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03 Oct, 2024 by Steven bamberger
I am so glad that my wife and I chose the Meier Law Firm to handle our family Trust. Laura Meier and her entire staff were absolutely amazing and a pleasure to work with. Their professionalism and experience was evident throughout the entire trust development process and the white glove customer service they delivered.
I highly recommend the Meier Law Firm to all my family and friends for their trust needs.
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03 Oct, 2024 by Sabryna gilson
My husband and I feel so grateful that Meier Law helped us get ourselves organized and safeguard our assets and children.. knowing that our kids will be taken care of in an emergency gives us peace at heart. The law firm was very accommodating and patient with us through every step!
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01 Oct, 2024 by Steven m
Thank you Joshua. You helped my family tremendously. Anyone who asks me if I know of anyone, I will send them your way.
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13 Sep, 2022 by Anonymous
Amy Gostoniany’s law firm were able to got the special needs trust for our daughter approve in mo time, it was so overwhelmingly great, since I know that this processes could take months and even years, definitely I am convinced they knew what they do, they have the knowledge. Experience, organization and professionalism need it to get results
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01 Dec, 2021 by Larry
First off I want to say that I feel very blessed that I was recommended to Amy, I have a Special Needs Trust that my parents left me when they died .In the Estate & Will they named my sister Susan as the Trustee of my SNT, to make a long story short my sister was not impartial with me and we both had conflicts of interest. A really good friend of mine listened to my problems and immediately referred me to Amy and my life has dramatically been stress free ever since. I agree that the probate court doesn't move fast but Amy was always consistent in replying to my emails in a timely manner. She has been Unbelievably Transparent with her billing even though this is a SNT and I am a Sole Beneficiary. I really admire the level of respect and honesty she gives me. If anyone is going through a similar situation I highly recommend Amy. The cost of her services are invaluable.
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19 Jul, 2021 by Margaret
My attorney was professional, but friendly, well informed, answered all questions, was patient in explaining legal terms, and was very thorough.
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09 May, 2023 by Mark
I am pleased to provide my highest recommendation to the Soto Law Group. SLG made the complex task of estate planning easy. DeDe Soto and her team were both knowledgeable and professional. They walked my wife and I through every step of the process answering our questions along the way. My wife and I are very pleased with the resulting Family Trust. Our experience with SLG was exceptional.
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11 Dec, 2022 by Jay
DeDe and her team did a great job providing a customized and thorough estate plan to fit our exact needs at this point in our lives. We were able to accomplish all of our goals in just a few easy to understand steps at a very reasonable price
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03 Dec, 2022 by Marc
DeDe and her team were extremely good by guiding me through the trust process. This applies to my trust and the special needs trust fory son. She was very patient as this was a long process and happy with the current versions. I would encourage others to seek her services.
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5.0
9 Reviews
14 Feb, 2024 by Anonymous
Yes, I can be a bit dramatic, but let me say it again, WoW! I liked his picture and "ready for a courtroom showdown" so gave him a cold call. He was the most gracious, well mannered attorney I've spoken to. I'm a Paralegal and have a pending probate case so that says a lot! Aside from his excellent manner and professionalism, the guy knows his stuff. I have been through five (thought it was only 3:) probate attorneys for the last 9 years and Mr. Hankin gave me information that was pivotal to the success of my case; information that I should have already been told. I know, where was he 9 years ago! Let me tell you, he would have been my attorney and this case would have come to a conclusion years ago. Thank you again Mr. Hankin, your kindness put my trust back in humanity. ~A
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16 Aug, 2018 by Anonymous
Needing help with probate court and how to best deal with our trust litigation matter at hand, I was referred to Ted Hankin. We had a family dispute after the passing of my father and his trust, and Ted helped us save a considerable amount of money by taking the right steps. He will answer your questions along the way and keeps you informed of the process.
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25 May, 2017 by Peter piazza
I recently posted a review of this attorney but my review may have been premature, as we were not yet finished completing our exchanges. Since my earlier review Mr. Hankin wrote to me again. He shed tremendous light on the one pressing question that baffled me, and he did so in a professional manner.
My initial aim was to utilize his services in the Appellate Courts, but it appears my case lacks the "teeth" for a successful appeal. If that were not my unfortunate predicament I'd most assuredly hire Mr. Hankin. Sometimes the devil is in the details. He's a details oriented attorney who takes the time to explain matters to his clients and prospective clients.
I can't speak to other areas of his law practice, but for anything pertaining to California Trusts or Probate matters he's the "go-to" attorney!
