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31 Oct, 2024 by Ana cepeda
ZACH and John Paul are simply the best.
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05 Jul, 2024 by David terry
Amazing .. perfect .. and doesn’t play any games .. I got exactly what I wanted because of Emily .. I recommend her ..
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04 Jul, 2024 by Sal ser
Emily is hands down the best divorce/family court attorney. She has helped me with many issues. Custody, divorce, child support and the legal part of selling a house. She puts her heart into it, and she is the only attorney I completely trust...
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31 Oct, 2024 by Ana cepeda
ZACH and John Paul are simply the best.
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05 Jul, 2024 by David terry
Amazing .. perfect .. and doesn’t play any games .. I got exactly what I wanted because of Emily .. I recommend her ..
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04 Jul, 2024 by Sal ser
Emily is hands down the best divorce/family court attorney. She has helped me with many issues. Custody, divorce, child support and the legal part of selling a house. She puts her heart into it, and she is the only attorney I completely trust...
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4.8
4 Reviews
4.9
129 Reviews
11 Dec, 2024 by Maryann maher
23 Nov, 2024 by Robert k
If you are in need of excellent attorney in the Nassau or Suffolk area, I would highly recommend Ed Palermo to handle your case.
Ed’s expertise and dedication have been instrumental in achieving a successful outcome. His strategic approach and attention to detail were truly exceptional. He and his staff were by my side and available whenever I needed. Once again I would highly recommend him for any of your legal needs!
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25 Oct, 2024 by Simon g
Ed was a life saver for me and an excellent lawyer. He negotiated the most favorable outcome for me, and I cannot thank him enough. You must hire Ed if you're needing a great lawyer.
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11 Nov, 2024 by Lauren riccio-shearman
Having to navigate a divorce this past year was tough, I was rocked and didn’t know where to turn. Robert Montefusco and his office will “have your back”, are always willing to explain the process step by step and will fight for you. I couldn’t highly recommend a practice more that works with you and listens to your concerns. He is by far the best!
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14 Oct, 2024 by Donna
Elisa and her team are so easy to work with. Communication was always timely and professional. Elisa assisted with multiple real estate transactions as well as planning my will. Excellent service all around.
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24 Aug, 2024 by Rob cronau
After having a lawyer that i felt didn't adequately represent me and had put me in a tough situation. Robert had taken on the case in my opinion on the losing team and was able to represent me and my daughter with our needs as top priority. Also having the case concluded after trial he had throughly reviewed the results and found an error. Then reached out to proceed with correcting the courts error. I couldn’t be happier with the practice and all staff!
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12 Jan, 2025 by Tyler ernest
Lori did a great job helping me reduce my ticket fine and points. Communication was great and she was very professional the entire time. I highly recommend utilizing her services if needed
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11 Jan, 2025 by Qian zhang
Fast processing and great result - dismissal of ticket by joining one program
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11 Jan, 2025 by Shahid mohd
30 Dec, 2024 by Stephanie castro
Gary was recommended by a friend and was very helpful throughout the whole process. He was able to get my ticket dismissed!! He is great!
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25 Dec, 2024 by Slr food distribution
Gary was awesome! He was quick to respond to any inquiries and updated us frequently on the tickets.
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23 Dec, 2024 by Simon & barb sommerrichards
The best, great result, Gary works magic! HIGHLY RECOMMENDED.
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06 Jan, 2025 by Mister west
Had the pleasure of working with John Caffrey with regards to my legal issues. John is extremely diligent, professional, efficient, knowledgable, and was able to reduce my penalties to the bare minimum in a timely manner.
His fees are more than fair considering the services he is able to provide whilst utilizing his decades of experience in law. If I am ever in need of any form of legal assistance again in the future, I will not hesitate to contact John Caffrey. Thank you again John!
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03 Jan, 2025 by L b
I highly recommend John Caffrey to anyone in need of exceptional legal representation. He handled my case, and I couldn’t be more grateful for the outcome.
