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25 Aug, 2024 by Bob huhn
I don't do testimonials. I did one several years ago, and the next one may be many years more. But I am compelled to commend Moonan, Stratton & Waldman, LLP. Amy walked me through the process of updating many legal documents when I recently moved from another state, and they did so with patience, grace, and expertise. Perhaps most important to me, they continue to support my efforts to finish my tasks to complete this transition. I don't need to think about who to call if or when I need legal assistance. I have them on speed dial.
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23 Aug, 2024 by Jim m
My wife and I recently employed the Moonan/Stratton law firm to advise us on getting our affairs in order as an older couple and to prepare an estate plan. Kristen Moonan worked with us to ensure we provided all the necessary financial and other information needed. She then provided us with a plan involving wills and beneficiaries and healthcare provisions. She offered advice on making sure our retirement accounts and other financial accounts were updated. Communication with Kristen's office was timely and productive. The completed estate plan is a substantial document, and we now feel much more at ease regarding our late retirement years. We highly recommend her firm.
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01 Aug, 2024 by Oren gal
Fantastic service and thorough, solid, professional work!
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18 Sep, 2024 by T mt
So many good things to say about Anthony Conte and his law firm. My family and I can’t thank him enough for his expertise and guidance. Anthony doesn’t treat you like a number or a case; he treats you like family. He approached our case with an open mind and was very efficient in assessing and navigating its complexity. Moreover, he was able to connect the dots in a world where another well-known law firm had failed. He was fearless and unreserved in his pursuit of understanding the facts of our case. His expertise, resources, and commitment to justice are second to none. He is driven by a true passion to help others, not by greed. He stands out in a field full of his peers. Just when we thought there was no hope for justice, he became the light we needed. We had almost given up until we were fortunate enough to have Anthony on our side. At the end of the day, he checks all the boxes. Thank you, Anthony!
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31 May, 2024 by Carlos ortega
The Conte Law Firm exceeded my expectations in legal counseling. I would recommend The Conte Law Firm to anyone looking for professional, trustful legal counseling in the areas of insurance claims, personal injuries, civil litigation, and other areas of law. Thank you, Anthony and the great people at Conte Law Firm for everything you have done for me and my family.” They are Professional, courteous, friendly, fast, knowledgeable, punctual, very empathic to my situation, and offer top-notch legal advice. A pipe burst in my house and my insurance company denied my claim. Immediately Conte Law Firm took up my case and started demanding action from the Insurance Company. I was amazed by the professionalism that Conte Law Firm provided. Everything Anthony advised me happened! There wasn't one moment throughout this process where I felt that Anthony didn't prepare me or advise me correctly. He tells you that it is not what you want to hear and I admired and respected that about Anthony. He was very thorough and very experienced. Anthony knows what he’s talking about. The Conte Law Firm was a step ahead of the competition and the insurance company. When I spoke to Anthony I felt like I was talking with a family member or a good friend. He is that easy to talk to! You could genuinely feel that Anthony wanted the best for me and more importantly wanted to maximize the return on my claim. The Conte law firm is a law firm that is not driven or motivated by money. Anthony is a genuine person with a good moral compass that puts the customer's needs before his needs. He is willing to work with your situation and come to an agreement that best fits the client's needs. This is by far my go-to law firm if I need any legal representation in the area of personal injury or insurance claims. I recommend Conte Law firm without a doubt.
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29 Apr, 2024 by Shane buddemeyer
I work in a commission only industry and sometimes management doesn’t want to pay out. Anthony helped me out on 2 separate occasion and got me my money upwards of $10k. He kept me informed on every step we were taking and always asked me if I was okay with the nexts steps. I couldn’t be more appreciative of Anthony and the timeframe he operated in! Highly recommend him.
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18 Sep, 2024 by T mt
So many good things to say about Anthony Conte and his law firm. My family and I can’t thank him enough for his expertise and guidance. Anthony doesn’t treat you like a number or a case; he treats you like family. He approached our case with an open mind and was very efficient in assessing and navigating its complexity. Moreover, he was able to connect the dots in a world where another well-known law firm had failed. He was fearless and unreserved in his pursuit of understanding the facts of our case. His expertise, resources, and commitment to justice are second to none. He is driven by a true passion to help others, not by greed. He stands out in a field full of his peers. Just when we thought there was no hope for justice, he became the light we needed. We had almost given up until we were fortunate enough to have Anthony on our side. At the end of the day, he checks all the boxes. Thank you, Anthony!
