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16 Dec, 2022 by Anonymous
He sure hates losing, but he is not very good at winning. Good luck with this guy!
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24 Jun, 2019 by Kelly
I was so fortunate a friend recommended I hire Paul for my recent divorce. Paul was everything I needed. He was calm, considerate, listened to me, took the time to discuss my options, very responsive when I contacted him and professional in every interaction. I greatly appreciated that throughout the proceedings he was thorough in all his paperwork and very timely in all the court filings. Paul was always prepared for every meeting or deadline. I was so impressed with Paul, I subsequently used him for the estate planning for myself and then my mother. I would highly recommend Paul as an attorney, he's one of the best attorneys I've worked with.
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18 Mar, 2017 by Andy
This a 5 star review, I would give 10 stars if they'd let me.
My custody case was very complex. I spoke to many Washington lawyers only to be told by all of them that this is a losing battle. I was told that I would spend a lot of time and money and still lose. I hired an attorney, in Oregon where I live, to work on my custody case in Washington. They did nothing, I hired a second Oregon attorney who was helpful, they found Mr Battan, discussed options and advised me to work directly with him. I was apprehensive at first as Paul had told me that my case was not only possible, but that he felt he could get it done fairly quickly and easily. This was in contrast to what previous attorneys had said. He cited the cases that were similar, explaining why he felt a judge would rule in my favor. I decided to move forward with Paul Battan and his approach with this matter, about a month later I was awarded temporary custody, another few months and it was finalized. Paul was confident, reassuring, and was always 10 steps ahead of the other party. My only regret is that I didn't find Paul first..... about 6 months and numerous consultations were wasted on other less experienced attorneys. Don't make my mistake, you "better call Paul"!
Sincerely,
Andy D.
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06 May, 2020 by Anonymous
We have worked with Irving for our estate planning on two occasions. He is very thorough, flexible to our needs, and questions what we need -- he is not just taking a cookie cutter approach for estate planning but a partner in our overall plan. He gives good insight about the pros and cons of certain options we proposed. On top of that, he's very nice to talk to. highly recommended!
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14 Jan, 2019 by Kedar
Irv did my will and a real estate transaction for us. He has an excellent grasp of legal issues in both areas. He took a 20 year view rather than just the current situation. He walked patiently through various cases. He worked on Christmas weekend since we were in a time-crunch. He notarized our documents in a short order. He is a wonderful human being with great legal expertise.
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19 Oct, 2017 by Bill
Mr. Sonkin took time to provide specific interesting information that applied for my unusual circumstances!
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16 Jan, 2025 by Patricia kowal
Emily Wilson became a total fit for my husband and me to complete our estate planning. She explained things clearly, was sensitive to our needs and her professionalism stellar. We also appreciated a flat fee for completing our documents and time spent with her in person and over the phone. No hidden fees. Grateful to have found her. Thank you, Emily.
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11 Jan, 2025 by Tanya keeble
I cannot say enough good things about working with Kathy Pauktert. She represented me in a State Farm car accident case, that went on for 6 years and was quite stressful. Every step of the way, I really felt that she was representing me fully, with no evidence of influence because it was a State Farm case, and she gave me excellent guidance but ensured that I made my own choices regarding next steps. She communicates very promptly, is kind, and gives an extremely persnalised experience. Her expertise was evident and I would recommend her (and do!) to folks going through similar cases. Knowing how competant she is, I would use this group for any case that they have expertise in.
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10 Dec, 2024 by Nikolai jones
I have never had a better experience with a law firm than the experience I had with Gilbert Law. They kept me updated on the process and the direction we were going every step of the way. They also fought hard to make sure I was covered in my recovery.
There experience and compassion was evident every step of the way.
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18 Dec, 2024 by Alice baggett
Adam worked diligently to help us with a complicated situation without dear pup. At every moment he was kind, professional, and knowledgeable. Without his expertise, we would’ve been lost. His services were worth every penny and we highly recommend him.
