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05 Sep, 2015 by Felicia
Michael Friedman helped me and my family do what seemed to be impossible - get the DWP to rescind a false and egrigious $51,000 water bill! My elderly parents were tormented with service shutoff and collection threats for 8.5 months for not paying this outrageous bill. For 8.5 months we tried to get DWP (via phone, email and in person) to investigate the nature of this bill to no avail. No one ever responded. Finally, when Mr. Friedman got on the case, within two weeks my parents' case was resolved and the monster of a bill was rescinded, accompanied by a public apology from the DWP broadcast on national television. Thanks to Michael Friedman my parents and finally have peace of mind after 8.5 months of torment. Words can't adequately describe our gratitude.
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27 Aug, 2015 by Kelly
Michael did a wonderful job with our dispute. He was informative, proactive and professional. I would definitely recommend him!
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11 Dec, 2014 by Adella
michael has helped us with legal counsel, contracts and contract disputes. he is generous of his time and works from his heart. i highly recommend him.
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05 Nov, 2024 by Joseph cordova
I had a great experience working with Attorney Chris Leon after my car accident. From the start, he was thorough in explaining the legal process and answered all of my questions. He kept me informed every step of the way and was aggressive in negotiations with the insurance company. Thanks to his expertise, I received a fair settlement. I highly recommend Chris Leon if you need a lawyer for a car accident!
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09 Jul, 2024 by Roya nourmand
Professional, kind, and knowledgeable attorneys. Grateful to have found this firm to represent me. I have recommended them to friends and family who have also only said good things. Thank you Eisenberg Law group!
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21 Jun, 2024 by Roxanna nazar
The best in the game !!!!
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29 Jun, 2018 by John n.
I reached out to John for advise on a complex real estate contract issue for my family law client and he provided expert analysis and strategy planning. I would highly recommend John.
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09 Mar, 2011 by Anonymous
John and I must have worked on at least 100 cases together. I (the litigation manager) always knew exactly what to expect, anticipate, in the case because he kept me informed. He was excellent in partnering with the adjuster. I knew he would never let me make a mistake. At settlement conferences/mediations, he knew how to take control or stand back, which ever was the best position for the matter at hand. The fact that he is well know and respected in the legal community gave us the advantage more than once.
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16 May, 2018 by Alborz
I asked Lara to help me work on a commercial real state agreement. She explained everything it needed, and reminded me on important areas. Although I did not have time, she helped me to get the work done in 1 day! Thanks
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19 Dec, 2024 by Linda hendrickson
Very nice experience. Almost felt I was talking with a friend at a very difficult time for me
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12 Dec, 2024 by Tammy laplante
Trust Attorney Darin Karpel was incredibly thorough and patient in guiding me through the complex process of setting up a living trust. He clearly explained all my options, answered every question I had, and made sure I fully understood the legal implications of my decisions. I felt confident and secure knowing my estate planning was handled with the utmost professionalism and care. I highly recommend Darin Karpel Trust Attorney to anyone seeking Trust Legal Services.
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22 Nov, 2024 by Michelle silver
Darin was so helpful in creating my will and trust. He was easy to talk to, made changes as needed and going forward continues to work with me as changes come up. I am so glad to have found him and glad to have gotten my affairs in order. And his pricing was very reasonable. I highly recommend!
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12 Nov, 2024 by Scott thaler
The firm is great. The team is responsive and follow through was great. Louis helped us redo our Will and update all the supporting documents of Health Care and Power of Attny. Thanks also to Sheri in his office who kept us up-to-date with paperwork and other important signatures
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09 Jun, 2024 by Rex arrasmith
Louis Pacella has been our lawyer for over 10 years. He has prepared our estate plan, reviewed real estate transactions, represented us in lawsuits related to our business. He has handled all our legal needs with excellent communication, outstanding professionalism, and is very personable. We have come to think of him as a friend and we give him our highest recommendation.
Allan W. & Rex A.
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06 Jun, 2024 by Arlene kaiser
I am grateful for the recommendation from a friend to engage The Pacella Law Group. First, I did a free consultation. Moving forward I used their services for the preparation of our complicated Trust and Will documents. Even though I live far from the office it was easy to communicate with Louis and his team.
