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23 Sep, 2024 by Sam allen
Very helpful, and informative. Edward Stemmer was excellent.
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04 Jun, 2024 by Casey regan
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27 May, 2024 by Tori h keck
Edward Stemmer at NMLaw is highly professional. I collaborated with him on establishing a Trust, which can be complex, but he simplified the process efficiently. He was remarkably patient and understanding, even when we had numerous inquiries. I feel comfortable reaching out to him with any questions without hesitation. His kindness and expertise are truly commendable.
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19 May, 2021 by Alma garcía
Great experience overall having Ilian Alchehayed as my attorney. He is professional and efficient. He guided me througt the entire lengthy process. I am proud to be a Alchehayed client and will continue to retain him for all legal matters that may arise as I know I am in great hands.
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05 Apr, 2021 by Jo ann
Without question, Ilian is my hero. I am a widow and my case was unusual. My husband and I owned a vacation home located in the Idyllwild area. When he passed, it became necessary for me to sell the house. Two real estate agents persuaded me into acting as the bank for a 'buyer' they both vouched for. He did not obtain a bank loan. In the four years he lived in the home, his payments were consistently late (for the last one and one-half years no payments were made); he NEVER paid any of the real estate taxes, home owner's dues and fire insurance fees. Because the home was technically in his name and I was not a bank, this became a very challenging case for Ilian. He encountered many road blocks yet always found resources to get over the hurtles. Did I mention that the 'buyer' thought he was smarter than anyone in the room, was a persuasive talker (con-man), and a pervasive liar. I came very close to actually losing my house to this man which would have severely damaged my financial health. Due to Ilian's knowledge, thoroughness, attention to detail and immense patience, the house successfully sold. He routinely sent me a monthly detailed account of his activities, hours spent and cost. He was always fair and accurate. Absolutely worth every penny! I highly recommend Ilian Alchehayed.
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31 Mar, 2021 by Lou
Illian was the best. Yes we won our case, but even if we didn’t, I would be so grateful! His attention to detail was exemplary and the emotional compassion he showed towards me was exactly what I needed! I have dealt with many lawyers in different circumstances and found he exceeded my expectations. I would not hesitate to hire him!!!
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17 May, 2017 by Iman
I highly recommend Ahmed Shaikh for Islamic inheritance and trust planning. He is extremely knowledgeable and was very patient with us as we asked him a myriad of questions. He was very generous with his time, and at no point did we feel rushed. He is also very thorough and professional and is open for us to call him with any questions or modifications. We asked for a quick turnaround, and he promptly delivered. Also, I must mention that Leslie Mills, Ahmed's legal assistant, went above and beyond to make the process easy for us - she went out of her way to come to the house on several occasions for our convenience. Thank you!
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12 Apr, 2016 by Anonymous
Mr.Shaikh was able to quickly and effectively move a fairly nasty dispute over inheritance through the court with minimal impact on me. I was so pleased to turn the emotionally upsetting matter over to him, and receive my settlement at the end! He kept me updated, followed my wishes, and advised me on the most prudent steps to take- all the while sparing me the headache and drama of the ordeal, so that I could remain focused on my life and family. I hope I never have to hire an attorney again, but if I did, I would not hesitate to contact Mr. Shaikh. Ahmed Shaikh and his kind assistant Leslie were extremely accommodating, professional, and compassionate; everything you would want in a law office.
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08 Oct, 2015 by Noha alshugairi
If you are an American Muslim and would like the peace of mind from knowing that your loved ones will have a clear Islamic Inheritance plan to follow, I highly recommend utilizing the services of Ahmed Shaikh. As a practicing Muslim who was lost between the Islamic and the Legal perspectives with regards to inheritance planning, I found Ahmed Shaikh to be be knowledgeable, thorough, and organized. He knows both perspectives very well and he was able to answer and address all of my concerns and questions. I definitely felt at peace once my inheritance planning was in place. I highly recommend his services.
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28 Aug, 2019 by Darla
Truly the best Lawyer I have ever encountered! We needed a Lawyer, we looked and researched Lawyer’s. We made an appointment, met with him and hired him right then. No more headaches for me. David took over and guided us. He is a both a good person and Lawyer. I highly recommend him.
