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26 Jan, 2024 by Toni gojcaj
Erisa is the most knowledgable attorney I’ve ever worked with. She made my home buying process easy and took the time to explain our contract and every document I needed. She’s very professional and easy to work with I would definitely recommend her to all my friends and family.
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26 Jan, 2024 by Michael celenza
Extremely knowledgeable, very reliable and helpful
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30 Dec, 2022 by Michael trivigno
My wife and I were buying our first home and without Erisa’s guidance this process would have been very overwhelming. She was very knowledgeable and caught every little detail that we would have never caught ourselves. She was patient with us and answered every question we had. She was always reachable and most importantly throughout this whole process she made us feel comfortable and that we were being taken care of. We’re very grateful for Erisa and we would highly recommend.
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12 Aug, 2024 by Charles
After the death of my cousin, we hired Scott Kaufman to help us settle the estate. At the time we had no idea how specialized and intricate Surrogate’s Court proceedings could be. On my way into the courthouse to testify at the kinship trial, I distinctly remember thinking, "I wouldn't want to walk into the courthouse without expert representation."  I'm glad we were in Scott’s capable hands.
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05 Aug, 2024 by Anonymous
Scott and his office staff achieved an excellent result on a tedious 3 1/2 year engagement, which included a genealogy study and ultimately a kinship trial. Both the paternal and maternal relatives were very appreciative of the amount of time and effort that was necessary to conclude this matter. Although not a central point to the representation or the result achieved, the office could have been more forthright and frequent with their updates and case progress, particularly when asked directly about the status of the case.
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09 Apr, 2024 by Brian
Briefed me on what was happening and always got back to me with answers. Friendly face when I arrived in NY. Thanks
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17 Mar, 2022 by Leanne
Eleni was great very knowledgeable and professional from start to finish. She made this process so simple for us. Highly recommend her.
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21 Feb, 2022 by Chrisoula
Ms. Mavros Panagos helped me with my fathers estate. She was very knowledgeable on setting up the estate. She gave me excellent advise and was there from start to finish. She’s awesome!
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21 Feb, 2022 by Gus
Eleni helped me with my purchase of my first home. She spent as much time as I needed explaining the process, documents, bank requirements, inspections and anything I wasn’t sure about. I trusted her cause she fully explained everything to me and was always available. Wonderful person!
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07 Jan, 2022 by David
We recently sold our home. Mara went above and beyond to make sure the entire process went smoothly and was as easy as possible for us. She was extremely thorough and 100% without a doubt, always had our best interest in mind. I would highly recommend her to anyone. 10/10
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05 Jan, 2022 by Anonymous
It was a pleasure working with Mara. She was always very responsive and professional
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23 Apr, 2016 by Akash
We appointed Mara and Alexandra to be our attorneys for the sale of our NY condo. She had previously helped us buy another condo 12 years earlier. I thought they did a great job - they were thorough, experienced, competitively priced, easy to get in touch with, and a general delight to work with. Although it was a cash sale, there was an added complication that we were foreign nonresident aliens, and she had to talk the buyer's attorney through how to complete the FIRPTA witholding docs - which she did very well.
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04 Apr, 2017 by Joseph
very happy with his service
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04 Apr, 2017 by Patricia
David was very thorough in explaining the different aspects of estate planning. He answered my questions regarding options. It was easy to contact him and set up an appointment. Thanks, Dave.
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30 Mar, 2017 by Robert
David and his assistant Theresa made a very difficult time for our family much easier. His knowledge of the law and the Medicaid process gave us the answers we needed to obtain care for my elderly failing aunt. Highly recommend!
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07 May, 2017 by Anonymous
Ms. Elefante was instrumental as our attorney in the closing on the sale of my parents' house. Rose made sure we had gathered all documents needed, explained things clearly during the closing and had a very good rapport with the buyer's attorney, enabling the whole process to be completed in an efficient & professional manner. We were all very pleased with her services.
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05 May, 2017 by Pam
Rose helped our family out during crisis. She established a Trust and a will for both of my parents. At the time I consulted with her, both of my parents were hospitalized and I did not have a clue what I needed to do. Rose walked me through the process! When my father was released from the hospital and put in a rehab facility, she came to the rehab facility as my father was unable to come to her. Rose was kind, patient and caring throughout this process and thoroughly explained what was in the best interest to our families needs. I HIGHLY recommend Rose as an elder care attorney.
