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08 Jul, 2024 by James cheaves
24 Jul, 2022 by Mike oshea
Frank is a very caring and hard working person. He did a outstanding job on my case. Special thanks to Amanda.
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23 Jul, 2022 by Carrie paluszynski
When I met Frank Lo Tempio I was extremely nervous. Frank took all my worries and concerns away. He was very professional and treated me like family. I really felt like he cared for me and he helped me feel comfortable and really went above and beyond for me and my case. I would highly recommend Frank Lo Tempio!!!
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20 Aug, 2024 by Dee oakes
I can’t say Thank You enough to this law firm and Eric Winnert! We live approximately 5 hours from the office and Eric came to our home to get the much needed paperwork signed by my very ill spouse for a mesothelioma law suit. Poor man had to drive through the snow belt in February just to make sure we got what was needed before anything happened. Whenever I have questions and need to contact him, he is always there to give me answers. He has walked me step by step through every part of the process as my spouse was terminal and passed. Even when I haven’t bothered him in awhile, he will shoot me a text with any needed updates on our case! He’s very caring, empathetic , and personable with his clients and their family! No matter what we threw at him he always had a smile and a chuckle while maintaining his professionalism! Great Job Eric and I thank you from the bottom of my heart for what you have done and continue to do for me.
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02 Aug, 2024 by Mike c
Calling them was best decision I ever made from the ladies who answer the phone to Karen who handled my cases could not be happier with my representation
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20 Jul, 2024 by Sondra l. king
I became a client of Hurwitz Whitcher & Malloy in November of 2020 due to injuries I sustained transporting equipment to Work from Home during the pandemic on April 7, 2020. I already have a disability, born missing my left limb & no joint in my right thumb. After trying to fight compensation on my own, they consistently denied every procedure that was being requested to get me back to work, my doctor’s office suggested that I get a lawyer.
I was referred Hurwitz Whitcher & Malloy by a friend. My first contact was Patricia Hagerty, my anxiety was so high that I couldn’t even complete a sentence. I felt crazy, scared & embarrassed. She took my information & said someone would get back to me. She also, assured me that everything would be ok, try to relax & not think about his.
Karen Small handled my case & she kept me up to date on the process step by step. If there was something I did not understand, she would explain until I did. After hard work & dedication, delays, setbacks, we won July 2024.
I had trouble getting my medications, so I spoke with Sam Firestein concerning this matter. Within an hour, the issues were resolved & he followed the next week up to make sure I received the medication as scheduled & that everything was ok.
Kate Malloy handled Social Security on my behalf, job well-done.
From my first encounter with your firm until today, I felt like the team cared. I am entirely satisfied with the way this firm has treated me, they showed compassion, cares, concerns & handled every aspect of my case in a personal & professional manner. This whole process was confusing & at times I was very upset, sick in my mind & body, but this firm saved the day. Sometimes thank you doesn’t seem to be enough, but I truly thank you for all you have done for me. Thank you for assisting me through this plight over the past 4 years of my life & in the future. I was assured that I was with the best compensation attorneys & that is a true statement.
I highly recommend this firm, if you are an injured worker, don’t try to fight them alone, don’t hesitate to contact Hurwitz, Whitcher & Malloy, they helped me every step of the way, & they’ll take care of you too. I am indeed a satisfied client; I feel like I’m a part of the family.
Sondra L King
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20 Aug, 2024 by Dee oakes
I can’t say Thank You enough to this law firm and Eric Winnert! We live approximately 5 hours from the office and Eric came to our home to get the much needed paperwork signed by my very ill spouse for a mesothelioma law suit. Poor man had to drive through the snow belt in February just to make sure we got what was needed before anything happened. Whenever I have questions and need to contact him, he is always there to give me answers. He has walked me step by step through every part of the process as my spouse was terminal and passed. Even when I haven’t bothered him in awhile, he will shoot me a text with any needed updates on our case! He’s very caring, empathetic , and personable with his clients and their family! No matter what we threw at him he always had a smile and a chuckle while maintaining his professionalism! Great Job Eric and I thank you from the bottom of my heart for what you have done and continue to do for me.
