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27 Feb, 2024 by Janet chick
Jim Wald and his associate John Hughes were more than helpful in creating a Trust for my husband and myself during my husband's illness. They were more than professional. They were thoughtful, kind and respectful of our circumstances. They offered information and guidance we would not have had access to if we handled it on our own. At the passing of my husband, they continued to provide guidance making a very difficult time less stressful for me and my family. I am forever grateful for having met them and will continue to seek their help in the future should the need arise. Janet C.
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13 Sep, 2023 by Kimberly williams
Very professional. Very personable. As a team approach, they handled our issues from start to finish, & gave us the best guidance with the upmost of care. They were a blessing to us through our situation!
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05 Aug, 2023 by Chery nicholas
I’ve known Jim Wald for twenty years. I’ve worked with him personally and professionally. He thoroughly and caringly looks out for the best interest of his clients. I never hesitate to refer folk to him. Thank you Jim for your service, expertise and friendship. YCN
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05 Nov, 2020 by Ron
We had an opportunity to sell our home by owner. We were nervous but John Hughes at James G. Wald PC made the transaction seamless. John was professional and timely with all our needs. I would highly recommend John and this firm for any of your legal needs.
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26 Mar, 2020 by Diane o.
Per our first phone conversation, John Hughes, was easy to speak with, very knowledgeable, and extremely informative. By answering my questions and offering me additional information on my situation, John was definitely helpful beyond measure. Speaking with him was truly a positive experience. I hope to work with him further and I would not hesitate to recommend him to friends or family.
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16 Jan, 2020 by Julie
My experience with John was exceptional. He was able to access information and answer questions in real time. Within minutes, he is able to access data on the computer and we didn't have to wait for "research" and incur additional expenses. His sense of humor was appreciated during a stressful time, and he always communicated quickly and effectively. Thanks John, I would use his services in the future if I needed an attorney.
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04 Jan, 2011 by Michael
Jason Hagelthorn helped me with setting up my new business. He took all of the stress out from under me and my partner. Jason was very quick to respond whenever we had to contact him and was always on top of what needed to be done. He secured and negotiated our lease agreement with our landlord and structured our corporation to best suit our business. I have used other attorneys in the past for similar matters and have never been this satisfied with the outcome. It was nice to always know what was going on and have things explained to us in terms that you didn't need to be a lawyer to understand. I cannot express my thanks enough and would recommend Jason Hagelthorn for any legal matter.
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04 Jan, 2011 by Tammy
Was so helpful in answering my questions in a quick timely fashion. If he was in the area I needed help in I would hire him.
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04 Jan, 2011 by Nicole
I used Mr. Hagelthorns services for a child custody matter, and was very pleased for everthing he did to help me. I would highly recemond him. I am very greatful for all he has done for my family and myself.
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03 Sep, 2010 by Peter
I have referred may clients to David Schoolcraft for additional counseling on complex legal business matters in both Federal and State venues. He is a thorough and highly effective litigator, negotiator and Counselor. He is regularly available, prompt to respond and dependable. I would not hesitate to recommend his legal services, especially in the areas of bankruptcy, business law, estate planning and general civil litigation.
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13 Sep, 2024 by Dave leland
My wife and I had some legal documents drawn up and Mr. Schaller took care of our needs.
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26 Jul, 2024 by Vi kellersohn
Mitchell was simply the perfect lawyer for our family. He came into a difficult situation last minute on a delicate divorce case, quickly addressed all the legal matters needed. Within a week he had us on a fast track to results. His honesty, candor, and compassion made a tough situation easy. A lawyer with integrity and talent. Highly recommend his work!
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15 Jun, 2024 by Sarah m
Mitch’s knowledge and experience were invaluable during my divorce process. Would recommend to anyone without hesitation.
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27 Jun, 2024 by Edward bielaska
Christopher was fantastic. Help me answer a lot of questions
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23 Feb, 2024 by Kathy stark
Outstanding advice and delivery, I highly recommend their services for elder law, trusts, etc!
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22 Dec, 2023 by Gregory karpicke
Chris Lindsay was very thorough and made sure we understood the work they did for us putting together estate planning documents. Chris as recommended to us and we highly recommend him as well.
