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06 Aug, 2024 by Jz zawaideh
No nonsense. Gets to the point. And gets the job done. The best in criminal defense.
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04 May, 2024 by Arta qelemeni
19 Apr, 2024 by Isaac munawar
Trust Neil with my Life!
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02 Aug, 2024 by Ophantom88o
Called to defend against a domestic violence case, without delay this law office was on top of everything, I was nervous and worried but they reaffirmed me everything will be fine and handled my case with the upmost care. In the end these guys work hard to get you the best results and I am super glad I called them. If you ever need a great attorney don't hesitate to give them a call.
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22 Jul, 2024 by Danny dedic
David is a top-notch attorney. As a realtor, it’s very important for me to have someone I can rely on for my clients needs, and David is that guy. Very personable, attentive, and committed. 5 stars isn’t enough!
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22 Jul, 2024 by Kia dragon
David Goukassian is exactly the sort of lawyer I needed. Without violating my child's privacy, I can tell you that his guidance and knowledge of the law kept me from making stupid mistakes that would have hurt my cause and pointed out where and what I could do to improve my standing in Court. I received a far better outcome than I expected, my family expected, or my friends expected. If you have an sort of Family Court issue, I recommend him whole heartedly. If you have a case that addresses the cutting edge of some the new problems in Family Court, I recommend him even more. I was in good hands. My child and I are in a much better place and much of that has to do with this lawyer.
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15 Aug, 2024 by Andre s. kohn
TLDR: Great Lakes employs attorneys that are not only terrible at their job, but who will overbill you and treat you terribly.
You are doing yourself a tremendous disservice taking your business to Great Lakes. Kim Browning in particular is the single worst attorney I have ever had to deal with. She is both not very good at the legal aspect of her job, nor the customer service aspect.
She ended up billing me 3x higher than her initial estimate despite the fact that the case proceeded exactly as anticipated without any sort of hiccups.
What's more, despite the case progressing exactly as anticipated, she never gave me a clear understanding about what the next steps would be.
Worst, she WILL NOT RESPOND TO YOU. Despite paying her over $10k, she could not bother to respond to simple "yes" "no" emails without me having to send them to her 3+ times.
Please take your business elsewhere. With Great Lakes and Kim, all you'll get is a massive bill and disappointment.
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15 Aug, 2024 by Tik toker
Kimberly Browning and Stephanie Taylor helped me through the hardest thing I had to go through in life. I lost my dad and didn't know what to do next. Kimberly over heard me talking to people at court trying to figure out what to do next and offered to help. They have been amazing the whole year they helped me with my dad's estate. They always answered my questions. And I was always able to get ahold of them which was very important to me. I highly suggest great lakes family & estates!!
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15 Aug, 2024 by Greggory walton
I am very Grateful, and Thankful for Great Lakes Probate!
Kimberly, and Stephanie have worked with me, and family diligently.
I had so much on my plate as personal Rep, and they were there for direction, and so much support. Never skipped a beat
Very Professional.
Me, and my family definitely made the right choice when we selected Great Lakes Probate & Estates!
Thank You!
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4.9
44 Reviews
15 Aug, 2024 by Andre s. kohn
TLDR: Great Lakes employs attorneys that are not only terrible at their job, but who will overbill you and treat you terribly.
You are doing yourself a tremendous disservice taking your business to Great Lakes. Kim Browning in particular is the single worst attorney I have ever had to deal with. She is both not very good at the legal aspect of her job, nor the customer service aspect.
She ended up billing me 3x higher than her initial estimate despite the fact that the case proceeded exactly as anticipated without any sort of hiccups.
What's more, despite the case progressing exactly as anticipated, she never gave me a clear understanding about what the next steps would be.
Worst, she WILL NOT RESPOND TO YOU. Despite paying her over $10k, she could not bother to respond to simple "yes" "no" emails without me having to send them to her 3+ times.
Please take your business elsewhere. With Great Lakes and Kim, all you'll get is a massive bill and disappointment.
