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25 Aug, 2024 by Gaynell grabe
13 Dec, 2023 by Mantup oeight
Incredibly bad communication. We engaged Mark Lavelle and he ghosted us. We tried contacting Mark Lavelle on numerous occasions over multiple weeks via phone and email regarding a time sensitive issue. He did not return our calls or emails. He also refuses to provide direct contact information and filters all communication through his secretary. He literally does not take phone calls or emails. The silver lining is we discovered his inept legal prowess prior to his actual representation. Don't waste your time on him because he obviously feels his time is wasted on clients.
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10 Nov, 2023 by Hayley cowher
I decided to switch attorneys shortly after filing for divorce and I’m SO thankful I did! I wish I would have retained him from the very beginning. Attorney Lavelle is hard-working, knowledgable and trustworthy. The office staff is amazing as well, they will ensure you’re updated every step of the way.
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05 Oct, 2024 by Moto dirt
Mr. Meyer was extremely helpful. Answered all my questions and gave me direction and insight on how to handle my grievances without charging any fees. I strongly recommend using Mr. Meyer's.
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01 Oct, 2024 by Ron green
Mr. Meyer was great to work with and led our case to a successful and professional settlement. I plan to do further business with R. F. Meyer & Associates based on my experience in 2024 and future estate/final will needs that we have forthcoming.
Ron Green
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01 Jul, 2024 by Ben penrod
In 2011 helped with a guardianship and then established a "Special Needs Trust".
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02 Oct, 2024 by Allen rogers
14 Jun, 2024 by Shani mcdonald
I have used Jeff over the past 28 years for numerous situations. He is well versed in divorce, wills, trusts and other issues that arise. He has always been there for me to handle any questions I may have. I have referred several co workers and family members to him over the years with much success. I highly recommend him for your legal needs.
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21 Jul, 2023 by June-crystal packard
02 May, 2024 by Marilyn armstrong
He’s the best in my opinion.. ⭐️
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28 Sep, 2022 by K s
Knowledgeable and on point. Worth every penny!
Thank you
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11 Dec, 2018 by Dontjudgeme1998
30 Mar, 2024 by Kla dp
Years ago, I had an accident without insurance, and they are the representing attorney for the other party and have worked with me time and time again, kindly and professionally. But don't lapse in agreement because they fulfill their every right to suspend your driver's license with a quickness. But they've accepted my every plea to pay even $10 a month when I was out of work for even a year or more.
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08 Sep, 2023 by Jason blackburn
19 Jul, 2023 by Kellie jaramillo
Very unprofessional staff answering the phones. When I asked to speak to a supervisor I was denied.
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19 Jun, 2024 by Bandbunny1
Helped my son hire this attorney for a custody case. Just a warning, he charges his $300 an hour fee for every task at hand and there is an additional $65 an hour fee for the paralegal. One email sent (that normal people can write in less than 5 minutes) boom $65 charge. A fax that takes 2 minutes - boom another $65. A 10 minute phone call to receive an update about your case BOOM $300!!!! He is not $300 an hour, he is $300 per task. Additionally, his paralegal is $65 per task. Just beware
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24 Jun, 2023 by Angela clasgens
Doug did an excellent and thorough job with everything from the initial consultation to turning myself in for an outstanding warrant to the actual hearings. I received a lot of practical and useful advice during the process. For example, being sure to arrive at the police station extremely early in the morning to make sure that any bond hearing would likely make it to the morning docket and avoid having to spend any potential time in custody. This worked out wonderfully on my behalf, as the officer was able to issue a recite which created a new hearing date and only took a few hours, including travel to make it such a worthwhile trip. He obviously was very seasoned and new everyone in the courthouse which I thought was very advantageous. And the best part of all is that he had done his homework and negotiating and ultimately got my case dismissed. This allows me to regain my driving privileges without any restriction. I simply could not be happier with the services and expertise that Doug & his staff brought to the table.
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09 Jun, 2023 by Brittany mcclanahan
He did amazing in helping me! And he’s was very affordable.
