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01 Aug, 2011 by Anonymous
I have sent many legal clients to Ms. Hilowitz and they were all very impressed by her professionalism. They reportes that she produced what they needed promptly and kept them informed throughout their relationship with her.
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31 Jul, 2011 by Carl
I used Ms. Hilowitz for the past 6 years on a complicated trust dispersal after the death of a family member. I was the Trustee.
She handled it with expertise and patience seeing it to its amiable conclusion for all concerned even when dealing with exceptionally difficult counsel from other parties.
Thank you!
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31 Jul, 2011 by Anonymous
It is without hesitation or reservation as a former and long standing client of Ms. Lynne S. Hilowitz that I highly recommend her legal services. She is an outstanding community minded and long time resident of Rockland County who has taken leadership roles within the legal community as an active member of several associations. Ms. Hilowitz is extremely capable in her understanding and knowledge of law along with all of the necessary applications; she is also perceptive, genial and all around refreshing to work with. Ms. Hilowitz has the utmost in professional and ethical standards along with the ability to sift through complicated issues. She listens affably to her clients with a keen, considerate ear. Ms. Hilowitz is not only a genial, accomplished attorney but has the ability to interpret and explain complicated legal matters in clear, logical and comprehensible terms giving her clients more than a reasonable down to earth understanding of all aspects associated with their individual issues and needs. Ms. Hilowitz is an attorney I put my faith and trust in during a very difficult time it was a choice I made without regret!
Anita DuJohn-Sims
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11 Mar, 2022 by Ellie
My mother, now deceased, and I both had our wills drawn up by Mr. Loftus. There were additional questions and documents that needed to be worked on after my mother had passed. Mr. Loftus and his office staff were very helpful and were always available to me during that emotional and trying time. I thank them with all my heart for the support that they provided to me and my family.
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24 Jun, 2021 by Nora pal
29 Aug, 2020 by Joanne accomando
13 Jan, 2021 by Susan
I highly recommend The Hobbs Law Firm which we hired to manage my parents' estate planning for many years. Kevin and his Associates provided exceptional legal support as they aged well into their 90s. They kept my sisters and me (out of staters) continually informed about matters involving Wills, Trusts, Power of Attorney, and Medical Directives. Most recently, they provided incredible guidance before, during, and after the sale of their home during the pandemic. Kevin’s, time, counsel, empathy, kindness, and patience meant the world to us especially during the past six years while dealing with all aspects of our parents’ healthcare and finances. When we count our blessings, we are very grateful for The Hobbs Law Firm’s sincere support and superior service.
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12 Jan, 2021 by Chris
I highly and enthusiastically recommend Attorney Kevin Hobbs who we first hired seven years ago. His understanding of elder law, estate planning, and the real estate market were evident from the start. He is a caring, respectful, and extremely knowledgeable attorney. His patience, delivery, and attention to legal detail were always appreciated. Documents and materials were well-prepared and presented in a timely and informative manner. I trusted that Kevin’s advice and recommendations were always in our family’s best interests. Thank you, Attorney Kevin Hobbs, for your guidance and support, throughout the years.
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23 Sep, 2019 by John
As out-of-staters, we needed guidance and advice on an estate matter in NY. Mr. Hobbs was excellent. He gave us a very prompt consultation and was very thorough and straightforward. He wrote us an excellent letter summarizing his opinion in the matter. Many thanks for a great help to us.
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11 Jan, 2017 by John
Had a nice conversation with Adam following which, I retained his services.
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07 Aug, 2024 by Robyn sokol
The best law firm
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28 Jul, 2024 by Global collision
Good to use very experienced
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24 Jul, 2024 by Joan doran
Steven Beldock is a great attorney. I was very pleased and impressed how he and his team worked with me on my case ..I would highly recommend his firm .. thank you for all your help Steven .
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08 May, 2024 by Gina gina
Most unprofessional attorneys I've ever dealt with in my life very abrasive very unprofessional very rude they minimize who you are and what your problem is as a human being
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30 Jan, 2020 by Sophocles papasophocles
28 Nov, 2019 by Robia altaf
24 Apr, 2018 by Pamela
STAY AWAY! A foreclosure was entered against me although I'd received no notice from plaintiff at all. I told Lauterbach I wanted the default vacated and case dismissed. I asked him to contact the Court to let them know we were negotiating a retainer agreement. Long story short, he repeatedly presented a proposed retainer agreement which did not reflect the plan I thought we agreed on, he delayed contacting the Court, then literally hours before we were to show up in Court he sent me an email--at 7:30AM in the morning!--"I wish you luck," knowing the Judge consistently rules against anyone who shows up without an attorney, regardless of the case facts. Sure enough, I showed up to Court alone, and the Judge ruled against me (which is another lack-of-due-process/ethics problem, but that's another story). What would possess Lauterbach to behave in this manner is a complete mystery. He KNEW the harm he was causing. Not only unethical, but mentally twisted, in my view. Protect yourself!!! Pick someone else!
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02 Mar, 2016 by Gary
I think he's one of the greatest real estate lawyers in Rockland County. Anytime I've ever called him he's always return my call within an hour is very pleasurable to speak with . He's always solved my legal problems at a very fair price. Gary p
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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.
