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04 Nov, 2019 by William maher
06 Dec, 2012 by John spaschak
Mr. Kelleher is a WNY icon when it comes to his experience and success in real estate law. History speaks for itself. As one of the top attorneys in the region for over 30 years, he has represented thousands of clients to a successful close. His support staff and paralegal team are also the top in WNY. Not only is his representation the finest, the costs are super fair and competitive. If you are looking for an honest hard working competent and seasoned attorney, look no further.
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12 Nov, 2014 by Anonymous
Mrs. Tolchin just finished my families complex real estate closing. She made the entire transaction a breeze. We would use her and recommend her to others in a heartbeat.
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22 Apr, 2014 by Anonymous
Mrs. Tolchin helped us with the purchase of our first home. She walked us through the process step by step. We would us her again in a minute.
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08 Dec, 2011 by Anonymous
Jackie served us very well. She expedited the eviction of our freeloading tenant and answered all of our (many) questions patiently and thoroughly. I would highly recommend her!
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20 Feb, 2009 by Anonymous
I came to Jackie Halpern's firm because it was well established in teh city of New York that it is the top real estate law firm for landlord/tenant issues. My experience with the firm certainly lived up to the impeccable reputation that it has developed. I had the honor and privilege of working with one of the most outstanding attorneys with whom I have been in contact with in my career and personal life, namely Jackie Halpern. She is an extraordinarily gifted and talented attorney, who I am glad represented me in two consecutive cases that I had the misfortune of having to deal with. Quite honestly, without the help of Jackie Halpern I would have been at a loss.
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09 Mar, 2016 by Edna
Minerva handled my Aunt's estate and also assisted with the legal documents to terminate the guardianship. She is professional, returned calls promptly and went beyond the call of duty to assist me in handling my Aunt's affairs since I live out of the state. She is great to work with and I appreciated her concern and empathy during the entire process.
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20 Feb, 2016 by Mm
M. Alonso provided an elder family member with valuable information regarding a house deed. All the questions were answered and clarified. M. Alonso put to rest all the anxiety related to the matter. She was attentive, readily available, warm, informative, and thorough. I will use her services again. Highly recommended.
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20 Apr, 2019 by Anonymous
While on an overseas deployment, I had received a citation for a Dept of Buildings violation that I was not responsible for. Due to my deployment, I was unable to appear at hearings to defend myself. For a year, Samantha diligently reviewed my case and appeared at hearings on my behalf. Upon my return, I met with Samantha and we discussed how we would proceeed. Once we had a plan in place, we went to the hearings which resulted in a dismissal. Thank you Sam!
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19 Oct, 2018 by Anonymous
Samantha diligently worked on my behalf to achieve my dream of becoming a U.S. citizen. The process was a long and strenuous one. Frustration led me to a point of hopelessness, seriously considering giving up on this endeavor. For Samantha this was not an option for me. Instead, her positive attitude and continued encouragement pushed me to continue with my dream. On July 30, 2018 I was officially sworn in as a U.S. citizen. This date just so happened to also be the day of my son's birthday, which made this occasion that much sweeter.
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29 Oct, 2015 by Rolf
David is very organized and thorough in his review of a situation or problem and provides clear, concise plans and options. When possible, he also offers referrals to other resources that can supplement his services and expertise. He has been a valuable advisor to our family for twenty years and has helped guide us through several difficult, stressful periods.
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28 Oct, 2015 by Sanford
As a long-time client, I find Davids ability i to use his knowledge of the law along with his ability to get to know and understand his clients concerns a tremendous asset.
He not only understood my concerns and issues regarding retirement, but turned them into positives for estate planning and future security.
He brought my wifes estate to a successful conclusion and worked hard to understand my personal issues and fears and completed the filings and plans to my satisfaction and allayed all my fears and issues.
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22 Jan, 2024 by Anonymous
We hired the firm Busson & Sikorski for a complicated inheritant case couple of years back, it was really our surprise how helpful and understanding they were, perfect listener with a patient attitude and very understanding, they have a very good knowledge and experience which helped in avoiding a lot of issues, we strongly recommend them, and we like to thank them for the help
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16 Sep, 2016 by Anonymous
I hired Mr. Sikorski to advise me on how I could be designated as a beneficiary of assets of an irrevocable trust after the death of the benefactor even though the benefactor still needed the income during his lifetime from the assets of the trust that was being generated. The advice from Mr. Sikorski was to establish the terms in the trust to allow the income of the assets of the trust to continue to go to the benefactor's benefit during his lifetime though he signed away the principal . This allowed the funding of the irrevocable trust to be established while having no disruption to the welfare of the benefactor during his lifetime. Mr. Sikorski explained that this is a method employed to benefit charities as well, without causing a disruption to the welfare of the benefactor. When I explained this method to the potential benefactor it made perfect sense to him and he indeed created the irrevocable trust for me with this arrangement. Mr. Sikorski was very patient with me in explaining legal concepts.
