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13 Apr, 2024 by Anonymous
Lisa was more than my attorney, she treated me with respect and dignity at one of the lowest times in my life. She handled my case flawlessly, answered all my questions whenever I had them and reassured me through what was a very scary time.
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29 Jan, 2024 by Tammy quichocho
I don't even know where to begin. It's now been a little over a year since my husband and I made the call to Hallaq Law. It was the BEST decision we made and a huge burden was lifted! It was the end of 2022 and we were in so much debt after going from a 2 income household to 1 due to the pandemic. We thought we'd be able to catch up on paying our bills that was accumulated but we were stuck. I vividly remember googling Law Firms in my area and Hallaq Law was at the top of the list. After reading the reviews, my husband and I discussed our options and made the call. It took us a while to finally get the ball rolling, but Brian and Diem walked us through the whole process and was always available when we had questions. It's long over due, but I wanted to THANK Brian and Diem for their guidance during the whole process. Look no further, Brian and Diem are the best and we can't thank them enough.
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23 Dec, 2023 by Jennifer lund
A genuinely good person and an outstanding, highly knowledgable attorney. Brian has your back from the very begining. He is absolutely worth your time, you won’t need another attorney!
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06 Jul, 2024 by Kelsey marx
If you’re looking for a responsive honest hardworking lawyer for your most recent car accident call Mr.Hakimi best lawyer in Bellevue.
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01 Jun, 2024 by Mahnoush shok
This guy is the best accident lawyer I have dealt with hands down. My case was denied by insurance. We went from a full denial to a six figure settlement. He fought every step of the way. Defense lawyer was the biggest jerk I’ve ever seen in my life. Parham didn’t give in one bit. He wrote a demand and gave insurance 10 days to respond. If they didn’t, he said he would not negotiate one bit. Within 10 days, my case settled. I’m so happy to have you as my lawyer and now a friend. Thank you Parham, Roxanne, Jennifer and Bernard.
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10 May, 2024 by Hamidreza mohebbikiabani
They're great personal injury lawyers. Parham fought for me in court for 3 years and resolved it right before trial. I would highly recommend him and his team to anyone who was in a car accident.
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08 Jun, 2019 by Liz vanbemmel
Vicki Orrico at JMMK helped me navigate a street improvement/right of way issue with the city of Kirkland, including reviewing documents and negotiating with the city attorney. She was incredibly responsive and efficient. Thanks to Vicki, we found a solution all parties were happy with for much less money than expected.
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31 Dec, 2017 by Jason r. williams
18 Nov, 2016 by Lori
I've used Doug Scott a couple of times but have referred many people who have always been impresses also. I wouldn't even think of calling anyone else. Extremely professional and incredibly intelligent. Just what you need.
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19 Sep, 2024 by Cameron summers
I have had the chance to be represented by Mrs. Mucklestone on a number of occasions. Every one has had a positive outcome. She and her staff are respectful, super responsive and have given me the piece of mind that I am taken care of through tough situations. I cannot give higher recommendations and honestly, five stars aren’t enough!
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17 Sep, 2024 by Eugene taits (et)
Jeannie handled my traffic ticket. The whole experience was flawless : from submitting documents to getting ticket dismissed in court. Don’t get tickets, but if you do - I highly recommend her service.
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17 Sep, 2024 by John anderson
Ms. Mucklestone was fantastic! She got both of my tickets completely dismissed and was very responsive to any questions I had. I didn’t even have to show up in court. Completely and wholeheartedly recommend!
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12 Oct, 2024 by Lynn nguyen
I received a ticket in Grant County and it was a challenge to locate a firm that would go there.
After reaching out to NW Liberty and speaking with Jorge late in the day on a Friday. I didn’t have to do anything, except provide him the necessary documentation. Throughout the process Christopher kept me updated and explained the process. Both Jorge and Christopher provided excellent service and were very responsive. Today, I received great news that my ticket was dismissed.
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10 Oct, 2024 by Htet lin
Got my ticket resolved without any citations to my record.
