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25 Feb, 2025 by Alex price
Had a very great consultation with David Robert Squeri III. He was cordial, respectful, but above all knowledgeable in Real Estate matters.
Not only was he well versed in current law that applied to me, but he also gave me insight as to how to understand the law. Based on meeting with him, I have better direction and can feel empowered with the knowledge in real estate.
I highly recommend setting an appointment and hiring him for your needs. His attention to detail and ability to explain all aspects is a skillset you absolutely want on your side.
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02 Dec, 2024 by Arielle808
When you're dealing with things like DV and custody, the last thing you need is to be used and abused by your lawyer/firm, someone who is supposed to advocate for and care about you.
I was with this firm for about a year. I was forced to switch to 3 different lawyers and was charged each time. DO NOT go with this firm. The first lawyer I had was so cold and gave bad legal advice that ended up screwing up my case. I was with the second lawyer for about a month before they switched me again. Again, I was charged each time for each new lawyer to review my case and to meet with them to catch them up. It was traumatizing because I'm going through a custody battle and DV case so each time I had to explain again about how my soon to be ex-husband is abusing and has abused me and my children. I've also been charged even when THEY had to reschedule a meeting. It was unreal. They called me a couple hours prior and I graciously agreed. Thankfully I watched the bills because they had the nerve to charge me for that call. It seems like they are very scattered, unorganized and greedy. I acknowledge that lawyers deserve to be paid but they absolutely went too far.
One of my lawyers I had literally called me the wrong name in court multiple times. One time mispronouncing it and one time calling me someone else's name entirely. It was humiliating. She also filed papers from someone else's case with my case papers. It was a nightmare! I'm so thankful I left and I now have a lawyer who genuinely cares.
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12 Aug, 2024 by Shalondra suto
Mr. Liebenguth was prompt and informative when initially seeking his consultation and service. I appreciate his approach as it’s geared towards understanding what your concerns are and educating you on his services before requesting payment. He is very knowledgeable about Military processes and without him representing me I believe my outcome would have been negative. Having him in my corner gave me so much peace of mind while going through a stressful situation. I strongly recommend hiring Mr. Liebenguth for representation to ensure your process is fair and just.
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19 Sep, 2020 by Sean taoka
Very friendly and explained everything
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23 Feb, 2016 by Rkp
Mark and his team showed tremendous knowledge and skill for my case. They took the time to explain to me the pros and cons, and they were realistic with attainable goals. Words can't really explain how very much appreciative I am for their dedication and hard work. Mark and Clay are an awesome team, and I wouldn't ask for any other attorney!
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26 Jul, 2024 by Ron
Nancy was exceptionally helpful with the sale of our business. She was prompt, efficient, responsive. Her advice was very useful and sound. She really helped us get the complicated deal done correctly.
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25 Jun, 2024 by Guy
Nancy came highly reccomended to me. I contacted her on short notice for some urgent work on a small business contract issue. She asked the right questions, and was able to arrive quickly and accurately to the right answers. Her help is greatly appreciated.
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19 Jun, 2024 by Peter
Nancy Gretchen proved to be an exceptional attorney for our property closing in Lanikai, Hawaii. Despite us being remote in New York, Nancy flawlessly managed every aspect of the transaction. She efficiently handled the formation of our LLC, guided us through the negotiation process, and provided expert advice on the 1031 exchange, an area in which she is particularly skilled. Her expertise and attention to detail ensured a smooth and stress-free experience, making us feel confident and well-supported throughout the entire process.
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24 Oct, 2022 by Elizabeth watanabe
Love this family run firm
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05 Feb, 2020 by Brad mcminn
09 Dec, 2019 by Celso
This attorney took time out to answer some questions , and clearly explained my options at time of need, you will not go wrong with this man, I owe him a world of gratitude, he has been in vigil for our electronic correspondence with this individual prime contractor who is being very, even thought his review does not ask if you WOULD HIRE him, you would be so wrong in not doing so.
