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07 Jul, 2022 by Joe
Was very patient and always helped when I asked questions. Case couldn’t have gone any better !
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18 May, 2021 by Benjamib
Very helpful and understanding very patient i will highly recommend him. Very friendly person.
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04 Feb, 2021 by Daniel
Lawyer Johnathan helped me get out of jail from a Misdemeanor for not having a class A license. He made it where I have court supervision paid a fine and that’s it. Made things less stressful. Good bless him for his blessings!!
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13 Jan, 2015 by Ryan
Tom has been a great resource as our family lawyer. He has guided us through difficult topics such as drafting a will and all the implications and tough discussions that are required to complete that process properly. He handled it with grace and compassion without diluting the core subjects that required attention to complete. Tom has also handled our property transactions and closings. He has been able to provide us with enough information so we felt comfortable with the path we were on while keeping us aware of any potential mishaps that could occur. In our last transactions we ended up running into some issues but due to the preparation we were in a productive space to move forward and handle the situation professionally and promptly. I utilize Toms services across all major legal areas concerning my family's well being and security and have yet to be disappointed in the quality or results he has produced. I recommend Tom Tozer as a strong option for a qualified and effective legal representative for anyone needing legal services.
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11 Jan, 2015 by Brenda
My first experience with Tom Tozer was a great one. Tom made me comfortable in a very difficult situation. He was always available to answer any questions no matter how trivial. I appreciate that he is always easy to contact. We have now used his expertise in several situations and he has proved to be competent in many areas.
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07 Jan, 2015 by George
My partner and I were very lucky to have Mr. Tom Tozer as our legal counsel while purchasing our first home. Tom is very knowledgeable regarding real estate law. He has the unique ability to breakdown complicated legal issues to simple and understandable advice for his clients. Tom was always quick to respond to phone calls and emails. I would highly recommend Tom to all those seeking legal counsel.
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07 Jan, 2023 by Anonymous
Chris worked with my sister and I to settle our parent’s trusts and estates. He and his team were very knowledgeable, approachable, and responsive. He guided us in every step of the process and did everything he committed to do in a timely manner. He and his staff were never rushed, always available to discuss issues, were courteous, and professional. I highly recommend him.
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12 Sep, 2015 by Johnson family
Mr. Cummings, and assistant (Claire), have been truly appreciated while having had to assume Guardianship for a beloved family member. While providing the expertise, integrity, one’s patience and professionalism make it clear being such a respected individual & law firm in our area. On behalf of our family, we thank you.
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26 Jan, 2010 by Anonymous
Mr. Cummings was very helpful while selling my elderly mother's house. He was professional, informative, and knowledgeable.
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18 Dec, 2013 by Pk
George Olsen has exceeded my expectations. He took the time to understand and research my case and worked hard to get the best possible outcome I could imagine. I am so thankful to have found him. I highly recommend him to anyone having issues with forclosure/lenders. He is a miracle worker in my opinion!
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06 Jul, 2024 by Davehalfgreekcook? crook9552246
Best lawyer you could ever ask for, kinda a Mark Twain man that gets it Done. With wit and can dance his way around a courtroom. Friends do what they say, that's why I'm proud to call him Old Friend and my lawyer.
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29 Aug, 2024 by Stephanie cox
Atty Broadnax was amazing. She explained everything in detail. She was very patient and thorough. The entire process was seamless and quick. I feel very confident that my financial affairs are protected. I will definitely refer her to others.
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26 Aug, 2024 by Jermaine bulie
Attorney Jeanne Broadnax is one of the best lawyers in the state of Illinois dealing with Real Estate. I really appreciate her work that she did and it is great pleasure to work with her.
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26 Aug, 2024 by Shaunteah radcliffe
Attorney Broadnax is excellent. This was my first time selling a property and my situation was complicated by the fact that I live out of state. Attorney Broadnax explained the process and answered all of my questions and acted promptly to ensure a smooth and uneventful process. I appreciate her help and clear explanation as well as the reasonable fee. I am very satisfied with the service that I received from both Attorney Broadnax and her staff.
