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Ilana F. Davidov, experienced Elder Law, Estate Planning attorney in New Hyde Park, NY with 168 reviews
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48,53
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5.0/5
Avvo
5.0
12 Reviews
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5.0
156 Reviews
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18 Sep, 2024 by Sunil matta
(I dont know that happened to my original review - so I'll post again). I had to address a trust and real estate issue. Audrey Bernhardt helped me tackle issues with the trust and finalize the real estate transaction. She was very knowledgeable, professional and really guided me through this process. I would highly recommend this law firm and especially Audrey B. If I need this type of legal help again, this firm will be my top choice.
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27 Aug, 2024 by Linda shafran
I highly recommend Davidov Law Group. They handled my will and trust requirements thoroughly and with meticulous attention to detail. They answered all my questions so that complicated subject matter could be clearly understood. They were extremely accommodating in all phases of the process.
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26 Aug, 2024 by Hana cohen
My experience was wonderful!! I felt that I was in good hands. My husband and I accomplished what we needed to do. We were completely satisfied!!
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Michael Davidov, experienced Elder Law, Estate Planning attorney in New Hyde Park, NY with 240 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
44,15
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4.9/5
Avvo
5.0
20 Reviews
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4.9
220 Reviews
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20 Nov, 2024 by Alejandro deiros
We had a trust, a will, health proxy made for my father. It was nice to have all done in the same office...... The attorney's were verry nicely. The staff was great..... It made the process easier.....
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07 Nov, 2024 by Tj davis
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10 Oct, 2024 by Sharon bridgewater
Professional, quickly, low interest. The best I have contacted & was approved instantly.
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Audrey Sandler Bernhardt, experienced Estate Planning, Probate attorney in New Hyde Park, NY with 221 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
43,56
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4.9/5
Avvo
5.0
1 Reviews
Google Maps
4.9
220 Reviews
star star star star star
20 Nov, 2024 by Alejandro deiros
We had a trust, a will, health proxy made for my father. It was nice to have all done in the same office...... The attorney's were verry nicely. The staff was great..... It made the process easier.....
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star star star star star
07 Nov, 2024 by Tj davis
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10 Oct, 2024 by Sharon bridgewater
Professional, quickly, low interest. The best I have contacted & was approved instantly.
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Dory Salem, experienced Consumer Protection, Elder Law attorney in New Hyde Park, NY with 149 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
39,45
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4.9/5
Avvo
5.0
3 Reviews
Google Maps
4.8
146 Reviews
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12 Feb, 2025 by Dino pavlou
In my early years I heard many disturbing stories of how people lost a major part of their inheritance to City, State and Federal tax, after their parents died without having lawful protection from the tax system, and the thought of seeking a protection crossed my mind many times. But I kept postponed it to next week, next month, or next year, and year after year until I became much older and one morning I woke up with a terrible thought of how foolish it would have been If anything happened to me and left my family without protection losing half of what really belongs to them. I spoke to a few attorneys but no one could make clear to me this complicated tax process and the fine print, until I contacted the Vishnick-McGovern-Milizio law firm and spoke with Constantina Papageorgiou who is an elder law attorney. Talking with Constantina was all clear and simple to me. She explained everything with professionalism and care. I did not hesitate. Now I have a peace of mind knowing my hard earnings, my home and everything else are protected, and my family will get to keep everything that belongs to them. Dino Pavlou.
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10 Feb, 2025 by Mike ciscio
Meredith was very understanding and informative, she settled my case out of court and got me the money I was due from the estate settlement. I highly recommend Vishnick McGovern Milizio. Michael Ciccone
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31 Jan, 2025 by Andrew longo
Kristine Garcia-Elliot, James Burdi & the team were very responsive, easy to work with, and made the medicaid and estate planning process simple.
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Bernard Francis McGovern, experienced Elder Law, Estate Planning attorney in New Hyde Park, NY with 28 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
35,01
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4.6/5
Avvo
5.0
2 Reviews
Google Maps
4.5
26 Reviews
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25 Oct, 2024 by Rajesh pulijaal
Recently, we finalized our revocable trust in consultation with Ms. Reena Gulati PLLC. Ms.Gulati explained in detail the pros and cons of a revocable trust and answered all our questions patiently. Ms.Gulati and the staff made the whole process easy and we are impressed by their expertise and professionalism. We appreciate their kindness and service.
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23 Oct, 2024 by Daybook group
I had the privilege of working with Reena Gulati on estate planning and discussing trusts in depth. Her knowledge and expertise were impressive, and she provided clear, thoughtful guidance throughout the entire process. Reena's professionalism and dedication made the experience seamless, and I wouldn’t hesitate to work with her again. Highly recommend her for anyone in need of estate planning advice
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25 Sep, 2024 by Danielle como
Reena Gulati, was a pleasure to work with? My calls were always, either, answered or returned? And my business with Reena Gulati was done in a very reasonable time
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Wayne Gary Edwards, experienced Probate attorney in New Hyde Park, NY with 0 reviews
Below Average
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4,00
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0.0/5
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Heather Leigh Smar, experienced Family Law, Litigation attorney in New Hyde Park, NY with 0 reviews
Below Average
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0,00
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0.0/5
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Deirdre Jeanne Duke, experienced Estate Planning, Probate attorney in New Hyde Park, NY with 0 reviews
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0,00
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0.0/5
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What a Probate Lawyer Can Do for You

