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26 Apr, 2023 by Gene
I had hired Mr. Kirkevold on retainer in Jan 2022 in an effort to prevent my siblings from stealing my inheritance. My siblings were successful, so lobg as the property remains unsold I am denied my inheritance and as long as my brothers continue to live their, the the property will degrade. They ignored him essentially.
My attorney did not stick up for me. I was charged well above market prices. In fact, because He charged so much and always unprepared for when I had conversations with him, half of my retainer was cobsumed with nothing really to show for it.
Mr Kirkevold FAILED to live up to his firms mission statement of,
"Our Mission
We provide trusted advice and formidable advocacy for our clients. Our core responsibilities include understanding our clients’ goals, aspirations, and challenges, and using those insights to deliver the highest standard of personalized services in a timely and efficient manner. " This did not happen for me and this experience has made me even less mistrustful of lawyer in general. I deplore the terrible service and lack of attention and comittment to me since I was paying top dollar for his service.
He is a nice enough person, but he failed me.
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17 Oct, 2022 by Anonymous
If you want the best possible legal defense in the Seattle area and beyond, look no further. Kameron Kirkevold is your man. When Kameron represents you, he will deliver a world-class defense on your behalf, while establishing a strong rapport with you, ensuring you will not face a serious legal challenge alone.
Kameron fiercely defended me from start to finish, culminating in a settlement —at least ten times smaller than what was demanded by the opposing attorney. With great attention and expertise, Kameron analyzed my case to determine that my former attorney would need to serve as a witness on my behalf. Kameron contacted my former attorney and convinced him to provide a detailed declaration in support of my case. Kameron directed a member of his team—another attorney—to reach out to other key witnesses who agreed to provide additional critical declarations. These actions by Kameron and his team turned the case around 180 degrees in less than one month. Instead of facing the real possibility of being drug into court by the opposing party, Kameron pulled together a brilliant legal defense and negotiated a small settlement that was significantly reduced from the original demand. I was blown away by Kameron’s legal defense of me and his personal characteristics.
Based on my experience as his client, I believe Kameron’s illustrious legal career is built in no small measure on a foundation of extraordinary personal characteristics and professional competencies. Paramount among all others is that Kameron is TRUSTWORTHY. Kameron builds trust by standing by you steadfastly throughout the challenging legal process and its aftermath; patiently explaining the entire legal process ahead including the potential risks, exposure, and scenarios; and answering every question forthrightly without being dismissive or impatient.
Kameron has many other admirable qualities: fierceness, brilliance, authenticity, steadfastness, attentiveness, compassion, honorable, and humbleness; in addition, he possesses deep legal knowledge and acumen, phenomenal writing skills, and exquisite listening skills.
For the first time in my life, with Kameron’s representation, I felt the full force of a highly competent legal defense and witnessed what a truly talented attorney is capable of. I am deeply grateful to Kameron and his team for their stellar representation and life-changing outcome. Over the course of the last year and a half, I have come to know Kameron to be someone with the highest integrity who embraces his humanity. Kameron stood by me steadfastly during a very painful time in my life, and he continues to provide me with legal advice. I wholeheartedly recommend Kameron to others who need the absolute best possible legal advice and defense. Kameron Kirkevold is among the very best, as an attorney and human being.
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06 Mar, 2017 by Anonymous
I went to Mr. Moran, even though his price was higher then most around our area. Pros: he was quick to get us in, and he was straight to the point. Cons: He got frustrated when we had additional questions about our case, and he did not explain certain things clearly like, our house and auto loans. I had a quick question about our bankruptcy a year and half after it was discharged, and he did not return our calls, I even offered to pay for the answer, and I actually had to consult another attorney for free because he never responded. My co-worker was doing bankruptcy same time we were, and found a cheaper lawyer in Silverdale, who accepted payments, and also made sure all questions were answered.
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07 Jul, 2014 by Gena
Mr Moran took care of my chapter 7 filing that came up in the middle of a very acrimonious divorce, he was quick, reassuring, understanding & never made me feel terrified the way the divorce process did.
