Lawyers map
>521
experienced lawyers
Filter by
21 Aug, 2024 by Zelideth rivera
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I cannot express enough gratitude for the exceptional legal services provided by my lawyer and her team. From the moment I retained their services three months ago, they demonstrated unwavering dedication to my custody case, ensuring that every call was answered promptly, and every concern was heard with empathy and professionalism.
Thanks to the remarkable expertise and efficiency of Ms.Gillian, we were able to reach a resolution in an impressively short amount of time. Throughout the entire process, I felt reassured by their commitment to prioritizing my interests above all else. Their meticulous attention to detail and strategic approach ensured that I never settled for anything less than what was truly in my best interest.
I am beyond satisfied with the outcome of my case, and I have my lawyer and her team to thank for their exceptional work. If anyone is in need of a family attorney who will fight tirelessly on their behalf, I wholeheartedly recommend them. Thank you for everything.
Read more
17 Jul, 2024 by Madeleine spence
I was very satisfied with the representation of the Lewter Law Firm. I recommended to everyone for your legal matters. Very professional but also made the process easy.
Read more
14 Jun, 2024 by Roney roy
Thanks for everything, bec of this law office I got my life together, all the workers are very nice every step was perfect,
Read more
10 May, 2024 by Ice princess
Poor cold pizza request cash back by next two weeks ok please important
Read more
07 Jun, 2023 by Scott rubinson
I highly recommend Andrrew Cohen. He has always advised me correctly . My family is grateful to him. You are not going to get better, He puts his clients first!!! . Lynn Rubinson
Read more
17 Feb, 2023 by Cindy lassman
19 Aug, 2024 by Robert zeisler
04 Apr, 2024 by Tayla archer
24 Dec, 2023 by Peter rossi
I found Ms. Richards to be highly unprofessional, highly unethical and highly prejudicial in the execution of my parent's estate.
In my opinion, resorting to threats and bullying in an attempt to intimidate a particular beneficiary is beneath the conduct you would otherwise expect from a member of the Bar Association.
To be clear, I was not "unhappy with my parent's estate", I was shocked by Ms. Richard's behavior.
Her handling of the estate relative to administration and advice given was deplorable, and in no way represented what my parents would have wanted. If you're in the market for an estate attorney that you can trust to do the right thing upon your passing, I recommend that you look elsewhere.
I would not have even given Ms. Richards a "1 star" review, but Google doesn't accept anything less.
Read more
19 Aug, 2024 by Robert zeisler
04 Apr, 2024 by Tayla archer
24 Dec, 2023 by Peter rossi
I found Ms. Richards to be highly unprofessional, highly unethical and highly prejudicial in the execution of my parent's estate.
In my opinion, resorting to threats and bullying in an attempt to intimidate a particular beneficiary is beneath the conduct you would otherwise expect from a member of the Bar Association.
To be clear, I was not "unhappy with my parent's estate", I was shocked by Ms. Richard's behavior.
Her handling of the estate relative to administration and advice given was deplorable, and in no way represented what my parents would have wanted. If you're in the market for an estate attorney that you can trust to do the right thing upon your passing, I recommend that you look elsewhere.
I would not have even given Ms. Richards a "1 star" review, but Google doesn't accept anything less.
Read more
19 Aug, 2024 by Robert zeisler
04 Apr, 2024 by Tayla archer
24 Dec, 2023 by Peter rossi
I found Ms. Richards to be highly unprofessional, highly unethical and highly prejudicial in the execution of my parent's estate.
In my opinion, resorting to threats and bullying in an attempt to intimidate a particular beneficiary is beneath the conduct you would otherwise expect from a member of the Bar Association.
To be clear, I was not "unhappy with my parent's estate", I was shocked by Ms. Richard's behavior.
Her handling of the estate relative to administration and advice given was deplorable, and in no way represented what my parents would have wanted. If you're in the market for an estate attorney that you can trust to do the right thing upon your passing, I recommend that you look elsewhere.
