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10 Jan, 2024 by Benjamin rosh
18 Oct, 2023 by Brian butcher
16 May, 2023 by Andrew herman
Elle was knowledgable, personable, and responsive to my questions!
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20 Mar, 2024 by Math3109
Contacted her seeking help to evict a delinquent tenant. She quickly took my info and guided me through process, every step, keeping me informed along the way. Tenant was removed in a timely manner via court.
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02 Aug, 2023 by C n
Excellent legal counsel. High level of knowledge and maximum effort from a very professional and determined litigator.
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24 Oct, 2021 by Leo popkie
I was very satisfied with the work done. She was able to find a solution on a difficult real estate matter that I needed to resolve quickly.
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10 Sep, 2024 by Margaret allen
Highly recommended. Robert DiCuccio was the only lawyer that could help me with a difficult situation. Affordable pricing, very responsive, empathetic and very knowledgeable. Very thankful to have everything resolved.
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26 Aug, 2024 by Lonnie smith
Rob and his team were a blessing to have on my side. I had 3 or 4 different sources suing me for something I had no control of. He kept me appraised of all the steps he followed to get them to see I was not liable and drop the suits. I HIGHLY recommend this law firm for any kind of legal action necessary.
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05 Jun, 2024 by Ilea mathis
I absolutely would recommend Steven Katz to friends, family, and anybody in need of an honest, incredibly knowledgeable, decent, kind, and respectful attorney. I have worked with Attorney Katz for over a year on a very aggravating consumer case. He kept me informed and protected my interests through the entire process. I will be following up with Attorney Katz for all of my real estate, estate planning, and any other needs I might have their firm handles because I trust him. He is a good egg. That kind of professionalism, experience and ethics is a treasure in this world and I am grateful to have worked with him.
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10 Sep, 2024 by Margaret allen
Highly recommended. Robert DiCuccio was the only lawyer that could help me with a difficult situation. Affordable pricing, very responsive, empathetic and very knowledgeable. Very thankful to have everything resolved.
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26 Aug, 2024 by Lonnie smith
Rob and his team were a blessing to have on my side. I had 3 or 4 different sources suing me for something I had no control of. He kept me appraised of all the steps he followed to get them to see I was not liable and drop the suits. I HIGHLY recommend this law firm for any kind of legal action necessary.
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05 Jun, 2024 by Ilea mathis
I absolutely would recommend Steven Katz to friends, family, and anybody in need of an honest, incredibly knowledgeable, decent, kind, and respectful attorney. I have worked with Attorney Katz for over a year on a very aggravating consumer case. He kept me informed and protected my interests through the entire process. I will be following up with Attorney Katz for all of my real estate, estate planning, and any other needs I might have their firm handles because I trust him. He is a good egg. That kind of professionalism, experience and ethics is a treasure in this world and I am grateful to have worked with him.
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11 Apr, 2024 by Chinedum donald i.
Absolutely one of the best lawyers in America. Spoke with him twice from Africa and he was super cool as if we've known each other for decades. I still owe him a bottle of wine...lol
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02 Feb, 2024 by Anas kalbouneh
10 Jan, 2024 by Benjamin rosh
22 Mar, 2024 by Lesley herrell
I've worked with them for almost 12 yrs excellent service Well respected
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12 Jul, 2023 by Leo perrin
Friendly professional staff. Always eager to help. Great handling my workers compensation cases. Highly recommend.
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29 Jun, 2023 by Joseph brown
This has to be the best law office to ever do business with. They are on top of everything with emails, calls, and working for YOU.
I could not ask for any better treatment than this.
I fully recommend them.
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10 Jan, 2024 by Benjamin rosh
18 Oct, 2023 by Brian butcher
16 May, 2023 by Andrew herman
Elle was knowledgable, personable, and responsive to my questions!
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10 Jan, 2024 by Benjamin rosh
18 Oct, 2023 by Brian butcher
16 May, 2023 by Andrew herman
Elle was knowledgable, personable, and responsive to my questions!
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17 Apr, 2021 by Oddessy c
Michelle is the definition of efficient and effective! I will definitely work with her in the future and I will also recommend her.
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21 Dec, 2020 by Subhayan
I have contacted her for some advice related to my real estate dispute and she patiently clarified all my doubts. She is very knowledgeable and helpful
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30 Nov, 2017 by Anonymous
I am very new to the real estate world, Michelle explained me about what to expect in detail, now i know what to expect and what to do, very confident, helpful and great knowledge, looking forward to work, many thanks.
