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30 Apr, 2024 by Mr brooks
George is an excellent lawyer, and his firm does amazing work.
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23 Apr, 2024 by R caricari
I have used attorney Greg Teresi numerous times for legal matters. Most recently in a personal injury case which I had a very positive outcome in my favor.
I hired Greg because he is knowledgeable straight forward with his advice on legal matters. He makes it simple to understand and explains it in detail.
I have the utmost confidence in Greg will represent me in a professional and competent way which I feel gives me an advantage.
He is always available for questions I have through email and phone calls.
I definitely recommend Greg for any and all legal matters.
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16 Apr, 2024 by Serena mirrow
We love working with this firm! George has always been very kind and professional, and it is obvious that he cares tremendously about his staff and clients. Highly recommend!
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10 Sep, 2024 by Jose gallegos
Di just helped me and my group close a real estate transaction, and let me tell you, Di is the real deal. She was able to answer all of our questions with ease, was always on time, and had no problem explaining herself until we fully understood what was going on. She fought for us on several occasions and is always on top of our legal matters as if they were her own. She is very diligent, and nothing slips past her. I highly recommend Di for any real estate transaction in the Capital Region. My group and I are going to be Di's clients for LIFE. Thank you so much, Di, for all your help!!!!
PPG
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27 Aug, 2024 by Shawna fitzsimmons
Di managed the sale of our home. We are the type to ask many questions and she answered them all! She brought such positive energy to the whole transaction and was very professional and thorough. Thank you, Di!
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08 Aug, 2024 by Hayley kellam
Di made the process of buying a house smooth and timely. She was very responsive, brought all important information to our attention, and also has a great energy! I would absolutely work with her again in the future.
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29 Jul, 2024 by Vanessa
Called Atty Joshi around 8:30am on a Mon morning, found he was preparing for Court. He still took my call, listened intently on everything I had to say about my matter, and gave me advice what to do going forward. Very personable and I appreciate the time he took to give me free legal advice.
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22 Nov, 2023 by Anonymous
My journey was a very long one to say the least. However, working with Rakesh allowed me time to see the light at the end of my darkest tunnel. I’ll plea the 5th with the details but imagine doing a 5k run towards the trooper fund and loosing over 14lbs of weight in the process. It was the most expensive workout plan ever lol (I can find the humor at my own expense now that it’s over). The odds were not in my favor at the start line but with Rakesh’s support I was able to finish the race breathing freely. He advised me in the right direction, remained blunt with the facts, and reassured me to the end. To my disbelief he was able to work out every one of my “multiple misunderstandings” and if it wasn’t for his credible knowledge of the law and court processes, this may not have been otherwise possible. Although we had our moments, at the end of it all I cannot thank him enough for his hard work and time devoted to my case and for ultimately keeping my reputation intact! I highly recommend his services to anyone who’s found themselves under deep water! Rakesh, I sincerely appreciate everything you’ve done to improve my future potential! I can finally move forward with my life at ease! You are my hero! I hope to see you in the sunshine!
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30 Oct, 2023 by Richard
Mr Joshi represented me in a DWI case in Rotterdam. He got the charges reduced in a very professional manner. I would recommend him to anyone needing a lawyer. Besides him being an excellent attorney, he has a very pleasant personality.
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05 Oct, 2023 by Richard
Lucas led the owners of our company through a very complicated and emotionally charged transition. He skillfully navigated an incredibly complex situation that easily could have devolved into chaos, but instead resulted in a solution that left all parties satisfied and relationships fully intact. Look no further, hire Lucas now.
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01 Jun, 2023 by Marjorie bishop
10 years ago i saw mr. mihuta in rensselaer county court and he was the only lawyer that argued with the judge for his client. other attorneys i witnessed agreeing with the da. Mr. Mituta wouldnt take anything less then the best for his client. i was impressed then and started to retain him. I have used lucas over the last 10 plus years for various criminal court proceedings, to surrogates and most recently my personal injury case which went to trial. During trial i was so impressed with his knowledge of medical that i asked him if he had a medical degree as well. he actually had the doctors re think what they were saying and his style had the jury do anything BUT fall asleep. even the judge said he was looking forward to lucas keeping him awake. he was so impressive with his closing arguments he had me crying and moved the jury to a favorable outcome. Hes friendly, impressively knowledgable, understanding and most of all not judgemental in anyway. lucas generally cares for his clients and will work hard to make sure he gets the bests results for you. stop looking for attorneys. i swear you hit jackpot with mr. mihuta, your in good hands and worth every penny.
