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21 Aug, 2017 by Stephanie
We have used Donna for several years for our personal and professional needs. She is incredibly knowledgeable and advocates for her clients. We are a small family without large assets, but Donna and her team have always been generous with their time and given us the attention and advice we needed.
She helped us close several mortgages and a sale of our house, which would not have closed without Donna and her team going above and beyond (the buyer's attorney was clueless).
She has handled our estate planning, as well as healthcare powers of attorney. We have a unique family situation, and Donna's knowledge of NC law helped us create custom documents that have brought us tremendous peace of mind.
We highly recommend Donna.
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18 Aug, 2017 by Jeremy.drawas
I have been working with Donna for many years now and she has become an absolutely essential part of my team and a truly trusted partner.
She always takes my calls (early, late, weekends) and if she can't, she gets back to me very quickly -- as if I were her only client. She almost always knows the answers, but if she doesn't she knows the right people to contact. I know that she won't quit until the job gets done. And above all, I know that Donna is always working in my best interests and will always go above and beyond to ensure I am covered from a legal standing.
I could not more highly recommend Donna.
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17 Aug, 2017 by Joseph
We have used Donna's services several times from mortgage closings to customer collection issues to estate planning.
She answers all questions immediately and has a plan of action within minutes.
Donna is not only professional, but also a woman of her word and now a family friend.
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30 Jan, 2018 by Lorie
Glen was great to work with on our estate planning process. Glen was very thorough and asked all the right questions to have my husband and I think through how we wanted matters handled. Estate planning can be stressful but Glen took care of so many of the details that it was a very easy process for us. I highly recommend Glen to all of my friends and will continue to use his services as my needs change over time.
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25 Jan, 2018 by Jill
I highly recommend Glen as a Trust and Estate Planning attorney.
In 2017, I needed to update my will and establish a trust.
Glen listened to all of my needs, drafted the legal document that reflected my wishes, and explained every signature to me in great detail.
I now recommend Glen to friends as a Trust attorney.
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07 Dec, 2017 by Sam thorp
Glen is a trusted colleague and an excellent Trusts and Estate planning attorney. I frequently refer folks to him, and he does exemplary legal work for all of them. I give him my highest recommendation, without reservation!
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08 Mar, 2019 by Marlene
Attorney Allen was very helpful in overnight advice on a debt collection matter I was facing. She was upfront and did not try to sell me on services I did not need. Rather, she took a few minutes out of her day of helping actual clients to get me on the road to resolving my issue. Hopefully, I’ll never need her as representation in financial issues (bankruptcy) but I am glad to know she would be a great attorney to represent me.
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29 Oct, 2018 by Evelyn
Just gave Ms. Ruth Allen 5 Stars. She deserves every Star We gave her. She helped us in a legal matter, saving us time and money. We highly recommend Attorney Ruth Allen.
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28 Feb, 2018 by Douglas
Attorney Allen has successfully represented my family and myself on several occasions. She has always been professional and knowledgeable. I would strongly recommend her services.
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03 Mar, 2017 by Anonymous
We were impressed on so many levels during our meeting with Misty. She was not only knowledgeable, but organized and thorough in how she explained a complicated topic. We appreciated her patience and advice. We will recommend her over and over again.
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19 Feb, 2016 by Laua
Misty Piekaar was very helpful to me to understand a contract. I was being bullied by a company I no longer wanted to do business with. Without her knowledge and advice I would not have known how to respond to their communications. Misty Piekaar explained my legal rights under the contract and help me draft a letter so that I could protect myself. I'm very grateful and would recommend her.
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19 Jan, 2016 by Will m
Misty assisted me in obtaining a Will and Powers of Attorney. She was patient and did not use legal jargon. She often used hypotheticals so I easily understood what would happen to my family in multiple situations.
