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22 Oct, 2024 by Kirk palmatier
This is an unusual review, but in the spirit of giving credit where credit is due, I'll give both thumbs up to John Refermat. He gave attention to our case and was encouraging and patient. In the end we didn't need to retain his firm, the mere mention that we were planning to do so was enough to unclog bureaucratic paper jam and get our assessment corrected.
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29 Jun, 2023 by Mackenzie klee
Extremely helpful and knowledgeable about my situation . I felt very comfortable talking and discussing my options to find the best one for my situation.
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16 Jun, 2023 by Fausto prattico
The firm has represented my family and my business on a few matters, from commercial litigation, to creating business contracts and personal matters, including buying and selling a home. My family and I have trusted John and Ed to give us excellent guidance and ensure we were protected. The firm and its partners are responsive and effective. We feel they value us as clients and know us by name, not just a file on their desk. The firm is always responsive to my family and my business needs.
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04 May, 2024 by Sean neary
I have had the privilege over the last 15 years of knowing Mr Johnson's got my back. No matter what I get into he is there to help me get out of the pile I have created. So if you are in need of a truly good attorney, Mr Johnson is your guy!
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16 Apr, 2024 by John baccoli
Our experience, since becoming clients of Attorney Christopher Johnson, has been excellent. Christopher first handled my case where I was involved in an automobile accident while on a business trip, out in Seattle. This happened over 20 years ago. The rental car was totaled, and though I suffered only minor injuries. Mr. Johnson was able to get me a settlement from the owner of the truck that was responsible for the damage to at least three cars, all of which were stopped on a highway off-ramp, due to construction and lane reduction. Luckily (at least for me), I was 2nd in line, and didn’t receive the full brunt of the initial collision, but the force was hard enough to push my car into the van in front of me. The people in the van had the nerve to sue me, and Christopher was able to get that lawsuit thrown out of court. Since then, Mr. Johnson has advised us on many other legal and financial matters, both major and minor, and we consider him to be a good friend as he is always looking out for our best interests. I highly recommend engaging Attorney Christopher Johnson for your legal matters.
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15 Apr, 2024 by Alan brant
Chris was so helpful when I had accident He took care of everything. Calling and checking on me. Taking care of any questions we may have had. So glad we had Chris to help us thru this process I have recommended Chris to several people and would do so again
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01 Mar, 2023 by Michael miller
Tom was always quick to answer my questions by text or a phone call. He really takes the time to explain complex legal matters, and break them down so they are easily understood. He was able to resolve my issues quickly. I highly recommend you hire him.
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10 Nov, 2022 by Paul
Thomas Splain is an amazing attorney. If you need to find the right lawyer - look no further. He provides his clients with the highest level of representation possible.
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19 Oct, 2022 by Mark
When I picked up my 3rd drinking and driving offense I knew I messed up. I reached out to a few different attorneys and determined Tom was the best fit for me and I wasn't wrong. Mr. Splain knew I messed up pretty big as well, but never made me feel worse than I already felt. Tom was able to get this DWI reduced to a DWAI with all the minimum sanctions. Tom's presence in the court room is second to no one and he is clearly very well connected with the players in the judicial system in the greater Rochester area. My biggest hurdle was the DMV hearing. Tom, was able to get the refusal dismissed. Which to my understanding, is like finding a needle in a haystack!
Tom Splain is one of the premier, top notch, defense attorneys around and I highly recommend him when your backs against the wall!
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08 Oct, 2024 by Mark hammond
Peter Rogers provided excellent representation for my personal injury case. Peter and his associates at Lacy Katzen, treated us with respect and kindness. Peter is very professional and has a record of success including my case.