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31 May, 2024 by Carlos ortega
The Conte Law Firm exceeded my expectations in legal counseling. I would recommend The Conte Law Firm to anyone looking for professional, trustful legal counseling in the areas of insurance claims, personal injuries, civil litigation, and other areas of law. Thank you, Anthony and the great people at Conte Law Firm for everything you have done for me and my family.” They are Professional, courteous, friendly, fast, knowledgeable, punctual, very empathic to my situation, and offer top-notch legal advice. A pipe burst in my house and my insurance company denied my claim. Immediately Conte Law Firm took up my case and started demanding action from the Insurance Company. I was amazed by the professionalism that Conte Law Firm provided. Everything Anthony advised me happened! There wasn't one moment throughout this process where I felt that Anthony didn't prepare me or advise me correctly. He tells you that it is not what you want to hear and I admired and respected that about Anthony. He was very thorough and very experienced. Anthony knows what he’s talking about. The Conte Law Firm was a step ahead of the competition and the insurance company. When I spoke to Anthony I felt like I was talking with a family member or a good friend. He is that easy to talk to! You could genuinely feel that Anthony wanted the best for me and more importantly wanted to maximize the return on my claim. The Conte law firm is a law firm that is not driven or motivated by money. Anthony is a genuine person with a good moral compass that puts the customer's needs before his needs. He is willing to work with your situation and come to an agreement that best fits the client's needs. This is by far my go-to law firm if I need any legal representation in the area of personal injury or insurance claims. I recommend Conte Law firm without a doubt.
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29 Apr, 2024 by Shane buddemeyer
I work in a commission only industry and sometimes management doesn’t want to pay out. Anthony helped me out on 2 separate occasion and got me my money upwards of $10k. He kept me informed on every step we were taking and always asked me if I was okay with the nexts steps. I couldn’t be more appreciative of Anthony and the timeframe he operated in! Highly recommend him.
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18 Sep, 2024 by T mt
So many good things to say about Anthony Conte and his law firm. My family and I can’t thank him enough for his expertise and guidance. Anthony doesn’t treat you like a number or a case; he treats you like family. He approached our case with an open mind and was very efficient in assessing and navigating its complexity. Moreover, he was able to connect the dots in a world where another well-known law firm had failed. He was fearless and unreserved in his pursuit of understanding the facts of our case. His expertise, resources, and commitment to justice are second to none. He is driven by a true passion to help others, not by greed. He stands out in a field full of his peers. Just when we thought there was no hope for justice, he became the light we needed. We had almost given up until we were fortunate enough to have Anthony on our side. At the end of the day, he checks all the boxes. Thank you, Anthony!
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31 May, 2024 by Carlos ortega
The Conte Law Firm exceeded my expectations in legal counseling. I would recommend The Conte Law Firm to anyone looking for professional, trustful legal counseling in the areas of insurance claims, personal injuries, civil litigation, and other areas of law. Thank you, Anthony and the great people at Conte Law Firm for everything you have done for me and my family.” They are Professional, courteous, friendly, fast, knowledgeable, punctual, very empathic to my situation, and offer top-notch legal advice. A pipe burst in my house and my insurance company denied my claim. Immediately Conte Law Firm took up my case and started demanding action from the Insurance Company. I was amazed by the professionalism that Conte Law Firm provided. Everything Anthony advised me happened! There wasn't one moment throughout this process where I felt that Anthony didn't prepare me or advise me correctly. He tells you that it is not what you want to hear and I admired and respected that about Anthony. He was very thorough and very experienced. Anthony knows what he’s talking about. The Conte Law Firm was a step ahead of the competition and the insurance company. When I spoke to Anthony I felt like I was talking with a family member or a good friend. He is that easy to talk to! You could genuinely feel that Anthony wanted the best for me and more importantly wanted to maximize the return on my claim. The Conte law firm is a law firm that is not driven or motivated by money. Anthony is a genuine person with a good moral compass that puts the customer's needs before his needs. He is willing to work with your situation and come to an agreement that best fits the client's needs. This is by far my go-to law firm if I need any legal representation in the area of personal injury or insurance claims. I recommend Conte Law firm without a doubt.
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29 Apr, 2024 by Shane buddemeyer
I work in a commission only industry and sometimes management doesn’t want to pay out. Anthony helped me out on 2 separate occasion and got me my money upwards of $10k. He kept me informed on every step we were taking and always asked me if I was okay with the nexts steps. I couldn’t be more appreciative of Anthony and the timeframe he operated in! Highly recommend him.