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21 Sep, 2016 by Ed
I am from Illinois, I needed an attorney from North Carolina, and Attorney Dedmond guided me through the estate process for my brother. I had to be appointed as administrator of my brother's estate (drafted and submitted the forms to the County Clerk) as he died intestate. Heath also assisted with the sale of the home in providing guidance to the closing attorney for distribution of funds to the heirs. Finally when the estate was closed his direction and assitance with the estate funds disbursement was excellent. I would recommend Heath Dedmond.
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08 Sep, 2016 by Kris
Before working directly with the state on what appears to be a straight forward process in handling the death of a loved one's estate, take the time and money, borrow it if you have to, to see Heath Dedmond.
My situation was a disaster after a long and difficult process of traveling back and forth while managing the care of my mom three time zones away, what seemed to be a straight forward estate will turned into a worst case scenario on a soul that was already worn thin. I came to Heath a depressed mess, having no choice but to move forward in a huge decision with only a slightly different set of options from bad to worse. Heath was patient and great at articulating the law in a way that helped me make a decision. He was quick at returning emails, and in the end he closed the estate as smoothly as possible. He stuck to his estimate of what it would cost to handle the estate and did so in a honorable way. Throughout the process it was clear that he empathized with the difficulty of my situation, but it wasn't until the very end that I realized he whole heartedly cared.
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16 Aug, 2016 by Anonymous
We were referred to Heath by our financial advisors. He helped us set up a suite of estate planning documents, including a customized trust, for a very reasonable price. He was friendly and did a good job explaining the obscure points of estate law.
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04 Jun, 2020 by Phillip
I hired Beth to help settle my families estate, a case that had been going on for 4+ years. She worked between me and my siblings as a mediator to help settle the case as quickly as possible. Beth was easy to reach and took time to explain any and all questions I had. Without her help, I have no doubt my legal issue would still be ongoing. If needed, I wouldn't hesitate at all to work with Beth again in the future. I can't recommend Beth enough!
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18 May, 2018 by Mike
I received a letter from a rental property I had recently moved from. Despite receiving a 30 notice, the property was attempting to charge me an additional 17 days worth of rent. As a servicemember, I was aware of my rights under the Servicemembers Civil Relief Act (SCRA) but was not knowledgeable of all the legal complexities and common tricks used by leasing offices to get around the law. Beth quickly research my options and was able to provide the necessary guidance to this developing issue. After my conversation with Beth, I spoke to my former leasing office. I informed them I had spoken to my lawyer and would not simply send them the check for the additional 17 days. The leasing office immediately changed their tone and stated lawyers would not need to be involved in the matter. In the subsequent conversation, the leasing office dropped the 17 day charge and ended up sending me a check for the remainder of my security deposit. I don’t believe I would have received that outcome had it not been for the tailored advice I had received from Beth.
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12 Jun, 2017 by Kathy
Very thorough and efficient! The fee was so low we thought he had made a mistake! Highly recommend him for any estate planning legal work!
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06 May, 2021 by Donald
I contacted John Paschal when my mother suffered a stroke and now needs long term care. John took care of us as if we were his own family. We have executed a power of attorney and property deed and he is an excellent elder attorney to consult with on all matters involved for the elderly, including estate planning, wealth preservation, Medicare issues, probate, etc. John treated us like very well, personal service, very knowledgeable and professional. I highly recommend John Paschal for your elder law attorney.
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29 Dec, 2016 by Nikki
Attorney Sprunger is a knowledgeable and skilled professional that provides concise information. Her consultation proved valuable and time worthy.
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11 Jan, 2021 by Fulton
Chris has been an excellent counselor for our numerous projects. What my wife and I appreciate most is Chris’s non-condescending manner when explaining complex legal issues. I’ve worked with many attorneys and humble competence is rare. I also have been very impressed with his ingenuity regarding tax strategies (as they relate to estate planning) and how available and cooperative he is with financial and accounting professionals with whom we work. We have a great “team” and Chris is a critical member/leader.
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05 Sep, 2024 by Ava
Ms Markovich is a one of a kind attorney who is happy to share her wealth of information. She doesn’t try to confuse clients with legal jargon but instead clearly explained all of my options (some of which other attorneys never even mentioned!) and treated me like a person with respect.
