Since 2015, Karen Fortier has been designated a "Super Lawyer" in Virginia Probate and Trusts and Estates. This is an honor given to less than 5% of all attorneys. It is awarded through a nomination and rigorous review process conducted by a highly respected national legal publishing company. For details, see www.
This designation represents an acknowledgement of the quality of service and integrity of her office as seen through her clients' and colleagues' eyes. Why is it so important to have a last Will and Testament? Most adults know that if someone dies without a will, the law says who will get the assets.
This designation represents an acknowledgement of the quality of service and integrity of her office as seen through her clients' and colleagues' eyes. Why is it so important to have a last Will and Testament? Most adults know that if someone dies without a will, the law says who will get the assets.
Services
Since 2015, Karen Fortier has been designated a "Super Lawyer" in Virginia Probate and Trusts and Estates. This is an honor given to less than 5% of all attorneys. It is awarded through a nomination and rigorous review process conducted by a highly respected national legal publishing company. For details, see www.
Why is it so important to have a last Will and Testament? Most adults know that if someone dies without a will, the law says who will get the assets. The law sets out the manner in which an Estate will be divided afterthe decedent's debts and taxes have been paid. The law also provides that a creditor can be appointed to administer the Estate.
If you die owning assets that are to pass to people according to the terms of your Will, your named executor probably needs to call the Probate office and talk to the clerk about what should be taken to the courthouse in order for the Will to be recorded (or "probated"). Sometimes all that needs to be done is to record the Will and a List of Heirs.
Elder law is not just for the elderly and it is not just one narrow area of the law. It is true that the inquiries we receive about "elder law" usually do involve concerns about an elderly loved one who seems to be having some problems. But we see it as a combination of family law, contracts, asset protection, nursing home rules, insurance and public benefits law, health care and many other issues.
A. Generally speaking, if the Will is valid and you can serve, it could be extremely difficult and costly for someone to try to prevent you from being appointed. There are circumstances in which a named Executor will not end up serving as such, and we certainly can discuss this with you if there is concern.
Reviews (10)
Holly Cuellar
Apr 16, 2021
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Benjamin Downing
Mar 29, 2021
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Karen Fortier, P.C. prepared my personal will, advance directive as well as guidance on my estate. Karen displayed such empathy and compassion when discussing my mortality and what I wanted to happen when the time came that I was very impressed. Karen has the unique ability to explain all of the legal terms, and there are many, in everyday language so that it was very clear to me. She was so empathetic to explain what the outcome of each choice would be so that I was able to make an informed decision on such important matters. When everything was completed, Karen explained the documents again before
Maggie Brydges
Mar 18, 2021
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Ms. Fortier helped me enormously with my father's estate many years ago, so she was the first attorney I thought of when a friend needed help with her mother's affairs. While the legal legwork was most ably and efficiently handled, what distinguished her -- and why I was so proud to have recommended her -- was her client service. My friend herself was an elderly lady, and one unfamiliar with -- and a bit intimidated by -- the legal process. Additionally, (as is probably too often the case in estate matters), there were familial pressures and conflicts that created even more confusion and upset
Ames Creative
Feb 27, 2021
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Sarah Piscitelli
Jan 20, 2021
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Samantha Wiggins
Aug 24, 2020
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Darlene Kelly
Dec 27, 2019
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Kebra Nider
Sep 07, 2019
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Lisa Ramsey
Sep 21, 2018
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AVOID AT ALL POSSIBLE COSTS!! If I could give negative stars, I would. I was given bad advice from Karen and have probably lost tens of thousands of dollars. I will hire another attorney and hopefully get back what I lost but unfortunately it will probably involve litigation. Karen gives the perception of caring but will drop you if she can't generate enough income from you. I will gladly discuss off-line the shoddy service I have received.
Ben Pim
Jul 31, 2018
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Karen helped my mother navigate the confusing and highly emotional waters of estate planning, when she was diagnosed with cancer. She was calm, creative, and highly professional; which gave my mother tremendous comfort. After our family's loss, she provided clear guidance helping the estate through each step of the final estate dispostion. We could not have done it any of this without her help.
