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23 Oct, 2023 by Tyler
Clark Jones has represented both myself and my company in regard to a wide variety of legal matters over the years and I have been incredibly happy with all the services both he and his firm have provided.
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20 Oct, 2023 by Timothy
Clark Jones has provided insightful guidance any time I have sought his services. I highly recommend him.
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20 Oct, 2023 by Bobby
One of the best in town! Even one a case with the Supreme Court! I highly recommend him! Very professional and willing to fight for what’s right no matter the size of the case! He even took on the city of Columbia for me with a one day notice, cannot talk enough about his work ethic and willingness to be available.
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10 Aug, 2017 by Shane
Attorney Dunn provided fast and knowledgeable legal counsel. He without a doubt provided guidance that only a true seasoned professional could. He was easy to communicate with and is always available when you need him. I'd certainly use his services again in the future.
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08 Aug, 2017 by Ray
Chris enabled us to navigate a dispute with our HOA involving legal contracts and verbal agreements that bordered on abuse. Without getting into specific details, he saved us hundreds of dollars and the matter was dropped due to his deep understanding of the law. I'd recommend Chris; his services are top notch.
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04 Aug, 2017 by Suzanne
Chris has an amazing eye for detail, and communicates the nuances of the law in a way that you can understand. He seeks to fully understand the issue at hand, and will engage you in a discussion to make sure all relevant information is disclosed and discussed. His work in the areas of contracts, land-use and GIS law are outstanding.
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17 Aug, 2020 by Eileen mccoy
Four years ago I moved back to Missouri after 42 years in Florida. My husband had passed away and I wanted to start my new life back in the state where I was born and had many of my family and friends. I also knew that I needed to get my single life here in Columbia off to a solid foundation. Through a family friend, I found David Walker and his amazing staff. Something that brought me alot of anxiety doing on my own for the first time became actually a wonderful experience. The anxiety I had felt was so unfounded and with David's help, gave me great relief that all would be taken care of if anything happened. I know he or his amazing legal assistant, Cheryl Isgrig will be there by my side. Thanks to you both. Sincerely, Eileen McCoy
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17 Aug, 2020 by Sharon jacoby
My husband & I came to David to make a plan for our estate. David had us consider several things to decide if a trust or a will was the best option for us. We really appreciated his honest opinion that a will made the best sense for us. All of his staff are professional & friendly. We definitely recommend David Walker for your estate planning needs.
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14 Aug, 2020 by Jamie canine
By far and away the most helpful attorney I've ever worked with. He talks the time to educate me, which is important for me. I want to understand the legal context of my decisions. He helps me weigh the pros/cons but never presses me in one direction or another. He leaves the decisions up to me. He's very transparent, flexible and responsive.
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03 May, 2024 by Jay sowash
Professional, personal, knowledgeable......You cannot go wrong with Nathan Jones. If you want comfort with an attorney, you will be extremely pleased if you choose this route.
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13 Apr, 2024 by Carol gaggini|
Nathan Joes assisted my husband & I in updating our Will. We felt that he was knowledgeable, professional, caring & thoughtful in his approach. He & his staff provided smooth, timely, and reasonable priced service.
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10 Apr, 2024 by Sue horner
Their add is misleading. They told me to google another lawyer, they don’t do probate.
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30 Sep, 2024 by Ed gongaware
We have really enjoyed working with Rachael Kennedy on estate planning and such. She will be the one we will contact if we need legal advice. She did an excellent job. We owe her our gratitude.
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25 Aug, 2024 by Dana grimm
Upon feeling overwhelmed on what to do with an inheritance I began contacting lawyer after lawyer just to try to get some insight. Rachel Kennedy was the last person on my list I was done and fed up until I got a hold of the gal who makes her appointments. She was so pleasant and helpful, along with being the only actual person I was able to talk to that day, she scheduled me an appointment approximately 2 weeks out much to my surprise, Rachel Kennedy contacted me that afternoon. Even after explaining I didn't know what I needed to do or if I'd even have enough money to retain her services she gladly gave me a lot of useful advice. She was so generous with her time as well as knowledgeable about my predicament. I found her to be very genuine and helpful without benefiting anything from it. It's not often run into people like that anymore. Although I didn't end up needing to retain an attorney for the situation I can easily say she will be the first person I contact for future situations. Thank you Rachel for all your information and point me in the right direction and not making me feel stupid for not knowing anything. I greatly appreciate your time and it was a pleasure talking to you.
