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14 Aug, 2024 by Todd whalen
Jay helped us to write up our contract to sell our business. He does great work and worked quickly. I thought his fees were very reasonable. I find him to be an all-around pleasant person to work with that has a good attitude. I’m definitely going to use him for our family estate planning. For anyone else who’s looking for a good lawyer, I couldn’t recommend Jay Mukerji high enough.
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14 Aug, 2024 by Todd
Jay helped us to write up our contract to sell our business. He does great work and worked quickly. I thought his fees were very reasonable. I find him to be an all-around pleasant person to work with that has a good attitude. I’m definitely going to use him for our family estate planning. For anyone else who’s looking for a good lawyer, I couldn’t recommend Jay Mukerji high enough.
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06 Aug, 2024 by Carolyn herrmann
She helped me understand the process and answered questions promptly. She was kind, compassionate, and plugged in every step of the way. A great person to have in your corner!
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4.9
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24 Apr, 2024 by Franek orlowski
Sam is of the most comprehensive attorneys I’ve ever worked with. Would certainly recommend him.
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24 Apr, 2024 by Capital eagle advertising
17 Apr, 2024 by Anna wong
One of the best decisions we made while purchasing a new condo in Ann Arbor, MI, was to have Joseph West, Attorney at Law, represent our interests. He reviewed our contract and related documents. He researched city records. He advocated on our behalf while walking us through escrow. His expert advice and thoroughness were invaluable. His courteousness and responsiveness a cherry on top.
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14 Aug, 2024 by Todd whalen
Jay helped us to write up our contract to sell our business. He does great work and worked quickly. I thought his fees were very reasonable. I find him to be an all-around pleasant person to work with that has a good attitude. I’m definitely going to use him for our family estate planning. For anyone else who’s looking for a good lawyer, I couldn’t recommend Jay Mukerji high enough.
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06 Aug, 2024 by Carolyn herrmann
She helped me understand the process and answered questions promptly. She was kind, compassionate, and plugged in every step of the way. A great person to have in your corner!
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29 Jul, 2024 by Tim hollon
He was so honest and helpful when all the big law firms didn't know diddly squat. He understood and could hear the trouble and irritation in my voice and was still willing to help.
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09 Dec, 2017 by Tammy
My husband and I were so worried about how we were going to handle our financial hardship but Kelli and her wonderful personality and extreme professionalism made everything so easy. She answered any questions we had and calmed all our nerves and was so sweet even when I was a nuisance with all my calls from worrying about things.There is no other lawyer you want beside you than Kelli, she will absolutely give you all her attention and make you feel that you're her number one priority. She not only is the BEST lawyer, she has become a dear friend we value very much.
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19 Dec, 2016 by Jasen king
Kelli helped me and my wife through a bankruptcy and helped us avoid foreclosure. It was a difficult period, but I felt confident that Kelli would see us through. She is accessible and approachable. If you need a lawyer, you need Kelli!!
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23 Aug, 2016 by Beth
Initially I posted a question on AVVO. Kelli responded very promptly, providing accurate, specific feedback regarding technical and complicated questions and concerns I was trying to work through regarding pre-foreclosure and sale of our home. I had applied for and was denied loan modifications for our home 3 times in one year. I was struggling with how to move forward. Throughout the next couple of months, after posting initial question, Kelli continued to remain available and be an excellent resource with specific questions and concerns we came upon regarding this circumstance as we made efforts to work with the bank, banks attorneys, and realtors trying to sort out specifics and make the best decisions. After we got an offer on the house, we elected to hire Kelli to assist with review of the closing documents for the pending sale. In addition helping us with this, when unexpected complications came up, she made herself available, above and beyond expectations, during the closing week. With her help we were able to catch and correct several important oversights, and save money as well. It was so reassuring to have her support.
Kelli is not only extremely knowledgeable about the legal services she provides, she truly cares about you as a client. She is respectful, and easy to relate to. She takes action on your behave without having to be asked.
I highly recommend her to anyone who wants someone who will review and consider your legal needs, communicate with you honestly, and be straight forward with you regarding how to proceed. Most importantly Kelli is someone who truly cares and will take action to help you get the results you deserve regarding your set circumstances. I would hire her again in a heart beat without any hesitation!
