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19 Feb, 2025 by Leila burbar
Barry and his team helped me tremendously after my car accident, if it wasn’t for them I wouldn’t have got the help I needed!
They are amazing!!
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24 Jan, 2025 by Pbach1
While walking my dog in my neighborhood one Sunday morning, a dog launched himself through a screened window that had a hole in it.
The german shepherd grabbed my arm and mauled me severely while dragging me into the driveway next to the house. After emergency surgery to repair the damage from a compound fracture (including plates and screws) and a stay in the hospital, I began the search for an attorney to guide me through the legal process of addressing the incident.
Because of a previous auto accident when I was represented by Barry Lakritz, and because of the level of trust I had in him and his team, I reached out to his office to see if this would be something they could help me with. Once they saw the pictures of my arm prior to surgery, they immediately agreed to handle my grievance against the homeowner.
I understood how the process worked and that it might take some amount of time to gather evidence and process it through whatever necessary systems (i.e., insurance claim, court, etc). But, Lakritz Law took the time to keep in touch with me and explain exactly what was happening. They even came to the courthouse to view my personal petition regarding the disposition of the animal that attacked me (something they do not legally handle).
Lakritz Law worked quickly and professionally to address all my concerns. Their entire staff was extremely knowledgeable and responsive – with special gratitude to Erika for all her time and attention to the details. They have many years of experience working on cases such as this, and have my highest respect. They are the only team I would consider to represent me again, if needed. Thank you, Lakritz Law.
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17 Jan, 2025 by Samuel allen
Delia is incredibly knowledgeable and understanding. She was able to help answer any questions and clear up any confusion. Highly recommend her services!
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31 Jan, 2025 by Lis hatfield
Tim is great at explaining the value and purpose of an estate plan. He helped us make decisions we feel good about and it’s comforting to know our estate is set up well for our kids. Highly recommend Tim and the team here!
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25 Aug, 2024 by Jim mcfadden
15 Jul, 2024 by Brenda robertson
My husband and I just had our trust redone at Alles Law. They were very efficient and explained what needed to be changed and why. They are very easy to work with. It was a very pleasant experience. We will certainly be working with them in the future.
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21 Nov, 2024 by Darrin miller
I could not have hired a better attorney to help me in my situation. Mitch was on the ball with my questions my call his callbacks. And his pursuit to help me with my custody hearing Seeing him in action in the courtroom His cross examination let’s just say I didn’t would not like to be in that seat
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13 Sep, 2024 by Dave leland
My wife and I had some legal documents drawn up and Mr. Schaller took care of our needs.
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26 Jul, 2024 by Vi kellersohn
Mitchell was simply the perfect lawyer for our family. He came into a difficult situation last minute on a delicate divorce case, quickly addressed all the legal matters needed. Within a week he had us on a fast track to results. His honesty, candor, and compassion made a tough situation easy. A lawyer with integrity and talent. Highly recommend his work!
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27 Jun, 2024 by Edward bielaska
Christopher was fantastic. Help me answer a lot of questions
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23 Feb, 2024 by Kathy stark
Outstanding advice and delivery, I highly recommend their services for elder law, trusts, etc!
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22 Dec, 2023 by Gregory karpicke
Chris Lindsay was very thorough and made sure we understood the work they did for us putting together estate planning documents. Chris as recommended to us and we highly recommend him as well.
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5.0
14 Reviews
28 May, 2022 by Anonymous
Sara helped our family successfully navigate a difficult and divisive time at the end of my mother’s life. She is a consummate professional with a breadth of experience (I believe she’s seen it all!), knowledge, and understanding. Sara ensured that mom’s wishes were respected and when mom developed dementia, skillfully shielded her from a relative who was seeking to take advantage. Sara is clear and direct but, at the same time, kind and compassionate. Sara’s knowledge of the law and her caring approach set her apart. I absolutely recommend her without reservation.