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22 Aug, 2024 by Ann brown
Rachael is wonderful!! She was very helpful and answered all of my questions with a knowledgeable easy to understand explanation. I definitely recommend her for all Life and Estate Planning needs.
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19 Jun, 2024 by Nancy langley
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14 Jan, 2024 by Elizabeth enriquez
Both Helen Wade and Sheri Phillips were helpful and supportive during my maintenance case. My ex husband filed to end or reduce the amount of maintenance he had agreed to pay me. His reasoning was not sound. Shortly after our pre trial conference my case was dismissed.
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27 Dec, 2023 by Donya quinlan
I had just lost my 24 year old daughter to cancer and 6 months later my husband decided he wanted a divorce. I was lost and had know idea what to do. A friend of my parents recommended Helen Wade to represent me through this trying time. From the very beginning Helen was a great support to me, giving me advice and assuring me I could and would make it through this mess. For some reason this divorce which should have been quite simple drug on and on. We even once reached a settlement to only find out 2 months later my ex had decided to back out. Helen did a lot of investigative work and was able to uncover things my ex was trying to pull in his favor. Divorce in itself is very stressful, Helen did everything possible to lessen that stress. After a long drawn out divorce I can easily say Helen did everything she could to get me a fair settlement. She has also assured me she will always be here for me. The divorce is final but the sell of the house is still in the works, and she has promised to be there for the finality of that as well. She is not only very, very professional but is very compassionate as well. Thanks for being there for me Helen!
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04 Oct, 2024 by Blake robinson
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17 Apr, 2024 by James rericha
We believe they provide great services.
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04 Nov, 2023 by Eric bohl
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26 Apr, 2024 by Tommy gilmore
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05 Apr, 2024 by R g
Casey Elliott provided top-notch legal service to a friend of mine who was an Air Force veteran with cancer and in hospice care. Casey came to the Hospitals at both Boone and later at VA to get the information needed and to get the necessary legal documents executed by him in a timely manner. Because of her speedy assistance, when my friend passed away only weeks later he did so with the peace of mind that his legal affairs were in good order and that his wife would also be in good legal shape. I am glad I was able to help my friend become a client of Casey and am writing this review on his behalf.
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13 Mar, 2024 by Carl slate
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06 Jun, 2023 by Angela esteb o'brian
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18 Dec, 2021 by Ryan oldenburg
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06 Nov, 2021 by Kara venne
No way
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26 Apr, 2024 by Tommy gilmore
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05 Apr, 2024 by R g
Casey Elliott provided top-notch legal service to a friend of mine who was an Air Force veteran with cancer and in hospice care. Casey came to the Hospitals at both Boone and later at VA to get the information needed and to get the necessary legal documents executed by him in a timely manner. Because of her speedy assistance, when my friend passed away only weeks later he did so with the peace of mind that his legal affairs were in good order and that his wife would also be in good legal shape. I am glad I was able to help my friend become a client of Casey and am writing this review on his behalf.
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13 Mar, 2024 by Carl slate
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20 Jul, 2017 by Anonymous
Did not address my concerns or set appointment in a timely fashion and never reviewed the PDF I had attached stating the advice I needed and where I work from the jump. Wasted my time completely then tried to blame me for emails that never reached me. Never avvo again.
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19 Jan, 2017 by Deb
Mr. Puri was not only professional but also compassionate and caring. He gave me the confidence and support I needed to proceed with my discrimination case. He believed In me and knew I had been wronged. He helped to right that wrong and settlement was made. I will always be grateful for his guidance and the personal interest he took in my case. I would highly recommend Mr. Puri to anyone needing legal assistance.
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26 Oct, 2015 by Jay
Mr. Puri is a through professional who provides good and practical recommendations after review of the case. Our organization has used his services in three different cases and every time very pleased with the outcome.
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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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