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27 Aug, 2024 by Alex nance
Very professional and always on the spot when needed. Call randomly to check up on previous clients just to check on your well being. Whenever I have a question they go the extra mile to get me an answer as quick as possible.
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18 Oct, 2023 by Magdalena gawron
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22 Jul, 2023 by Elizabeth johns
Terrible!!!! Negative stars
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06 Feb, 2019 by Itzel garcia
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04 Jun, 2018 by Brandon griffin
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21 Mar, 2018 by Pat halpin
Over the years I have dealt with all three attorneys. They are knowledgeable, prompt, and professional with affordable fees. You'll receive personal service from an experienced attorney who knows both the law and our complicated legal system. I have referred numerous friends and family members to use their services, and will continue to do so in the future.
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14 Jun, 2023 by J smith
Found him Googling and think someone mentioned him. Was a simple straight forward case one he specializes in. Chuck seems like a clean cut person but always to busy. Office is nice. Gave me a price up front on phone. Never really talked with him or met him till later. Paid him right away. After that he was hard to reach. I had just a few simple updates or questions. Almost ever returned simple voice messages or emails. If you get the answering machine don't leave a message. Call back later when the lady up front can answer. I knew another person that used to pratice at one time. I had to go to them to clarify some simple questions / concerns. That was very helpfull but sad Once the case ran it normal course he wanted more money to send the final paper work out. Yet this was part of the whole case the whole time. Still waiting on 2 emails and 2 calls to be returned cause of something he mentioned to call him about after the case was done. But he sure cashed the second check.
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15 Nov, 2020 by Kevin giltmier
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05 Sep, 2020 by Mayme buckley
No follow-up, still waiting on a return call 😕
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14 Jun, 2023 by J smith
Found him Googling and think someone mentioned him. Was a simple straight forward case one he specializes in. Chuck seems like a clean cut person but always to busy. Office is nice. Gave me a price up front on phone. Never really talked with him or met him till later. Paid him right away. After that he was hard to reach. I had just a few simple updates or questions. Almost ever returned simple voice messages or emails. If you get the answering machine don't leave a message. Call back later when the lady up front can answer. I knew another person that used to pratice at one time. I had to go to them to clarify some simple questions / concerns. That was very helpfull but sad Once the case ran it normal course he wanted more money to send the final paper work out. Yet this was part of the whole case the whole time. Still waiting on 2 emails and 2 calls to be returned cause of something he mentioned to call him about after the case was done. But he sure cashed the second check.
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15 Nov, 2020 by Kevin giltmier
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05 Sep, 2020 by Mayme buckley
No follow-up, still waiting on a return call 😕
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25 Apr, 2022 by Anonymous
I hired Attorney Andrews to take care of a case for me. He is unprofessional. Does not call you back or respond to emails or texts. Because of his unprofessionalism, I'm in jeopardy of losing my case.
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01 Apr, 2022 by Anonymous
One of the hardest lawyers to get a hold of will not return your phone calls almost impossible to get ahold of somebody at his office. Made in agreement with him on a mistake on his clients behalf and waited till the last second to contact anybody would not recommend this guy to anybody avoid at all cost
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08 Feb, 2019 by Anonymous
We hired attorney Andrews with a very specific need. Months later he still has not completed the task he was hired to do. Getting in touch with him is a challenge. Repeated calls and emails before any response is received. He always has an excuse as to something that's going on in his life that prevents him from doing the job he was hired to do. The service is absolutely horrible and we cannot get in touch with him to get an itemized bill and our retainer back. I would not recommend doing business with him under any circumstance.
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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:

  1. 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.
  2. 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.
  3. 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.
  4. 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.
  5. 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.
  6. 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.

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