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Richard Russell Crow Jr., experienced Business, Criminal Defense attorney in San Antonio, TX with 1 reviews
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39,03
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5.0/5
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5.0
1 Reviews
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07 Feb, 2011 by Roi
He is knowledgeable. Gets the work done. Highly recommended. Roi Garcia
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Ashley Ressmann Gray, experienced Probate, Tax attorney in San Antonio, TX with 1 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
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5.0
1 Reviews
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09 Nov, 2017 by Valerie
She steered me through a Trust after my father’s death. It was fraught with anger, unreasonableness and inexperience. She handled it so perfectly, with so much grace and professionalism, that the unreasonable beneficiary was almost nonexistent to me. She knew precisely how to handle the trust issues and made me feel safe and secure at all times. She handled everything with such perfection that now she will be updating our wills. If you aren’t using Ashley Ressmann Gray, you are not using the best in town.
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Robert Wayne Negley, experienced Business, Consumer Protection attorney in San Antonio, TX with 1 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
39,03
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5.0/5
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1 Reviews
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23 Nov, 2014 by Anonymous
Mr. Negley stayed in touch throughout my process, returned my calls and email promptly and reassured me that I would be OK. He is a Christian man and is not out to scam you like you read about other lawyers taking your retainer and not returning your calls and dropping your case. I might add he is extremely affordable!
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Morris Eugene Munoz, experienced Personal Injury, Probate attorney in San Antonio, TX with 1 reviews
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5.0/5
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5.0
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14 Jun, 2011 by Debbie
Mr. Munoz far exceeds in expertise and knowledge any lawyers I have ever been in contact or had dealings with. I would recommend him to anyone. Let his work speak for itself.
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Michael Ezzell, experienced Estate Planning, Mediation attorney in San Antonio, TX with 1 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
39,03
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16 Jun, 2017 by Long
Mr. Ezzell has supported my family getting through a very tough life crisis couple of years ago. His firm treats us like family and did their best to keep us as comfortable as possible during the process. Thank you Mr. Ezzell and company! He is very knowledgeable and straightforward. He will tell you upfront what he can do to support you. He is a top notch attorney with a good heart. Whenever we need legal assistance, we know we have a friend we can count on. We still stay in touch today!
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Mark Stanton Smith, experienced Estate Planning, Probate attorney in San Antonio, TX with 1 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
39,03
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5.0/5
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5.0
1 Reviews
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26 Nov, 2019 by Laurie
I hired Mark to consult on my very complicated estate case that had been horribly messed up by my first lawyer. He was able to quickly review what was going on and give me an intelligent assessment of my case. I regret that he was not able to take my case. I'm sure it would have been resolved much more quickly and with much less heartache, pain and financial expense. God forbid I ever have to go to Probate Court again, but if I did, Mark would be my first choice for counsel.
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Alison Packard, experienced Estate Planning, Probate attorney in San Antonio, TX with 1 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
39,03
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5.0/5
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5.0
1 Reviews
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08 Nov, 2017 by Carolyn
My husband and I contacted Ms. Packard for help probating my husband's brother's will. Allison went far beyond helping us not only with the probate but also helped us with re-locating our special-needs nephew in an extremely timely and proficient manner. She has been extremely professional and knowledgeable, and has consistently stayed in contact with us throughout the issues we had until they were concluded.
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Burt Alan Holland, experienced Business, Probate attorney in San Antonio, TX with 1 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
39,03
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5.0/5
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5.0
1 Reviews
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02 Jul, 2014 by Anonymous
Mr. Holland executed the above documents within 2 weeks in San Antonio, and was able to handle similar documents for my out of town daughter via email. We were both very pleased with the professionalism and would highly recommend him for Will & Probate needs.
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Robert David Behrens, experienced Criminal Defense, Family Law attorney in San Antonio, TX with 1 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
