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21 Nov, 2024 by Steven foust
We had the best and most professional experience with Meagan! She know estate planning better than anyone we've ever worked with. Meagan has a unique ability to simplify the process and make everything easy to understand. She's also very responsive to emails, calls, and questions.
The prices are very competitive and you will not be disappointed with the outcome and simplicity of the process. We definitely recommend Monarch and Megan for all of your Estate Planning needs.
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19 Nov, 2024 by Brittany webb
14 Nov, 2024 by Len brown
We recently had our Estate Plan drafted with Monarch Estate Planning and Meagan did an outstanding job. She provided a thorough well documented Estate Plan and kept us well informed throughout the process. She kept us well informed from start to finish and provided a concise binder with easy to use reference tabs in both hardcopy and digital formats. I highly recommend Meagan McCraw if you're in the market for Estate Planning!
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16 Jun, 2020 by Josh funkhouser
I regularly refer my clients to Williams & Williams Law, LLC for estate planning, accounting and tax advice ranging from day-to-day operations, to complex transactions, litigation and estates requiring specialized assistance. I highly recommend Taylor and Michael for their premium, value-added services.
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27 Mar, 2018 by Bob cannon
BOB CANNON
AVANTE-GRAYHAWK
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13 Jun, 2017 by Linda
Taylor helped me with creating a LLC and also trust work. He was knowledgable, professional and always prepared. When I called or emailed he answered promptly. If I could give him more than 5 stars I would!
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26 Sep, 2019 by Sami shelly
Maria Lawrence handled a heartbreaking case concerning our son Tim Shelley. She was very through...professional and at the same time compassionate and competent.
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14 Sep, 2018 by Kevin
Doug has helped me in some major business decisions and represented my Company successfully in court. The only thing worse than having a bad lawyer is a bad doctor. Doug is a great lawyer and a man I trust and value. Happy to recommend Doug and wish him nothing but the best ! Kevin
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16 Apr, 2015 by Carol
Doug is a man of character and integrity in all that he does. We have worked with him over many years. He has always been responsive, knowledgeable, direct with the facts, offers options to be considered, proactive to bring resolution in a fair and expedient manner. We appreciate all that he and his firm have done on our behalf.
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16 Oct, 2019 by Ellen nagel
James was awesome! Held my deal together when I was about to jump ship. Made sure both sides were happy at all times and was always accessible, He was the BEST!!!
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04 May, 2018 by David n. smith, councilman, city of scottsdale
I retained Stanna Slater to represent me in a matter that seemed minor at the outset, but soon morphed into a dispute over citizens’ rights relying on “plain English” interpretation of State law.
Stanna’s legal arguments based on the equity rights of estoppel – intelligently researched and persuasively articulated – should have led to a quick and equitable compromise resolution of the matter.
Met with intransigence on the other side, though, she carried her arguments to the next level, eventually leading to recusal of the opposing attorneys and a prompt judicial ruling in my favor.
Stanna Slater exhibits qualities everyone would like to have in their attorney…the highest professional competence; tenacity in the pursuit of justice; prompt and courteous communication with her client.
I would not hesitate to recommend her to friends and clients.
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07 Aug, 2016 by Marcia diane
Stanna Slater does not quit. That is her genius. She also has an unerring sense of what drives bureaucracies and how to use that to client advantage.
Stanna prevailed where others left off; Lambda Legal, ACLU...none were able to stay the course.
Today I have victory over a four year battle with Social Security Administration to receive my rightful Widow's Survivor Benefits.
At every turn reasons were thrown in our path like nails strewn in the road to halt our progress. Didn't work. We prevailed. And I do mean we, for that is another essential attribute that Stanna processes...she works with the client not in front of our in spite of. This is a strategy that works very well for victory...clients often have just that piece of information that is essential to the next 'win'.
Without her I would have been defeated, received nothing, gone ashamed and begging. Instead I stand proud as the surviving spouse of an amazing long term thirty-one year Lesbian relationship. We Won, folks.
Marcia , surviving spouse of Ellen
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5.0
1 Reviews
4.9
256 Reviews
18 Nov, 2024 by Larry hohl
Allison Kierman at Kierman Law has done a nice job of refining what could be a somewhat intimidating process of preparing a trust. She also has extensive knowledge of the laws and regulations that pertain to trusts in the state of Arizona.