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16 Aug, 2024 by Torii eley
Clair from this law firm was very rude and I don’t understand how she is working in law firm her communicating with her. Client is very disrespectful. I could barely get a word out because all she wanted to do was hear her voice. I was trying to get a breakdown and understanding of my payments and she wasn’t trying to hear anything that I had to say which I find is very rude and discriminating of my work situation and what I’m able to afford and payments at this time I do not recommend this law firm at all
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14 Aug, 2024 by Deborah cayetano
Professional, clear about the details, and respectful as an Elder Lawyer
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26 Jul, 2017 by Christina
Deborah is an amazing lawyer and I would recommend her to anyone who is going through divorce. She did an exceptional job in handling my divorce at a rapid pace. She was very affordable as well. She knew my biggest gripe was to make the divorce be as speedy as possible, while still holding my ground as to what assets should be granted as mine. She granted my wish of a speedy, but efficient divorce, and I am proud to say my divorce took 3 months to be completed from start to finish. If I ever have a legal matter, Deborah will be the first person I call. She is the best!
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20 Apr, 2016 by Michelle
Debbie was my lawyer for my purchase of a home. She helped identify some legal issues in the title of a house I was considering, and saved me from potential trouble down the road. I would recommend her!
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17 Mar, 2016 by Ashley
Debbie was our lawyer for our house closing. When things were abruptly pushed forward by the bank with little notice, Debbie was incredibly prompt and accommodating. She gladly did whatever we asked of her and went the extra mile. I would highly recommend her to anyone!
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14 Jan, 2019 by Don
Nick did an excellent job for us when we updated our will and formulated our estate planning. He is very knowledgeable, has excellent communication and "people skills". Nick is a great person to work with, and I highly recommend him for your legal needs.
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22 Jun, 2017 by Annette
I hired Nicholas Proukou to make a new will for myself. I was so satisfied with his knowledge and his suggestions that I referred him to my husband. My husband was very satisfied and also hired him to do his will. Nicholas took the time to review our family situation, children from a prior marriage and our finances. He gave us many suggestions of how to protect our estate.
When it came time for my mother to update her will, she also hired Nicholas. He was kind enough to meet us at my mother's home. She is elderly and it is not easy for her drive into downtown Rochester. He reviewed her prior will and had many suggestions for her situation.
We were very pleased with his professionalism and knowledge. He was able to answer every question we had. He even pointed out important details that we would have simply skipped by.
He is an asset to his law firm.
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22 Jun, 2017 by Joe
Our goal was to implement an estate plan that was concise, most beneficial to our family, and with a firm we could trust to follow through with our desires and needs. Nicholas Spear Proukou presented the options, explained law in our terms, and answered all our questions with command of knowledge, respect for our needs, and his desire that we were comfortable with our choices. We are very pleased of the result.
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25 Jun, 2018 by Tina
Gregg Redmond is an excellent criminal attorney. He went above and beyond my expectations. He took extra time out to understand the situation that happened to me. Gregg stuck by my decision to request a complete dismissal of the charges at hand despite pressure from the court. Gregg prepared an A+ report for motions to dismiss. Again above and beyond. The final:result complete dismissal. His level of commitment, dedication and expertise is undeniable. His services were much appreciated and I will only use Gregg Redmond for my legal needs.
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13 Mar, 2023 by David everett
18 Oct, 2021 by Ellen carrion
26 Mar, 2021 by Renita davie
13 Jan, 2025 by Scott benjamin
I highly recommend Tim Sardone for your real estate transactions! We were warned that the schedule to complete our home purchase was very optimistic and that it would be difficult for the title work to be finished in this time frame. Tim not only made sure it was on time…it was early. He kept us informed throughout the process and quickly answered all of our questions. And when we sold our old house, he again kept us informed and made sure the sale closed on time. And we were never searching for answers because he anticipated our questions. You can’t go wrong with Tim!
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13 Jan, 2025 by Marianne benjamin
Tim Sardone did a great job representing us for the purchase of our new home as well as the selling of our home of 33 years. He ensured that all the title work was done well before scheduled closing dates. He fully explained the process and we had no surprises. We are happy to recommend Tim as an attorney for any real estate transactions.
