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08 Aug, 2018 by Anonymous
I hired Paul as a pro-bono attorney many years ago. He was never prepared for our case, did not present the evidence I provided, showed up in a suit stained and extremely wrinkled and did not put any effort into my case. He just wanted the $500 I gave him but did not put even the slightest effort into my case. He is not a good attorney, nor does he seem to have any basic understanding of how his lack of effort affects people's lives. His is not worth a dime, so do not hire him. He is easily the worst attorney you could hire for your case.
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06 Nov, 2017 by Carl
I first worked with Paul on a rental issue and I found him to be extremely honesty and helpful. He was also very fair in his pricing, which was important since I was a student at the time. I later came back to his practice for help with consumer protection where he helped advise my elderly father on a potential predatory real estate scheme. I don’t think you could find a more empathetic, fair, and honest lawyer.
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22 Dec, 2023 by Raven marie
Do not use this guy whatsoever! I did it online inquiry to set up a consultation. And he reached out to the other party and let them know everything that I said in my consultation inquiry. He represents the other party. I did not know that. This is illegal and I’m reporting him to the board. Completely unprofessional, lacks ethics.
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22 Mar, 2023 by David hayward
Excellent team of attorneys with specialists in each area of the public school system from HR to 313.
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18 Jul, 2014 by Jim
Mr. Luther helped me obtain a divorce from my very obstinate and unpredictable spouse with his calmness and focus. He and his staff were reliable and responsive to my concerns and needs. I have referred him to friends who later thanked me for the referral.
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22 Jul, 2012 by Anonymous
No stars being given here! Not even ONE! This law firm single handedly was so ill prepared for my court hearing that it resulted in the judge's asking for "clarification" on why my ex should owe the debt that he rolled into my separate property house. Luther's response: "Uhhh, uhhhh, well... if we don't ask for it, we won't get it!" ~~ The correct answer was completely outlined, documented, and could have been so easily proven, had Luther done even just an hour or two of due diligence (he was paid over 75K in less than six months time), but he was too busy taking 32 of his collegues, attorney friends, ad litems, etc., to Europe for his "Birthday party celebration" for two weeks, prior to my trial! In short, he's not worth an hour's pay, as that is all the work he'll likely do on any case! But he sure knows how to document hours not worked! I fired him, but the damage was already done! Not able to appeal, he stalled on the return of the evidence, hid or kept important files, and generally covered his "tracks."
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20 Oct, 2023 by Natalie felder
Phenomenal group of experienced attorneys who handle their cases with a thorough eye and steady hand. At no point did I feel unheard, and they were great at reassuring me when I felt my confidence slipping. Sean & Alexis were prompt, communicative, honest, and genuinely showed up for me... I couldn't ask for better representation. Thank you for everything!!
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13 Jul, 2023 by J breezy
22 Dec, 2023 by Raven marie
Do not use this guy whatsoever! I did it online inquiry to set up a consultation. And he reached out to the other party and let them know everything that I said in my consultation inquiry. He represents the other party. I did not know that. This is illegal and I’m reporting him to the board. Completely unprofessional, lacks ethics.
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22 Mar, 2023 by David hayward
Excellent team of attorneys with specialists in each area of the public school system from HR to 313.
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30 Apr, 2024 by Dan thompson
Worst law firm ever. I hired them for the 3m combat earplug settlement. Lack of communication, almost impossible to get a hold of them. I will definitely never go back to them for any legal matters. Several messages and phone calls, not 1 response back in several months.
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18 Feb, 2024 by I n
I have been dealing with them for almost 5 years now in regards to the 3m lawsuit. After 5 year, I’ve learned that they only care about making money and do NOT care about the client.
I have sent tons of emails over 5 years. Sometimes I get a generic response, but the email doesn’t come close to answering my questions. I know they are dealing with a lot of clients but not one answer from them in 5 years. That’s ridiculous.
If you’re looking for a firm that will listen to you and take their time, look elsewhere.
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26 Sep, 2023 by Latasha antoine
30 Apr, 2024 by Dan thompson
Worst law firm ever. I hired them for the 3m combat earplug settlement. Lack of communication, almost impossible to get a hold of them. I will definitely never go back to them for any legal matters. Several messages and phone calls, not 1 response back in several months.
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18 Feb, 2024 by I n
I have been dealing with them for almost 5 years now in regards to the 3m lawsuit. After 5 year, I’ve learned that they only care about making money and do NOT care about the client.
I have sent tons of emails over 5 years. Sometimes I get a generic response, but the email doesn’t come close to answering my questions. I know they are dealing with a lot of clients but not one answer from them in 5 years. That’s ridiculous.
