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24 Sep, 2024 by Diane
WOW! I just don’t have the words to express how grateful I am that Attorney Marcus Sermons agreed to take on the lawsuits brought against me as the executor of my brother’s estate. I live in NH and my brother lived in Florida. Unfortunately, my brother’s biological and estranged child flew into Florida within 24 hrs of his death believing she was entitled to everything… regardless of his will and final wishes. Her deceitful and aggressive actions only added more sadness and trauma to the loss of my brother.
I could say Attorney Sermons gave me 110% or 150% or 200% … but it was more than that.
• First, he took on the case which was already messy from two previous attorneys… and I had been warned by a paralegal friend that no attorney would care to wade into a small, yet complicated estate lawsuit
• Attorney Sermons’ calm, supportive demeanor brought me to tears immediately as I felt heard for the first time in more than a year
• Attorney Sermons not only threw me a life raft, when I was too terrified to get in, he jumped into the water with me! What attorney does that?
• He went above and beyond. He was available, heard me, was kind, and extremely patient as he worked to clarify the misinformation given to me by the two previous attorneys.
I wish my brother had retained Attorney Marcus Sermons to create his will and final wishes. I wish I had found Attorney Marcus Sermons first, as I believe his expertise would have saved me from much of the pain and anguish I endured of having to navigate the hostility of a greedy spoiled child
My advice to you… contact Attorney Sermons if need a competent, caring and ethical attorney.
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14 Sep, 2024 by Chris
Mr Seemons’ firm was above all professional and honest. He was also able to address a potentially difficult family situation with compassion.
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30 Nov, 2023 by Dawn
I hired Marcus Sermons of Sermons Law a few months after my husband passed away. I needed help with a probate case. Not only was he sincerely sympathetic to the passing of my loved one, but Marcus was overly helpful with getting my issue resolved in a timely manner. I was involved in every step that was made and he always made sure I understood what was happening. I thoroughly appreciate his kindness and hard work during the most difficult time of my life. Thank you Marcus and Maria for making this process as easy as possible. God Bless you all at Sermons Law.
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07 Mar, 2022 by Britney
Took the time to explain everything to me and was very helpful in completing my documents. I would definitely recommend!!
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27 Nov, 2021 by Pauline
Doing estate planning is something people often put off. My husband and I were pleasantly surprised at how easy Attorney Donley made the process. She is also incredibly patient and very organized. I highly recommend her.
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15 Feb, 2021 by Kaylyn
It has been a pleasure working with Amber Donley. Her knowledge, expertise, and professionalism combined created a seamless resolution for a complicated situation. During a period of COVID and the pandemic all communications continued be clear and precise in a timely manner. Amber is assisted by friendly staff, Melissa, who works diligently to assure clients are provided quality customer service. My husband and I will utilize their services for any legal situations we may encounter in the future.
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25 Sep, 2024 by Cara
I highly recommend this law office. Mrs. Jenkins helped us in putting a trust/will package together...loved how they took their time with us, explained the process and were so compassionate with us.
It's always difficult when your preparing for the end but as she explained it's an act of love for those being left behind during a period of grief to not have to worry about.
Thank you so much...you were our angel during this unfortunate journey.
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10 Oct, 2023 by Anonymous
Mrs. Jenkins was absolutely great to work with. She help answer our questions and got us on the right path with Estate Planning. I feel like my generation doesn't speak on this because of the lack of knowledge. With the proper knowledge given by Jahlysa, we left out of their establishment with the feeling of being prepared. Thank you again Jahlysa!!
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03 Aug, 2023 by Felecia
Mrs.Jenkins is a awesome and understanding and caring attorney. She goes over and Beyond to assist your needs and she also return calls immediately. Mrs.Jenkins talk to her client personally.
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26 Jan, 2015 by Merrick
Grady put together for my wife and I a complete package of documents including a will. living will. durable power of attorney, and health care surrogate designation. Also done was a preneed guardian and release of medical information. I thought the pre-prep interview was very thorough. The explanation of each document prepared was handled the same way and answered all of our questions.
I really like that there is followup communication by newsletter, open house events and presentations to keep us aware of changes or needs that he sees that may need to be addressed.
I would highly recommend him to anyone needing these services.
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20 Jan, 2015 by Roger
My wife and I utilized Mr. Williams for some estate planning. Mr. Williams assisted us with a Will, Living Will, Power of Attorney, and a Warranty Deed placing the real estate in both our names. From beginning to end the process was very thorough, professional, and educational. I say educational because Mr. Williams took the time to explain to both my wife and I all the ramifications of our actions. Based on our experience with Mr. Williams and his staff, we know we selected the right attorney.