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06 Oct, 2022 by Anonymous
Lucas helped me at a time in my life in which I found myself in a precarious situation filled with stress and worry. I had never been through this process and I thought the results were dire and would affect my life moving forward. Right from the very start he was honest, compassionate and incredibly insightful as it relates to every particular step moving forward. Most importantly his level of communication was stellar. I knew from the start that Lucas was the very best person I could have had acting as an advocate. In the end I was absolutely stunned by the results. Exceeded even my wildest expectations. The guy saved me on something where I thought I was doomed. I cannot recommend Lucas Mihuta enough. His counsel was tremendous and I couldn't l have been luckier I had him as my attorney.
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25 Aug, 2015 by Nicole
Justin was extremely great to my husband and I during our 1 st time home buying process! He made us feel completely confident that he was taking care of us and in a timely manner! There was never a doubt in our mind, Justin is trusted 100%. Not to mention every time we ended a phone call we were blown away by his knowledge and ability to help us understand! Not a single phone call/email went without a response and in most cases immediately! Thank you for everything Justin!!
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18 Mar, 2015 by John
Working with Justin Rutherford was a fantastic experience. He's brilliant. A great people-person coupled to a very well versed lawyer. It's hard to find someone as personable and intelligent as Justin. Justin worked incredibly hard to make me happy as a client. He went out of his way on several occasions to go the extra mile. The net results of my experience with Justin left me feeling confident in his work.
I would recommend Justin to anyone, especially as it relates to home purchase closings.
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20 Feb, 2015 by Patrick
Justin and his firm make transactions happen for his clients. He is dedicated to using the latest in technology combined with old-fashioned customer service. He is always available and very responsive whether you just need your legal rights explained or if you need to discuss more complicated legal issues. He helped overcome last minute obstacles that were going to delay closing on the property. He was always looking ahead during the process and making sure that we addressed things before they became a problem. At the closing he went through all of the closing statements and documents in detail to make sure that there was no question unanswered.
They don't come any better! I highly recommend Justin.
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19 Aug, 2024 by Jenn
Michael Bruno helped me steer through a very difficult historical home purchase that didn't end up working out through no fault of his or mine. Mike is very prompt responding to email and phone. Mike always has his clients interest at heart and has true integrity. I appreciate Mike's swift action to extricate me out of a very bad investment.
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02 Aug, 2023 by Anthony
Had a question related to a real estate purchase. Thought it was going to be lengthy and cost some money. Michael answered the questions/ concerns over a quick call. At the end he wished me luck and said not to worry and said there was no charge. Don't come across that much these days. I would certainly use him on future matters.
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17 Aug, 2022 by Christopher
I have retained Michael on three occasions and will do so again should the need arise. A consummate professional, Michael is earnest, prompt, detail oriented, curious, efficient, and well informed. Expect sound legal advice, and excellent service.
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20 Apr, 2018 by Jane
Linda is very conscientious, caring, attentive and extremely knowledgeable attorney. She successfully represented me as my power of attorney and worked to get my case dismissed quickly and efficiently. I would highly recommend having her on your side and would definitely hire her again for any future legal needs. Thumbs up!
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01 Nov, 2016 by Joseph
Linda Johnson was my attorney for a personal injury-associated traffic ticket, and she quickly familiarized herself with my case, and Ms. Johnson got the case dismissed. Ms. Johnson made it her top priority to insure that my rights were protected, and she worked to get my ticket dismissed in order to put me in the best possible position in terms of protecting me against future litigation relevant to the personal injury. Throughout the experience, Ms. Johnson was friendly and professional, and I strongly recommend her services.
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01 Nov, 2016 by Logan
My experience with Linda Johnson was part of a very long 3 year lawsuit which I was the victim of a car crash. Linda and Steve Shultz where my lawyers for this lawsuit against three different people (insurance company lawyers). Now to be honest lawsuits are kind of a pain mostly because of how long it takes which wasn't my lawyers fault but the opposing companies but Linda did an amazing job on my case especially during the week long trial battle. Not only that but she was really supportive and did a great job helping me make crucial decisions which in turn helped me get a very favorable outcome. That said if I had to go through this type of experience again and hopefully I don't because the crash part still hurts there is no other lawyer I would rather have on my team she definitely knows her stuff and is a pleasure to work with I couldn't thank her enough. She helped me fight for what I deserved and it worked out in my favor made it so I can finally move forward and go to college. If you have a lawsuit Linda will 100% not disappoint.
