Lawyers map
>222
experienced lawyers
Filter by
02 Aug, 2024 by Jay g.
Excellent lawyer. All charges dropped. Caroline got me in and out of court quickly. Caroline used to be a prosecutor and she talked to the prosecutor for my case and got the charges dismissed easily. Thank God.
Read more
12 Jul, 2024 by Jemmie floyd
I hired Caroline when I was charged with offenses in Anne Arundel County. I was charged by an ex for things that I didn’t do. Caroline was excellent from the beginning. She stayed in contact with me promptly throughout the entire process. She told me exactly what I needed to do and represented me perfectly. All of my charges were dismissed by the prosecutor. Thank god I hired Caroline because I am out of all of the trouble and moving on with my life.
Read more
26 Jun, 2024 by G k
All charges gone in 10 minutes. Hire her
Read more
29 Aug, 2021 by Anonymous
Ms. Carter and her team are true professionals. It is a family-oriented environment, which allowed me to divulge uncomfortable information during a very difficult time. Ms. Carter was with me during every step of the way to include during the virtual hearings. I highly recommend their services for any type of legal advice.
Read more
03 Dec, 2020 by Colette
I hired for some real estate needs. They were very professional and took the time to answer and explain any guestions. Kept me informed throughout entire process . I highly recommend and will use this firm for future needs as well.
Read more
25 Jan, 2019 by Kena
I've spoken with Lynn regarding my family law situation (divorce and relocation from FL to MD with infant) a few times. Although the jurisdiction for my case is FL, Lynn has been willing and responsive in providing invaluable advice and recommended actions I can take. She is very personable and insightful. My only wish is that I could have hired her to represent me in FL.
Read more
07 Jan, 2017 by Amy
Where do I start? We were lucky to be referred to Mr. Darrow when we thought our case had little hope of being favorably resolved. Being from out of state (Illinois), we were worried that our case would be taken with a grain of salt. Not Mr. Darrow. He was detailed, fierce, intense and honest with us from the beginning. When we finally were able to meet with him in person, he was courteous, respectful and really good at breaking things down into Lamen's Terms for us. I sat in the courtroom watching him fight for us and was speechless. I can't say enough amazing things about this man and his ability to fight for the "little guy". Thank you so much Mr. Darrow for helping us win an EXTREMELY challenging case. It was an honor to have him work for us and we are so eternally grateful to be able to sleep at night. MAKE SURE YOU CHOOSE HIM!! He is the type of litigator who will fight till the end and find justice for all!
Read more
18 Sep, 2016 by Anonymous
Mike is the best. I've been going round and round with a tenant that refused to pay back rent-- problem solved, quickly and affordably.
Read more
31 Jul, 2016 by Brenda
I hired Mr. Darrow on a reference from a friend to rep me in a business matter (construction and contracts), which he did a wonderful job!! He believes in keeping attorney costs down and was wonderful to work with. I then hired him to rep me in a personal matter from an out of state case which he still continues to rep me with this issue and honestly I must say he and his firm are wonderful to work with. I am extremely pleased with their services!!! I will continue to use his services on all business matters and personal matters!!! He keeps my mind at ease!!!! I have recommended him to all my sub contractors and hope they use his service. Thank you Mr. Darrow!!!! I appreciate all you have done for me!!!
Read more
15 Aug, 2023 by Fred
Sam was the third attorney which I hired in my very messy divorce. I should have hired him from the start. While this case has been ongoing for nearly 3 years, I have nothing but good things to say about his work thus far. Also, just to note, I was the husband, so Sam is not always representing women against men as was noted by another review.
Read more
18 May, 2023 by Aleshia
Sam Brown has been able to get outcomes that I never expected. His due diligence and perseverance are top notch. He listens to his clients and understands and appreciates the toll that this process takes on his clients.
Read more
26 May, 2022 by Gloria
I am extremely grateful for Sam Brown's professionalism and efficiency while representing me during my divorce. His compassion and advise guided me through a very difficult time in my life. His referrals were top notch. I never wish this on anyone, but if you find yourself in this unfortunate situation, I would highly recommend Sam Brown and his team.
