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28 Jun, 2024 by Konstantin titov
11 Jun, 2024 by Jaqueline rodriguez
Avloni law helped me through one of the most difficult times in my life. Very professional and knowledgeable. Literally the best !!!!
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02 May, 2024 by Verdim s
5.0
4 Reviews
5.0
18 Reviews
01 Jul, 2022 by Nelcy carino
I am obliged to post my review since the reviews and comments here has lead me to a right decision of choosing Julia Jayne. She is one of a kind- prompt in answering emails, calls and inquiries, approachable, honest, straightforward, witty, pro active. We’ve only met for a short time, she listened, had genuine concern, and had acted right away. My case was resolved in less than half an hour. And even after that, Julia still reached out when she has concerns. And she only charged reasonable fees. Words are not enough to thank Julia for what she has done. No one would wanna be in a position where you need to consult or hire a lawyer, but sometimes, that is life. Don’t hesitate, consult Julia. From my heart, I highly recommend her.
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24 Jan, 2022 by George
Julia was great, not only was she very responsive but proactive as well. I never had any issues trying to get a hold of her. I would definitely recommend her law firm to anyone else looking for quality work.
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30 May, 2021 by Syl mynx
In our case, Julia got a great outcome by having a great strategy and pursuing it quickly. Julia is very very smart, which you can gather from the other reviews. She also listens, which was key to our case. She listened to us, she listened to the prosecutor, and she used all of the information she gathered. She communicates clearly, and made sure that we understood every step in the process and also the strategy that she pursued so energetically. She was effective at working with the experts that we needed. I highly recommend Julia.
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01 Nov, 2024 by Urian schimmeyer
Sam Gellar is an amazing attorney. Explains everything very thoroughly. Will go above and beyond for you as his client. Highly recommend!
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29 Oct, 2024 by Player dash
“Thank you, Mr. Samuel. He is very cooperative, professional, intelligent, and respectful. Thank you, and I wish him continued success.”
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09 Sep, 2024 by Margarita andino
Having Nick as a Lawyer was a pleasure. His honesty made a Big difference in helping me understand my case. Although it was very stressful I felt he had my best interest at heart and that helped.
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22 Jan, 2025 by Yessica gonzalez
22 Jan, 2025 by Lizeth serrano
22 Jan, 2025 by Kevin aguillón
22 Jan, 2025 by Yessica gonzalez
22 Jan, 2025 by Lizeth serrano
22 Jan, 2025 by Kevin aguillón
11 Mar, 2024 by Thao
We have a crazy neighbor who thought it would be good idea to file a restraining order against us because she just didn’t like us. It was really scary to have someone that crazy seeking legal action against us, and I’ve never been to court in my entire life.
Andrea handled this complex and emotionally charged case with grace and intelligence and calm. She reassured us and kept us calm as she prepared us.
We ultimately had the request for restraining orders dismissed AND she prevailed in a motion to have our attorney fees paid by the crazy neighbor.
From a legal perspective, we could not have asked for a better outcome! Would I hire her again? 100%! We are so grateful for her and for her being so well prepared.
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11 Mar, 2024 by Anonymous
Andrea is a true professional... Kind, caring, and listens to the entirety of your case. She represented my husband and I in a frivolous lawsuit filed against us by a very very awful person. She will guide you every step of the way, is transparent about expectations, and is fair in her pricing. Please do yourself a favor and hire her!
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31 Jul, 2023 by Anonymous
Andrea helped me navigate and win a complex and challenging case that was an uphill battle. The documents she filed on my behalf were thorough and presented the best case possible. Andrea is also empathy-driven and responsive to feedback, which was incredibly important due the nature of my case.
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02 Dec, 2024 by Juliette porter
Delivered an unprofessional and disorganized service.
