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31 Aug, 2021 by Brandon
I highly recommend Mr. Mcleod. It is sad and disturbing how insurance company's treat you when a family member passes away. My 4 year son was left a life insurance policy by his loving, generous Uncle and the insurance company did all they could not to give my son what belonged to him without making us spend a large sum to get it. After going to another lawyer who said basically I need to pay the money to get my son his, I found Mr. Mcleod who immediately said that's not right. Needless to say I will be going to Mr. Mcleod for all my Lawyer needs as long as he is in business!!!
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26 Jun, 2021 by Amanda
Tyler McLeod is excellent! I live in the Midwest but he was able to help my family navigate an unusual situation in South Carolina involving both a contentious property contract of sale and the death of one of the parties to the contract that would possibly have required probate. Tyler was professional, attentive, responsive, and creative. Additionally, I believe his demeanor helped us achieve successful resolution. I was very pleased with the process and outcome and I won’t hesitate to contact Tyler again should we have future needs in South Carolina. I highly recommend him!
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19 May, 2021 by Tracy
I worked with a few expensive unhelpful lawyers and then I found Tyler! I am 5 states away and he was so helpful and quick! I immediately trusted him! He and his team finalized my dads estate so quick and easy for me! I will forever be grateful!
Thank you!
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08 Feb, 2020 by Adelaide
Mr. James Bannister and his father, Mr. Oscar Bannister are extraordinary people and attorneys! Words can never accurately express their greatness! My children and I went through a horrific ordeal when we were seperated unwarranted due to an assault on myself. Because I had pending charges due to the assault ( the father of my child claimed that I shot him without reason but it was proven that I had reason and the rights to stand my ground after he forced his way into my home) my children were temporarily placed in the custody of a relative! Mr. James Bannister made sure that they were not lost in the system! He and his dad Mr. Oscar Bannister collaborated and represented me in both my family and criminal case! I was ultimately found to have acted in self defense, all charges dropped and my children were back at home where they belonged! Before the charges were dropped the children were placed back in my home due to the Bannisters and their aggressive and thorough drive to have them back home to prevent any further distress! I remember telling Mr. Bannister that my children were afraid that I was going to jail and his exact words to me were " you tell them , NOT ON MY WATCH!" I thank GOD for the Bannisters! They are forever in my heart and my prayers along with their paralegals Cheree and Terri!!!
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08 Aug, 2017 by Anonymous
James Bannister was extremely fast and efficient..answered every question and takes great care of his clients! He works hard for his clients to reduce charges and he is successful! Would highly recommend James Bannister to anyone looking for a great lawyer!
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24 Aug, 2016 by Kristin
Mr.Bannister is a brilliant attorney. He is extremely experienced, intelligent, and detailed. He is very knowledgeable about the law and proper/improper procedures. I was found not guilty. Since the trial, two of the six jurors have come to my business to ask me my attorney's name. Yes, Mr. Bannister is that good.
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25 Mar, 2016 by Douglas
Mr. Stewart has assisted me in several potentially tricky issues. Brilliant, witty and efficient, he cuts through red tape smoothly and efficiently. Would not hesitate to patronize his services in the future. HIGHLY recommended.
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27 Apr, 2015 by Steve pearce
Mr. Steward came to me highly recommended as the man to handle a law suit made necessary by
a lessee who was derelict in paying his 1. taxes and 2. insurance, both of which were agreed to in his leases, and were a year in arrears.
We found Mr. Stewart to be personable, knowledgeable, helpful, effective, and above and beyond the call of duty. I would not hesitate to recommend him to others; and, I would/will use him again. He's a nice guy, and a gentleman of "the old school".
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06 Apr, 2015 by Matthew
I recently recommended Mr. Stewart to my father-in-law. He owns property in another state, and had concerns about it. Mr. Stewart was able to speak to him, and give him great advice. Due to the fact the property was located in another state, Mr. Stewart was not able to personally handle the situation but he provided all the information necessary for him to get the problem handled. Thank you Mr. Stewart for your help!
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08 Mar, 2024 by Nicolas custer
05 Jul, 2020 by David whitfield
09 Dec, 2017 by Lee dial
14 Apr, 2016 by Barry
Most recently, one of my neighbors projects was going to interfere with the enjoyable use of our property. Ms. McConoughey was able to stop the project, help negotiate a solution acceptable to all parties, for which we are very grateful. She made sure that our interests were considered and that our concerns were taken seriously. She was also timely in her interactions with the other party and responsive to our concerns and questions. We highly recommend her to anyone who needs legal representation.