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13 Sep, 2024 by Dave leland
My wife and I had some legal documents drawn up and Mr. Schaller took care of our needs.
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26 Jul, 2024 by Vi kellersohn
Mitchell was simply the perfect lawyer for our family. He came into a difficult situation last minute on a delicate divorce case, quickly addressed all the legal matters needed. Within a week he had us on a fast track to results. His honesty, candor, and compassion made a tough situation easy. A lawyer with integrity and talent. Highly recommend his work!
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15 Jun, 2024 by Sarah m
Mitch’s knowledge and experience were invaluable during my divorce process. Would recommend to anyone without hesitation.
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13 Sep, 2024 by Dave leland
My wife and I had some legal documents drawn up and Mr. Schaller took care of our needs.
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26 Jul, 2024 by Vi kellersohn
Mitchell was simply the perfect lawyer for our family. He came into a difficult situation last minute on a delicate divorce case, quickly addressed all the legal matters needed. Within a week he had us on a fast track to results. His honesty, candor, and compassion made a tough situation easy. A lawyer with integrity and talent. Highly recommend his work!
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15 Jun, 2024 by Sarah m
Mitch’s knowledge and experience were invaluable during my divorce process. Would recommend to anyone without hesitation.
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28 Aug, 2024 by Darrin walters
Came to John from a Google search, with a desperate tax situation from a divorce almost 10 years ago. John took charge and negotiated with the IRS for me, and championed me out of a desperate situation that had me considering bankruptcy. I can't express the gratitude I have for his assistance and professionalism through the ordeal. I 100% recommend his services. For your usual tax preparation, to a complex matter like I faced, John is the man to see.
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24 Aug, 2024 by M trask
Mr Harrington helped me take care of a tax matter that had been worrying me very much. He knew exactly how to handle the situation, and was always available to answer questions and address my concerns. Highly recommended!
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19 Aug, 2024 by Matt olson
Ms Couling represented my ex-wife in our divorce, and crucially, in multiple post-divorce motions. As other reviews will likely attest, Ms Couling was competent at filing routine paperwork, and the judgement was entered in August 2023, finalizing our divorce. Things went off the rails later that year with two post-divorce motions. Both were insane. I can't hold Ms Couling responsible for the first, which was filed by my ex-wife, though she was represented by Ms Couling in court. The second motion, however; was filed by Ms Couling. After my ex-wife attempted to kidnap one of our sons from my home, during my parenting time, and clearly without my consent, they filed a motion over his custody, making wild and unsupported claims, and citing FOUR TIMES a clause of our judgement that DOES NOT EXIST. For this, there is no excuse. I believe that Ms Couling had written most of that document, and CLEARLY should have known better. The cases were weak to begin with, but Ms Couling is not a very strong litigator, which didn't help. In the end, both motions were denied, except that we were ordered to exchange kids at a third location. In this way, my ex wife can be prosecuted for trespassing should she return to my home. But that decision came only after months of hearings and thousands of dollars in legal fees. I feel that Ms Couling had an obligation to discourage such nonsense. If you don't care about outcomes and just want an unscrupulous attorney to help harass your ex, then hire Ms Couling. She'll do it. If you want solid legal advice, perhaps you should look elsewhere.
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18 Oct, 2022 by Aimee masters
Can not say enough good things about this office! Scott Brock was responsive, polite, and very informative. If you are looking for legal counsel regarding any of their areas of expertise they should be your first phone call!!!
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24 Jul, 2022 by Rachele evers
Hands down the best Real Estate Attorneys in the area. I regularly recommend them to clients and use them myself. They will help you understand the law, your rights, and navigating toward your desired outcome. Real estate laws can be tricky and Cooper and Riesterer how to navigate them.
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23 Sep, 2021 by Patti dawes
We have all of our "ducks in a row" now thanks to Nawrocki Center. They helped us decide how to lay out our legacy. They help alleviate financial surprises of the aging process on this side of heaven. Ruxandra was so knowledgeable in explaining the process, and helped us every step of the way. We have finished binder explaining all of our wishes, and peace of mind.
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18 Oct, 2022 by Aimee masters
Can not say enough good things about this office! Scott Brock was responsive, polite, and very informative. If you are looking for legal counsel regarding any of their areas of expertise they should be your first phone call!!!