I am very pleased with the final product and feel much more confident that our affairs would be handled in a seamless manner.
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25 Oct, 2024 by Ash n
I am extremely grateful for Mr. Davidson's expertise and dedication throughout my complex legal case. He truly saved my life!
Mr. Davidson was always available to answer my questions, clearly explained the legal process, and fought tirelessly to achieve a positive outcome.Throughout the entire experience, I felt fully informed and supported.
I would highly recommend Mr. Davidson to anyone in need of legal assistance.
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21 Oct, 2024 by Sandy lowery
12 Sep, 2019 by Jason
I highly recommend Yvette Banker. Speaking with an attorney is always a high anxiety situation. Yvette takes the time to calm all nerves and helped me clearly understand my options. Thanks Yvette!!
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02 Nov, 2018 by Robert calta
Yvette assisted me with the Conservatorship of a Disabled Adult. And also assisted me with the Trust Administration for a family friend, as well as assisting me as a Trustee for a friend for a Special Needs Trust. If anyone ever needs An Attorney for Elders, Special Needs, Guardianship, Estate Planning, there is no other Attorney I would select. Banker Law Office, Yvette Banker is the Best. And in addition to Yvette her Administrative Assistant Christina Harrop is second to None. I trust them with all my Trust Needs. Whenever I have a Question, they are always their to answer my questions!!!
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30 Oct, 2018 by Mark
As the trustee for someone in Arizona, I needed an Arizona lawyer to represent me in obtaining guardianship. Yvette exceeded my expectations in every respect. She demonstrated command of the law and process, articulation of our position, and sensitivity to the personal issues involved. She and her staff follow through on everything and pay attention to details. She is one of the best probate lawyer's I've worked with in 35 years as a lawyer myself.
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22 Feb, 2019 by Anonymous
Katrina was a delight to deal with, explained everything so I could understand. I have already sent her family members to handle their wills.
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25 Jan, 2018 by Anonymous
Although Katrina was not able to help with my specific issue, the office did contact me quickly and refer to another attorney. The advice was appreciated.
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01 Nov, 2012 by Joe
Katrina was a excellent advocate. She told me what I needed to hear not what I wanted to hear.
The cold hard truth enabled me to make the smart decisions that ultimately brought about a favorable out come. Her courtroom performance was superb and she had sincere genuine empathy for my situation. I feel her 14 years of experience were also invaluable.
I highly recommend Katrina.
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23 Aug, 2024 by Herbert janert
We were extremely satisfied with our results of having our trust revised by Luke. We felt he was very interested and was able to explain important aspects of the trust that would be important to us . I would highly recommend this attorney if you are interested in getting a trust.
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22 Aug, 2024 by John
Mr. Reynoso put together our family trust for us. It was very detailed and explained to us in a manner that was easy to understand.
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21 Aug, 2024 by Anonymous
Great on Estate Planning. Went in to make some changes to my Will and estate planning documents. Always appreciate Luke's advice and expertise.
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19 Mar, 2021 by Deena ebbert
Thoughtful, responsive, personable. Kevin is a consummate professional; his work ethic is sterling, and we know he has our back.
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28 Dec, 2020 by Nolana whisnant
Kevin Ganser has been a knowledgeable, supportive attorney as I have worked through my father’s large and complicated estate. He has helped me navigate legal complexities related to probate in two states, beneficiary deeds, estate debt and disbursement, executorship, and taxes. The entire time, he has been accessible, responsive, and caring. Because his work was so great on my father’s estate, my husband and I, who live in California, had him rewrite our trust. Kevin is not only knowledgeable, but genuinely cares about his clients.
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28 Dec, 2020 by Jeremy whisnant
Kevin is a very knowledgeable attorney with specific expertise in California and Arizona. My wife and I have used him for updating our California trust, handling a complicated estate in Arizona, and many other small matters. He is professional, easy to work with, and translates legalese into plain English. I definitely recommend Kevin.
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17 Sep, 2024 by Christopher chad jennings
Well no one and I mean my former employer told me about the self service log on and still till this day I thought they were a Phoenix address not a Scottsdale address
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07 Jun, 2023 by Dr. lisa lorence del valle
Pay Tech has been a life changer! Everyone has been so professional and hard working and they go above and beyond with all of their services and communications. Very grateful to Cheryl and Julie and Pay Tech staff!
