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10 Sep, 2024 by Riddick antunez
Matt is very knowledgeable in law, communication and his overall presentation is sound. I would highly recommend him. His treatment to clients is on par. I thank him for helping our family. He gets a great 5 stars and above. Ty Matt
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30 Aug, 2024 by Leena catinella
Thank you Mc Kenzie for all you have done. She is driven, patient, kind, upfront and honest and aggressive where it’s needed which is in the court room on your behalf. You do not need a lawyer that’s scared of speaking on your behalf and she isn’t. I could not be more thankful for the communication and understanding that she gave me as well as the results in our case. Without her we wouldn’t have the outcome we have had, couldn’t be more thankful for all she’s done and her heart that she puts into this. She works very hard for people because she simply loves what she does and her clients. I will always be thankful for her. Thanks again for all your help, again you are amazing and I appreciate you! If you want a good lawyer, do yourself a favor and don’t look further.
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26 Aug, 2024 by Adam hanson
Roger is a fantastic lawyer. He really took the time to get to know me and my case. He cares so much and wants what is best for his clients. I couldn't be happier with the job he did!
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29 Aug, 2024 by Brooke figueredo
29 Aug, 2024 by Nicole pedraza-pinho
28 Aug, 2024 by Sara villar
Phil is amazing. He is prompt and has great attention to detail. Makes you feel like he's really got your back.
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12 Dec, 2021 by Jennifer
During the hardest time of my life, Jennifer was amazing, helpful, understanding, empathetic, kind, and truly a pleasure working with. She took the time to explain things to me over and over if I did not understand them, and she completely understands the grief process and how we all go through it differently. She never once told me that I was a bother to her and she worked on a personal, yet professional level 100% of the time. I would highly recommend Jennifer for all Estate Planning, in fact, she came to us through a referral from a family member who used her services. Truly a kind and understanding attorney.
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29 Apr, 2021 by Ronald
i was fortunate to have had Jennifer referred to me by a friend of my wife who is Brazilian to prepare a Will for me.. Jennifer and her assistant Haneen are very easy to deal with and are very detailed oriented.i would recommend them highly to anyone who needs a lawyer.Jennifer speaks portuguese fluently which was a big plus for my wife.Their fees are very reasonble.
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10 Apr, 2021 by Em
Jennifer is a great attorney and very professional. She helped me tremendously in my divorce case, explained every step clearly during the process and made it so easy. I developed such a great and friendly relationship with her and I will be using her services in the future. I would recommend her to everyone and I can assure you that you would be in good hands and you will not regret your decision. She is very prompt with her responses and always takes care to communicate and follow up. To say the least, I’m glad that I chose her to handle my case. Without her expertise, I’m not sure if it would’ve been possible for my case to be wrapped up quickly and have a positive outcome. Thank you, Jennifer!
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16 Aug, 2023 by Nicole
Just an all around good guy treats every one the same ni matter what level in life your on and has an omnipresent presence about him and his team...
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16 Mar, 2023 by Jacquie s
Mr. Shalhoub is an excellent attorney. After our initial discussion I knew he was the perfect attorney for my case and I looked no further .We were able to settle in a reasonable amount of time and he handled my case with the upmost professionalism and fairness. Robert was very compassionate with me throughout a very stressful process. He is straight to the point and very honest. His staff is amazing as well. I am greatly appreciative of all work each and every one of them contributed to my case. I would recommend Robert Shalhoub over and over again!
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27 Feb, 2023 by Jennifer
I dont even know where to begin with reviewing Mr Shalhoub and his team. I have been seperated from my NOW ex husband since Feb of last year....after months of not acting on it i was finally served by my ex for the divorce. I than scrambled to find an attn. A friend referred me to another attn who will remain nameless, and will not go into much detail, but after being told "maybe you should get back with your ex husband and have him sign a post nuptial agreement" (my ex husband was trying to make me sell my house and give him half when he had no entiltment to it) I knew i had to take matters into my own hands and find someone else. I had a GOOD friend who is a retired police officer refer me to Mr Shalhoub. His team quickly got me in for a consulation and Mr Shalhoub was right on it fighting for my home. Promising me that i am safe. Within 30 days I WAS DIVORCED and my house was safe. There are no words to show my appreciation to Mr Shalhoub. I will be forever grateful for him making this a VERY easy process!!! Do not look any further when looking for a good family attorney.