She had a way of making the complicated decisions very clear.
I’m so grateful she was able to help me. I will hire her again for anything related to estate planning and recommend to all my friends
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23 Jul, 2024 by Ms ashley
25 Jun, 2024 by Francisco javier duque villegas
The best real estate law firm in the area by far. Katie King is an exceptional lawyer with outstanding customer service and the fastest response time I’ve ever experienced. Working with her on our real estate transactions is a pleasure, making my work much easier than with any other lawyer in the past. The entire team is also outstanding. After working with several real estate lawyers, I highly recommend this firm. For me, they are the best.
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13 Jun, 2024 by Susan rodriguez
08 Oct, 2024 by Andy barham
The Ricci Law Firm easily deserves six stars. My attorney, Hunter Eddins-Gentel and Case Manager, Brandi Williams, worked seamlessly together to ensure this entire process was smooth, efficient, prompt, highly professional yet friendly at the same time. I highly recommend them.
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06 Oct, 2024 by Sheila
Would not recommend. Had a case with them for over two years went through seven different secretary's and now Terra Johnson settled my case because if it went to court I wouldn't get much more because I am not
from here and amongst my peers in North Carolina Because I don't talk like I am from here because I have an accent (discrimination) After doctor bills they made more money than what I got for doing nothing but mailing paperwork through the courts told me to settle because my three years was coming up and I wouldn't get nothing after that. They did not fight for me I am still paying doctor bills that they didn't pay and going to the doctors that they didn't even bother getting the bills from they only had what I have given them a year prior. And they even set up some more appointments. for doctors. I had Fracture nose fracture jaw arm and hand injury ankle injury back and head injury. And the accident was not my fault.
They did not do a good job. They sat on it till time was up. Go to another attorney if your smart.
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27 Sep, 2024 by Ricky vang
This was my very first case with an Auto Accident. I was in a bad situation when I came to them and was still skeptical about trusting them with this but I'm not a professional. They were amazing! Avi Feinstein was always calling me back and giving me updates, easy to work with and handled me with care and got frequent updates about my personal health, and helped me with understanding what was going on. Also, I spoke to Ny Warren and she gave me hope about my future with them in this case. She talked me through and through again and again until I wasn't afraid anymore about there procedures and assured me I was getting the help I deserved. If you're in need, give them a chance because they won my case, they got me back to 110%, and they did it together with me. Thank you everyone for your help and I will definitely come back if I'm ever in need again. They've earned my trust.
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27 Jul, 2024 by Edward mark bailey
Partial inheritance went well, waiting on the rest of the inheritance now. But lawyer was well versed in case
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24 Jul, 2024 by A h
Amazing Service and Dedication!!
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04 Jul, 2024 by Lynnette dobbin
Attorney Jackson was so professional, thorough yet personable with me. She made sure I understood everything without rushing me. William Itoka was very prompt with my questions and concerns. As a team they made me feel very secure that they would handle my situation and THEY DELIVERED! Would definitely go back if needed!
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24 Jul, 2024 by Daneija lopes
He helped and guided me the best way he could and got my case dismissed!!! Such a great lawyer, reasonably priced, and easy to work with!!!
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24 Jul, 2024 by Jesse
So very thankful to have found Mr. Dewey and having chose him as my representation in court. He helped me navigate a very serious situation at a time when I was at my lowest and as if I were on the verge of losing everything.
Mr. Dewey was an avid listener, he took in all aspects of my situation, asked clarifying questions, and ensured that he knew the full story prior to walking into my hearing. Additionally, he made himself available 24/7 and followed through with that commitment by taking some very late night 'panic-calls'. For each stage of the process, he set clear expectations of what the possible outcome could be and which he viewed as the most likely and the most desirable. I felt heard, I felt valued, and he gave me hope.
In the end, my case was dismissed and if you're reading this, then I definitely recommend you giving Mr. Dewey a call.