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15 Jun, 2019 by Hudson
Casey helped me work through drafting a contract for the process of assisted reproduction with a close friend. I couldn't have asked for a better lawyer for this process. She helped me understand all the issues involved - on both a legal and a personal level - and she was extremely knowledgeable about the law as it stands and as it may change in the future. I was nervous about making sure that we drafted as strong a contract as possible. While she wasn't afraid to tell me when something I wanted wasn't possible, her supportive attitude during our conversations helped me feel much more comfortable with the document that we generated over the course of the process, and it ended up containing almost all of what I wanted. In addition, she was not only timely and responsive in our communication, she was also human - and a warm and caring human at that. It's clear that this field is important to her, and that she'll do her best for all of her clients. Casey is an excellent choice for anyone seeking legal counsel in this field.
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01 May, 2018 by Anonymous
Is gunna talk me thru the process to help me and my husband adopt my daughter
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18 Nov, 2016 by Nicole
Hands down the best lawyer around. I had previously hired another lawyer for my divorce and adoption of my son, and after 5 months and several thousand dollars, nothing was accomplished. I was referred to Casey from a friend who had a great experience as well. Casey was able to break everything down and go over everything until I could understand the complicated situation I was in. With her by my side, we were able to accomplish our goals and finalize everything in a timely matter. She was never one of those lawyers who wanted to drag anything out just to drain me of more money (Like my previous lawyer). She was always available to reach when needed, even on a Saturday night!! I would recommend Casey to anyone who needs any sort of legal help. Hopefully I will never need legal services again, but if I did, I will be right back with Casey. Thank you again!!
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30 Sep, 2023 by Heather connell (sunshine)
12 Nov, 2021 by Mona bumpers
24 Feb, 2021 by Greg restino
24 Sep, 2019 by Rosa
John-Raphael is not only a good lawyer but a very nice person. I have always found him to be knowledgeable, straightforward, honest, very polite and friendly. He always comes through and truly has your best interest in mind. He keeps you well informed. If you are looking for an attorney who can get the job done. I would highly recommend John-Raphael Pichardo, he is an excellent lawyer!
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23 Aug, 2019 by Fabiola
John-Raphael has been nothing but exceptional since meeting him. As soon as I contacted him, he quickly responded and was able to meet with me for a consult on my family’s case. His ability to speak Spanish was really helpful in being able to keep my family involved in the conversation. He took his time in explaining all of our possible options and made sure that my family fully understood as well. I have never seen an attorney take this much care in his job. It was very clear how knowledgeable he is and how all his experiences make him very qualified for his job. Thankfully he is able to take on my family’s case and I look forward to continuing working with him. It is amazing to find someone who truly loves what they do and do it to help others.
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24 Jun, 2019 by Drew
John-Raphael provides amazing counsel and expert advice related to my public charities work - on matters of governance, Employment-based practices, gifts from large donors and supported us through some rough patches as a charity. I’m highly recommend him and the work of his law firm.
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01 Oct, 2014 by Ted
Jake Lamme is a lawyer who goes above and beyond what can be expected. He is knowledgeable of the law and works endlessly with us through this difficult time. He keeps us informed and makes useful suggestions as to the direction he feels we need to pursue. Jake talks to us as a friend as well as our attorney. Jake has traveled near and far, as needed, to help defend us and makes things right. I consider Jake to be a man of honor, great work ethics, and true friend.
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08 Aug, 2013 by Joanna
I can't begin to thank Jake enough for his help and guidance with my personal injury case. He was diligent and responsive and really easy to work with. He gave me peace of mind. I highly recommend his service.
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13 Jun, 2013 by Stef
This highly recommended rating may look more like a family member or close friend s review but I have been a client of Mr Lamme for almost the past 2 years due to a very complicated case that I am involved with. He is not only knowledgeable but does not hesitate to double check the facts with the experts. I am the type of person who appreciares and actually requires being updated and informed and what to expect next. I can honestly say that I have never waited more than 48 hours tops for a response from Jake or another member of his legal team. Litigation is never inexpensive yet the value and service of what our costs have accumulated to date ,I know their is no one out there that can match the top notch service and knowledgeable direction that Jake has given us.
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18 May, 2022 by Tinaw
Leslie helped me with my case, she is knowledgeable and listens to details and is just the kind of lawyer you want to work on your case.