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15 Sep, 2023 by Artt vernon
Kropf Wagner Law Firm has worked for my family for more than fifty years, and continues to be no exception in their high standards-professionalism, accuracy, accountability, manners and sense of humor. It’s nice having them as an active part of our community.
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12 Sep, 2023 by Michael millican
The attorney I spoke with was kind and honest and helpful. He is going to be a very important person for me and my family.
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14 Aug, 2023 by Richard kelley
Great law firm and wonderful people
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15 Sep, 2023 by Artt vernon
Kropf Wagner Law Firm has worked for my family for more than fifty years, and continues to be no exception in their high standards-professionalism, accuracy, accountability, manners and sense of humor. It’s nice having them as an active part of our community.
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12 Sep, 2023 by Michael millican
The attorney I spoke with was kind and honest and helpful. He is going to be a very important person for me and my family.
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14 Aug, 2023 by Richard kelley
Great law firm and wonderful people
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05 Jun, 2024 by Brandy
Let me preface this by saying there was a language barrier which made it very difficult for me to understand the person I was speaking with, I am sure she had an equally difficult time. First, I called in to ask about a consultation to see if I have a case, and possible representation. She asked what type of case, which I explained and then she asked for more information. I attempted to explain it, I could tell she was not understanding what I was trying to convey as she asked me the same question more than once. She told me they don't offer free consultations, which I was fine with but when I asked her how much she hesitated and told me she could not tell me how much a consultation would be. I was confused and asked her how would I find that out. She told me someone would call me back within 2 business days and took my number. As we said our goodbyes she said if no one called me back in 2 days no one could help me. I then confused, asked her if I should call back after the two days then if I didn't hear back. She told me no, if no one called me back it meant no one could help me. I wanted to make sure I understood her correctly and said so if no one calls me back they won't do a consultation? She said I was correct. I said so you can't give me a cost for a consultation, then you tell me if no one calls me back that means you can't help me? So without knowing the details of the case, you not understanding what I am saying and being unable to provide me a price for a consultation so an ATTORNEY could explain what rights I may or may not have, you are telling me if I don't receive a call back it means no one can help me??? I told her this was the most unprofessional experience I have ever had with a law firm and I have 13 years of legal background in one area or another. I told her not to worry about calling me back. This is absurd. I hope someone from the firm does read this and call me back and ask for more details (as there are plenty I am not going to share on this platform, yet) as I hope this not an accurate representation of their firms professionalism or the way they treat potential clients. If not, I hope it is corrected, a good percentage law referrals are done via word of mouth! This was pretty appalling behavior and she needs trained and/or this firm needs training and some standard SOP's developed and implemented as soon as possible.
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22 May, 2024 by Jeb
Bethany Stickradt did a fantastic job helping our family protect and navigate the complex assisted living facility issues for our handicapped uncle, who has cerebal palsy. He has lived at the facility in Newark happily for 18 years.Then it was sold and the new management tried to kick him out two times and harassed our family. There was no change in his level of care. He did not fit their marketing image. Bethany handled our appeal to the State. Thankfully they backed down. We are so very grateful we had Bethany representing us and used the Reese Pyle Meyer Law Firm.
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08 Feb, 2024 by Jeffrey wilkey
15 May, 2024 by Lisa freter
19 Feb, 2024 by Olivercloseoff69
Took care of what we needed done.
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06 Aug, 2023 by Kimberly walkerhart
11 Dec, 2023 by Anonymous
I had two separate cases with her at one time. The outcome for one was BS. The other case she did very little and she used the money for the other case. She failed to keep me updated on the time and money spent. I finally receive it after requesting it many times. Now I owe more?! She is a joke of an atty and don't know how she is still one. She's rude, she does not return calls, you can't get ahold of her, she's worthless! I will NEVER refer her to anyone. I didn't even want to give her a star.
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21 Jun, 2021 by Amber
I went through heather for my divorce . And honestly I didn’t really need a lawyer just guidance on filing out the paperwork . I knew my ex wasn’t going to appear so there wasn’t going to be a fight . I paid heather in full up front . After 8 months I finally got a court date . Due to covid I understood that . My divorce has been final since October and I am now getting notices from the court that my filing fees haven’t been paid . I contacted another party from her office who adviced me it would be taken care of immediately, however obviously it wasn’t because I have now received another notice and just contacted the courts to learn it still haven’t been taken care of . I don’t even care that she didn’t appear at court and sent another lawyer in her place . Like I said there was no real need for a lawyer in my case . But atleast make sure my filing fees that I have already paid are taken care of . I have messaged many times in regards to this matter and have received no response .
