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21 Nov, 2020 by Michael
It won’t take long for you to realize that you’re dealing with someone who rises above the rest. He was the only lawyer that showed interest to take my call after his paralegal put my call through with the same information I gave everyone else I called. He put his heart into his work every step of the way and he humbly showed he really cares. When he was out of the office with a family member in the hospital he didn’t hesitate to return my email. I could just feel he was motivated from the start to do what is right with respect to my legal issue. If law was an exact science we wouldn’t need a lawyer. His understanding of how the law nuances pertained to my case almost made me feel his thinking is one with the court and as a result landed me on the best shade of gray in this not so black and white world of law. Coincidentally, unbenounced the opposing lawyer had represented me in the past and I could see all along the respect they had for one another which is always useful when finding the best possible outcome which may involve some type of compromise. It was a whole experience not only on an interpersonal level but with everyone involved within his firm from the lawyer working under him right down to the paralegal and not to mention with the unobjective court as it pertained to my case. I can’t imagine having any better possible outcome if given the opportunity to choose any high profile lawyer.
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18 Sep, 2018 by Richard
I hired Miller for an appeal. His appeal lacked the grounds that was mentioned in the notice of appeal. It is my opinion that his quality of performance was extremely poor. Miller did not return my phone calls after he was paid. Office staff were rude. It is my recommendation that anyone seeking legal advice or counsel seek elsewhere.
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26 Feb, 2018 by Jacob
I’ve dealt with a few attorneys int he Dayton area, and Mr. Miller was easily the best one. Michael was in constant contact with me throughout the entire process of reinstating my license. He walked me through each step and updated me as he gathered information. Even if I had not had a favorable outcome (I did!), this was the best attorney experience I have ever had. Thanks again!
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11 Dec, 2018 by Anonymous
Mr. McQuiston is a wonderful attorney. His knowledge and experience in various areas of law have been very helpful to me. Over the years Mr. McQuiston has helped me with a bankruptcy, wills, as well as a traffic matter. He was always kind and respectful to my situation.
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11 Dec, 2018 by Nina
I can't say enough good things about Jeff!! I had a horrible experience with my landlord - my apartment flooded and they refused to return my security deposit. Jeff was able to help me get out of my apartment the right way, and fought for me to get much more than my original deposit due to the delay and other issues. His paralegal is amazing too! They both are so nice and kept in contact with me every step of that way! Highly Recommend!
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11 Dec, 2018 by Ashley
My lawyer and his paralegal Laura were simply amazing. I was in a time crunch with garnishments coming out of both me and my husbands paychecks and they worked so hard and rushed getting our paperwork done to stop out garnishments in the same week! They communicated every need they had and everything with detail on what we still needed to provide to them in a very timely manor and even offered to meet with us on the weekend to make sure all paperwork could be filed asap. I can’t say enough great things about my experience with this office, I appreciate their amazing assistance.
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08 Aug, 2024 by Frtyefujpevon walker
Great representation. Very upfront and honest. Goes the extra mile for her clients. She handles business and means business. Would highly recommend. 10/10
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29 Apr, 2024 by Jayden
Absolutely amazing!
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23 Apr, 2024 by Jason green
04 Sep, 2024 by James ogles
I spoke with Marty over a year ago Marty took the time to explain what my options were and he gave me good advice.
I also referred Marty to my girlfriend and he was also very helpful I recommend this firm to anyone that is looking for honest hard-working attorneys
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17 May, 2024 by Paula tracy
24 Mar, 2024 by Derek edington
Great place, nice staff, and experienced attorneys. Thanks
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04 Sep, 2024 by James ogles
I spoke with Marty over a year ago Marty took the time to explain what my options were and he gave me good advice.