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11 Aug, 2024 by Nan suk rogers
He knows his field and he defend his clients with dedication and cares for his clients. I strongly recommend Alan.
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31 Dec, 2023 by Jae tracy
28 Nov, 2023 by Ed
31 Oct, 2023 by Gabriela
Nathan is professional, knowledgeable, and very responsive, every time I contacted him he got back to us promptly. His expertise in real estate is invaluable and he did a great job of protecting our interests, we would have been lost without him.
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29 Oct, 2023 by Anonymous
Completed sale and filing of house sale to our complete satisfaction. Worked with trust lawyer and completed including our specific special circumstances.
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28 Oct, 2023 by Leonard
Nathan Natori assisted me in a home purchase. He was quick, thorough and accommodating by allowing all to be done by email and phone.
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18 May, 2023 by Michi behen
I highly recommend Lynnae Lee and Associates.
Lynnae Lee and Curtis Kam are very high quality work.
They and their assistants are very respectable.
It was very hard moment when I met them, but they helped and work hard for me.
I am very very appreciated their work.
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18 May, 2023 by Nyob nyobfu
Was referred to this law firm through a work referral service. Tried to call several times during breaks or after work. The phone number is a voice mailbox and no one ever answers. Email POC not available in referral or on the website. Don't waste your time.
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21 Mar, 2023 by Harriet ching
I originally found Attorney Lynnae Lee searching on-line. I contacted her office and spoke to Paralegal-Shayne Tobara. She was very polite, kind and respectful in explaining the process. I than spoke to Attorney Lynnae Lee who was also very polite, kind, respectful, knowledgeable, and patient in answering all my questions and concerns. Also assisting was Paralegal, Debi Goto-Hirokawa like everyone else was very polite and kind. The process was long BUT Lynnae's entire staff made me feel comfortable and very confident in their work. They are all very professional, efficient and most importantly RESPECTFUL and FRIENDLY. Thank you Lynnae, Shayne, and Debi for guiding me through this stressful process! Keep up the GREAT WORK
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25 Feb, 2025 by Alex price
Had a very great consultation with David Robert Squeri III. He was cordial, respectful, but above all knowledgeable in Real Estate matters.
Not only was he well versed in current law that applied to me, but he also gave me insight as to how to understand the law. Based on meeting with him, I have better direction and can feel empowered with the knowledge in real estate.
I highly recommend setting an appointment and hiring him for your needs. His attention to detail and ability to explain all aspects is a skillset you absolutely want on your side.
Read more
03 Dec, 2024 by Максим бердников
Выражаем благодарность Елене Невской и ее команде за содействие на всех этапах получения EB-2 NIW визы. Наш путь был сложным и долгим, но благодаря экспертности Елены, мы стали счастливыми обладателями гринкарт! Рекомендуем Елену как профессионала в своем деле!
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02 Dec, 2024 by Arielle808
When you're dealing with things like DV and custody, the last thing you need is to be used and abused by your lawyer/firm, someone who is supposed to advocate for and care about you.
I was with this firm for about a year. I was forced to switch to 3 different lawyers and was charged each time. DO NOT go with this firm. The first lawyer I had was so cold and gave bad legal advice that ended up screwing up my case. I was with the second lawyer for about a month before they switched me again. Again, I was charged each time for each new lawyer to review my case and to meet with them to catch them up. It was traumatizing because I'm going through a custody battle and DV case so each time I had to explain again about how my soon to be ex-husband is abusing and has abused me and my children. I've also been charged even when THEY had to reschedule a meeting. It was unreal. They called me a couple hours prior and I graciously agreed. Thankfully I watched the bills because they had the nerve to charge me for that call. It seems like they are very scattered, unorganized and greedy. I acknowledge that lawyers deserve to be paid but they absolutely went too far.
One of my lawyers I had literally called me the wrong name in court multiple times. One time mispronouncing it and one time calling me someone else's name entirely. It was humiliating. She also filed papers from someone else's case with my case papers. It was a nightmare! I'm so thankful I left and I now have a lawyer who genuinely cares.
