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12 Dec, 2024 by Theresa cipponeri
If you need an attorney, Randy is the attorney to call for legal guidance and representation. Do not waste your time by calling any other attorney for help! I sought help from Randy while going through the painfull experience of an unwanted high-conflict divorce. Like many people in this type of situation, I was feeling hopeless, despondent, and powerless, not knowing how to navigate this unknown territory. Once Randy took on my case, the many lingering issues that needed to be settled were quickly handled and dealt with. This is an attorney who does not mess around. He listened to my concerns and acted accordingly to get things settled so I could move on and start rebuilding my life. He took action and did not tolerate the delay tactics of my ex’s attorney by allowing them to continue to refuse to communicate, answer questions, or provide the documentation they were ordered to provide. Emails and phone calls are always returned and in a timely manner. You will never be left wondering what is going on with your case as he will update you regularly as needed. His advice is thorough, honest, and delivered in a kind, empathetic manner with thoughtful insight. Randy does not waste time and he will not waste your money. His rates are very reasonable, especially given the attention and detail he provided to my case. It is clear that Randy knows the law and has the expertise to handle tough cases. His professionalism and work ethic are stellar. I hope that I never need an attorney ever again, but if I do my first and only call will be to Randy without a doubt!
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22 Nov, 2024 by Maria barone
Great
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20 Nov, 2024 by Lisa j. schmidt
I have worked with Mr. Chioini on multiple highly complex divorce and custody matters. He and his firm are very organized and are skilled at handling complicated and uncommon issues. He is a zealous advocate for his clients and knows how to build a strong record, making it easier for his clients to win their cases.
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20 Jun, 2024 by Gloria pearson, realtor (gpknowsrealestate.com)
I needed help with collecting a debt and Kyle was absolutely awesome. He is professional, an experienced lawyer whom I was very please with. If I need any guidance or help with legal matters, my first call is with Kyle. He is honest and cares about the people he works with. I’m so glad I found him. 10stars without a doubt for him. Thanks Kyle..
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12 Jun, 2024 by Clifton c.
Selecting the right attorney can be pivotal to the success of a case. An attorney like Kyle Bristow, known for his clarity and conciseness, as well as a solid track record, can make a significant difference in complex cases. My experience with Attorney Bristow was positive and his expertise contributed to a favorable outcome for my case. His ability to handle intricate cases effectively makes him a commendable choice for representation and referral among professionals.
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05 Jun, 2024 by Zero tolerance
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13 Sep, 2024 by Catherine radloff
I felt lost and desperate and SCARED! I have 4 DUI's...yep 4 and had been without a license for about 18 + years. I am 100% sober now and felt ready for the privilege of driving. I had been denied by the license appeal board and felt a need to change attorneys...that's when I was introduced to Attorney Vickrey. He told me the good the bad and what could be the ugly. He walked me through each step and made sure that all my ducks were in a row. The man texted / called me on the weekends! The second time around, with Attorney Vickrey, we had success and my license was fully reinstated with no restrictions! Attorney Vickrey will ALWAYS be my go to attorney. RESPECT!!!!
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07 Apr, 2024 by Christopher wojtylo
Robert hooked me up with my attorney for my hit and run car accident and did an amazing job linking me up with the right attorney. Robert is very knowledgeable and cares about his clients. Still to this day he checks up on how my case is going and it's very much appreciated. I wish we had more attorneys like robert who we can trust and who truly care. I highly recommend Robert for your attorney needs!
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05 Apr, 2024 by William timmons
I've known Mr Vickrey for over a dozen years and have turned to him on several occasions to resolve personal and business issues with fast and great results. Bob's resources are endless and top tear that are unmatched. Bob takes a personal interest in your worries and problems and resolves them to the best of his abilities and has never failed me. I would highly recommend Bob to become your turn to person to resolve any issue big or small.
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08 Nov, 2024 by Capitola terry
Shawn Coppins represented me with the upmost empathy and patience! He really listen to what I had to say. I would recommend Coppins Law to anyone. They’re very professional!
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24 Apr, 2024 by Amanda gray
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13 Apr, 2024 by David getit
Mr. Coppins is a very disrespectful person and plays the game dirty. I would not recommend this attorney to anyone.
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03 Jul, 2023 by Kim gollehur
Quick easy free referrals. I was very pleased.
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24 Apr, 2023 by D dee
Just not interested in helping anyone... Yet, it's there to assist the public & Not in Such a rude manner.
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21 Sep, 2022 by Dylan ochoa
rude, didn't care, don't want to help the people, hate their jobs, rude once again,
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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:

  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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