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26 Nov, 2024 by Christie kelly
The best experience with a Lawyer I have ever had. Mr. Rogyom was extremely knowledgeable, personable, compassionate and kind when I needed assistance after the passing of my mom. I cannot give a high enough raving review. Thank you so much for your council, and walking me through this process. It was a pleasure working with you. Sincerely, and with gratitude. Mrs. Kelly
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03 Oct, 2024 by Nina xu
Jeff was an absolute pleasure to work with on setting up our wills and advance directives. From our introductory call to the signing of the final documents, Jeff walked us through the process efficiently and thoroughly. He answered all of our questions throughout and gave us all the guidance we needed. We appreciate that Jeff traveled to our home to complete the signing and filed the documents on our behalves. It was a straightforward process from beginning to end and we are thankful to Jeff for his legal knowhow and client focus.
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18 Jul, 2024 by Daniel ayoub
I called Jeff for a question that I had after being referred to him by someone else. Jeff was able to get with me on the phone me quickly and gave me his time quite readily. He listened to me in full and talked me through the situation and some options that I had, even referring me to someone with different expertise who could also be of help to me. At no point, did he cut me off or try to sell me on his services, which I appreciated. Rather, he told me his opinion honestly and with good intent. I appreciated Jeff's professionalism and willingness to promptly talk to me and for his time. Thanks Jeff!
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02 Dec, 2023 by Bobby
I felt very comfortable with him he got me a great result. I would highly recommend James and would use him again. He gets the job done.
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20 Nov, 2023 by Anonymous
My attorney did everything you can in counsel. Case was short and justice was on time.
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20 Nov, 2023 by Elizabeth
Case was quick and efficient. James was on time, kind, and efficient. Highly recommend him.
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20 Apr, 2022 by Olivia
Ms. Soutry was responsive, knowledgeable and 100% professional. She assisted me with completing all my estate planning quickly and effectively. She thoroughly answered questions and provided resources that helped me make decisions. There were no issues or surprises. I look forward to referring my friends and colleagues to her.
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23 Aug, 2021 by William
Ms. Smith was the consummate professional while assisting my wife and I with updating our health care directives and wills. I found her guidance to be sound and grounded in current law and regulations. I highly recommend her for legal services in Maryland.
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10 Feb, 2021 by Anonymous
Soutry and her team handled four estate planning documents for me. She spoke with me over the phone first, provided a quote and prepared the documents within about a month's time.
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12 May, 2020 by Anonymous
My mother had passed, and I needed advice on how to proceed with closing her estate. I had to use a phone consult because of our covid stay-at-home orders. Victor was excellent - very precise and professional. He gave some great advice on what to look out for and what we needed to do. He did not try to sell more services than what we needed with her simple estate. I appreciated and followed his advice.
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13 Jul, 2019 by Srs
Victor and the entire SinclairProsser staff were very professional and responsive in handling the estate of our father. We were carefully guided and kept well informed through the entire process which was essential given that we live out of state. We are grateful for the excellent service that we received.
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27 Aug, 2017 by Laudine c
From the very first meeting with Victor Lembo & assistant staff was always responsive to my many questions as the widow -- especially questions of “ what happens next?”. Responsiveness was especially important while I was living in both Maryland & Florida.
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16 May, 2019 by Taryll
When I met this lawyer my hope and wishes was already gone after spending thousands to another lawyer that was not in the best of my interest. Ms. Jean -Baptiste was sent from heaven and when I found her everything about my case turned around and was different! Thank you!
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13 Oct, 2018 by S.johnson
Not the average lawyer truly a God send when I felt like all was lost an I had no voice she has help me try an regain my voice I'm extremely bless to have her on my side an if your looking for a lawyer for family law look no further first night in a while I can actually rest truly a wonderful person an lawyer .god bless
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05 Feb, 2018 by Quanshay
I worked with Ms. Jean-Baptiste to help make my end of life wishes a reality. The process was incredibly smooth! I met with her on January 26th, to go over my wishes, and 5 business days later everything was finalized. I had assumed that the process would take at least one month.
Nadine is both personable and professional. She didn't confuse me with lawyer jargon. Instead, she explained everything in layman's terms and made me feel welcomed and a part of her team. Also, she paid attention to details that I would have easily missed! I look forward to working with her again in the future. If you have not already found a lawyer for your real estate, estate planning, tax, or immigration needs, then I highly recommend Nadine!!!
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18 Sep, 2019 by Beverly
Nate Risch helped us out tremendously with a small claims case. He gave us great advise on how to proceed and what our best options were. His rates were more than reasonable. Luckily we don't need a lawyer often, but he's the one we would hire again if needed. Highly recommended.
