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James Dale Gibson, experienced Appeals, Business attorney in Sarasota, FL with 49 reviews
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35,10
star star star star star
4.7/5
Google Maps
4.7
49 Reviews
star star star star star
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
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Katherine Fall, experienced Appeals, Elder Law attorney in Sarasota, FL with 35 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
35,09
star star star star star
4.7/5
Google Maps
4.7
35 Reviews
star star star star star
25 Nov, 2024 by Konstantinou robinson
I really appreciate the follow through and determination with which attorney Boyer and his team showed in getting my case across the finish line. It was unbelievable and nothing short of outstanding!! He worked tirelessly and with great precision and detail to get me the expected results!! Thank you!!
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20 Mar, 2024 by Chachala e
I worked with attorney, Slade Dukes who did a fabulous job. He guided me through a difficult situation resulting in the proper documentation to protect a family member from himself and individuals who might try to take advantage of his declining memory. We worked virtually and efficiently.
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10 Oct, 2023 by Alex
Mr. Dukes was extremely helpful in providing guidance on my elderly mother. He was attentive to my information and knowledgeable in navigating the issues she was facing. Highly recommended!
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Sheryl Ann Edwards, experienced Estate Planning, Foreclosure attorney in Sarasota, FL with 30 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
35,08
star star star star star
4.7/5
Google Maps
4.7
30 Reviews
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01 Dec, 2024 by Travis edwards
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20 May, 2024 by Oliver howe
Never returned my call.
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27 Nov, 2023 by Joanne robbins
Excellent service throughout a very difficult real estate closing with a very challenging cast of characters. Nick Edwards was calm, professional and extremely patient. Highly recommend.
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Barry F Spivey, experienced Appeals, Estate Planning attorney in Sarasota, FL with 2 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
35,06
star star star star star
5.0/5
Avvo
5.0
2 Reviews
star star star star star
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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James Lawrence Essenson, experienced Appeals, Estate Planning attorney in Sarasota, FL with 1 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
35,03
star star star star star
5.0/5
Avvo
5.0
1 Reviews
star star star star star
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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Allan F. Baily, experienced Business, Child Custody attorney in Sarasota, FL with 12 reviews
Average
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
34,74
star star star star star
4.6/5
Avvo
4.6
12 Reviews
star star star star star
28 Jun, 2023 by Anonymous
I hired Allan for 2 cases and was very pleased with the results. The only thing I wish that I had more of is prep time before the hearing as I did not feel very prepared, or as prepared as I would have liked. In the end I achieved my goal and that was the whole point.
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04 Feb, 2022 by Anonymous
Allan Baily represnted me for a criminal case, my sister on her dependency case, and my father with a divorce he is outstanding! Easy to talk with, very straight fowards, fast response, and great outcomes for all cases !! couldnt be more grateful.
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19 Oct, 2021 by David
Allan won a divorce case for me and did so because he was more thorough in his sighting of the law much more & better than his opposing attorney. He and his staff were a pleasure with whom to work.
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Stacey Maloney, experienced Business, Estate Planning attorney in Sarasota, FL with 54 reviews
Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
34,36
star star star star star
4.9/5
Google Maps
4.9
54 Reviews
star star star star star
05 Dec, 2024 by Rhonda aldana
A very passionate and caring attorney. Very helpful and professional. I highly recommend them for your needs.
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17 Nov, 2024 by M
Very professional and informative; highly recommend…10/10!
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14 Nov, 2024 by R-k s.
When you are the parent of a child with special educational needs, and you begin searching for a civil rights attorney, it probably means you’ve had some pretty horrible experiences. When I got a call from our young son’s principal, and she began using terms I could not understand, I knew we needed help to get him an IEP immediately. Windsor Law is an incredible firm, and hiring them was the best decision we ever made. Jane and Mitch are the perfect blend of experience, knowledge, and compassion. They will do whatever is within their power to get your child the support he or she needs and is entitled to. Not only do they represent you, but they also teach YOU how to advocate for your child. That alone tells you the type of people they are and what they prioritize. They give practical advice, such as “make friends,” which is not always obvious in the chaos that often surrounds education-related issues. This simple advice helped us get into a problem-solving mindset, which proved to be helpful and productive in the long run. They also are not in the business of making false promises. When we were asking for things that were outside the scope of what is allowed, Jane’s response to me was “I will do my best, but I am not God.” It made me laugh, because we needed