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10 Nov, 2017 by Kathleen
We all know, want and plan to get our legal, financial and healthcare affairs in-order for either the unlikely event that we are hit by some random life altering accident or to make it simple and easy for our surviving loved ones after we’ve lived a long fulfilling life and passed peacefully in our sleep. If you are ready to do this, hire Summer Selleck. She’s the real deal. Summer is super smart, personable, organized and professional. She helps you understand the tactical steps, she listens and she translates your wishes into the legal documents. Summer keeps her promises, and she checks her ego outside the calls and meetings. Summer is such a pleasure to work with, that I’d almost say that she makes this dreaded (yet important) task FUN!
Thank you, Summer. My Husband and I are feeling really happy that our paperwork is ready and waiting,
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27 Oct, 2017 by Susan
My husband and I needed a will and a trust before we left on a vacation to Africa. We really did not give Summer a lot of time to do this. She had it finished and ready to sign in record time. She made us both feel very comfortable that she was taking care of us. My husband is not the easiest to please when it comes to these types of issues. Summer also helped me with another situation from a former employee. She calmed me down as I was a bit of a wreck and took care of the problem.
I highly recommend Summer. It gives me great confidence to say “I have an amazing attorney, Summer Selleck”
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09 Oct, 2017 by David
Have known Summer for about a year now and have consulted with her on some estate planning matters for my extended family. She is kind, honest and eager to help wherever that is possible. Most importantly, she is knowledgable and decisive which I find to be very comforting. I would trust anything that Summer has to say on a matter and I never fail to recommend her to anyone I meet that needs any sort of family law help.
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21 Jun, 2024 by Stan
Ryan wrote my will seven years ago. He has just written, and gained, my living trust. Everything you will read in the reviews … it's true! Hope I've got him for life. Shout out to Matt Colliss for connecting us.
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28 Aug, 2023 by Nanette
My husband and I met with Ryan to evaluate and update the Living Trust we executed years ago with an on-line service. We are very glad we did! Ryan was able to quickly summarize the changes we needed to make and suggested additional steps we should take to finalize our estate plan. From beginning to end, Ryan is highly professional and trustworthy. No gimmicks, pressure or uncomfortableness. Highly recommend!
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09 Dec, 2021 by Katie
Highly recommended! The most amazing and understanding person! He really took the time to explain things to me. He worked hard and quickly to get my items written up. I feel much better about my situation and I really feel like he has my back. Thank you sooo much Ryan! Your the best
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29 Jul, 2022 by Anonymous
Ms. Stoddard represented me in a complicated car accident case. The person that hit me was elderly and information was lacking. I was always well informed, well represented, and felt I was a person and not just a number. When I had trouble finding a medical specialist, Ms. Stoddard was always available to review any credentials and/or discuss any of my concerns. She is an excellent lawyer that looked at viable solutions, and she just helped me remain positive at a very challenge time in my life. I received a fair settlement, and I can not recommend her enough.
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24 Apr, 2015 by Joe
My wife and I have had the pleasure of having Candice as our lawyer.
Trustworthy , Responsive and Knowledgeable are only a few of the words you could use to describe Candice.
She is over all an excellent and simply a terrific lawyer , we were happy to Candice representing us.
Thank you Candice
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20 May, 2009 by Anonymous
Aaron is really helpful and reasonable. He lets you know right up front what to expect in terms of cost and a timeline for getting your work done. He explained things really well and when things took longer than expected (not his fault, the dept. of corporations) he let me know right away.
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19 May, 2009 by Anonymous
Aaron has assisted me twice in reviewing and/or interpreting employment contract provisions. He has been thorough in his review and clear and direct in his questions, clarifications and advice. His counsel has been invaluable on both occasions.
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21 Aug, 2012 by Paul
Organizing my family's legal affairs was badly overdue. We needed the full kit - a family trust, living wills, durable powers of attorney, advance health care directives, etc.. We found Lee on a recommendation, and the recommendation was well deserved.
Lee was great to work with. We know nothing about these things, and he led us through it step by step. He explained each legal document, why that document did (or did not) apply to our family, and how to gather the information to produce the final documentation. My wife and I feel much more comfortable now that we have this process behind us. It was quicker and easier than we expected.
I recommend that any family get their legal documents in order - it's a relief once it's done. And I highly recommend Lee Kaster to help guide you through the process.
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31 Jul, 2012 by Rose
I had the pleasure of working with Lee to set up a living trust. I am not the most organised person but with his help and patience the task was completed efficiently. His direction and advice was so very helpful and I found him to be easy to talk to and attentive to detail. I would have no hesitation in recommending him.