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17 May, 2022 by Joe
Since my father had not left a will when he passed, what little I knew about estates was that I would need help with my father's. I contacted Sara by phone and we spoke briefly and set an appointment to speak in person. Sara was not the first attorney I spoke with but the first to interview with me. At the interview I explained why I needed her help, I also showed my limited knowledge of what was before me. By the end of the interview Sara agreed to help me through the probate process. In the following months Sara worked on my behalf with the court and advised me what was expected of me as the administer of the estate. Through the whole process there were times I felt overwhelmed with the "business" of settling his estate and sometimes became quite emotional over my personal loss. But, with kind words and a firm direction Sara kept me on track and focused. I guess that's why attorneys are called counselors. Finally, with Sara's continued support and guidance, things were at an end and the estate was dissolved. There are things that happen in life that happen to other people and you think, that's too bad. But when one of those things happens to you you think, how will I get through this. I don't know how things would have turned out with someone other than Sara, I don't need to think about it. Sara was the best possible attorney for me to have helping me with her hard work, her knowledge and experience and her empathy. I plan on having Sara help with my estate planning since having experienced this ordeal once, I do not want to leave something like this to my loved ones.
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27 Apr, 2022 by Tom
Top marks! Sara has been my attorney for the past 24 years and I am forever grateful to the person who recommended her when I was first in need. Always on top of things, always ready with advice or direct action on my behalf. Plus, she is funny, unflappable, gracious and generous in spirit. She's my attorney but also my friend.
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18 Oct, 2024 by Blitz dog
Call and spoke with the attorney, who was extremely rude. He pretended to be polite but cut me off every time I got half of a sentence out. Then when I didn't let him cut me off he hung up on me. Useless
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20 Jul, 2024 by Charlotte richards
I was very satisfied WITH Mr Frank I would reccomend him to anyone who needed a lawyer he was very thorough doing what I needed him to do 5 stars he deserves
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07 May, 2024 by Amy newhouse
18 Dec, 2024 by Rob bucci
Thank You to Paull Zalewski & his staff for helping me get my son's traffic ticket dismissd in Rochester Hills Court. I will not hesitate to contact you should i requre your service in the future. Happy Holidays to The Zalewski Law Firm!
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13 Nov, 2024 by M h
10 Oct, 2024 by Elizabeth giuli
Paul's firm has handled my tickets with excellent care throughout the years! I always recommend him, and will continue to.
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31 Aug, 2024 by David rafsnider
08 Jul, 2024 by Leann henline
We were in search of an attorney to assist us with estate planning. We selected (Adam) Keilen Law after reading many favorable online reviews. We have been so impressed with their prompt attention and response to our needs, the pleasantness of the entire staff, and fair and upfront disclosures re: billing. In addition, the work they have completed for us has been done promptly and efficiently. My husband and I highly recommend this law firm!
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08 Jul, 2024 by Michael sullivan
04 Dec, 2024 by Blair cornblatt
Extremely accommodating, helpful, and professional!
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04 Dec, 2024 by Kelly sonner
Such a wonderful experience! I’d recommend 10/10 to anyone who is interested.
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04 Dec, 2024 by Brittany strassberg
Exceptional professionalism and dedication
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03 Feb, 2016 by Joanne
John was very professional, easy to talk to, and readily available for questions via email or phone. It was my first interaction with a lawyer and wasn't sure what to expect, but John made it easy and convenient for all concerned. I highly recommend him and his practice, very nice people!
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21 Sep, 2015 by Diane g
John was very informative and eased a lot of my concerns during the process. He kept me informed the entire time, and I was prepared for each step.
I was confident when I went to court with him, and everything worked out as he had discussed - there were no surprises along the way, and that is what you are looking for when you hire an attorney.
John's staff was also very professional, and I enjoyed coming to the office for my meetings. I have been to other lawyers' offices before where I did not feel comfortable. John's office was a family atmosphere, and it was exactly what I was looking for when hiring a lawyer.
John was extremely professional and knowledgeable, and I will be using his services again. I would highly recommend John Kelly and his entire firm for legal matters in Michigan.
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04 Sep, 2015 by Chris
We started working with John over 15 years ago when we were just getting our business started. He treated us with respect and honesty even when we were very small and over the years has become not only our complete source for all legal issues but a trusted business adviser and a key member on our team. John combines a perfect blend of professional legal expertise with common sense and relates to all of our team members at different levels. I would highly recommend John and his team to anyone.
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26 Oct, 2024 by Marilyn waxberg
Jane Bassett is highly competent, professional, thorough, and kind. The entire staff is as well. I highly recommend this law firm for all you estate planning needs.