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13 Feb, 2016 by Janai
Amy was my attorney for an estate settlement after my grandfather passed away last year. She helped guide me through the best way to handle the situation. There was a will and a trust, and another family member and his attorney involved. She did an amazing job, and we had great communication through it all. The end result was exactly how my Grandfather wanted it to be. Amy is amazing.
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29 Jun, 2015 by Jennifer
I can't say enough about how amazing Ms. Howse is as a person and as an attorney. I retained Ms. Howes's services along with my 2 siblings during a really terrible time in our lives we had just lost our father and now needed to embark upon litigation against our fathers wife due to her intentionally interfering with our inheritance. Amy was so incredibly compassionate and understanding. She was incredibly thorough and patient with us because we had no clue what we were getting ourselves into. Amy walked us through every step of the way for almost 3 years. Hands down this was one of the hardest things I have ever had to go through but I never felt lack of support from Amy. She was open to hearing our thoughts and long winded explanations at times. She was protective of us when opposing counsel was attempting to bully us she was right there to back him down. She worked tirelessly and efficiently as we are young adults trying to fund a very expensive law suit. I would retain Amy as my attorney again a minute no questions asked her and her firm were incredible!!! I can’t thank Amy enough for all she did for me and my siblings!!!
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22 Jun, 2015 by Jan
I live in NJ and had to hire Amy Howse and the Peterson firm strictly through a phone call. Amy immediately gained my confidence through her ability to listen, ask relevant questions in a non judging manner. She was able to grasp all the different aspects of a complex case, build the right defense and ultimately negotiated a very good settlement. She was always available to discuss my questions, provide a point of view and help me to make an unemotional decision. She provided the right level of empathy and reality for me.
I would highly recommend Amy.
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06 Mar, 2020 by Anonymous
I had an issue with a fence with my neighbor. I wasn't sure if I was required to pay for halt the fence. He was to help me get the answers. Thank you!
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26 Sep, 2019 by Anonymous
Mr. Carpenter took time to answer my questions. From his answers, not only he was very professional but very kind and compassionate. Just based on his answers, his approach is try to mitigate the situation to avoid litigation cost.
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30 Apr, 2019 by Devon
Scott was the only one that actually stepped up and took the time to help me when everyone else just looked the other way. He has a passion for the work he does and it shows with the results he gets. I would recommend him to family and friends alike. And even if he cannot help you he will listen to you and he will do his best to point you in the right direction, unlike other lawyers that just say they can't help and good luck he goes the extra mile, above and beyond what everyone else does. I just wish there were more Scott Rockwell Carpenters out there because the world would be a better place. Thanks again for everything!
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03 Sep, 2020 by Divine
Attorney Abbas Gokal was hired to help with a family trust. He is an excellent communicator and actively listened to our questions and concerns. Every step of the legal process was fully explained. We were kept informed and made to feel that our case was his top priority. Trust litigation can be very emotionally trying with family involved. Abbas helped us stay calm, alleviated our doubts and fears, and led with encouragement and support. As an attorney, he lets his actions speak louder than words. He fought fiercely for our case and to honor our grandparent’s wishes. Attorney Abbas Gokal is everything you would expect from an outstanding lawyer. Simply phenomenal from start to finish!
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17 Dec, 2017 by Sharif
Mr. Gokal helped me in resolving issues in the sale of my pediatric practice and my office condo. He was very professional , calm , and respectful in his dealings with the other side.He was not at all deterred by threats from the other side or their attorney. I was very satisfied with his services and hold him in high regard.
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09 Jun, 2016 by Laila
We had a senior employee who we suspected of financial mishandling. Abbas first focused on gathering the facts of the case and connected us to independent experts who were able to piece together what happened and then led the severance and settlement negotiations that followed. He was professional and strategic, while providing thoughtful advice and leadership through the whole process. Abbas helped us weigh the options before us before taking the next step; and thankfully the matter was speedily resolved, with our interests and exposure protected. I would definitely work with him again and recommend him highly to friends, colleagues and family.
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20 Apr, 2017 by Jason
Fate represented me in a couple legal matters. She was very professional and got the results I was looking for. i would recommend her legal services to anyone in need of good representation. Great attorney.
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05 Apr, 2017 by Anonymous
Fate is a very hardworking, and caring attorney who shows true compassion for her clients' needs. She was very patient and took the time to clearly answer all my questions, provided great legal advice, and guided me through a difficult time in my life. She went above and beyond to help me with my legal matter. Working with Fate was a wonderful experience, I highly recommend her services.