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30 Jul, 2024 by Tom
Chuck helped me greatly with expert zoning and real estate tax advice
He is a very knowledgeable in the area, very friendly and explains
complex issues with clarity .
Chuck is a good attorney ......I recommend him highly
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30 May, 2024 by Deana
Chuck and his team at Bluestone law group are very professional, effictive and efficient. They have successfully helped our company contest tax appeals filed by two separate school boards for two separate properties. I would highly recommend them to anyone!
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05 May, 2023 by Anonymous
My business partners and I were wrongly assessed on one of our properties by over 22%. Charles' firm was fast to action with our appeal and helped us along the entire way; collecting proper documents, providing advice/insight, and anything else that would help us in our case. Any questions along the way, he and his team were eager to answer; making the process so much easier than we ever imagined. After a quick turn around and submission, we won our appeal case with Charles. This 22% reduction in property taxes was a BIG win and couldn't have been done without Charles' help. We highly recommend working with him.
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24 Apr, 2018 by Jeremy
Greg has done excellent quality work on multiple estates and trusts. Very responsive and approachable for legal needs and issues. Would highly recommend.
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19 Apr, 2018 by Anonymous
I had an emergency need, and Greg jumped right in to fix it. My son was leaving for college 750 miles away - and we found out the day before that the landlord for the apartment we rented was trying to back out. Greg’s quick intervention meant the rental issue was resolved so my son could start school right on time.
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19 Apr, 2018 by Brian
Greg Port helped my company win a suit after a much larger company decided not to pay their bills. He spent many hours in depositions and in the court room just to make sure that I would not be bullied by a larger corporation with large pockets. I would be shocked if anyone else would take on this case due to the small size of the suit. After hearing my story he was upset with the way I was treated. His percentage of the suit was terribly small compared to the amount of hours he put in both the court room and behind the scenes. We won the suit and he even took on the Appeal from the defendant. I will forever be grateful for his work on the case.
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07 Mar, 2018 by Jake
Todd was very thorough in explaining and compiling information to prepare me for dealing with the ohio board of nursing. In a very stressful and hectic time for myself he displayed a confident manner that assured me he was the right man for the job. In the end I couldn't have been happier with the obn outcome/ decision. Very pleased with my decision in choosing Todd to represent myself in this matter.
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18 Mar, 2017 by Angela kane
Todd Collis represented me as legal council when I faced disciplinary action from the Ohio Board of Nursing. He was able to skillfully develop a consent agreement that was acceptable to the BON based on extenuating circumstances. Mr. Collis was very considerate, caring and competent during this very stressful process. I highly recommend the Todd Collis and the Collis law group to any nurse facing sanctions against their nursing license from the Board of Nursing.
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09 Mar, 2017 by Chris
Todd was very professional he helped me with my stressful process of dealing with the Ohio board of nursing and made things much easier and less stressful. He was very kind and professional threw the whole process. Todd was always very prompt with answer questions and emails and was always available. I would recommend him to anyone needing an attorney.
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22 Jan, 2023 by Tracie holdren
19 Jun, 2021 by Stanley seese
Great people.
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16 May, 2021 by David soeder
Kelly Jasin, helped clear the path for our Estate Planning. We had multiple questions in regaurds to coming up with a viable plan to protect and create a direction for our specific needs for our family. After our first meeting we walked out feeling confident we are making the right choice. We had meet with another Firm and walked out having far more questions and confused than answers. Kelly listened to our needs answered our question and explained the reasoning why behind her answers and advise. My wife and I made our decision before we left to go with Kelly and the Firm. We felt very comfortable and confident we are making the right decisions for our family's future and protection. Highly recommend.
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09 Sep, 2024 by Miki
My husband and I hired Jim to help with a complicated personal bankruptcy precipitated by losing a business we both owned. He was responsive, clear-minded, super helpful, and helped us get the best outcomes possible. He also represented us through litigation with a former client, also successfully. In running our business for a decade we’ve worked with a dozen lawyers and can honestly say Jim is one of the best we’ve known. Can’t recommend him enough.
