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25 May, 2024 by Rebecca taylor
07 Feb, 2024 by Daniel paraliticci
06 Dec, 2023 by Casey henry
28 Jan, 2021 by Paul
Robert navigated us through our home sale and helped us avoid complications with contractors. He frequently emailed us updates and worked tirelessly to ensure the transaction closed on the scheduled date, despite delays out of our control. Robert was one of the only sure things we could count on in a complicated transaction with too many moving parts.
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28 Dec, 2017 by Denise
I hired Attorney Feldman in Dec. 2017 to help with with a unique and sensitive rental property dispute. The whole situation was extremely stressful for me (especially around the holidays) but Attorney Feldman kept his cool, managed a very tense and adversarial dispute between me and the other party, and ultimately got me the desired result (refund) within a matter of approximately one week. He even responded to some of my emails after hours around the holidays when I wasn’t expecting it (I was amazed). Atty. Feldman, if you’re seeing this, thank you so much for everything you did to help bring my matter to a positive end result. You were immensely helpful when I was pulling my hair out...lol. Next time I sign any lease I’m going to hire you to at least give it a once over and advise me accordingly-it would totally be worth it to avoid future rental debacles.
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22 Mar, 2017 by Amy
I received Mr. Feldman's name after contacting ACAP. I called ACAP because I felt suspicious of the lawyer I hired as my personal representative attorney who was one in the same my dad hired to do his will.
I hired Robert to assist me after our initial telephone consultation. I gave him may areas in which I needed clarification and promised my speed to get through the probate process.
My brother subsequently hired Robert for a real estate closing.
Robert educated me on the various steps of probate, answered layperson questions and was quick to respond to calls and emails.
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09 Apr, 2020 by Charlie
I purchased a $2 million plus home last week in Lighthouse Point, FL. Sheri Nott was recommended to us by a friend, who hired her to handle the purchase of their home in our new neighborhood. Sheri worked with our Seller, prepared a post occupancy lease agreement for them to stay another month, handled the seller's lien issues, and closed our deal in a very quick amount of time. She has a lot of experience with many real estate issues and maintained a pleasant attitude considering how difficult the sellers were in this process. My wife and I highly recommend her firm.
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29 Jan, 2020 by Bob
I bought a house in Hidden Valley neighborhood last week, which is very close to the Nott Law Group. The Seller’s realtor recommended Sheri Nott and I was so happy that she did! My closing costs were very fair and Sheri went out of her way to make sure I thoroughly understood everything. She has a wonderful assistant named Laura who was also very helpful. I highly recommend them!!
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22 Jan, 2020 by Anonymous
The worst experience I have ever had with a lawyer. I believe they are overpriced and when I questioned some of the fees I received a rude and annoyed response.
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19 Feb, 2021 by Frank
I had the pleasure of working with Jordana on a very complex real estate transaction. She was extremely diligent, proactive and saved the deal on more than one occasion. Outstanding service, I can only recommend her firm.
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17 Apr, 2018 by Stephanie
I must say that Jordana carried through one of the most trying closings that I have ever experienced in 25 years. She is experienced, efficient, and cordial. Her firm was organized, effective, and right on spot with every aspect of this VERY DIFFICULT closing. Thank you Jordan Sarell and staff for your professionalism!
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16 Aug, 2016 by Anonymous
Jordana has represented two of my clients this year in two multi million $ transactions. My clients and I have nothing but great things to say about her. She is a true professional and guided my clients and I through many pitfalls and hurdles we encountered and led the transactions to a successful closing. I would highly recommend her anytime.
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23 Sep, 2024 by Brandon
As a former client of Peter J. Snyder, P.A., I feel compelled to share my deeply troubling experience. Mr. Snyder's conduct throughout my case was not just disappointing, but in my view, egregiously unprofessional and potentially unethical. I had to fire him and represent myself in court in order to win (which I did).
From the outset, communication was abysmal. I was left in the dark about crucial hearings and important case developments. How can an attorney effectively represent a client when they fail to keep them informed? This isn't just an inconvenience; it's a fundamental breach of the attorney-client relationship.
What's worse, Mr. Snyder made major decisions about my case without my input or consent. He elected for a non-jury trial without even discussing it with me.
The lack of diligence in handling my case was staggering. Despite my repeated requests, Mr. Snyder failed to initiate settlement discussions, unnecessarily prolonging the legal proceedings.
