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27 Aug, 2023 by Neal and ann
Sharon prepared the will and four related documents for each of us, handling some unusual requests and unanticipated complications very well. At all times she was helpful, efficient, accommodating, and responsive to our needs. We recommend her highly.
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16 Dec, 2022 by Ahamed musthafa
17 Mar, 2022 by Danny j. adams
30 Jan, 2024 by Sam jones
We are contemplating a move back to Washington state where we lived for many years. Without proper estate planning we would potentially be subject to the Washington estate tax. n our initial contacts with the firm, we clearly identified that we were residents in another state. We were instructed to provide our detailed financial picture as well as our current estate planning documents which we provided promptly and told that our information would be forwarded to the attorneys for evaluation. The following is the email response.
“Thank you for filling out and returning your Questionnaire.
I will forward your information to our attorneys for review. Once they have completed their review, I will be back in touch with you regarding a quote for services and the next steps for scheduling.”
Well over a month went by with no word back from STIB. I finally contacted them by email requesting a status update. Within minutes, I received the following reply.
“Thank you very much for contacting our firm. Unfortunately, we are not able to take on your case. Our firm does not advise out-of-state residents on tax issues. Our focus is estate planning and long term care planning.”
The STIB website clearly tax issues as part of estate planning. I also found no restrictions on attorneys in Washington state providing consultation to out-of-state residents considering residency in Washington.
Needless to say, I was astounded by what I consider to extremely poor communication and timely follow-up. If it is indeed not their policy to advise out-of-state residents on tax issues, I would have expected to have been informed of that policy up front thus saving us the time of compiling and sending detailed and confidential financial and estate planning information. In my opinion, this represents incompetent and totally unprofessional behavior.
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27 Jan, 2024 by Michelle tanco
As someone who has no experience with wills or lawyers and doesn’t understand the process, this was a bad fit. It’s quite possible that if you know what to ask or what’s happening that they will be great for you, but for me I ended up with a $120 invoice for two emails I didn’t understand what to do with, going to look for someone else to help us setup out family will.
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22 Dec, 2023 by Dave
Angela gave us clear, useful and compassionate legal advice on our very complicated situation. She was flexible with her time when we needed to reschedule. She went above & beyond by exploring issues we hadn't thought of and had not raised in our original request. This is our first time seeking legal advice on something like this - our experience couldn't have been better. Thank you Angela
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16 Dec, 2022 by Ahamed musthafa
17 Mar, 2022 by Danny j. adams
09 Oct, 2021 by Christopher hendrix
I retained Peter last year to create a will and trust. He was great at answering all my questions. He was easy to work with from the initial consult to signing the final documents. His fees were very fair, and I would happily retain him again if I needed legal services.
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24 Aug, 2022 by April baumgardner
My fiance and I worked with Jeannie on a probate situation. She was awesome.
Originally when calling around to look for an attorney, Jeannie was the only attorney who took time out of her day to call us back within a few hours of our initial call. She answered my questions and was extremely helpful.
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15 Feb, 2019 by Robert heller
Ken takes the time to get to know you and offers sound advice about how to proceed. And his calm demeanor helps reduce the stress which is part of many legal matters. Highly recommend!
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13 Jun, 2018 by John main
Awesome, honest and result orientated
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28 Apr, 2024 by Nick
I'm so glad I found her. She is incredibly knowledgeable. More importantly, she was understanding, empathetic, and helpful as I struggled with the difficult decisions that are an inevitable part of living wills.
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16 Dec, 2022 by Ahamed musthafa
17 Mar, 2022 by Danny j. adams
21 Oct, 2023 by Jet skipper
20 Jan, 2023 by Ranjit singh
Best in the business. Got my traffic ticket dismissed on first court date.
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28 Oct, 2021 by Joan griffith
I left a message on their answering machine.
They returned my call that same day and advised me. I would recommend them
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30 Sep, 2022 by T t
Really hands on helpful and worth every cent.
