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24 Apr, 2018 by Dawn davis
Michael was suggested by a family friend when my elderly mother was planning her estate. He was very sweet and patient with her. He took the time to listen to what she wanted and never rushed her. We had no idea that 6 months later she would leave this earth for her heavenly home. Michael has been there for me to ask questions and help me travel down this path that my mom’s passing created. I would highly recommend him for any legal need as he is highly skilled in his profession.
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11 Apr, 2018 by Brian
Mike has a great knowledge of Trust, Will and POA situations. He was very thorough and diligent in his questions to ensure our needs were met. I would highly recommend Mike for this type of planning.
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11 Apr, 2018 by Chris
Mike is a thorough and knowledgeable attorney. He has not only helped me establish a Will, POA and Healthcare POA, business contracts but also established a trust for my children. I have been so happy with the service that I have recommended Mike to multiple friends.
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04 Oct, 2016 by Anonymous
She really took the time to listen to my problem and dealt with me fairly. Best of all I got the result I wanted!
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18 Jun, 2020 by Karen
Standing ovation for Mr. Frank Cardoza! I was appointed to be the executor of my uncle’s estate. Due to family dynamics, this was a disaster waiting to happen from day one. Frank confidently stepped up and helped my uncle form a Trust and made all of our my lives so much easier after he passed away. Everything was very specific. I will be eternally grateful to Mr. Cardoza for his expertise and helpfulness.
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19 Jun, 2009 by Anonymous
Dianna Ladd is the best attorney I could have prayed for. I was in a car crash and broke my back. I am unable to work and needed go on disability. I went to the social security office and letter after letter I was basically told I would have to wait a year to collect on my social security. I went to her after three months and she was able to get me payments and back pay within two months. I would have had to gone bankrupt if it weren't for her. She answered every call and treated me with me like she really cared. I would recommend her to anyone needing to get on social security. She was awesome and I love her like a daughter, not because of my case but because she is genuine.
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22 Aug, 2022 by L “jeremiah 29:11” s
I hire Brent to handled my divorce, and was able to grant me custody of my kids he is very upfront and professional.
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01 Mar, 2022 by Jody jenkins
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14 Feb, 2022 by Mrwolf1884
Brent hall is an amazing he is up front and honest and professional he help me with my child custody that I did not thank I was going to get but he went above and beyond and I got full custody I could not ask for a better attorney if and when I need an attorney again I will be come to him
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16 Dec, 2022 by Anonymous
I got hit with a frivolous lawsuit. I gave Phillip Milligan a $2400 retainer fee after he told me I would be refunded whatever he didn’t use. We filed a countersuit. Then milligan said they asked me to drop my countersuit if she dropped hers. I said, “Well, how much has she cost me so far?” I was told I had over $1700 left. I agreed I could take the loss of $700 to end it, so I agreed. I really needed that $1700 so I asked how soon I could pick it up. They wouldn’t let me pick it up. So I’ve been checking the mail. A week before Christmas, I get a letter saying they wrote a clause into my settlement making my retainer non-refundable. They were giving me nothing back! Don’t use them. They know I sacrificed to pay that retainer and they took full advantage of it!
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24 Jan, 2018 by Anonymous
I gave him one star because I was required to select between 1-5 stars, if not I wouldn't give him anything. Milligan failed to notify me that he postponed my court date and did not submit proper documentation to the court. When I arrived to court (which turned out he had postponed). The judge called my name and Milligan was not there to represent me. Not only was I almost put in jail but my time was wasted. When my postponed court day arrived, I showed up early to meet with him, he was no where around. He did not show up until the last 10 minutes before court was adjourned and did not do an absolute thing to what he had said he was going to do when I decided to hire him. He told me he arrived late because he was confused on whether the court was in Van Buren or Ft Smith and he had showed up to the wrong one. (Which obviously shows he paid no attention to my file) I am very dissatisfied with how poorly he handled my case, he was very unpunctual, hard to reach and unprofessional. Every time I would try to reach him, his secretaries were very rude and when I would ask to speak with him, they would hang up the line as if he were trying to avoid speaking with me. I DO NOT recommend you hire Phillip J. Milligan, as a lawyer I feel he is untrustworthy and he was able to make easy money off of me so imagine what he would do with you...
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29 Mar, 2015 by Anonymous
Mr. Milligan clearly puts his client's best interest as a priority. He goes beyond the extra mile to try to win your case for you. His ability to find important details that the opposing attorney misses is outstanding. The only complaint, and it is minor, is he delays getting information to the client on a regular basis prior to trial. However, he will take your calls and get back with you ASAP. Also, I believe that he is so driven to win your case that he intently focuses on that goal, putting you before his own need to take a break or even eat. Milligan Law Firm is the law firm for you if you want your case to be a priority.
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29 Sep, 2022 by Dustin mcfarland
I had a utility locate to mark for the city that went across their property. I was parked on their property for no more than 3 minutes. Some lady walked up to me, (snobby lawyer type) asked me what I was doing there, and that I wasn't supposed to be going past the private parking signs. She walked off before I could inform her that her office bordered a utility easement, and the law allows me to access said easement, regardless if she likes it or not. If she doesn't know a simple law like that, and wants to be a see you next Tuesday about it, how do you think she'll do in court?
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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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