I also referred Marty to my girlfriend and he was also very helpful I recommend this firm to anyone that is looking for honest hard-working attorneys
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17 May, 2024 by Paula tracy
24 Mar, 2024 by Derek edington
Great place, nice staff, and experienced attorneys. Thanks
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11 Jul, 2024 by Sarah bryant
If I could give her 0 stars I would. She shouldn’t be practicing. She goes where the money is and who paid her. She was terrible. She meet with me for maybe 20-30 minutes and only cared if I owned my home, how much it cost, how much money I made, and my job title. She had no interest in me as a mother. Now my child is living with a herion addict uncle and a pill popping and pot smoking grandmother. All because they have hand me down money. I am suing and filing many complaints. The injustice needs to stop and they need to start doing what’s in the child best interest.
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13 Aug, 2023 by James hayden
Great service
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07 Jul, 2023 by Tiffany williamson
Jennifer was a bulldog in my custody case! I will forever recommend her.
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16 Sep, 2024 by Linda lewis
Attorney Dennis Lieberman office was very helpful and professional on all levels. I highly recommend if needed.
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28 Aug, 2024 by Mustafa ahmed
Will he never call you back
I called 3 times
Every time I call
The office told me leave voice message
And he will call you back. it’s been 2month and a half
I just lost money and time here
0star and last time here
Thanks for doing ((((nothing))).
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12 Aug, 2024 by Angie lizeth sanchez
Terrible servicio, se firmó un contrato y se pagó y el abogado Mohamed Al-Hamdani no le hace seguimiento a sus clientes, nunca está en oficina y no tiene tampoco secretario que esté atendiendo sus casos, pésimo servicio y perdí tiempo y dinero con ellos.
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16 Sep, 2024 by Linda lewis
Attorney Dennis Lieberman office was very helpful and professional on all levels. I highly recommend if needed.
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28 Aug, 2024 by Mustafa ahmed
Will he never call you back
I called 3 times
Every time I call
The office told me leave voice message
And he will call you back. it’s been 2month and a half
I just lost money and time here
0star and last time here
Thanks for doing ((((nothing))).
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12 Aug, 2024 by Angie lizeth sanchez
Terrible servicio, se firmó un contrato y se pagó y el abogado Mohamed Al-Hamdani no le hace seguimiento a sus clientes, nunca está en oficina y no tiene tampoco secretario que esté atendiendo sus casos, pésimo servicio y perdí tiempo y dinero con ellos.
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16 Sep, 2024 by Linda lewis
Attorney Dennis Lieberman office was very helpful and professional on all levels. I highly recommend if needed.
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28 Aug, 2024 by Mustafa ahmed
Will he never call you back
I called 3 times
Every time I call
The office told me leave voice message
And he will call you back. it’s been 2month and a half
I just lost money and time here
0star and last time here
Thanks for doing ((((nothing))).
Read more
12 Aug, 2024 by Angie lizeth sanchez
Terrible servicio, se firmó un contrato y se pagó y el abogado Mohamed Al-Hamdani no le hace seguimiento a sus clientes, nunca está en oficina y no tiene tampoco secretario que esté atendiendo sus casos, pésimo servicio y perdí tiempo y dinero con ellos.
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16 Sep, 2024 by Linda lewis
Attorney Dennis Lieberman office was very helpful and professional on all levels. I highly recommend if needed.
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28 Aug, 2024 by Mustafa ahmed
Will he never call you back
I called 3 times
Every time I call
The office told me leave voice message
And he will call you back. it’s been 2month and a half
I just lost money and time here
0star and last time here
Thanks for doing ((((nothing))).
Read more
12 Aug, 2024 by Angie lizeth sanchez
Terrible servicio, se firmó un contrato y se pagó y el abogado Mohamed Al-Hamdani no le hace seguimiento a sus clientes, nunca está en oficina y no tiene tampoco secretario que esté atendiendo sus casos, pésimo servicio y perdí tiempo y dinero con ellos.
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16 Sep, 2024 by Linda lewis
Attorney Dennis Lieberman office was very helpful and professional on all levels. I highly recommend if needed.
