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21 Feb, 2017 by Anonymous
Brad was endlessly helpful during a very difficult time for me. His consultation, guidance and the time he selflessly lent were invaluable in lifting me out of what might otherwise have been a disastrous life experience. I couldn't recommend his services more.
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07 Nov, 2018 by Michael
Several years ago, I learned federal labor agents were looking to talk to me about embezzlement of union funds. I asked my son what should I do? He said get the best damn federal lawyer you can get your hands on. I called Stephen Komie. His staff immediately took me in and made me feel at home. He coached me on how not to leave society. He took me for an interview with federal agents where he took control of the room. He won over the Department of Labor agent and coached me into a one-count Information with probation eligible. I knew he had communicated well with the judge when he asked for permission for me to travel to Indiana to buy my gas. He understood the culture of the south side of Chicago and the judge. He guided my every step through the Probation Department. He talked the probation officer out of recommending a harsh sentence. His performance at my sentencing hearing was masterful. He persuaded the judge to give me a probationary sentence despite the government's demands for two years in the penitentiary. He even convinced the judge that I should keep my job and pension while donating 200 hours of community service divided between Operation Push and the Pacific Garden Mission. He dominated the room. He had the judge giggling during the sentencing hearing which gave me great comfort knowing that the case was going in the right direction. He even was able to describe my life and times in a way which caused tears to come to my eyes knowing that he really had my best interest at heart. If the feds are going to fry you up, you better get Mr. Komie to turn off the fryolator. I can't say enough of Mr. Komie walking me through what was clearly uncharted territory. 23 Psalm Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I shall fear no evil for thou art with me. It was the earthly feeling of that. As I walked this journey to McGee's office to the U.S. Attorney's office and two trips into federal court there was a comfort there. There is no other way for me to describe it as a comfort. Thank you, Mr. Komie.
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24 Feb, 2009 by Anonymous
Mr. David Nelson is a very professional individual who kept us informed at all times. He is trustworthy, honest and he knows what he is doing. I would definitely recommend him for any workman's comp case.
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27 Feb, 2013 by Anonymous
Rolando Acosta was an excellent choice, very happy with our decision to use him for our project. You can tell he has had a lot of experience as he was vert knowledgeable on the subject of Zoning and other things. He had great resources and provided us with multiple routes we could take. I would definitely recommend him and we will be using him again in the future.
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30 Mar, 2015 by Zbyszek
We used this guy for our few closings. Both buying and selling houses. He always prepared all documents very well with good attentions to details. I will always use his office for all my real estate and personal needs. And what is important his service is really reasonable.
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15 Sep, 2014 by Julien
Eileen is the best real estate attorney I have dealt with so far. She was recommended by the leading broker for Lincoln Park. She was detailed, impeccably organized and structured but most importantly a great strategist. She knows what to insist on, what should not be made into an issue. I wholeheartedly recommend Eileen and can't imagine a better experience
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17 Dec, 2008 by Anonymous
Extremely smart and very accommodating.
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20 Feb, 2015 by Phol
This man saves me thousands of dollars and he is a great man. Court was our last option but when we found Sean everything changed hire him
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22 Apr, 2015 by Anonymous
Sheryl was referred to me by a family member. I spoke to her several times before going through with my custody case. I am glad i did. Sheryl is very knowledgeable and a wonderful person and Atourney. Because of Sheryl i now have full sole custody of my daughter and not only did she help me by getting me custody of my daughter, but she inspired me to go to school and pursue a career in law. I highly recommend Sheryl B. Dworkin.
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11 Dec, 2014 by Liam
After a major remodeling at our condo yielded sub standard results in workmanship and additional damage common areas, he was able to recover most of the costs of repairs from the contractor and their insurance. The project involved combining 2 condo units into a single unit with a new kitchen, wine cellar, living room and walk in closet. The general contractor installed new bamboo flooring directly on the concrete without proper sub-flooring as required by our association. They then installed paper over the bamboo to protect the flooring while they installed the custom cabinetry for the media center, kitchen and then completed building the wine cellar. After the paper was removed and the area unveiled the extent of the problems were evident. The floor was never leveled, the bamboo planks had large gaps between them, the cabinetry had gaps between them and along the ceiling. The flooring had to be replace and installed with the required sub-flooring, the cabinets reinstalled with a few remade. The wine cellar required new doors and cooler and changes to hallway. The common area carpet was repaired and wallpaper replaced. This was all completed with the money from the settlement. However, our time and inconvenience did not amount to much if anything. I am not always certain that a lawyer has negotiated the best settlement or is telling everything that transpired. he always returned my calls and answered my question but a more proactive approach would have been appreciated.
