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06 Sep, 2024 by Joseph
I am seldom moved to reply or comment regarding services received from professionals. I am certain that a review is warranted regarding the service and professionalism provided by Carl Pohle is more than justified. His attention to detail and genuine care and concern for this client's personal situation was exemplary. His endeavor to understand and accommodate this blended family's needs was complete. To say we were satisfied with his service seems to be understated. Thank you, Carl, for your excellent work and professionalism. God Bless.
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05 Sep, 2024 by Cassandra clemens
David and his team are Incredible! They handled my case in a timely and professional manner! I’ve known him for many years and he is a stand-up human! A great father and family man who holds himself to an extremely high standard! It’s great to know ethical, honest attorneys who care about their clients!
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04 Dec, 2023 by Vicki kraemer
The Injury Council has represented not only myself but for two of my kids. The assistance that we received from David, Jake, and Felicia was outstanding. The response time was super fast if I had any questions; I was Kept informed and updated through the process.
I can say, with no hesitation that this is the firm you need to represent you. Thank you for going above and beyond.
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20 May, 2024 by Tina
I was given Christine’s name by a family lawyer and I am so happy they referred me to her firm. I couldn’t ask for a more kind and professional team that truly cares about their clients than her. Anyone who is in charge of taking care of an aging parent should consult her.
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20 Mar, 2023 by Diane pierce
Christine provided me with a service that is often overlooked - creating a trust. It is a lot of work but you walk out of Christine's office reassured that every detail was covered. Christine educates as she works with you. The topic is overwhelming but she truly knows her line of law. I have advised her services to friends and familes
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22 Jan, 2023 by Tina
Christine and her team helped our family through a difficult time by helping us navigate a number of legal complexities. The team was always there to help with great communication - we appreciated their quick responses to emails, phone calls and any questions we had!
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10 Oct, 2024 by Christina napoli
20 Sep, 2024 by Michelle
I highly recommend Susan as a divorce attorney. When my divorce process was going nowhere and I had a little over a month before pre-trial, I decided to call Susan to represent me. I was nervous about firing an attorney that had already spent 10 months working on what should have been a very simple dissolution of marriage. I'm so glad I did fire my previous attorney because Susan got me to point where I was actually getting a fair settlement and we never went to trial. Susan set my mind as ease and explained to me the ins and outs of what was really going on in my case. My prior attorney never really took the time to explain anything to me and was about to let me settle for less than I deserved. Susan has a kind heart and will talk you through any issues or concerns you may be having. Again, I'm so glad I found her.
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20 Aug, 2024 by Tammy
Susan was highly recommended to me back in 2015 as "One of the best Family Law Attorneys in St. Louis". Susan has now gotten me out of two failed marriages, and she was exceptional in both cases. I would highly recommend her legal expertise to anyone that needs a true legal tiger on their side and to have their back.
Susan's not only an outstanding attorney that knows the law (she's fair but firm), but she has become a great friend throughout the process! Thanks again, Susan! You truly are the best! I appreciate you!
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11 Apr, 2014 by Joan
Mr. Burcke was very well informed. He helped me resolve a complex estate problem with excellent results. I highly recommend him.
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16 Dec, 2024 by Chloe howenstein-heskin
Wayfinder Law was wonderful to work with when we were setting up our will and trust. Joe did a great job explaining how things work and advising on different options. He made the process painless and I highly recommend Wayfinder for any and all estate planning needs!
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29 Oct, 2024 by Constance dannegger
Had great service and communication with Joseph.if you need someone for any beneficiary deeds, wills or trusts he is the guy to call. Very professional!! So happy with the service.
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09 Oct, 2024 by Dede dierkes
Joe & Anna were great to work with. Wills are not fun but they understood what was important to me & made sure my family would be taken care of.
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28 Jul, 2018 by Glo & mlo
Charlie Amen and his staff has educated and assisted our family many times in Estate and Tax matters. Both my parents and my wife's mother have been greatly helped from his advice. Along with handling our trusts, he has provided great assistance to our children on tax matters also. These folks also know how to treat clients well and take extra time to explain every detail. The staff is very helpful and friendly.