Read more
09 Jan, 2017 by Dave
Kevin assisted us with the resolution of a claim against a particularly difficult party who insisted on appealing multiple rulings against them. What should have been settled by reasonable business people or a single hearing about the facts of the case, the defendant and his attorney insisted on using every means possible to delay and draw out the process. Although this wasn't a huge claim, the issue was based on fraudulent billing by the defendant and we wanted to see it through the entire process on a moral basis. Kevin did a great job getting the defendant to court and making our side of the case clear. We prevailed and Kevin also assisted in collecting the judgement after the defendant began stalling after the judgement was rendered. I highly recommend Kevin for your business law concerns!
Read more
01 Jul, 2016 by Thomas
My neighbor was claiming ownership of a large piece of my property and had built a fence on it. Kevin Best review the claim with county property records and agree that I had ownership of the property. He review my property rights with me and suggest a plan of action to remove the fence and on keeping her from excising ownership of it. The plan was successful and the encroach fence was removed. Currently she is staying off the property.
Kevin was more then helpful when the Home Ownership Association question the fence removal. His knowledge of HOA convention rules were very helpful in responding to the Community Association.
I would hire Kevin again.
Read more
30 May, 2016 by Amy
My experience with the Law Office of Kevin J. Best has been a very positive one and I plan on maintaining a professional relationship with this attorney.
I had been handling my particular case myself only to have it appealed (by the person suing me) twice and moved to different courts. The person has now filed their third and final appeal (allowed) with the court of appeals. I found myself in a situation where legal representation was a must. I had ten days to respond in writing to the writ of certiorari for the court of appeals. I needed an attorney-fast!
I googled attorneys and found Kevin J. Best, located in Annapolis. I was pleasantly surprised when Mr. Best personally answered the phone. I was immediately able to discuss my very complicated/time sensitive situation. I scheduled an immediate office appointment (2 hours) and fees were discussed during our phone conversation so there were no surprises. I felt Mr. Best was very reasonable. During the office visit Mr. Best very clearly explained and advised me with examples on how to respond to the writ of certiorari. Since I already had a rough draft of a response and Mr. Best was not familiar with the case to date he advised me to follow through myself to keep the cost down. I worked on my response at home-emailed it to Mr. Best the next day. Within hours he revised it and put it into legal format and emailed it back to me all prepared and ready to mail to the court.
This was above and beyond my expectations. All I had left to do was print, make copies and certify mail it to the court. I made the court deadline with days to spare and I filed the paperwork appropriately as required by this court's rules and guidelines- which I had no idea about. All with the help of my new attorney- Kevin J. Best. If needed Mr. Best will represent me at the court of appeals.
Read more
28 Oct, 2022 by Marie terrell
Excellent Attorney..
Read more
12 Aug, 2021 by Felicia davis
My father ( James H. Craig) referred me (Felicia Davis) and my husband ( DeWayne Davis, Sr.) to Morgan Fisher and he took care of all are needs. His Team was awesome. I would recommend Mr. Morgan to all of my family and friends.
Read more
16 Mar, 2018 by Rob ellis
Morgan Fisher provided timely and professional advice on a complex bankruptcy issue I was facing. After speaking with him, I had a clear understanding of the situation, and knew the specific steps I needed to take to remedy my issue. Not only that, but both he and his support staff were a pleasure to interact with. I would highly recommend him!
Read more
13 Sep, 2021 by Camille
We retain Ms Cox and her law firm after a bad experience with a different firm. Ms Cox is very black and white ...meaning she says what needs to be said. We came into the case with Ms Cox in the last ending with very little light. Game should have been over but we are still swinging.
Read more
21 Oct, 2015 by Linda
I was very fortunate that Linda Cox of the Cox Law Group was recommendated to me. I didn't know what to expect. Ms. Cox is a people person. She was very relaxed, knowledgeable and right away she put me at ease. We went over the worksheet I filled out in detail. She was very thorough and answered all my questions. Ms. Cox puts her clients needs and concens on the forefront, she's very understanding. She offers suggestions and guides you through the process - you don't leave her office wanting. She is a true professional. Ms. Cox and her staff are wondeful people to work with. I highly recommend the COX LAW GROUP. You will not be disappointed.
Read more
30 Apr, 2015 by Myra
I met Mrs. Cox as a referral and it was a home run. Her sincere caring and knowledge of the law made me immediately feel that I had chosen the correct legal counsel. I was happy to find a person with the knowledge and diligence to get the job done. The rapid responsiveness to my needs was really important. I would be happy to refer her again and again . In fact I have send her a referral.
