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04 Oct, 2024 by James c
We were most impressed with the professionalism & comradery displayed by the WTPELF staff and highly recommend their services.
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02 Sep, 2024 by Cynthia spry
Friendly, knowledgeable. I felt very comfortable using Elder law Firm for my estate planning needs!!! I highly recommend them.
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19 Aug, 2024 by Catherine corbett
Greg Kaiser and the entire staff are personable, professional, knowledgeable, and wonderful to work with in every way & with every aspect of the details and business they are handling with you.
I cannot recommend them highly enough! I have, in fact, referred them to several of my friends. Every one of them is as happy with WTPELF as I am.
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17 Jan, 2020 by Mitchell
My and my family's experience with Attorney Slade Dukes and Boyer & Boyer was excellent. I highly recommend the firm and Slade in particular. The firm came highly recommended as the top firm in elder law and related matters on the Sarasota Bar. Edwin Boyer and Slade Dukes' counsel was prudent, strategic and excellent. Slade quickly and capably understood the nuances of our situation and I came to rely on his counsel, both big-picture as well as sensitive correspondence with all parties involved. With Slade and Boyer & Boyer, my family achieved in all respects the outcomes we desired in as gentle a manner as we could've hoped. We are pleased to have the firm of Boyer & Boyer, and attorney Slade Dukes, in particular, as counsel to our family.
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17 Jan, 2020 by Mitchell
My and my family's experience with Attorney Slade Dukes and Boyer & Boyer was excellent. I highly recommend the firm and Slade in particular. The firm came highly recommended as the top firm in elder law and related matters on the Sarasota Bar. Edwin Boyer and Slade Dukes' counsel was prudent, strategic and excellent. Slade quickly and capably understood the nuances of our situation and I came to rely on his counsel, both big-picture as well as sensitive correspondence with all parties involved. With Slade and Boyer & Boyer, my family achieved in all respects the outcomes we desired in as gentle a manner as we could've hoped. We are pleased to have the firm of Boyer & Boyer, and attorney Slade Dukes, in particular, as counsel to our family.
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16 Jan, 2020 by Mitchell
My and my family's experience with Attorney Slade Dukes and Boyer & Boyer was excellent. I highly recommend the firm and Slade in particular. The firm came highly recommended as the top firm in elder law and related matters on the Sarasota Bar. Edwin Boyer and Slade Dukes' counsel was prudent, strategic and excellent. Slade quickly and capably understood the nuances of our situation and I came to rely on his counsel, both big-picture as well as down to sensitive correspondence with all parties involved. With Slade and Boyer & Boyer, my family achieved in all respects the outcomes we desired in as gentle a manner as we could've hoped. We are pleased to have the firm of Boyer & Boyer, and attorney Slade Dukes, in particular, as counsel to our family.
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16 Feb, 2024 by Brandon
Right from the jump Sherri was on my case and helping me. She had all my stuff in order and I was impressed because in the zoom meeting it seemed like more than a few lawyers were unorganized. Most important to me was how fast everything was done. You changed my life for the better thank you again Sherri !
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17 Oct, 2023 by Mike
She made it extremely easy. Very low stress for me for a stressful process.
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20 Sep, 2022 by Roslyn
I appreciated the help with my bankruptcy case, very straightforward which is I want in an attorney. Answered my questions in a fairly timely matter. I would definitely recommended Sherri Johnson if anyone asked me to refer them to a bankruptcy lawyer.
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17 Jun, 2024 by Ric
We went to C. Clark for estate planning based on a very positive comments from friends, and we were not disappointed. We found her to be friendly, helpful, patient, and quite knowledgeable. She guided us through the planning process, prepared draft documents for our review, and responded to all questions in a timely manner. From start to finish, we were very happy with this estate planning experience.
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10 Jun, 2024 by Jim
Cindy and Tim are a great team. We had our trust done in 2015 and to this day 6/10/2024 we can call them for any of our needs. They answer the phone how refreshing in these times.