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02 Aug, 2024 by Mike c
Calling them was best decision I ever made from the ladies who answer the phone to Karen who handled my cases could not be happier with my representation
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20 Jul, 2024 by Sondra l. king
I became a client of Hurwitz Whitcher & Malloy in November of 2020 due to injuries I sustained transporting equipment to Work from Home during the pandemic on April 7, 2020. I already have a disability, born missing my left limb & no joint in my right thumb. After trying to fight compensation on my own, they consistently denied every procedure that was being requested to get me back to work, my doctor’s office suggested that I get a lawyer.
I was referred Hurwitz Whitcher & Malloy by a friend. My first contact was Patricia Hagerty, my anxiety was so high that I couldn’t even complete a sentence. I felt crazy, scared & embarrassed. She took my information & said someone would get back to me. She also, assured me that everything would be ok, try to relax & not think about his.
Karen Small handled my case & she kept me up to date on the process step by step. If there was something I did not understand, she would explain until I did. After hard work & dedication, delays, setbacks, we won July 2024.
I had trouble getting my medications, so I spoke with Sam Firestein concerning this matter. Within an hour, the issues were resolved & he followed the next week up to make sure I received the medication as scheduled & that everything was ok.
Kate Malloy handled Social Security on my behalf, job well-done.
From my first encounter with your firm until today, I felt like the team cared. I am entirely satisfied with the way this firm has treated me, they showed compassion, cares, concerns & handled every aspect of my case in a personal & professional manner. This whole process was confusing & at times I was very upset, sick in my mind & body, but this firm saved the day. Sometimes thank you doesn’t seem to be enough, but I truly thank you for all you have done for me. Thank you for assisting me through this plight over the past 4 years of my life & in the future. I was assured that I was with the best compensation attorneys & that is a true statement.
I highly recommend this firm, if you are an injured worker, don’t try to fight them alone, don’t hesitate to contact Hurwitz, Whitcher & Malloy, they helped me every step of the way, & they’ll take care of you too. I am indeed a satisfied client; I feel like I’m a part of the family.
Sondra L King
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20 Aug, 2024 by Dee oakes
I can’t say Thank You enough to this law firm and Eric Winnert! We live approximately 5 hours from the office and Eric came to our home to get the much needed paperwork signed by my very ill spouse for a mesothelioma law suit. Poor man had to drive through the snow belt in February just to make sure we got what was needed before anything happened. Whenever I have questions and need to contact him, he is always there to give me answers. He has walked me step by step through every part of the process as my spouse was terminal and passed. Even when I haven’t bothered him in awhile, he will shoot me a text with any needed updates on our case! He’s very caring, empathetic , and personable with his clients and their family! No matter what we threw at him he always had a smile and a chuckle while maintaining his professionalism! Great Job Eric and I thank you from the bottom of my heart for what you have done and continue to do for me.
Read more
02 Aug, 2024 by Mike c
Calling them was best decision I ever made from the ladies who answer the phone to Karen who handled my cases could not be happier with my representation
Read more
20 Jul, 2024 by Sondra l. king
I became a client of Hurwitz Whitcher & Malloy in November of 2020 due to injuries I sustained transporting equipment to Work from Home during the pandemic on April 7, 2020. I already have a disability, born missing my left limb & no joint in my right thumb. After trying to fight compensation on my own, they consistently denied every procedure that was being requested to get me back to work, my doctor’s office suggested that I get a lawyer.
I was referred Hurwitz Whitcher & Malloy by a friend. My first contact was Patricia Hagerty, my anxiety was so high that I couldn’t even complete a sentence. I felt crazy, scared & embarrassed. She took my information & said someone would get back to me. She also, assured me that everything would be ok, try to relax & not think about his.
Karen Small handled my case & she kept me up to date on the process step by step. If there was something I did not understand, she would explain until I did. After hard work & dedication, delays, setbacks, we won July 2024.
