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10 Jun, 2024 by Veronica mars
I am a neighbour who regularly walks my service animal on Washington Street. I was accosted by a sexaganerian in a t-shirt and khaki shorts this morning cominv out the employee entrance asserting dominance over the commons by demanding to know if I picked up after my dog['s urine] from the corner. I knocked on the door to get his name and ask he do not interfere any further in my walking my dog for the rest of time and the meek-mouse receptionist lied to me that she would see if he was there and proceeded to ignore me. She then answered the phone and she claimed they had a right to oversee the public property on their corner and that she would not giving me his name. Based off this lawyer and secretary I have the impression they are busbody wimps and I wouldn't hire them for any litigation that requires honesty in the courtroom.
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29 Mar, 2024 by Brad hoffman
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09 Feb, 2024 by Sade wilson
Attorney Jacalen Garris is so amazing! Highly recommended. She is very detailed and gets back with you right away. She has your best interest. The front desk staff is very friendly.
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20 Aug, 2024 by Michael lincoln
Causes high conflict. Parenting coordinator mentioned him by name as a problem for divorce cases.
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30 Jan, 2024 by Jessica roberts
Kline Legal Group was amazing. I hired them for my divorce and they were compassionate, knowledgably, attentive, supportive, and were willing to fight for me. Divorce is a difficult, emotional, and stressful process; and they made it as good of an experience as a person could hope for. I highly recommend them to anyone looking for a good family lawyer.
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28 Nov, 2023 by Kris kruppa
I was very impressed by my experience with Kline Legal Group. McKenzie and Lillian were very responsive, kind, and willing to help with our case. Highly recommended!
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20 Aug, 2024 by Michael lincoln
Causes high conflict. Parenting coordinator mentioned him by name as a problem for divorce cases.
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30 Jan, 2024 by Jessica roberts
Kline Legal Group was amazing. I hired them for my divorce and they were compassionate, knowledgably, attentive, supportive, and were willing to fight for me. Divorce is a difficult, emotional, and stressful process; and they made it as good of an experience as a person could hope for. I highly recommend them to anyone looking for a good family lawyer.
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28 Nov, 2023 by Kris kruppa
I was very impressed by my experience with Kline Legal Group. McKenzie and Lillian were very responsive, kind, and willing to help with our case. Highly recommended!
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21 Apr, 2017 by Bob
Over the years, Martin Blank has handled several legal matters for me and my family, including civil litigation, wills and estates and real estate. Hard working, honest, fair minded and very reasonable fees. We have been so satisfied with his professionalism, work ethic and work product that we have referred him to many friends and family members. The referral topics have included an even broader range of representation, including DUI, drivers license restoration, divorce and criminal, and the people referred have always thanked us for the great work provided. Regardless of the job, the person you want working for you is someone you feel confident about referring to those closest to you, and we couldn't have any more confidence than we have with Martin Blank.
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01 Jul, 2013 by Beryl
Mr Blank has been absolutely outstanding in handling a difficult and complex divorce for my mother, bringing it to a favorable resolution in short order. He is unusual in keeping a client fully informed of all circumstances, and gives/shares immediate copies of all pleadings in a case. His fees are precise, and he attempts to keep "billable hours" to a minimum. He is knowledgable and intuitive, and is also good with negotiation. Mr. Blank handled my own difficult divorce many years ago, and was equally effective in resolving it. I would highly recommend him to anyone.
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06 Feb, 2012 by Anonymous
I used Mr. Blank to help me get my drivers license back and he was a great attorney. Kept me informed every step of the way. I would definately recommend him & would use him again if needed for other things.
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01 Apr, 2024 by Anthony taylor
Responsive, organized, empathetic, sharp and professional. Strong advocate that knew my case well.
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10 Mar, 2023 by Kenneth payne
Lana and Mikie truly helped me through a horrible time, extremely detailed and proficient, personable, caring but vicious in the court room when needed, never felt like just a name on a piece of paper, made my ex wife’s attorney Richard look completely unprepared and incompetent, definitely outclassed, I will recommend Lana to anyone that is going through a divorce with children as I was, Lana and Mikie are definitely a force to reckon with, Lana is the epitome of a specialist and I’m glad I didn’t risk mine and my children’s future on a Richard! Best of the best, Love them
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24 Sep, 2022 by Carl lindman
Outstanding attorney.
