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29 Aug, 2023 by Shari
I had a post-divorce matter arise because of the incompetence of the lawyer who handled my divorce. I reached out to Sabina and was desperate at the time because my ex-husband totally disregarded our settlement agreement. Sabina was patient and kind, but also ready to fight on my behalf. I was bereft and Sabina took the time to explain to me the issues with my settlement agreement, what issues we could reasonably litigate, and which ones I would have to accept were not enforceable. The not enforceable parts were because I got duped into thinking I did not need an attorney for my divorce in the first place because my ex-husband and I were "amicable."
I honestly felt like Sabina and her entire team took my case personally as though it was happening to them, and I know this is the way Sabina approaches all of her cases/clients. Sabina is a fighter for justice for her clients. I felt heard, supported, and I knew I was in expert hands. Sabina is a vigorous advocate, a fighter for justice, is laser sharp with the ability to identify critical issues that left me financially liable that were missed in my divorce. I never would have known without her help but it could have been avoided if I retained her to handle my divorce in the first place! Most importantly, Sabina does not give up. If she isn't sure of something, she will research it. I really appreciated everything she did for me.
Another important consideration in retaining an attorney is that Sabina was not going to let me spend thousands of dollars on issues that could not be litigated. I needed that perspective and guidance, like most clients do in divorce/post-dissolution proceedings, because we are emotional rather than logical. It was hard to swallow at times but I trusted her and her expertise implicitly. She was correct 10/10 times.
The take home message is YES you DO NEED your own lawyer in every divorce, no matter how "amicable" you think it is, and
Sabina IS the lawyer you need. Don't let the other side retain her; get there first!
I should share that I work in the legal field as an expert witness so I work with a LOT of attorneys. Most attorneys are mediocre, at best. A lot are simply horrible. There are precious few Sabina's out there and I am so grateful I found her and that she took my case.
This is long overdue, but thank you so much, Sabina and Home Town Law Team!
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06 Apr, 2021 by Julia
I had a consultation with Sabina today and I would say that she is not only a knowledgeable lawyer, but also a very understanding and responsive person. Going through divorce is already a stressful time for anyone and Sabina can understand this emotional aspect without extra explanation. Her answers and advices were professional and detailed. She was very generous at sharing information or explaining my options for a “game plan”. I feel that she can stand for her client no matter what and protect your rights. I would give her a 10 star review if I could. Thank you, Sabina! You are a great lawyer and a nice person to talk to in general.
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07 Mar, 2019 by Timmothy mccann
Can not give her enough stars. I had one Attorney literally steal 1,000 from me as I tried to settle my mom's estate living in another state. Sabina was very understanding. Respectful. Kind and most of all efficient. I highly recommend her and her services.
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22 Mar, 2023 by Evans
I hired Mr. Warren to review a commercial lease for me at the recommendation of a friend. He took the time to meet with me in person was extremely patient and knowledgeable. With his guidance was able to avoid numerous pitfalls and negotiate terms that were to my advantage. I unreservedly recommend Mr. Warren.
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19 May, 2017 by Lloyd
Atty. Warren recently handled a Real Estate Transaction for us and in addition did all the Title work - and I was very impressed with the overall results. All the bumps got smoothed out, closing was a breeze, and everything got finalized with happy smiles all around. I am a real estate broker and have been to a whole bunch of closings and without reservation I would highly recommend Robert Warren for any real estate transactions, title work, and closings that may crop up in your future.
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23 Jun, 2016 by Melissa
Mr. Warren was my lawyer for my bankruptcy case. The whole process was pretty simple. He was able to answer any questions I had and when it came time to go to court, I wasn't nervous. He makes you feel very comfortable. I'm glad I chose him for my bankruptcy case.
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07 Jun, 2023 by Karen
Mr. Nieson heard my "story" about issues I had with a general contractor behind schedule, as well as, issues regarding permits and an insurance claim. I took over 30 minutes. He listened, then he took less than 15 minutes to identify the key issues from a legal standpoint and action steps that could take to remedy the situation myself. I had a consultation. If I need any help, I would definitely hire him. I felt at ease in his office with his friendly manner. I also felt confident in his knowledge and expertise regarding general contractors and resources provided by the city.
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28 Jul, 2015 by Richard
I am the owner of a shopping center in Florida. I had hired an attorney to represent me in a faulty roof installation case. The suit was going nowhere, so i hired Don to represent me in the case. He was able to obtain a settlement that not only allowed me to install a new roof but I received reimbursement for legal fees. Additionally, my daughter was being sued for misrepresentation about the condition of her roof when she sold her Orlando home. After two years of working with two other attorneys in an effort to settle the suit i suggested that she contact Don. She did employ him and, as in my case, Don settled the case in a relatively short period of time and my daughter was very satisfied with the result. I cannot say enough about Don's ability and professionalism in handling both cases and I would recommend him without hesitation.