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16 Jul, 2019 by Ryan
Nathan really knows his away around business and he is easily trusted. He made the process as painless as it could be and was very responsive the entire time. He saved me thousands and really has prevented my small business from going under in multiple ways. Thank you so much for all your help and your staff is awesome as well!
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08 May, 2021 by Lancy cash
13 Oct, 2020 by Kev mc
Mr. Hamburger is an awesome Attorney. I been going here for years. Tammy is the best to work with. She takes care of all your issues and concerns. Highly recommended, thanks!
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29 Nov, 2016 by Genna
Ms. Deegan remained professional and attentive throughout our correspondence and face-to-face interactions. It is apparent that she is dedicated to her clients and keeps their best interest in mind. I feel confident in Ms. Deegan's work and I would highly recommend her for estate planning services.
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12 Jan, 2010 by Anonymous
From the moment my wife and I stepped into Mr. Hassani's office until my last visit in December 2009 he has been a rock. We trusted him, relied upon him and asked him for a great many things - he came through on all of them. I could not be more pleased or satisfied with all Mr. Hassani has done for us.
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15 Nov, 2013 by Mel
I have been working with Mr. Bailey for over 5 years now. I consider Mr. Bailey a tremendous asset with regard to settling estates. He is very well versed in estate planning. The manner in which he handles each estate is with personalized and professional service. I highly recommend him. He is definitely my lawyer of choice.
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5.0
1 Reviews
5.0
97 Reviews
26 Aug, 2024 by Robert grant
Great service
Very attentive
Will always use them
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22 Aug, 2024 by Laura wood
Anthony and his staff worked extremely hard to assist with a difficult case. I am impressed by their perseverance and professionalism. Andrew provided timely updates and was always courteous. This team helped to ensure that I received fair compensation.
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19 Aug, 2024 by Eric boyce
Excellent and fast work! I am more then pleased with this team and will be look forward to future work!
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26 Aug, 2024 by Robert grant
Great service
Very attentive
Will always use them
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22 Aug, 2024 by Laura wood
Anthony and his staff worked extremely hard to assist with a difficult case. I am impressed by their perseverance and professionalism. Andrew provided timely updates and was always courteous. This team helped to ensure that I received fair compensation.
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19 Aug, 2024 by Eric boyce
Excellent and fast work! I am more then pleased with this team and will be look forward to future work!
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22 Aug, 2024 by Jill
My husband and I hired Nicole and her Angels of Elder Planning team to assist with elder planning and elder care for my in-laws. They confidently and competently guided us through what was a very overwhelming process and made sure our family got the care they needed!
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01 Oct, 2024 by Pratap rikka
This attorneys office is very knowledgeable. Mr Henslee is personably and will help you in every step of the process.
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26 Sep, 2024 by Elizabeth bosse
Mr Carr has represented myself and my family for over 10 years. He is always there when you need him. From car accident assistance to representation for criminal cases, his extensive knowledge of the law can help in any situation. I give him and his law firm 10 stars!!
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17 Sep, 2024 by Nichole beyer
Was a pleasure working with him considering the circumstances. Would recommend him to anyone and use him again if needed. Did exactly what was expected and got everything handled. Thank you so much!
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14 Nov, 2024 by Darius brook
Mr Scott was Excellent. He was very professional and he cared about the getting job done for his client. I must be completely honest he is one of best lawyers in Towson when comes to having driving convictions. Scott is the best thanks Scott for your service
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17 Oct, 2024 by Kobie johnson
Very helpful during my time of need. He provided me with insightful information about how the insurance claims process works when I needed help.
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16 Oct, 2024 by Jennifer alford
I would highly recommend contacting Mr.Leppler, I reached out to his office after I was involved in a accident, Barbara from his office called me back immediately and then I received a call from Mr.Leppler as well right after that. I spoke with him and let me tell you I think he was the most honest and upfront attorney I ever met, I work for attorneys but in a different field of law. He even gave me advice on what to do and how to handle my situation even though he said I would not need him. Mr.Leppler then told me if I have any questions or need help I could even reach back out to him. He obviously cares about the person and situation and not about just the money. I felt such a weight lifted off of me after our conversation. I would highly recommend contacting his office if you want someone who is going to have your best interests in mind and that goes above what he has to and who is very honest.
