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07 Jun, 2024 by Jason hubbard
Alan Norton is a great attorney -he has helped me out a couple of times. I highly recommend.
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25 Apr, 2024 by Marc keys
18 Apr, 2024 by Alicia seidel
Alan Norton was incredibly knowledgeable and helpful in navigating my needs and concerns and I owe my ultimate gratitude to him for the peace of mind he was able to deliver. I would highly recommend him especially since hiring a lawyer can be such a huge expense and you want to make sure there is actively someone on your case fighting for you while being informative throughout.
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07 Jun, 2024 by Jason hubbard
Alan Norton is a great attorney -he has helped me out a couple of times. I highly recommend.
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25 Apr, 2024 by Marc keys
18 Apr, 2024 by Alicia seidel
Alan Norton was incredibly knowledgeable and helpful in navigating my needs and concerns and I owe my ultimate gratitude to him for the peace of mind he was able to deliver. I would highly recommend him especially since hiring a lawyer can be such a huge expense and you want to make sure there is actively someone on your case fighting for you while being informative throughout.
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07 Aug, 2024 by Paul guglielmi
I first worked with John Rexford in 2002. He guided my wife and I through the process of preparing Revokable Trusts, Durable Power of Attorneys, Pour Over Wills, Health Care Proxies, and Living Wills for my wife and I. He made doing this process easy and understandable. In 2003 my first wife passed away from cancer.
In 2010 I remarried, and he helped update my estate documents by replacing my first wife with my second wife. The process was quick and painless. These encounters involved face to face meetings with John in Massachusetts.
In 2022 my second wife passed away from a different form of cancer. After settling her estate, I contacted John to update my estate documents on advice of my local attorney from Massachusetts. I was getting on in years, and my estate plan needed a major update. I now had my children, brother and sister in-laws, and nieces and nephews from two families to consider, and needed to update trustees, attorneys-in-fact, and executors with some younger people.
John was in Tennessee, and I was in Massachusetts. We were able to accomplish the updates over the internet using Word documents, which we would both edit. The amendments were quite large. As in the past the changes were accomplished smoothly. He had to explain some things and answer questions. The way he organized the original documents made it easy to make the changes. As usual he makes things easy for the customer.
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10 Jul, 2024 by George humpht
25 Jun, 2024 by Sheila davis
If you are looking for an estate attorney Mr. Rexford is the one….My husband and I was in need of a Trust to be set up and not really understanding Wills or Trusts we went for a Consultation with Mr. Rexford. He was WONDERFUL in explaining everything in great detail and answered all of our questions. John is such a blessing and an answered Prayer for me and my husband. We would absolutely HIGHLY recommend him to anyone thinking about wills, trusts, and estate planning. THANK YOU JOHN FOR EVERYTHING !!!!
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07 Aug, 2024 by Paul guglielmi
I first worked with John Rexford in 2002. He guided my wife and I through the process of preparing Revokable Trusts, Durable Power of Attorneys, Pour Over Wills, Health Care Proxies, and Living Wills for my wife and I. He made doing this process easy and understandable. In 2003 my first wife passed away from cancer.
In 2010 I remarried, and he helped update my estate documents by replacing my first wife with my second wife. The process was quick and painless. These encounters involved face to face meetings with John in Massachusetts.
In 2022 my second wife passed away from a different form of cancer. After settling her estate, I contacted John to update my estate documents on advice of my local attorney from Massachusetts. I was getting on in years, and my estate plan needed a major update. I now had my children, brother and sister in-laws, and nieces and nephews from two families to consider, and needed to update trustees, attorneys-in-fact, and executors with some younger people.
John was in Tennessee, and I was in Massachusetts. We were able to accomplish the updates over the internet using Word documents, which we would both edit. The amendments were quite large. As in the past the changes were accomplished smoothly. He had to explain some things and answer questions. The way he organized the original documents made it easy to make the changes. As usual he makes things easy for the customer.
