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10 Nov, 2019 by Ed
I cannot say enough good things about Piper Thornburgh and the excellent legal work she did for us in a recent real estate transaction. From reviewing and advising us on a real estate sale agreement, to dealing with and quickly resolving an issue with the title company, Piper was great to work with and her advice and work top notch.
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21 Mar, 2019 by Dan
We received a letter from an attorney threatening legal action if we didn’t respond to alleged property line encroachments. We were able to see Piper within a few days. She evaluated our situation and advised us of alternative approaches to minimize costs and take advantage of our long time property ownership. Piper worked closely with us to prepare our case and negotiate a boundary line agreement with the neighboring property owners. She kept us appraised of progress and set a positive tone in working with the attorneys for the neighbors. At all times she was very professional and focused on our best interests. We would recommend her unreservedly.
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28 Jun, 2018 by Jane
Piper provided advice, guidance and support throughout a long process that resulted in the successful transfer of ownership of a small business. This was a complicated transfer and required Piper's expertise and persistence working with me as well as the new owner. She had contacts and knowledge that were invaluable in concluding this transaction.
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23 Nov, 2013 by Julie
If you're looking for a lawyer who knows his stuff and gets to the heart of the matter quickly using the spot-on legal guidance out there, THIS IS YOUR LAWYER! It has been a few years since I needed legal support but Lincoln was responsive, organized and had all the info he needed at his fingertips to guide me through my legal issue. His verbal and written communication skills including editing of my written words is top-notch. I wish he could handle all my legal matters!
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30 Oct, 2012 by Sid
When I recently had some family business and estate planning to do, I engaged Lincoln Miller. The two characteristics I value most in attorneys are competence and trustworthiness. Lincoln has the relatively rare (for attorneys) combination of both. Our circumstances were unusual and a little complicated, but Lincoln grasped our needs and helped us create two revocable trusts and and LLC. His advice was solid, his billing was reasonable and his level of service was exceptional.
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25 Oct, 2012 by Dominic
Lincoln is very professional and a great lawyer. I somehow feel like I am his only client when talking with him - he never says he will have to review my file and get back to me. He can remember the details of my specific situation with great ease. He is also very responsive both via phone and email. I work with him from out of state to help out my father in WA and the distance is not an issue in our communications and he has been very flexible in meeting me when I am in WA. Most importantly, his services are superb and he delivers on everything we have set to do. I'm very confident in Lincoln's abilities. If you are looking for a great lawyer who is also a stand up guy, I'd recommend Lincoln every time.
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08 Oct, 2016 by Chris laverdure
Adam was very helpful assisting me draft a lease for my home. His effort was likely worth more than what I paid for it. I will use his services in the future.
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09 Jun, 2013 by Anonymous
I am a Real Estate broker and have been fortunate to have had Adam Morrow review some of the challenging contracts that banks are now writing. With a lot of properties being short sales and bank owned property it is imperative to have an attorney review the paperwork. Banks are writing contracts that are very one sided and Adam is very patient in explaining to potential buyers their risks, and often has been fortunate to have changed some of the language on the contract to protect the buyer. Along with Adam's integrity, thoroughness, and compassion, Adam has a great sense of humor and can often relieve some of the tension with his witty sense of humor. If you have any challenging situations in Real Estate I would recommend highly in contacting Adam. He will be able to give you some good advise.
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13 May, 2013 by Anonymous
Adam Morrow made my experience with the legal system stress-free . He was available to answer my layman's questions clearly and always responded in a timely fashion. Adam was very knowledgable about the medical implications of my injuries and was able to secure a fair settlement to compensate for my damages. I felt Adam was very efficient and organized in settling my case that involved two defendants. I would refer Adam Morrow to anyone needing an excellent litigator.
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09 Feb, 2023 by Erin lewis
Excellent work. Leigh is always thoughtful and thorough in our conversations.
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08 Apr, 2021 by Kimberly martin
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04 Jul, 2019 by Dan grady
I very much recommend working with Leigh Noffsinger, JD, if you are in search of a family law expert who approaches each situation with clear goals and no nonsense, and with a strong mix of compassion in working toward collaborative resolutions. My experience in working with her was via the collaborative divorce process, and it was the best experience in what is always a tough situation. I'd refer any potential client to her practice and hold her work in the highest regards.
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29 Feb, 2012 by Jack
I had a real tough case with very little time for discovery. Hayes did an outstanding job with what he had to work with and definately gave it his all! Too bad we did not have adequate time for arbitration and we couldn't proove our adversary was lying because we would have done even better. He was definately very very focused, well spoken, responsible and tracked this case with zeal and determination. I would definately us him again as I have hired many attorneys in my career and Hayes is top notch. Thank you Hayes!!!!
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22 Oct, 2020 by Susan rauch
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22 Oct, 2020 by Ruthie calucin
Mike Klein is an awesome bankruptcy attorney! He helped me and my husband with our options with debt consolidation and filing for bankruptcy. Mike was great to work and we would highly recommend him!
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22 Oct, 2020 by Kat gilmore
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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:

  1. What experience do you have with real estate law?
    Ensure the lawyer has experience in the type of real estate transaction or dispute you’re facing, whether residential, commercial, or development-related.
  2. What is your fee structure?
    Ask how the lawyer charges for services - whether it's a flat fee, hourly rate, or retainer - so there are no surprises later on.
  3. How long will the process take?
    Especially important for real estate transactions or disputes with deadlines, ask for a general estimate of how long the process will last.
  4. Have you handled cases similar to mine?
    Experience with similar transactions or disputes can give you confidence that the lawyer knows how to handle your case.
  5. Will you handle my case personally, or will it be passed to another attorney?
    Confirm who will be handling the bulk of your case work, especially in larger firms where junior lawyers may take on some responsibilities.
  6. Can you provide references?
    Speaking with past clients can give you insight into the lawyer's experience and how they handle cases.

How to Check the Credibility of a Real Estate Lawyer

To ensure you’re hiring a reputable real estate lawyer, take these steps:

  • Check with the state bar association: Verify that the lawyer is licensed and in good standing with no disciplinary actions on their record.
  • Read online reviews and testimonials: Look for reviews on legal directories and platforms like Avvo or Martindale-Hubbell to see what past clients have said.
  • Ask for references: A credible lawyer should have past clients willing to share their experiences.
  • Review their track record and expertise: Look at the lawyer’s website or LinkedIn profile for information about their experience in real estate law and any relevant cases they’ve handled.
  • Membership in professional organizations: Lawyers who are members of respected legal or real estate organizations, like the American Bar Association’s Real Property Division, often signal credibility and expertise.

What Should I Prepare for My First Consultation?

To make your first meeting with a real estate lawyer productive, you should prepare the following materials:

  • Relevant property documents: Bring purchase agreements, lease contracts, mortgage documents, zoning permits, or any other paperwork related to your case.
  • A summary of the issue or transaction: Be ready to explain the situation, whether it's a property dispute, contract negotiation, or development issue.
  • Questions about the legal process: Prepare a list of questions about how the lawyer will handle your case and what steps are involved.
  • Financial documents or loan agreements: If the case involves financing or a mortgage, bring any related documents for the lawyer to review.
  • Your goals and timeline: Be clear about what outcome you're hoping for, and if there are any deadlines that need to be considered, such as closing dates or legal filings.

By coming prepared, you can ensure that your consultation is efficient and informative, allowing you to assess whether the lawyer is the right fit for your real estate needs.

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