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04 Nov, 2022 by D svancara
Wonderful payroll company. Easy to use and great staff. They go above and beyond to help their clients. I highly recommend them.
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02 May, 2019 by Anonymous
After speaking with a number one estate planning lawyers I decided to hire Whitney Sorrel in large part based on his ability to communicate clearly. By "clearly" I mean he was able to explain exactly what he would be doing and the purpose of completing an estate plan.
What followed was even better. He listened to what I wanted while at the same time challenging me, in a very positive way, as to the wisdom of my choices. In the end, the final document represents my wishes while protecting assets and future finances.
In addition, his personal style direct yet friendly fit perfectly with the way I prefer to do things. I would recommend Mr. Sorrel very highly.
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09 Mar, 2018 by Scott
My father hired Whitney to update his trust in 2015. He recently passed away. Whitney and his team did an outstanding job helping myself and my brothers quickly settle the estate and deal with all of the little things that are required after someone passes. Whitney's advise and counsel helped us make sure that as the assets changed hands they were immediately protected. He definitely made things easy for us in a very difficult time.
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13 Nov, 2016 by Beverley
My experience with Mr Sorrell and his knowledgeable staff has been superb. Whitney and his paralegal Ben went above and beyond my expectations. They truly do care about their clients and their needs. I am amazed and grateful at the attention to details & dedication that was given towards securing my future. Thank you guys SOOOO much!!!
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22 Dec, 2024 by Dorothea lindsay
Angelica is very knowledgeable in her field. She is authentic and humanistic and has mastered the art of listening which has enabled her to individualize creative solutions for each client.
She has an uncommon talent of being able to educate her clients in a manner that empowers them to make decisions that will lead to sustainable impressive outcomes.
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21 Dec, 2024 by Naudia
Prior to meeting Angelica, I thought financial advisors ONLY worked with the rich and the famous! I thought they ONLY cared about maintaining the wealth in certain families and thus were out of reach and quite frankly out of touch with the working class. Angelica obliterated that notion during our very first interaction by passionately describing her desire to continuously partner with & build generational wealth in marginalized groups.
Working with Angelica has been an absolute game-changer for my financial well-being. From day one, she took the time to understand my unique situation and long-term goals, crafting a tailored strategy that fits my needs. What I appreciate most about Angelica is her ability to make me feel empowered and in control of my finances—no question is too small, and she always takes the time to explain things thoroughly. She has the wonderful gift of breaking down seemingly complex processes to elementary levels. This can also be seen in her multiple interviews available online. Beyond her expertise; her genuine care and dedication to her clients make her a standout advisor. I feel more confident about my financial future thanks to Angelica, and I wouldn’t hesitate to recommend her to anyone seeking a thoughtful, results-driven advisor.
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21 Dec, 2024 by Warren graver
Angelica is an exceptional financial advisor who truly stands out in her field. Her deep knowledge, strategic insight, and personalized approach have made a significant impact on my financial planning. She listens carefully, understands my goals, and provides clear, actionable advice that has helped me make smarter, more confident financial decisions. What sets her apart is her genuine commitment to her clients’ success and her ability to simplify complex financial matters. Angelica’s professionalism, integrity, and expertise make her a standout in the industry, and I’m fortunate to have her as my advisor. I highly recommend her to anyone looking for a trusted, dedicated financial partner.
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14 Mar, 2021 by Jayne
I recently engaged Abby Neal to review and restate my Trust. I value her expertise and deep attention to detail. She explained things in depth and in a manner that makes sense to laypeople. The communication, planning and process was well thought out and executed. I would recommend Ms. Neal!
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25 Sep, 2019 by Violet
Abby and Jessica are the best! I was very happy with the level of professionalism and would highly recommend the Neal Law Firm. Abby is very thorough and explained the entire process and what would work best for me. I would definitely use them again and will certainly recommend my family and friends to them.
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06 Apr, 2016 by Kathy
My husband and I hired Abby to prepare our estate plan. She prepared a trust, wills, power of attorneys and healthcare documents for us. We were so happy we were referred to Abby as she's is very professional and knowledgeable and an absolute pleasure to work with. We highly recommend Abby to anyone looking for an estate planning lawyer.