Use these folks you won't be sorry.
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27 Sep, 2023 by Barbara
Ms. Clark and her team were fantastic. She has such an excellent background before moving into elder care law and it is very helpful. She did a very informative consult over the phone and explained many factors of the process and what was needed (or not needed) in my particular situation. I was told how the how the process would go and I had copies of documents within 2 weeks. I had time to review them and ask as many questions in detail as I wished. Then, I went in to sign final documents once all details were finalized. Cindy and Tim were so informative, prompt, kind and professional. It was a total pleasure doing business with them and I feel confident with everything in completion. I highly recommend their firm ... you will receive kind and personal care!
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27 Jul, 2019 by Anonymous
John Ferrari came very highly recommended. Mr. Ferrari did not disappoint. He was very accessible,
knowledgeable and extremely patient. He was
available to answer any and all questions. He was
quite engaged in the task at hand and left me feeling that he was genuinely concerned about my wishes. Extremely easy to work, Mr. Ferrari treats his clients with professionalism and respect. Recommend without reservation.
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23 Aug, 2018 by Audxmike
John represents the Co- Guardian of our recently adopted children. We’ve had a long drawn out battle for the past two years. John is a man of honor and integrity. He is professional and well respected. I’m grateful he always kept our children’s best interest in mind! Hire him! You won’t regret it!
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07 Feb, 2018 by Sabrina
Our family was placed under extreme circumstances and we needed someone to help us. Within 5 days of first speaking with Mr. Ferrari, he had the documents prepped and filed with the court. He took his time to jump into our situation with us to help our family. Throughout the whole complicated situation, Mr. Ferrari and his staff were very helpful, informative, friendly and professional. They have the heart and the professional skills to help anyone in any situation. You seriously will not find a better attorney anywhere. Mr. Ferrari and his staff are like family now to my family!! We can not thank them enough for all that they have done for our family!!
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28 Nov, 2022 by Aleksandra
Law Office of Mary E. King, P.L. is the most professional, most efficient, most capable and competent, Law Office I've ever dealt with while doing complex nation wide or local as well as an international contracting deals, for over 35 years. I was so afraid that my case would be rejected, but Mary had respectfully taken my case, and handled it so gracefully with most care I've ever experienced in legal industry, with above any mark results, as her dedication for a quick successful results and best ever outcome is a true blessing in my life.
With great grace and professionalism this extremely experienced Law Office (that did not waste any of my time not even one phone call until the complete job was done and all in my best interest), with Mary E. King's leadership, I was able to get my personal life and my business, on right track again.
This office is more affordable than any of my past accountants or attorneys who were not able to even comprehend the level of requirements needed, Mary was skillfully and swiftly able to understand and to resolve and to eliminate the root causes, so even my credit score is now getting automatically better, based on hard work Mary had accomplished. I cannot thank enough to Mary and her staff on the great job done and for accepting my case and for bringing it to successful outcome! Thank you so much for working so hard on this difficult case, you are greatly appreciated! Sincerely, Aleksandra W.
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08 Oct, 2019 by Anonymous
Mary did it! It was a long and frustrating process... not on Mary's part but on the IRS process. She walked me through the entire process from start to finish, kept me up to date and made it happen. I am grateful to Mary and her staff and would recommend them highly.
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04 Apr, 2019 by Gino
Many local professionals in the accounting community suggested I contact Mrs. King’s office to receive help for a tax issue. I knew that my tax project would be complicated but Mrs. King and Staff helped me through it. Thank you.
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11 May, 2023 by Andy
Erik is very knowledgeable and very well connected to people and resources. As a former Sarasota Mayor his reputation speaks for itself. Very ethical and a straight shooter.
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10 Jan, 2020 by Erik g.
I am impressed by Erik’s legal knowledge and most importantly the diversity of his legal expertise. So many attorneys have a narrow expertise and they commonly do not see the big picture. If you have a business transaction or estate planning issue would be one attorney with which I would recommend you consult.
