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14 May, 2024 by Kieran sikdar
I am so grateful to have found Susan and her colleagues at Res Nova Law. Over the last two years they have helped me with a patent, trademark, contract documents, and also have provided wonderful general business support. As a first-time business owner, I am eternally grateful to Susan and her team for their guidance that has given me confidence in my path forward. I highly recommend Res Nova Law!
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13 May, 2024 by W bruns
Susan Ford helped me prepare for a small claims case (where I represented my company) for a customer that sued us for nearly $5,000. Before hiring Susan I had checked with two other lawyers but I did not feel confident. Susan helped with both the mediation and the final court hearing. With her knowledge in my brain, I was able to make a clear and coherent explanation of events. The judge decided the case in my favor. I recommend Res Nova for anyone dealing with business issues in Oregon.
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13 May, 2024 by Richard weber
We've worked with Susan Ford for many years and have always had excellent advice and counsel. We've established a number of Trademarks, and Susan has helped defend those trademarks. She has also helped us evolve from a sole proprietorship to a partnership to an LLC and provided all the legal advice and services necessary to get it right. When it comes to legal and business advice, Susan is our "go-to" resource.
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03 Sep, 2024 by Jesse white
Ted Lew has been a professional, punctual, and reliable workers compensation attorney. After receiving a ton of letters from SAIF that I didn’t understand, I sought out legal assistance. The Oregon state Barr referred me to Ted. He has made it his mission to provide thorough explanations throughout the entire process thus far. While my case is still ongoing, I am satisfied with the assistance provided by Ted and his assistant Lily.
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31 Jul, 2024 by John m.
If you are dealing with the physical, emotional, and financial fallout of an MVA, this is the team for you. Levin & Levine provided exceptional support and transparent communication every step of the way. They have the knowledge and experience. They truly care about their clients. I always felt prioritized. Thank you.
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29 Jul, 2024 by Heather boron
14 May, 2024 by Kieran sikdar
I am so grateful to have found Susan and her colleagues at Res Nova Law. Over the last two years they have helped me with a patent, trademark, contract documents, and also have provided wonderful general business support. As a first-time business owner, I am eternally grateful to Susan and her team for their guidance that has given me confidence in my path forward. I highly recommend Res Nova Law!
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13 May, 2024 by W bruns
Susan Ford helped me prepare for a small claims case (where I represented my company) for a customer that sued us for nearly $5,000. Before hiring Susan I had checked with two other lawyers but I did not feel confident. Susan helped with both the mediation and the final court hearing. With her knowledge in my brain, I was able to make a clear and coherent explanation of events. The judge decided the case in my favor. I recommend Res Nova for anyone dealing with business issues in Oregon.
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13 May, 2024 by Richard weber
We've worked with Susan Ford for many years and have always had excellent advice and counsel. We've established a number of Trademarks, and Susan has helped defend those trademarks. She has also helped us evolve from a sole proprietorship to a partnership to an LLC and provided all the legal advice and services necessary to get it right. When it comes to legal and business advice, Susan is our "go-to" resource.
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09 Sep, 2022 by Donna
I interviewed three law firms before selecting Stefan Wolf to be my estate planning attorney. Throughout the process of setting up a trust, will, POA and Advanced Directive he was the consummate professional. Stefan is responsive, smart, extremely knowledgeable, kind, and thorough. After a phone conference with my long-time financial planner, my planner called me and asked if I knew how lucky I was to have Stefan as my estate attorney. My planner said he works with his clients estate attorneys all the time and had never worked with someone of Stefan's caliber. High praise from my curmudgeon of a financial planner! We finished the process on-time and at the quoted flat rate despite the complexities of my estate. I am now continuing my travels with peace of mind knowing my estate is set up exactly how I want it to be. Stefan's team is also extremely responsive and professional. Thank you!!
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10 Mar, 2022 by Janice
Stefan spent hours with us explaining all our options for estate planning. Not only is he a knowledgeable attorney, he is very personable and patient. Talk to Stefan and get your estate in order today.
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14 Jul, 2021 by Mark
Stefan was referred to us by a wealth management firm and we couldn't be more pleased with the quality of his legal services and the great value we received. His expertise was clear from our first meeting and he was patient and answered all of our questions in a clear and understandable nature. Trust documents can be very confusing and Stefan's style was very smooth and relatable. I would highly recommend Stefan to anyone needing estate planning assistance.