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16 Sep, 2024 by Nicholas adams
Used their services for a traffic ticket and it was dismissed! I didn’t have to go to court or provide additional information beyond our first phone call. I was very happy with the outcome and service here, would be happy to work with them again.
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12 Oct, 2024 by Lynn nguyen
I received a ticket in Grant County and it was a challenge to locate a firm that would go there.
After reaching out to NW Liberty and speaking with Jorge late in the day on a Friday. I didn’t have to do anything, except provide him the necessary documentation. Throughout the process Christopher kept me updated and explained the process. Both Jorge and Christopher provided excellent service and were very responsive. Today, I received great news that my ticket was dismissed.
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10 Oct, 2024 by Htet lin
Got my ticket resolved without any citations to my record.
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16 Sep, 2024 by Nicholas adams
Used their services for a traffic ticket and it was dismissed! I didn’t have to go to court or provide additional information beyond our first phone call. I was very happy with the outcome and service here, would be happy to work with them again.
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10 Oct, 2024 by Teo jang
Excellent service! They got my case dismissed quickly and kept me informed throughout. Highly recommend!
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02 Oct, 2024 by Khuzam chaudhry
Awesome experience! Definitely going to contact him again for any legal help!
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11 Sep, 2024 by Rohan shahane
10 Oct, 2024 by Teo jang
Excellent service! They got my case dismissed quickly and kept me informed throughout. Highly recommend!
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02 Oct, 2024 by Khuzam chaudhry
Awesome experience! Definitely going to contact him again for any legal help!
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11 Sep, 2024 by Rohan shahane
10 Oct, 2024 by Teo jang
Excellent service! They got my case dismissed quickly and kept me informed throughout. Highly recommend!
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02 Oct, 2024 by Khuzam chaudhry
Awesome experience! Definitely going to contact him again for any legal help!
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11 Sep, 2024 by Rohan shahane
06 Oct, 2024 by Jodi
Amazing! I hired Len for my brother, he was on his case immediately and got the 2 charges dismissed. Then I hired him, he immediately got my charge dismissed. I definitely recommend him and would hire him if I ever need help.
Thank you Len!
Jodi
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19 Sep, 2024 by Anonymous
Mr. Nahajski is an excellent attorney. He's communicate well, explain each step in detail, and responds to all my questions immediately. I would reccommend Lennard Nahajski to anyone who needs an attorney.
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02 Aug, 2024 by Justeen
Had an excellent experience with Len as my lawyer. Got a ticket for speeding and a criminal citation for driving without a license. He was able to get both issues dismissed and all I had to do was take a driving class. Nothing went on my record or insurance. Couldn’t have asked for a better outcome!
He communicated every step of the way. He thoroughly explained everything, even before I hired him. He had no problem answering every question that I had.
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19 Jan, 2024 by Daniel
Wow! An attorney who is responsive, highly competent, professional, and economical. Doris is a purple unicorn. She helped me with a complex real estate transaction with ease and low cost. If you need a real estate attorney with integrity who knows her stuff, hire Doris.
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24 Nov, 2020 by Maria gonzalez
I am so fortunate to have been represented by Doris in our immigration case. My family went through many complicated steps to achieve my spouses permanent residency. Nevertheless Doris was very meticulous in her work and was prepared for all obstacles. I have a great appreciation for all her knowledge not only in immigration law, but also in real estate law, which was very beneficial to our situation. We have so much gratitude toward Doris for helping us reunite our family. I highly recommend Doris to anyone who needs a lawyer they can trust.
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19 Jul, 2018 by David
Ms. Eslinger helped me with my estate planning documents a few years ago, including a will and power of attorney documents. During our first meeting, she explained about the probate process, we discussed about the appointment of guardians, executors, and trustees for testamentary trusts. She explained that it was not necessary for me to have a living trust even though she could have collected higher fees for a living trust. She was thorough and professional. She recently also updated my documents for me. I highly recommend her service.