Read more
29 Oct, 2018 by Chris
I’ve been an attorney for 20 years and know an attorney can be his or her own worst client. So when I had a minor business dispute with a vendor, I hired Ryan to handle it. it was settled in a few days on more favorable terms than I’d authorized. Great job, for a fee that was more than reasonable. I’d recommend Ryan to anyone.
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27 Oct, 2018 by Hannah
My family came to Ryan with a fairly uncommon problem. We needed his help transferring the guardianship of an adult from one state to another and also from one co-guardian to a new co-guardian. Sounds simple right? Ryan does not specialize in this type of law (I don't think many do), but he didn't bat an eye. We hired Ryan, and he was able to find out everything he needed to make our complex request He filed everything in a timely manner to get us in front of a judge and to get our matter handled. His prices were so reasonable, we felt compelled to give him a bonus for his stellar performance. I would choose him a thousand times.
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29 Jun, 2018 by Joe
Called Ryan to get some advice for an estate with no signed will. We spoke for about 45 minutes and he took a real interest in my situation. He laid out expected fees and other costs and asked great questions and relayed a similar circumstance he dealt with and it made my decision easy.
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02 Dec, 2020 by Anonymous
Daniel and Rush Moore LLP not only represented me throughout my case but they also supported me more than any other lawyer I’ve worked with. They are honest, hard working, and always there for me. I appreciate their kindness and patience when answering all of my questions and explaining to me what everything meant throughout the process. Even during COVID slowing things down they always showed up and gave me updates on everything. I wouldn’t trust anyone else since they are the ones to got me trust the justice system/lawyers again.
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13 Nov, 2020 by Anonymous
Forced sale of home and Transference of title. Very competent and professional in handling all aspects of my case. Courteous and helpful and always prompt at returning phone calls and answering questions.
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18 Sep, 2020 by Terry
I recently hired Daniel Chen to resolve a legal issue our company had with a local company located in Hawaii. He moved quickly and efficiently to bring about a happy ending as we had hoped at the lowest cost to us. I recommend this attorney for any legal issues.
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09 Jun, 2015 by Anonymous
Although it was determined after Mr. Sakoda and I communicated by email that I would need Family Law representation for my legal situation, Mr. Sakoda was extremely helpful in offering me advice regarding a Family Trust, very quick to respond during our dialog and a compassionate person.
I am sorry I will not be able to use his services to represent me. I would definitely recommend him to friends and family.
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10 Jan, 2015 by Anonymous
very knowledgeable, good communication, follow up and went the extra mile to help us through the difficult task of settling my Dad's estate. I would highly recommend Richard as an estate attorney.
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03 Jan, 2015 by Roy
Mr. Richard Sakoda is a very hardworking individual that has one goal in mine, and that goal is keeping his clients satisfied going above and beyond the scope of work requirements to ensure all areas of your problems are satisfied. He is knowledgeable of the work he does, trustworthy, excellent communicator who keeps you informed at all times. He discusses all relevant factors about your case, gives you alternatives, and provides advice in making the best decision to your case.
In our family experience, we have gone through three -(3) Lawyers, but we were not satisfied with their work we requested. We needed a legalized Will written to assure others won't have the ability to take away assets and properties that the deceased will leave to the appointed person/caretaker. But each Laywer we went to and paid to write the Will, were not exactly how we explained to them and therefore the Will needed to be rewritten. Instead of having the same Lawyer to redo the Will, we seek another Lawyer. A friend recommended Mr. Richard Sakoda. We met with him, asked questions and he were straight-forward with his answers. We told him our situation and what we wanted done. He immediately commenced working on the issue that we wanted fixed of which previous Lawyers we went to did not do unless we paid additional fee. Mr. Sakoda accomplished the Will the way we exactly wanted it to be done and completed it in a timely manner. We are now releived that no one; especially other family members, will not be able to intrude and be disruptive in making every effort to take-away or be a part owner of properties and assets that the deceased leave behind to the appointed person.