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26 Jul, 2017 by Anonymous
Although its been a while (August 2016) since Mr. Schneider's office help us with our needs, after apologizing for our delay, all we can say is that a process we thought was going to be a pain in the butt, it ended up in a short process and a total success. Thanks you!
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05 Jun, 2017 by Dorothy
Very please with Mr. Schneider. He listens well, answers questions, anticipates needs. Everything was explained well, done on time, and there is plenty of follow-up. I recommend him heartily.
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01 Feb, 2017 by Martha
Before we met Richard, we had nothing in order -- a very very outdated will (somewhere) that didn't reflect a single aspect of our current life, kids, home, investment property, business etc. After meeting Richard, we have peace of mind! We have a living trust, will, designated guardian for our daughter, person to make medical decisions if we can't, signed docs giving us power to make medical decisions for each other, on and on. We have an enormous binder with all these documents including extremely detailed and helpful information for our next of kin and executor, should something happen to us. Richard and his team make this very straight forward and easy. They kept stressing that we can call any time with questions (no charge) and in 3 years we'll sit for a review of it all (free). This was painless.
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27 Jun, 2024 by Anonymous
I recently worked with Marisa Moneyhun to update my trust. She and her team were extremely knowledgeable and pleasant to work with. 5 stars.
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16 May, 2024 by Kelley
I could not have been more pleased with the service and all the advice given to me while doing my estate planning. The book they put together for my loved ones in case of my death will make it so easy for them to take care of everything. Thank you so much for making this process easier than I had ever imagined
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07 Nov, 2023 by Judy
I needed a trust and Ms Moneyhun came highly recommended. Working with her and her assistant Audrey was a pleasure. They patiently explained the entire process to me and worked with my family and me to give us the trust we needed.
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26 May, 2021 by Christina
Rick was so helpful to my family and I. Not only did he inform me that I actually do not need a lawyer for my particular situation, but he also was honest about the likely outcome of our other case. Instead of choosing to accept a hefty up-front retainer, he chose integrity and candor. He helped to guide us in the right direction, which we're very grateful for, even if we did not end up working together.
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04 Aug, 2017 by George
There is no way to adequately describe the help that Rick Okamura has been to me over the past two to three years. I brought to him a mess of an estate after leaving another attorney who had botched drawing up the will for an estate and trust that I was the personal representative and trustee for. There were many problems that came up during the handling of this estate. RIck Okamura was instrumental in walking me through them. He is a highly ethical, professional, and thorough. At the same time he was conscious of what I was going through personally in trying to deal with the issues and was sensitive to my concerns and lack of experience. I would highly recommend Rick Okamura to anyone needing an estate attorney.
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16 Jun, 2016 by Jody
Rick was wonderful when my elderly mother was still living and after she passed. The estate process can be very confusing and highly emotional. Rick made it all go smoothly with understanding and attention to detail. He explained the process by breaking it down step by step. I couldn't have gotten through it without him.
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26 Nov, 2018 by Anonymous
I had a consultation with Taylor initially and found her to be concise, thorough and able to distill a complicated issue down to the main elements—comprehending the issue(s) and outline the strategies to go about solving the legal problem. It was helpful and I felt like I had a fair experience in what can(/could have been) be an expensive billing process.
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17 Apr, 2017 by Jessica
We hired Taylor Kittell for help with estate planning and she was terrific. We paid a flat fee, which meant that she didn't benefit from spending extra time with us. Nevertheless, she explained our options to us thoroughly and with great patience and she was quick to respond to follow-up questions or concerns. The legal assistants were also lovely. We also had time pressures because my husband was in town for only a short period and Taylor was able to expedite the process and get everything done before he left. All in all, a great experience.
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14 Mar, 2017 by Daniel
My wife and I hired Taylor for estate planning. She made every effort to understand what was important to us and then to give us choices that supported our values, clearly explaining the pros and cons of each and making recommendations wherever appropriate to meet our goals. Taylor was able to translate the legal complexities into decision points that captured the heart of the provisions.
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01 Sep, 2020 by Matthew
I hired Kathryn and her team to help me with going through probate for my Father's estate after he passed. From the first time we met for a consultation Kathryn and her team were very professional and friendly. They made me feel comfortable going through a difficult time and process. I would definitely recommend them.
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19 Dec, 2019 by Amber
I worked with Kathryn Bourn and Stephanie Evans on my Chapter 13 bankruptcy. They were both great to work with. They made stress free and seamless during the entire process. I highly recommend Kathryn.