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28 Aug, 2024 by Mustafa ahmed
Will he never call you back
I called 3 times
Every time I call
The office told me leave voice message
And he will call you back. it’s been 2month and a half
I just lost money and time here
0star and last time here
Thanks for doing ((((nothing))).
Read more
12 Aug, 2024 by Angie lizeth sanchez
Terrible servicio, se firmó un contrato y se pagó y el abogado Mohamed Al-Hamdani no le hace seguimiento a sus clientes, nunca está en oficina y no tiene tampoco secretario que esté atendiendo sus casos, pésimo servicio y perdí tiempo y dinero con ellos.
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16 Sep, 2024 by Linda lewis
Attorney Dennis Lieberman office was very helpful and professional on all levels. I highly recommend if needed.
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28 Aug, 2024 by Mustafa ahmed
Will he never call you back
I called 3 times
Every time I call
The office told me leave voice message
And he will call you back. it’s been 2month and a half
I just lost money and time here
0star and last time here
Thanks for doing ((((nothing))).
Read more
12 Aug, 2024 by Angie lizeth sanchez
Terrible servicio, se firmó un contrato y se pagó y el abogado Mohamed Al-Hamdani no le hace seguimiento a sus clientes, nunca está en oficina y no tiene tampoco secretario que esté atendiendo sus casos, pésimo servicio y perdí tiempo y dinero con ellos.
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11 Sep, 2024 by Latisha bazin
I paid them over 3 years ago. They have yet to do anything. I asked for a refund now their phone is disconnected. They have several law suits out due to this. I wish I had read the reviews before giving them my money. SCAM !
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01 Sep, 2024 by Christin worthington
Best lawyer around.. caring understanding and knowledgeability. Get experience with Chris as our attorney
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29 Aug, 2024 by Douglas miley
I used to work for DGM&S before moving out of state in 2008 to join a family practice in West Virginia. During my time there I saw daily how hard the team works for its clients, always trying to help them through a bad time which was not wanted and certainly not expected. Since moving I have continued to keep in touch with many there and continue to consider them my friends. I have co-counseled cases with them and referred clients to them for help over the last 16 years. I will continue to do so because I believe they care, they work hard, they are fantastic lawyers, and the get amazing results on behalf of their clients.
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24 Aug, 2024 by Carolyn baker
Very poor work, very disappointing.
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10 Aug, 2024 by B koog
Patrick was outstanding he made sense and gave me peace of mind completely worth the cost
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17 Jul, 2024 by Randy york
Worst lawyer my nephew has had. Nephew had a gun charge that should of been thrown out cause gun was legal, nephew went to prison anyway. Pat Mulligan Never even went to talk to him , got my nephew a sentence a public defender could have gotten. Please Don't waste your money on Pat Mulligan, worst lawyer in Dayton.. for fed case
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27 Apr, 2023 by Karen canales salas
So thankful for Meredith Turner-Woolley! 💐 she was so kind, attentive, responsive, and most importantly, honest throughout my case. Meredith and the team and Freund Freeze & Arnold have been great to work with.
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23 Dec, 2019 by Brian brock
Over priced! Great staff though
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12 Jan, 2018 by Candace avonne
My boss is awesome Attorney Witherspoon...but he retiring and I'll be leaving when he goes. The secretaries were very warm and welcome when I first arrived.
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27 Apr, 2023 by Karen canales salas
So thankful for Meredith Turner-Woolley! 💐 she was so kind, attentive, responsive, and most importantly, honest throughout my case. Meredith and the team and Freund Freeze & Arnold have been great to work with.
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23 Dec, 2019 by Brian brock
Over priced! Great staff though
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12 Jan, 2018 by Candace avonne
My boss is awesome Attorney Witherspoon...but he retiring and I'll be leaving when he goes. The secretaries were very warm and welcome when I first arrived.
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27 Apr, 2023 by Karen canales salas
So thankful for Meredith Turner-Woolley! 💐 she was so kind, attentive, responsive, and most importantly, honest throughout my case. Meredith and the team and Freund Freeze & Arnold have been great to work with.
