issue, was knowledgeable regarding MA rentals laws and provided helpful information. The consult gave me confidence that I am proceeding with the best course of action regarding a stressful situation.
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06 Nov, 2020 by Bernie
John Mackey has been my personal attorney for over 20 years and has always represented my interests thoroughly, professionally and compassionately. Recently I had him handle the sale of a piece of commercial real estate for me. The sale was complicated as it involved a Real Estate Trust and a complicated IRS Section 1031 agreement. John handled all of the details of the sale and transaction professionally and the sale went through without a hitch. John has handled numerous legal matters for me throughout the years, including evictions of tenants, a dog bite suffered by my son, the estate of my deceased aunt and many others and has always done so in a professional and courteous manner. I have recommended his services to many different friends and acquaintances in the past and will continue to do so without hesitation.
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05 Jan, 2011 by David
Mr. MacKey has always given me the straight talk and releived me of any worry.
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06 Aug, 2011 by Kim
I could not recommend the Law Office of Cathy A. Marino more highly.
She handled a custody matter that I had tried to handle on my own, (huge mistake). I had made a terrible mess of things, and Cathy got things back on track.
I was most impressed with the wonderful way she interacted with all of the court personel. They seemed not only to know her very well, but have the utmost respect for her. From the judge down to the court officers.
I highly recommend Cathy, and have done so many times
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09 May, 2008 by Anonymous
Attorney Marino really helped me get through a difficult time and she was there when I needed her. She even made herself available for me on weekends. I know many divorce lawyers get a bad rap, but Cathy was the best at giving good advice and not wasting my time and money. I'd refer Cathy and personally use her again.
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28 Jan, 2020 by Nicole
Julie Gallup Esq., did an amazing job of my custody case, which was extremely stressful for me. She kept in touch and on track at all times! Julie is very compassionate, and empathetic to any situation. I would highly recommend her.
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19 Apr, 2018 by Karen
Atty Julie Gallup did an amazing job getting my paperwork ready and reponding to my court case. She was very understanding on my financial situation and I do believe she went above and beyond to help me. I will recommend her to everyone that I said in need of legal device regarding divorce and family law.
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08 Jul, 2020 by James
I called Elaine for advice regarding a personal financial situation. Elaine spent a half hour on the phone with me and gave me a lot of very good advice. I am now making a confident decision on how to proceed thanks to her time and wisdom, guided by experience. She did not charge me a dime for her time and was a very patient listener. Grateful!
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08 Oct, 2015 by Anonymous
My husband and I had to file for Chapter 13 Bankruptcy - it was a very difficult and emotional decision. Elaine helped us through the entire procedure and patiently explained how everything worked. Her natural kindness and understanding was evident and helped us feel that we were going to get through this. In the end, everything went very smoothly and we were very pleased with the outcome. We couldn't have asked for a better lawyer. We would recommend Elaine to anyone contemplating bankruptcy - give her a call, she will help you.
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16 Feb, 2016 by Laura
I have had the privilege of working with Attorney Michelle Raymond on two separate occasions over the course of ten years.
In both cases, Attorney Raymond provided a sought-after combination of exemplary Legal expertise, efficiency, compassionate guidance and kindness. She helped me navigate the unfamiliar territory of Divorce by providing the information and direction I needed with clear organization and care.
As a professional Airline Pilot, I brought unique circumstances to the table. Attorney Raymond was able to work with me to resolve each issue particular to my case with ease. Her calm, confident manner was deeply reassuring to me, both in individual meetings and in Court. She guided me to the resources and support I needed during extraordinarily challenging times. Additionally, both cases were handled in a timely and favorably effective manner.
I recommend Attorney Michelle Raymond most highly. I am deeply grateful for her professionalism, and I would not hesitate to call her again should the need arise.