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01 Nov, 2021 by Tom
Everything was in place to close on a real estate deal after a group of neighbors had banded together to purchase a collection of vacant lots. But the deal went sideways when the sellers refused to sign/close, and stopped communicating with their agent. We hired Britney to sort out the mess, which she did splendidly and quickly. She expertly and very promptly closed all the exits to protect the parcels from alternate deals and/or disruption (multiple Lis Pendens filings completed within a week of first contacting Britney). Britney's communication was rapid and thorough, and she represented multiple parties in the same action very effectively. Faced with the overwhelmingly strong hand Britney laid on the table, the sellers backed down and agreed to settle/close and pay legal fees. Overall, the closing was delayed 6 weeks, but that's much faster than we feared a legal action might take. The team at Hanson Baker was also a real asset, utilizing Keaton Hille for litigation matters and Cathy Anderson for keeping the wheels rolling. Billing breakdown was very detailed and transparent. I would not hesitate to utilize Britney and the Hanson Baker team again, if unlucky enough to face legal challenges again in the future.
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21 Jun, 2021 by Anonymous
After a few days of searching for the right attorney for our challenge we kept returning to Britney's Firm. They assigned Britney to our case due to her expertise. After our consult we knew that we had a match. Our family found that working with Britney assisted in keeping us up-to-date, informed and willing to explore options wisely. In this case we needed an attorney with business contract and litigation knowledge. This was a particularly sensitive situation. Britney was able to swiftly assist us in resolving our challenge and retrieve money owed. Yes, we would/will absolutely recommend her.
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04 Jun, 2020 by Joseph
After reviewing a number of attorney CVs Britney's experience and expertise encouraged me to conclude she likely would provide excellent counsel for property transactions I was undertaking. And I was delighted when she agreed to represent my interests in purchasing a home in the San Juan Islands and in creating an option associated with the purchase.
The transactions involved the sale of property in California and the purchase of the island home via a 1031 exchange. The experience was a new one for me and not without questions as to how complicated it might become.
From the beginning of the process Britney was truly exceptional on a number of levels. Her personable, confident, expert manner in communicating with me quickly dispelled any concerns I had about the process. Almost immediately I recognized I was in truly capable hands and that I was dealing with a person upon whom I could rely with confidence.
At each step of the way forward Britney made sure I was informed of what was happening and why. More importantly her guidance at critical junctures insured that any information I needed to provide or form I needed to complete met all the transaction's requirements for legal sufficiency. Britney's drafting of all required documents was superb. Her writing excelled at providing sharp, concise, comprehensible language that all parties understood with ease. I could not have been more pleased with the work products Britney presented to me. Without hesitation I recommend Britney for outstanding representation in real estate transactions.
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24 Jan, 2021 by Eve
Mr. Vander Wel is very responsible, very reliable. He answered my questions timely and clearly, even for some of my minor questions, he provided me background knowledge out of his busy schedule. And his pricing is very reasonable, similar to the real estate lawyer I used in New Jersey. So when I called another Bellevue lawyer I was surprised that law office gave me much higher quote. I'm grateful that I called Mr. Vander Wel first. I would highly recommend Mr. Vander Wel.
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02 Feb, 2020 by Megan
I was awarded legal fees after an investment LLC filed a frivolous lien on my property. The owner of the LLC was upset by this ruling and refused to pay, counting on the fact that I had spent my limited resources fighting him in the aforementioned court battle. It wasn’t a large sum that was owed to me, at least for this company, under $10,000, but it was enough to make a difference in the life of a single mom, which I am. When I reached out to Theo, I explained my case to him and that I felt like I had no options for how to proceed as I couldn’t afford the retainer that most lawyers charged for such things. Theo worked with me to create a win-win situation for he and I both and then successfully settled the issue in a very short amount of time without having to go to court. He was easy and a pleasure to work with, and I felt valued as a person, not just another case. I highly recommend working with Theo.