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19 Sep, 2024 by Mary jane horner
This is a great environment to do your personal estate planning business. It is quiet and confidential. The people are respectful, friendly, and enjoy each others company. Their expertise on estate planning and Michigan law is tops as reflected in our conversations with them and the paperwork presented to us a the completion of our estate planning. If something should change in our lives, we know they are there to help us through the next level of planning.
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19 Sep, 2024 by Jeanine yang
In February 2024, I contacted Bassett Murray Law Group for a guardianship application. I live in Maryland. Initially, I was uncertain about how to work with an attorney via phone and internet. After the initial consultation with attorney Kimberly Parks, I was impressed by how professional and knowledgeable she is. She provided some very useful suggestions during the initial consultation. Once the trust was established, I came to realize how fortunate I am to have Kimberly as my attorney. She guided me through many difficult situations. Her knowledge and expertise were always just a phone call away and her timely response and follow-up were exceptional!
I would also like to thank paralegal Rosanna Nappi for her help. Great team to work with. I am so glad to choose your firm.
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07 Apr, 2024 by Anonymous
I had the honor of working with him. He is a brilliant down to earth Attorney. He taught me how to learn faster, at a moments notice. He always zealously advocates for his clients, gets results, and puts his clients at ease. Good Dad jokes too!
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27 Sep, 2019 by Traci
The most amazing lawyer ever. I was completely satisfied and more than happy how he took time and cared deeply about my future and well being. I hired Mr Urbani as my divorce attorney and we spent almost two years together going through a horrible part of my life. We hung in there and he put up with me and a few tears along the way. Always, had a Kleenex box for me and a joke to make me smile. He was amazing in trial. I wish I had a video of it all. He will take special care of you and his staff is wonderful and prompt. I was blessed to have him by my side. I will forever be grateful for this man. He's the number one attorney in my book.
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02 Jan, 2019 by Anonymous
I have known and used Anthony for over 21 years. I have recommended many clients to him - and never has there been a complaint. He wins. He cares about his clients, but tells you like it is. Doesn't sugar coat anything, tells you the law.
I find myself needing to use him again - and I will prevail. I will not stress over my current situation, because he is that good. His life is in his hands and I'm completely comfortable with that.
Can't say enough about him and his firm. His entire form are talented and knowledgeable. Wish there was a 10 star rating.
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08 Sep, 2019 by Anonymous
I am writing to give my highest recommendation and endorsement of Mr. Peter C. Clark, of Ferguson, Widmayer and Clark, PC of Ann Arbor, MI, an outstanding estate attorney. I am a long-term (over 40 years) faculty member from the University of Michigan. My husband and I recently began work on our wills, powers of attorney for health care and on setting up a family trust. We received a very strong recommendation from trusted close friends and colleagues who referred us to Pete, who had been so helpful to them in the same process. What we have come to value most about Pete—besides his immense fund of common sense, his low-key expertise, user-friendliness, professionalism and thoughtful concern for his clients’ needs is his sense of humour—by which I really mean a sense of balance, his ability to help in a timely way—and, most of all, his deep integrity. Beyond the outstanding technical legal work from Pete and his team at FW&C, Pete puts a lot of expertise, thought and most importantly—heart- into what he does for clients. He has put a very personable human and humane face on a process that can be (in the wrong hands), intimidating and scary. In a relatively short time, Pete has made a positive difference for us, and has made our lives so much easier by alleviating many of our concerns over future (inevitable) issues, that we feel encouraged and a sense of calm for the first time in years. Both our family trust issues and health issues are complex and multifaceted. Pete is immensely capable as well as able to provide solutions and to explain these complex issues and reduce them to manageable and understandable plans of action. I am immensely grateful to my colleagues and friends for this referral. I come from a family of academic and government lawyers with a lot of expertise and enormous experience. Peter Clark is in every way comparable to my family members. He is first class and someone I trust and admire greatly.
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15 May, 2017 by Dmitrii
Peter was professional, courteous, and patient. He took the time to explain everything in great detail and was thorough in his analysis. Peter's knowledge level was above and beyond my expectations and I truly appreciated his personal care. I would absolutely recommend him to anyone seeking Estate Planning.