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25 Dec, 2024 by Sammy smith
I am giving Mr. Willman a five star rating if I could give more I would. My self personally has not had Mr. Willman but I know someone who has! And this certainly individual gave Mr. Willman a run for his money. If you know you know. I have always learned it's never a good idea to work against your attorney... But more less let them guide you through your case. And not call the shots that will not work out in your favor.. My hat comes off to Mr. Willman he stood his ground and no matter what maintained perfessional through it all. He worked so hard for this individual and did everything he could possibly could do. But people know sometimes life doesn't go as planned.. Job well done if I ever need Mr. Willman I will for sure reach out to him no questions being asked he is a beast in the court room...
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03 Jan, 2025 by Beth dibattista
I highly recommend Lisa Robinson. She was personable, professional and attentive. She exceeded my expectations and would definitely recommend her and use her again!
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18 Nov, 2024 by Wrexie bardaglio
We had a medically complicated case that didn’t seem to have many precedents. Despite serious challenges, Jeff and his team tackled our situation, avoided going to trial, and resulted in a positive outcome for us. Our case took years to resolve and required a lot of faith from both sides. We can say with no hesitation that this is a team that doesn’t flinch when things are tough, and knows how to manage their clients’ jitters. If we could give the firm TEN stars we would.
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10 Nov, 2024 by Michael boyd
I had the pleasure of working with Jeff directly. He is sharp and treated me with the sense of urgency and care that you would wish for when facing serious complications. Furthermore, Jeff invested his resources to clearly identify a transparent course of action. Thank you Jeff! This is a rare find in today's landscape.
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26 Nov, 2024 by Megan eileen
We retained Mr. Brister of Tully Rinckey to assist us with a legal matter regarding our business and we could not be more impressed with him and this firm. From start to finish, they have offered impeccable customer service and have treated us with the utmost kindness and understanding. Mr. Brister is one of the nicest people we have ever met and has been a joy to work with. Don't let his kind demeanor fool you- he is all business and defends his clients with vigor. We could not be happier with our experience with Mr. Brister and Tully Rinckey and plan to work with them on any legal matters we have moving forward (though we hope they are few!).
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20 Nov, 2024 by Marlene ouderkirk
20 Nov, 2024 by Adrian clarke
30 Nov, 2015 by Anonymous
Stephen really simplifies the complex. He does a great job representing his clients - I've used him for numerous matters from a straight-forward closing to more complex matters. He's attentive, honest and efficient. I won't hesitate to use his services again and always refer him to friends and family.
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20 Feb, 2015 by Blake
Steve is responsive and attentive to the clients and the referring attorney. I have no problem sending him work, knowing the clients will be happy and well taken care of.
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16 Jul, 2017 by Michael diodato
My family had been thrown into chaos due to a probate issue. I went to Mr. Brongo's firm for an initial consult and was fortunate to meet with his whole legal team. They grasped the situation immediately and were able to understand my feelings and motives. They gave me an honest opinion on the merits of my case as well as a giving me an experience driven determination of the odds of success of a challenge. This allowed us to set realistic goals for our team. They were all very empathetic and compassionate. Mr. Brongo guided me through the situation, kept me informed and negotiated a settlement for a financially prudent amount was obtained. His experience in such matters was evident through out the proceedings. I would recommend this firm to anyone.
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04 Feb, 2011 by Sharon, a very satisfied client
Mr. Brongo went the extra mile in my case. His dedication to a just outcome was a godsend in a case that was anything but just. He set the perfect stage to expose the monkey business that was going on with my father's estate and his communications with the opposing attorney were brilliant. Sometimes the truth really does win out!
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17 Jun, 2014 by Cole
Nancy knows Trusts and is the most responsive lawyer we have ever had. She cut through the junk and put my parents Trust together, and then came back and did Trust work for us. Further, I never felt like I was being over billed, which i have found to be true with many law firm's billing practices, I have since past her name on to others.