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20 Jun, 2024 by Robert clarke
Mr Brinkley was very professional handled my case very quickly got dismissed charges got expunged what else can I say if you need a great lawyer, give them a call
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17 Oct, 2024 by Kimberly
I paid him $2500 and never talked to him or met with him. As a matter of fact, he did not work on my case he handed it off to some lady and Iam not sure what her title was, I hired him. They took my money first then sent one email to the opposing attorney. They charged me $2500 to tell some lady thereasons why I need legal help basically.
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25 Apr, 2024 by Enc greenfeet
Katie Coyle has always been there to assist us with our legal needs. She's great!
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28 Mar, 2024 by Pamela thombs
Attorney Sheri Dickson is a tenacious advocate. Once she is on a case, she is dogged about accomplishing her client’s objectives. I give Attorney Dickson 5 stars. Attorney P. M. Thombs
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15 Oct, 2024 by Lauren sawczyk
Ann and John are phenomenal. I was purchasing a home and to say the seller was being difficult is putting it lightly.
Think Nightmare on Elm Street had a baby with Jeff Boomhauer from King of the Hill and that was my seller. The ignorance and entitlement was heavy. My husband and I were pushed back multiple times to close because the seller wasn’t ready and requested to close immediately with nothing completed. John took his time to provide me my legal recourse and support while Ann helped navigate the inconveniences and inconsistencies on the matter.
The Roper Law team were always happy to be working with everyone regardless of how insane and stressful the circumstances were. For the amount of paperwork, legal recourse, and counseling they conducted during this contract to close, their attorney fees were a steal in price which shows just how fair and reasonable they are.
Thank you Roper team.
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04 Oct, 2024 by Kathleen
I am new to North Carolina and was stopped at a point where 55 mph transitions to 70 mph. I was going 71, the speed all of the cars around me were going, but we were not out of the 55 mph zone.
Kissling Law handled my court case for me for a VERY reasonable fee and got my ticket knocked down to "Improper Equipment". NO POINTS on my license. Very happy. HIGHLY RECOMMEND!!
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23 Sep, 2024 by Anonymous
Mr. Kissling called me back within minutes of my call. I explained the situation, dad died without a will, but after Mr. Kissling listened to the details he assured me that the best route would be to file my own small estate forms with the clerk. This is saving about $4,000. Thank you Mr. Kissling. I and my family appreciate your work.
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28 Mar, 2024 by Ann fields
Met all my legal needs. Took time to listen and walk me through everything.
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27 Mar, 2024 by Alice hardy
26 Mar, 2024 by Janet
28 Mar, 2024 by Ann fields
Met all my legal needs. Took time to listen and walk me through everything.
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27 Mar, 2024 by Alice hardy
26 Mar, 2024 by Janet
27 Aug, 2024 by Marcie rien
They dropped my case after supposedly being my attorney for months. Do not hire them!!
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19 Jul, 2024 by Linda berry
I was injured in a car accident when a driver T-boned me while running a red light; my car was totaled; I was injured and hospitalized. My life had been changed - both physically and emotionally. As I tried to work with the insurance companies, I quickly knew I was “in over my head.” I called CR Legal team, talked to an expert who put my worries to rest.
My lawyer and my case manager took total control of the communication with the insurance companies, the hospital, the emergency room doctors, Medicare, the dentist, my doctor, etc. I sent every bill and communication to the legal team. They kept in constant contact with me to let me know how the process was going. In the end, I was more than pleased with the process, the settlement, and the wonderful professionals with whom I worked. They allowed me to heal, get back to my life with no hassle or anxiety. I trust them to always do the best for their clients: they are the “GOAT.”
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24 May, 2024 by Cheryl measmer
27 Jul, 2021 by Rietika patel
23 Dec, 2020 by Timothy aull
04 Nov, 2018 by Kurt d
07 Oct, 2024 by Tedra lewis
I called the Asheville branch to ask about a free consult because I live outside of NC, but my recently deceased sister lived in NC.
