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01 Feb, 2024 by Suttiya w
I got recommended by my friend and said he is very good. Actually, I had another lawyer and he was very slow and hold my case for 4 months. Thankfully, I found Joseph who came to help me with me case. My case is very difficult but Joseph can do it and very very very fast. He did with in a week!!! I love it. He is very professional. He answer my email so fast very fast. I am so happy I know him. Finally, I just got my green card. 🎉 Thank you Joseph for helping me. I would highly recommended him.
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30 Jan, 2024 by Suttiya wanadee
I am so happy to find him to help my difficult case. He is so quick and very fast. I just got my green card on January 30, 2024. He got it done in 1 week and Don’t charged much. Every Time, when I ask him on email, he always right it back never make me wait too long. He is very good lawyer and quality. I would highly recommend.
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15 Mar, 2023 by Irene bae
This is our returning case with Attorney Park, and our experience with him was good this time as well! I had to process I-485 at the start of COVID outbreak, which just made everything very unpredictable and difficult. However, he gave suggestions on how to fill the required documents accurately, provided us the expected time frame, and answered questions as needed. Thanks to his help, I was able to receive the Green Card within 18 months.
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06 Jan, 2025 by Zafir haque
I've had the misfortune of working with a number of real estate attorneys through various transactions over the years. Most of them have been extremely unreliable or difficult to work with, to the point of losing out on a deal due to negligence.
Franzetti law, and specifically James Franzetti is different. He's practical, diligent, and very responsible. He's detail oriented when it comes to doing due diligence on real estate transactions. Most importantly, he's easy to communicate with and won't "ghost" for long periods of time.
His fee is very reasonable given his level of service and results, and I'd highly recommend him to anyone looking for a reliable real estate attorney.
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26 Dec, 2024 by Brenda ramal
James Franzetti; esquire or superhero?! He is dependable, responsive, kind, diligent, and really cared that we understood what was going on. My partner and i have never bought a home before he made this process so easy. He even went the extra mile to make sure we secured the home we wanted. I can't say enough good things. 10/10 would work with him again.
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25 Oct, 2024 by Karen y
James represented me in two real estate transactions this year. James helped me navigate a few obstacles and he had my best interest in mind the whole way through. He leads with integrity and professionalism. Aside from being a fantastic attorney, he is also wise, personable and funny. I will continue to recommend him to family and friends.
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06 Nov, 2024 by M s
Jenny Ahn who was my real estate attorney and Hannah Kang (Manager) has been very supportive in selling our home.
They have given us the best service, very informative, very professional in guiding us every step of the way.
They were very precise in processing all the paperwork to sell our house.
We appreciate their kindness and time.
I highly recommend them to anyone that needs to sell their home.
The team has great customer service.
Thank you very much to Jenny Ahn, Hannah Kang and the team for all your hard work and dedication.
We appreciate it.
We could not have done this without you.
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04 Apr, 2024 by Junaid mirza
Highly recommend!!! I am a first time home buyer and Jenny and her team made this a very straightforward process! Excellent communication, timely responses, transparent, fair fees, and convenient location.
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24 Jan, 2024 by Nia b
I had a fantastic experience working with Jenny and Spina to purchase my home and would recommend them to anyone. They were knowledgable, warm, and responsive. They explained confusing concepts and relentlessly followed up on delays. I can't imagine how much more stressful the process would have been without them!
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24 Dec, 2024 by Matilda meza
客户感到非常放心,因为收费合理且透明,没有隐藏费用。
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24 Dec, 2024 by Doreen woods
这里的医生对抑郁症非常有经验,使用针灸和理疗的方法让我的精神状态大为改善,整个人都焕然一新。
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23 Dec, 2024 by Mike jhon
这是我第一次遇到这么专业和细心的律师团队,他们对每一步都考虑得很周全,非常值得信赖。
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24 Dec, 2024 by Matilda meza
客户感到非常放心,因为收费合理且透明,没有隐藏费用。
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24 Dec, 2024 by Doreen woods
这里的医生对抑郁症非常有经验,使用针灸和理疗的方法让我的精神状态大为改善,整个人都焕然一新。
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23 Dec, 2024 by Mike jhon
这是我第一次遇到这么专业和细心的律师团队,他们对每一步都考虑得很周全,非常值得信赖。
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26 Sep, 2024 by Lulu
I recently worked with Lisa Zheng on my Co-op closing, and she was absolutely amazing! Not only is she incredibly knowledgeable and experienced, but she also saved me from a potential $75,000 FIRPTA withholding issue, plus any extra penalties and interest from the government. Her attention to detail is honestly unmatched—she even caught mistakes in the seller’s title check that could’ve caused major tax issues later.
