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28 Reviews
12 Oct, 2024 by Melissa meisle
Excellent all around!!! They handled my situation with care and ease!!!!
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03 Sep, 2024 by Christine bowen
I contacted Orange Blossom Law to establish a family trust as well as wills and advanced directives for my husband and me. The attorneys and support staff were all professional and reassuring during what could have been a difficult transaction. We felt calm and confident in their hands and greatly appreciate their warmth and expertise. I highly recommend this small, hands-on law firm for any estate planning needs!
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03 Sep, 2024 by E duncan
Made a daunting task simple. They are very easy to talk to and kind.
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01 Jun, 2024 by Chelsea kanz
Chris spent almost a half hour speaking with me and providing the proper steps to clearing up legal issues I have. Trustworthy lawyers not trying to only take your money are few to none. I would hire him for a case in Orlando need be, hands down!
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05 Jan, 2024 by Joseph pawlowski
Solid and efficient communicator who is willing to help you understand your situation in legal terms without being condescending. Very impressed.
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22 Oct, 2022 by Michael regimbal
Easy to talk to even with someone with anxiety, seriously available 24/7, knows what he's doing, so informative and knowledgeable in his cases.
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05 Dec, 2024 by Andrae dariso
It was an Absolute Pleasure working with Attorney Heller! He went above and beyond and clearly exceeded my expectations! He was very personable and professional! I highly recommend this extraordinary Attorney! Thanks again for an Outstanding Job!!👍🎈✌️🎉😁
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04 Dec, 2024 by Andrae dariso
Absolutely the Best in the Business! From the moment I walked into the Office, I felt at ease. Attorney Heller & Staff did a phenomenal job on case. I highly recommend Attorney Heller for your legal counsel. Thanks again for a Job Well Done!
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12 Nov, 2024 by Michael kirchner
Professional, detail-oriented
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19 Jan, 2025 by Vanessa acevedo
If you are in need of honest, trustworthy, really caring attorneys, Rick Troutman's law firm is the best! They will go out of their way for you no matter what. It's not all about the money with them. They are sincere and have a true love for humanity. God is good to have lead me to them at the worst time of my life. Rick Troutman and Matthew Boren Thank you from the bottom of my heart!!! Thank you for everything you have done for me and my family! I will forever be grateful to you. Vanessa Acevedo, Jennifer Segarra and Richard Acevedo ❤️
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19 Nov, 2024 by R.
Thank you to Mr.Troutman and his wonderful paralegal, Silvia, for taking care of all our concerns and questions..
The firm was a God sent.
They took care of all my worries and got us our insurance money due from the auto accident.
I hope no one has to go through an auto accident, but if you do, CALL them.
They are caring and it will give you a peace of mind, they got your back!!!
Sincerely,
Pennie D
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03 Sep, 2024 by To find and be found
The folks here are honestly just top-notch. They spent probably a cumulative 5-6 hours on the phone with me, as well as who knows how many hours off of the phone researching my case and gathering information. In the end, they were unable to help me with my case, and they told me so.
The whole time, they never stopped working for me, knowing there was a chance they couldn't help -- they worked regardless. And then, at the end, they didn't charge me a dime. Not a penny. They weren't able to help me recover anything, and therefore, they did not charge me for what time they had already put in.
I only spoke with a paralegal one time the entire time. The rest of my phone calls were with Troutman himself. I know with many named law offices, you deal with paralegals unless your case is big enough for the person whose name is on the door to look into it. Not so with Troutman.
I will reiterate, this is the best experience I could have hoped for. Thanks a bunch to everyone at Troutman Law Firm.
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22 Aug, 2024 by Donna
Due to circumstances beyond my control, I had to make changes to my will and other legal documents. Stacie and Jeannette were very competent and knowledgeable, answered all questions satisfactorily and offered a potential action plan for the future. This firm specializes in elder law which is a plus for me. All staff are welcoming and helpful. I highly recommend this firm.