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04 Apr, 2017 by Anonymous
She was not only diligent and thorough but expressed a level of care that went beyond that of any hired attorney. I felt as though she was helping me the way she would herself, something I've found rare in the field.
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15 Apr, 2016 by Walter
Having been named Executor of Ramona Burns Estate by a legal Last Will and Testament,it became clear that the Estate had to go through the process of Probate according to California law.Sarah was recommended to me by a good friend who had engaged her services in a previous Probate case involving one of her own parents.She was highly recommended.
Because of my particular circumstances,it was essential that the advice I received from a legal professional was on point and helped me to navigate the unique problems that I faced when my good friend died and left me to wind up her affairs as nominated Executor.I might add that Ramona Burns nominated me as Executor with power for her health care decisions(she had suffered a cerebral hemorrhage and was hospitalized for several months before her death),but not with Power of Attorney over her Finances.Essentially,I was left with the maintenance of her home with very little income to maintain the property during the period that she was in intensive care and unable to make any decisions regarding her day to day financial obligations.
With this in mind,it was important that Sarah could counsel me in what I could and couldn't do in the use of assets belonging to the Estate.
The decision to hire Sarah after an initial consultancy was a fortuitous one.
Sarah advised me on what I needed to do.She told me exactly what paperwork I needed to find and provide her with.She informed me of important Court dates that I needed to be aware of and what powers the Court would provide me with in order that I could arrange for the wishes of the deceased to be met with.She performed all the legal State requirements that were incumbent upon her for me and all the paperwork that accompanied these.I never had to go to Court as Sarah made all of it unnecessary.
I can't imagine having a better professional experience with an Attorney .She was exemplary.More than Highly Recommended.5 Stars.
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20 Nov, 2014 by Kristi
Sarah Kirland successfully represented me in a tough case for conservatorship of my 18 year old son with a traumatic brain injury. She was very informative, honest, available and thorough. Very professional with a personal touch, she seems to really care for her clients and their families best interests. I would most definitely recommend her and call on her in the future if needed.
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09 Aug, 2015 by James and nancy
Ms. Barrett is the consummate professional. We received excellent advice and speedy service.
She always checked with us to make sure she understood out wishes. We couldn't have had a better experience!
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08 May, 2015 by Anonymous
Years ago, a trusted Financial Planner recommended Cheryl Barrett as an expert in estate planning. Cheryl won us over with her preparation, knowledge and cheerful demeanor. She prepared a revocable trust for us. Recently, we contacted Cheryl to revise and update the documents.
It’s easy to talk with Cheryl. She listens to our concerns and responds in easily understood language -- no legalese here. She provides sound advice and her recommendations are spot on, especially as we work through numerous changes that affect beneficiaries and trustees. Cheryl is accessible and responds to calls/inquiries in a timely manner. We trust her and she makes us feel as if we are valued clients.
We are pleased with the revised trust and will gladly recommend her services to others. If she were to be rated from 1 to 5, with 5 being the highest, Cheryl would receive 5+. She is definitely an expert in her field and we highly recommend her services.
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06 Nov, 2014 by Anonymous
Danielle helped guide me through the confusing process of probate.
We are very glad to have found her.
She is a very intelligent attorney with a great work ethic.
Recommended!
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01 Apr, 2019 by Irene
Jill Gregory is the best attorney I've ever worked with. She is professional, knowledgable, patient, kind and caring. She came to my house for our appointment and worked around my busy schedule. She was patient as I asked numerous questions and explained my options in detail until I understood what the results of my choices would be. Jill genuinely cares and if you need your Trust done right away, she is on it and will get it done quickly. If you need a Trust I highly recommend you call her. She is truly the best! I've already referred her to a few friends. Call her!
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24 Jan, 2023 by Madeleine
Jasmine Gomez did a great job on my case. She is an excellent attorney, very knowledgeable about the law, a good listener. She’s very professional, reliable, passionate for her job and has a great communication skills.
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14 Jul, 2021 by Terry
We used Michael to settle a small estate when my Father-In-Law passed away in June, 2020. He explained everything clearly and printed all the paperwork we needed to finalize his legal affairs. I would strongly recommend him.
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10 Sep, 2015 by Joanne
I have known Mike for more than thirty years. He recently completed his third update of my will and second update of my trust. He is very careful to be sure he is recording exactly what you want and gives excellent advice for how to define your beneficiaries of your various assets.