I had trouble getting my medications, so I spoke with Sam Firestein concerning this matter. Within an hour, the issues were resolved & he followed the next week up to make sure I received the medication as scheduled & that everything was ok.
Kate Malloy handled Social Security on my behalf, job well-done.
From my first encounter with your firm until today, I felt like the team cared. I am entirely satisfied with the way this firm has treated me, they showed compassion, cares, concerns & handled every aspect of my case in a personal & professional manner. This whole process was confusing & at times I was very upset, sick in my mind & body, but this firm saved the day. Sometimes thank you doesn’t seem to be enough, but I truly thank you for all you have done for me. Thank you for assisting me through this plight over the past 4 years of my life & in the future. I was assured that I was with the best compensation attorneys & that is a true statement.
I highly recommend this firm, if you are an injured worker, don’t try to fight them alone, don’t hesitate to contact Hurwitz, Whitcher & Malloy, they helped me every step of the way, & they’ll take care of you too. I am indeed a satisfied client; I feel like I’m a part of the family.
Sondra L King
Read more
08 Jul, 2024 by James cheaves
24 Jul, 2022 by Mike oshea
Frank is a very caring and hard working person. He did a outstanding job on my case. Special thanks to Amanda.
Read more
23 Jul, 2022 by Carrie paluszynski
When I met Frank Lo Tempio I was extremely nervous. Frank took all my worries and concerns away. He was very professional and treated me like family. I really felt like he cared for me and he helped me feel comfortable and really went above and beyond for me and my case. I would highly recommend Frank Lo Tempio!!!
Read more
24 Jul, 2022 by Mike oshea
Frank is a very caring and hard working person. He did a outstanding job on my case. Special thanks to Amanda.
Read more
23 Jul, 2022 by Carrie paluszynski
When I met Frank Lo Tempio I was extremely nervous. Frank took all my worries and concerns away. He was very professional and treated me like family. I really felt like he cared for me and he helped me feel comfortable and really went above and beyond for me and my case. I would highly recommend Frank Lo Tempio!!!
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21 Jul, 2022 by Zach plowe
Good attorneys and people. Got the best possible outcome for my case. Andrew is my attorney and Frank Lotempio was there for my sentencing. Small firm and they were on top of there game every time we had court. I will go there for all my legal needs.
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01 Feb, 2024 by Amanda
A fantastic firm overall. They have an attorney for every need there. Everyone there is professional and kind.
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03 Nov, 2023 by Mercedes johnson
The best lawyer 🙌 hands down from start to finished he told me what it was an what I wanted to hear 👏 highly recommend hiring him for any legal needs.
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16 Aug, 2023 by Peter gemmati
Great place highly recommend for any legal services
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18 Dec, 2023 by Lindsey
Months into working with Denis, I received an official court document in the mail that stated if I did not complete a court requirement (a simply online course) in SIX days, my case would be CLOSED. I was able to complete this requirement any time after 10/11, and it needed to be completed and submitted by 12/11. Denis did not notify me of this requirement one single time, and I even had a video meeting and exchanged emails with him on 10/11! The only reason I was able to complete the requirement online is because of the notice the court sent- NOT because Denis instructed me to. He was made aware of this, and has still not even acknowledged this or apologized. On top of almost costing me my entire case, I don’t know that the man answered a single one of my questions, would go missing for weeks at a time (the longest I did not hear back from him was 6 weeks), did not hand in MANY necessary documents to the courts on time, and still has not returned my voicemail from September, that I even reminded him about via email.
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12 Dec, 2019 by Dr. tim chambers
Mr. Kitchen has handled many legal issues for both my family and our not-for-profit ministry. He always handles himself with professionalism, excellence and kindness. I've never felt like he was in judgement of my choices, decisions or concerns and always treated me more as a friend than a client. His commitment to serving others is evidenced by the pro-bono work he has done for our ministry as well as others. It is an honor to have him as President of the Board of Directors because of his leadership qualities, his quiet confidence and his wise counsel. Both my wife, Cheryl and I recommend his legal advice across many issues.