But perhaps most alarming were the ethical concerns. I believe Mr. Snyder misrepresented facts to the court regarding trial duration and evidence. He attempted to coerce me into accepting unfavorable terms. At times, it felt like he was working more for the opposing party than for me.
In my opinion, Mr. Snyder's actions demonstrate a shocking disregard for client advocacy and professional responsibility. I wouldn't wish my experience on anyone else seeking legal representation. If you're considering hiring Peter J. Snyder, P.A., I strongly urge you to reconsider. In my view, he has shown himself to be untrustworthy, unprofessional, and potentially unethical. You deserve an attorney who will truly fight for your interests, not one who might compromise them at every turn.
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22 Dec, 2016 by Charles
I contacted Mr. Snyder for help with a complicated legal issue dealing with a real estate matter which needed immediate attention. He took the time to fully explain my legal rights and obligations under my circumstances and I found him to be extremely knowledgeable about many aspects of real estate law. I would highly recommend him to anyone.
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22 Dec, 2016 by Michael
I called attorney Snyder on a Friday afternoon on an urgent basis as I needed him to review a real estate contract for the purchase of a home in Boynton Beach, Florida. The deal was falling apart fast and I desperately wanted the deal to go through. He was able to see me that same day and immediately after hiring him he contacted the seller's attorney and was able to close the deal. What a great experience and I really appreciated his extensive knowledge and understanding of my particular needs. Would absolutely use again!!
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05 May, 2021 by Joan
Randall Roger, Esq. has served my condominium in Boca Raton for many years. He is responsive to our needs and has always provided excellent guidance on a timely basis. Randall guided us through an unusual acquisition and sale of one of our condo unit. His innovative and professional approach to complicated issues has helped our Association deal with them effectively and arrive at a satisfactory solution for our Community. I recommend Randall Roger and Associates without reservation. Joan Camisa, Condominium President for fourteen years.
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19 Mar, 2021 by Carla
Randall not only demonstrated his skill and experience in FL Statue 718, but he was also beneficial in guiding the association through the delicate period of the pandemic. Communication was key and Randall and his staff provided prompt answers to some of the most difficult questions. We appreciate Randall and his colleagues for their professionalism, honesty, and assistance throughout our term.
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07 Dec, 2020 by Anonymous
I am writing this review because i need to expose this mr Randall for who he is. He works for my condo association which means that my money is used to line his pokets. He is cleaning our reserves by threatening my neighbors and myself for no valid reason. He has no integrity and no ethics.
In addition , he is antisemitic. He had the audacity to serve me with a stupid fabricated letter on the Jewish high holidays just to disrespect my religion.
This man will sell his mother for a buck.
He is incomptent and abusive. Stay away from him.
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16 Feb, 2022 by Barbara
Mrs. Cohen was a very professional and honest Attorney. She was able to help my family when we needed it the most. I am very grateful for the help that I received from her.
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07 Feb, 2022 by Jeff
Natalie played a key role in assisting with my case. Over the last 2 years, she has been my "go to". She not only helped me through the difficult process, but often took the time to speak to me on a level that showed that she genuinely cared. Natalie is professional, extremely accommodating and very easy to talk to. As a lawyer, she goes above and beyond. The extra time she invested in my case not only showed her determination but also her dependability. I'd certainly use Natalie again and will recommend her to everyone I know.
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12 Jun, 2021 by Toby
Not prepared for hearing
Bad advise
Never asked witness one question !!
Didn't fight for client
Didn't have clients back
I would not recommend her at all
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06 May, 2019 by Anonymous
Josh helped me through a difficult financial issue. He pays great attention to detail and thoroughly explains things. He is quite intelligent, knows the law and is a quick thinker. In addition he is kind, caring and genuine.
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21 May, 2018 by Maurice
Josh is an incredibly genuine, compassionate, experienced attorney. It should be clear that whoever gave the poor review is just out to tarnish his reputation as they would not even give their own name for Josh to respond. I would hire Josh in a second if I ever need an attorney again.
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09 Dec, 2014 by Anonymous
I have worked with this attorney for over two years and I gave him a lot of money. He wrote one letter that I hand delivered to the Corporation I was persuing and wrote a couple of emails. Then the manager of the Corporation hired an attorney and Josh had screwed it up so bad that the manager's attorney wanted to sue Josh.
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01 Apr, 2022 by Anonymous
I, or my personal acquaintances to whom I referred him, have used Mr Sosin on multiple occasions, over a 10 + year period. These were specifically an investigation into an HOA's legal actions which impacted on a tenant I had, a subsequent lawsuit against subject tenant, bankruptcy and criminal law. If not within his area of expertise, he referred me to the right lawyers.