John Caffrey showed unmatched professionalism throughout this process. He was always on time for every meeting and court appearance as well as being organized in managing the details of my case. John showed that he actually cared about my situation and worked tirelessly to achieve the best possible resolution.
John took his time out to walk me through my situation by making sure I was very informed about what was going on every step of the way. He always took time to address my concerns that I relayed to him. John is very good with his communication.
If you’re looking for a lawyer who is reliable, genuinely cares about their clients, and will fight for a fair outcome John Caffrey is the one for you!
I am overly thankful for his dedication and time that he has poured into my case. I would recommend him without ANY hesitation!
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23 Dec, 2024 by Marcanthony torres
I'd recommend John's services to anyone he explains everything in great detail and makes sure you have the best representation available.
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5.0
1 Reviews
4.9
129 Reviews
11 Dec, 2024 by Maryann maher
23 Nov, 2024 by Robert k
If you are in need of excellent attorney in the Nassau or Suffolk area, I would highly recommend Ed Palermo to handle your case.
Ed’s expertise and dedication have been instrumental in achieving a successful outcome. His strategic approach and attention to detail were truly exceptional. He and his staff were by my side and available whenever I needed. Once again I would highly recommend him for any of your legal needs!
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25 Oct, 2024 by Simon g
Ed was a life saver for me and an excellent lawyer. He negotiated the most favorable outcome for me, and I cannot thank him enough. You must hire Ed if you're needing a great lawyer.
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06 Jan, 2021 by Anonymous
We have used josh for selling and buying houses. He is 110% the best RE attorney I never seen. Lots of my friend says RE attorney don’t do anything, I told them that they didn’t get lucky to find a good one. Good attorney could make deals but bad one destroys all relationships. Josh is very punctual，detail oriented and knowledgeable. Looking no more, he is the best.
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06 Jan, 2021 by J
I cannot more highly recommend Josh Bogaty and his firm for Long Island real estate transactions. I am myself a lawyer, but do not handle real estate transactions. I was looking for experienced real estate counsel to handle the simultaneous sale of and purchase of residential real estate, a stressful situation that's like trying to thread a needle, with a lot of potential pitfalls. Josh came recommended from a colleague and I'm very glad we found him to advise us in the process.
From our very first phone call through closing on our second transaction, Josh was simply outstanding. He is extremely knowledgable, thorough and highly responsive. We encountered several unanticipated issues throughout the process that could have been disastrous, but with Josh's expert counsel, they ended up just being speed bumps in the rear view mirror on the way to our final destination.
I truly cannot more highly recommend Josh Bogaty for Long Island real estate transactions and would not hesitate to send my own clients or family members to him.
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20 Jan, 2020 by George
Mr. Bogaty assisted with our first home purchase and was truly helpful. He explained every aspect of our deal and fought to make sure we had the most favorable terms. He is very through, efficient and well organized. JOSH DOES NOT BS, and tells you how it is while helping you navigate. In the cutthroat RE market of NYC, having Josh, and his team, on our side made gave us a huge advantage. Until Josh retires I'll continue to recommend him to anyone dealing in real estate.
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19 Nov, 2020 by Corey
Contacted this firm for help getting a mortgage loan modification after I fell behind on my payments while in bankruptcy protection. They helped me file all the necessary paperwork after I dismissed my bankruptcy case and worked with the mortgage company to get my request approved. This saved my home from foreclosure and gave me a peace of mind.