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26 Apr, 2024 by Anonymous
Kathleen was knowledgeable and understanding, she was patient and took time to explain. She answered all questions with respect making sure the client was happy.
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23 Mar, 2024 by Anonymous
We were recommended by an attorney friend in NY. Information and legal advice were top notch. Everything was laid out in an easy-to-understand manner and my father was satisfied with the results.
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04 Oct, 2024 by Anonymous
I can’t say enough good things about the lawyer who helped me with my tax issue. When things were tough—whether it was timing or the waiting game—he went above and beyond to ensure everything was completed to my satisfaction. I’m so glad I chose him. He’s the kind of lawyer who doesn’t just take the big cases for the paycheck, but because he genuinely cares. His dedication and extra effort made all the difference, and I highly recommend him to anyone in need of legal help!
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07 Aug, 2023 by Director of client relations
Aventus Law Group serves as General Counsel for our advisory firm which manages $750 million in assets. Our team works directly with Gerrard L. Grant Esq. CPA, a trusted attorney and tax professional who is instrumental in guiding us through fundamental decisions we make with the clients we serve.
Mr. Grant actively advises on complex issues with investments, deal structures, fund audits, tax matters, and led efforts in spearheading our fund audit process from interview and onboarding to completion. He is engaged, professional, knowledgeable and practices with high ethics and standards.
- Director of Client Relations
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03 Aug, 2023 by Alycia
Gerrard and Amal with Aventus Law Group was amazing to work with for my recent small business acquisition. They were highly skilled, professional, and extremely patient in guiding me through the process as a first-time buyer. Not only did they facilitate a smooth closing, but their connections with financing professionals saved our deal! Thanks to their expertise and network, I had the pleasure of working with kind financing professionals who made the entire journey seamless. I wholeheartedly recommend Aventus Law Group to anyone seeking top-notch legal support for their business ventures.
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06 Feb, 2023 by Susan
I went in for a consult and hired Ms. Schwartz. From the moment of my first phone contact through the entire procedure, I was treated with respect and kindness by everyone in the practice. Ms. Schwartz was very clear in explaining my options for preparing my legal matters for myself and my children since the loss of my husband. I never felt any pressure to make a decision and was given ample thinking time. I am pleased to say that I was able to complete all of legal work in a timely and cost efficient manner. Dealing with final planning is never easy but a worthwhile task. I highly recommend Ms. Schwartz and her practice. They were absolutely wonderful. I urge you to visit her website and review it for yourself.
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23 Feb, 2021 by Shannon
I would highly recommend Stacey Schwartz. She helped my husband and I will our will and necessary documents that we know we should have gotten a long time ago. She was very thorough, answered all of our questions and prepared our documents in a timely manner. Schedule a consultation, you will not be disappointed.
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23 Nov, 2020 by Blake
After needing to setup and update our family plans we contacted Stacey. Not only did she calm us down and make it easy to understand, she gave us total confidence and peace of mind. Everything was perfect and we made a friend. We will continue to use Stacey for all of our family planning.
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27 Oct, 2014 by Christine
Having worked with this firm on two separate legal needs in two years (a short sale and finances), I can enthusiastically recommend Roland Acosta and his team. Their professionalism, courtesy, and knowledge of their area of law impressed me as much as the compassion they show to their clients. Legal processes can be daunting, but Acosta & Associates are so competent and reassuring you will know you're in excellent hands.
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05 Aug, 2013 by B.f. "biff" godfrey
I have known and worked with Roland Acosta for over 10 years. I routinely refer clients to Roland for assistance with residential closings, short sales, mortgage workouts and refinancing. On more than one occassion my friends and clients have come back to me to tell me how much they appreciated my referral, how easy it was to work with Roland, how hard Roland worked for them and would crow about the successful results of his representation. Roldand Acosta is an extraordinary attorney.
