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27 Jun, 2023 by I has
Attorney was very helpful!
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22 Jun, 2022 by Anonymous
Keyan is an exceptional young attorney. We have collaborated on legal strategy and analysis of complex legal issues in the area of landlord-tenant litigation. He is an expert in this area of law at a very young age. He has exceptional legal research and writing skills. Now that he has switched sides to represent tenants there is no one better for tenants to have on their side to walk them through bringing suits involving housing claims against landlords in this state.
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26 Apr, 2022 by Nathan
When we first met Keyan through a video call, he instantly gave off the most inviting and comforting energy. He answered all of our questions and gave us the confirmation we needed when we felt like our rights were being threatened and our voices unheard.
Throughout the entirety of helping us, he never once slacked in effort nor wavered in tenacity. He always went the extra mile to console and reassure us that he was protecting and doing as much as possible for us.
It was our first experience dealing with an attorney, and we couldn't have been more grateful to find Keyan! I'd highly recommend at least talking to him if you have any questions at all!
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15 May, 2018 by Anonymous
From the first message that I sent to Mr. Kayhan, he was very professional and attentive to my needs in my case. He helped me resolve my case and I am very happy with his services and his professionalism. Highly recommend using his services
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05 Apr, 2018 by Kristin & g
We had a very specific need for buying a house from my husband's cousin using a lease option with a 2 year term. We talked to MANY attorneys - both through my husband's law plan at work (which is how we found Boris!) and from our own research. Boris was detail-oriented, asked a LOT of questions, took the time to explain our risks, wasn't afraid to pick up the phone to clarify details and provided all of the paperwork within our agreed upon timeline. Thank you so much for working with us!!! We are happy to recommend you as an Attorney and hope to have a chance to work with you again soon.
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12 Mar, 2018 by Wei-kong
We hired Boris to help with a home sale by owner. My wife and I found Boris to be very knowledgeable and helpful throughout the entire process. We felt that he was genuinely concerned about our best interests each step of the way.
He was always prompt when returning our phone calls, texts, and emails and was very patient answering our questions.
We would not hesitate to hire Boris again in the future and highly recommend him to anyone looking for an excellent lawyer!
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22 Feb, 2024 by Jordan
I am writing to express my sincere appreciation to Jim and his team for their exceptional help and support on our case. They have been working with us for some time now and have consistently shown great attention to detail and a willingness to assist us in any way they can. Furthermore, their communication has been outstanding, responding quickly to our queries and keeping us informed throughout the process. We are incredibly grateful for all the assistance Ulwelling Law and their team provided, and we would like to extend our heartfelt thanks to them.
Sincerely,
Ms. Jordan
Office manager at
Tony's Muffler &Transmission Inc
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01 Sep, 2020 by Alex
James is the best real estate/HOA attorney we've dealt with. He is experienced and knowledgeable. He always stays on top of the matter and updates us quickly with well thought out recommendations. Great work, great communication, firm with our opponent, but fair. Highly recommended.
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16 May, 2019 by Anonymous
After I was sued, avvo led me to Jim. I consulted one other attorney but Jim impressed me enough not to look for any other and hire him for my case right away. My litigation went for over 3 years, but Jim along with Lauren and the whole staff supported me right till the end. The best thing is whenever I had a question, I didn't have to wait for the answers. All the matters were handled in a timely manner. Mary was awesome and I never had to worry about any missed dates or filings. Jim is always open to input, listens to you and explains the steps well. He is very professional, diligent and has a very good work ethic. He laid out all the scenarios before moving on to different phases in the case. Despite the complexities in the case, I was supported by Jim throughout the process to continue with my normal life. I can't thank him enough. I would highly recommend this attorney.
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01 Feb, 2022 by Christopher
Ive had the absolute best experience with Yangkyoung. She treats you like family and will fight for you. She is determined and focused and really does care for you as a client. She gives her all to represent you and she really gave attention to my case. She invests a lot of time and energy to my case and I feel confident in having her represent me. She is extremely attentive and answers all my questions that I have throughout the litigation process. I am extremely happy with her services and grateful I have her to fight such a good fight for me. No matter what she never gives up and does an amazing job in doing so. She is a very strong attorney and it shows with her work representing me. You can be assured that Yangkyoung will be on top of every single aspect of your case at all times as she was with mine.
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21 Jan, 2021 by Anonymous
Yangkyoung does her job very fast and efficiently. She tries not bothering her client to make them prepare tons of paper work.
My case was done faster than expected with several communications via email with her.
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09 Dec, 2020 by Zolzaya
Yangkyoung gave me light when things were very dark and hard. Initially I was hesitant to hire Yangkyoung and went and got few more consultations with other attorneys. I’m so glad I decided to go with her.