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23 Dec, 2019 by Brian brock
Over priced! Great staff though
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12 Jan, 2018 by Candace avonne
My boss is awesome Attorney Witherspoon...but he retiring and I'll be leaving when he goes. The secretaries were very warm and welcome when I first arrived.
Read more
27 Apr, 2023 by Karen canales salas
So thankful for Meredith Turner-Woolley! 💐 she was so kind, attentive, responsive, and most importantly, honest throughout my case. Meredith and the team and Freund Freeze & Arnold have been great to work with.
Read more
23 Dec, 2019 by Brian brock
Over priced! Great staff though
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12 Jan, 2018 by Candace avonne
My boss is awesome Attorney Witherspoon...but he retiring and I'll be leaving when he goes. The secretaries were very warm and welcome when I first arrived.
Read more
27 Apr, 2023 by Karen canales salas
So thankful for Meredith Turner-Woolley! 💐 she was so kind, attentive, responsive, and most importantly, honest throughout my case. Meredith and the team and Freund Freeze & Arnold have been great to work with.
Read more
23 Dec, 2019 by Brian brock
Over priced! Great staff though
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12 Jan, 2018 by Candace avonne
My boss is awesome Attorney Witherspoon...but he retiring and I'll be leaving when he goes. The secretaries were very warm and welcome when I first arrived.
Read more
27 Apr, 2023 by Karen canales salas
So thankful for Meredith Turner-Woolley! 💐 she was so kind, attentive, responsive, and most importantly, honest throughout my case. Meredith and the team and Freund Freeze & Arnold have been great to work with.
Read more
23 Dec, 2019 by Brian brock
Over priced! Great staff though
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12 Jan, 2018 by Candace avonne
My boss is awesome Attorney Witherspoon...but he retiring and I'll be leaving when he goes. The secretaries were very warm and welcome when I first arrived.
Read more
27 Apr, 2023 by Karen canales salas
So thankful for Meredith Turner-Woolley! 💐 she was so kind, attentive, responsive, and most importantly, honest throughout my case. Meredith and the team and Freund Freeze & Arnold have been great to work with.
Read more
23 Dec, 2019 by Brian brock
Over priced! Great staff though
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12 Jan, 2018 by Candace avonne
My boss is awesome Attorney Witherspoon...but he retiring and I'll be leaving when he goes. The secretaries were very warm and welcome when I first arrived.
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17 Jul, 2024 by Amanda hacker
08 Jul, 2024 by Chelsea mercedes
Brian was a horrible lawyer. I wouldn't recommend this company.
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08 Jul, 2024 by Shannon hunter
I highly recommend the offices of Sebaly Shillito & Dyer, particularly Mr. Brian Muenchenbach for any of your legal needs. I hired Brian to represent me and my children in a particularly difficult divorce and an erroneous criminal matter. If it wasn’t for his diligence, consideration, professionalism I’m very certain the outcome would have been very different for me and my family. I would hire Brian again in a heartbeat and with no hesitation. He is an excellent communicator and was always available when we needed him. As far as I’m concerned, he is an absolute best value attorney. If his performance is any indication of the level of excellence of the firm, then I truly believe you’re in the best hands with Sebaly Shillito & Dyer.
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17 Jul, 2024 by Amanda hacker
08 Jul, 2024 by Joe bolton
08 Jul, 2024 by Shannon hunter
I highly recommend the offices of Sebaly Shillito & Dyer, particularly Mr. Brian Muenchenbach for any of your legal needs. I hired Brian to represent me and my children in a particularly difficult divorce and an erroneous criminal matter. If it wasn’t for his diligence, consideration, professionalism I’m very certain the outcome would have been very different for me and my family. I would hire Brian again in a heartbeat and with no hesitation. He is an excellent communicator and was always available when we needed him. As far as I’m concerned, he is an absolute best value attorney. If his performance is any indication of the level of excellence of the firm, then I truly believe you’re in the best hands with Sebaly Shillito & Dyer.