We trust Mr. Amen and The Your Estate Matters firm. Both of us strongly believe their services are a great value.
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07 May, 2017 by Kellie
Exceptional lawyer, he was very caring and wrote a great estate plan for me. Staff was very attentive and thorough. I would recommend attorney Amen to anyone and everyone I know!
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05 Dec, 2016 by Scott b
I felt comfortable from the very first time I met Charlie.
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16 Aug, 2016 by C p
Everyone I came in contact with at the firm was professional and friendly. I was asked questions I had not thought of to make sure my trust was created the way I wanted it. I was also given instructions on how to fund the trust and encouraged to call the firm if I had any questions.
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05 Jul, 2016 by William y
We were very satisfied with our entire experience. From the start of our first meeting to the end of the process we were treated like we were very important and that every question that we had was also very important. We never felt rushed and felt we were the firm's top priority.
We would and will definitely refer this firm to our family and friends.
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02 Jul, 2016 by Debbie b
After attending a workshop given by Jackie Capriano, I knew she was the attorney I wanted to help me with my estate planning. I had no idea how to start, but Miss Jackie patiently guided me through the very detailed process. She offered excellent suggestions and explained fully whatever I did not understand. I am thankful for her knowledge, professionalism, and dedication to seeing that my requests are fulfilled. Kudos as well to her paralegal, Mary Wanner , who is equally knowledgeable and supportive. I am extremely pleased with the service with these two ladies have provided and would highly recommend Your Estate Matters, LLC, to anyone in need of proficient and experienced estate planning.
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11 Dec, 2017 by Anonymous
I had a Phone Consultation with Henry and felt better about my legal focus after talking with him. Hiring a attorney is a most difficult process, worse than hiring construction work. Henry took the time to see what value he could do or offer for my legal situation. I will be keeping Mr.Elster on top of my list on my Rolodex under Legal.
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03 Sep, 2013 by Brad
Henry has helped me with numerous personal legal matters over the course of the past several years. He is focused on the best possible outcomes for his clients and is very transparent throughout the entirety of the process. Henry is also very easy to reach and communicate with, never leaving you in the dark or failing to return a phone call or email.
The factors stated above combined with Henry's knowledge of his craft and general likeability keep him at the top of my list to handle any legal matter I encounter.
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26 Aug, 2013 by Matt hummel
Henry Elster made me feel as helping me with my legal situation was his personal mission. Not only were his rates fair, but he took care of everything ASAP. I'd definitely recommend him to anyone who is currently looking for legal assistance.
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30 Jan, 2023 by Mike p.
Over the past 20 years, our family has hired Mr. Shalowitz for numerous cases including personal injury, divorce, writing our wills, traffic tickets, and more. He always took our calls right away or returned our calls by the end of the business day. We have always been satisfied with the outcome of our cases. When other lawyers wanted to charge us out the Wazoo so they could line their pockets, Mr. Shalowitz tried to settle the case from the get-go knowing how these cases usually turn out. Only an experienced, ethical, and loyal attorney would do this. It seems that nowadays lawyers just want to continue the litigation so they can make more money. Fortunately, Mr. Shalowitz is not one of those Lawyers. Why can’t all lawyers be like him?
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07 Feb, 2022 by Nicole
I consulted with Howard on a cold snow day in early February 2022. i was in duress and he took my call when all offices were shut down and gave me a good bit of his time free of charge. He was honest, thoughtful, knowledgeable and very professional and in that one phone call, I was instantly comforted and felt better. I thank him greatly for this and will most certainly hire him in the future should I ever need his help again.
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26 Feb, 2013 by Carla and bill m.
Mr. Shalowitz is the epitome of what a lawyer should be: competent, smart, prepared, a good listener, patient, and successful in our outcome. I am so glad I was referred to him by another lawyer-friend of ours.
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22 Mar, 2024 by Anonymous
Hallie is an excellent divorce attorney. She is intelligent, kind and professional. She is great with details and finding a solution to meet your needs and keeping you informed along the way. I highly recommend her!