Mr. Sakoda is a good listener with unique combination of intuitive and analytical abilities. I highly recommend Mr. Sakoda to any person seeking assistance in writting a legalized Will as he is a professional and one of the best Lawyers that provides satisfaction guarantee to his clients.
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30 Nov, 2016 by Jerry burdine
Couldn't be any more please and blown away from the incredible experience I had with Mr. Kuniyuki representing me. Just being an average joe never gets in trouble. Never been to court! I was all but lost until I got a hold of this gem! Very informative and there to answer all my questions . I was very comfortable about what was to happen and had a good concept with no last minute surprises except we won the case!! Thanks again Ken !! If you want honest personable and reliable then I highly recommend Ken Kuniyuki to represent you!!
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29 Jan, 2016 by Kerry d. lewis
Ken has been my personal and business attorney for more than 30 years. I am able to always clue any opponent that he'll have to deal with the best attorney in the state. He's a genius. No part of law that this man cannot practice. Period.
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05 Nov, 2015 by Tom
For over 30 years Mr. Ken Kuniyuki has represented me in all my business and personal legal affairs. One of Ken's greatest assets is that he is easy to talk to and he is very patient and explains everything in simple everyday language. Over the years, Ken has provided me with excellent legal advice and I found him to be a very skilled and very well prepared litigator. So if you are looking for a chess master or a shark to legally represent you, Mr. Ken Kuniyuki should be your lawyer. YOU CAN'T GO WRONG!
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16 Feb, 2015 by Adam
Having to find a lawyer for Debt Collection was a difficult thing to go through because I knew nothing about it. Mr. Chow, and just as importantly his firm, were very knowledgeable and supportive. I was a little surprised to have an interaction with a lawyer I felt I shourld write about. Porter, McGuire, Kiakona and Chow educated me prior to laying out my options. I never felt pressured to take his course of action, but once I did, they were EXTREMELY effective. I would recommend them to anyone, and from what have researched, their success rates in debt collection is exceptional.
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20 Jan, 2015 by Barry
Bryson and his team at PMKC (Porter, McGuire, Kiakona, Chow LLP) get the job done! We had gone through several law firms in the last 12 years previously before hiring them on for our collection issues 3 years ago.
They were able to collect debts from residents that had been uncollectable from previous firms. They are not only professional, but have acted swiftly to enforce our bi-laws to prevents large amounts being owed by our 546 owner owned townhouses. Our account receivable has never looked better. I am totally sold on using Bryson and PMKC.
Porter MMaintecnes and
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09 Nov, 2015 by Anonymous
Mr. Markham's years of experience was evident when he was hired by my insurance company to represent me. He prevailed and the plaintiff received $0. I would hire him in the future to personally represent me even if I am a plaintiff. I know he is well respected in the legal community.
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21 Jul, 2013 by Michael
I hired Mr. Markham on two occasionas initially to defend me in a ridiculous suit brought by a real louse of a person, then when my wife was seriously injured he made sure we were more than adequately compensated by EVERYONE responsible.
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04 May, 2018 by Anonymous
I feel extremely fortunate to have Mr. Forrester representing me. Mr. Forrester brings his "A" game every day. I never feel as if I am getting "due process" so to speak. Mr. Forrester is providing me with representation far and above all expectations. He keeps me informed and updated. He's very easy to work with and I appreciate all the valuable insight he has given me.
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26 Apr, 2018 by Neptune enterprises
Forrester Legal has delivered exactly as discussed in my case in a timely manner. I am very satisfied with the legal advice and representation and would highly recommend Mr. Forrester.
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15 Aug, 2015 by Bob
Mr Nakamura ' experience and knowledge were of great assistance in executing a very complex estate case. Thanks to his expertise every aspect went smoothly.