Bonnie answered my call and I'm so sorry she did. I hung up feeling frustrated and disrespected. She was rude and not very helpful at all. Her attitude was quite condescending and very unprofessional. She should be able to ask strategic questions to gain an understanding of my needs, but instead she was curt, snooty and too busy trying to get me off the phone to be able to understand WHY I was calling. It was like pulling teeth, and I was getting no where with her, so I simply asked her name, thanked her, and hung up. She rattled off some title after her name, but at this point I had tuned her out, because it didn't matter who she was. I would NEVER do business with them and WOULD NOT recommend them to anyone. I was able to find another attorney in NC, Kirschbaum, Nanney, Keenan & Griffin and they were awesome! They were kind, friendly and most of all professional. They asked the right questions to make sure they were the right 'type' of attorney I needed. They were truly the professionals I needed to talk to. I simply wanted to share MY experience with this practice and the end result.
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03 Oct, 2024 by Keri peevey
Excellent job putting our documents together and walking it through with us.
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01 Oct, 2024 by Tressa teel
When planning your estate, it can be stressful. When working with Strauss Attorney PLLC, there was absolutely no stress at all. The interaction with the firm was pleasant and easy to work with. Christie kept in constant contact with me and made sure I was aware of my appointments and what was needed. Jennifer and Kat were an absolute joy to work with. Both are knowledgeable and were very patient with all of my questions. They have extraordinary customer service. I plan to use this firm for all of my legal needs.
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16 Jun, 2024 by Wislande wilson
Best Law Offices in Raleigh thank you for being patient with our case and doing everything possible to help us!
I’ve been a dreamer since 1998 and it has not been an easy journey, but you did and tired every way possible to get a successful outcome for our family. Thank you!!!!!!!!!!!!!
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30 May, 2024 by Yar khan
One of the best Immigration attorney I've come across. Since Attorney Omar knows the US immigration laws like the back of his hand, I'd highly recommend Omar Baloch to anyone seeking legal assistance regarding immigration. Back in 2021, when i was going through the toughest period of my immigration journey, I came across Omar & he then guided me through the nitty-gritties related to my immigration case. I highly recommend Attorney Omar to folks in pursuit of American Dream!
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16 May, 2024 by Alejandra rodriguez
Omar is the best. I appreciate him so much he change my life around. 🙏🏼🫶
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07 Oct, 2024 by Tedra lewis
I called the Asheville branch to ask about a free consult because I live outside of NC, but my recently deceased sister lived in NC.
Bonnie answered my call and I'm so sorry she did. I hung up feeling frustrated and disrespected. She was rude and not very helpful at all. Her attitude was quite condescending and very unprofessional. She should be able to ask strategic questions to gain an understanding of my needs, but instead she was curt, snooty and too busy trying to get me off the phone to be able to understand WHY I was calling. It was like pulling teeth, and I was getting no where with her, so I simply asked her name, thanked her, and hung up. She rattled off some title after her name, but at this point I had tuned her out, because it didn't matter who she was. I would NEVER do business with them and WOULD NOT recommend them to anyone. I was able to find another attorney in NC, Kirschbaum, Nanney, Keenan & Griffin and they were awesome! They were kind, friendly and most of all professional. They asked the right questions to make sure they were the right 'type' of attorney I needed. They were truly the professionals I needed to talk to. I simply wanted to share MY experience with this practice and the end result.
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03 Oct, 2024 by Keri peevey
Excellent job putting our documents together and walking it through with us.
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01 Oct, 2024 by Tressa teel
When planning your estate, it can be stressful. When working with Strauss Attorney PLLC, there was absolutely no stress at all. The interaction with the firm was pleasant and easy to work with. Christie kept in constant contact with me and made sure I was aware of my appointments and what was needed. Jennifer and Kat were an absolute joy to work with. Both are knowledgeable and were very patient with all of my questions. They have extraordinary customer service. I plan to use this firm for all of my legal needs.
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30 May, 2024 by Richard mason
Don't bother calling them. They do not take new cases that are not referred to them by another attorney. Waste of time!