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10 Dec, 2008 by Anonymous
My and my partner's experience with Mr. Rose was extremely positive. Knowledgeable, professional, trustworthy and creative, Mr. Rose exemplifies what good counsel is all about. My highest recommendation
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13 Oct, 2024 by Roberto benavides aliaga
Todo bien
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07 May, 2024 by Anthony then
David was very helpful throughout the whole process. Very professional and I would recommend him to any of my friends and family in a heartbeat.
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07 May, 2024 by Jeff lee
I can't thank David enough for his help in helping me through my car accident. He helped me in covering my medical expenses.
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22 Nov, 2024 by Eric ahrens
Andrew Huff is a top performer, I've used him 3 times at this point and won for every time for me. Go with the champion for all your traffic needs, he takes care of everything worry free and keep your driving record clean. Eric Ahrens
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19 Nov, 2024 by D j
I recently consulted with Damien regarding a severance agreement I had already signed after being laid off by my employer. A section in the non-compete clause had been keeping me up at night—it made no sense, even after running it through numerous analyses. Damien returned my call quickly, and I was immediately impressed by his responsiveness and dedication.
You can tell he works long, hard hours and is genuinely passionate about employee rights. He was generous with his time, actively listened to my concerns, and provided clear guidance to help me better understand the clause in question. Damien even pointed me toward additional resources to further unpack my concerns.
What stood out the most was his thoughtful and reassuring approach—there was absolutely no "hard sell." I left our conversation feeling like he truly cares about his clients and the people seeking his advice. I highly recommend Damien for anyone needing clarity and support during such a stressful time.
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12 Nov, 2024 by Clarence nelson
My experience was horrible. Wouldn’t recommend Lance Lee. Almost lost my home as a result of his incompetence and arrogance.
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22 Nov, 2024 by Eric ahrens
Andrew Huff is a top performer, I've used him 3 times at this point and won for every time for me. Go with the champion for all your traffic needs, he takes care of everything worry free and keep your driving record clean. Eric Ahrens
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19 Nov, 2024 by D j
I recently consulted with Damien regarding a severance agreement I had already signed after being laid off by my employer. A section in the non-compete clause had been keeping me up at night—it made no sense, even after running it through numerous analyses. Damien returned my call quickly, and I was immediately impressed by his responsiveness and dedication.
You can tell he works long, hard hours and is genuinely passionate about employee rights. He was generous with his time, actively listened to my concerns, and provided clear guidance to help me better understand the clause in question. Damien even pointed me toward additional resources to further unpack my concerns.
What stood out the most was his thoughtful and reassuring approach—there was absolutely no "hard sell." I left our conversation feeling like he truly cares about his clients and the people seeking his advice. I highly recommend Damien for anyone needing clarity and support during such a stressful time.
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12 Nov, 2024 by Clarence nelson
My experience was horrible. Wouldn’t recommend Lance Lee. Almost lost my home as a result of his incompetence and arrogance.
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04 Dec, 2024 by Dan gerl
I have known Tim Leary for over two decades. He is one of the best Seattle area criminal defense attorneys in my opinion. He takes on difficult cases and gets amazing results. You are in good hands with him in your corner!
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04 Dec, 2024 by Rajinder singh
I was going through a tough time in my life when everything looked like a lost cause. Then, my family found Defense Attorney: Chris Black. At our first meeting, Mr. Black gave me hope. With him on our side, we felt assured that our case would be handled swiftly and smoothly.
He kept us updated and was always available to answer our calls and emails promptly. Mr. Black went above and beyond—efficient, courteous, and professional. I highly recommend Chris Black’s legal services to anyone in need.
As a unique case, I have truly never met a lawyer like Mr. Black. He keeps it real and is a genuine advocate for his clients.
Thank you, Chris, for your solid support and for being such a positive force during that difficult time.
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13 Nov, 2024 by Mick holsbeke
These folks are just great! I urgently needed to understand my rights. A lawyer friend recommended Macdonald Hoague & Bayless, and I will always call them first. Jesse Wing, Adarsh N. Parthasarathy, and their team were warm, empathetic, generous, friendly, efficient, and extremely competent. I honestly couldn't have asked for better legal advice and support! Working with them solved my issues and empowered me with strategies to advocate for myself! I couldn't imagine going anywhere else for legal representation.
