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05 Dec, 2018 by Jeremy
After several years of family dispute regarding inheritance/split ownership of my grandparent’s real estate, I hired Mrs. Shaughnessy to help me with my legal advice and partitioning real estate needs. Even though I live out of state, Mara and staff was always responsive and professional when I reached out for status updates. Very pleased with the final judgement and currently in the process of finalizing everything so I can move forward with its sale. Overall, great experience and highly recommend Shaughnessy Law.
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13 Aug, 2018 by Joe
We have to start off by saying the court system is not fair when it comes to dead beat parents. Child services took my children from their mother for various warranted reasons (drugs, abuse, neglect), things that we didnt even know they were going through because they we to scared to tell anyone. We were appointed a court appointed attorney which was horrible and after my first experience with my last lawyer we were very skeptical about hiring a new lawyer. Mara came recommended to us through a friend and I have to say it was the best choice we've made in this regard over the last 11 years. During this whole process of the court and child services giving their mother chance after chance to reunify, making us feel like we did something wrong, and forcing the kids to talk and see their mother when they didnt want to Mara stayed positive. She was there anytime we had a question, needed a meeting, or advice during this 2 year process. We are grateful to say that finally we have full custody, the kids have completed their therapy, and they are happy and doing well in school.
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25 May, 2018 by Suzanne
Mara was not only professional but also caring. She looked after the best interests of my children. Cannot thank her enough for her diligence to get what was best for all of us.
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29 Jul, 2016 by Chris
Michael and his staff never estimated their ability to handle this case from day one for me. This is a complicated case dealing with a parents house in a pending 7 year foreclosure case. After much research on his background and reading several of his motions and affirmative defense stradgies in similar type cases I chose him. This a well seasoned team with excellent service skills in all aspects of their office. I highly recommend this team.
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28 Oct, 2024 by Cathy starnes
Ms. Askew was incredibly helpful and thorough in assisting me. I would highly recommend her firm.
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28 Oct, 2024 by Isa toledo
I feel incredibly fortunate to have found Ms. Askew! I was ready to pay her whatever it took, but she declined and instead provided me with invaluable legal advice. Although my case is complex and falls outside her jurisdiction, her expertise was evident. She is highly professional and incredibly transparent, qualities I truly appreciate. I will highly recommend her.
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10 Sep, 2024 by Unbreakable bre
I called in today to possible set up a consultation. The assistant assume that I called about something concerning my husband. I mean truly jumped to conclusions. After me addressing Shameka she also assumed the same I never mentioned what the situation was or what parties were involved. I advised to Shameka that I don’t know where husband came from she got cocky and asked then wat type of case am I calling about. I mean u r a lawyer y wouldn’t u take time to figure out first why I’m calling instead of assuming. I will not hire this firm nor will I give them out as a referral. Horrible horrible horrible. The last thing someone in need want to hear is someone being cocky or darn near rude when seeking family help
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08 Jul, 2024 by Woodode daout
Cox Law PLLC, is a champion law firm for the people that they represent. Sean Patrick Cox's practice has served his constituents with earnestness in every fight for justice. He is a "champions" for the people he represents. When you need a champion lawyer on your side look no further than Cox Law because Sean Patrick Cox is a champion and he obtains results.