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16 Jul, 2019 by Anonymous
I retained Erik Arroyo to be the Trustee to my Trust. He has done a phenomenal job and I highly recommend him to anyone having any Wills and Trust needs. He is diligent, knowledgeable, and you must meet him so you can see for yourself.
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06 Mar, 2024 by Melanie
My appointments with attorney Evans were by far the very best. They were productive, professional, precise, friendly, courteous and thoughtful. He was hired to produce new, updated, documents, i.e., will, power of attorney and medical directive. These were completed quickly and ready for pick up in a week. His staff was professional and thorough. I am most pleased with the service and highly recommend Lee & Evans, PA to anyone needing legal assistance.
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26 May, 2020 by Anonymous
Dave was easy to work with and took the time to explain things we didn't understand. He gave good recommendations and helped us work out details for our situation.
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24 Feb, 2020 by Marco
I spoke with David on the phone initially involving a family member and possibly amending a Power of Attorney document that was drafted before the new Florida laws came into effect after 2011. During the initial phone call, David was very honest with me and my wife with our legal situation. David offered a level of professional trust that was immediately obvious. David was a referral and I can now see why he comes highly recommended.
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08 Jan, 2016 by Sheri zillmer
Very informative and helpful to us in a difficult situation. I highly recommend this attorney.
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21 Sep, 2015 by Carolyn
Mr. Griffin made the complex understandable, and the tedious much more pleasant than we anticipated! It is such a comfort to have a Will & Trust.
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17 Sep, 2015 by Tom
We have a complicated Estate situation. Mr. Griffin cut through the "legalese" and covered our issues and questions in terms we could understand. Also, he made us feel at home during the process.
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19 Aug, 2018 by Elizabeth
When I became a caregiver for my elderly parents, I didn't know there was such a thing as an eldercare attorney. After I began getting help from Ira Wiesner, I quickly learned how essential his knowledge and advice are. To begin with, he re-did our family documents done with a previous lawyer. Our Durable Power of Attorney went from several pages to twenty; it now covers everything we need. When it was time for my father to go to skilled nursing care, Mr. Wiesner reviewed the community's contract and other written materials so that we were able to sign with confidence. We are also reviewing our long-range financial planning with him. I am grateful every day to have such excellent advice. And it is truly a pleasure to speak with everyone in Ira Wiesner's office.
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17 Aug, 2017 by Anonymous
Ira Wiesner was recommended to me by several individuals I respect. I needed some practical advice and guidance regarding a very difficult and rather exploitive situation with my mother. I had no idea what my options were, given that my mother, now suffering from dementia, had signed contracts, prior to the dementia, which gave Carte Blanche to a facility which was not providing appropriate care to her. He listened carefully, made some initial suggestions, reviewed the situation and gave me sound advice for a first step. He realized my stress level needed to be reduced, so his advice was not only financially sound, but helped me to get some much needed respite. His knowledge regarding elderly people and the facilities that care for them was comprehensive and pragmatic. His previous experience as a lawyer-ombudsman makes him uniquely qualified to know the buzz words and excuses used by facilities that do not provide adequate care. We are now entering step two in managing my mother's situation and it is something I can handle, knowing that she will be protected.
I was so pleased with Mr. Wiesner's ability, that I asked him to redo some legal documents for me. I have an excellent attorney in another city, and with the hours I care for my mother, I could not get back to that city easily to update my documents. This was managed at my convenience and I am most appreciative for that.
I highly recommend this attorney for anyone with questions or problems regarding older individuals.
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07 Aug, 2016 by Anonymous
Ira Weisner as able to help my family in time of crisis due to major financial exploitation of an elderly relative. We laid out our case to him, he listened attentively (didn't interrupt to show how smart he was like so many lawyers--and believe me, he's smart). He honestly assessed our chances of not only bringing a case, but also of how to protect ourselves from further exploitation. See, Ira is not just an estate planner, but a national expert in elderly abuse, so he was likely the best person in Sarasota to talk to about this.