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17 Feb, 2014 by Anonymous
I have been the executor of several estates that required complex guidance by an experienced professional. Two of these cases concerned deaths in California, but assets that were held out of state. Mr. Jacobus was a thoughtful listener, fair-minded, and cautioned me against spending more money in litigation than the estate's value. He was extremely accurate as to the nature of the law, the legal filings required, and the actuality of what could be proven in court. He kept me informed every step of the way, making sure I had copies of all filings, correspondence, research, etc. When a different professional specialty was required (i.e., forensic accounting) he found a reputable firm to conduct the research. His communication skills are excellent, in court and in person. Probate matters can be very tangled and upsetting; Mr. Jacobus handles these emotionally charged issues competently, and with empathy. I have been present as he explained painful facts to elderly clients. He was able to deliver unhappy news with grace and patience, to help a relative understand that a will written by their spouse created a very complicated trust that benefitted more than one person.
I have recommended Jay to several friends and co-workers, who were in need of legal representation. All of them have been satisfied with his professionalism, his knowledge, and his determination to give his best on the behalf of his client.
None of us think we will ever need a lawyer. However, modern life is very complex; the laws we make to protect our civility reflect that complexity. There are many considerations when dealing with estates, either one's own, or on the behalf of a beloved friend or relative. As I have gotten older, I have actually needed more legal assistance, since I have been named as an executor several times. I wanted to do my best, to honor my friends' confidence in my ability to carry out their wishes after death. In this respect, Mr. Jacobus has been invaluable counsel.
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04 Jun, 2013 by Dana
I wasn’t looking forward to establishing an Estate Plan, however, after purchasing a home I knew I needed to. Dan guided me through the process with knowledge and professionalism. His level of expertise, responsiveness, and flexibility provided a streamlined, seamless experience. Great office location and premier parking. I highly recommend the Law Office of Daniel L. DuRee.
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08 Sep, 2016 by Kathy tinney
I posted several questions on avvo regarding my sons special needs trust account, primarily concerning the trustee. Thomas Bret called me and took the time to explain my legal options which was very helpful and now I have a better understanding of how the SNT works.
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13 Apr, 2017 by Anonymous
I consulted David on an estate planning issue and he gave me excellent easily understandable advice. Beyond his established expertise over a long period of years in estate planning David also provides valued assistance to the veteran's community in Contra Costa County
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04 Jun, 2019 by Susie
In terms of my estate planning in the past, I had done it on my own with documents I sourced online. Yet, I’ve always known that I needed to complete my estate plan the right way, but I was embarrassed that I hadn’t sought out professional help previously and that my affairs weren’t exactly where I wanted them to be as a single mom paying for most of my daughter’s expenses. After working with Kirsten to help market and grow her business, I saw the importance of making my estate plan a priority. There is no time the like the present to get your affairs in order, and I knew that Kirsten was the right person to help me. Kirsten and the Absolute Trust Counsel team pride themselves on making each client a priority, and I was no exception to that rule. I was so blown away by Kirsten’s commitment to her clients, processes and her business practices that I flew up to Walnut Creek from Orange County to work with her, and it was WELL WORTH the travel. Thank you, Kirsten and ATC team, for helping me feel comfortable and secure my future the right way!
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20 Aug, 2024 by Ziaullhaq ramin
Dear all who went through this experience I would like to fill for bankruptcy what is the consequences of filing for bankruptcy am I going to lose everything or not I just don’t wanna to lose my little daughter as I’m going through another lifecuptcy.
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22 Jul, 2024 by Rhonda dyer
Mr.Primus and his staff were easy to work with. They helped me so much because I didn’t know anything about bankruptcy. I was in trouble with my finances and needed professional help. They were effective and efficient. Give them a try and get relief from the problems that they are used to dealing with. Don’t hesitate.
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19 Jul, 2024 by Juan partida
We are thankful for your commitment to our case. Thank you for your support throughout this process.
I will gladly recommend your services to others who may need legal assistance.
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27 Sep, 2023 by Maria giannell
Prompt! Professional! Patient! And oh so very helpful!
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18 Aug, 2022 by Janine davis // curb addresses painted
Atty is the best. Parking is possible.
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27 Apr, 2022 by Mark shaw
Jonathan helped my wife with a Special Needs Trust. He and his firm were professional, competent and detail oriented. Not only did Jonathan take care of the all of the filings and legal protocol, communication with him was a pleasure. I am happy to refer Jonathan to friends and family.