She is very honest and kind. I completely trust her words as she says things the way it is and it will be.
But absolutely can prepare you for anything. She provided instruction on what I need to do in order to schrage the best possible outcome with my case.
I feel that her heart is warm but mind is sharp.
She even took the time to answer questions that had nothing to do with the case I hired her for.
I highly recommend her without hesitation.
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03 Oct, 2022 by Natalie
Mr. Beggs is courteous, patient and outstanding. He listened carefully to my issue and he gave me the best course of action for my legal issue. Thank you Mr. Beggs for your help!
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11 Sep, 2019 by Audrey
Mr. Beggs responded promptly to my message on AVVO and invited me to call him. He also returned my call quickly. My question was regarding the theft of my wedding rings from my hotel room. Mr. Beggs could have easily benefited by persuading me to engage his services. Instead, he walked me through the pros and cons and using his services vs filing in small claims court. He told me how to file and provided some tips on how to present my information to the judge. He didn't make me feel as though my situation was unimportant - he simply wanted the most productive, cost-efficient outcome. He gave me the information I needed and confidence to proceed on my own. He offered for me to call back with any questions. I even suspect he let me run a little over the standard free consultation time. I hope not to need his services in the future but would not hesitate to do so.
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10 Oct, 2014 by Bonita
Mr. Beggs helped me get some resolution on my case. He was always helpful with any concerns I had and was always available to answer my questions. I would use this attorney again and recommend him to others . Thank you, Mr. Beggs. !
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08 Jan, 2022 by James
Mr. Bowerbank is A knowledgeable, intense force for justice. Assertive and proactive, responsive and result oriented comes to mind when describing John. He will do what it takes to avoid A lawsuit yet if challenged he will dominate,
no doubt.
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13 Dec, 2021 by James
A tenacious advocate for preventing lawsuits if possible; John has A resolution good faith spirit.
Yet, Mr. Bowerbank prepares to dominate any opponent and teach A lesson while winning. You can hire him with confidence.
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13 Dec, 2021 by Jack
I was served with a defective notice to vacate a residence I leased for many years. John is a great listener and counselor, who advised me of my rights and how to secure the best outcome for my situation. I highly recommend John!
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12 Nov, 2016 by Bill
I wish to express my gratitude to Brian for his insight and effort in assisting me with a home buyer client situation. As a real estate broker, rarely have I encountered situations where a seller refuses to refund a buyer’s deposit when an offer to purchase a home is canceled. This case was especially surprising—and frustrating.
I have engaged Brian's representation in the past, with success. This time was no exception.
The challenge arose due to the contract being unclear on this specific matter, but Brian helped clarify my client's legal entitlement to a refund. As a result, the seller quickly acquiesced. My client’s deposit was refunded in full and the stress of having to arbitrate was eliminated. I cannot speak highly enough of Brian’s skill and helpfulness in this matter.
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02 Nov, 2016 by Anonymous
Mr. Sirota is very good at his job. He’s knowledgeable and powerfully persuasive. He recently helped me negotiate a settlement and avoid litigation, resolving the matter quickly and getting me more than I expected. Needless to say, I was very satisfied with the outcome. He’s very concerned with making his clients happy and he has the skill set to do it!
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01 Apr, 2014 by Anonymous
Mr. Sirota recently helped me with a real estate litigation case that was causing me a tremendous amount of stress. He went above and beyond in taking this burden off my shoulders, getting the issue resolved quickly, and negotiating an outcome that was better than expected. He is an excellent communicator and negotiator. I highly recommend his services.
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27 May, 2015 by Osmahn
I hired Joe to assist me with forming an LLC and was so glad I did. He was very knowledgeable about the process of forming the entity and it gave me the peace of mind that I was doing everything correctly. I've also utilized Joe to assist me with some employee matters and I always feel comfortable going to him to resolve any issues!
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20 May, 2015 by Amy
A friend of mine referred me to Joe to assist with a real estate transaction. I needed help reviewing a lease for my new business because I wasn't really sure what I was agreeing to. He explained everything to me and even helped negotiate a better rate! I would definitely recommend him!!
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13 May, 2013 by Tom
Richard is accessable, approachable, knowledgeable in law, provides practical solutions, but more than mere competence, he has experience in law and life. This means he has earned from years of practice a sense of wisdom and judgment, all of which are hard to come by with lesser-experienced lawyers. Moreover, he is a skilled practitioner, with old-fashioned core values and work ethic. That means he is not only ethical, but is informed by his inner sense of what is moral. At the same time, he is not judgmental, although he will gladly share his opinions with you. All around, a great guy to have on your team and speed-dial.