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12 May, 2017 by Gina maksimchuk
Pete was extremely helpful in preparing all the paperwork we needed. We asked him to create a trust in the event that my husband and I died at the same time as we have an infant daughter. He guided us through the whole process, taking his time to ensure that we understood everything and were comfortable. I did not know much about trusts when we started, and Pete was excellent at presenting all the information clearly and providing examples for me. He asked us questions that I did not know to ask, or had not considered, to ensure that we had a thorough document that would cover many contingencies.
Pete was very professional, friendly, and sensitive to our needs. We greatly appreciated his help and will definitely work with him again. We would recommend him to anyone who would like to plan for the future.
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29 May, 2022 by Glen
This entire law group has the process of estate planning, including wills, down to a science. With their experience, they had the answers to all of my questions and made the process very easy. From the office, Kat assembled my funding table and clarified how I should go about changing ownership on my various accounts to my new trust, so they can avoid probate and make my estate easier to deal with for my trustees.
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02 May, 2022 by Anonymous
I highly recommend Bob Mannor and the Mannor Law Group. Everyone is very kind and knowledgeable. Kathryn LaPointe goes out of her way to be helpful and answer questions.
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31 Aug, 2016 by Karen
I have dealt with quite a few lawyers and i have to say that the Mannor Law Firm has been the best. They tell you there plan of action and follow thru with it. They are the first attorneys I have dealt with that did what they said they would do. And would make sure you were comfortable with all the decisions that were made.
Highly recommend this company! great people to work with.
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13 Jan, 2025 by Lynette moore
I would highly recommend Janal, she is by far the best, understanding and compassionate, an amazing person
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29 Jan, 2024 by Mike werner
In my experiences with Janal once again, she has proven her trustworthiness with unsurpassed skills.
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31 Dec, 2023 by Frank mossett
I have referred a number of people to Janel. Each time I get the same feedback. She’s incredibly smart and more importantly it’s clear she cares.
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10 Oct, 2023 by Gena queenb long
Livin Life
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29 Sep, 2023 by Jon krause
Wonderful attorneys, The Wendlings took care of a complicated estate issue in short order. I can't recommend them enough. We now have peace of mind that the estate is in order.
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06 Sep, 2022 by Jon lucas
They have been my family's attorney's for as long as I can remember. They have help us with writing up wills and now helping with my mom's estate.
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17 Jul, 2023 by Sara
From working with Karen, I learned that she is patient and detailed in her work. She looked out for me by answering all of my questions and spending the time with me to go through the paperwork to present my case so that my case was presenting as strong and factual in the court of law. Dealing with my situation was stressful, but she kept working with me so that the details were all organized and that I could present my case in a confident manner. It is very apparent that she cares about the cases that she takes on. I am very grateful for her expertise in helping me.
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22 Dec, 2021 by Calvin
I Hired Karen Ross for a divorce! I was very pleased with the service and the way she represented me! I would recommend her to anybody! She was very professional!
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21 Dec, 2021 by Mike
Karen has help my wife and I with pre-nup, will and trust issues and parents final trust taxes. She is assisting us currently with a lien issue and will soon be helping us with setting up another trust.
We appreciate having her as our "go-to" for legal advise and services.
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15 Aug, 2016 by Jim
Tara helped us with Estate Planning with a trust for my wife and I and a Special Needs Trust for our daughter. Tara was very patient and explained points of law to us that we did not understand. Her examples were concise and helped us understand how things would work. Also her pictorial sketches were helpful for us to understand how the assets would flow. I have worked with four different attorneys and Tara has been the BEST so far. I am expecting to utilize an attorney again for a property purchase; undoubtably it will be Tara!
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16 Mar, 2016 by Dr. james
We came to Ms. Peterson to secure a Trust and Ms. Peterson took the time and ensured that we knew what was involved. She answered our question and there was absolutely no pressure. I have never had a lawyer as part of my team and now my wife and I can say we have one now. She is highly professional, very personable, and devoted to her trade in serving others. I wholeheartedly endorse her professional service.