What really stood out to me was how much she genuinely cared about every part of the process, beyond just the legal stuff. From negotiating the contract to making sure my documents were securely sent via USPS priority mail, Lisa was on it. Her experience truly shines through—she knew exactly what to look out for and guided me through every step.
Her team was also incredible—super responsive, efficient, and professional. Any time I had a question or needed help, they were there, and Lisa was always quick to respond to emails, even during busy times. It’s clear she treats her clients like a priority, and that’s rare to find.
I can’t recommend Lisa enough! If you’re looking for someone who will go above and beyond, who has your best interests at heart, and who knows this field inside out, Lisa’s your person. Thank you, Lisa, for everything—you made this whole experience so much smoother and easier!
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26 Sep, 2024 by Neal
I had the pleasure of working with Lisa Zheng for my Co-op closing, and I’m so grateful for her expertise and attention to detail. From start to finish, she made a complex process feel manageable and stress-free. The seller’s side was tough to deal with, but Lisa helped us navigate every challenge and fought hard for our interests, ensuring we were protected every step of the way.
Her thoroughness and experience really shone through, especially when she caught critical mistakes from the seller’s attorney that could’ve caused problems for us later. She kept us informed, explained everything clearly, and always responded quickly when we needed her.
Her team was also fantastic—responsive, professional, and made sure everything moved forward smoothly. If you need a real estate attorney who will go above and beyond, Lisa is the one to trust. She made a stressful process so much easier, and I highly recommend her!
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12 Dec, 2023 by Gimbels
Lisa's professionalism, expertise and dedication made the condo sale closing in NYC a seamless experience for me. From our initial phone conversation, I was at ease with the process. Her transparent communication about the steps involved and the associated costs demonstrated her professionalism. Lisa consistently kept me informed on the progress, diligently following up with the buyers' attorney and the broker. Her proactive approach in addressing open issues contributed to a timely closing. I wholeheartedly recommend Lisa, especially for out-of-state residents selling their apartments in the city.
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22 Aug, 2024 by 魏丽萍
感谢张律师帮我办理了离婚案子， 非常顺利，本来预计一年多，8个月就下来了👍他还退还了我一部分费用，非常真诚的一个律师！
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16 Aug, 2024 by Rachid khaldi
Best experience, best lawyer
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12 May, 2024 by Cynthia
效率很高 一个月就办好了 👍
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21 Oct, 2009 by Andrea
Sangeeta Kumar saw me through a lease negotiation that resolved very favorably. I would defiantly utilize her services again.
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01 Aug, 2009 by Anonymous
Sangeeta recently represented me in the purchase of my home. She kept me informed from start to finish. I was very satisfied with her work.
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26 Apr, 2009 by Anonymous
Ms. Kumar represented with respect to a criminal defense matter. She was knowledgeable and true expert in her field.
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26 Feb, 2024 by Audiomartv692
I enjoyed working with Gale Joyce very much. She handled everything in a professional manner and was always available when I had a question or needed clarification about something. She got the job done quickly and efficiently and I would recommend Ms. Joyce to anyone seeking a professional, competent, and amicable landlord/tenant attorney.
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26 Aug, 2023 by Al
I am very happy with their services. I reached a live person each time I called and received prompt callbacks. The process was clearly explained, and realistic timelines were provided.
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24 Nov, 2019 by Georgia
Ms. Joyce handled our eviction case with tact and was very good at keeping us up to date with all the information we needed. Whenever there was an issue she reached out immediately and was helpful in answering our questions whenever we called. And always accessible! She answers her own phone and always has answers ready, and returns messages quickly! Definitely recommend Ms. Joyce!
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09 Mar, 2016 by Edna
Minerva handled my Aunt's estate and also assisted with the legal documents to terminate the guardianship. She is professional, returned calls promptly and went beyond the call of duty to assist me in handling my Aunt's affairs since I live out of the state. She is great to work with and I appreciated her concern and empathy during the entire process.
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20 Feb, 2016 by Mm
M. Alonso provided an elder family member with valuable information regarding a house deed. All the questions were answered and clarified. M. Alonso put to rest all the anxiety related to the matter. She was attentive, readily available, warm, informative, and thorough. I will use her services again. Highly recommended.
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14 Jul, 2021 by Yvonne
My eviction moratorium questions were answered quickly with multiple examples of how and when tenant moratorium rules apply vs. when the landlord could change rates and create new lease contracts.
