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Trusted Probate Attorney Serving Counties of:
Prince William, Fairfax, Stafford, Loudoun, & Fauquier
ATTENTION: Those Who Just Lost a Loved One in Northern Virginia
How to Avoid Costly Probate Mistakes, Maintain Privacy and Keep What Belongs To You
David Wilks, Esq. ~ Trsted, AV Rated Estate & Probate Attorney Helping Estate Owners of VA
"David is a brilliant attorney who is the best of the best when it comes to all Estate Planning needs. I highly recommend David to anyone seeking such legal assistance."
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- Casey Stevens
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"Dave has provided us with sound estate planning services and advice for the last 10+ years and has done a wonderful job!"
~ Patrick Langdon
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"We have worked with David Wilks, for over 20 years now and highly recommend him to anyone requiring comprehensive estate planning. David developed a complex estate plan, including a Living Trust, Will and Advanced Medical Directive, for my mother, and has continued to work with her over the years to provide advice and to update her estate planning documents as her life events evolve. David is a very knowledgeable, thorough, and professional attorney who we trust to support us in making the best possible decisions for our estate."
~ Demas Family
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"I have used the legal services and expertise of the Legacy Law Group of Northern Virginia, specifically, David Wilks. Mr Wilks assisted me and my family greatly when preparing a trust and associated legal instruments for the benefit of a handicapped, adult family member. I have again retained David Wilk's as I update subject trust. His legal services have been invaluable to me."
~ Jeh Squared
4,122+ Estates Formed With a Combined Worth of $20,354,080,997+
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"My long association with David Wilks began way back in the 1970's when my lovely wife and I settled into a new home in Northern Virginia while I was still an Army officer. Believing it was time to pay attention to professional estate planning, and armed with the name of a lawyer provided by a friend, we met with David Wilks. At that initial meeting he made us feel comfortable that he would provide the best possible estate planning. After completing our wills and living trusts he kept his word to keep us informed of legal changes by periodically asking us to see him.
About 5 years ago my dear wife passed away and I relied upon David to settle her estate. Over the years David became aware that I had two very loving sons and that due to my age and inability to get around without a walker I relied on them to assist me. He briefed my sons on the procedures that they could assist me with using "power of attorney." I appreciated the delicate manner he showed toward my sons, realizing they were grieving for the loss of a mother they loved dearly. David has always shown that he cares about me and my entire family.
David followed up after an appropriate period by providing me with a new estate plan. Based on David's legal expertise and his show of caring for clients I would recommend him without any hesitation. In my estimation David Wilks is an outstanding lawyer, and a very decent human being."
~~ David Stein
Over the last 3 decades, I’ve helped thousands of clients navigate the probate process, with estates ranging from $15,000 to $10,000,000+. Some of my clientele include the wife of an NBA player, and numerous high-level business executives and entrepreneurs.
Use My 30+ Years in the Trenches to Your Advantage
I can help you:
Maintain Family Relationships
When emotions are already high, and you add a conflict of interest to the mix… it can get tense. It’s difficult enough to grieve the loss of a loved one. That’s why I’m so proud to offer my 30+ years of experience of navigating these emotional waters for you, helping to find resolutions and prevent families from being torn apart.
Keep “Uncle Sam” Out of Your Pocket
One wrong move and you can lose thousands (even hundreds of thousands) of dollars that you didn’t have to lose. Ouch. You may even be forced to sell the assets you inherit, like family homes or businesses, just to pay a tax bill.
Handling Debts and Claims Against the Estate:
To avoid legal trouble and prevent probate delays, I’ll find and notify all creditors, investigate the legitimacy of their claims against the estate, and make sure any and all credible debts are paid.
Ensure Smooth Transition of Businesses / Income Producing Assets
Even with proper estate planning, it can sometimes be a challenge to navigate the moving pieces of a cash-producing asset in the aftermath of a loss. I’ll step in and help make sure your livelihood and family legacy don’t suffer costly disruptions during this process.
Save Your Sanity
I once heard DIY probate referred to as “the worst part-time job you’ll ever have”. I’ll take care of every monotonous detail for you, ensuring every i is dotted and t crossed. I know how overwhelming and detailed this process is. Even with estates that appear simple and straightforward on the surface, there’s a lot of paperwork, filing, and other details to juggle.
You have enough to worry about already after the loss of a loved one, without adding a mountain of paperwork and a logistical nightmare to the mix.
