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05 Apr, 2023 by Justin robare
Frugal Legal Services should be the staple for how all parents are represented in custody cases. Ms. Burroughs worked hard and diligently on my case and set realistic expectations. My case had a ton of unrelated issues to custody and Ms. Burroughs was completely understanding and worked through our nearly 9 month case. Ms. Burroughs is a magical and enlightening person who gets results. I went from having no contact with my children to now everything is 50/50 and I get to see my sons every other week and have the assurance that no one should be able to change that. The only shame here is that I can only give Ms. Burroughs and Frugal Legal Services 5 stars because it doesn’t let you show off the absolute brilliance of the firm or Ms. Burroughs. Ms. Burroughs and Frugal Legal Services are the prime and top option of any family matters should anyone require those services. I will recommend them for my entire life because of the amazing work that was done.
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12 Jan, 2022 by Alphonce o
12 Sep, 2021 by Nathaniel
03 Nov, 2024 by Vince ucciardi
I will highly recommend Law Office of Angela Manz excellent Jobs on all request Will , Finances,Medical POA and Advanced Medical Director. Thank You for everyone help that was involved
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18 Oct, 2024 by Lno haiti
Extremely professional, personable and deeply experienced in Estate Planning to include special needs nuances. They handled all of our questions and concerns with ease and speed. Their coordination with financial and estate trust companies was beyond reproach. Everyone we had opportunity to work with in their office were kind, caring, and understood the complexities and stunningly hard decisions a family has to make to have a good Estate Plan. I have recommended them to my co-workers and will continue to do so in the future. Thanks!!!!!
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26 Aug, 2024 by Lynne knipp
They are very good.
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16 Sep, 2023 by Anthony vargas jr
They took me by the hand and explain the process in detail and they actually gave you a game plan to follow throughout the whole process. Good job
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28 Jul, 2022 by Waverly phillips
12 Dec, 2020 by Freddie daniels
27 May, 2020 by Pam
I was referred to Brian Boys by a friend in the legal community. My experience with Brian was nothing but positive. He was very knowledgable and responsive to all of my needs promptly. I could not have asked for a better outcome. I would highly recommend Brian Boys to anyone that needs Estate Planning or matters related to Elder Law.
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11 May, 2019 by Juia
Mr. Boys was recommended to me by a high school friend whose husband is an attorney of long-standing in Norfolk. Mr. Boys had handled their estate needs and they were vastly impressed. I found him professional, kind, communicative, prepared, knowledgeable and on point. As my relative was ill and housebound, Mr. Boys made a house call to assess his needs and later dropped drafts off and returned for a will-signing at the nursing home. I can't say enough about Mr. Boys' lawyering skills, integrity and humanity. A consummate professional in every regard. I HIGHLY recommend him for any and all estate planning concerns. I will rest easier knowing that my loved one's estate was in Mr. Boys' capable hands.
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27 Oct, 2018 by Fred
After our retirement move to Norfolk, VA, which coincided with the sudden death of our longtime attorney in NY, we needed our wills, living wills, health care proxies, powers of attorney, and such all redone, carefully but quickly. Brian came highly recommended to us, and after one confidence-inspiring consultation we hired him, breathed a sigh of relief, and counted our blessings to have been directed his way. Brian did an excellent job for us throughout a process that was at every timely step clear, comfortable, organized, and efficient. We will highly recommend him to others.
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30 May, 2020 by Anonymous
Powell has been our personal attorney for at least 25 years. I am a financial planner and understand the need to keep legal plans up to date. When I need to reach him, I get a response from him or his legal assistant in a timely fashion.
As our children grew and our situation became more complex, he kept our Wills, Trusts, Powers of Attorney and Medical Directives up to date. He has also done work for my adult children at my behest when they lived in North Carolina or Virginia. They have liked him and his work very much.
Some of my clients have chosen to use his services and they have learned that Powell works well with their other advisors.
He cares deeply about his clients and you cannot buy that attribute.