I would not have even given Ms. Richards a "1 star" review, but Google doesn't accept anything less.
Read more
19 Aug, 2024 by Robert zeisler
04 Apr, 2024 by Tayla archer
24 Dec, 2023 by Peter rossi
I found Ms. Richards to be highly unprofessional, highly unethical and highly prejudicial in the execution of my parent's estate.
In my opinion, resorting to threats and bullying in an attempt to intimidate a particular beneficiary is beneath the conduct you would otherwise expect from a member of the Bar Association.
To be clear, I was not "unhappy with my parent's estate", I was shocked by Ms. Richard's behavior.
Her handling of the estate relative to administration and advice given was deplorable, and in no way represented what my parents would have wanted. If you're in the market for an estate attorney that you can trust to do the right thing upon your passing, I recommend that you look elsewhere.
I would not have even given Ms. Richards a "1 star" review, but Google doesn't accept anything less.
Read more
19 Aug, 2024 by Robert zeisler
04 Apr, 2024 by Tayla archer
24 Dec, 2023 by Peter rossi
I found Ms. Richards to be highly unprofessional, highly unethical and highly prejudicial in the execution of my parent's estate.
In my opinion, resorting to threats and bullying in an attempt to intimidate a particular beneficiary is beneath the conduct you would otherwise expect from a member of the Bar Association.
To be clear, I was not "unhappy with my parent's estate", I was shocked by Ms. Richard's behavior.
Her handling of the estate relative to administration and advice given was deplorable, and in no way represented what my parents would have wanted. If you're in the market for an estate attorney that you can trust to do the right thing upon your passing, I recommend that you look elsewhere.
I would not have even given Ms. Richards a "1 star" review, but Google doesn't accept anything less.
Read more
19 Aug, 2024 by Robert zeisler
04 Apr, 2024 by Tayla archer
24 Dec, 2023 by Peter rossi
I found Ms. Richards to be highly unprofessional, highly unethical and highly prejudicial in the execution of my parent's estate.
In my opinion, resorting to threats and bullying in an attempt to intimidate a particular beneficiary is beneath the conduct you would otherwise expect from a member of the Bar Association.
To be clear, I was not "unhappy with my parent's estate", I was shocked by Ms. Richard's behavior.
Her handling of the estate relative to administration and advice given was deplorable, and in no way represented what my parents would have wanted. If you're in the market for an estate attorney that you can trust to do the right thing upon your passing, I recommend that you look elsewhere.
I would not have even given Ms. Richards a "1 star" review, but Google doesn't accept anything less.
Read more
19 Aug, 2024 by Robert zeisler
04 Apr, 2024 by Tayla archer
24 Dec, 2023 by Peter rossi
I found Ms. Richards to be highly unprofessional, highly unethical and highly prejudicial in the execution of my parent's estate.
In my opinion, resorting to threats and bullying in an attempt to intimidate a particular beneficiary is beneath the conduct you would otherwise expect from a member of the Bar Association.
To be clear, I was not "unhappy with my parent's estate", I was shocked by Ms. Richard's behavior.
Her handling of the estate relative to administration and advice given was deplorable, and in no way represented what my parents would have wanted. If you're in the market for an estate attorney that you can trust to do the right thing upon your passing, I recommend that you look elsewhere.
I would not have even given Ms. Richards a "1 star" review, but Google doesn't accept anything less.
Read more
19 Aug, 2024 by Robert zeisler
04 Apr, 2024 by Tayla archer
24 Dec, 2023 by Peter rossi
I found Ms. Richards to be highly unprofessional, highly unethical and highly prejudicial in the execution of my parent's estate.
In my opinion, resorting to threats and bullying in an attempt to intimidate a particular beneficiary is beneath the conduct you would otherwise expect from a member of the Bar Association.
To be clear, I was not "unhappy with my parent's estate", I was shocked by Ms. Richard's behavior.