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20 Mar, 2022 by Brenda
Not only did Mr. Broome write up my will and my father's, he came to my rescue with questions when I was in a panic. Calmly walked me through processes & steps, just put me at ease.
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14 Mar, 2016 by Greg
Bill, is a fantastic gentleman and a great lawyer. He has help our family for many years and has always been a good confidant in family matters. If it matter to you, it matters to Bill. Great guy.
Greg M.
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13 Oct, 2008 by Michelle
A great, caring lawyer. Has helped me with many legal issues. he has been my lawyer for about 5-6 years now.
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15 Nov, 2019 by Whitney
Reg helped me to get rid of a rogue trustee that was in partial control of some family trusts of ours. The criminal has now been removed and I have piece of mind regarding this matter!
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28 Apr, 2019 by Kellie
I hired Mr Stambaugh to help with defending my rights and give me legal representation. Mr. Stambaugh helped in settlement/collection of funds that were rightfully owed to me after my fiancé died.. Thankyou
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17 Nov, 2018 by Michele
Mr Stambaugh is extremely knowledgeable, well versed, dedicated and honest. He has been a fierce advocate on my behalf in a boundary line dispute with a neighbor who believed he could disregard the law and do things his way by bullying me. Mr Stambaugh was there from beginning to end winning the dispute. I would definitely enlist his services if need be again and have recommended him to others.
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27 Mar, 2018 by Anonymous
I highly recommend Sasha Klein. She was very thoughtful to my personal matters and extremely responsive. She made me feel like I was in very capable and caring hands. Her knowledge is top notch! Sasha is an excellent estate planning and probate attorney.
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07 Aug, 2017 by Ben
Sasha is a fantastic attorney and her knowledge and professionalism exceeds expectations. She is passionate, energetic, and her expertise is second to none. There is no one else I would choose to consult with and she is a phenomenal addition to Ward Damon.
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01 Feb, 2017 by Anonymous
Sasha's estate planning acumen is second to none and her professionalism is a model for all in the legal community. Highly recommend!
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5.0
3 Reviews
16 Jul, 2021 by Scott
After my father passed away unexpectedly in 2019, I immediately began the work of acting as his personal representative. Unfortunately, my father had no legal Will which led to a contested estate. The estate attorney I hired initially was not interested in handling litigation filed by another heir, and recommended David Garten for the job. Calling David Garten was the best decision I could have made.
David Garten is an expert in Florida State Estate Law. He is a litigation attorney who handles contested estates and defends his clients with zeal. He exudes the calm confidence and total professionalism of an expert in his field. There are none of the blustering or hyperbolic statements that you will find with unqualified attorneys who are just trying to get your business. David will never leave you with a false sense of confidence on any issue. David’s credentials are impeccable, and he is a regular contributor to Florida State Bar Association publications. David’s staff is top notch and well organized, a sure sign of an excellent attorney. I also found David and his staff to be approachable and easy going, not stuffy or hard to communicate with as some attorney’s offices can be.
David’s work on my father’s estate was exemplary. He successfully negotiated settlements and diffused or won the unnecessary litigation brought against the estate. At one point David parlayed a pre-trial deposition into a settlement that enabled me to continue my work to close the estate without interruption. This is one of many examples of David’s expert handling of my father’s estate. David is very cost conscious and employs other Estate Attorneys to handle the more routine aspects of estate administration. You can rest assured that you won’t be gouged. David’s calm approach to angry opposing counsel, random unnecessary litigation, and wary nerve-wracked clients, was incredibly reassuring as we worked through various issues.
I would highly recommend David Garten to represent you if you are the executor or personal representative of a contested estate. In fact, I would say that if relatives are likely to litigate after the loss of a loved one, skip the standard Estate Attorneys and call David Garten for the representation that you really need.