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14 Sep, 2020 by Jaishri
I would like to express my heart out to the freeman law firm Expecially Mr. Joe and Miss. Sandra who work extremely hard to safe my parents house. Both of them work through the pandemic to achieve the gold for us, and I take no hesitation to recommend anyone to this firm they r the best. I have to words to express my joy to them, thanks a million time to both of u. And nevertheless it take just two weeks to get everything done for us. Amazing well done, love u guys. Jaishri
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02 Sep, 2020 by John
From the very first day I met with Lee and Joe I had a very good feeling that I was in the right hands. For five years, I was denied a modification twice and was told by other attorneys to not waste my time, start looking for rentals...I would never get approved. After I had my home go into auction for the first time, a friend introduced to Joe who told me to come and meet with him and Lee to see what they could do to help me and my family. I can honestly say it was the best decision I ever made meeting with them. From day one they did everything they could to help me and guide me through this very stressful situation. They were upfront and honest and said it is definitely going to be a battle but they assured me they would do everything they could to help me get approved for a mod. After a few months of going back and forth and needing to get another stay to delay my 2nd auction, I got the best phone call I've had in years, telling me to come into the office, you need to sign the paperwork you've been approved for a modification!! It was a very emotional time and such a great feeling to know I had people that truly did what they said they were going to do and they helped keep me and my family in my home!
I am a huge fan of everyone at this law firm and would recommend them to everyone and any person that is in need!
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26 May, 2023 by Bob
Chris knows the system and the people involved on all sides and how to deal with them. He is well respected in the criminal justice community.
He helped my son out of a very difficult situation. I found him to be an honest broker and not someone who makes promises that he can't keep. Good legal representation doesn't cost... it pays by sparing a defendant many years of Jail time.
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05 Jan, 2014 by Anonymous
I was charged with a DWI, the cops said I was drunk, but I wasn't. Chris was able to have the charges dismissed after hearings. He was very well versed in the law, made me feel like part of his family. I had access to him 24 hrs a day via phone, text and email.. He always took my calls. I would recommend this attorney to anyone in trouble.
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15 Dec, 2013 by Anonymous
I think Chris G is a great guy, he saved me from going to jail for a long time. Chris diligently worked on my case, visited me in the jail and kept my family and I informed about the status of my case. I never had trouble getting in touch with Chris and neither did my family. Chris told me, his goal was to foster a family atmosphere in his firm for his clients; my family and I now consider him a long lost cousin. Use this attorney, he will not let you down. Jason F.
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18 May, 2015 by Don
I have worked with Christopher Coiro for many years. As a title representative, I often am asked for attorney referrals by realtors, home buyers and home sellers. Chris is one of my top referrals. I refer Chris because I know he is attentive to his client's needs, will make sure they understand everything throughout the process and will make sure they are protected throughout. I do not give out referrals lightly as they can hinder my business if I am not referring someone of quality. I am never concerned about this when I give out Chris' name.
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27 Jan, 2015 by Sabine
We used Christopher when we purchased our home in April 2014. He came recommended by my Agent and he was great. He responded to all of my questions very quickly and helped when the sellers agent proved to be very uncooperative. I would highly recommend Christopher.
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27 Jan, 2015 by Sabine
We used Christopher when we purchased our home in April 2014. He came recommended by my Agent and he was great. He responded to all of my questions very quickly and helped when the sellers Lawyer proved to be very uncooperative. I would highly recommend Christopher.
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13 Jul, 2022 by Jason
So Far the Only Lawyer to Get Me a Good outcome Simply by Following my Directions. I do not know why previous attorney's were unwilling to tell my side of the story or discuss my medical condition; my motives, and the plaintiffs motives. The judge agreed with me and I got a conditional discharge.
Michael was Chosen by Suffolk Legal Aid so he was chosen randomly, as far as I am concerned.
I wanted to represent myself but the Judge ordered a 730 Exam for trying to speak to him in between attorneys.
Michael was able to get me certified competent as well. Suffolk Legal Aid was unable to do that. They were also Unwilling to speak to the Da or Judge on my Behalf. Michael was not Timid in that regard.
However, I shouldn't have to threaten to leave a Bad Review to get an attorney to follow my instructions.
Good Outcome
Found a guy who Proved me Competent
Only Attorney To Follow My Directions
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25 Feb, 2015 by Allison
Michael was hired for what appeared to be a clear cut dismissal of a lawsuit brought against me but unfortunately has turned into much more by the opposing side. I am extremely confident in Michael's legal background and ability and have found if there is something he has not come across before , he knows where to research it and has the resources to find out what is needed. I am grateful he has taken my case and recommend him highly!