Her handling of the estate relative to administration and advice given was deplorable, and in no way represented what my parents would have wanted. If you're in the market for an estate attorney that you can trust to do the right thing upon your passing, I recommend that you look elsewhere.
I would not have even given Ms. Richards a "1 star" review, but Google doesn't accept anything less.
Read more
06 Mar, 2024 by Kc1263
John Fiore is an outstanding lawyer, he goes out of his way for you always keeps you updated and you're treated like one of the family
Read more
02 Feb, 2019 by Anthony
From the moment I met John and his staff I felt like I'm the only one who matters. Like I was there only client. They worked hard for my 2 cases. I was given personal phone numbers to keep in touch. They even call to see how I'm doing. To see if there are updates and to just say hello. Not bad for an Attorney. Actually very impressive for any Attorney. Thanks John, Mary Grace and staff.
Read more
20 Jan, 2019 by Erik
John genuinely cares about his clients. Him and his staff have done a great job with my case.
Read more
06 Sep, 2023 by Ann marie
Anthony Famularo was an amazing lawyer for my partner and I in both purchasing and selling our first home! He made the whole process easy to understand and was always available to answer our questions. We are super grateful for Anthony's services and would recommend his services without any reservations.
Read more
13 Aug, 2023 by Sharon
Excellent work, reasonable rates. The courts gave us the runaround after my mother-in-law passed away. He made it so easy for us to get it done. He is very considerate of the clients needs.
Read more
29 Dec, 2019 by Katrina chapman
Worst attorneys ever. Slip shod work and does not keep the confidentiality of the client. Avaricious and spiteful.
Read more
12 Jul, 2024 by Desipience
14 Jun, 2022 by Tina murphy
Maureen Dougherty is a wonderful attorney! I needed her expertise on several occasions and was elated with each outcome. I was very impressed with her knowledge, honesty, thoroughness and understanding. I highly recommend her. Maureen is a gem!
Read more
17 Feb, 2022 by Troubled solutions
Maureen Dougherty is 100% top Lawyer. She is a pit bull when she needs to be. What ever was promised and explained she went way beyond to help. I wouldn’t waste my time with any other lawyer. Go directly to the main source. You’ll thank me in the end.
Read more
12 Jul, 2024 by Desipience
14 Jun, 2022 by Tina murphy
Maureen Dougherty is a wonderful attorney! I needed her expertise on several occasions and was elated with each outcome. I was very impressed with her knowledge, honesty, thoroughness and understanding. I highly recommend her. Maureen is a gem!
Read more
17 Feb, 2022 by Troubled solutions
Maureen Dougherty is 100% top Lawyer. She is a pit bull when she needs to be. What ever was promised and explained she went way beyond to help. I wouldn’t waste my time with any other lawyer. Go directly to the main source. You’ll thank me in the end.
Read more
12 Jul, 2024 by Desipience
14 Jun, 2022 by Tina murphy
Maureen Dougherty is a wonderful attorney! I needed her expertise on several occasions and was elated with each outcome. I was very impressed with her knowledge, honesty, thoroughness and understanding. I highly recommend her. Maureen is a gem!
Read more
17 Feb, 2022 by Troubled solutions
Maureen Dougherty is 100% top Lawyer. She is a pit bull when she needs to be. What ever was promised and explained she went way beyond to help. I wouldn’t waste my time with any other lawyer. Go directly to the main source. You’ll thank me in the end.
Read more
17 Mar, 2019 by Mike
For a Father who has had 5 Attorneys and twice Pro-Se, I believe my review and recommendation about Warren Holds Water. I was going through a Tumultuous divorce and custody battle for 7 years until I met Warren.
The divorce process is an extremely stressful and overwhelming experience trying to find the right Attorney. Unfortunately, If you do not have the right one from the get go, things get worse. They all tell you what you want to hear, such as; I know the Judge in your case, I don’t lose custody cases, we need to get you your kid, but it takes time and we have to crawl before you walk.