Read more
08 Mar, 2022 by Jeremy
Brian T. Gallagher is great for real estate legal representation.
He is the following-
1. Knowledgeable
2. Courteous
3. Caring
4. Quick to Respond
We hired him for legal representation for real estate (contract disputes).
Thank you.
Weavers Professional Services, Inc.
Read more
27 Apr, 2018 by Shad
Brian has helped both my real estate team and several clients for different real estate issues. He has always been professional and timely with his work. I DO recommend him to all of my clients and real estate investors because he can quickly solve problems by spending the time necessary to find out what the client needs and then fixing the issue.
Read more
19 Mar, 2018 by Julia pollard
Throughout my whole experience working with Brian, he was attentive and professional. He was able to walk me through the the litigation process so I clearly knew next steps. My opinions were valued and my doubts were always reassured. Brian fought hard to get the very best outcome.
Read more
07 Nov, 2014 by Chuck
Jon handled my medical malpractice claim. He is extremely knowledgeable and able to communicate the laws, process and options clearly so that a lay person can understand. Early on he developed a strategy to handle the case, explained it to us for our concurrence and executed it to a tee. He is aggressive but looks for a satisfactory resolution without necessarily going to court. His extensive background in this area and innumerable contacts in the field made the process relatively painless. He and his staff (Missy) were always available to meet with us or to discuss things over the phone. As we proceeded through the process Jon kept us advised of what was happening even as things moved slowly thorough the system. One of my fraternity brothers is a lawyer who handles medical malpractice cases for hospitals (essentially Jon's opponent). When I asked him about Jon he said "he is one of the good guys". Enough said
Read more
01 Nov, 2014 by Tammy
Jon Brassel was my attorney for a wrongful death case. My husband died from aortic dissection, that could have been prevented. Jon came from his office in Annoppolis to Salisbury to meet with me. If I had to use only two words to describe Jon they would professional and companionate. You need both of those qualities when in a situation such as mine. I was 36 years old, our son was 8, devastated would be putting it mildly.
When we met he had some information I sent him. I was afraid I was going to break down at this meeting. He ask questions, let me tell my story, and with his professional and compatiante manner I got through it. Leaving that day feeling hopeful. When I would get updates from Jon he explained process and laws and circumstances and made sure understood. If I didn't I never felt rushed, if I had questions. We went to deposition, the doctor sat in the room, his two attorneys and a recorder. I did not feel intimidated, I was comfortable with Jon being on my side of the table. Some time later we closed, we won. I went to his office I met his team of professionals who worked on my case.
I still contact Jon from time to time and have sent pictures of life events. I consider him my friend. He gave me strength, hope and confidence. He is the reason I was able to carry on and live my life without financial burdens. I am so thankful to have found him to represent me.
Read more
30 Sep, 2010 by Jessica
Jon recently settled a product liability lawsuit in our favor. Jon's immense experience with these types of cases and overall knowledge of the court systems and various national law practices was vital in the successful completion of our lawsuit. We felt extremely educated about our position and satisfied with the completion of our lawsuit. I would highly recommend Jon to anyone who is injured due to someone else’s negligence.
Read more
07 Mar, 2011 by John
Mike has an extensive real estate background and advised us in waterfront permit appeals and processing. Mike has also helped us with family matters involving defense of our juvenile son. He speaks in understandable language with a knack for simplifying complex legal concerns. In each case our decisions were favorable, and more importantly, the decisions were exactly what Michael told us to expect.
Read more
18 Feb, 2011 by Johannes
Have worked with Mr. Leahy on quite a few instances. From dealing with MD lemon law, to MD law enforcement (speeding tickets) to MD real estate questions/issues.
In any of these instances has Michael Leahy managed to exceed expectations.
I always look forward working with him on (m)any instances..
Read more
06 Dec, 2018 by Laura
I had an unexpected divorce and was traumatized to say the least. I consulted with and ultimately hired Mr. Ryan and am so glad I did.
He is not pretentious at all, will be very direct and tell you how it is whether it's what you want to hear or not. He compassionately helped me understand that what I wanted in my divorce was not realistic and worked relentlessly to get the best possible outcome for me. While in the process of my divorce, I had to solely rely and trust his judgement. After all was said and done, the "how's" and "why's" in what he suggested in my proceedings made perfect sense.