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23 Feb, 2021 by Anonymous
Jim Coutinho is THE BEST attorney in town
If I could give 10 stars I will not hesitate even for a second
I had to file chapter 7 for reasons beyond my control
Jim understood my situation, gave me the option to consider
chapter 7, did not force me and he always had my best interest
in the process and helped me make the decision
Once I made the decision to file Chapter 7, he helped me
with the paperwork to file the petition, kept me informed and
made the whole process less stressful
He really cares for the client's best interest and You can be
rest assured you will be making one of the best decision
by having Jim on your side when you have to go through this
tough challenging decision in your life
You will not be disappointed if you decide to contact Jim for all
your legal work.
I have nothing but Good things to say and wish him
THE BEST in life
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19 May, 2017 by Anonymous
We had an error made by an employee that cost our business 2+ million dollars. We thought our only option was filing bankruptcy. Jim took a sincere interest and helped us explore other options. Through his creativity our business is once again thriving. I can not thank him enough! I would highly recommend and we now use Jim for all our other matters as well.
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11 Feb, 2021 by Anne
Madeline is smart, savvy, knowledgeable and thorough! She has helped us with a couple different legal items and has been great every time! She is very responsive, understanding and is terrific to work with. I would recommend her EVERY TIME.
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09 Feb, 2021 by Rebecca
I find Madeline to be thorough, an excellent listener and adept at creating a legal plan which addressed my concerns. I highly recommend her!
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08 Feb, 2021 by Brandon
Madeline has been a huge asset for my new company over the last year and a half. I met Madeline over 3 years ago when I was new to Real Estate. I now practice Real Estate and Property Management. Madeline has been a wonderful asset to all of my contract and lease writing for my growing business. She also understands a great deal about Property Management as well. I would recommend her for anything involving a contract! Estates, Wills, Trusts, Leases, Owner's Agreements, etc. I can't say enough outstanding things about her!
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13 Nov, 2019 by Noelia
Christopher was extremely helpful. I found myself in a complicated situation in which he went above and beyond to research. We exchanged emails and had two telephone calls. He provided a very informative consultation and advised me in the most honest way. I am very thankful for all of your help.
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12 Apr, 2019 by Justin
Hands down the best business attorney out there! Chris’s knowledge and experience has become invaluable to our organization. He has taken the time to learn every aspect of our company. It’s like having an in-house attorney at your disposal for a fraction of the cost. So nice to finally find a Lawyer that genuinely cares about his clients and their outcome. Thank you Chris, so glad we found you!
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16 Feb, 2019 by Anonymous
Christopher filed probate on my mother’s estate. He was easy to work with and explained the process. He also kept me updated throughout.
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07 Apr, 2017 by Anonymous
Keeps your best interest in mind. He's not.the sales pitch type of lawyer - he's just good. He provides clarity of law and is realistic but hard working.
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21 Apr, 2015 by Danno
has helped me with many things, always easy to get access to, great attitude , fast response. and best of all very resourceful, knows where , how , when and researches his work thoroughly, its like having 5 lawyers in one.
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10 Feb, 2015 by Keith
Did a fantastic job resolving a business dispute that resulted in a better than anticipated outcome, and avoided a prolonged and expensive lawsuit.
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10 Oct, 2024 by Farid khan
ALH law group is working with us for state papers documents! So far this firm is very professional and keeps update our process! We very happy for that! Thanks!!Farid khan
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07 Oct, 2024 by Dustin rall
Office staff is friendly and helpful commutation is excellent I would highly recommend
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02 Oct, 2024 by Rebecca roehl
Since I've never done this before, I was apprehensive. Alison and her crew made everything understandable . I was impressed by their professionalism and warmth. Will highly recommend this firm.
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23 Nov, 2020 by Tracey
I'm a Realtor & reached out to James with a purchase contract issue. He listened, walked me through the process & was able to provide his thoughts & insight. I really appreciated him taking time to talk with me.
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16 Nov, 2020 by Anonymous
He was thorough and dealt with issues created by the title company.
The issues required extra work and I was not charged extra.
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13 Oct, 2020 by Jen
Schottenstein was forthcoming with info on initial call. And he helped me sort through my options and confirmed my intuition, helping me frame my frustration in an action-oriented way
Buyers scheduled closing then said the construction costs would exceed the bank's appraisal. Being the third extension of the closing, the second one happening the day of closing, I was livid, but didn't know what recourse I actually had, and how I should respond.