If you’re looking for a firm that will listen to you and take their time, look elsewhere.
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26 Sep, 2023 by Latasha antoine
15 Jul, 2024 by Liset cruz
Brindaran trabajo
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07 Apr, 2021 by A d a
No help
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15 Jul, 2024 by Liset cruz
Brindaran trabajo
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07 Apr, 2021 by A d a
No help
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15 Jul, 2024 by Liset cruz
Brindaran trabajo
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07 Apr, 2021 by A d a
No help
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15 Jul, 2024 by Liset cruz
Brindaran trabajo
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07 Apr, 2021 by A d a
No help
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15 Jul, 2024 by Liset cruz
Brindaran trabajo
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07 Apr, 2021 by A d a
No help
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15 Jul, 2024 by Liset cruz
Brindaran trabajo
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07 Apr, 2021 by A d a
No help
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15 Jul, 2024 by Liset cruz
Brindaran trabajo
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07 Apr, 2021 by A d a
No help
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15 Jul, 2024 by Liset cruz
Brindaran trabajo
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07 Apr, 2021 by A d a
No help
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26 Feb, 2022 by Anonymous
Was assigned as a court appointed attorney in late 2020. If you want a lawyer who fights for you. This guy is DEFINITELY not IT! I mean He doesn’t text back. UNLESS you bug him to death. Witch is really sad. Barley picks his phone up. Will NOT update you on court dates or settings. Nor does he care about your case. He prob just looks at it the day of and pushes it to the side. He should be stripped of his license. If I was as care free on things as he is to his clients I would have filed complaint after complaint. His only Interest is himself and his motorcycle. He post on social media but will def look the other way if you need him. Horrible service. And he knows it. HIRE PROFESSIONAL HELP
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30 Jan, 2021 by John
I was divorced in 2013. Imagine huge mistake choosing Olivo. He had received a 15? Minute cal from the friend of my ex wife explaining the entire situation to him and was adamant I was not guilty. Olivo said he would investigate the call and situation and took a 350.00 deposit. The next day he called sad told me I had to go to court the day after. In my opinion he is a railroaded who has still not repaid me and cost me my life. Nothing my witchcraft practising ex said was true but in my opinion and in fact BNSF railroaded me. If your White stay away from the railroaded. Pay me Olivi
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20 Mar, 2019 by Sharlene
Mr. Olivo you are lying. I retained a lawyer the day you were missing in action For my case. You did not negotiate any deals on my behalf. A lawyer saw me in the hallway broken down and uncontrollable crying. This was after the clerk called you while i stood there and you lied to her and said you were not paid. You are a dishonorable person. Thats why you left el paso under a cloud of shame. Even though it was a 4 hour drive there and 4 hrs back i attended every hearing for over a year and you did nothing. You informed me of nothing. Thats why the lawyer recognized me because i came faithfully to each hearing. If you want to make amends do so by fixing this or forever bare the shame of you. If this is how you Soldiers serving i feel sorry for your regular clients
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04 Jan, 2021 by Braxton
I filled out paperwork, started a case with ARAG, they agreed they had time to take another client and wanted a consultation. Then, after the holidays, her replied back that he could not take the case. I know interns that are more professional than this guy.
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23 Sep, 2020 by Rosie
I spoke to Adam Meury as I was referred his name through my Legal Services. Adam was very nice and helpful in all my questions related to a petition my daughter received. Provided the fee’s I needed to hire him. He stated he needed to speak to my daughter first as it was regarding her. I was excited and made my daughter aware how nice he was. My daughter spoke to him and it was a totally different Adam she spoke to. He was rude to my daughter and not quite sure if it’s because she is young or not- no excuse for the way he acted. He wouldn’t let my daughter speak any more on the issue and told my daughter “He doesn’t make the laws in Texas. Good luck in finding a lawyer to represent you.” Second experience with a family lawyer in Texas and I am just shocked and amazed at how rude and dismissive they are to someone willing to pay the monies needed to hire them. I do not recommend him at all.
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01 Nov, 2019 by Anonymous
Unfortunately, I echo the previous reviewer. I was referred to Mr. Muery thorough Hyatt Legal (May 2019), 5 months later nothing has been completed. A request to speak to Mr. Muery directly was ignored, and emails go unanswered for several business days. I was forwarded to at least 3 associates to "quickly resolve" the lack of completion..to only have the same results...nothing completed.
Recently (Oct 2019) I called Hyatt Legal to complain about his results and they notified me that he no longer is a member....explains why he's not working on my cases.
