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04 Aug, 2023 by John frary
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03 Feb, 2023 by Kimberly samanen
He genuinely cares about his clients. He tells it like it is and does not lead a client on with false hope , like some other attorneys I have talked to. Definitely one of the good ones!
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03 Aug, 2022 by Laura “lil' shortcake momma” petty
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16 Dec, 2010 by Frank
I have had the pleasure of knowing Jeff for over 12 years and the opportunity to see his legal skills in action first hand. Jeff has an intuitive sense of how to help business and individuals, which make him an excellent attorney. He is resourceful, reliable, and trustworthy. His vast repertoire of experience and knowledge are an asset to anyone fortunate enough to work with him. His legal acumen spans areas such as business law, estate planning, transactions, contracts, probate, environmental, real estate, and oil and gas. This depth and breadth of legal knowledge and sound judgment ensures that he always provides the best guidance and direction for his clients. He has the reputation of always getting the job done or the deal closed on time and within budget. If you need legal assistance, I would highly recommend sitting down and having a meaningful conversation with Jeff at your earliest opportunity.
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06 Dec, 2022 by Lori lamb
What can I say! If you need and elder law attorney, don't go to anyone but Anne!! She knows her stuff!
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19 Nov, 2020 by Mark sims
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26 Jul, 2024 by Kris largent
I highly recommend! I have had custody of my grandkids for almost 5 years in Florida and was facing a custody battle, Interstate can be very tricky and expensive. John took the case on for a very reasonable price and he fought like it was his own grandchildren. I have 0 complaints! If you’re looking for a great attorney that will fight for you he is your pick!!
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18 Jul, 2024 by Andrea smith
Attorney Whitman and his staff are amazing people, they have helped me with legal issues over the past 10 years and I couldn’t have done it without them 💖
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29 May, 2024 by Brad
Trash
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27 Feb, 2024 by Bee-safe security
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02 Jan, 2024 by Mrs c
Think LONG and hard about the Attorney you want handling your last Will and Testament! This Company WILL nickel and dime you for every jot and tittle. Another minus is that you will wait at least 6 months before you see the bill. And now all I'm needing is a copy and they are telling me that I need permission from The Attorney before that can happen. Of course, the cost to get my copy or even my original must be a secret, as the secretary wouldn't give out that info.... is there a sliding scale for such things? Humm. Jk! Nevermind that we swear we said we wanted ours filed at the courthouse. Upon calling the courthouse we were informed that they are Not there. Is our circumstance unusual? Sure. But after spending 3 years of time, anguish and 2 trips to see the judge because an attorney tells you he keeps it in his safe and then years later, he says he's never had it, you begin to distrust most of them. Go ahead, ignore the point that 3 people were in the office when That Will was constructed. We're the liars, not the Lawyer. So while I'm getting in my form of therapy in venting, let me ask you, do you really want to take the chance for your loved ones to stand in line behind us, saying, " Dang, we wish " So and so" would have done this differently!"
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03 Apr, 2022 by Dawn dickerson
They are the most helpful, friendly, informative pleasant attorney and paralegal. They made me feel relaxed in stressful times and I would recommend them to everybody. Absolutely live working with them. Thank you Pay and Janet. 😁❤️
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13 Apr, 2024 by Brad
Hire Garth Brown if you want 0 communication and a big bill for poor representation! I wish I would of seekes another option.. Very fake. That smile hides a mole hill of lies!
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05 Dec, 2023 by Bill anderson
Great Team of attorney's! Very knowledgeable and well respected. They have worked with me for years on a personal side and on my businesses. Would highly recommend.
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13 Jul, 2023 by Ryan drury
They didn’t call after I visited.
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13 Apr, 2024 by Brad
Hire Garth Brown if you want 0 communication and a big bill for poor representation! I wish I would of seekes another option.. Very fake. That smile hides a mole hill of lies!
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05 Dec, 2023 by Bill anderson
Great Team of attorney's! Very knowledgeable and well respected. They have worked with me for years on a personal side and on my businesses. Would highly recommend.
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13 Jul, 2023 by Ryan drury
They didn’t call after I visited.
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05 Apr, 2024 by Tom nesbitt
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02 Mar, 2024 by Darlene knowlton
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02 Jan, 2024 by Heaven miracle
We hired Kalina for my boyfriend to help with his divorce and to get him off child support. She was no help. When it came time for court, she had plenty of evidence needed to give the judge and still didn't do anything. No communication, Secretary was rude and disrespectful. Save your money and look for someone better!
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24 Sep, 2013 by Anonymous
We used this attorney twice. She is very inexperienced and spends much of her time on political and social causes to promote herself in Findlay. We just do not appreciate an attorney that is not strong about confidentiality. Perhaps with time she will gain experience. We might consider her in 10 years.
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12 Jun, 2012 by Sharleen
Christie has been an excellent attorney for myself. She is very knowledgeable and follows through with things promptly. I have enjoyed every visit with her. She listens and answers my questions and treats me as an equal and doesn't have the topically air to herself that most attorneys have. I highly recommend her!!!
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13 Dec, 2014 by Anonymous
Mr. Whitman had been my mother's attorney for several years; he prepared her Will, Financial Power of Attorney & Health Care Power of Attorney. He was well aware that my mother worked at Marathon Oil Company and knew their requirements for her caretaker to have access to her 401(1) Plan's funds if need be. An attorney employed at Marathon Oil Company knew Mr. Whitman personally and told Mr. Whitman that his standard POA did not include the correct wording. Mr. Whitman's colleague repeatedly instructed Mr. Whitman to revise his standard POA to no avail. Mr. Whitman's lackadaisical work ethics, incompetence and negligence was the catalyst for other unscrupulous individuals to swindle away my mother's rights and disregard her final wishes. Thus, causing my mother irreparable harm.
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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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