Lawyers map
>3.0k
experienced lawyers
Filter by
02 Feb, 2016 by Gordon
My wife and I recently were parties to a somewhat more complex than usual real estate closing in which we were represented by attorney Donnarumma. Fran aptly and expertly handled all of the details in a most pleasant and cost effective manner.
Read more
29 Nov, 2014 by Anonymous
I have sought Atty. Donnarumma's legal advise on numerous occasions over the past 30 years. Whatever my need, I've felt my interest's were always represented with the highest priority you would come to expect from your legal counsel as well as a personal level of caring rarely seen in larger law firms. The Donnarumma Law Firm staff are second to none. Atty. Donnarumma has, and will always be the first number I call when trusted, expert legal advise is needed.
Read more
15 Oct, 2008 by Anonymous
I had no problems with Attorney Donnarumma. Actually I was happy he found a problem with the title when refinancing my house that he fixed without extra charge while the previous attorney that did the closing ignored the situation.
Read more
21 Dec, 2022 by Coko brown
19 Feb, 2021 by Ghost in nc
Best law firm in Ct
Read more
18 Sep, 2020 by Julianne braziel
23 Oct, 2012 by Allan
I appreciate his ability to get to the dispute at hand. He provides a quick analysis of the issue and provides a clear picture of the possible legal outcomes. He knew the law and quickly resolved our issue with a minimum of cost which was refreshing. I recommend him highly.
Read more
18 Oct, 2011 by John
Chris worked on my real estate transaction and provided excellent service and knowledge when an unforseen issue came up. He protected my interests potentially saving me tens of thousands of dollars in environmental cleanup costs. His experience was essential.
Read more
08 Mar, 2011 by Anonymous
Chris worked up a great plan for my newly formed business protecting both my company and my personal assets. It was a real pleasure to work with him. I look forward to working with him in the future.
Read more
11 Mar, 2015 by Colleen
Atty Lawrence is top-notch, honest, and trustworthy. He is one of the good guys. I only wish he did Family Law, we could use more honest lawyers in this world.
He is the best choice I could have used at an unfortunate time in my life.
Nobody wants to obtain a lawyer, but if you have to this is the lawyer of choice.
Read more
01 Mar, 2015 by Anonymous
We had occasion to seek Attorney Peter Lawrence's opinion concerning our unfortunate need to declare bankruptcy and then seeking a Deed in Lieu for our home from a major bank—a bank that sought to confuse, delay and bully us. Although we were in a financial situation we would have never anticipated, Peter was kind, understanding and compassionate when explaining our options.
We found him to be patient with us even when he had to re-explain aspects of the legal process we were confused about, especially with the Deed in Lieu negotiation. It seemed the bank's tactic was to send conflicting communications and it seemed that one department of the bank did not communicate with other parts, often time conflicting with previous communications and statements. Peter was able to put us at ease with his knowledge of the process and his assurance that there would a satisfactory outcome. His calm demeanor, his understanding of our embarrassment being in these difficult situation and his ability to not “talk over us”, but explain in language we could understand, made resolving our problems more endurable.
We would not hesitate to refer friends and family to Attorney Lawrence!
Read more
21 Nov, 2013 by Fahd
Attorney Refai Arefin, My family and I wanted to say, thank you -- for the many years you have been handling are legal obligation. It has always been a pleasure to work with someone who is honest, sincere, and intelligent. You have been professional, witty, and courteous. We always look forward to doing business with you!
Respectfully,
Fahd F. Syed, Criminal Justice Major/State of Connecticut Correctional Lieutenant
Read more
16 May, 2012 by Moeen
I had the opportunity of hiring Attorney Arefin's services to handle some legal issues with my business. I found him to be always very easily approachable and extremely responsive to my needs. He always made himself available to listen and to offer sound legal advice. He always came across as knowledgeable and offered a comprehensive approach to resolve issues that I was dealing with. I wish him continued success.
Read more
17 Jul, 2015 by Greg
Laura helped me w/ my divorce. She was insightful and persistent in persuing my my goals for the case. I found her to be true to her word. I have and will continue to recommend her.
Read more
23 Jul, 2014 by Daniela
Came highly recommended and more than lived up to those recommendations. Very hard worker. Intelligent, diligent, analytical, and knowledgeable lawyer. Asked good questions that revealed critical information that I had not considered. Displays great attention to detail and knows how to emphasize and pull out the most important points of your case. Excellent with figures. Does not waste your money. Caring and respectful of her client and their family. A pro at handling herself in the deposition as well as in the court room!
