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02 Jan, 2025 by Austin grejda
I was hit by a car on November 16, 2023, and it’s been a long road to recovery. Through a friend, I was recommended to Brendan Lupetin, Greg Unatin, and their associate Garrett Trettel. They were there for me every step of the way, guiding me when I didn’t know what to do and answering my questions pretty much anytime—day or night. They worked hard to get me the best results possible and even reduced some of their fees to help me. I wouldn’t recommend anyone else.
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31 Dec, 2024 by Kellen lovejoy
3 years ago my son and I were involved in a car accident. My son’s grandfather referred me to Lupetin & Unatin for representation for the accident. His referral came highly regarded due to him having a case where he was sued Duquesne Light for damages to his property and he won. So needless to say, I went with his recommendation.
Regarding my own case, the representation I received from Lupetin & Unatin was superb. I filed my lawsuit at the beginning of 2022 and they diligently gathered all the information needed to settle the case for me and my son. It took some time, but the end of 2024, they were able to get us a reasonable settlement and they only charged 25%. Garrett Trettel was representing us and he treated our case with the utmost importance and urgency, being very transparent of the necessary steps that had to be taken along the way in order for us to cross the finish line.
I can honestly say I am pleased and satisfied with the service I received from this law firm. I wouldn’t hesitate to use them again in the future.
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07 Dec, 2024 by Dominic reale
Don't even waste your time with this law firm .
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08 Sep, 2023 by Dr crisatina pennybaker
Watch this judge today extremely fair judge
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04 Jul, 2023 by Elle damon
04 Jun, 2023 by John abram
To be continued
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12 Nov, 2009 by Kimberly
I can enthusiastically recommend attorney Lorraine A. Smith based on her excellent representation of me in a difficult estate case. She was the 3rd attorney that I worked with, and was the only one to truly facilitate the case towards a satisfactory result for all parties. She very quickly came up to speed on a case with a long (8+ year) history and developed a novel approach and solution. She is intelligent, practical, clear, responsive, and compassionate.
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08 Jun, 2011 by George
On June 15, 2007, Attorney William C. Kaczynski entered his appearance in the case entitled Commonwealth of Pennsylvania vs. GEORGE D. WALLS, CC # 200214218. I was incarcerated in SCI Albion, Pennsylvania due to a wrongful conviction. Attorney Kaczynsk, filed a Supplemental Post Conviction Relief Act Petition requesting the trial court to grant me a new trial for several reasons See: Commonwealth v. George D. Walls, cited as: 993 A.2d 289 Pa. Super 54 (2010). The trial court (Honorable Judge Kathleen A. Durkin) rejected my PCRA Petition for new trial. HOWEVER, Attorney Kaczynski, filed the above cited appeal in the Superior Court of Pennsylvania. The Superior Court REVERSED & REMANDED with instructions agreeing with Attorney Kaczynski, that my Due Process Rights were violated. The case went back before the Honorable Judge Durkin who summarily dismissed my (PCRA) Petition without a hearing. Attorney Kaczynski aggressively argued that I should be granted a new trial because of prior Counsel (Ernest H. Sharif) & (William A. Brandstetter, II) was ineffective in their representation of my case. On February 11, 2011, my PCRA Petition for new trial was granted. On May 20, 2011, I was finally released from the wrongful incarceration due to the diligent work of William C. Kaczynski, Esquire!
For more than 4 years attorney Kaczynski put in so many hours to make sure that I'd get my day in court and then had the wrongful conviction reversed.
Finally, On May 10th, 2011, the Honorable Judge Kathleen A. Durkin granted the Allegheny County District Attorney's request to "nolle process" the entire case. I am a free man today thanks to Attorney William C. Kaczynski, Esquire.
I greatly appreciate having Attorney William C. Kaczynski represent me. I wish all attorney would work as hard and diligent as this attorney! William C. Kaczynski, kept his word and kept me informed at every stage of the case. Most of the times, during his representation of my case, he went beyond the call of his representation.
If you need any additional information about this wonderful Attorney, feel free to email me at:
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19 Sep, 2010 by Anthony
JIm Vergotz is an excellent attorney. He is an expert in elder law. He really works for you and his fees are reasonable. I really trust him and I am really pleased how he spends the time to explain to us all of the details in a way we can understand.