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23 Nov, 2021 by Kim
I would highly recommend Attorney Greg Hoffman. He is extremely professional, knowledgeable, and most importantly has a calming and compassionate demeanor. He was quick to answer all of my questions at any time and explained the processes in a very thorough manner along the way. While tirelessly advocating for me, he settled my case, and I was able to receive well above my expectations. I am immensely grateful to Greg for the help he provided, and I would highly recommend!
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28 Sep, 2021 by Anonymous
Greg was better than I could have imagined. My case came up just a few days before I was supposed to leave the country and he handled it perfectly. He talked with the judges and prosecutors to move my court dates earlier so I was able to travel, explain my situation and worked out a solution that allowed me to continue my plans as if nothing happened. Even while out of country he has been in contact with me for resolutions on all matters. Everything in my power will make sure I never need a lawyer again, but if so, or if someone I know needs a recommendation, I will not hesitate to give them Greg’s contact. If more than 5 stars were possible, I’d give 10.
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16 Jun, 2021 by Rachel
I hired Gregory Hoffman to represent me in a civil case against an ex-partner of mine in December of 2020. I will start off by saying that every case is different, and therefore, every outcome is different. Below is an account of my unique case and experience with Gregory Hoffman. My case was kind of a two-parter and because of this, Mr. Hoffman and I had to appear in court a couple of times. Both times, Mr. Hoffman was incredible enough to travel over an hour from Rhode Island to Massachusetts where my case was being heard, and both times he wasn’t just punctual; he was early. I’ve heard horror stories of people waiting for their lawyers to show up for hours, and I’ve even heard some where the lawyer doesn’t show at all. Rest assured, Gregory Hoffman will show and he will be there on time, if not early. Mr. Hoffman, himself, was quite professional. In court he was well dressed, articulate, calm, confident, and when it came to knowing the “rules of the game”, as they pertained to Massachusetts law, he was very well versed. He made sure that in the weeks leading up to the court date he and I were both thoroughly equipped with all the documentation we needed to aid us in emerging victorious. What really speaks to the professionalism of any lawyer, though, is what hopes and dreams they try and sell you about your case. Please be aware that any good lawyer, will not attempt to sell you a single one. A good lawyer will not give you any false hope, nor make any promises nor guarantees as to the outcome of your case, and Gregory Hoffman was up front about this with me right from the start. He also didn’t compare my case with any other, either. He treated my case as its own unique entity and that’s exactly what I was looking for in representation. Mr. Hoffman was also very compassionate and understanding when it came to me and the details of my case. Again, I’ve heard horror stories where lawyers will not walk through things with their clients because they don’t care, don’t have the time, or both. Once again, rest assured that Gregory Hoffman has a heart and actually cares about his clients. He was always readily available to answer any and all questions I had, he explained things clearly so that I understood, and he even made time after the second hearing to talk to me and give his opinion on my then situation, which I appreciated and valued very much. The Court’s decision after the second hearing did, indeed, result in victory for us. Again, this review is not to guarantee a win should you hire Gregory Hoffman, but my opinion based on my personal experience is; if you do hire Mr. Hoffman, your chances of coming out on top and satisfied with your outcome are pretty high. ;)
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25 Sep, 2017 by John
He gave great advice and was very easy to talk to.
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21 Jun, 2024 by Rosa angelica martinez
Mi nonbre es, angelica martinez estoy gradesidas por el caso de mi hija rosa fueron tan onesto reponsable , el abogado yon mirra y su para legal, sindy estoy sumamente agradesida son competentes en su trabajo y muy amorosos gracia le agradesco eternamentes. De parte rosa y angelica y truman.
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28 May, 2024 by Rhonda toledo
Great service very fair and professional very Prompt treats you like Family awesome firm.
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02 May, 2024 by Todd holmes
On behalf of our mother, who was the client and with her participation in preparing this review, Mandell, Boisclair, & Mandell, Ltd., already came highly recommended as the premier law firm in Rhode Island where our mother's injury occurred. This was a relationship and educational process spanning nearly 5 years. Ms. Boisclair and Mr. Mandell were kind, patient, methodical, available to allay our mother's concerns and on top of this situation from the get-go. Our mother, while permanently affected by the issue, is more at ease after being heard and cared for not only with the legal experts but also their legal staff behind the scenes. We believe she was given the best advice and analyses of all outcomes. While we don't hope for others to be in similar circumstances, this is the law firm that will fight for their client's justice and in the end bring about the best possible outcome.