Read more
06 May, 2021 by Daniel
A family member was severely in a car accident. I was referred to Anthony and received prompt professional advice. He advocated on behalf of our family and secured a tremendous result. I recommend him without reservation to anyone who has been injured, or for that matter, anyone who needs a fierce advocate in a court room.
Read more
29 Jun, 2012 by Dr miller
I needed a lawyer who could help me with commercial and residential real estate questions and concerns. Anthony would answer my questions clearly and his response by email and phone was quick. My track record with Anthony over the past 7 years has been a success. I have used other lawyers in the past and I became anxious when the word lawyer was mentioned but not now.
Read more
07 Jul, 2022 by Anonymous
I found Sundeep to be excellent at dealing with all of the legal issues inherent in a complex real estate purchase. She explained every legal aspect related to the closing clearly and thoroughly. Her services were timely and of very high quality. She consistently exceeded my expectations and I would recommend her to anyone doing a real estate transaction.
Read more
25 Jul, 2016 by Pk
I have worked with Ms. Gill on a number of real estate transactions. She has always been prompt and accessible, as well as very patient and diligent with questions, which can become very convoluted to the layperson when dealing with the law. She has persistently focused on my best interest. I would highly recommend, as I have with my personal acquaintances.
Read more
06 Jul, 2015 by Kevin
We recently hired Howard Gould to assist us in extracting our company from a relationship with a client who owed us a large debt. His experience, demeanor and legal knowledge were invaluable in achieving a successful legal outcome to the case. He succeeded in recovering all the monies owed to us. We could not have asked for a better outcome. I highly recommend Howard Gould to anyone in need of legal representation. He is an excellent attorney.
Read more
17 Dec, 2013 by Jody
Although I was quite shocked, unprepared and uninformed about the divorce process Howard made sure I knew everything pertinent and nothing more. He did not offer a sympathetic ear, joining with me in my misery, he just went straight to work to get me the best settlement possible, PERIOD! I was anxious and on many occasions temperamental but Howard and his assistant never once gave up on me. If you are looking for sympathy this is not the place to be, if you are looking for a hard fought and kick ass settlement this IS THE PLACE TO BE. Let your fiends be sympathetic, let Howard fight the fight.
Read more
02 Jan, 2022 by Anonymous
Susan was recommended by a friend who also went through a divorce and I’m so glad I chose her. Susan understands the law, the process, along with the financial challenges such as bonus’s and corporate awards. Susan is expensive however throughout the process she never held unnecessary meetings, calls or emails, and always got to the point. She ensured I understood the process and what was being asked of me. Susan is fair, equitable and most of all collaborative. Divorce is an awful process, Susan alleviated that anxiety and always spoke to the facts. I would also like to mention her team. They are detail oriented and very clear with what documentation I needed to provide. I hope none of my friends ever have to go through a divorce but if they do I wold highly recommend Susan and her team.
Read more
26 Jul, 2020 by Karen
I first met Susan when I hired her for a consultation at the beginning of my divorce. I was mostly impress by her vast knowledge of pension funds and other related matters . I later hired her to handle my divorce.
Read more
09 Sep, 2014 by Eric
Repeat client.
Great attorney.
Quick service, with good business skills, and in-depth knowledge of business strategies/analysis.
Eric H, VP of Real Estate Firm
Read more
31 Oct, 2013 by Eric h. (vp of real estate firm)
Handled extensive real estate legal disclosures for contracts pertaining to the sale of both land and residential real estate. Expert knowledge and very helpful. Thank you!
Read more
11 Mar, 2020 by Jeff
Attorney Richard Malafronte has always done my Real Estate closings and other real estate matters with the highest level of care and representation. He is honest and trustworthy and I would not feel comfortable with anyone else.
Read more
11 Sep, 2009 by Anonymous
worked with Mr. Malafronte to close two real estate deals and the transactions went great...I recommend him to all of your real estate needs.
Read more
26 Apr, 2015 by Richard
Attorney Heller is a brilliant real estate Attorney. Hecwas very responsive and astute. I would highly recommend him to anyone. It was a pleasure to deal with someone who was so honest and trustworthy.