He was able to efficiently pinpoint the actions that were needed to restore tenant rights if they were violated. All of the consultation questions were answered in a very knowledgeable and concise manner.
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16 Jan, 2014 by Anonymous
Attorney Kim is the best!, he helped me gain my citizenship in the U.S. pain free. He was very patient with me and answered all my questions respectfully no matter how dumb my questions were. He was also very good about keeping me informed on the status of my application and case. I highly recommend Mr. Kim to anyone needing an immigration lawyer.
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16 Dec, 2024 by Jing li
A highly professional and dedicated work ethic has provided us with a convenient, swift, and efficient process for buying and selling properties. Although I have only experienced buying and selling twice, both times have brought us the greatest benefits. I will also recommend your services to friends who need a lawyer for property transactions. Wishing your law firm continued success!
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16 Dec, 2024 by P t
强力推荐哦 这个律师和她的团队非常细心耐心 做事也非常认真谨慎
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16 Dec, 2024 by Garey tung
Maggie律师不仅专业还人美心善，整个买房流程很放心，替我们和大楼吵架时也不留余力，还会讲粤语+福州话，强力推荐！
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10 Jan, 2025 by Fingertipdiy
Attorney Lin is the best lawyer we have ever worked with. She is highly responsible, actively involved, and responds quickly to all our inquiries. She provides excellent advice and effectively helps us resolve various issues. It has been a very pleasant collaboration, and we strongly recommend this high-quality attorney to everyone.
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30 Dec, 2024 by Mei zheng
几乎所有的五星评论都是假的。 无良商家，钱一交就玩消失。交钱到现在，我根本不知道律师是谁
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11 Dec, 2024 by Hui yang
Mia是我法学院的一个好朋友推荐给我的。作为律师，她非常有经验，耐心细致，也非常谨慎。经过了近半年的过五关斩六将，昨天终于成功过户，多亏了她。在此深表感谢！
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05 Nov, 2024 by Rumdy lazos
Since I have my accident
Brain Orlow and his team
Been helping me every step with case
They. Are concerned about client
Make sure they have good access to doctors appointments
And financial support
For me i will hire this firm again
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04 Oct, 2024 by Michael foster
They provided me with excellent service.
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04 Oct, 2024 by Gedalia schwartz
08 Oct, 2024 by 酸辣馒头（健太的纽约生活）
本来是直接前往办理协议离婚，但是第一次前往考虑到有情况需要咨询，我也主动提出应该按照咨询的方式推进而且愿意付费。咨询费为200，咨询时间大概半小时。咨询过程中，张律师不太在乎我提供的额外信息，问了我一些基本的问题。整个过程很少主动去给予我意见，更多是我整理问题提出来获取信息。作为非法律人士的我，更希望律师起码能在咨询过程中主动提出一些法律建议。整个沟通过程给人一种居高临下的感觉。不过当时我也算了，毕竟想知道的信息基本都获得了，也想着第二天前往办理实际的手续。
期间，由于伴侣给我的信息不对称，导致我反馈给律师楼的信息也在不断地更新。
结果第二天，张律师告诉我，原话“I'm not comfortable to take your case"。是的，他有权不接受我的案件。但是他扔下一句后就不再理会我或者说敷衍我几句，对于我追问的问题他表示也不会回答，甚至连最后一两句对话也没有与我对视，直接接了下一个电话。这个行为本身让我觉得十分不被尊重。而且每一个寻求律师帮助的人，都必定处于一个困境中。我离开他的办公室后，站在他们前台的地方接近一分钟完全不知道接下去怎么办，非常的无助。
我对张律师的专业不作任何评价，毕竟我没有和他建立更长的客户关系。但是对于曾经的客户在拒绝的情况下没有基本的引导和帮助，我会觉得非常缺乏同理心。尽管我不再是处于客户关系中，这种处理方式实在是不敢恭维。道理他是有的，但是我会找一个更能理解客户处境的律师。
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22 Aug, 2024 by 魏丽萍
感谢张律师帮我办理了离婚案子， 非常顺利，本来预计一年多，8个月就下来了👍他还退还了我一部分费用，非常真诚的一个律师！
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16 Aug, 2024 by Rachid khaldi
Best experience, best lawyer
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04 May, 2021 by Elmy
Carol Jaramillo has an excellent service because she was there when I needed her with questions making sure she answered quickly. She made sure to be with us in every meeting. Carol is very professional and her assistant Maddy make a wonderful team.