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15 Aug, 2024 by Tik toker
Kimberly Browning and Stephanie Taylor helped me through the hardest thing I had to go through in life. I lost my dad and didn't know what to do next. Kimberly over heard me talking to people at court trying to figure out what to do next and offered to help. They have been amazing the whole year they helped me with my dad's estate. They always answered my questions. And I was always able to get ahold of them which was very important to me. I highly suggest great lakes family & estates!!
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15 Aug, 2024 by Greggory walton
I am very Grateful, and Thankful for Great Lakes Probate!
Kimberly, and Stephanie have worked with me, and family diligently.
I had so much on my plate as personal Rep, and they were there for direction, and so much support. Never skipped a beat
Very Professional.
Me, and my family definitely made the right choice when we selected Great Lakes Probate & Estates!
Thank You!
Read more
15 Aug, 2024 by Andre s. kohn
TLDR: Great Lakes employs attorneys that are not only terrible at their job, but who will overbill you and treat you terribly.
You are doing yourself a tremendous disservice taking your business to Great Lakes. Kim Browning in particular is the single worst attorney I have ever had to deal with. She is both not very good at the legal aspect of her job, nor the customer service aspect.
She ended up billing me 3x higher than her initial estimate despite the fact that the case proceeded exactly as anticipated without any sort of hiccups.
What's more, despite the case progressing exactly as anticipated, she never gave me a clear understanding about what the next steps would be.
Worst, she WILL NOT RESPOND TO YOU. Despite paying her over $10k, she could not bother to respond to simple "yes" "no" emails without me having to send them to her 3+ times.
Please take your business elsewhere. With Great Lakes and Kim, all you'll get is a massive bill and disappointment.
Read more
15 Aug, 2024 by Tik toker
Kimberly Browning and Stephanie Taylor helped me through the hardest thing I had to go through in life. I lost my dad and didn't know what to do next. Kimberly over heard me talking to people at court trying to figure out what to do next and offered to help. They have been amazing the whole year they helped me with my dad's estate. They always answered my questions. And I was always able to get ahold of them which was very important to me. I highly suggest great lakes family & estates!!
Read more
15 Aug, 2024 by Greggory walton
I am very Grateful, and Thankful for Great Lakes Probate!
Kimberly, and Stephanie have worked with me, and family diligently.
I had so much on my plate as personal Rep, and they were there for direction, and so much support. Never skipped a beat
Very Professional.
Me, and my family definitely made the right choice when we selected Great Lakes Probate & Estates!
Thank You!
Read more
15 Aug, 2024 by Andre s. kohn
TLDR: Great Lakes employs attorneys that are not only terrible at their job, but who will overbill you and treat you terribly.
You are doing yourself a tremendous disservice taking your business to Great Lakes. Kim Browning in particular is the single worst attorney I have ever had to deal with. She is both not very good at the legal aspect of her job, nor the customer service aspect.
She ended up billing me 3x higher than her initial estimate despite the fact that the case proceeded exactly as anticipated without any sort of hiccups.
What's more, despite the case progressing exactly as anticipated, she never gave me a clear understanding about what the next steps would be.
Worst, she WILL NOT RESPOND TO YOU. Despite paying her over $10k, she could not bother to respond to simple "yes" "no" emails without me having to send them to her 3+ times.
Please take your business elsewhere. With Great Lakes and Kim, all you'll get is a massive bill and disappointment.
Read more
15 Aug, 2024 by Tik toker
Kimberly Browning and Stephanie Taylor helped me through the hardest thing I had to go through in life. I lost my dad and didn't know what to do next. Kimberly over heard me talking to people at court trying to figure out what to do next and offered to help. They have been amazing the whole year they helped me with my dad's estate. They always answered my questions. And I was always able to get ahold of them which was very important to me. I highly suggest great lakes family & estates!!
Read more
15 Aug, 2024 by Greggory walton
I am very Grateful, and Thankful for Great Lakes Probate!
Kimberly, and Stephanie have worked with me, and family diligently.
I had so much on my plate as personal Rep, and they were there for direction, and so much support. Never skipped a beat
Very Professional.
Me, and my family definitely made the right choice when we selected Great Lakes Probate & Estates!
Thank You!
