Lawyers map
>230
experienced lawyers
Filter by
28 Oct, 2024 by L. t.
Mr. Clownley is over 70yrs old and has 40+ yrs experience.
Very knowledgeable about employment law.
Read more
05 Jan, 2024 by J&r 4 ever
Absolutely the "Best" Frank and his team went above and beyond in providing detailed information on a difficult situation. Very rare to find these days, took the time to listen and really understand what we needed. Follow-up was excellent and timley. Frank was compassionate to our situation and helped tremendously.
Would highly recommend
Thanks again
Jerry
Read more
15 May, 2023 by Miguel machado
Mr Clowney was very helpful setting case. He is extremely knowledgeable and resourceful!! Stop looking elsewhere. This firm should be your top choice.
Read more
14 May, 2024 by Drina di cantin
My husband and I called the law offices of David Chesney at his first court date they were super kind over the phone explained everything to us took our payment over the phone partial and let us make payments as the case was going forward any questions that we had we were answered promptly. They even called us and did a follow-up a few months later to see how we were doing. I hope I don't ever have to use them again, but if for some reason we do definitely will. will also recommend them to family and friends if needed
Read more
23 Mar, 2024 by Jay towers
Didn’t help at all, kept postponing case until trial. Left me no time to get another attorney.
Read more
20 Mar, 2024 by Matt tauiliili
The David Chesley Law Office is very professional and does all they can to help their clients. My attorney, Bryan, was always available to answer any questions and concerns, put me at ease throughout the process, and got me the best possible deal with the court. The lawyers at this office have a thorough knowledge of the law and defended my case with determination. I highly recommend this law firm.
Read more
14 May, 2024 by Drina di cantin
My husband and I called the law offices of David Chesney at his first court date they were super kind over the phone explained everything to us took our payment over the phone partial and let us make payments as the case was going forward any questions that we had we were answered promptly. They even called us and did a follow-up a few months later to see how we were doing. I hope I don't ever have to use them again, but if for some reason we do definitely will. will also recommend them to family and friends if needed
Read more
23 Mar, 2024 by Jay towers
Didn’t help at all, kept postponing case until trial. Left me no time to get another attorney.
Read more
20 Mar, 2024 by Matt tauiliili
The David Chesley Law Office is very professional and does all they can to help their clients. My attorney, Bryan, was always available to answer any questions and concerns, put me at ease throughout the process, and got me the best possible deal with the court. The lawyers at this office have a thorough knowledge of the law and defended my case with determination. I highly recommend this law firm.
Read more
20 Mar, 2017 by Kevin
My mother had a consultation with him regarding her living trust and pour-over will.
He is knowledgeable and gives good explanations.
Read more
16 Jan, 2015 by Mike armstrong
Tim saw us the same day to discuss a lease issue that had us frightened. He calmed our fears immediately and empowered us to negotiate a fair lease contract that will meet our needs. He informed us of our rights and will be our go to attorney for matters regarding future lease issues.
Can't saw enough about his genuine nature.
Read more
25 Mar, 2022 by John
She has done well for me so far. I have absolute confidence she will get the best outcome in my case.
Read more
28 Dec, 2024 by Ross bagurdes
18 Jul, 2023 by Rams
29 Apr, 2022 by Jody madigan
Shannon was a pleasure to work with! She explained each piece of our process, was personable, attentive, and patient. Her attention to detail was evident and appreciated. My husband and I highly recommend her and would work with her again in the future.
Read more
27 Mar, 2023 by Alice sandhaus
Excellent staff!
Read more
02 Nov, 2022 by Tom smith
My wife and I needed to replace the secondary trustee in our trust. Gallagher, Bolander, Smedley, LLP gave us a free consultation, and 2 weeks later with Lauren Gallagher's guidance, we had our existing trust completely updated, for a very reasonable flat rate. Lauren welcomed our questions, gave us clear answers and good advice.
Read more
12 Sep, 2024 by Donovan gleason
Ben & his team took care of all my needs, explained everything for me, professional & made me feel comfortable & confident in all aspects. I highly recommend Ben & his team
Read more
28 Feb, 2024 by Monika
I came to Embry Law with a pretty difficult case that I thought could not be won. Mr. Embry and his ENTIRE team really fought hard for me! They were very understanding with how difficult my situation was. They were straightforward with me throughout my entire case but always so empathetic. Embry Law won my case! I am so grateful and blessed to have gone with Embry Law. Mr. Embry and his entire team know what they are doing! If you are looking for some great lawyers to kick butt… then you’re in the right place!
