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07 Oct, 2024 by David
John has represent me in criminal and civil matters over the last 22 years. He is an honest guy who does a great job.
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13 Jun, 2016 by Anonymous
I found myself in unexpected trouble and was paralyzed with fear of the unknown. I met with Mr. Carsey and he helped settle my mind about the process and possible outcome. I expected that meeting with an attorney would be rigid and dry, but John was very comforting and clearly cared about the outcome of my case. It was nice to know that I wasn't just a file that was being shuffled around the legal system, I actually had a lawyer who cared personally about the outcome and fought for a better than expected outcome.
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16 Dec, 2015 by Anonymous
Mr Carsey represented me in a DWI case and was able to have the charge dismissed. He later had the arrest expunged. He is a careful listener to his clients and understands the Travis County legal system extremely well. He is quite approachable and very easy to work with.
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08 Mar, 2019 by Susie
Russell Frost made our estate planning process a breeze. We were very nervous about it, but Russell made everything so easy to understand. The process was very smooth thanks to his experience and professionalism. We will definitely use him for all our future needs.
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15 Jun, 2018 by Anonymous
I was referred to and hired Russell and his firm to assist a client of mine with a business matter that required local Texas counsel. Russell's work was professional, dead-on responsive and extremely efficient. It was easy to tell he's well versed in the state business requirements and easy to tell he's part of an efficiently run firm. I will definitely hire Russell and his firm again when I have a need for local Texas counsel.
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21 Jun, 2015 by Kristina
Russell was everything we wanted in a lawyer! He made our estate planning process simple, seamless, and easy to understand. He works quickly and efficiently, yet still makes all correspondence feel personal and unrushed. A perfect combination of friendliness and professionalism. We will definitely be returning customers for any legal issues in the future. Thanks Russell!!
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17 Dec, 2018 by Anonymous
Very Stressful Marriage. Taylor handled the divorce process very smoothly. I am very satisfied with the service he provided.
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06 Dec, 2018 by Katie
Taylor was absolutely top notch! He was always so thorough, personable, and professional. I felt like he was on my side 100%. I would absolutely recommend his services.
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23 Aug, 2018 by Matthew
Dealing with a post divorce child custody suit, I was very pleased with the team of Jim and Taylor through Walters Gilbreath. Taylor provided excellent feedback, and communication throughout, and made sure that I could understand what everything meant, and what it meant to me. He made sure that I had a very realistic and accurate outlook at how the case would develop and an accurate prediction of the conclusion. This is something that I had not had during the divorce process with other representation, and it made all the difference in how I felt about the outcome of this case. I would absolutely recommend Taylor as solid and dependable representation in family law cases, and can speak to the hard work he puts into it.
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19 Jun, 2020 by Boston c
24 Feb, 2020 by Colter williamson
I am a local business owner and Brent has done a great job helping me with my taxes over the last 3 years. He is very knowledgeable concerning write offs and is not afraid to put in the time and research to do something creative/ financially prudent. Highly recommend!
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17 May, 2018 by Gary griffin
09 Jul, 2021 by Jeb buie
14 Jan, 2021 by Josh buie
I work i.t for this company and everyone always has a smile for me when I show up.
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28 Aug, 2020 by M b
19 Jan, 2017 by Claire
I hired Neema Amini to assist me with a complicated and contentious contract dispute. In our initial consultation it was clear to me I had found my advocate. He was able to quickly assess my situation and develop an effective action plan which we used to come to a resolution. The negotiations took time but he was patient and diligent in ensuring I received a fair settlement.
Neema Amini provided me with professional and courteous representation so I was not taken advantage of. I would highly recommend him if you need representation.
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25 Mar, 2014 by Henry
Mr. Amini (though he would insist I call him Neema) is an aggressive and reasonable attorney. By that i mean he has no problems going toe-to-toe with opposing counsel and seems to be downright, coldly comfortable when things get heated. But he is reasonable too, does not lose sight of what the other side might be thinking, and seems to be concerned more with solving your problem than dragging out a case and billing for it.
I hired Mr. Amini because of a dispute with a business partner of 20 years. While we never had any conflicts before, suddenly all we had were conflicts and because we did business on a handshake basis, we did not have documentation for most of our agreements. While Mr. Amini explained I should get everything in writing in the future, he was able to establish the existence of previously denied agreements when grilling my partner in deposition.