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05 Jun, 2018 by Sheila
An absolutely fantastic attorney. Explains every detail every step of the way. Very knowledgeable and always responds to emails and telephone calls. Kept me calm and walked me through every scenario of what could happen with my bankruptcy. Highly recommend her!!
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05 Feb, 2012 by Anonymous
Honesty and integrity have become rare qualities in a lawyer. Elena surpasses anyone's expectations on these qualities. Helpful, compassionate in a time when you need someone to be there for YOU. Someone who you can trust. Working with this law firm produced an outcome far beyond my expectations. When working with lawyers in the past, there was always a "Catch" at the end. With Elena all fees were out front and she lived up to all she said she would do. Extremely smart and thorough she prepares you for the worst so you can proceed with ease. She was the FIRST encounter with a law firm that left me feeling good about the profession. She is a rare human in the world of robots, I would recommend her services to anyone, especially family that were in need of her services. Thank you for all you help!
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19 Apr, 2010 by Eric
Tim has done all of my real estate transactions. He understands that his job is to watch my back while at the same time getting the deal done. Too many lawyers find ways to kill a deal. Tim will do the risk management analysis and tell you where we need to tighten the wording so I do not get hurt. I just hired him again on another transaction.
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16 Oct, 2024 by Joseph jennings
I had the pleasure of working with David Kapp regarding a traffic matter, and I couldn't be more satisfied with the outcome. David's expertise and professionalism truly made a difference. He successfully navigated the complexities of my case, leading to a favorable resolution that exceeded my expectations.
The entire process was seamless, and I was particularly impressed with the excellent communication throughout. David kept me informed every step of the way, which provided a great sense of reassurance. I highly recommend David Kapp for anyone in need of legal assistance. His dedication and skill make him a standout attorney!
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21 Sep, 2024 by Harry
Excellent service, completely dismissed my two tickets. Fair pricing, good communication throughout the process, and great results.
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26 Aug, 2024 by Kerry m
I can't say enough good things about my experience with David S. Kapp! I found him on TikTok and decided to reach out for help with my traffic case. From our very first conversation, he was incredibly professional and attentive. I hired him on a Sunday, and to my surprise, he had everything sorted out by Monday afternoon!
What impressed me the most was his exceptional efficiency and communication. My court date wasn't scheduled for four more days, yet he got everything done well in advance. David ensured that I was prepared and informed every step of the way. He took the time to explain every detail and addressed all my questions, which made me feel confident and supported throughout the process. His responsiveness was remarkable—anytime I reached out, he got back to me quickly, which really eased my anxiety during this potentially stressful situation.
Additionally, I found his billing to be extremely reasonable, especially considering the level of service he provided. David was transparent about his fees from the beginning, and there were no hidden costs or surprises. This straightforward approach made it easy for me to budget without worrying about unexpected expenses.
If you're in need of a traffic attorney, I highly recommend David S. Kapp. He’s not just an attorney but also a true advocate who genuinely cares about getting the best possible outcome for his clients. His blend of professionalism, expertise, and personal attention is truly exceptional.
Thank you for everything, David!
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03 Dec, 2024 by Matthew shephard-lupo
Olivier and his Paralegal Stephanie did an outstanding job with our immigration issues. The process was smooth, efficient and professional and we received the exact outcome we wanted. Throughout the process, there was constant transparency and communication to resolve our issues. Highly recommend Roche Law Group to anyone who needs help with USCIS or immigration related issues.
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19 Nov, 2024 by Roukayatou adebisi
Toscanai law firm is the Best law firm I will recommend everyone to hire as the right representative on all your needed to solve problems, I have a 2 Tickets from state of NewYork. But they dismissed both of my Ticket as aTruck Drive,this is a big relief from my neck. Big Thanks to Your Law firm for great work.