As for our case, he told us that in one aspect our chances were slim (other lawyers would told us to press forward on the case just to collect bills later), in other aspects of our case, he really helped in telling us the steps forward to take.
His good character was so apparent throughout this process, that my elderly family member who was exploited, decided to switch lawyers and trust their estate planning with him and now we all feel protected. I couldn't recommend Ira Weisner highly enough.
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09 Oct, 2016 by Erik
David was referred to me by a friend. From the beginning he spoke in layman's terms and from the hip. I am facing a situation now and he has been there with sound advice. Being a former prosecutor he reminded me that the law is not like the TV shows and reality is best served with layman justice. I am blessed to have him in my corner.
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29 Nov, 2015 by Jamie
David is not your typical lawyer! He helps you understand your options in plain english. He will give you the facts and no BS. I called him for his services and told me I didn't need him, It was something I could do on my own but I wanted his help he'd be there for me. A lawyer who helps because he's truly a nice person, I never thought it was possible until I met David. He is the only person I'd recommend to help you with your legal issues. Highly Highly recommend David Bouziane!
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14 Oct, 2015 by Robert
David is a straight shooter. Where some attorneys may make big speeches and even bigger promises that they eventually fall short of attaining, David is not that guy. He, will speak plainly while he under promises and OVER DELIVERS. He went above and beyond to help me through a very tough period of my life. Not only did he help me prepare for court dates and what to expect prior to them, he continued to keep in contact after his job was completed to make sure everything was going well. I'm sure he will do the same for all of his clients. Don't settle for anything less than an attorney who's focus is on your best interest, and who's willing to put in the work necessary to get the job done right.
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30 May, 2023 by Mary
Andrew Boyer listened to my concerns and went above and beyond in answering all my questions and helping me with his knowledge. He gave good advice and share insights that I highly valued regarding an estate and the legal system. He was patient, thorough, and kind. I would highly recommend him!
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20 Nov, 2009 by Anonymous
Andrew of Boyer & Jackson is a bright, attentive, talented lawyer.
I had a family case of Guardianship that required tact, skill, and leadership to get thru a maze of family discord and complexity.
Through Andrew's leadership I was able to protect my elder Father with a Guardianship that was for his best interest.
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18 Apr, 2017 by Anonymous
We hired Mr. Spivey to defend a trustee removal matter. The depth of his legal knowledge and strategic advice brought our case to a successful resolution. Also, his fees were very reasonable.
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23 Dec, 2016 by Anonymous
Barry understands the nuances of this area of the law better than anyone else in the Sarasota Bradenton area. He is focused and concise. He is respected by his peers. Perhaps one reason is that he one of the authors of the FL Trust code and has been an adjunct professor at one of the top FL law schools. I used his services several years ago. He was able to get me through a very complicated matter in a short period of time with a minimum amount of drama.
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13 Jan, 2020 by Anonymous
Will has been a Godsend in a very complicated issue. He has worked through the toughest circumstances and guided us through a very difficult time.
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07 Jan, 2015 by Ben
Mr. William shaffer was extremely attentive professional ; he also worked my case out quickly and was the best deal! He is amazing please hire him!
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29 Dec, 2016 by Jane
Met with Tina several years ago when I had a complex trust matter where I was serving as a co-trustee. She was able to advise properly and obtain the result my client wanted. Have since referred many others to her and know she has always done excellent work.
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06 Sep, 2012 by Devin
My experience with Sean was brief but he was courteous and promptly responded to my inquiry. While this exchange with Sean was regarding a not-for-profit matter he still took the time to research the matter and explore options. I was very pleased and look forward to engaging his services in the future!
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12 Jul, 2017 by Anonymous
Richard J. Cole III, gave me valuable legal advise while respecting my desire to keep our session to a minimal duration of time. He is an excellent lawyer and legal resource. I would use him for any future legal issue and have referred him to friends.