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22 Dec, 2015 by Tom & janet
This past spring Tara Peterson helped us with our trust and provided information we never thought of - which was very helpful in writing up the trust that best meets our needs. In addition to being very friendly and down to earth, she also answered questions regarding our elderly parents that live 4 hours away. We called her 6 months later on an elderly question and she answered our question quickly, efficiently, and in a friendly manner. We would definitely recommend her to our friends and family. We can't recommend her high enough for her professionalism and being a people person in explaining her lawyer information. Thank you Tara.
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12 Apr, 2016 by Kristin
Andrew has been spot on throughout a long and emotional situation after her husband, David Briggs, died. His children convinced her that her and her husband needed a medicaid divorce to protect the money and had him sign a POA and a will while in the hospital just weeks before his death. We did not see the manipulation until after he died and they tried to keep it from her. These were people she hugged and had in her home for 14 years for holidays. Andrew is a star
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10 May, 2015 by Anonymous
Mr. Shotwell was extremely helpful in navigating us through the process of setting up a will and trust. He spent time throughout the whole process to work through many aspects and details. At our final review of the documents I felt secure that my family was thoroughly protected because of the details.
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08 May, 2015 by Holly
I have had the privilege to work with Andrew in helping our mutual clients achieve their estate planning goals. Andrew genuinely cares about people and he is most knowledgeable in the law and the tools available to assist clients.
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07 Sep, 2022 by Anonymous
I contacted Attorney Archie for legal advice regarding a protracted estate dispute. I found she is not only knowledgeable about probate law but she also provided insight into general courtroom decorum. Greatly Appreciated!
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14 Feb, 2022 by Rebekah
As a former colleague I have watched Attorney Archie work diligently for all of her clients. She treats people with the utmost respect and is very knowledgeable in the law. She examines all of the details and puts on top tier arguments for all clients. I highly recommend Attorney Archie for your legal needs.
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13 Mar, 2012 by Mom
I have to say I am most prejudiced, as I am her mother. Be that as it may, I have never known anyone who stood up for her principles like my daughter...and isn't that what you really look for in an attorney?!?!?!?
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29 Nov, 2018 by Mark
I have known Greg for over 30 years. He has advised me on a number of issues, but most significantly my estate planning. He has a very holistic approach to handling his clients estate planning issues, but most important to him was what I wanted. His knowledge of estate planning is complete, thoughtful and forward looking. He shares with you various options you have to handle an issue and then explains the potential ramification of each option. In addition to being an excellent attorney he is a family man, a person of faith and has a superb sense of humor which makes working with him fun! Regarding his fees, I have always found them to be very reasonable and relative to the work product he produces an excellent value. If you are seeking a person of integrity, kindness and unparalleled knowledge in estate planning I would urge you to contact Greg.
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02 Aug, 2018 by Julia
Mr. Hamilton has been our estate attorney since 2013. During that time he has given us the peace of mind regarding our estate and all our legal affairs.
We would highly recommend Mr. Hamilton and his assistant Amanda.
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02 Aug, 2018 by Gene
Mr. Greg Hamilton is an excellant and exceptional Trust Law Attorney. He is professional, knowlegeable, talented, compassionate and has the ability to communicate on a layman's level. He never rushed us or avoided topics. He has the ability to take complicated legal verbage and explain them so that the average person can fully understand what is written.
My wife and I hired Mr. Hamilton to put together 2 Living Trusts, one for my wife and I, back in 2014. They were completed as promised and he and staff took the time to walk us through each section and answer all of our questions while including all of our discussion items from our initial meeting.
Since that time he has revised and updated the Living Trusts, has converted two into one when my wife passed away earlier this year in 2018. Help set up new trustees and put me in a position that I do not need to worry about anything regarding our estate.
I strongly recommend him to anyone who is looking for a first class Estate Law Attorny.
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18 Oct, 2023 by Taylor
Brandon is hands down the BEST attorney in the U.P. he is dedicated to serving his clients with respect and dignity. Look no further, his legal representation is justice served. He is the only lawyer I would ever consider for fighting for my life, freedom,faith and children. Thank you Brandon for always having my best interest at heart.
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13 Jun, 2022 by Harry
Very knowledgeable and great communication. Was on top of everything and worked with me on pricing
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11 Dec, 2024 by Carlos leon
06 Dec, 2024 by August pett
Our experience with Pamela was amazing. She is very professional and replies back to any questions you have very quickly. She will also update and advise you everytime there is an update in your case. She helped make what is a rather complicated process much easier.