All these Attorneys give you false hope and promises. The Unethical Attorneys which are most of them have their trick. Every Plaintiff and Defendant must fill out a Net Worth Statement, there they can gauge how much they are going to take you for. For me, I did pretty well before my divorce financially.
These Attorneys take a retainer from you, do a few things that make you think this Attorney is doing a good job. As time goes on and when you get more involved in the case these Attorneys start neglecting you. They don’t take your calls or respond to your e-mails. Then they tell you when you finally get in touch with them is that now we have to do a motion and that will cost $1500.00 and everything else they can milk you for. They just keep leading you on until you realize after lining their pockets that you are net getting anywhere. Well, that what happen to me until I ran out of money and had to twice represent myself which I DO NOT RECOMMEND.
Warren was recommended to me by my Therapist. I made an Appointment to see Warren and he also had his Associate Andrea Scampoli in the conference room. We reviewed my case and also told him that I had 4 previous Attorneys. Now a Lawyer has to think, What is wrong with this person! But after discussing my situation and told him who my Attorneys were which he knew two of them we then began to go over my case. I than hired Warren and gave him a retainer. We started getting down to business and filed what ever motions were needed and Andrea Actually represented me in Court. There is no messing with her. She gets the job done and with in six months I had what I wanted from day one, 50/50 custody.
This team represents you with dignity and respect and are sensitive to your situation. They will always call you back and/or respond to e-mails. Warren and Andrea are the dream team when it comes to divorce. I guarantee you will not need to interview another Attorney after speaking with them. Also, once my case was over, I had a credit with Warren and within a couple of days Warren sent me a check
In closing, The other Gentleman Rick who wrote a review, I know very well as we both had the same Attorney prior to hiring Warren.
Read more
11 Aug, 2018 by Maria
I have been a client of Warren's for the past 5 years. He has personally helped me survive the worst 2 years of my life. His professionalism and dedication to my family is unheard of.
Warren was my voice when I couldn't have one; my voice of reason when I was too emotional, and my teammate in so many ways. He was available to me whenever I needed him, including his personal time off. Warren readily responded to my emails and phone calls in a time when I needed guidance and reassurance.
Warren is a man of integrity who has fought for what I've believed to be the best for my family and has leveled with me when I was unable to see a bigger picture. He was always prepared for meetings; always preparing for the next step and kept me abreast in all conversations and decisions.
I have been blessed to have had such a wonderful man and friend in my corner, fighting to protect my family
Read more
20 Jan, 2018 by Anonymous
Mr. Hoffman was sincere, compassionate and honest during a very difficult time. He listened carefully, answered all of my questions, offered advice and treated me with respect as I navigated through the many decisions I had to make for my children and I. His knowledge in divorce/separation/mediation, the County/State Court systems, judges, etc. were second to none. After hiring Mr. Hoffman, both he and his staff successfully negotiated the best possible settlement for me with no complications and in a timely manner. I highly recommend hiring Mr. Hoffman as your lawyer.
Read more
01 Mar, 2024 by Jim grady
13 Mar, 2023 by James tubridy
My Dad, David J. Tubridy, had great success working with the Firm's Founder, John Mahon for my Mom's elder care needs. We had similar success with Atty. James Kerins on my wife's long term care. Highly recommended.
Read more
10 Jan, 2023 by Maureen murphy
Fabulous attorneys. James and his assistant were extremely helpful and professional. I am very grateful. I would highly recommend them!
Read more
07 May, 2024 by Amy brent
I had the pleasure of Mr. Borrelli handling my employment matter. He is much more than I had hoped for and am very happy with the outcome. I look forward to what the future holds. Mr. Borrelli was referred to me by either the EEOC or Division of Human Rights. I highly recommend him and his firm.
Read more
08 Apr, 2024 by Frank davis
13 Mar, 2024 by Jay lewis
To answer: I was never given the option to become a client of your firm.
Your offices reviewed my matter and declined to represent me.
