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28 Jan, 2020 by Sandra
Experienced, dedicated professionals who listened to my situation and reduced the intensity of my worries and fears as they offered guidance to save my home. Marda is a seasoned attorney who was interested in my situation, reachable, and smart. It's not an overnight process, but there is ongoing communication with my lender, and the difficult time was taken off of my shoulders as the solution progresses. Desiree, Marda's associate, is THE BEST, knowing the right questions to ask as she handles all aspects of saving our home. She's so experienced and wonderful to work with. She is also bi-lingual. I don't know what I would have done without Desiree and Marda.
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02 Jan, 2020 by Lucy fleury
want to thank Desiree from the Law office of Marda Rosenbaum for getting my house modified. It was a really hard battle with Suntrust Mortgage. She fought very hard and didn't give up. I was convinced to do a shortsale by another attorney and when I met with Desiree for a second opinion she told me not to go through with short sale and try for loan modification and see what the payment could be so I wouldn't lost my home. I'm glad I listened and now I have a great payment and my home is mine. I would definitely recommended this law office to help anyone who is in trouble with there mortgage and prevent foreclosure.
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23 Apr, 2019 by Bill
I don't normally write reviews, but I wanted to thank The Law Office Of Marda Rosenbaum for all of their hard work. They saved our home! We can't thank them enough. The staff, Christine, Jan,Desiree,and Marda were all wonderful and great to work with. Christine was particularly amazing! My mortgage company is notoriously difficult to work with. Christine was relentless in following up with the lender and making sure that everything was submitted correctly. It was great to have her on our side! I would highly recommend this firm if you are in danger of losing your house. Like another reviewer said, they are on another level. I would give them 10 stars if I could!
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04 Jun, 2017 by Antoinette
Excellent lawyer. He is dedicated in helping you with your legal matters. He has a lot of experience in law and will find a way in solving what ever legal problem you might have I highly recommend him for a lawyer.
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02 Jun, 2017 by Joseph
Provided Real Estate Representation and Closing Service. Keith went the extra mile through out the RE buying process, from start to finish. His advise was also helpful in helping me negotiate the the best contact/sales terms.
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21 Aug, 2013 by Trey
Mr. Weidman was very helpful with my case. Explained everything in detail as to what was going on and saw me through the whole process. Would recommend him and use his services again.
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11 Sep, 2023 by Anonymous
Maria handled the sale of my practice and rental property. She was professional and didn’t miss any details. Best attorney I’ve ever had.
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11 Sep, 2023 by Linda
Maria Gasparis, Esq. was absolutely wonderful in our estate planning- wills, power of attorney, etc. She made it all easy to understand and was so flexible in planning meetings. She is so knowledgeable and she did all the hard work which made the process go so smoothly for us. She was always easy to reach and available for any questions . She is absolutely outstanding and a complete professional! Best of the best!
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28 Nov, 2020 by Christin
Maria Gasparis was such a dedicated and personal attorney. I was not an easy client to deal with since this was the first sale of my home. She was always patient and kind and guided me through the process and when it came down to the wire she worked overtime making sure things were overnighted permits were cleared. I can’t recommend her enough. I worked with her family who are realtors as well and these three women were miracle workers and I am so eternally grateful. From the bottom of my heart. If you want an attorney who will unconditionally treat you like your their number one client, answer every call and turn night into day.. lol well Maria did that for me. I left there feeling I chose the best and I did. YOURS, THE MEADES
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06 Jun, 2011 by Anonymous
Mr Ben Ami has consistently been knowledgable, helpful and responsive in all our dealings with him. We highly recommend him.
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16 Dec, 2016 by Joseph licata
Bill Ferris is by your side with 1 phone call and his experience is beyound anything i ever seen.He is crafted as a true Master of Law. Bill is truley a great person we agreed on a price to represent me and later on i has another charge and I was so emotionally upset not seeing my children ,Bill still came to help me and did not leave my side. I respect this man as a caring kind person and probally one of the best Criminal attorneys in New York.
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14 Jun, 2024 by Linda dom.
She is very knowledgeable, personable, ans sympathetic. She will not disappoint you....!