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25 Aug, 2020 by Stacey
Our family has been working with Mr Smith for over 2 years on a highly contested and highly emotional matter involving probate, estate, and family law. He has done an amazing job at representing our family, he is always clearly explaining options as well as advising us on the easiest path to take to be able to move forward. He is a caring man who feels like part of the family, not just another attorney. He takes his cases and his clients in on a personal level and works very hard to achieve a desired outcome. He has passion for the law and fairness, but even more so he has a passion for the clients he represents. He has a vast level of experience, and with that he has developed a deep understanding that these legal issues are often emotionally draining on a family. Knowing that he checks in on a personal level with reminders of taking time out to care for ourselves and our own happiness when so much of our time is wrapped up in caring for, and caring about someone else's happiness. More important than anything he helped to make sure that in the end of this highly litigated case, Dad was happy, well taken care of, and he could live a full and happy life surrounded by people he loves, with all the rights and freedoms he deserves. We will always appreciate Mr Smith's approach and his dedication to our family and could never completely explain how much he has helped along the way. We highly recommend Mr Smith and his team, especially if you are looking for knowledgeable yet personal attention.
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25 Jun, 2014 by Nicole
Connie represented me with my current rental property. My tenant was refusing to pay and would not move out. They also trashed the property. Connie helped me to get the tenant out in a timely fashion with a court order. She also helped me to get all of the back pay I was owed for overdue rent. She handled all communication with them so that I didn't have to. I am forever grateful to her for all that she did for me. It was a very stressful time and I could not have gotten through it without her. She was prompt with returning my phone calls and emails and gave me wonderful advice. Thank you Connie, you were a lifesaver.
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09 Aug, 2015 by Sherry
Jamie Young is highly professional, I could not have asked for better representation. She made me feel extremely comfortable at all times and her knowledge of the Law regarding my case was exemplary. I cannot recommend her enough to those that may be in need of Legal Counsel.
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01 Jan, 2016 by Anonymous
She was excellent help and was very kind. She was willing to listen and help with the problem at hand. You could tell she really cared about helping you. Overall I'm glad I chose yay Naruse as my lawyer.
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06 Sep, 2010 by Barbara
honest and efficient worker with a good result on my mechanic's lien and real estate problem
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22 May, 2014 by Karin
While Mr. Melchinger was unable to assist me, he took the time to send me an email explaining why. I found that to be very courteous and professional. And if he would take the time out to respond to someone who he couldn't assist as a client, then he must be even more thorough with his actual clients.
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04 Nov, 2014 by James
I went to Sergio Rufo because I am a small business owner that needs timely and mostly simple advice. He never tries to oversell me or make things too complicated, he just takes what I say and does it exactly as it should.
I have complete confidence and trust in Sergio Rufo and would count on him for my small and even larger needs. I just know that I will get the results I need with him.
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24 Oct, 2022 by Elizabeth watanabe
Love this family run firm
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05 Feb, 2020 by Brad mcminn
02 Nov, 2021 by Lisa capeilleres
If you need a brilliant divorce attorney, Tim Luria is the one.
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04 Feb, 2020 by Nestor fabro
11 Jan, 2025 by S w
Terrible waste of time and money. Gave me a disorganized, computer deficit lawyer with no kids to scream at me the day before court for not taking my feverish children to school.
Fired him, changed court docs after I left.
Charged me 5,000 while NOT filing any paper work besides an answer to defend the night before court although we meet in person more than a week before. Hard to get an appt, sent endless emails and he was still confused at meeting.
Would not file many requested motions, had to be told three times before he could execute. His name is Jeffery Sales.
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09 Dec, 2024 by Junior nicolas
Josh, Caty, and Dora took great care of me during the entire process and I will be eternally grateful. The staff is knowledgeable and responsive to questions. You can’t go wrong with this law firm!
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04 Dec, 2024 by Normie mark “mr-norm808”
11 Jan, 2025 by S w
Terrible waste of time and money. Gave me a disorganized, computer deficit lawyer with no kids to scream at me the day before court for not taking my feverish children to school.