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02 Aug, 2013 by Kristine
Mr. Acosta's firm handled a short sale on my mother's and my condo. From our first meeting, we felt very comfortable and confident they would be looking out for our best interest. They kept in contact with us and informed through the entire process. They even extended their expertise and help on another issue for my mother. I would highly recommend them and would not hesitate to call on them again.
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07 Aug, 2013 by Alex
Jeff's assistance was invaluable as our non-profit sought to lease its first commercial property. We were quickly overwhelmed by the magnitude of the lease but Jeff reviewed the document and patiently walked us through the nuances while taking the time to explain each aspect and the impact upon our organization. He was thorough, responsive, patient and willing to go above and beyond normal actions. In short, Jeff exceeded all of our expectations in providing our organization with counsel and offering recommendations from a non-biased view which helped us realize this deal was not in our best interest. I would not hesitate to call Jeff again to gain his insight nor would I hesitate to recommend his services to others.
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10 May, 2016 by Nicholas
I have used Jennifer Beaman Clark to do many real estate closings for my clients. She is truly the very best -- from file set-up to actual closing. One hundred percent of the closings have been handled to the very highest professional standards and have been entirely accurate in every respect. No detail escapes Ms. Clark, no matter how small it may be. I demand all of my real estate matters to be handled professionally, accurately, and on time. Ms. Clark has met my expectations each and every time.
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19 Nov, 2013 by Jeff
Attorney Shane Boutty entered into the middle of a very complicated situation (guardianship, competency, probate, trusts, limited partnerships, real estate, breach of fiduciary, appellate court) that involved multiple, intertwined cases. The cases were filed in several jurisdictions, thus making matters more complicated. A big part of the legal challenge Shane faced was the product of poor prior legal work. Unwinding the opposition's highly aggressive, and often unethical legal tactics was a monumental challenge. But, Shane's very,very competent, thorough, meticulous research, drafting, and oral arguments ultimately have turned around a seemingly un-winable case.
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16 Oct, 2024 by Anonymous
I used few years ago during in the height of covid. Will never use them again
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07 Sep, 2022 by Anonymous
Initially everything was good. He stated a letter would go out asap. Took 5 days for me to get it for review, then another 2 to mail. He didn't read emails thoroughly or only chose to answer them partially, not sure which. Had to follow up on 2 different occasions. Stated he would set up a meeting, but never heard back. He let me know he was swamped, but that made me feel less important. I got another lawyer.
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28 Jan, 2019 by Sincere t
Was facing life in prison. He got me 5 years probation.
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07 Oct, 2024 by Oleta canterini
Great People. Care about people and what they can do to help. Very understanding. No one better.
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09 Aug, 2024 by B d
I have contacted this firm 3 times in the last 3 weeks trying to find a new attorney to handle both estate planning and new business formation/ structure advice. I have no idea if he is a good attorney or not because NO ONE EVER CALLED ME BACK!!! I would have to be a fool to keep calling and begging them to get back to me. They must have enough business- likely more than they can handle if they can’t even return my call. If this is any indication of how they treat their clients, I wouldn’t want them to represent me anyway!
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22 Jun, 2024 by James butler
Wonderful caring people
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06 Jan, 2018 by Anonymous
I hired Edward for a very complicated estate. He was diligent and made sure everything was done according to law. I was kept informed at all stages of my case and he was accessible both on tge phone and person. I highly recommend him and would not hesitate to hire him again.
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24 Jan, 2014 by Jr
My wife and I hired Attorney Spencer to assist us on a contractual issue. She was prompt, professional, and very personable. She helped us through a very difficult legal situation. We were very blessed to have her.
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01 Jun, 2016 by Randy tkacs
During the past week I have had the pleasure of speaking with Olivia Kronenberg a number times. I was hoping that with her help, to be able to find some answers regarding the death of my wife. She reviewed my case and informed me that she was unable to help me. One might wonder why in the world I would than give her so many stars. She is worth every one of them! She realized that even though my case had merit, it was not strong enough. Proving fault in dealing a death due to stage 4 cancer can be both time consuming and mentally challenging for a spouse. This is where Olivia was of most help. She informed me of how painful the process could be. Fighting the system isn't always the best route to take. Thank you Olivia for your insight.