When my husband died my stress level was minimal due to advanced planning with Louis. Also, his counsel has continued in alerting me of changing laws which can impact my legacy.
It is always a plus when others follow through with a recommendation and they are blessed with the positive results! For example, six of my friends have continued to express their gratitude for the recommendation of Louis from me!
Lastly, it wasn’t necessary, but I visited his office. It was obvious that all who worked there genuinely like contributing their expertise, knowledge, and high standards as a member of the Pacella Team.
Thank you, Louis and your exceptional team!
Arlene Kaiser, Ed.D.
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13 Dec, 2024 by Kristin burge
I wish I could give them 10 stars!! My attorney, Vincent Consolo was wonderful, explaining the process every step of the way and representing me with my best interest! They were so professional but yet very down to earth which made be feel at ease. If you’re looking for an amazing lawyer that you can trust, I highly recommend this firm, they will take great care of you! 🙏⭐️
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12 Dec, 2024 by Walter edwards
12 Dec, 2024 by Nagini genie
Thank you so much for your awesome service. The settlement was more than what was expected. I appreciate this, especially because of this merry Christmas season. Thank you.
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12 Dec, 2024 by Don s.
I recently discovered a 30-year-old criminal charge on my record that had not come up on any previous background checks in the past. And it was preventing me from a job opportunity. Attorney Silverstein took on my case. His assistants kept me informed with all updates, and he was able to get the matter expunged within 6 weeks. This attorney is simply AMAZING! If you're looking for fast, reliable, and honest representation, then look no further than Attorney Silverstein and his staff!
You will not be disappointed.
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21 Nov, 2024 by Noemi barajas rios
Hola!!
Mi experiencia con Frontier Law Center fue muy grata y muy importante porque me apoyaron durante todo el proceso manteniéndome informada acerca de cualquier situación importante que fue sucediendo durante el proceso; además conté con la ayuda incondicional de la señorita Cynthia la cual habla español y eso fue una ayuda especial porque hay muchos términos en inglés que Yo no entendía y ella fue un pilar importante para que pudiera estar en contacto directo con los abogados de la firma.
Les doy las gracias infinitas porque me ayudaron a cambiar mi vida ganando el caso haciéndolo correcta y puntualmente.
Les mando bendiciones y que Dios siempre los ayude para q sigan apoyando a más personas.🙏🙏🙏
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21 Nov, 2024 by Brisko _100
They handle business!!
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29 Nov, 2008 by Anonymous
Ms. Forman was caring, diligent and supportive while she handled my case. Ms. Forman put my mind at ease and was always available when I had questions or concerns. Her compassion gave me the confidence to move forward without fear. I am forever grateful for the outcome and for choosing Msl Forman for representation.
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17 Jan, 2019 by Michael
My family hired Mr. Peter Steinberg for multiple cases, ranging from real estate law, to govt negligence. His experience stemming 30+ years as a licensed attornery is apparent from initial visit to the completion of the case. He was able to bring understanding, compassion, and diligence in all matters affecting us. I highly recommend Mr. Steinberg and his outstanding firm.
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05 Dec, 2021 by Anonymous
I've been very happy with Michael's support through some difficult issues on 401(k)/HSA. Over the years he's consistently been a knowledgeable resource and is helping us to comply with laws in the present while also supporting us in cleaning up past errors prior HR people made.
I highly recommend him.
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30 Jul, 2024 by Wwjdist
From the moment I contacted this firm I was met with extreme professionalism and good intentions. Made me feel secure during my entire case and really made feel like I was in good hands. Always listened to what I had to say and took care of me and my case. Extremely thankful to have had this firm represent me.
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02 May, 2024 by Rosa juárez
Tuve un accidente hace unos años y ellos fueron los únicos que pudieron ayudarme realmente hicieron un excelente trabajo y siempre los voy a recomendar Muchas gracias
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18 Mar, 2024 by David o'hara
Great attorneys. Always stayed in touch. Very tough negociators. Would recommend to anyone in need of good legal services. They looked after my interests better than I thought possible.
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27 Nov, 2024 by Daniel aghaee
Wonderful firm to work with, they are very professional, knowledgeable and experienced. They are my first choice to go to for any new projects I have.