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19 Nov, 2009 by Denise
Mr. Niesen handles our construction company contracts and agreements. He represented our company in a 2004 preach of contract
law suit. He reached a full settlement on our behalf along with attorney fee's and costs incurred. Our company has been very satisfied with his
services. We appreciate the prompt manner in which he handles our
needs.
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01 Mar, 2021 by David
I have retained Stephanie on several real estate matters involving commercial and residential transactions. She is skilled at anticipating issues, thoroughly and clearly explaining them, avoiding problems, and overcoming obstacles to get to a resolution. I cannot recommend her highly enough.
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20 Jun, 2020 by Anonymous
Stephanie Emrick is a fantastic lawyer and I cannot say enough good things about her. Not only is Stephanie very well educated, but she is also detail oriented and bright, which in my opinion is why she is so successful. She is an expert in her field of real estate law and easements. For me, litigation against a government entity was a very daunting task, as the government has an endless legal budget. However, Stephanie Emrick successfully litigated our easement case against Alachua County in Florida with 21 months of hard work. We were so lucky to have stumbled upon her and are forever grateful for everything she has done for us.
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16 Jun, 2020 by Anonymous
I hired Stephanie to handle a matter for my Company. She was intelligent, knowledgeable, and an excellent negotiator. On top of all that, she had the business acumen to provide more than just legal input. She has an amazing grasp on everyday business principles, something rare in an attorney.
I've recommended Stephanie to multiple acquaintances, and each time they've echoed these same thoughts.
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20 May, 2013 by Todd
We are very happy with the results that Sarah achieved for us in our situation.. She was able to cut thru
unending red tape with the government, and turn a potential tax liability into a refund! Thank you Sarah!
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17 May, 2013 by Art
A few years ago, out of the blue, I received an IRS notice that if I didn't pay a large amount of money my bank account would be commandeered. The stars must have led me to Sarah's firm. After the requisite deep breathing, my issues were addressed in a timely manner, the iRS was held at bay and a fair resolution was found. Last year my identity was stolen and my return was filed by someone else. In response the IRS made up a return of their own and inaccurately assessed me for a significantly larger amount than I actually owed. What mad this even more disconcerting was the negative impact it would have on my child's college financial aid. Sarah immediately leapt into the fray, showed the financial aid people the error of the IRS' ways and helped me maintain the financial aid. She was great, responsive, sensitive and appropriately aggressive.
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12 May, 2013 by David
Attorney Sarah Martello set up of my florida based national business and advised me on tax law.
She provided excellent professional service...
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13 Jun, 2023 by Zejun
Mr. Oh’s willing to help me with my case when I’ve encountered difficulty in finding others has been of great help to me. He’s kind, patient, and professional. The price for the service is affordable to common people. He has also indicated willingness to help me should further problems arise, which is reassuring for someone encountering legal issues in the US for the first time like me.
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12 Jun, 2023 by Phillip
Yong was hired to help me with my real estate legal needs. He helped me with drafting a lease and addendums as well as our property management needs, such as notices and evictions. Throughout the entire process he was communicative and answered my questions regularly. Normally, my opinion on attorneys are people who just want to bill me as high an hourly rate as possible, but Yong was affordable and upfront with his pricing. I highly recommend him and will continue to use his services.
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22 Aug, 2018 by Francesca
John Campo has been our company attorney for years. He has helped us on many cases. He reviews all of our contracts before we sign, he has helped defend us in cases where we've been unrightfully sued, he has helped immensely with understanding the lien process and has helped us file multiple liens and get money back that was owed to us. He has a very assertive, strong attitude; he is very confident; he gives advice and he has a very strong knowledge base. He also, if he doesn't have knowledge in a certain area of the law, has helped us find someone who does. We will continue to use him and continue to recommend him for as long as he's in business.
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04 Apr, 2016 by Anonymous
Received wonderful advice that saved my company. John is a very down to earth attorney with a witty sense of humor. If youre looking for an experienced and educated attorney with a great personality, John is your man.
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29 Apr, 2017 by Saraya pleasant
Robert was kind, considerate, and did excellent work on my case. I felt valued, appreciated, and he showed respect for my time and financial situation. He worked to get an adequate resolution to my case and I am so thankful to have had his assistance in a time when I needed it most. He is knowledgeable and extremely competent.
