Lawyers map
>10
experienced lawyers
Filter by
03 Mar, 2022 by Liz
We had Amanda complete a special needs trust for us in an emergency situation in July 2021. Ms. Sinclair was quick, professional, supportive and bent over backwards to ensure that our special needs trust was completed ASAP. She was a lifesaver! I cannot recommend her highly enough. As a special needs parent, she truly gets how to write a SNT. We plan on hiring her again in the future for our regular estate.
Read more
02 Apr, 2019 by Smadar
I cannot begin to explain how lucky I feet to have found Amanda! She is SO kind and extremely knowledgable with Special Needs Trusts and in helping us create our wills and trust. We highly recommend her! Her fees are reasonable and her ethics are superb!
Read more
27 Mar, 2018 by Pam
Amanda Sinclair has made our complex estate process as clear and simple as possible. She and her wonderful paralegal are responsive, readily available and patient in directing my actions as executor. Amanda has been able to professionally quell some sensitive issues, her advice has been spot on and her recommendations for other needed professionals have been excellent. I highly recommend Ms. Sinclair.
Read more
24 Jun, 2015 by Regina
Karlo and Olivia Nebres provided exceptional assistance and guidance throughout the planning of our living trust. They made the entire process very comfortable and really took the time to help us understand the details required to complete our trust. My husband and I are would highly recommend The Nebres Law Firm.
Read more
22 Jun, 2015 by Anonymous
Sought the advice of Mr. Nebres regarding estate planning. We have a little one now and wanted to plan for her. Mr. Nebres was very thorough and made all the difficult concepts easy to understand. He is very knowledgeable about our concerns in relation to estate planning and brought great suggestions to work around probate.
Aside from being very personable, unlike common lawyer stereotypes, I really like the fact that he let us make the decision on our own. I would definitely recommend him to anyone looking to plan long term for their family members.
Read more
18 Jun, 2015 by Anonymous
Karlo made things easy for us to understand. He took the time to expain the entire process and answer all our questions. He is very responsive and is always quick to reply. I highly recommend Karlo as an Estate Planning attorney.
Read more
5.0
2 Reviews
16 Apr, 2019 by Dennis
I hired Julie to review trust documents, change trustee, write new power of attorney, and file changes with county. Julie was clear with explanations of steps needed to accomplish changes and efficient in completing required documents.
Read more
26 Dec, 2012 by Mrs. m
I had tried for over several months, to find an Attorney that would handle Medi-Cal, and not be afraid to fight the system. Most Attorneys said, "You will never win with Medi-Cal - give up". When I called Julie (referred by another attorney), she told us she would be at our house for a consultation. That happened within 24 hours. She took a load off our shoulders that can't be put in words. Her very capable staff called the next morning and let me know what the next step was. To make a real long story shorter, she was able to facilitate and stop the possibility of us being on the streets within a few months. My husband suffered a massive stroke 5 1/2 years ago and is still totally disabled. I truly don't know what we would have done without finding her. Miss Fiedler is caring, knowledgeable, attentive, and knows the system, which can be very nasty and non-caring. Just ask me I know! I am this wonderful man's wife and his best and most tenacious friend. Thank you Julie - Don't even hesitate to call her!
Read more
05 Nov, 2019 by Dominique balabat
25 Apr, 2011 by Anonymous
Scott was easy to communicate with and did everything that he promised. At no time did Scott judge, ridicule or place himself above me, his client. Scott was always available when I called, always answered my questions or addressed my concerns.
His focus was to assist me through a difficult time by communicating with me and performing the necessary legal work to get through the Bankruptcy process, with as little pain as possible.
If you retain Scott, get all your paperwork done and delivered, you will make the process move along very fast, and before you know it your BK will be discharged and you will be on your way to rebuilding your credit and life.
I recommend Scott Jordan to anyone contemplating a personal Bankruptcy. This was not an easy time, however Scott helped me make the best of the situation.
Thank you again Scott, I hope I never need your services again:)
Read more
16 Sep, 2013 by Theresa
I have always enjoyed having Stephen work on my cases he is very caring & knowledgeable in many areas of the law. I like an attorney that calls me back not just says he will & then doesn't he is pretty good at this.
Read more
20 Aug, 2024 by Lauren guza
I can't recommend James Stein highly enough. We had felt a bit daunted by the estate-planning process, but James guided us through its intricacies with expertise and ease. He was both professional and personable, very well versed in the language of the law but also attuned to the human side of things. Thanks to James, we came away from the process with a sense of confidence and security in the plan we created, and that peace of mind is invaluable.
Read more
10 May, 2024 by Melinda dart
I recommend James Stein for creating a living trust. He explains everything thoroughly and anticipates future complications.
Read more
09 Mar, 2024 by Virginia downing
Cannot say enough good things about James Stein.
He took me seamlessly through a complex estate planning process with kindness, authenticity and professionalism. He is detailed and a good communicator.
Read more
06 Aug, 2024 by Dr. samrudhi nakhwa
I received their services for lease negotiation. Jeff Brown guided me through the process. Thank you
Read more
06 Aug, 2024 by Edward paul
Medical & Dental Counsel, particularly attorney Jeff Brown, provided exceptional service in structuring our partnership. Jeff's expertise and attention to detail ensured a smooth and efficient process from start to finish. He was highly knowledgeable about the legal complexities involved and guided us with clarity and professionalism. We are grateful for his invaluable assistance and would highly recommend Medical & Dental Counsel to anyone seeking expert legal counsel in healthcare partnerships.
Read more
04 Jun, 2024 by Michele dias
23 Jun, 2023 by Steve
Ms. Leong crafted my parents' trust documents in 2000 as well as amendments and restatements over the next 18 years. Then, in July 2022, due to a financial emergency, Ms. Leong was very responsive and timely in effecting the necessary paperwork to allow for a change in trustee. All was good until it was time to administer the trust following my mom’s passing in February.
Two main issues arose during the trust administration. First, according to Probate Section 16061.7, the trustee is required to notify the trust’s beneficiaries within 60 days of the death of a settlor and provide specific details as well as a copy of the trust. Ms. Leong advised that this notification seemed unnecessary, and the notification, meeting the requirements of that code, was the first order of business of the attorney I hired to replace Ms. Leong. Second, Ms. Leong promised to respond to client communications “promptly” and took up to five business days to respond, even with follow-ups from the Client. When challenged, she did not accept responsibility and instead offered insincere apologies.
The subsequent attorney I hired not only handled the legally required notification, but he also suggested drafting a waiver of a formal accounting to preserve the trust’s assets from large legal and CPA fees that would be required if a beneficiary insisted on that detailed accounting. Ms. Leong made no such suggestion.
My goal was to bring this trust matter full circle, as Ms. Leong had drafted all the documents and knew the history. Unfortunately, in my opinion, this matter did not get the attention that it deserved, thus motivating me to change attorneys and incur additional expense that could and should have been avoided.
Read more
20 Feb, 2014 by Anonymous
my mom used this lawyer and was happy with her. cant say exactly how my mom would rate her, but i'd hear it if she had any complaint.
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.