Read more
08 Feb, 2024 by Erik taylor
After going through my divorce, and being put into a position where I had to go back to court, I decided change attorney’s. I interviewed several attorney’s all over San Diego. Embry Family Law was the perfect fit. Ben, and Cecilia were amazing as my lawyers. Nick, Shyanne, and Daniel were always so easy to get ahold of, get advice from, and schedule meetings with. Ben is extremely knowledgeable in negotiating, and representing his client’s interests. Despite how tense divorce can be, he has a very calming communication style, and makes sure to answer questions, and provide clarity. I appreciate everything Embry Family did for me, and if I have to go back again, I will not hesitate to call them again.
Read more
01 Oct, 2024 by Tess durfee
When we needed a lawyer to represent us, we asked for help to find us a good, intelligent and kind lawyer who practiced with integrity in this profession. That is a tall order but we were referred to Attorney Josue Gurrerro of Greenacre Law who fit all what we were looking for and more.
It was a long and difficult case and the journey was made easier for us by Attorney Guerrero's guidance and personal attention to what was best for us. We felt that Attorney Guerrero was only focused on our case when it was time to handle our situation and no one else mattered. He was admirable in his performance with calmness but strong with his strategy to make his points. Attorney Guerrero always came prepared during all the times he represented us.
His kind demeanor made it easier for us to become friends and we trusted him more. It was never about money for Attorney Guerrero but more about doing his best to protect us and finalizing our difficult case.
It was a long difficult journey but the case was finally settled and we felt relieved. Thank you, Josue.
As a final note, we thank all the staff of Greenacre Law who have been very kind and helpful to us. Excellent customer service.
Thank you, Alexa, for your kindness and for all your help. You were there for us, always.
The Durfees
Read more
07 Apr, 2024 by Lucas monari
28 Mar, 2024 by Marcia contreras
Did absolutely nothing for me. He ended up siding with the other attorney
Read more
15 Aug, 2024 by Mariya rozhkov
#1 Lawyer in San Diego. She is the best one. She can easily solve any problems with knowledge. I am so happy to find and having Andrea Whitehill to represent me in court and solving every problematic I have. Thank you Andrea Whitehill and Janine. I am strongly recommended Andrea Whitehill.
Read more
19 Jun, 2024 by Nancy gardner
I don't highly recommend this attorney unfortunately. Difficult to get ahold of and her email responses came across pretty rude and insensitive. Continually reminding of the fact "we wouldn't have been in this spot had we hired a lawyer years ago to handle this, now we have to pay for the mistake. " Probably said that at least 5 times or something similar . Personally, when you hire someone to help out navigate legal issues that are completely foreign to you that are stresseful and expensive it would be nice to at least have someone to work with that feels like is on your side and explains things that are understandable to someone witout knowledge of legal terms. I've worked with plenty of lawyers where that is the case where they have empathy for you and you feel like someone has your back. Unfortunately that is not the case with this Attorney Andrea.
Read more
29 Apr, 2024 by Veronica zavala
No son buenas secretaria 1 particular medijo era para pago usis puso c pago que no era 3 completo más cosas q me iso
Read more
08 Apr, 2021 by Anonymous
A phone call about my brother passing to a lawyer is something no-one ever wants to do.
I couldn't even talk because he talked so fast as to get me off the phone and couldn't even explain to me what I needed to do. Basically just said "google it"...
So rude.
Will not ever recommend.
Read more
27 Aug, 2019 by Robert
After dealing with an attorney who certainly could not perform in a somewhat high end probate case, I consulted and hired Mr. Sweeney. He stepped in, and I could not be happier with his performance. From beginning to end, he and his staff have been extremely timely, knowledgeable and responsive concerning every aspect of the case.
Read more
13 Aug, 2019 by Aysha
I was apprehensive about finding an attorney with extensive experience in ancillary probate. My mother lived in Texas but had property in California that needed to go through probate. After contacting his office, I felt that everything would go smoothly and it did. It was a great load off my mind that I could concentrate on the rest of the estate in Texas, knowing that Mr. Sweeney was handling the California part with ease. There was great communication between me and his wonderful paralegal Jennifer. She kept me apprised of all timelines and answered all my questions promptly and with great courtesy.