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09 Jan, 2009 by Anonymous
An excellent attorney. Extremely intellegent and trustworthy. I would not hesitate to recommend him.
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28 Sep, 2012 by Anonymous
Complex multi-state real estate transaction involving numerous parties. Transaction closed without incident and before the proposed deadline. Received professional closing binder with all of the executed documents in both hard and electronic format. Extremely pleased and would highly recommend this attorney and firm for future work.
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11 Jan, 2016 by Ryan
Robert recently assisted my firm with a commercial real estate purchase. This deal involved some extensive contract work and Robert was there every step of the way to navigate the contracts and advise me of the best course of action for me and my business. I could not have done this without him. I highly recommend Robert.
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05 May, 2016 by Jennifer
Patricia was timely, detailed and professional handling the review of our financial agreement contract. The only thing we had to do was show up and sign the contract that she negotiated and deemed acceptable and safe for us to sign. I felt taken care of and that she had my best interest in mind, so when it came time to sign I felt comfortable doing so. Thank you Patricia!
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09 May, 2017 by Anonymous
I worked with Lynn on a speaking engagement. Lynn is a great speaker and teacher. She really knows Real Estate!
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29 Apr, 2014 by Anonymous
Jonathan helped me with a real estate matter and was very knowledgeable and professional. I do not think I would have been able to resolve the situation without him and I'm very grateful for his help in the matter.
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19 Aug, 2014 by Joanne
I am from Taiwan but have to fight a lawsuit in LA. Judy was recommended to me by my uncle because she just helped him to win another case and get back all his money. We never met, only communicate by email or by phone, but you can always feel her passion and profession.
Judy is aggressive which is what I need, because the Taiwanese origined US bastard is very shameless. She is also very smart, knows well how to deal with different kinds of people. She won't use just the old and normal methods to get what we want. She is clear, even I know nothing about ligitation, she explains to me. Every job or work, she just makes it very clear. She is very kind and patient to clients.
Well, finally she helped me to get the hard case settled, the best we can get. Thank you very much.
Joanne
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04 Sep, 2024 by Simon s
I have known Mrs. Kirk for 29 years having gone through law school with her. She is respected by the Court and has always worked tirelessly to aid her clients in the most appropriate case resolutions. On the cases I have been privy to, she has shown care for the well being of her client and their families and her dispositions, including alternative sentences, speak to her years of experience.
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29 Aug, 2024 by Anastasiia haggard
I am extremely pleased with Diana's help in running my business. She is very professional, attentive to detail, and provides excellent customer service. Diana went above and beyond to find the best solutions for my concerns. I will definitely work with her again and highly recommend her services.
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29 Aug, 2024 by Emerald magic events
I have been an exceptional experience with Diana Isyanova's legal service! Her professional approach and attentive care throughout your business dealings are truly commendable. Thank you for highly recommending her services.!
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23 Sep, 2024 by Nathaniel asm
Cheryl was incredibly professional, compassionate, and dedicated throughout my entire divorce process. She provided clear guidance, kept me informed, and worked tirelessly to achieve the best outcome for me. Her expertise and support made a challenging situation much easier to navigate. Highly recommend her services!
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23 Sep, 2024 by Palmcloud
23 Sep, 2024 by Benny
I recently worked with Cheryl for my prenuptial agreement, and I couldn't be happier. She was knowledgeable, professional, and made the process smooth and stress-free. Cheryl took the time to address all my concerns and tailored the agreement to fit my needs. Her communication was prompt and clear, providing peace of mind as I enter this new chapter. I highly recommend Cheryl for anyone seeking a top-notch prenuptial lawyer!
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23 Sep, 2024 by Nathaniel asm
Cheryl was incredibly professional, compassionate, and dedicated throughout my entire divorce process. She provided clear guidance, kept me informed, and worked tirelessly to achieve the best outcome for me. Her expertise and support made a challenging situation much easier to navigate. Highly recommend her services!
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23 Sep, 2024 by Palmcloud
23 Sep, 2024 by Benny
I recently worked with Cheryl for my prenuptial agreement, and I couldn't be happier. She was knowledgeable, professional, and made the process smooth and stress-free. Cheryl took the time to address all my concerns and tailored the agreement to fit my needs. Her communication was prompt and clear, providing peace of mind as I enter this new chapter. I highly recommend Cheryl for anyone seeking a top-notch prenuptial lawyer!
