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09 Aug, 2017 by John
I retained Joel to help me defend my daughter and I from a civil suit involving a college apartment rental. He's very down to earth, communicates well, and was always looking out for our interests first. Cost was as issue and so he emphasized a common sense approach that allowed the matter to get resolved without spending more necessary. I would hire him again for any civil matter.
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02 Aug, 2017 by Joseph
I have had the pleasure to work with Joel on multiple occasions. About 10 years ago he worked for my firm and provided exceptional service to the clients and excellent analytical work that was of critical help in the complex matters. He has outstanding expertise in insurance law, business law of all types, the other areas he discusses in his bio and now he has entered a role as a high level person of expertise in Cybersecurity, privacy and related areas of breach law. I highly recommend Joel without reservation. I would hire him for any of these matters again.
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02 Aug, 2017 by Anonymous
I write from the perspective of someone who has not only hired half a dozen lawyers in prior years, but as someone who is now in law school. In short, I have been around many lawyers.
There are many fine lawyers and so a lawyer who does a good job for a client doesn't necessarily stand out. Thus, while I would give a good review to many lawyers, Mr. Holt is the only lawyer to whom I would give an unqualified five-star review; not only is he an exceptional lawyer, but he is someone who genuinely cares for his clients.
I have sat here for a while debating the best way to explain my opinion of Mr. Holt without digressing into either a list of commonly-used adjectives that could be written about anyone (and by anyone), or into the multiple ways that he has consistently exceeded expectations as my lawyer for the past five years. I think the following most accurately conveys my sentiments:
Despite being a profession that is the recipient of more than its fair share of jokes and pessimism, a lawyer -- at his or her best -- has a higher calling. The lawyer is a champion of the rule of law and a zealous advocate for his or her client. In these roles, a lawyer necessarily inhabits a special position of trust and should be deeply mindful of the fact that his or her efforts may profoundly affect the lives of other people. The best of lawyers recognize these facts and thus they do not approach the practice of law as merely a job.
And so, when I think about these facts within the context of soon embarking on my own legal career, I cannot think of a better embodiment of the virtues that all lawyers should strive toward than Mr. Holt. He therefore has my unqualified highest recommendation.
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03 Apr, 2024 by Dee castle
13 Mar, 2019 by Nick lydick
28 Feb, 2019 by Carl corby
13 Feb, 2017 by Susan
I met with attorney can from this firm in july 2016 for an hour after calling twice on the phone. After the hour meeting, attorney can told me he cannot represent me as the defendant was being represented by someone who rents office space from them. He even told me he went downstairs and took a folder from said defendant and gave it to his attorney. Now the same defendant hires attorney kratcoski. After being made aware of the conflict and seeing phone logs, i described the office and i knew they rented space to troy reeves which is not public knowledge, he refuses to withdraw. This is very unethical. I have reported him to portage county ethics committe and was already told this is a major ethical problem. My attorney has been trying to get attorney kratcoski to withdraw now for over a month. He refuses. Today he was supposed to send errol can, a partner to a hearing to get this situated and instead, he files a motion to continue. I believe that attorney can and this firm met with me to get inside info on my case as they saw alot of my evidence in the hour we met so they can represent the defendant with insider info.
This firm is extremely unethical to refuse to withdraw from a case when You have already met with the plaintiff and then decide to represent the defendant
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29 Jul, 2016 by Jill
Pete is always watching out for me and my kids. He is so thorough. He pointed out aspects of my case that I didn't know were important and really protected my interests. He and Dawn (assistant) keep me well informed of developments. He has been a true professional in court and privately. My kids and I feel protected and he is constantly there to be supportive and helpful. I would recommend him highly without reservation to anyone who is looking for a wonderful attorney. AAAAA++++++
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23 Feb, 2015 by Stanley
I have used Mr. Kratcoski several times in the past for various issues. He helped me navigate my divorce, and various child support and custody issues. I have been very satisfied with him.
He is extremely knowledgable and also very fair. I have personally recommended him to several other people and definitely have his number in my phone for in the future.
As another reviewersaid he is busy, so be patient, but he has always gotten back to me!
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07 Apr, 2011 by Anonymous
Did not use the resources available to him to win the simplest of cases.. I had witnesses to support my testimony, he told me they weren't necessary. Also had video to support my testimony, he doesnt even remember having the video dropped off for his review. Cost me thousands in attorney fees and nearly a thousand in fines from the Court. I am very burned I went with a amateur.
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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:
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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.