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12 May, 2022 by Anonymous
I hired Hallie for custody issues with my child who was in 2nd grade at the time. The issues turned out to be very in-depth and complicated. Hallie was always prepared at every turn. When we needed to bring professionals in, Hallie had excellent recommendations who were very good and well qualified. I had worked with several different attorneys in the past that were not able to do for my family what Hallie did.
Separately, I also hired Hallie for a divorce. With Hallies help and guidance we were able to keep it an uncontested divorce and for my situation that has proved to work out very well. Now, my ex and I are able to coparent very effectively and our 2 young children are very happy and doing very well in their lives. I am very grateful for Hallie and all the work she has done for me and my family.
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11 May, 2022 by Janie
My experience working with Hallie was wonderful. She helped me get guardianship of my adult daughter. The process was reasonable, quick, and she walked me through each step. She was very helpful and understanding. I highly recommend her.
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12 Apr, 2020 by Anonymous
I have been working with Mr. Chartrand managing the Family Trust. He is extremely professional and makes complex legal issues understandable. Mr. Chartrand is open with communications and is prompt with returning calls. I feel he treats me like I am his only client.
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24 Mar, 2020 by Darlene
He helped with my estate with precise understanding for me. This attorney Mr. Chartrand, is very professional, well spoken and very understanding and I would highly recommend him to anyone I know.
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11 Jul, 2015 by Mark
I have had reason to retain the legal services of Attorney Daniel B. Chartrand several times in the past thirty years. I have found Attorney Chartrand to be very professional and adept in his ability to maneuver in the many situations that arise in the legal system. Attorney Chartrand brings with him many years of experience and insights that enhance his representation in court, legal advice and other insights that I appreciated; and that, I am very thankful for.
Attorney Daniel Chartrand is one those very rare persons that think of others, instead of himself. With that said; Attorney Daniel Chartrand is an excellent attorney and a very fine person.
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27 May, 2018 by Anonymous
When, as a widow, I was forced into a lawsuit through no fault of my own, it was overwhelming. I needed a very knowledgeable lawyer who could calmly handle the volatile defendant. Caleb Petersen was that lawyer. He handled the lawsuit in the best manner possible and I am grateful that I had his expert assistance.
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30 Jan, 2018 by Kimmy
Caleb was very friendly and professional. He made feel very comfortable in a tough situation. Most importantly he won my case. I highly recommend him!
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05 Sep, 2014 by Keith
Caleb Petersen is hands down one of the best you will find in St. Louis. I hired Caleb to handle a complex family law matter and could not have been more satisfied with the level of professional work that he delivered. As things progressed in my case, Caleb was always on top of the relevant information regarding my case. He was extremely knowledgeable and was always very upfront and realistic when we discussed the aspects of my case. The biggest selling point for me was that he was always quick to respond to my questions which was a very big issue that I had with my previous attorney in my initial divorce. I have and will continue to recommend Caleb to those needing an attorney.
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09 Mar, 2020 by Anonymous
After explaining the case to Tim, he immediately started on the case. He formulated a plan that was to my benefit. The opposing party kept trying to delay and Tim wouldn’t allow them to. He is extremely knowledgeable in his field of practice and diligently works hard for you to get the outcome you desire. Tim is very prompt in answering phone calls, emails and all questions that you have during your case (even after hours). I couldn’t have asked for a better lawyer!!!! Thank you Tim for a great job!
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09 Jul, 2018 by Kevin
I've known Tim for many years. He's an excellent litigator who also has developed a strong estate planning and elder law practice. I endorse him without hesitation.
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23 May, 2018 by Rick
We discussed the options related to estate planning. Tim clearly explained the various options and answered all of our questions. Tim created a will, Durable Power of Attorney, and a Health Care Directive and Durable Power of Attorney for Health Care for both my wife and myself.
I am confident and relieved that these matters have been addressed.
