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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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5.0
20 Reviews
4.9
159 Reviews
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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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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01 Apr, 2023 by Charles
I had the pleasure of speaking with Jason Perez yesterday concerning some real estate questions I had.
Jason seemed very knowledgeable, was very friendly and cordial and a pleasure to deal with. Thank you Jason
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05 May, 2021 by Ion
Mr.James Brown is an amazing lawyer. I hired Mr. Brown for a real estate matter. Mr. James and his stuff were very responsive, well communicating, and closed my case successfully. I highly recommend Mr. James Brown.
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15 Aug, 2019 by Nicole
Attorney Brown and his firm were transparent, personable, and thorough. He and Ruti (Legal Assitant) explained all of the facts of my case (some circumstances less favorable than others) without insult. I felt supported and defended throughout the process. Ruti's level of professionalism was nothing less than stellar! Undoubtedly, with the firm's commitment to client care and service, the case was resolved in our favor. It is for these reasons that I would recommend this firm to anyone in need of a Real estate Attorney. Thank you again, JBTeam, for all you do every day!
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19 Mar, 2022 by Keith
Attorney Ozment and his staff were extremely helpful in guiding me through my Chapter 7 case. From the first meeting, I knew that I wanted his office to represent me. He outlined my options, explained everything about bankruptcy and filing simply and clearly, told me how much it would cost and payment options, helped me to understand the differences between the various chapters, and followed me through the process every step of the way. A week before my trustee meeting, his office scheduled an appointment for me to talk with Atty. Ozment by phone so he could explain the trustee meeting, how it would work, what questions I might be asked, and to go over information in my petition to make sure I understood all the details in the document. I really appreciated the time that he took to do that as it helped me be less nervous for the meeting. The staff in the office were also very helpful, kind, and supportive throughout the process. I also appreciated that they were responsive to emails and respectful of my time and commitments through the process, too. Highly recommend!
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29 May, 2018 by Dave
Drake Ozment and his team handled my brankruptcy with expertise. They were helpful every step of the way. I would highly recommend them to anyone in need of a great attorney
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02 May, 2017 by Anonymous
I hired Drake Ozment and his team of professionals to handle my bankruptcy. They made a very difficult situation bearable, from my first meeting with Paul Visnovske, through my court date, and the following 5 years. My questions were always answered quickly and with the utmost professionalism any time I called the office. Thank you Ozment team!!!
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05 Sep, 2015 by Lisa
Dana and her staff did an awesome job for us. They are very warm and friendly and they made us feel at ease every time we saw them. Thanks Dana and team!
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31 Aug, 2015 by Yaro
Excellent service. Very professional team and on top of my situation throughout the whole process. I highly recommend this firm to anyone in need.
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30 Aug, 2015 by Katherine
The first attorney I hired was incompetent, but after the first phone consult I had with Dana, I understood how lucky I was to have located her!. I count myself very fortunate to have hired Dana. She has integrity, is very knowledgeable, responsive and has an excellent support staff. Dana is also very personable and friendly, but still professional. Excellent communicator. I wouldn't hesitate to refer her to anyone looking to file bankruptcy and/or loan mod.
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10 Jul, 2017 by Adam steinberg
Mr. Williams has tremendous legal acumen and is great at communicating with her clients and co-counsel. She is always looking to think outside the box and utilize whatever strategies best suit the client's situation.
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23 Jun, 2017 by Brettsteinberg
We hired Jene to represent our parents regarding their foreclosure lawsuit. She was hired late in the game but immediately handled the matter with high degree of professionalism and diligence. She is extremely responsive to calls and e-mails and her staff is very on top of things. I highly recommend this attorney and her firm to anyone in need of legal representation!
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08 Jan, 2016 by Jenny m
Jene was faced with defending me in a complicated family law/real estate/foreclosure case. Her advise was always spot on and she received a successful outcome for me. I can honestly say that she truly cares. She is quick to respond to messages and I never once felt "rushed". She takes her time and listens. She was even in contact with me while she was on vacation! Unheard of!!! I highly recommend her firm.
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09 Nov, 2015 by Anonymous
Brooks has handled numerous cases for me over the years. There is one that is still going after 3.5 years. This is a complicated commercial litigation case against a multi-billion dollar hedge fund. Brooks has been always one step ahead of the LARGE LAW firm for the hedge fund. I do not believe the number one rated law firm in Florida could have handled my case better then Brooks Ricca has done for me.