I don't have a problem with this, but what does bother me (and the reason for my 1 star review) is that your attorney didn't even offer a cursory explanation of why he declined to represent me. He simply had his secretary call and tell me that he wouldn't pursue the matter.
It's a lack of basic professionalism, and bothered me enough to rate your firm 1 star.
Read more
23 Jul, 2017 by Jonathan m.
Long story short, this excuse for a lawyer completely screwed up my case involving a foreclosure. He is not up on current laws and I will be filing a complaint with the Bar Association. I paid this moron and he did NOTHING! NOTHING, NOTHING NOTHING! He even had the nerve to tell me to seek another lawyer specializing in probate, when my matter had NOTHING to do with probate although he claimed he knew all about probate. RUN AS FAST AS YOU CAN.
Read more
29 Oct, 2016 by Jonathan grindell
Neil defended me during my first civil disobedience arrest. While the charges were mitigated, I was told it would be expunged However, this was not the case when I tried to cross the border.
Read more
07 Jan, 2015 by Anonymous
Got my tenant out quick! Answered his own phone! Was concerned, polite and cost was reasonable! I could even reach him at night or on weekends. THE BEST!!!
Read more
06 Nov, 2013 by Andrea
I met Mr Lederman "Keith" one year ago when a collection agency garnished my check! The collection agency sent the notice to my employer after stating they served me at an address that I had not lived at for 14+ years. He calmed me down and EXPLAINED EVERYTHING to me using words and an examples that I understood since I am not an attorney. He is very flexible and did EXACTLY WHAT HE SAID from the first meeting. I have since retained him again for another issue.
Read more
12 Oct, 2023 by Tia
Where do I begin. This attorney and I will address him as such because to say his name would be to acknowledge him as a person and he is less then such. My boyfriend has been incarcerated for 2 years in Rikers Island. This attorney has not put in any motions for bail, no speedy trial motions and does not respond to calls or texts. He does not visit my boyfriend, yet he goes to court every month stating that he is trial ready. 2 years and no trial? Ridiculous. He does not provide requested documents and is extremely hard to speak with. On top of that he is condescending and obnoxious. My boyfriend has gone to court on multiple occasions and requested a new attorney for which his presiding judge Landry refuses to remove him as counsel. My boyfriend has told him on multiple occasions he no longer wants this attorney to represent him and he will not remove himself. Suspected Collusion is a great word to use when it comes to this attorney. Beware he pushes for plea deals and if you refuse he makes you rot in prison. I don't recommend hiring this attorney at all. His Google reviews are horrible. Check them out.
Read more
01 Sep, 2023 by Dana
If i could give 0 stars, I would. These are his comments or his friends and family trying to make himself like he is a good guy and lawyer. Go look at Google review not site reviews where he cab out in different names or comments. This is all lies he's a terrible man person lawyer etc. Has a disgusting attitude. Should lose his license for practicing in law
Read more
09 Oct, 2020 by Daniella
Highly recommended by a friend, I hired attorney Glenn Hardy to represent me in a long, complicated case. As he expressed in one of his defense arguments: I was innocently at the site at the wrong time. After acquiring a video from a street camera, he proved that I was mistaken by my accuser.
During the trial, I was terrified but Mr. Hardy kept his positive sense of humor while taking my case seriously and analyzing every single statement given. I was so grateful to his dedication and assertiveness to a positive outcome.
Read more
09 Aug, 2023 by Danny c
The best
Read more
10 Oct, 2018 by David s
09 Oct, 2018 by Karema ward
Best Attorney in town!
Read more
30 Sep, 2024 by Dara eskenazi
Angela has been our attorney for a while. Great estate planning advice.
Read more
13 Apr, 2022 by Tom truppo
Excellent lawyer got me what I wanted and more.