Divorce sucks no matter what, but when your own judgement is clouded by emotions, you need an attorney you trust wholeheartedly. Mr. Ryan went above and beyond to look out for my best interests. I couldn't have asked for more.
Read more
22 Jul, 2015 by Anonymous
After a bad experience with another lawyer John Ryan was a breath of fresh air. He kept us informed on everything and what our best options were. He was very honest and direct. If you don't want to hear the truth, don't go to him. He does not beat around the bush which made the process a lot easier on us.
When we met with him it was as if he actually cared about us and what we were going through. He did not make it about why WE wanted custody, but rather why it would be in the best interest of the child.
Read more
01 Jul, 2010 by Jason
John is an excellent bankruptcy lawyer. He helped me greatly and is great to work with. Also, he is a genuinely good guy
Read more
05 Jul, 2009 by Anonymous
Mr. Schropp helped me through a bankruptcy filing. His calm demeanor and knowledge really helped calm my worries and concerns. He took all the time necessary to answer all of my questions. He was very professional. Mr. Schropp is very capable and understanding of his clients. I would recommend him to anyone who is (considering) filing for bankruptcy.
Read more
12 Jul, 2023 by Jeff callaway
15 Nov, 2018 by Krista
06 Dec, 2017 by Anonymous
Attorney Mellin was VERY helpful, his fee was more than reasonable. He knew most of his "stuff" by wrote and didn't pretend ignorance so that he could charge me for "research"!
Fee was very fair, even gracious.
Similarly, his associate Mr.Brown, was very understanding.
I parked right in front of his office the first few times and then less than a block away in city garage.
They did as much as they could for me and certainly educated me to reality.
Read more
14 Jan, 2009 by Anonymous
Dan is very thorough and methodical. He makes sure all of your bases are covered. He is also very personable and active in the community. He is definitely some one you would want to consult when making when making business decisions.
Read more
07 Oct, 2014 by Anonymous
Mr. Davis is an outstanding professional who has extensive experience in, and knowledge of, the law. He is comfortable and extremely effective in both the big city and the small town. He is ethical to the core. Having used Mr. Davis' legal services on several occasions, I would unreservedly recommend him to everyone.
Read more
07 Nov, 2019 by Jennifer wood
14 Mar, 2012 by Cindy & tom
Mr. Goff was a blessing to our family! We will be grateful for a lifetime for all he as done for us and so many others! Thank you Randy!
Read more
21 Mar, 2018 by Leslie
My lawyer, Ms.matthews always was attentive to me even when we missed each others calls she would always touch basis with me, Ms.matthews was attentive and showed compassion towards my divorce and custody issues she is a very positive force when I definitely needed it, for my emotions were all over the place very thorough when asking me questions and my day in court Ms.matthews showed compassion towards me therefore it made me feel secured. I will always recommend Ms.matthews and The Carter Law Firm as my Go 2 Law Firm. Thank You Shereese Matthews my family and I are so grateful for your efforts and role in helping to relieve me of this burden..
Read more
10 Oct, 2012 by Anonymous
Mr. Smail is a very diligent attorney. He goes above and beyond on the issues he represents us on. He is very professional.
Read more
22 Jan, 2015 by Doug
Barbara responded so fast I was amazed. And then she gave me concise professional advice, in terms I could understand. I highly recommend her.
Read more
28 Mar, 2012 by David
Charles assisted us in permitting a pier destroyed by Isabel hurricane. The pier was rebuilt assuming one did not need a permit and there were discussions with MDE and AA county to get approvals and a permit for the pier that was slightly different in configuration but of lesser impact. We could not have navigated the process without his assistance.
Read more
09 Aug, 2022 by Anonymous
We consulted Mr. Lyman on a complex civil legal case and retained him to handle our legal matter (brought suit against a boat manufacturer and the dealer).
He filed the suit in January, and it was settled with a very satisfactory result in July. As a retired attorney, I appreciated his professionalism, sound advice and the good sense he applied in resolving the case. Additionally, he's very pleasant and puts you at ease. For his opponents, as we observed, he is a determined, unyielding, skillful attorney.