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23 Oct, 2024 by Ken perreira
17 Oct, 2024 by Cup cake
I was told only after I did all the paperwork I’m sending documents in that I didn’t qualify. After taking over $1500 that I really didn’t have
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14 Oct, 2024 by Patricia jumpingelk
No complaints, great experience with attorneys. Their overall support and care was excellent.
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13 Aug, 2024 by Mercia teles
The Sanders firm was the best help I had with my prenuptial agreement. Tristan did excellent work and was very precise. The process went smoothly as he attended to my achievements. Also, Chari was attentive to all the details to help me reach my agreement. I felt I was utterly in good hands and security. I feel grateful for their help.
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29 May, 2024 by Godsaid w.
If I could give him 0 stars I would! I have been trying to get a divorce since 2018 with him. I walked in that office and he stated, he could divorce me in 6 months. Well, kid you not, it’s been 6 years dealing with this human and I am still married. I don’t get it! I am not rich, I do not have many assets, we share a child, what is so difficult. He is beyond terrible!! He always has the same words for me. “You are right Godsaid, you have been more than patient about it all. This has been going on for way too long, let me put this letter together and send it over to his attorney”, and boom, ghosted for months at a time. I am so over it!!!
Update after Tristan Sander response to my review.
I stand behind every word I expressed in my review! I now have been requested to delete my post immediately because he feels it is malicious. Well, my review is not malicious! It is my personal experience with Tristan Sanders and I will not delete it despite his emails and phone calls. It’s incredibly how someone can find so much time to update you on your case, send you numerous emails in one day and even give you a call not noted in his busy schedule once you post a negative review on Google. Wish he would have had that same dedication to my case as he does to this review.
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11 Nov, 2023 by Ruthie baker
14 Feb, 2024 by Ofir iluz
We had a very sensitive case and referred to Rich Weinman from Whww, words can’t describe how happy we are to have worked with Rich, he help us tremendously in our case, was very efficient and caring about us, we will always thank God for choosing Rich.
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02 Aug, 2023 by Eve morey
My experience with the law firm of Winderweedle Haines Ward Woodman P A, has always been nothing short of spectacular. My initial counsel of record was Randy Rush, a brilliant and kind Attorney. Upon his retirement, I was then directed to the good graces and expertise of James Doyle, a very dedicated and detail oriented Attorney whose wisdom respectfully resonates with one far beyond his years. A good listener, honest and a straight shooter. He has an integrity and dedication that continues to subscribe to the level of stellar service that Winderweedle has championed for years. Thanks so much, Winderweedle, etal, and James, for being the best!
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19 Jun, 2023 by Tavares jones
Attorney Lionel, was amazing. Called back with (24) for a consultation, and gave advice. Took the time out his day to assist my family. This law firm is amazing. THANK YOU AGAIN!!!!!!
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30 Jun, 2016 by Chris
I have used David to handle my real estate closings for many years. Both residential and commercial. I would recommend David without hesitation. He always looks after my client's needs and best interests. He is very professional and is a very knowledgeable attorney. David has always give my clients the highest level of service and in many cases they hire him again for other legal services like estate planning. I like it when my business is taken care of in an efficient and timely manor and with David I know things are taken care of from the start to the closing...
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27 Jan, 2016 by Amy
I have used Mr. Labovitz's services on more than a few occasions, and have been extremely pleased each time. He is responsive and attentive to communication via phone and email, and has always been available and accessible to answer my questions and provide information in a timely manner. His service is personal and his personality makes you feel at ease. I would highly recommend David Labovitz as your Lawyer when you, your family, or friends require these services. Thank you, David Labovitz for your help and advice.