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17 Dec, 2024 by Tiffany bailey
I had the pleasure of working with Bill on various matters and can confidently say he is a dedicated, knowledgeable, and highly professional attorney. His attention to detail, ability to communicate clearly, and commitment to achieving the best outcomes truly stand out. Bill consistently goes above and beyond for his clients, making sure they feel informed and supported throughout the entire process. I highly recommend him to anyone in need of an exceptional personal injury attorney!
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13 Dec, 2024 by Ashley pavone
I couldn't of got my girls back without his help he was amazing and I would work with him again if I had to
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23 Apr, 2020 by Markos
Raymond is really oriented and friendly , he answer all questions professionally, he answer all phone calls and explain you all details. He is one of best lawyer in Seattle, I really recommend him for any case.
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02 Apr, 2018 by Christa
Years ago when my husband and I were trying to navigate a tricky legal issue Raymond was very helpful and answered all of our questions knowledgeably. Today I had need of him again and he promptly returned my call and should this issue come to court I know he will get me the justice I deserve.
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26 Feb, 2012 by Leo
Mr. Connell is one of the most experienced and caring lawyers I have ever encountered. I have worked with him on two cases, one involving an political asylum case and one a criminal case defending a wrongfully accused. In both cases, Mr. Connell showed a deep sense of caring and understanding and went above and beyond the call to stand up for his clients.
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06 Dec, 2016 by Ned
Chris did a wondeful job in handling my divorce and went out of his way to do some follow up advice for free just recently and it was 20 years later.
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28 May, 2014 by Anonymous
He helped us with my mothers estate. There were no hidden costs and fees, he was very up front regarding what it would take and how we needed to go about it from the get go. I new NOTHING about estate planning before I met him and he took the time to make sure I understood what I want, and also what I didn't. He didn't speek to me in lawyer language, he spoke to me simply and directly so that I could understand everything that was being done. All though it was not cheap, but what lawyer ever is, he made it as painless as possible for our family.
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06 Jan, 2012 by Owen
It was many years ago Chris represented me and I see he hasn't gotten reviews yet on this site. That's a shame, because he's one of the best, most honest and caring attorneys I've ever had the pleasure to know. I felt like he was my "partner" in my legal efforts, he truly had my best interests at heart.
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04 Dec, 2024 by Nicole paschal
Navigating legal documentation can be incredibly daunting, especially when you're faced with something as complex as a Non-Disclosure Agreement (NDA) offering a settlement that seemed questionable. I was in such a situation and reached out to numerous firms, hoping someone would review the document and guide me. Most firms either declined to take my case or demanded exorbitant fees just for a consultation.
Then I found Eric. He took my call, listened attentively to every detail I shared, and agreed to help me on a contingency basis. Eric was always professional and committed. He took on my case, which others had refused, and achieved an outstanding result. Thanks to Eric's dedication and expertise, I ended up receiving a settlement that was four times higher than the original offer.
I am incredibly grateful for Eric's help and highly recommend him to anyone in need of legal assistance. His professionalism and willingness to help, even when others wouldn't, made a world of difference.
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09 Oct, 2024 by Theo mittet
Five Star Eric…
I called Eric for advice about a “pre-death probate” (which is legal inder Washington Statutes). He he offered a wealth of information, gave me referrals and put my mind at ease. He answered all of my questions and after half an hour on the phone…he refused to charge me a fee. Thank you Eric!!
Theo
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06 Nov, 2023 by Abin nellams
It was great to speak to the actual attorney. Professionalism at the highest level.
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12 Feb, 2022 by Christine bigot
Great lawyers. Very reliable.We could not have won without their help.Highly recommended
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01 Mar, 2021 by Annie siefa
Jeff and his team are amazing! If you are looking for a team of well experienced and caring lawyer to handle your case, I will highly recommend Jeff Floyd and his team. You won't regret it!
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01 Mar, 2021 by Mike england
Jeff has been helping me and my clients since the 1990's and he has always been responsive, knowledgeable and honest. From fender benders to divorces to major liability cases I have seen him help people with compassion and caring with great success.