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11 Jul, 2024 by Kristopher lichtanski
I have had an excellent experience with CCL and Ms. Choi in the matter of a complicated easement / title situation. The office staff was super responsive, appointments were scheduled quickly and in collaboration with my schedule/availability, and the meetings I had with Ms. Choi were focused, organized, and super productive. I felt that Ms. Choi was prepared for the meetings, understood what I was dealing with, and discussed with me multiple options and potential outcomes regarding this legal matter, which is going to end up in Court. I could not have asked for a better attorney for my situation (and I have consulted with others prior to CCL) and I very much look forward to my ongoing work with CCL and Ms. Choi. I recommend CCL and Ms. Choi wholeheartedly!
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05 May, 2024 by Ricardo saenz
I arranged a meeting with her to discuss immigration matters and seek professional validation of the process I had completed on my own. Unfortunately, during our reunion, she seemed more focused on protecting herself than genuinely assisting me. However, when I attended my USCIS appointment today, everything was in order, and the concerns she raised did not materialize. It was a stressful experience unnecessarily.
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26 Apr, 2024 by Larry hu
I did not have a good experience with the law firm. My main issues is that Boyoon Choi would repeatedly interrupt me and cut me off before I could finish speaking and there were some mannerisms like scoffing (in a subtle but noticeable way) that came off as pretty condescending and I received a general negative feeling from the tone of voice she used with me. She was also 6 minutes late to our Zoom meeting but cut our 30 minute meeting short nonetheless so we really only had 24 minutes together. I'm sure she would probably bill the time for 30 minutes to my MetLife benefits and not the 24 minutes that I actually got. The way I see it, if a client does not have the correct understanding then inform them in a respectful way. Trying to be subtle with mannerisms like quietly scoffing or responding with a negative tone, one that felt a bit indignant towards me feels less like you're working with someone that's trying to advocate for you and more like you're talking to someone that's trying to take out whatever stress she may be having towards you. It seems that no wonder her staff seems to sound a bit on edge over the phone as I can imagine what it can be like to be subjected to that over time.
She also knew that my home is in Snohomish County but told me that she can't help with the eviction process in that area, but took my money through my MetLife benefit anyway. That's pretty messed up.
Lastly, I also felt it was problematic to be told that she did not know the RCW that covered why a 90 day notice to vacate due to sale is not enforceable unless it is specifically mentioned in the lease agreement. When I requested clarification for her to specify how is this the case, she could only tell me it's part of the general landlord tenant rights that a lease agreement has to specify that an early termination can take place due to sale and that this language would not be specifically mentioned due to it being covered under the general umbrella of tenant rights. However, RCW 59.18.650 clearly states it's permissible for a landlord to end a lease agreement early with cause for the purpose of selling a home.
Boyoon Choi should really be careful with giving advice that she clearly does not know the basis for. It is concerning when you ask for the RCW that she does not know it, and scoffs at you while mentioning it's part of the general rights for a tenant.
Anyways, here is what I was told by another source about the permissibility of ending a lease early to sell the home:
In Washington State, typically, if a landlord provides a 90-day notice to vacate for the purpose of selling the property, this is generally considered lawful. In Washington State, the enforceability of a 90-day notice to vacate due to the sale of a property typically does not require a specific clause in the lease agreement stating that sale of the home entails the tenant moving out. The standard process allows landlords to issue such a notice as part of the rights to dispose of their property, assuming other legal and procedural requirements are met (e.g., proper notice period and service).
Lastly, she was also incorrect about my MetLife legal benefit. She said I don't have benefits for litigation as part of my benefit but in my MetLife portal it clearly states: "This service covers the Participant as a landlord for matters involving leases, security deposits and disputes with a residential tenant. The service includes attorney services for the eviction of a tenant up to and including trial."