Read more
23 May, 2014 by Rich
Attorney Heller represented me in buying a condo. He is very intelligent and worked very hard on my behalf. He was a pleasure to work with.
Read more
06 Mar, 2016 by Amy beth st. martin
Mr. Kaplan spoke to my business law class and he did a wonderful job talking to my students and explaining his role as a lawyer. His presentation was excellent and the information he shared was beneficial. Thank you for taking time out of your busy schedule to do this for my class.
Read more
01 Mar, 2016 by Sybil
Paul Kaplan and his paralegal Dawn were efficient in handling the long distance closing for the sale of our land. Many years ago he had also handled the complicated estate issues related to our father. Even though we could not be in attendance at the closing, owing to Paul and Dawn's efforts there were no hassles or hitches. We appreciated their expertise, integrity and time. We also found their fees especially fair- never being nickle and dime. Without a hesitation we'd highly their legal services.
Read more
02 Dec, 2014 by Barry
Paige represented us in a year long custody/ relocation case involving my daughter. She called very often to keep us up on the latest news etc. There was also never a time where I couldn't get a hold of her ( even after hours ). She poured her heart & soul into our " impossible case " to fight for what was right & to keep my family together. Against all odds & opinions of some colleagues , she saw it through to the end. It was SO comforting to know I had a genuine friend on my side instead of some heartless robot who would settle a case at the drop of a hat to save their reputation when things get tough. She won a true David & Goliath battle for me & my family. It is only because of Paige & the Lord above that I was / am able to remain active in my daughter's life! Truly a blessing ! There are not words to describe how grateful I am !!!!!
Read more
21 Nov, 2014 by Anonymous
Attorney Quilliam knows her stuff. She has extensive experience, empathy for your situation and a good relationship with the Court which comes in handy. She is articulate, dedicated and knowledgable. She's a pleasure to work with.
Read more
21 Feb, 2013 by Alex
Neal and his office has provided estate and will services for my husband and I, as well as recently representing us for the purchase and sale of our homes. He does excellent work and him and his staff are responsive and professional. I would highly recommend.
Read more
21 Feb, 2013 by Gina
When starting to prepare for putting a will together, there are so many things to consider. Some things that I never even realized I had to give thought to. Before starting the process, Neal patiently met with me and my husband to discuss specifics of what it means to have a will and all the pieces that go with it, and why it's important. We left his office with the knowledge and understanding of why it's really smart to take those steps, and we were better able to have an honest discussion about all the items required to make the documents effective. Discussing end-of-life issues is never fun or glamorous, but leaving your loved ones without properly preparing for your passing is a burden that you don't want to leave with the people most important to you at a time that will be so difficult. I can't thank Neal enough for making this process much smoother than I thought it could be.
Read more
07 Nov, 2015 by Anonymous
I have hired Attorney Rosan a handful of times to assist with contracts, leases and real estate related matters. Her attention to detail, her understanding of the legal issues, and always being accessible has made working with her a pleasure. I would highly recommend her.
Read more
26 Oct, 2015 by Tom
Shellie has changed the way we view lease negotiations and greatly enhanced our understanding of leases and has helped us to gain great advantage in our real estate dealings. She has saved us from repeated past sins in real estate dealings and is a tireless advocate for us. Additionally, she has connected us to some of her associates and clients to our mutual benefit! We love Shellie!
Read more
24 Jan, 2014 by Carol s
I have gone through 3 closing a with Michelle and found her to be excellent. She has always taken time to answer questions above and beyond the call of duty for us, without charge! We think the world of her and her team.
Read more
26 Jan, 2011 by Patrice fitzgerald
I've used Michele for 2 closings and I'm about to use her for another. I also sent a friend to her, who was very pleased. She is honest, affordable and thorough, and makes you feel comfortable throughout the process.
I'm an attorney, but I don't do real estate law, and I was glad to have her on my team.
Read more
16 Jul, 2019 by Anonymous
Sophia Shaikh guided us through the Probate Court, explaining each step along the way in simple, easily understood terms. If we had any questions or concerns, she was always prompt in returning calls, etc. Any and all documents she filed with the court on our behalf, were done in a timely manner. We were kept updated and informed at all times making us feel confident with her knowledge, insight, and experience. She has a lovely optimistic personality, always willing to accommodate us in any way possible. We felt lucky to have her represent us. RFK & CMK
Read more
08 Jan, 2018 by David
Attorney Shaikh handled a sensitive, embarrassing financial situation (relative without a will/bickering relatives prolonging the matter) with a manner that was friendly, pragmatic and professional. She really came across non judgmental and was truly an advocate for me. She truly knew her probate stuff and was pretty impressive. I'm very happy with her.