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08 Apr, 2016 by Anonymous
Every single decision Rachel made in my case led to the most optimal outcome. She collaborated with me, thoughtfully analyzed my case and represented me in court better than I would have ever imagined. She is an exceptional attorney because she truly cared about me as a client. Top notch!
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07 Apr, 2016 by Austin
Rachel met with the police officer prior to the court date to work out a deal. She was able to convince him to agree to defer my sentences. The police officer suggested to the judge that my sentencing be deferred. I didn’t have to speak in court. I had to pay no fines. As long as I don’t have any run-ins with the law, I will have nothing on my record. The whole process was completely painless. I could not be happier with the service she provided and would recommend her to anyone. Thank you Rachel!
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06 Dec, 2019 by Anonymous
My development companies always use Jim - extremely satisfied with his work - but this review is even beyond that and motivated by his tireless work to resolve a very complicated issue involving the City government, the County government and the State - as well as others - and Jim’s quick comprehension of the multitude of issues has been overshadowed by his even greater talent of understanding both the legal technicalities and personalities Involved. Most of all, it has been his creativity and relaxed, but remarkable, ability to reach a workable consensus among all parties.
Without Jim, I wouldn’t have time to even write this. It’s a pleasure to review him in the highest manner.
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15 Sep, 2016 by Barbara allen
Informed, caring, in touch, forthright meeting all expectations and promises.
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28 Sep, 2023 by Joe konopacke
03 Mar, 2022 by Kendell lee jefferson
09 Oct, 2019 by Kiki mint
Any firm that hires Trey Gowdy has to be awesome ! So excited, proud and relieved he’s representing the President ! Mr. Gowdy you have it all Sir... humble confidence , a true passion for what is right and the strength to go after it. Oh and you are wicked smart ! I thank you for how you handled Benghazi. So thankful you are on Fox! Maybe after this impeachment whatever it is they will give you your own show! I’m a fan Sir. God has blessed you with so many talents. May he continue to bless you and give you strength!
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28 Sep, 2023 by Joe konopacke
03 Mar, 2022 by Kendell lee jefferson
09 Oct, 2019 by Kiki mint
Any firm that hires Trey Gowdy has to be awesome ! So excited, proud and relieved he’s representing the President ! Mr. Gowdy you have it all Sir... humble confidence , a true passion for what is right and the strength to go after it. Oh and you are wicked smart ! I thank you for how you handled Benghazi. So thankful you are on Fox! Maybe after this impeachment whatever it is they will give you your own show! I’m a fan Sir. God has blessed you with so many talents. May he continue to bless you and give you strength!
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28 Sep, 2023 by Joe konopacke
03 Mar, 2022 by Kendell lee jefferson
09 Oct, 2019 by Kiki mint
Any firm that hires Trey Gowdy has to be awesome ! So excited, proud and relieved he’s representing the President ! Mr. Gowdy you have it all Sir... humble confidence , a true passion for what is right and the strength to go after it. Oh and you are wicked smart ! I thank you for how you handled Benghazi. So thankful you are on Fox! Maybe after this impeachment whatever it is they will give you your own show! I’m a fan Sir. God has blessed you with so many talents. May he continue to bless you and give you strength!
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28 Sep, 2023 by Joe konopacke
03 Mar, 2022 by Kendell lee jefferson
09 Oct, 2019 by Kiki mint
Any firm that hires Trey Gowdy has to be awesome ! So excited, proud and relieved he’s representing the President ! Mr. Gowdy you have it all Sir... humble confidence , a true passion for what is right and the strength to go after it. Oh and you are wicked smart ! I thank you for how you handled Benghazi. So thankful you are on Fox! Maybe after this impeachment whatever it is they will give you your own show! I’m a fan Sir. God has blessed you with so many talents. May he continue to bless you and give you strength!
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28 Sep, 2023 by Joe konopacke
03 Mar, 2022 by Kendell lee jefferson
09 Oct, 2019 by Kiki mint
Any firm that hires Trey Gowdy has to be awesome ! So excited, proud and relieved he’s representing the President ! Mr. Gowdy you have it all Sir... humble confidence , a true passion for what is right and the strength to go after it. Oh and you are wicked smart ! I thank you for how you handled Benghazi. So thankful you are on Fox! Maybe after this impeachment whatever it is they will give you your own show! I’m a fan Sir. God has blessed you with so many talents. May he continue to bless you and give you strength!