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09 Jul, 2015 by Jonathan
My estate attorney recommended Ramona for a document he said I needed regarding the leaving of my property to my heirs. I called Ramona's office expecting to make an appointment for that and was surprised when the receptionist put Ramona herself on the phone. We then had a very nice conversation during which Ramona educated me regarding the pluses and minuses of the document in question and ended up suggesting that I not get it. In other words, she turned down paid work because she didn't think it was right for me. I think that is great. If I ever need a real estate attorney, I will be calling her.
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28 Aug, 2008 by Anonymous
Mr. Menet has represented me in real estate transactions over the past ten years as a buyer, seller and litigant and has proven to be a responsive, knowledgable attorney with integrity. Highly recommend him and his firm of Salter, Fiber, Yenser, Murphy and Menet.
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30 Oct, 2012 by Robert
Melissa is an expert in the field of real estate law. I have known and worked with Ms. Murphy for over 15 years. She is extremely competent, hardworking, and always pleasant to deal with. I recommend her without hesitation.
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03 Nov, 2020 by Anonymous
John Hayter knows the law and will protect you and your assets. He is a good person, a great lawyer, and I would use him again.
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13 Mar, 2013 by Isabell springer
Mr. Brashear is a well know attorney in Gainesville with a seasoned reputation of being an excellent choice for all business concerns. In my interactions over these past two years with Mr. Brashear, I have been consistently impressed by his accessibility and quick response to providing important feedback when I needed him. His down-to-earth, straight talk approach was reassuring and I felt a sense of business confidence after every conversation. He is a valuable resource, a trusted member of the community and an absolute pleasure to work with.
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24 Dec, 2021 by Anonymous
Did everything I expected and more, couldn't have asked for more from a lawyer. exceeded expectations significantly and really helped my case
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12 Dec, 2022 by John m.
Jose Moreno Law Office is a real estate attorney specializing in
Bankruptcy Law, Real Estate Law, Estate Planning Law, and just about all real estate matters. If you want to make sure your deal goes through, Call Jose! Jose has completed many closings for me with exceptional service! An Attorney with a sense of Humor, Jose's Exceptional!
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27 Jul, 2017 by Ruth j.
Sold my home by owner and Mr. Moreno was referred to me. He made what could have been a nightmare into the easiest transaction possible. I found the buyer, he drew up the contract. I then delivered the earnest money check and the signed contract. He did the rest. His office staff kept me informed all along the way and they were courteous and polite. At closing, Mr. Moreno took his time to answer all my questions and my buyer's questions as well. Mr. Moreno is a true professional and I would definitely call on him again for all my real estate needs.
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15 Oct, 2024 by Natalie lafantasie
Chris Long and Dan Newlin really helped with my case!
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08 Oct, 2024 by Agustin rodriguez
Christopher and Dan worked on my case from the very beginning. I am extremely grateful for choosing them to represent me.
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05 Oct, 2024 by Tom kennedy
Hi my name is Tom Kennedy, and I was in a accident where I was hit from behind & my work vehicle was totaled! I had fired two attorneys that I felt were inadequate to handle my case, only to find Dan newlin in Gainesville Florida. I made a phone call and was giving a gentleman name Oscar Suarez, who works for Dan Newlin injury attorneys! The person only had minimal insurance that hit me. So there was not much money to gather, Is what I was told at first! Then after some brilliant attorney work by Mr. Suarez, he discovered what ended up being more money to be had! It took a while and a bunch of phone calls and interviews, And what have you, but the final verdict was finally reached! We went from a maximum of a $10,000 settlement, to a settlement over three times the original settlement!! Had it not been for me hiring someone from Dan Newlins company, I would have been left with barely nothing! I would have liked to thank Mr. Newlin personally for sending me Oscar, But was unable to do so. I have thanked Mr. Suarez several times over for his hard work, and if I were to ever get into an accident again, the first call I would make would be to either Oscar and or his company if he was not able to represent me? I was one gazillion% happy with the outcome!! đź‘Ťđź‘Ť
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26 Jul, 2024 by Mike ragland
I recently required the services of Avera & Smith, LLP. Lance and Brad were always very helpful, professional and available to answer any questions and provide updates on the case. I would highly recommend them to anyone requiring legal counsel! Thank you both very much for your dedication to our case.
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26 Jul, 2024 by Ray tremblay
Lance and Dana were exceptional! They will be my go too team for any legal needs in the future. Had a fantastic working relationship with them over the course of several years on my case.