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05 Nov, 2015 by Beth
Brooks was always very business-like, very clear on procedure, very easy to talk to and willing to listen to what I had to say. He maintained good contact and I was always aware of exactly where things stood. In the courtroom he was excellent, firm but never combative. Excellent at keeping lines of communication open.
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28 Oct, 2015 by Chris
I hired Brooks Ricca after interviewing several other firms and am I glad I did. He is a straight talking, hard working, intelligent attorney who is also truly concerned about his clients. Due to the real estate collapse of 2008 I was facing a very complex and insurmountable legal battle. Brooks tirelessly explored every possible resolution strategy, put up many very good defenses and ultimately personally oversaw the proceedings by another firm in Federal Court. He stayed with the case and with me until the very end, he even sat in on a mediation to resolve legal fees with another firm that was also representing me at that time. He is very easy to communicate with, he listens to and considers his clients suggestions, explains the complexities of the system and the probable outcomes of proceedings. He is everything you would want in an attorney. Brooks was very actively involved in what ultimately was the legal battle of my life, saving me and all that I had worked for my whole life. I simply can't say enough...
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28 Mar, 2018 by Mrs. doss
Stephen is the best there is I must say. He listened to me followed through on everything we discussed a fought for me until the end. I must say I admired his honesty with me from the very first meeting, and that alone made me feel comfortable in the decision I made to hire him. I can't thank him enough!!
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02 Mar, 2016 by Karl
Stephen helped me get rid of my massive amount of credit card bills and to top it off my $50k balance 2nd mortgage! I was even able to get the 2nd mortgage holder off the deed without paying them a dime, even after they garnished my checking account. Keep up the good work Stephen..
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24 Oct, 2011 by Frank
He was able to elimate all my detb , i had of 100,000.00 worth
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20 Apr, 2020 by Anonymous
Dan is currently working on my case of a foreclosure. His service has been excellent so far. I live in another city but he has kept me updated on all aspects of my case. Watching him defending my case was a joy to see. He is well prepared and seems to get the job done. Happy I chose him.
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11 Jun, 2019 by Gloria
Daniel Bialczak, Esq. IS an excellent Attorney! He handled everything from A to Z for me. Every time I spoke to him he had great news and accomplish a lot. His expertise and negotiating skills have surpassed any attorney I’ve ever worked with. He is amazing. Seriously, if you need an attorney, hire Daniel Bialczak, Esq.. The law offices of Korte and Associates are exceptional. You cannot ask for a better law firm!! BRIAN KORTE AND DANIEL BIALCZAK ESQ. ARE THE BEST! And Tammie Thank you guys so much for representing me!
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25 Mar, 2019 by Sean
I had the pleasure of working with Dan for several incidents:
The first was with our landlord who was being unresponsive on our 8+ service requests that had not been responded to for over 2 months. Dan offered advice on the best way to get both the landlord and management company to respond and it worked really well! We had people fixing up our rental house within 48 hours!
The second time was when we wanted to end our lease early. Again, Dan offered advice on the best way to go about this and we were able to satisfactorily end our lease without extra charges.
The third time was when we needed to get our deposit back from our rental company. Dan advised how to approach the landlord and management company and we were able to recover our entire deposit!
Dan's positive, can-do attitude made him a pleasure to work with and helped get us results.
Thank you sir!
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16 Jun, 2010 by S.b- boynton beach, fl
Helped me with my foreclosure case and I don't know what I would have done without legal help. Am very happy with the decision to have her as my lawyer during these times. She is very professional and timely! Let's you know everything that is going on and explains everything in layman terms. I would recommend her over and over again.
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16 Jun, 2010 by Anonymous
I called Nadine at the last minute, on the Thursday before Good Friday (a holiday), to help me with a situation that I felt was quickly sliding away from me. She dropped what she was doing, asked me come to her office, sat with me for a short time and explained to me what she recommended as the next course of action. I agreed with her and she immediately took action. During negotiations with the other attorneys, she kept and continues to keep me updated.
I have never had to use an attorney before and was so nervous about the entire experience. She was very focused and calming. I hope I never need to use her again, but if I ever wind up in a situation where I may need legal advice, I would definitely call her before I called anyone else.