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28 Sep, 2023 by Joe konopacke
03 Mar, 2022 by Kendell lee jefferson
09 Oct, 2019 by Kiki mint
Any firm that hires Trey Gowdy has to be awesome ! So excited, proud and relieved he’s representing the President ! Mr. Gowdy you have it all Sir... humble confidence , a true passion for what is right and the strength to go after it. Oh and you are wicked smart ! I thank you for how you handled Benghazi. So thankful you are on Fox! Maybe after this impeachment whatever it is they will give you your own show! I’m a fan Sir. God has blessed you with so many talents. May he continue to bless you and give you strength!
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28 Sep, 2023 by Joe konopacke
03 Mar, 2022 by Kendell lee jefferson
09 Oct, 2019 by Kiki mint
Any firm that hires Trey Gowdy has to be awesome ! So excited, proud and relieved he’s representing the President ! Mr. Gowdy you have it all Sir... humble confidence , a true passion for what is right and the strength to go after it. Oh and you are wicked smart ! I thank you for how you handled Benghazi. So thankful you are on Fox! Maybe after this impeachment whatever it is they will give you your own show! I’m a fan Sir. God has blessed you with so many talents. May he continue to bless you and give you strength!
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07 Aug, 2024 by Judy jetson
Equal opportunity employer, hiring even very young unqualified black women and taking them for a “pretty woman” experience. Philanthropic goget-her. -Lush Baby!
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26 Jul, 2024 by Chilya
Run it up people! This guy does good work, and his sugar baby is broke! Help her out please!
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25 Jul, 2024 by Giovanni giaco
Best lawyer ever — even took yo me to Wendy’s and gave the best service a young boy could ask for
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01 Oct, 2024 by Nugget0million
01 Oct, 2024 by S s
Very friendly and helpful.
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25 Sep, 2024 by Angela gillespie
Amazing Service. I love this law firm. Genevieve is the best. I've worked with her a few times. She's a sweetheart, and it's awesome to have her on your case.
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01 Oct, 2024 by Nugget0million
01 Oct, 2024 by S s
Very friendly and helpful.
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25 Sep, 2024 by Angela gillespie
Amazing Service. I love this law firm. Genevieve is the best. I've worked with her a few times. She's a sweetheart, and it's awesome to have her on your case.
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03 Sep, 2024 by David lott
This is my second real estate closing with De Bruin Law Firm. They are friendly, professional, and well organized. They communicate updates regularly through their app and provide easy electronic signatures for documents pre-closing. They entire staff is friendly and helpful. I highly recommend them for your real estate attorney needs.
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05 Aug, 2024 by Bondurant legal
We do all of our personal real estate closings through the DeBruin Law Firm and I send Aaron all of the trust and estates referrals that come through my office. A great firm!
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05 Aug, 2024 by Sam mcconnell
Helped make closing on a house very smooth and quick.
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03 Sep, 2024 by David lott
This is my second real estate closing with De Bruin Law Firm. They are friendly, professional, and well organized. They communicate updates regularly through their app and provide easy electronic signatures for documents pre-closing. They entire staff is friendly and helpful. I highly recommend them for your real estate attorney needs.
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05 Aug, 2024 by Bondurant legal
We do all of our personal real estate closings through the DeBruin Law Firm and I send Aaron all of the trust and estates referrals that come through my office. A great firm!
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05 Aug, 2024 by Sam mcconnell
Helped make closing on a house very smooth and quick.
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02 Oct, 2024 by Taivan floydd
18 Sep, 2024 by Pastor ben
If I could give a thousand stars to Chad I would. Always there when I need something let me know every option and chance we had. Had a really positive outcome on the case and would tell everyone to go to him.
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11 Sep, 2024 by Tj
Outstanding professionalism and friendliness. A sincere helping hand when I needed one most. Thank you, Mr. Chad Propst!
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07 Oct, 2024 by Sageinca
I only had a consultation with Adam, but walked away well informed and guided in what my choices were. Touma Law Firm was very prompt in response and scheduling the consultation. Very professional and if I had to choose to retain Adam I would have full confidence in him.
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16 Sep, 2024 by James houdini
In the fall of 2023, I was arrested and charged with 5 major drug felonies. My house was raided and I was immediately taken into custody. That night I was taken in front of the judge and had the charges slowly read to me one by one. The following were read: Drug Trafficking, Possession, Possession with Intent to Distribute and so on. My bail was set at a quarter million dollars; I was looking at decades in prison. I was hopeless, scared and at a loss for words. From this moment on my life was officially over. To make matters worse, I have no family or close friends in the state of South Carolina. At this point I knew God himself couldn’t get me out of this, or maybe I was wrong! When I was placed in a jail cell that evening my mind was racing, I was scared and alone. Where do I turn?