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09 Sep, 2021 by Curtis tvrdovsky
02 May, 2021 by Gina biltz
30 Apr, 2021 by Bill snyder
30 Mar, 2024 by Jen morales-jones
Tom is a very kind, considerate, understanding and down to earth guy. He means what he says, and says what he means!! I would recommend him to anyone who needs an attorney. And yes he does keep in contact with you throughout the whole process and discusses and explains things to you. He gets the job done! 😊 P.S. check him out on tiktok his videos are very informative.
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30 Mar, 2024 by Sytuan williams
15 Mar, 2024 by Kim kat
Tom Wing is a wonderful, through, and thoughtful lawyer, If any questions or problems arose during my work injury, Tom was always quick to respond and explain my case and assure things would be handled quickly . The communication was stellar and put my stress to ease many times over, Choose McMenamin & Wing as your personal injury lawyer and you will be in good hands, in addition to settling my work injury and fighting for the best settlement offer!!
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30 Mar, 2024 by Jen morales-jones
Tom is a very kind, considerate, understanding and down to earth guy. He means what he says, and says what he means!! I would recommend him to anyone who needs an attorney. And yes he does keep in contact with you throughout the whole process and discusses and explains things to you. He gets the job done! 😊 P.S. check him out on tiktok his videos are very informative.
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30 Mar, 2024 by Sytuan williams
15 Mar, 2024 by Kim kat
Tom Wing is a wonderful, through, and thoughtful lawyer, If any questions or problems arose during my work injury, Tom was always quick to respond and explain my case and assure things would be handled quickly . The communication was stellar and put my stress to ease many times over, Choose McMenamin & Wing as your personal injury lawyer and you will be in good hands, in addition to settling my work injury and fighting for the best settlement offer!!
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13 Nov, 2024 by Hakemo alasbhi
The best lawyers
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31 Aug, 2024 by Matt dee
Mr. Paletta was excellent and professional when it came to assisting me with a matter regarding my nursing license. He showed great expertise and was able to help me get the issue resolved quickly and without incident. Would absolutely recommend.
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31 May, 2024 by Eric buzard
24 Mar, 2024 by Theresa michalski
I know this attorney from personal experience/co workers!
She is pure awful! greedy!
And unconditional!
As a family law attorney!
Who pushed so much against the children and the dad involved that the kid was left more then traumatized, and now backwards as an adult!!
It’s not even funny how much she is against all sides when her pockets are involved!
She is not someone I would recommend to babysit my hamsters rights!
This individual is just awful as a human being!!
She doesn’t think of the incident children are either party!!
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05 Jan, 2024 by Ed verrilla
24 Jan, 2023 by Kristin hermann
Warm, inviting And knowledgeable definitely recommend her
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05 May, 2023 by Amy
Maureen was hired by my mother in 2013 to help her draw up her will. Years later my mom was diagnosed with Alzheimer's and we were unable to find a copy of her will in her files. Last summer (2022) I reached out to Maureen and explained that I was my mom's POA and that I needed a copy of her will. My siblings both emailed Maureen with their consent. Maureen said that she wanted to speak with my mother to get her approval as well but I kindly asked her not to do that. It would unnecessarily upset my mom, and I knew my rights as POA. Maureen ignored my request and called my mother anyway, causing further stress and anxiety to our family. It was an unkind, unprofessional thing to do. I do not recommend Maureen.
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19 Nov, 2019 by Norman
We were due for a total overhaul of our Estate Plan and legal position, We were led through the process and completed the “reset” smoothly and thoroughly!
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18 Nov, 2019 by Katie
My husband & I had a great experience doing our estate planning with Maureen Gluntz. She is extremely knowledgeable in her field. She was very thorough and explained things to us in great detail. If you looking for piece of mind with your estate planning, we highly recommend using Maureen Gluntz as your attorney.
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03 Sep, 2024 by Tim hughes
Great experience with Jason. He kept us informed every step of the way. Very professional and diligent.
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15 Jul, 2024 by Mauro defelice
Mr Burgess is a honest man. He sat with me and my mom and helped us out with no charge. There was some miss-understanding between us and it was resolved and understood. He’s a man of faith and good character.
In solidarity.
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15 Jul, 2024 by Brandon rimer
They were unwilling to help me write a legal affidavit. They would even point me un the right direction.