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22 Jan, 2021 by Laura
Cindy worked with my fiancé and I to complete our wills, medical power of attorney and the other documents needed to be prepared for the unexpected. She made the process easy and understandable.
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23 Aug, 2016 by Anonymous
I strongly endorse Cindy Zetts to be your next estate planning attorney.
Ms. Zetts demonstrates her competence by being professional, knowledgeable, and responsive, and exceeds expectations in legal practice. I would highly recommend her for all of your estate planning needs. A++
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23 Dec, 2021 by Christina digesti
Beware! Professional elder manipulator and abuser. Stay far away. She works as a POA, guardian, and swindler of the elderly. I pity anyone unfortunate enough to have to deal with this monster.
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18 Jul, 2021 by Richard
Robin Balsam is gifted in both tactical and strategic engagements. In our exhaustive search for the best legal counsel to defend an attack on our sizable assets, she was widely regarded as a peak practitioner in her area and we engaged her on our first meeting. We have been very pleased with that retainer. Drawing on decades of legally forged crucible sharpening expertise, she systematically and surgically disposed of fraudulent “omitted spouse” claims being made against our substantial 50 year aggregated ownership holdings including real estate, savings accounts, investment portfolios, and homes. Confronted with a horde of spurious claims, Robin conceptually brought everything together and developed a pinpointed course of action early in our discovery process. Integrating and disposing of all the litigation issues we faced did converge on invalidation of a fraudulent out of state marriage, enumerating serious VAPO violations, and successfully throwing out a secretive and dishonestly formulated Last Will and Testament. We faced initial demands for 50% of total assets. Robin’s masterful game plan was powerfully and systematically defeated over the contrived but unlawful claims of our opponent. The marriage they were claiming was the core of their entire case. Robin demonstrated to the judge that it could not and would not be upheld in Washington State law. She was clearly prescient on this matter, and was able to masterfully destroy these claims. We won those disputes, and unwound any validity for their principal arguments. Throughout we observed that Robin had exquisitely prioritized and pinpointed a winning course of action. Besides voiding the marriage, she removed arguments surrounding a secretive and dishonestly formulated Last Will and Testament. For our part, she succeeded on all counts.
As family we litigated on behalf of our deceased brother and father, dealing with multiple pleadings that were contaminated on many levels, including marriage fraud, Last Will and Testament chicanery, and ongoing illegal violations of a court ordered, 5 year Vulnerable Adult Protection Order (VAPO). On first appearance we were directed into TEDRA mediation, and our arguments over 3 days in that area severely crippled our opponent after we revealed widespread trickery and deceit on many levels, in addition to a concealed 30 year highly problematic court history. Issues germane to our case included fraudulent check writing, expense and extortion deceit, substance abuse, theft, and other character matters.
Given abundant case related research, Robin’s diligent and highly competent staff weaned out redundant time-line research, and her initial assessment then honed in on the priority factors to be emphasized in upcoming court arguments, as with scope of the overall work program, time management, documentation, and legal issue relevance. Her preparation was exhaustive and masterfully executed. In a magnificent Coup de gras, the marriage was nullified in a Summary judgment kill shot, in Pierce County Washington Superior Court. As well, the illegitimate and contrived Last Will and Testament was thrown out.
Throughout our engagement, Balsam Law had to deal with a Court System burdened and hamstrung by Covid imposed restraining parameters. We are grateful Robin completely negated the legal foundation of the arguments we faced. The Summary judgment she achieved saved our family substantial time and future legal expense. Her professional services are strongly supported by smart, adept, knowledgeable and hard-working professionals at every level. I will whole heartedly endorse her and the expertise she has retained in her firm.
Richard M
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07 Aug, 2020 by Roberta
I first met Robin when I hired her when my Father passed away in 1990. My Mother had her assist her in setting up a Special Needs trust for my Sister. I later became my Sister's Legal Guardian after my Mother had passed. She helped me find an Adult Family Home where she resided for over 15 years. I had her prepare my Will.
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11 Jan, 2011 by Anonymous
Brad helped us with our estate planning including preparation of Life Insurance Trusts. He was very informative and helpful. He helped us consider our options and listened to our needs, and his work was timely and professional. I would recommend his services to anyone.