Read more
14 Aug, 2024 by Lauren haboosh
Dalia and her staff are absolutely amazing. I switched to her from a previous lawyer and I can't thank them enough for going above and beyond for me. If you’re looking for a lawyer who is not only highly skilled but also truly dedicated to her clients, Dalia is the one to choose. I am incredibly grateful for her support and expertise, and I wholeheartedly recommend her to anyone in need of legal representation.
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01 Jul, 2024 by Lubna sharrak
Thank you Dalia for being my attorney and doing everything good for me to fix my case
Dalia is professional , understanding & smart to find solutions in time to any situation that arises because she prepared everything in advance and she knows how to get it done
The staff is friendly and treat you like family , my experience is with Samar she talked to me like sister to make feel better
God bless you
Lubna Sharrak
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13 Jun, 2024 by Carmen hanna
I HIGHLY RECOMMEND!!!!!!!!
I had hired another lawyer and I was unhappy so I switched to Ms.Kejbou’s office and it was the best decision I’ve ever made. Her knowledge and experience resulted in a settlement that encompassed everything I wanted. In addition both Ms. kejbou and her staff supported me emotionally and treated me like family. I HIGHLY RECOMMEND whole heartedly ❤️❤️❤️ 💐💐🌹
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25 Sep, 2024 by Savannah rancour
The team at NK Law is incredibly professional, knowledgeable and compassionate. I could not have asked for a better attorney than Nick, he worked hard and succeeded at getting a settlement I deserved. I would highly recommend this law firm to anyone. Thank you Nick and staff for everything!
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25 Jul, 2024 by Thavy anongthep
Friendly. Very approachable. Answers all my questions in a courteous manner. Definitely will recommend to my friends and family.
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13 May, 2024 by Howard dew
I recently had the opportunity to work with Nicholas Kyriakopoulos at NK Law following an accident, and I commend the professionalism and efficiency of both the attorney and his office staff. They handled my case with utmost care and transparency. Their communication was clear and timely, and their guidance was invaluable in navigating the complexities of my case. I highly recommend Nicholas Kyriakopoulos and NK Law to anyone looking for competent and reliable representation.
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04 Sep, 2023 by Glenn crandall
03 Nov, 2021 by Ron karl
Very professional and met our needs promptly.
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08 Jul, 2021 by Andrew leinart
04 Sep, 2023 by Glenn crandall
03 Nov, 2021 by Ron karl
Very professional and met our needs promptly.
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08 Jul, 2021 by Andrew leinart
30 Nov, 2023 by Jacqui nickol
If you want an attorney that tells you untruth, he's your guy. He tells you all along that you won't be speaking in court, 5 minutes befores you walk into court, he informs you that you will need to speak in court, he's your guy. If you want an attorney that won't return your calls, he's your guy. If you want an attorney that tells you he will handle something but he doesn't, he's your guy. Mr. Stabling never explained the consequences fully of a plea deal. Terrible attorney, so very disappointing.
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04 Sep, 2023 by Glenn crandall
17 Oct, 2022 by Kalaivani kalaimani
Paul Stablein and his staff were prompt in returning my calls and very professional. I would definitely recommend them to anyone in need of legal assistance. He reassured me and was great to have on my side.
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30 Nov, 2023 by Jacqui nickol
If you want an attorney that tells you untruth, he's your guy. He tells you all along that you won't be speaking in court, 5 minutes befores you walk into court, he informs you that you will need to speak in court, he's your guy. If you want an attorney that won't return your calls, he's your guy. If you want an attorney that tells you he will handle something but he doesn't, he's your guy. Mr. Stabling never explained the consequences fully of a plea deal. Terrible attorney, so very disappointing.
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04 Sep, 2023 by Glenn crandall
17 Oct, 2022 by Kalaivani kalaimani
Paul Stablein and his staff were prompt in returning my calls and very professional. I would definitely recommend them to anyone in need of legal assistance. He reassured me and was great to have on my side.