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19 Dec, 2022 by Jeremy kromer
Cant say enough good things about this firm. They kept us informed about our case some of case is still ongoing but the workmans comp part is settled. After the lose of my father in a tractor trailer accident and being a only child so the brunt of keeping it together for my poor mother along with some help of friends and family it has been a upward climb plus dealing with the company my dad worked for at first i just didn't know what was going to happen to everything my dad worked for for 45 years and what was my mom going to do i didn't want her to have to sell the house or anything aspeciely when it wasn't his fault. Our attorney traveled back and forth between Pittsburgh and dubois pa to make it easier on my mom he made her so at ease and even did court threw zoom, we never had to leave our house. Its not over theres still things to figure out but mom will be taken care of and dads legacy will live on thak you Rhett for all your help i can't say enough to show my gratitude .
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14 Jun, 2021 by Karl thedude
Knowledgeable and professional staff
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01 Oct, 2020 by Meg w
07 Dec, 2024 by Aaron brandonisio
13 Nov, 2024 by Angelo p.
Morgan & Morgan provided exceptional service by referring me to the outstanding attorney Stephen R. Miller at Pond Lehocky. Their team was professional, attentive, and genuinely concerned about my needs. The referral process was seamless and efficient, leading me to a super lawyer who exceeded all my expectations. Stephen R. Miller's expertise and dedication were evident from our first meeting, and I felt confident and well-supported throughout my legal journey. Thank you, Morgan & Morgan, for your excellent service and for connecting me with such a stellar attorney!
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07 Nov, 2024 by Heather clevenger
So far so great full just getting to the start and healing
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08 Oct, 2024 by Mikhail istomin
Attorney Tara Hutchinson and the entire team at the Pittsburgh Family Law Services are knowledgeable, welcoming, and caring. Highly recommended for any and all family law services from adoptions and custody to divorce, prenuptial agreements and estate planning. If you are looking for experienced and very effective legal representation in Pittsburgh, this family law firm is your answer.
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13 Jul, 2024 by Anita l
Tara is a true professional that cares about her clients. Highly recommend working with her.
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02 Apr, 2024 by Kamil boryszewski
I recently worked with Attorney Tara L. Hutchinson to address my marriage agreement. Tara reviewed my case and was detail-oriented from the very first consultation. She took the time to understand my specific situation and needs, and made sure the agreement addressed everything thoroughly. She even went above and beyond to contact my lawyer in another country! I couldn't be happier with the experience.
Her guidance and knowledge gave me great peace of mind throughout the process. Thanks to Tara's professionalism and expertise, I feel confident that the agreement is fair and comprehensive. Thank you for being patient with me throughout the process!
If you're looking for a lawyer to handle your case, I highly recommend Tara and PGH Family Law Services, P.C.
~Dorota B.
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12 Jun, 2024 by Brett montgomery
I had a very good experience working with Beth Shovlin on the closing of a house recently. She was very knowledgeable, and easy to understand when it came to "legal speak". I appreciate all the hard work she did to make this closing seamless, and being so flexible with meeting with me. I recommend working with Beth for anyone who has real estate needs.
Thanks Beth!
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07 Nov, 2023 by Dominic reale
If I could give a 0 stars I would. I do not recommend using this law firm unless you want to have a disaster happen to you . I hired this law firm to sell a popular piece of property in heart of downtown Pittsburgh. The Attorney that was assigned to me, Beth Shovlin has zero knowledge of the law , i don'teven know how she is a attorney , she doesn't understand any of the laws and gives horrible legal advice. Beth admitted making a huge blunder and just quit during the negotiations and kept the retainer. Which is a disgrace. Beth cost me tons of money to fix what she admittedly got wrong . I even paid double the amount of retainer fee that the firm was asking to have the property sold asap . Beth Shovlin was so awful. If she had any integrity, she would have resigned at the beginning & sent me to a transactional lawyer. If you want a gaint disaster on your hands and incomplete transactions, and incompetent lawyers representing you then hire this law firm . They have zero understanding of the real estate laws .
Beth Shovlin should resign as a attorney because she doesn't know anything about anything. As mentioned I had to hire another attorney to rectify the contract. Total waste of time . There are plenty of better options out there then this Law firm . This law firm is a total waste of time and money. Highly recommend staying far away from this Law firm .
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14 Sep, 2023 by J h
Beth is very kind and professional!