Once we had done that, we were in a much better place to settle, and Mr. Amini explained that while we could possibly get more money if we pushed on further, I would end up spending most of that on increased legal fees, and so he suggested I consider settling. I was originally pretty emotional and wanted to go for the win, but I was surprised Mr. Amini suggested something which would mean less legal fees for him. So I discussed it with my wife, we agreed that we would be better off settling and so we did. He negotiated a great settlement for me and my company and now I turn to Mr. Amini for any legal questions I have. I feel like I have found my attorney for life.
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13 Jun, 2013 by Alan
I hired Mr. Amini for two cases, the first one somewhat involved and the second relatively simple.
In the first case, which went to trial, Mr. Amini was brilliant with his closing argument. We being the Plaintiff, I expected opposing counsel to speak last, but the judge surprised me by giving us the opportunity for a rebuttal. If Mr. Amini was surprised, he didn't show it, doing a great job with the rebuttal as well.
We won the case. Mr. Amini's preparation complemented his abilities, even working through a holiday the day before trial. I think he really enjoys winning.
As I said, the second case was relatively simple, but it was more important to me and needed to be dealt with quickly (in about a day). I don't know what Mr. Amini had on his calendar when I called, but he was able to work it in and scale back his approach to what was appropriate. Another thing to consider was that the "opposition" was not hostile and could be trusted. Mr. Amini was able to provide reasonable advice, represent me and get what I wanted without alienating anyone.
I feel like I made a new friend. This is just a great guy to have on your side. But look at that photo. Look at that Spock-like exterior. That's what he's like in person when he's working on your case. He's all business, not someone you would want to go up against.
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14 Apr, 2015 by Diana
Rola is excellent! She is smart, on point, concise, detailed, incredibly knowledgeable, very persuasive, tough, and exactly the type of person we needed on our side!
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09 Apr, 2015 by Denele
Rola managed herself well in some very difficult situations when emotions run high.
She remained reasonable and focus even when others were trying to cause issues.
I was able to reach as needed even when she was traveling and during the holidays.
She is very good at what she does and I would recommend her.
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06 Apr, 2015 by Richard
Rola, I would like to take this opportunity to thank you for your professional services, outstanding legal, and personal advice at a time of my life when I needed it the most. Mine was a case with a landlord in which I felt that I was being backed into a corner without any options. I'm completely satisfied with the outcome of my case. During the entire process I never had any doubts that things wouldn't turn out all right and I credit that to you and your determination. I am deeply grateful for all of your time and efforts. Thank you for what I feel was going above and beyond and most importantly caring.
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05 Mar, 2020 by Alicia
Mr. Sessums got us the legal and emotional closure we needed. He went above and beyond by taking the time to find and provide answers to all our questions in a way that we could understand. He did amazing research and found answers we didnt even know to ask the questions about. He always had a positive attitude that kept us going through a difficult situation. The outcome he got was beyond what we had ever hoped for! I strongly recommend him for all your real estate related needs!
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13 Sep, 2017 by Luis ortega
I am a corporate landlord owner. I was presented with a discrimination complaint from a tenant to avoid eviction for nonpayment. I was not aware of the seriousness of this complaint until my banker overheard my conversation and she suggested immediate legal representation. I contacted Mark with very little time to prepare. He was able to delay a site visit and prepare enough documentation to get the matter dismissed with no fault.. Thank You Mark,
You will continue to be my only legal representation
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12 Dec, 2016 by Arthur
I am a Senior Claims Manager for a roofing company. Mark was actually a client that I provided a roof for.
I had an ongoing Child Support issue. Once I found out he was a Lawyer I asked him for advice. At that time my legal issue weren't as serious. He gave me good advice free of charge. But a short time after, I was in a situation that took a nasty turn.
The Attorney General's Office had set my child support at a fair rate, I thought... I was told we would have to come back because the mother wanted legal advice... when we returned, what was originally agreed upon, dramatically changed... I was facing the Judge. Instead of the attorney who was just used as a negotiator the other times I went there... from what they were telling me, it was sounding like I was going to be paying possibly double to tripe what was originally agreed upon. This would have had me deep in debt and most likely ended me up in jail, as it truly wasn't fair legally to my actual income.
At this point I knew I needed a lawyer. Mark was the first person I thought of.
Mark has a great approach of trying to avoid the courtroom, if possible. Although we did have to go into the court house, Mark had turned all my anxiety into relief very quickly.
Days before my court date, with very little notice or much time for Mark to work with, outside of the courtroom, Mark was able to negotiate... First, with the Lead Attorney, at the Attorney General's Office, and then with the mother.
He not only negotiated a fair and reasonable child support for me, he negotiated it in a way that totally satisfied the mother as well.