Read more
11 Jan, 2017 by Joyce
Attorney Trish DeLeo was an absolute pleasure to work with! She represented my buyer clients on a difficult real estate transaction and went above and beyond for her. I will continue to refer her for future deals.
Read more
02 Dec, 2014 by Anonymous
Patricia got me through a very difficult time. Her expertise, along with her compassion was beyond my expectations. She is thorough, patient and extremely qualified to get the job done.
I would absolutely contact Patricia again if the need arises.
Read more
04 Jan, 2021 by Michael
Steve represented us when we purchased our first home last yr. He was knowledgeable, responsive, and patient. Opposing counsel was extraordinarily difficult to deal with, and he handled a particularly frustration situation with the utmost professionalism, while looking out for our best interests at every turn. He promptly responded to calls and emails, and I felt comfortable raising any question I had with him. I expected our fees to be considerably more than they ultimately were due to the complexity and length of our process. We were grateful to have Steve in our corner. I highly recommend him.
Read more
19 Aug, 2020 by Pedro
As first time home buyers we needed someone that we can trust and get answers to thousands of questions. Steve exceeded our expectations and we highly recommend him.
Read more
14 Jul, 2022 by Jack
I went through a horrific divorce w/trial, many years ago with Atty Naccarato.. He was always able and willing to see me and help me through this ordeal. I have only the highest regard for Atty Naccarato and highly recommend his services!! Thanks Rob!
Read more
07 Mar, 2013 by Susan
my father passed away and mr naccarato was the lawyer for me. I was a very emotional person at the time . He was very patient with his time.
Read more
02 Aug, 2021 by Lilyvine405
Prompt,professional, and knowledgeable service. I've had the pleasure of knowing and working with many of the professionals here for several years.
Read more
28 Mar, 2021 by Tina rice
24 May, 2017 by Kathy
I have worked with Frank on my Estate Planning. He is knowledgeable, responsive and generous with his time. He is very professional and kind. I highly recommend him.
Read more
15 Jul, 2013 by Stanley
Frank has been my confidential legal advisor on business, estate planning and real estate. He is deligent, attentive, trustworthy and honest. I have worked with many kawyees but he's a keeper. A Harvard man..
Read more
05 Feb, 2020 by Ellen kerr
Tom was wonderful!
Read more
03 Jan, 2016 by Bridget morrissey
When you're buying a property,McGarry, Prince & McGarry, P.C is able to help you understand the terms of the purchase contract, register legal documents and make sure you have the correct ownership documents. If you're selling a property, they address any issues that arise with your title.
Read more
31 May, 2023 by Ann
Look no further than Ms. Messick if it is time to do your Trust. She worked diligently with us to secure one that met our needs. She gave us options and made sure we understood the legal jargon. The Trust was tailored for our family.
Read more
11 Aug, 2022 by Valquiria
Jean Messick was able to help me during a very difficult time. She held my hand throughout the whole process. She is wonderful. Knowledgeable and trustworthy. Will always use her services from now on.
Read more
09 May, 2011 by Daniel
Daniel used his connections to help us find a title insurance company and a lawyer for our condo purchase in New Jersey. He got to know our situation, was very responsive, and executed quickly.
Read more
22 Mar, 2011 by Anonymous
Helped me out with a tricky landlord / tenant question with a malicious landlord. Put my mind at ease and gave me actionable information without making the decision for me.
Read more
15 May, 2013 by Anonymous
I've worked with Mark on several conservation easement projects and he is an excellent attorney. He is quick on the analysis and sound/solid in the drafting of legal documents. He has won the dedication of a wide range of clients in Northwest Connecticut because of his
Read more
19 Jun, 2012 by Teresa
I have gone to Attorney Capecelatro for various reasons and each time he has sat down with me and explained every aspect and the possible legal ramification my decision could entail .
Read more
05 Dec, 2009 by Candee
Attorney Barrett represented me in a Workers' Compensation case that was not an ordinary case but one that was unique and complex. He always took the time to answer all my question, listen to and address my concerns, and returned my calls in a timely manner. I found him to be caring, compassionate, and very understanding as to what I was going through due to my injury. Over the years I also used him for various other legal matters with the same results. Attorney Barrett is truly a lawyer and a man of intregrity.