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25 Jul, 2024 by Mustafa tubeone pali
el mejor servicio respetuoso dando la bienvenida a todos y saben atender a los clientes haciendo el mejor corte y limpieza del cabello gracias habibi
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15 Mar, 2024 by Danny g
Extremely happy with my choice of going with this law firm and the outcome of my case. My attorney and their team did everything they could to render me a successful outcome with what could have been a complicated situation. Especially when it comes down to dealing with insurance companies. Not only that but they were very friendly and professional. Thankyou all so much! Highly, highly recommended.
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04 Mar, 2024 by Kimberly garland
I loved working with Steve and Bru. Everyone was very professional, including the office staff. I would recommend this law firm. They will work to your advantage 100%. Thumbs up and I appreciate the law firm for representing me.
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04 Jun, 2024 by Robin griffin
The staff that I worked with were very professional and did a great job assisting me with my estate matters. The retainer requested was more than was originally quoted but other than that, I was overall very satisfied with the work they did for me and would recommend them to others.
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23 Apr, 2024 by Lindsay hill
13 Feb, 2024 by Gary wah
My parents and I have dealt with HFF Legal for about 30 years. Always valuable and sound advise.
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04 Jun, 2024 by Robin griffin
The staff that I worked with were very professional and did a great job assisting me with my estate matters. The retainer requested was more than was originally quoted but other than that, I was overall very satisfied with the work they did for me and would recommend them to others.
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23 Apr, 2024 by Lindsay hill
13 Feb, 2024 by Gary wah
My parents and I have dealt with HFF Legal for about 30 years. Always valuable and sound advise.
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04 Jun, 2024 by Robin griffin
The staff that I worked with were very professional and did a great job assisting me with my estate matters. The retainer requested was more than was originally quoted but other than that, I was overall very satisfied with the work they did for me and would recommend them to others.
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23 Apr, 2024 by Lindsay hill
13 Feb, 2024 by Gary wah
My parents and I have dealt with HFF Legal for about 30 years. Always valuable and sound advise.
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24 Jul, 2024 by The prolific maryland kid
12 Jul, 2024 by Shelley-rose moghrabi
That won't happen to me, I said. I am not of that race, nationality, or ethnicity, and so I did not speak out. That won’t happen to me, I said, I don’t practice that religion, and so I did not speak out. That won’t happen to me, I said, I’m not of that sexual orientation, and so I did not speak out. That won’t happen to me, I said, I’m not part of that income bracket, and so I did not speak out. That won’t happen to me, I said, I don’t have that disability, and so I did not speak out. That won’t happen to me, I said, until it was physically in my face, had me backed into a corner, and was spewing utter vitriol at me. That won't happen to me, I said, he'd never lay a hand on me, until one day the physical aggression caused me physical pain and injury. That won’t happen to me, I said, until thirteen months ago, when I found myself on the phone with a domestic violence hotline. That won’t happen to me, I said, until thirteen months ago, when I found myself hurriedly packing a bag and fleeing my home, and boarding an aircraft out of state, because I feared for my life and safety. Fifty years ago, when my mother and her family escaped their war-torn country with nothing but the clothes on their backs and one bag per person due to religious persecution, I never imagined that one day, fifty years into the future, that I too would one day find myself following in her footsteps, quite literally.
I never imagined that I would one day find myself fleeing my home with nothing but the clothes on my back and one small carry-on bag, and boarding a same-day aircraft bound for 1,000+ miles away, because I too feared for my life and safety. Thirteen months ago, when I found myself on the phone with a local domestic violence agency in my state, I never imagined that the proverbial door would get slammed in my face, on the basis that I earned too much money to qualify for any help or support. Since I was born and raised abroad, and with my own family still living halfway around the world, it was in that moment that I truly realized, and that it genuinely sunk in, that I was going to be completely and entirely alone in the process of escaping the cycle of violence.
In 1848, divorce was practically unheard of. Most states had fault-based divorce laws outlining the requirements and criteria permitting divorce: lunacy, adultery, desertion, or cruelty. This meant that couples could only pursue divorce IF they could prove, in a court of law, that one or the other had committed one of these offenses. However, given the laws (or lack thereof) governing women's rights and freedoms at the time, divorce was far more complex for women, as they remained at risk of being unable to regain their last names, unable to retain property acquired prior to their marriage, or unable to obtain custody of their children. These fault-based grounds are in stark contrast to the no-fault system that exists across most states today. Today, after decades of tireless advocacy, and thanks to incredible attorneys like Laurie Wasserman and Virginia Yeoman, people are no longer required to remain shackled to their spouses, and have the freedom to escape the cycle of violence. Thanks to the fabulous support of Laurie and Virginia, I've not only been able to survive, but I am slowly on my way to thriving again. The words "happiness" and "divorce" are the last two words you'd expect to see in the same sentence, but that is exactly what Virginia and Laurie have facilitated for me.