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09 Apr, 2024 by Nichole abbruzzese
I used Jacqueline for the first time recently. She is extremely knowledgeable, and actually CARES about her clients. HIGHLY RECOMMEND!!!
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13 Dec, 2023 by Leigh-anne montuori
Jacqueline demonstrates professionalism with a sense of personalized warmth. Highly recommended!
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29 Jul, 2024 by Christopher jean
Innocent, dismissed, withdrawn, are what you want to hear throughout your case. Accusations are upsetting, you’re angry, you want to get up and fight. That’s your Attorney’s job, to reassure you that we’ll get to the bottom of this. Have patience, be calm and cool, understand the process. I couldn’t have asked for a better Attorney to represent me than Ashleigh Russell. Ashleigh was responsive to me throughout the entire case, even before and after court hours. She’s not just some ghosting lawyer with a mountain of cases that you think you’re doing all the work for and takes days or weeks to get an answer from. In the end, my son was freely back in my arms again 😃 Thank you Ashleigh, so much, and the team at Picarello & Saciolo, PLLC
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27 Jul, 2024 by Toniann leveridge
My experience here was horrible willing to take your money but don’t put in no work I had Brian first for my first court date then he got drop from me and I got Catherine the worst ever she showed no care for what I was going through due to the fact of me trying to get my son back home in Connecticut. It’s like she was working against me with the other party. I would email her and she takes for ever to respond I won’t get a respond until the next day if so. Then she try to tell me oh I should be glad dad didn’t put me on child support for my son because dad have temporary residential custody mean while dad is on child support and never paid a dollar since be been on child support now tell me how that make sense?. The front desk lady got upset with me when I wanted to change her and get somebody else who would actually care about my situation asking why I wanna change Cathrine as if they doing me a free job like I’m not paying these people my hard working money. Cathrine should no compassion to how I feel as a mother about my situation regarding my child. would I recommend anybody to this law firm HELL NOOOOOO!
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24 Jul, 2024 by Dawn herbst
Mr. Picarello and his team came highly recommended to me, and I can see why!! This firm is knowledgeable and capable. They were upfront and honest about fees, and worked with me so that I could pay comfortably yet promptly. So grateful for all of their help and the positive outcome.
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15 Jul, 2024 by Vincent strynkowski
Deanna, Cathy, and Lindsey at the Islandia Office are extremely nice and helpful with regards to all they do to help my mom, and our family, navigate many aspects of elder law. Vincent J. Russo and all of his associates and staff are the best of the best...they are legal professionals with Heart!
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05 Dec, 2023 by Sean sarjoo
To our Lawyer DEANNA M Eble. Our Experience in planning our trust and will was amazing after leaving your office we had good understanding of what we were Embarking on for our future thanks again will recommend you in heart beat 🌹
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24 Oct, 2023 by Carl pizzo
I want to see what happens before I report ~ so the Star could go either way.
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24 Jan, 2017 by Steve
I contacted my attorney with billing concerns to be ignored. I was billed for items not needed, time that I find questionable. Expressed concerns in writing and by phone call. Ultimately was ignored since he knew I already discontinued his services he and his firm Bracken Margolin Besunder LLP in Islandia, NY over charged taking advantage of having a $5000 retainer. In 5 business days managed to charge $1800 returning only $3200, like taking candy from a baby. Claimed to spend time researching what he claimed he already knew. Took a month to return balance of retainer as if the firm needed the cash. Since retainer required I pay their bills no later than 20 days or incur late fees. He was handling this case incorrectly advising to settle a fraudulant ADA handicap case. Ultimately the exact same case, lawyer and plaintiff that filed 77 suits against property owners, I found an attorney successful to get case dismissed. Mr. Powell had no idea how to get this case dismissed. He knew how to bill for what wasn't needed and double bill for it too. I explained my concerns but he did not care, nor did a partner at his firm care at all as they both ignored my specific claims on their bill. I would not hire this attorney or their firm. He believes your money for slight amounts more is no big deal as long as he is the beneficiary being paid, his boss and firm partner (no need to name her here) was even more unreasonable. I would not spend the time to review him if this was not true. This is not personal he is an older gentleman, not much abilities and is not looking out for the client more than his bill.
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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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