Mark's price was fair too! He also has really worked with me on payment, because I was already in a pretty tough financial situation.
Mark provided me with much needed relief and total satisfaction! He also is a great guy and easy to work with, which is an added plus.
I would strongly recommend him!
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07 Apr, 2019 by Faye
I wanted to express my gratitude and appreciation for the superb legal work and representation I received from the attorneys and staff at the TROILO LAW FIRM. I was nervous about my court case; yet their preparation and depth of knowledge about housing contracts and real estate litigation put me at ease, and made things go smoothly with the Judge. The outcome was very favorable, even better than I expected. I have worked with attorneys in the past, but none with the professionalism and dedication of Mr. Troilo and his team. I highly recommend them.
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31 Jan, 2011 by Jeff
I am an attorney in the Austin area and I have known Arthur for several years. I have referred several of my own clients and contacts to him during that time, and they always report back positively about the responsiveness, knowledgeability and character of Arthur. I have also contacted him lawyer-to-lawyer to ask questions related to his areas of practice, and he has always been helpful and knowledgeable. I will continue to refer people to him long into the future.
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30 Jan, 2011 by Pam
Arthur Triolo and his staff, especially Heather, took a difficult situation and handled it with great expertise. He is both compassionate and passionate about his work. We won the case, and then they wanted to appeal. I was presented with options and advice, and by following his advise, the case was dropped. I was totally taken care of. He is as good as any lawyer can be.
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15 Jan, 2015 by Siddharth
I had approached Blake post getting into a serious automobile accident. Given my injuries, and the fact that my family had to be with me all the time, none of us had the mental space or time to handle the interaction with different Legal agencies, Insurance Agencies, the hospital legal staff etc. Blake took over all those responsibilities and I have never had to worry about anything over the past year. Here are a few things I really liked about him.
1. Regular follow ups with all involved parties.
2. Regular updates to me with appropriate clear cut advice on the options we had.
3. Always available to answer queries and willingness to explain the details.
I would highly recommend Blake.
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15 Jan, 2015 by Siddharth
I had approached Blake post getting into a serious automobile accident. Given my injuries, and the fact that my family had to be with me all the time, none of us had the mental space or time to handle the interaction with different Legal agencies, Insurance Agencies, the hospital legal staff etc. Blake took over all those responsibilities and I have never had to worry about anything over the past year. Here are a few things I really liked about him.
1. Regular follow ups with all involved parties.
2. Regular updates to me with appropriate clear cut advice on the options we had.
3. Always available to answer queries and willingness to explain the details.
I would highly recommend Blake.
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09 May, 2014 by Lynn
I hired Blake Erskine to represent me in a personal injury lawsuit. I am very happy with the work he did for me. He did everything possible to prepare my case for trial. He hired highly respected expert witnesses. He had extensive testing done on the evidence by a qualified lab. Detailed analysis of the results by experts supported my case. Blake is very competent, hard working and a really nice guy. I highly recommend him.
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16 Mar, 2022 by Anonymous
Mr. Ardalan is an excellent lawyer who took the time to understand a complex scenario. He then provided a thorough explanation of what might happen and any applicable laws. I would definitely speak with him again in the future.
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19 Jan, 2021 by Anonymous
Ard is a top notch professional. He was very personable and there to have my back through my situation. Thanks!!
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09 Dec, 2019 by Ray rios
I was represented better than I could have ever imagined. My needs were put first and were treated as a friend rather than a number. My opinions were valued and my doubts were always reassured. My nerves were calmed and the process was always explained. My attorney and his associate Ard Ardalan fought hard for me. They went above and beyond and did everything he could to ensure a great outcome. I couldn't have asked for a better law firm or attorney. Thanks guys!!!
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24 Mar, 2013 by Connie melton kresak
Yes, I needed some legal advice and he provided what I needed. I had to clarify an item I had asked about, but it was answered promptly.
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26 Nov, 2012 by Sabrina
Very informative, quick to respond to all my questions. Answers were thorough.
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25 Oct, 2012 by Anonymous
Mr. Fortenberry advised me on my options for contesting a will and estate. He took his time to explain the process and my rights to the point that I could make a confident decision on how I wanted to proceed. He gave me advice to help me along in the process. He was very professional, and knowledgeable.
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12 Jul, 2017 by Susan
Excellent Attorney! Made a very stressful situation much easier to deal with. He explained the process and used sources to my advantage to keep my cost to a minimum. I would recommend him to anyone facing litigation!
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25 May, 2017 by Teresa
Was retained to represent an insured for insurance defense. Case is still pending. He is extremely responsive, pro-active and knowledgeable. He is our top choice for insurance defense in the area of construction litigation for this location.