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18 May, 2015 by Gloria
My experience with Michelle Raymond, despite the circumstances, has been a very good one. I feel very fortunate to have Michelle representing me. She has provided me with excellent legal services and advice, is professional, experienced and kind, and has given me the strength to get through what has turned out to be the most challenging time of my life. My personal situation has been complicated by many factors including divorce, a difficult custody battle, my older daughter's subsequent mental health issues, drug addiction and attempts to end her life, and my younger daughter's emotional distress from all the turmoil.
My only regret is that I didn't have the opportunity to have Michelle represent me during my divorce, the outcome of which may have been the same but the experience, I am certain, would have been far less painful.
Thank you, Michelle, for standing beside me with sound guidance, in front of me when I need protection, and behind me in case I fall.
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21 Mar, 2017 by John
After paying another attorney from Worcester over $10,000.00 over a period of 8 months to amend my divorce decree and getting nowhere, I hired Jim to handle my case . He was easy to work with , quick on his feet, and expertly negotiated a fair agreement in no time at all . He was just plain fantastic. I would give 10 stars if it were allowed. Cant say enough good things. Wish I had met him the first time!
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21 Mar, 2017 by Anonymous
Jim was willing and capable of negotiating a settlement between myself, my now ex- wife, and her attorney. Jim steered me away from personal actions and communications that may have hurt the chances for a negotiated settlement. My particular situation could have been lucrative for him to litigate as it was complex and there was much discovery that would have accompanied a court battle. However he kept my best interest in mind , avoided litigation, protected my interest as well as possible, and treated my ex - wife with respect. He was bright and really understood the issues which really helped my case. We were able to settle in an very short time compared to stories I have heard from others.
I also believe that negotiation saved both my ex-wife and myself considerable costs. Most importantly it was easier emotionally for the entire family, including our adult children.
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07 Nov, 2018 by Anonymous
Atty. Vassallo went above and beyond to help me get paperwork done at the last minute for a closing.I was literally stressed to the max. She also, earlier in the year did a will and transfer on my home for me. Atty. Vassallo is very thorough and well organized which is extremely important. I had complete confidence in her as an attorney. She was just amazing.
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16 Jul, 2018 by Michelle
Atty Vassallo was very prompt and thorough when I needed information about my case...settled out of court. I would definitely use her services again.
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13 Mar, 2018 by Sean
Rob has helped me on several legal matter and is a tremendous lawyer. I would suggest him for anyone
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29 Jan, 2014 by David
Robb has provided me counsel on numerous legal issues related to my wealth management, and trust & estate issues for my family members. He listened to precisely what I wanted to accomplish and he provided a terrific end product in little time. I enjoyed working with Robb and feel confident in his work on important issues relating to my family's future needs.
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10 Oct, 2024 by Dad life
I had a great experience with the law offices of mark e. Salomone Cyndi was my case manager and she was amazing always could count on her to answer the phone and answer any questions I had. All in all a ten out of ten experience. Thank you Cindy for all you're help you are awesome can't talk you enough
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09 Oct, 2024 by Moneybagsification
This is my first time I ever got into a car accident, and the attorneys at mark E. salamone hey, assured, I will be all right. And they have my case
And for sure, they really did, they helped me through out the process.
Cindy and everyone in her office and the attorney, they were the best.
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09 Sep, 2024 by Gwendalynn mcknight
I love how they always make sure u have everything u need at the end of the day and cyndi holt has been the biggest of help and I admire their worth ethic but expect Cyndi for makeing sure i was left feeling good
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15 Nov, 2024 by Blessed773 johnson
Mr.martin is a dedicated and hard working g attorney he is fair and just and has become a very good friend of the family.
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15 Nov, 2024 by Mo latti
23 Sep, 2024 by Claudio vidal
Muy buen ab ok abogado..me ayudo bastante
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06 Dec, 2024 by Shirl val
Just finished completing our new wills and trusts with Paula and her team. Very impressed with their professionalism and responsiveness to our questions. Paula listened to all our wishes and concerns and created documents that represented what my husband and I wanted. The whole team worked together to make the process easy for us and provide a clear plan for our kids when the time comes. Highly recommend Berkshire Law Group!