For anyone considering engaging the services of Laurie Wasserman and her team, from the bottom of my heart, I wholeheartedly recommend them and their entire office. They'll not only save your life, but they will also help re-unlock your door to freedom, health, independence, and joy again.
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07 Jul, 2024 by Sandy beres
Before I hired Martha, I was working with another attorney for my divorce process, and I just didn't feel like they were on my side and looking out for my best interests. Someone referred me to Martha White, and once I met with her, I made the decision to end my retainer agreement with my current attorney and hire Martha White. Martha White listened to me and to my concerns and what I wanted out of dissolving my marriage. She was always responsive to my calls or emails and took the time to explain things to me, so that I understood all of terms and possible outcomes of this process. I feel that she helped me reach a fair settlement and I was happy with the final settlement agreement. I wish I would have hired her in the first place. She didn't drag the process out any longer than it needed to be. I was very pleased with her representation of me in my divorce case. If I ever would have another family law issue, she would be the first attorney I would contact. You can't go wrong having Martha White as your attorney.
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06 Sep, 2024 by Karen thickman
Waste of time! Called to speak with someone about setting up an trust for my elderly parent, and was told I had to make an appointment and bring them in. Picked them up, drove 35 minutes to the appointment only to be told we had to attend a free informational session before they would assist (!!!!) They couldn’t tell me this over the phone? What a waste of time and complete disregard for an elderly person’s wellbeing. Needless to say, we will find someone else.
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16 Aug, 2024 by Ann walls
Run.
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16 Aug, 2024 by Vanessa rogal
It was necessary (for me at least) to have a lawyer/legal team to help guide me thru the estate process, and it made sense to use the firm that drew up my mom's estate docs. There were definitely issues (aside from the fact one of her investments was set up incorrectly - don't know if she didn't understand the instructions they gave or if they were just wrong). At the start of the process Stouffer said contact them with any questions, but I found it difficult to actually get timely (or sometimes any) answers. I would always get an email response (for billing purposes), but rarely get an answer. Sometimes they'd ask about me email on one of our scheduled calls, but those were often weeks afterwards and not timely. The biggest issue occurred when they were preparing the documents to present to the court to close the estate...there were some individual stocks discovered late in the process. I had received paperwork from the Transfer Agent that I asked if they needed; the lawyer said no -the judge doesn't usually look at that stuff. Well, this judgemdid want it and he rejected the filing. It delayed the pour-over of the estate for an additional 2 months, and Stouffer had to update the filing documents and reschedule the court date - it ONLY cost me (the estate) an additional $2000 (yes, for their error). Another note - the letters or emails accompanying their billing statements are extremely aggressive (borderline nasty). I always paid with a check from the estate promptly, and the threatening nature was uncalled for. One time a lawyer I'd never dealt with called ostensibly to ask how things were going, then quickly transitioned into asking for a credit card to pay my latest bill, which I hadn't even seen yet. (I get there are people who don't settle their bills promptly, but save the knee capping for them.) There were a couple other issues, but those above were the primary. I don't live in MD, so wouldn't have occasion to use them again, but would advise family members to look elsewhere if asked.
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06 Sep, 2024 by Karen thickman
Waste of time! Called to speak with someone about setting up an trust for my elderly parent, and was told I had to make an appointment and bring them in. Picked them up, drove 35 minutes to the appointment only to be told we had to attend a free informational session before they would assist (!!!!) They couldn’t tell me this over the phone? What a waste of time and complete disregard for an elderly person’s wellbeing. Needless to say, we will find someone else.
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16 Aug, 2024 by Ann walls
Run.