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12 Nov, 2024 by Makayla o'henley
Very pleased after just receiving my sons and my greencard. The process can feel overwhelming and scary but it was made so easy and went so smoothly.
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04 Apr, 2014 by Don
Michael Kavanaugh was one of three or four attorneys I contacted when my wife and I needed to update our wills and trusts. I chose Mr. Kavanaugh based on some preliminary discussions with him even though he did not give me the lowest fee estimate. He was also not the most expensive. He was in the middle of the estimates I received. Mr. Kavanaugh and his assistant worked very hard on our trusts/wills which required some creativity on his part. Time was also important to us since my wife and I were headed out of town for an extended period. I had late night discussions with Mr. Kavanaugh as he tried his best to complete our trusts/wills on time. We really appreciated the extra effort and we are very pleased with the resulting documents. Even though we had some curves we threw his way and even though he worked overtime on our documents, he stuck to his original estimate. I would recommend Michael Kavanaugh to anyone needed help in the areas of law he practices.
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04 Apr, 2015 by David
We interviewed numerous attorneys to maintain our Revocable Living Trust.
Gary was the most knowledgeable one of the dozen or so attorneys we interviewed.
He also keeps up on new changes in the law and is very easy to work with !!!
He is also very educational in his seminars.
e.g. We learned about Lady Bird Deed through one of his seminars which is handy to keep property in your name (not in a trust where it can be taken by law suit) and yet passed along to children w/o triggering a reassessment of value causing higher property tax.
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01 Aug, 2024 by Linda
Catherine Wolfe is an excellent attorney. I would highly recommend her. She is extremely knowledgeable and compassionate when it comes to Animal Law. She was very quick to responded to my cry for help, with an abundance of information and Kindness. This world needs more lawyers with the heart and soul of Ms. Wolfe.
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17 Jul, 2024 by Roxybailyoreo roxybailyoreo
Great communication, great help, and works financially with you
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22 May, 2024 by Joshua watkins
Working with Amy Ruby has been an exceptional experience both professionally and personally. As an attorney, she is the epitome of a consummate professional. From our initial consultation to the final resolution, her expertise, diligence, and attention to detail were evident in every aspect of my case.
Beyond her professional excellence, what truly sets Amy apart is the genuine friendship she offered throughout this journey. Her approachable nature and empathetic understanding made an otherwise stressful process much more manageable. She took the time to listen, to understand my concerns, and to provide reassurance when I needed it most.
Amy seamlessly blended professional rigor with personal warmth, making me feel supported on all fronts. It’s rare to find someone who excels in their field while also being a true friend, but Amy Ruby is exactly that. If you’re looking for an attorney who will not only represent you with unwavering dedication but also stand by you as a trusted ally, I wholeheartedly recommend Amy Ruby.
Thank you, Amy, for your outstanding service and steadfast friendship. Your impact on my life goes beyond the courtroom, and I am profoundly grateful. Joshua Watkins
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27 Mar, 2024 by Angi quiroga
Amy was my representation in a divorce case. She was very thorough in walking me through each step and ensuring I was well informed of each step in the process. She was prompt in her communication and ensured all of my questions were answered. Above all else, I felt like I had an advocate every step of the way. 10/10 - I'd recommend Amy to any friend or family member who needs representation to resolve a legal issue.
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15 Mar, 2024 by Samantha smith
Mr Bec is brilliant & has very reasonable prices.
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14 Feb, 2021 by Derrick banks
08 Oct, 2019 by Markie k
08 Aug, 2024 by Suraya
Jamie Ryke of Thav Ryke and Associates is the attorney you want on your side. He expertly balances creating opportunities for cordial resolutions with a no-holds-barredapproach when necessary. From our initial conversation, Jamie demonstrated a commitment to ensuring we were a good fit and that our approach made sense. He took the time to understand my needs, showing that he is not just interested in filing papers to collect fees but genuinely focused on protecting my interests.
On top of his professionalism, Jamie's understanding of the nuances of law and people, combined with his approachable and straightforward manner, makes complex legal matters understandable. Thav Ryke and Associates also boast a deep bench of talented professionals, ensuring you're always in capable hands. Highly recommended!