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08 Mar, 2017 by Anonymous
We hired Walter and his firm for litigation and contract work. We are extremely happy with the results and the whole process. He was very patient, informative, helpful and most importantly delivered great results! His advice was alway clear and there was not a question to which he didn't have an answer. We felt confident in him, his plan and his abilities. We will continue using him for our legal needs. We highly recommend him! He is a shark!
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10 Jan, 2017 by Evonne
I had the chance to speak with Walter Drobenko yesterday about my legal issue. Although he could not assist me he was the only attorney who took the time to explain my concerns. All others were quick to get off the phone. He was very patient and listened to my legal matter and then gave me the answer I needed to know.
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5.0
2 Reviews
12 Nov, 2019 by John
I am a long time client of Russo Law Group. Vincent Russo is a genuine and compassionate lawyer that was invested in obtaining the best possible outcome for me and my family. Every interaction I had with him and his team was met with full attention and a proactive approach. I have highly recommended Vincent Russo to many of my own clients and he has provided the same level of investment to everyone. Wonderful attorney!!
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03 Jun, 2011 by Anonymous
I would recommend Vincent Russo why. I trust him with all my needs
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06 Mar, 2011 by Pascale
Cindy took over my divorce case from my former lawyer and she quickly learned all the details of the case. My divorce was not amicable or simple. We owned several properties together and our finances were very complicated. Cindy's knowledge, professionalism and efficiency kept my ex and I focused on the negotiations. She skillfully mediated difficult, touchy topics and she kept the process moving. She is well-versed in handling divorces and clearly explained my options each step of the way. My ex didn't have a lawyer so Cindy had to deal with him directly, as he was pro se (representing himself). She's great with people and summed up my situation with him pretty quickly. She dealt with him perfectly. We were able to sign a fair agreement that I was happy with and we avoid a costly trial. I am incredibly grateful to Cindy for her advice, understanding and diligence, especially for being persistent with the judge's office in getting the divorce paperwork filed.
I am divorced. I am happy. I am thankful to Cindy for helping me through a difficult period in my life. I would highly recommend her to anyone who is looking for a competent, effective divorce lawyer. She gets the job done.
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29 Dec, 2010 by Hq, new york
Cindy Sanchez has been my lawyer since 2005. She was referred to me through a legal plan I had at my job. I hired Cindy to help me obtain a shared physical and legal custody of my children. My case was fairly complicated since my children's mother took them to another state with the intention of relocating to that state just before the beginning of the school year. My children were supposed to go back to school in September 2005 in New York City. However, their mother enrolled them in a school in another state, 700 miles away from New York City. Cindy was able to convince the judge to schedule a court hearing early in September 2005. This was extremely important because the longer my children stayed in the school out-of-state, the smaller the chance that the judge would order to bring my children back in their school in New York was. Cindy was extremely helpful to ensure that my children's mother could be served with the order to appear in court. My children's mother was very difficult to find. I first try the local police to serve her but it did not work. Cindy advised me to hire a local professional to do the serving. In a matter of minutes, she was able to identify this professional. It was critical to do the serving during the appropriate time window. Otherwise, the court date would have been postponed to October 2005. As I mentioned before, this would have tremendously reduced the chance of having my children back in their school in New York for the year 2005-2006. During the court hearing in September 2005, the judge ordered that my children had to return to their school in New York. I was relieved by this decision. I can say that without the expertise and responsiveness of Cindy, my children would not have returned to New York.
Cindy was resourceful, insightful, and supportive at every stage of the divorce process. She helped me obtain a shared physical and legal custody of my children. She has also successfully helped me with a few custody issues since the divorce. Cindy is a very intelligent and knowlegdeable lawyer who has the ability to listen to the client and fully understand his/her needs, concerns, and fears. I have also appreciated her very pleasant and balanced personality. I highly recommend Cindy.
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16 Feb, 2022 by Mark
My father's estate has been well taken care of, and it involved sale of property and dealing with beneficiaries through Mr. Simon. He's gone above and beyond in explaining and executing everything. He's answered every question immediately, and taken care of everything. Immediately. He and his staff has made it possible to do almost all of it with email, which saves time.