Read more
10 Jul, 2024 by George humpht
25 Jun, 2024 by Sheila davis
If you are looking for an estate attorney Mr. Rexford is the one….My husband and I was in need of a Trust to be set up and not really understanding Wills or Trusts we went for a Consultation with Mr. Rexford. He was WONDERFUL in explaining everything in great detail and answered all of our questions. John is such a blessing and an answered Prayer for me and my husband. We would absolutely HIGHLY recommend him to anyone thinking about wills, trusts, and estate planning. THANK YOU JOHN FOR EVERYTHING !!!!
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07 Aug, 2024 by Paul guglielmi
I first worked with John Rexford in 2002. He guided my wife and I through the process of preparing Revokable Trusts, Durable Power of Attorneys, Pour Over Wills, Health Care Proxies, and Living Wills for my wife and I. He made doing this process easy and understandable. In 2003 my first wife passed away from cancer.
In 2010 I remarried, and he helped update my estate documents by replacing my first wife with my second wife. The process was quick and painless. These encounters involved face to face meetings with John in Massachusetts.
In 2022 my second wife passed away from a different form of cancer. After settling her estate, I contacted John to update my estate documents on advice of my local attorney from Massachusetts. I was getting on in years, and my estate plan needed a major update. I now had my children, brother and sister in-laws, and nieces and nephews from two families to consider, and needed to update trustees, attorneys-in-fact, and executors with some younger people.
John was in Tennessee, and I was in Massachusetts. We were able to accomplish the updates over the internet using Word documents, which we would both edit. The amendments were quite large. As in the past the changes were accomplished smoothly. He had to explain some things and answer questions. The way he organized the original documents made it easy to make the changes. As usual he makes things easy for the customer.
Read more
10 Jul, 2024 by George humpht
25 Jun, 2024 by Sheila davis
If you are looking for an estate attorney Mr. Rexford is the one….My husband and I was in need of a Trust to be set up and not really understanding Wills or Trusts we went for a Consultation with Mr. Rexford. He was WONDERFUL in explaining everything in great detail and answered all of our questions. John is such a blessing and an answered Prayer for me and my husband. We would absolutely HIGHLY recommend him to anyone thinking about wills, trusts, and estate planning. THANK YOU JOHN FOR EVERYTHING !!!!
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18 Apr, 2024 by Erika beadle
Gigi Lawless is the ABSOLUTE BEST!!!! She is very thorough and extremely knowledgeable. Gigi is easy to talk to and is an honest and hard working attorney. She goes above and beyond to ensure her clients receive stellar attention and care. I consider myself VERY blessed to have her for my attorney. I wouldn't ever use anyone else. If you want the best, ask for Gigi Lawless!
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07 Feb, 2024 by Holly w
A wonderful group of Attorneys with multiple areas of expertise.
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31 Aug, 2023 by Billie wright
18 Apr, 2024 by Erika beadle
Gigi Lawless is the ABSOLUTE BEST!!!! She is very thorough and extremely knowledgeable. Gigi is easy to talk to and is an honest and hard working attorney. She goes above and beyond to ensure her clients receive stellar attention and care. I consider myself VERY blessed to have her for my attorney. I wouldn't ever use anyone else. If you want the best, ask for Gigi Lawless!
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07 Feb, 2024 by Holly w
A wonderful group of Attorneys with multiple areas of expertise.
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31 Aug, 2023 by Billie wright
18 Apr, 2024 by Erika beadle
Gigi Lawless is the ABSOLUTE BEST!!!! She is very thorough and extremely knowledgeable. Gigi is easy to talk to and is an honest and hard working attorney. She goes above and beyond to ensure her clients receive stellar attention and care. I consider myself VERY blessed to have her for my attorney. I wouldn't ever use anyone else. If you want the best, ask for Gigi Lawless!
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07 Feb, 2024 by Holly w
A wonderful group of Attorneys with multiple areas of expertise.