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11 Dec, 2019 by Michael
I utilized Karl on two occasions. The first was to update my elderly Mother's will and the second was to update my will and create a Power of Attorney for both me and my Wife.
On both occasions (10 years apart) he provided great expertise along with appropriate questions to ensure he knew what we wanted to accomplish and we knew the ramifications of the requests we made.
He also willingly answered follow up questions over the phone. I would hire him again without hesitation and refer him to anyone needing a good Estate Attorney.
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12 Apr, 2019 by Anonymous
I contacted Karl after seeing his Avvo profile as I had some trust- related questions. He spent 15 minutes patiently answering my questions and explaining things to me. At the end of the call, I asked him if he needed to charge me for giving me his legal advice. He said no need, too much trouble he said! What a nice guy! He said if I ever needed to hire an attorney, give him a call. You bet Karl. Thanks a lot. Much appreciated!
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17 Nov, 2013 by Daniel
My father passed away and I was chosen as the estate rep. My parents had used Karl before so I called him. It was a pretty difficult time for me and was very unsure of what to do. After my meeting with Karl I was very relieved to have found him. Flash forward one year and I'm done with the estate and Karl has been there with me the whole time. He is extremely knowledgeable and well versed. Karl is also very down to earth and personable. He strikes me as a genuinely caring person at work and I'll have to assume off work too. I would go out of my way to recommend Karl to anyone willing to listen.
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18 Nov, 2019 by Michele
Marisa is very knowledgeable and well informed woman. She took over a very traditional firm and has respected the values and integrity of the former founders. She runs the firm with both the old-school values and the new millennium sophistication. She helped me with a very complicated estate plan. She listened, gave sound advice and treated me in a very caring and real manor. In the end we came up with a strong plan that will ensure protection and financial security for my child. The peace of mind and professional outcome was incredible. I have referred many people to her since in hopes that they follow through and contact her.
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25 Jun, 2019 by Jenna
Attorney Marisa Broggel recently helped me with some estate planning work I needed to do. She is compassionate and very knowledgeable. She is good at breaking down the legal terms into language I could understand. She did a great job for me and my family. I would highly recommend McCune, Godfrey, Emerick & Broggel.
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23 Dec, 2014 by Chaz
Marisa's qualifications, education, and experience are excellent. She is very customer oriented and takes her time getting to know her clients and often they become long term customers. She's an exceptional listener, knows how to take the legal terminology and communicate it into terms I can understand, rates are reasonable and she cares. I have no hesitation recommending her as your attorney.
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5.0
3 Reviews
4.5
8 Reviews
01 Aug, 2024 by David fingerhut
Sam is an excellent real estate lawyer and someone you definitely want in your corner when negotiating complex real estate transactions or disputing a contract.
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13 Mar, 2024 by Nikki newby
01 Nov, 2023 by Natalie cielle
I had a wonderful experience with Ms. Woolery. She is extremely well-versed in law, bright, helpful, responsive, thoughtful, and kind. In other words, exactly what you need in a family law attorney!
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08 Feb, 2025 by Simran dhaliwal
We worked with Steven Palmer from this firm. He is a great attorney! Everything happened as planned and worked day and night to help us reorganize and sell our property. Highly Recommended!! Thank You Steven.
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13 Dec, 2024 by Hanna zhang
非常感谢Leo给予我非常耐心细致负责任的帮助，让在两个月前陷入无边黑暗之中的我仍然感受到一点光明的温暖。他的专业和耐心解说让我感动！再次感谢Leo为华人朋友的仁爱帮助，希望善善泽团队事业蒸蒸日上能帮助到更多有需要的华人同胞。
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06 Nov, 2024 by Wenqian yu
Attorney Leo Wang is professional, intentive and transparent at every step of my case, which was concluded smoothly and promptly.