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21 May, 2020 by Shelby
Heather is BY FAR the most honest Lawyer! She doesn’t play around & gets the job done. Went out of her way to make sure I felt comfortable with certain things and made sure everything was pin-pointed in every angle. Wouldn’t of wanted any other person to represent me with my kiddos.
Totally recommend
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08 Jul, 2024 by Chinna parker
FRAUD ALERT!!!!!!!
I was initially very pleased with my case, so much so that I referred many others to this firm.
I began to receive emails with personal information regarding another clients case. When my bill came charges pertaining to the other client were on my bill. I had to call the office weekly from 9/18 to 12/18 to have the charges of approximately $250 that had nothing to do with my case and have the money that was due me returned to me.I spoke with several people from the office who made several false promises to handle it for me every week.
Not one person in the office was the least bit professional or knowledgeable on billing or on how to handle removing the other clients charges. I stopped by the office to check the status of my bill being corrected and was told that stopping by was rude and unnecessary. After finally being feed up I sent a long heart felt email pleading with the firm to remove the other clients charges and return to me the remainder of my retainer because my case was closed. I received a call from Tracy stating the charges were removed and my check was ready. On my lunch I went to get the check and to my surprise they finally removed the $250 in charges that weren't mine but added over $600 in charges they claim to have missed over 8 months ago.
I'm the type of person who never likes to complain, but if I can help another single parent of being robbed of her hard earned cash I feel like I have done my job.
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08 Jul, 2024 by Amber johnson
I’ve had a handful of Attorneys when it comes to family law and Lynda is hands down the best. She is so available and communicative, it’s so easy to get a hold of her when you need her. Her office staff are friendly and professional. She knows the law front to back and is extremely organized and detail oriented. But above all, she conducts herself ethically and with the utmost integrity. She truly cares about you, and doing what is best for your child. She will set realistic expectations and be honest with you, but will work hard on your behalf. I am so grateful to Lynda. She is an amazing Attorney and person.
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08 Jul, 2024 by Greg b
26 Oct, 2022 by Karla stelter
Won't answer or return phone calls. Only cares about the money he will get not the clients case
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27 Sep, 2022 by Calvin duffey
Definitely the worst attorney I’ve ever had. I called his number several times to get an update and the man NEVER EVER called me back. I even sent him the dash cam video to show I never did what trooper said he clocked me at which was 81mph this attorney couldn’t even get that dismissed. He’s not worth giving a star to. I was told I should report him to the bar association. Not only did this cost me then but It’s costing me now . Do your research before hiring him.
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26 Aug, 2021 by Lakhwinder kang
Today my pretrail my case is dismissed is really experienced and extpert in his work to I really appreciate his herd work thx
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26 Aug, 2024 by Nicholas minella
Best law firm ever
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21 Jun, 2023 by John doe
Was articulate and thorough while helping me through my divorce and child custody.
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20 Oct, 2022 by Craig belliston
06 Jun, 2024 by Carla
09 Apr, 2024 by Donna jackson
I made the mistake of choosing this attorney to safeguard my interests in my mother's estate and he did the opposite. He spent the first year fairly respectful, but when I pressed for action, he retreated and lied to me regarding estate law in Ohio. I am out of state so he knew how to work it. I spent 4 years and way too much money on this so called lawyer . He won't be your lawyer, but will regard opposing counsel's interest over yours. Mr. Slagle will be more interested in pleasing the estate attorney than you, the client paying the bill. He doesn't want to fight a case, but rather sit in his office and double or triple bill you while emailing and booking phone conferences. He bills for reviewing your case a great deal, sometimes 2 or 3 hours of reading at a time in many instances, then when talking with him, he is clueless on what you discussed previously. I had to run down deeds, he didn't even see to important details. Near the end, knowing I am stuck with him, he even became disrespectful if I didn't go along with his suggestions that left me holding the short end of the stick. His last token disaster- accepting a check for my part in the estate post dated 10 years from now. Learn from me and run.
