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14 May, 2017 by Linda
Attorney Dan Meyer did an OUTSTANDING JOB in my defense. He recently handled two matters for me.
First Matter -- He got the a Will Contest Suit Suit dismissed on Summary Judgment.
Second Matter -- His understanding of the Bankruptcy Rules and their interplay with Rules of Professional Conduct was always on point. He saw things that were two and three steps away from happening and responded proactively on multiple occasions. Dan was competent, prompt and very diligent. He maintained communication with me at all times during the proceedings.
I have referred Dan to one business owner friend of mine and have gotten heartfelt appreciation for my referral to such an excellent attorney.
One last statement about Dan Meyer -- in addition to being a very smart, savvy and skilled attorney, Dan had a human side, offering compassion every step of the journey.
I highly recommend Attorney Dan Meyer.
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11 Nov, 2022 by Scott s
20 Oct, 2020 by Mr v
Great folks!
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21 Nov, 2016 by Anonymous
Very knowledgeable and quick thinking professional.
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23 Apr, 2018 by Erika
Mr Gurber has been nothing but extremely helpful. He was able to delegate and answer all my questions in a timely manner. I highly recommend him. Thank you Mr. Gurber.
Erika F
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19 Apr, 2019 by Jaime
She is accessible, with a fast turn-around for tax prep info and docs, clear and concise with her instruction, dependable and reliable for years.
Thank you
jaime el helw (client of Harrison& Held LLP, 5 years)
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20 Oct, 2020 by Mr v
Great folks!
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15 Aug, 2012 by Mary
Scott was the third lawyer to handle our case and was the only one who was able to succeed. Scott kept us updated on a regular basis and was aggressive, reasonable and professional.
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18 Jul, 2014 by Kristine
Mr. Wilder's communication as to status of my case was complete, thorough and timely. His demeanor was excellent and never seemed to be bothered by my constant questions (first time I had to get a lawyer and didnt know the process). I felt completely represented and the outcome of the case (to my favor) was fair and in-line with my wishes. Thank you Mr Wilder!
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17 Nov, 2015 by Mark
I retained Chris and his firm to appeal my property taxes a few years ago. One of the best decisions of my life! He has saved me thousands of dollars in property taxes, by consistently reducing my assessment.
I have also referred him to other friends/family who own businesses throughout Cook County. The positive feedback has been incredible. He is patient, very hands on and will walk you through the process. HIGHLY RECOMMENDED if you want to pay less in property taxes.
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22 Jul, 2015 by Robert
Glenn successfully handled a real estate tax matter for me and for family members. Possibly even more important than the good result was Glenn's ability and willingness to explain the process and how we could effectively assist in the process. He was always responsive and courteous (which, unfortunately, I cannot say about many lawyers).
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12 Sep, 2011 by Pam
I picked this lawyer off the internet b/c of her good rating. She has exceeded my expectations. She was very responsive, helpful, and professional. I even got a refund of my unused deposit! That's unheard of for a lawyer..
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20 Oct, 2020 by Mr v
Great folks!
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09 Feb, 2017 by Steven r. decker
I was confronted with a complex and frustrating series of financial transactions. The opposing parties, including myself, were both agitated and overwrought. Attorney Dembo provided a resolution by demonstrating clarification of the perplexing issues to the agreement of all concerned.
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02 Jan, 2009 by Anonymous
Professionalism at it's finest. Dependable in securing all documents required to close all transactions. Very responsible & reliable in resolving problems that may arise in these transactions and fulfilling even the most difficult time lines. Office staff is well trained, curtious and hard working, truely committed. A possitive attitude is always present combined with an intelligent willing spirit.......where pleasant & successful closings with grateful clients are the norm and not the exception. Positive action produces positive results.
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25 Sep, 2016 by Dustin
I hired Chris Koczwara for a civil suit. The lot next to my house ran their snow plow into my fence. He handled the case perfectly and we settled the case for about 50% of the actual cost of the damages. This seemed like a much better solution than winning a judgement and never collecting. I highly recommend Chris over trying to file in small claims court. Dustin
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14 Jun, 2012 by Stacey
Mr Adduce represented me in a dog bite case and the results were better than I ever expected. He has great communication and with the dog bite case had very sensitive pictures and I fully trusted him. He cares about his work and is trully a great person. I was recently in a fender bender and called David again.