Read more
09 Mar, 2022 by אפיק כהן
28 Nov, 2023 by Robin
He is patient and soft spoken . In my opinion he is a silent crook who is for the buyers not the sellers. He overcharged for the retainer cost. He gave the buyers more money than discussed without discussing any information with me, He does not communicate information to his clients as needed. I did all of the foot work and calling to get things done before closing. With the assistants of the realtors. He was no assistance, but tried to overcharged me at closing over $1000 dollars. My opinion he is lazy, and just want the pay check. Be careful if you hire him stay ontop of your information needed.
Read more
27 Dec, 2012 by Anonymous
Marc Paz is an extremely patient and thorough attorney. While recommended as a closing attorney for our first mortgage, we had such a good experience with him that we asked him to assist us with our wills, (my living will) and to set up a trust for my son.
Marc is both personable and professional. He did not just “do” his part and collect a fee. Unlike other attorney’s I have dealt with, he explained each step of the processes so we understood what was happening before we signed any piece of paper.
I highly recommend him.
Read more
13 Jun, 2017 by Anonymous
Hired Steven during a dark time, he helped probate a contentious will along with selling of my sister's estate. He handled the closing and walked me through the probate process. Always responsive and professional. You are in good hands with Steven and the firm Baram & Kaiser.
Read more
12 Jun, 2017 by Anonymous
Was recommended by someone but he's a terrible lawyer. Makes constant mistakes, despite claiming to have years of experience, doesn't follow up on time, and says things will be done at a certain time (but never actually does them). Maybe he's too busy with other clients, but I don't see the professionalism here.
Read more
01 May, 2021 by Anonymous
Attentive and smart. Highly recommend, was always available and was fantastic during closing
Read more
19 Jul, 2017 by Anonymous
This attorney is arrogant and very difficult to deal with! He does not look after your best interest, all he cares about is his fee and doing as little as possible! He is not helpful one bit! There are tons of great lawyers out there and he is NOT in that category!
Read more
29 Dec, 2019 by Katrina chapman
Worst attorneys ever. Slip shod work and does not keep the confidentiality of the client. Avaricious and spiteful.
Read more
24 Dec, 2016 by Mehran kohanim
27 Dec, 2018 by Carole
Tom Liotti has handled multiple real estate and personal injury cases for me. He is very professional and thinks outside of the box to get the best possible results, even in difficult cases. If you are looking for an attorney to fight for you, Tom Liotti is the one.
Read more
26 Aug, 2010 by Anonymous
I did not got any results after 3 years working closely with Law firm..
Read more
22 Aug, 2010 by Anonymous
In 3 years he could not defend or achieve any result in our favour and charged a very heavy fee for his non performance in our case
Read more
06 Mar, 2024 by A1997951
Takes forever to do anything and charges a boatload of money. Very nice guy and will talk for hours on end. Not aware of certain laws in NYS that could have negatively impacted the outcome of our case. Always on vacation.
Read more
05 Aug, 2017 by Anonymous
Awful. Actually what is worse than awful. Never met him. His associate dealt with everything and she was just as curt as he was in emails. Felt like we were treated at the bottom of the barrel even though we were paying them a fee to close on a home. We always had to make the first contact, and felt like we were burdening them everytime we had a question about anything. Everything they did was last minute and inaccurate and I constantly had to check on their numbers and work. Do not waste your money. You can get a cheaper, nicer, and more respectful lawyer than the ones at this office.
Read more
24 Jun, 2015 by Anonymous
Used this attorney on recommendation of the real estate broker. At no time in the course of the closing process have we ever met him. Not once would he come on the phone. He would occasionally answer emails, but occasionally not. Issues that arose at the closing which might have been anticipated and elucidated in the contract were not, making the closing painful. Finally, we paid 3 days extra interest to the bank because he didn't WIRE the buyer's funds to our bank to pay off the mortgage. Total of $700 lost.