He is very professional and honest.
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10 Mar, 2018 by Anonymous
Peter was really helpful. He's very knowledgeable and trustworthy, which can be hard to find in a attorney!
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11 Apr, 2017 by Larry
I've been working with Peter for 10 years. He's handled everything from leases to complex business litigation. I have found that he tells me the straight dope, is a great strategist, and has a great team of attorneys he works with for drafting, trial, or any other business need. Would recommend 100%
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29 Jun, 2015 by Gary
There are a lot of realtors out there, but we truly believe that no one will work as hard as Mr. Malki to get you into the property you want.
I am not a fan of real estate agents -- I never feel I can completely trust them. However, with Charles Malki I have full confidence that he has MY best interest in mind.
He will always be my GO-TO-REALTOR and friend for life! Thank you Charles!!!
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29 Jun, 2015 by John
I agree with everyone else who has given Charles Malki five stars. He gives 110%. He is all about integrity, professionalism, and excellence. Extremely detailed and patient and on top of all this, such as classy guy. I really can't imagine getting any better service!
If you want to be part of a winning team, you should call Charles Malki!
He is undeniably the BEST at what he does.
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16 Jan, 2014 by Anonymous
I hired Charles for a short sale of a home and it was an absolute nightmare. He does not answer calls, return calls, emails, whatever. It was a horrendous experience and certain people on his staff are even worse, just rotten. Short sales take a lot of knowledge, tenacity, negotiations. Find someone else, you'll be better off for it. I have tried to post this review 3x now, if Avvo does not post this review, I will makes sure it goes on Google, Yelp and others to warn the public.
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01 Feb, 2021 by Brian
Was referred to Mark in regard to questions I had in dealing with issues relating to my recently deceased sister's estate. Returned my call promptly, and gave me almost an hour of his time, free of charge. Answered all questions I had. Would highly recommend.
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03 Sep, 2020 by Anonymous
Mark is an experienced, thoughtful, skilled and caring attorney who took his time with my wife and I to properly guide us through the estate planning process. I would highly recommend him.
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02 Sep, 2020 by Anonymous
Went for a consult. I was of course nervous as I know nothing about Estate Planning. As a layman, I assumed Mr. Gotlieb did. I was asking him many questions as this is an important thing in one's life. To make sure after you die, things go right. I could see he was getting annoyed by my questions. He never asked me about my assets. How much money I had in my accounts. Nothing. He wrote nothing down and could not wait for me ti leave. He even said I think you should use the law firm I used to work at. Are you kidding me. Do what you want but I would not waste my time seeing this attorney. He was useless
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01 Oct, 2021 by Randall
I have used Ron for several different civil legal matters. I can say unequivocally that he is hands down one of the most trusted legal reps I have ever engaged. He knows his expertise hands down but more importantly executes flawlessly. I highly recommend.
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17 May, 2019 by Jason
Ron saved me on a complex real estate transaction which would have taken multiple lawyers. His over 30 years of experience in so many areas shows and he has a heart of gold. I only work with the best and I highly recommend Ron!
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26 Jan, 2017 by Al
Asked Ron Lewis to handle Foreclosure case for me and once I got served he said he would handle it. His staff NEVER FILED THE PAPERWORK (the firm was never on the service list of the foreclosure complaint - which would show that the complaint was answered. I got default summary judgement and they still hid the fact that they never filed on my behalf. I had to hire another attorney to have it vacated. It was a TOTAL NIGHTMARE! THANK goodness the lawyer that replaced him was a "real" lawyer. I know this was years ago, but I came across an email from his staff that really irked me because they stated that I had "no meritorious defense tactics remaining" when in fact they NEVER said to me they didn't file the paperwork!!! Not only DID I have defense tactics remaining, I was able to vacate that default summary judgment (the judge saw that Ron Lewis never answered the complaint. I did save my home no thanks to Ron Lewis and Cynthia Reed... Here part of the last email written by Cynthia Reed (Ron Lewis's staff lawyer... After this email was sent, I asked why the complaint was never answered, where they never replied. Would you want them as your lawyer??? Here is the email...
Al, ...