Read more
05 Jan, 2018 by Angela barajas
I hired Sandy to help with my family estate plan and again when my parents passed. She is extremely warm and personable, always making me feel like I am working with a friend. She explained a complex concept simply and didn't use legal jargon, which I hate. She was always the utmost professional and efficient. I recommend her to all my friends and family.
Read more
14 Nov, 2014 by John
I was client of sandys I signed a contract with her to file probate witch she never did now my fathers house is gonna be taken by the bank and his exwife got all of his personal belongings she also got a death cert. Online that she mailed into his life insurance and collected.none of this would have happen if sandy had filed probate.I trying to pay the home off and the bank wouldn't deal me my sister and I where his only kids and he was single.leading up to the forcloser I called sandy every day and did not speak to her until she sent me a email saying sorry about your house and that there was nothing more she would do.she left lawyer in blue jeans and I never herd from her again.
Read more
12 Aug, 2014 by Lynne
I had been meaning to do a will or living trust for years. Being a single female, I didn't really think I had to much to worry about, until I heard what the state would take if I didn't specify. Sandy walked me thru the paperwork very easily & efficiently. I brought my brother, a physician, to do the final paperwork with me. After doing his own years ago, much more complicated than mine, he informed me how impressed he was with Sandy's professionalism. I have sent not only my boyfriend to her, but other friends as well. I completely trust Sandy in making sure my loved ones are completely taken care of once I'm gone & my ashes too!
Read more
18 Jan, 2025 by Hakeem q
Attorney Ruyle was very helpful in helping me take care of a workplace violence restraining order that was put aganist me in retaliation from an employer after I filed a wrongful termination lawsuit aganist him. I was being accused of absurd claims by the company and Attorney Ruyle helped me navigate through the issue and judge dismissed it within 15 minutes of the hearing.
Read more
12 Jan, 2025 by Chris reed
David is an upstanding professional who is generous with his time & expertise. He’s very easy to talk to. He makes sure you understand the process & what to expect, reassuring you & putting your mind at ease.
Without him I don’t believe I would have won my case.
Thank you David! I will be referring you to anybody who might need your services!
Thanks Again!
Read more
21 Dec, 2024 by Cesar castro
This is my first time dealing with anything regarding restraining orders; david took care of everything. made the process very easy and comfortable and we got the results we wanted
Read more
24 Oct, 2019 by Anonymous
Knowledgeable and focused, Jerome Synold provided us with efficient service and pragmatic advice.
Read more
24 Jun, 2014 by Anonymous
Excellent attorney knowledgeable in international matters. Mr. Synold with his colleagues in Germany were able to successfully liquidate and distribute my Uncle's estate located in several countries in a timely manner.
Read more
24 Jun, 2014 by Ellen
My brother died leaving money and a house in two different countries. Jerome and his team were indispensable in locating and distributing the assets. Superb lawyer and negotiator. His down to earth demeanor was a welcome surprise as well.
Read more
09 Oct, 2020 by Bonnie
I sent her retainer after we had carefully discussed my case and fully expected to move forward. From there, however, she began repeatedly changing her information, and contradicting herself repeatedly. At one point she didn’t contact me or do any work on my case for THREE WEEKS. Then she began telling me things that are simply not true. I’ve spoken with other lawyers who made things very clear and simple (As much as possible anyway) and confirmed which things she told me were true and which were not.
I don’t know if she is incompetent or was simply not willing to work with a case that didn’t make her a lot of money, but the only good thing I can say about this experience is that she sent my retainer back in full.
I am a disabled single mom of two disabled kids and she took my money and wasted my time and energy. Inconsiderate and unacceptable.
Read more
23 Mar, 2019 by Jules
It's rare to work with an attorney who has deep expertise and is still accessible. Sasha is one of the great ones. She thoughtfully answered my questions and made sure I had the information I needed to make decisions. I never felt rushed and I knew she had my best interested in mind at every step of the process.
Read more
25 Feb, 2015 by Corey
Sasha Kamfiroozie is everything you need in a lawyer: honest, knowledgeable, hard working and extremely personable. She assisted me with setting up an entire estate plan. She took something very complicated and made it easy to understand for my wife and me. I would recommend her to anyone.