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08 Sep, 2019 by Anonymous
I am writing to give my highest recommendation and endorsement of Mr. Peter C. Clark, of Ferguson, Widmayer and Clark, PC of Ann Arbor, MI, an outstanding estate attorney. I am a long-term (over 40 years) faculty member from the University of Michigan. My husband and I recently began work on our wills, powers of attorney for health care and on setting up a family trust. We received a very strong recommendation from trusted close friends and colleagues who referred us to Pete, who had been so helpful to them in the same process. What we have come to value most about Pete—besides his immense fund of common sense, his low-key expertise, user-friendliness, professionalism and thoughtful concern for his clients’ needs is his sense of humour—by which I really mean a sense of balance, his ability to help in a timely way—and, most of all, his deep integrity. Beyond the outstanding technical legal work from Pete and his team at FW&C, Pete puts a lot of expertise, thought and most importantly—heart- into what he does for clients. He has put a very personable human and humane face on a process that can be (in the wrong hands), intimidating and scary. In a relatively short time, Pete has made a positive difference for us, and has made our lives so much easier by alleviating many of our concerns over future (inevitable) issues, that we feel encouraged and a sense of calm for the first time in years. Both our family trust issues and health issues are complex and multifaceted. Pete is immensely capable as well as able to provide solutions and to explain these complex issues and reduce them to manageable and understandable plans of action. I am immensely grateful to my colleagues and friends for this referral. I come from a family of academic and government lawyers with a lot of expertise and enormous experience. Peter Clark is in every way comparable to my family members. He is first class and someone I trust and admire greatly.
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15 May, 2017 by Dmitrii
Peter was professional, courteous, and patient. He took the time to explain everything in great detail and was thorough in his analysis. Peter's knowledge level was above and beyond my expectations and I truly appreciated his personal care. I would absolutely recommend him to anyone seeking Estate Planning.
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12 May, 2017 by Gina maksimchuk
Pete was extremely helpful in preparing all the paperwork we needed. We asked him to create a trust in the event that my husband and I died at the same time as we have an infant daughter. He guided us through the whole process, taking his time to ensure that we understood everything and were comfortable. I did not know much about trusts when we started, and Pete was excellent at presenting all the information clearly and providing examples for me. He asked us questions that I did not know to ask, or had not considered, to ensure that we had a thorough document that would cover many contingencies.
Pete was very professional, friendly, and sensitive to our needs. We greatly appreciated his help and will definitely work with him again. We would recommend him to anyone who would like to plan for the future.
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25 Nov, 2019 by Anonymous
I had the great pleasure of working with both Jacalen Garris and Stephanie from the law firm Garris, Garris, Garris, & Garris, and they helped me quickly and expediently evict a non-compliant, uncommunicative renter who had stopped paying rent for several months. They both were professional, fair, eloquent, efficient, and extremely well-versed in what they do, and I cannot recommend Jacalen and Stephanie highly enough. Thank you so much for all of your help!
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18 Jul, 2019 by Wang
I was involved in a case and missed the court. When I received the verdict I was desperate. I called 5 different law firms to ask for help, but most of them told me they cannot help me. My colleagues recommended Jacalen's firm. They told me if there is anyone can help me in my case, her firm would be the best place in Ann Arbor area. So I went there hoping there would help me. I was lucky that Jacalen was there and she reviewed my case. She gave me some very professional advises and explained in detail how I could do for my situation. After I hired her as my lawyer in that case, she helped me solved my problem in time. After 4 months, the lawyer from another side in that case came to me again and ask money, saying I owe him about $5,000. I sent Jacalen an email ask for help, she helped me in the second day and the lawyer on the other side admit that the letter ask money from me is a mistake. She helped me again in time. And she did not charge me for this. I do appriate her quick response and very professional, honest, and thoughful service.
In this case, I can see she is a very experienced, honest, and professional lawyer. It is my lucky to have her help me.
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28 Apr, 2019 by Anonymous
I was completely overwhelmed in the legal process of divorce, and Jacalen and Stephanie Garris made that process so easy for me. Their pricing was more than fair, and they provided friendly and approachable customer service. I would highly recommend them for any legal needs.