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5.0
20 Reviews
4.7
54 Reviews
16 Jul, 2024 by Josh brann
It was great working with Mr. Arietta's law firm to complete the legal documents that we needed done. The process was straightforward, and the communication was clear. We appreciated the professional and efficient service provided.
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24 May, 2024 by Catherine
In just 10 weeks I was granted General Conservatorship of sister inlaw. Kosta and his team were wonderful to work with. At every step I felt cared about and peace of mind knowing that he understood the case and the challenges. WE WON! Can't thank him and his team enough. He knows what he is doing!
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22 May, 2024 by Randy soso
I needed to get my will and trusts modified following a divorce.
I went to David Arietta and he was both knowledgeable and welcoming. I presented my information and David offered recommendations. My new documents were done efficiently and reasonably. I am very happy with David and his assistant Megan!
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10 Oct, 2024 by Monica burneikis
I brought Matthew Talbot into a personal injury case I was handling that had a probate issue that needed to be litigated. I was impressed with Matt's responsiveness and expertise. He clearly knows the ins-and-outs of estate law. I would not hesitate to retain his firm again for any kind of probate litigation matter.
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26 Jun, 2024 by Michele benedict
I recently had the pleasure of working with the Talbot Law Group to plan my will, trust, and overall estate. From the very beginning, they demonstrated the utmost professionalism and compassion, making the entire process smooth and reassuring.
The team at Talbot Law Group took the time to thoroughly understand my unique needs and concerns. They patiently explained all the options available to me and answered every question I had, no matter how small. Their deep knowledge and expertise were evident, and I felt confident that my estate was in capable hands.
What truly set Matthew and Elizabeth Talbot and their staff apart was their compassionate approach. Planning an estate can be an emotional and overwhelming experience, but the team handled it with sensitivity and care. They listened to my concerns and provided thoughtful advice that reflected both legal soundness and my personal values.
The documents they prepared were comprehensive and meticulously detailed. They ensured that everything was tailored to my specific situation, leaving no loose ends. The peace of mind I now have, knowing that my affairs are in order, is invaluable.
I highly recommend the Talbot Law Group to anyone in need of estate planning services. Their combination of professionalism, expertise, and genuine compassion is exceptional. Thank you, Matt, Elizabeth, and team, for making a daunting task manageable and for your unwavering support throughout the process.
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26 Jun, 2024 by Brian delara
A total thief and liar who will do whatever he can do along with of his probate cronies to take advantage of the elderly, which has been proven by the CEAR advocates (please research)!! The Contra Costa County probate department is corrupt from the ground up and that is a fact!!! Don't hire him or you will be taken advantage of!!
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31 Mar, 2024 by Lucero sandoval
Lifesaver in the Legal Maze: A Review for Candelaria PC Law Office in Walnut Creek, CA
For years, I had been locked in a relentless battle with my divorce, struggling to find a way out of the turmoil that had consumed me since 2019. My ex was uncooperative, the financial strain was overwhelming, and the emotional toll was staggering. Then, amidst the chaos, I found Candelaria PC and met Attorney Alice P. Cheng.
From the outset, it was clear that they understood the gravity of my situation. Despite my financial hardships, they welcomed me with empathy and support, ensuring that money would not stand in the way of my freedom. Their understanding and assistance with my financial problems were a beacon of hope in my darkest days.
But it was their unwavering dedication to my case that truly set them apart. Taking over all actions on my behalf, they shielded me from the constant strife of dealing with my ex directly. Their adept handling of the legal proceedings meant that I no longer had to endure the agony of court dates, sparing me further anguish.
Even though I lived in a different state, Attorney Cheng and Candelaria PC remained steadfast in their commitment to my case. Despite the logistical challenges, they navigated the complexities of divorce proceedings in California with ease, ensuring that distance was never a barrier to justice.
Beneath their expert guidance, the seemingly endless ordeal finally came to an end. In just a few months, they achieved what I had struggled to accomplish on my own: a successful divorce. As the new year approached, I found myself liberated from the chains that had bound me for so long.
To say that I am grateful, happy, and blessed feels like an understatement. Attorney Cheng and Candelaria PC not only provided me with legal expertise but also with compassion and support during one of the darkest periods of my life. Their dedication and perseverance were a beacon of hope in my darkest days.
If you find yourself battling a divorce, I wholeheartedly recommend Candelaria PC Law Office. They are not just lawyers; they are champions of justice and guardians of hope. With them by your side, you can navigate even the most daunting legal challenges with confidence and dignity.