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06 Dec, 2017 by Brian
I consulted with Megan on a probate issue regarding my deceased grandmother's home. Megan provided excellent advice, and was very helpful. She was able to help solve the issue so the property could be sold. I would recommend Megan to anyone seeking assistance with probate.
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02 Dec, 2017 by Joan
My son in law is semi retired lawyer in another firm but referred me to Biven and Associates nearly ten years ago for my mom who needed long term care. I then needed assistance for my significant other with his estate and I then had the pleasure to meet Megan Selvey. She helped me through a difficult time, numerous phone calls and meetings with family members until his recent passing. Megan is smart, caring and professional with genuine concern for her clients welfare. She goes beyond in her duties and is always available to take a call. I have referred friends and family to her and continue a business relationship with BIVENS and Associates. Megan is an asset to the company and I consider her a friend and my go to person for any legal issue.
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02 Dec, 2017 by Kathryn
Megan Selvey was referred to us by our daughter. Upon consulting her for our services, we found her professional and very informative about our legal needs. She was not forceful in her methods and only offered us what we required. In addition, she provided the services we required in a timely fashion. I would and have highly recommended Ms. Selvey to anyone seeking her services!
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08 Jan, 2020 by Renee
Steven met my brother and was hired by him to construct his last will and testament. My brother named me as his personal representative of his estate. After my brother's passing, Steven was there to help. The case turned out to be a difficult and complicated one. Steven was extremely good at listening to me and communicated with me often. It was clearly obvious to me that he genuinely cared about my case. He continuously went above and beyond to help me in any way he could to get me through the process. I would HIGHLY recommend him to others in my similar situation. I was confident in his experience and knowledge and would definitely hire his services in the future.
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30 Jun, 2016 by Melissa
Steve helped my husband and I with our wills, power of attorney and trusts. He was extremely thorough and explained how to avoid probate. I'm pleased with all the information provided since we both had questions when we walked in. He took the time out of his busy schedule to help out our family. We will be forever grateful for the energy and time he put into bringing assurance and peace of mind for us. We were able to walk away more knowlegable and having a great plan.
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13 Apr, 2016 by Justin
Mr. Jackson was very helpful in assisting me with a probate matter. I was unsure of what steps to take with regard to my specific situation as I had never dealt with any probate matters before. Mr. Jackson not only guided me where I needed to go, but took the extra time and effort to consult with one of his colleagues so I would not make a misstep. I can not recommend him enough thanks to his helpfulness and kindness during this process.
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31 Dec, 2018 by Doug
Quinn understood our situation and needs and prepared all the appropriate documents according to our wishes.
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29 Aug, 2018 by Tim
Mr. DeAngelis help us with a very messy estate settlement. One family member took control of the estate and never gave an accounting or filed any tax returns. Mr. DeAngelis gave us some great advice so we could protect our interest and file with IRS.
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05 Jan, 2015 by John
I have know Quinn for many years and have referred many clients to him for their estate planning needs. In addition, as a personal injury and medical malpractice lawyer, I have asked him to advise my own clients at the conclusion of significant cases where the amount recovered gives rise to long term distribution and estate planning implications. Quinn is a top notch, well-credentialed lawyer whom I would recommend to anyone.
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05 Mar, 2015 by Anonymous
I was devastated to find myself in a position to have to file bankruptcy. Mr Eastin and the entire staff at Platt and Westby were knowledgeable and helped me make it through the process and came up with a payment plan that worked for me. They stood by me when complications were incurred during the process. They were caring and supportive and with their help I have completed the process. I highly recommend this firm and Mr. Eastin to anyone who finds themselves in this unfortunate position.
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06 Dec, 2013 by Brian
We had an extremely complex Chapter13 case. Filing bankruptcy was an extremely agonizing decision but hiring Platt and Westby to represent us was probably the smartest decision I’ve ever made. Throughout the entire 5 years, Harvey Platt, Bryan Eastin, Thomas Karvel, and especially paralegal Dorothy Bain treated us with dignity and respect. If I could give Platt and Westby, P.C. “6” stars, I would. Trust me, if you need to file bankruptcy…nobody will get your back like Platt & Westby, P.C.
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01 Nov, 2013 by Anonymous
Mr. Eastin impressed me by his high regard for ethics and professionalism. He was always a voice of calm and reason in a highly emotionally charged situation. He was extremely honest with me and kept me informed during the course of my case. Thank you Mr. Eastin.