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04 Aug, 2016 by Daniel
Mr. Bourque has a straightforward and clear approach that made him very effective, especially in deposition and cross-examination. He is not theatrical, but he can be incisive both in his written and oral arguments. He explained things clearly to me, even when it wasn't what I wanted to hear -- which I appreciated. He was also more than fair about not charging me for work he did that (through no fault of his) turned out not to be relevant. He is an effective, no-nonsense litigator, and I recommend him without reservations.
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27 Jul, 2016 by Anonymous
I hired Tom after 1.5 years of work with a local mediator and a different divorce attorney could not achieve a settlement in mediation of my divorce. Obviously, I was involved in a very difficult divorce case. There was a farm property involved, nearly 20 years of marriage, and two high school children involved. Tom was brought in for his experience as trial lawyer when my case did go to trial. He has solid background in property laws, and was very helpful in sorting through the legal issues of the property division with the CPA we had working on my case. He was helpful sorting through property tax records to discover the truth needed when we went to trial. Tom is detailed, organized, and a quick thinker when in action in court. His cross examination of witnesses was superb in drawing out the truth and non truths in my case. He was able to do this in a non threatening or hostile manner.
In the end, I got full legal and physical custody of the children, and a fair division of the marital property. I do not wish for any woman to go through the same lengthy (and costly) process that I did. However, if you find yourself in a difficult divorce with property and children involved... and end up going to trial.... I would highly recommend Tom.
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25 Jul, 2016 by Anonymous
Tom Bourque was thorough in his preparation for my case. His substantial experience was evident in the detailed way he went about preparing me for an emotional trial involving custody of the children. His guidance of the very and endlessly confusing process and knowledge of the law was what I needed most at this difficult point for our family. I would strongly recommend hiring Tom Bourque for family law and divorce legal needs.
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08 Dec, 2019 by Carol
My mother abruptly passed away and she unfortunately did not leave a will. I had met Chris previously through a networking group in the area and desperately needed help with the probate process. Chris jumped right in, explained everything throughout, walked me through the process and was extremely helpful. I wished my mother had left something with her final wishes on it because no one can afford not having it. I have referred many family and friends to Chris and I can not speak more highly enough about his professionalism and service.
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01 Sep, 2018 by Anonymous
Over the past decade, I have engaged Mr. Julliet for help with several legal matters, including estate planning, end of life planning for my elderly parents, and with various aspects of launching a small business. In each matter, I've found Mr. Julliet to be a thorough attorney with an excellent understanding of the law, capable of explaining complex matters in plain English, and always willing to go above and beyond. I would highly recommend him.
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31 Aug, 2018 by Jan
When my father-in-law, Chuck, was suddenly taken to the hospital with heart issues, he realized that he needed to "get his affairs in order." I called Chris. He met us at the hospital that afternoon to discuss Chuck's wishes.
My mother-in-law, Ann, was there as well. Chris discussed with them their options for medical and financial power of attorney and estate planning. He was compassionate, understanding and understandable, without a lot of "legal speak" that can be confusing. All the documents were drawn up for both of them.
Chris met us the next day, again at the hospital, to get everything signed. We were fortunate that Chuck recovered and is doing well. We are also fortunate that we are now ready for whatever does happen. Chris made everything painless. I would highly recommend him to anyone needing estate planning.
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29 Nov, 2022 by Roger
If you are looking for an attorney to provide legal assistance and advice for a real estate transaction then William Ager should be your first and only choice!
His knowledge, experience and legal expertise will save you more money than his legal fees.
My son and I hired Mr. Ager when we purchased a home in Gregory, Michigan. We were so impressed and pleased with his service that we hired him a second time when we sold the same home.
William Ager is smart, thorough, professional, personable and honest.
He treats everyone with dignity and respect and his integrity is beyond reproach.
Mr. Ager will promptly keep you informed of his progress and always responds to phone calls, texts and emails very quickly.
I can’t imagine that you can find another attorney that will provide you with the same service for twice the money.
William Ager is quite simply the best attorney I have ever worked with!