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11 Dec, 2020 by Matt jones
Excellent legal counsel and highly recommended to those who have the need for any legal guidance in my experience.
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12 Dec, 2024 by Don s.
I recently discovered a 30-year-old criminal charge on my record that had not come up on any previous background checks in the past. And it was preventing me from a job opportunity. Attorney Silverstein took on my case. His assistants kept me informed with all updates, and he was able to get the matter expunged within 6 weeks. This attorney is simply AMAZING! If you're looking for fast, reliable, and honest representation, then look no further than Attorney Silverstein and his staff!
You will not be disappointed.
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21 Nov, 2024 by Noemi barajas rios
Hola!!
Mi experiencia con Frontier Law Center fue muy grata y muy importante porque me apoyaron durante todo el proceso manteniéndome informada acerca de cualquier situación importante que fue sucediendo durante el proceso; además conté con la ayuda incondicional de la señorita Cynthia la cual habla español y eso fue una ayuda especial porque hay muchos términos en inglés que Yo no entendía y ella fue un pilar importante para que pudiera estar en contacto directo con los abogados de la firma.
Les doy las gracias infinitas porque me ayudaron a cambiar mi vida ganando el caso haciéndolo correcta y puntualmente.
Les mando bendiciones y que Dios siempre los ayude para q sigan apoyando a más personas.🙏🙏🙏
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21 Nov, 2024 by Brisko _100
They handle business!!
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12 Dec, 2024 by Don s.
I recently discovered a 30-year-old criminal charge on my record that had not come up on any previous background checks in the past. And it was preventing me from a job opportunity. Attorney Silverstein took on my case. His assistants kept me informed with all updates, and he was able to get the matter expunged within 6 weeks. This attorney is simply AMAZING! If you're looking for fast, reliable, and honest representation, then look no further than Attorney Silverstein and his staff!
You will not be disappointed.
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21 Nov, 2024 by Noemi barajas rios
Hola!!
Mi experiencia con Frontier Law Center fue muy grata y muy importante porque me apoyaron durante todo el proceso manteniéndome informada acerca de cualquier situación importante que fue sucediendo durante el proceso; además conté con la ayuda incondicional de la señorita Cynthia la cual habla español y eso fue una ayuda especial porque hay muchos términos en inglés que Yo no entendía y ella fue un pilar importante para que pudiera estar en contacto directo con los abogados de la firma.
Les doy las gracias infinitas porque me ayudaron a cambiar mi vida ganando el caso haciéndolo correcta y puntualmente.
Les mando bendiciones y que Dios siempre los ayude para q sigan apoyando a más personas.🙏🙏🙏
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21 Nov, 2024 by Brisko _100
They handle business!!
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04 Jan, 2025 by Melvin j snoddy
03 Jan, 2025 by Rosa torres
It is very good 👍
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23 Dec, 2024 by Nakkia cooks
Their services are great they are helping me clear up my debt.
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04 Jan, 2025 by Melvin j snoddy
03 Jan, 2025 by Rosa torres
It is very good 👍
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23 Dec, 2024 by Nakkia cooks
Their services are great they are helping me clear up my debt.
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12 Dec, 2024 by Don s.
I recently discovered a 30-year-old criminal charge on my record that had not come up on any previous background checks in the past. And it was preventing me from a job opportunity. Attorney Silverstein took on my case. His assistants kept me informed with all updates, and he was able to get the matter expunged within 6 weeks. This attorney is simply AMAZING! If you're looking for fast, reliable, and honest representation, then look no further than Attorney Silverstein and his staff!
You will not be disappointed.
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21 Nov, 2024 by Noemi barajas rios
Hola!!
Mi experiencia con Frontier Law Center fue muy grata y muy importante porque me apoyaron durante todo el proceso manteniéndome informada acerca de cualquier situación importante que fue sucediendo durante el proceso; además conté con la ayuda incondicional de la señorita Cynthia la cual habla español y eso fue una ayuda especial porque hay muchos términos en inglés que Yo no entendía y ella fue un pilar importante para que pudiera estar en contacto directo con los abogados de la firma.