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16 Aug, 2024 by Vanessa rogal
It was necessary (for me at least) to have a lawyer/legal team to help guide me thru the estate process, and it made sense to use the firm that drew up my mom's estate docs. There were definitely issues (aside from the fact one of her investments was set up incorrectly - don't know if she didn't understand the instructions they gave or if they were just wrong). At the start of the process Stouffer said contact them with any questions, but I found it difficult to actually get timely (or sometimes any) answers. I would always get an email response (for billing purposes), but rarely get an answer. Sometimes they'd ask about me email on one of our scheduled calls, but those were often weeks afterwards and not timely. The biggest issue occurred when they were preparing the documents to present to the court to close the estate...there were some individual stocks discovered late in the process. I had received paperwork from the Transfer Agent that I asked if they needed; the lawyer said no -the judge doesn't usually look at that stuff. Well, this judgemdid want it and he rejected the filing. It delayed the pour-over of the estate for an additional 2 months, and Stouffer had to update the filing documents and reschedule the court date - it ONLY cost me (the estate) an additional $2000 (yes, for their error). Another note - the letters or emails accompanying their billing statements are extremely aggressive (borderline nasty). I always paid with a check from the estate promptly, and the threatening nature was uncalled for. One time a lawyer I'd never dealt with called ostensibly to ask how things were going, then quickly transitioned into asking for a credit card to pay my latest bill, which I hadn't even seen yet. (I get there are people who don't settle their bills promptly, but save the knee capping for them.) There were a couple other issues, but those above were the primary. I don't live in MD, so wouldn't have occasion to use them again, but would advise family members to look elsewhere if asked.
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30 Nov, 2023 by Beth hammond
I sent a complaint regarding Jack Condillife as my daughters "Best Interests Attorney" and a current investigation regarding perjury and conspiracy in my daughters case to no response. How can and impartial "Best Interests Attorney" for a child, sworn to protect her interests, continue to ignore the child's Mother for 3.5 years. He has never once sat dawn with me despite multiple requests. Everything I say is IMMEDIATELY dismissed. My daughter and I are suffering from tremendous emotional and mental abuse from a very dangerous narcissist and no one will help. PLEASE HELP
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27 Mar, 2023 by Brentyn white
Mr. Eidelberg showed he was extremely knowledgeable about the law from the initial consultation. He did not sell any dreams and he was very realistic but, was still comforting. Mr. Eidelberg's prices were reasonable as well. He didn't up charge due to his name or status which is the feel I received from other attorneys I spoke with. He checked all the boxes a great attorney should, and I hired him immediately. I ended up in a sticky mess that involved a hit and run involving injury as well as other minor traffic violations and I was in a unique situations where most outcomes wouldn’t be ideal unless the charges had been dropped all together. Mr. Eidelberg was prepared from day one. Not only with the things a judge may be swayed by but also how the state and county in which the offense occurred operates. The small details are what can make the difference and Mr.Eidelberg was keen on these details. Most of the time between the incident and the court date was a waiting period and I was kept in the loop the entire time up until the day of court. On that day he was prompt and forthcoming about all options and possible outcomes. When it came down to it his years of practice showed even down the how comfortable and confident his tone was when speaking to the court staff and judge. Mr. Eidelberg's preparedness on the front end led to maybe 5 minutes in open court if that as he embarrassed the prosecution and had all charges dropped. Truthfully, he would be scary for any prosecution to stand across in any court setting as I'm positive he was ready to fight tooth and nail on all fronts. I ever find myself in anything remotely close to what I encountered Mr. Eidelberg will always be my first call.
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14 Jan, 2022 by Christopher faeth
Fantastic lawyer, still thanking him years later!!!
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12 Jun, 2022 by Naveed sheikh
Best attorney and legal advisor
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01 Jul, 2021 by Alicia powers
Best lawyer in the whole state of Maryland !
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08 Sep, 2019 by Kimberly walden
14 Apr, 2020 by Jennifer
My mother and I hired Mr. Bailey to draw up her Last Will and Testament and to help us with Power of Attorney papers. He was professional, knowledgeable and caring. Mr. Bailey walked us through the process, answering questions and helping us to think through the consequences or impact her decisions.
In addition, Mr. Bailey helped our family by writing a letter to a renter who had previously refused to vacate a house that my mother owns. His offer to write a letter was exactly what we needed to prompt her to move.
I would not hesitate to hire Mr. Bailey in the future.
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26 Mar, 2020 by Patricia
Mr Bailey was very helpful, and professional. My elderly mother needed some updated documents and we met with him 3 years ago. He made sure that everything was in order. When she died, he assisted me in settling her affairs expeditiously. He is a kind,
gracious man
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26 Mar, 2020 by Josh goodman
Steve is amazing. He is so personal, he truly took an interest in my family and working hard to do what was best for us. I could not recommend Steve any more. He is absolutely the person that you want on your team
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22 Oct, 2014 by Jr
Adam Roa is a smart attorney in his field, however don't expect to receive consistent communication. He only answered some of my questions and he ignored other questions that were of concern to me. He is a control freak and if he doesn't like your answers, he will dismiss you as a client. This is not a very reassuring thing to know because when you hire a lawyer you want someone that has your back at all times. Again, he is a very fickle fellow. He will only take cases he knows he can win.
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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.