Read more
03 Jul, 2009 by Anonymous
Attorney Barrett helped with the closing on my home - it was a bit of a tricky case because the property is on a town line, and needed to be recorded in two towns - but Attorney Barrett and his team was right there to explain all my questions and to help ensure it was handled properly.
Read more
02 Feb, 2017 by Jaime
Attorney Corey is truly great! Every step of the way he was kind, caring, honest, supportive, and very knowledgeable. Attorney Corey responded quickly to all of our needs and questions. He made the entire process of closing on our house stress free for us. His office staff was also friendly and always helpful. We would definitely use him again in the future and highly recommend him to anyone looking for an excellent lawyer.
Read more
23 Apr, 2014 by Michael
Attorney Corey strives to go above and beyond by exceeding expectations. His strong technical abilities complemented by his dedication to top rate client service provide a seamless and comforting approach. Attorney Corey is a true professional as his actions exhibit integrity, ambition and honesty. Attorney Corey has proven that he can handle challenges and provide best fit solutions while remaining open and calm.
Read more
Browse lawyers
Cities in Connecticut - Find a Lawyer Near Me
-
Hartford
-
Stamford
-
New Haven
-
Greenwich
-
Bridgeport
-
West Hartford
-
Westport
-
Danbury
-
Milford
-
Waterbury
-
Norwalk
-
Fairfield
-
Glastonbury
-
Wilton
-
Ridgefield
-
New Canaan
-
New London
-
Farmington
-
Hamden
-
Middletown
-
Shelton
-
Cheshire
-
Rocky Hill
-
Stratford
-
New Britain
-
Manchester
-
Trumbull
-
Branford
-
Southport
-
North Haven
-
Old Greenwich
-
East Hartford
-
Wallingford
-
Avon
-
Darien
-
Wethersfield
-
Bloomfield
-
Simsbury
-
Norwich
-
New Milford
-
Riverside
-
Guilford
-
Bristol
-
Torrington
-
Meriden
-
Madison
-
Southbury
-
Vernon
-
Cos Cob
-
Old Saybrook
-
West Haven
-
Orange
-
Windsor
-
Groton
-
Middlebury
-
Southington
-
Woodbridge
-
Naugatuck
-
Berlin
-
East Haven
-
Enfield
-
Watertown
-
Litchfield
-
Newtown
-
South Windsor
-
Mystic
-
Plainville
-
Windsor Locks
-
Newington
-
Old Lyme
-
Waterford
-
Monroe
-
Willimantic
-
Woodbury
-
Essex
-
Putnam
-
Weston
-
Vernon Rockville
-
Brookfield
-
New Fairfield
-
Ansonia
-
Canton
-
CLINTON
-
Danielson
-
Suffield
-
Bethel
-
Pawcatuck
-
Sherman
Browse lawyers
Practice Areas in Connecticut
-
Business
-
Real Estate
-
Litigation
-
Personal Injury
-
Family Law
-
Estate Planning
-
Criminal Defense
-
Probate
-
Insurance
-
Government
-
Appeals
-
Workers Compensation
-
Intellectual Property
-
Tax
-
Civil Rights
-
Medical Malpractice
-
Consumer Protection
-
Car Accident
-
Elder Law
-
Trusts
-
Mediation
-
Immigration
-
Lawsuit / Dispute
-
Child Custody
-
Foreclosure
-
Wrongful Death
-
Financial Markets And Services
-
Bankruptcy
-
Child Support
-
Juvenile Law
-
Social Security & Disability
-
Class Action
-
Debt Collection
-
Discrimination
-
Domestic Violence
-
Entertainment
-
Divorce
-
Sexual Harassment
-
Wrongful Termination
-
Federal Crime
-
Copyright Application
-
Sex Crime
-
Employment / Labor
-
Adoption
-
Landlord & Tenant
-
Debt Settlement
-
DUI / DWI
-
Construction
-
Credit Repair
-
Drug Crime
-
Cannabis Law
-
Life Insurance
-
Admiralty / Maritime
-
Constitutional Law
-
Education Law
Discover the ideal lawyer
You can search a lawyer by practice area, lawyer name, city, state, or ZIP code
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.