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31 Aug, 2023 by Billie wright
18 Apr, 2024 by Erika beadle
Gigi Lawless is the ABSOLUTE BEST!!!! She is very thorough and extremely knowledgeable. Gigi is easy to talk to and is an honest and hard working attorney. She goes above and beyond to ensure her clients receive stellar attention and care. I consider myself VERY blessed to have her for my attorney. I wouldn't ever use anyone else. If you want the best, ask for Gigi Lawless!
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07 Feb, 2024 by Holly w
A wonderful group of Attorneys with multiple areas of expertise.
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31 Aug, 2023 by Billie wright
18 Apr, 2024 by Erika beadle
Gigi Lawless is the ABSOLUTE BEST!!!! She is very thorough and extremely knowledgeable. Gigi is easy to talk to and is an honest and hard working attorney. She goes above and beyond to ensure her clients receive stellar attention and care. I consider myself VERY blessed to have her for my attorney. I wouldn't ever use anyone else. If you want the best, ask for Gigi Lawless!
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07 Feb, 2024 by Holly w
A wonderful group of Attorneys with multiple areas of expertise.
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31 Aug, 2023 by Billie wright
18 Apr, 2024 by Erika beadle
Gigi Lawless is the ABSOLUTE BEST!!!! She is very thorough and extremely knowledgeable. Gigi is easy to talk to and is an honest and hard working attorney. She goes above and beyond to ensure her clients receive stellar attention and care. I consider myself VERY blessed to have her for my attorney. I wouldn't ever use anyone else. If you want the best, ask for Gigi Lawless!
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07 Feb, 2024 by Holly w
A wonderful group of Attorneys with multiple areas of expertise.
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31 Aug, 2023 by Billie wright
26 Jul, 2024 by Reign royal
Horrible service. I paid a good amount for service on a minor case that supposedly was handled by Lloyd Levitt. He blamed everything on his secretary for the reason things wasn’t handled correctly. Therefore I was robbed because nothing was resolved. Think twice before using him he will take your money and not get the job done efficiently or effectively!! Run‼️ 🏃♂️🏃🏽♂️ 🏃🏻♂️
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18 Jul, 2024 by Andrea white
19 Jun, 2024 by Jonas
Where to begin? Mr. Fisher Wise helped me in so many ways. He helped me understand the process and gave me clear expectations. He is great at communicating and giving his undivided attention. I felt comfortable talking with him. He exceeded my expectations and helped me succeed with reaching my goals. He was recommended to me and now I can highly recommend him to you!
Thank you, Fisher!
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07 Jun, 2024 by Herb bushnell
Mr. Duval and Stephanie were so thoughtful and helped steer us in the right direction. I will always remember Mr. Duval helping me over some rough spots, making it possible for me to go on and live a productive normal life. Much respect.
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15 Apr, 2024 by Brittany johnson
13 Apr, 2024 by Fozzie brown
Always an attorney and a friend. Was referring someone. He's always open to help people
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5.0
8 Reviews
4.5
17 Reviews
15 Mar, 2024 by Dr. donald mccary
Excellent law firm that does the very best in solving legal problems. They are the best!
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25 Sep, 2023 by Jessica olson
He helped me so much with my divorce. Made it quick and easy over the phone. He talks to you like you're somebody, not just another client. Would really recommend him to everyone to use.
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16 Jun, 2023 by Trent visser
20 Sep, 2024 by Dennie b (denniefitbody)
Bill Pemerton was very helpful during our initial consultation even though he was located to far away to represent me in person. He assisted me with understanding the options available to me and gave advice on steps to take next to protect myself from further actions.
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18 Jul, 2024 by Sam byrd
I am a local attorney representing parents in divorce and child custody proceedings. I know Mitch and Brian in their professional capacity as lawyers in the areas of creditor defense and criminal law. Both Mitch and Brian are well known, respected, and trusted among their peers in the legal community. Mitch has been an asset to me and my law firm by providing valuable guidance and advice on several occasions relating to collection of unpaid fees to my firm and unpaid money judgement/awards my clients have received but the other parent/spouse refuses to pay and tries to avoid. I recommend this law firm.