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13 Mar, 2023 by David everett
18 Oct, 2021 by Ellen carrion
26 Mar, 2021 by Renita davie
24 Jun, 2022 by Ashley weisenborn
17 Aug, 2022 by Anonymous
For several years my family used Gregory Piede for elder care concerns and legal advice and documents. What we found was that Mr Piede delegates most if not all work to his assistants, does not take personal interest nor track details, and is highly neglectful in providing billing documentation. In the case of our dad, it cost thousands more than it should have. We could never recommend him to others.
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19 Sep, 2021 by Laurie
We hired Mr. Piede in October of 2020. We brought our father up from Florida. My parents started the process of poa's living wills and having a trust but that was back in 2010. We needed someone we could trust and help us to get ready for the medicaid process. Tiffany was awesome!!! She was right on point. Never too busy to answer a question or even the same question a few times. They got all the information and paperwork ready for when my dad was ready to go into a home. My dad went into a home in March and in April he was approved. If it wasn't for the whole team I am not sure where my dad and my family would be. Thank you for making a emotional time go smoothly. Thank you for everything you did.
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29 Dec, 2020 by Mark k.
It’s taken me too long to do this but I found Mr. Piede and his law firm in 2019 when I needed to update my mother’s power of attorney and get her Medicaid ready in a relatively short time. Greg and his staff did an amazing job on both counts. I can’t recommend this law firm highly enough. Thank you Greg and staff!
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10 Jun, 2016 by Lucas
Paul is a competent lawyer, but gave up on my case. The judge gave us 30 days to be creative on a plan to get my Pistol permit back. Paul did not contact me for 6 months and then finally replied to my emails. I have all the emails saved, including the unanswered ones. Paul wanted me to go out and perform tasks that were against the judges orders. The judge wanted a potential plan and the judge wanted to review and sign off on. Paul refused to work with me on a plan. It has now been 14 months after my hearing and Paul hasn't done anything for me. Not even writing the judge to explain any delay or explanation of where the case stands on our end. I wouldn't recommend him.
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11 May, 2015 by Anonymous
Working work Paul and his associates was hassle free. They made arrangements to work with the state of Illinois to resolve an issue that would have required my traveling to Chicago. The issue was resolved quickly and did not require my appearing in court.
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11 May, 2015 by Peter
In handling my matter, Paul was thorough and asked all the right questions. He can be counted on for intelligent analysis, an understanding of what is at stake, and mature judgment in formulating a legal strategy.
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08 Oct, 2024 by Mark hammond
Peter Rogers provided excellent representation for my personal injury case. Peter and his associates at Lacy Katzen, treated us with respect and kindness. Peter is very professional and has a record of success including my case.
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16 Aug, 2024 by Torii eley
Clair from this law firm was very rude and I don’t understand how she is working in law firm her communicating with her. Client is very disrespectful. I could barely get a word out because all she wanted to do was hear her voice. I was trying to get a breakdown and understanding of my payments and she wasn’t trying to hear anything that I had to say which I find is very rude and discriminating of my work situation and what I’m able to afford and payments at this time I do not recommend this law firm at all
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14 Aug, 2024 by Deborah cayetano
Professional, clear about the details, and respectful as an Elder Lawyer
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13 Jan, 2025 by Scott benjamin
I highly recommend Tim Sardone for your real estate transactions! We were warned that the schedule to complete our home purchase was very optimistic and that it would be difficult for the title work to be finished in this time frame. Tim not only made sure it was on time…it was early. He kept us informed throughout the process and quickly answered all of our questions. And when we sold our old house, he again kept us informed and made sure the sale closed on time. And we were never searching for answers because he anticipated our questions. You can’t go wrong with Tim!
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13 Jan, 2025 by Marianne benjamin
Tim Sardone did a great job representing us for the purchase of our new home as well as the selling of our home of 33 years. He ensured that all the title work was done well before scheduled closing dates. He fully explained the process and we had no surprises. We are happy to recommend Tim as an attorney for any real estate transactions.