39,03
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5.0/5
Avvo
5.0
1 Reviews
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18 Apr, 2018 by Werner
Robert is a kind and very respectful helpful attorney. I was very Blessed to have had him represent me in what could have been a very bad situation.
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Thomas Adkisson, experienced Family Law, Probate attorney in San Antonio, TX with 1 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
39,03
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5.0/5
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5.0
1 Reviews
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10 Feb, 2022 by Mendoza family
We hired Tommy to unravel years of a complicated real estate inheritance. He was very patient and specific with our needs. Gave us peace of mind. We hired him again to draw up our Wills. His staff made sure our wishes were carefully expressed and advised us of the proper docs that were needed with our Wills. Very professional and affordable.
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Richard Barrera Siller, experienced Business, Criminal Defense attorney in San Antonio, TX with 1 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
39,03
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5.0/5
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5.0
1 Reviews
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14 May, 2011 by Jo ann
Mr Siller, is an excellent attorney. He always kept me inform about my case. He would set a side what ever he was working on, gave me the t his divided attention. He would keep his appointments open for me when I need to speak with him. His a wonderful attorney . I would recommend him for his execellent job. I would not trade for no other attorney. His the best!
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Whitney Renee Thomas, experienced Estate Planning, Family Law attorney in San Antonio, TX with 1 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
39,03
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5.0/5
Avvo
5.0
1 Reviews
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06 Nov, 2023 by Sheri
I am surprised that I am the first person to rate Ms. Thomas. I hired Ms. Thomas to work on a probate matter. She is highly professional. I highly recommend her services.
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Susan Grothues Simmons, experienced Business, Estate Planning attorney in San Antonio, TX with 1 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
39,03
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5.0/5
Avvo
5.0
1 Reviews
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31 Mar, 2014 by Anonymous
Extremely articulate and more than capable lawyer, who was very respectful of my situation. Ms. Simmons was very straightforward and demonstrated an aura of professionalism that made me feel very comfortable in retaining her. I would definitely recommend her.
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Stett Matthew Jacoby, experienced Estate Planning, Insurance attorney in San Antonio, TX with 1 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
39,03
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5.0/5
Avvo
5.0
1 Reviews
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05 Jan, 2012 by Nick
I have worked with him on several matters and I have found he is very skilled and knowledgeable probate administrations and estate litigation
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Scott Joel Guller, experienced Family Law, Probate attorney in San Antonio, TX with 1 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
39,03
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5.0/5
Avvo
5.0
1 Reviews
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30 Jul, 2017 by Anonymous
Helped me with my Divorce and Child Custody. Scott made it fast and easy to finalize all paperwork and was very reasonable in price.
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James Maverick McNeel, experienced Estate Planning, Litigation attorney in San Antonio, TX with 1 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
39,03
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5.0/5
Avvo
5.0
1 Reviews
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20 Jan, 2015 by Anonymous
I am a former client of Jim, as well as a fellow attorney. Jim recently represented me in my mother's guardianship proceeding, and I was extremely pleased with his representation. Jim is a very knowledgeable, professional, and likable attorney. He is also attentive to client needs, and capable of successfully handling complex and emotional matters. I highly recommend Jim for any legal matters related to probate and guardianship.
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Marissa Barrera Morales, experienced Criminal Defense, Family Law attorney in San Antonio, TX with 1 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
39,03
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5.0/5
Avvo
5.0
1 Reviews
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16 Feb, 2018 by Dale
My wife and I had the privilege of Marissa's expertise a few years back and she did a great job. We were pleased with the outcome. Now our son is going through a divorce and we hired her again. We feel confident and put faith in Marissa. She has been doing this a long time and has so much knowledge.
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Margot Bianca Gallegos, experienced Business, Criminal Defense attorney in San Antonio, TX with 1 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
39,03
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5.0/5
Avvo
5.0
1 Reviews
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02 Apr, 2020 by Luis