Book Your Free, Friendly, In-Depth, No-Obligation Probate Protection Strategy Call Now!
We will discuss your probate strategy for your estate, and I will be thorough in answering your questions so you feel heard, confident, and ready to take action.
Call for help today: (703) 659-9692
Legacy Law Group of Northern Virginia, PLLC Can Serve You in Northern Virginia
This should be a time to relax, grieve and find peace. Our firm is ready to take this burden off your plate, and make this as effortless for you as possible.
You may be here because you’re looking to:
Administer an Estate
My goal is to make it as easy and convenient as possible for you – managing assets, clearing debts, and sharing things out just like the will or law says.
Contest a Will
If something feels off, like maybe someone was pressured, let's look into it. I'm here to help challenge the will and make sure we're honoring what the person really wanted.
Resolve Beneficiary Disputes
When beneficiaries don't see eye to eye, things can get tricky. That's where I come in. I'm good at smoothing things over, finding a fair solution that everyone can agree on.
Ensure Accuracy as an Executor or Administrator
If you're an executor or administrator, you've got a big job. Don't worry, I'll be with you every step of the way to make sure you're doing everything by the book.
Protect Beneficiary Rights
I'll make sure the estate is handled fairly and legally, just like it should be.
Establish Guardianship or Conservatorship
Need to set up care for someone? I'll make sure dependents are looked after just the way you want.
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"David Wilks has been an excellent attorney for our Will and Estate needs for many years. He is regularly recommended by our professional tax and business accountant due to his highly conscientious and reliable in-depth knowledge. David's personal dedication and empathy was reflected when he responded to our friend's emergency end-of-life needs on short notice. Under some very trying circumstances, he worked to ensure that her estate was in order and would be properly transferred to her children and grandchildren. We highly recommend David Wilks for our Will, Estate, and Trust needs and will not use anyone else."
~~Kenneth Peppard
Book Your Free, Friendly, In-Depth, No-Obligation Probate Protection Strategy Call Now!
We will discuss your probate strategy for your estate, and I will be thorough in answering your questions so you feel heard, confident, and ready to take action.
Call for help today: (703) 659-9692
Not Sure if You Need a Probate Lawyer?
If you don’t want to dispute a will or take anyone to court.. You may be wondering if you even need legal counsel.
Maybe the estate in question is fairly small, and the will is straightforward.
Where it becomes complicated, is when mistakes are made because it appears so simple on the surface.
Once that happens, the damage is already done… and that mistake might result in a more devastating loss than you expected.
It’s not uncommon for a small error to result in an enormous tax bill that requires the family home to be sold.. just to pay Uncle Sam.
Or for other “small” mistakes to delay probate for months (even years). Meaning, all assets are frozen and unable to be used.
That’s why I advise that whether it's a small, seemingly straightforward estate - or - a large, complex estate involving multiple assets, it’s best to at least chat with an experienced Probate Attorney and avoid significant losses.
Over the years, I’ve achieved the coveted AV Preeminent® rating, the highest possible by Martindale-Hubbell® Peer Review Ratings.
You can rest assured that my goal is to make sure you understand each step in the process, what your risks are, and guide you toward making the best decision for yourself and your family.
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"David was a huge help in assisting me with retrieving IRS info for a client regarding payoff and release of liens in order to sell his home quickly"
~ Teresa Maloney-Szabo
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"Dave was a great help for me dealing with estate issues after the passing of my wife. I highly recommend him."
~ Mark Granville-Smith
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"As a resident in Florida, I needed a Virginia attorney to help me perform probate services for my older brother, who had passed away in Virginia, April 2009. As a novice executor for my brother's will, I needed a lot of help, and I got it from David Wilks and other associates in his office."
~ VIETNAMVET Katz
Book Your Free, Friendly, In-Depth, No-Obligation Probate Protection Strategy Call Now!
We will discuss your probate strategy for your estate, and I will be thorough in answering your questions so you feel heard, confident, and ready to take action.
Call for help today: (703) 659-9692
Our Simple 3-Step Probate Process
Step 1:
Friendly, Free Strategy Call
We’ll chat about your current situation, and I’ll walk you step-by-step through what your options are. Probate can feel overwhelming and confusing. My goal is to help you understand everything so you feel confident in whatever decision you make.
Your privacy is guaranteed, and all information will be strictly confidential.
Step 2:
Make a Plan Together For How to Move Forward
My goal is to make it as easy and convenient for you as possible, while aggressively going after what belongs to you where necessary.