The Hillman Brown law firm provided Mr. Lyman the support needed to successfully conclude our lawsuit. And we found the billing to be fair and reasonable. We recommend the Hillman firm and Mr. Lyman for legal matters.
Read more
02 Aug, 2024 by Jay g.
Excellent lawyer. All charges dropped. Caroline got me in and out of court quickly. Caroline used to be a prosecutor and she talked to the prosecutor for my case and got the charges dismissed easily. Thank God.
Read more
12 Jul, 2024 by Jemmie floyd
I hired Caroline when I was charged with offenses in Anne Arundel County. I was charged by an ex for things that I didn’t do. Caroline was excellent from the beginning. She stayed in contact with me promptly throughout the entire process. She told me exactly what I needed to do and represented me perfectly. All of my charges were dismissed by the prosecutor. Thank god I hired Caroline because I am out of all of the trouble and moving on with my life.
Read more
26 Jun, 2024 by G k
All charges gone in 10 minutes. Hire her
Read more
09 Aug, 2024 by Jocelyn shapiro
12 Sep, 2023 by Joshua
Great Attorney, Highly recommend to anyone.
Read more
11 Feb, 2022 by Judy beck
25 Jun, 2024 by Alharith almoosa
Great team. They know what they are doing.
Read more
03 Jun, 2024 by Barb kappel
Liff, Walsh, and Simmons provided a simple, straightforward and flawless estate planning process for our family. Greg Ferra is a true professional and takes pride in offeeing the best service possible. Shamika Gary was also very helpful and answering important questions along the way. We highly recommend the LWS Estate Planning Team to anyone hoping to set up a trust or will for their family.
Read more
29 Nov, 2021 by Jeff dickinson
Very professional, they know there business
Read more
25 Jun, 2024 by Alharith almoosa
Great team. They know what they are doing.
Read more
03 Jun, 2024 by Barb kappel
Liff, Walsh, and Simmons provided a simple, straightforward and flawless estate planning process for our family. Greg Ferra is a true professional and takes pride in offeeing the best service possible. Shamika Gary was also very helpful and answering important questions along the way. We highly recommend the LWS Estate Planning Team to anyone hoping to set up a trust or will for their family.
Read more
29 Nov, 2021 by Jeff dickinson
Very professional, they know there business
Read more
25 Jun, 2024 by Alharith almoosa
Great team. They know what they are doing.
Read more
03 Jun, 2024 by Barb kappel
Liff, Walsh, and Simmons provided a simple, straightforward and flawless estate planning process for our family. Greg Ferra is a true professional and takes pride in offeeing the best service possible. Shamika Gary was also very helpful and answering important questions along the way. We highly recommend the LWS Estate Planning Team to anyone hoping to set up a trust or will for their family.
Read more
29 Nov, 2021 by Jeff dickinson
Very professional, they know there business
Read more
5.0
11 Reviews
25 Jun, 2024 by Alharith almoosa
Great team. They know what they are doing.
Read more
03 Jun, 2024 by Barb kappel
Liff, Walsh, and Simmons provided a simple, straightforward and flawless estate planning process for our family. Greg Ferra is a true professional and takes pride in offeeing the best service possible. Shamika Gary was also very helpful and answering important questions along the way. We highly recommend the LWS Estate Planning Team to anyone hoping to set up a trust or will for their family.
Read more
29 Nov, 2021 by Jeff dickinson
Very professional, they know there business
Read more
09 Nov, 2023 by Kimberly conway
He had been our attorney for several years now, and we've been very pleased. He's very personable and a person of integrity. He's handled our wills, family law, and other issues.
Read more
05 Oct, 2022 by Chad clark
Mr. Robinson is an excellent attorney and was very responsive and helpful in our landlord/tenant case. The advice he gave was invaluable and it was truly a pleasure working with him and having him as our counsel at trial. From initial advisement until the end of trial took several months, and he was always there for us anytime we needed him. He was extremely professional and we would highly recommend him!
Read more
15 Apr, 2021 by Jordan alhadidi
12 Sep, 2023 by Tyler jackson
Steve is GREAT!
Read more
26 Jun, 2018 by Brittany knapp
Discover the ideal lawyer
You can search a lawyer by practice area, lawyer name, city, state, or ZIP code
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.