that kind of real guidance. It’s scary to hear certain things about our kids. Jane and Mitch do not shy away from having the tough conversations, and I am so grateful for that. Of course, they will also guide you through the entire process. I am an attorney myself, and there were times I talked to Jane about deviating from her proposed strategy. In retrospect, I am so glad I followed her advice instead of thinking I knew better. Jane and Mitch know the system. They are experts in this field, and no one knows it better than they do. They never steered us wrong. In fact, our son is now in a school he loves and where he is loved. He has a 100% attendance rate. He has a teacher that includes him. He completes all his classwork and participates in activities. He’s gone from being in the 1st percentile to being in the 50th percentile in English in less than a year, because he has the support he needs to thrive. I have no doubt that he will soon move out of the middle and into the higher tiers. He is so smart and is finally able to shine. He comes home happy every day and even asks to go to school on weekends. I cannot express how much the simple decision of hiring Windsor Law has changed all of our lives for the better, including our home life, which is a lot more positive and hopeful nowadays! We are so grateful to everyone at Windsor Law for their patience, guidance, and support.
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Joseph Daniel Lieberman, experienced Business, Estate Planning attorney in Sarasota, FL with 64 reviews
Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
33,67
star star star star star
4.8/5
Google Maps
4.8
64 Reviews
star star star star star
20 Feb, 2025 by Amanda vanderee
Wyndel G. Darville is hands down the attorney to hire. His level of knowledge and skill as well as experience, patience, and professionalism cannot be surpassed. He has personally represented my family my son and myself with honor and integrity and has brought so much peace during such a stressful chaotic time and circumstances. His ability to listen as well as to be heard will bring forth so much guidance and peace for you and your family anyone would be blessed to be able to be represented and spoken for by Wyndel G. Darville.
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15 Feb, 2025 by Marie bourassa
We had a very positive experience with Eastmoore Crauwels and Dubose EC&D. We would recommend them to anyone searching for an attorney. Warren Chin and Jennifer McGill were wonderful. They were always prompt in returning our calls and emails and would address any issues right away. They worked hard to resolve our case and we are extremely grateful for their knowledge, guidance and assistance. 5 stars!
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02 Jan, 2025 by Kimberly b
I can't recommend the wonderful team at Eastmoore Crauwels & DuBose enough. From the moment I reached out for help after my accident, I felt completely supported and confident that I was in good hands. Warren was not only professional but also compassionate, taking the time to explain every step of the legal process. The entire team was incredibly responsive and kept me updated on my case regularly. They fought for me every step of the way, securing a settlement that exceeded my expectations. If you're looking for an personal injury lawyer who is both skilled and truly cares about your well-being, I would highly recommend Warren and the entire team at Eastmoore Crauwels & DuBose.
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George Robert McLain, experienced Litigation, Medical Malpractice attorney in Sarasota, FL with 2 reviews
Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
32,06
star star star star star
4.0/5
Avvo
4.0
2 Reviews
star star star star star
16 Jun, 2017 by Anonymous
I was rejected my this law firm because, "Unfortunately, our small law firm is not in a position to undertake such a complicated case in another county." Simple medical malpractice case resulting in toe amputation.
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29 Dec, 2014 by Sarah
We had a medical malpractice case that lasted several years. But, through it, all George stayed dedicated to the case and really delivered. During the proceedings it was very evident that he and his team really did their research and they put on an excellent case. Also, throughout the process, he kept us informed of what his strategy would be and kinds of things we could expect during the depositions and trial. Not only did we finally get our day in court but in the end we were awarded the judgement. Thank You George McClain! He is a dependable man of integrity who we very much appreciate. We have recently moved but George will always be our legal point person.
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Scott Hays Carter, experienced Litigation, Probate attorney in Sarasota, FL with 1 reviews
Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
32,03
star star star star star
4.0/5
Avvo
4.0
1 Reviews
star star star star star
01 Feb, 2015 by Anonymous
Knowlegeable and answered concisely with all my inquires.
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Michael Andrew Kostruba, experienced Estate Planning, Probate attorney in Sarasota, FL with 62 reviews
Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
31,32
star star star star star
4.7/5
Google Maps
4.7
62 Reviews
star star star star star
25 Feb, 2025 by Donald caillouette
Greg Linehan along with Terry Curry did very good in assisting me in dealing with my car accident by a drunk driver. They were great to work with.
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25 Feb, 2025 by Janna reid
Greg, Christy and the entire team at Linehan Law were very helpful, friendly and informative through the entire process. We would recommend them to anyone.
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20 Dec, 2024 by Haley lachance
Greg and his team were so helpful, attentive, fast and effective. Made a hard situation/experience so much better and im so appreciative.