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13 May, 2008 by Joseph
Ms. Nadine Castillo represented me an Home Owners Insurance Claim.
Finally after 1 yr of depositions we settled for an X amount of money.
Her recomendation was very well accepted.
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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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30 Jul, 2023 by Tanya lofton
So far so good...
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25 Jan, 2019 by Bernie oliver
15 Apr, 2020 by Anonymous
I've used Michael for several complicated cases and was impressed with his ability to anticipate and strategize a wide range of possibilities. He has been able to bring most cases to a favorable resolution.
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29 Sep, 2013 by Robert
I would recommend Mr. Kaufman in a heatbeat. He was there in a difficult time in my finances. Mr. Kaufman was advice was excellent and I would recommend his services.
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04 Feb, 2021 by Carolyn
I’m feeling so blessed to have had Mr. Nieves assist me. He made sure my rights to a fair and impartial judicial system were upheld. Mr. Nieves also excelled in my appeal, and brought justice and peace back into my life. I would highly recommend Mr. Nieves to anyone looking for a thorough, skilled, caring and fearless attorney!
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06 Jan, 2014 by Anne
Steve Brotman is quite simply, Brilliant. Super articulate. Compassionate. In my two-day foreclosure trial he was a force to be "reckoned" with, but in the Best of Ways. He was always respectful to the Judge and the Opposing Lawyers. He knew the facts. He knew cases. He was well-prepared. He had great energy. He knew how to present a solid winning defense. I was so proud to be represented by him. I will forever be Grateful to him. Thank You. Anne. December 2013.
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09 Aug, 2011 by Susan
No one really wants to go through bankruptcy but if you have to, or think you do, I highly recommend Debra Quinn. I was very resistant to the idea at first but she made me realize that bankruptcy was not a shameful thing but a legal tool that would help me get back on my financial 'feet' and have a better future. I initially just couldn't imagine how it would work out for me. Ms. Quinn was sensitive to my feelings about my financial situation and after meeting with her I began to feel hopeful. She reviewed the pertinent factors in my case and even with some challenging points, was able to work her way through them, with lasting benefit to me. Ms. Quinn went out of her way to answer my (many) questions and keep me informed about the process every step of the way. Ms. Quinn displays sensitivity and respect for her clients and conveys the message that anyone can find themselves in need of her services. If you choose Ms. Quinn to guide you through the bankruptcy process, you will not be disappointed. Ms. Quinn successfully handled my case to a positive conclusion and in the process, made me feel better about myself and my future. Thanks Debra!
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31 Jan, 2023 by Shanon
Jeff Eannarino is an absolute pleasure to work with, he is a true dedicated attorney and gets the job done! He handled my real-estate issues that I was turned away from by others who doubted themselvesto win. I was blessed to have been referred to Jeff. He works diligently to win and most importantly he cares!
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17 Sep, 2024 by Jeff johnson
I can't thank Bill enough for the incredible work he did on my DUI case. After being let down by my previous attorney's incompetence, I felt hopeless. However, from our first meeting, Bill demonstrated exceptional knowledge, dedication, and professionalism. He meticulously reviewed every detail of my case, identified errors made by my former attorney, and used that to build a strong defense. Thanks to his hard work and expertise, he was able to get my original plea significantly reduced. I am beyond grateful for his support and the positive outcome he achieved for me. I highly recommend Bill to anyone in need of a top-notch defense lawyer. He truly went above and beyond!!
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28 Aug, 2024 by Alonzo ponder
Amazing guy, was a great help for me with my case. Super easy to talk to as well as get in contact with. Would definitely recommend to anyone looking for a great lawyer.
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18 May, 2024 by Affordable roofing & coating
Attorney William Wallshein provided exceptional legal counsel with unwavering professionalism, his expertise and dedication led to a favorable outcome for my case, I highly recommend for anyone in need of legal representation.
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30 Sep, 2024 by Catherine stellino
I would like to start off by saying that this is the first time I’ve ever needed a lawyer. Needless to say I was nervous, anxious, and didn’t even know which way to turn. I got very lucky that Nicholas C. Maniotis and paralegal Jo Hunerberg were assigned to my case. Everything was handled swiftly and professionally. They also made sure I was fully aware and completely understood what was going on every step of the way. I am extremely satisfied and forever grateful that such a scary experience turned into such a positive one. Thank you again Nicolas! I will definitely be recommending you to anyone who needs it for sure!