True professional and a master at her line of work. She went above and beyond to ensure the best interest of my daughters and I were upheld. She turned what could’ve been a nasty long drawn out divorce into a clean straight forward and expedited one. She was always there for me to answer questions at odd hours of the day and most importantly she genuinely cared about the outcome. Her ability to turn a tropic hurricane situation into a small tornado was remarkable. I have recommended and passed her information on to other people who are going through a divorce. She’s the best of the best!!!
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David Michael Adkisson, experienced Car Accident, Family Law attorney in San Antonio, TX with 1 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
39,03
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5.0/5
Avvo
5.0
1 Reviews
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08 Jun, 2017 by Joel castro
Car accident attorney who truly help people. I highly recommend this lawyer for anyone in San Antonio TX
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David G. Balmer, experienced Business, Personal Injury attorney in San Antonio, TX with 1 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
39,03
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5.0/5
Avvo
5.0
1 Reviews
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05 Aug, 2015 by Wanda
Thank you for representing me over the last year during a difficult time in my life relating to probate and challenging family issues. You went above the call of duty by taking a sincere interest in my case. You were always in-touch and made yourself available on evenings and weekends to keep me updated as our case progressed. You used your expertise and knowledge to maneuver through many difficult family conversations on my behalf and brought me the best results we could have hoped for. Having your representation brought a tremendous feeling of peace and relieved me of a great deal of anxiety and emotional stress. You are a decent man – I highly recommend your services to everyone! Thank you for all you have done for me, I can now get on with my life!
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Richard Henry Sommer, experienced Litigation, Probate attorney in San Antonio, TX with 1 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
39,03
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5.0/5
Avvo
5.0
1 Reviews
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26 Apr, 2013 by Teresa
My husband and I went to discuss a business issue with Mr. Sommer. He was super nice and very informative. We really liked him and will return to use him again. We would highly recommend him to anyone seaking legal services.
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Ben Alton Wallis III, experienced Business, Elder Law attorney in San Antonio, TX with 1 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
39,03
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5.0/5
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5.0
1 Reviews
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10 Sep, 2014 by Anonymous
Excellent !! Ben Wallis lll is very intelligent, and KNOWS the Texas Law ! He is the one Attorney that I know that has Integrity and morals and is able to quickly acess a situation and quickly resolve it ! He is a credit to his profession ! He has done an Elder law case for me and was outstanding ,he worked late on it ,he contacted me right away to let me know updates as well as the other members of the legal process ,And was truly concerned about what he was fighting for ! His staff is courtesous and responsive . He will handle all of my legal needs from now on ,he is worth it ! And I live several hundred miles away from San Antonio.
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Barry Howard Beer, experienced Business, Medical Malpractice attorney in San Antonio, TX with 1 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
39,03
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5.0/5
Avvo
5.0
1 Reviews
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25 Feb, 2018 by Amanda
When I was injured in a car accident about 20 years ago, it was hard for me to believe that my own insurance company became antagonistic. I was in excruciating pain and trauma from a car accident that was clearly the other driver's fault and trying to figure out the legal side was causing even more stress. I am so grateful that Barry Beer was able represent me. He guided me through each step of the process helping me to deal with the insurance company, doctors, and my employer. The case was settled in my favor. Since then, I have turned to him and his firm for other legal matters and they have always been helpful, professional, and successful.
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Vanessa L. Erps, experienced Business, Criminal Defense attorney in San Antonio, TX with 1 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
39,03
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5.0/5
Avvo
5.0
1 Reviews
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23 Nov, 2015 by Victoria
Hired Mrs. Erps for a DWI case and she did awesome!! She got me lowered to an Obstruction of Highway and has helped me out TREMENDOUSLY throughout my entire probation period.
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Benjamin Elliot Golden, experienced Business, Estate Planning attorney in San Antonio, TX with 9 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
39,01
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5.0/5
Google Maps
5.0
9 Reviews
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01 May, 2024 by Reid p