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09 Mar, 2016 by Pat
I was living out-of-state when notified of my estranged husband's death. I needed to be advised and represented by an attorney who was familiar with Florida's state statutes for elective shares regarding the surviving spouse. My situation required a lot of special research. David made me feel comfortable and confident that everything was covered. He kept me appraised of the current status, even though there were time issues holding up our progress. Given the circumstances of my case, I felt David was attentive, personable and gave my case the required attention to detail needed. I was especially impressed with the follow up on David's part and his paralegal, Cheryl. At the conclusion of my case, they both made me feel like I would want to use there service again and/or would refer my family and friends to them.
David and Cheryl, thank you again.
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08 Mar, 2016 by Anonymous
After being victimized by several other attorneys regarding Trusts, Elder Law and Guardianship I did extensive research prior to finding a West Palm Beach attorney with the expertise and experience of David M. Garten, Esq. He was very responsive regarding scheduling and thoroughly knowledgeable in his field of law. He was always sympathetic and concerned to act in my best interest. His fees were reasonable and there was never a suspicion that his time billed was inflated. Hiring Mr. Garten actually turned out to be an extremely excellent value when at our first meeting he suggested he would, and actually did notify my insurers who ended up carrying a significant portion of my case with Mr. Garten's supervision. I now know how fortunate I was to have been represented by such a caring, compassionate, and expert attorney. I would never hesitate to encourage anyone needing the type of legal services offered by Mr. Garten to meet with him. Although it was very unpleasant going thru a lawsuit, David Garten’s advocacy made the situation a lot more tolerable. I will remain forever grateful for his services.
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28 Aug, 2020 by Jane
I hired Prestige Land & Law, PLLC and they were wonderful. They took care of everything and made sure everything went smoothly. I highly recommend this firm. They were knowledgeable, both responsive and proactive, negotiated successfully on my behalf. I can't say enough good things about them.
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19 Mar, 2020 by Bridget
Lindsay was recommended to me by my divorce attorney under pressing circumstances. Lindsay acted swiftly and worked with me on the sale of my house. Because of her due diligence she uncovered issues that could have severely impacted the closing which probably would have resulted in losing the buyer. On top of all that she saved me a considerable amount of money on the closing and which almost made her fees a wash. I cannot imagine going thorough this experience without the council of Lindsay.
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02 Mar, 2015 by Anonymous
Mrs. Demmery recently helped me with a complicated sale of a commercial building. It involved a difficult situation (family) that could have put the sale and then the proceeds from the sale in jeopardy. Her calm yet professional mannerisms were key to accomplishing the task at hand. She did an amazing job! It was a relief knowing that her top notch knowledge regarding real estate law was there to guide the process in an efficient manner. Additionally, the office environment is welcoming and friendly. I highly recommend Mrs. Demmery.
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28 Jan, 2021 by Anonymous
Mr. Jonathan Phillips was very professional, fair, and prompt with helping me with my a copyright infringement case. He was extremely knowledgeable and made the process fast and smooth.
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10 Sep, 2017 by Anonymous
Mr. Phillips responded quickly and even contacted me online to clarify some points. His answer was concise and he recommended a concrete plan for my problem. I have spoken to a couple other attorneys and none had a grip on the problem, especially so quickly. He is not listed as a SSA atty but he seemed extremely knowledgeable and helpful Thanks very much
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12 Feb, 2018 by Joyce
I am out of state and had to have 2 probates taken care of. Mr. Brams was always very responsive to my questions and has been professional to work with. I would highly recommend Mr. Brams.
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18 Jul, 2016 by Anonymous
Having Attorney Brams to develop and execute a special needs trust for my family was an insightful event. I was guided step by step in a very caring way in working with Mr. Brams to develop the documents that so carefully protect my family. I have recommended him to many of my friends and they have all been pleased with the work that Mr. Brams has completed for them.
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17 Mar, 2016 by Anonymous
I was referred to Attorney Rachael Poppa Esq. to complete the legal documents necessary for a real estate transaction. I found her legal advice and services to be excellent. She kept me abreast of all proceedings throughout all the various phases of the legal process. She was extremely attentive to my questions and gave me several different legal options which I had never considered. Her legal fees were fair and within the range I expected. I will recommend her to my friends needing legal services.