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31 Mar, 2017 by Terry weber
my case took 3 years. Arva and the entire staff always calmed me telling me we had the truth. I was always kept informed of events. I always knew we had only a minor accident, but OTHER attorneys were ambulance chasers. Melissa White and Arva Renya took it to another level. they had to protect me and my company. They worked LATE into the night, skip lunch on trial days, never seen any team work so well together. I will never forget these mighty women, and hope there company won't. If you need a lawyer Please check this group out
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15 Dec, 2022 by Robert cotton
Not really nice people.
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18 May, 2022 by Gary nijak
Great lawyers, especially Jeff Racho and Peter Cesaro
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14 Sep, 2017 by Jim totten
19 Mar, 2014 by Fengwei
Benjiamin is one of the best lawyer in the United States. He is very knowledgeable and helpful for my green card application. whenever I had a question about my application process, he usually replied me very fast and made sure everything in my green card application is ok. I strongly recommend Benjiamin to be your lawyer.
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19 Mar, 2014 by Dario / eric
Benjamin is such a professional lawyer who made our immigration journey so easy. He was very helpful all the time. He always answer the phone for our questions and supported us when needed. We are so glad the we selected the right person for our case.
We highly recommend Benjamin as an attorney.
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04 Oct, 2013 by Anonymous
Ben is awesome!! He handled our same sex immigration case. We got approved. He was always reachable and patiently answered all of our questions. He reviewed our documents prior to our interview. His presence during the interview was very reassuring. I highly recommend him.
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06 Jun, 2024 by Andrew yoder
One of the most prominent law firms in Texas, and a nationally known Big Law firm with offices globally.
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23 Sep, 2019 by Shannon roper
02 May, 2018 by Joseph washington
16 Feb, 2024 by Hunter armstrong
Mr. Cartwright was knowledgeable and helpful. He profoundly impacted the trajectory of my life in a positive way. Highly recommend.
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08 Jun, 2021 by Karen medearis
06 Dec, 2020 by Charles merlot
I have never dealt with such an excellent practice in all of my business dealings. Cannot recommend enough for anything in business law, especially construction law.
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06 Jun, 2024 by Andrew yoder
One of the most prominent law firms in Texas, and a nationally known Big Law firm with offices globally.
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23 Sep, 2019 by Shannon roper
02 May, 2018 by Joseph washington
28 Dec, 2022 by Barrett shepherd
My company has worked with various attorneys, especially as we've grown. With that, our needs have increased, and we were fortunate to have been referred to Matt Wood from Weisbart Springer Hayes, LLP. It's been great working with Matt, and he's been a tremendous resource for us. I can't say enough positive things about both this firm and Matt.
I highly recommend them!
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16 Oct, 2020 by Charles haefner
Julie Springer has been a huge help I highly recommend them
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05 Sep, 2019 by Ty voigt
28 Dec, 2022 by Barrett shepherd
My company has worked with various attorneys, especially as we've grown. With that, our needs have increased, and we were fortunate to have been referred to Matt Wood from Weisbart Springer Hayes, LLP. It's been great working with Matt, and he's been a tremendous resource for us. I can't say enough positive things about both this firm and Matt.
I highly recommend them!
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16 Oct, 2020 by Charles haefner
Julie Springer has been a huge help I highly recommend them
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05 Sep, 2019 by Ty voigt
06 Jun, 2024 by Andrew yoder
One of the most prominent law firms in Texas, and a nationally known Big Law firm with offices globally.
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23 Sep, 2019 by Shannon roper
02 May, 2018 by Joseph washington
21 Sep, 2023 by Jack
Jason is handled a number of matters for us over the past 5 years including residential and commercial leases, partnership, corporate, and LLC formation, Small Claims Court, District Court litigation, and various other matters. He is personable and brings gets things done on time at reasonable cost. Highly recommended!
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28 Jun, 2023 by Paul
Jason and his team have been great to communicate the right expectations and deliver a service that has helped my business and its legal needs. I go to him for all of my legal needs and curiosity, he's a great resource. Highly recommend!
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28 Aug, 2018 by Sam
Jason represented me in a real estate transaction between myself and another investor. It was an amicable transaction, utilizing seller financing. Jason reviewed the deeds and drafted language for my protection in a timely manner.
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06 Jun, 2024 by Andrew yoder
One of the most prominent law firms in Texas, and a nationally known Big Law firm with offices globally.