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20 Oct, 2020 by Mr v
Great folks!
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20 Oct, 2015 by Brad
Before retaining Brad as my attorney, I was getting nowhere with efforts to negotiate settlement with my bank, due to a default on a line of credit. Brad, helped me re-establish credibility with the bank and brought them back to the negotiating table. Through a very favorable settlement, Brad single-handedly helped me relieve enough debt to breath new life into my business of 15 years. While I appreciated Brad's high-level of experise in the field and his consultative approach, I'm most grateful for the genuine care he showed for myself and my family's well being after a settlement was reached. For any and all parties looking for counsel from a very high-level, and equally high-integrity professional, Brad Berish comes with my strongest recommendation.
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07 Oct, 2017 by Anonymous
Very knowledgeable and response quickly. Well informed and always prepared. Easy to work with and always explains every single detail that seems unclear.
I highly recommend Elena M. Duarte.
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16 Jun, 2016 by Keanu
Sandra was the most thorough real estate attorney I have ever worked with. Sandra's level of knowledge was superb. Sandra guided us through every part of the contract negotiation to the proper deadlines to adhere to. She was available as much as we needed her to - we needed lots of hand holding through our first home purchase. So many other attorneys my family has worked with in the past refused to do even half as much effort as Sandra. Thank you
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29 Mar, 2012 by Vince s.
Brad Loberg represented me in a condominium dispute. He skillfully handled the pre-trial conference and a very good settlement resulted.
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29 May, 2013 by Stephan
I have hired Eric to handle litigation matters over the last 5 years and he is an excellent litigator. I highly recommend him.
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22 Jan, 2021 by Anonymous
Pragmatic, thoughtful, strategic, and seasoned. Excellent attorney. Recommend without hesitation.
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10 Jan, 2014 by Julie
I cannot say enough great things about Louis as my real estate attorney. I've had 3 Chicago real estate attorneys. The first was not memorable, the second was horrific and the third, Louis, was outstanding. He is completely on top of it, very responsive, and doesn't mess around. He also goes to bat for you and is your biggest advocate -- looking out for your best interests during the real estate transaction from start to finish, and for me, after the finish helping me contest my taxes and tracking down a lagging recorded deed. I would highly recommend him to any of my friends and family.
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25 Sep, 2014 by Tim
When our company was going to be sued, we didn't know where to turn. We were referred to Cary Fleischer and I am glad we were. In a case that took 3.5 years to get resolved, I felt that we had the best representation that we could have hoped for. I would recommend Cary Fleischer without reservation.
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08 Jul, 2016 by Judy
Adam Lasker has been my election attorney and is now our legislative counsel. I could not be more pleased with his work in both arenas. He has an excellent understanding of election and municipal law and is wonderfully patient in helping me and my fellow candidates/trustees understand and execute our legal options. He promptly responds to calls, texts and emails, even when we need his input during an evening meeting.
Adam also has the back-up and support of the firm that literally wrote the book on municipal law in Illinois, Ancel Glink. In the past year Adam, with the support of a partner, successfully litigated two TRO suits on my behalf. The first in Federal Court that my party had to file to get on the ballot. Then, as soon as we won and were seated, a second suit filed by the mayor to try to keep us from accomplishing anything. Each time, despite his already heavy work load, Adam quickly focused, analyzed the situation, drafted brilliant arguments, and got the job done.
I whole heartedly recommend you call Adam Lasker when you decide to run for public office - and after you win.
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14 Aug, 2013 by Anonymous
Robert recently represented me in a personal injury case and I was thrilled with the results. Mr. Shelist was reponsive, respectful, kind and sympathetic to my case. I would definitely recommend Robert to anyone is is looking for a great attorney.
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11 Nov, 2022 by Scott s
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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.