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24 May, 2019 by Anonymous
Theo was professional, resourceful and timely in addressing my legal questions and resolving the issue at hand. He was my advocate and mouthpiece at a time when I had exhausted every other opportunity for resolution. Theo came highly recommended and I can see why! I hope to never need legal advice in the future, however, should I need it, will again reach for his advice and legal acumen!
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28 Jun, 2023 by Kendall
I found Keaton through a professional referral and I am so grateful it was him! We battled a local company that refused to respond. It took what seemed like forever due to the process and no response, but he stuck it out and we not only won but got paid! Biggest hardship of it all.
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19 Jul, 2022 by Chuntian
My neighbor have a driveway dispute with me, they wanted owned it because they owned it over ten years, I Negotiate with the neighbor exchange for 10k, Keaton helped me do the Communication with the opposite lawyer, very fast and easy to communicate, even my English is poor he still understands me. I feel work with him so smoothly. Surprise part is when he knows I did a title insurance claim he ask a reimbursement for me about the lawyer fees and it works. The total mater start April and done in July. I am very happy with him.
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17 Feb, 2022 by Chris
Keaton helped us navigate a dispute with the builder of our custom home. Upon completion of our home, our builder said that there were cost overruns that were going to cost us an additional $60k, then $75k, then $90k, after assuring us a month before that we were going to "be close" to the budget. Keaton helped us resolve this dispute with no additional money owed to our builder. During the process, Keaton was very responsive, upfront with expectations, and very professional.
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08 May, 2014 by Gail
Minh helped me with an issue after another attorney had given me very bad advice. He was very knowledgeable and helped me to resolve the issue very promptly.
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10 Dec, 2013 by Ed
Minh Tran is a very knowledgeable attorney with an excellent staff. His firm handled my difficult debt relief case very satisfactorily and my case breezed right through the court system without any problems. Highly recommended.
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22 Aug, 2013 by Maggie
I had a free 30 minute consult during which time Mr. Tran quickly grasped the problem I had, found the law and printed it out, and found a supporting case that ruled in favor of the client who'se posiiton was the same as mine. He highlighted the main points, which I took to the title company and solved my problem. I was really impressed and would hire him in the future if the need comes up.
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19 Dec, 2020 by Shalonna rutledge
This is the best attorney I have ever came across he's honest diligent kind understanding and flexible with ones finical situations. Deciding to go here has surely saved my future and kept the legal system honest not allowing corruption to head way. Thank you Mr. . James my family and I forever grateful.
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05 Aug, 2019 by Kelsey johnson
Great attorney... honest and great representation!!! Dot me off my dui
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10 Dec, 2018 by David miller
Gene represented me great.
I often thought a Attorney is out there to just pass,not Gene.
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20 Jan, 2021 by Anton
Joseph Creed was extremely responsive and accommodating to my needs. He was the second attorney I worked with and working with him was a breeze. Definitely recommend and I would work with him again any time. Thank you, Mr. Creed!
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11 Nov, 2012 by Anonymous
I would highly recommend Joseph Creed. He helped me through my divorce. He was very knowledgeable through the whole process. What I appreciated most about Jo was how responsive he was. He answered phone calls and emails in a very timely manner and kept me informed. I had many questions throughout the divorce and he was quick to give me clear answers. This has been a painful personal experience for me but Jo put my mind at ease with all of the legal aspects.
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17 Aug, 2012 by Ruben
For the last 8 years he has represented us in all matters related to Real Estate. Buying, selling, preparing leases, in our commercial real estate investments. We are extremely pleased with his services and hope to continue this relationship for a long time.
Aside from this he is a warm, friendly, human being.
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28 Jul, 2015 by Julie
My brothers and I inherited the mineral rights and wind power rights from land my parents owned in North Dakota. Zach setup our LLC in WA and filed it in ND. He worked directly with a lawyer in ND and the wind energy company to ensure that all of the rights were moved over from my parents' trust to the new LLC.
Everything went smoothly! I highly recommend Zach and would be happy to work with him again.