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16 Feb, 2024 by Andrea luna
I’ve worked with the Roche Law Group for almost 5 years as they’ve handled my immigration case. The firm has made my process as seamless as possible. They’ve provided resources, guidance, and reassurance through a very strenuous process. This process would have been very different had it not been handled by them. They’ve made it a personable and tolerable experience while still maintaining a high level of professionalism and demonstrating tremendous skill along the way. I highly recommend them for any legal needs one may have.
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30 Dec, 2024 by Stephanie castro
Gary was recommended by a friend and was very helpful throughout the whole process. He was able to get my ticket dismissed!! He is great!
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25 Dec, 2024 by Slr food distribution
Gary was awesome! He was quick to respond to any inquiries and updated us frequently on the tickets.
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23 Dec, 2024 by Simon & barb sommerrichards
The best, great result, Gary works magic! HIGHLY RECOMMENDED.
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06 Jan, 2025 by Mister west
Had the pleasure of working with John Caffrey with regards to my legal issues. John is extremely diligent, professional, efficient, knowledgable, and was able to reduce my penalties to the bare minimum in a timely manner.
His fees are more than fair considering the services he is able to provide whilst utilizing his decades of experience in law. If I am ever in need of any form of legal assistance again in the future, I will not hesitate to contact John Caffrey. Thank you again John!
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03 Jan, 2025 by L b
I highly recommend John Caffrey to anyone in need of exceptional legal representation. He handled my case, and I couldn’t be more grateful for the outcome.
John Caffrey showed unmatched professionalism throughout this process. He was always on time for every meeting and court appearance as well as being organized in managing the details of my case. John showed that he actually cared about my situation and worked tirelessly to achieve the best possible resolution.
John took his time out to walk me through my situation by making sure I was very informed about what was going on every step of the way. He always took time to address my concerns that I relayed to him. John is very good with his communication.
If you’re looking for a lawyer who is reliable, genuinely cares about their clients, and will fight for a fair outcome John Caffrey is the one for you!
I am overly thankful for his dedication and time that he has poured into my case. I would recommend him without ANY hesitation!
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23 Dec, 2024 by Marcanthony torres
I'd recommend John's services to anyone he explains everything in great detail and makes sure you have the best representation available.
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01 Jan, 2025 by Frank cabra
Chris Chimeri and John Whiteman are two excellent attorneys who helped me, guided me, and made me comfortable every step of the way in my divorce case. John Whiteman ran with my case and brought it to a very successful conclusion, I couldn’t have asked for better representation or a better outcome. Also my thanks to their support staff specifically Shawneice Belin who went above and beyond to help me navigate through this entire process. I would absolutely use Quatela and Chimeri again for any of my legal needs and would highly recommend them to anyone I know in need of legal services.
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06 Dec, 2024 by Denise bellina
I dont know how this attorney is still in business. Causes more harm that good and is expensive. Must have a lot of friends or was a better attorney at one time. Lies and is very lazy.
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18 Nov, 2024 by Peter riviezzo
John Whiteman and Chris Chemeri have been two great attorney's who stuck with me every step of the way during my long divorce journey. They are honest, professional and are readily available for any questions, comments or concerns you may have and will work hard to get the job done.
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09 Mar, 2015 by Brian
He help me with my mother's assets when she passed... he was on top of every issue and helped me in my time of need.... 10+++in my book...
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20 Dec, 2024 by Matthew gaeta
Thay were very professional in ther job handling my case for 9 11 found.
Always keeping me informed about filing from the binning to the end and if needed still there
I would recommend this law fern to handle your case
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11 Dec, 2024 by Vinny ruiz
Hansen & Rosasco done an excellent job representing me.thank you all and happy holidays
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18 Nov, 2024 by Merita buxheli
The are most wonderful and very educated people the works on this firm , the most important for them is to make their clients like me proud of what we did for our country and special this beautiful city on the day of attack. Thank you !!!