Instead of being professional and stating he no longer accepts Hyatt Legal Members, he chose just to blow me off and let my cases go dormat.
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03 Jun, 2024 by Robyn richardson
My mother used this attorney for a family matter not only did he fail to properly represent her, he made several seedy attempts to be inappropriate. When my mother denied his advances her became careless working on her case. She lost her home and thousands of dollars as a result. Don’t trust him.
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05 Jan, 2024 by Derek ulrich
Mr. Mason is one of the most personable lawyers I’ve had the pleasure of speaking with, I hope I never have to use him again but if need be, he’s the man.
He has went above and beyond in my case, as cliche as that sounds, the statement has never rang more true for me, than me saying that now.
A true man for what’s right, and I believe that in my heart of hearts.
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10 May, 2023 by Fabiola banda
03 Jun, 2024 by Robyn richardson
My mother used this attorney for a family matter not only did he fail to properly represent her, he made several seedy attempts to be inappropriate. When my mother denied his advances her became careless working on her case. She lost her home and thousands of dollars as a result. Don’t trust him.
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05 Jan, 2024 by Derek ulrich
Mr. Mason is one of the most personable lawyers I’ve had the pleasure of speaking with, I hope I never have to use him again but if need be, he’s the man.
He has went above and beyond in my case, as cliche as that sounds, the statement has never rang more true for me, than me saying that now.
A true man for what’s right, and I believe that in my heart of hearts.
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10 May, 2023 by Fabiola banda
03 Jun, 2024 by Robyn richardson
My mother used this attorney for a family matter not only did he fail to properly represent her, he made several seedy attempts to be inappropriate. When my mother denied his advances her became careless working on her case. She lost her home and thousands of dollars as a result. Don’t trust him.
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05 Jan, 2024 by Derek ulrich
Mr. Mason is one of the most personable lawyers I’ve had the pleasure of speaking with, I hope I never have to use him again but if need be, he’s the man.
He has went above and beyond in my case, as cliche as that sounds, the statement has never rang more true for me, than me saying that now.
A true man for what’s right, and I believe that in my heart of hearts.
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10 May, 2023 by Fabiola banda
03 Jun, 2024 by Robyn richardson
My mother used this attorney for a family matter not only did he fail to properly represent her, he made several seedy attempts to be inappropriate. When my mother denied his advances her became careless working on her case. She lost her home and thousands of dollars as a result. Don’t trust him.
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05 Jan, 2024 by Derek ulrich
Mr. Mason is one of the most personable lawyers I’ve had the pleasure of speaking with, I hope I never have to use him again but if need be, he’s the man.
He has went above and beyond in my case, as cliche as that sounds, the statement has never rang more true for me, than me saying that now.
A true man for what’s right, and I believe that in my heart of hearts.
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10 May, 2023 by Fabiola banda
03 Jun, 2024 by Robyn richardson
My mother used this attorney for a family matter not only did he fail to properly represent her, he made several seedy attempts to be inappropriate. When my mother denied his advances her became careless working on her case. She lost her home and thousands of dollars as a result. Don’t trust him.
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05 Jan, 2024 by Derek ulrich
Mr. Mason is one of the most personable lawyers I’ve had the pleasure of speaking with, I hope I never have to use him again but if need be, he’s the man.
He has went above and beyond in my case, as cliche as that sounds, the statement has never rang more true for me, than me saying that now.
A true man for what’s right, and I believe that in my heart of hearts.
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10 May, 2023 by Fabiola banda
03 Jun, 2024 by Robyn richardson
My mother used this attorney for a family matter not only did he fail to properly represent her, he made several seedy attempts to be inappropriate. When my mother denied his advances her became careless working on her case. She lost her home and thousands of dollars as a result. Don’t trust him.
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05 Jan, 2024 by Derek ulrich
Mr. Mason is one of the most personable lawyers I’ve had the pleasure of speaking with, I hope I never have to use him again but if need be, he’s the man.
He has went above and beyond in my case, as cliche as that sounds, the statement has never rang more true for me, than me saying that now.
A true man for what’s right, and I believe that in my heart of hearts.
Read more
10 May, 2023 by Fabiola banda
03 Jun, 2024 by Robyn richardson
My mother used this attorney for a family matter not only did he fail to properly represent her, he made several seedy attempts to be inappropriate. When my mother denied his advances her became careless working on her case. She lost her home and thousands of dollars as a result. Don’t trust him.
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05 Jan, 2024 by Derek ulrich
Mr. Mason is one of the most personable lawyers I’ve had the pleasure of speaking with, I hope I never have to use him again but if need be, he’s the man.