Schottenstein explained how the contract worked and what should have happened, and what he would do if he were me. He was also very open about whether he could help me out not.
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15 Apr, 2015 by Sara
He is patient and down-to-earth. He takes the time to explain legal jargon and all of your options in the given legal situation so you can navigate the system successfully to meet your goals.. Aggressive when needed. Has helped me keep my money in multiple situations!
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18 Aug, 2011 by Nic
I used Shamus for some business and tax planning. He helped me structure my businesses in a way that protected my assets and saved taxes. He also helped me sell one of my businesses and bring on a partner for another. He is easy to work with, responsive, prompt, and intelligent.
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25 Feb, 2010 by Jennifer
Shamus is not only highly effective and knowledgeable, but is so well associated with other esteemed and skilled professionals that he has been able to assist our family in serving our needs in so many more ways than just legal. Shamus was able to refer us to professionals who have assisted us in building our businesses, accounting professionals financial advisors, and so much more! Not only has Shamus provided us with responsive, respectful, and valuable services in estate planning, branding and business startup, but his concern and compassion coupled with never losing site of OUR best interests, while guiding us through a most difficult probate situation will never be forgotten. We will always rely on Shamus to provide us with legal guidance in all matters in the future.
We have even referred several friends to Shamus. One of whom was able to overcome corporate bullying by her employer who sought to force her into choosing between her severance and other compensations due to her during a downsizing effort. Thanks to Shamus she was able to receive her severance, bonuses, unemployment insurance, and retain her health care!
In summary I will never need to seek out another attorney again. Between Shamus' abilities and his trusted referrals, we will always be protected by competent, ethical, and trustworthy professionals.
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08 Jul, 2019 by Dwane
I want to thank Jack, along with Ronda and the firm's staff. Jack's professionalism, care and concern helped me achieve a positive outcome in a difficult matter. I appreciate the way he managed my case. He took extra time to talk to me on a personal level, breaking everything down in terms that I could understand. Cannot thank Jack enough for everything he did.
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23 Dec, 2016 by Bob
Jack helped us with a complicated lease involving a prospective tenant at a small shopping center. Work was done efficiently and effectively and resulted in a signed lease. Jack also helped on a deed restriction issue involving the same property. Jack went out of his way to ensure the deed was recorded the same day documents were signed.
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15 Dec, 2016 by Anonymous
We were approached about leasing our farm property for another use. Jack was recommended and we are very grateful. He was extremely prompt in answering questions and concerns, communicated with us and the leasee until all issues were resolved . Very impressed with his follow-through to insure the results were more than satisfactory.
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03 Jan, 2009 by Anonymous
Truly cares about the people he is working with
Very prompt and does an excellent job
Able to explain things in a manner that I could understand
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24 Dec, 2008 by Anonymous
Attorney Paul Leithart has been for me the most competent attorney that I have ever worked with. His knowledge of the law amazes me, and yet he is a very humble person.
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22 Dec, 2008 by Anonymous
Highly recommended. Among the best.
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14 Aug, 2017 by Anonymous
Chris helped me with a non-compete situation and did an excellent job managing the case. Chris was able to guide me through the process and provide valuable straightforward advice along the way. I would recommend Chris to anyone that needs someone with strong experience relative to employment law.
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05 Oct, 2015 by Brian
We have worked with Chris on several legal issues most recently being labor related.
He is very diligent and has an uncanny ability to keep the big picture in mind in the resolution of his cases. It takes an excellent communicator and legal strategist to keep a case moving along, unequivocally proving the points that need to be proven in the face of blatant manipulation of the facts of the case by opposing counsel.
He is a true professional.
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18 Aug, 2015 by Anonymous
Chris and his team work very well with busy business owners and communicate extremely well compared to most professional services we have used in past. I highly recommend their firm for expertise and professional quality service.
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12 May, 2021 by S organ
Best of the best.
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18 Oct, 2018 by Amanda richards
19 Jun, 2017 by Robert lipscomb-jackson
12 May, 2021 by S organ
Best of the best.
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18 Oct, 2018 by Amanda richards
19 Jun, 2017 by Robert lipscomb-jackson
24 Nov, 2015 by Kenneth & julie
Our experience of working with Rob was great! We acquired his services for navigating the waters through our will and estate rights. He was able to provide a legal service that was very personable at a reasonable rate. Rob has the ability to speak truth into your legal request and stands firm behind the founding principles guiding his practice. I would highly recommend Rob for any of your legal needs that align with his areas of expertise!