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08 Jul, 2024 by Scott joyce
I strongly recommend Cox Law, PLLC to anyone seeking legal representation. I turned to Cox Law because I knew I needed legal assistance with my case. In retrospect I simply did not know how much help I really needed. I had an extremely complicated case and, although my experience was a difficult and arduous process, I can't imagine getting through this without Attorney Cox and his office. My association with Mr. Cox was a blessing and the outcome of my case could not have been better. Attorney Cox is tremendous at managing client expectations and in doing so he displays exceptional experience. In addition he is quite affable. I found every encounter and communication with Mr. Cox to be professional and informative. He is skilled, approachable and extremely attentive and responsive. I never had to actively seek an answer or update throughout this difficult process. Attorney Cox is very proactive and skilled at articulating the law and legal process in an understandable manner. I did not once have to ask what was going to happen next with my difficult case. Cox Law, PLLC. has an invaluable asset in Attorney Cox's paralegal, Ms. Salazar. Like Mr. Cox, she is extremely responsive and I have no doubt Ms. Salazar's attentiveness, knowledge and organization contributed greatly to the positive outcome of my case. She is a delight to interact with. I will be forever grateful for my representation by Cox Law, PLLC. and I personally felt cared about. This is an experienced, professional and attentive law practice and anyone in need of legal representation in a difficult situation should consider no other practice than Cox Law, PLLC.
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08 Jul, 2024 by 310pete
Very helpful very knowledgeable gave me good advice and saved me a ton of money highly recommend
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26 Sep, 2024 by C renee
Chris Breton responded personally, during a hurricane, in under an hour. He spoke with us for more than 20 mins, helping us understand our situation and ways to move forward. Thanks again!
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21 Aug, 2024 by Sammy d
I had an exceptional experience with Golden Law Group. Their professionalism, dedication, and expertise were evident throughout my case. They communicated clearly, handled every detail efficiently, and ultimately secured a fantastic outcome for me. I highly recommend them for anyone seeking reliable and effective legal representation.
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25 Jul, 2024 by Jessica malone
Scott Goldstein has been an exceptional attorney, and I'm grateful to have been referred to the Brenton Law Firm. He has shown remarkable diligence in helping me resolve a complex foreclosure case that has spanned nearly a year. Scott's patience and consistent updates have been invaluable during this stressful and time-consuming process. I truly appreciate having Scott and the Brenton Law Firm guiding me through this challenging situation.
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16 Aug, 2024 by Elizabeth perks
Elizabeth Wheeler has represented me on a case before the appellate court. I cant say enough about her dedication and representation. She took this case like if I was family to her. She was honest all the way and never doing things extra to overcharge me. Thanks much Elizabeth!!.. I Will be forever grateful. May God continue to bless your life.
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22 Apr, 2024 by John-lester gibson
Professional. Mr. Wheeler makes sure you understand your will and the direction you want it to flow
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14 Mar, 2024 by Glendon milligan
Lots of experience and knowledge- friendly.
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24 Jul, 2024 by Holley
This woman is a superhero! The amount of gratitude I have for how beautifully Stephanie represented and supported me during my divorce is something I cannot express or ever repay. I went through a high conflict divorce that involved young children. Stephanie was the second attorney in my divorce case. My original attorney hired her to represent me when my divorce case went to trial and my original attorney was not available for my trial. At first, I was frustrated that I had no say in who would be representing me at my trial but what a gift she turned out to be. A staff member from another family law office mentioned to me that if they needed a divorce trial attorney, Stephanie Koether would 100% be the one they hired because she is incredible in the court room. From my first meeting with Stephanie, I felt so comfortable with her and knew that she was passionate about my case. From day one, she began rescuing me in ways I didn’t even know I needed rescuing. First she is brilliant! She knows family law and the local players inside and out. She worked brilliantly on my case and helped create solutions that both parties could agree on. She educated me on the realities and likelihood of each scenario so that I would be prepared and could make the best use of my time and money. When my former spouse and I could not agree, she advised me how to navigate those situations so we could find solutions and language that the court would approve. After learning the personalities and ugly history of my specific situation, she helped create parenting plans that would provide much needed protection and structure for my family. Secondly, her intuition is spot on. She quickly got up to date on the people, personalities and bizarre dynamics involved in my case. She anticipated issues and created solutions before the issues even came up. She may be young, but she is very experienced and respected in her industry. Thirdly, she is passionate about her clients. She fights for and protects her clients like they are her children. She protected me from attacks and created a structure to continue to protect me and my children from the chaos that divorce can create. When necessary, she told me the hard truths honestly yet gently. She pushed me when I needed pushing and also sat with me patiently providing support when the sadness of divorce became overwhelming. When I didn’t understand something, she explained it to me calmly and succinctly. Stephanie consistently responds quickly and is easily accessible. I would highly recommend Stephanie Koether to anyone going through a divorce, specifically a high conflict divorce. You want and need Stephanie in your corner!