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15 Jan, 2016 by Peter
I an very satisfied with the services I receive from Mr. Simon. If I had chosen a different lawyer I would probably still be at square one. As it is we are nearing conclusion of the issues he is handling for me. I find him to be knowledgeable and incredibly patient.
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26 Mar, 2017 by Gary
In 2009, I had the good fortune to hire Gina, during a time of distress to hire Ms. Danetti to draft a trust document for my family. Gina was amiable, thorough, professional, and compassionate which made the process less stressful for me. During the ensuing years she was available and willing to guide me and advise me on matters relating to the estate and taxes. Now, in 2017, I look back and acknowledge the importance of her legal knowledge and continued support.
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29 Aug, 2014 by Victoria
Ms. Danetti is efficient, knowledgeable thoughtful and makes things easy to understand. Her advice was succinct and very clear. She is very aware of the time and considerate. I would recommend her, and I would seek her services again.
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17 Feb, 2018 by Barbara
Jim Clark is a an amazing attorney , he has handle our commercial real estate . He still is the only council I would trust as our income through rent is vital to us as we are retired . Jim Clark masecthat posdible he is a lawyer that will protect you through legal documentation . He has done so much for us as a family , and difficult and sensitive issues , handling them with strong solutions and very carefully . I recommend him highly and his office secretary Eileen is the loveliest , patient and caring representative of his firm .
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23 Oct, 2014 by Eric
I entered into what seemed like a solid business venture but one of my partners quickly revealed his true colors and things kept getting progressively worse. The business was a mess and I didn't know where to begin to turn things around, but I knew I needed to get out of this partnership. I felt trapped, my business was now a breath away from complete failure and I thought my significant financial investment was lost. Mr. Clark quickly honed in to the heart of the problem alaid out a strategy to make it right without going to court. These were some of the most stressful months of my life, but in the end everything happened exactly the way he said it would. While I took a hit, financially, the problem was solved. He is a tough deal maker and I am glad he had my back on this one!
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08 Dec, 2016 by Amir hamees
She prepared my complete asylum case application,help me get my work permit and social security. She is really helpful and nice.
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01 Mar, 2016 by Amanti dolce
Ms. Soto represented me on an estate matter. She was very professional, polite and knowledgeable. Ms. Soto is a consummate professional whom I recommend without hesitation. I was very pleased with her services.
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20 Nov, 2015 by Emily
I recently hired Mr. Fedele as my real estate attorney. Closing on a house can be a very overwhelming and nerve racking process. Mr. Fedele was very professional and attentive at all times to my needs as his client as well as to my concerns I had as a first time buyer. He took all responsibility and eased the stress which I am most appreciative for. I would highly recommend him to friends and family.
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19 May, 2015 by Kim
My husband and I used Michael as our real estate lawyer when buying our house last year. He was always available when we needed him and immensely knowledgeable. We had a few hiccups along the way and he was always right there advising and guiding us through the process. I have recommended Michael to many friends and relatives and will continue to do so. If you are looking for a top notch lawyer he is definitely it.
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20 Jul, 2009 by Anonymous
Bernis Shapiro is someone you can count on.
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20 Jul, 2009 by Anonymous
I have worked with Bernis Shapiro in both an official public capacity and as a personal estate attorney. She is extremely competent and works with incredible diligence in the interest of her clients. She is especially well-versed in real estate, financing, contracts, public and municipal law, and estate planning. Based upon years of personal experience with her in her capacity as an attorney, I recommend her without reservation.
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05 Apr, 2023 by Colleen franchini
John has been hired to assist with the distribution of a trust and real estate transaction. Is there a "bedside" manner for attorneys? If so John has it. Calm, professional, thorough. Explains complex scenarios so that they are easily understood. Gives broad spectrum of "what ifs" that might come into play. We couldn't be more pleased to have him by our side during a difficult time. We highly recommend John Mannix Jr. and are grateful to have been referred to him.
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16 Nov, 2021 by Justin freebern
I had a great experience dealing with Mr. Mannix and his team. He is very up front and takes the time to explain everything before he moves forward. I knew nothing going into his office about estates and trust but John and his team walked me through the steps and was there to help. I have recommended him to my family and friends and I recommend him if you need estate planing and trust planning.
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19 Apr, 2016 by J. h.
