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23 Jan, 2025 by Jaime silva
I hired this firm because they advertised themselves as one of the top legal practices in the area. However, the attorney assigned to my case, charging $420 per hour, made a significant error in the legal documents she prepared for my case, including an incorrect date. When I brought this to her attention, she responded by stating that I should have caught the mistake before signing the document.
I find this level of negligence unacceptable, particularly from a firm that claims to be among the best. When I confronted the attorney about the error and requested that it be corrected, she insisted it was not her responsibility to catch such mistakes and reiterated that I should have identified the error myself before signing.
As a result of this oversight, my case is now in a much worse position than when I initially sought the firm’s help. I am now pursuing a legal malpractice lawsuit against both the attorney and the firm, and I plan to file a formal complaint with the state bar in an effort to have her license suspended or revoked due to her actions in this family law matter.
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19 Jan, 2025 by Vicki thake
17 Sep, 2024 by Moira walsh
Professional. Honest. As with any service, be very specific when you communicate your needs.
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13 Dec, 2024 by Marty mctigue
Peter and Justin were excellent to work with on our business operations agreement. I highly recommend contacting if you are in need of a business lawyer.
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12 Dec, 2024 by Skol marketing
Its never fun to have to use a lawyer but a its part of business.
But with that being said, we have been very fortunate to work with Justin and Peter. They both have been very helpful and informative and helped us through a couple situations. Very appreciative of their business legal knowledge and advice.
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12 Dec, 2024 by Ben theis
I have worked with several lawyers for various situations over the years with owning a business. But can honestly say that Justin Boschwitz and Peter Kaiser with Moss & Barnett have been the two best I have worked. They are down to earth and it doesn't feel like the classic lawyer - client relationship I have had before or is stereotypical. They have helped me with both positive and unfortunate business situations and guided me along the way. I would highly recommend them, SKOL!
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13 Dec, 2024 by Marty mctigue
Peter and Justin were excellent to work with on our business operations agreement. I highly recommend contacting if you are in need of a business lawyer.
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12 Dec, 2024 by Skol marketing
Its never fun to have to use a lawyer but a its part of business.
But with that being said, we have been very fortunate to work with Justin and Peter. They both have been very helpful and informative and helped us through a couple situations. Very appreciative of their business legal knowledge and advice.
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12 Dec, 2024 by Ben theis
I have worked with several lawyers for various situations over the years with owning a business. But can honestly say that Justin Boschwitz and Peter Kaiser with Moss & Barnett have been the two best I have worked. They are down to earth and it doesn't feel like the classic lawyer - client relationship I have had before or is stereotypical. They have helped me with both positive and unfortunate business situations and guided me along the way. I would highly recommend them, SKOL!
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26 Aug, 2024 by Bailey meixner
I applied for the Human Resources Assistant position with Stinson, LLP in Minneapolis, Minnesota, in August 2024. I was called the next day after applying via their online job application on their website.
My initial telephone interview was with Chelsea L. Clennan, Director of Human Resources for Stinson, LLP, who's located in their Wichita, Kansas office.
Chelsea was immediately complimenting me, telling me that any employer would be lucky to have me, that my skillsets are perfect for the role, that they would move quick for me in the recruitment process, they would make same-day job offers if needed-- immediately raising red flags for me that she was not a genuine person. She immediately moved me on to the second and final stage of the hiring process: the final interview with the hiring manager, the HR manager of the Minneapolis office-- both of whom reported to Chelsea.
My suspicions of Chelsea would prove correct when, all the sudden, after letting her know after my final interview on Friday afternoon that I did have another offer, which I'd received the day prior, Chelsea responded to my email quickly, letting me know her and her hiring team would meet on Monday. In her email to me, which I've attached, she even told me her team considered me a top candidate.
Monday came and went-- nothing, crickets. Tuesday, I received the attached screen shot email, letting me know they'd meet later that day. I replied, thanked her for keeping me in the loop, even further expressing my gratitude for keeping in touch with me and making me feel respected and valued.
Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday -- absolute radio silence from Chelsea L. Clennan. I sent a polite follow up email Friday afternoon-- again, I had been ghosted. Not a single reply or word from Chelsea or her team ever since -- despite her shtick of "you're a top candidate" and "we move quickly."
I shudder to think how Stinson, LLP employees -- whether in Minneapolis or Kansas -- are treated if Chelsea treated a job applicant -- me -- with what I felt like was pure garbage and disrespect.
Personally, I do not recommend Stinson as a place to work based on my experience as a job candidate and how I feel I was treated.
When people like the human resources director show you their true colors-- believe them.