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31 May, 2017 by Hector
I have worked closely with David for over 10 years. He is my “go to” guy when it comes to all matters involving real estate disputes, trust disputes and probate matters. I have referred him many clients and they have always been glad I did. David is not afraid to take on complicated and difficult matters. He’s sensitive to client’s concerns and is aggressive when he needs to be. Not only have I referred him to others, I have used him many times for my own personal legal matters that have come up from time to time.
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26 May, 2017 by Damon
I used David for a probate that involved the sale of real estate. True to his word, he advanced the costs and fees and helped me navigate the tricky tax and legal issues that arise in these complicated matters. David is a consummate professional who always looks out for the best interest of his clients. I highly recommend him.
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30 Nov, 2020 by B.g.
Ethical, conscientious, professional and knowledgeable. I can't say enough about Cathy Kim, she definitely does her job extremely well. Words alone can't express my gratitude for not only all of her diligent work, but for always going above and beyond. Cathy had to deal with several unscrupulous individuals on my behalf, and she had a big hand in saving my sanity. She often had to deal with me when I was an emotional mess, and she was able to calm me down and explain things in a manner that was always reassuring. She advised me of my fiduciary responsibilities as a Trustee and guided me through painful probate and litigation matters. I was very blessed to have Cathy represent me, and I will be forever grateful. You will not regret choosing her as your attorney, she is simply the best.
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16 Jan, 2014 by Barbara s.
I count it a great pleasure and privilege to express to others my experience with the Ernest Joon Kim Law Firm, and in particular the services rendered my family by Attorney Catherine Kim. I had just lost my dear sister and found myself experiencing for the very first time, the daunting process called Probate. Desperately seeking answers I discovered AVVO and submitted my concerns in hopes that someone would enlighten and assist me in my efforts. Attorney Ernest J. Kim responded with a full page summary addressing all my questions and concerns. I immediately felt that with an empathetic and understanding attorney as this, how could I go wrong with retaining their services. They were the fourth firm I had contacted, and the only ones that were not offended by my need to know and understand the Probate process so I could effectively provide what was required of me to the attorney representing me. I telephoned the firm and Ms. Catherine Kim responded. From our first encounter I felt very comfortable in discussing all the issues with Ms. Kim. Oftentimes I was overwhelmed with grief, the probate process, the difficulty in finding a genuine, caring attorney who was not too busy to answer my questions with courtesy, professionalism and patience. I could not have found a more skilled and adept attorney than Ms. Kim. She is knowledgeable, conscientious, courteous, trustworthy, kind, patient, and compassionate. She addressed all my concerns and the many questions plaguing me regarding this intimidating Probate process. She quieted me and guided me through all my anxiety. No amount of words can express my sincere and deepest gratitude for her support and assistance. Ms. Kim was always available to me and responded promptly to my telephone calls and emails. She was there to help me at every juncture going above and beyond the call for Probate services. I always felt at ease, burdens lightened and encouraged that I could do all that was required of me. As busy as Ms. Kim may have been, I never felt rushed off the telephone or that she was too busy to assist me in working through every issue. Rather, she patiently took the time to explain in laymen terms what I needed to know, ensuring that all concepts were clear, concise, and understandable, so that I would be in a position to make good informed decisions. Within only three days after retaining her services Ms. Kim represented me in court. She kept me informed and abreast of all court actions. She provided easy and understandable explanations of issues and provided legal counsel in all areas of concern to me, some even being outside of Probate. There is no doubt in my mind that these past two years of going through the probate process, the encouragement and support I received from Ms. Kim is immeasurable. She exudes integrity in all she does. Ms. Kim successfully brought my family through the probate process and we are very pleased with her services. She was upfront and truthful about all statutory fees and cost, and also offered us the option for a discounted rate. We highly esteem and recommend Ms. Kim to anyone requiring Estate Planning Services. I have also personally retained her to do my Will and Trust, and is recommending her to one of my good friends. Her services are outstanding and her work impeccable. Put your mind at ease and allow Ms. Kim the opportunity to service all your estate planning needs. She’s the best. Thank you Ms. Kim.