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25 Aug, 2020 by Lisa
At an emotional time when my grandmother passed and I was appointed to be her Personal Representative, Mr. Agar was kind, sensitive, and thorough in explaining the entire probate process to me. He worked with me patiently and fairly helping me to close out my grandmother’s estate. I can’t thank him enough for the guidance, exceptional service, and professionalism he displayed. I highly recommend Agar Law for your Estate needs.
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23 Mar, 2016 by Kirstin
We worked with Bill to purchase a home and to sell a home FSBO. Bill was very detailed in explaining the process to us and advised us on each issue that arose. He was very quick to respond to questions and requests and we were so glad we had him to look over everything and protect our interests. He offers flat fees so you know what you are paying at the beginning. I would highly recommend his services to anyone needing an attorney for a real estate transaction.
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04 Dec, 2020 by Wendy n.
While ann arbor presents many options for lawyers, I do not think there is a better option then Matthew McManus of McManus and Amadeo. He is a true leader and someone i would recommend to anyone in need
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20 Oct, 2020 by Anonymous
The legal representation of McManus and Amadeo was absolutely wonderful!! They got to work in an expeditious manner. Their 24/7 availability and communication through the legal process was exceptional. Mr. McManus took his time and answered any concerns/questions that I had. As soon as news was provided to him, he personally delivered news to me.
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27 May, 2014 by Rena
Assisted our organization with overseas manufacturing/ confidentiality agreements to protect our IP while taking the time to explain the potential issues and legal options fully. The communication was excellent and all questions were promptly and thoroughly answered. Highly recommended.
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17 Dec, 2014 by Frank
I came to Barbara in regard to a franchisee proposal. Barbara was great with her advice and direction. She saved me lots of time, money and aggravation. Some of the best money I have ever spent.
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26 Sep, 2013 by Mel
Not only would I recommend Barbara Kramer, I already have to others in my same circumstance. She was able to negotiate on my behalf and keep me well informed and at ease in a very problematic circumstance. It is difficult these days to find an attorney that is not only tenacious in her advocacy, but also genuinely caring in her case operations. I will always remember how she resolved my legal issues/problems and how she has positively affected my life. Thank you Barbara!
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27 Sep, 2012 by Anonymous
Ms. Kramer has continually proven her abilities as my attorney. She has been extremely hard-working in negotiating my contracts, has proven time and time again that her instincts about the law and business are correct, and she cares about honorably obtaining the best result.
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30 Jan, 2019 by Hyunseop cheong
I am business owner and Mr. Park helped me with many legal issues. Recently because of him i won court case against my employee. If you need help with any legal issue he is the one you need to talk to
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21 Jun, 2017 by Yungyun
I am a business man and have been fighting with my landlord for almost 8 years. Before I hired attorney Park, I had have six attorneys who speak English as their first language. When none of the English speaking attorneys could not resolve my case, Mr. Park, who speaks English as a second language, won my case at trial and resolved it to my satisfaction. Mr. Park has been working as my attorney for almost 3 years and I feel lucky to have him as my attorney.
He is a very sophisticated, smart, detail-orientated attorney. I highly recommend that you try him out as your attorney.
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03 Mar, 2016 by Anonymous
Mr. Park was very knowledgeable about immigration and gave a good price. I highly recommend him.
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28 Jun, 2010 by Yael
Problems? Especially w/the 'contract' you (thought) you had with a contractor? Irv's attention will be diligent and right on track; conscientious and honest.
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25 Jul, 2009 by Anonymous
Irv was instrumental in solving a very difficult matter with our business partner. He encouraged us to stay professional and businesslike even though we were very emotional about the issue. He helped us to hold firm on our position, but to compromise where compromise seemed necessary. He is very detail-oriented and remembered anecdotes we told him which ended up proving useful in drafting our final agreement. We came out feeling like we got exactly what we wanted out of the negotiations.
Irv was also a pleasure to work with and we got along very well. He was extremely dedicated to our case, and kept us on task throughout. We received prompt responses whenever we had a question. We plan to use him in the future for any other matters that come up.
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23 Jun, 2017 by Tyler
Trovious did a fantastic job with my case. He was there every time I needed him and helped me through my court process, explaining everything to me on the way with great detail. He was able to get my charges lowered and made everything less stressful. I know if I am ever in need of a lawyer again, I will be calling him first!