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14 Feb, 2024 by Greg
Jamie represented my wife in a probate case and was successful with representation first time in court. Jamie did his research, knew the law and judicial procedures. He stood up for my wife when she needed legal support.
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16 Jan, 2024 by Sabrena
Thank you so much for helping me today with information that I needed I really appreciate it.
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31 Aug, 2024 by David rafsnider
08 Jul, 2024 by Kim day
Mr. Adam Keilen was recommended by my brother-in-law when I found myself in need of legal council. I am very pleased with my decision to use Keilen Law. I felt genuinely cared for and brilliantly represented during my time of need. My legal issue was attended to in a very timely and professional manner. I am now most definitely among those who would recommend Keilen Law!
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08 Jul, 2024 by Dora matheny
Hard to find. The attorney I talked to (the owner) about helping with my mom's estate so much as told me it wasn't worth his time for the amount of her estate because he makes $300 an hour. Thank you for your honesty, but that information was not necessary. We left crying during this difficult time and he left us feeling no better with his 15 minutes of a free consultation. We went elsewhere, were treated with empathy and respect. Now we are getting stuff taken care of.
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FAQs
Questions? We have answers
What a Probate Lawyer Can Do for You
A probate lawyer assists with the legal process of administering a deceased person’s estate. This often involves guiding executors (if a will exists) or beneficiaries (if no will exists) through the probate process to settle the estate according to the deceased’s wishes or applicable laws. Probate lawyers can help validate the will, distribute assets, resolve disputes among heirs, handle outstanding debts or taxes, and ensure the estate is legally and efficiently administered.
Whether you’re an executor of an estate or an heir facing probate proceedings, a probate lawyer can help you navigate the often-complex legal process to ensure the estate is settled correctly.
When Should I Hire a Probate Lawyer?
You should consider hiring a probate lawyer when you are responsible for managing the estate of a deceased individual, especially in the following situations:
- The estate has substantial assets: If the estate includes significant assets like real estate, investments, or business interests, legal assistance is often necessary to handle the distribution properly.
- The will is being contested: If there are disputes among heirs regarding the validity of the will or the division of assets, a probate lawyer can help resolve the conflict.
- The estate includes complex or unclear provisions: If the will contains complicated instructions or there are no clear beneficiaries, a lawyer can ensure that the estate is administered according to legal requirements.
- There is no will (intestate estate): When a person dies without a will, the estate is subject to intestacy laws, which determine how assets are distributed. A probate lawyer can help navigate this process.
- Debt or tax issues exist: If the estate owes significant debts or is subject to estate taxes, a probate lawyer can help ensure debts are paid appropriately and taxes are minimized.
- Probate disputes: If family members or other parties are disputing the distribution of assets or challenging the executor's actions, legal representation is crucial to defending your rights and ensuring the estate is handled properly.
Hiring a probate lawyer early in the process can help avoid costly mistakes and ensure the estate is settled efficiently.
What Does a Probate Lawyer Do?
A probate lawyer provides a wide range of legal services to help manage and settle an estate. Their tasks can include:
- Validating the will: Filing the will with the probate court and ensuring its legal validity.
- Guiding executors or administrators: Advising the person responsible for managing the estate on their duties, including inventorying assets, notifying creditors, and paying debts.
- Filing necessary paperwork: Preparing and submitting the legal documents required to initiate and complete the probate process.
- Resolving disputes: Mediating or litigating disputes among heirs or between beneficiaries and executors, including challenges to the will or disagreements over asset distribution.
- Handling debt and tax matters: Ensuring that outstanding debts, taxes, and estate taxes are properly calculated and paid from the estate’s assets.
- Distributing assets: Ensuring that assets are distributed to the beneficiaries according to the will or intestacy laws, and that all legal requirements are fulfilled.
- Closing the estate: Completing the final steps of the probate process, including filing a final accounting with the court and formally closing the estate.
How Are Probate Lawyers Paid?
Probate lawyers typically charge for their services based on the complexity of the estate and the nature of the legal work involved. Common payment structures include:
- Hourly rate: Most probate lawyers charge by the hour, with rates depending on the lawyer’s experience and the complexity of the estate. Hourly rates can range from $150 to $500 or more.
- Flat fee: For simple estates or straightforward probate tasks, some lawyers may charge a flat fee that covers all of the necessary legal work.