Benjamin took my consultation and provided free expert advice. He answered on the second ring and immediately provided his services. I would recommend Benjamin to anyone seeking assistance with probate or real estate law.
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06 Sep, 2019 by Don copeland
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05 Mar, 2019 by Joanna bryant
I had a great experience working with Ben Golden. He is extremely knowledgeable and patient. I highly recommend his services.
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Michael Vincent Malone, experienced Business, Estate Planning attorney in San Antonio, TX with 3 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
39,00
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5.0/5
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5.0
3 Reviews
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19 Apr, 2024 by Jared gamez
Mr. Malone and his legal team were nothing short of extraordinary! We needed some rather modest estate planning done but you would have never known that based on how we were treated. His team was there from the jump with support all the way through the final signing and drafts. 10/10 Recommend!
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03 May, 2021 by Joseph cacciapaglia
Knowledgeable professional at reasonable prices.
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12 Apr, 2019 by Justine gonzales
Michael is a great attorney and extremely knowledgeable in various aspects of law. His expertise definitely shines through and he is very reasonable with his fees. His desire to help people is genuine and he goes above and beyond for his clients. I'd highly recommend speaking to Michael for your legal matters.
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Jeremy Ross Gilbreath, experienced Business, Litigation attorney in San Antonio, TX with 1 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
39,00
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5.0/5
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5.0
1 Reviews
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27 Feb, 2020 by Wendy hudson
Nice attorney
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Glen A. Yale, experienced Business, Probate attorney in San Antonio, TX with 1 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
39,00
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5.0/5
Google Maps
5.0
1 Reviews
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19 Mar, 2019 by K. j. mccarty
Very knowledgeable, helpful, and professional. Highly recommend!
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Tammy Lyn Wincott, experienced Bankruptcy, Elder Law attorney in San Antonio, TX with 14 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
38,73
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4.9/5
Avvo
4.9
14 Reviews
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11 Sep, 2020 by Alice
Tammy was friendly and extremely helpful in helping me with probate issues. She set up appointment within a day of calling her office. She answered my questions and made my visit comfortable. I recommend her and I will use her in future legal issues I may have.
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27 Oct, 2019 by Robert m.
Tammy Wincott exceeded our expectations, she was professional and compassionate, meeting the needs of our family as we worked through a difficult and emotional situation. She listened to our questions providing answers and explanations in terms all could understand. Our situation was complicated as our family is spread out over several states, Ms. Wincott was there for us all. She always went the extra mile working above and beyond the typical client/lawyer relationship. Our family is truly grateful for her service, it is our pleasure to recommend Tammy Wincott as a very qualified and caring attorney who can handle any situation.
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08 Oct, 2019 by Jamal
Mrs. Wincott was amazing. Explained everything perfectly. Added my father to my house deed and it only took 2 days. Could have been faster if I emailed my documents over to her sooner. Highly recommended. Thank you Mrs. Wincott.
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Melvin H Martinez, experienced Business, Probate attorney in San Antonio, TX with 185 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
38,49
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4.9/5
Google Maps
4.9
185 Reviews
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20 Feb, 2025 by Jaqueline renfroe
Mr. Schulze was absolutely AMAZING! After being completely screwed over by my last attorney it was a breath of fresh air and hope meeting with him. He was up front and HONEST with me and didn’t just try to take me to the bank. He gave me solid advice on what to do (which didn’t even include using him). I highly highly recommend him if you’re looking for a honest attorney who isn’t afraid of going up against a HARD fight!!! Thank you Texas Suits!
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20 Feb, 2025 by Maria luna
Very satisfied with the service kayla provided.
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30 Jan, 2025 by Jennifer flanagan-rodriguez
Texas Suits is definitely the firm to call if you need assistance, they can help with a wide range of legal matters. Had a wonderful experience meeting Cande and the whole team! Cande provided so much input about the firm, the topics that they assist with and their process for assisting potential clients; she gave such helpful information about all the services they offer at Texas Suits. Everyone is so kind and helpful! If you are on the fence about calling, call! They would love to hear about your legal matter and tell them "Jennifer" sent ya!!!
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FAQs
Questions? We have answers