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09 Aug, 2018 by Tracy
Denis Kitchen truly helped me with a personal financial problem. He answered any questions I had and directed me thoroughly through the process! Also, our family had an emergency where my mom became sick fast and needed nursing home care ASAP. I called Denis Kitchen quite upset because we needed a power of attorney for my mom quickly! Denis Kitchen was very compassionate and met us at the hospital to get the paperwork completed! He often goes above and beyond the call of duty! I would highly recommend Denis Kitchen!
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10 Sep, 2024 by Dan acker
I had the worst experience with Arthur at this firm, who despite several phone calls and emails never once responded to me regarding his client's case. I would be wary to hire any firm that handles financial affairs of their clients this way.
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14 Feb, 2023 by Rizwan alam
Very professional and great person
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28 Aug, 2021 by William duffy
Easy to find and park.Took care of our business quickly and carefully.
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05 Aug, 2024 by Lisa walter
My uncle passed away and I was his sole heir and executor. I had to take care of everything and it was so overwhelming. Peter McGrath was fantastic, he gave me so much help, answered every question I had (he was my uncle’s lawyer), and wouldn’t take a penny from me. I could never have fulfilled my executor’s duties without him. I can’t express how grateful I am. He’s a top notch attorney and a truly compassionate and wonderful human being.
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12 Nov, 2023 by Kathy riexinger
Reasonable. Prompt & efficient. Responsive. Knowledgeable. Kind, friendly, down to earth.
Best "lawyer" experience I've ever had or could ever hope for! Highly recommend.
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01 Jun, 2023 by Derrick piosca
Evictions can already be frustrating but running to a lawyer to help and not getting the help was even more frustrating. Tenant’s case was pending from the beginning to waiting on government assistance and that being said in the state of New York the process can’t move along as quickly as you would want. But as far as this attorney, it was not the best experience at all. Took so long with responses and even worse, never got any responses after awhile. Emailed, called and text but wouldn’t get any reply for days. One of the many examples was getting a reply about 2 weeks later that the hearing was adjourned and/or set for another date due to the tenant’s pending case with ERAP. With that same text he wanted an update but then sent an email and never heard back from him. Not sure what I did or my case wasn’t big enough to accept and cash in but good luck to anyone who is willing to choose this firm to work with.
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18 Sep, 2024 by Aleksandr frolov
I have worked with Kristina Ramos(attorney) and Jocelyn (paralegal) on a closing. Prompt communication, clear guidance through the process, and no delays. 10/10, would work with them again
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12 Mar, 2024 by Ron and renee bellamy
06 Feb, 2024 by Frank coheley
18 Sep, 2024 by Aleksandr frolov
I have worked with Kristina Ramos(attorney) and Jocelyn (paralegal) on a closing. Prompt communication, clear guidance through the process, and no delays. 10/10, would work with them again
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12 Mar, 2024 by Ron and renee bellamy
06 Feb, 2024 by Frank coheley
18 Sep, 2024 by Aleksandr frolov
I have worked with Kristina Ramos(attorney) and Jocelyn (paralegal) on a closing. Prompt communication, clear guidance through the process, and no delays. 10/10, would work with them again
Read more
12 Mar, 2024 by Ron and renee bellamy
06 Feb, 2024 by Frank coheley
18 Sep, 2024 by Aleksandr frolov
I have worked with Kristina Ramos(attorney) and Jocelyn (paralegal) on a closing. Prompt communication, clear guidance through the process, and no delays. 10/10, would work with them again
Read more
12 Mar, 2024 by Ron and renee bellamy
06 Feb, 2024 by Frank coheley
18 Sep, 2024 by Aleksandr frolov
I have worked with Kristina Ramos(attorney) and Jocelyn (paralegal) on a closing. Prompt communication, clear guidance through the process, and no delays. 10/10, would work with them again
Read more
12 Mar, 2024 by Ron and renee bellamy
06 Feb, 2024 by Frank coheley
18 Jun, 2024 by Raj raju
Nelson Torre is a lawyer who assisted me with a traffic ticket for running a STOP sign, which was connected to an accident. His fees were reasonable, and he was readily available to discuss my case. If he wasn't available, his associate would gather all the necessary details and provide assistance. Nelson responded to my emails promptly and kept his word throughout the process. Thanks to his efforts, my case was dismissed as he had promised.