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21 Jan, 2025 by Lori vrolijk
I have been with the firm for about two years as my divorce is taking time due to the other party. I started off with one attorney and due to maternity leave, Bethany stepped in to get the process moving after my retainer was given. I was then assigned to Chrystal. She has explained everything well and took charge of my divorce. She won the APL for me. She answered every question I had timely. The outcome of the divorce with child support and alimony is fair, considering the laws. She will also work on my custody. To be truthful the divorce process is expensive (depending on your situation), but the experience that comes with the firm is worth the cost. The firm has been very workable and most importantly truthful with me.
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21 Jan, 2025 by Karen footman
This firm and our Attorney has been nothing less then a blessing to our family, when we thought that everything was going against my son fighting for his child, Chrystal stepped in with no hesitation and took the wheel, provided the evidence and got my son his child. we are so grateful for everything she does and pushes hard for us each and everytime, she fights for us like she would for her own family. I couldn't be more happier, pleased and blessed 🙏 and would refer anyone I know to this firm and attorney any chance I get. Thank you again!!!!
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21 Jan, 2025 by Liz page
I’ve had an absolutely incredible experience with Notaro Epstein. My attorney is Erika Reichert and she has worked so hard to understand my specific situation and concerns. She is very thorough and makes sure that all my questions are answered, no matter how many I ask her! I feel like this firm genuinely cares about me as a client and wants to help me as much as possible. Highly recommend Notaro Epstein!
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12 Jan, 2025 by Anonymous
I hired the attorney for a real estate matter. Initially attorney Wakefield was responsive but that was not the case after paying the retainer. Email communication was unprofessional at times. The attorney would provide timelines in updates that were never met. Overall a costly, frustrating and disappointing experience for this former client.
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03 Apr, 2023 by Mark
I hired Kathryn Wakefield in April of 2022 to Open a Judgement. She was initially communicative and polite. She asked for a $1000 retainer and I agreed. As soon as she had my money she became uncommunicative. It has been a year since I hired her and she has still NOT filed the paper work to Open the Judgment. DO NOT GIVE THIS LAWYER A RETAINER!!
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18 Nov, 2022 by Elaine
I hired Attorney Wakefield after seeing the good reviews here, but I did not have a good experience. Felt overpromised and underdelivered. Communication was difficult; she was quick to respond in the initial consult, but after we funded the retainer, it seemed our case was no longer a priority. Expect several days or more between responses to short questions. We were verbally told timeframes that ultimately were not met. Luckily we ended it early, but we lost a bit of money and a few valuable weeks of time in our case. Review her contract carefully and get multiple opinions on your case before making a decision. This review is my personal opinion based on my experience.
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13 Sep, 2024 by Luis m
Great group of attorneys! They treat you like family and will fight for your rights.
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05 Sep, 2024 by Darla kay jobkar
Steve Townsend is the best!!! Trustworthy, Experienced, Super Efficient and Responsive. I highly recommend!
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23 Jul, 2024 by Ricky reyes
Absolutely thee best legal representation in all Pittsburgh, Pa. Forget the rest. Mr. Townsend is the best. Trust me, I know and this comes from someone out of Philly, Pa. Mr. Townsend gives his all and his word is as solid as gold and it's weight. If ever someone needs legal representation on any level, do yourself a favor call Mr. Townsend, trust me. It's worth a phone call to get the best representation.
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04 Oct, 2024 by Jessica lynn
Al and the staff were great! He gave me great legal advice and won our case. He was very thorough and handled everything professionally. I would highly recommend this firm!
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01 Mar, 2024 by Swagg nation
20 Sep, 2023 by Tanisha long
21 May, 2024 by Shuichi fujimoto
Wonderful law firm
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31 Jul, 2023 by Some one
31 Jul, 2023 by A.k. bosco
17 Feb, 2019 by Jenny
Singleton-English Law Offices was great to work with. I have used their services many times and will continue to use them in the future. Tammy has prepared my tax return for 8 years, and has also prepared all of my estate planning documents (Will, power of attorney, living will). Tammy and her staff are knowledgeable, responsive to client needs, friendly, and provide great service. I highly recommend this law firm!
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12 Jan, 2015 by Susan
Both of my parents died in the same year, and I was completely overwhelmed trying to probate 2 estates, take care of my family, and keep current with my job. I could not have managed without the tremendous help from Singleton-English Law Offices. They oversaw every detail of both estates and helped me every step of the way. Their fee was absolutely worth the services and peace of mind that I received. They saved my sanity and my relationship with my brothers. I would definitely use this firm again and have recommended them to several of my friends and coworkers.