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16 Jun, 2010 by Anonymous
Very professional & knowledgable. Great attorney to have on your side. Would recommend (and have) him to any business that wants a great legal partner.
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23 Sep, 2014 by Don
Mr. Skoskiewicz has been pleasant, knowledgeable, thorough, quick to keep us informed, clear and concise in answering questions we have posed concerning the house we are selling. He had been referred by two excellent attorneys we have known for two decades. We couldn't be more pleased.
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08 Mar, 2013 by Sean j.
Mr. Bloom on two different ocassions handled matters for me when I or my family seemed to have been treated unfairly. Both situations were resolved to my satisfaction.
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30 Nov, 2020 by James
When I was referred to Wiley Law in Chicago, I was guided safely through a difficult and confusing process that I thought I would never have to go through. Attorney, Luke Wiley was very professional, assertive, attentive and thorough with every detail, and made the process of keeping my home a reality. He spared me from impending foreclosure with dignity. All of my questions were answered clearly, and my options were explained with honor and respect. Follow through and communication were excellent the entire time. I found from beginning to end that I was never left in the dark or being taken advantage of. Everyone had their unique situation for a variety of reasons, and Attorney Luke Wiley clearly has the experience to understand how to handle a wide variety of cases. I give him my highest recommendation!!!
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03 Jul, 2014 by Carter
Robert successfully recovered damages in a challenging case extending 10+ years and involving a transient defendant.
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06 Sep, 2014 by John
Mr. Weissman's experience, knowledge and caring for his client's best interests make him stand out among his peers. He has exceptionally handled everything for me from corporate law to business transactions to personal estate matters. His professional demeanor and trustworthy nature create confidence that your legal matters are in the hands of a friend who will excel in protecting your interests. I feel fortunate to have found Mr. Weissman as my attorney and friend.
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08 Feb, 2015 by Anonymous
I was referred to Mr. Butts through my new neighbor I recently was a 1st time home buyer who did not have any knowledge about the law, and what happens after you purchase a home from a seller that did not disclose the defects in my home. I had serious issues with my new home and my closing lawyer was not up to assisting after he already had gotten his pay. Mr Butts, helped me settle my case. If you want a honest, great attorney with good moral values he is the lawyer for you. I highly recommend him, his knowledge and integrity is outstanding!
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20 Oct, 2020 by Mr v
Great folks!
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29 Dec, 2011 by Jerry
Good condemnation attorney with a get it done attitude. Bryan does not waste time playing silly games. Straight forward honest legal representation.
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10 Jul, 2022 by Patrick
Worked with Ms Hawker when she was Clerking for Judge Quinn in Chancery Division. Detail Oriented
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20 Oct, 2020 by Mr v
Great folks!
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29 Jul, 2009 by Anonymous
Did my mother's estate plan then after she passed on, his office helped me be the trustee. His assistants are extremely helpful and guided me through the sale of her home.
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20 Oct, 2020 by Mr v
Great folks!
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15 Aug, 2014 by Anonymous
Bill attention to the our case was thorough and he showed more care than we expected. We were very happy with our representation.
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10 Nov, 2014 by Joe ambrose
Mr. Taylor has represented a few different business entities I own over the past 10 years. Recently, he helped my company resolve an issue with a subcontractor who tried to bypass my company and go to my client directly. He helped us successfully resolve the issue by negotiating a 100% settlement with the subcontractor, and additionally ensuring we would not be put in this situation again.
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01 Feb, 2015 by Anonymous
Marjorie represented me in the closing of a small commercial building in Chicago. The transaction involved title, zoning, tax and other issues, all of which she resolved providing for a smooth and quick closing without any residual problems. She was attentive, thorough and informative.
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05 Nov, 2013 by Anonymous
I was so glad I hired Kevin as my lawyer. He is organized, highly intelligent and articulate. I was buying a short sale, and the bank tried to raise the price a month after we had already agreed upon a contractual price. I was scared that i was going to lose the home, but Kevin reassured me, and told me he would handle it. The bank finally backed down, and honored the original contract. Kevin knows the law, and I couldn't be happier. He's an amazing lawyer.
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21 Mar, 2013 by Anonymous
Greg has handled many cases for my family and friends and is always straight forward with the matter and what we can expect. Very honest and caring.
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16 Jul, 2013 by Mary
Attorney Thomas L. Demas is a very trustworthy and intelligent. He possesses a great amount of concern and compassion for his clients. He will visit elderly clients when they are unable to come to his office. His law career spans many decades. He will always go the extra mile. He is fair, at times, to a fault. Anyone would be lucky to have Mr. Demas on their side in any legal situation.
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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:

  1. What experience do you have with real estate law?
    Ensure the lawyer has experience in the type of real estate transaction or dispute you’re facing, whether residential, commercial, or development-related.
  2. What is your fee structure?
    Ask how the lawyer charges for services - whether it's a flat fee, hourly rate, or retainer - so there are no surprises later on.
  3. How long will the process take?
    Especially important for real estate transactions or disputes with deadlines, ask for a general estimate of how long the process will last.
  4. Have you handled cases similar to mine?
    Experience with similar transactions or disputes can give you confidence that the lawyer knows how to handle your case.
  5. Will you handle my case personally, or will it be passed to another attorney?
    Confirm who will be handling the bulk of your case work, especially in larger firms where junior lawyers may take on some responsibilities.
  6. Can you provide references?
    Speaking with past clients can give you insight into the lawyer's experience and how they handle cases.

How to Check the Credibility of a Real Estate Lawyer

To ensure you’re hiring a reputable real estate lawyer, take these steps:

  • Check with the state bar association: Verify that the lawyer is licensed and in good standing with no disciplinary actions on their record.
  • Read online reviews and testimonials: Look for reviews on legal directories and platforms like Avvo or Martindale-Hubbell to see what past clients have said.
  • Ask for references: A credible lawyer should have past clients willing to share their experiences.
  • Review their track record and expertise: Look at the lawyer’s website or LinkedIn profile for information about their experience in real estate law and any relevant cases they’ve handled.
  • Membership in professional organizations: Lawyers who are members of respected legal or real estate organizations, like the American Bar Association’s Real Property Division, often signal credibility and expertise.

What Should I Prepare for My First Consultation?

To make your first meeting with a real estate lawyer productive, you should prepare the following materials:

  • Relevant property documents: Bring purchase agreements, lease contracts, mortgage documents, zoning permits, or any other paperwork related to your case.
  • A summary of the issue or transaction: Be ready to explain the situation, whether it's a property dispute, contract negotiation, or development issue.
  • Questions about the legal process: Prepare a list of questions about how the lawyer will handle your case and what steps are involved.
  • Financial documents or loan agreements: If the case involves financing or a mortgage, bring any related documents for the lawyer to review.
  • Your goals and timeline: Be clear about what outcome you're hoping for, and if there are any deadlines that need to be considered, such as closing dates or legal filings.

By coming prepared, you can ensure that your consultation is efficient and informative, allowing you to assess whether the lawyer is the right fit for your real estate needs.

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