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23 Sep, 2019 by Shannon roper
02 May, 2018 by Joseph washington
06 Jun, 2024 by Andrew yoder
One of the most prominent law firms in Texas, and a nationally known Big Law firm with offices globally.
Read more
23 Sep, 2019 by Shannon roper
02 May, 2018 by Joseph washington
15 Dec, 2022 by Robert cotton
Not really nice people.
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18 May, 2022 by Gary nijak
Great lawyers, especially Jeff Racho and Peter Cesaro
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14 Sep, 2017 by Jim totten
15 Dec, 2022 by Robert cotton
Not really nice people.
Read more
18 May, 2022 by Gary nijak
Great lawyers, especially Jeff Racho and Peter Cesaro
Read more
14 Sep, 2017 by Jim totten
15 Dec, 2022 by Robert cotton
Not really nice people.
Read more
18 May, 2022 by Gary nijak
Great lawyers, especially Jeff Racho and Peter Cesaro
Read more
14 Sep, 2017 by Jim totten
15 Jul, 2018 by Jasmina
David was recommended to myself by a physician I was worked with. David and his firm were very pleasant to work with. I was in a horrible car accident a few years ago. His office staff is very professional. Griselda is very knowledgeable and very professional and she gets things done. David got me the settlement I deserved. Since my accident I have had multiple family members that have used David for their representation and have had a GREAT settlement . If you need a very professional and knowledgeable lawyer David Wenholz is your lawyer.
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02 Aug, 2017 by Stephanie walsh
Wenholz Law Firm handled our home insurance case. They quickly and efficiently mediated a settlement on our behalf that we felt was fair and we were greatly satisfied with the end result. David and his team were professional, knowledgable and we enjoyed working with them...would highly recommend!
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07 May, 2011 by Rickye
If you're looking for honesty, integrity, know how and loyalty David Wenholz is the guy. He has a very good supporting cast with the same qualities, you will never be treated as if your case is any less important than any other of his cases. Good job Dave keep up the good work.
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05 May, 2017 by Anonymous
Jim stepped in and took control of our lawsuit after other attorneys failed to resolve it. He cut through the fog and skillfully maneuvered to turn a complicated multi-year battle into a well-organized, step-by-step victory. Jim is a brilliant and creative thinker, often bringing levity to an otherwise challenging situation. He has my highest possible recommendation!
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25 Apr, 2017 by Joni
Jim Richardson is impeccable in his timeliness, method of communication, and knowledge of the law, he made me feel like I am a family member. The personal attention, unwavering support, guidance and passion to protect my rights was far and above anything I expected. Jim is a three-time "Best Lawyer" award winner for good reason. He is a brilliant lawyer, a man of integrity and a truly fine human being. I would not even consider using anyone else and have referred him many times to my peers.
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12 Mar, 2010 by Anonymous
Jim Richardson has our very highest recommendation! We have worked with many attorneys over the years but Jim is by far the best. A Board Certified trial attorney, Jim was able to win our case while keeping us fully informed every step of the way. He is a consummate professional, has an outstanding reputation with the judiciary and fellow lawyers, and gets the job done quickly and efficiently! Clearly a "Super Lawyer" -- a 10 on a 10 point scale!
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27 Apr, 2015 by Morgan
Phyllis Blees is a brilliant lawyer! Phyllis created a 501-c-3 tax exempt school, the non-profit arm of my math consulting business. She guided me through the complicated legal process of establishing the non-profit entity, clearly explaining every step of the process. I was grateful to have someone taking care of the nuts and bolts of getting everything filed in a timely manner and communicating the legal requirements in a way that a non-lawyer can easily understand . I'd highly recommend Phyllis. She's highly knowledgeable, responsive and a true professional.
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12 Mar, 2015 by Carol
Ms.Blees is well known among her clients and peers for her consistently high standards as a lawyer. She has helped me on several projects and issues over the years including corporate matters, personnel management and other law and business problems. I have been so impressed by her level of commitment and focus to any challenge no matter how small or large. She always brings her powerful skills to the table including; quality and in-depth research, deep and careful analysis, state of the art technical abilities, strong practical sense tempered by integrity and good judgement and persuasive, clear writing skills. She is a passionate speaker who always represents the best interest of her clients. She is generous with her time and her wisdom and tenacious and relentless in the pursuit of a resolution. Ms. Blees has always represented my interests above and beyond my expectations. One could not have better counsel.
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12 Mar, 2015 by Patrick
My opinion is based on many situations, she is professional, thorough and detail oriented, One of the best researchers I've seen. I can count on her to deliver the options and the best choice.
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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.