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15 Feb, 2024 by Haleigh worth
As someone who has never gotten a divorce and did not fully understand the process. I felt like I was left in the dark a lot. I had to constantly ask, “what happens next?” Even when I did get an answer it was vague. For example, I didn’t know my court hearing was over the phone until last minute. I didn’t know that my ex didn’t have to even be present on the call until last minute. It was very frustrating. I didn’t realize that I could have changed my name during the hearing until after it was finished and I got a follow up call. Then Mr. Pemerton tells me that since I didn’t change it during the hearing if I wanted to change it he’d offer me a discounted rate of $500 to change my name instead of his regular rate. He was very kind and professional in person though. He even walked me to my car at one point because I didn’t want to be cornered by my ex on the way out of the office. I just wish everything had been more upfront.
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07 Jun, 2024 by Herb bushnell
Mr. Duval and Stephanie were so thoughtful and helped steer us in the right direction. I will always remember Mr. Duval helping me over some rough spots, making it possible for me to go on and live a productive normal life. Much respect.
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15 Apr, 2024 by Brittany johnson
13 Apr, 2024 by Fozzie brown
Always an attorney and a friend. Was referring someone. He's always open to help people
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07 Jun, 2024 by Herb bushnell
Mr. Duval and Stephanie were so thoughtful and helped steer us in the right direction. I will always remember Mr. Duval helping me over some rough spots, making it possible for me to go on and live a productive normal life. Much respect.
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15 Apr, 2024 by Brittany johnson
13 Apr, 2024 by Fozzie brown
Always an attorney and a friend. Was referring someone. He's always open to help people
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23 Aug, 2024 by Julie kinnard
Great experience! We were out of the country and had to use a POA and they made the process easy and everything went perfect!
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28 Mar, 2024 by Brandie driskell
Always professional and great communication!!
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28 Mar, 2024 by Robert davis
Great closing experience. They took care of everything we needed.
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10 Feb, 2024 by D xx
22 Dec, 2023 by Matthew kay
Rip works with Hank Hill and they a dynamic team. He pulled some strings and helped my father and I out of a tight situation. I couldn't ask for a better attorney
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29 Nov, 2023 by Lucas delvalle
Rip Biggs is by far the best lawyer and is also one of the finest human beings I have ever met. You won't ever have someone fight for you the way he does. He is more than an attorney he's my friend as well. I can tell you right now everybody I know I refer them to Rip. It's an honor to know a guy like this man. Give him a shot if your needing representation. You will not be disappointed!
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10 Feb, 2024 by D xx
22 Dec, 2023 by Matthew kay
Rip works with Hank Hill and they a dynamic team. He pulled some strings and helped my father and I out of a tight situation. I couldn't ask for a better attorney
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29 Nov, 2023 by Lucas delvalle
Rip Biggs is by far the best lawyer and is also one of the finest human beings I have ever met. You won't ever have someone fight for you the way he does. He is more than an attorney he's my friend as well. I can tell you right now everybody I know I refer them to Rip. It's an honor to know a guy like this man. Give him a shot if your needing representation. You will not be disappointed!
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10 Feb, 2024 by D xx
22 Dec, 2023 by Matthew kay
Rip works with Hank Hill and they a dynamic team. He pulled some strings and helped my father and I out of a tight situation. I couldn't ask for a better attorney
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29 Nov, 2023 by Lucas delvalle
Rip Biggs is by far the best lawyer and is also one of the finest human beings I have ever met. You won't ever have someone fight for you the way he does. He is more than an attorney he's my friend as well. I can tell you right now everybody I know I refer them to Rip. It's an honor to know a guy like this man. Give him a shot if your needing representation. You will not be disappointed!
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20 Sep, 2024 by Dennie b (denniefitbody)
Bill Pemerton was very helpful during our initial consultation even though he was located to far away to represent me in person. He assisted me with understanding the options available to me and gave advice on steps to take next to protect myself from further actions.