Les doy las gracias infinitas porque me ayudaron a cambiar mi vida ganando el caso haciéndolo correcta y puntualmente.
Les mando bendiciones y que Dios siempre los ayude para q sigan apoyando a más personas.🙏🙏🙏
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21 Nov, 2024 by Brisko _100
They handle business!!
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06 Aug, 2021 by Anonymous
He took thousands in an hourly fee for a suit against a landlord for return of $4200 rent deposit.
Then he helped himself to $4000. out the settlement money, unannounced. ,
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11 Mar, 2021 by Riannon
I had a complicated small claims situation involving a company working on my house, and I needed advice on how to build a case as the plaintiff. At first I had such a difficult time explaining the situation I was in that I was dismissed and ghosted by 4-5 lawyers in a row. I don't know if it was my inability to explain the situation clearly or my status that lead people to take me less seriously (female, recent first-time mother, and I look and sound fairly young), but it was a very frustrating position to be in. I was starting to feel hopeless.
Then I found Nicholas. From the beginning he was very patient and an excellent listener, which is exactly what I needed to lay out the situation and figure out a path forward. He never talked over or down to me, always with honesty and kindness. For a very reasonable hourly rate, he helped me build a convincing case, and explained what I would need to prove my argument in court. He always responded within a day by email to all my questions, and sometimes within the hour. I felt very prepared for the court date and the judge ruled in my favor, awarding me significant compensation for the damages the defendant caused.
I would recommend Nicholas to anyone, but especially if you feel like you haven't been listened to by other lawyers. If you have a meritorious case, I'm sure Nicholas can help you.
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18 Jan, 2021 by Anonymous
I had a rough move in to a new apartment in Culver city, Woodcliff apartments to be exact. Long story short I needed a lawyer to help me get out of the lease. Everything Nicholas informed me of was exactly what was to be expected. Though, I been nervous with outcomes before, even though I'm in the right. He reassured me time and time again. At the end of it all, I was able to receive what I hoped. I would recommend his services to everyone. He's very helpful, patient, empathic and professional.
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12 Sep, 2024 by Kennedy roberts
I hired them for a case. I was sold a lemon from CARVANA. My legal team did an amazing job and was in great communication with me. I refer this firm to friends and family that have lemon law issues.
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10 May, 2024 by Armen mehrabian
Not recommended. They burned my case by ending up settlement even though the car could be lemon. They did not even bother themselves to provide me with an in person appointment. I did not see who I worked with , only email.
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05 Apr, 2024 by Cda dirt work
They go above and beyond.
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28 Nov, 2023 by Laura perez
If you want to see yourself or love one spend all there life in jail go ahead and contract them worst lawyers gave them 20,000 and just went to trash gave my family member 60 years wow what a deal they got him they would get mad all the time we would tell them to get evidence to get a investigator and always getting mad daughter said when she lost to the jury that she didn’t like getting cases like that but yes at first they would say they would win and when we would pay the rest of the money so if you want to spend the rest of your life in prison go ahead and hire them
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26 Jun, 2023 by Tracie slaoui
Mr. Halpern, He has not only succeeded once not twice but three times with difficult cases from murder down to domestic battery. He is capable of literally creating miracles. Highly recommended.
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06 Sep, 2022 by Abraham gutierrez
Many years ago Mr. Halpern went to war for me.. Set legal presidence in a case that my odds where heavily against me. Back in 1994 it happened and today I am a free man thanks to him and his legal team fighting a heavy weight fight and we won .. We where the big underdog. Thank You Mr.Halpern I ve been a free man now for almost 20 years now.
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28 Nov, 2023 by Laura perez
If you want to see yourself or love one spend all there life in jail go ahead and contract them worst lawyers gave them 20,000 and just went to trash gave my family member 60 years wow what a deal they got him they would get mad all the time we would tell them to get evidence to get a investigator and always getting mad daughter said when she lost to the jury that she didn’t like getting cases like that but yes at first they would say they would win and when we would pay the rest of the money so if you want to spend the rest of your life in prison go ahead and hire them
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26 Jun, 2023 by Tracie slaoui
Mr. Halpern, He has not only succeeded once not twice but three times with difficult cases from murder down to domestic battery. He is capable of literally creating miracles. Highly recommended.