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27 Sep, 2024 by Stella workman
I cannot say enough good things about Gabriel Isasi and the incredible team at Lytal and Reiter! From start to finish, they provided exceptional legal expertise, guidance, and support. Their professionalism, attention to detail, and dedication were evident in every step of the process. Gabriel Isasi always took the time to explain everything clearly and kept me informed throughout, making sure I fully understood my options. More importantly, he cared about me as a client and my injuries.
The entire team was responsive, compassionate, and worked tirelessly to ensure a positive outcome for my case. I felt confident and reassured knowing I was in such capable hands. If you're looking for a top-notch attorney who truly cares about their clients and delivers outstanding results, look no further than Gabriel Isasi and his team. I highly recommend them!
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24 Aug, 2024 by Alan adams
Contacted twice for consultation. Sure no problem we will set you up with consultation. Each time waited for contact. Nothing no contact. Gave email and phone. No go for over 3 weeks waiting. Will never deal with them ever again. Do yourself favor call somebody else if you want results.
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06 Oct, 2024 by Delia velez
Scott Skier is an Exceptional Attorney! From the moment we contacted him, he was professional, compassionate, and incredibly knowledgeable! He took the time to listen to all the details and explained everything in a way that made us feel informed and confident. Scott’s deep understanding of criminal law and the legal system was evident in every interaction. If you’re looking for an attorney who genuinely cares about his clients and will fight for your rights, Scott Skier is the one you want in your corner. I’m beyond grateful for his help and would give more than 5 stars if I could!
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18 Sep, 2024 by Micah wright
Worth every penny! Scott was able to help me out in my time of need MULTIPLE times. 10/10 would recommend.
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12 Sep, 2024 by Donna quinn
He was paid $10.000 of my money, he never communicated with me, only my ruthless sister, I ended up with a felony which has ruined my Problem was he not knowing (especially odd for what I see is supposed to be a attorney with great reviews) what my legal address was since 2014, my license clearly stated that & I had been living with my Mother for a consistent 9 months, & through the years on and off. 2 nd Judge gave me ankle monitor, Mr Scott Skier said "Well if you had somewhere to go we could have fought this, your Mother had many problems." Even the public defender knew that was my address. Never got back in the building, never saw my mail or belongings again. The police report was absurd, my Mother had dementia and also made up stories, she stated that I had just moved in the day before coming from jail....I actually thought the detective made that up. I actually flew in January 2021 from Long Island, NY, she actually was upset I didn't make it there for Thanksgiving and Christmas, I was arrested October 2021 for nothing!!! I have to add that I went to apply for Social security, April 2024, they told me they could not pay incarcerated people, I was in shock.... Evidently the case was never closed. They thought I was an escaped prisoner😱😎😂😡I met attorneys that said they knew him very well, my sisters flew in from NY & changged the locks on my own residence that I shared with my Mother, I was told my new attorneys I could have knocked the door down on the 22 nd. floor
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15 May, 2024 by Jodi feliu
This is a highly reputable firm that provides an extraordinary amount of support and knowledge. They always put their clients best interest first. I would highly recommend this firm and trust their guidance.
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15 May, 2024 by David kerner
As a local practicing attorney in the civil arena, I have referred many clients charged with criminal violations to Farkas and Crowley. I have personal knowledge of their superior criminal law legal skills and trial skills, and will continue to refer clients to their care. You will be very well served by this firm and they come highly recommended!
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15 May, 2024 by Venita ackerman
The attorneys at Farkas & Crowley PA go above and beyond for their clients. They work tirelessly to provide the best service.
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25 Nov, 2023 by Ryan
Otto exemplifies professionalism, intelligence, and tact in every aspect of his work. His dedication is evident, and he takes pride in delivering exceptional legal services. Trustworthiness is a hallmark, making him a reliable and commendable choice.
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09 Nov, 2023 by Tom schneider
"I highly recommend this law firm. Mr. Bergés and his staff are what all law offices should be measured by!!! Professional, communicative, and at your service.
Thank you for doing such a great job!!!"
Tom S.
