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20 Jul, 2024 by Dalton adamberry
Best attorney on the planet.
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21 Jun, 2024 by Mariale lopez
Best lawyer in town, 100% recommend
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23 May, 2024 by Susan burleson
Jason is amazing. We had taken in our niece from Louisiana and he guided us through the entire process. Katie is also awesome and has helped us keep our sanity through all the various legal hoops with custody.
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06 Jan, 2025 by Frank gonzalez
A very good experience. I was kept informed of what was next and what to expect. I'm old and needed a lot of handholding, and I got it. Everything went like clockwork. Highly recommend this probate law firm.
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22 Dec, 2024 by Jennypearl “jp” scott-drivas
Katy was very patient and understanding through such a tough process. She was able to listen to my needs and keep me focused on best scenario outcome. She was a great partner to have in the situation and i highly recommend her to anyone who is need of family law assistance.
Thank you Katy!
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17 Dec, 2024 by Sharron bowman
John Strickland was very helpful in creating my legal documents. He took the time to explain the content and implications of each document. He was very personable and made the process easy.
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5.0
3 Reviews
4.8
308 Reviews
23 Jan, 2025 by Alejandra rocha
Nicole and her team were very informative and responded quickly to any questions I had regarding my case, they never pressured me to do anything I didn’t want to do like other law firms; they really did have the best interest regarding my wants and needs to my recovery. If I’m in need of another services I will be coming back and definitely recommend my friends/family needing assistance too. 👍🏼
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22 Jan, 2025 by Janette castillo
I want to thank Roberto Flores for representing me, and making sure to answer any questions or concerns i had with my case.I also want to thank Amanda Hernandez for always keeping me informed on any updates going on with my case and making it less stressful for me. I definitely recommend the Carlson law firm they are welcoming and very professional.
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16 Jan, 2025 by Thane ermack
I'm Very happy with the service, and very appreciative of Amanda Hernandez
5 stars all around. THANK YOU THANK YOU THANK YOU!! 🙏
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14 Aug, 2019 by Shan
James Parker is the main individual responsible for my victory in my small claims case. Although he advised me to represent myself based on the amount I was seeking, he devoted time to preparing me to do so knowing he had nothing to gain in return. I was a nervous wreck and was having difficulty sleeping due to the stress of trying to navigate the intricacies of my case, school, and work. James reduced my anxiety by encouraging me to pursue my case although the defendant had obtained a lawyer, directing me to the correct legal codes to make my case, and helping me understand what was expected of me as a pro se litigant. I went into the courtroom equipped with the knowledge he shared with me and was able to participate in jury selection, make my opening statements, testify, successfully object to a question, cross examine, and close. James did not stop there. He took the initiative to follow up on my case and gave me a call to congratulate me on my victory. You may think that any lawyer could have helped me do all of this, but I’m a firm believer in the notion that you can judge the character of a man by how he treats those who can do nothing for him. For that reason, I wouldn’t want just any lawyer to help me I would want to work with James.
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01 May, 2019 by Tracy
I am here to tell you that I was in a dire situation in which I was going to loose my contact on a newly build duplex because of a piss poor communication between lender and the builder. When I say loose my contract, I mean with in hours the builder was sending me a cancel contract order. My real estate agent was no help at all and I need an advocate straight away to assist me. I was referred to Mr. Parker and was lucky to get him on the phone the first call.
I told him my situation and he patiently and graciously gave me solution immediately; over the phone. Yes, you read that correctly, over the phone. Thanks to him I was able to save my home and let out a huge sigh of relief.
Thank you doesn't even touch the amount of gratitude I have for Mr. Parker.
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06 Jun, 2018 by Samm
I called regarding an issue I'm having with my landlord. James typically represents the other side, however he listened and and offered much needed advice. I'm breathing for the first time today.
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02 Nov, 2021 by Mojtaba
Mr. Pitts took my consumer case and he patiently considered and understood all my concerns and he was very caring and professional to handle my case properly by taking legal action.
I am very satisfied with his service and I would highly recommend Mr. Pitts to any one for his legal advice.