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11 Nov, 2020 by Walter
Mr. Smith mischaracterized my case, offered no useful information, and was rude and sarcastic. His bizarre "advice" was essentially a scolding and it was clear that he either did not read or did not understand what I wrote. If I was unclear he could have simply asked clarifying questions, but he did not.
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26 Feb, 2020 by Manuel
Brook really helped guide me during a difficult time in my life. I got into a really shitty RV deal and well as usual, I had buyers remorse and had to walk it back.
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16 Jan, 2020 by Anonymous
He responded right away and gave me great advice I would like to hire him I think he would do a hell of a job on my case it's hard to find a lawyer to take a malpractice law suits and I have been trying since last summer to find a lawyer about my case
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12 Aug, 2024 by Lyle bashaw
My name is Danyelle. I have to use lyles phone and e mail to exercise my freedom of speech because mine was blocked from warning everyone of my experience at fessler law. I went to fessler because there were missing bank accounts for my dad's estate. The greedy personal representative tried to keep everything she could from the estate. Fessler petitioned the bank and when the evidence came in, fessler changed his mind ABSOLUTELY DID NOT WANT THE jUDGE TO KNOW! He told me for 6 weeks that we would set a hearing after we receive the evidence then changed his mind. He is unprofessional, corrupt, unethical and was useless in my case.
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22 Feb, 2024 by Schacole aliko
I called for a consultation and they were super helpful! I highly recommend them!
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14 Nov, 2023 by Mrock rice
If you need a divorce lawyer look elsewhere. Paul C. Fessler is neglectful, unethical, and the only thing he’ll provide is a lack of representation. All the things I signed for in the retainer with Paul C. Fessler of Fesser Law P.C. (aka Paul Fessler) were never honored. 1. Diligent representation by the firm. 2. Mediation and Discovery. 3. Bill rates. 4. Communications, and 5. Refundable retainer. He performed no mediation or discovery in 9 months, he wouldn’t even have a conversation with me during this time, never spoke other than to hire him. He took advantage of me by draining my retainer. I was charged the higher! of the 2 rates the lawyer rate of $250/hr vs, the paralegal rate of $100/hr. She was doing the work, yet not a single $100/hr. paralegal charge, even the frivolous charges were billed high. Second, in over 9 months I only received 3 invoices which should have been coming monthly, this way I wouldn’t see he was draining my account. I had no communications, no emails regarding correspondence from opposing counsel or the court system. Emails I sent were never followed up, phone calls very slow or not returned at all. A refundable retainer? It’s just bait. Once you pay he just made $1500. He stole my money and won’t reply to my request for it back. Super Lawyer? Rising Star? they expect firms to pay for their press, so I was fooled. I fired him and got another attorney who immediately performed discovery and set mediation. I began receiving communications from opposing counsel and the courts within days, what a difference! My new lawyer also witnessed firsthand how Paul C. Fessler lacks professionalism ethics when he didn’t respond for almost 2 weeks after being called and emailed several times, so it’s not just me. I believe I would have lost everything staying Paul C. Fessler. Since mediation wasn’t performed, I was unknowingly being placed into a position where I was just one day away from heading to court to have the judge divide everything in half. The courts don’t have time to mediate cases, this is why mediation so important to work things out before that Settlement date or final judgement day, and discovery is part of that. So, looks like he took my money to let the judge do the work. Paul is the type that gives lawyers a bad name. In hindsight, I should've found a lawyer with hundreds of reviews, not like Paul C. Fessler’s 5 or 6 reviews.
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25 Jul, 2023 by Al p
Tom has been my lawyer for a lot of years. He's a good lawyer, and a good person. Debbie is great too.
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16 Jun, 2022 by Gino lombardo
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24 May, 2022 by Gabriel schray
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25 Jul, 2023 by Al p
Tom has been my lawyer for a lot of years. He's a good lawyer, and a good person. Debbie is great too.
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16 Jun, 2022 by Gino lombardo
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24 May, 2022 by Gabriel schray
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31 Jan, 2021 by Jon
Our family has utilized the legal services of Steven Garris for more than 30 years. He has always provided excellent advice and promptly did all of the legal work we needed right after we asked for it. That has ranged from real-estate work to estate planning. We wouldn't trust any other attorney in the area with our legal work nearly as much as we trust the Garris law office.