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06 Feb, 2024 by Riley d
I walked in alone to a hearing riddled with anxiety and uncertainty, with no legal representation. Not knowing what was going to be my outcome, especially over a situation that should not have even been brought to a level where court would have been involved, I requested a court appointed attorney.
I have never lucked out so much in my entire life than I did that day. Stinson Law firm just so happened to be providing pro bono work that morning and took my case. The two attorneys I worked with not only helped me feel validated in my disbelief that I was even there, but also were the most knowledgeable powerhouse of representation I could have ever asked for.
If I were to sum it all up in 3 reasons why I would recommend them to anyone, it would be:
Top notch negotiation skills, an unmatched knowledge of the law surrounding my scenario, and for being the most personable, down to earth people, to have the pleasure of working with.
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19 Jan, 2024 by William ebert
Top notch professional attorneys and warm and friendly staff one of the best places to go for support
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26 Aug, 2024 by Bailey meixner
I applied for the Human Resources Assistant position with Stinson, LLP in Minneapolis, Minnesota, in August 2024. I was called the next day after applying via their online job application on their website.
My initial telephone interview was with Chelsea L. Clennan, Director of Human Resources for Stinson, LLP, who's located in their Wichita, Kansas office.
Chelsea was immediately complimenting me, telling me that any employer would be lucky to have me, that my skillsets are perfect for the role, that they would move quick for me in the recruitment process, they would make same-day job offers if needed-- immediately raising red flags for me that she was not a genuine person. She immediately moved me on to the second and final stage of the hiring process: the final interview with the hiring manager, the HR manager of the Minneapolis office-- both of whom reported to Chelsea.
My suspicions of Chelsea would prove correct when, all the sudden, after letting her know after my final interview on Friday afternoon that I did have another offer, which I'd received the day prior, Chelsea responded to my email quickly, letting me know her and her hiring team would meet on Monday. In her email to me, which I've attached, she even told me her team considered me a top candidate.
Monday came and went-- nothing, crickets. Tuesday, I received the attached screen shot email, letting me know they'd meet later that day. I replied, thanked her for keeping me in the loop, even further expressing my gratitude for keeping in touch with me and making me feel respected and valued.
Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday -- absolute radio silence from Chelsea L. Clennan. I sent a polite follow up email Friday afternoon-- again, I had been ghosted. Not a single reply or word from Chelsea or her team ever since -- despite her shtick of "you're a top candidate" and "we move quickly."
I shudder to think how Stinson, LLP employees -- whether in Minneapolis or Kansas -- are treated if Chelsea treated a job applicant -- me -- with what I felt like was pure garbage and disrespect.
Personally, I do not recommend Stinson as a place to work based on my experience as a job candidate and how I feel I was treated.
When people like the human resources director show you their true colors-- believe them.
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06 Feb, 2024 by Riley d
I walked in alone to a hearing riddled with anxiety and uncertainty, with no legal representation. Not knowing what was going to be my outcome, especially over a situation that should not have even been brought to a level where court would have been involved, I requested a court appointed attorney.
I have never lucked out so much in my entire life than I did that day. Stinson Law firm just so happened to be providing pro bono work that morning and took my case. The two attorneys I worked with not only helped me feel validated in my disbelief that I was even there, but also were the most knowledgeable powerhouse of representation I could have ever asked for.
If I were to sum it all up in 3 reasons why I would recommend them to anyone, it would be:
Top notch negotiation skills, an unmatched knowledge of the law surrounding my scenario, and for being the most personable, down to earth people, to have the pleasure of working with.
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19 Jan, 2024 by William ebert
Top notch professional attorneys and warm and friendly staff one of the best places to go for support
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25 Nov, 2024 by Daniel kohn
18 Nov, 2024 by Connor lem
Ambulance chasing firm that won’t follow that facts
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14 Dec, 2023 by Patrick burns
Great firm. Great client service.
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13 Jan, 2025 by Brent ruebling
I had a great experience working with the attorney's at Burns and Hansen. I appreciate their knowledge, expertise and compassion assisting with my legal representation.
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08 Jan, 2025 by Alan surratt
I have been a client since 2012, every time I've needed legal assistance they have performed with excellence. Recently, Graciela updated my will and estate plan over the holiday season. I highly recommend her and the rest of the team!
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31 Dec, 2024 by Ann paulson
I am working with this firm find them caring, professional, efficient and accurate. The documents prepared are
well written, impressive and effective. They are thorough, responsive and down to earth. I would highly recommend them to handle your legal issues.