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16 Mar, 2017 by Charlotte
she is great lawyer , knows exactly how you are feeling , speaks on your behalf , Helps in all your needs . I Highly Recommend Her For An Attorney.
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07 Mar, 2017 by Mary n.
Kelly represented me in a disability claim and I am very happy with her. She is personable and knows her stuff.
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05 Apr, 2014 by Michael
Did a family illness lead to a legal and financial nightmare--as though you had walked onto the stage of an absurdist play? And then, when you turned to a lot of professionals for help, they gave you the wrong advice or absurd decisions and then turned their backs on you? The Kim team to the rescue! In my case involving a family trust, they went to work immediately, with Mrs. Kim taking down my details by phone; they stayed in very close contact by both phone and email; they were able quickly to write the legal opinion I needed even better than I had imagined. Unlike another lawyer I had previously hired, the Kim team wasn't stumped by a trust with a provision somewhat different from the usual. They also have been clear on their fees. Only when you've felt utterly legally and financially helpless can you understand the value of what Mr. Ernest J Kim's team can do for you: the peace their competence, speed, attention to detail, and communication skills provide. They immediately understood my predicament and were thinking ahead; they were never hard to reach by phone or email. Only the word "excellent" suffices to describe my experience with Mr. Kim's team. [I have not been paid anything to write this review--it is MY pleasure to do so!]
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02 Jan, 2011 by Anonymous
Christina Stone's expertise was in elder law, and she was amazing! She helped my brother and I when our mother was very ill and in a convalescent hospital and when our parents passed away. She is a very good listener, compassionate, sensitive and thoroughly professional. With regard to our mother's longterm illness, her medicare ran out and we needed to qualify her for medi-cal. Ms. Stone helped us through this difficult time and found solutions for us. When drawing up a new trust after mother passed away, she asked the right questions and helped my father find the equitable and reasonable solutions.
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10 Oct, 2011 by Anonymous
I used Mr. Styskal for a conservatorship matter and I found him to be an extremely helpful attorney. This process did not seem to be anything that any other attorney could not have done, but what I got from Mr. Styskal was personal attention. Mr. Styskal was there for me emotionally and really helped me through this very emotionally trying situation. Mr. Styskal really seemed to understand my position and was able to offer advice for coping and understaniding my position. Not only did he have personal advice, but he was very well equipted to recommend services in the assitance of managing my mother's well being. Mr. Styskal was also very patient with me, which is always a plus such a stressfull situation.
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30 Jul, 2024 by Sam lee
I am incredibly grateful to have had Ali Komali as my lawyer. His exceptional skills and dedication to service are unmatched. Even after all these years, Ali remains available whenever I have questions, always replying promptly and never making me feel like our relationship ended when my case concluded. His willingness to help and his genuine interest in the well-being of his clients truly set him apart from other lawyers. I cannot thank Ali enough for everything he has done for me and the positive impact he has had on my life. I highly recommend him to anyone in need of a compassionate, skilled, and reliable lawyer.
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14 Dec, 2023 by Joseph vavao
If your looking for one of the best, look no further! Ali was professional but also used compassion and devoted his time and effort to ensure all issues were resolved in a timely manner. Any questions or concerns were answered with sympathy and quickly. He not only provided facts, even if they were good or bad, which gave me a piece of mind and respect to his wisdom he shared. However, due to his tireless efforts, a reduction in charge was a result and I couldn't have been more relieved. I recommend him in any case with any challenge, he is the BEST there is! Look no further for an attorney who you can trust, but most of all, can depend on to get the job done. Thanks for everything Ali.
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07 Dec, 2023 by Crystal davis
I am so grateful to Ali for helping me with my son's cases for possession of drugs. My son uses sometimes and I don't think he would do well with the program the court is suggesting. Ali looked up his cases and explained to me some of the possibilities of how his case could be handled. Otherwise we would have been confused with what to say in court to ask for more time to make a decision. I am just so thankful because Ali truly is helpful!