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04 Sep, 2024 by Simon s
I have known Mrs. Kirk for 29 years having gone through law school with her. She is respected by the Court and has always worked tirelessly to aid her clients in the most appropriate case resolutions. On the cases I have been privy to, she has shown care for the well being of her client and their families and her dispositions, including alternative sentences, speak to her years of experience.
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29 Aug, 2024 by Anastasiia haggard
I am extremely pleased with Diana's help in running my business. She is very professional, attentive to detail, and provides excellent customer service. Diana went above and beyond to find the best solutions for my concerns. I will definitely work with her again and highly recommend her services.
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29 Aug, 2024 by Emerald magic events
I have been an exceptional experience with Diana Isyanova's legal service! Her professional approach and attentive care throughout your business dealings are truly commendable. Thank you for highly recommending her services.!
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04 Sep, 2024 by Simon s
I have known Mrs. Kirk for 29 years having gone through law school with her. She is respected by the Court and has always worked tirelessly to aid her clients in the most appropriate case resolutions. On the cases I have been privy to, she has shown care for the well being of her client and their families and her dispositions, including alternative sentences, speak to her years of experience.
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29 Aug, 2024 by Anastasiia haggard
I am extremely pleased with Diana's help in running my business. She is very professional, attentive to detail, and provides excellent customer service. Diana went above and beyond to find the best solutions for my concerns. I will definitely work with her again and highly recommend her services.
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29 Aug, 2024 by Emerald magic events
I have been an exceptional experience with Diana Isyanova's legal service! Her professional approach and attentive care throughout your business dealings are truly commendable. Thank you for highly recommending her services.!
Read more
04 Sep, 2024 by Simon s
I have known Mrs. Kirk for 29 years having gone through law school with her. She is respected by the Court and has always worked tirelessly to aid her clients in the most appropriate case resolutions. On the cases I have been privy to, she has shown care for the well being of her client and their families and her dispositions, including alternative sentences, speak to her years of experience.
Read more
29 Aug, 2024 by Anastasiia haggard
I am extremely pleased with Diana's help in running my business. She is very professional, attentive to detail, and provides excellent customer service. Diana went above and beyond to find the best solutions for my concerns. I will definitely work with her again and highly recommend her services.
Read more
29 Aug, 2024 by Emerald magic events
I have been an exceptional experience with Diana Isyanova's legal service! Her professional approach and attentive care throughout your business dealings are truly commendable. Thank you for highly recommending her services.!
Read more
23 Sep, 2024 by Nathaniel asm
Cheryl was incredibly professional, compassionate, and dedicated throughout my entire divorce process. She provided clear guidance, kept me informed, and worked tirelessly to achieve the best outcome for me. Her expertise and support made a challenging situation much easier to navigate. Highly recommend her services!
Read more
23 Sep, 2024 by Palmcloud
23 Sep, 2024 by Benny
I recently worked with Cheryl for my prenuptial agreement, and I couldn't be happier. She was knowledgeable, professional, and made the process smooth and stress-free. Cheryl took the time to address all my concerns and tailored the agreement to fit my needs. Her communication was prompt and clear, providing peace of mind as I enter this new chapter. I highly recommend Cheryl for anyone seeking a top-notch prenuptial lawyer!
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10 Sep, 2024 by Diane weise
I recently had the opportunity to participate in my very first mock jury trial at the MLG Attorney's office in Costa Mesa. It was an incredible experience and truly an eye opener to our legal system. It's amazing how quickly I could shift my perspective upon deliberating with other jurors. The insights I gained are priceless and I am grateful to have been selected. Thank you for your professionalism and opportunity to collaborate with your staff. Should I ever need representation I will surely reach out to your team!
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21 Aug, 2024 by Jocelyn leal
I had a wonderful experience to be part of a mock trial at this office. Everyone was very professional and friendly. Highly recommend this law firm.
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21 Aug, 2024 by Christopher shields
Very professional employees
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17 Sep, 2024 by Peter
I have come across alot of attorneys ; Mr. Edwin Schawartz, is one that would highly recommended for my family and friends for his work ethic, knowlegable; He is very honest when given legal advises; In life, we have to make our own decisions but
but to make a good one we need to have an attorney to provides knowlege and facts so that the decisions will be the good one; I highly recommend him and without reservation.
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20 May, 2024 by J robledo
I couldn't of asked for a better law firm than in Easton & Easton. Brenda and the whole team made my experience with them as painless and as you'd want, especially after a car injury. Thank you for the win and the peace of mind
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09 May, 2024 by Nikki morales
Worst lawyers ever. They let a whole year go by and never sent my husband to the doctors or anything. They had my email , his email, my number , his number , including our home address and we’d call for updates and they’d always say everything is going great if they needed anything they’d call us. After a year they dropped our case for “no communication”. And then told us they had the wrong number on file. Now we’re struggling to fight a car accident case because of how long it has been.