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17 Jul, 2024 by Amanda hacker
08 Jul, 2024 by Ricky hunt
My experience with this law firm as been absolutely amazing! Brian Muenchenbach, specifically, has helped me more than I was able to imagine initially! I cannot forget his awesome staff who has taken my calls and answered any and all questions I've had! This has been my second 5-star experience with this team, specifically Brian, and the first time I kept my license and this time I kept visitation with my daughter and better than ever! I'd recommend this team for any and everything! Thanks Guys!
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08 Jul, 2024 by Dealer - ella's bubbles
A true pleasure working with the company. Professional, prompt, and critical to the details. Thank you for the ease of experience. Don't hesitate reaching out to this company!
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17 Jul, 2024 by Amanda hacker
29 Mar, 2024 by Joe bolton
25 Oct, 2023 by Frank weikel
They have always done good work for me. Mark Feuer, Glen McMurry, and Matt Hauer are three of my go to lawyers.
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11 Sep, 2024 by Matthew sato
NW Fidelity provided us with a great and professional service. We would use them again . I highly recommend!
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15 Aug, 2024 by Andrew ellis
We worked with James and had a great experience. Very knowledgeable and he made the process a breeze.
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15 Aug, 2024 by Emily wilson
As a Realtor, I’ve worked with numerous title companies over the years, but I have to say, NW Fidelity Title stands out as exceptional. Their commitment to integrity and professionalism is unparalleled, and it’s clear they prioritize their clients’ needs above all else. From the moment I started working with them, their prompt communication has been impressive. Whether it’s a quick question or a complex issue, their team responds swiftly and thoroughly, ensuring that all parties are always on the same page. Their willingness to accommodate clients' schedules, including after-hours and last-minute adjustments, demonstrates their dedication to making the transaction process as smooth as possible.One of the most reassuring aspects of working with NW Fidelity is the confidence I have in their work. I know that my clients are in good hands, and their attention to detail and proactive approach consistently reflect this. Their professionalism extends beyond the basics—they truly go the extra mile to ensure everything is handled seamlessly. I trust them so much that I even use their services for my own personal real estate needs. It’s rare to find a company that combines integrity, efficiency, and genuine client care so effectively. I wholeheartedly recommend NW Fidelity Title to any Realtor or client in need of top-notch title services.
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11 Sep, 2024 by Matthew sato
NW Fidelity provided us with a great and professional service. We would use them again . I highly recommend!
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15 Aug, 2024 by Andrew ellis
We worked with James and had a great experience. Very knowledgeable and he made the process a breeze.
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15 Aug, 2024 by Emily wilson
As a Realtor, I’ve worked with numerous title companies over the years, but I have to say, NW Fidelity Title stands out as exceptional. Their commitment to integrity and professionalism is unparalleled, and it’s clear they prioritize their clients’ needs above all else. From the moment I started working with them, their prompt communication has been impressive. Whether it’s a quick question or a complex issue, their team responds swiftly and thoroughly, ensuring that all parties are always on the same page. Their willingness to accommodate clients' schedules, including after-hours and last-minute adjustments, demonstrates their dedication to making the transaction process as smooth as possible.One of the most reassuring aspects of working with NW Fidelity is the confidence I have in their work. I know that my clients are in good hands, and their attention to detail and proactive approach consistently reflect this. Their professionalism extends beyond the basics—they truly go the extra mile to ensure everything is handled seamlessly. I trust them so much that I even use their services for my own personal real estate needs. It’s rare to find a company that combines integrity, efficiency, and genuine client care so effectively. I wholeheartedly recommend NW Fidelity Title to any Realtor or client in need of top-notch title services.
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02 Oct, 2023 by Frank jones
Thomas Kendo did nothing for me. He was to represent us concerning my mothers will. We paid him $6,000 and now he will not communicate with me. Went to him for help and got nothing in return.