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30 Oct, 2024 by Kelly kuschel
Mr. Meshbesher was by my side, right from the get go. Dan himself, handled my case! I wasn't expecting top of the line service, but that is exactly what I received. The people are kind, considerate and arE serious, about their work! I never felt like 'just another number', to them. Instead, my case was treated with compassion and patience!
I have complete faith in this Law Firm and I can recommend them withouT any hesitation! 5*
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10 Oct, 2024 by Blake d
Would be 1 star but I’ve atleast been contacted after reaching out trying to figure out what is going on with my case which is absolutely nothing.
Process started back in June. I reached out to see if it was possible to reopen my case from 4 years prior because I still have major lasting effects from my shoulder surgery. (Had a different attorney) Spoke with Daniel and he stated we could probably settle out the medical as I have out of pocket costs at minimum of biweekly chiropractic care just so I can function. After this I went through the process of getting my entire file from my previous attorney and hand delivered it to his office.
After 2 months of not hearing anything I decided to reach out. First by email. No response. A couple weeks later by phone and I left a voicemail. Again never heard back. A week or so later I called again. This time leaving a message with a lady who answered. After this I got a call from Daniel about a week later. During this phone call he again stated that he thinks we could settle out the medical. He stated he was going to talk with his partner and figure out a game plan on how to proceed and that he would be in contact with me again in a week. I never heard back.
Fast forward a month and a half I decided to reach out again. First by email. Again, no response. I let another week or so pass and decided to call. This time I was transferred directly to Daniel. During this call everything changed. Now it was he didn’t think they could settle the medical and he stated he’d give a call back within the week. This never happened.
Now 2-3 weeks later here I am posting this review. This was never with intentions of a money grab. 100% I have major issues since having my shoulder surgery. I make more money however I have a $5000 deductible so I choose not to go to the doctor because I really can’t afford that. So instead I go to the chiropractor just so I can get by. Costs me only around $150 every month.
I write this review not in spite nor in anger, but more so in annoyance because I feel as if Daniel made it seem like something could be done and just constantly left me wondering what was happening. So really just wasted a ton of my time just to be given false hope. Daniel should have from the beginning just told me that there was nothing that could be done. Had he done that I would have just let it be.
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06 Sep, 2024 by Russell prihoda
Dan was extremely helpful and got things done.
I am very satisfied with the help and guidance.
The mediation went very well with Dan and his lovely wife. I recommend them highly.
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29 Nov, 2024 by Ryyann romeo-nickclaus diamonds
It has to be one of the most misogynistic man whose ego is too big for his body. Right off the bat this man has man explain to me and I am a man, but he was mansplaining. On top of that, I am a part of the LGBTQ. I in no way felt like he was supportive of that because I was a victim of Domestic assault. This lawyer managed to get my spouse everything he wanted, Including dismissing my order of protection And came up with his own stipulations alongside with the other lawyer the only thing he negotiated with me with was to move Which I shouldn’t have had to because that is also my house. I have shared interest and dividend in it. He acted not in my favor and I will not recommend this lawyer. One of the worst absolute lawyer I have ever seen and he’s gonna give him back every single Since when I’m done here because he was an ineffective counsel and advise me to do stupid things I should not have done. He also told me to sit down and look pretty and a grown man talk and shut my mouth, who talks to somebody Like that?
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11 Nov, 2024 by Tory park
We paid for services and then he ghosted us for 7 months. We are filing official complaint against him. Do not recommend.
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28 Aug, 2024 by Amanda haeg
While our initial consultation made me feel heard and supported, it has been nearly four months since our last contact despite multiple attempts to call, text and email. I've been left hanging without the agreement I paid for and have been forced to seek for and hire another attorney. As much as I understand that life happens and he may truly be unable to help me at this time, I've paid for a service and believe I deserve an explanation, at minimum, as this significantly impacts a very sensitive situation.
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09 Jun, 2024 by Sylvain brouillette
Beautiful mediation room the whole entire place is brand new. Their new office are located inside the Wells Fargo Center.
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05 May, 2021 by Anthony poley
This bar is amazing you guys are the best amazing service
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24 Oct, 2020 by Redd man
They were closed when their web site said they were open. Paided a parking fee for nothing.
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09 Jun, 2024 by Sylvain brouillette
Beautiful mediation room the whole entire place is brand new. Their new office are located inside the Wells Fargo Center.
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05 May, 2021 by Anthony poley
This bar is amazing you guys are the best amazing service
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24 Oct, 2020 by Redd man
They were closed when their web site said they were open. Paided a parking fee for nothing.
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09 Jun, 2024 by Sylvain brouillette
Beautiful mediation room the whole entire place is brand new. Their new office are located inside the Wells Fargo Center.