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20 Nov, 2024 by N j
28 Jul, 2024 by Gary
Karen is a wonderfully knowledgeable and effective attorney. I chose her to handle an estate resolution based upon the recommendation of a friend’s lawyer. All the way through a lengthy process, she responded in the most efficient and helpful ways, saving me time, money and—most importantly—energy in every step of a legal situation that turned out to be far more complicated than I could ever have anticipated. I’m grateful to her…and recommend her to friends on a regular basis.
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22 Jul, 2024 by Carol
Karen was so knowledgeable in helping my partner and me with our estate planning that I called her again interstate trusts issue. She offered several alternatives that did not require the thousands of dollars it would have cost had we proceeded in the way I originally planned. She's a diplomat, easy to work with, and knows the law. I highly recommend her for anything to do with family law.
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26 Feb, 2025 by Rachel del rio
Janelle was great! She answered all my questions and always responded. Highly recommend!
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26 Feb, 2025 by Ashley hendrickson
I highly recommend working with Janelle! She’s the best!
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07 Feb, 2025 by Victor pedroza
Amanda and Javier are helping me with my case. They are awesome. Always updating me with information.
I highly recommend this Law Firm.
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10 Feb, 2025 by Jennifer foster
10 Feb, 2025 by Di sun
Highly recommended for Lauren and team, who is very responsive to my requests and competent to deal with my traffic ticket dismissal.
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07 Feb, 2025 by D 4
I reached out to the firm requesting assistance with a potential case that I might have. They informed me that they don’t cover such cases, but provided direction and guidance to somebody who does much appreciated for something that wasn’t necessary to do.
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18 Jan, 2025 by N m
I originally hired Sean because a plumbing company had caused structural damages to floor joists during a renovation and they would not accept responsibility. What happened instead was Sean transferred me to Joe and the lawsuit lasted 2 1/2 years. We ended up going to arbitration and I won all damages but zero lawyers fees.
Incredibly frustrating experience.
I wouldn’t hire nor recommend them.
I regret hiring Sean and Joe.
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27 Dec, 2024 by Brian c
I worked with Will Reingold, Jr for my divorce, who was recommended to me by a friend. He was friendly and knowledgeable for a process that is painful for most. The guy always works and never seems to miss a beat. He is always on top of it and prioritizes to get things done/executed like you're his only client. He made efforts to resolve more complicated challenges like parental rights of embryos even though it's not his wheelhouse.
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29 May, 2024 by Cheryl nodland
I'd like to thank William Reingold for beautifully handling my daughter's divorce appeal case. His professionalism, legal knowledge and compassion brought a horrible situation to a successful end. We both highly recommend Mr. Reingold.
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24 Dec, 2024 by Christopher young
Almost a year ago I found my business in a position that threatened our financial viability due to the actions of a third party. I began the search for a new business lawyer and interviewed half a dozen firms without feeling as though they would be the right fit. Two minutes into my conversation with David Betz, I knew he was the perfect lawyer to represent our interests. Since then, Mr. Betz has become an integral part of our business operations. Not only was he successful in negotiating the original matter we brought him on for, but he has remained a close legal advisor and wealth of knowledge and advice. Mr. Betz communicates thoroughly, acts promptly, and approaches all matters with professionalism and expertise.
Christopher Young
Owner
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18 Nov, 2024 by David carr
Was referred to this firm by multiple people/ lawyers. I shouldn't have even wasted my time. Got more of a story about how they sympathize for my situation but basically because I'm a federal employee I'm not entitled to the same rights of protection as the general public, according to them. This is even with a judgment from the county court in my favor in regards to the matter. They just simply couldn't help with the employment matter. I suggest looking elsewhere for legal help.
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12 Nov, 2024 by Jordan brannon
Appreciated a timely and thorough response from this law firm on a commercial insurance matter for my company. Mr. Graff was a great resource and helped us navigate a complex legal issue adeptly. Thanks!
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16 Dec, 2022 by Ahamed musthafa
17 Mar, 2022 by Danny j. adams
09 Oct, 2021 by Christopher hendrix
I retained Peter last year to create a will and trust. He was great at answering all my questions. He was easy to work with from the initial consult to signing the final documents. His fees were very fair, and I would happily retain him again if I needed legal services.