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23 Aug, 2015 by Sabine
It was an absolute pleasure to work with Carol Jaramillo. This was my first time purchasing a home, so it was really important that I surrounded myself with a strong team of professionals to handle this sensitive transaction. Carol was always available and never let a question that I had unanswered. During the transaction, I lost my job and Carol hustled and did everything she could to keep the transaction going. It wasn't until closing that I found out everything that she did behind the scenes that I wasn't aware of; she made sure to not allow me to feel any of the pressure - she took it all on herself. Closing with her was amazing...I was so nervous, and she sensed it and kept reassuring me that everything was going to be OK. Carol was tenacious at closing - seller's attorney tried to say our numbers didn't add up Carol nipped that in the bud immediately. Carol is a rare and excellent combination of smart, tough, tenacious and sweet. I would and will recommend her to anyone looking for a great real estate attorney.
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10 Dec, 2009 by Ross
she was diligent, fast and very knowledgeble. I would recomend her in a heartbeat.
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30 Sep, 2017 by Diana
I have worked with her on two separate occasions for the purchase and sale of a condo in Manhattan. Both times she has demonstrated the utmost professionalism. Buying and selling an apartment is a big and stressful decision, but she made it less painful with her friendly and calm demeanor. She was thorough in reviewing documents, available when I needed to speak with her, and patient when explaining and answering my questions. I felt comfortable that when she reviewed a contract, she had left no stone unturned and proposed changes that were in my best interest.
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07 Dec, 2011 by Ginna
Ms. Woo is the best lawyer out there. She returns phone calls, e-mails and is great at researching. Here at the bank, we use her for residential and commercial deals. Be it a simple purchase or a complex environmental issue of a site that needs to be remediated, Ms. Woo knows the law.
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21 Feb, 2014 by Song
Sold my house in Flushing five months ago. There was an issue with title company of inconsistent CO description with survey. He resolved the issue with several letters. The title company in the end admitted of making an error and I was able close the sale without a problem. He knew that title company made the error and convinced the buyer's attorney to close. Experience really matters!
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14 Nov, 2013 by Kelly
Purchased a house. Was very efficient and kept me informed throughout the process. He was kind to answer all my calls and questions.
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19 Nov, 2015 by Anonymous
I buy a lot of houses and flip them for a profit and I've used many real estate lawyers but in my opinion, this lawyer will be my only attorney for all of my future transactions. Her fees are very reasonable too with her experience and knowledge of real estate. I would highly recommend.
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08 Dec, 2012 by Anonymous
Mr. Melli, discussed my situation intellectually and enlightened me. This enabled me to move forward and saw light at the end of the tunnel. He actually cared
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10 Jan, 2025 by Fingertipdiy
Attorney Lin is the best lawyer we have ever worked with. She is highly responsible, actively involved, and responds quickly to all our inquiries. She provides excellent advice and effectively helps us resolve various issues. It has been a very pleasant collaboration, and we strongly recommend this high-quality attorney to everyone.
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30 Dec, 2024 by Mei zheng
几乎所有的五星评论都是假的。 无良商家，钱一交就玩消失。交钱到现在，我根本不知道律师是谁
Read more
11 Dec, 2024 by Hui yang
Mia是我法学院的一个好朋友推荐给我的。作为律师，她非常有经验，耐心细致，也非常谨慎。经过了近半年的过五关斩六将，昨天终于成功过户，多亏了她。在此深表感谢！
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13 Nov, 2024 by Linda solazzo
Attorney Alison G. Fung just helped us close on our family home. Ms Fung and Kitty were very professional, knowledgeable and readily available to help clarify any questions we had with the process of selling the house. We're very satisfied and highly recommend Ms Fung to anyone who needs legal services.
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04 Nov, 2024 by Jolynn lynn
Highly recommended this attorney and her team to anyone buying property. We sold out our old co-op and bought a new co-op this year. Since it’s co-op, it involved a lot of more uncertainty and changes. She and her team( Susan and Kitty) helped out throughout the whole process. We had a lot of questions, and they were always there to answer and solve problems. I would definitely go back to them if I need any legal assistance.
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28 Jul, 2024 by Feilun chen
14 Nov, 2014 by Shu
I am former client. I had a dispute with a bank that claimed I owed it money. I did not. The bank or a collection Co. froze my account in another bank. I sought help from Mr. Zhu 5 months ago. He successfully unfreeze my account and I withdraw the fund.
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12 Jul, 2013 by Ling
About one and half years ago, I let another lawyer in Manhattan handle my business bankruptcy matter. I believe she screwed it. Thus under a referral from one of my friends, I find Zhu. I successfully completed the case after some litigation and motion.