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01 May, 2017 by Helen
I hired Rose for my first case in 2011. Rose worked to get my Mother on Medicaid. My Mother required to be cared for in a nursing home. I would not have been able to complete this task on my own. It was very complicated and Rose did an outstanding job. My experience with Rose is like going to a friend or family. Rose was able to protect my home by setting up a trust. I also had to have power of attorney and healthcare proxy set up for myself and for my Father to care for my Mother. I had the same documents completed in the event I would need to care for my Father.Rose helped to draw up a will for myself and a will for my Father. When my Mother passed away, Rose attended the funeral. In 2015 I put my home on the market and Rose referred my to a real estate lawyer who was excellent .Rose advised me as well in the process. Again in 2015 I hired Rose now for my Father who became very ill. My Father required to receive Medicaid and she successfully got him approved. He has a different situation than my Mother and he can stay home, so Rose was able to guide me through that complicated process as well. Rose helped to set up another type of trust for him. In 2016 my Father was hit by a car and injured, I turned to Rose and she referred us to an accident lawyer who also is excellent. Rose continues to check in with me and I can contact her at anytime for any advise. Rose is the best.
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20 Nov, 2015 by Emily
I recently hired Mr. Fedele as my real estate attorney. Closing on a house can be a very overwhelming and nerve racking process. Mr. Fedele was very professional and attentive at all times to my needs as his client as well as to my concerns I had as a first time buyer. He took all responsibility and eased the stress which I am most appreciative for. I would highly recommend him to friends and family.
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19 May, 2015 by Kim
My husband and I used Michael as our real estate lawyer when buying our house last year. He was always available when we needed him and immensely knowledgeable. We had a few hiccups along the way and he was always right there advising and guiding us through the process. I have recommended Michael to many friends and relatives and will continue to do so. If you are looking for a top notch lawyer he is definitely it.
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02 Mar, 2023 by Trust client
Matthew has extensive knowledge of trust law and real estate law ! I recommend him if you are in need of solving your estate planning problems via trusts , or have a real estate matter. The time for proper estate planning is asap. Trusts and estate planning can seem confusing , but Matt is good at explaining the pros and cons of different approaches . Protect the assets your family has worked for over a lifetime , might as well !
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11 Oct, 2024 by Edward anderson
I went to The Law Office of Ronald Weiss in desperate need for help. His staff could not be more helpful in finding resolutions for the problem. Rose and Letitia are a God Send. They not only handled my case with a positive result, they did so with true professionalism and dedication. I would never consider going anywhere else and neither should you. Rose and Letitia are simply the best at what they do.
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01 Oct, 2024 by Alysa huffman
This firm was amazing to work with!! I had Aaron Young as the paralegal assigned to my case and he was always super quick to respond and made me feel super comfortable each step of my case. Thanks so much to this team, you guys were great!!!
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30 Sep, 2024 by Nu. supply
Come for the free consultation and stay for the snacks. Jon Hilbert really came through in a critical time.. Great team and staff.
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11 Oct, 2024 by Edward anderson
I went to The Law Office of Ronald Weiss in desperate need for help. His staff could not be more helpful in finding resolutions for the problem. Rose and Letitia are a God Send. They not only handled my case with a positive result, they did so with true professionalism and dedication. I would never consider going anywhere else and neither should you. Rose and Letitia are simply the best at what they do.
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01 Oct, 2024 by Alysa huffman
This firm was amazing to work with!! I had Aaron Young as the paralegal assigned to my case and he was always super quick to respond and made me feel super comfortable each step of my case. Thanks so much to this team, you guys were great!!!
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30 Sep, 2024 by Nu. supply
Come for the free consultation and stay for the snacks. Jon Hilbert really came through in a critical time.. Great team and staff.
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15 Aug, 2024 by Robert hart
Mr. Robert Dallas is absolutely FANTASTIC! He came highly referred from a friend that I trust with my life. I was not even sure I actually had a case. Mr. Dallas was extremely efficient, and held my hand from point A to point Z; Making everything so easy for me. For the most part, I sat back and he did all the legwork. My surgery was denied by the insurance company, but that's when he quickly started to "make the magic happen". One month later I was getting my the much needed surgery on my shoulder, after being rear ended. And EXACTLY ONE MONTH AFTER THAT, I received a check for the FULL AMOUNT that the No Fault Insurance would allow. I could NEVER expect things to move this fast. The level of expertise and professionalism I experienced can not be matched anywhere in my opinion. I would use Mr. Robert Dallas for all Person Injury matters, 100 out of 100 times! Thanks again Robert Dallas, and Dallas LAw, LLC !!!