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13 Jun, 2016 by Alex kennberg
Leslie has filed a petition for a U.S. work visa for me. We are a startup and she has done a good job understanding the business, preparing the documents, and communicating. We also renewed the visa using her services. The team and process handling was very competent and I highly recommend Leslie to others for immigration related work.
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31 Aug, 2014 by Bilal
Leslie did my E2 Treaty Trader investment Visa. She is an excellent immigration lawyer with amazingly sharp business and commercial law knowledge. Her law firm is one of the best law firms in the area, if not the best. I have recommended Leslie to my friends as well as my Turkish community and they have all been very pleased with her work. Leslie always sends me email updates on any changes to immigration law that might affect my status.
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15 Sep, 2015 by Cindy
Derrick was professional, informative and cordial. He called when he said he would and kept me totally informed. I was impressed with his capability and manner.
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07 May, 2014 by Kimberly
I can not even believe I got so lucky when I hired Derrick Thomas Hogan to be my attorney without knowing much about him. He was so over the too amazing in every regard that I ended up hiring him twice. He is such a brilliant lawyer with an excellent work ethic. He is entirely professional and has a beautiful heart to match how unbelievable he is. From the minute we hired him, this attorney had an abundance of knowledge and was kept in close contact with us every step of the way. Derrick Thomas Hogan is one in a million. His greatest strengths include being trustworthy, brilliant, and dedicated. He is the best attorney I have ever had the pleasure of dealing with. He is worth every penny. How can we clone this attorney? He is the absolute best attorney money can buy. Do not hesitate to call anyone else. You will be so lucky if he takes your case. As a teacher, I give him an A+ in every regard.
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04 Feb, 2014 by Diana
I am a woman who has never had to seek the counsel of a lawyer in a distressed situation. I was in an incident which forced me to attain a lawyer. Because of a lack of experience in this type of situation, I felt scared and totally alone. I went on the Internet and just looked up lawyers and found a site that stated what their mision statement was in regards to the operation of their law firm and I immediately felt "hope". I contacted them and was put in contact with a wonderful person named Derrick. I was very distraught at the time of our conversation and he never let me feel ashamed of the event. He was very professional, kind and took the time to listen with much patience. He explained the entire process to me with great diligence and understanding of the situation I was in at the time. I guess the most important thing I want to stess at this time is that in today's world, it isn't often you meet someone who takes the time to listen and respond compassionately. Derrick did all this and more. You know, it is true when people say that "something good can come out of a terrible situation. For me this was true when I came to meet and know Derrick Hogan. My situation was resolved with positive ending but most of all, my life was blessed by a young asttorney, Derrick. All I can end with is to relate with all sincerity that this attorney will bless any law firm and its clients that he associates himself with great success and prosperity. He is a man of integrity. Thank you for having this man on your staff so he could help me go through a tough situation with peace and confidence .
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27 Apr, 2010 by Brigid
I wouldn't hesitate to recommend David to anyone. He is a very thorough, ethical, knowledgeable, well spoken attorney. At court there was no comparison to the other attorney! David outshone him in every area!
He always treated me with dignity, kindness and compassion, and always made time to explain things to me in a way that I could understand.
Recently I had occasion to use the firm for a real estate deal and David again- in a supervisory position for one of the associates- ( who in her own right was excellent)- was an a great resource and available for questions all the way through the transaction.
I am delighted to have such a wonderful attorney in my corner and plan to call on David Siegfeld any time I need legal help.
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19 Apr, 2010 by Anonymous
Mr. Siegfeld helped my family with my grandmother's estate. He was able to balance the personalities of all family members in a compassionate and efficient manner to timely resolve my grandmother's estate. I would whole-heartedly recommend him to anyone!
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14 Apr, 2010 by Ross
David has been trustworthy and reliable legal council both professionally and personally.