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11 Nov, 2024 by Christine buck
Bryan explained everything clearly to us, and made the whole process very easy.
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26 Oct, 2024 by Kelly healey
We hired Berkshire Law Group about 7 years ago when my aunt had a sudden change in her health and we were lost on how to navigate the healthcare system for the elderly. Paula came to the rescue and helped us to organize a plan. Within days of my aunt being released from rehab we had a care plan together. Her team has been an amazing support to us throughout the years.
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24 Jan, 2025 by John lechleiter
We would like to share our experiences and thoughts with Babson Law Office. We heard of Annalei through a family friend in regards to setting up a family trust.Immediately and throughout our interactions we were impressed with Annalei 's professionalism and attention to our wishes for our estate planning. She was very helpful in explaining the pros and cons of various estate strategies and there administration. Her thuroughness and ability in explaining the various financial scenarios was very helpful and assuring. We would recommend Annalei to anyone seeking assistance in estate planning. John and Josephine Lechleiter
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15 Jan, 2025 by Susan pollack
Annalei Babson is an extraordinary lawyer and person. She is smart, compassionate, and caring. She listens deeply to her clients and their concerns as they address difficult life and death decisions. She knows the law well and explains the most complex aspects of it clearly. Moreover, she is an excellent guide, helping clients like us to make the hard decisions we must in creating a will that addresses our own needs and provides for our beneficiaries.
I am grateful for Annalei’s inspired legal guidance and the good humor that she brings to a demanding process.
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09 Jan, 2025 by Missy porter
30 May, 2018 by Mal ryan
Like the plumber with the stopped up sink, I am an attorney who put off having an estate plan done for a decade or more. I finally decided to engage the law firm of Samuel, Sayward & Baler to do my own estate plan, including Wills, Trusts, Homestead, Durable Powers of Attorney, Health Care proxies, etc. I will confess that it takes time and was challenging for me. The law firm was professional, knowledgeable and “user friendly”. They were responsive, diligent and had tremendous follow through. They did outstanding work which was tailored to my family’s needs. Once it was completed, the relief and satisfaction at having my estate planning behind me was enormous.
I couldn’t be happier with the estate planning work done by the law firm of Samuel, Sayward & Baler. Do yours sooner rather than later. They understand, they can help, and the peace of mind you will feel afterward is priceless . As a satisfied client, I would recommend this law firm to anyone.
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20 Sep, 2017 by Anonymous
Attorney Booth provided my wife and me with comprehensive estate planning. He performed an initial assessment of our situation and carefully crafted recommendations for changes that he was able explain to us clearly. He then gave us a fee estimate for his scope of services and drafted all new documentation for us (as well as correcting some errors he discovered in our title documents). He performed all work in a timely and professional manner.
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14 Sep, 2012 by Barry
My wife Julie and I have experienced nothing but the best in terms of all aspects of the estate planning and maintenance process. For 6 years we have placed trust in his abilities and that of his staff.
In addition , Vinnie and the staff are without question very nice, sincere, dedicated and caring people.
Very impressed.
Barry
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13 Aug, 2010 by Michele
Shani Rae Collymore helped me through the process of buying my first multi family investment property. Not an easy transaction as it was also a short sale. Ms Collymore made herself available to me for all the questions and uneasiness I had during this process. She made me feel comfortable even to ask what might have seemed like a silly question. She had more professional ism in this transaction then one could ask for. She knows the laws, the correct procedures and has the sense of urgency when requried. More than I can say for the others involved in my transaction. When I start to think about purchasing my next properly, Ms Collymore will be the first one I call. I am confident she will get me through the process with as little heartburn as possible. Without reservation, Shani Rae Collymore will be recommend by me to anyone in need of legal services.
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21 May, 2015 by Tom
Frank always takes the time to answer any of my questions and make sure that I understand what he is explaining to me without getting into too much jargon or legalese.