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25 Jun, 2024 by Brittany
You know how people ask you who your hero is? People often name celebrities or sports icons. I will forever name Stephanie Koether as my hero! I would highly recommend Stephanie Koether! I trust this woman with my life which is exactly what I had to do when going through my divorce. At the beginning, I had found an attorney who turned out to be a nightmare. I was referred to Stephanie by an attorney who lost in court against her. I followed his advice and called her right away. Stephanie took the time to listen to my story and started fighting for me right away. She started putting together a game plan for my case and it was obvious from the start, that she knew her stuff. Stephanie was always accessible and during times when she was occupied I was contacted back within 24 hours. I was not lost in the shuffle. Stephanie formed parenting plans, settlements and motions that would lead to the best outcomes and futures for me and my 4 children under the age of eight. She took the time to help me understand the benefits and disadvantages to each motion and plan. I was never pressured to do anything I was not comfortable with. I felt supported and validated by Stephanie every step of the way. I trust her whole heartedly to look out for myself and my children. Trust me and my review by hiring her for your next case, you will not be disappointed.
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02 May, 2024 by Cathy bosek
Very thorough and organized firm. Highly recommended!
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17 May, 2024 by Employee oneblood
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01 Mar, 2023 by Raymond wyerick
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06 Mar, 2021 by Larri rosenberg
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29 Sep, 2018 by Terry
I hired Attorney Daniel Pilka to represent me in a lawsuit filed against me for HOA Attorney fees. I told Attorney Pilka since day 1, that I have limited resources, as a homeowner. Each month, Mr. Pilka send me billings that show excessive phone calls, that he says he made to the Plaintiff and the other defendant's attorneys. Mind you there was practically no activity on the case for the entire year I retained his services. I send him emails telling not to waste my resources on phone calls. In frustration, I terminated his services after I exhausted $4300+ and he informed me that he couldn't guarantee me a win unless I pay him more resourses$$. As it turns out, after I terminated Attorney Pilka, he sent me an email advising me that during his Motion to terminate as my Attorney, the judge advised that I was not at fault, and did not owe the Plaintiff any attorney fees as they claimed. Attorney Pilka is very knowledgeable in HOA matters, but I wouldn't recommend him to individual homeowners who have limited resources, as his billings are extremely high, he would be a better fit with a Community Association.
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02 Mar, 2015 by Anonymous
We were never asked before amended complaints were filed, appeals filed. All very costly for us the clients. Worse than that Mr. Pilka neglected to use any Statutes or case law in his pleadings, hus giving the judge nothing to go on but rumor and heresay.
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13 Jun, 2019 by Anonymous
I hired John in March because a neighbor's tree had fallen and was suspended over my fence and shed. The owner was clearing the property and I was concerned it would make the partially fallen tree fall the rest of the way ,smashing my fence and shed and possibly rolling and bringing down other trees causing even more damage. John took a $750 retainer and said he would call the property owner. The neighbor continued clearing and working on the property and, in fact, did not slow down disturbing the tree at all. In April the tree fell further but still had not smashed my shed. I called John again and he said he would call the property owner again. The property owner continued working on the area around the tree and in May the tree then fell, smashing my shed and fence. I contacted John and asked for the retainer back minus an hour for the phone calls he made. John refused to return any money and in fact BILLED ME $300 MORE for my request for an itemized bill. I could have used that $750 to just have the tree removed but John assured me that he could help me. John will take your money, not do the job and charge you MORE.
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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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