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16 Mar, 2016 by Adam
I recently purchased a new town home and hired Rachel to review all the documents and guide me through the purchase process. She did an outstanding job and went "above and beyond" my expectations. I highly recommend Rachel, she will do an outstanding job for you!
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5.0
2 Reviews
19 Feb, 2020 by John
I have known Denise for 20 years and can say- she is my go-to. She has represented my interest on several occasions and each time she has demonstrated reliability and determination. In each of the countless depositions I have sat along side her- Denise has been able to obtain testimony beyond my expectations. Without a doubt, she enters the room well prepared and able to change course as needed. One thing is for sure- I would not like to sit across from her. She’s tough.
Without reservation I can say- Denise is reliable and conducts herself with the utmost respect for the Law. She’s direct and always had my best interest in mind. Whenever I got off course- She’d look at me and ask… “How does that help your case?” That question alone has done so much for me. It is more than she knows.
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06 Feb, 2020 by Kathleen
I engaged Denise five years ago to handle a very complex set of lawsuits numbering 13 in total. They were all just settled in the best possible way for me.
She is extremely bright, dogged determined, assertive, compassionate, no nonsense and always had my best interest at heart.
I would recommend her to anyone.
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05 Aug, 2016 by Anonymous
Mr. Stabler is definitely one of the better attorneys I have worked with. His response time can't be beat. He was efficient in handling my matter. I found him to be responsive and sensitive to my concerns. Was very fair in his billing practices and did not spring surprises on me. Also, he was helpful and patient. He helped me accomplish my objective and offered additional insight to make my situation and transaction easier. He is an outstanding attorney!
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07 Aug, 2012 by Linda
I may never utilize the expansive possibilities of your trust but what really impressed me more than anything else about the program was you. You treated me as though I was the wealthiest person in PB County - or at least that is how your behavior allowed me to feel. You took the time to do it right, you were patient answering all of my questions and you spent time with me on that last day when all the documents were signed. You came over to my office during your lunch hour, answered any questions I had and at no time did I ever feel rushed or hurried.
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13 Apr, 2015 by Anonymous
Steven is a great lawyer who is kind, patient, hardworking and answered any questions I had without rushing me. I would recommend him to anybody.
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07 Apr, 2017 by Antonio
I came to know Erica when I hired Jonathan. They work together in Family Law practice. Erica stands out as a great attorney. She did so much for me during my divorce and went above and beyond my expectations. I can't recommend Erica highly enough. She is a fantastic attorney.
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08 Jul, 2012 by Anonymous
This guy did not charge me a lot. He used to work in the public defenders office. My mom hired him for some type of will and I got in trouble with the law. He was great! I made a big mistake, but thanks to this guy, I got another chance. So nice too.
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19 Jun, 2020 by Elena
Ben is very caring, honest, a great listener and straightforward lawyer. He is exceptionally knowledgeable about the law - he provided me with step by step guidance on how to proceed with my case so I was able to present my case logically and efficiently. I would be at lost and could have not done it without his help. If only my request to continue motion/extension was granted, Ben would be the one to represent me. He only wants what’s best for me, he went above and beyond Professional and responded promptly to all my questions and concerns and explained possible outcomes for different scenarios. I consulted with Ben twice, he didn’t charge me the first time, and on the second time, I expect that he will charge me for his service to some degree and yet he didn’t charge me again! Many people are tempted to be selfish and do what only benefits themselves - Ben is the complete opposite. I thank you Ben for your help and kindness. I recommend Ben 100% as exceptional attorney.
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20 Jul, 2024 by The more you know
He is a good layer and person and he do everything he can to help you out thank you man
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17 Jul, 2024 by Heather
Brian treats you like family! His thoroughness and 24/7 availability is nothing I have ever encountered. His expertise and experience is reassuring and I highly recommended his services to my family and friends!
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24 May, 2024 by Richard donegan
Brian is the definition of relentless. As an advocate for his clients he works tirelessly striving for the best possible outcome. No one better to have in your corner.
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08 Aug, 2024 by Cindy bagnall
Fantastic representation. The best lawyer I've ever had. He is smart, responsive to your requests and got the job done in a timely manner. He is definitely THE attorney you want working for you. Thank you Ron, you are the best!