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05 May, 2021 by Anthony poley
This bar is amazing you guys are the best amazing service
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24 Oct, 2020 by Redd man
They were closed when their web site said they were open. Paided a parking fee for nothing.
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09 Jun, 2024 by Sylvain brouillette
Beautiful mediation room the whole entire place is brand new. Their new office are located inside the Wells Fargo Center.
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05 May, 2021 by Anthony poley
This bar is amazing you guys are the best amazing service
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24 Oct, 2020 by Redd man
They were closed when their web site said they were open. Paided a parking fee for nothing.
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09 Jun, 2024 by Sylvain brouillette
Beautiful mediation room the whole entire place is brand new. Their new office are located inside the Wells Fargo Center.
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05 May, 2021 by Anthony poley
This bar is amazing you guys are the best amazing service
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24 Oct, 2020 by Redd man
They were closed when their web site said they were open. Paided a parking fee for nothing.
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20 May, 2022 by Wicca leaks
18 Apr, 2021 by Paul emile
Really good service as always. Staff is really helpful
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02 Feb, 2021 by Cody strasburg
09 Jun, 2024 by Sylvain brouillette
Beautiful mediation room the whole entire place is brand new. Their new office are located inside the Wells Fargo Center.
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05 May, 2021 by Anthony poley
This bar is amazing you guys are the best amazing service
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24 Oct, 2020 by Redd man
They were closed when their web site said they were open. Paided a parking fee for nothing.
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22 Mar, 2024 by Lula paloozah
Always taking "vacations" with your money. Stalls, does a lot of "busy work" and slick talking to make sure it looks like he's doing something. Commits perjury overall good lawyer if you are a deadbeat trying to make it look like you are not.
So really 3 stars.
but 1 star for honest parents.
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06 Nov, 2023 by Joshua jacob
Hello I'm a single father and the twin cities. My son's mother has made it very difficult for me to be in my son's life. I speak from experience. Travis is a true gladiator! When representing his clients he spares no expense when fighting for you to be in your child's life. It is an honor to recommend him at the highest levels of expectation. Fortunately for me I have Travis on my side who has years of practice in the justice system, and has the experience and not just family law, business law, and criminal defense law with a appellate court practice. Literally at One stop shop. He takes the time to explain best possible outcomes, as well as the realities of least possible outcomes. In addition to this his retainer and hourly rate are very reasonable. I strongly recommend his services and legal support to anyone in my network in need of the best representation in the legal market. Thank you for reading!
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04 Nov, 2023 by Jackie holton
Doesn't send itemized bills..... takes your retainer doesn't follow through or answer calls.Also previous history and got in trouble for this very behavior.......uses his divorce and sons story to make u feel he relates.
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22 Mar, 2024 by Lula paloozah
Always taking "vacations" with your money. Stalls, does a lot of "busy work" and slick talking to make sure it looks like he's doing something. Commits perjury overall good lawyer if you are a deadbeat trying to make it look like you are not.
So really 3 stars.
but 1 star for honest parents.
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06 Nov, 2023 by Joshua jacob
Hello I'm a single father and the twin cities. My son's mother has made it very difficult for me to be in my son's life. I speak from experience. Travis is a true gladiator! When representing his clients he spares no expense when fighting for you to be in your child's life. It is an honor to recommend him at the highest levels of expectation. Fortunately for me I have Travis on my side who has years of practice in the justice system, and has the experience and not just family law, business law, and criminal defense law with a appellate court practice. Literally at One stop shop. He takes the time to explain best possible outcomes, as well as the realities of least possible outcomes. In addition to this his retainer and hourly rate are very reasonable. I strongly recommend his services and legal support to anyone in my network in need of the best representation in the legal market. Thank you for reading!
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04 Nov, 2023 by Jackie holton
Doesn't send itemized bills..... takes your retainer doesn't follow through or answer calls.Also previous history and got in trouble for this very behavior.......uses his divorce and sons story to make u feel he relates.
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20 May, 2022 by Wicca leaks
18 Apr, 2021 by Paul emile
Really good service as always. Staff is really helpful
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02 Feb, 2021 by Cody strasburg
09 Jan, 2024 by Tj forystek
I was referred to this group for a special needs trust. They basically charged me over $450.00, didn't listen, made assumptions, and finally said they were "too expensive" but have to bill me for the first hour. Needless to say, I ended the engagement. I would not recommend this law firm to anyone unless you're interested in wasting money on expensive, inexperienced lawyers that don't take their time to review your request but still charge their high rate.
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09 Nov, 2023 by Jack klein
Awful firm, terrible people. I have nothing but negative things to say about them.