Mr. Gray saved the day! I recently hired Peter Gray to overturn a fraudulent deed that was filed against my property in Brooklyn. He swiftly filed all of the necessary documents in supreme court, argued my case and WON. Fraudulent deed overturned and the thief that filed the deed is now in jail. GREAT JOB!!!! Mr. Gray went above and beyond the call of duty. Outstanding attorney and great guy to deal with. I've since referred him to a number of friends and business associates. They've all had similar results.
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16 Apr, 2016 by John
Pete was able to handle the issues presented to him in a timely and efficent manner. His thoroughness and attention to detail and ability to handle a difficicult situation stand him well above any other attorney I have ever known. I don't know what we would have done without him.
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08 May, 2015 by Anonymous
I retained Amanda to help me in a post judgment matrimonial matter. She was so informative and caring, which impressed me. Amanda was more than happy to help, was able to obtain the necessary documents from the clerk quickly, and solved my problem within weeks! If you need a problem solved, call Amanda.
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26 Jun, 2011 by Pat
I liked Felice, her staff and office dog right off. She is a no nonsense attorney who cares about her clients.
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12 Oct, 2016 by Michael vincent
Very professional and closed my house on time at very reasonable cost. Would use again!
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03 Nov, 2021 by Gary
This Attorney is NOT after your last dollar. His fees are more than fair and his integrity above reproach. He prepares legal documents thoroughly but without unnecessary complexity. He takes time to explain each process so you have a complete understanding. He has handled the sale of two separate properties, one business and one residential. My will and estate are next. I highly recommend him for all your legal needs.
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20 Nov, 2015 by Dany
Mr. Kadish has been my real estate attorney in more than one transaction and his great knowledge and extensive experience is something very rare to find. I can only say positive things about him, you will feel "safe" if he represents you.
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04 May, 2018 by Nancy
Gary Shapiro has been my attorney for over 30 years. He has managed my financial planning, created my Will and has guided me legally, in every aspect of the maturing process, ie: creating and managing Trusts, Living Will, Power of Attorney, real estate and banking situations. He has represented me in Surrogate Court. He is a clear thinking, sensible and knowledgeable lawyer, who can be depended upon to advise and secure the best possible outcomes for his client. That has been my experience.
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26 Mar, 2015 by Vincent
This man is one of the greatest lawyers money can buy. A gentleman and a scholar, a true American. His mustache is combed with the fibers of freedom. When he speaks the essence of a bald eagle calling from its perch high above a majestic waterfall can be felt. He will not only win you your case...He will win you your God forsaken FREEDOM!
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12 Apr, 2018 by H. cortez
Mr. Borchert was hired for a contract to sell mixed use property. When the deal did not go through because of buyers negligence, Mr. Borchert was able to negotiate the release of entire earnest deposit and the right for us to put our house back on the market or rent said premises. Highly recommended and a job well done.
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28 Jan, 2019 by Eugene
Contacted Paul Mederos in 2012, He willingly settle the case with the Judge when the petitioner's attorney acted to slow. Mr. Mederos was on point. The judge nominated and appointed Mr. Mederos for the case. Mr. Paul Mederos had full control of it all
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13 Apr, 2020 by Meaghan
I am so thankful we found Daniel. Daniel helped us decide between creating a trust or a will. Never did I feel like he was trying to sell me anything. Just advising us on what would be best for my family and I. Daniel was thorough, reliable, patient, communicative, always reachable, and answered every question I had. He spent time explaining everything in depth until I understood it. We really felt we were in excellent hands and I would recommend him to anyone looking to do estate planning.
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10 Jun, 2021 by Andrea
Hagyatéki eljárás ügyintézésével kerestük fel az Emesét. Nagyon elégedettek vagyunk vele, nyelvtudás hiányában nagy előny volt nekünk a tökéletes magyar nyelvtudása, és persze az ügyintézése. Mindig pontosan úgy történt minden ahogy mondta. Minden addigra teljesült ahogy az elején megbeszéltük. Köszönjük szépen a munkáját!! Mindenkinek nyugodt szívvel ajánljuk!!!!
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03 Jan, 2013 by Carol
Chris Fanning is an extraordiany attorney on many different levels. He strikes a wonderful balance between being personable and professional. He assisted my brother-in-law with a refinance situation where he was drowning in debt. Chris immediately met with him, sorted out his financial situation and counseled him as to the best course of action. Integrity, insight and awesome knowledge and experience make him a 5 star attorney!!!
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Discover the ideal lawyer
You can search a lawyer by practice area, lawyer name, city, state, or ZIP code
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.