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05 Mar, 2024 by Albert esparza
Amazing service! Friendly staff. Im so thankful for their help.
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26 Jan, 2024 by Jewels hyatt
Hands down the best thing that ever happened to me, was having Candelaria Law represent me.
Especially Mariam & Alice. They are truly amazing at what they do! They care about their clients. Mariam worked hard on my case & represented me in a way I couldn’t, she always made sure to get every last detail & was very thorough. If I had any questions Mariam made sure give me an answer & if she wasn’t sure, she would ask Alice & I don’t think there was anything Alice couldn’t answer. Danya, she always had things uploaded online, made sure to touch bases with me to tell me when my court appearances were & if there was something they needed on my end!
They are phenomenal team, extremely responsive (they don’t leave you in the dark) & they FIGHT for their clients!
They are the reason I have full legal & physical custody after a year long battle alone, it took them2 months to get my baby back!! I wouldn’t choose another team to handle my legal battles! I would choose them over & over again!!
Thank you Mariam, Alice & Danya you helped me get my missing piece !! I forever owe you thanks and have gratitude 🤍🫶🏼
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20 May, 2024 by Ivan vindiola
The experience was great with Jason! He helped fix my situation and I have recommended him to others. 10/10 service !!
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20 May, 2024 by Yasmin de leon
I was recommended by a family member and they got my case dropped very quickly! I appreciate the honesty and help from Jason.
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20 May, 2024 by Anthony martinez
They were very helpful and always on top of everything. I will highly recommend these guys to anybody in need !
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29 Aug, 2022 by Blue b
BEWARE: Rita took my money and didn’t do anything that she said she would do…I told her every detail possible…she couldn’t pull off what she said she would do!…she kept the money and then moved to a different location…wouldn’t take my calls or wouldn’t be honest about her mistakes…she’s a lier and desperate for your money…
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25 Jan, 2022 by Daniel mena
Great attorney!
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20 Sep, 2021 by Tina olson
20 Sep, 2019 by Anonymous
I contacted Me Pastor about a trust matter, retained him, and later decided not to proceed due to a changing situtation. I would recommend him because I thought he was very straight dealing and honest.
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07 Jun, 2007 by Anonymous
Elliott established a non-revocable trust for me prior to my marriage. It was tricky, since I'll be recieving funds from my mother's trust when she dies. Elliott guided me in the process of deciding which beneficiaries to declare and how to divide the trust's assets and income. He was quite willing to include language I originated in that regard. He handled all the notifications to the various title companies and financial institutions I deal with, so that the trust formally owns or is beneficiary to my assets.
Elliott charged very a competitive rate. Also, he worked in a timely fashion, seeing me within a week of my initial inquiry, and the whole business was complete within a month.
I am relieved to have provided for my wife and heirs with so little trouble. I would recommend Elliott to anyone in his immediate area for estate planning.
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17 Nov, 2014 by Tom
Very professional, attentive, full of information, made great suggestions, prompt and on time for meetings, and completed the trust when it was due, all at a very reasonable price.
I recommend Ms. Benedetto immensely.
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18 Jan, 2023 by Anonymous
Unfortunately, I came to this conclusion too far along in my case to do anything about it. She expressed annoyance that I did not currently work and seemed to look down on me for it. Money was not an issue for me and it seems she sensed that. I’m currently investigating her billing practices for my case. No, I did not prevail and it has cost me a lot. I did not feel like she was on my side and I felt patronized by her in court. I have little confidence in these reviews. I did my homework and thought I was making the right choice by hiring her. I am totally disillusioned by the whole court process now.
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29 Jun, 2020 by Anonymous
Who does that? Her assistant at the time, a guy, showed up at court in her place. I was NOT informed nor did I approve. He wasn’t up to par with my case and the opposing attorneys railroaded him. I felt like a fool and the judge didn’t appear too pleased either. It was humiliating and disrespectful. How do you avoid hiring an attorney like this? How was I supposed to know?
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24 Apr, 2019 by Michele
I think I know who posted the 12/17/2017 review, and they didn't hire Carolyn Cain - I did. After years of having a do-nothing attorney for an incredibly complicated case and multiple attempts to wrest free of that one, Carolyn Cain took me on and within days Carolyn got me out of a serious fix and within months we were all caught up. I think the 12.17.17 reviewer actually wanted me to fail, and Carolyn definitely mucked up those plans!
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18 May, 2024 by J.
