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30 May, 2021 by John
We have been blessed to know attorney Scott Rogers of Peters Law Firm in Council Bluffs, Iowa, for more than 6 years. His guidance and compassion have been immeasurably valuable to us. Our parents were reasonably independent and living in their own house, thanks to frequent visits, meal preparations, housework, errands, and facilitating trips to doctors by their daughter Jeannine who lived an hour away. Mom had Alzheimer’s disease, so Dad did his best to handle her medications. Our Dad was secretive about their financial affairs, so we had very limited knowledge about their powers of attorney, wills, investments, and preferences for potential future living arrangements. Then at the end of 2014, Dad suffered his second broken hip from which he was never to fully recover. What had been some cognitive and memory problems collapsed into obvious dementia. Due to the severity of his physical and mental condition, and our Mom’s worsening Alzheimer’s disease, the doctors at the hospital would not release Dad until we had found a skilled nursing facility for both our parents. It was then that we contacted our parents’ attorney, Scott Rogers. Scott immediately stepped up to bat for us as we were thrust into the labyrinth of decisions and actions we needed to take on behalf of our parents. He continually guided us through the process of making the best possible decisions for our parents, and through the actions needed to initiate those decisions. He helped us locate and act on their durable powers of attorney, medical powers of attorney, wills, and trust documents. He was always there for us as we decided on our parents’ future living arrangements, found the best skilled nursing care for them, pulled assets from their accounts to pay their bills, arranged for the sale of their house and cars, and prevented them from driving. As our Dad and then our Mom eventually passed away, Scott provided critical advice and guidance in handling their affairs. We also greatly appreciate Scott’s personal support, even to the extent of a funeral home visitation upon our Dad’s death. Scott has been God sent. Without him, we would not have known what questions to ask, let alone how to answer them. His professional guidance, his personal compassion, and his overall support were far more than we expected. In the strongest terms possible, we highly recommend attorney Scott Rogers. John Bauman and Jeannine Christensen
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10 Nov, 2018 by Larry
Scott was very helpful in planning things for our will and updating the the beneficaries on our insurance policies. everything was explained in plain language that was easy to understand.All questions were answered very well.
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28 Aug, 2018 by Gary
Scott was very helpful and knowledgeable when we set up our will. I would to back go him if I needed any other legal issues in the future. Very nice person.
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22 Jul, 2016 by Larry
Ryan represented our business in a case where we were named as Third Party Defendants. He was successful in proving we had done nothing wrong and all claims against our business were released. Ryan also went on to file a counter suit in which our business was able to recover our legal fees regarding the lawsuit. All maters were handled in a professional manner and in a timely manner.
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20 May, 2016 by Kathy
I was the victim of a garnishment that was not released properly. Ryan met with me the day I found out about the problem Ryan worked with the law firm that procured the garnishment and also helped resolve my financial expenses as part of the settlement. This was completed in a timely and professional manner,
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31 Mar, 2016 by William
Ryan j. Muldoon Attorney who didn't give in and who didn't give up he kept me informed on the statues and laws he would contact me when he heard from the individual we were suing not only would he ask me what I felt about the case but he was interested in my health how I was feeling and asked me about my job my issues that were going on such as if I had a problem at work or if I was having something going on at home asked me how the day was such as weather asked me how my family was doing when he had found out about my father he was concerned when I lost my job from papa johns. If I called he returned my calls with in that day kept me informed on what the lawsuit was doing on a weekly basis I am very satisfied the outcome of my lawsuit and he has been a confidant on many things that will remain between us I truly think he even learned a lil southern words lol
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21 Apr, 2017 by Anonymous
Mr. Wilson was attentive to our situation and offered a very practical to the point advice
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26 Aug, 2024 by Nancy hildreth
I recently had Brody Swanson represent me in a difficult modification case. Brody has a kind and compassionate personality and listened to my thoughts and concerns. He was very honest with his professional opinions on what was best for me and my situation. I would not hesitate to have him represent me again or recommend him to someone needing sound legal advice.
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22 Jul, 2024 by Kaylynn randolph
Brody was great!! Explained the process from the start and kept me in the loop throughout the case. He was very quick to respond to my emails and was very patient with my thousands of questions. Would definitely use this law firm again. Thanks again!!
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08 Jul, 2024 by Tiffany bilek
Wyatt is the Best!!! I appreciate this Man whole heartedly
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26 Aug, 2024 by Nancy hildreth
I recently had Brody Swanson represent me in a difficult modification case. Brody has a kind and compassionate personality and listened to my thoughts and concerns. He was very honest with his professional opinions on what was best for me and my situation. I would not hesitate to have him represent me again or recommend him to someone needing sound legal advice.
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22 Jul, 2024 by Kaylynn randolph
Brody was great!! Explained the process from the start and kept me in the loop throughout the case. He was very quick to respond to my emails and was very patient with my thousands of questions. Would definitely use this law firm again. Thanks again!!
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08 Jul, 2024 by Tiffany bilek