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21 Jun, 2024 by Rosa angelica martinez
Mi nonbre es, angelica martinez estoy gradesidas por el caso de mi hija rosa fueron tan onesto reponsable , el abogado yon mirra y su para legal, sindy estoy sumamente agradesida son competentes en su trabajo y muy amorosos gracia le agradesco eternamentes. De parte rosa y angelica y truman.
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28 May, 2024 by Rhonda toledo
Great service very fair and professional very Prompt treats you like Family awesome firm.
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02 May, 2024 by Todd holmes
On behalf of our mother, who was the client and with her participation in preparing this review, Mandell, Boisclair, & Mandell, Ltd., already came highly recommended as the premier law firm in Rhode Island where our mother's injury occurred. This was a relationship and educational process spanning nearly 5 years. Ms. Boisclair and Mr. Mandell were kind, patient, methodical, available to allay our mother's concerns and on top of this situation from the get-go. Our mother, while permanently affected by the issue, is more at ease after being heard and cared for not only with the legal experts but also their legal staff behind the scenes. We believe she was given the best advice and analyses of all outcomes. While we don't hope for others to be in similar circumstances, this is the law firm that will fight for their client's justice and in the end bring about the best possible outcome.
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22 Aug, 2024 by Dominick
Thomas helped me get out of a sticky situation and kept my record clean. Thank you!
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05 Aug, 2024 by Jennifer garduno
Tom was phenomenal in handling my case, which resulted in a fast dismissal without my having to appear. His expertise and commitment were evident from the start, and Tom was amazing at ensuring that I was informed and comfortable throughout the process. He was always available to answer my questions and provided a level of personalized attention that is rare to find. Thanks to his hard work and strategic approach, I received the very best possible outcome: it’s like it never happened. If you need a reliable and effective attorney, I highly recommend Tom. You won’t find anyone more dedicated to achieving the best results for their clients. I’ll never be able to thank him enough.
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17 Jul, 2024 by Jay meeks
I hired Tom a month ago for a criminal case, right away I knew he was the right person . Always answered my questions and was very respectful to me if I ever had to I would deff call him again I got the outcome I wanted 💪🏼
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23 Jun, 2024 by Ann marie maccarone
The Robinson & Clapham law firm is one of the most professional firms I’ve ever worked with and truly a refreshing experience. They have the perfect balance of professionalism, empathy and integrity, making you feel at ease from the moment you enter the firm! I anticipate having a long, wonderful relationship with them as I have with other businesses of their caliber, averaging 20+ years. The firm is paradigm of excellence that I would recommend to anyone without any hesitation!!
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27 Jun, 2023 by Marina huber
Noelle is an amazing lawyer that really cares about her clients. Her gentle approach makes for a really comfortable lawyer-client relationship. Most importantly, she is really honest. I trust Noelle without a doubt since I met her many years ago. She has made a difference in my life. Thank you Noelle!!!
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06 Jun, 2023 by James anderson
Noelle is wonderful, she treats you like family and does exactly what she says she will. Fantastic representation!
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15 Aug, 2024 by Jay blackburn
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09 Aug, 2024 by Malika celestin
Great lawyer , worked with me the whole way and followed through. He is amazing at what he does and I am grateful to have worked with him for my case.
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31 Jul, 2024 by Kerri garlick
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18 Aug, 2024 by Tom gridley
My wife and I met with Charles Redihan jr to prepare our wills and to talk about a fairly complicated real estate matter. He explained everything so it was easy to understand and made us feel very comfortable.
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08 May, 2024 by Judy wiza
I had the pleasure of collaborating with Charles Redihan III and his firm recently, and I couldn't be more impressed. Charles's professionalism and responsiveness truly set him apart. He not only addressed my legal needs with expertise but also ensured that every interaction was efficient and effective. Without hesitation, I highly recommend Charles Redihan III and his firm for anyone seeking top-notch legal representation.
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19 Nov, 2022 by Kudos
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26 Jan, 2024 by Anonymous
Hired him several years ago (not via Avvo) I'd say this clown is probably the worst lawyer in the State. Apparently many others feel the same. Pathetic doesn't even describe his so-called "representation" You'd be better off defending yourself IMO
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19 May, 2022 by Sean mcateer scam
URGENT! email:
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27 Feb, 2016 by Anonymous
No. Just that. No. Not because he won it lost my case but because he was totally ineffective. Several thousand dollars worth of ineffective.
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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:

  1. 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.
  2. 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.
  3. 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.
  4. What steps will you take to manage and distribute the estate?
    Ask about the lawyer’s approach to handling debts, taxes, and asset distribution.
  5. 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.
  6. 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.