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Stephen Frederick Ellis, experienced Family Law, Litigation attorney in Sarasota, FL with 49 reviews
Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
31,30
star star star star star
4.7/5
Google Maps
4.7
49 Reviews
star star star star star
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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star star star star star
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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star star star star star
03 Apr, 2024 by Melody williams
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Teresa Ann Monfils, experienced Estate Planning, Probate attorney in Sarasota, FL with 49 reviews
Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
31,30
star star star star star
4.7/5
Google Maps
4.7
49 Reviews
star star star star star
24 Aug, 2024 by William trout
Kevin Griffith helped our company with a problem with an unlicensed contractor. Let me first start off by saying WOW, as soon as i called his office he got right on the phone with me and asked me what can i do to help? I told him my dilemma with the unlicensed contractor then sent him all the information and 24 hours later he had repaired all the damaged caused by the unlicensed contractor and even saved us from receiving any penalties from DBPR. Kevin is an outstanding attorney and we will recommend him to anyone we know that would need his services. I'm serious 24 hours and it was over. I personally think that if you don't hire Kevin Griffith then you are not keen on winning. Just my thought after and how he fought for us. Thank you Kevin GREAT JOB!. I hope i never need you again but if i do your my first choice.
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11 May, 2024 by David and eula seyda
Totally pleased and satisfied
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29 Apr, 2024 by Douglas b
Mcintosh Law is hands down the best law firm around. My case was not what you would call a typical case. My case consisted of false accusations, very poor investigation/investigators, regarding numerous accounting line items over several years. Plus the so called "victim" is a pathological liar with friends in the right places. It was a mess to explain my situation, but it was amazing how Brett and Beth broke this case down completely and absolutely proved I was innocent. Brett and Beth together have tremendous experience. Beth was a prosecutor for 20 years and Brett is very detailed and extremly talented at defending to protect your rights and provide you the best legal repensentation I believe in the state of Florida. I am so grateful and lucky to have found this law firm to represent me and my case.
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Kimberly A. Colgate, experienced Business, Probate attorney in Sarasota, FL with 55 reviews
Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
30,50
star star star star star
4.4/5
Avvo
5.0
1 Reviews
Google Maps
4.4
54 Reviews
star star star star star
18 Oct, 2024 by Tasha dearduff
Update website and stop false advertisement...reviews are false
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10 Sep, 2024 by James begg
Karla Lopez is a very hard working attorney at this office. She is very competent and thorough, and really helped us when we needed her. She has been throughout the process looking out for our best interest, and is very honest and considerate. Will gladly use her services again.
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30 Jul, 2024 by Barry weinstein
I called as a prospective new client, and was told they were too busy. Perhaps my case was too small
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Jennifer Lodge Grosso, experienced Probate, Real Estate attorney in Sarasota, FL with 15 reviews
Below Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
28,40
star star star star star
4.2/5
Google Maps
4.2
15 Reviews
star star star star star
14 Jun, 2024 by Peter amanda
Kate was able to help guide us in our legal proceedings regarding our family owned real estate business and we felt super confident and appreciative of all her knowledge on the subject. Highly recommend to anyone needing council in FL.
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21 Mar, 2024 by Arthur conforti
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07 Feb, 2024 by Lon birnholz
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Gail G. Fagan, experienced Probate attorney in Sarasota, FL with 7 reviews
Below Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
12,16
star star star star star
2.1/5
Google Maps
2.1
7 Reviews
star star star star star
17 May, 2024 by Rick greendonner
Prompt, professional legal services!
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09 Nov, 2023 by Eitan spell
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star star star star star
09 Nov, 2023 by Vitaliy kurdyuk
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Kenneth Dale Chapman Jr., experienced Business, Estate Planning attorney in Sarasota, FL with 4 reviews
Below Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
9,97
star star star star star
2.0/5
Avvo
1.0
1 Reviews
Google Maps
2.3
3 Reviews
star star star star star
17 May, 2024 by Carol wagner
1 star is to generous. I had the worst experience with this attorney. He is so dishonest and tried to take advantage of my family after my parents died. Make sure you know fees from him he is very deceitful sneaky and corrupt. Run !!!!
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16 Apr, 2024 by Dan dannheisser
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13 Jan, 2022 by Dale t
I used him to do a real estate closing. He refused to answer simple questions, never responds, made many errors, including 5 versions of the closing statement. Took forever to get him to correct. Charges on the wrong side, math errors, etc. Finally I gave up and closed after he wasted 2 weeks of time for nothing with his and his team, incompetence. Cost a few hundred dollars for nothing, unbelievably frustrating, the worst experience I have ever had with a lawyer and I have had many. Stay away.