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14 Mar, 2018 by Mark
I was a client of Mr. Tony Pitts.
He provided me with excellent legal representation.
I found him to be highly professional and extremely competent.
Mr. Pitts was always responsive, and very knowledgeable.
His expertise resulted in a very positive and timely outcome.
I would enthusiastically recommend Mr. Tony Pitts.
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17 Feb, 2011 by Dan malone
Chris Schulz is an incredibly knowledgeable, hard-working and smart attorney. As a journalist and journalist educator for more than 30 years, I had occasion over the years to work with some of the very best media and open records lawyers in the Texas. And Chris is as knowledgable and savvy as any I've had the pleasure to work with. A former Texas assistant attorney general in the open records division,
Christ knows the ever-changing, constantly being re-interpretted Texas Public Information Act like the back os his hand. I was very lucky to have Chris represent me in negotiations with the Texas A & M System General Counsel's office in a dispute over how to teach students to use the Texas Public Information Act.
One of the things I liked most about Chris is that he is a good listener -- he understood my situation completely and applied his knowledge and negotiating skills to what I believe will be a good resolution to a thorny legal, academic and journalism problem. I highly recommend him.
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06 Jan, 2025 by Frank gonzalez
A very good experience. I was kept informed of what was next and what to expect. I'm old and needed a lot of handholding, and I got it. Everything went like clockwork. Highly recommend this probate law firm.
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22 Dec, 2024 by Jennypearl “jp” scott-drivas
Katy was very patient and understanding through such a tough process. She was able to listen to my needs and keep me focused on best scenario outcome. She was a great partner to have in the situation and i highly recommend her to anyone who is need of family law assistance.
Thank you Katy!
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17 Dec, 2024 by Sharron bowman
John Strickland was very helpful in creating my legal documents. He took the time to explain the content and implications of each document. He was very personable and made the process easy.
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12 Jun, 2023 by Jane
Professional, sharp and years of experience. She handled my case expertly and I am confident she got me the best settlement possible. She has an excellent team working for her. I will recommend her to anyone I hear needing a divorce lawyer.
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28 Jun, 2022 by Shannon
Winnie Bates “let me go” as a client after I questioned thousands in charges for time that simply and clearly was not spent, and time that undeniably did not need to be spent.
For example I was charged for her time to send me an email requesting I reschedule a meeting that SHE missed (no call no show). To top it off I had already rescheduled that meeting two days prior. I was billed for both her time and her paralegals time simultaneously through mediation so she could openly work on other cases to the point that she wasn’t even effective in mediation. She didn’t say a single thing in 3 hours that was either relevant to the conversation or to my feelings.
She did however share all her personal and professional correspondence via email, and instant message during those 3 hours because she was sharing her screen. Even after she was warned it was all coming up on my screen she continued to forget I was even in the office. She bad talked multiple in the process, shouting it across the office. It was a show to say the least.
After seeing it in person it was obvious why we had to have the EXACT same meeting 3 different times, not including consultation where we addressed the same facts. It was obvious why the process took 3 times longer than it should have. It was obvious that I wasn’t going to stand beside this bunch while the fate of the most important was decided.
I asked them to stop putting time into my case immediately. Once I had time to look over the charges I requested a meeting to talk about several particular discrepancies, she directly responded by dropped me as a client, no explanations. More than a month later, I get another bill from Winnie. She won’t stop making up things to bill for, and apparently forgotten who I am again, but she’s willing to write off that last bill if I remove my reviews.
Well here’s another.
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12 Jan, 2018 by Cyndi
Winnie came highly recommended by a former client who had a highly contested divorce. I also had a very complex, highly contested case. Prior to Winnie I had meet with and spoken to around 5 other attorney's before I decided to choose her. Winnie took the time to listen to my story, asking questions along the way and providing feedback. She was able to answer all of my questions and was very straight forward with my expected outcome. I felt very comfortable with Winnie and I knew she had me and my child's best interest at heart. To me her knowledge and experience is second to none and that is what you need when your looking to win a case. Take the time and spend the money on the consult, its worth your time and money.
