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17 Apr, 2014 by Roshan
I had the pleasure of being represented by Joe for a case in 2013. He came highly recommended by peers in the legal profession all the way down the Eastern seaboard. If you are looking to retain the services of an attorney you can trust and the performance to match, look no further than Joe and the rest of the partners at Dooley, Avery, & Noone. Joe maintains high standards of moral quality in combination with highly-skilled execution. He made me feel like a person and not a case number. Not only would I recommend him for those in need of representation, I would gladly spend the time endorsing his character, performance, and integrity on multiple forums.
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29 Mar, 2014 by Anonymous
I have know Joe for a number of years. Operating a small business I have relied on Joe's expertise to navigate us through the many obstacles that have confronted us through the years in our dental practice. I have been able to focus on building my practice knowing that Avery Dooley & Noone is there to help me with any legal issues that may need to be addressed with the continued growth of our business.
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26 Mar, 2014 by Dennis
The Best of the Best in my opinion. Worth talking to in all legal situations. Lots of strong legal experience. Attorney Noone specifically helps with my estate planning needs and real estate closings. Used them 4-5 times over the years and all the help was executed in a timely and professional manner.
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10 Jan, 2024 by Geoff
Graeme took on what I am sure sounded like a small project that managed to balloon its way into something bigger. What started out as a simple lease contract review devolved into Graeme needed to correct everything, even the business name and details of the party that drafted the initial Lease. He was able to stand in for us in meetings that we just couldn't make it to and always represented us professionally. He was quick with getting us information we needed and made a point to get back to us quickly whenever we called., if he didn't outright just pick up then.
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01 Apr, 2016 by Jason
Mr. Brown and his firm are not only knowledgeable but personable as well. I found myself voiceless in an unforeseen and uncontrollable crisis, unaware of what to do or where to turn. Upon hiring Mr. Brown, I was treated as a client with rights and equally, as a person whom faced frightening uncertainty concerning my health. Graeme and his team were with me every single step of the way. They explained everything to me that i needed. Every single phone call and email to Graeme and his staff have always been treated with the utmost importance. I was always made to feel like I was the top priority. Their knowledge, compassion, commitment to my case and accessibility helped guide me through one of the most difficult periods in my life. I can't thank Graeme and Kathy enough. I would strongly recommend Graeme Brown to any person.
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30 Jul, 2015 by Ron
Graeme S.R. Brown has provided exemplary legal services to me and my company for more than a decade. He not only is a skilled practitioner, but Graeme's business background makes him especially understanding and sensitive to how legal issues affect business operations. Graeme's philosophy is coined best by "can do"! I heartily recommend him.
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20 Aug, 2021 by Joni campos
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09 Sep, 2015 by Anonymous
Jim Finn was the closing attorney when I sold my house in Arlington as well as when I bought and refinanced my house in Medford. He is very responsive, patiently answers questions with honest and solid guidance. He gets the job done and charges a fair and competitive rate. I recommend him all the time!
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13 Apr, 2024 by Missy buck
My best lawyer in the world.
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05 May, 2018 by Gina derosa
Steve Rosales prepared multiple life and estate planning documents for my husband and me. Steve was so patient, professional, knowledgeable, culturally competent, nonjudgmental, genuine, etc. He took his time explaining everything and making sure we were comfortable with the major decisions we were making. We can't say enough great things about our experience and the high quality work he performs. (I highly encourage clients to fill out the preparation document he sends to you before your appointment - it is extremely helpful to guide conversations with your loved ones and better prepare you for your meetings with Steve!)
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20 Aug, 2021 by Joni campos
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27 Jul, 2021 by Anonymous
Nancy reviewed and charged me for inventory of accounting for individuals who received nothing of monetary value from the estate and had zero entitlement to any of the funds documented in the inventory. Despite being made aware of this, she was not understanding or empathetic and refused to discuss with the other attorney involved until she was paid. She didn’t listen to what I had to say, she wasn’t solutions oriented, and she lacked any sense of customer service skills. Furthermore, shortly after I received her bill, she called me and I explained it was not a good time, she told me I needed to make time and it would be brief as we needed to discuss her “getting paid”. I responded by letting you know that I had just lost two very close family members and she abruptly hung up on me offering no condolences or compassion. No one should be treated the way she treats people with this kind of inhumane behavior, especially the people who are paying her for services. This is not the right way to conduct business
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04 Apr, 2010 by Julia
my husband and I hired atty weissman when we bought our house. she saved the deal! she is smart and kept us totally informed at every step so we could make good decisions. we are very happy with her services, and highly recommend her.
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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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