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25 Mar, 2013 by Lorine
Mr. Briggs guided me through a divorce in a timely and respectful way that allowed my ex and I to mutually settle everything regarding our divorce without a long and expensive court battle. As a result of Mr. Brigg's work and advice, my ex and I are friends and share a mutual respect for one another. Mr. Briggs made a very stressful situation manageable.
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25 Dec, 2023 by Caroll
I hired Carol Vaughn to help with a particularly difficult probate case. She was not only competent but also settled the matter in an expeditious manner. I highly recommend her!
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06 Jul, 2007 by Anonymous
Ms. Janick helped us with a disput over a family trust. We then had her write a trust and other documents for our us. We couldn't be happier with her work. She was able to gain the trust of those who were opposing us. She knows her stuff and responds promtly. Her fees are reasonable and she responds promtly to my calls and messages. I highly recommend Ms. Janicki if you have trust or elder care needs.
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03 Sep, 2015 by Doug
Peter is excellent in guiding you through the process of estate planning and probate process. He lead our family through the legal process in the death of a family member in settling the estate. Very easy to talk with and educated us along the way.
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01 Nov, 2010 by Dorothy
While dealing with a medical crisis in 2007 we needed immediate help in reviewing our legal affairs. Tracie Paul was very thorough, compassionate and effective in explaining all the options available. She helped us finalize health care powers of attorney, health care directive/living will reflecting our desires, and reworking our will. The financial implications are daunting when we are faced with an incurable debilitating disease but she helped us develop a plan and feel in control of our future.
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21 Sep, 2011 by Ryan
Amy immediately broke down any cynicism I had about dealing with attorneys. She did so with her professionalism, honesty and ability to communicate. She took an awkward situation and reliably made the right decisions and did what was best for me and the case. When necessary, she was quick to address "bad news" directly, but with appropriate sympathy and sincerity.
At no time did I ever feel "nickel-and-dimed" or taken advantage of. In fact, I believe she took every available opportunity to reduce the risk of unnecessary charges, maintaining concern for my budget as if it were her own. I would gladly recommend Amy and would certainly employ her services again if necessary. The "Excellent" ratings I provided were not taken lightly, nor were they submitted purely for the sake of quickly answering a survey. She truly did a great job.
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14 Sep, 2007 by Anonymous
Ms. Schaak provided the legal counsel our company needed. We were looking for a lawyer who would as a director of our company, legally speaking. She is very aware of curent legislation that could effect our business. Most importantly, she works from a position of taking action based in integrity. We appreciate her knowledge, efficiency and intelligence in all legal matters. It is my opinion and experience that Ms. Schaak is an excellent lawyer on all fronts.
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22 Apr, 2015 by Jacqueline
I would recommend Aaron Rasmussen very highly and without hesitation. He is a very trustworthy advisor and works in a fast and efficient manner. He is an experienced Landlord/Tenant Attorney, among other types of services, and I am grateful to have found him. Aaron was on top of the matter and quickly assisted me in an eviction and getting the unlawful detainer tenant out of my rental house in a very timely manner. I am very impressed! Jacqueline
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17 Dec, 2019 by Anonymous
I hired Mary in 2012, post dissolution, after my ex mounted another legal attack against our family. Mary is direct, honest, well-respected, most knowledgeable, articulate, skillful, and most capable. Despite Mary’s years of experience and exceptional legal ability, Mary’s fees are at least 100 dollars/hour less than her peers (even at 100 dollars/hour less, Mary’s hourly fee is still approximately the amount an average citizen makes in an entire day).
Mary helped defend against my ex’s frivolous motions, uphold our family’s protection orders (while the criminal no contact orders remained in place), and helped our family finalize a parenting plan with domestic violence restrictions without going to trial. We finalized the night before trial and agreed to arbitrate subsequently two sections of the parenting plan. I attribute this in large part to Mary’s tenacity, knowledge of the law, and integrity, which is in direct contrast to the opposing counsel’s character and modus operandi.