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13 Apr, 2024 by T p
Ilian took a difficult situation and made it easier to comprehend and calm my thoughts. Trying to do this alone or with someone who doesn’t have compassion would be a scary dangerous road. He broke things down so they were easy to comprehend. Yes, he had to give me the truth as he talked me off the ledge (so to speak). There is happiness after this process. I’m definitely there and quicker than I thought possible.
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19 Feb, 2023 by Anonymous
In a nutshell, I do not recommend Giammichele Law. Steven Giammichele and his staff are nice and friendly, but their work is haphazard. The number of drafts we had to review due to their sloppiness was time-consuming, frustrating, disappointing, and concerning. I spent dozens upon dozens of hours reviewing, making corrections, emailing, and speaking in person, trying to get the drafts close to what we asked for and Steven recommended. Mind you, the first several set of drafts were 56 pages for each trust, not including all the other document drafts that coincide with each trust. After the second round of drafts, I advised Steven it was taking such a long time for me to read almost 200 pages of language that is foreign to me, and have to track and explain all the mistakes. He decided to find a new template with fewer pages. Regardless if they are 40 pages or 56 pages each, plus the other document drafts, it takes a lot of time to read and make note of the mistakes or questions, especially when you’re not a lawyer or an estate planner. That's why I hired Steven, to explain, advise and help us through the process. Unfortunately, we felt stuck with Giammichele Law because we paid thousands of dollars for the three trusts upfront and in full, that was a red flag we regret. We received many drafts that had countless mistakes and Steven would blame the mistakes on us changing our minds or miscommunication during our meetings. I would show him our submitted paperwork and our notes, and I would compare them to the drafts, and he still wouldn’t take ownership of the mistakes. It’s now been over eight months and our trusts are not up to par. We asked Steven to please fix them after we were advised by his notary that we still could sign the paperwork, and he would fix the areas that are not correct and go over the language we didn’t understand. Steven offered 30 minutes of his time and if we needed more time, he required a retainer because we signed the drafts, hence he is no longer required to revise them. I would not use Giammichele Law if you want your trust to be created in a timely, accurate, and professional manner, keeping your beneficiary’s best interest at heart. I didn't want to leave a negative review, but the way Steven has ignored our attempt to rectify the situation, I feel he is not taking the severity of his ways. I hope he will do the right thing.
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21 Nov, 2022 by Brady runyon
My wife and I had an extremely positive experience working with Steve and his staff. They made the process easy and were able to clearly explain each step, without making it confusing. Start to finish they were extremely responsive, professional, and personable and I will definitely be referring my friends and family!
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06 Jun, 2024 by Anonymous
Kate did my full estate planning package last year. Yesterday, I was at my yearly physical and the doctor asked if I had an advanced healthcare directive submitted through their portal. I did and, so she opened it and started to read it. She said " Oh- this is a good one. I see lots of these that don't cover the bases adequately. This one is really good!" Kate was great to work with, fair, and responsive to me and my husband and our needs. She's my family law firm now!
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18 Apr, 2024 by Adalberto ramirez
I've had the misfortune of dealing with Kelso never returned my phone calls or emails and to this date Kelso and a family member have behaved very mysterious and secretive still missing $ 17,000. Would not recommend this establishment to settle Trust.
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26 Jan, 2024 by Brittany nieberg
DON’T listen to anything but this review: Everyone at K. Kelso law cares so much about each client, you’ll never need another attorney. Any negative review is clearly from somebody who can appreciate this new way of approaching legal services which will totally change your worldview and make you feel completely at home. Kate is the best thing that ever happened to me and her law firm is now family. Call them. Be a part of their movement.
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05 Oct, 2020 by Peggy
Suzanne became my parents estate attorney in 2010. When a financial elder abuse situation occurred, Suzanne handled a very confusing, contentious and heartbreaking situation with calm, reason and the utmost professionalism. Her skills with the law and estate planning are unsurpassed. I never had any concerns with her expertise. She is also a very warm and compassionate person who has her client's best interest at the forefront. Very happy with Suzanne.