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24 Jul, 2022 by Rachele evers
Hands down the best Real Estate Attorneys in the area. I regularly recommend them to clients and use them myself. They will help you understand the law, your rights, and navigating toward your desired outcome. Real estate laws can be tricky and Cooper and Riesterer how to navigate them.
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23 Sep, 2021 by Patti dawes
We have all of our "ducks in a row" now thanks to Nawrocki Center. They helped us decide how to lay out our legacy. They help alleviate financial surprises of the aging process on this side of heaven. Ruxandra was so knowledgeable in explaining the process, and helped us every step of the way. We have finished binder explaining all of our wishes, and peace of mind.
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18 Oct, 2022 by Aimee masters
Can not say enough good things about this office! Scott Brock was responsive, polite, and very informative. If you are looking for legal counsel regarding any of their areas of expertise they should be your first phone call!!!
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star star star star star
24 Jul, 2022 by Rachele evers
Hands down the best Real Estate Attorneys in the area. I regularly recommend them to clients and use them myself. They will help you understand the law, your rights, and navigating toward your desired outcome. Real estate laws can be tricky and Cooper and Riesterer how to navigate them.
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star star star star star
23 Sep, 2021 by Patti dawes
We have all of our "ducks in a row" now thanks to Nawrocki Center. They helped us decide how to lay out our legacy. They help alleviate financial surprises of the aging process on this side of heaven. Ruxandra was so knowledgeable in explaining the process, and helped us every step of the way. We have finished binder explaining all of our wishes, and peace of mind.
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06 Dec, 2023 by Jim fera
Very caring and knowledgeable. Hw is a great person to have in your corner.
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31 Mar, 2022 by Rach k
Super helpful and knows his stuff. Truly caring individual and knowledgeable about family probate.
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05 Mar, 2022 by Amy newman
Hands down the very best from the beginning of the process! Mr. Cassar is very informative and is great at explaining everything to you and how it's going to work. He immediately calms your nerves!! He's an absolute amazing attorney and I definitely recommend him 5 stars across the board!
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20 May, 2021 by Anonymous
I hired Mr. Johnson to respond to a motion filed by my ex-husband. Mr. Johnson accepted my retainer check but never responded to the motion. I tried to contact him on numerous occasions, but the hearing date came and went without response, and the court decided the motion against me because Mr. Johnson never filed an appearance or an answer. Mr. Johnson finally contacted me to indicate he was going through many personal issues and begged me not to file a complaint with the ethics board that I had suggested to him I was prepared to do. He eventually refunded my retainer fee for not filing the complaint, but I still need to find an attorney not self-absorbed with personal issues to try and undo this mess. I'd avoid Mr. Johnson until he gets his own house in order.
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05 Sep, 2019 by Matthew
Ahhh... Where to begin. I guess my experience utilizing this attorney could be summarized as being nonexistant. I hired him for a custody case and wound up not seeing my son for 6 months, not being able to contact Dave or get him to return calls even leaving 7 consecutive messages one day. Simply, this dude sucks at his job. Period. Find someone else
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26 Jan, 2016 by Cheryl
Mr. Johnson represented our homeowners association in an access related lawsuit initiated by a local developer. We provided a great deal of background information - some of it going back 50 years. He quickly evaluated this abundant information, determined what was most important and effectively used it in his legal documents that were filed with the court. Since he was working with an association, all of the meetings involved multiples leaders/participants. Mr. Johnson was accommodating of the multiple schedules involved, and we were always able to find a meeting time that would allow all interested parties to attend. In addition, during these meetings, he solicited our input on many issues. He always listened patiently in an effort to provide a better defense. In the end, the plaintiff voluntarily dismissed the lawsuit. Not only did the case get dismissed, we were able to recoup our attorney’s fees from the plaintiff by court order. We attribute the successful outcome to Mr. Johnson's exceptional efforts and real estate knowledge. We would not hesitate to hire him again should issues arise within our association that require legal support.
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25 Sep, 2024 by Anonymous
Bill has zero clue about real estate law. He talks over you and does not listen. He also dresses like he rolled out of a dumpster. This is not what you would think of when you think of an attorney!
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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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