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01 Mar, 2018 by Cliff
My wife and I used Scott to close on our home. It was a VA loan, which brings additional hurdles. The entire process was flawless. We closed in a little over three weeks. The communication was excellent throughout the entire process. I would highly recommend Scott and his team.
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10 Jul, 2018 by Greg
Nicholas was extremely helpful to my wife & I in detailing how we wanted our estate handled and those uncomfortable end of life details that no one wants to discuss. He was patience,knowledgable & offered excellent advice.I highly recommend to anuone.
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16 Jun, 2020 by Anonymous
Daniel and the entire staff at Advocates in Aging were supportive and helpful during a very difficult time. They never gave up and when nescessay continually came up with new solutions to situations. Daniel always made me feel like he had all the time I needed and explained everything in a way that was easily understood. The best!!!
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18 Dec, 2015 by Anonymous
This attorney is very knowledgeable and gave me great advice! I spoke with a friendly gal who answered the phone with professionalism and seemed very sympathetic toward my situation. I was then directed to a newer attorney with the firm and received helpful information about some damaged property I was dealing with. I would recommend this firm to anyone dealing with a personal injury. They understood what I wanted and helped me get it.
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02 Dec, 2010 by Anthony
Cynthia is perhaps the best attorney I have ever known or worked with in my lifetime. She is a compassionate and caring person who has always impressed both me and my wife as the type of person who genuinely cares more about the quality of the attorney/client relationship than the quantity of clients. The care and promptness with answering our questions and handling our many concerns, as well as her attention to detail surpasses any expectation we could have ever hoped for from an attorney! In addition to her incredible professionalism and knowledge of our case circumstances, was a staff that is second to none. Her paralegal Cristi Condon was always there for us as well when we needed help answering questions or obtaining documents for processing and always answered the phone to assist us. Cynthia spent countless hours on the phone with us as well. Her staff is exceedingly pleasant, which helps when going through such a difficult ordeal. Again, I can't possibly say enough good things to recommend this attorney to others because I would need a ten page essay just to scratch the surface of all that is good in this practice. Both me and my wife HIGHLY recommend Cynthia Riddell and her staff to anyone going through bankruptcy or seeking honest and highly respectable advice. Cynthia was there with us giving us exceptional advice throughout the entire process from short sales of property through the bankruptcy. Our relationship with her lasted 2-3 years total. She is the most trustworthy attorney I have ever met, and that include several friends of mine that our attorneys as well. Cynthia handled every aspect of our case with the utmost professionalism and was always prepared and generous with her time and thouroughness. Again, for all you do Cynthia- God bless you for everything. You are one of a kind! Anthony
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17 Sep, 2018 by Gail
Mr. Fredericks was very knowledgeable and was able to go over all paperwork so that I understood all applicable documents.
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12 Apr, 2018 by Anonymous
I owned a small resort . That I wanted to sell part of . The deal almost fell apart . A building from the 1950 was build on both properties . he found a way for me to sell it with the building in place and we closed the deal . He saved the Day & the Deal !!
Thank You D.P.
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18 Aug, 2024 by Michael schwieterman
I have been using Leslie as my attorney since 2019. Before 2019, I had never heard of Leslie, and I know several attorneys practicing within Sarasota. Leslie is kind, understanding, and thoughtful. Divorce is the hardest situation I have every faced in my personal life, and Leslie was there for every set of the way. I had to go back to court in 2023 for child support modification, and once again Leslie was there explaining to me how the process worked. In the end she was there helping me and my children and kept our best interest in mind. To say it simply, Leslie is more than just an attorney, she’s an amazing person. If any of my friends have issues in their marriage, I always recommend Leslie to them. I would recommend that anyone reading this use her services, you won't be disappointed.
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13 Aug, 2024 by Crismas carroll barber
The best. Classy. Experienced. Ethically strategic. Hire her. You’ll be glad you did!
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13 Aug, 2024 by Chris crew
Professional, caring, honest, and genuine. My experience with Leslie goes all the way back to 2010 and continues today. The best family lawyer that I know.