What a Probate Lawyer Can Do for You

A probate lawyer assists with the legal process of administering a deceased person’s estate. This often involves guiding executors (if a will exists) or beneficiaries (if no will exists) through the probate process to settle the estate according to the deceased’s wishes or applicable laws. Probate lawyers can help validate the will, distribute assets, resolve disputes among heirs, handle outstanding debts or taxes, and ensure the estate is legally and efficiently administered.

Whether you’re an executor of an estate or an heir facing probate proceedings, a probate lawyer can help you navigate the often-complex legal process to ensure the estate is settled correctly.

When Should I Hire a Probate Lawyer?

You should consider hiring a probate lawyer when you are responsible for managing the estate of a deceased individual, especially in the following situations:

  • The estate has substantial assets: If the estate includes significant assets like real estate, investments, or business interests, legal assistance is often necessary to handle the distribution properly.
  • The will is being contested: If there are disputes among heirs regarding the validity of the will or the division of assets, a probate lawyer can help resolve the conflict.
  • The estate includes complex or unclear provisions: If the will contains complicated instructions or there are no clear beneficiaries, a lawyer can ensure that the estate is administered according to legal requirements.
  • There is no will (intestate estate): When a person dies without a will, the estate is subject to intestacy laws, which determine how assets are distributed. A probate lawyer can help navigate this process.
  • Debt or tax issues exist: If the estate owes significant debts or is subject to estate taxes, a probate lawyer can help ensure debts are paid appropriately and taxes are minimized.
  • Probate disputes: If family members or other parties are disputing the distribution of assets or challenging the executor's actions, legal representation is crucial to defending your rights and ensuring the estate is handled properly.

Hiring a probate lawyer early in the process can help avoid costly mistakes and ensure the estate is settled efficiently.

What Does a Probate Lawyer Do?

A probate lawyer provides a wide range of legal services to help manage and settle an estate. Their tasks can include:

  • Validating the will: Filing the will with the probate court and ensuring its legal validity.
  • Guiding executors or administrators: Advising the person responsible for managing the estate on their duties, including inventorying assets, notifying creditors, and paying debts.
  • Filing necessary paperwork: Preparing and submitting the legal documents required to initiate and complete the probate process.
  • Resolving disputes: Mediating or litigating disputes among heirs or between beneficiaries and executors, including challenges to the will or disagreements over asset distribution.
  • Handling debt and tax matters: Ensuring that outstanding debts, taxes, and estate taxes are properly calculated and paid from the estate’s assets.
  • Distributing assets: Ensuring that assets are distributed to the beneficiaries according to the will or intestacy laws, and that all legal requirements are fulfilled.
  • Closing the estate: Completing the final steps of the probate process, including filing a final accounting with the court and formally closing the estate.

How Are Probate Lawyers Paid?

Probate lawyers typically charge for their services based on the complexity of the estate and the nature of the legal work involved. Common payment structures include:

  • Hourly rate: Most probate lawyers charge by the hour, with rates depending on the lawyer’s experience and the complexity of the estate. Hourly rates can range from $150 to $500 or more.
  • Flat fee: For simple estates or straightforward probate tasks, some lawyers may charge a flat fee that covers all of the necessary legal work.
  • Percentage of the estate: In some states, probate lawyers are allowed to charge a percentage of the estate's value as their fee. This percentage typically ranges from 2% to 5%, depending on the size of the estate and state regulations.
  • Retainer fee: Some lawyers may require an upfront retainer fee, which is billed against as the probate process progresses.

It’s important to clarify the fee structure during your initial consultation to understand how you will be charged and avoid unexpected costs.