A probate lawyer assists with the legal process of administering a deceased person’s estate. This often involves guiding executors (if a will exists) or beneficiaries (if no will exists) through the probate process to settle the estate according to the deceased’s wishes or applicable laws. Probate lawyers can help validate the will, distribute assets, resolve disputes among heirs, handle outstanding debts or taxes, and ensure the estate is legally and efficiently administered.

Whether you’re an executor of an estate or an heir facing probate proceedings, a probate lawyer can help you navigate the often-complex legal process to ensure the estate is settled correctly.

When Should I Hire a Probate Lawyer?

You should consider hiring a probate lawyer when you are responsible for managing the estate of a deceased individual, especially in the following situations:

  • The estate has substantial assets: If the estate includes significant assets like real estate, investments, or business interests, legal assistance is often necessary to handle the distribution properly.
  • The will is being contested: If there are disputes among heirs regarding the validity of the will or the division of assets, a probate lawyer can help resolve the conflict.
  • The estate includes complex or unclear provisions: If the will contains complicated instructions or there are no clear beneficiaries, a lawyer can ensure that the estate is administered according to legal requirements.
  • There is no will (intestate estate): When a person dies without a will, the estate is subject to intestacy laws, which determine how assets are distributed. A probate lawyer can help navigate this process.
  • Debt or tax issues exist: If the estate owes significant debts or is subject to estate taxes, a probate lawyer can help ensure debts are paid appropriately and taxes are minimized.
  • Probate disputes: If family members or other parties are disputing the distribution of assets or challenging the executor's actions, legal representation is crucial to defending your rights and ensuring the estate is handled properly.

Hiring a probate lawyer early in the process can help avoid costly mistakes and ensure the estate is settled efficiently.

What Does a Probate Lawyer Do?

A probate lawyer provides a wide range of legal services to help manage and settle an estate. Their tasks can include:

  • Validating the will: Filing the will with the probate court and ensuring its legal validity.
  • Guiding executors or administrators: Advising the person responsible for managing the estate on their duties, including inventorying assets, notifying creditors, and paying debts.
  • Filing necessary paperwork: Preparing and submitting the legal documents required to initiate and complete the probate process.
  • Resolving disputes: Mediating or litigating disputes among heirs or between beneficiaries and executors, including challenges to the will or disagreements over asset distribution.
  • Handling debt and tax matters: Ensuring that outstanding debts, taxes, and estate taxes are properly calculated and paid from the estate’s assets.
  • Distributing assets: Ensuring that assets are distributed to the beneficiaries according to the will or intestacy laws, and that all legal requirements are fulfilled.
  • Closing the estate: Completing the final steps of the probate process, including filing a final accounting with the court and formally closing the estate.

How Are Probate Lawyers Paid?

Probate lawyers typically charge for their services based on the complexity of the estate and the nature of the legal work involved. Common payment structures include:

  • Hourly rate: Most probate lawyers charge by the hour, with rates depending on the lawyer’s experience and the complexity of the estate. Hourly rates can range from $150 to $500 or more.
  • Flat fee: For simple estates or straightforward probate tasks, some lawyers may charge a flat fee that covers all of the necessary legal work.
  • Percentage of the estate: In some states, probate lawyers are allowed to charge a percentage of the estate's value as their fee. This percentage typically ranges from 2% to 5%, depending on the size of the estate and state regulations.
  • Retainer fee: Some lawyers may require an upfront retainer fee, which is billed against as the probate process progresses.