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10 Jan, 2024 by Benjamin rosh
04 Jan, 2021 by Brooke chismar
05 Oct, 2020 by Denise smith
Most honest attorney I've ever known. He returns phonecalls if you are his client.
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02 Oct, 2017 by Beth hoskins
I've worked for Estate attorney. And we'll just this guy is hard to work with. Won't return phone calls. Pick an other attorney if you don't wanna be ot in the dark.
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11 Oct, 2023 by Candy
He is a crook... many of us have not been paid our money for retaining him and his failure to service our cases. He has not paid me back the 2,000.00 he owes me and has fell off the face of the earth. I suggest reading reviews from other places. Many have been ripped off as I was. In process of civil court to retrieve my money. GET ANOTHER ATTORNEY.
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07 Sep, 2018 by Diane
My son got his second OVI within three years in Lisbon, Ohio on 4th of July weekend . We decided to consult with a local attorney which turned out to be the best decision ever! Attorney Barborak made time to see my son and I within an hours notice . What struck me most about Attorney Barborak was that he genuinely CARED about my son as an individual. The first thing he did at the consultation was to give my son a heart to heart talk. Then he got down to business with the necessary questions and details . Attorney Barbarok was extremely knowledgeable and also brought his knowledge to the table from his previous prosecuting attorney experience. He took his time with us and didn’t make us feel like “just another case”. His rates are competitive as well . After the consultation, we retained him as our attorney with peace of mind . A second ovi is serious and Attorney Barborak not only got outstanding results but impacted my son in leading a promising lifestyle. Attorney Barborak CARES and will do everything he can to get the best outcome !
Thank you Attorney Barborak!
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16 Mar, 2017 by Lynn
We hired him to get custody of my granddaughter. It was a tough battle but we won custody.
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23 Feb, 2022 by Linda
Needed to get an attorney asap due to health issues of a family member. Elizabeth worked us in right away. She was professional and answered all of our questions. I even followed up with some email questions and she promptly responded. She is conveniently located. Very satisfied with her service.
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28 Jul, 2020 by Anonymous
Elizabeth was an absolute pleasure to work with. My family is very glad to have found her. She was extremely patient, thorough and easy to understand. She's a pleasure, and her experience & mastery of estate planning left my family comforted through a difficult time. Highly recommend!
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15 Jul, 2020 by Anonymous
I contacted attorney Elizabeth Schmitz concerning a guardianship. Ms. Schmitz’s office told me that a doctor would need to examine my family member for the purpose of diagnosis. Ms. Schmitz's office never told me how long the process of obtaining the guardianship would take, but assured me that they would be filing paperwork soon.
Over the next week, I corresponded with Ms. Scmitz's office through email. Over the next two and a half months after that, I waited and waited for updates on my case from Ms. Schmitz's office, occasionally sending an email or calling and leaving a voicemail on her phone. Only once did I get to speak to someone in her office, who told me that a doctor would call me in about four weeks to set up an appointment to conduct the examination. That phone call never came. I then left repeated voicemails and emails at Ms. Schmitz’s office. I never received a reply. Finally, out of exasperation at Ms. Schmitz’s office refusal to communicate with me in any way, I wrote an email to Ms. Schmitz, informing her that I was firing her as my attorney due to her refusal to communicate with me for over a month. In my email, I stated that she never provided me with any proof that any paperwork had ever been filed on my behalf by her office. This time, Ms. Schmitz replied the very next day that she “will close my file on this matter,” along with a pro forma apology. She did not challenge my accusation regarding the absence of any filed paperwork.
I had no idea there are lawyers who treat their clients this way. If an attorney does not wish to represent someone, all they have to do is say so. There is no cause to string someone along and waste their time for three months. I can only take her treatment of me as some sort of running joke at the office that she and her secretaries engaged in. Haha, real funny. You would be better off hiring a used car salesman as your attorney rather than Elizabeth Schmitz.