Here’s a bit more about my experience: When I first received the ticket, I was worried about the potential consequences, especially since an accident was involved. I reached out to Nelson, and he immediately put me at ease with his professional yet approachable demeanor. He carefully explained the steps we needed to take and reassured me that he would handle everything. True to his word, he stayed in constant communication, updating me on the progress and responding to any questions I had without delay. Even when he was busy, his associate was there to help, ensuring that no detail was overlooked. In the end, Nelson’s expertise and dedication resulted in the dismissal of my case, and I couldn’t be more grateful for his support.
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16 May, 2024 by Shawn miller
Excellent representation, kept his word start to finish and kept me updated on my case. I highly recommend Nelson his experience and expertise was key.
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29 Mar, 2024 by Brenyaliz mercado
16 Aug, 2022 by Anonymous
Well I paid for a divorce and was told 3 months max ..and 3 years later nothing ..he said it was filed in March of 2020 .never filed it ..won't return any calls email or nothing ..took my hard earned money and did absolutely nothing for me !!!!
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25 Apr, 2020 by Anonymous
Dean took my CPS case that was crooked and lied from the start. Despite the on going surprises in court and the lies of my social worker under oath in court, he even said my case is the type that keeps him up all night long cause of the corruption and illegal actions of those who I was told to trust. He not only got my son returned home to me but also had legal action against the "social worker" who did everything in her power to prevent my sons return. My son and I will forever be scared but what happened but at least we are together again forever. I will always have Dean to thank for everything he did for us. He not only did his job but went above and beyond to turn my nightmare into a light at the end of the darkness. Even as I cried and cried he listened with compassion at a time when I had no one else to turn to. I referred him to my father and Dean represented him in his divorce and I still refer Dean to anyone who needs someone who will fight for them and get justice in the end. I will always be thankful for everything Dean is as a person and especially as he is as an attorney!!!
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30 Apr, 2017 by Anonymous
Mr Puleo has handled several cases for me, and each time I am more then happy. He handles traffic tickets swiftly and works out the best deals. For more serious criminal matters it seems like he always has a trick up his sleeve, he knows how to communicate with the courts very well and has always fought for me and voiced my side of the story, and he doesn't take no for an answer and has no problem battling in the court room for you.
On a negative note, getting ahold of the guy is near impossible, but his secretary is very helpful. Dean also has never missed a court date, sometimes late, but always comes through. I'll never use another attorney.
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01 Mar, 2020 by Chantel lash
09 Apr, 2019 by Karen obrien
Most worthless lawyer ever
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22 Oct, 2018 by Sarah w
16 Feb, 2019 by Kathy
Nancy & her staff handled the closing on our house. Selling a home you’ve lived in for several years is extremely stressful & they made the closing seem effortless. They are professional and friendly and responded quickly to my inquiries. I highly recommend the Law Offices of Nancy W. Asia.
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14 Jun, 2018 by Danielle
Nancy and her assistants Dina and Nick are so helpful. They are making the process of selling a home so easy. I am so grateful. I highly recommend them.
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18 Sep, 2013 by Frank b
I've been dealing with Nancy Saia for about ten years. She and her staff stay on top of everything and return your calls promptly. Last week her staff settled a trust problem for me within five hours. This week they are handling my mothers estate for me. Her office has handled our wills, trust, purchase and sale of three houses at very reasonable rates. Before dealing with Nancy Saia I used two different lawyers that took forever to get things done, one even messed up the paper work and wanted me to pay to correct his mistakes. I even chose Nancy Saia over a cousin who was a lawyer before he retired.
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01 Mar, 2020 by Chantel lash
09 Apr, 2019 by Karen obrien
Most worthless lawyer ever
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22 Oct, 2018 by Sarah w
15 Sep, 2024 by Amanda phillips
Thomas Hewner does not look out for his clients. Best interest.