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14 Jun, 2017 by Robert kolander
After the birth of our son, we had Libby establish our family trust. She made it very easy, was extremely patient, and answered all of our questions along the way. I would highly recommend Libby for any of your estate/will/probate or other related legal needs.
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15 Apr, 2016 by Robert
Libby handled all the questions and concerns we had about setting up our trust, and presented us with our trust in a professional, bound book complete with digital versions to store in safe places.
A professional experience throughout the entire process - I wouldn't hesitate to recommend Libby.
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08 Apr, 2014 by Howard
As an attorney practicing in a different area of law, it is nice to find an attorney that is as compassionate, experienced, knowledgable about probate, wills, and estates. Many people hope for the best when planning their wills. Libby will walk them through the process and make them comfortable thinking about the things that must be done so the family won't be fighting after the fact.
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30 Sep, 2014 by M&m
Ms. Picarello was a joy to work with during a not so joyous time. She had the answers and the tactics that led us to a suitable resolution to a long and painful situation.
Thank you for everything Kari
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18 May, 2014 by Ryan
Ms Picarello was very professional.
She was very attentive to our needs and added a personal touch.
Often when you need to involve a lawyer, this is an unpleasant event, but Ms Picarello made as easy as possible. She was present at events she didn't have to be at and wasn't always running a tab.
My wife and I appreciated the work she put into our case and were even more pleased that we prevailed. I recommend Ms Picarello for any legal matters you may have.
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03 Sep, 2019 by Eric
Kent was amazing. He excelled in communication, and he was very understanding and listened to or unique situation. He explained everything in detail and was an amazing advocate for what we wanted to do. I would highly recommend him and his services.
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03 Sep, 2019 by Anonymous
Kent and his staff were friendly and very professional. From the first meeting we had a high degree of confidence in their expertise and knee we had landed in the right place. I wouldn't hesitate at all to recommend Phelps Estate Planning to close friends and family members or to complete strangers!
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04 Mar, 2017 by Anonymous
I was in 2 car accidents within 2 weeks neither I which were my fault
I sustained both personal injury and property damage
Dealing with three insurance companies hospitals and s rental car agency were beyond my capabilities
In addition to guiding me what to do and not to do , Mr Abdo took over dealing with all the various agents and systematically managed all the other
Complexities in my best interests
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23 Feb, 2017 by Iris
I hired Nicholas to review a contract I had with a group home. I believed the quality of care my family member received was extremely poor, and went against what was stated in my contract. Nicholas got me out of my contract, I was issued a refund, and was able to move my family member.
I was so pleased with Nicholas's help that I have since hired him to assist me with a personal injury case. This case is ongoing and Nicholas keeps me informed on a regular basis.
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03 Aug, 2017 by Anonymous
My father passed away in AZ and I live in another state. Without knowing any attorneys in AZ, I researched several online and called a few to explain my situation. Shad and I spoke a couple times as he answered my questions and patiently explained my options. Between his reasonable rate and helpful attitude even before I hired him, I knew he'd do a good job so I hired him without even meeting in person. He remained responsive through email correspondence until the case was resolved. It was a risk since I never hired an attorney before and didn't actually meet him. I'm very grateful he was responsive and saw the job thru at the price quoted.
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10 Sep, 2013 by Leslie
Attorney Meyrose is very responsive to the client's needs, she is inquisitive, prepared and actively involved in the preparation, presentation and follow through for the matter at hand. Attorney Meyrose is extremely professional and knowledgeable. I appreciate the work that she has completed on my behalf and highly recommend her services.
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09 Jan, 2018 by Anonymous
We consulted with Tara regarding several of our client contracts. She reviewed our business documents and made recommendations and changes based our needs and the services we provided. She was professional, efficient and knowledgeable. We will definitely work with Tara in the future regarding our business contracts and transactional needs.
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05 Jul, 2024 by Donald lewis
My wife and I have been utilizing the services of Kathryn for more than a decade. She is smart well-educated and very versed in the law. She and her staff pay attention to the details. Besides that she's a pleasure to work with. What more could you want !