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19 Nov, 2013 by Cbra
Considering my feisty and defensive nature, David was like a glass of cold water in a summer day. Supportive, calming, caring and diplomatic. He was by my side on my alcohol license hearing and his professionalism and attention to detail were incredibly helpful to get my company's alcohol license granted. I would highly recommend it.
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31 May, 2016 by Kathy
Chris helped me draft a contract related to joint ownership of real estate and all the documents related to my estate plan. He is incredibly experienced and knowledgable about the law. He is also detail oriented and makes sure his clients understand the details. He is great at translating the technical details into basic language that non-experts can understand. I highly recommend him without reservation.
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FAQs
Questions? We have answers
What a Probate Lawyer Can Do for You
A probate lawyer assists with the legal process of administering a deceased person’s estate. This often involves guiding executors (if a will exists) or beneficiaries (if no will exists) through the probate process to settle the estate according to the deceased’s wishes or applicable laws. Probate lawyers can help validate the will, distribute assets, resolve disputes among heirs, handle outstanding debts or taxes, and ensure the estate is legally and efficiently administered.
Whether you’re an executor of an estate or an heir facing probate proceedings, a probate lawyer can help you navigate the often-complex legal process to ensure the estate is settled correctly.
When Should I Hire a Probate Lawyer?
You should consider hiring a probate lawyer when you are responsible for managing the estate of a deceased individual, especially in the following situations:
- The estate has substantial assets: If the estate includes significant assets like real estate, investments, or business interests, legal assistance is often necessary to handle the distribution properly.
- The will is being contested: If there are disputes among heirs regarding the validity of the will or the division of assets, a probate lawyer can help resolve the conflict.
- The estate includes complex or unclear provisions: If the will contains complicated instructions or there are no clear beneficiaries, a lawyer can ensure that the estate is administered according to legal requirements.
- There is no will (intestate estate): When a person dies without a will, the estate is subject to intestacy laws, which determine how assets are distributed. A probate lawyer can help navigate this process.
- Debt or tax issues exist: If the estate owes significant debts or is subject to estate taxes, a probate lawyer can help ensure debts are paid appropriately and taxes are minimized.
- Probate disputes: If family members or other parties are disputing the distribution of assets or challenging the executor's actions, legal representation is crucial to defending your rights and ensuring the estate is handled properly.
Hiring a probate lawyer early in the process can help avoid costly mistakes and ensure the estate is settled efficiently.
What Does a Probate Lawyer Do?
A probate lawyer provides a wide range of legal services to help manage and settle an estate. Their tasks can include:
- Validating the will: Filing the will with the probate court and ensuring its legal validity.
- Guiding executors or administrators: Advising the person responsible for managing the estate on their duties, including inventorying assets, notifying creditors, and paying debts.
- Filing necessary paperwork: Preparing and submitting the legal documents required to initiate and complete the probate process.
- Resolving disputes: Mediating or litigating disputes among heirs or between beneficiaries and executors, including challenges to the will or disagreements over asset distribution.
- Handling debt and tax matters: Ensuring that outstanding debts, taxes, and estate taxes are properly calculated and paid from the estate’s assets.
- Distributing assets: Ensuring that assets are distributed to the beneficiaries according to the will or intestacy laws, and that all legal requirements are fulfilled.
- Closing the estate: Completing the final steps of the probate process, including filing a final accounting with the court and formally closing the estate.
How Are Probate Lawyers Paid?
Probate lawyers typically charge for their services based on the complexity of the estate and the nature of the legal work involved. Common payment structures include:
- Hourly rate: Most probate lawyers charge by the hour, with rates depending on the lawyer’s experience and the complexity of the estate. Hourly rates can range from $150 to $500 or more.
- Flat fee: For simple estates or straightforward probate tasks, some lawyers may charge a flat fee that covers all of the necessary legal work.
- Percentage of the estate: In some states, probate lawyers are allowed to charge a percentage of the estate's value as their fee. This percentage typically ranges from 2% to 5%, depending on the size of the estate and state regulations.