Read more
Discover the ideal lawyer
You can search a lawyer by practice area, lawyer name, city, state, or ZIP code
FAQs
Questions? We have answers
What a Real Estate Lawyer Can Do for You
A real estate lawyer provides legal assistance in transactions and disputes involving property, including residential and commercial real estate. Whether you're buying, selling, leasing, or developing property, a real estate attorney can help ensure that your transactions are legally sound and your rights are protected. They review contracts, perform due diligence, resolve disputes, and provide legal representation in negotiations and litigation involving property matters.
Real estate lawyers are crucial in safeguarding your investment by ensuring compliance with local, state, and federal real estate laws, as well as protecting you from potential legal pitfalls related to property ownership and transactions.
When Should I Hire a Real Estate Lawyer?
Hiring a real estate lawyer is beneficial in various scenarios, including:
- Buying or selling property: When navigating complex real estate contracts, it’s advisable to have a lawyer review and ensure that the terms are favorable and legal.
- Commercial property transactions: For leasing, purchasing, or selling commercial properties, a lawyer can help manage the intricate legal aspects of such transactions.
- Zoning or land use issues: If you're planning to develop property or change its use, a real estate lawyer can guide you through zoning laws and land use regulations.
- Resolving property disputes: For boundary disputes, title issues, or disagreements over property rights, a lawyer can help mediate or litigate the matter.
- Foreclosures or evictions: If you're dealing with foreclosure or managing a tenant eviction, legal representation ensures that the process adheres to local laws and protects your interests.
- Title and deed issues: Lawyers can help clear title disputes, ensure the legitimacy of property deeds, and handle transfers of ownership.
What Does a Real Estate Lawyer Do?
A real estate lawyer provides a range of services to help with property transactions and disputes, including:
- Contract drafting and review: Ensuring that purchase agreements, leases, and other contracts are legally binding, fair, and protect your interests.
- Title search and clearance: Conducting a thorough title search to ensure that the property has no legal claims or liens that could affect ownership.
- Facilitate closing: Managing the closing process in real estate transactions, including reviewing final documents and ensuring that everything is in order before the transfer of ownership.
- Resolve disputes: Handling legal disputes related to property ownership, boundaries, zoning, or tenants.
- Assist in financing: Reviewing loan agreements and mortgage documents to ensure the terms are fair and legally sound.
- Zoning and land use advice: Guiding clients through the complexities of zoning laws and building regulations for property development or renovation projects.
How Are Real Estate Lawyers Paid?
Real estate lawyers typically charge for their services in the following ways:
- Flat fee: Many real estate transactions, such as reviewing a sales contract or assisting with a closing, are charged on a flat-fee basis.
- Hourly rates: If a lawyer is handling complex disputes or litigation, they may charge by the hour. Hourly rates can vary significantly based on the lawyer’s experience and location.
- Contingency fees: In rare cases, such as property disputes or claims for damages, a lawyer may work on a contingency fee basis, meaning they only get paid if you win or settle the case.
- Retainer: For ongoing legal support, some clients may pay a retainer, which is an upfront fee used as a deposit for future legal services.
It's important to clarify the fee structure with your attorney before hiring them to avoid any surprises.
How Much Does a Real Estate Lawyer Cost?
The cost of a real estate lawyer varies based on the complexity of the matter, the location of the property, and the lawyer’s experience. Key factors that affect pricing include:
- Type of transaction or issue: Simple tasks, like contract reviews, typically cost less than handling a complex property dispute or litigation.
- Experience and location: More experienced lawyers or those in high-demand areas, like urban centers, often charge higher rates.
- Billing structure: Lawyers may charge a flat fee for basic services like document review or hourly for more time-intensive work such as disputes or litigation.
Flat fees for straightforward services like closing assistance may range from $500 to $1,500.
Hourly rates can range from $150 to $400 or more, depending on the attorney’s experience and location.
Always discuss fees upfront to understand the overall cost of the legal service you're receiving.
Top Questions to Ask a Real Estate Lawyer
Before hiring a real estate lawyer, ask the following questions to ensure they are the right fit for your legal needs:
-
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.
