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10 Sep, 2024 by Costa ohana
I highly recommend Jeff Foster! He and his team are incredibly knowledgeable, professional, and always responsive to my questions. Throughout my case, they provided clear guidance and went above and beyond to ensure the best possible outcome. Their dedication and attention to detail were truly impressive. If you're looking for a lawyer who genuinely cares and fights for their clients, Jeff Foster is the one to trust!"
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10 Sep, 2024 by Paul b.
Professional and easy to deal with. Highly recommend !
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20 Feb, 2024 by Heidi mumford
Jeff was wonderful in helping me settle a claim for a boat accident in Hawaii where I broke my arm and required surgery. He was friendly and patient in helping explain the process, legal terms, etc. and helping me successfully navigate the process to settle with the insurance company. Highly recommended!
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19 Jun, 2019 by Michele
After my mother passed away I needed to sell her home in Kona, and I have never bought or sold a home before - it was all new to me.
I live on the mainland, and Donna was recommended by a family friend in Kona. I spoke to her on the phone and was very impressed by her knowledge of real estate law, her professionalism, and her communication skills. We got good advice from Donna (disclosure list, etc.).
We also had her look over anything we were given, by the realtor or the escrow company, to sign. She said the forms looked pretty standard, but there were a few things she had us change - she had our best interest at heart. My husband and I agreed that paying for an attorney look things over was well worth it for our peace of mind, and fortunately Donna’s rates were very reasonable.
After escrow closed we asked Donna to apply for the HARPTA refund, and about six months later we got the entire amount!
So thank you, Donna Payesko, for being there when we needed you and for helping to make sure everything went smoothly! Mahalo!
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30 Apr, 2017 by Eric
My wife and I started working with Donna for a basic will. After reading her website and meeting with donna we realized we really needed a full estate plan with a trust. Donna was amazing to work with, she is incredibly friendly, professional and ask all of the right questions.
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24 May, 2016 by Jaye
Donna Payesko has provided me advice in several areas of the law over a period of years. In various legal matters, I needed someone who could navigate complex waters -- in guardianship matters; other elder, finance and tax law issues; real property and matrimonial protection. Each matter required a clear understanding of what was involved, the parties’ claims, the possible options/ solutions and the steps and procedures necessary to move forward to resolution. Ms. Payesko's ability to isolate each issue, clarify the law regarding such matters and move forward expediently helped reduce the stress of the situation.
Ms. Payesko speaks well -- clearly and directly -- outlining the process using terms I understood. She is meticulous in her written communications, paying attention to detail and meeting all deadlines.
When I was required to furnish documentation to her for a legal matter, she was patient with my efforts to locate those documents, yet clear about their importance to the case. I could communicate in a variety of ways (scan, fax, email, phone, etc.), knowing she would receive my communication and respond in a timely matter. Ms. Payesko is an excellent listener and asked specific relevant questions to expedite the process. I would highly recommend her to anyone seeking legal advice or the ongoing services of an attorney.
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10 May, 2013 by Anonymous
I highly recommend John. He helped me out beyond my expectations. He was always very upfront with me. He is not afraid to tell it like it is.
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15 Apr, 2013 by Bobb
Frank Jung is well experienced with a massive background. He is tough but gently and honest with his clients. His specialties are real estate and contracts as far as I know from my experience with him. He is just too busy to handle smaller cases. His background is solid and came out of DC where he was in a firm. Hardily recommend him. Get your case prepared ahead of time since he likes to get to the point fast.
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08 Nov, 2015 by Marissa
Stephen is one of a kind. He is honest, tenacious, and has a brilliant legal mind. He brings with him decades of legal experience in Hawaii. I highly recommend him for any one looking for an attorney.
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10 Mar, 2013 by Anonymous
Peter Olson took my case when others said I had no defense, and was able to convince the prosecutor to plead it down to an infraction, avoiding a misdemeanor conviction and potential jail time. He is fair-minded, completely devoted to your defense, and very smart.
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20 Mar, 2024 by Sharon kinard
Lovely office, lovely staff, lovely experience. Quite the extraordinary great review with an exceptional extraordinary gifted attorney with a conscrience. Mahalo nui Darl for helping us with eatate planning! Kinards
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30 Sep, 2023 by Louise thaell
Hands down the very best estate attorney in Hawaii!
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18 Sep, 2023 by Taylor herbert
Very professional, well spoken very knowledgeable.
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25 Feb, 2024 by Kim martinsdias
Explains things throughly and is very helpful.
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01 Sep, 2019 by S smythe
07 Jun, 2019 by H mau
08 Dec, 2023 by Diamond ramirez
Leslie is very helpful. Thank you
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08 Jul, 2023 by Jerry “my majesty sir” duke
The Public defender's office in Kona. Is located on the corner of Henry Above the 24 hour fitness. The attorneys are Overworked and understaffed, but they are all very dedicated to the task at hand and are serving a vital role in our community. Often difficult clients who have a set of problems of their own and judges tend to bust their chops if they aren't performing at their best or say something quite right. I know this for a certainty, each member of this office is serving from the heart, and doing all they can to make sure justice is served. Heroes each one in my estimation.
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02 Jun, 2023 by Fawn kuahiwinui
09 Oct, 2020 by Anonymous
Her efforts covered the ground I needed covered. Timely, complete. She listened and cared. And got it right.
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24 Apr, 2020 by Anonymous
Ms. Henschel gave me a free consultation to look over my case and after calling around to other offices, hers was the only one that seemed to care about my circumstances.
The retainer was manageable for my budget and Ms. Henschel was very conscious about updating me on the work going into my case.
She followed up with me whenever relevant and I had no issues getting in contact with her whenever I had concerns.
I would use her service again in a heart beat knowing she really does care
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19 Feb, 2020 by Anonymous
Ms. Henschel took a retainer, filed my divorce paperwork incorrectly, did not update me about court documents when they were received by her, demanded more money without an invoice for her work, then ghosted me when I tried to reach out for information and clarification. Do not use her services.
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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.