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05 Aug, 2024 by Law s
Really have to thank Ross and the Dallas Law for there hard work on my case they definitely did there thing and kept me updated from start to finish always checked on me and always answered any questions i had and got the best outcome out of my case very satisfied and will definitely recommend them
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02 Aug, 2024 by Katherine maradiaga
I was a personal injury victim involved in a car accident that appeared to present legal implications at the outset due to my personal relationship with the person found at fault. When I approached the Zlotolow law firm with my doubts as to whether I would be able to reclaim damages, Scott assured me that the firm was skilled in handling these situations with ease. I am pleased with the outcome of my personal injury case and was able to reclaim damages to an extent greater than I believed possible. Throughout the whole process - which took four months from accident to settlement - I was treated with importance and care by Scott, Victoria, and everyone else I interacted with at the firm. Even after the closing of the case, the firm continues to check in on me with regard to my medical reimbursements. I will always be grateful for entrusting Zlotolow and Associates with my personal injury case and will recommend them without a shadow of a doubt to all of my loved ones.
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16 Nov, 2024 by N judge king
I had the pleasure of working with Jason Newfield as my attorney when getting disability. I highly recommend Jason as an attorney. What impressed me most was his high level of education in the area of disability insurance, his patience and the clear path that he established for me in my effort to reach my goals. He managed the process and insurance company representatives well, resulting in me achieving my goals. I must also add that his compensation is very fair. If you are looking for disability compensation, do not go through this process alone. Let Jason be your representative. He knows how to win. Impressive
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16 Nov, 2024 by Dorothy wenzel
Jason is very efficient and responds quickly. We sent many after hour email, we received a response in the very early morning. I would highly recommend!!!
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14 Nov, 2024 by Shaun darrah
A professional who delivered results during a trying time. Feedback and communication with him are nearly instantaneous.
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09 Sep, 2024 by Janelle marina mendez
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ I hired Sandra Radna as my malpractice attorney for two cases involving a misdiagnosis and improper treatment that led to a life-threatening condition, worsening my service-connected condition. Sandra was zealous in defending my interests every step of the way. Both cases were settled favorably around the five-year mark. I highly recommend Sandra to anyone dealing with personal injury issues—she fights hard for your interests and delivers results. She regularly responds, communicates and updates clients every step of the way.
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19 Aug, 2024 by Judith greenberg
In preparing my will and power of attorney, I found Lawrence Cohen to be extremely knowledgeable and helpful. He went over every detail of the estate planning documents in a very understandable way. I highly recommend Larry as an elder law attorney. He also is assisted by his lovely wife, Audrey, who works with him.
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05 Aug, 2024 by Annelies karp
Working with Lawrence Cohen was an absolute pleasure. He explained everything I needed to know and more. When I would call, he would reach back to me, which was important for me.
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26 Sep, 2024 by Iq foundation
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25 Sep, 2024 by Andrew vecere
The Odierno firm has exceeded my expectations. Their professionalism and attention to detail is unsurpassed.
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25 Sep, 2024 by Samantha walsh
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06 Aug, 2024 by Anonymous
I'm not one to do reviews . The law office is fine, but Lorraine is a nasty employee who makes the entire experience unpleasant. After paying for over 50% of the fees well before my meeting, I then had a $2,000 balance. I had one more meeting and asked to have $1,000 charged with a balance due of $1,000 at the final meeting. Jennifer marched and demanded payment in full...leaving me wondering why would any firm demand full payment with more work to be completed and why would the firm approve of her strong arming me. A little compromise goes a long way Lorraine, with many of attorneys out there with lovely staff I'd rethink recommending this firm.
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23 Jul, 2024 by Lisa eisenberg
Glenn is a very professional attorney that goes the extra mile for his clients. I totally recommend him!
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03 Jul, 2024 by Bella k
I am grateful to David Berkowitz for his exceptional legal expertise and unwavering support throughout my case. I highly recommend David to anyone in need of a skilled and compassionate lawyer. C.C.
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11 Oct, 2024 by Ed tiedemann
Paul's knows what is doing and get the job done. I could not recommend him more highly.