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23 Aug, 2023 by Hannah erickson
09 Jan, 2024 by Tj forystek
I was referred to this group for a special needs trust. They basically charged me over $450.00, didn't listen, made assumptions, and finally said they were "too expensive" but have to bill me for the first hour. Needless to say, I ended the engagement. I would not recommend this law firm to anyone unless you're interested in wasting money on expensive, inexperienced lawyers that don't take their time to review your request but still charge their high rate.
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09 Nov, 2023 by Jack klein
Awful firm, terrible people. I have nothing but negative things to say about them.
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23 Aug, 2023 by Hannah erickson
09 Jan, 2024 by Tj forystek
I was referred to this group for a special needs trust. They basically charged me over $450.00, didn't listen, made assumptions, and finally said they were "too expensive" but have to bill me for the first hour. Needless to say, I ended the engagement. I would not recommend this law firm to anyone unless you're interested in wasting money on expensive, inexperienced lawyers that don't take their time to review your request but still charge their high rate.
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09 Nov, 2023 by Jack klein
Awful firm, terrible people. I have nothing but negative things to say about them.
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23 Aug, 2023 by Hannah erickson
09 Jan, 2024 by Tj forystek
I was referred to this group for a special needs trust. They basically charged me over $450.00, didn't listen, made assumptions, and finally said they were "too expensive" but have to bill me for the first hour. Needless to say, I ended the engagement. I would not recommend this law firm to anyone unless you're interested in wasting money on expensive, inexperienced lawyers that don't take their time to review your request but still charge their high rate.
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09 Nov, 2023 by Jack klein
Awful firm, terrible people. I have nothing but negative things to say about them.
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23 Aug, 2023 by Hannah erickson
10 Jun, 2024 by Samantha
He seems like he might be a nice guy, but after he agreed to take on our simple case, we've only progressed inches in the 6 months that we hired him. It takes him weeks to respond to emails (after I've sent multiple follow ups) and it's been a month since we cancelled his services, requested our invoice and a refund of the retainer we paid him, and we still haven't received it. Again, probably a nice guy, but I've been nothing but tirelessly disappointed since hiring him and would recommend people look elsewhere for their legal needs.
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08 Apr, 2022 by Lena
It's taken me a lot of internal struggle to write this review (I've honestly never written one before), but ultimately I've come to the conclusion that it's important that nobody else gets into the same situation that my husband and I have been in. We are intended parents in a surrogacy journey and we came to John for both our Gestational Carrier Agreement and our Parentage Agreement/Pre-Birth Order. During our time working with John, he lacked communication and we would often go for weeks without communication. He also failed to meet deadlines on submitting important documents, which almost caused us to miss our transfer date. John apologized for this lack of communication and assured us he would "do better" if we hired him again for our Parentage Agreement/Pre-Birth Order. Once we hired John a second time, we experienced the same negligence and would ghost us for weeks at a time. He would tell us that he would have our drafts ready to go by a certain date, but that day would come and go with no word. This got to the point that our GC's lawyers became involved in trying to get ahold of him. Then, John finally reached out to us letting us know he couldn't provide services and that we should seek other council. He said a refund was on the way, but a week later we hadn't received a refund. I called Square to inquire whether a refund had been initiated and it hadn't. In the end, our new lawyer had to get involved so that John would pay us back.
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20 May, 2021 by Jennifer
The initial phone consult in August for step parent adoption had me very hopeful. We retained (paid) this lawyer on 8/26/20. Received our initial information after consult/retaining 10/13/20. We have received 5 “updates” usually 1-2 months apart and typically after much prodding with no movement in our case. For reference, 3/3/21 was his last email to us and we have asked for updates (any sign of life!) 3 times (and a fourth today). I would really love to get some help for our family but I’m running out of hope that John Buchholz will do anything with our case.
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17 Mar, 2022 by Anonymous
Did not file with the court for a year and a half. He lied to me every time I asked where we were with my case. He only filed after I contacted the county attorney, which she contacted him. I fired him and got a new attorney and my case was done in 3 months.
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25 Feb, 2011 by Misrepresented client
I retained David Wandling for council on an issue I had with my lease. When I first approached him he made it seem like this action was a no-brainer to pursue. Well it wasn't $4,000 and a month later I was still evicted for something I didn't do.
I would have been much better off just paying the move fee and vacating the premise (even though I had done nothing wrong), but I chose to pursue a claim on David's encouragement.
David is a very nice man and I enjoyed working with him on a personal level. I simply don't think he was a very good litigator. Maybe there are other areas where he is a good lawyer, but when it comes to contract law and lease negotiation I think you'd be better off retaining me to represent you after what I learned.
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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.