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30 Nov, 2023 by Jacqui nickol
If you want an attorney that tells you untruth, he's your guy. He tells you all along that you won't be speaking in court, 5 minutes befores you walk into court, he informs you that you will need to speak in court, he's your guy. If you want an attorney that won't return your calls, he's your guy. If you want an attorney that tells you he will handle something but he doesn't, he's your guy. Mr. Stabling never explained the consequences fully of a plea deal. Terrible attorney, so very disappointing.
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04 Sep, 2023 by Glenn crandall
17 Oct, 2022 by Kalaivani kalaimani
Paul Stablein and his staff were prompt in returning my calls and very professional. I would definitely recommend them to anyone in need of legal assistance. He reassured me and was great to have on my side.
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11 Apr, 2024 by Kelly adair
09 Jan, 2024 by Carolyn
Michael Robbins is a wonderful attorney. His extensive knowledge and experience as a divorce attorney was reassuring to me during one of the most difficult times of my life. His support staff is top notch as well. Highly reccommend.
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02 Jan, 2024 by Tanya keppler
I had Steve Cohen represent me in my Chapter 13 bankruptsy. Steve treated me with respect and compassion. It was the worst time in my life and he explained everything along the last 5 years and made it more bearable to get thru!
I would highly recommend Steve! Thank you for all your help and explaining the procee and getting me thru it with dignity.
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11 Apr, 2024 by Kelly adair
09 Jan, 2024 by Carolyn
Michael Robbins is a wonderful attorney. His extensive knowledge and experience as a divorce attorney was reassuring to me during one of the most difficult times of my life. His support staff is top notch as well. Highly reccommend.
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02 Dec, 2023 by J nelson
Sherri Bono is an amazing attorney. She is caring, easy to work with, knows the law inside and out, is detailed and thorough, and will treat your case respectfully and professionally. She always had the best interest of me and my children in mind. I highly recommend Sherri.
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11 Apr, 2024 by Kelly adair
09 Jan, 2024 by Carolyn
Michael Robbins is a wonderful attorney. His extensive knowledge and experience as a divorce attorney was reassuring to me during one of the most difficult times of my life. His support staff is top notch as well. Highly reccommend.
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02 Dec, 2023 by J nelson
Sherri Bono is an amazing attorney. She is caring, easy to work with, knows the law inside and out, is detailed and thorough, and will treat your case respectfully and professionally. She always had the best interest of me and my children in mind. I highly recommend Sherri.
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13 Sep, 2024 by Carol maurer
I am so thankful to my attorney Liz Thomson for her amazing representation as my legal counsel. From my very first interaction with Liz, she has been absolutely wonderful. She has helped guide me through a very difficult time with care, expertise, and always with kind reassurance. Liz, and her amazing team, Patti and Christina were always available to me and my husband with prompt communication and guidance to help us navigate the legal process, which gave us much calm, clarity and confidence.
The best decision I could have ever made was to choose the Hertz Schram Law firm and I am so fortunate to have been referred to Liz Thomson to represent my case.
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13 Sep, 2024 by Zachary haube
Hello, I’m writing this review for Hertz Schram because I had legal action that needed to be addressed. I had the pleasure of working with Daniel Rucker the past few months. He didn’t just help me win my case, but actually cared about myself as an individual too. Daniel Rucker is very professional, takes care of his clients and will help every step of the way. If you’re looking for a good lawyer who will get the job done, I HIGHLY recommend this firm and asking for Daniel’s expertise.
Thank you again Daniel!
Zachary Haube
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23 Aug, 2024 by Eddy belushi
Mr Scott is a gentleman of an attorney! He is calm, knowledgeable and fantastic.. helped me resolve my case in a matter of 1 month without going to trial and settling up outside the court. Much appreciated and I will recommend him to get the best possible outcome for you!
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22 Sep, 2024 by Thomas perrin
Went the extra mile to get me a claim
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13 Sep, 2024 by Leon gohler
The Lobb Law Firm is fantastic Brittany was awesome throughout my entire case from start to finish. Thank you guys
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07 Aug, 2024 by Tamara crkovski
My family has been using Lobb Law for over 30 years. The team is friendly, caring and great at communicating. We have had nothing but positive experiences and I highly recommend them.
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17 Mar, 2023 by Juan uribe
Everyone was very helpful answered all my questions thank you.