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27 Jan, 2020 by Anonymous
Suzanne created my families Estate plan. She was very detailed and answered all the questions we had. We would recommend her to anyone.
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13 Sep, 2019 by Lynn
You cannot hire a better attorney for your probate and trust matters than Suzanne Rehmani. I know because I have endured a 9 year + horrible legal battle including trial. Ms Rehmani is the best - by a mile. Everything from creating your Family Trust to representing you in the most contentious conservatorship court matter . Do not even think about hiring anyone else!
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19 Sep, 2023 by Brian schram
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07 Aug, 2023 by Richard hutchins
I had a fantastic experience working with Justine Dell as my family lawyer. Her fairness, attentive listening, and dedication to addressing my concerns and needs were truly commendable. I am extremely thankful for everything she did for me.
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24 Apr, 2023 by Monica martinez
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26 Aug, 2024 by Ky
Robert Pearson is absolutely the worst attorney I have ever dealt with. He is the worst communicator and is completely useless. The most non responsive attorney I have ever seen. I would totally stay away from this attorney. He is shady in his business practices and no help at all. Worst attorney ever!!
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30 Dec, 2014 by Jan
Robert Pearson was recommended to me by my long-time tax professional following the death of my husband in a traffic accident. He was extraordinarily patient in explaining to me the various options available, as neither my husband nor myself had established a will. I could not have asked for better service in dealing with the numerous documents and situations relating to my husband as well as in establishing a will and trust in my own name. Over the years, I have contacted his office for updates and other matters, with nominal fees (if any). His associate, Cindy, has also been very helpful. I do not hesitate to recommend this attorney.
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31 Jan, 2024 by Anonymous
I called Mr. Magro for a consult after another attorney i respect referred me. Mr. Magro was extremely rude from the start, and yelled at me when I attempted to ask a question. He said he could not work with me because I don't listen. I could not work with him because he is rude. I took my business, which was considerable, elsewhere.
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03 Mar, 2023 by Anonymous
I called this lawyer for assistence and I couldn't get a word in, He was rude and very foul mouth.
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24 Sep, 2015 by Colleen
My husband called several attorneys before speaking with Mr. Magro about our estate plan. Mr. Magro was caring & very professional when we talked to him about our wishes & plans. We decided to hire him to prepare our trust & wills. There are so many decisions to be made when making a plan like this, like, who should be in charge if something happened to us and what choices we would like that person to make for us. Mr Magro was very patient with us and answered our questions in a way that was really easy to understand. We received the documents from him on the date he promised and his fee was super reasonable. I would totally recommend Stephen M. Magro if you need estate planning.
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Questions? We have answers

What a Probate Lawyer Can Do for You

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

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

When Should I Hire a Probate Lawyer?

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

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

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

What Does a Probate Lawyer Do?

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

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

How Are Probate Lawyers Paid?

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

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

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

How Much Does a Probate Lawyer Cost?

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

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

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

Top Questions to Ask a Probate Lawyer

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

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

How to Check the Credibility of a Probate Lawyer

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

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

What Should I Prepare for My First Consultation?

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

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

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

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