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05 Oct, 2022 by Kyle rothaus
Melissa Macdougall works directly with the prosecutor. She is the worst lawyer in this entire state, and possibly in this country. She is terrible, and I would avoid her at all costs. She is the devil.
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26 May, 2016 by Albert kennedy
13 Mar, 2015 by Ron
My ex used the legal system in WA state to put me in an extremely bad way. Apparently, I "attacked my son." She even admitted it to me as a lie and I informed Mr. Smith about this statement. He said, "well it worked." Throughout my divorce he didn't advise me one time. He always asked me, what I wanted to do. I'm not the expert, I hoped he was and he charged me as if he was. A friend advised me to use Hillary Holmes as he did, I wish I had. He said Hillary was all over it and he felt she really protected him and had his back.
Mr. Smith didn't even have my file available at the settlement conference and I got my clock cleaned. I talked with the judge about my issues or distortions my ex said about our finances in an effort to help myself. Not a word from Mr. Smith. Mr. Smith certainly didn't wait to invoice me, however.
If you're a man, look elsewhere.................Please!!!!!!!!!!......... This guy won't help you in the slightest. He believes everything the other attorney tells him...........I mean everything.
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15 Dec, 2014 by Daryl
Dan took on my 2 year long divorce case with ONE month to go before my trial. Being a father in the state of Washington and fighting for joint custody, I honestly didn't think I had a chance. I was wrong! Dan not only got me joint custody, he saved me a lot of money too! He absolutely owned that courtroom and did his homework- only 1 month before my trial! Trust me when I tell you this.. Dan is THE man! Highly recommend!
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02 Dec, 2014 by Laurie
Mr. Daniel Smith took over my divorce case at the halfway point; it was spinning out of control. He stepped in and quickly made progress in a professional and steady way. He negotiated an excellent settlement for me. I am extremely happy with all aspects of the service he provided.
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27 Aug, 2023 by James tasoulas
Love it!!!
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25 Aug, 2023 by Nerm m
I had a great experience with these guys, who represented me in a ridiculous lawsuit brought against me by my greedy, land grabbing neighbors (ahem- allegedly). They helped me save a TON of money so that I could take the fight over the finish line, despite the opposing counsel's constant threats and grandstanding. I was successful in holding onto the property my neighbors were attempting to take from me.
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13 Mar, 2023 by Jordyn “atlantianspecialist666” atlantian
Never call back
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03 Apr, 2024 by Consuelo medina
My case was complicated but there is a great team behind me who gave me their hard work to make everything go okay 😃🙌
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08 Mar, 2024 by John c stratton
I want to say. thank you for your best to work and doing great Job! they are wonderful to make sure all correct the paperwork.. thank you again I really appreciation to commutation with me..and to understand. I recommend this law office and provider for the consumers.
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27 Dec, 2023 by Valiant c.s.
Not pleased with the intake process was notifed the night proir via e-mail for payment details and to fill out a general information sheet for intake. I verbally provided the information but it was not recorded from prior calls and I would not have time to print, fill, and scan the sheet in the next morning before noon. Notice at the time of making the appointment a week prior would be better.
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17 Jun, 2024 by Donna
My mother passed away on October 6, 2022. In her will she willed me her gold Canadian coin as an inheritance item (among other items). When I drove there to pick up my inheritance coin I mentioned to Terry (my brother) that it wasn’t there, there were no British items of my mother’s (Maryann told me she had removed them from my parents’ house), and both JJ’s coins and diamond ring were not there. Terry then pointed to my parents’ bedroom where Maryann Baker and Irene Coyle were sleeping and had been illegally sleeping in my parents’ bed. I picked up the items that were there and then I left the house. A monetary inheritance of $500,000 has already been distributed to both Maryann Baker and Terry Sifford over a year ago, I still do not have my inherited Canadian gold coin and Attorney Grenely refuses to give me my portion unless I approve Maryann Baker’s personal expenses. Mr. Grenely suggested that I drive to Canada to replace my inheritance coin. I want the Canadian coin my mother left for ME.