"I seriously doubt you are financially able to pay for that Jupiter property - even if you make use of all the relief that Chapter 13 offers. And you are right – if you scrape up enough money to pay your Chapter 13 payments for a few months, then default and your case is dismissed – you lose that money and you will thereafter lose the property to foreclosure, since the lender will then reset its hearing and get its judgment and the property will be sold. You have no meritorious defenses, there are no “stall” techniques available in your foreclosure case, and if you are not in Chapter 13 making your payments on time, you will eventually lose the house. You indicated to me very clearly that you and your wife have come to terms with this, accept it as a likely if not definite outcome, and are ready to move on from the Jupiter house. "
Postscript:
I did file a complaint with the Florida, but I became ill after the dismissal of the foreclosure (foreclosure process was very stressful). I wish I had filed it timely. I may display all the paperwork on a webpage for everyone to see (simply the public record, invoices, and emails) and not put my opinion. I nearly lost my home because of this lawyer's actions ( nonactions actually).
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24 Sep, 2022 by Brad
Strangest experience with Melissa Waldinger. Called her for a pre-nup and explained I found her through my company’s legal plan. She talked to me for a few minutes about it then setup a consult later in the week. We went through all the info she needed from me and my Fiance… then the following Friday that week she says I should check with the legal plan to make sure they cover not just drafting the agreement but also any negotiation/change otherwise she would have to charge additional for that …I called and sent her the info and it did cover it based on what I pay to be a member… and she agreed she’d take care of it. The very next day she emails me that she is too busy this month and I should find someone else.
Why go through two calls with me, ask me to confirm coverage, take our information and then turn down the work?
And she did tell me the doc would take a week or two for first draft which was fine for us… now we are back to looking for an attorney and don’t love that she knows some of our personal business … then backed out. Really poor form.
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28 Feb, 2022 by Michael
I called Ms. Waldinger from New Jersey as I had signed a Contract to purchase a home when I was in Florida the week prior not contingent upon financing. Ms. Waldinger came highly recommended as a Contract attorney in Boca Raton where the home I had signed the Contract was located. Upon my First phone call to her she assured me that she would review the Contract and help me and made me feel better. She asked me to scan or fax the Contract which I did. Ms. Waldinger wasnimmediately on the phone with both real estate agents involved to work through this situation. Within one week she had Both agents and the buyer agree to let me cancel the Contract and get my escrow deposit back in the full amount of $25,000.00 I was so happy with her work and her skills and her communication with me and all parties involved.
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13 Jan, 2013 by Leslie
Melissa was so knowledgeable and helpful. She always called me back explained everything her fees were very reasonable and she won my case for me.
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08 Jul, 2023 by Hugh
THIS GUY SEEMED SO LIKEABLE!! I can’t believe he scammed me out of my money!!! Wow watch out who you hire!
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28 Mar, 2014 by Mark
Steven is head and shoulders above any other attorney I've worked with in the past. I am a real estate agent, specializing on commercial real estate. I recommend Steven to all of my clients, and they have nothing but glowing reviews about his performance. I recommend Steven because I have full confidence that he will make all of my clients (as well as myself) completely satisfied.
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21 Mar, 2014 by Anonymous
We have been working with Attorney Platzeck for 2 years. I find him to be extremely knowledgable regarding the law. He is easy to reach and will call back in a very timely manner. I feel that his billing has been very reasonable for the work he has provided.
More importantly I feel very confident when I give him issues to deal with. I know he aggressively pursues solutions in a cost effective manner. I also find him to be compassionate in my dealings with him. I would not hesitate in recommending Attorney Platzek.
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15 Oct, 2024 by Sam
If I could give Ken Minerley and the Minerley Firm Law Group zero stars, I absolutely would. Hiring this firm was one of the biggest mistakes I’ve ever made, and it cost me over $50,000 before I had no choice but to walk away in the middle of my case.
In my experience, Minerley’s only objective was to rack up as many billable hours as possible with little regard for the outcome of my case. After retaining his services, my case was quickly handed off to an inexperienced associate named Ashley Adras, and from that point on, communication was practically nonexistent unless I aggressively pursued them for updates. Hearings came and went without any proactive communication from the firm, and it felt like there was no real strategy in place—just a series of filings designed to inflate the bill.
I’ve worked with many attorneys over the years, and none have been as disappointing as Ken Minerley. It felt like the focus was never on resolving my case efficiently, but on keeping the clock running to maximize fees. Thankfully, I’ve now hired competent legal counsel who are working to fix the mess this firm created.
I urge anyone considering this firm to look elsewhere. Save yourself the money, time, and frustration. The experience left me feeling taken advantage of and completely unsupported.