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17 Nov, 2020 by Joe
Marty took my daughters case when no one else would. Fought it all the way to the full 5th circuit. Along the way he was consistently:
1. attentive and sensitive to the legal needs of the case, including all deadlines, court timelines, and our own numerous requests to understand what was going on and why it matters
2. detailed and correct in all legal filings; something that matters a lot when you go on appeal and you may not realize how important it is
3. upfront and honest about expenses to litigate, and our chances of winning a case when the law favors schools so heavily (they can basically do whatever they want to your kid and have few legal consequences)
In the end, AISD misled the court (some might say they lied) and got the case dismissed due to the structural problems in our legal system related to protecting kids from predators and school officials being protected by law when they hurt kids. However, Marty fought for our daughter when no one else would, including her school district.
Our experience was eye-opening about how the courts protect school administrators and predators. When all was said and done, I showed our court briefings to a friend who is a former deputy Solicitor General of the United States and after looking at Marty's work told me that it was some of the best he'd seen for a hopeless case like ours.
Bottom line, if your kid is harassed at school and they don't care, Marty will care. The law and courts may be stacked against you because of our screwed up system. You may not win, but AISD knows he's a pit bull for your kids, and he'll do everything possible to make them pay attention and solve the problem.
Marty is the lawyer you need.
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26 Apr, 2013 by Evelyn
Atty Martin Cirkiel Represented us recently in a case with PISD School Dist for my Grandson Isaiah who is a child with Dissibilities....We are very satisfied with the Professional Stratagies he used to help resolve our case at Mediation....Our family would highly recommend him to anyone who needs an Honest Lawyer on their side for Legal Purposes and the Advocates who work closely with him in his office they are all awsome and helped us get the best results at Mediation and all is good now...We are Blessed to have found these guys and would retain him again if ever needed.......
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06 Jan, 2025 by Frank gonzalez
A very good experience. I was kept informed of what was next and what to expect. I'm old and needed a lot of handholding, and I got it. Everything went like clockwork. Highly recommend this probate law firm.
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22 Dec, 2024 by Jennypearl “jp” scott-drivas
Katy was very patient and understanding through such a tough process. She was able to listen to my needs and keep me focused on best scenario outcome. She was a great partner to have in the situation and i highly recommend her to anyone who is need of family law assistance.
Thank you Katy!
Read more
17 Dec, 2024 by Sharron bowman
John Strickland was very helpful in creating my legal documents. He took the time to explain the content and implications of each document. He was very personable and made the process easy.
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23 Sep, 2020 by Rosie
I typically don’t type reviews however, as a Family Lawyer you would have thought Nadia Stewart would care more or even showed interest in helping. Nadia did none the sort, as a matter of fact, she was quite rude when I called to obtain assistance. I am an ARAG member who was provided Nadia’s name as a Lawyer- she seems very knowledgeable and I was excited to reach out her. Once she answered that phone my first impression and excitement went down the drain. Not quite sure the reason why she was being so rude or if she was having a bad day- absolutely no excuse; Nadia wouldn’t let me get a word out edge wise. Long story short, she wasn’t interested in hearing what I needed for a petition my daughter received. I made her aware of the situation at hand and she stated “first of all I charge a $4k retainer fee/$200+ an hour fee and in my past experience ARAG family members cannot be represented”. She didn’t even look at what my ARAG membership consisted of and showed absolutely no interest in wanting to represent my daughter. Regardless of an ARAG member or not show some dignity when someone is willing to pay the money for a lawyer. End result she wasn’t hired and doesn’t even deserve 1 star.
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10 Apr, 2019 by Anthony
I had seen Nadia work in several different legal cases and had admired her legal knowledge and abilities. I've seen her fight tirelessly for other clients to a successful outcome. I would be in awe of how humble she was after she had beaten much larger groups in court. Anyone in her position should have been screaming to the world about how awesome they were. Nadia would just act like what she just pulled off was an everyday event.