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02 Aug, 2024 by Lucy muthoni
Am very grateful to Harrison Law office, he helped me with my case and didn't take long and was approved. I recommend him to anyone who needs assistance with their immigration case. Blake is very professional, reliable. Am very thankfu to him
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16 Jul, 2024 by Emma pham
Amazing immigration lawyer in the Bay! Blake responded to our questions in a timely manner. He provided a very professional and smooth service. Our case got approved quicker than we expected. My husband and I are very grateful for all of Blake's help!
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08 Sep, 2023 by Irina
Yuliya Magomedov is our trust lawyer. Working with us she demonstrated complete knowledge in everything relevant to our case, its special features in every detail. It is also a pleasure to mention her friendly manners and boundless patience.
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31 Mar, 2023 by Margaret
Yuliya updated my Trust, Will, Advance Health Care Directive, etc.: all the parts necessary for estate planning. She was very patient through the process and answered my queries clearly. I am pleased with my estate planning portfolio:it's organized, easy to read and concise.
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25 Mar, 2022 by Tim
I needed to update my trust, will, health directive, etc. The attorney I used previously was extremely unresponsive so I asked friends and co-workers for recommendations. One of my colleagues recommended Yuliya with the most specific, and magnificent, praise - and I'm so glad she did.
Yuliya was everything I wanted, and better than I could have anticipated. She communicated clearly, set timelines which she always met, and gave me much better advice on estate planning than I had received in 10 years of my "relationship" with the other attorney.
Yuliya is also extremely nice, and easy to talk to.
And the icing on the cake? Her prices are quite reasonable compared to other attorneys doing the same sort of work.
She is absolutely the best!
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13 Sep, 2016 by Mark
We retained John's services because he was highly recommended by an USF Law Professor. And with that said, we are very pleased that we did because he if very professional, knows how to get it done, returns calls in a timely manner, cares about what he does with integrity & sincerity, and cares about us (the client). If it wasn't for John, I don't know whom I would've gone to assist our family in a very complicated probate case...
If you do decide to retain John's services, then you will know what I am saying...
All the best
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26 Jun, 2016 by Linda
From the time we met John Boessenecker, we found him to be professional, knowledgeable, honest and hardworking. John answered our emails and phone calls in a timely fashion. He took the time to answer all of our questions and guided us to a resolution of our estate problems in a most thorough, courteous and respectful manner. We have and will continue to recommend him to anyone who is in need of help with their estate, trust or probate.
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03 Apr, 2016 by Michael
John Boessenecker was recommended to us by a law professor at San Francisco University School of Law. After consulting with John and a few other probate attorneys we decided he was the right person to handle my father’s estate that I was appointed co-executor over. Soon after opening probate it was discovered that my father never closed his father’s estate (1968) which made the situation extremely complicated. This meant that we had to open probate for my grandfather. When the judge looked the situation over she said it was one of the most convoluted cases she had ever seen. Step by step John methodically pieced together the order in which matters had to be executed to make things happen and happen smoothly. During this time I became the executor over my step-father’s estate (yes, pretty insane!) and of course there was no question who to use. That estate also had challenges as multiple beneficiaries were named in a will but John knew exactly what, when and how to handle each step. If anyone is a wiz at this stuff, it is him. I honestly don’t think we could have made it through those tough times without John and am please to give him five stars here. His talents, character and work ethics are what make him successful and it has been a pleasure to work with him.
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03 Jan, 2025 by Kai c
Thank you from the bottom of our family’s heart to Atty. Russ Goodrow at Goodrow Law firm.
Atty. Goodrow is an honest, professional, and a knowledgeable attorney. He took the time and always communicated with our family. Atty Goodrow helped me to stay calm and absolutely lessened my stress during the process. Not only is Atty Goodrow an excellent attorney but he also possesses a great amount of emotional intelligence as an attorney. He provided tremendous guidance to our family and extremely patient and organized. I highly recommend Atty Goodrow at Goodrow Law Firm.
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15 Dec, 2024 by Travis
Adam and his firm are truly exceptional. Adam is a caring and compassionate attorney who guided me through a terrifying and intricate legal matter and secured the best possible outcome. I am utterly grateful for his and his firm’s exceptional work.