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07 May, 2014 by John
Ken and his partner Christen Ritchey did an incredible job for me. I was hit with a "driveby" ADA lawsuit. The plaintiff and his attorney filed something like 50 or so of these in the span of a few weeks. It seemed like they were looking for people to pay them a few thousand dollars a pop to "go away." Until the suit, I was not aware of the particular ADA requirements in question, but I was happy to comply once I did. As for the legal aspect, Ken and Christen took care of it exactly as they said they would. They ultimately had the suit dropped and it was done cost effectively and efficiently. The best part is I believe justice was served. We complied with the law but didn't have to pay the customary extortionate fees to the plaintiff's lawsuit machine.
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22 May, 2024 by Anonymous
Daniel Wasserstein is the epitome of the foreclosure attorney that has no values or integrity and will do anything to get paid. (And I have known high quality attorneys so I'm not generalizing about all attorneys.) If a homeowner doesn't pay their COA or HOA assessments, after a lien is put on the home, and a buyer pays the lien at the foreclosure auction, Daniel Wasserstein gets a percentage of the lien money. If you try to call him, someone else answers the phone, which shows that he is too wimpy to even speak to anyone confronting him. Daniel Wasserstein is a mosquito living in a human body and should be barred from being an attorney forever and everywhere.
The address of his office is 301 Yamato Rd, Suite 2199, Boca Raton, FL, 33431.
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11 Jan, 2024 by Anonymous
Not recommended this is the worst attorney i haver had He is liar and add more and more fees that was ridiculous
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21 Sep, 2020 by Anonymous
Represented/compensated by the Hillsboro LeBaron Condo Association, Hillsboro Beach, FL to coverup an nonpermitted HVAC issue. Do not recommend!!!
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08 Mar, 2024 by Anonymous
Raymond Paparella pleaded guilty after being charged with an alleged fraud lasting 15 years. They are accused of forging works of art (by artists like George Ault and Ralston Crawford) and the signatures of Babe Ruth, Lou Gehrig and Cy Young on sports memorabilia. (Chicago)
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10 Jul, 2022 by Anonymous
We retained the services of The Law Firm of Raymond Paparella to determine if a “Will” and “Trust” could be contested. Mr. Paparella informed us that he had 11 years of experience in the field, his demeanor was friendly, and he was eager to help us resolve our issue. We chose him because he was flexible in his terms to accommodate us financially, due to our very limited financial means. After our conversations, I became concerned that I had taken on more of a brainstorming role with Mr. Paparella instead of being reassured that his experience had already determined a clear cut course of action to resolve the matter. Mr. Paparella wrote two (2) letters on our behalf; one was approximately 250 words in length to a probate attorney, and another was approximately 160 words in length to a realtor. The response from the probate attorney concluded that the Will and Trust in question could not be contested. Mr. Paparella recommended that we proceed no further and that he would provide a refund from the $5,800 retainer. We received an $800 refund by check by mail but there was no accounting at all for the $5,000 billed (approx. 11.7 hours) and the retainer rate of $425 per hour equates to a bit more than $7 per minute. The previous legal services we retained included meticulously detailed records of activities and time spent on them. Due to the value of the Trust, we had no option other than to attempt to question it. Needless to say, we were very unhappy and disappointed that the two letters and any other undocumented and unaccounted work performed added up to a very round and convenient number of $5,000. To be exact-- $5,000 at the rate of $425 per hour equates to 11.7647 hours or 705.882 minutes. We could understand any round number in relation to time spent, but, in my opinion, the likelihood of 11.7647 hours of undocumented time is highly questionable. Due to this aspect, which we consider to be highly unprofessional, we cannot recommend the services of The Law Firm of Raymond Paparella.
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22 Aug, 2023 by Anonymous
My family contacted him for an accident where my father was hit by a car and he wasn't even driving. The accident aggravated the issue in his leg and Jhonatas seemed really interested in the case in the beginning. As soon as he learned the person's insurance was basic he simply stopped answering us. Neither him or his team were able to call/text/email or even return our attempts in contact them to tell us at least that they would not be able to help. Unfortunately my family was not the first one he did this. I would never recommend him to anyone! If you want an attorney that cares about your case, you should find another person.
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04 Mar, 2020 by David
I hired Micheal J. Liss and I had an extremely bad experience with him. I would not recommend him. There are far too many other attorneys out there to take a chance on working with this attorney.
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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.