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15 Jul, 2024 by Hunter sardegna
John was very attentive to my case and was readily available although I had many questions! He never made me feel like a burden he allowed me to explain my concerns without dismissing them. On the day of my appointment John was very friendly and helpful and I could not have asked for a better person to represent me. John the pizza was good:)
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13 Jul, 2024 by Gordon w
Great team. Easy closing
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25 Jun, 2024 by Brian schultz
Jonathan Green, Maury Ivey and the team at Scruggs, Carmichael & Wershow, P.A. provide a very smooth closing process for all parties. I would highly recommend working with them for any real estate transactions!
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13 Jun, 2024 by Ronald shema
During my active working 35 years
as a Realtor/Developer Ray Ivey with Scruggs Carmichael Firm closed over 700 real estate transactions for me. In one of those years, I had a high of 72 closings. All were successful closings with no issues.
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11 May, 2023 by Carol
I was trying to find an attorney to help me with a will situation that was very confusing--and frankly seemed to be somewhat hopeless. Regardless of this, Attorney Towers spent a good deal of time listening and sharing his knowledge and expertise. I felt much more informed about my situation after our consultation.
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21 Jan, 2022 by Craig
Adam represented our organization's interest very well. He was thorough in his planning, professional in his service and determined in his representation. I highly recommend Adam and would certainly use his services again.
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18 Aug, 2018 by Randy
Mr Towers provides 5 Star service to his clients and people in need of advice regarding legal issues... He is Highly professional, knowledgeable, understanding and is very prompt in returning phone calls and emails. A true Gentleman. I can’t Thank him enough for the assistance he provided me.
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01 Dec, 2022 by Olde rannd
Excellent representation. Professional, thoughtful, and attentive throughout the entire process. Thank you Adam!
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01 Jul, 2022 by Rose vidal
22 Jun, 2022 by Vidya jaimungal
01 Jun, 2022 by Carl bussard
The best!
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17 May, 2022 by Elving castro
They settle 2 worker compensation cases for me within 2 years apart ...love it
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16 Oct, 2021 by Angela sheffield
They've always taken care of my business legal needs. I have always had a quick response for my concerns.
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29 Feb, 2016 by Anonymous
Listened well. Understood the concerns. Addressed the legal issues. Presented the Pros/Cons. Gave clear concise instructions as to how to proceed.
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14 Jun, 2015 by Anonymous
Good. Hopefully all will work itself out.
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25 Mar, 2015 by Anonymous
Great feedback!!
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03 Jul, 2022 by Mark brady
The closing went well except Ashley forgot the date was moved up from June 28 to June 24. I had to send her copies of our text conversations from a few weeks earlier to show her that we changed the date. I didn't even get much of an apology other than a 5am message the closing would happen.
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02 Mar, 2021 by Jennifer lee
John Roscow is the utmost professional who is a wealth of knowledge regarding real estate law. I highly recommend this firm.
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26 Aug, 2020 by Smoak allen
We have been using John Roscow for all of our real estate needs for decades and have experienced nothing but the best service every time. He is genuine, always has your best interest, and treats you like family. I would not consider using anyone else for our real estate needs. Thank you for all the great years of service.
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29 Oct, 2024 by Jon doles
Sara is knowledgeable and trustworthy.
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22 May, 2024 by Katherine “kay” russell
Justin consulted with me on my divorce and then on a revision of my parenting plan. He gave me a lot of really great advice, and I would highly recommend him. If I were to find myself going through the unfortunate scenario of a second divorce, I would absolutely use Justin again.
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25 Apr, 2024 by American dream
My overall experience with Justin Jacobson was excellent. He always made himself available whenever the situation with my ex became chaotic and provided me with excellent counsel and support.
Overall, he gave my case all the time and attention that was needed in a sometimes difficult and stressful situations. He was a calming and confident presence during a difficult process. His rapport and guidance was outstanding throughout; prompt, timely and open for calls, messages and quick updates.
He worked through all the questions and issues of my case. I always felt that he looked out for my family's best interests and had my back the entire time. I will continue to use Justin for other legal matters that may arise, as I'm confident in his counsel.
He also has a great team that was very responsive and supportive and kept me informed of everything happening with my case as well as what was coming ahead. I would unequivocally recommend Justin and his team.
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29 Oct, 2024 by Jon doles
Sara is knowledgeable and trustworthy.
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22 May, 2024 by Katherine “kay” russell
Justin consulted with me on my divorce and then on a revision of my parenting plan. He gave me a lot of really great advice, and I would highly recommend him. If I were to find myself going through the unfortunate scenario of a second divorce, I would absolutely use Justin again.
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25 Apr, 2024 by American dream
My overall experience with Justin Jacobson was excellent. He always made himself available whenever the situation with my ex became chaotic and provided me with excellent counsel and support.