Step 3:
Fair Resolution of Assets
You deserve to walk away with the assets that are rightfully yours.
Am I The Right Probate Attorney For You?
David Wilks, Esq. ~ Trust, AV Rated Estate & Probate Attorney For Estate Owners
Only you can decide that, but regardless of what your unique situation is, I have the experience and track record to navigate the stormy waters of family discord with a signature probate process that helps families resolve disputes and protects familial bonds, while also aggressively ensuring you receive what’s rightfully yours.
There’s a delicate balance required here, that I’ve refined over 30+ years in the trenches.
When working with my firm, you’re guaranteed privacy and confidentiality. You don’t have to worry about sensitive information becoming public during the probate process.
I’m trusted by high-profile clients, including the wife of an NBA player, high-level business executives, and entrepreneurs with estates ranging from $5,000,000 to $10,000,000+
I’ve also attained the coveted AV Preeminent® rating, the highest possible by Martindale-Hubbell® Peer Review Ratings.
Book Your Free, Friendly, In-Depth, No-Obligation Probate Protection Strategy Call Now!
We will discuss your probate strategy for your estate, and I will be thorough in answering your questions so you feel heard, confident, and ready to take action.
Call for help today: (703) 659-9692
What My Clients Say About Working With Me
Casey Stevens
"David is a brilliant attorney who is the best of the best when it comes to all Estate Planning needs. I highly recommend David to anyone seeking such legal assistance."
Rated 5 out of 5 Stars
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
"My husband was coming to the end of his life and we needed to get our will done as soon as possible. We were fortunate to find David Wilks, a local estate planner. David was effective, efficient and exhibited a wide range of knowledge and abilities in helping us with Virginia laws. He was able to complete our will in two weeks. My husband succumbed less than a month later. We were blessed that he was thorough and experienced . I have used my husband's will many times to resolve estate issues since his death. Currently, Mr. Wilks has suggested a trust for my situation. We hope to finalize this in the near future."
~ Susan Scott
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"My wife and I used the services of David Wilks to handle the sale of our business. Needless to say, the process went very smoothly. David was very thorough and the transfer went well. I recommend the services of David Wilks to anyone who is in need of legal assistance with any matter they may have."
~ Steve Kinnett
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"David's warm, welcoming and unpretentious personality made the difficult discussions around estate planning easy. We are so grateful for his knowledge and expertise."
~ Joseph Cavallo
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"Mr. Wilks is very knowledgeable; he listened to my concerns and walked me through the process. He has an exceptionally strong eye for details that has been a benefit to my case. I would highly recommend Mr. Wilks."
~ Shaf Mohebbi
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
"David Wilks has been an excellent attorney for our Will and Estate needs for many years. He is regularly recommended by our professional tax and business accountant due to his highly conscientious and reliable in-depth knowledge. David's personal dedication and empathy was reflected when he responded to our friend's emergency end-of-life needs on short notice. Under some very trying circumstances, he worked to ensure that her estate was in order and would be properly transferred to her children and grandchildren. We highly recommend David Wilks for our Will, Estate, and Trust needs and will not use anyone else."
~ Kenneth Peppard
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"David Wilks set up our corporation documents with no hang ups. thank you David"
~ Suzanne Johnson
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"David was a huge help in assisting me with retrieving IRS info for a client regarding payoff and release of liens in order to sell his home quickly"
~ Teresa Maloney-Szabo
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"We have found the work done for us by Mr. Wilks professionally completed and suited to our needs. We have been associated with this group for several years and feel confident in the legal work that was done for us. We would certainly recommend this firm to anyone needing competent legal advice."
~ Mary Watkins
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"I have worked professionally with David for over 30 years and can attest to his brilliant legal mind. David has a knack for seeing all possibilities and pitfalls in strategies which is a must when engaging an attorney for estate or business matters. I recommend David and Legacy Law Group without hesitation."
~ J. Cayere
Book Your Free, Friendly, In-Depth, No-Obligation Probate Protection Strategy Call Now!
We will discuss your probate strategy for your estate, and I will be thorough in answering your questions so you feel heard, confident, and ready to take action.
Call for help today: (703) 659-9692
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"Great firm, highly recommend David."
~ karen azoff
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"Dave has provided us with sound estate planning services and advice for the last 10+ years and has done a wonderful job!"