It’s important to clarify the fee structure during your initial consultation to understand how you will be charged and avoid unexpected costs.

How Much Does a Probate Lawyer Cost?

The cost of hiring a probate lawyer depends on several factors, including the complexity of the estate, the type of legal issues involved, and the lawyer’s fee structure. General cost estimates include:

  • Simple estates: For estates with straightforward assets and no disputes, probate legal fees can range from $2,500 to $10,000, depending on the lawyer's fees and the state's probate laws.
  • Complex estates: For larger or more complicated estates with multiple properties, business interests, or disputes, probate costs can exceed $10,000 and may reach $20,000 or more.
  • Hourly rates: If charged by the hour, expect rates between $150 and $500, depending on the lawyer’s expertise and geographic location.
  • Percentage fees: In some cases, a probate lawyer may charge 2% to 5% of the estate’s value, particularly for larger estates or those involving complex legal matters.

Always ask for a clear estimate of fees during your initial consultation to understand the total cost of probate representation.

Top Questions to Ask a Probate Lawyer

Before hiring a probate lawyer, it’s essential to ask the right questions to ensure you’re hiring someone qualified to handle your estate needs. Key questions include:

  1. What experience do you have with probate cases like mine?
    Ensure the lawyer has experience with estates of similar complexity, especially if disputes or high-value assets are involved.
  2. How do you charge for your services?
    Ask whether the lawyer charges an hourly rate, a flat fee, or a percentage of the estate, and request a cost estimate.
  3. What is the likely timeline for my probate case?
    While it’s hard to predict exactly, an experienced lawyer can give you a general idea of how long the probate process may take based on the specifics of your estate.
  4. What steps will you take to manage and distribute the estate?
    Ask about the lawyer’s approach to handling debts, taxes, and asset distribution.
  5. Will you be handling my case personally?
    In larger firms, junior attorneys or paralegals may handle some aspects of your case, so it’s important to know who will be working on your probate case.
  6. What are potential challenges we may face?
    A good lawyer will be able to anticipate possible issues, such as will contests or creditor claims, and explain how they would handle them.

How to Check the Credibility of a Probate Lawyer

To ensure you’re hiring a reputable probate lawyer, follow these steps to check their credentials and experience:

  • Verify their state bar status: Check with your state’s bar association to confirm the lawyer is licensed to practice and has no history of disciplinary action.
  • Look for probate experience: Review the lawyer’s website or professional profile to ensure they specialize in probate law and have experience handling estates of similar complexity.
  • Read client reviews and testimonials: Look for online reviews on platforms like Avvo or Martindale-Hubbell to see what past clients have said about the lawyer’s probate experience.
  • Ask for references: A credible lawyer should be able to provide references from past clients who can vouch for their professionalism and expertise in handling probate matters.
  • Look for membership in professional organizations: Membership in organizations like the American Academy of Estate Planning Attorneys (AAEPA) or the National Academy of Elder Law Attorneys (NAELA) can indicate a lawyer's commitment to estate and probate law.

What Should I Prepare for My First Consultation?

To make the most out of your first consultation with a probate lawyer, it’s important to come prepared with relevant documents and information. Here’s what you should bring:

  • A copy of the will or trust (if applicable): Bring any estate planning documents left by the deceased, including wills, trusts, or powers of attorney.
  • List of assets and debts: Prepare a detailed list of the deceased’s assets (e.g., real estate, bank accounts, investments) and outstanding debts (e.g., loans, mortgages, credit cards).
  • Death certificate: Bring a certified copy of the deceased person’s death certificate.
  • Contact information for heirs and beneficiaries: Have a list of all individuals or entities named in the will or who are entitled to inherit under intestacy laws.
  • Questions about the probate process: Write down any questions you have about the process, costs, and potential issues you might face.
  • Relevant financial records: If available, bring any relevant financial documents, such as bank statements, property deeds, and tax returns.

By coming prepared, you can ensure a productive consultation and allow the lawyer to provide the best advice for your situation.

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