Filter by

star star star star star
05 Apr, 2016 by Cat
After four and a half long years our daughters are where they belong with their mothers. Todd did an excellent job answering our insane questions, quelling our fears, and letting us know when things didn't look good. Court date after court date he doggedly wrote motions, filed petitions, requested files. Even more fact gathering and pursuing leads, very thorough work. My wife and I are very happy with Mr. Sivia's work. If services are needed again I will definitely call him first.
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
04 Sep, 2015 by Richard
I found Todd to be a man of great personal and professional integrity. He was able to organize and coordinate a great number of tasks and responsibilities and establish appropriate priorities in handling them. He was efficient, conscientious and refused to accept less than high quality work from himself. He was professional, took the appropriate time to address my needs and questions and was quick and efficient in resolving my needs. He is a pleasant, sincere and approachable person. I would and have referred him to both my colleagues, clients and family.
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
24 Feb, 2015 by Ronda
Mr Sivia helped my father in a time of grief after the passing of my mom. He was caring and gave us very good information on "what to do next"!
Read more Avvo
See more
star star star star star
22 Dec, 2008 by Anonymous
Mr. Hadican did a wonderful job in helping us settle a problem relating to mold found in our recently-purchased house. He was empathetic, knowledgable, and professional. He was also very proactive and responsive. We would recommend Mr. Hadican to anyone for a similar real estate legal need, as we couldn't have been more satisfied.
Read more Avvo
See more
star star star star star
20 Sep, 2021 by Jill williams
Great place.
Read more Google Maps
See more
star star star star star
28 Aug, 2015 by Sarah
I would gladly hire Bridget Buckley to represent me for any and all future law matters. She exceeded my expectations in representation and was very accessible and prompt.
Read more Avvo
See more
star star star star star
20 Sep, 2021 by Jill williams
Great place.
Read more Google Maps
See more
star star star star star
06 Aug, 2021 by William smiley
Ok
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
20 Sep, 2019 by Mybiz
Excellent attorney. Very good at explaining scenarios so that you can make the best decisions for your family. Will go to her whenever possible. Thanks, Ellen!!
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
14 Mar, 2019 by Ahren white
Great lawyer. Known since was a child and always delivers.
Read more Google Maps
See more
star star star star star
07 May, 2024 by Sean schaeffer
I literally can't say enough great things about this law firm. Jeremy and Lexi are head and shoulders above the rest. I had a ridiculously, insanely nonsensical case that in a million years had no business having to cross their paths and throughout our entire process they never made me feel like my case was any anything less then the most important case they had. Lexi, Jeremy's Legal Assisstant, is a complete god send. I can't express how many times I counted on Lexi to "talk me off the ledge" so-to-speak. She is as much of a Mental Health Counselor as she is a legal assistant. The cost for the service and piece of mind they both provided was ridiculously affordable. I know if I EVER have any other need for a criminal lawyer or if ever anyone I know should need a criminal lawyer, the SackettLaw Firm is the first and only law firm I would recommend. If you are seeking a criminal lawyer and you're reading these reviews to try to decide whom you should call, let me tell you to stop your search and call Sackett Law now. You WILL NOT be disappointed. Tell Lexi Sean Schaeffer said hello. Thank you, Jeremy and Lexi, for everything you did for me and all you had to put up with over me. You guys are the best and now officially the first lawyers on my yearly Christmas card list.
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
21 Mar, 2024 by Kelly alexander
I can not say enough good things about Jeremy and of course Lexy. The communication is incredible. We originally spoke about my case on a Friday evening when other offices would be closed for the weekend. He was there to answer any questions I had at any time including weekends. Lexy was just as awesome answering emails within minutes of me sending them. I had a lot of anxiety going in and they were both very reassuring. I know there were times when I wasn't the easiest to deal with and I appreciate all of their efforts. Besides the communication, the payment was considerably lower than I had expected or been quoted by other attorneys. I only wish I had known about Jeremy earlier because the whole expierence was so easy. I hope I don't need an attorney in the future but if I do, I know I've found a good one. Thank you both so much!!!
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
19 Jan, 2024 by Thomas sullivan