Read more
07 Oct, 2023 by Lz
Mr. Mike Ditter restored our faith in the legal system. We were referred to him through a close relative. He is especially good at explaining complicated probate issues. He is also a great "communicator". All our phone calls and emails were promptly returned. Will be grateful to Mr. Ditter forever. Definetely will recommend him to a relative or best friend. He deserves 100 stars!.
Read more
14 Dec, 2018 by Anonymous
Mike Ditter has been handling my estate, and in this capacity he is doing a great job. I highly recommend him. I have referred him to friends, two of which have hired him, and they, too, are very happy with his support and legal expertise.
Read more
05 Dec, 2013 by Anonymous
Ditter is handling what should be a very simple dispersal of an estate. He has stretched the process out over a period of 18 months, has made careless errors, and seldom, if ever, returns calls. I'm not sure if he's inept or dishonest, but he's not someone I'd recommend or hire.
Read more
26 May, 2023 by Anonymous
Not impressed. Unorganized and unprofessional correspondence. Her last correspondence with me said “change your contact information with social security as any new information coming in will be shredded. “ wow. Fired her.
Read more
09 Oct, 2012 by Anonymous
Wendy Dumlao took on a very complex case of a severely-autistic young man in need of nursing care. She was excellent in compiling complex information and presenting in a manner in which represented the client's unique and individual needs.
Read more
08 Feb, 2011 by Shannon
Wendy was amazing! We had a case against the Poway school district because of the way our handicapped son was treated by his teacher. She was incredible at advising us of our rights and assisting us in filing all of the complaints. She wrote the complaints for us using our information. She was so patient and so compassionate with all of our questions. More attorneys need to be like Wendy and remember why they got into law in the first place....to help people! Thank you Wendy, our son is now in his new school because of your help and is doing amazing!
Read more
15 Nov, 2017 by Homecare seo
Stacy has been our estate planning attorney for years. We have been very satisfied with her technical legal knowledge as well as her practical know-how that comes with her many years of experience.
We trust her so much that we refer friends, clients and family to her, including my own parents, for their estate planning needs.
Choose Stacy DenHerder for your estate planning, probate and trust needs. You won't find anyone better!
Read more
21 Feb, 2015 by Judy
We were very pleased with Stacy. The entire staff was very helpful and super nice. Would highly recommend Stacy and your firm. Sincerely Judy and Jerry Horacek.
Read more
31 Mar, 2013 by Anonymous
My husband and I were represented by Stacey DenHerder in 1993 and she did the Trust. My husband died in 2006 and the Trust is very confusing and Stacey DenHerder said to me that she didn't want to represent the Trust. I have consulted several other attorneys and they also are very confused by the wording of the Trust. Because Stacey DenHerder wrote up the Trust . I would think that she would try to make it right. I know that she got her degree in 1992 and was young and inexperienced but to not represent me because she goofed I find very difficult to understand. Stacey herself told me she would not take the time to explain the Trust to me. I was married to my husband and the Trust is in his name not ours. I was in love and a very trusting newlywed. I have spent thousands of dollars trying to figure out what the Trust langage means and I am still lost and want to move on in my life and sell my home but it appears from my reading it that I will have to divide the proceeds of the sale with his children and that will not leave me enough to purchase a home. Other attorneys have no answer for me after reading the Trust and the Ammendment and charging me $200 plus an hour with no resolution accept that I would probably have to go to court to get this resolved by a judge. When I go to an attorney to see how this is done they say they can't help me.
Read more
08 Nov, 2020 by Gregg k
Tatiana assisted me with legal advice and counseling from the darkest days near the beginning of my family law case from about 2009. She listened to me and helped me find strength at my weakest moments to pursue my family law case. It was a long and rocky ride in the court system and with the challenges of raising a child, but she was always there for me for direction for the case and assisting me with understanding the laws and why the case evolved the way it did to today. I highly recommend Tatiana if you want an attorney you could trust, to tell you the truths about the strengths and weaknesses of your case, to explain the legal system, and to assist you with reaching the best results possible for the realities of your budget and your case.