How Much Does a Probate Lawyer Cost?

The cost of hiring a probate lawyer depends on several factors, including the complexity of the estate, the type of legal issues involved, and the lawyer’s fee structure. General cost estimates include:

  • Simple estates: For estates with straightforward assets and no disputes, probate legal fees can range from $2,500 to $10,000, depending on the lawyer's fees and the state's probate laws.
  • Complex estates: For larger or more complicated estates with multiple properties, business interests, or disputes, probate costs can exceed $10,000 and may reach $20,000 or more.
  • Hourly rates: If charged by the hour, expect rates between $150 and $500, depending on the lawyer’s expertise and geographic location.
  • Percentage fees: In some cases, a probate lawyer may charge 2% to 5% of the estate’s value, particularly for larger estates or those involving complex legal matters.

Always ask for a clear estimate of fees during your initial consultation to understand the total cost of probate representation.

Top Questions to Ask a Probate Lawyer

Before hiring a probate lawyer, it’s essential to ask the right questions to ensure you’re hiring someone qualified to handle your estate needs. Key questions include:

  1. What experience do you have with probate cases like mine?
    Ensure the lawyer has experience with estates of similar complexity, especially if disputes or high-value assets are involved.
  2. How do you charge for your services?
    Ask whether the lawyer charges an hourly rate, a flat fee, or a percentage of the estate, and request a cost estimate.
  3. What is the likely timeline for my probate case?
    While it’s hard to predict exactly, an experienced lawyer can give you a general idea of how long the probate process may take based on the specifics of your estate.
  4. What steps will you take to manage and distribute the estate?
    Ask about the lawyer’s approach to handling debts, taxes, and asset distribution.
  5. Will you be handling my case personally?
    In larger firms, junior attorneys or paralegals may handle some aspects of your case, so it’s important to know who will be working on your probate case.
  6. What are potential challenges we may face?
    A good lawyer will be able to anticipate possible issues, such as will contests or creditor claims, and explain how they would handle them.

How to Check the Credibility of a Probate Lawyer

To ensure you’re hiring a reputable probate lawyer, follow these steps to check their credentials and experience:

  • Verify their state bar status: Check with your state’s bar association to confirm the lawyer is licensed to practice and has no history of disciplinary action.
  • Look for probate experience: Review the lawyer’s website or professional profile to ensure they specialize in probate law and have experience handling estates of similar complexity.
  • Read client reviews and testimonials: Look for online reviews on platforms like Avvo or Martindale-Hubbell to see what past clients have said about the lawyer’s probate experience.
  • Ask for references: A credible lawyer should be able to provide references from past clients who can vouch for their professionalism and expertise in handling probate matters.
  • Look for membership in professional organizations: Membership in organizations like the American Academy of Estate Planning Attorneys (AAEPA) or the National Academy of Elder Law Attorneys (NAELA) can indicate a lawyer's commitment to estate and probate law.

What Should I Prepare for My First Consultation?

To make the most out of your first consultation with a probate lawyer, it’s important to come prepared with relevant documents and information. Here’s what you should bring:

  • A copy of the will or trust (if applicable): Bring any estate planning documents left by the deceased, including wills, trusts, or powers of attorney.
  • List of assets and debts: Prepare a detailed list of the deceased’s assets (e.g., real estate, bank accounts, investments) and outstanding debts (e.g., loans, mortgages, credit cards).
  • Death certificate: Bring a certified copy of the deceased person’s death certificate.
  • Contact information for heirs and beneficiaries: Have a list of all individuals or entities named in the will or who are entitled to inherit under intestacy laws.
  • Questions about the probate process: Write down any questions you have about the process, costs, and potential issues you might face.
  • Relevant financial records: If available, bring any relevant financial documents, such as bank statements, property deeds, and tax returns.

By coming prepared, you can ensure a productive consultation and allow the lawyer to provide the best advice for your situation.

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