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14 Nov, 2019 by Judy
Kathryn not only helped me "come out whole" from a divorce, but in the process also referred me to people who are helping me make my own way in the future and who all are as professional and nice as she is! I'm glad I found her and you will be too. And by the way, everyone I have met at Gresham Family & Bankruptcy Law are welcoming, knowledgeable, helpful and nice!
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01 Mar, 2022 by Anonymous
Mark helped me on a contested probate. I had already engaged one lawyer in Portland, whose employment I had to terminate due to dishonesty, and fought through an ancillary probate in Las Vegas where I realized that clients/beneficiaries can easily become victims to their attorneys. It was a relief to find Mark, who is straightforward, clear, knowledgeable and honest. I felt at all times that he had my best interest in mind. He helped me to understand my options, make good choices, and was very easy to work with.
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25 Apr, 2016 by Rebecca
Once my husband and I started a family, we realized that we needed to get serious about estate planning. We worked with Mark to put together a Will, an Advance Medical Directive/Healthcare POA, and a General Durable POA. Mark did a great job of explaining why each document type was necessary and walking us through the issues we should consider, including ensuring that our insurance policies matched the directives in our Will.
After we completed our core estate planning objectives, Mark talked us through some additional estate planning strategies we may want to consider moving forward to better protect our assets and make estate management easier (i.e. creation of a family trust); we plan on working with Mark again in the future in this regard.
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02 Feb, 2016 by Andy
Mark handled a family member's estate for us and did a great job. We had no idea what needed to be done and Mark handled all of the paperwork and legal filings with great efficiency. We wouldn't hesitate to use his services again.
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13 Sep, 2019 by Anonymous
I consulted Christopher for free about my issue and he was able to guide me in a right direction. He seemed knowledgeable about the topic and gave me details on my next right step.
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14 Sep, 2017 by Anonymous
I was handling a personal injury (vehicle crash case) that became a wrongful death case. Chris Brooks was a perfect hire to handle our estate needs. He is a fantastic lawyer that was able to efficiently push through our settlement through the court. His attention to detail was perfect and he regularly called and emailed at all hours to get the case complete. I work with a lot of lawyers and Chris is an absolute hire.
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15 Sep, 2014 by At
Chris is an able, very knowledgeable and friendly professional to work with. Chris helped me with my estate plan and is on hand should I need to make alterations or have questions. Chris is also very involved in charitable causes in the community and he has a great reputation. I highly recommend his services and counsel.
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11 Aug, 2020 by Elizabeth
Many thanks to Chase Morinaka for his kind professionalism in helping me to craft my estate plan. Chase made the process smooth and simple even during a pandemic.
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18 Jan, 2018 by John
My wife and I needed to complete an estate plan. We were referred to Chase. He walked us through the process from beginning to end ensuring we understood all steps and outcomes. He simplified a complex process.
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03 Apr, 2016 by Anonymous
Chase originally handled my case, helping me to make sure that I understood what was going on. He knows when to tackle a case and when to refer to other colleagues when specialized experience and care is needed. Even through that process he constantly kept up with the case, and even followed up with myself personally to make sure I was satisfied with the results (I was).
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25 Oct, 2018 by Karima
A wonderful woman, with a beautiful personality, very friendly, communicate well with clients, take her time to get things right without any mistakes.
I still go back to her for any advice.
Her work for me was complete and well done. I will definitely recommend her.
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23 Dec, 2015 by Dbr rziko
Diane has never rushed me or treated me like a number or a dollar figure. She always takes her time to listen to what I have to say, how I feel, then easily helps me with paper work or issues I may have. Dianne has been very helpful in contacting people on my behalf and in getting results I need to process my immigration paper work. She is a joy to work with and is personable. She also called me up to see how I have been and if I heard anything from immigration. Diane has never worried about payment for her services or overcharged me for services rendered. She cares more about helping people then fattening her wallet. Diane is someone I would recommend to anyone looking for immigration assistance because she is a dedicated fighter for her client's rights.
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22 Nov, 2015 by Mory
Diane was instrumental from start to finish. She was very knowledgeable in all aspects of all of my unique and challenging situation. She went above and beyond the call of duty! Her fees were very affordable.
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14 Nov, 2012 by Steve
Excellant...accurate info...5 lawyers responded to info...Her's was only one correct....Highly recommend..
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14 Oct, 2011 by Diana
I just want to thank you for the work you did on our case. We really appreciate you stepping in to help get us paid. You were refreshing and tenacious!