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R. Craig Harrison, experienced Estate Planning, Litigation attorney in Sarasota, FL with 2 reviews
Below Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
9,47
star star star star star
1.5/5
Avvo
1.5
2 Reviews
star star star star star
03 Mar, 2017 by A.j.
I am from out of state and was in a hurry to close my mother's estate. I had a feeling that I was in the wrong place when I got to his office but I did not have time to find another lawyer. A simple probate case took them nearly 14 months and $8,000 to close. I should have known better. I will say that his legal aide was always polite and understood my frustrations. She gets 5 stars!
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31 Mar, 2014 by Anonymous
Mr Harrison and his staff are terrible about getting back to you. I felt that important issues were falling through the cracks because of his lack of responsiveness and followup. I feel like we overpaid for simple services-as we didn't come out of our foreclosure any better off than if we would have had no lawyer at all. I often had difficulty understanding Mr Harrison too because he stutters. I feel very frustrated with this law firm most of the time.
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M. Michelle Robles, experienced Business, Elder Law attorney in Sarasota, FL with 0 reviews
Below Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
8,00
star star star star star
0.0/5
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Gregory A Kaiser, experienced Elder Law, Estate Planning attorney in Sarasota, FL with 0 reviews
Below Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
8,00
star star star star star
0.0/5
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Kevin Pillion, experienced Consumer Protection, Elder Law attorney in Sarasota, FL with 0 reviews
Below Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
8,00
star star star star star
0.0/5
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Daniel John Lobeck, experienced Probate, Real Estate attorney in Sarasota, FL with 1 reviews
Below Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
7,17
star star star star star
1.0/5
Avvo
1.0
1 Reviews
star star star star star
19 Jul, 2022 by Anonymous
In my opinion, this lawyer cares only about himself and couldn’t care less about his clients. I would never recommend him to anyone under any circumstances.
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David P. Johnson, experienced Business, Elder Law attorney in Sarasota, FL with 0 reviews
Below Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
7,00
star star star star star
0.0/5
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Daniel Hooper Smith, experienced Elder Law, Estate Planning attorney in Sarasota, FL with 0 reviews
Below Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
7,00
star star star star star
0.0/5
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Teresa Kay Bowman, experienced Elder Law, Estate Planning attorney in Sarasota, FL with 0 reviews
Below Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
4,00
star star star star star
0.0/5
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Julie Anne Torrez, experienced Business, Probate attorney in Sarasota, FL with 0 reviews
Below Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
4,00
star star star star star
0.0/5
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David Paul Johnson, experienced Business, Consumer Protection attorney in Sarasota, FL with 0 reviews
Below Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
4,00
star star star star star
0.0/5
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Edwin M. Boyer, experienced Elder Law, Estate Planning attorney in Sarasota, FL with 0 reviews
Below Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
4,00
star star star star star
0.0/5
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Kevin J Wimmer, experienced Probate attorney in Sarasota, FL with 0 reviews
Below Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
4,00
star star star star star
0.0/5
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Bishop L. Toups, experienced Business, Elder Law attorney in Sarasota, FL with 0 reviews
Below Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
4,00
star star star star star
0.0/5
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FAQs
Questions? We have answers

What a Probate Lawyer Can Do for You

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

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

When Should I Hire a Probate Lawyer?

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

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

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

What Does a Probate Lawyer Do?

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

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

How Are Probate Lawyers Paid?

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

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

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

How Much Does a Probate Lawyer Cost?

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

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

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

Top Questions to Ask a Probate Lawyer

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

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

How to Check the Credibility of a Probate Lawyer

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

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

What Should I Prepare for My First Consultation?

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

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

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

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