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18 Aug, 2019 by Anonymous
Was not successful in negotiating even minor considerations in my case. I found out he was telling me one thing and telling the prosecutor something completely different. If anything he hurt my case. Beware he is NOT what he seems.
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10 Sep, 2015 by Michael seibert
Never having gone through a divorce before, I had no idea what to do or how to handle it. The only think I prayed for was to have council that understood me and showed caring and compassion. I found him in Atty Leahy. He knows his stuff and he knew how to make this journey for me as comfortable as possible in a very uncomfortable situation. When I say he is simply the best, he is. This man can be trusted and relied upon. I was very lucky to have found him.
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06 Nov, 2014 by Monica
You can trust this man. John Leahy took the time to listen. He gave our family informed, experienced advice and expertly lead us through the legal system. The positive outcome for our sons serious felony charge was due to the groundwork and persistent interest John gave his case. John Leahy always returned our calls ,we felt cared for and that our situation mattered to him.
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30 Oct, 2020 by Mel
Attorney Vitullo represented my domestic case. He was responsive, professional and extremely knowledgeable. I would highly recommend his service to anyone seeking a reliable attorney.
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02 Nov, 2018 by Kathleen
I Trusted my instincts and contacted James regarding a concern I had with Legal Documents for my father's estate. He was very helpful and finally I have peace of mind that if need be I will be represented fairly and honestly. He listened with much intent regarding my issues, instructed me as to what I can do for myself and then he would step in if need be. I am confident that he would handle anything would arise and be candid and thorough. He was also very friendly, down to earth and answers his own phone. I am very pleased with my consultation and regret that the family hired another attorney in the area rather than him. I will finally be able to sleep at night knowing I have someone in my corner. Thank you Jim for your advice.
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05 Aug, 2013 by Jeff
I know the prior reviewer. He never paid Attorney Vitullo. Attorney Vitullo was required to file a lawsuit to get his fees. The reviewer is a vile and vindictive person. I would discount completely his opinion. I have used this attorney for 15 years and never had a problem. This is a very childish way to seek revenge especially since the legal work was completely without any problems.
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25 Jan, 2017 by Ryan
Attorney Koehler spent very little time with my case and this was evident in every situation we spent in court, and there weren't many. He seemed to be an attorney who was experienced so I assumed I wouldn't have to investigate every move made but that turned out to be a huge mistake on my part. I had very little experience with this type of thing, have never had a relative pass where I had to take on the responsibility of administrator so I decided to attempt to hire an attorney that I felt would do the right thing. I've been a kind person my entire life and have always been taken advantage of, I just assumed that losing my father in the way I did would motivate someone to do the right thing. I am very hurt by this, I lost my father in a horrible way. All I wanted was closure and I feel now that that will never be possible for me. Thank you for listening, this is something I felt I needed to get out.
Sincerely,
Ryan
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05 Aug, 2015 by Jean
I found Ron 's ad in the phone book to be very helpful, answering many questions before I called. I found him to be meticulous, professional, extremely knowledgeable and working for my best interests. He came to my home, gave me 4 copies of all documents, filed a deed, and charged a reasonable fee. The whole experience was very good and I will recommend him to my relatives and friends.
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26 Jan, 2024 by Terry rowen
Mrs. McHugh does not keep up on paperwork and is not an honest person with values. We changed attorneys and have a complaint with the Toledo Bar. She doesn't return phone calls when she's wrong. I would not recommend her to anyone.
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25 Oct, 2022 by Gregory berning sr.
Nice office and good people
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08 Oct, 2021 by Victoria case
Mr. Bingle was very knowledgeable and a pleasure to work with.
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27 Jun, 2021 by Tabitha fowler
29 Oct, 2020 by Tim meisner
Always a pleasure to talk to Brian. He takes time to explain everything so you understand exactly what you need to do before you make any decisions.
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09 Oct, 2018 by Tanya cole
Excellent Lawyer if your in need of one I suggest him, and he is very Christian oriented.
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24 Jun, 2024 by P. s.
11 Apr, 2023 by Pat lindner
The people at this company are professional, know their business, and very helpful. Highly recommended.