I requested my Canadian gold coin sent to me through certified mail and as of today, June 14, 2024, I still have not received any of my inheritance.
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19 Jan, 2024 by Gurn blanstein
I have never dealt with an attorney or law firm that was as great as this law firm is. Henry Grenley Is the best attorney I've ever dealt with in my life. He's made my life so much easier getting through the process of dealing with my mother's estate. Not to mention they're very reasonable on the rates. I can't say enough good about Henry. It's always a pleasure every time I meet with him. If I could give 10 stars I would!
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17 Jan, 2024 by John andrews
22 Mar, 2023 by Brad
I met with Rob in early 2020 , paid a $2000.00 retainer for his help with a legal matter. I received a letter when Covid started saying there would be delays for all clients. This was the last I ever heard from him or his office. I have since called dozens of times for a refund of the remainder of my retainer as the matter I hired him for has become irrelevant in the 3 years that have passed. I have never received a call back. I would just like the retainer returned. I cannot fathom taking money from someone and never providing the service or a return of the money paid. Looking at other reviews, I see I am not alone there are plenty of others who describe similar experiences.
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15 Mar, 2023 by Anonymous
Doing what's best for his pocketbook, not the client. Would not recommend this attorney.
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18 Feb, 2023 by Anonymous
This man will take your money and disappear. Don't expect to ever hear from him again after you've paid his retainer. In any other line of work he'd be a criminal.
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08 Aug, 2024 by Adrienne knapp
Filled out website form to make an appointment, no response. Emailed, no response.
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07 Jun, 2024 by Kittitas county chamber of commerce
Jim has been our counsel for the past 6 years. His professionalism and knowledge has been exactly what we need.
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12 Dec, 2018 by Leif madsen
i was referred to Kerry Richards by a friend who also had a great experience. Kerry Richards is a saint. saved me and my son. i owe to him all the little moments i get to experience as i watch my son grow everyday. we finalized everything almost three years ago and writing this still brings tears to my eyes. there is nothing more important than family, and i wouldnt trust mine with anyone else.
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15 Aug, 2018 by Rob fulwell
09 Feb, 2015 by Lori sherman
Do not use Joel Bradshaw to be the lawyer for a irrevocable trust. The trustee would not give an accounting or bank statements and receipts to the beneficiaries, which is required by law, and Joel Bradshaw defended the trustee instead of the beneficiaries. He must not have informed the trustee of the law. The law requires the trustee to look out for the best interest of the beneficiaries not use the trust money in whatever way they please. Mr. Bradshaw also told beneficiaries the trustee could not produce the bank statements because they were in "storage". I guess he never heard of "online banking".
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23 Dec, 2017 by Anonymous
Very disappointed in outcome. Once he realized it was a large estate his fees kept increasing at an alarming rate. His changing of the wording in the documents caused me to have to do costly repetitions which he charged full price for, and these did not seem like mere accidents. He was always polite, professional in his attitude and presentation, but I do not trust him at all. Very disagreeable experience & one I will not soon forget. Watch out, is my advice to anyone considering this attorney!
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24 Jul, 2014 by Jeryl
Mr Masters was referred to me from a family member who had used him previously for estate matters. He took charge and helped me through a very difficult time in my life. He advised me and told me exactly what I needed to do. If there were things I could do myself he would recommend doing it that way to save money. He was very professional. I always knew exactly what was going on and what he was working on. I highly recommend him.
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16 Oct, 2013 by Anonymous
I retained Mr. Masters to protect an estate. He took the ball and started running like he was going for a touchdown. The retainer money was gone lickty split. He refuse to keep me informed of all expenses. Finally, I ask him to withdrawl from the estate. Low and behold an out ragious billing. TWO one hour meetings amounted to over $4000.00 . Nothing I asked him to do was accomplished. Then I learned he was providing personal consultation, at the expense of the estate.
After Mr. Masters withdrew. The estates became more safe and protected.