- Percentage of the estate: In some states, probate lawyers are allowed to charge a percentage of the estate's value as their fee. This percentage typically ranges from 2% to 5%, depending on the size of the estate and state regulations.
- Retainer fee: Some lawyers may require an upfront retainer fee, which is billed against as the probate process progresses.
It’s important to clarify the fee structure during your initial consultation to understand how you will be charged and avoid unexpected costs.
How Much Does a Probate Lawyer Cost?
The cost of hiring a probate lawyer depends on several factors, including the complexity of the estate, the type of legal issues involved, and the lawyer’s fee structure. General cost estimates include:
- Simple estates: For estates with straightforward assets and no disputes, probate legal fees can range from $2,500 to $10,000, depending on the lawyer's fees and the state's probate laws.
- Complex estates: For larger or more complicated estates with multiple properties, business interests, or disputes, probate costs can exceed $10,000 and may reach $20,000 or more.
- Hourly rates: If charged by the hour, expect rates between $150 and $500, depending on the lawyer’s expertise and geographic location.
- Percentage fees: In some cases, a probate lawyer may charge 2% to 5% of the estate’s value, particularly for larger estates or those involving complex legal matters.
Always ask for a clear estimate of fees during your initial consultation to understand the total cost of probate representation.
Top Questions to Ask a Probate Lawyer
Before hiring a probate lawyer, it’s essential to ask the right questions to ensure you’re hiring someone qualified to handle your estate needs. Key questions include:
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What experience do you have with probate cases like mine?
Ensure the lawyer has experience with estates of similar complexity, especially if disputes or high-value assets are involved. -
How do you charge for your services?
Ask whether the lawyer charges an hourly rate, a flat fee, or a percentage of the estate, and request a cost estimate. -
What is the likely timeline for my probate case?
While it’s hard to predict exactly, an experienced lawyer can give you a general idea of how long the probate process may take based on the specifics of your estate. -
What steps will you take to manage and distribute the estate?
Ask about the lawyer’s approach to handling debts, taxes, and asset distribution. -
Will you be handling my case personally?
In larger firms, junior attorneys or paralegals may handle some aspects of your case, so it’s important to know who will be working on your probate case. -
What are potential challenges we may face?
A good lawyer will be able to anticipate possible issues, such as will contests or creditor claims, and explain how they would handle them.
How to Check the Credibility of a Probate Lawyer
To ensure you’re hiring a reputable probate lawyer, follow these steps to check their credentials and experience:
- Verify their state bar status: Check with your state’s bar association to confirm the lawyer is licensed to practice and has no history of disciplinary action.
- Look for probate experience: Review the lawyer’s website or professional profile to ensure they specialize in probate law and have experience handling estates of similar complexity.
- Read client reviews and testimonials: Look for online reviews on platforms like Avvo or Martindale-Hubbell to see what past clients have said about the lawyer’s probate experience.
- Ask for references: A credible lawyer should be able to provide references from past clients who can vouch for their professionalism and expertise in handling probate matters.
- Look for membership in professional organizations: Membership in organizations like the American Academy of Estate Planning Attorneys (AAEPA) or the National Academy of Elder Law Attorneys (NAELA) can indicate a lawyer's commitment to estate and probate law.
What Should I Prepare for My First Consultation?
To make the most out of your first consultation with a probate lawyer, it’s important to come prepared with relevant documents and information. Here’s what you should bring:
- A copy of the will or trust (if applicable): Bring any estate planning documents left by the deceased, including wills, trusts, or powers of attorney.
- List of assets and debts: Prepare a detailed list of the deceased’s assets (e.g., real estate, bank accounts, investments) and outstanding debts (e.g., loans, mortgages, credit cards).
- Death certificate: Bring a certified copy of the deceased person’s death certificate.
- Contact information for heirs and beneficiaries: Have a list of all individuals or entities named in the will or who are entitled to inherit under intestacy laws.
- Questions about the probate process: Write down any questions you have about the process, costs, and potential issues you might face.
- Relevant financial records: If available, bring any relevant financial documents, such as bank statements, property deeds, and tax returns.
By coming prepared, you can ensure a productive consultation and allow the lawyer to provide the best advice for your situation.