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06 Jun, 2015 by Julie
I've been wanting to get my affairs in order for awhile...but didn't know where to start. Zach was a tremendous help. He asked me to complete a questionnaire and then met with me to review my estate and wishes. In a few weeks, Zach drafted my will, health directive, POA and Medical POA. They were perfect!
He also recommended that I file my documents with King County records -- I didn't even know that was an option, but I'm going to file them next week.
Zach is smart, trustworthy, patient and kind. I couldn't be more pleased with the process. He made estate planning a great experience. I highly recommend him!
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21 Feb, 2015 by Anonymous
Easy to work with, explained the process, guided me along, accomodated my changes, kept me informed, and delivered promptly with reasonable charges. Thank you!
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08 Jun, 2019 by Liz vanbemmel
Vicki Orrico at JMMK helped me navigate a street improvement/right of way issue with the city of Kirkland, including reviewing documents and negotiating with the city attorney. She was incredibly responsive and efficient. Thanks to Vicki, we found a solution all parties were happy with for much less money than expected.
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31 Dec, 2017 by Jason r. williams
11 Nov, 2016 by Ross fiuzi
I dealt with Mike Monroe and he has the rare combination of responsiveness, demeanor and knowledge. A pleasure to work with in a transaction and he was representing the seller by way of full disclosure and not my client.
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08 Jun, 2019 by Liz vanbemmel
Vicki Orrico at JMMK helped me navigate a street improvement/right of way issue with the city of Kirkland, including reviewing documents and negotiating with the city attorney. She was incredibly responsive and efficient. Thanks to Vicki, we found a solution all parties were happy with for much less money than expected.
Read more
31 Dec, 2017 by Jason r. williams
11 Nov, 2016 by Ross fiuzi
I dealt with Mike Monroe and he has the rare combination of responsiveness, demeanor and knowledge. A pleasure to work with in a transaction and he was representing the seller by way of full disclosure and not my client.
Read more
08 Jun, 2019 by Liz vanbemmel
Vicki Orrico at JMMK helped me navigate a street improvement/right of way issue with the city of Kirkland, including reviewing documents and negotiating with the city attorney. She was incredibly responsive and efficient. Thanks to Vicki, we found a solution all parties were happy with for much less money than expected.
Read more
31 Dec, 2017 by Jason r. williams
11 Nov, 2016 by Ross fiuzi
I dealt with Mike Monroe and he has the rare combination of responsiveness, demeanor and knowledge. A pleasure to work with in a transaction and he was representing the seller by way of full disclosure and not my client.
Read more
08 Jun, 2019 by Liz vanbemmel
Vicki Orrico at JMMK helped me navigate a street improvement/right of way issue with the city of Kirkland, including reviewing documents and negotiating with the city attorney. She was incredibly responsive and efficient. Thanks to Vicki, we found a solution all parties were happy with for much less money than expected.
Read more
31 Dec, 2017 by Jason r. williams
11 Nov, 2016 by Ross fiuzi
I dealt with Mike Monroe and he has the rare combination of responsiveness, demeanor and knowledge. A pleasure to work with in a transaction and he was representing the seller by way of full disclosure and not my client.
Read more
08 Jun, 2019 by Liz vanbemmel
Vicki Orrico at JMMK helped me navigate a street improvement/right of way issue with the city of Kirkland, including reviewing documents and negotiating with the city attorney. She was incredibly responsive and efficient. Thanks to Vicki, we found a solution all parties were happy with for much less money than expected.
Read more
31 Dec, 2017 by Jason r. williams
11 Nov, 2016 by Ross fiuzi
I dealt with Mike Monroe and he has the rare combination of responsiveness, demeanor and knowledge. A pleasure to work with in a transaction and he was representing the seller by way of full disclosure and not my client.
Read more
08 Jun, 2019 by Liz vanbemmel
Vicki Orrico at JMMK helped me navigate a street improvement/right of way issue with the city of Kirkland, including reviewing documents and negotiating with the city attorney. She was incredibly responsive and efficient. Thanks to Vicki, we found a solution all parties were happy with for much less money than expected.