Fired him, changed court docs after I left.
Charged me 5,000 while NOT filing any paper work besides an answer to defend the night before court although we meet in person more than a week before. Hard to get an appt, sent endless emails and he was still confused at meeting.
Would not file many requested motions, had to be told three times before he could execute. His name is Jeffery Sales.
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09 Dec, 2024 by Junior nicolas
Josh, Caty, and Dora took great care of me during the entire process and I will be eternally grateful. The staff is knowledgeable and responsive to questions. You can’t go wrong with this law firm!
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04 Dec, 2024 by Normie mark “mr-norm808”
15 Jan, 2025 by Kelvin akamine
Attorney Brian Kim provided outstanding legal representation, showing deep expertise and clear communication every step of the way. Thanks to his hard work, my case was resolved successfully, and I highly recommend him to anyone seeking reliable legal counsel.
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07 Jan, 2025 by Sherman abdo
I am a criminal defense attorney in Michigan and after a friend of mine got in trouble in Honolulu, I scoured the internet to secure a great criminal defense attorney. We are so lucky to find Mr. Brian Kim. He is professional, responsive, efficient, and effective. He got us excellent results. He was able to have my client's original felony case reduced to a misdemeanor offense that will eventually be dismissed through a diversion program. I cannot thank him enough for everything he did for my friend.
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23 Dec, 2024 by Lily l
Ofir is very knowledgeable in his field of work and I am completely grateful for all the time and effort put into completing my case as quick and painless as possible. With his expertise in the legal field he's one of the good ones!!!
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15 Jan, 2025 by Kelvin akamine
Attorney Brian Kim provided outstanding legal representation, showing deep expertise and clear communication every step of the way. Thanks to his hard work, my case was resolved successfully, and I highly recommend him to anyone seeking reliable legal counsel.
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07 Jan, 2025 by Sherman abdo
I am a criminal defense attorney in Michigan and after a friend of mine got in trouble in Honolulu, I scoured the internet to secure a great criminal defense attorney. We are so lucky to find Mr. Brian Kim. He is professional, responsive, efficient, and effective. He got us excellent results. He was able to have my client's original felony case reduced to a misdemeanor offense that will eventually be dismissed through a diversion program. I cannot thank him enough for everything he did for my friend.
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23 Dec, 2024 by Lily l
Ofir is very knowledgeable in his field of work and I am completely grateful for all the time and effort put into completing my case as quick and painless as possible. With his expertise in the legal field he's one of the good ones!!!
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15 Dec, 2024 by Kawehi kauhola
I met with other estate lawyers and it felt like I was being rushed through a quick transaction with no meaningful connection to my situation. It felt like they were just checking the boxes to move on as quickly as possible. Until I meant Keoni. He took the time to understand our needs, our family, and us in general. Keoni guided us through the process, of which we had very little knowledge of. It was a long process but he gave clear guidance to help us do our part. Keoni never made us feel uncomfortable or hesitant to ask questions. He treated us like family. His prices may be higher than other estate lawyers, but in the end I realized I wanted someone who genuinely cared and did things the right way. My husband and I are very happy with Keoni and his estate planning services and 100% recommend him. We are lifetime partners with Keoni.
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27 Nov, 2024 by Season lee
Keoni is very knowledgeable and professional. He will explain everything so you can understand and give examples. Don’t hesitate, first step is to schedule an appointment.
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19 Nov, 2024 by Tracy adams
The process of setting up a trust is just that, a process, and having someone who will take the time to sit, explain, answer questions, and then answer more questions as you go through the trust setup process is really important.
Keoni spent a lot of time with us, answering questions that came up along the way, gave us the guidance we needed to make sure we thought of everything and everyone involved. He was flexible is scheduling follow up meetings, due to our very hectic work & travel schedules, it took a few weeks longer then planned, but we are not done and feel better knowing we are on the right track.
Thank you Keoni for being patient with us.
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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.