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10 Jul, 2024 by T.j. muro
I am deeply disappointed with my experience at Cona Elder Care Law Firm. I contracted this firm to create a trust for my parents, but the entire process felt more like a business transaction than a genuine effort to assist with our family's needs. The costs initially presented were significantly lower than what I was ultimately billed. They seemed to initiate unnecessary back-and-forth emails and conversations, likely to inflate their billable hours, especially when the mistakes were theirs. Despite charging tens of thousands of dollars to assist with a Medicaid application, the first application was denied under their guidance. We had to reapply, and despite months of work, we essentially had to start over and pay twice for the same service. The most troubling part was after a year and a half when my parents finally had their affairs in order. Once everything was settled, the firm had the audacity to charge me for my siblings' inquiries about removing me as a trustee. This caused significant strain on our family, further compounded by the firm's opportunistic billing practices. It's disheartening to see a firm prioritize profits over genuinely helping families. I would strongly advise against using Cona Elder Care Law Firm if you are looking for a compassionate and transparent experience. Their primary motivation appears to be maximizing their own profits, often at the expense of vulnerable elderly clients and their concerned children.
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10 Jul, 2024 by Jayson mintz (mintyfresh18)
Was able to get one of my tickets dismissed and the others severely lowered. Very satisfied
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19 Jul, 2021 by Amanda
Consultation. Didn't even try to hide his disdain for clients. Exactly the type of lawyer who makes the profession look bad.
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06 May, 2015 by Michael
My two siblings and I are all on disability. Our parents created a Special Needs Trust for us, the last Trustee was resigning and there were a lot of legal issues. We were referred to Steven A. Kass, Esq.. Mr. Kass provided us with a detailed analysis of our issues and created solutions that enabled us to retain our governmental entitlements, maintain our independence, and get the most out of our trust funds.
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26 Oct, 2012 by Miriam
My husband had a stroke and is in a hospital on a ventilator. He will need care in a nursing home. I was scared that all of our savings would be paid to the nursing home leaving me with nothing. Mr. Kass told me how my assets could protected against the costs of nursing home care, how Medicaid could pay for my husband's care, and how I could later protect my monies if I need long term care in the future. I didn't think that was possible! Mr. Kass is helping me implement the plan he created to save my assets and get Medicaid for my husband. I am grateful to have Mr. Kass advocating for me.
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12 May, 2024 by Anonymous
Immediately after the initial consultation and well before Vivian Garrastegui was provided with documents she needed to work on my case, I informed her that the matter had been resolved, and requested refund of $4,600, the unused portion of the retainer.  My initial request and follow up emails and phone  call call were met with stone silence.  About a month has passed, I am still waiting for a response and/or a refund check.
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06 Jun, 2016 by Chris
When my dad’s health was deteriorating and my mom wanted legal guidance to secure/protect their joint assets, I asked our long time corporate council if he could help. He highly recommended SCHNEIDER & GARRASTEGUI, the law office that took care of his elder care needs. So in 2008 Vivian Garrastegui became our elder care attorney and my mom and I were pleased and relieved to have such patient, understanding guidance. Vivian not only met with us, but she allowed us to record some of our meetings so we could share what we were planning/doing with my brother who lived in Pennsylvania. My dad died in late 2008 and in late 2009 my mom was diagnosed with ALS. It soon became apparent that she could not/should not live alone, especially in her 2-story home. Since my home also had stairs, we agreed that my husband and I would sell our home and mom would sell her home, and the three of us would buy single level home to share. Again, we sought Vivian’s help. She gave us guidance on the sale of both houses and she represented us on the purchase of the new home. Vivian also made sure my mom’s ‘ducks were in a row’ (Power of Attorney, Last Will & Testament, Do Not Resuscitate, etc.) so that that mom’s wishes would be followed and her assets would be distributed as she wanted (to her three children and four grandchildren). Mom died in early 2011. Everything went according to plan without a hitch. After my husband suddenly died in January of 2014 I had Vivian make sure my affairs were in order (Health Care Proxy, Living Will, etc.). In August of 2014 I remembered a small life insurance policy that my father-in-law took out on my husband (when my husband was born). In the early years of our marriage we took over the $33 per year premium payments until it was paid in full. I inquired and found that there was about $2,000 payable on my husband’s death. When I tried to collect this I found that the policy’s beneficiary was my mother-in-law, who died in 1989. Again, I sought Vivian’s council to successfully get through the red tape. So, I have been an extremely satisfied client of Vivian Garrastegui for eight years now. I would, without hesitation, highly recommend her and I will, definitely, call on her again when the need arises.
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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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