~ Patrick Langdon
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"We consulted with Mr. Wilks and he was very helpful, suggesting options that we hadn't thought of that kept our planning relatively simple and cost-effective. He clearly possesses deep knowledge and experience with estate planning matters. We plan to continue to use his expertise in the future as our needs change. Highly recommended."
~ Patrick M.
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"David did my Estate planning and did an Excellent Job. It was very complicated as it involved many different entities but he got the job done. Did a very very fine job."
~ Pat Griffin
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"David Wilkes is one of the best lawyers he cares about you and your case if I ever need a lawyer again I'm only going to him"
~ Jennifer Warnasch
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"I know David Wilks Attorney At Law as a professional and helpful attorney. He is very punctual and respectful! I would recommend my friends to contact him, both for advice and for real help"
~ Yelena HeyTam
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"My long association with David Wilks began way back in the 1970's when my lovely wife and I settled into a new home in Northern Virginia while I was still an Army officer. Believing it was time to pay attention to professional estate planning, and armed with the name of a lawyer provided by a friend, we met with David Wilks. At that initial meeting he made us feel comfortable that he would provide the best possible estate planning. After completing our wills and living trusts he kept his word to keep us informed of legal changes by periodically asking us to see him. About 5 years ago my dear wife passed away and I relied upon David to settle her estate. Over the years David became aware that I had two very loving sons and that due to my age and inability to get around without a walker I relied on them to assist me. He briefed my sons on the procedures that they could assist me with using "power of attorney." I appreciated the delicate manner he showed toward my sons, realizing they were grieving for the loss of a mother they loved dearly. David has always shown that he cares about me and my entire family. David followed up after an appropriate period by providing me with a new estate plan. Based on David's legal expertise and his show of caring for clients I would recommend him without any hesitation. In my estimation David Wilks is an outstanding lawyer, and a very decent human being."
~ David Stein
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
"We have worked with David Wilks, for over 20 years now and highly recommend him to anyone requiring comprehensive estate planning. David developed a complex estate plan, including a Living Trust, Will and Advanced Medical Directive, for my mother, and has continued to work with her over the years to provide advice and to update her estate planning documents as her life events evolve. David is a very knowledgeable, thorough, and professional attorney who we trust to support us in making the best possible decisions for our estate."
~ Demas Family
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"David handled my father’s total Estate planning. After my father passed, things went flawlessly. I cannot say enough about him and his abilities. Even a year after my father passed, David was quick to answer questions that arose and help with the beneficiary trusts. I’d give him more than five stars if I could!"
~ marc golightly
Book Your Free, Friendly, In-Depth, No-Obligation Probate Protection Strategy Call Now!
We will discuss your probate strategy for your estate, and I will be thorough in answering your questions so you feel heard, confident, and ready to take action.
Call for help today: (703) 659-9692
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
"Mr. David Wilks prepared our Family Estate Planning Portfolio about ten years ago. It was a very thorough set of documents which included a Living Trust Agreement, Wills, Medical Directives, Powers of Attorney, and much more. I was approaching retirement and had put off estate planning because I thought it would be a massive endeavor. I knew I needed a plan and Mr. Wilks was recommended by a trusted friend. He explained the process completely and answered all our questions, before and during the process. He and his staff were knowledgeable and very professional. Having that Estate Plan work done provided our family a thing of real value and gave us a comforting peace of mind. Based on our experience, I recommend him with confidence."
~ Warren Price
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"David Wilks has been managing my estate for several years. His knowledge and attention to detail are unmatched. He has my complete trust and I highly recommend him to anyone looking into estate planning."
~ Peter Pandolfi
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"My wife and I went to David in 2013 to create an estate plan and establish a trust. Both of which he did to our satisfaction and he has dealt with subsequent issues with professionalism and courtesy."
~ thestakk
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"I really appreciate the advice and suggestions David provided my husband and myself with our estate plan. His knowledge and advice assisted us on the best way to manage our affairs. Thanks David."
~ C Booth
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"The best lawyer in Virginia, by far!! I first met David Wilks more than 20 years ago when my wife and I needed a Living Trust and Will & Testament after starting a family. David was easy to talk to and explained our options in a way that made sense to us. David has helped me in other legal matters over the years, and I've recommend many times to friends who ask. You can't go wrong with David Wilks. Highly recommended - every time!"
~ My Name
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"David was referred to me by a friend when I was getting separated and I needed an estate attorney to change my will. David took the time to throughly explain all the legalities of my situation and recommended health and financial directives as well. David was easy to talk with, made the process a smooth experience and I felt I made the right decision hiring hum as my estate attorney."