Just a few months prior I had the pleasure of meeting Attorney Adam Touma. He told me, he owns his own law firm, and to call him if I ever needed anything. This is exactly what I did and it was the best decision I made. The very next morning I was called out of my cell and told that I had a visitor. It was him. Attorney Adam Touma assured me that I was not alone, that he and his team were there for me every step of the way. Within no time my bail was drastically reduced and I was released from jail. Guess who was waiting outside for me? Yup, Adam! The journey from there lasted a full year. Attorney Touma and his team would keep in touch with me as well as my family every few weeks. They were the ones reaching out, not me.
Fast forward to today. Four out of five felony charges were dismissed. I am now facing one, Drug Trafficking. Attorney Touma also got this reduced to a possession charge. I went from facing twenty five or more years to fourteen months probation. This is unheard of. I’m still in disbelief. Adam has been more than just an attorney, he is now a friend. If anyone needs help, for whatever reason, give Touma Law Firm a shot. I went from complete and utter hopelessness, to complete and utter disbelief. His team are miracle workers. He is a Godsend. Thanks, Josh
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09 Sep, 2024 by 在下咸鱼王（在下咸鱼王）
I wanted to take a moment to express my sincere gratitude for the exceptional work you did on my case. Your legal expertise and strategic thinking were evident throughout the process, and I truly appreciate how you handled everything with such professionalism.
Not only were you able to navigate the complexities of the case with ease, but you also took the time to explain everything to me in a way that was clear and understandable. Your dedication and attention to detail gave me confidence and peace of mind during what could have been a stressful time.
Thank you once again for your hard work and commitment. It was a pleasure working with you, and I will certainly be recommending your services to anyone in need of legal assistance.
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07 Oct, 2024 by Sageinca
I only had a consultation with Adam, but walked away well informed and guided in what my choices were. Touma Law Firm was very prompt in response and scheduling the consultation. Very professional and if I had to choose to retain Adam I would have full confidence in him.
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16 Sep, 2024 by James houdini
In the fall of 2023, I was arrested and charged with 5 major drug felonies. My house was raided and I was immediately taken into custody. That night I was taken in front of the judge and had the charges slowly read to me one by one. The following were read: Drug Trafficking, Possession, Possession with Intent to Distribute and so on. My bail was set at a quarter million dollars; I was looking at decades in prison. I was hopeless, scared and at a loss for words. From this moment on my life was officially over. To make matters worse, I have no family or close friends in the state of South Carolina. At this point I knew God himself couldn’t get me out of this, or maybe I was wrong! When I was placed in a jail cell that evening my mind was racing, I was scared and alone. Where do I turn?
Just a few months prior I had the pleasure of meeting Attorney Adam Touma. He told me, he owns his own law firm, and to call him if I ever needed anything. This is exactly what I did and it was the best decision I made. The very next morning I was called out of my cell and told that I had a visitor. It was him. Attorney Adam Touma assured me that I was not alone, that he and his team were there for me every step of the way. Within no time my bail was drastically reduced and I was released from jail. Guess who was waiting outside for me? Yup, Adam! The journey from there lasted a full year. Attorney Touma and his team would keep in touch with me as well as my family every few weeks. They were the ones reaching out, not me.
Fast forward to today. Four out of five felony charges were dismissed. I am now facing one, Drug Trafficking. Attorney Touma also got this reduced to a possession charge. I went from facing twenty five or more years to fourteen months probation. This is unheard of. I’m still in disbelief. Adam has been more than just an attorney, he is now a friend. If anyone needs help, for whatever reason, give Touma Law Firm a shot. I went from complete and utter hopelessness, to complete and utter disbelief. His team are miracle workers. He is a Godsend. Thanks, Josh
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09 Sep, 2024 by 在下咸鱼王（在下咸鱼王）
I wanted to take a moment to express my sincere gratitude for the exceptional work you did on my case. Your legal expertise and strategic thinking were evident throughout the process, and I truly appreciate how you handled everything with such professionalism.
Not only were you able to navigate the complexities of the case with ease, but you also took the time to explain everything to me in a way that was clear and understandable. Your dedication and attention to detail gave me confidence and peace of mind during what could have been a stressful time.
Thank you once again for your hard work and commitment. It was a pleasure working with you, and I will certainly be recommending your services to anyone in need of legal assistance.