Cheers
Gregg
Read more
15 Aug, 2020 by Anonymous
My simple custody-support case was handed off to Ms Doran by the attorney I originally hired. She represented me for 2 months. It cost me $20,000. There was zero effort to come to an agreement with opposing counsel outside of court. I was so embarrassed as she accused opposing counsel of lying about multiple things with absolutely no proof. The judge was quite frustrated with the lack of preparation. Tatiana asked for an additional hearing without even talking about the possibility with me, as if I could afford it. Opposing counsel was now asking that I pay for their legal costs as well. It looked as if there were a good possibility that the judge would grant their request. I’m a struggling single parent. I could not allow it to go any further partially because I drained my entire savings on something that could have been easily resolved. I had her immediately removed from my case. It put me and my children in a very difficult position just as we were hit with the pandemic, and I had other major stressors. Ultimately, I contacted opposing counsel to attempt a resolution. They had some sympathy as they saw the representation I had. I was able to work out an agreement where I was given $500/ month over disomaster guidance. They dropped the request for me to pay the $16,000 in retroactive overpayment of child support, and the request for attorney fees which amounted to $10,000. However, I did suffer tremendously with anxiety and depression triggered by this event and it took a toll on my health physically also. I would not recommend her my worst enemy .
Read more
27 Jun, 2022 by Anonymous
Twice Scott tried to transfer title on a property into my trust. Both time, the transfer was denied. He does not return phone calls or emails. Three, four, and never go by without a response to emails and phone calls, particularly when he is in the wrong and doesn't know how to correct his errors.
Read more
21 Jan, 2013 by Anonymous
Scott was very helpful in amending my grandmothers living trust. He was very patient with our lack of knowledge and explained everything in detail. He was also more than fair with his fees.
Read more
11 Sep, 2020 by Anonymous
No response from Mr. Jay Wiley Jones. I am DONE WITH AVVO. NEVER received consult.
Read more
17 Dec, 2018 by Marsha and larry saben
Wiley has been our corporate and personal lawyer for 40 years assisting with both professional advice as well as creating and amending our wills and trust as the years evolved. He is personable and caring and looks out for your personal/professional best interests.
Read more
06 Sep, 2024 by Laurie ortman
I read the lawyers response and feel what he is saying was ridiculous! Bottom line as a beneficiary I was entitled to review the statement and I talked very little to him! This was 5 years back but wanted to express an honest opinion for anyone seeking his services. I was not seeking legal work from him! A family member was! He appeared to have an attitude problem!
Read more
04 Sep, 2024 by Laura jean
My experience started off well until I requested on a couple of occassions an account summary for which I was told by another legal office I was entitled to. Emotionally upset from the long delay and other issues after a death, I was scolded that I did not know the law, I was not the executive, and that I would be charged legal fee's out of the trust for being on the phone talking to him after he stated, contact him with any questions when I finally got an accounting after almost 1 1/2 years later and after the death of a parent. I do not care how long one has been in practice, but no concerned representation here except to the executor. Been through so much and feel he absolutely is not a people person...If that does not matter to you then this review is a legal opinion. Lj
Read more
17 Nov, 2021 by S h
David is great! He is professional and responsive.
Read more
03 Jul, 2024 by Anonymous
It’s been three years since this law firm was hired for my case. In the three years they have not returned calls, were not prepared for hearings, and passed off to other attorneys in the firm. Everything was finalized 2 months ago and
Merianne is holding on to the distribution I believe to collect more monthly money. The most unprofessional law firm I have ever dealt with.
Read more
30 Jul, 2022 by Anonymous
I felt she didn’t have time for me even though she takes all cases It seems. Maybe cut down on your cases please and do a better job. She seemed to take the easy way out whenever she could. Didn’t read my input or questions until we were chatting so it cost me while she read and she wasn’t prepared with answers. She knows the law and could pass any law exam today I’m sure but not good at helping people. She allowed the other side to guide the case to my detriment. For some reason she decided she was done although I wasn’t. I believe things got more complicated than she wanted.
Read more
28 May, 2022 by Anonymous
COST ME THOUSANDS OF DOLLARS AND LOST MY CASE. SHE TOOK NO RESPONSIBILITY FOR HER NEGLECT AND DID NOT EVEN PAY ATTENTION TO MY CASE UNTIL IT WAS TO LATE.
Read more
Discover the ideal lawyer
You can search a lawyer by practice area, lawyer name, city, state, or ZIP code
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.