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23 Aug, 2022 by Anonymous
Will tell you what you want to hear and when the retainer is cleared your out 5k. If the case requires him to do anything other than show up for the court date your on your own. You will be your own paralegal and still that will not be enough. And when it came time for litigation everything that we said we agreed upon and agreement that was met with other party involved was not the same as the agreement letter written so I did not sign and return. I was then called by him asking why I would not sign the papers and I told him I didn’t agree to what was in the papers he then tried to say that was what was agreed upon and if I didn’t sign them he would no longer represent me and I’d be out the money I already paid him. Not only did he take my money and run with it the attorney that referred him to me took 2k as well just for referring him.
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02 May, 2024 by Flippin chuck
The notary class was on time and very informative.
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29 Apr, 2024 by Seth hoover
Not even one star. Absolutely horrible, magistrate is a handwriting expert? Massillon Courts honor 6 year gambling debts and call defendents retards basically. You should be ashamed.
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02 Apr, 2024 by Marcus beatty
02 May, 2024 by Flippin chuck
The notary class was on time and very informative.
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29 Apr, 2024 by Seth hoover
Not even one star. Absolutely horrible, magistrate is a handwriting expert? Massillon Courts honor 6 year gambling debts and call defendents retards basically. You should be ashamed.
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02 Apr, 2024 by Marcus beatty
25 Jul, 2024 by Wayne musolf
21 Sep, 2023 by Diane kirby
That with attorney John Chaney III, what a great experience. He is thoughtful and just not do cookie cutter law. He will listen to what your needs are and then explain how it relates to going by the book and the law. Great experience.
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06 May, 2023 by Wilbert i brookover sr
Very professional.
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01 Jul, 2024 by Dennis douglas
Cassone Law Offices was contacted in September of 2021 to take on my case involving a house purchase on a land contract. I invested over $30,000 into remodeling the property but, unfortunately, misplaced some receipts and could only find documentation for $21,000. Michael Perry, who was selling me the house, requested pictures of the remodeling. Shockingly, he then used those pictures to sell the house out from under me and my three children.
When I initially spoke with an attorney from Cassone Law Offices, they assured me it was an open and shut case. Fast forward three years, and I still haven't received any compensation. The man who scammed me out of my savings has since inherited a considerable amount of money, yet it's a struggle to get any response from Cassone Law Offices or see any progress in my case.
It seems that everything went downhill for me when they lost their paralegal, Lisa D. Despite the lack of results, I keep receiving bills from the office claiming I owe money. I only want to recover the money I invested in the house, which was in a blighted condition until I fixed it up. My family and I ended up living in a hotel for a year after the house was sold out from under us. I don't know what to do anymore, and I'm deeply frustrated and upset by the lack of action and communication from Cassone Law Offices.
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09 Feb, 2024 by Woodside apartments
09 Feb, 2024 by Kaylah casuccio
21 May, 2024 by Sophia stover
I was absolutely astonished by the rudeness and lack of empathy from someone who is supposed to be a professional and beyond my side if they represent me. That lawyer At first said flat out, I’m not gonna take your case. Then he changed his mind and said wanted to charge me $2000 extra dollars for the retainer plus extra money hourly there just because I was going through a domestic violence relationship and just because he felt like it was going to be a complicated case. Not only that but he said “what kind of mother are you?” (To have been stuck in an abusive relationship), “have you gotten a mental evaluation lately?” “The more I learn about you the more I understand why other lawyers won’t take your case” he also asked Intimate details of my trauma which was totally irrelevant to the context. You do not ask somebody what happened to cause PTSD!!! I felt like I was totally in the twilight zone. Do not fall for his shock and awe attempts at manipulation to get you to pay more money to him for him to mistreat you and not even be on your side if he’s gonna be your lawyer!
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30 Mar, 2024 by Brian truelove
06 Mar, 2024 by E z
01 Mar, 2023 by Melanie mcconnell
Very friendly , helpful , and experienced ! Need a lawyer ? Check them out !
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23 Sep, 2021 by Jay owens
11 Feb, 2021 by Kevin biggs
Poor lawyer history in Marietta Ohio Judge was angry and warning him with my case
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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:
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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.