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10 Dec, 2009 by Prissy
Mr. Pennock is the best lawyer I've ever had, one you would want to have on your side no matter what type of case or legal affairs you want handled. He is very thorough, honest, and detail-oriented. Nothing misses his legal eye, and the wealth of accumulated legal knowledge and experience he has in various legal areas (especially in cases where they might overlap legal boundaries) is unbeatable. He is fair in everything, including and especially his reasonable fees, and he will tell you if you are being unreasonable in your demands or if you are crossing any legal lines in any of your cases and dealings that you entrust to him. He was my lawyer for a car accident and in real estate, and the thoroughness of the advice and work that he put into both were the same even though both didn't actually pay him the same amount of money. With Mr. Pennock, it doesn't matter what job he is handling or how much the job costs: it is that he gets the job done very well with your best interests always in mind. This is also why I say he is ethical, because unlike a lot of lawyers you meet these days who may only treat you as a case (instead of a person), Mr. Pennock will tell you how your legal decisions may affect you, your family and loved ones, or the other party you are working against, always making sure you do not endanger yourself legally. Because of his work ethic, his partners and legal staff follow the same principles he has set and have the same high regard for you and the law as he himself does.
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04 Dec, 2009 by John
we have known john pennock for about 30 years . in 1981 he defended us in an auto accident which had a positive outcome. then, in 2006 when we had a horrible life changing accident, john pennock was with us every step of the way. that also resulted in a very positive outcome which was tried in federal court. john pennock is very experienced and knowledgeable and comes to trial well prepared to win.
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22 Nov, 2009 by Anonymous
John Pennock’s talent for the law is exceptional. Extraordinary trial preparation and organization, witness preparation and trial execution. I am always amazed at how he assimilates and thoroughly digests every detail of any importance. At deposition and trial, John handles every witness with great skill, persistently extracting from them good, solid, factual testimony. Jurors follow his every move in the courtroom, listening intently to his penetrating examination of witnesses, both friendly and hostile. His closing argument puts it all together for the jury in a highly effective, understandable and believable manner. He is very well regarded by the bar and the bench for his high degree of professionalism and skill. Always civil. If you need a gladiator to go to court and wage your war for you, then you need John Pennock.
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05 Oct, 2010 by Robert
We have had Jim represent our company on several cases that went to trial. Jim did an excellent job both preparing for the trial and representing us during the trial. Addtionally he is an attorney that keeps you well informed during the process and always seems to be one step ahead of the other counsel.
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05 Oct, 2010 by Dave
Mr. Barriere represented my carrier in a very large suit involving a contractor billing dispute. His pre-trial preparation and subsequent practice in the court room was impressive, and perhaps the best I have ever witnesses. Needless to say, we prevailed.
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24 May, 2022 by Dianalynn
I am a current client and I can't say enough about my attorney and the firm. Excellent service
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23 Nov, 2014 by Sarah van buren, cpa
I am a current matrimonial client of Mr. Berglund's and could not be more pleased with my experience with him. He has been an excellent source of reason and advice and has handled my case most professionally. I have felt very comfortable and prepared throughout the entire process and would recommend him to anyone needing matrimonial or divorce services.
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25 Apr, 2017 by Mark may
I hired Mr. gable for an injury case after firing the original attorney, John took care of everything and my case moved forward, along the way John was open every step of the way whenever I had questions or whenever something new came up, in the end I feel no one could have done better than we did on my case, and I am extremely happy with the outcome. I would definitely recommend John Gable.
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10 Mar, 2015 by Anonymous
I am an attorney and John handled a real estate workout for me in which I was a principal. In short, he was great, especially when he is before a judge, whether in conference or in the courtroom. I would recommend John without hesitation.
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09 Jan, 2019 by Anonymous
I hired Mr. Jordan to assist with a real estate transaction. Throughout the process he was knowledgeable and professional. I would highly recommend this Attorney for any legal needs.
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12 Jan, 2018 by John
Mr Jordan was great he handled all my legal matters quickly and effeciently. Was able to have several of my tickets dropped or greatly reduced. I would reccomend him to anyone.
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11 Jan, 2017 by Kiera
Mr. Rock handled a loss mitigation for me with a very difficult lender and took all of the embarrassment away. His approach to this matter was calm and well thought out. I always felt that he had my best interests in mind. Such a great attorney to work with!
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25 Nov, 2015 by Linda
I have had occasion to work with dozens of lawyers over the years dealing with such matters as inheritance, real estate and business issues.
One lesson I have internalized is that the right attorney makes a major impact on whether or not you will achieve your legal goals.
Mr. Robert J Rock is a lawyer you want in your corner. He is a brilliant, no nonsense, results-producing winner!
Due to Mr. Rock's superb legal mind and comprehension of American Jurisprudence I not only prevailed against my foes but triumphed. Keeping the time clock running made all the difference in the outcome of my game plan.
Thanks Mr. Rock! I am a client for life!