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20 May, 2024 by J robledo
I couldn't of asked for a better law firm than in Easton & Easton. Brenda and the whole team made my experience with them as painless and as you'd want, especially after a car injury. Thank you for the win and the peace of mind
Read more
09 May, 2024 by Nikki morales
Worst lawyers ever. They let a whole year go by and never sent my husband to the doctors or anything. They had my email , his email, my number , his number , including our home address and we’d call for updates and they’d always say everything is going great if they needed anything they’d call us. After a year they dropped our case for “no communication”. And then told us they had the wrong number on file. Now we’re struggling to fight a car accident case because of how long it has been.
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12 Apr, 2023 by Tony a
Attempted to open a case with them. No call back for 3 weeks. Called them back 4 times. Unresponsive. This is NOT the type of attorney you want working for YOU!
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20 May, 2024 by J robledo
I couldn't of asked for a better law firm than in Easton & Easton. Brenda and the whole team made my experience with them as painless and as you'd want, especially after a car injury. Thank you for the win and the peace of mind
Read more
09 May, 2024 by Nikki morales
Worst lawyers ever. They let a whole year go by and never sent my husband to the doctors or anything. They had my email , his email, my number , his number , including our home address and we’d call for updates and they’d always say everything is going great if they needed anything they’d call us. After a year they dropped our case for “no communication”. And then told us they had the wrong number on file. Now we’re struggling to fight a car accident case because of how long it has been.
Read more
12 Apr, 2023 by Tony a
Attempted to open a case with them. No call back for 3 weeks. Called them back 4 times. Unresponsive. This is NOT the type of attorney you want working for YOU!
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10 Sep, 2024 by Diane weise
I recently had the opportunity to participate in my very first mock jury trial at the MLG Attorney's office in Costa Mesa. It was an incredible experience and truly an eye opener to our legal system. It's amazing how quickly I could shift my perspective upon deliberating with other jurors. The insights I gained are priceless and I am grateful to have been selected. Thank you for your professionalism and opportunity to collaborate with your staff. Should I ever need representation I will surely reach out to your team!
Read more
21 Aug, 2024 by Jocelyn leal
I had a wonderful experience to be part of a mock trial at this office. Everyone was very professional and friendly. Highly recommend this law firm.
Read more
21 Aug, 2024 by Christopher shields
Very professional employees
Read more
10 Sep, 2024 by Diane weise
I recently had the opportunity to participate in my very first mock jury trial at the MLG Attorney's office in Costa Mesa. It was an incredible experience and truly an eye opener to our legal system. It's amazing how quickly I could shift my perspective upon deliberating with other jurors. The insights I gained are priceless and I am grateful to have been selected. Thank you for your professionalism and opportunity to collaborate with your staff. Should I ever need representation I will surely reach out to your team!
Read more
21 Aug, 2024 by Jocelyn leal
I had a wonderful experience to be part of a mock trial at this office. Everyone was very professional and friendly. Highly recommend this law firm.
Read more
21 Aug, 2024 by Christopher shields
Very professional employees
Read more
10 Sep, 2024 by Diane weise
I recently had the opportunity to participate in my very first mock jury trial at the MLG Attorney's office in Costa Mesa. It was an incredible experience and truly an eye opener to our legal system. It's amazing how quickly I could shift my perspective upon deliberating with other jurors. The insights I gained are priceless and I am grateful to have been selected. Thank you for your professionalism and opportunity to collaborate with your staff. Should I ever need representation I will surely reach out to your team!
Read more
21 Aug, 2024 by Jocelyn leal
I had a wonderful experience to be part of a mock trial at this office. Everyone was very professional and friendly. Highly recommend this law firm.
Read more
21 Aug, 2024 by Christopher shields
Very professional employees
Read more
10 Sep, 2024 by Diane weise
I recently had the opportunity to participate in my very first mock jury trial at the MLG Attorney's office in Costa Mesa. It was an incredible experience and truly an eye opener to our legal system. It's amazing how quickly I could shift my perspective upon deliberating with other jurors. The insights I gained are priceless and I am grateful to have been selected. Thank you for your professionalism and opportunity to collaborate with your staff. Should I ever need representation I will surely reach out to your team!
Read more
21 Aug, 2024 by Jocelyn leal
I had a wonderful experience to be part of a mock trial at this office. Everyone was very professional and friendly. Highly recommend this law firm.
Read more
21 Aug, 2024 by Christopher shields
Very professional employees
Read more
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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.
