If you are looking for a good probate attorney Atlanta, it is important to find one who is knowledgeable and experienced in estate matters. A reputable lawyer can help you navigate the complex legal process of administering an estate and distributing assets to beneficiaries.
Anderson Law Practice, LLC assists clients in resolving probate issues. Its lawyers assist heirs and statutory heirs in filing court petitions, obtaining appraisals, and paying estate debts and taxes.
Experience
A good probate attorney Atlanta has the experience needed to ensure that all the deceased’s assets are accounted for, that any debts are paid and that beneficiaries receive their inheritance in accordance with the laws of Georgia. In addition, a skilled lawyer can help avoid unnecessary taxation.
A law firm that specializes in probate litigation can offer efficient legal assistance to individuals and companies throughout Atlanta. The firm’s lawyers resolve cases involving will disputes, real estate in multiple states, complex family situations, guardianships and conservatorships, and divorce.
When choosing a probate lawyer, start by asking friends and relatives for recommendations. Then, make a list of potential candidates and check their credentials at your local bar association website. Also, find out whether they regularly handle probate, trusts and estate matters. You should also check the lawyer’s biography and find out how long they have been practicing law. Young experienced energetic lawyers often do better work than older, stale lawyers.
Reputation
Having a good reputation in the legal community will help you get the best probate lawyer for your case. Ask your friends and family for recommendations, then search online to make a list of potential lawyers. Look for information about their experience and education. You should also consider the number of clients they represent. A smaller firm may be more personal and responsive to your needs.
Located in Atlanta, Georgia, the law firm of Kasey Libby represents clients with estate planning issues. Its attorneys have extensive experience with estate administration, including the probate of wills, letters testamentary, and caveats. The firm also handles disputes between heirs and personal representatives.
Siedentopf Law has dedicated estate and probate attorneys that assist individuals and families in resolving matters such as will contests, probate court proceedings, inheritance distribution, and tax and debt settlement. The firm also assists with the preparation of a health care proxy and advance directive, as well as power of attorney documents.
Fees
If you decide to move forward with a probate lawyer, make sure you are clear on their fees. Some attorneys charge a flat fee, while others use an hourly rate. Find out what their rates are and ask if they charge a lower rate for clients who work directly with them rather than their associates or legal assistants.
In some states, probate lawyers collect a percentage of the value of the estate as their fee. This is customary only in a few states, and you should avoid any attorney who insists on this.
An experienced probate lawyer can mean the difference between a contested estate that drags on for years and costs a fortune, and an uncontested estate that can be settled in under a year for a reasonable fee. Choose a probate attorney with experience in handling estates of all sizes. Make a list of possible candidates and read reviews online. Pay special attention to the attorney’s reputation in the community and any disciplinary history.
Communication
During the consultation, you should also assess how helpful the lawyer’s staff is. It should be professional and courteous and they should know the ins and outs of probate law. In addition, a good lawyer should be open to discussing fee arrangements. For instance, some attorneys charge a percentage of the total estate value while others may offer hourly rates or flat fees for certain services.
A probate attorney helps executors of an estate settle a deceased person’s final affairs. This includes distributing assets to beneficiaries. They also help them understand and settle the deceased person’s debts. In the absence of a will, probate lawyers distribute the estates according to Georgia’s intestacy laws.
Located in Atlanta, the Kent Law Firm provides legal assistance with probate-related concerns. Its father-and-son team has a combined experience of more than 40 years handling cases in the areas of estate planning, probate, and bankruptcy. The firm also assists clients in drafting and establishing wills and defends the validity of these documents in case of disputes.