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29 Jan, 2021 by Loren
Steve Garris and the eponymous law firm has provided me and members of my family with prompt, well-considered legal counsel as well as doing so in a compassionate manner. We have used the Firm’s services for over a decade in areas of law as diverse as family, estate/trust and criminal issues. In particular, I am very grateful for the kindness and professional manner Steve showed to my mother when handling her personal affairs. I recommend the use of the Garris firm without reservation. We hired Steve outside of Avvo. The Garris firm is well known to local area residents.
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27 Jan, 2021 by Patton
I have relied on Mr. Garris and his team as my small business legal council for five years, and I always receive prompt, well-researched, and trustworthy advice. Throughout the process of growing our business, Mr. Garris has been my go-to source for answers about business licensing, corporate structure, real estate acquisition, staffing issues, and countless other needs. I have the utmost respect for him and his work and I cannot recommend him highly enough.
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12 Aug, 2024 by Lyle bashaw
My name is Danyelle. I have to use lyles phone and e mail to exercise my freedom of speech because mine was blocked from warning everyone of my experience at fessler law. I went to fessler because there were missing bank accounts for my dad's estate. The greedy personal representative tried to keep everything she could from the estate. Fessler petitioned the bank and when the evidence came in, fessler changed his mind ABSOLUTELY DID NOT WANT THE jUDGE TO KNOW! He told me for 6 weeks that we would set a hearing after we receive the evidence then changed his mind. He is unprofessional, corrupt, unethical and was useless in my case.
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22 Feb, 2024 by Schacole aliko
I called for a consultation and they were super helpful! I highly recommend them!
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star star star star star
14 Nov, 2023 by Mrock rice
If you need a divorce lawyer look elsewhere. Paul C. Fessler is neglectful, unethical, and the only thing he’ll provide is a lack of representation. All the things I signed for in the retainer with Paul C. Fessler of Fesser Law P.C. (aka Paul Fessler) were never honored. 1. Diligent representation by the firm. 2. Mediation and Discovery. 3. Bill rates. 4. Communications, and 5. Refundable retainer. He performed no mediation or discovery in 9 months, he wouldn’t even have a conversation with me during this time, never spoke other than to hire him. He took advantage of me by draining my retainer. I was charged the higher! of the 2 rates the lawyer rate of $250/hr vs, the paralegal rate of $100/hr. She was doing the work, yet not a single $100/hr. paralegal charge, even the frivolous charges were billed high. Second, in over 9 months I only received 3 invoices which should have been coming monthly, this way I wouldn’t see he was draining my account. I had no communications, no emails regarding correspondence from opposing counsel or the court system. Emails I sent were never followed up, phone calls very slow or not returned at all. A refundable retainer? It’s just bait. Once you pay he just made $1500. He stole my money and won’t reply to my request for it back. Super Lawyer? Rising Star? they expect firms to pay for their press, so I was fooled. I fired him and got another attorney who immediately performed discovery and set mediation. I began receiving communications from opposing counsel and the courts within days, what a difference! My new lawyer also witnessed firsthand how Paul C. Fessler lacks professionalism ethics when he didn’t respond for almost 2 weeks after being called and emailed several times, so it’s not just me. I believe I would have lost everything staying Paul C. Fessler. Since mediation wasn’t performed, I was unknowingly being placed into a position where I was just one day away from heading to court to have the judge divide everything in half. The courts don’t have time to mediate cases, this is why mediation so important to work things out before that Settlement date or final judgement day, and discovery is part of that. So, looks like he took my money to let the judge do the work. Paul is the type that gives lawyers a bad name. In hindsight, I should've found a lawyer with hundreds of reviews, not like Paul C. Fessler’s 5 or 6 reviews.
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08 Oct, 2021 by Anonymous
Mr. Fahrner may have been a good attorney at one time but be is not helpful once he draws up your documents! He prepared my parents documents and rarely returned my calls or emails. Twice when I contacted him for questions he would ask me if I could call him back because “he was on vacation” or because he “had a call in few minutes”. That seems pretty arrogant to me! He always seemed bothered when I would ask for clarification on documents. If you have clients and can’t help them at that time it seems the proper action is to take a message and call your client back! I think he’s retired and will only help you if he feels like it. Save yourself the fees and hassles, get a better attorney!
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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:

  1. 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.
  2. 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.
  3. 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.
  4. 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.
  5. 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.
  6. 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.

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