Due to the years of abuse endured by our family (including but not limited to financial abuse), I was eventually forced to file bankruptcy. I remain in contact with Mary post-bankruptcy (and remain committed to compensating Mary, in full with interest). In 2015, when I was forced to hire another attorney to defend against another legal attack against our family, Mary happened to be in court with another client the day of our initial hearing. Mary was overheard responding to my ex’s attorney in the hallway (in an attempt by opposing counsel to prove that I was lying in my documents submitted in response to their deceitful, unreasonable motion) if it was true that I was compensating Mary for her legal representation post-bankruptcy. Mary’s immediate and honorable response was “yes; she is”.
At this point, due to lack of financial means, I no longer have the ability to retain an attorney. I continue, unrepresented (with legal consulting when available), to defend against the domestic abuse our family is forced to continue to endure. I am forever grateful to Mary, and most highly recommend Mary to anyone who needs a most competent and knowledgeable legal advocate. I know that "standing up to the bully" is critical (and is the intent of our founding Fathers in our Constitution) to defending against and stopping abusive use of conflict once and for all for ALL, not just the privileged. Our current system provides this right only for the privileged. This needs to change.
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02 Aug, 2012 by Dave
He has done my will and trust. He represented me in a court claim that went on for some time and we won! He did a lease for me recently. He is very helpful and wants a quality result for his client.
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01 Jul, 2022 by Bruce
Michelle has represented me over the last year, and made the process of become my mother's guardian very smooth. Michelle always kept me aware of the next steps, and there were no surprises. I am 100% satisfied with her representation.
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26 Jan, 2017 by Wayne
My legal firm has hired Cynthia to handle both our LLC paperwork, our corporate agreement and to perform our individual estate planning. Cynthia has been top-notch in all accounts and I would recommend her without hesitation.
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15 Aug, 2015 by Kathy
I highly recommend the Law Office of RaeAnn Persell, she went above and beyond my expectations and even wrote a letter that helped my kids and I get into an apartment. She is very knowledgeable, friendly, responsive and all around a great person.
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06 Jun, 2007 by Anonymous
My husband and I are extremely pleased with the estate planning work that Heidi Orr provided to us. Heidi is very professional, confident, knowledgeable and personable. She was able to answer all of our questions and concerns regarding our estate plan. I would HIGHLY recommend Heidi to others.
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03 Oct, 2012 by Andy
Pat advised me w/ my criminal case. He was extremely easy to work with, knowledgable, and on the ball. I highly recommend Pat and will be hiring him again - hopefully next time for something more innocuous.
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28 Nov, 2009 by Ken
Bill represented me in a Real Estate development appeal case. Even though we did not win the appeal,He was thorough, knowledgeable and Professional. I will definitely use Bill again in the future.
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08 Apr, 2011 by Anonymous
My husband and I were made guardians of my Mother and her estate. Kathy Walter work with me and my husband for over 4 years.
Although at first, it seemed overwhelming with required annual accountings, reviews, court approvals and finally, the estate closing, Kathy helped with every step. She made it go smoothly and successfully.
Kathy is extremely bright, quick, professional and compassionate. She gave us both a great sense of comfort, confidence and relief knowing she was always there for us. She is a wonderful lawyer and a wonderful person.
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05 Jul, 2014 by Tonya
We had to go up against the government for a sexual harassment issue and Dianne was recommended to me by my neighbor. Oh em gee!!! She ROCKED my case! We did settle out of court and Ms. Rudman got everything we asked for and more. She was amazing, well prepared, smart, awesome....I just can't putdown enough words to describe how much I appreciate her. Thank you Dianne!!!!
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06 Oct, 2023 by Randy potter
06 Dec, 2021 by Johnathan bowers
I would highly recommend their services for anything to do with estate planning, trusts, wills, etc. They were professional, courteous, and very easy to work with. They were speedy and timely in all aspects. The entire staff did a fantastic job. I would highly recommend!
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16 Feb, 2021 by Josh soehner
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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:
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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.