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22 Apr, 2015 by Nina
When legal issues with my family arose I contacted Rob for assistance and he was quick to jump into action to help us solve the issues we were facing. Rob is one of the kindest people I've ever known and I would recommend him to handle whatever legal problems my friends and family may have in the future. He is thorough, knowledgable in his field, and always kept me updated as to the status of my legal situation. If I ever need such assistance again, Rob will be the first person I contact to review any legal issue big or small!
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08 Apr, 2015 by Jeff
I had a business transaction that 'went south' and needed strong legal counsel .... Rob's deft handling and advice made a true difference. He processes a brilliant mind , has uncompromising integrity and is the kind of person I can and will recommend to others .
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09 Mar, 2011 by Vaughn
Rick Brunner has aided me many times during our twenty year association. He is sharp, focused, and uncovers potential obstacles in my landscape long before I would. The quality of his representation is measured by the number of referrals he has received from me.
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08 Mar, 2011 by Carole
Rick Brunner represented us in a law suit against a large utilities company. His expertise in corporate law along with his tenacious desire to fight for the little guy resulted in a settlement out of court. We were comforted and confident in knowing that Rick was in our corner. He kept us well informed on the case. We had confidence in his advice and would gladly recommend his services.
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08 Mar, 2011 by Kelly
Mr. Brunner was very thorough and helpful throughout my case. He responded to emails in a timely manner. He took initiative and wrote very articulate letters on my behalf. He is personable, non-judgemental, and easy to talk to. It was obvious that my best interests were his priority, and that he was not just out to make as much money as possible from me. I would recommend him to any of my family or friends who are in need of legal counsel.
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29 Oct, 2015 by John black
Kevin Bacon was incredibly concentrated on the formation and articles of incorporation for my small business. This wonderful attorney provided valuable insight into legal structure that would best suit my needs. His services were reliable, professional and overall excellent. I would highly recommend Kevin Bacon to any small business owner!
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21 Oct, 2015 by Anthony
Kevin was invaluable in advising us on our family's lake cottage for appropriate estate and liability protection. This has given us peace of mind in knowing we can enjoy and leave our family legacy to future generations. I highly recommend his services as he brings a level of expertise beyond what I expected.
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19 Oct, 2015 by Jill
Attorney Kevin Bacon is extremely knowledgeable in many areas of law, and is especially caring when it comes to difficult conversations dealing with estate planning, disabilities, as well as simple wills and directives. Most of all he is straightforward in his approach which can make the entire experience less stressful. I feel very confident with his advice and will recommend Attorney Bacon every chance I get!
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01 Apr, 2022 by Bekah naylor
15 Feb, 2016 by Lisa
I needed an attorney for the dissolution of my marriage and ended up hiring Joshua. He is a true professional and I would highly recommend him to anyone looking for legal representation.
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03 Feb, 2016 by Cat
Joshua has done a great job for us. He was willing to take our case on short notice, drive to Cincinnati from Grove City, take the time to explain the proceedings in our case very throughly and in terms that were easy to understand. He has been very flexible as far as payments for representation, and his retainer and hourly fee are not unreasenable. For people who are uncomfortable or don't understand the letter of the law, Joshua Farnsworth is the attorney for you.
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07 Nov, 2021 by Julia
John helped me resolve two legal issues, and he did so with great skill and conscientiousness. His work is exemplary: He is careful and capable. Moreover, he is a man of the highest integrity. I recommend him wholeheartedly.
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23 Feb, 2016 by James
I was in a I.R.S. audit with another accountant and he had let the 90 day period to settle my tax issues in court lapse. I was in dire straits with levies, fines, penalties, and accounts being attached. Mr. Onesto had come highly recommended I contacted him to take over the audit. To tell you the truth I do not know what I would have done without him, he worked tirelessly to bring about a honest and fair solution to what was unjust and unfair. In todays society it is rare to find outstanding character and honesty with a resolve to bring about the best possible solution. I now use Mr. Onesto as my accountant and attorney. Why? Because I trust him. Sincerely, James
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16 Sep, 2013 by Linda
I have known John on a professional basis for about 10 years. He has handled 3 estate settlements for my family and I highly recommend him in this area. He also handled a business tax problem for my husband.
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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.