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27 May, 2024 by Jennifer aarons
I would have loved to give Mr. Herman all the stars in the skies but they only allow us 5 I truly believe that he deserves more. He was awesome. Thank you Mr. Herman 👌 👏
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24 Apr, 2024 by Andre aarons
Mr. Herman was a great pleasure to work with. Very thorough and straight to the point. I appreciate all that you have done. You deserve 10 stars for your work. Thank you!
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08 Aug, 2024 by Cindy bagnall
Fantastic representation. The best lawyer I've ever had. He is smart, responsive to your requests and got the job done in a timely manner. He is definitely THE attorney you want working for you. Thank you Ron, you are the best!
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27 May, 2024 by Jennifer aarons
I would have loved to give Mr. Herman all the stars in the skies but they only allow us 5 I truly believe that he deserves more. He was awesome. Thank you Mr. Herman 👌 👏
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24 Apr, 2024 by Andre aarons
Mr. Herman was a great pleasure to work with. Very thorough and straight to the point. I appreciate all that you have done. You deserve 10 stars for your work. Thank you!
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12 Sep, 2024 by Ernesto montalvo
Confiable ! Honesto el mejor abogado migratorio cuando todo se creía perdido el me ayudó hacer posible lo imposible !! Muchas gracias !!
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09 Aug, 2024 by Wendy robalino
Estoy feliz y agradecida por haber escogido al Abg Gomez para que me lleve mi caso. Excelente profesional con mucha empatía, me explicó con detalles y me mantuvo informada de todo el proceso…
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22 Jul, 2024 by Emily velasco
Esta firma me ha ofrecido Honestidad, conocimiento e interés real por mi caso
Gracias por siempre resolver todas mis dudas y mostrarme mis alternativas
Excelente trabajo! 10/10
Se lo recomiendo a todos
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01 Feb, 2024 by Stephanie faust
Cory Strolla is the ultimate top tier firearms instructor. Not only is his knowledge and experience in firearms training, safety and law beyond excellent levels, his teaching tactics are on point. He is well educated, dedicated and perceptive. You get great training tailored to your needs for firearms, self-defense and safety awareness. Not only will you grow at any level under his instruction, you will also have the best time of your life. Most fun and exciting experience ever. He truly puts his heart into helping others learn to be comfortable, confident and safe in the ability to protect themselves and all they love.
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27 Jan, 2024 by Kevin kreuter
It was so very worth spending a half day with Cory going through the firearms safety training course. He was super professional & knowledgeable, including the relevant laws (of course, since he's an attorney), and packed in a wealth of knowledge and practice into 4 hours. What I appreciated was his ability to adjust & tailor the session to each individual's specific prior experience -- I had some experience shooting, but not any formal training, and learned an incredible amount, and feel much more confident about moving forward. Thank you!
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27 Jan, 2024 by Tammy o'rourke
What an amazing and educational experience! As an absolute beginner (never have shot a handgun) to feeling confident in simply holding a gun to shooting within the 4 hour safety training was so rewarding! Cory tailors to your exact experience and goals and inspires the importance of knowledge and safety to create confidence and competence in gun usage. Super excited to continue to the next level. I highly recommend Cory for any level of gun usage for his expertise and quality of safety.
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01 Feb, 2024 by Stephanie faust
Cory Strolla is the ultimate top tier firearms instructor. Not only is his knowledge and experience in firearms training, safety and law beyond excellent levels, his teaching tactics are on point. He is well educated, dedicated and perceptive. You get great training tailored to your needs for firearms, self-defense and safety awareness. Not only will you grow at any level under his instruction, you will also have the best time of your life. Most fun and exciting experience ever. He truly puts his heart into helping others learn to be comfortable, confident and safe in the ability to protect themselves and all they love.
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27 Jan, 2024 by Kevin kreuter
It was so very worth spending a half day with Cory going through the firearms safety training course. He was super professional & knowledgeable, including the relevant laws (of course, since he's an attorney), and packed in a wealth of knowledge and practice into 4 hours. What I appreciated was his ability to adjust & tailor the session to each individual's specific prior experience -- I had some experience shooting, but not any formal training, and learned an incredible amount, and feel much more confident about moving forward. Thank you!