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5.0
1 Reviews
4.6
28 Reviews
12 Jun, 2024 by Jared lesler
18 Feb, 2024 by Marcus wilson
Terrible law firm pray on HOA residents. Use someone else. Don’t use a firm that does work for HOA’s they are only in it for the money and not for your personal interest. All about the Benjamin’s with this firm
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14 May, 2023 by Matt knight
They were great. Handled my family's estate. Made it very easy and comfortable.
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08 Jul, 2020 by Nate
We used Hanger Law for our closing and couldn't have been happier with the experience. Our lender messed up some key name spellings on the closing documents and they were very quick to resolve the issue with almost no time lost. Great law firm with very friendly employees. I would highly recommend them for anyone who likes prompt and professional service.
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08 Jul, 2020 by Aurinel canelon
I'm so glad to have Mark during this process. This was my first purchase on real estate and his guidance made all this to go as smooth as possible. Thank you Mark and the firm for all this work!
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02 Jul, 2020 by Anonymous
Mark did a great job talking through the entire process with us. We loved working with him and his team. They did a great job. We look forward to working with them on our next home.
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19 Dec, 2024 by Sid alford
If you have anyone else representing you then you’re wrong. He actually cares and that’s a rare trait in people nowadays.
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18 Dec, 2024 by Catherine lazo
Stephen Pfeiffer was very upfront with outcomes so we could figure out what options we were working with. We greatly appreciate what you did for us at the end. Although we didn’t get the results we were wishing for we are aware there are always consequences to not abiding to the law. I can say he did great in helping us out as much as possible when it came to my husband’s situation.
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18 Dec, 2024 by Isaac masanja
Great experience very professional and worth every penny.
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5.0
2 Reviews
4.6
67 Reviews
16 Aug, 2024 by Juli edwards-mcdaniel
Shelly Wood and Caryn West have been so helpful for all our needs!
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16 Aug, 2024 by Michelle brown
I would highly recommend allowing Mr. Barlow and his paralegal Ms. Whitmore to manage you legal needs. I appreciated Mr. Barlow taking the time to explain legal terms and the various options I had available to meet my estate planning needs. They prevented the process of creating a will from being unpleasant, thanks again!
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16 Aug, 2024 by Caitlin matthews
My husband and I recently had the opportunity to meet Shelly Wood. While she did not directly represent us, she did a family member with a custody court case. We were extremely impressed with her professionalism, how committed she is, and goes above and beyond to assist. Also very caring. I highly recommend her, you cannot go wrong!!
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23 Jan, 2024 by Christian
John was the single best decision we could have made for our parents. His knowledge and expertise eliminated or solved potential problems before they could arise, saving us lots of money and heartbreak. We are truly thankful for his direction.
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03 Jan, 2017 by Anonymous
We hired Mr. Sawyer to assist with an estate gift that was left to our non-profit organization. Our organization is not located in Virginia so we had to seek counsel in another state. Mr. Sawyer was professional, courteous and prompt with replies and action. Most importantly, because we are a non-profit organization he was sensitive to cost vs. outcome. I would highly recommend Mr. Sawyer. We were very pleased with the outcome, the service and his scope of knowledge of the law.
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06 Aug, 2016 by Elizabeth
John Sawyer represented me in court to be a guardian and conservatorship of my parent. I meet with him in the Fall to get advice on the legal issues involved with caring for my parents and moving them from another state. Upon moving them, the situation turned into an emergency legal issue. Mr. Sawyer quickly took care of all the legal issues for me. I appreciated his wisdom and compassion through the process.
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22 Jun, 2018 by Scott
Mr. Olansen navigated me through a difficult tax issue and got me a great outcome. I had a fair amount of success representing myself in visitation matters years before, but in the situation I faced with the government, I simply could not have done it without him. I endorse him unequivocally.
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07 Jul, 2013 by Harold
The case was one where a family trust was questionably liquidated by the trustees to the exclusion of some of the beneficiaries. Earlier, another attorney had advised us that the harm to trust's excluded beneficiaries was not actionable and would probably result in the beneficiary plaintiffs being disinherited. Legal research by Ms Zizzo, Rack & Olansen's litigation attorney, resulted in a lawsuit that eliminated the risk of disinheritance and the case was settled out of court with the wronged beneficiaries receiving six figure settlements.