Nothing I said ment a thing. He did as he chose. Communication was none. I would provide him information about my wishes and to dis continue communucation with an another attorney. He blew me off and charged the estate. He was completly out of control. He can write a good last will and testament. He handled the initial paper work just fine. But after that the 4 month period. It became wacked. GOUGED is a very light term....
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13 Apr, 2018 by Lonnie
I had no dealings with Mr. Marinella. I only have experience with Kim Boggs services. Last thing you want to deal with after a loved one passes.
Hello Kim,
I figured I would write a few thoughts down to better your business & possibly keep you from having unhappy customers, as I am not totally satisfied with your services.
1) 1st meeting we were not informed of your billing structure. We were unaware that every txt/email/call was charged (I guess it makes sense, but I have never had to do this before). You may want to be more detailed with future clients. I would have done way more research and found the answers myself if I may have been aware of that small detail.
2) letter to creditors- based on our 1st meeting/conversation in your office several calls/ emails to donna & yourself could have been eliminated by your office sending the letter after we met and not 3.5 months later because of me calling and checking on progress. I lost faith that what was talked about was actually being completed. I feel I was charged for this error.
3) we were told about $2000 for probate. I do understand that was a quote but, if you take your car to be repaired and was quoted about $2000 for a repair and the final cost was $3044 I think you would be very angry. This is how I feel.
I feel pertinent information was not provided to me. The letter to creditors was not sent after we spoke and i was charged for your mistake. I think you should (in the future) spend more time on informing clients of your billing methods. Also your quote was VERY misleading due to the about issues.
You're final payment will be in the mail.
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26 Mar, 2024 by Hayley hanna
If you want a lawyer who does shady business practice and works with direct conflict of interest then here’s your guy. If you want someone who’s going to try to take advantage of you after the death of your loved one then look no further. BUT … if you want a real lawyer who’s going to be a shark and go to battle for you and actually knows how probates and estates work- then go to Seattle and hire a big dog attorney. Sometimes you just need to leave the island to find quality service.
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26 Mar, 2024 by Chantal firman
Save your money. If you want a lawyer who Is condescending, rude, hard to reach, and constantly out of the office then this is your guy. Made my fathers probate a nightmare.
He’s knowledgeable but that’s about it. Do yourself a favor and go somewhere else on island
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24 Apr, 2023 by Innocentlee young
Do not waste your time and money. An experienced only in it for the money do not fight for you. They drag things out and don't know what they're doing.
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13 Jan, 2014 by Anonymous
My wife and I had JUST an initial consultation with Brian Dano. We knew that he was going to charge us $150 for the consultation and that is all that we agreed to. We weren't even sure that we were going to use him because we knew that he might have a conflict of interest. Our legal matter involved someone that he knew and had possibly worked for in the past. Our consultation was to simply ask if he could actually represent us. He ended up charging us quite a bit for his correspondence with this other person JUST to confirm that he did not have a conflict of interest!
We have since learned that many lawyers offer an initial free consultation.
Brian Dano is quite pricey, arrogant, and not very forthcoming in his billing.
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06 Mar, 2013 by John
I went to Brian Dano because of good reviews but realized quickly he was not so strong on Real Estate. He charged me for two closings on real estate transactions that I found out later from the title company that I could have done one closing and saved myself 5k. His fees are higher than most of the other lawyers in town to begin with and I just wouldn't use him again.
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19 Aug, 2018 by Tracy
After I lost the trial, she didn’t let me know there is 10 days for me to file the motion for reconsideration. I want to why we lost the trial since she said we had a strong case. I emailed her no response I called her she didn’t return my call. After one week. I went to her office and asked her to file the motion for reconsideration. She said she had no time to do it. She would email the form to me and let me fill the form, she file it. I asked when she would email the form to me. She said today. That day was Tuesday. I finally received a email at 4:20 Thursday afternoon. She said please let me know if you want to file the motion for reconsideration ASAP, it’s due tomorrow. There was no form in the email. I emailed her back and fired her.