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31 Mar, 2024 by Don martin
24 Mar, 2023 by G s
11 Dec, 2020 by Gene
Andrew could not have been more helpful and forthcoming in describing the estate process and the steps required. As out of state residents losing a parent in NC, Andrew could not have been more professional and helpful. Highly recommended!
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07 Mar, 2020 by Michael grothmann
I am
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26 Dec, 2015 by David
Andrew did an exceptional job and made the experience a pleasurable one as well as meeting all our needs. He could not have done a better job. I will recommend him in the future.
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14 Aug, 2024 by Robert ponzi
My wife and I had a lengthy dispute with the management company and the HOA Board of our condominium complex in Raleigh. The dispute was serious, and the Board threatened legal action and significant fines if we did not abide by its demands to discontinue construction of a driveway expansion that it had approved for other residents. The attorneys we had previously contacted declined to take the case because of their association with management companies. Doug McClanahan of Hilton Silvers and McClanahan was recommended to us by two other practicing attorneys. He answered our email inquiry promptly and arranged for a consultation with us just a few days later. He listened carefully to the reasons for our dispute and, although he could not promise us a satisfactory resolution, we were impressed by him. He did not pressure us to retain his services and, in fact, recommended that we take a few days to decide. My wife and I agreed that we did not need to delay hiring him to represent us. The next day we received a draft letter that he planned to send to the Management Company and to the HOA’s attorney. He also updated us regularly about developments in the case. We had a five-month dispute with the HOA and its Board of Directors, but Dave was able to get a reversal of its decision just seven weeks after we retained him. We can finally proceed with our construction project. We will recommend Doug McClanahan to family and friends because of his knowledge of the law, ethics and his determination to fight for us.
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14 May, 2024 by Tim wicker
I have been a CPA in Raleigh for 30 years and cannot believe it took me so long to find this firm. This was the best experience I have had with a law firm and certainly the only time I left thinking I was underbilled for the services I received.
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27 Mar, 2024 by Britney lewis
I want to say the professional attention and respect I got from this law firm was amazing. Doug handled my case fast and I got a good answer I wanted. I recommend this law firm for all your needs.
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14 Nov, 2024 by Michelle jackson
05 Nov, 2024 by Donna painter
Amazing team!
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05 Nov, 2024 by Jermaine dawson
If you are looking for trustworthy, will get the job complete here is your office they will get the job DONE!!!! TELL THEM JERMAINE SENT YOU!!!
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14 Nov, 2024 by Michelle jackson
05 Nov, 2024 by Donna painter
Amazing team!
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05 Nov, 2024 by Jermaine dawson
If you are looking for trustworthy, will get the job complete here is your office they will get the job DONE!!!! TELL THEM JERMAINE SENT YOU!!!
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20 Sep, 2024 by Andrew keegan
I'll give an extra star because they were generally pleasant to work with and my case was eventually resolved, but not without several unacceptable communication issues with possible legal consequences, and a lot of avoidable time and money spent. My recommendation would be to find more professional representation.
1. Received email notification at 7pm for a court ordered 2 hr virtual mediation session the next day, which I only happened to see the next day while at work. The associated affidavit was signed by representation almost a month before so I should have been notified.
2. There were calls scheduled with me on their side, without any notice to me (not impromptu calls, actual on their calendar scheduled calls)
3. Legal agreement revisions from opposing counsel were sent to me multiple times without any input. One time there were changes with significant financial impacts which I had to notice and evaluate on my own and could have easily missed.
4. I had to sign the same finalized agreement 3 times in a time crunch scenario due to mistakes. The first time, with a two week deadline to avoid court, the signed agreement was snail mailed and was either lost or returned which lost us most of the time window.
5. I was not notified when my legal agreement was executed, causing me to almost miss payments that were legally due. I only found out through opposing counsel at the last minute, which is obviously not how this should work.
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10 Feb, 2024 by Gerrie dean
08 Jan, 2024 by Leon ives
Angela Haas and her entire staff are amazing. More than just a talented and highly rated lawyer, she became my friend who helped me through the personal part. I highly recommend Angela…and I have, and those friends were just as pleased.
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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.