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29 Aug, 2024 by Debra nagel
No narcissist, abuser, bully, intimidator, gas lighter, manipulator, or exploiter are too big for Kirk Davis! My case was complicated and multi-faceted. I had difficulty finding an attorney to take my case. I am eternally grateful Kirk Davis accepted the challenge. I assumed I would lose most of my award to all the medical fees I incurred. Kirk even negotiated those that I was not expecting! I highly recommend Kirk Davis as an attorney and a human. Thank you, Kirk. The legal world is a much better place with you in it.
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11 Jun, 2024 by Kyle n. wilson i
Excellent attorney with much detail. I would highly recommend for personal injuries cases.
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24 May, 2024 by Mrsm smith
After my daughter was murdered, and the court failed to give her the justice she deserves, Kirk Davis was kind, considerate, and helped to make a path toward greater justice. I definitely recommend Kirk Davis.
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24 Dec, 2024 by Mintee slime
Donna Mack and the whole ELG crew helped me out so much. I tripped at a local restaurant and had a bad injury. Great result. Thank you Emerald Law group!
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18 Nov, 2024 by Julianne stanford
Ada's a fierce and committed advocate. You'd be lucky to have her on your side.
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17 Nov, 2024 by Anna m
These folks know their stuff. Super responsive, helpful and savvy. It's never fun to need a lawyer but it's so reassuring to know I'm in good hands.
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08 Feb, 2025 by Simran dhaliwal
We worked with Steven Palmer from this firm. He is a great attorney! Everything happened as planned and worked day and night to help us reorganize and sell our property. Highly Recommended!! Thank You Steven.
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13 Dec, 2024 by Hanna zhang
非常感谢Leo给予我非常耐心细致负责任的帮助，让在两个月前陷入无边黑暗之中的我仍然感受到一点光明的温暖。他的专业和耐心解说让我感动！再次感谢Leo为华人朋友的仁爱帮助，希望善善泽团队事业蒸蒸日上能帮助到更多有需要的华人同胞。
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06 Nov, 2024 by Wenqian yu
Attorney Leo Wang is professional, intentive and transparent at every step of my case, which was concluded smoothly and promptly.
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28 Nov, 2024 by Chuck harm
Easy to deal with, professional and knowledgeable.
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09 Sep, 2024 by Tasha saulet
I believe someone working or has worked for this company has/was doing illegal activities. For an example, Shehana Buksh sent a Will and Testament to someone via email without thoroughly verifying if that individual was the correct person.
Also, the document looked like it was illegally edited.
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14 Jun, 2024 by Bob
Very pleased with the quick service and detailed explanations of the "Durable Power of Attorney" updates for my wife and myself. It feels good to have everything updated now that we are in our mid-eighties and new grandchildren have come into the picture.
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28 Nov, 2024 by Chuck harm
Easy to deal with, professional and knowledgeable.
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09 Sep, 2024 by Tasha saulet
I believe someone working or has worked for this company has/was doing illegal activities. For an example, Shehana Buksh sent a Will and Testament to someone via email without thoroughly verifying if that individual was the correct person.
Also, the document looked like it was illegally edited.
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14 Jun, 2024 by Bob
Very pleased with the quick service and detailed explanations of the "Durable Power of Attorney" updates for my wife and myself. It feels good to have everything updated now that we are in our mid-eighties and new grandchildren have come into the picture.
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05 Jan, 2025 by Anonymous
Bis helped us amend our 20 year old trust along with updating our wills, financial power of attorneys, healthcare directives along with creating a few other estate planning documents he recommended to us. Bis was exceptional to work with. We had a terrible experience with a previous lawyer and Bis more than made up for it. He listened to what we needed, answered endless questions with patience and understanding. He really knows his craft and was very easy to work with. We would highly recommend anyone to work with Bis. He is a top notch lawyer who is very professional and cares about his clients and the services he provides.