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15 Aug, 2011 by Anonymous
We were very pleased with Ms. Smith's review of my father's Estate Planning and Trust documents. She went over them all to make sure they were in line with the current laws, made some changes he asked for, and helped us feel secure, knowing that everything was in order. She only did what was necessary, and didn't charge us to re-write anything we didn't need done. That way we saved both time and money. I would recommend her highly. She can start from scratch to set everything up, or just do what you need, and not overcharge you.
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06 Dec, 2013 by Valerie
I met with Mr. Vergun for a half hour consultation as a result of a referral by the Oregon State Bar. I spoke with him by phone and emailed ahead of time of my areas of concern regarding a small business I am starting. There was technical statutory research that needed to be done for several questions. When we met, his answers were thorough and specific to my questions; however, he also provided related information that he thought might be helpful, and it was. I felt comfortable with him and confident in his knowledge. I expect to need more legal advice through the next year, and I intend to stay with Mr. Vergun as my counsel.
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24 Jul, 2013 by David
What Larry lacks in hair, he makes up for in intellectual genius. I have had Larry work on many of the business dealings our company has been involved with. He is easy to work with, fast at returning my calls, and getting down to the brass tacks of what I need. His intelligence and experience make him a goldmine of legal advice. I'd trust him with anything I have on my legal plate.
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06 Sep, 2012 by Kurt
Larry is a good listener and asks the important questions first. He seems to know the shortest path from my problem to a great solution (gets results faster and for less money), and he explains his reasoning well. I always go to Larry first for explanations of complex legal issues, and he's always got a clear answer.
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01 May, 2022 by Anonymous
Good personality, easy to understand and very helpful in general. She was able to answer my questions in a way I could understand and didn't make me feel stupid for asking questions. Concise, professional and expedious. I would recommend to anyone in need of estate planning.
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12 Apr, 2022 by William
Heidi did a will for my wife and I, she was very professional and did a great job. She explained things very well and helped us both understand what we needed and didn't need in our estate plan.
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28 Mar, 2012 by Anonymous
I have worked with Maite during two incidents that occurred while conducting business in Portland.
1) I foolishly didn't read the fine print and was involved with a horrible contract. I thought I was getting a free promotion through Yellow Pages, but it turned out to be an entirely different company. I felt like I wasn't alone when I hired Maite, and the issue was settled amicably.
2) Another incident occurred involving employment. I felt lost again and fear that someone wouldn't be able to handle the bad news I had to deliver. Consulting with Maite during this ordeal helped ease my mind and in the end the situation was smooth sailing.
Sometimes we need assurance in order to take care of our own business. We're small people, small business owners.
Although I am no longer needing her services for my business, I highly recommend Maite as an attorney for almost all business transactions, whether monetary or personnel.
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24 Mar, 2016 by Kenneth
Mr. Jolly has been a good lawyer just wish this would not take so long to go through probate my dad died may 15 th 2015 and here it is March 24th 2016 been almost a year. Not trying to sound rude but this should not take so long to do we would tell everyone about how you was on pur side and how you fought for what my father in law would have wanted and for that I thank you for taking on my case
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05 Mar, 2024 by Mj
Very knowledgeable very pleasant to speak to
I highly recommend her
She helped answer questions I had in regards to an adoption case, she provided very good answers and was very pleased to speak to
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22 Apr, 2010 by Tonya
My husband and I just completed our Trust through the Law Office of Katherine West. I wanted to share her contact info. with you because we were thrilled to find a competent, intelligent, patient, sincere, and completely knowledgeable attorney. We had planned to have a trust made right after our son was born (almost 4 years ago) but kept putting it off. Probably, because we knew it was exploring and answering some difficult questions. Well, push came to shove when we booked our first vacation away from the boys and literally asked ourselves, "if we crash, what happens to the boys". I know it's a morbid thought, but we certainly wanted to decide our children's fate.
We found that so much more is involved in a trust. All that you could want answered, is and by completing it, we feel very secure.
So, here is Katherine's information. Like I said, she was a complete pleasure to work with. She made it easy for us, was patient, and answered every question in a way that was clear and understandable.