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21 Jan, 2016 by Robert
I was recommended to speak with David Labovitz by a friend who knew I was considering a Real Estate transaction and that I needed help with a contract. It was quickly evident that David had a lot of knowledge and experience in the Real Estate field and he not only helped me with the contract, but also guided me through some of the details I would not have seen, but were to my benefit. His attention to detail with the contract led him to find some wording from the other party that could have negatively impacted me and he worked with the other party to amicably have it removed. Being very happy with my first experience I am now closing a second deal with David's help and have been very pleased with the personal attention I've received. During both events where I used David's services I felt he was really looking out for my best interest and gladly handled some of the more difficult calls to ensure I had a favorable outcome. He answers the phone and/or returns calls quickly, and he responds to emails with information in a very timely manner. Those qualities made me realize that I prefer the counsel of an individual vs. a law firm due to the personal nature. I plan to use David again in the future as well as recommend him to my friends.
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19 Apr, 2023 by Katie
I would absolutely recommend and hire Attorney Bogle and his firm again. He and recently finalized an estate and probate case for my family. There were various issues with the will that caused the matter to take longer than expected, however, his firm kept in constant contact with me regarding those issues and worked diligently to resolve them beyond my expectations. When it came time to close the case, I had questions and concerns. He immediately responded to me with answers.
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21 Apr, 2020 by Anonymous
I have had several lawyers in my life and by far he is the worst lawyer I have ever had to deal with. He never answer his phone. The message on the phone told the caller to send emails. He would ignore alot of my emails. After a month or so he would type a couple lines back to me in a email, it really didn't answer my question very clear and I would have to start all over and ask another question. A lot of times he never responded at all. He also really inflated his billing. After years of this I had to finally hire another lawyer to get the case finished.
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28 Aug, 2018 by Richard
MR.BOGLE I SEND THE PAPERS BACK TO YOU SIGNED .NOW I WOULD LIKE THE CHECK I HAVE COMING SO WE CAN CLOSE.THIS ACCOUNT OUT IT BEEN SEVEN MONTHS.THANK YOU .MR.COLONNA
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29 Mar, 2024 by Anonymous
I reached out for a custody case because of a reference from my employer and I have been left with no response every step of the way. I’ve called and emailed and after a month I can’t even get an update. This heartbreaking at a time when my family really needs help in a situation like this they won’t give any information other than just wait because we have no answers.
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13 Jun, 2023 by Anonymous
I paid for legal insurance through my employer. I called my legal insurance plan and was given this firm as a reference to have my Living Will and Last Will redone. I literally just needed to have a couple of things changed/updated from my previous Wills. Every time I reached out, I would have to follow up NUMEROUS times to get any response. My legal plan covered me and my dependents to have our Wills done and a Trust set up at no cost to me. I provided my previous Wills and other legal documentation along with notes on what needed to be changed. My legal insurance began April 1, 2023. I didn't get an appointment to sign the Wills they drew up until May 23, 2023. This was not because what I wanted was complicated but because their response time was one level above non-responsive. I asked constantly for them to email me the Wills to review BEFORE I came in so that changes could be made ahead of time. I had an 11:00am appointment and they sent me over the paperwork to review only an hour before my appointment. I sat in their office trying to review all 116 pages as fast as I could. I was there for almost 2 hours and sent numerous changes via email before signing. However, there were items on my original Will that needed to be included that were left out. I also emailed changes that were never done. I made the mistake of signing everything without FULLY reviewing one last time but I had already been there for several hours and was on a time crunch at that point. Later that night when I was scanning them into my computer, I noticed the items that had never been changed or included from my original Will. I emailed them and after having to follow up on my emails several times, they want to charge me for the changes. Even 3 weeks now after signing, they STILL haven't given me pricing on what it would be. I am so disappointed in this firm. I feel like I could go to law school and become an attorney myself before getting something as simple as a correct Will fully executed by them.
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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.