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04 Jun, 2013 by Tom
Nate is personable and very professional. We appreciated his thoroughness, approachability, and the quality of his follow-through. Our discussions carefully reviewed the advantages and disadvantages of various trust considerations.
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21 Jul, 2021 by Jennifer
Mr. Wolcott successfully negotiated a lease termination I was a party to. He handled this case with professionalism and was diligent in resolving the case. More importantly, Mr. Gordon's discerning knowledge of real estate law was a catalyst toward achieving the desired case outcome.
I highly recommend Mr. Wolcott. His attention to detail, erudite knowledge of the law, and first class client service make him a trustworthy choice for legal representation.
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28 Apr, 2020 by Raechel
Mr. Wolcott and the Wolcott team were amazing at handling my car accident case. They helped me receive a fair claim and I couldn’t have asked for a better team on my side. They supported me through out the entire process and were always available to take my questions. They put 100% of effort in helping me close my case! Mr. Wolcott and his team are wonderful and I can’t thank them enough. This was my first accident I was involved in (not at fault) and Mr. Wolcott eased the process tremendously. He took away a lot of stress of trying to handle a claim with insurances alone and I cannot be more grateful for his assistance. I recommend Mr. Wolcott and the entire firm to everyone. You won’t regret hiring this team!
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23 Sep, 2019 by Anonymous
After reaching an impasse with our business partners earlier this year, Attorney Wolcott was hired to represent our interest in a buy-out/separation agreement. After listening to the details surrounding our case, he provided initial insight into how best to proceed, then set realistic expectations for what to expect throughout the process. Attorney Wolcott went above and beyond to remain reachable throughout the process, provided quick follow ups for emails/phone calls, and delivered all necessary materials in a timely manner. We highly recommend Attorney Wolcott and the entire Wolcott/Rivers/Gates Law Firm to anyone in need of representation!
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25 May, 2018 by Barbara
We hired Mr. Dodl to creat our revocable trusts - he was very available and took as much time as we needed to explain everything and answer any questions. I can highly recommend him for estate/trust planning.
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11 Dec, 2024 by C. rowe
I can’t say enough good things about having David as your attorney. From the very first phone call, in which I spoke to David directly, my first take away from our interaction was how personable was, and the amount of information he gave me just in our initial conversation. Even with that, I opted to look around to find a couple other opinions and honestly, to compare rates. This was the first time I have ever needed a lawyer, so this was all new to me. I quickly found out that David was by far the most open, honest, and genuinely concerned to find the best possible outcome for me.
After not talking to David for almost a month prior to me court date due to some family issues, we touched base again, and he was on top of everything. He had a plan, and he knew what he wanted to see happen in court.
Well today was the court date, and I am very happy to announce that Mr. Cardon saw that plan all the way through to the end. He was able to get my charges dismissed for the exact reasons he had stated to me.
This guy is an ACE! In the court room and in person. I can’t recommend him highly enough!
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06 Sep, 2024 by Cliff collings
David took his time in reviewing my case from the very start I never questioned him on his methodology and always felt that he was looking out for my best interest. Five stars David
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31 Aug, 2024 by Kia richardson
David Cardon was the best when it came to my case. He works swiftly and very attentive and always kept me updated throughout the entirety of my case. He was able to get majority of my charges dismissed. I highly recommend him if in any event I would need him again. I would definitely suggest him to anyone that needs a good lawyer that takes care their clients.
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12 Dec, 2024 by Darren
Mrs. Wood Hanna guided me through a recent family law issue.
Her advice was direct and to the point. She provided plenty of context to help me set expectations and weigh my options. For my relatively minor issue, her pricing was reasonable and straightforward.
I highly recommend her for your family law legal needs.
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27 Nov, 2024 by Kendria marshall
Liz was incredibly helpful and just wonderful to work with. I am so thankful for her and her team.
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20 Nov, 2024 by Luis cortes
Great attorney.