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07 Dec, 2022 by Roni
23 Apr, 2019 by Adrianna timberson
I love what was being said to me and I can say I have a lawyer I'm very impressed😊😊😊😊
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10 May, 2023 by Sunny w
I came across files from this attorney I hired a number of years ago to handle divorce case. She was incompetent to say the least. I'd never recommend her to anybody I'd call a friend.
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08 Jul, 2022 by Charles h
If you want the highest probability of winning your case, Mindy is the lawyer to hire!!!!
Today marks the day where I am able to exercise my God given rights as a father to parent my own sons with sole legal and physical custody! This would have not been possible without Mindy using her vast knowledge and wisdom of family law.
If you asked anyone, this was a very difficult case that I've been fighting for over 5 years!!!! Mindy came on the case at year 4, and within 3 months of being on the case, she was able to help me find the solution that I needed to win the case! If it had not been for circumstances outside of our control, the case would have been closed within those 3 months of her coming on.
Mindy has such a heart and desire for complete justice and will not rest until every wrong is made right! She knew how to say exactly what I wanted to be said in each and every motion and brief we filed without me having to tell her. She knew exactly how to address every issue with extreme precision.
She is so worth every penny and I'm so blessed to have found her. I felt secure with her and I knew that I was in the best hands. She is so valuable and if you're ever graced with working with her, you won't be disappointed. She's very personable, understanding, kind, honest, friendly, and protective. If anyone comes at her clients unjustly, she will not hesitate to put them in their place gracefully.
Thank you so much Mindy for helping me get my family restored and giving my sons and I the precious gift of a complete father and son relationship. My sons and I appreciate you! You have friends for life!
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03 Oct, 2018 by Tammie reichard
I Thankgod that i found Mindy after my original lawyer who did not fight for me.She knows what she is doing i highly recommend her to everyone,I really cant thank her enough for all her hard work!!!She is amazing ,she turned a very hard situation into a great blessing and for that i will be forever grateful God Bless you Mindy Thankyou so much
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13 Aug, 2024 by Doc
The government accused me of phony billing and up billing. I never met a lawyer who knew so much about billing codes - Anjali Prasad gets into the weeds when it comes to insurance billing, and if there is a way to save you, she will. Puts her nose to the grind and finds a way out. She saved my life.
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15 Feb, 2024 by Former client ll
She saved my life. Vigorous and aggressive federal attorney.
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30 Oct, 2023 by P d
Anjali has been extremely helpful with her advise and and paperwork. She was diligent and responsible. Her quick and timely response makes her more approachable from others. I would definitely recommend her.
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24 May, 2022 by Kris hughes
This firm is great. I really enjoyed working with a couple of the professionals here. Awesome insurance defense firm in Michigan!
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24 Mar, 2022 by Richard miller
16 Dec, 2021 by Ahmed amin
02 Aug, 2024 by Ryan murphy
3 Different MI Lawyers told me they did not feel comfortable taking my case because they felt they couldn't win. Michael took my money and told me I could win, right off the bat...that should tell you everything you need to know. I will not take this review down unless his law firm makes things right with me and my wife.
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The Synopsis: Michael "terminated" as he would say, our agreement because I missed two calls we had scheduled. CONTEXT: I missed his call because I was at my wedding rehearsal, preparing for my wedding, the next day. I truly believe there was a deeper reason as to why he terminated our agreement that he does not want to admit. However, I'm just going to speculate because I'm fearful Michael will come after me in the court room because his resources are much vaster than mine.
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06 Jun, 2024 by Austin scholl
07 May, 2024 by Carie bloom
Great service, terrific to work with, and very professional. I highly recommend this law firm!!
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02 Aug, 2024 by Ryan murphy
3 Different MI Lawyers told me they did not feel comfortable taking my case because they felt they couldn't win. Michael took my money and told me I could win, right off the bat...that should tell you everything you need to know. I will not take this review down unless his law firm makes things right with me and my wife.