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09 Aug, 2024 by J vincent
A true professional who does exactly what he promises.
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08 Aug, 2024 by Caleb howard
If you are ever in need of an employment lawyer, then look no further. Jeremy Summerlin is absolutely amazing!
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28 Jun, 2024 by Elizabeth h
Professional that listens
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09 Aug, 2024 by J vincent
A true professional who does exactly what he promises.
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08 Aug, 2024 by Caleb howard
If you are ever in need of an employment lawyer, then look no further. Jeremy Summerlin is absolutely amazing!
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28 Jun, 2024 by Elizabeth h
Professional that listens
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08 Feb, 2024 by A.j. singh
Swift closing. Knowledgeable and responsive attorney. Not much more I could ask for
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08 Dec, 2023 by Barbara fleckenstein
30 Oct, 2023 by Sheila young
Horton Law Firm is a wonderful firm for real estate, We have used them for a long time. Expert staff that close on time. Love Jan and her staff, they are the best!
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09 Sep, 2024 by Stephanie franklin
Rude woman answered the phone. Just hung up to find a nicer person. Why would you pay anything for someone to be rude when you are looking for information.
Edit: yes you did call to fuss about the 1 star review. No I did not ask for legal advice, I asked if something was legal to do. To be told "it like going into Walmart to buy a coke and telling them your not paying for it". If I am asking a question about it I am not buying it. no I am not paying $175 to find out if something is legal to do. Yes you are butt hurt or you would have never called me fussing about the 1 star review. Yes I have a lot on my plate so no I am not going to get into a debate with you about the rude statement your employee made. Maybe stop being rude because I was never rude to your employee and absolutely called her out on it over the phone before I hung up. Absolutely deserve the 1 star for the rude comment she made.
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25 Jul, 2024 by Robert stringer
I have worked with the McCord Law Firm a couple of times for real estate purchases. I couldn't have asked for an easier experience. Everyone I've dealt with has been nice and communicative. I look forward to working with the in the future and highly recommend them!
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25 Jul, 2024 by Robert stringer
I have worked with the McCord Law Firm a couple of times. They are wonderful to work with and very responsive. I look forward to working with the in the future and highly recommend them!
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03 Apr, 2024 by Liz s
This guy is a complete piece of work. If you want someone who will bend the law and change court dates to find a judge to side with him. You have found him! Hope the BAR does a full investigation on him and this judge before victimizing other good people
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22 Mar, 2024 by Danny glance
Horrible about keeping in touch with clients. I haven't heard anything from him in 3 months. Never returns phone calls. Always has an excuse for not calling you for months
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02 Mar, 2023 by Dan yarborough
Will has been extremely diligent and thorough in the handling of some family court matters on my behalf. He always kept me in the loop as to what was going on. With his vast amount of knowledge and experience on full display, I remained confident every step of the way. In closing I would have to say that after working with Will for the last couple years that he is a fine lawyer and I will most definitely hire him if another situation arises.
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24 Jul, 2024 by Kathleen congdon
I am grateful to Pettus/Farnsworth for their guidance and counsel with my case. I was the victim of a car crash and the firm walked me through every step of the process, answering questions and following up with me many times over the past year which resulted in a successful settlement.
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17 Jul, 2024 by Lisaml1972
Hired Dan Farnsworth and his firm to help my son with Criminal charges that unfortunately involved homicide as a pedestrian was crossing a very busy road and my son struck due to not seeing him…. The mistake my 19yr old made was leaving the scene because he was so scared and traumatized by all the blood. He was facing 30 yrs in prison. Dan was on it!! He took care of us and our family every step of the way! Best lawyer in the upstate!!
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09 Jul, 2024 by Charity christensen
If I could give Dan Farnsworth 0 stars, I would! He's a thief and a liar. He took $12,500.00 of my family's money, and then cut off all communication without even submitting a single motion in the custody case. Beware of this scamming "attorney"!!
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04 Jul, 2024 by Thomas villar
love her and her team...she takes care of all my real estate business
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03 Jul, 2024 by Bruce ko
01 May, 2024 by Terry burwell
I'm a mortgage loan originator and get to work with several different real estate attorneys, and my experience with Cristine and her team is phenomenal! I highly recommend her.
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24 Oct, 2023 by Paige norris
MGC makes the home buying process smooth and painless. They had everything ready to go when we arrived. We were in and out in about 30 minutes
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11 Mar, 2023 by Jane helms
18 Oct, 2022 by Lucia nieves
🙏🏠
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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:
-
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.