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26 Aug, 2013 by Sam
I have used the services of Tom Kendo on more than one occasion, and was thoroughly pleased with his performances. He has represented my interests both personal and business-related. I value his advice and affirm his integrity.
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11 Jul, 2010 by Ginger
Tom represented me for my divorce three years ago. If you have to go through such stress, you can't find a better attorney! Personalization and direction are things he's very strong in!
Sincerely,
Ginger Schafer
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08 Sep, 2024 by Ahmad mo
STAY AWAY FROM THOMAS KANDO and SARAH. They will rob you out of your hard earned money and very unprofessional!!
I had an extremely disappointing experience with this law firm, particularly with Thomas Kando. My family engaged their services in November 2023, seeking assistance with a property damage case. During our initial meeting, Mr. Kando assured us that the case was strong and encouraged us to proceed, which we did, trusting his professional judgment.
However, after receiving a $1,000 payment, communication from both Mr. Kando and his assistant Sarah ceased. Despite repeated attempts to contact them via phone and email, we received no responses. On multiple occasions, we visited the office in person, only to be told that we would receive a call back, which never happened. Out of approximately 15 visits, we encountered Sarah twice, and she provided vague, yet falsely reassuring updates about the case’s progress.
It became apparent that they may not have taken any real action on our behalf. We were told that Mr. Kando had allegedly attempted to negotiate with the construction company, but no documentation or evidence of these communications was ever presented to us. By August 2024, nearly nine months later, we confronted Mr. Kando in person after he had avoided us for so long. During this meeting, he informed us that the case was not successful, contradicting his initial optimism and showing little concern for the outcome or for the fact that we had trusted him with our money and our case.
Overall, our experience with this law firm was highly unprofessional, and we felt misled and ignored after they were paid. I would strongly advise caution when considering their services.
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18 Aug, 2023 by Gene bolton
06 Dec, 2021 by Deborah stevenson
Took over 7 years to settle my lawsuit and he took too large a portion of the settlement amount. Out of $140000 he took $90000. After the settlement he showed up with a new Jaguar after he had told me that he needed money for his sons college expenses. I do not reccomend this attorney.
.Never produced expenses or contingent agreement.
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08 Sep, 2024 by Ahmad mo
STAY AWAY FROM THOMAS KANDO and SARAH. They will rob you out of your hard earned money and very unprofessional!!
I had an extremely disappointing experience with this law firm, particularly with Thomas Kando. My family engaged their services in November 2023, seeking assistance with a property damage case. During our initial meeting, Mr. Kando assured us that the case was strong and encouraged us to proceed, which we did, trusting his professional judgment.
However, after receiving a $1,000 payment, communication from both Mr. Kando and his assistant Sarah ceased. Despite repeated attempts to contact them via phone and email, we received no responses. On multiple occasions, we visited the office in person, only to be told that we would receive a call back, which never happened. Out of approximately 15 visits, we encountered Sarah twice, and she provided vague, yet falsely reassuring updates about the case’s progress.
It became apparent that they may not have taken any real action on our behalf. We were told that Mr. Kando had allegedly attempted to negotiate with the construction company, but no documentation or evidence of these communications was ever presented to us. By August 2024, nearly nine months later, we confronted Mr. Kando in person after he had avoided us for so long. During this meeting, he informed us that the case was not successful, contradicting his initial optimism and showing little concern for the outcome or for the fact that we had trusted him with our money and our case.
Overall, our experience with this law firm was highly unprofessional, and we felt misled and ignored after they were paid. I would strongly advise caution when considering their services.
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18 Aug, 2023 by Gene bolton
06 Dec, 2021 by Deborah stevenson
Took over 7 years to settle my lawsuit and he took too large a portion of the settlement amount. Out of $140000 he took $90000. After the settlement he showed up with a new Jaguar after he had told me that he needed money for his sons college expenses. I do not reccomend this attorney.
.Never produced expenses or contingent agreement.
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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.