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11 Dec, 2014 by Pete
Tammy and her staff are very informative, helpful and knowledgeable on all trust account activities. She explained everything to our family and executed the best type of trust account for our situation.
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25 Sep, 2022 by Anonymous
My family and I hired Mark's and some partner to resolve my grandmother and uncles will ,5 years later the stipulations of the Wills haven't been resolved ,Wouldn't recommend that law firm for anything
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18 Jan, 2018 by Meredith harvan
I just wanted to thank you for sending attorney Marks my way. He was great to work with, very responsive, and knew the subject matter inside and out. He handled our Medicaid appeal with a sense of purpose and professionalism that we needed despite some very difficult ancillary issues. He brought our appeal to a successful outcome and I would not hesitate to recommend him in the future. Thanks again
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07 Nov, 2017 by Anonymous
Mr. Marks helped me with legal paperwork on two occasions. I am very happy with his service. Both times, he helped me in complex situations. His service was prompt, courteous, and with attention to all relevant details.
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10 Jan, 2025 by Annie miller
Ana Lisa Petrella is an extremely efficient, compassionate, and knowledgeable attorney. She got me through the very important process of dealing with child support successfully. Will you be charged for phone calls and emails? Of course. But her rates are reasonable and her experience is extensive, so she will not waste your time, or hers for that matter. When you reach out, she responds within the day, sometimes the hour if you catch her between hearings. She is a warm soul that clearly wants to help her clients get what they deserve. As a woman, I wanted a woman representing me through this process. She gave me the confidence to ask for what I needed, and to not give in to my natural instincts to roll over. I'm so grateful to the person who recommended Ana Lisa to me, and now I'm paying it forward to whoever reads this. Do yourself a favor, just call her.
Her office, paralegals, and admins also deserve high praise. They keep you apprised of everything from billing, deadlines, and correspondence about your case. You'll get itemized statements monthly so there are no surprises. Let's face it, if you're seeking a lawyer, you are already stressed- Ana Lisa and her team relieve as much of that pressure as you let them. Just let them. :)
Thank you, Ana Lisa and GRB Law, for a seamless process in my case.
Annie
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03 Jan, 2025 by L r
I have nothing but great things to say about this firm. I highly recommend Megan DelVecchio. She was incredible during my divorce. She was direct with me, managed expectations, and fought for me simultaneously. She won my case (in my opinion). She responded quickly to my correspondence and didn't waste time. The firm's staff is professional, diligent, communicative, and efficient. I liked that they didn't tell me what I wanted to hear or waste my money on useless items. I also want to note that they are LGBTQIA+ competent (especially Megan), as I am a community member. I would recommend them to other LGBTQIA+ folks.
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22 Dec, 2024 by Robin roop
Best attorney ever!!!
I was unfortunate enough to be part of Family Court for the past 16 years with my ex husband and my son who will soon be 18. But, was fortunate enough to have Dan Glasser by my side as my attorney. He is experienced, thorough, and very smart. If you are fortunate enough to be able to retain him I would absolutely recommend him.
Our case was brutal and my ex loves to litigate so it’s been a long 16 years, I don’t know how I would’ve survived it all without Dan Glasser.
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21 Jul, 2022 by Umesh rao
Mr. Alex Castrodale and his team are simply the best. They are always available and responsive. They give you solid advice and did all my legal paperwork diligently, never had to do it twice. I recommend this law firm and Mr Castrodale very highly.
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01 Oct, 2021 by Denys fedorchenko
I was recommended the firm by my educational institution since, they had several successful cases with them. I had a chance to work with Alex Castradale one of the attorney who represents Immigration field. Alex, is extremely professional and knowledgeable attorney. He was always quick in response, and always was able to find a time for a call and communication. He was able to answer all of my questions, and provide a valuable advise on the case. It was a pleasure to work with him, highly recommend!
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30 Jan, 2021 by Sheina s
Extremely unprofessional and unqualified in handling legal matters; I had a better idea myself on how to draft my application. The firm included both supporting and contradicting materials in my application and the final application was poor, contradicting and carelessly crafted.
Never available for any questions or queries. The entire experience was draining, negative and of being left out in the cold. I wish I had chosen wisely and saved $$$$$.