If you seek further proof of Adam’s reputation, simply ask any attorney in the San Francisco area about him. You will witness the immense respect and admiration he holds within the legal community.
Thank you once again, Adam, and John, for everything.
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10 Dec, 2024 by Heather kenna hall
Valery was truly phenomenal in her support and guidance to me in an unfortunate accidental legal situation involving what was technically a felony crime on my part. Having never been in trouble with the law before, she was especially kind and supportive to me, and was successful in getting my charges dismissed. Valery is my savior and has my wholehearted endorsement.
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02 Sep, 2016 by Mary jane pascual
Jeff helped my siblings and I tackle a very personal probate issue. He listened to us and told us like it is. No sugar-coating on difficult things that needed to be discussed but he was with us all throughout the chaos to assure us that he has our back. Very effective, smart and a great person, inside and out. Thank you!
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06 Mar, 2015 by Charles
Jeffrey M. Woo has been tirelessly assisting us in providing sound advices and valuable counsel, in the recent Landlord/Tenant Ellis Case when he interned briefly but superlatively with the THC and left the institution, still rendering us alternative directions and hope against the 'infectious' Ellis, pointing out useful strategy and its legal application pertinent to the case, thus truly manifesting & upholding his personal and professional convictions as definitely , a qualified and commendable Attorney-at-law.
One doesn't feel the walls between the relationship and the rapport is naturally spontaneous and tangibly productive......an exceptional personage in this field.
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24 Jul, 2014 by Claudia tirado
Jeff Woo is my hero because he took our case when others wouldn't. Not only did he stop the eviction but extended our stay. Furthermore, he helped me gather evidence for an affirmative lawsuit. He even met me and my family at our home to discuss our situation. He is very trustworthy and was there every step of the way. I felt comfortable to call him with any questions. I have sent a friend that needed help and he solved her problem very fast. He is a bright, intelligent, knowledgeable lawyer and will strategize and fight for your best defense. He will position your case to win. I will be grateful to him for life.
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24 Mar, 2022 by Mary
Anne was a referral from a colleague of mine. From the beginning to the end, Anne was very informative,efficient, and helpful! She is very knowledgeable and walks you through the entire process seamlessly. It was a pleasure working with her!
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30 Mar, 2021 by C
Walked my wife and I through the process. She was super organized.
Not sure we would have completed it so quickly (or at all) if she didn’t guide and explained every detail.
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06 Aug, 2019 by Donna
Anne Shiau prepared my estate documents. I found her smart, efficient, and precise. She is well-informed and experienced. I recommend her highly.
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01 Nov, 2024 by Urian schimmeyer
Sam Gellar is an amazing attorney. Explains everything very thoroughly. Will go above and beyond for you as his client. Highly recommend!
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29 Oct, 2024 by Player dash
“Thank you, Mr. Samuel. He is very cooperative, professional, intelligent, and respectful. Thank you, and I wish him continued success.”
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09 Sep, 2024 by Margarita andino
Having Nick as a Lawyer was a pleasure. His honesty made a Big difference in helping me understand my case. Although it was very stressful I felt he had my best interest at heart and that helped.
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17 Dec, 2023 by Megan
Amy is an excellent communicator and she’s also highly intelligent with great integrity. I really appreciate all of her legal expertise with Special Needs Trusts and Trustee services. I am glad I can trust Amy to do whatever she can to help me, with my best interest in mind. I highly recommend her for Trustee/Special Needs Trust services.
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17 Mar, 2022 by Jonathan
I hired Amy to represent me in a high conflict case. Amy assessed all the details and drafted pleadings to move my case forward. Because she listened to me, I felt confident that my case was fully understood by the Court. Going to Court is always difficult. Having a experienced litigator working with me on my case reduced the length of time my case persisted. I was able to resolve the case shortly after Amy began representing me.