Jeremy was there for me for countless hour long phone calls, free of charge, to talk me through my case and help me understand what was to come. When I left my case, feeling more than satisfied with the outcome, Jeremy told me,” You’ve got a Lawer now, call me if you need anything”. And I have, many times for many things, again free of charge. When you need someone in your corner you can’t do better than Jeremy Sackett.
Read more Google Maps
See more
star star star star star
20 Sep, 2024 by Bill hale
I highly recommend. They are very meticulous and took me through setting up a will and trust. Very receptive to any questions or problems I may have had. Very professional and personable.
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
20 Sep, 2024 by Nick volz
Paul Marks and CheyAnn did a eviction case for me and i couldn't be more impressed with how they handled it. Im Very thankful for Sivia Law and would highly recommend them.
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
27 Aug, 2024 by Brian
Google Maps
See more
star star star star star
08 Jul, 2024 by Vanessa webb
Google Maps
star star star star star
05 Nov, 2023 by Mike wills
Google Maps
star star star star star
14 Feb, 2023 by Gary boyd
Super Resourceful Business Lawyers!!! Helps us on several different needs…
Read more Google Maps
See more
star star star star star
28 Sep, 2024 by Cindy todd
This review is only for Embrich. My sister and I had a “simple” estate case after we lost our father. Embrich had a great first appointment with us and then disappeared. The estate contained only a house and a car. We do not live in the state of Illinois and were both 3 hours away In opposite directions. This was a non contested estate with a lawyer prepared will. Embrich “lost our email” more than once, failed to file the will in the time stated within the first meeting after we drove 3 hours to place it under her door. Yes, we were told to slide our father’s last will and testament under her door. She rescheduled a court date and told us the judge rescheduled it. We found out from the clerk at the courthouse this was supported by the paperwork the clerk sent us. After the first time she ignored us for months, we thought everything was on track. Nope, she forgot us again when she left her firm to start this new one and failed to contact us. In fact, any contact we did have with her was only because we initiated it and we have pages of documentation. This “simple” estate case lasted well over a year. During a period of grief, she caused months of additional stress and lack of closure due to her client neglect.
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
13 Aug, 2024 by Sharon miller
Google Maps
star star star star star
02 Jul, 2024 by Kimber kim
Have worked with for many many years and has always been extremely professional. I have had many clients state she was excellent on their cases.
Read more Google Maps
See more
star star star star star
30 Apr, 2020 by Mary
Ms. Hawkins quit on my case the business day before my trial for no reason and cost me a half a million dollars. Then proceeded to bill me. How completely awful and unethical. What kind of person does something like this.
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
05 Dec, 2017 by Robert
She listens and doesn't beat around the bush. We have been using her for over 3 years now in coustdy battle.
Read more Avvo
See more
star star star star star
07 Dec, 2023 by Zach fenton
They are just out for money. They will not try to do anything to resolve your case. They go through the motions and do not have your back. Which in the end just cost you more money. Find a lawyer that will actually send the things to a person console and fight for you. 25k down the drain. Thanks, Cordell and Cordell
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
06 Apr, 2023 by Bill wilmering
Google Maps
star star star star star
22 Mar, 2022 by Stu dabbs
I received little or no value from my attorney. Just pushed paper through the system. Spent a ridiculous amount of money over 9 months and never even met her. Got billed for every single second of communication. Very disappointed over all.
Read more Google Maps
See more
Discover the ideal lawyer
You can search a lawyer by practice area, lawyer name, city, state, or ZIP code
FAQs
Questions? We have answers

What a Real Estate Lawyer Can Do for You

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

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

When Should I Hire a Real Estate Lawyer?

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

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

What Does a Real Estate Lawyer Do?

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

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

How Are Real Estate Lawyers Paid?

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

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

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

How Much Does a Real Estate Lawyer Cost?

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

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

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

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

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

Top Questions to Ask a Real Estate Lawyer

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

  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.

Scroll to top