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22 Jun, 2017 by Christina n.
I am more than satisfied with my Trovious. He was there and took care of business and it was easy to be 100% open and honest with him. He's professional and real, which is the best kind of combo. Anytime I need help, I go straight to him. Period. Anyone who hires him will be taken care of. Thanks Trovious, I really appreciate you!!
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18 Jul, 2018 by Anonymous
Liz is an exceptional attorney who goes beyond others in her attention to details in my estate planning. I know her both personally and professionally and can attest to her integrity and work ethic.
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26 Jun, 2013 by Margaret
John was very professional, personable and able to communicate to a person nonconversant in legalese, the complexities of estate planning. He made the process of generating a will a pleasant experience. Highly recommended!
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05 Jul, 2015 by Pauli
I was in a process of buying a new condo and had my realtor helping me. As things got a little complicated I also needed a lawyer and I was lucky to have a good friend who recommended Ravi Nigam. At first I was hesitant, I was afraid I would be charged by the second, and I was afraid that anything the lawyer would tell me, would be beyond my understanding (English is my second language). Much to my surprise, Ravi was not at all the (skeptical) image of a lawyer I had in mind. Right from the first contact I had with Ravi, a trustworthy relationship was established; he was easy to talk to, easy to understand, and easy to follow his logical thinking and reasonable judgment. Ravi was also very accessible. I never had to wait for Ravi to call back or answer all of my many questions. Ravi’s high intelligence, effective communicative skills and endless patience, combined with his ability to understand my fears and my wishes, made him an exceptional person, and exceptional lawyer. With Ravi’s much appreciated help, I bought the condo. Now, I won’t go through any contract without Ravi. He went over the Bid Proposal for the renovation my condo, and he will help me with the sales agreement for my current house. Because of my excellent experience with Ravi, he also became my son’s lawyer. I can’t say enough about how much I value the professional side of Ravi and the humane side of his personality.
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18 Feb, 2009 by Anonymous
She's the best I've ever worked with. It's hard to find someone who truly cares as much as you do and she goes far beyond that. She follows through every step of the way - keep her word - and gets the job done to the highest quality! I would recommend her to everyone.
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17 Aug, 2017 by Jim
Mr. Hoffman provided excellent guidance when I sold my home and purchased a new home. I thought I had a good idea of what to expect and how to proceed with the sale/purchase. However, Mr. Hoffman's experience and expertise proved me wrong. There are many subtle issues that need to be addressed which I was unaware of.
I highly recommend Mr. Hoffman to anyone who is in the process of buying or selling a home.
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07 Aug, 2021 by Jessica
Very satisfied with everything. James went above and beyond and was very hands on. He was able to get my appeal filed quickly and was very honest and up front on whether or not he thought I had grounds for an appeal. We ultimately won my appeal and our motion for immediate consideration. I’m very happy and highly recommend James.
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08 Aug, 2018 by Mark
Dave updated my wife and my will as well as our advanced medical directives
Dave was very professional and responsive to any questions we had
We highly recommend Dave’s services
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26 Oct, 2024 by Greis julieth cruz reyes
It has been an amazing experience working with the Chen immigration team and in particular with Lei L. as our attorney in the approval of the I-140 petition (NIW, EB2-NIW). Their clear and prompt responses to many questions facilitate this process, and their experience, professionalism, and expertise in managing our case just demonstrate why many friends recommended me. We are very grateful and satisfied.
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25 Oct, 2024 by Lathan arasaratnam
I collaborated working with Chen's lawyers on my NIW case. The Chen’s team professionalism, thoroughness, ultimate guidance throughout the petition process has been truly remarkable.
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24 Oct, 2024 by Haleh sanaei
My EB2 NIW case is recently approved. Chen immigration team were always responsible, professional, quick and supportive in their responses. I highly recommend Chen immigration.
Million thanks to my attorney.
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01 Jul, 2024 by Lesther saavedra
Muy profesional en su trabajo
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10 Jun, 2024 by María alejandra sanchez corona
Excelente servicio, con ella pudimos hacer el parole humanitario para mi hermano y mamá que estaban en Venezuela. 100 por ciento recomendada.