~ Barbara Phillips
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"David and his team walked me through the process of filing my father's will with speed and kindness. Living out of state and trying to manage everything could have been a disaster. My father's estate was in order and David made an otherwise horrible situation a bit better.."
~ Team Pipitone
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"Dave was a great help for me dealing with estate issues after the passing of my wife. I highly recommend him."
~ Mark Granville-Smith
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"As a resident in Florida, I needed a Virginia attorney to help me perform probate services for my older brother, who had passed away in Virginia, April 2009. As a novice executor for my brother's will, I needed a lot of help, and I got it from David Wilks and other associates in his office."
~ VIETNAMVET Katz
Book Your Free, Friendly, In-Depth, No-Obligation Probate Protection Strategy Call Now!
We will discuss your probate strategy for your estate, and I will be thorough in answering your questions so you feel heard, confident, and ready to take action.
Call for help today: (703) 659-9692
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
"I find David Wilks to be friendly, professional and very helpful. He helped me through hardship times and I would highly recommend him."
~ Rosary Hoovler
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"I would highly recommend Legacy Law for anyone looking for a professional law firm that provides excellent service for estate planning. If I needed further assistance, Mr. Wilks was always available to answer any questions I had."
~ Janice Iddins
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"Legacy Law Group helped me solidify my estate planning needs. They were very detailed and always returned emails or phone calls promptly. I would definitely recommend."
~
Danny Mayer
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"I have been a client of David Wilks for almost 30 years. He has consistently been professional, supportive, generous with his time and very organized in his Estate Planning expertise. I have been comfortable calling on him for short consultations or lengthy matters. I recommend him highly!"
~ Joyce M
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"David Wilks of Legacy Law Group prepared several estate plan documents for me and my family. He thoroughly explained the options and choices and provided us with expert legal advice. I recommend him and his firm."
~ Christopher McCleary
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"My parents and I have worked with Mr. Wilks for over 20 years. Everything has been extremely professional and all services were completed in a timely manner. I would recommend his services to anyone looking for assistance in estate planning."
~ Lew Long
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"I have been a client of David Wilks for almost 30 years. He has consistently been professional, supportive, generous with his time and very organized in his Estate Planning expertise. I have been comfortable calling on him for short consultations or lengthy matters. I recommend him highly!"
~ Joyce M
Book Your Free, Friendly, In-Depth, No-Obligation Probate Protection Strategy Call Now!
We will discuss your probate strategy for your estate, and I will be thorough in answering your questions so you feel heard, confident, and ready to take action.
Call for help today: (703) 659-9692
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is Probate?
Probate is the legal process by which a deceased person’s will is validated, their assets are inventoried, debts are paid, and the remaining assets are distributed according to the will or state law if no will exists.
What Happens If There Is No Will?
If there is no will, the estate is considered intestate, and without an experienced probate lawyer.. assets are distributed according to state intestacy laws.
Is Probate Necessary for All Estates?
Not all estates require probate. Small estates or those with assets that transfer outside of probate (like life insurance or jointly held property) may not need to go through the process. However, as mentioned above, without experience in probate law… what appears simple, may actually not be. There could be a minor detail that, done incorrectly, results in major losses, delays, or even legal trouble.
What If I Disagree with the Will?
If you believe a will is invalid due to reasons like lack of capacity, undue influence, or improper execution, you can contest the will in probate court.
What Are the Duties of an Executor?
The executor of a will is responsible for carrying out the probate process, including filing the will in probate court, inventorying and appraising assets, paying debts and taxes, and distributing assets to beneficiaries.
Can an Executor Hire a Probate Attorney?
Yes, an executor can hire a probate attorney.
How Are Debts Handled in Probate?
The executor is responsible for identifying and paying valid debts and taxes using the estate’s assets before distributing the remainder to the beneficiaries.
Call Us Today While There is Still Time
The sooner you act, the sooner your heirs will be protected giving you peace of mind.
or Call 703-659-9692
PAID ATTORNEY ADVERTISEMENT: Legacy Law Group of Northern Virginia, PLLC is a law firm. This is an attorney advertisement. The information on this website is for general information purposes only. Nothing on this site should be taken as legal advice for any individual case or situation. This information is not intended to create, and receipt or viewing does not constitute an attorney-client relationship.
Prior outcomes do not guarantee results.
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