Wyatt is the Best!!! I appreciate this Man whole heartedly
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04 Sep, 2024 by Tiffany schluter
Kristina was an absolute delight to work with! Very knowledgeable in her field! I loved the fact she has plants in her office, made it feel more comfortable. She always was on top of what needed to be done next. Great experience!!
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23 Jul, 2024 by Nikita reynolds
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26 Jun, 2024 by Garrett armstrong
Amazing lawyer highly recommend
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04 Sep, 2024 by Tiffany schluter
Kristina was an absolute delight to work with! Very knowledgeable in her field! I loved the fact she has plants in her office, made it feel more comfortable. She always was on top of what needed to be done next. Great experience!!
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10 Jun, 2024 by John duffy
Kristina was very thorough not only in gathering the information needed from us for bankruptcy but she was responsive and explained everything simply for us. The process went smooth and I can say that it wouldn't have turned out so well if we didn't have an excellent lawyer. She is worth it!
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02 Jun, 2024 by Amanda kleckner
Kristina was absolutely amazing through the whole process. I was extremely nervous and she took charge and calmed my nerves she was there from the beginning to the end and answered all my questions in less than 24 hours when I had them. They still took money from my checks after filing and she was quick to aid in the process of getting that money returned and making sure I was taken care of. Highly recommend!
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26 Feb, 2024 by Steven clark
The Berry law firm did an amazing job handling my claim. My lawyer, Aimee Robeson was especially helpful!
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26 Feb, 2024 by David fairclough
I am happy with the service Berry Law has provided me now and throughout the VA process. I highly recommend them to anyone seeking VA benefits. I have a service-related illness and was not getting the proper guidance through other avenues I attempted. I began searching the internet for veteran’s attorney’s when I came across Berry Law. I was assigned Aimee Robeson as my attorney from the Omaha, NE office. Ms. Robeson was a breath of fresh air from the very beginning. She is well spoken, well researched, and an excellent listener. She assisted me throughout the process, ensured my questions were answered, and responded to all my emails in a timely manner. Ms. Robeson showed honesty, empathy, and professionalism as did her legal assistants Melissa Lovrien and Angela Kratzer. The Berry Law team and Aimee Robeson work tirelessly to assist veterans with the difficult task of navigating the complicated VA system. They ensure the veteran is properly represented. Although my case is still ongoing, significant progress has been made to ensure I am afforded proper medical care and benefits.
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24 Feb, 2024 by Jodie kinney
Nice people
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20 Jun, 2024 by Sheena stafford
Tim was very professional and knowledgeable! I appreciated how thoughtful he was answering my questions.
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30 May, 2024 by Alyx o'hare
The worst attorney hands down. The guy took myself to trial and literally did nothing for me. My case should have been dismissed. Just wanted money and sat back and got it.
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10 May, 2024 by Scott hardman
Don’t waste your time they are only out for a quick buck and don’t really care about getting your case through to the end in your favor. My disability got denied but the whole report was full of half truths and lies wasn’t anything accurate at all . So naturally I want an appeal. They said they don’t go that far in the process. Well what good are ya if you don’t go to the very end and exhaust all resources. Now I have a bogus case full of social security workers lieing and I have to go find someone to pick it up and re-explain the whole thing to them. Totally unprofessional. I think if your working a case for some one and they get shafted and it’s chalked full of lies then it your responsibility to make sure that stuff is asked about and solved
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17 Apr, 2024 by Cheryl beuterbaugh
I give him 0 stars as he did not fulfill his duties as my estate attorney he did not clarify what he needed I could not read his handwriting I would never use him again
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30 Nov, 2023 by Edward swanson
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14 Nov, 2023 by Deborah james
Always gets back to me.
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17 Apr, 2024 by Cheryl beuterbaugh
I give him 0 stars as he did not fulfill his duties as my estate attorney he did not clarify what he needed I could not read his handwriting I would never use him again
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30 Nov, 2023 by Edward swanson
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14 Nov, 2023 by Deborah james
Always gets back to me.
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11 Sep, 2012 by Anonymous
Lonny has been a great help for my late father and know my mother as well as myself. I have and will continue to recommend Lonny to my family and friends. I consider him a friend as well as a great tax & estate attorney for my family.
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10 Sep, 2012 by G. lavonne
Mr. Kolln has been my attorney for 3+ years handling various matters including my estate planning. Not only did I find him very knowledgeable and forthright, he took the time and had the patience to explain information in detail and laid it out so this 60+ single female could understand it. Mr Kolln has also done estate planning work for my 65+ brother who has had a stroke and is unable to speak clearly. I simply cannot explain how much the family appreciated his patience and help. I would HIGHLY recommend this attorney.
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05 Sep, 2012 by Anonymous
After hiring this guy, I had my behind handed to me. My will I had setup was absolutely not up to spec, and I was charged the full amount which I firmly disagreed with. After talking to Lonny, I was unable to resolve the dispute, and am now disgruntled and left to review him so others can see what a schister he is
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FAQs
Questions? We have answers