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The Synopsis: Michael "terminated" as he would say, our agreement because I missed two calls we had scheduled. CONTEXT: I missed his call because I was at my wedding rehearsal, preparing for my wedding, the next day. I truly believe there was a deeper reason as to why he terminated our agreement that he does not want to admit. However, I'm just going to speculate because I'm fearful Michael will come after me in the court room because his resources are much vaster than mine.
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06 Jun, 2024 by Austin scholl
07 May, 2024 by Carie bloom
Great service, terrific to work with, and very professional. I highly recommend this law firm!!
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13 Aug, 2024 by Doc
The government accused me of phony billing and up billing. I never met a lawyer who knew so much about billing codes - Anjali Prasad gets into the weeds when it comes to insurance billing, and if there is a way to save you, she will. Puts her nose to the grind and finds a way out. She saved my life.
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15 Feb, 2024 by Former client ll
She saved my life. Vigorous and aggressive federal attorney.
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30 Oct, 2023 by P d
Anjali has been extremely helpful with her advise and and paperwork. She was diligent and responsible. Her quick and timely response makes her more approachable from others. I would definitely recommend her.
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24 Oct, 2021 by Your worst nightmare
Awful awful awful awful awful awful awful Awful awful awful awful awful awful awful
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16 Dec, 2020 by C.m.k.
Positive and Efficient
Thank you for all your help in this case! You were amazing to work with and your team was positive and efficient through all of this. Made my life easy. I appreciate all your help!
— C.M.K. | April 20
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16 Dec, 2020 by Angela
Thorough and Easy to work with
Dear Julie: sometimes in the course of a hectic day there is never enough time to say thank you. We would like to take this opportunity to extend a sincere thank you and an appreciation for all your work on the sale of XXXXX Telegraph Road.
Also, you are a true rock star and we hope to work together again in the future.
We deal with attorneys all the time and you were always one step ahead. We are excited for the Buyer and glad that this transaction brought us together.
Most sincerely,
Signature Associates
Angela Thomas, Seller’s Broker
— Seller’s Broker | October 2020
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02 Aug, 2024 by Ryan murphy
3 Different MI Lawyers told me they did not feel comfortable taking my case because they felt they couldn't win. Michael took my money and told me I could win, right off the bat...that should tell you everything you need to know. I will not take this review down unless his law firm makes things right with me and my wife.
-
The Synopsis: Michael "terminated" as he would say, our agreement because I missed two calls we had scheduled. CONTEXT: I missed his call because I was at my wedding rehearsal, preparing for my wedding, the next day. I truly believe there was a deeper reason as to why he terminated our agreement that he does not want to admit. However, I'm just going to speculate because I'm fearful Michael will come after me in the court room because his resources are much vaster than mine.
Read more
06 Jun, 2024 by Austin scholl
07 May, 2024 by Carie bloom
Great service, terrific to work with, and very professional. I highly recommend this law firm!!
Read more
06 Sep, 2023 by Anonymous
Former officer says attorneys tried to scam him of more than 14K. The landlord hired Ryan Fishman to collect those funds from Gorbe who then filed a countersuit. The three were charged last year with committing fraud that ... Marc Fishman, 71, of Bloomfield Township; his son, Ryan Fishman, 33
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21 Jul, 2021 by Anonymous
Even after he was charged with with running a sham, he still scamming people out on Bond!!!!
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19 Apr, 2021 by Anonymous
All 3 attorneys of the firm are being indited for stealing over a million from vulnerable old people
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22 Dec, 2015 by Anonymous
I began working with Charles on an issue with my previous employer. Time was of the upmost importance and I was having trouble gathering the funds to hire him because I was out of work. After he received payment I never heard from him again, I made several attempts to contact him and never received even an email response. After 2 months of this, I decided to hire another attorney.
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12 Nov, 2014 by Scott paul
I been dealing with Charles for over 14 years . He help me through the darkest of times. He just not a lawyer he a friend that cares. Always returns a call, never to busy . Does great work. I trust him like he was my brother
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23 Mar, 2022 by Aleyciuss ann al-ali
Terrible communication. I hired him and paid him $7500 for my divorce and he barely spoke to me, lied under oath at the mediation and sided with my ex husband. Horrible 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:
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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.