- Retainer fee: Some lawyers may require an upfront retainer fee, which is billed against as the probate process progresses.
It’s important to clarify the fee structure during your initial consultation to understand how you will be charged and avoid unexpected costs.
How Much Does a Probate Lawyer Cost?
The cost of hiring a probate lawyer depends on several factors, including the complexity of the estate, the type of legal issues involved, and the lawyer’s fee structure. General cost estimates include:
- Simple estates: For estates with straightforward assets and no disputes, probate legal fees can range from $2,500 to $10,000, depending on the lawyer's fees and the state's probate laws.
- Complex estates: For larger or more complicated estates with multiple properties, business interests, or disputes, probate costs can exceed $10,000 and may reach $20,000 or more.
- Hourly rates: If charged by the hour, expect rates between $150 and $500, depending on the lawyer’s expertise and geographic location.
- Percentage fees: In some cases, a probate lawyer may charge 2% to 5% of the estate’s value, particularly for larger estates or those involving complex legal matters.
Always ask for a clear estimate of fees during your initial consultation to understand the total cost of probate representation.
Top Questions to Ask a Probate Lawyer
Before hiring a probate lawyer, it’s essential to ask the right questions to ensure you’re hiring someone qualified to handle your estate needs. Key questions include:
-
What experience do you have with probate cases like mine?
Ensure the lawyer has experience with estates of similar complexity, especially if disputes or high-value assets are involved. -
How do you charge for your services?
Ask whether the lawyer charges an hourly rate, a flat fee, or a percentage of the estate, and request a cost estimate. -
What is the likely timeline for my probate case?
While it’s hard to predict exactly, an experienced lawyer can give you a general idea of how long the probate process may take based on the specifics of your estate. -
What steps will you take to manage and distribute the estate?
Ask about the lawyer’s approach to handling debts, taxes, and asset distribution. -
Will you be handling my case personally?
In larger firms, junior attorneys or paralegals may handle some aspects of your case, so it’s important to know who will be working on your probate case. -
What are potential challenges we may face?
A good lawyer will be able to anticipate possible issues, such as will contests or creditor claims, and explain how they would handle them.
How to Check the Credibility of a Probate Lawyer
To ensure you’re hiring a reputable probate lawyer, follow these steps to check their credentials and experience:
- Verify their state bar status: Check with your state’s bar association to confirm the lawyer is licensed to practice and has no history of disciplinary action.
- Look for probate experience: Review the lawyer’s website or professional profile to ensure they specialize in probate law and have experience handling estates of similar complexity.
- Read client reviews and testimonials: Look for online reviews on platforms like Avvo or Martindale-Hubbell to see what past clients have said about the lawyer’s probate experience.
- Ask for references: A credible lawyer should be able to provide references from past clients who can vouch for their professionalism and expertise in handling probate matters.
- Look for membership in professional organizations: Membership in organizations like the American Academy of Estate Planning Attorneys (AAEPA) or the National Academy of Elder Law Attorneys (NAELA) can indicate a lawyer's commitment to estate and probate law.
What Should I Prepare for My First Consultation?
To make the most out of your first consultation with a probate lawyer, it’s important to come prepared with relevant documents and information. Here’s what you should bring:
- A copy of the will or trust (if applicable): Bring any estate planning documents left by the deceased, including wills, trusts, or powers of attorney.
- List of assets and debts: Prepare a detailed list of the deceased’s assets (e.g., real estate, bank accounts, investments) and outstanding debts (e.g., loans, mortgages, credit cards).
- Death certificate: Bring a certified copy of the deceased person’s death certificate.
- Contact information for heirs and beneficiaries: Have a list of all individuals or entities named in the will or who are entitled to inherit under intestacy laws.
- Questions about the probate process: Write down any questions you have about the process, costs, and potential issues you might face.
- Relevant financial records: If available, bring any relevant financial documents, such as bank statements, property deeds, and tax returns.
By coming prepared, you can ensure a productive consultation and allow the lawyer to provide the best advice for your situation.