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04 Aug, 2024 by Edward osiecki
I have Vivian Roche for my workers comp case, she fought for me when no one else would. She is a good person with integrity and excellent attorney.
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27 Jul, 2024 by Earl altheide
This law firm is a joke and does not return calls. I have left messages three times each for Tom Hewner and Keith Rosso and neither has ever returned my call. I have even left additional messages with their secretary and none of my calls get returned.
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27 May, 2024 by Steven anthony colella
Cool atmosphere, decent person to sit down and have a conversation with. My experience. Keeps it real. Intelligent.
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23 Apr, 2024 by Dave critter
Great attorney for anything you might need. Marc is great people.
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18 Jan, 2024 by Sugath liyanage
27 May, 2024 by Steven anthony colella
Cool atmosphere, decent person to sit down and have a conversation with. My experience. Keeps it real. Intelligent.
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23 Apr, 2024 by Dave critter
Great attorney for anything you might need. Marc is great people.
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18 Jan, 2024 by Sugath liyanage
10 Sep, 2024 by Dan acker
I had the worst experience with Arthur at this firm, who despite several phone calls and emails never once responded to me regarding his client's case. I would be wary to hire any firm that handles financial affairs of their clients this way.
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14 Feb, 2023 by Rizwan alam
Very professional and great person
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28 Aug, 2021 by William duffy
Easy to find and park.Took care of our business quickly and carefully.
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10 Sep, 2024 by Dan acker
I had the worst experience with Arthur at this firm, who despite several phone calls and emails never once responded to me regarding his client's case. I would be wary to hire any firm that handles financial affairs of their clients this way.
Read more
14 Feb, 2023 by Rizwan alam
Very professional and great person
Read more
28 Aug, 2021 by William duffy
Easy to find and park.Took care of our business quickly and carefully.
Read more
10 Sep, 2024 by Dan acker
I had the worst experience with Arthur at this firm, who despite several phone calls and emails never once responded to me regarding his client's case. I would be wary to hire any firm that handles financial affairs of their clients this way.
Read more
14 Feb, 2023 by Rizwan alam
Very professional and great person
Read more
28 Aug, 2021 by William duffy
Easy to find and park.Took care of our business quickly and carefully.
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03 Dec, 2021 by Michael enser
Great atmosphere, experienced and talented staff. I would suggest no other firm for my legal needs..
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13 Jun, 2021 by Runangun40
Great attorneys, very knowledgeable about immigration law.
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20 Nov, 2019 by Marc coppola
27 May, 2024 by Steven anthony colella
Cool atmosphere, decent person to sit down and have a conversation with. My experience. Keeps it real. Intelligent.
Read more
23 Apr, 2024 by Dave critter
Great attorney for anything you might need. Marc is great people.
Read more
18 Jan, 2024 by Sugath liyanage
16 Sep, 2021 by Tania
I’ve worked with Joy on multiple properties I have through out Buffalo and the Tonawanda’s. Always a pleasure to work with and extremely knowledgeable. I would highly recommend.
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15 Sep, 2021 by Cindy
Joy Carrier LaMarca was a pleasure to work with in the purchase of my home. She responded in a timely fashion to my many questions. She even called me after business hours! She was very thorough and made me feel at ease through this process. I highly recommend her services!
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14 Sep, 2021 by Brandon
I had no clue how much went into buying my first house. There was questions I had that were probably basic but Joy answered my calls and emails very timely and put me at ease. Her team was very supportive and pushed to make sure it was all done right the first time. Joy even went as far as looking up records to aid in a survey dispute following the close of my house which in the end saved me thousand of headaches.
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20 Jun, 2024 by Tyler jones
Ms vesper was assigned to my custody case it was the most unpleasant experience I could have imagined. Guessing her law degree came through education connection.
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09 May, 2024 by Jason
She is horrendously unable to respond in the timely manner. If you need a divorce and you want it done in the timely fashion this is the worst person you could possibly choose
Read more
08 Jan, 2024 by S w
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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.