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12 Sep, 2024 by Susan carter
It was time to have my Will and additional legal documents up dated, and with a referral from my personal Attorney, Matthew Kowtko, I was pleased with the exceptional job Attorney Soss
did for me. I will definitely call him again! Thank you Atty. Soss.
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18 Apr, 2024 by Carrie gard
Marc is professional, easy to work with and incredibly knowledgeable.
Highly recommend!
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12 Apr, 2024 by Michael havlik
I called Marc with several asset protection planning questions today. He quickly and efficiently and courteously answered them. He did this with no initial consultation fee. Highly recommend his firm
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29 Aug, 2024 by Jan haber
Protected. That's how I felt when I hired Christina Goldberg, Esq. to handle my simple but ugly divorce. She is super professional, responsive and effective. I highly recommend Christina to any woman who needs strong, considerate and kind representation in a "man's world."
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22 Aug, 2024 by Steve brownlee
I cannot praise enough the office staff and Christine Goldberg. She guided me through a sensitive situation with exceptional support, advice, and expertise that reassured me. Christine was not only affordable but also the most cost-effective attorney I've ever worked with, as she did not overcharge. She was always accessible to address my queries and worries, making the entire legal process less daunting. With a strong grasp of the law, she defended me diligently. I highly endorse this law firm. Christine Goldberg displayed a profound understanding of my circumstances and exhibited empathy throughout the legal proceedings, which greatly helped me during a challenging period. I cannot speak highly enough of her and her team; they truly excel in their field.
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07 Aug, 2024 by India pearson
Neil Lyons went above and beyond in service and compassion. My teenage son lost his dad and we had to navigate the legal system which is a daunting task without a great attorney. Neil made sure we were taken care of every step of the way. Many thanks to him and to his firm.
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28 Oct, 2024 by Thomas e. mcclung
It was a pleasure working with MCT Law. They kept me informed through the entire process and hey were always available to take my calls if I had questions. I would highly recommend them.
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27 Oct, 2024 by Mj menein
All of the staff at MCT Law with whom I was in contact, were very efficient, helpful and managed my expectations. Any time I had a question or concern, they were addressed immediately. I felt very safe and assured in my involvement with MCT Law. I feel that I had the best possible outcome and I would not hesitate to recommend MCT Law. They were kind and professional and very respectful. At no time did I ever feel as though I was being processed, or that my concerns were trivial or unimportant. Thank you to Leslie and Michelle and all of the behind the scenes staff at MCT Law.
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26 Oct, 2024 by Susan rightmyer
They were the very best to work with. Leslie and Michelle were fantastic. I have come to think of Leslie as a friend even though we have never actually met.
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11 Jun, 2024 by Larry mcelreavy
I asked Attorney Wyckoff to help me remove my name from a deed.
The request was done over the phone and e-mail, as I live out of state. His responses were prompt and he quickly took care of my request. He was both timely and professional. It was a pleasure to have him take care of my request.
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10 Apr, 2024 by James travis (james travis)
04 Mar, 2024 by Malina ness
I cannot say enough good things about Michael Wyckoff. He was extremely patient, helpful and professional when helping my family with our property. He took the time to communicate with us, understand the issue, then came up with the best course of action. We highly recommend his services. Thank you Wyckoff Law Firm!
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29 Aug, 2024 by Peter nguyen
Jess, our attorney for a complicated house deed update, was helpful, professional, friendly, knowledgeable, details oriented, responsive and timely, ask me good questions that we didn't think about before. Highly recommended for real estate transactions. Thank you Jess!
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03 Apr, 2024 by Rick wedge
Worked with Jim and his staff. Could not be more pleased! I asked the same question several times over a period of weeks. Every time Jim and his staff took the time to answer my question, patiently and accurately. Also got the results I needed in a timely and costly manner. Highly recommend!
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03 Apr, 2024 by Melody williams
Discover the ideal lawyer
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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.