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31 Aug, 2020 by Lance cole
Mike has been a true professional and a great friend. When I was unjustly beaten and maliciously denied medical assistance, Mike made sure they paid with justice. January 25, 2005, I seen my day in court. Against all odds, Mike got our family a victory. We love you Mike and thank you
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27 Jan, 2020 by Anonymous
Attorney, Michael T. George, represented me and my family in an estate will and trust dispute. The case was challenging to the extent that other attorneys I interviewed declined to represent us, but after a series of detailed interviews Michael accepted the challenge. He was compassionate, aggressive, undaunted by the opposition, and finally obtained the resolution in probate court we felt we were entitled to.
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10 Jan, 2017 by Anonymous
Kindly responded w/ in a few days. First to provide me w a hint about how Mo. looks at a common practice used in settling an estate, that pointed to a concern I need to look into. Wasn't stated like an ad for hiring him or any other lawyer. thanks
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17 Dec, 2024 by Manuel huaroco
Veronica Dominguez keep excellent communication.
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17 Dec, 2024 by Dulce leyva
Veronica Dominguez did a really good job.
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09 Dec, 2024 by Paul ellis
Schultz and Meyers is a wonderful law firm and I would recommend them to anyone looking to hire a attorney for a accident claim the law team was great and wonderful from the attorney the paralegal and the case manager Veronica Dominguez they were so helpful and always kept my aunt and I updated every step of the way we greatly appreciate everything they done for us thank you so much Schultz and Meyers
Sincerely Ruth and Paul Ellis.
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24 Sep, 2018 by Lori
On two separate and unrelated real estate issues Mr Disabato was able to quickly resolve title issues and deed filings. Living out of state it could have been a disaster hiring an attorney sight unseen but I was very, very fortunate and pleased with his representation. I would use him again in a heartbeat and highly recommend him.
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12 Mar, 2018 by R. hunter
We hired Mr. Disabato and his brother for a lawsuit surrounding real estate that had been going on for 1 full year with an attorney. They met with me and were frank and to the point. They put me at ease by explaining every aspect of the process. They listened and heard my concerns and gave realistic possibilities. Within 3 months the case that had been dragged out by another attorney for 1 full year had ended with a huge victory. You will not be disappointed with their high skill set and professionalism. Complete WIN_WIN_WIN!! Thank You
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26 Jul, 2015 by Anonymous
Mike Gunn and his entire staff has been a godsend for our family. He has kept us informed, kept us sane during some really trying times, kept us encouraged, and reassured us that the situation we find ourselves in will one day be over. In addition, he and his son, John, have been very fair to us, yet challenged us in many ways of things we need to be more aware of going forward. They have not seemed to be just interested in "money," as is so frequently the buzz on the street about lawyers. We would highly recommend The Gunn Law Firm, along with their able office assistants, for anyone's estate planning needs.
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27 Jul, 2017 by Kelley
My husband and I hired Kurt to help us with an estate plan. Kurt was very attentive to our needs and made the process extremely easy! He communicated with us throughout the steps and finalized everything quickly and efficiently! His attention to detail and organization is excellent!
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20 Feb, 2018 by Amanda
My experience with John Fritz exceeded my expectations. He handled my car accident case when I was 6 months pregnant. Not only was John professional, but he also negotiated a settlement that was higher than we anticipated without having to go to court. I would definitely recommend John to anyone ahs been in a car accident.
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25 Mar, 2024 by D d
The Jones Family Law Group is excellent…especially Sarah Wittrock. I used their services over the past year and could not be more grateful and impressed with Sarah. She is forever a professional, very empathetic, and works for / with you. I especially appreciated her tenacity. I would highly recommend Jones Family Law group, specifically Sarah Wittrock! Thank you!!!
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18 Jan, 2024 by Precious banks
Sarah Wittrock & the entire firm are amazing! They communicate in a way that is literally unheard of in this day and age. They’re patient, timely, informative & supportive. I would recommend them to anyone that are dealing with family issues in court.
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16 Sep, 2023 by Joyce buttone
Jones Family Law Group handled my divorce in 2023. It was a difficult divorce at first. I loved working with Kayte Rossi, Megan Rossi and Cece Lindsey. They worked as a unit and I was always able to get the help I needed. I would highly recommend them for any divorce proceedings. Awesome Job.