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09 Nov, 2023 by Oscar
Otto is the best law attorney I have ever worked with. From our first meeting, he explained everything to me in terms I could easily understand and was always very responsive when I had questions outside of our meetings. I would highly recommend him.
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03 May, 2017 by David
Super smart and tireless lawyer that has done a fabulous job handling my foreclosure defense. I would highly recommend him and the firm!
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02 May, 2017 by David
Defending my foreclosure since 2009, Senior Paralegal is beyond awesome. How can you complain after 8 years of defense and still fighting.
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01 May, 2017 by Leona kunkle tamborello
The best decision I ever made was to hire Brian's office as my attorney in my home loan modification case. They have work very hard to keep me in my home and have won my foreclosure case. They keep fighting to keep me in my home and I appreciate everything they do for me. I would recommend them to anyone in my situation.
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04 Apr, 2024 by Josh
We run a program assisting veterans in need in Palm Beach County, and Melva is amazing and tireless in helping our veterans!
She and her team regularly help us overcome obstacles that prevent our veteran clients and their families from living sustainable lives.
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31 May, 2019 by Anonymous
I spoke with her about my mother's legal issues and she failed to review the information, misrepresented the info to her supervisor and made me out to be difficult to deal with when she didn't do her work. She has no empathy, no compassion and cost me time in finding a competent, caring attorney. She really lacks the ability to understand a client's needs and the issues at hand.
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22 Feb, 2015 by Anonymous
We went to several attorney who promised us a free house. Ms Rozier said there were very few free houses in today's foreclosure climate. She worked with us for over a year and helped us get a modification that worked great for us. We were denied 4 times before we worked with her.
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27 Mar, 2019 by Bryan
Had a $400 credit on my account, they wanted more retainer. I requested that we wait until next action, because I suspect the case might be dead, and we had satisfied the court to that point. they agreed...a few months later I got a notice from the court that they withdrew from my case with no communication. To add insult to injury, they charged me $415 to withdraw as my attorney citing no more retainer fees. My experience is this firm, in particular Andrew Fulton don't communicate well and the most important part of an attorney/client relationship. Keep looking.
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06 Jul, 2018 by Bob
Mr. Fulton did excellent work to represent me, kept me updated in a timely manner. He is very knowledgeable and experienced in the field. I would highly recommend him for related work!
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30 Jun, 2018 by Michelle
Compassionate, ethical and creative. Andrew really listened to what I had to say and came up with a creative solution that fit my needs and budget.
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15 Mar, 2024 by Anthony
Horrible experience.
Kept asking for more money. Kept threatening me. Finally I just couldn’t give him enough cash.
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07 Jun, 2021 by Ray
Mr. Kelly and his firm frequently used an attorney's 4 favorite words when handling my bankruptcy (Bring me more money!); and threatened to intentionally default on answering motions when I was unable to meet their immediate money demands-after I had already paid their standard bankruptcy fees. Gave me weak excuses like 'we're busy attorneys during a pandemic' (I guess they are the only ones in a pandemic?) and refused to cooperate with me in any way on a payment arrangement. Refused all requests to account for monies I paid their office in addition to the bankruptcy; and I had to hire other counsel because of their lack of cooperation and poor excuses. I wouldn't let this firm ever represent me again for any reason.
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17 Aug, 2018 by Kadie
Made the bankruptcy process simple and easy. I was always able to contact his office and any answers I needed I was given. Email was always replied to in a timely manner.
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07 Dec, 2021 by Anonymous
I can go into great detail of the mess this lawyer is..... but I'll just some it up in 2 words: the worst. Take your money somewhere else and find someone better! He's filled with BS.
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21 Nov, 2015 by Anonymous
First and foremost, this is a real review. I did not hire Mr. Ackley. For no other reason than the fact that I have begun to resolve my matter out of court . However, should I need an attorney I would be confident in my choice to hire Mr. Ackley, a.ka. just Randy.
Mr. Ackley consulted me on a legal real estate matter and unlike my experience with 2 other attorney's involving the same matter... Mr. Ackley was professional, incredibly knowledgeable and responsive. He provided me crystal clear advice on next steps, possible outcomes and responded to my inquiries same day, if not, within the hour.
Lastly, I would feel very confident in retaining his services should my situation change and recommend for anyone needing legal representation in Florida to at minimum consult with him.