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17 May, 2013 by Anonymous
He helped to unfreeze my bank account in a civil litigation case.
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22 Aug, 2024 by 魏丽萍
感谢张律师帮我办理了离婚案子， 非常顺利，本来预计一年多，8个月就下来了👍他还退还了我一部分费用，非常真诚的一个律师！
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16 Aug, 2024 by Rachid khaldi
Best experience, best lawyer
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12 May, 2024 by Cynthia
效率很高 一个月就办好了 👍
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22 Aug, 2024 by 魏丽萍
感谢张律师帮我办理了离婚案子， 非常顺利，本来预计一年多，8个月就下来了👍他还退还了我一部分费用，非常真诚的一个律师！
Read more
16 Aug, 2024 by Rachid khaldi
Best experience, best lawyer
Read more
12 May, 2024 by Cynthia
效率很高 一个月就办好了 👍
Read more
08 Oct, 2024 by 酸辣馒头（健太的纽约生活）
本来是直接前往办理协议离婚，但是第一次前往考虑到有情况需要咨询，我也主动提出应该按照咨询的方式推进而且愿意付费。咨询费为200，咨询时间大概半小时。咨询过程中，张律师不太在乎我提供的额外信息，问了我一些基本的问题。整个过程很少主动去给予我意见，更多是我整理问题提出来获取信息。作为非法律人士的我，更希望律师起码能在咨询过程中主动提出一些法律建议。整个沟通过程给人一种居高临下的感觉。不过当时我也算了，毕竟想知道的信息基本都获得了，也想着第二天前往办理实际的手续。
期间，由于伴侣给我的信息不对称，导致我反馈给律师楼的信息也在不断地更新。
结果第二天，张律师告诉我，原话“I'm not comfortable to take your case"。是的，他有权不接受我的案件。但是他扔下一句后就不再理会我或者说敷衍我几句，对于我追问的问题他表示也不会回答，甚至连最后一两句对话也没有与我对视，直接接了下一个电话。这个行为本身让我觉得十分不被尊重。而且每一个寻求律师帮助的人，都必定处于一个困境中。我离开他的办公室后，站在他们前台的地方接近一分钟完全不知道接下去怎么办，非常的无助。
我对张律师的专业不作任何评价，毕竟我没有和他建立更长的客户关系。但是对于曾经的客户在拒绝的情况下没有基本的引导和帮助，我会觉得非常缺乏同理心。尽管我不再是处于客户关系中，这种处理方式实在是不敢恭维。道理他是有的，但是我会找一个更能理解客户处境的律师。
Read more
22 Aug, 2024 by 魏丽萍
感谢张律师帮我办理了离婚案子， 非常顺利，本来预计一年多，8个月就下来了👍他还退还了我一部分费用，非常真诚的一个律师！
Read more
16 Aug, 2024 by Rachid khaldi
Best experience, best lawyer
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06 Dec, 2024 by Mary zhang
Thomas helped me with closing on my co-op apartment in manhattan upper west side. Thomas is the most communicative lawyer I have ever worked with, always available over the phone or email to answer questions and knew my case very well. His pricing is also incredibly reasonable. Thomas will be my family’s go-to attorney in New York for any future real estate needs.
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26 Nov, 2024 by Ahn peter
handled everything professionally for our home purchase 👍
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22 Nov, 2024 by Kimberly cunningham
I had the pleasure of working with Thomas on my very recent property closing. He took care of everything that was needed, as I was clueless about quite alot and he was always there when I called or emailed. Very pleasant experience and I would definitely recommend Thomas to my friends and family!
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14 Dec, 2024 by Yeming huang
服务很好，信誉第一
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23 Nov, 2024 by Jian yang
29 Oct, 2024 by D b
我2017年追工资案，现在也没结果，打律师楼电话把我给拉黑，到律师楼大门紧锁，敲门没声音
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05 May, 2024 by Ran wu
刘律师的服务非常专业，也非常的有耐心。给我们提供了很大的帮助！点赞👍
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04 May, 2024 by Wei dai
I highly recommend Sienna Liu and Lan & Associates. Sienna’s detailed consultation and quick response assisted me in getting a clear direction towards a final resolution. She is very professional, practical, and patient. It has been a positive and transformative experience working with Sienna.
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04 May, 2024 by E w
Ms Liu helped me with transferring visa to B1/2. During the process, she is very professional and also patient on explaining the technical details for the USCIS policy. Appreciate the help very much!
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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:
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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.