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25 Dec, 2024 by Sammy smith
I am giving Mr. Willman a five star rating if I could give more I would. My self personally has not had Mr. Willman but I know someone who has! And this certainly individual gave Mr. Willman a run for his money. If you know you know. I have always learned it's never a good idea to work against your attorney... But more less let them guide you through your case. And not call the shots that will not work out in your favor.. My hat comes off to Mr. Willman he stood his ground and no matter what maintained perfessional through it all. He worked so hard for this individual and did everything he could possibly could do. But people know sometimes life doesn't go as planned.. Job well done if I ever need Mr. Willman I will for sure reach out to him no questions being asked he is a beast in the court room...
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02 Nov, 2024 by Rocio blanco
29 Apr, 2024 by Jeffrey melvin
An excellent Law Firm, they go over and above for the client.
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30 Mar, 2024 by Pam scholl
Joe Rinere has been my attorney for many years. He and his assistant, Dee, go above and beyond. I highly recommend them for all of your needs
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12 Apr, 2024 by Donk key
21 Oct, 2023 by Kevin woods
08 Jun, 2023 by Lisa yeager
Great law firm.
Very smart and good honest attorneys!!
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25 Nov, 2024 by Libbi martino
The service I received was so terrible I have filed an official attorney grievance with the 7th Judicial District as well as a complaint to the New York Bar Association. My attorney Alex Serles was grossly unprepared for my hearing and utterly incompetent. Even the judge and District Attorney were angry with his lack of preparedness for my case that morning. The judge was going to cancel the hearing as a result. Which would have been another hardship for me having come a long distance travel out-of-state. So instead, my attorney just threw me under the bus to get the hearing done that morning; even after the judge said he had no other option but to “sentence me with all punishments having nothing to go on”, based upon my attorney’s lack of preparedness and gross incompetence. The District Attorney also expressed her anger that Alex Serles had not even updated her on my case in preparation for my hearing. The Senior Management Partner (attorney) as well, was not at all caring nor compassionate regarding the gross negligence I received from my attorney Alex Serles. I cannot warn future clients enough to not hire this firm to represent you. It was an over $5500 thousand dollar expensive lesson for me to learn. “Buyers Beware!”!
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08 Jul, 2024 by C
Great lawyer great mind. He fought hard and got everything straightened out when I was held illegally. I Would highly recommend.
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08 Jul, 2024 by Mike austin
I've had the pleasure of having Michael as my attorney he was very good and affordable and I still to this day use Michael I give him a 5 star rating and I highly recommend Michael
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12 Sep, 2024 by Andrew keiffer
They represent the town I live in and I feel they care more about the money than what is right or in the interest of justice. Our tax dollars could be much better spent.
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27 Aug, 2024 by Rhonda hutchinson
I hired this firm on a matter and almost immediately I was advised by the attorney that she would be leaving on maternity leave. She started the matter very strong with a great demand letter. The attorney who took over took an extremely weak position, dropped the ball entirely and then he and his manager declined to pursue my case that the previous attorney had already indicated she would pursue. I was left charged with a lot of hefty legal fees for absolutely no help and it honestly put me in a horrible position. Horrible. I don't recommend these crooks at their high prices.
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24 Jul, 2024 by Dara petralia
Great team of commercial real estate lawyers!
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25 Nov, 2024 by Libbi martino
The service I received was so terrible I have filed an official attorney grievance with the 7th Judicial District as well as a complaint to the New York Bar Association. My attorney Alex Serles was grossly unprepared for my hearing and utterly incompetent. Even the judge and District Attorney were angry with his lack of preparedness for my case that morning. The judge was going to cancel the hearing as a result. Which would have been another hardship for me having come a long distance travel out-of-state. So instead, my attorney just threw me under the bus to get the hearing done that morning; even after the judge said he had no other option but to “sentence me with all punishments having nothing to go on”, based upon my attorney’s lack of preparedness and gross incompetence. The District Attorney also expressed her anger that Alex Serles had not even updated her on my case in preparation for my hearing. The Senior Management Partner (attorney) as well, was not at all caring nor compassionate regarding the gross negligence I received from my attorney Alex Serles. I cannot warn future clients enough to not hire this firm to represent you. It was an over $5500 thousand dollar expensive lesson for me to learn. “Buyers Beware!”!