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FAQs
Questions? We have answers
What a Foreclosure Lawyer Can Do for You
A foreclosure lawyer specializes in helping homeowners navigate the legal complexities of foreclosure, working to protect their rights and potentially save their homes. Foreclosure lawyers assist homeowners facing foreclosure by negotiating with lenders, filing legal defenses, and representing them in court. They also help with loan modifications, short sales, and other alternatives to foreclosure. Whether you’re behind on mortgage payments or already in foreclosure proceedings, a lawyer can help you explore your legal options and work toward a solution.
If you’re at risk of losing your home, a foreclosure lawyer can provide guidance on how to stop or delay the foreclosure process and protect your financial future.
When Should I Hire a Foreclosure Lawyer?
You should consider hiring a foreclosure lawyer in several situations where you are facing financial difficulties with your mortgage. Common reasons to hire a lawyer include:
- Facing foreclosure proceedings: If your lender has initiated foreclosure proceedings, a lawyer can help you file a legal defense and explore options for stopping or delaying the process.
- Loan modification: If you want to modify the terms of your mortgage to make payments more manageable, a lawyer can help you negotiate with your lender and ensure that the modification complies with legal standards.
- Challenging the foreclosure: If you believe your lender has violated foreclosure laws or the terms of your mortgage agreement, a lawyer can help you challenge the foreclosure in court.
- Stopping a foreclosure sale: If your home is about to be sold at a foreclosure auction, a lawyer may be able to file for a temporary restraining order or injunction to halt the sale.
- Short sale or deed in lieu of foreclosure: If you cannot afford to keep your home but want to avoid foreclosure, a lawyer can assist with arranging a short sale or a deed in lieu of foreclosure, where you voluntarily transfer ownership of the home to the lender to avoid foreclosure.
- Filing for bankruptcy: If you’re unable to manage your mortgage debt and other financial obligations, a lawyer can advise whether filing for bankruptcy might stop foreclosure and help you restructure your debts.
Hiring a lawyer as soon as possible - especially when foreclosure is imminent - can provide you with more legal options to save your home or limit financial damages.
What Does a Foreclosure Lawyer Do?
A foreclosure lawyer provides a variety of legal services to homeowners facing foreclosure, working to protect their rights and help them avoid losing their homes. Their responsibilities often include:
- Negotiating with lenders: A lawyer can negotiate with your lender to modify your mortgage or create a repayment plan, helping you avoid foreclosure by securing more favorable terms.
- Filing a legal defense: If your lender is improperly foreclosing or has made errors in the foreclosure process, a lawyer can file a legal defense, challenging the foreclosure in court. Defenses may include violations of foreclosure laws, predatory lending practices, or failure to follow the terms of the mortgage.
- Representing you in court: A lawyer can represent you in foreclosure proceedings, whether you are defending against the foreclosure, seeking more time to negotiate with the lender, or filing for bankruptcy.
- Stopping or delaying foreclosure sales: If your home is scheduled for a foreclosure auction, a lawyer can help file a motion to stop or delay the sale, giving you time to explore other options.
- Advising on bankruptcy: A foreclosure lawyer can assess whether filing for Chapter 7 or Chapter 13 bankruptcy would be beneficial, as bankruptcy can temporarily stop foreclosure and give you time to reorganize your finances.
- Arranging short sales or deeds in lieu of foreclosure: A lawyer can help facilitate a short sale (selling the property for less than the mortgage balance) or a deed in lieu of foreclosure (transferring the property to the lender), which may allow you to avoid the foreclosure process.
How Are Foreclosure Lawyers Paid?
Foreclosure lawyers typically charge for their services based on the complexity of the case and the legal work involved. Common payment structures include:
- Hourly rate: Many foreclosure lawyers charge by the hour, with rates typically ranging from $150 to $500 or more, depending on the lawyer’s experience and location.
- Flat fee: For specific legal services, such as negotiating a loan modification or filing a bankruptcy petition, some lawyers offer a flat fee. Flat fees can range from $1,500 to $5,000, depending on the scope of the work.
- Retainer: In more complex foreclosure cases, especially those involving ongoing negotiations with lenders or court appearances, a lawyer may require a retainer. This is an upfront payment that is billed against as the lawyer works on your case.