He has went above and beyond in my case, as cliche as that sounds, the statement has never rang more true for me, than me saying that now.
A true man for what’s right, and I believe that in my heart of hearts.
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10 May, 2023 by Fabiola banda
08 Jun, 2023 by Kristi adejumo
They take your $250 deposit making you think you have a case all to tell you that you don’t
as employers in Texas can do whatever they want to employees. Don’t waste your time with a lawyer especially these ones.
They have several offices here in Austin. Dallas and Houston.
Save your money if you live in Texas as we(employees) have no legal rights!!!!
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24 May, 2023 by Mike b
I was next in line but apparently as soon as it's 6pm they just hang up on everyone. Great business tactic.
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02 Feb, 2023 by Paul burnham
Spoke to attorney Jairo. He was informative and asked detailed questions about my concerns. This is the go-to law firm for employment related concerns. They speak Spanish which is a help for my family.
Yes, they charge for the consult, no one should have a problem with this as no one should work for free.
Habló con el abogado Jairo. Fue informativo e hizo preguntas detalladas sobre mis preocupaciones. Este es el bufete de abogados de referencia para las preocupaciones relacionadas con el empleo. Hablan español, lo cual es una ayuda para mi familia.
Sí, cobran por la consulta, nadie debería tener un problema con esto ya que nadie debería trabajar gratis.
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08 Apr, 2024 by Carmen sosa
Horrible I talked to a "specialist" and she was rude and vile Monday April 8 at 11.00 . She didn't even let me talk sadly Texas is going downhill
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29 Mar, 2024 by Mike mendoza
The fact this business is supported through extortion and unlawful acts that are considered crimes because they are at work forcing people to pay their way through life so they don’t have to actually work is a complete crime against our gos given rights. Don’t pay but make sure to send notarized and certified mail asking why they think it’s okay to take our god given rights away so they don’t have to actually work. Ask them why they think it’s okay to enslave us through policies and take the rights gave you away. Supreme law of the land already determined this business is not conducting itself in a manner that states our children are not the beneficiary as they should be. We are the beneficiaries and they are the trustees.
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21 Mar, 2024 by Ky'essence cox
Most unsupported people I have ever contacted. Seems like everyone hates their jobs and maybe lives too
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07 Jul, 2017 by Amber
Robert was referred to me by my sister, but despite the bad reviews I read about him I gave it a try. I should've passed on this man as my representation. I sent him email after email of information involving my case...not once did he respond or assure me whether things were in our favor or not. I emailed Robert at least 3 weeks before my hearing asking him when would he like to meet. He did not respond until the last week before the hearing. This was the weekend of my daughter's birthday which happened to be on the day of my hearing....It was also the weekend of Father's Day. I suggested we meet Saturday/Sunday morning because I had no time from work and had plans for my daughter in the afternoon. Robert demanded Saturday afternoon because he had Father's day plans. Because we could not come to an agreement he withdrew from my case. He may be knowledgeable and aggressive in the courtroom, but his client relations could use some serious conditioning.
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30 Mar, 2016 by Michelle
I was a client, what should have been easy as I provided all discovery- wasn't! if he reviewed it, he wouldn't have had to ask the same questions in the documents. Ate up my retainer by not responding, or making comments for me not to worry. Was rude and loud. Didn't finish the job as he had no idea where to look for documents nor called company for pension or correct asset forms. Didn't finish didn't give me back correct amount for my retainer. Don't waste your money or energy- or be prepared to do your own follow up, and waste ALOT of your time and money
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26 Jun, 2014 by Swank
Robert handled my divorce to it's conclusion, and did an EXCELLENT JOB!
Unfortunately for me, I didn't listen to his counsel, and ended up with a worse settlement than I could have had.
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21 Mar, 2019 by Anonymous
I highly recommend you use any other attorney than this one! I hired him to do a contract. He advised that “his” contract offers the most protection. Dead wrong! His contract put me in a vulnerable situation where I will be sued due to lack of knowledge in law. I am still waiting for my file from this attorney. Three weeks ago I sent a certified letter asking for it as well as emails, phone calls. Nothing. I have no idea what has been done on this case
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20 Mar, 2019 by Anonymous
I hired this attorney to draw up a contract to offer protection. He did the opposite and drew up a contract that violated Texas Code. After the other party threatened to sue us when this attorney only offered free legal services. What good is that when the services I paid for are proven to be poor. I experienced awful communication with this attorney to the point that his father finally stepped in.