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29 Dec, 2024 by Anonymous
Bis is one of a kind. He is thorough, organize, very professional, very attentive, listens very well even though I had a hard time explaining my complicated wants and needs. He takes the time to listen with when you're talking, and takes his time to understand your needs. I struggled with my pastAtty who put together a Trust for me and husband in the past. I didn't connect with that Atty same way I connected with Bis. With Bis, I was not hesitant to ask questions, because he is just a wonderful Atty to work with.
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28 Dec, 2024 by Anonymous
What a pleasure it was to work with Bis and his colleagues. He is incredibly patient, details and timely. My family and I could not have been successful if it wasn't for him and his generosity. Thanks Bis and Kanti!
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24 Sep, 2024 by Cesia quintanilla
23 Sep, 2024 by Britni russo
I wanted to share that the experience I had with the view ridge law- more specifiacally with the attorny Elaina T. was far from well. I had to end my session with her early and request my money back. I paid her to help me and instead she spent time telling me why I couldnt get what I wanted and defending the other party. I also found out she did not read all the paperwork I sent in which she claimed was irrelevant to the case which was entirely unture. I was shocked at the lack of professionalism and care that was given to me. Our meeting was not recorded so I was not able to prove that way she was speaking to me to her superiors. The only positive that came from this was that the office did refund me my money. I lost out on a very timely situation due to their lack of attention.
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19 Sep, 2024 by Dennis k
25 Aug, 2020 by Chelsea
I was very happy with Jeff's contract services and consulting! As I was interviewing multiple law firms to work with, Jeff immediately stood out from all the rest because he actually took the time to understand my need and my use case from the very beginning. He asked insightful questions and uncovered areas that I hadn't even thought of. He was able to tailor a contract that worked perfectly for my small business and was spot-on with the details. Jeff went above and beyond to help my small business and I am grateful for his professionalism and expertise. I'd recommend Jeff to any business owner.
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18 Apr, 2020 by Luke
Jeffrey is a very conscientious, highly knowledgable attorney. He helped us update our wills and estate planning.
The process was easy. His rates are very reasonable. We went through the process during the Covid-19 lock down period. Between the online video conferencing, and emailing, it was a safe, socially distant process. Jeffrey drove to our home with his assistant and was able to complete the signing in our driveway with a safe distance at all times.
Another aspect I liked about Jeffrey is how community-oriented he is. His volunteer service to those in need is inspiring.
I would highly recommend him to anyone who is in need of his services!
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15 Apr, 2020 by Priscilla
I used Jeff's services for my business last year and he was very responsive and helpful. Matter resolved and moving on. Fast forward to the 2020 Covid19 pandemic when we're all trying to figure out how to keep our businesses going through the shutdown. Three weeks ago I got a random email from Jeff listing out all of the resources we have access to and listing out exactly what needed to be done for each one. I can't begin to say how helpful this was and how kind it was in this difficult time that he thought to send this information to all his former clients. He has even continued to keep us updated as more things open up and rules change. Finding an attorney who is not only good at what he does but who actually cares about his clientele is pretty fantastic. I highly recommend Jeffrey Liang.
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02 Dec, 2024 by Chad
Jeff provided invaluable advice during a challenging case involving a client disputing multiple credit card charges and receiving refunds. He quickly understood the situation and recommended I seek local legal counsel to address the matter, offering this guidance free of charge. His expertise and professionalism turned a stressful situation into a manageable one. I highly recommend Jeff for his clear, thoughtful, and client-focused advice.
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23 Jun, 2023 by Erik sauls
Angela was a blessing to us. She thoughtfully and expertly guided my wife and I through the bankruptcy process from beginning to end. We are so very grateful for her service, as she made it possible for us to fully resolve our debt. We are now 100% debt free and feel like we have our life back! If you need a bankruptcy attorney, I would highly recommend Angela Low for her truly caring nature and impeccable guidance. Thank you, Angela!
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10 Sep, 2020 by Wen
I have nothing else to say. He solved all my problems. Best attorney in Seattle!
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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.