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31 Oct, 2024 by Ana cepeda
ZACH and John Paul are simply the best.
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05 Jul, 2024 by David terry
Amazing .. perfect .. and doesn’t play any games .. I got exactly what I wanted because of Emily .. I recommend her ..
Read more
04 Jul, 2024 by Sal ser
Emily is hands down the best divorce/family court attorney. She has helped me with many issues. Custody, divorce, child support and the legal part of selling a house. She puts her heart into it, and she is the only attorney I completely trust...
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07 Nov, 2024 by Edward branis
I found Dan to be very knowledgeable. He helped me out considerably with my problems. I would highly recommend him for all your attorney needs.
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05 Nov, 2024 by Rajminder kaur
I called for help with a traffic ticket, but he informed me he doesn’t handle cases in the area I received mine. However, he was extremely helpful—he took the time to give me valuable advice and even referred me to another attorney who could assist me. I really appreciated his professionalism and willingness to help, even though he couldn’t take on my case personally. Highly recommend him for his integrity and expertise!
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08 Oct, 2024 by Nicole sacks
My experience with Daniel Rodgers was amazing. Super easy to talk to and very understanding. Any help with legal matters, he’s who I’d turn to.
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30 Dec, 2024 by Stephanie castro
Gary was recommended by a friend and was very helpful throughout the whole process. He was able to get my ticket dismissed!! He is great!
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25 Dec, 2024 by Slr food distribution
Gary was awesome! He was quick to respond to any inquiries and updated us frequently on the tickets.
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23 Dec, 2024 by Simon & barb sommerrichards
The best, great result, Gary works magic! HIGHLY RECOMMENDED.
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30 Dec, 2024 by Stephanie castro
Gary was recommended by a friend and was very helpful throughout the whole process. He was able to get my ticket dismissed!! He is great!
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25 Dec, 2024 by Slr food distribution
Gary was awesome! He was quick to respond to any inquiries and updated us frequently on the tickets.
Read more
23 Dec, 2024 by Simon & barb sommerrichards
The best, great result, Gary works magic! HIGHLY RECOMMENDED.
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30 Dec, 2024 by Stephanie castro
Gary was recommended by a friend and was very helpful throughout the whole process. He was able to get my ticket dismissed!! He is great!
Read more
25 Dec, 2024 by Slr food distribution
Gary was awesome! He was quick to respond to any inquiries and updated us frequently on the tickets.
Read more
23 Dec, 2024 by Simon & barb sommerrichards
The best, great result, Gary works magic! HIGHLY RECOMMENDED.
Read more
30 Dec, 2024 by Stephanie castro
Gary was recommended by a friend and was very helpful throughout the whole process. He was able to get my ticket dismissed!! He is great!
Read more
25 Dec, 2024 by Slr food distribution
Gary was awesome! He was quick to respond to any inquiries and updated us frequently on the tickets.
Read more
23 Dec, 2024 by Simon & barb sommerrichards
The best, great result, Gary works magic! HIGHLY RECOMMENDED.
Read more
30 Dec, 2024 by Stephanie castro
Gary was recommended by a friend and was very helpful throughout the whole process. He was able to get my ticket dismissed!! He is great!
Read more
25 Dec, 2024 by Slr food distribution
Gary was awesome! He was quick to respond to any inquiries and updated us frequently on the tickets.
Read more
23 Dec, 2024 by Simon & barb sommerrichards
The best, great result, Gary works magic! HIGHLY RECOMMENDED.
Read more
30 Dec, 2024 by Stephanie castro
Gary was recommended by a friend and was very helpful throughout the whole process. He was able to get my ticket dismissed!! He is great!
Read more
25 Dec, 2024 by Slr food distribution
Gary was awesome! He was quick to respond to any inquiries and updated us frequently on the tickets.
Read more
23 Dec, 2024 by Simon & barb sommerrichards
The best, great result, Gary works magic! HIGHLY RECOMMENDED.
Read more
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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.