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19 Mar, 2019 by Anonymous
This attorney was difficult to work with because he never returned calls or emails. He was hired to draw up a real estate contract which he emailed me confirming he could do. After the fact is when I found out that his “area of expertise” is not even in real estate. Probably why the contract I paid for that he drew up violates Texas Code and now we have been sent a demand letter from the other party. I would not recommend this attorney if the firm he works for.
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27 May, 2024 by Kelly jones
International "legal giant" Holland Knight has continuously refused to provide my legal files while abetting Alex "Sandy Hook" Jones's ongoing conspiracy with their former law partner Eric Taube whom they continued to advertise as a "trusted advisor" while having transcripts of Taube's inconsistent sworn statements/perjury in the hearing on my Motion to Disqualify in in U.S. Bankruptcy Court (Tex. W. D. Bank. 20-10118) when he appeared directly adverse to my interests (while concurrently representing me in ravis Co. TX Case No. D-1-GN-07-000618), which he directly countermanded when impeached in Travis Co. TX Case No. D-1-GN-18-001610, admitting that he did represent me. This fraud is not just bad for me, but it involves property that Taube conspiratorially formed in breaches of duty to me and to the entities he advised me to form, one of which he represented (without waiver or disclosure of conflict of interest (Free Speech Systems, LLC)) with Alex Jones, David Jones, and Carol Jones, whose tortious interference, fiduciary breaches, fraudulent transfers and fraud have been ongoing for over ten years. Holland Knight is based in the UK and its intentional bad acts of its and its Deputy Counsel's actual knowledge are contributory to alleged ongoing bankruptcy fraud in Tex. S. D. Bank. 22-33543. Contact me, FBI, DOJ, - Kelly Morales P/K/A Kelly Jones. I would not say these things about a massive international law firm if I could not prove it (very easily). Texas AG, Holland Knight has abetted the alleged falsification of government documents of its knowledge and fraud on the US Bankruptcy Court. Please contact me and please pursue all necessary temporary and permanent iinjunctive relieve to protect Texans from Holland Knight. The property that has been continuously defrauded of me and of the entities in which I hold interest has constituted hundreds of millions of dollars made without authority by copyright and trademark infringement, at best (and alleged copyright counterfeit, among other things.)
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25 Aug, 2023 by Gio guzman
This Attorney Neil Meinzer that works at this firm . Is a complete jerk. And unprofessional. He laughed in my face after driving three times to his office from Houston. To collect a settlement check . He abused his power as attorney and humiliated me . I will be filing a complaint with the bar . I don’t recommend this firm.
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27 May, 2024 by Kelly jones
International "legal giant" Holland Knight has continuously refused to provide my legal files while abetting Alex "Sandy Hook" Jones's ongoing conspiracy with their former law partner Eric Taube whom they continued to advertise as a "trusted advisor" while having transcripts of Taube's inconsistent sworn statements/perjury in the hearing on my Motion to Disqualify in in U.S. Bankruptcy Court (Tex. W. D. Bank. 20-10118) when he appeared directly adverse to my interests (while concurrently representing me in ravis Co. TX Case No. D-1-GN-07-000618), which he directly countermanded when impeached in Travis Co. TX Case No. D-1-GN-18-001610, admitting that he did represent me. This fraud is not just bad for me, but it involves property that Taube conspiratorially formed in breaches of duty to me and to the entities he advised me to form, one of which he represented (without waiver or disclosure of conflict of interest (Free Speech Systems, LLC)) with Alex Jones, David Jones, and Carol Jones, whose tortious interference, fiduciary breaches, fraudulent transfers and fraud have been ongoing for over ten years. Holland Knight is based in the UK and its intentional bad acts of its and its Deputy Counsel's actual knowledge are contributory to alleged ongoing bankruptcy fraud in Tex. S. D. Bank. 22-33543. Contact me, FBI, DOJ, - Kelly Morales P/K/A Kelly Jones. I would not say these things about a massive international law firm if I could not prove it (very easily). Texas AG, Holland Knight has abetted the alleged falsification of government documents of its knowledge and fraud on the US Bankruptcy Court. Please contact me and please pursue all necessary temporary and permanent iinjunctive relieve to protect Texans from Holland Knight. The property that has been continuously defrauded of me and of the entities in which I hold interest has constituted hundreds of millions of dollars made without authority by copyright and trademark infringement, at best (and alleged copyright counterfeit, among other things.)
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25 Aug, 2023 by Gio guzman
This Attorney Neil Meinzer that works at this firm . Is a complete jerk. And unprofessional. He laughed in my face after driving three times to his office from Houston. To collect a settlement check . He abused his power as attorney and humiliated me . I will be filing a complaint with the bar . I don’t recommend this firm.
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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.