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11 Jan, 2015 by Danny
Have worked with Grady Williams legal office for past 20 years. Most helpful and informative in setting up family wills, and estate planning. More recently setting up a trust for our family. Also helpful in keeping up with changes in state laws, to update needed changes in our will.
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09 Feb, 2024 by Rebecca doss
David Drill was an excellent attorney, he goes the extra mile to make sure you get a fair settlement. He asks question and he listens. He and his team were awesome. Thank you 😊
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02 Feb, 2024 by Sharon kilgore
I find this firm. David Drill...is more a workers comp lawyer..he is there to work with wc NOT me as a client I was ignored blown off and stalled out so that he let the insurance company decide what settlement I was to receive..even tho I am in such shape It is impossible for me to return to wk when I was stalled off for so longI had no choice but to settle for the insulting settlement. And Mr Drill stalled me off for months before actually having me in to sign and now I'm being stalled off getting back after they take over 3 thousand for doing absolutely nothing and now refuses to return my calls and still after 3 weeks no ck saying post office to blame...they Do NOT care about wc client's but I guess it's a great scam $ 3500 for doing as Mr Drill said...nothing...and I am the one who is paying an accident at wk. I would never recommend this firm for anything
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23 Nov, 2023 by Sara j
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FAQs
Questions? We have answers
What a Probate Lawyer Can Do for You
A probate lawyer assists with the legal process of administering a deceased person’s estate. This often involves guiding executors (if a will exists) or beneficiaries (if no will exists) through the probate process to settle the estate according to the deceased’s wishes or applicable laws. Probate lawyers can help validate the will, distribute assets, resolve disputes among heirs, handle outstanding debts or taxes, and ensure the estate is legally and efficiently administered.
Whether you’re an executor of an estate or an heir facing probate proceedings, a probate lawyer can help you navigate the often-complex legal process to ensure the estate is settled correctly.
When Should I Hire a Probate Lawyer?
You should consider hiring a probate lawyer when you are responsible for managing the estate of a deceased individual, especially in the following situations:
- The estate has substantial assets: If the estate includes significant assets like real estate, investments, or business interests, legal assistance is often necessary to handle the distribution properly.
- The will is being contested: If there are disputes among heirs regarding the validity of the will or the division of assets, a probate lawyer can help resolve the conflict.
- The estate includes complex or unclear provisions: If the will contains complicated instructions or there are no clear beneficiaries, a lawyer can ensure that the estate is administered according to legal requirements.
- There is no will (intestate estate): When a person dies without a will, the estate is subject to intestacy laws, which determine how assets are distributed. A probate lawyer can help navigate this process.
- Debt or tax issues exist: If the estate owes significant debts or is subject to estate taxes, a probate lawyer can help ensure debts are paid appropriately and taxes are minimized.
- Probate disputes: If family members or other parties are disputing the distribution of assets or challenging the executor's actions, legal representation is crucial to defending your rights and ensuring the estate is handled properly.
Hiring a probate lawyer early in the process can help avoid costly mistakes and ensure the estate is settled efficiently.
What Does a Probate Lawyer Do?
A probate lawyer provides a wide range of legal services to help manage and settle an estate. Their tasks can include:
- Validating the will: Filing the will with the probate court and ensuring its legal validity.
- Guiding executors or administrators: Advising the person responsible for managing the estate on their duties, including inventorying assets, notifying creditors, and paying debts.
- Filing necessary paperwork: Preparing and submitting the legal documents required to initiate and complete the probate process.
- Resolving disputes: Mediating or litigating disputes among heirs or between beneficiaries and executors, including challenges to the will or disagreements over asset distribution.
- Handling debt and tax matters: Ensuring that outstanding debts, taxes, and estate taxes are properly calculated and paid from the estate’s assets.
- Distributing assets: Ensuring that assets are distributed to the beneficiaries according to the will or intestacy laws, and that all legal requirements are fulfilled.
- Closing the estate: Completing the final steps of the probate process, including filing a final accounting with the court and formally closing the estate.
How Are Probate Lawyers Paid?
Probate lawyers typically charge for their services based on the complexity of the estate and the nature of the legal work involved. Common payment structures include:
- Hourly rate: Most probate lawyers charge by the hour, with rates depending on the lawyer’s experience and the complexity of the estate. Hourly rates can range from $150 to $500 or more.