What a Real Estate Lawyer Can Do for You

A real estate lawyer provides legal assistance in transactions and disputes involving property, including residential and commercial real estate. Whether you're buying, selling, leasing, or developing property, a real estate attorney can help ensure that your transactions are legally sound and your rights are protected. They review contracts, perform due diligence, resolve disputes, and provide legal representation in negotiations and litigation involving property matters.

Real estate lawyers are crucial in safeguarding your investment by ensuring compliance with local, state, and federal real estate laws, as well as protecting you from potential legal pitfalls related to property ownership and transactions.

When Should I Hire a Real Estate Lawyer?

Hiring a real estate lawyer is beneficial in various scenarios, including:

  • Buying or selling property: When navigating complex real estate contracts, it’s advisable to have a lawyer review and ensure that the terms are favorable and legal.
  • Commercial property transactions: For leasing, purchasing, or selling commercial properties, a lawyer can help manage the intricate legal aspects of such transactions.
  • Zoning or land use issues: If you're planning to develop property or change its use, a real estate lawyer can guide you through zoning laws and land use regulations.
  • Resolving property disputes: For boundary disputes, title issues, or disagreements over property rights, a lawyer can help mediate or litigate the matter.
  • Foreclosures or evictions: If you're dealing with foreclosure or managing a tenant eviction, legal representation ensures that the process adheres to local laws and protects your interests.
  • Title and deed issues: Lawyers can help clear title disputes, ensure the legitimacy of property deeds, and handle transfers of ownership.

What Does a Real Estate Lawyer Do?

A real estate lawyer provides a range of services to help with property transactions and disputes, including:

  • Contract drafting and review: Ensuring that purchase agreements, leases, and other contracts are legally binding, fair, and protect your interests.
  • Title search and clearance: Conducting a thorough title search to ensure that the property has no legal claims or liens that could affect ownership.
  • Facilitate closing: Managing the closing process in real estate transactions, including reviewing final documents and ensuring that everything is in order before the transfer of ownership.
  • Resolve disputes: Handling legal disputes related to property ownership, boundaries, zoning, or tenants.
  • Assist in financing: Reviewing loan agreements and mortgage documents to ensure the terms are fair and legally sound.
  • Zoning and land use advice: Guiding clients through the complexities of zoning laws and building regulations for property development or renovation projects.

How Are Real Estate Lawyers Paid?

Real estate lawyers typically charge for their services in the following ways:

  • Flat fee: Many real estate transactions, such as reviewing a sales contract or assisting with a closing, are charged on a flat-fee basis.
  • Hourly rates: If a lawyer is handling complex disputes or litigation, they may charge by the hour. Hourly rates can vary significantly based on the lawyer’s experience and location.
  • Contingency fees: In rare cases, such as property disputes or claims for damages, a lawyer may work on a contingency fee basis, meaning they only get paid if you win or settle the case.
  • Retainer: For ongoing legal support, some clients may pay a retainer, which is an upfront fee used as a deposit for future legal services.

It's important to clarify the fee structure with your attorney before hiring them to avoid any surprises.

How Much Does a Real Estate Lawyer Cost?

The cost of a real estate lawyer varies based on the complexity of the matter, the location of the property, and the lawyer’s experience. Key factors that affect pricing include:

  • Type of transaction or issue: Simple tasks, like contract reviews, typically cost less than handling a complex property dispute or litigation.
  • Experience and location: More experienced lawyers or those in high-demand areas, like urban centers, often charge higher rates.
  • Billing structure: Lawyers may charge a flat fee for basic services like document review or hourly for more time-intensive work such as disputes or litigation.

Flat fees for straightforward services like closing assistance may range from $500 to $1,500.

Hourly rates can range from $150 to $400 or more, depending on the attorney’s experience and location.

Always discuss fees upfront to understand the overall cost of the legal service you're receiving.

Top Questions to Ask a Real Estate Lawyer

Before hiring a real estate lawyer, ask the following questions to ensure they are the right fit for your legal needs:

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

How to Check the Credibility of a Real Estate Lawyer

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

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

What Should I Prepare for My First Consultation?

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

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

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

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