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15 Jul, 2018 by Anonymous
Mary's santor was hired for a medical malpractice suit. Every time we tried to reach her by phone or email she wouldn't answer us for 4 to 10 weeks. She would always tell us what she was going to do at each visit then 6 months later we would go back and she would say the same thing as 6 months ago. She had 3 to 4 years to find a expert witness and 5 days before court she called and said she hadn't found one. Judge dismissed case for not enough evidence.
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16 May, 2018 by Anonymous
If you're looking for an Professional Attorney that is responsive; keep looking. Ms. Santor agreed to help me with several individual cases, after providing her with all requested background information and obtaining her agreement to assist, I never heard from her again. Multiple follow up attempts remained unanswered.
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30 Jul, 2020 by Anonymous
Long story short
Mr Frohlich is lazy.
We asked him to reach out about a settlement. He didn’t and essentially we ended up settling our own case. He is charming but that doesn’t get the job done!!
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04 Feb, 2020 by Anonymous
Our family hired Mr. Frohlich to represent us in our property- boundary dispute. We had a horrible experience with Mr. Frohlich representing us. Essentially, he charged us an exorbitant amount of our hard-earned money and we ended up in a worse position than before we hired him. Not only was Mr. Frohlich overmatched by opposing counsel, he did not seem to care about our well-being nor did he show any willingness to advocate properly for us. We invested a ton of money on his legal fees and he LOST every hearing! During our Court of Appeals oral argument hearing, Mr. Frohlich was lambasted by one of the judges for not properly including information in his pleadings. He apologized to the judge, admitting that he was wrong. When we asked him why he apologized he could not give us any legitimate reason. Overall, we would have been better off had we never hired Mr. Frohlich for our legal matter. The only thing Mr. Frohlich did well was get his firm's office manager to periodically bill us with his expensive legal fees. WE DO NOT RECOMMEND DANIEL FROHLICH AND WILL NEVER HIRE HIM EVER AGAIN!
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24 Oct, 2023 by Anonymous
On Nick's bio page of his law firms website the very first line states how he helps transition wealth to the next generation. This is plainly untrue.
I am one of those next gen individuals with an inheritance and an estate and Nick has done nothing but the exact opposite of what he claims. Other than sitting back and billing me out of my inheritance, he also isn't moving forward with an offer submitted to the home left to me and is forcing the house into foreclosure! Why would anyone do that?
Nick has been completely unhelpful in transition the inheritance to me, is purposely slowing the process to bill more, and has been deceitful to me throughout the entire process.
I used to believe in Nick too when he help my then alive grandmother with a guardianship case but after her passing it's like he stopped caring about anything or anyone else but himself and his bank account.
I do not recommend this lawyer. If you find yourself reading this, be warned!
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01 Apr, 2017 by Anonymous
I went to see him about a real estate transaction. Unconcerned interested in me doing estate planning instead.
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10 Jul, 2021 by Anonymous
I hired Tanya to investigate and provide factual documentation pertaining to my estranged recently deceased father's estate (i.e. will, personal property, bank accounts). Tanya worked on it for 3 months and did not find anything more than what I had already found in the county court record. The only new info I received was a bill for over $1,100 . . . for every minute of time she spent reading my e-mails, responding to e-mails and taking my calls. Sadly, I thought I'd be safe with an attorney the bar assoc recommended . . . but I was wrong. Live and learn.
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12 Jun, 2012 by Anonymous
He came recommended, but I found that the referrer had not used before. I found out the hard way that the firm was not organized, detail focused, or sensitive to costs. Three to four times the estimate later, a marginal package of legal docs prepared. Charged full rate for time with a paralegal. Really felt like he preys on the special needs misfortune. Starting over with another firm
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01 Feb, 2017 by Anonymous
Aaron Jennings did not keep parties informed of the case and when asked he was rude, condescending and provided no help. There were no disputes regarding the will or probate so he had no reason to be annoyed or upset when questions were asked.
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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.