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02 Apr, 2020 by Deborah
Daryl put together a business contract for me use with each of my clients when I beginning a project for them. My business involves creativity, so there were many details to think of. Daryl did an amazing job making sure to find all the details needed so that both myself and my clients will feel safe in moving forward with their project. Daryl is very detail oriented, efficient and provided extremely personalized help.
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09 Apr, 2024 by Bryan rodriguez
Great attorney!! Highly recommend!!
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29 Sep, 2023 by Rhonda marenburg
Through the years I have used Richard Rudolph's legal expertise for many of my legal needs. One of the most important has been my Living Trust. Richard understood what I wanted, advised me and walked me through the process. What really made me feel comfortable about working with Richard was when he said, if any of the people noted in the trust have questions they should always feel comfortable in calling him. He would always be available for them.
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27 Sep, 2023 by Robert casagrand
I am fortunate to have a knowledgeable attorney who can break down the components in lay-mans terms and properly guide you through the process. A great resource and person and glad to have him as a friend as well!! Highly recommend his services.
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06 Mar, 2022 by Celeste espinoza
I was really pleased with the service of Berstein Law APC. Thank you very much for the ordeal you took into hands and help me make the right decision. This law firm helped get through my business issues. Their attorneys are exceptional and give advice relating to business or business law anytime I call them. I recommend especially if you have business near Newport Beach and Huntington Beach.
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25 Jan, 2022 by Raquel fox
I called different law firms and Berstein Law was the only firm I called that someone ( not an answering machine) actually answered my call. Within a short period of time, I consulted with one of the lawyers who was very professional and competent. Days after hiring Berstein Law, everything was resolved. Additionally, Bernstein Law kept my legal costs at a minimum. Without any reservation, I strongly recommend Berstein Law to anyone or any business seeking legal advice, help, and/or representation.
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14 Dec, 2022 by Kia
The best lawyer I’ve ever seen before
thank you dear sally a million ... she was really patient as well as passionate.
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08 Aug, 2021 by Cameron
The best law office in state, Great service, I recommend Sally for any type of immigration cases. She is very knowledgeable, caring and honest, she does what it takes to get the case done, Don't waste your time and money elsewhere. Thank you Sally and your team.
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19 Mar, 2017 by Soheil
I highly recommend Sally Amirghahari for immigration services. She helped move my case successfully to completion. I appreciate her expertise, compassion and follow through the process. Her staff is super friendly, they answered my questions promptly and with respect. and as needed reminded me on my appointments and next steps. I look forward to her assistance with future matters.
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09 Jun, 2022 by Brad
Very Unprofessional. Hired Max to Expedite a Trust for our mother. Unfortunately, she passed away a few days later. Max Alavi was not even willing to give a Partial Refund. I guess they don’t teach Compassion and Morals in Law School.
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19 Dec, 2013 by Vicente
I found Max to be patient and responsive to our requests. It took a while to get everything in order since we live of-of-state and could not sign everything in less time. I will recommend Mr. Alavi to my co-workers when the subject of living trusts come up.
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05 Dec, 2013 by Marcel
Max came to my work to give a presentation on his services. He was very professional and took as long as we needed to answer any questions we had about his services. He put things in a very easy to understand language and made sure he did not talk above his audience. I hired Mr. Alavi to execute a living trust for my wife and I. Throughout the entire process he was very patient and made sure we understood everything we were incorporating into the trust. Dealing with Max was a breeze and I would recommend him to all my friends and coworkers.
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07 Aug, 2024 by Ray cebrian
I thought that the price to update my trust was kind of high but I still went to Estate Lawyers. Amy Gostanian took all our info and make us understand all the pro and cons in making a trust, paralegal Diane Davis was the go too and she took all info that we agreed during the meeting, she went above and behind to treat us the best way possible, she is a very good hearted person.
Cassidy Russell she was the lawyer that checked the whole trust and make sure that we had all our wishes.
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24 Jan, 2024 by Greg martin
Very disappointed.
Reply to reply. Your firm is still on the service list of documents to this day. We had an agreement where, in lieu of a discount to the total bill, you would continue to represent me on the loose ends at no charge. You then immediately, without notice, filed to be removed as my council.
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03 Aug, 2023 by Jill bartholome
Amy was very kind, helpful and knowledgeable. And, she is fair and reasonable.
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07 Aug, 2024 by Ray cebrian
I thought that the price to update my trust was kind of high but I still went to Estate Lawyers. Amy Gostanian took all our info and make us understand all the pro and cons in making a trust, paralegal Diane Davis was the go too and she took all info that we agreed during the meeting, she went above and behind to treat us the best way possible, she is a very good hearted person.