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13 Dec, 2024 by Ken allgeyer
Very thorough and helpful. Listened to what I needed and gave me everything I needed.
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29 Aug, 2024 by Sue hunt
I've had the opportunity to work with Scott and his team from time to time. Scott is not only a brilliant, thoughtful, committed, knowledgeable attorney, but he is one of the kindest attorneys I know. He and his team go above and beyond to assist clients. I highly recommend St. Louis Estate Planning.
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14 Jun, 2024 by Julie riebow
Our experience with St Louis Estate Planning was exceptionally positive. Scott and his team exhibited a high level of professionalism, efficiency, and profound expertise. I wholeheartedly recommend their services!
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07 Jan, 2023 by Nicole johnson
Very nice person
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03 Jun, 2022 by Janice harris
03 Sep, 2019 by Nuruddin real khondaker
15 Jul, 2022 by Latosha walker
12 Dec, 2024 by Angel upchurch
Wonderful group to work with! They were so helpful and responsive the entire time. I’m so happy with my outcome that they helped me with.
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06 Dec, 2024 by Angie taylor
They played in my face. Lies about what they were going to do and didn’t even do what they said what they would do. Would not recommend and definitely won’t ever work with them again
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05 Dec, 2024 by Andrew akin
Penelope and her whole team helped me out in a great time of need. They are totally professional, keeping you posted and updated through the process and I would recommend them to anyone. They truly go above and beyond.
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13 Dec, 2024 by Hollie smith
When I was in my car accident I was told that the Krupp law firm was a great office to work with. I went there and they were so kind and understanding. They definitely know their stuff and supported me as a client and a person in general. They work for their clients with confidence and professionalism. If I ever need a lawyer again I will be using them!
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02 Oct, 2024 by Shonnece robinson
13 Sep, 2024 by Carlos vera
They were a great firm. They were transparent in all their actions and made sure to get my permission every step of the way.
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19 Dec, 2024 by Keith hungate
03 Dec, 2024 by Jwahn palmer
03 Dec, 2024 by Brandon butler
Made the process very easy and efficient! Highly recommend!
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31 Jan, 2025 by Katherine williams
Rachna is amazing. Her and her staff are a caring and compassionate group of individuals. While I had to utilize her for a difficult time in my life, I am so glad that I was able to connect with her for my legal needs. I would highly recommend her. She is so knowledgeable, diplomatic, and caring. I am sincerely grateful!
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23 Jan, 2025 by Amy komrska
21 Jan, 2025 by Zachary opengart
Mr. Waterkotte was incredibly impressive from start to finish. His attention to detail was excellent but it was his willingness to fight for his clients that really stood out. I would not hesitate to recommend Combs Waterkotte to my friends and family should the situation arise.
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22 Dec, 2024 by Nancy davis
Lauren Frazer did a great job. Thank you for the fast service.
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15 Oct, 2024 by Tom siener
We felt welcome from the beginning. We had great help along the way making sure we understood everything. Lauren and Luke at the end were great getting signatures and getting things moved from one asset account to a new one. I would highly recommend this organization to anyone I know. Thanks God bless
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04 Oct, 2024 by Chris tinen
We have worked with Amen, Gardner and Capriano for over 25 years on two family trusts. I highly recommend the firm for working on your trusts and or wills. Jackie and Lauren are super knowledgeable, helpful, effective and efficient.
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21 Jun, 2022 by Mark w
17 Jan, 2020 by Jeff reeves
Betty was very nice and effective. She has long term determination and ethics that comes from her heart.
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14 Sep, 2018 by Luanne brickey
I work here. It's a great place to work and I hope they make the official list again.
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21 Jun, 2022 by Mark w
17 Jan, 2020 by Jeff reeves
Betty was very nice and effective. She has long term determination and ethics that comes from her heart.
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14 Sep, 2018 by Luanne brickey
I work here. It's a great place to work and I hope they make the official list again.
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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.