- Contingency fee (rare): In some rare cases, particularly when suing a lender for wrongful foreclosure, a lawyer may work on a contingency fee basis. This means they only get paid if they win the case or settle on your behalf.
It’s important to discuss fees and payment arrangements with your lawyer upfront, especially if you are facing financial difficulties.
How Much Does a Foreclosure Lawyer Cost?
The cost of hiring a foreclosure lawyer depends on the complexity of the case, the lawyer’s experience, and the amount of time required to resolve the issue. General cost estimates include:
- Hourly rates: Foreclosure lawyers typically charge between $150 and $500 per hour. For example, a simple case with 10 hours of legal work at $300 per hour would cost $3,000.
- Flat fees: For straightforward services such as filing for bankruptcy or negotiating a loan modification, flat fees typically range from $1,500 to $5,000, depending on the complexity of the work.
- Retainers: In more complex or ongoing foreclosure cases, a lawyer may require a retainer ranging from $2,500 to $10,000, depending on the length of the case and the lawyer’s experience.
In addition to legal fees, you may also need to cover additional costs, such as court filing fees or expenses related to property appraisals.
Top Questions to Ask a Foreclosure Lawyer
Before hiring a foreclosure lawyer, it’s important to ask key questions to ensure they have the necessary experience and approach to help you. Key questions to ask include:
-
What experience do you have with foreclosure cases?
Ensure the lawyer has experience handling foreclosure cases similar to yours and has successfully helped homeowners avoid foreclosure or negotiate better terms. -
How do you charge for your services?
Clarify whether the lawyer charges by the hour, a flat fee, or requires a retainer, and ask for a detailed estimate of the total cost of their services. -
What are my options for stopping foreclosure?
Ask the lawyer to explain the different legal strategies available for stopping or delaying foreclosure, such as loan modifications, filing a legal defense, or bankruptcy. -
What is the likelihood of success in my case?
Ask the lawyer for an honest assessment of your case and the chances of successfully avoiding or delaying foreclosure. -
How long will the process take?
Foreclosure cases can vary in duration, so ask the lawyer how long they expect the process to take and what factors might affect the timeline. -
Will I need to go to court?
Ask whether your case is likely to settle out of court or if a trial may be necessary. If a trial is possible, ask what steps the lawyer will take to prepare. -
What steps can I take to protect my home?
Ask the lawyer for advice on steps you can take to protect your home, such as making partial payments, negotiating with your lender, or exploring foreclosure alternatives.
How to Check the Credibility of a Foreclosure Lawyer
To ensure you are hiring a reputable foreclosure lawyer, take the following steps to verify their credentials and experience:
- Check their bar status: Verify with your state bar association that the lawyer is licensed to practice law and has no disciplinary actions against them.
- Look for foreclosure experience: Review the lawyer’s website or professional profile to ensure they specialize in foreclosure law and have successfully handled cases similar to yours.
- Read client reviews and testimonials: Look for reviews on platforms like Avvo, Martindale-Hubbell, or Google to see what previous clients have said about their experience with the lawyer.
- Ask for references: A reputable lawyer should be able to provide references from past clients who have worked with them on foreclosure matters.
- Check for certifications or memberships: Look for lawyers who are members of organizations like the National Association of Consumer Advocates (NACA) or who have specialized certifications in real estate or foreclosure law.
What Should I Prepare for My First Consultation?
To get the most out of your first consultation with a foreclosure lawyer, it’s important to come prepared with relevant documents and information. Here’s what you should bring:
- Mortgage documents: Bring a copy of your mortgage agreement, payment history, and any correspondence you’ve received from your lender, including foreclosure notices or demand letters.
- Financial information: Provide information about your income, expenses, and debts, as this will help the lawyer assess your financial situation and determine the best legal strategy for your case.
- Previous communications with your lender: If you’ve already tried to negotiate with your lender, bring any emails, letters, or records of phone calls that document these communications.
- Court documents (if applicable): If foreclosure proceedings have already begun, bring any court documents related to the case.
- Questions about your legal options: Prepare a list of questions about the foreclosure process, your options for avoiding foreclosure, and how the lawyer plans to help you.
By preparing thoroughly for your consultation, you can help the lawyer assess your situation more effectively and provide the best possible legal advice for protecting your home from foreclosure.