(contact information removed)
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25 Jan, 2019 by Liz
Through that site Mr. O'Connell offered a half hour free consultation. He called and answered several questions thoroughly and with a respectful demeanor and in a way I can understand. Due to the complexity of my situation ( dealing with a deceitful personal representative and her lawyer) Mr. O'Connell continued to assist and answer questions via email. He went above and beyond to help me even at times being a buffer between me and the personal representative and her attorney. This helped A LOT ! Without Mr. O'Connell and his exceptional assistant's interaction and daily communication I would not have been able to retrieve family heirlooms and sentimental items, they were headed for the dump since spite is my families coping method. I am forever grateful to Mr. O'Connell and Mrs. Snelling for their professional, above and beyond work with their exceptional understanding and respectful mannerisms in handling me and my situation.
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06 Sep, 2015 by Brandon and sara
We really thought there was no such thing as a compassionate, thorough, wise, and professional attorney out there who put clients first. We were wrong, because Marisol embodies those qualities and more. She made us feel like we were her only clients, answered with grace all of our countless questions-some of them two or three times-and expertly produced our documents correctly and on time. But the really rare quality she possesses is that she really, really listened to us, and then empowered us to be knowledgeable. She took the time to provide wise counsel, to help us make the right decisions for us and guide us through the legal complexities. To top it off? She's an engaging, light-hearted person; the process was actually fun. We wouldn't recommend anyone else.
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02 Jun, 2014 by Mariella
We had a very complicated probate case. However, Jane was very professional and dedicated attorney. She made the process very smooth even though it last for more than three years.
We were so lucky to find such knowledgeable, responsive, and trustworthy attorney.
Thank you Jane for all you hard work!!!
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24 Jan, 2018 by Robert
Eric was very helpful and knowledgeable when I had a question about Medicaid eligibility, he was very patient and had several great suggestions about my issue (rental income). I would definitely use Eric again and recommend his services to anyone needing help with Medicaid questions.
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25 Jun, 2015 by Betty
Brad went above and beyond the call of duty more than once for us. Over a lengthy case he never gave up or in and never wavered. He kept us abreast of all developments and catered to our needs. We felt like family members.
His quick wit and professional diplomacy keep him in the loop with opposing attorneys a must in handling any case.
We highly recommend Brad.
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03 Jul, 2023 by Jas
28 Apr, 2023 by John robert molesworth
Joel at Park Gordon law firm is absolutely phenomenal ! Settled two accident claims for me in an effective and efficient manner. On my last settlement I needed the money quickly and he went above and beyond to get me my payment expedited. All the staff had great advice- everyone was knowledgeable and I was consistently secure that these professionals were on my side and working hard to get me the most they can.
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23 Nov, 2022 by Liliya zubko
Was a great help and overall was a great experience working with them!! Recommend to anyone looking!
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08 Aug, 2024 by Jim
Recently updated my Trust and Will
I no longer live in Oregon. All chanhed were done on line.
I had some apprehension at first
But the firm staff and attorney made the process easy, prompt and when finished, I was happy and satisfied with the finished document.
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31 Jul, 2024 by Arthur
Jim and his team have been our attorneys for 7 years. They created wills and trusts for my husband and myself. They handled all aspects of this service with great professionalism. We appreciate their care and advice.
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08 Mar, 2023 by Catherine palmer
Todd is absolutely wonderful to work with. He is exceptionally smart, trustworthy, honest, hard-working, experienced and an all-around great guy. I felt safe having him represent me in a business transaction and thought the billing for his services was straightforward and fair. I highly recommend him.
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08 Mar, 2023 by Catherine palmer
Todd is absolutely wonderful to work with. He is exceptionally smart, trustworthy, honest, hard-working, experienced and an all-around great guy. I felt safe having him represent me in a business transaction and thought the billing for his services was straightforward and fair. I highly recommend him.
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03 Sep, 2024 by Kelly barrett
Being in a car accident can be very traumatizing and stressful. Jim Dwyer and his team understand this and provide the perfect blend of kindness, professionalism, and guidance. They make you feel well taken care of, advocate for your best interests, and handle everything with integrity, care and expertise.
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03 Sep, 2024 by Taylor gustafson
Jim Dwyer was an asset for me. He was so helpful that I used him a second time! I felt understood and heard. He took my case seriously. He kept great open communication throughout the case. Jim was prompt. He prepared me thoroughly for every step of the case. There was no part I felt confused about. Jim was such a pleasure to work with. I hope I don’t need him again, but if there is another personal injury he will be my first choice!
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19 Aug, 2024 by Carlee evan roberts
I was hit by a work van and Ashleigh and Mireya at Bridge City Law were truly amazing in walking me through the process and taking care of everything so that I could just focus on healing. Truly, the best help I could have had in a very scary and difficult time.
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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.