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22 Dec, 2022 by Christine seymour (chris)
15 Dec, 2021 by Jon cable
They didn’t do the work asked. Took my money and ran. Won’t even make it correct! Even when told I would pay more to get them to finish the job they never finished! They used a intern to try and file my papa. Who did zero work! I provided all paperwork they did zero other than take my money!
Very poor quality work!
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09 Jan, 2021 by Craig alderman
I haven't known the firm a long time but a friend recommended Vince and I would use him and the firm for all our needs for the present and in the many years to come.
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21 Dec, 2024 by Patty
I was a member for around 20 years all that money put into this Law Firm and could not believe my experiences that began to happen right after I gave them a 5 star review and saw that awhole lot of people saw it on their site! Too many changes in Attorney's and one who seemed to be not aware of my legal issues from where I lived and found giving out the wrong information upon doing my own research. This female attorney was arrogant and would brush me off never experienced this before. I filed a complaint and requested never to have her respond to my request and was ignored. I had to leave them was becoming too stressful and had a nerve to go up in their price with having a down spiral experience!!
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12 Dec, 2024 by Barry rutherford
I recently was referred to Fiffik Law Group, by the legal service I use, to review a contract before I pursued further action with a company from their state and town. First, I would like to say how impressed I was that they did respond to my matter so promptly. I got a call from their office within a couple of days, and that was not even the good part. It was the actual advice they had for me from the previous experience they had with the company in question. I honestly believe that their firm is going to save me from getting myself into a terrible situation by letting me know how this company has done business in the past. I totally trust the advice that Fiffk Law Group provided for me and I highly recommend these guys for any of your legal needs in the Pittsburgh or Pennsylvania area.
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12 Dec, 2024 by Steve boust
The attorney was familiar with my type of case and provided advice for my rights and any potential claims that I might encounter.
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25 Aug, 2022 by Jared hill
21 Nov, 2020 by Melvin r parks jr
Great time
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23 Nov, 2019 by Amy-marie
07 Oct, 2024 by B b
GPW is a first class law firm. Every person that I've met or spoken to has been excellent to confide in and work with. Trevor, my attorney, Josh, the paralegal I work with, and Carolynn have been and continue to be 5 star members of the GPW staff. In addition to those noted above, I can say without question, the other members of the staff I've interacted with are also 5 star employees. I would not hesitate for an instant to recommend contacting GPW.
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14 Apr, 2023 by Marilyn baisden
This is Harold Gene Baisden I was wanting to let Goldberg Persky & White PC know that my address has changed I have moved once again lol but anyway this is it .472 Hill Street Madison WV 25130 just in case you’ll need to send me some money Thanks God bless
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14 Feb, 2022 by Renee austin
Very polite, respectful, well mannered, blunt and gets the job done.. handles issues on hand no matter what the cause is and willing to work with you financially ‼️Doesn’t get any better than that my boy😘😎 ☑️ YOU CAN COUNT ON THEM 🥰
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12 Sep, 2024 by Mariah
Holly glamour is a TERRIBLE lawyer !!! She didn't represent me properly and quit the case. I would hire someone different if you want to win a case.
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02 Jul, 2024 by Ron
I’m so thankful that a friend of mine gave me Holly’s name. She was absolutely wonderful. Holly was always the adult in the room. I wish I could say I was always the adult but I wasn’t. My ex certainly wasn’t. Surprisingly, the high priced attorney representing my ex was also rarely an adult in all of the proceedings. Holly was though. She kept me focused on the goal. Limited distractions. She always made sure I was prepared.
Holly’s worth was apparent when my case went before a judge. A day and a half of testimony between parties. Holly and I had gone over everything. The other side clearly had not. We were easily able to find holes in testimony on the other side because we had prepared for all obvious outcomes. She. Something came up unexpectedly we worked together to get the info in front of the judge so they saw our side. In the end the judgement came down that was about as favorable to me as possible. While the other side being a train wreck helped, Holly is what put my side over the top. Thanks Holly!
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21 Jun, 2021 by Christina
Holly was recommended to me by a friend and it was the best decision. She was very thorough, patient, professional, responsive, and made sure I understood all my options. Holly made me feel 100 percent comfortable when it came to the outcome of my child's future with my custody case.
I never felt rushed when I didn't understand the legal terms and options, and she was very patient with me to make sure I understood. Her professionalism and knowledge was outstanding compared to some other attorneys I had dealt with. So I highly recommend her.
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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:
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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.