Read more
31 Dec, 2017 by Jason r. williams
11 Nov, 2016 by Ross fiuzi
I dealt with Mike Monroe and he has the rare combination of responsiveness, demeanor and knowledge. A pleasure to work with in a transaction and he was representing the seller by way of full disclosure and not my client.
Read more
08 Jun, 2019 by Liz vanbemmel
Vicki Orrico at JMMK helped me navigate a street improvement/right of way issue with the city of Kirkland, including reviewing documents and negotiating with the city attorney. She was incredibly responsive and efficient. Thanks to Vicki, we found a solution all parties were happy with for much less money than expected.
Read more
31 Dec, 2017 by Jason r. williams
11 Nov, 2016 by Ross fiuzi
I dealt with Mike Monroe and he has the rare combination of responsiveness, demeanor and knowledge. A pleasure to work with in a transaction and he was representing the seller by way of full disclosure and not my client.
Read more
08 Jun, 2019 by Liz vanbemmel
Vicki Orrico at JMMK helped me navigate a street improvement/right of way issue with the city of Kirkland, including reviewing documents and negotiating with the city attorney. She was incredibly responsive and efficient. Thanks to Vicki, we found a solution all parties were happy with for much less money than expected.
Read more
31 Dec, 2017 by Jason r. williams
11 Nov, 2016 by Ross fiuzi
I dealt with Mike Monroe and he has the rare combination of responsiveness, demeanor and knowledge. A pleasure to work with in a transaction and he was representing the seller by way of full disclosure and not my client.
Read more
08 Jun, 2019 by Liz vanbemmel
Vicki Orrico at JMMK helped me navigate a street improvement/right of way issue with the city of Kirkland, including reviewing documents and negotiating with the city attorney. She was incredibly responsive and efficient. Thanks to Vicki, we found a solution all parties were happy with for much less money than expected.
Read more
31 Dec, 2017 by Jason r. williams
11 Nov, 2016 by Ross fiuzi
I dealt with Mike Monroe and he has the rare combination of responsiveness, demeanor and knowledge. A pleasure to work with in a transaction and he was representing the seller by way of full disclosure and not my client.
Read more
08 Jun, 2019 by Liz vanbemmel
Vicki Orrico at JMMK helped me navigate a street improvement/right of way issue with the city of Kirkland, including reviewing documents and negotiating with the city attorney. She was incredibly responsive and efficient. Thanks to Vicki, we found a solution all parties were happy with for much less money than expected.
Read more
31 Dec, 2017 by Jason r. williams
11 Nov, 2016 by Ross fiuzi
I dealt with Mike Monroe and he has the rare combination of responsiveness, demeanor and knowledge. A pleasure to work with in a transaction and he was representing the seller by way of full disclosure and not my client.
Read more
08 Jun, 2019 by Liz vanbemmel
Vicki Orrico at JMMK helped me navigate a street improvement/right of way issue with the city of Kirkland, including reviewing documents and negotiating with the city attorney. She was incredibly responsive and efficient. Thanks to Vicki, we found a solution all parties were happy with for much less money than expected.
Read more
31 Dec, 2017 by Jason r. williams
11 Nov, 2016 by Ross fiuzi
I dealt with Mike Monroe and he has the rare combination of responsiveness, demeanor and knowledge. A pleasure to work with in a transaction and he was representing the seller by way of full disclosure and not my client.
Read more
08 Jun, 2019 by Liz vanbemmel
Vicki Orrico at JMMK helped me navigate a street improvement/right of way issue with the city of Kirkland, including reviewing documents and negotiating with the city attorney. She was incredibly responsive and efficient. Thanks to Vicki, we found a solution all parties were happy with for much less money than expected.
Read more
31 Dec, 2017 by Jason r. williams
11 Nov, 2016 by Ross fiuzi
I dealt with Mike Monroe and he has the rare combination of responsiveness, demeanor and knowledge. A pleasure to work with in a transaction and he was representing the seller by way of full disclosure and not my client.
Read more
Discover the ideal lawyer
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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.