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29 May, 2024 by Steyling reynoza
Hace unos días gané mi asilo gracias a la abogada Cesilie estoy muy agradecida con ella es una excelente abogada , muy amable 🙏
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21 Aug, 2024 by Chandra o
Mike was very knowledgeable with estate planning, wills and trusts! Great presentation!
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09 Aug, 2024 by Abagail jeavons
It has been so easy and straightforward to work with Rutkowski to establish our trust. We really appreciate the remote appointment model and have great peace of mind now that we have these things secured. We will definitely work with them again in the future when/if the trust needs amendments.
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28 Jun, 2024 by Dale schmidt
After losing my husband, Mike at Rutkowski Law Firm was very informative and was quick to respond to my situation. I would highly recommend using them for any legal needs. Friendly, professional and knowledgeable!
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21 Aug, 2024 by Chandra o
Mike was very knowledgeable with estate planning, wills and trusts! Great presentation!
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09 Aug, 2024 by Abagail jeavons
It has been so easy and straightforward to work with Rutkowski to establish our trust. We really appreciate the remote appointment model and have great peace of mind now that we have these things secured. We will definitely work with them again in the future when/if the trust needs amendments.
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28 Jun, 2024 by Dale schmidt
After losing my husband, Mike at Rutkowski Law Firm was very informative and was quick to respond to my situation. I would highly recommend using them for any legal needs. Friendly, professional and knowledgeable!
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05 Sep, 2024 by Nathaniel witte
04 Sep, 2024 by Micaela witte
Very friendly and approachable! They got to know us and were happy to answer our questions. I felt very comfortable with our experience and the legal advice they provided.
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04 Sep, 2024 by Kate kelley
We used Treetown Law for estate planning. I was very happy with the team's work and detailed review that let us create a plan I feel is solid and will work for our family.
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08 Nov, 2023 by Brittany thacker
I cannot say enough good things about attorney Ryan Sweeney. He helped me after my dad passed away & was so kind, professional, very patient with me as I asked him many questions. I highly recommend Ryan Sweeney. His staff was also very kind & helpful.
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28 May, 2022 by Jay folske
Very professional.
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29 Oct, 2020 by Shannon wellman kuehnl
Very intelligent, Fast, kind and professional service
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16 May, 2024 by Anonymous
I can’t speak highly enough about Mr. Babnik. He is truly a decent, ethical person and friendly to work with. I had a lot of questions about setting up a will and trust, and he made the process so easy. He will never try to make money off of you unnecessarily, and really values what is most important: human relationships. Highly recommended!
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10 May, 2024 by Alena
Andrew has always been here for me no matter what time a day he always responds, he gives clear guidance and follows through ! My attorney for life.
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28 Mar, 2024 by Mark tatara
Andrew was fast, insightful, and saved me a lot of trouble. And he has a sense of humor, which goes a long way. Thank you, Andrew!
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18 Oct, 2024 by Courtney wilkens
Noah Hurwitz has been such a helpful resource in understanding contract language. Highly recommend his firm!
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18 Oct, 2024 by Liberty martin
Noah and his team were so helpful during my case. Definitely recommend Hurwitz law.
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17 Sep, 2024 by Elias taxakis
I cannot recommend Grant Vlahopoulos highly enough! Grant reviewed my employment contract and provided me with exceptional advice. His expertise and thoroughness were evident throughout the process, and his insights were incredibly valuable. I highly recommend Grant for anyone needing expert guidance on employment matters.
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28 Mar, 2024 by Mark tatara
Andrew was fast, insightful, and saved me a lot of trouble. And he has a sense of humor, which goes a long way. Thank you, Andrew!
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14 Apr, 2023 by Doug hammond
Andrew Babnik did a great job for me. He listened to my needs, was kind, and came through as promised with professionalism.
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08 Jan, 2023 by Monica kurpinski
Dealing with legal issues is nothing short of a stressful manner, and in my particular case, Andrew represented me when reviewing my prenup, and was nothing short of amazing, ethical, and straight to the point- Living in South Florida, you don’t see much of those qualities unfortunately .
He went out of his way and took personal time throughout the holidays and even weekends in an effort to finalize details needed. He was referred to me from a family member and I honestly could not have been happier . Highly recommend !
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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.