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12 Oct, 2009 by Anonymous
well informed went above and beyond
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08 Jun, 2016 by Gene
Jennifer did an outstanding job of navigating me through the courts at a difficult time for my family. Ms . Cusack handled a difficult guardianship appointment, as a court approved real estate transaction and Surrogate Court proceedings.
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15 Aug, 2008 by Richard
Mr. Wakeman was, and continues to be, instrumental in the success of a pooled bond program used to finance projects that serve people with developmental disabilities. Excellent at facilitating solutions to obstacles. Highly respected by everyone on the financing team, as well as the borrowers he represents. Knows his stuff. Has been part of the financing program for 10 years, during which 210 projects were financed
Good sense of humor too.
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10 Dec, 2013 by Anonymous
I was able to be seen quickly and have the basics of my case reviewed in short order. Steps to resolve were professional and helped to move the issues forward. His staff was very knowledgable and kind.
I can recommend without question.
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08 Jun, 2009 by Anonymous
He handled a difficult and emotional foreclosure/eviction with firmness and reasonabllity. We got an apology from the plaintiff and got 90 days to vacate the premises.
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29 Nov, 2017 by Katherine
Phillip Vacchio is an attorney I highly recommend. When you speak with him you know he is sincere and professional. He was informative and knowledgeable with questions. I highly recommend Phillip Vacchio as he is an attorney that you can trust.
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30 Dec, 2019 by Smoc
Ms. Hedgeman has personally and professionally represented my my interests for many years. She is an expert in the areas of real estate investment, economic development, and nonprofit law, all of which I have experienced first hand. She is honest, loyal, and wholeheartedly committed to the success of her clients. Ms. Hedgeman is trustworthy, committed to the community and approachable.
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28 Mar, 2012 by Spencer r.
I've had George Collins represent me since 1999, for real estate tarnsactions and personal. I find him to be extremely informed, current and responsive. I would not hesitate to use him again.
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28 Sep, 2014 by Anonymous
Gary Wilson Attorney at Law is excellent at protecting your rights during the contract and closing of your property. He was very helpful in writing our contract so we could purchase our dream home.
We were very happy at our closing, as he shows respect and courtesy to all parties, which made the purchase of our home a great experience.
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31 Dec, 2008 by Anonymous
I used Ms. Vestal in 2008 for a Real Estate matter. She was very professional, and always available to take my calls and answer any questions I had. As a first time home buyer, she made me feel comfortable and excited about the process. Anyone who is looking to buy a home should contact her!
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FAQs
Questions? We have answers
What a Real Estate Lawyer Can Do for You
A real estate lawyer provides legal assistance in transactions and disputes involving property, including residential and commercial real estate. Whether you're buying, selling, leasing, or developing property, a real estate attorney can help ensure that your transactions are legally sound and your rights are protected. They review contracts, perform due diligence, resolve disputes, and provide legal representation in negotiations and litigation involving property matters.
Real estate lawyers are crucial in safeguarding your investment by ensuring compliance with local, state, and federal real estate laws, as well as protecting you from potential legal pitfalls related to property ownership and transactions.
When Should I Hire a Real Estate Lawyer?
Hiring a real estate lawyer is beneficial in various scenarios, including:
- Buying or selling property: When navigating complex real estate contracts, it’s advisable to have a lawyer review and ensure that the terms are favorable and legal.
- Commercial property transactions: For leasing, purchasing, or selling commercial properties, a lawyer can help manage the intricate legal aspects of such transactions.
- Zoning or land use issues: If you're planning to develop property or change its use, a real estate lawyer can guide you through zoning laws and land use regulations.
- Resolving property disputes: For boundary disputes, title issues, or disagreements over property rights, a lawyer can help mediate or litigate the matter.
- Foreclosures or evictions: If you're dealing with foreclosure or managing a tenant eviction, legal representation ensures that the process adheres to local laws and protects your interests.
- Title and deed issues: Lawyers can help clear title disputes, ensure the legitimacy of property deeds, and handle transfers of ownership.
What Does a Real Estate Lawyer Do?
A real estate lawyer provides a range of services to help with property transactions and disputes, including:
- Contract drafting and review: Ensuring that purchase agreements, leases, and other contracts are legally binding, fair, and protect your interests.
- Title search and clearance: Conducting a thorough title search to ensure that the property has no legal claims or liens that could affect ownership.
- Facilitate closing: Managing the closing process in real estate transactions, including reviewing final documents and ensuring that everything is in order before the transfer of ownership.