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16 Oct, 2024 by Chamroeun ciballos
I gave them 1 star because I called to get my remaining balance to pay off. Their accounting person was awful and rude. She did not know what the fees are being charged for nor the remaining balance that I would had to speak to the lawyer handling the case to get the final balance. That was fine but why be nasty and rude if clients are asking. They really need to train their front office or accounting staff better customer service or how to properly talk to clients better. My husband called a second time and asked to speak to a specific paralegal or lawyer involved in the case to get the final balance and they mistakenly transferred him to this accounting person they had again. She was soo rude and spoke to us both slowly like you are talking to a 1st grader like we did not speak any English. I do not know if it’s because of our last name but we both were born in the states so there was no need to belittle people that are trying to pay off their remaining balance. Makes me think she speaks to all foreigners this way and everybody should be spoken with respect regardless what race, former or current client. We will not be using them ever again for any services knowing they have rude and nasty accounting or front office staff that are not properly trained. I will also be telling others I know about this awful experience.
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01 Aug, 2024 by Abdel agami
22 Jul, 2024 by Patrick hayes
12 Jun, 2024 by Jared lesler
18 Feb, 2024 by Marcus wilson
Terrible law firm pray on HOA residents. Use someone else. Don’t use a firm that does work for HOA’s they are only in it for the money and not for your personal interest. All about the Benjamin’s with this firm
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14 May, 2023 by Matt knight
They were great. Handled my family's estate. Made it very easy and comfortable.
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02 Jan, 2025 by David perez
My experience at J S Burton was absolutely phenomenal! From the first meeting to the last, ensuring that I was aware of all the necessary information and explaining any items I was unsure of. The professionalism, dedication and attention to details from John and his staff was impeccable. I’d refer anyone and everyone I know to him and his staff. Thank you again from bringing peace of mind to my family and I.
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30 Dec, 2024 by Jen serra
My Father and I had a wonderful experience with J.S. Burton updating our wills and trusts after my Mother had passed away. We've done this 4 different times so far with 4 different attorneys (different states), and Mr. Burton was by far the most thorough and asked the most thoughtful questions that helped us make the best adjustments. His team created an impressive binder to house all of the documents, with instructions on what to add at later dates so it's a one-stop guide when needed. Great experience, highly recommend!
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30 Dec, 2024 by T of the serras (elders s.)
Best Estate Plan we have ever had. We’ve done Estate Plans in four different states, and J.S.Burton was by far the most thorough, efficient, and effective plan that has ever been done for us. Anthony T. Serra
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16 Dec, 2020 by Randall
I recently received a notice from a collections agency, which was contracted by a local municipality. They claim I owe back taxes on a car I purchased about six years ago. I called David after talking to several local area attorneys who were unable or unwilling to help. David was empathetic the entire phone call and went well beyond anything I was expecting. He, without being prompted, found the statutes - the source of the unpaid taxes - and explained them in a straightforward way. Additionally, he counseled me on some strategies to either pay a reduced amount or avoid the expense altogether. While I'm still negotiating with the collections agency and the city that hired them, I know I will reach a more satisfactory solution after my conversation with David.
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09 Apr, 2019 by Anonymous
Mr. Bastiaans is skilled at complicating, prolonging and bloating tasks to benefit the billable hours charged. Communication was consistently inconsistent and often statements made were not executed. An example, billing for services rendered would be issued monthly, but at the end of month one, it was changed to quarterly, which was again changed to end of the month following the previous quarter. Four months of billing charges accrued before a client is made aware of cost seems unreasonable. Not someone I would recommend or trust to manage my family’s estate.
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24 Nov, 2015 by Bruce
David was responsive, straightforward and helpful in determining an appropriate path for a rather unique business opportunity. I have more work to do on my end but expect that when the time comes will have no issues leaning on David for his background and expertise
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14 Jan, 2025 by Anonymous
A slob with a propensity to take advantage and harm the lives of the elderly . Stay away from this loser .
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07 Feb, 2024 by Anonymous
After retaining Bradley Brickhouse, his demeanor quickly changed. He did not write up in the claim for the case what was discussed and purposely did it in such a way to string it over time, to make more money. He was rude, lied multiple times about multiple things. I had to fire him. I would stay far away from him and his firm.
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23 Jun, 2021 by Jim
I consulted with Mr. Brickhouse about him taking over as guardian. He had no patience with me and demanded immediate responses to his questions. Unfortunately, I couldn't hire him due to his temperament.
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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.