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22 Feb, 2020 by D g
09 Oct, 2022 by Donna adams
14 Feb, 2025 by Jo
Have rung multiple time and on 4 different numbers over 5 working days and no one every answers they all end up going to message. Very frustrating
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11 Feb, 2025 by Steven jenkins
Was decent in the beginning, decided to get cocky about his 250 / 5 star reviews when asking about price telling me to go find someone cheaper. That's how you lose business. My advice have a better attitude. Will never recommend this guy or his law firm!
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11 Feb, 2025 by 710 snob
Zero reply to emails and calls to the son and father, we have an Aunt looking for a trust and help with real estate. No emails or calls returned
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23 Jan, 2025 by Maureen brown
My parents have been working with Matt Dana for many years. His team of attorneys (Hallie and Todd) have been informative and easy to converse with as some legal topics that required some simple explaining. There is great comfort that Matt’s experience and their Team collaboration benefits my Parents’ estate profoundly. We recently lost a parent and Dana Whiting Law has been a reassurance that my Parents life long work/estate is protected and I can continue to care for my other Parent.
I was referred to Dana Whiting Law by another firm due to the complex nature of the estate and grateful for that referral.
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23 Jan, 2025 by Maurice brown
I have been working with Matt Dana and his team for 5 years and he is very knowledgeable and very experienced. I had some estate work done by another attorney that was a waste of time and money. Matt Dana and his team are responsive and very experienced of the multi-generational family business nuisances. Matt has shared his experiences and has provided practical and valued advice. My wife and I feel comforted that our estate plans are setup correctly and robust. Thanks for a great relationship.
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23 Jan, 2025 by Pam zeasman
I would highly recommend Trever and his team. Being new to Arizona Trever answered all my questions and made the process of updating my trust easy and in a timely manner. Thank you for your expertise and kindness.
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23 Jan, 2025 by Maureen brown
My parents have been working with Matt Dana for many years. His team of attorneys (Hallie and Todd) have been informative and easy to converse with as some legal topics that required some simple explaining. There is great comfort that Matt’s experience and their Team collaboration benefits my Parents’ estate profoundly. We recently lost a parent and Dana Whiting Law has been a reassurance that my Parents life long work/estate is protected and I can continue to care for my other Parent.
I was referred to Dana Whiting Law by another firm due to the complex nature of the estate and grateful for that referral.
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23 Jan, 2025 by Maurice brown
I have been working with Matt Dana and his team for 5 years and he is very knowledgeable and very experienced. I had some estate work done by another attorney that was a waste of time and money. Matt Dana and his team are responsive and very experienced of the multi-generational family business nuisances. Matt has shared his experiences and has provided practical and valued advice. My wife and I feel comforted that our estate plans are setup correctly and robust. Thanks for a great relationship.
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23 Jan, 2025 by Pam zeasman
I would highly recommend Trever and his team. Being new to Arizona Trever answered all my questions and made the process of updating my trust easy and in a timely manner. Thank you for your expertise and kindness.
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15 Oct, 2024 by Carlotta
Amazing firm. Not enough words to describe Joseph qualities. He is beyond compassionate, skilled, honest, and very responsive. He knows his field! We hired him to help with some family agreements, but he was simply an amazing being all along, even after helping us he was there for me with all his knowledge and expertise in family law. Cristina, is Joseph’s assistant, she’s the most kind ever. If you’re looking for a knowledgeable and honest lawyer you’ve found it!
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15 Sep, 2021 by Andrew
Joseph was a great attorney, he explained the whole process completely. Mr. Kirshy understands how it is being a father and wanting what’s best for your children. He completely changed my life as I now have a lot more time with my children. Definitely recommend
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03 Aug, 2021 by Nedra
I had an issue with my husband's greedy heirs and needed legal counsel. In my search for representation I talked to no less than 6 firms. Joseph T. Kirshy of Owens Perkins was the only attorney who actually listened to me. My search was arduous but I kept coming back to Owens Perkins and Mr. Kirshy and he always took my calls.
The thing to know is that he never charged me for a consultation or the advise he gave me. I did ask him, "how do I pay you?" He told me that, based on the information that I had given him on our calls, I was covered and that there was no need for me to spend my money, at this critical time, on attorney fees. Truly Astounding, Extraordinary and down-right Exceptional!
I did not need to retain his services but if I ever do or know of anyone who needs to I would make only one recommendation, Owens Perkins and Joseph T. Kirshy.
Sincerely
Nedra Eldridge
President- Eldridge Construction Management, Inc.
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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:
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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.