So when it came time for me to find a lawyer, Nadia was the first person I called. Divorce is never easy, even if it's a mutual, amicable divorce. It was at this moment I learned that not only did Nadia have a great legal mind, but she was extremely compassionate to her clients. She's able to fight for what was right, while also showing how much she truly cared. I honestly don't think I could have made it through this difficult time without her guidance. Thanks Nadia.
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16 Jul, 2018 by Anonymous
Nadia Stewart was my counsel when I was accused of a crime. She had no advice for me, and told me not to press the issue or I'd probably be arrested. She asked absolutely NOTHING about my case from me, and totally supported the opposition, costing me my career, even though the investigators/prosecution could NOT have the evidence they hinted at having because it did not/could not exist. Not once did she speak on my behalf, listen to what I had to say, and did not believe me. To add insult to injury, she actually spoke out on BEHALF of the other side during a disciplinary hearing when I was terminated. She told my supervisor (who terminated me) she appreciated meeting with him and looked forward to seeing the supervisor in the future and that she was pleased with the new disciplinary policy. I thought an attorney was paid to fight for you, but I guess I just wasn't able to afford REAL representation that would speak up for me rather than just treading water, collecting a paycheck, and kissing up to the opposition instead of backing her client. Before she was assigned to my case, I had another attorney assigned to it, and within 12 hours, he did more work than she ever did in three months.
She will make grand promises, "I know that investigator, she'll tell me what the details are." "They have had the case for five months so far and didn't do anything, this will probably just go away.", all her professional "insight" and inside information won't help you, because she is (or was) just busy making friends at the cost of her clients. She is useless.
Useless!!!
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26 Oct, 2023 by Anonymous
At the VERY least, he did absolutely nothing, jeopardized the entire case, and stole $3500 from a military member. This is doesn't come close to encompassing all of the other things he did and didn't do.
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15 Apr, 2021 by Fred
This attorney is a parasite he will lie to you run up your bill and did not perform we are currently filing a class action lawsuit against this attorney what is theft of over $14,000 from a local veteran. Beware and avoid this attorney at all cost
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24 Apr, 2014 by Derek
As a Father of 2 young boys 8 and 3 I am thankful I found Mr. James who kept me apprised of the entire process. The result was a blessing and I wish I could add more than 5 stars!!!
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06 Sep, 2017 by Anonymous
I don't like to start things out this way but I don't have enough negative things to say about someone that should be in a professional role and trying to take care of people issues. I'm in the military and was summoned to court, I gave Kevin 3 weeks notice that I wouldn't be able to attend, a day before the court date he decided to act on my information, charges me for $442 to cancel the appearance and to call the other sides lawyer, he's a scam artist. 2k retainer and he's done nothing for me. Be careful and protect yourself, He'll pitch a nice introduction to you but you'll get the worst service and be taken advantage of. He's a con artist that won't return emails nor phone calls. His assistant returns emails after a week or so that are so vague a child could have done so. He doesn't remember specifics about cases and doesn't even seem to check his emails since he always has to refer back to them when asked "did you receive this form or that". This is my first experience with a lawyer and I dread doing so again, I fired Kevin after settling the matter myself with my ex via a one on one discussion, do not give this man your hard earned money.
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06 Jan, 2014 by Laura
I hired Mr. Henderson to handle the modification of my divorce which my ex husband filed. It was the first attorney I have ever had to hire. I fell into his sales pitch of all the steps we would take to ensure my ex husband would not screw me over. He made ONE court appearance. During the consultation he promised all these things we would do during that court appearance. Then the day came. He showed up late, and advised me to give my ex husband everything. I sent numerous emails and phone calls the following day to express my upset. I put in writing what I expected of a lawyer and requested that he either work with me or let me know he can not so I may hire someone else. One month he was my lawyer. That is it. One month. He made no court filings, no copies, no mediation was done or scheduled, nothing. When I finally had enough of the lack of communication on my case and realized how much my daughter was suffering by being caught in the mess I demanded to know the remainder of my $5000 retainer. Less than 2 grand is what they claimed I had left. 3500 was spent on what exactly? I cant even afford to hire another attorney now.
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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.