- Flat fee: For simple estates or straightforward probate tasks, some lawyers may charge a flat fee that covers all of the necessary legal work.
- Percentage of the estate: In some states, probate lawyers are allowed to charge a percentage of the estate's value as their fee. This percentage typically ranges from 2% to 5%, depending on the size of the estate and state regulations.
- Retainer fee: Some lawyers may require an upfront retainer fee, which is billed against as the probate process progresses.
It’s important to clarify the fee structure during your initial consultation to understand how you will be charged and avoid unexpected costs.
How Much Does a Probate Lawyer Cost?
The cost of hiring a probate lawyer depends on several factors, including the complexity of the estate, the type of legal issues involved, and the lawyer’s fee structure. General cost estimates include:
- Simple estates: For estates with straightforward assets and no disputes, probate legal fees can range from $2,500 to $10,000, depending on the lawyer's fees and the state's probate laws.
- Complex estates: For larger or more complicated estates with multiple properties, business interests, or disputes, probate costs can exceed $10,000 and may reach $20,000 or more.
- Hourly rates: If charged by the hour, expect rates between $150 and $500, depending on the lawyer’s expertise and geographic location.
- Percentage fees: In some cases, a probate lawyer may charge 2% to 5% of the estate’s value, particularly for larger estates or those involving complex legal matters.
Always ask for a clear estimate of fees during your initial consultation to understand the total cost of probate representation.
Top Questions to Ask a Probate Lawyer
Before hiring a probate lawyer, it’s essential to ask the right questions to ensure you’re hiring someone qualified to handle your estate needs. Key questions include:
-
What experience do you have with probate cases like mine?
Ensure the lawyer has experience with estates of similar complexity, especially if disputes or high-value assets are involved. -
How do you charge for your services?
Ask whether the lawyer charges an hourly rate, a flat fee, or a percentage of the estate, and request a cost estimate. -
What is the likely timeline for my probate case?
While it’s hard to predict exactly, an experienced lawyer can give you a general idea of how long the probate process may take based on the specifics of your estate. -
What steps will you take to manage and distribute the estate?
Ask about the lawyer’s approach to handling debts, taxes, and asset distribution. -
Will you be handling my case personally?
In larger firms, junior attorneys or paralegals may handle some aspects of your case, so it’s important to know who will be working on your probate case. -
What are potential challenges we may face?
A good lawyer will be able to anticipate possible issues, such as will contests or creditor claims, and explain how they would handle them.
How to Check the Credibility of a Probate Lawyer
To ensure you’re hiring a reputable probate lawyer, follow these steps to check their credentials and experience:
- Verify their state bar status: Check with your state’s bar association to confirm the lawyer is licensed to practice and has no history of disciplinary action.
- Look for probate experience: Review the lawyer’s website or professional profile to ensure they specialize in probate law and have experience handling estates of similar complexity.
- Read client reviews and testimonials: Look for online reviews on platforms like Avvo or Martindale-Hubbell to see what past clients have said about the lawyer’s probate experience.
- Ask for references: A credible lawyer should be able to provide references from past clients who can vouch for their professionalism and expertise in handling probate matters.
- Look for membership in professional organizations: Membership in organizations like the American Academy of Estate Planning Attorneys (AAEPA) or the National Academy of Elder Law Attorneys (NAELA) can indicate a lawyer's commitment to estate and probate law.
What Should I Prepare for My First Consultation?
To make the most out of your first consultation with a probate lawyer, it’s important to come prepared with relevant documents and information. Here’s what you should bring:
- A copy of the will or trust (if applicable): Bring any estate planning documents left by the deceased, including wills, trusts, or powers of attorney.
- List of assets and debts: Prepare a detailed list of the deceased’s assets (e.g., real estate, bank accounts, investments) and outstanding debts (e.g., loans, mortgages, credit cards).
- Death certificate: Bring a certified copy of the deceased person’s death certificate.
- Contact information for heirs and beneficiaries: Have a list of all individuals or entities named in the will or who are entitled to inherit under intestacy laws.
- Questions about the probate process: Write down any questions you have about the process, costs, and potential issues you might face.
- Relevant financial records: If available, bring any relevant financial documents, such as bank statements, property deeds, and tax returns.
By coming prepared, you can ensure a productive consultation and allow the lawyer to provide the best advice for your situation.