Overall, he gave my case all the time and attention that was needed in a sometimes difficult and stressful situations. He was a calming and confident presence during a difficult process. His rapport and guidance was outstanding throughout; prompt, timely and open for calls, messages and quick updates.
He worked through all the questions and issues of my case. I always felt that he looked out for my family's best interests and had my back the entire time. I will continue to use Justin for other legal matters that may arise, as I'm confident in his counsel.
He also has a great team that was very responsive and supportive and kept me informed of everything happening with my case as well as what was coming ahead. I would unequivocally recommend Justin and his team.
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21 Nov, 2023 by Anonymous
I had her represent me in a divorce case. We had an agreement of $7500 retainer until she did the discovery and found out I could afford much more. Then hours started to accumulate.
We end up in court and she choked. For all the hours I laid her reviewing the QA in court, she gets there and forgets everything. At times opposing council laughed at her. I was forced to settle because I was going to lose big. My court was a 4 days long and on day two she realized her under performance and told me via phone and text I have to come to court the next day with an $80,000 check or she will ask the judge to get off my case. She got paid. To this point I was never late for a payment and the escrow account per agreement was always at $7500 on the start of the month. She couldn’t even justify the need for that much money other than she said she needed it for the hours she will putting in for the court. Where in the world do you have to pay for hours not yet logged?
I didn’t know any better then, but I’m now in process of complaining to the Bar for this misconduct. I hope they disbar her. She screwed my trial royally. I could have performed better than her and I’m not even a lawyer. At least I would remember to cross question the opposing witnesses. Don’t make the same mistake I did and get an informed lawyer.
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23 May, 2018 by Anonymous
From the start, Kelly was professional and confident. She took the time to learn the facts and hear what we had to say. She was very fair with how she charged for her time, but did thorough research and, despite our unusual case, came to litigation ready with strong case law. We got the result we wanted and needed for the safety of our kids. We would absolutely hire her again.
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25 Apr, 2018 by Marla
Kelly helped me through a very difficult and long divorce. She fought for me and is still fighting for me over a year after my divorce was finalized. I can’t imagine having anyone else by my side except Kelly. Thank you Kelly!
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25 Apr, 2024 by Candice peiffer
28 Jan, 2024 by Julie hutchison
I was not treated like just a client. I was treated like a friend and they truly care about me, my happiness and my well being đź’–.
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25 Jan, 2024 by Pitston marine
There is NO OTHER law firm that I Will TRUST, RECOMMEND, or USE . They are the best at what they do . And they do it with competence, confidence, knowledge, integrity, respect, conscientiousness and emotional intelligence . And that's just the professional side of this firm . Let me say a few words about the personal side of this firm, you will never find people so genuine in how they treat you, the level of care and concern is evident in everything they do . Allison, Derek and Scott you are the bar all others should aspire to .
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07 Aug, 2024 by Cecilia moreno
I had a wonderful experience with the whole team at Warner, Sechrest & Butts. They made the whole process after my car accident so easy and manageable. I highly recommend using their services if you're in need of good legal representation.
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02 Jul, 2024 by John hamilton
very caring and personal with all my needs ,a special thanks to Lorriann for all your help and consideration to help me through this difficult time and mike for all his role in this situation ,Yous both are the greatest in all your professional help , thanks again to warner ,sechrest & butts,p.a. all of you are 5 stars in my book ,thanks again
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26 Jun, 2024 by Mary ammons
07 Aug, 2024 by Cecilia moreno
I had a wonderful experience with the whole team at Warner, Sechrest & Butts. They made the whole process after my car accident so easy and manageable. I highly recommend using their services if you're in need of good legal representation.
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02 Jul, 2024 by John hamilton
very caring and personal with all my needs ,a special thanks to Lorriann for all your help and consideration to help me through this difficult time and mike for all his role in this situation ,Yous both are the greatest in all your professional help , thanks again to warner ,sechrest & butts,p.a. all of you are 5 stars in my book ,thanks again
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26 Jun, 2024 by Mary ammons
07 Aug, 2024 by Cecilia moreno
I had a wonderful experience with the whole team at Warner, Sechrest & Butts. They made the whole process after my car accident so easy and manageable. I highly recommend using their services if you're in need of good legal representation.
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02 Jul, 2024 by John hamilton
very caring and personal with all my needs ,a special thanks to Lorriann for all your help and consideration to help me through this difficult time and mike for all his role in this situation ,Yous both are the greatest in all your professional help , thanks again to warner ,sechrest & butts,p.a. all of you are 5 stars in my book ,thanks again
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26 Jun, 2024 by Mary ammons
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:
-
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.