- Resolve disputes: Handling legal disputes related to property ownership, boundaries, zoning, or tenants.
- Assist in financing: Reviewing loan agreements and mortgage documents to ensure the terms are fair and legally sound.
- Zoning and land use advice: Guiding clients through the complexities of zoning laws and building regulations for property development or renovation projects.
How Are Real Estate Lawyers Paid?
Real estate lawyers typically charge for their services in the following ways:
- Flat fee: Many real estate transactions, such as reviewing a sales contract or assisting with a closing, are charged on a flat-fee basis.
- Hourly rates: If a lawyer is handling complex disputes or litigation, they may charge by the hour. Hourly rates can vary significantly based on the lawyer’s experience and location.
- Contingency fees: In rare cases, such as property disputes or claims for damages, a lawyer may work on a contingency fee basis, meaning they only get paid if you win or settle the case.
- Retainer: For ongoing legal support, some clients may pay a retainer, which is an upfront fee used as a deposit for future legal services.
It's important to clarify the fee structure with your attorney before hiring them to avoid any surprises.
How Much Does a Real Estate Lawyer Cost?
The cost of a real estate lawyer varies based on the complexity of the matter, the location of the property, and the lawyer’s experience. Key factors that affect pricing include:
- Type of transaction or issue: Simple tasks, like contract reviews, typically cost less than handling a complex property dispute or litigation.
- Experience and location: More experienced lawyers or those in high-demand areas, like urban centers, often charge higher rates.
- Billing structure: Lawyers may charge a flat fee for basic services like document review or hourly for more time-intensive work such as disputes or litigation.
Flat fees for straightforward services like closing assistance may range from $500 to $1,500.
Hourly rates can range from $150 to $400 or more, depending on the attorney’s experience and location.
Always discuss fees upfront to understand the overall cost of the legal service you're receiving.
Top Questions to Ask a Real Estate Lawyer
Before hiring a real estate lawyer, ask the following questions to ensure they are the right fit for your legal needs:
-
What experience do you have with real estate law?
Ensure the lawyer has experience in the type of real estate transaction or dispute you’re facing, whether residential, commercial, or development-related. -
What is your fee structure?
Ask how the lawyer charges for services - whether it's a flat fee, hourly rate, or retainer - so there are no surprises later on. -
How long will the process take?
Especially important for real estate transactions or disputes with deadlines, ask for a general estimate of how long the process will last. -
Have you handled cases similar to mine?
Experience with similar transactions or disputes can give you confidence that the lawyer knows how to handle your case. -
Will you handle my case personally, or will it be passed to another attorney?
Confirm who will be handling the bulk of your case work, especially in larger firms where junior lawyers may take on some responsibilities. -
Can you provide references?
Speaking with past clients can give you insight into the lawyer's experience and how they handle cases.
How to Check the Credibility of a Real Estate Lawyer
To ensure you’re hiring a reputable real estate lawyer, take these steps:
- Check with the state bar association: Verify that the lawyer is licensed and in good standing with no disciplinary actions on their record.
- Read online reviews and testimonials: Look for reviews on legal directories and platforms like Avvo or Martindale-Hubbell to see what past clients have said.
- Ask for references: A credible lawyer should have past clients willing to share their experiences.
- Review their track record and expertise: Look at the lawyer’s website or LinkedIn profile for information about their experience in real estate law and any relevant cases they’ve handled.
- Membership in professional organizations: Lawyers who are members of respected legal or real estate organizations, like the American Bar Association’s Real Property Division, often signal credibility and expertise.
What Should I Prepare for My First Consultation?
To make your first meeting with a real estate lawyer productive, you should prepare the following materials:
- Relevant property documents: Bring purchase agreements, lease contracts, mortgage documents, zoning permits, or any other paperwork related to your case.
- A summary of the issue or transaction: Be ready to explain the situation, whether it's a property dispute, contract negotiation, or development issue.
- Questions about the legal process: Prepare a list of questions about how the lawyer will handle your case and what steps are involved.
- Financial documents or loan agreements: If the case involves financing or a mortgage, bring any related documents for the lawyer to review.
- Your goals and timeline: Be clear about what outcome you're hoping for, and if there are any deadlines that need to be considered, such as closing dates or legal filings.
By coming prepared, you can ensure that your consultation is efficient and informative, allowing you to assess whether the lawyer is the right fit for your real estate needs.