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27 Jan, 2024 by Tammy o'rourke
What an amazing and educational experience! As an absolute beginner (never have shot a handgun) to feeling confident in simply holding a gun to shooting within the 4 hour safety training was so rewarding! Cory tailors to your exact experience and goals and inspires the importance of knowledge and safety to create confidence and competence in gun usage. Super excited to continue to the next level. I highly recommend Cory for any level of gun usage for his expertise and quality of safety.
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01 Feb, 2024 by Stephanie faust
Cory Strolla is the ultimate top tier firearms instructor. Not only is his knowledge and experience in firearms training, safety and law beyond excellent levels, his teaching tactics are on point. He is well educated, dedicated and perceptive. You get great training tailored to your needs for firearms, self-defense and safety awareness. Not only will you grow at any level under his instruction, you will also have the best time of your life. Most fun and exciting experience ever. He truly puts his heart into helping others learn to be comfortable, confident and safe in the ability to protect themselves and all they love.
Read more
27 Jan, 2024 by Kevin kreuter
It was so very worth spending a half day with Cory going through the firearms safety training course. He was super professional & knowledgeable, including the relevant laws (of course, since he's an attorney), and packed in a wealth of knowledge and practice into 4 hours. What I appreciated was his ability to adjust & tailor the session to each individual's specific prior experience -- I had some experience shooting, but not any formal training, and learned an incredible amount, and feel much more confident about moving forward. Thank you!
Read more
27 Jan, 2024 by Tammy o'rourke
What an amazing and educational experience! As an absolute beginner (never have shot a handgun) to feeling confident in simply holding a gun to shooting within the 4 hour safety training was so rewarding! Cory tailors to your exact experience and goals and inspires the importance of knowledge and safety to create confidence and competence in gun usage. Super excited to continue to the next level. I highly recommend Cory for any level of gun usage for his expertise and quality of safety.
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5.0
20 Reviews
4.6
388 Reviews
25 Aug, 2024 by Jason thommen miele usa
Great people and very professional.
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23 Aug, 2024 by Victoria martinez
I had the pleasure of working with Gavin Vargas out of the West Palm Beach office for my personal injury car accident. Gavin and his team went above and beyond to fight for best settlement. They guided me on the process, were communicative, and kept me informed throughout the case. Thank you for your effort and persistence to settle my case above expectations. Would highly recommend Gavin to anyone in need of a personal injury attorney!
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23 Aug, 2024 by Jason
25 Aug, 2024 by Jason thommen miele usa
Great people and very professional.
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23 Aug, 2024 by Victoria martinez
I had the pleasure of working with Gavin Vargas out of the West Palm Beach office for my personal injury car accident. Gavin and his team went above and beyond to fight for best settlement. They guided me on the process, were communicative, and kept me informed throughout the case. Thank you for your effort and persistence to settle my case above expectations. Would highly recommend Gavin to anyone in need of a personal injury attorney!
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23 Aug, 2024 by Jason
25 Aug, 2024 by Jason thommen miele usa
Great people and very professional.
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23 Aug, 2024 by Victoria martinez
I had the pleasure of working with Gavin Vargas out of the West Palm Beach office for my personal injury car accident. Gavin and his team went above and beyond to fight for best settlement. They guided me on the process, were communicative, and kept me informed throughout the case. Thank you for your effort and persistence to settle my case above expectations. Would highly recommend Gavin to anyone in need of a personal injury attorney!
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23 Aug, 2024 by Jason
25 Aug, 2024 by Jason thommen miele usa
Great people and very professional.
Read more
23 Aug, 2024 by Victoria martinez
I had the pleasure of working with Gavin Vargas out of the West Palm Beach office for my personal injury car accident. Gavin and his team went above and beyond to fight for best settlement. They guided me on the process, were communicative, and kept me informed throughout the case. Thank you for your effort and persistence to settle my case above expectations. Would highly recommend Gavin to anyone in need of a personal injury attorney!
Read more
23 Aug, 2024 by Jason
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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.
