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21 Oct, 2013 by Steven
Peter Armstrong has helped my family and extended family with wills, living trusts, and other vital documents. He was personable and interested in what was best for our family. He did great work and revealed great character. I highly recommend using Peter Armstrong for family law needs.
Bottom line: He cares and is trustworthy.
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12 Apr, 2013 by Stacy
I came to Pete with a horrible divorce. He was honest with me, even when I didn't want to hear it and was there for me and the kids the whole way. I could not have had a better lawyer! My case was pushed away by other lawyers due to the circumstances involved, but Pete took it and was not only very involved but one of the most patient and understanding lawyers I could have ever hoped to have found. He was always there to answer questions and console me when I was frustrated or upset. Thanks to Pete, I have my kids and my life back and everything we need to start our new life!
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26 Jul, 2011 by Theresa
I found Pete Armstrong strictly by accident, and it was a blessing that I did. I actually found him before I even met him, I filled out a motion on my own for reimbursement of medical expenses in the self help center at the court house, and it was actually Pete who helped me find the right forms, and without telling me what to say, guided me through filling out those forms. I never would have been able to win my motion without his help.
When I went looking for an attorney, I fell upon Pete by accident. I called and left him a message, told him what I was needing and got a very prompt response. After speaking with me, he told me he could look over my file at the court and let me know his opinion on what I should do. I was grateful for any advice he would give me, and after discussing fees I decided to retain him to be my voice in order to do what needed to be done in the best interest of my children in my parenting time and child support case. Pete was on my children's side through the entire thing. I can't express how much it meant to me that he wasn't on my side, and he wasn't on my ex's side, but he was there to protect my children and do what was best for them.
I have never encountered anyone like him before, no matter what I said, or expressed to him, he never judged, he was the voice that I needed to speak for me and to help me do right by my children.
I have since reconciled with my ex and we are putting our family back together, and even in that Pete has been helpful, letting me know what steps needed to be taken to rectify issues outstanding with our cases in court.
If you ever need an attorney, Pete is the one I would recommend for anything family related. He's not in it for the money, he's in it for the family...and that means everything to me.
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06 Aug, 2013 by Debbie
I have to apologize in a way, that I feel so bad...that I actually started to cry so hard, from all that I thought happened at his office, that I wish I could do something for the whole office to make it up to them.
I am not afraid to admit when I am wrong no matter how much I have to pay for what I caused for being wrong!
The office was still continuing to keep my case in good standing while I was accusing them of losing most of my evidence. They worked very hard to try and find the evidence I claimed that I had left with them at the front desk a week and a half ago. Well? I did not leave the folders for them... I left a folder for my accountant.
I ended up finding the files in a bin that was unknowingly put there by my husband!
I will be personally giving the office a personal apology for all of the accusations I accused them of that they were not guilty of...Please accept my apologies...
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18 Oct, 2009 by Shaun
Greg always made himself available in a timely and appropriate fashion... He puts forth an effort with a passion that let's you know, he's your lawyer, but he genuinely has your best interests at heart... Admist many around him who may not show the same enthusiasm, it's not even a question as to whether or not I'd reccimend him... One couldn't ask for a better lawyer...
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15 Dec, 2023 by Kabindra lama
29 Sep, 2023 by Danielle stites
Getting ready to retire. Not taking new clients. Super nice guy.
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03 May, 2023 by Edwin hill, jr.
Rob's professionalism is impeccable and his attention to detail helps put anyone at ease. His knowledge of the law and career experiences help him to provide expert advice and legal planning services. Please consider using Rob for any of your legal estate planning.
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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.