Cassidy Russell she was the lawyer that checked the whole trust and make sure that we had all our wishes.
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24 Jan, 2024 by Greg martin
Very disappointed.
Reply to reply. Your firm is still on the service list of documents to this day. We had an agreement where, in lieu of a discount to the total bill, you would continue to represent me on the loose ends at no charge. You then immediately, without notice, filed to be removed as my council.
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03 Aug, 2023 by Jill bartholome
Amy was very kind, helpful and knowledgeable. And, she is fair and reasonable.
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05 Mar, 2017 by Russ
I have used Michael Walsh for several years. He is very professional and easy to work with. I would highly recommend him to anyone.
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02 Mar, 2017 by Laura
Mr. Walsh is an excellent attorney and extremely knowledgeable in the realm of estate planning. I personally have consulted with Mr. Walsh and I recommend him to my clients looking to obtain a Wills & Trust attorney.
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02 Mar, 2017 by Anonymous
Mike's thoughtful approach to understanding my situation and his attention to detail while asking good questions that I never even thought about is what made my experience working with him a good experience.
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4.3
36 Reviews
15 Jul, 2024 by Torry heard
Attorney Aja Mann, was my lawyer for 13 years. In those 13 years of representing me, she was outstanding! Not only did she advise me with wisdom and grace, she taught me that you must be fair and compassionate when it comes to difficult situations while co-parenting. Because of her I was able to obtain full custody of my son, and I thank her every day for in some form or fashion for bringing me joy and peace.
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14 Jul, 2024 by Emerson depaz
After visiting my son who lives out of state, I was deeply concerned by his emotional struggles and the difficulties he was facing at home with his mom. As a divorced parent living in another state, I felt powerless to advocate for him and feared I was failing as a father. My visitation rights and other arrangements had always been unfair, dictated by the terms of the other party.
From our first conversation, Aja reassured me that I had parental rights and a voice in my son's well-being. Her exceptional negotiation skills and unwavering advocacy led to more equitable arrangements for our family, prioritizing my son's health and happiness. We are incredibly grateful for her efforts and highly recommend her to anyone in need of a sharp, dedicated attorney who will fight for you.
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13 Jul, 2024 by Iman abron
Aja Simplis was very attentive. She helped me from start to finish and is very professional.
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15 Mar, 2024 by Anonymous
All communication goes through her paralegal. She has incorrect or zero knowledge of our case when attending hearings. Does not inform clients of upcoming hearings. Dishonest to both judges and other lawyers. Absolutely destroyed my son’s estate due to repeated accounting mistakes. After my son suddenly and tragically lost his dad and I lost my husband, she destroyed our financial future. Beware.
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13 Dec, 2016 by Carmen
I have no words to say how thankful we are to Darlynn and Karen that made the process so much simpler and easily understood. As stressed as I was I was able to get an amazing trust done and I know the process has given my husband and I peace of mind, thank you for your kindness, compassion and wuickbturn around with the whole process. Thank you for explaining everything and thank you for being there to help us. We will be forever grateful!
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17 Sep, 2009 by Becky
Just prior to leaving on an international trip, my husband and I realized that we had to seriously look at our affairs by updating our very outdated estate planning papers. We called on Morgan Law Group and were immediately ushered into a professional and timely sequence of meetings that gently guided us in gathering our varied financial assets and coordinating them on one document so we could move effortlessly through a series of questions that would achieve our estate planning goals. We are more than satisfied with the result of our time with Darlynn Morgan and her team—we feel secure and prepared for the future. We highly recommend the estate planning services of Morgan Law Group.
Sincerely, Becky T. Corona Del Mar, CA
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19 Aug, 2024 by Joseph tash
If you are in need of a Law Firm that will stand with you and fight for a right conclusion whether you are the plaintiff or defendant they will be there for you!
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18 Aug, 2024 by First last
24 Jul, 2024 by Email email
These guys lied to get my money then lied and deceived me and my family more then stole over $50 Thousand dollars from us It’s been one the most horrible experiences of our lifetime. We strongly advise NEVER doing business with Saunders and associates.
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24 Apr, 2024 by Barbara
They canceled appointment the night before it was scheduled. Said they sent an email prior which I never received. Had my information for over a week before they said they couldn’t handle it. Very unprofessional. Waste of time!
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23 Oct, 2020 by Zhanneta babayan-fisher
After passing my husband, Suzan A Katzen helped me with our trust, and with all paperwork.
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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.