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06 Sep, 2022 by Abraham gutierrez
Many years ago Mr. Halpern went to war for me.. Set legal presidence in a case that my odds where heavily against me. Back in 1994 it happened and today I am a free man thanks to him and his legal team fighting a heavy weight fight and we won .. We where the big underdog. Thank You Mr.Halpern I ve been a free man now for almost 20 years now.
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28 Nov, 2023 by Laura perez
If you want to see yourself or love one spend all there life in jail go ahead and contract them worst lawyers gave them 20,000 and just went to trash gave my family member 60 years wow what a deal they got him they would get mad all the time we would tell them to get evidence to get a investigator and always getting mad daughter said when she lost to the jury that she didn’t like getting cases like that but yes at first they would say they would win and when we would pay the rest of the money so if you want to spend the rest of your life in prison go ahead and hire them
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26 Jun, 2023 by Tracie slaoui
Mr. Halpern, He has not only succeeded once not twice but three times with difficult cases from murder down to domestic battery. He is capable of literally creating miracles. Highly recommended.
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06 Sep, 2022 by Abraham gutierrez
Many years ago Mr. Halpern went to war for me.. Set legal presidence in a case that my odds where heavily against me. Back in 1994 it happened and today I am a free man thanks to him and his legal team fighting a heavy weight fight and we won .. We where the big underdog. Thank You Mr.Halpern I ve been a free man now for almost 20 years now.
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24 Oct, 2022 by Cynthia
This guy (even after being given a large retainer) will never call you back, he's never available and after 5 months of >NOTHING< I asked for my retainer returned to me (over the voice mail because he and her are NEVER available) and I FINALLY got it back after leaving many messages. I think this guy is tired, burnt out, not interested really, in helping you out. I never even met him either~every time I went there to meet with him he was "in court."...yea, right. Nahhh people, don't waste your time. Really, don't.
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28 Jul, 2014 by Dena
Eric Hawes represented our Company in a lease negotiation for our new office space. We never had legal representation prior to this for any office space lease negotiations. Eric thoroughly reviewed our lease, listened to our concerns and insured all of these issues were part of the negotiation. Eric extensive experience with lease provisions, allowed us to have a well versed advocate on our side. I would strongly recommend Eric for both Tenant and Landlord representation.
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20 Jul, 2014 by Gary
I am a professional landlord and home buyer/flipper. I was purchasing a home where the daughter of the owner/seller, decided at the last moment to file a lis pendins on the house and claim ownership rights. I hired Eric Hawes on behalf of the seller to expunge the claim and give me the ability to purchase the home. It took a while, but Eric prevailed and we got the house and the nasty daughter moved out. Eric was extremely knowledgeable and very detailed. That's a skill set I need and desire in my real estate lawyer and Eric has it!
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29 Jan, 2019 by Jordan hollins
30 Oct, 2018 by Hooman melamed
IF I COILD GIVE NEGATIVE STARS I WOULD. To say I’m disappointed is an understatement. I have dealt with many law firms but this is probably the absolute most unprofessional and one of the worst law firms I’ve had to deal with. I was referred to this law firm by my wife. I had some collection matter and the main attorney told me that he will take care of it and in fact I had a small claims court which he said to dismiss it and he will take care of it. Now having dismiss my lawsuit and small claims over a month ago it’s been almost 6 weeks since I’ve heard from this attorney. Despite me emailing him and voicing my concern and frustration For not hearing from him he has not bothered to call me back. Save your $ amd time and go somewhere
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22 Dec, 2024 by Pash
I am a two time Chapter 7 champ. The first was 2012 when I was just a kid and fell into a hole. JM law group was there to bail me out. This year I found myself in yet another jam because I love self sabotage. With the walls closing in and a failing marriage on my doorstep I reached out to one attorney who was able to make the dark clouds of debt subside just 12 years prior. JM law group walked me through the process step by step. I worked with Jackie the whole time and asked her approx 1,267 questions in the 3 month process. She answered each one with kindness and patience. The process was smooth and painless. Should you find yourself facing a wall of debt with no hope in sight, do yourself a favor and call these fine people.
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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.