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08 Jul, 2024 by David mack
While working for Mr. Witmer in an investigative capacity as a N.Y. State license private investigator.... In the last 5 years, In criminal matters, I've worked on more acquittals with Mr. Witmer than any other lawyer who I currently work with.
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08 Jul, 2024 by Allison dileo
Michael was my lawyer In family court. He was professional and very knowledgeable. Always responded to my calls and emails in a timely manner. Michael went above and beyond, would highly recommend!
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15 Jan, 2025 by Ryan kaddah
22 Nov, 2024 by Kristen bonn
If I could give negative stars then I would. It took months for them to get back to me, just to tell me they couldn't help me. There was a contract dispute and the attorney didn't even read the contract. When I discussed it with her she was telling me one thing and I said, what about section 14? She said I was wrong, but then I read it to her and she said, hold on (so she could read it). Then she wanted to add two figures when it clearly said the difference of them. She asked me if I had anything else from the company and I told her yes I sent it in. She then reviewed it.
Even though she acknowledged my facts were right, told me there was nothing she could do. I said, so it took you months to tell me that? She said she had to review the file. If she had previously reviewed the file and I still had to point things out to her then she needs better reading comprehension.
She decided she wasn't going to help me before she read my file or talked to me - incredibly unprofessional.
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23 Oct, 2024 by Tyra barton
Lack of diversity and inclusion
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3.7
19 Reviews
17 Aug, 2023 by Anonymous
Most careless lawyer I've ever used. Takes weeks to respond to emails then makes a 1 minute phone call to you and makes up excuses why he hasn't answered. Then makes you feel like you're bothering him for asking for responses. You want a lawyer with no backbone then pick this guy. Id rather have my dog represent me.
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22 Jul, 2023 by Anonymous
I hired Jonathan Trotto because he gave me false confidence. My case should’ve been an easy win considering all the evidence and everything we had against my ex. At first, he acted like this would be a slam dunk win and I would get everything and more that I was seeking. After the first hearing, I lost all hope in him. He practically laid down and let my exes attorney run the court. He never was aggressive or assertive about anything in the courtroom. He was pushing for me to settle every meeting afterwards. It felt as though, by the end of it all, he was brokering deals behind my back. I ended up exactly where I started. I wouldn’t recommend this firm to anyone in a million years.
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24 Feb, 2019 by Anonymous
Reached a reasonable agreement twice with my ex, which he delayed so we would go to court, I got backed into a corner because of this and was forced to agree to things I did not want, I would have been better off letting my ex's lawyer do everything. Cost me THOUSANDS!
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21 Jun, 2024 by Michelle r
16 Apr, 2024 by Deborah larue
Kindness
Patience
Professional
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13 Mar, 2024 by Christine sexton
So far very helpful and professional. Debra Hild the paralegal excellent.
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5.0
1 Reviews
2.9
42 Reviews
04 Aug, 2024 by Kay fina
05 Oct, 2023 by Nathaniel blood
Avoid using Jon Bonavilla for your divorce attorney. Jon did not provide me with proper representation, overall Jon’s communication was not helpful and left me confused, and Jon provided limited legal advice. After a couple of months, I sought out a new attorney.
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22 Apr, 2023 by Kristen konight
Left a voicemail and emailed. 1 week later still no response.
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04 Aug, 2024 by Kay fina
05 Oct, 2023 by Nathaniel blood
Avoid using Jon Bonavilla for your divorce attorney. Jon did not provide me with proper representation, overall Jon’s communication was not helpful and left me confused, and Jon provided limited legal advice. After a couple of months, I sought out a new attorney.
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22 Apr, 2023 by Kristen konight
Left a voicemail and emailed. 1 week later still no response.
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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.