After reading such glowing reviews we engaged Silverman’s firm. They sounded great on our initial call. It shouldn’t became a parent that their timeline was their timeline and my impression was, since fees are court mandated, they were not going out of their way if something different was required. We found members of their staff to be arrogant and haughty. We were told it would take weeks and even months before appointments and items could be addressed. After terminating our relationship and engaging our new lawyer within days we had necessary appointments and issues had been resolved. The impression we had was Silverman’s firm only wanted to do the bare minimum And anything extra we felt like we were demanding or that they were being put upon. They knew our circumstances from the beginning and they were not that extraordinary in our opinion and when we engage. Bottom line, in my opinion, I would not recommend them for anything other than a very , bread and butter probate and would not expect the best or fastest service Without a certain amount of attitude to accompany it!
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01 Aug, 2017 by Anonymous
We hired Robert Silverman to handle our Estate Planning from a friend's recommendation. Mr. Silverman took the time to get to know us and then fully explained what we did (and did not) need. He offered us a flat rate for end to end Trust creation. His staff was courteous and totally on top of our work. The output was a comprehensive document based on our needs and his expertise. Estate planning is an emotional and financial process. Mr. Silverman made it painless. What a sense of relief we have!
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02 Nov, 2023 by Anonymous
Excessive attorney fees of $10,000 in addition to retainer fees of $2,500, and deposition transcript cost of $576.09 for a total of $13,076.09 + additional $18,000 requested to take the case to trial. I sought legal counsel for an eviction in July of 2019 for a cost of $2,500. Two weeks later in August of 2019, Robert A. Miller demanded an additional $5000 to further represent me. Amidst my major depression (documented diagnosis) from an overwhelming amount of grief (grandfather passed away in April 2018, father passed away in June 2018, and workplace mentor passed away in August 2018) and being on a new anti-anxiety medication (trazodone), I mistakenly gave Robert A. Miller $10,000 instead of $5,000. At which point attorney Robert A. Miller exclaimed, “We charge this much $10,000 for an unlawful detainer case?” Even with this admission, Robert A. Miller (then employed by David M. Sternberg law firm) greedily took the check without hesitation instead of honestly advising me of my error. In September of 2019, they set up a useless deposition (not a normal practice in landlord-tenant disputes) where I had to pay for the transcript (after giving Robert A. Miller $12,500). In the same month, they requested an additional $18,000 to further represent me when they could not pressure me to accept an informal resolution of moving out at the end of October 2019. This would essentially give me 30 days to find a new rental, a resolution that I could have accomplished myself. If Robert A. Miller did not want to represent me in court, then do not take my additional $10,000. During a break at the deposition, I was going through an eviction law textbook and turning the pages, Robert A. Miller forcefully grabbed the book from my hands and raised his voice to yell, "Stop!" I was already crying because the settlement was horrifying and my counsel whom I paid for was yelling at me. I had to seek new counsel immediately. The opposing counsel Richard Beckman, two other UD attorneys (Dennis Phillips and Jeffrey Carter), my own counsel Wendy McNabb all advised me to seek attorney fee arbitration. Attorney Richard Beckman, the opposing counsel, stated in open court during the trial that he would never want to smear a fellow colleague, but $13,000.00 is unheard of for an eviction. Additionally, Richmond Superior Court Commissioner Jennifer Lee (now a Martinez Superior Court Judge) expressed great discontent upon hearing the $13,000 amount that was paid for a simple retaliatory eviction. Judge Jennifer Lee also asked for the name of my previous counsel and I replied, "Robert A. Miller of the David M. Sternberg law firm." I was billed for discovery which did not produce any new evidence to show for time spent. I was billed for the deposition. I was billed for emails and phone calls for hours at a time. The emails were never more than one sentence or a paragraph and that was an hour. I had to personally print out over 100 pages of exhibits to be used for the deposition and trial. Kelsey, the paralegal of Robert A. Miller and David M. Sternberg filed and transcribed my dictation for discovery responses all the documents yet Robert A. Miller billed me for her work at his rate of $350.00 - $495.00 per hour instead of the paralegal rate of $100.00 per hour. I had to take three days off from work. The first day was when Robert A. Miller recorded my statement of what happened in order to draft a response to the unlawful detainer filed against me. I had to sit there the whole day while his paralegal Kelsey Ibarolla drafted the response from Robert A. Miller's tape recorder. The second day was to go discuss the case and that consisted mainly of my sitting and waiting in a room. I even had time to talk to my therapist, my union, and my friends in three separation conversations. Nothing came out of this second day. The third day was an unnecessary deposition. Near the end of the deposition, I was deciding how to proceed and asked Robert A. Miller what were the outc
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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.
