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29 Nov, 2023 by Tom
My family had a complicated Trust arrangement that required recorded Deed Distribution Documents regarding Oil & Gas Interests in three Texas Counties after a family death. Our Investment Advisor Firm recommended Jane Fly whom we hired to complete the work in a most satisfactory manner. She was well versed and expedient while understanding the nuances of the Trust and pulling it all together for all to understand and approve. I recently asked for advice regarding Ownership Deed transfers for the same Trust. Amazingly she recalled her previous work and and gave me direction the same day. We have full confidence in her knowledge and judgment in these legal matters.
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19 Jun, 2023 by Abigail
We've worked with Jane on a number of occasions; typically, we've hired her for issues with our leases that needed resolving. One specific case: Going into Spring 2023, there was an issue with a roommate who refused to pay her rent such that she risked (rather, threatened) all of the other roommates getting evicted. Jane explained the entire issue to us (from a legal perspective) and respectfully managed communications with the aggravating roommate's lawyer. With Jane's help, we were able to quickly and effectively resolve our issue.
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18 Jul, 2022 by Stuart & patricia
Jane has diligently helped us with our real estate transactions on the last two warehouse facilities that we have purchased. During the entire process she negotiated knowledgeably and insured that we benefitted. She worked tirelessly to get the deals done, and all along keeping the negotiations moving forward in a timely manner. Jane is great to have on your team, and we would not consider carrying out a transaction without her.
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23 Sep, 2024 by Brian l
I have experience a few attorneys in my life, Madeline was kind and very professional. She explained everything to me in detail and gave me good legal advice about my case. I would highly recommend Madeline.
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28 Jul, 2024 by Shan
Arpita Legha, my attorney, provided exceptional service from start to finish. She consistently kept me informed about potential outcomes and charges. I am very satisfied with her work as my family attorney. I also appreciate her follow-up call even after the case was concluded to check on how things were going. Thank you, Arpita, for your timely responses to my questions and for your unwavering support throughout the process.
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18 Jul, 2024 by Anu malya
For me, I think critically evaluating Google reviews of any business, service, etc — myself & my own business included — a lifeskill. I am a big fan of basic respect, clear communication, & thorough professionalism. I myself make mistakes; I own them, 200%, made knowingly or unknowingly. Some of Arpita Legha’s practices on the “uncontested legal separation” I initiated did not sit well at all with me OR with my former legal spouse either. I tried to see all angles of Arpita’s actions & manners — very often extending benefit of doubt for her choices. I reasonably participated in how Arpita went about things. Then, I chose to take pauses as I needed from her obvious unprofessional (sometimes inhumane) behaviors. My feedback for Arpita & the Oxner Legha Law Firm: • I found Arpita’s conduct unprofessional on several occasions & accounts. • Arpita laughingly mentioned a client’s identifiable name & case info — in front of them — with me present — on my 1st call with her & Madeline. I did not find it funny at all. Neither did the other client. • I felt pressured by Arpita for my time, responses, & outcomes way too many times to count while conducting my paid services. I liken her toxic behaviors to that of an alligator. If I initiate a process — as humanly & professionally possible, shouldn’t I reasonably decide the pace of my OWN case — under the guidance of the “professional” I hired??? • I communicated in writing about my life-threatening documented illness & how I needed time (which was provided to me first), then it went back to the same pushiness for possibly meeting the firm’s targets, Arpita’s schedule, the court’s schedule, whatever else, etc. It was literally sickening for me, at times, to deal with Arpita’s behaviors — despite making my voice heard in writing & by my actions. • Once, over phone, after listening to how the situation was evolving, Arpita mentioned an additional service I needed — communicating very clearly to me over phone that she’d include that service under my retainer. When I put that service in writing over email, it appeared Arpita’s language changed. Arpita went back on her word. I found myself with an additional bill, albeit some deducted off at the conclusion of my services. A sales & an I’m-sorry tactic, if I may? • At the end of my services, I still did not get a breather. I noticed Arpita’s calls & emails, pushing for rapid responses within 24-48 hours each time. I think I am a pretty responsible grown up who paid upfront for (un)professional services. I believe I am aware of exactly how things work & when, for whom. Especially through my experience with Arpita & her firm. I kindly asked questions & kindly responded to those asked of me. I believe my former legal spouse chose to behave the same as well. How would I know? It was in writing. I am not sure what Arpita’s main issue was — maybe my former legal spouse & I never reached the “contested” stage? I believe in decent trust between client & service provider. At the end, I relied on email alone with Arpita because I was tired of keeping up with her calls. Why? I found it hard to trust her word. • In the end, after I completed my items — rather than own up to her chosen behaviors & style, I found Arpita did not close my case hospitably at all. It appears I was literally dismissed with an attitude. • I am unaware of what Arpita’s deeper personal or professional issues may or may not be. I do not desire to know. I wish I could speak about the positives. I wish I could share those things that stood out to me. Unfortunately, the areas for improvement weigh heavily on my experience with Arpita & her firm. I neither recommend Arpita Legha’s services nor the Oxner Legha Law Firm. I find basic professionalism & hospitality priceless. I believe no matter how much I pay, the 2 may or may not be guaranteed anywhere. My experiences with Arpita Legha & through her, the Oxner Legha Law Firm, was one such stark example of that. For both my former legal spouse & I.
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25 Jan, 2021 by Anonymous
How the bar hasn’t pulled his license is beyond me. He is a snake in the grass.
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15 Aug, 2019 by Jennie
I had a legal issue regarding an accident with a scam artist looking for money, and Tom was right there. He let me know what to expect and what we were going to do in court. He showed up and waited with me throughout the whole process. He had everything prepared and his plan worked. Everything was dismissed and I was able to move on.
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17 Mar, 2017 by Cheryl
Tom helped me seal my record of a misdemeanor theft case from 2 years ago! He was very easy to work with, easy to contact and kept up with me the whole time. All of this awesome work was done within 3 weeks! Very pleased! Thank you Tom, for everything!
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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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