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09 Mar, 2022 by Franza
Amy is perfect for my law practice, which is exclusively focused on fiduciary services. She is available to answer my questions whenever they arise and knows the law thoroughly in all aspects. Her moral code and ethical standards are excellent and in line with this area of practice that relies on Trust. Anything to do with probate, trusts, and fiduciary services Amy knows about and can advise quickly and competently. I am lucky to have her counsel.
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31 Aug, 2017 by Doug
As a business attorney, I know many estate planning attorneys in San Francisco. But when it came time to do my own estate plan there was only one firm I spoke with - The Atashi Rang Law Firm. Amir and his team took the time to not only craft an estate plan that gave me and my family a great deal of piece of mind, but did a great job of explaining its key provisions to help make sure we understand our plan and that it matches our wishes. If you are looking for an exceptional estate planning law firm, give The Atashi Rang Law Firm a call. You will be very glad that you did.
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18 May, 2010 by Audrey
Amir Atashirang, as my attorney, was excellent and comfortable to work with. He was accessible, understanding, and provided useful information and guidance. He even assisted me with other law-realated matters that was not related to the main reason that I was soliciting his services. He also referred me to other lawyers in my county for other personal issues I needed to deal with.
Amir is also concerned about his clients, professional, approachable, and make you feel at ease about everything. He was the first attorney I've worked with and it was a great experience.
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13 Jul, 2017 by Anonymous
Hiring Yuen and Yuen and working with Erika and Frank Yuen to help us settle our parents’ complex estate was the best decision my brother and I made. We found Erika and Frank to be very knowledgeable, easy to work with and available to us for in-person meetings and phone consultants throughout every step of the process. We couldn’t have settled the trust without their help. Thank you Erika and Frank!
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23 Jun, 2016 by Anonymous
We hired Erika in 2014 and the ongoing legal relationship has continued to this day. Our Probate was VERY complex and sensitive, involving interactions with additional litigators in different fields. As a former Assistant DA, Erika has experience and contacts outside the Probate arena, which proved helpful to our situation. She is professional and knowledgeable, along with the stamina to 'get the job done' for you. Most importantly, she is sincere about your personal well-being during this difficult process. Our highest recommendation.
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11 Aug, 2010 by Anonymous
Ms. Wenzel prepared a complete trust package for me, including a will and advance health care directive. I chose her because she was recommended both by colleagues and clients, because she specializes in this type of law and because she was not in a large firm. I found her very easy and comfortable to work with and was very satisfied with the work that she did. I recommend her with no reservations.
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16 Jul, 2007 by Anonymous
Ms. Wenzel is extremely knowledgeable and helpful. She even makes housecalls for her elderly clients who find travel to her office difficult. Ms. Wenzel works very well with clients, who due to their age or condition, are sometimes difficult (and crochety). She is very patient, answers all questions completely and returns calls very quickly. I have been very pleased with her help for my parents and my uncles. I recomend her very highly.
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12 Aug, 2024 by Susan
She is so kind & the best attorney! I can’t thank them enough for helping me & going above & beyond in all tasks! Thank you very much & god bless!
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06 Apr, 2018 by Richie unterberger
Deb did a great job with setting up an estate plan for me. She's extremely thorough, and not just on the routine matters of distributing assets. She also made me aware of plenty of important things about how my my finances and creative content (I'm a writer) should be handled that many other lawyers would have overlooked. She works in a personable and compassionate fashion that everyone will appreciate, with fair and reasonable rates, and is accessible for any question or problem that might arise. I've recommended her to friends that are also planning their estates, and they are just as satisfied with her work.
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01 Oct, 2020 by Phebe
I browsed this website to look for a probate lawyer and of the 7 lawyers i tried to communicate with, Ms Quaranto replied within a day. It turned out that she was indeed a blessing to me. She is very accommodating and helpful. She worked immediately on the issue i consulted her with. She explained very well the legalities involved. Although i have not achieved the outcome i wished for, I am very well pleased with what came out of it. I highly recommend her to those who needs legal services.