Read more
18 Jul, 2024 by Sam byrd
I am a local attorney representing parents in divorce and child custody proceedings. I know Mitch and Brian in their professional capacity as lawyers in the areas of creditor defense and criminal law. Both Mitch and Brian are well known, respected, and trusted among their peers in the legal community. Mitch has been an asset to me and my law firm by providing valuable guidance and advice on several occasions relating to collection of unpaid fees to my firm and unpaid money judgement/awards my clients have received but the other parent/spouse refuses to pay and tries to avoid. I recommend this law firm.
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11 Jun, 2024 by Ben zandi
Following a devastating house fire I had lost all my documents including my naturalization certificate. I also noticed that my passport (which was saved from the fire) had recently expired; so, I was in a difficult position of not having any proof of valid citizenship status.
When I met Mr. Olsen at his office, I knew immediately that I had selected the perfect law firm due to his calm demeanor and vast knowledge of immigration law. He proceeded to get all necessary information from me and filed all necessary forms to renew my passport and apply for a replacement document.
I received my new passport in record time and the new citizenship certificate much earlier than expected. Mr. Olsen made the process entirely seamless and kept me in the loop as my application progressed. Needless to say, I wholeheartedly recommend Olsen Law Firm to anyone seeking a great attorney for immigration needs in Chattanooga and surrounding areas.
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15 Mar, 2024 by Dr. donald mccary
Excellent law firm that does the very best in solving legal problems. They are the best!
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25 Sep, 2023 by Jessica olson
He helped me so much with my divorce. Made it quick and easy over the phone. He talks to you like you're somebody, not just another client. Would really recommend him to everyone to use.
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16 Jun, 2023 by Trent visser
15 Mar, 2024 by Dr. donald mccary
Excellent law firm that does the very best in solving legal problems. They are the best!
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25 Sep, 2023 by Jessica olson
He helped me so much with my divorce. Made it quick and easy over the phone. He talks to you like you're somebody, not just another client. Would really recommend him to everyone to use.
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16 Jun, 2023 by Trent visser
23 Jan, 2024 by Brice
My experience with Bill Pemerton, a family law attorney in Hamilton County, Tennessee, has been profoundly disappointing and distressing. As I navigate through the complexities of family law, the importance of reliable, empathetic legal representation cannot be overstated. This review aims to provide an honest and detailed account of the service I received, or rather, the lack thereof, from Mr. Pemerton, with the hope of informing others and advocating for accountability in legal practice.
The journey with Mr. Pemerton's services began with a semblance of professionalism, but it rapidly deteriorated into a scenario marred by negligence and unprofessionalism. A glaring example of this was his audacious misrepresentation of a court date. This misinformation led me to undertake a needless five-hour journey, only to realize that no motion had been filed for my case. Such a grave error not only wasted my time and resources but also amplified the emotional strain I was already enduring.
In addition, Mr. Pemerton's approach to my case was marked by a conspicuous lack of accountability. His condescending attitude and attempts to cast doubt on the rationality of my claims were both unprofessional and unbecoming of a lawyer entrusted with such sensitive matters. This lack of empathy was particularly distressing given the gravity of family law cases, where the well-being of children is often at stake.
Furthermore, my requests for the transfer of my case documents to my new attorney, were met with what can only be described as a dismissive and nonchalant attitude. This disregard not only reflected a lack of professional courtesy but also a blatant disrespect for my rights and needs as a client.
In light of these experiences, I find it necessary to explicitly state that I cannot recommend Bill Pemerton for any matters related to family law in Hamilton County, TN. The cumulative effect of his actions - misinformation, negligence, and a general lack of professionalism - has not only caused me undue stress and inconvenience but has also impeded my pursuit of justice and fairness in a deeply personal and significant legal matter.