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03 Jan, 2017 by Maggie
I worked with Kelsey first in a difficult family situation for which she'd paired up as a secondary with another lawyer. The situation did not go as I'd wished (through no fault of her own), but I'd noticed her calm yet friendly professionalism from the get-go, so decided to hire her for my own estate planning. I couldn't have asked for a better experience. Estate planning can be difficult, but she stuck with me like a champ, giving me time but gently prodding me when I really needed to take action, and ultimately delivered a really well organized set of documents. I can easily say that this never would have gotten done without her care, tracking, and communication. In all our interactions, her demeanor always struck that tricky balance between compassion and professional rigor, interpersonal warmth and cool-headedness. She will be my go-to for anything in the future, and I'll be recommending her to my friends.
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15 Jun, 2016 by Lia locasto
Upon our first encounter I knew I'd be hiring Mara. We shared our experiences in the professional world and her strong moral judgement is exactly what I was looking for.
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13 Apr, 2013 by Anonymous
Scott made the process easy. He took care of the paperwork and processed the case to a swift conclusion. He was very knowledgeable. I would definitely use him again.
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05 Jul, 2016 by Tom
Jay handled our family consultation very professionally. Everyone's questions were answered completely so the family could make complex decisions with ease. We are grateful to Jay for his expertise and timely approach in addressing some long running family concerns. The result is piece of mind by completing a comprehensive estate plan, health directive, a trust and naming the trust administrator. Thank you Jay.
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30 Jul, 2007 by Anonymous
Mr. Raba has handled all of my affairs excellently and with close personal attention. Despite his youth, he is expert in his field.
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07 Jan, 2012 by Anonymous
Michael is quite responsive as an attorney and is a fervent advocate which are necessary attributes for an attorney. I believe he has close to 30 years of legal experience and willingly gives fee reductions. He is a sensitive person which I believe is an asset as an attorney, in any profession or generally in life. He seems to care beyond simply obtaining attorney fees. I have been his client for over one year.
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02 Jul, 2010 by Jerry
Typically don't choose the low bid, but in hiring Loren this worked out very well for me. I was prepared, so during our first meeting Loren collected most all the info needed to ascertain what I needed and to complete the job. He understood that I wanted an Estate Plan that is robust and simple. After the initial meeting there were a couple emails and phone calls. At our second meeting, all the documents were completed accurately and signed. Loren took the time to listen and make sure I understood my options. I would easily recommend him for estate planning.
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03 Feb, 2012 by Jon
We have worked with Robert for a few years now. He completely took care of our estate planning, trusts, etc. Very easy going and he explains everything in simple terms.
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23 Jun, 2016 by Anonymous
Mr. Badma Gutchinov is an excellent attorney. He did an outstanding job handling my complicated divorce. He is extremely thorough and dedicated. Mr. Gutchinov was always available to take my phone calls and answer any questions that I had regarding my divorce and he got me through the stressful times when it counted the most. I highly recommend him without a doubt.
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28 Apr, 2009 by Anonymous
Christine handled our Estate Plan and did an excellent job. She was very knowledgeable and thorough and coached us through every issue that we needed to consider. She followed through on every detail in a very timely manner. In addition, she was very cost conscious and delivered exactly what she said she was going to deliver. She was a pleasure to work with and was always responsive to our needs and concerns. My husband and I would highly recommend Christine.
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30 Jun, 2015 by Robert
Bruce did a great job with my case, and I recommended him to a friend who was also very happy with his good services. All lawyers should be this effective and honest. Thank you Bruce!
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13 May, 2014 by Is
Lee handled a juggernaut of a business dissolution case for us a few years ago and his unwavering faith in our claim helped us achieve the results we wanted. Lee is excellent at client contact and kept in close contact throughout our case. We still have lunch every few months to this day.
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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.