I hope this review serves as a cautionary tale for others seeking legal representation in family law. It underscores the importance of thorough research and due diligence when selecting an attorney, especially in cases as delicate and impactful as those involving family matters. My experience is a stark reminder of the profound impact a lawyer can have on their clients' lives and the paramount importance of integrity, empathy, and professionalism in the legal profession.
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13 Oct, 2020 by Joshua
My ex wife filed a frivolous dependency and neglect against me in which Bill was my attorney. Bill didn't leave a stone unturned in my case. We ended up winning the case!
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10 Sep, 2018 by Gloria
Billy kept me informed of the details and worked on my behalf to resolve my case through mediation.
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28 Nov, 2023 by Kim wilson
I could never actually sum up in a review my complete satisfaction with this Firm. I have used Michael Jennings over the past twenty years. And it's because he is so trustworthy and and awesome. It's a absolute pleasure to know he is a phone call away. I have had things come out of nowhere, felt panic and then remembered that I could call him. Everything has always worked out in my favor because he is diligent, a good friend, a person who you can trust. All I can say again and again is Thank you
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30 May, 2023 by Aimee simon
I swear I was trying to just ask one question these attorney's would not give me the time of day! They just avoided me! Like they were better than every body else! It was rather disgusting! No wonder alot of people do not respect attorneys! I had to keep calling which was very disrespectful!
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30 Apr, 2022 by Andrew metelits
I am certainly glad I have never had to deal with Hoyt Samples in the lawyer sense, but I can comment on his inability in being a landlord. Him and his wife, Mitzi, were the worst landlords a.k.a. slumlords my family and I have ever had to deal with. From Jan '21-Mar '22 we rented 1034 Red Robin Lane in Chattanooga from the Samples. 3 weeks after we moved in, we woke up to a swimming pool of water in the kitchen from a broken sink pipe. notified them immediately and they acted like it was our fault, asking" what did you do" and asking to send them pictures, like it was impossible to understand. Took 2 days for them to get a plumber out there, so no kitchen sink for 2 days for family of 6, unreal! Next the plumbing in the house is God awful. Toilet's never flushed properly, why... because after several complaints the plumber came back out and found chunks of pvc piping in the line. Leaking bathtub faucets, backed up sewer lines in the house, black mold in the house, and above all that, ... these people will nickel and dime you on getting your security deposit back, if any. If he practices law the same way he is a landlord, surprised he hasn't been disbarred.
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30 Mar, 2024 by Dan smith
Excellent attorney, will get you results guarenteed.
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30 Mar, 2024 by Jessica cruz
She was a wonderful lawyer, she got things done! She is very responsive, she will call you right away and text you back right away. No problem. She is really professional and very good at what she does. I couldn't be more thankful for her!!!
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30 Mar, 2024 by Charnita west
Donna was so very helpful with my case. She was able to help me keep my license so I could take care of my children. So so compassionate. Before court I was panicking and she was able to calm me down and ease my mind about it all. I will definitely hire again if she is ever needed. She is absolutely amazing at what she does.
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18 Mar, 2024 by Robin flores
26 Feb, 2024 by Michael thomas
02 Feb, 2024 by Karen grantham
Thieves. Overcharge to do nothing. Albert Secor should have his license revoked.
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18 Mar, 2024 by Robin flores
26 Feb, 2024 by Michael thomas
02 Feb, 2024 by Karen grantham
Thieves. Overcharge to do nothing. Albert Secor should have his license revoked.
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04 Oct, 2023 by Travis hudson
Please take my advice and stay away! Yes emails are $58 a pop. Yes they charge you $290-$330 per hour. Yes you have to deposit at least $1250-$1800 in retainer fees. Yes you do have to put $5000 in your retainer at court. No I was not happy with the outcome for $20,450.... that's right $20,450! Not for men for them! I wish I could charge them $100 per letter in this review.
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07 Aug, 2023 by C w george
I guess business is good. I'm on a waiting list for nothing more than a consultation
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25 Apr, 2023 by Joanna myers
The best around.
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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.
