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09 Sep, 2024 by Joe davis
Refused to take my slamdunk civil rights case after being denied speech by local police department
Recent case law makes this an open and shut case but that doesn't matter to them
Waiting 3 months from original contact to reach out refusing to take my case
Pathetic
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22 Jun, 2024 by Caroline ferrell
Being involved in a legal issue is scary and stressful. Pugh and Roach are experienced and communicate clearly and that put my mind at ease. I'm glad I hired Pugh & Roach.They walked me through what to expect and possible outcomes. Amazingly, I got a better offer than what was expected. I 100% recommend Pugh and Roach for criminal or civil rights cases.
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22 Jun, 2024 by Alicia hoffman
Everyone I worked with was so kind, compassionate and caring. I appreciated the exceptional work above and beyond that they put in for my unique circumstances. I would recommend them to everyone!
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30 Oct, 2023 by Tanya rogers
Bobby and Eddy are the bomb, great people!
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28 Sep, 2022 by Tim “pickone” berry
02 Jun, 2022 by Karen baker
Bob Bornstein helped me when I called his office. He was very polite. He answered any questions I had in a way I understood. He was there to help when I needed it.
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17 Feb, 2023 by Ken griffin
Superb legal representation in a bankruptcy proceeding.
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17 Feb, 2023 by Hector vazquez
13 Oct, 2022 by Jessica deis
Thomas Banaszynski requested a retainer to begin working on a case, sent a bill for $1,740 for a few phone calls and emails between myself and his co-counsel then went silent for 3 months. Upon requesting an update, he informed me he was declining to get involved in the case. I wish I could piddle around at work for a few days, not actually accomplishing anything and not letting anyone know I decided to stop working, yet get paid nearly 2 grand.
So, if you're wanting to waste some time and money, this attorney is perfect for you.
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17 Feb, 2023 by Ken griffin
Superb legal representation in a bankruptcy proceeding.
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17 Feb, 2023 by Hector vazquez
13 Oct, 2022 by Jessica deis
Thomas Banaszynski requested a retainer to begin working on a case, sent a bill for $1,740 for a few phone calls and emails between myself and his co-counsel then went silent for 3 months. Upon requesting an update, he informed me he was declining to get involved in the case. I wish I could piddle around at work for a few days, not actually accomplishing anything and not letting anyone know I decided to stop working, yet get paid nearly 2 grand.
So, if you're wanting to waste some time and money, this attorney is perfect for you.
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01 Apr, 2024 by Manchurian juncolopez
16 Mar, 2024 by Lesia wood
I wouldn’t trust anyone else to handle my affairs. My father went to this law office for all of his attorney needs and I see no reason to go anywhere else. This law office does more than take your case, they handle all of the details and make it as stress free as possible. I knew everything that was going on with my case and didn’t experience any surprise details at the end. I feel much better knowing this office was in my corner.
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22 Dec, 2023 by Michael stell
Very professional quick and to the point....The staff that they have onboard there at the firm are one of a kind God handcrafted blessings
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01 Apr, 2024 by Manchurian juncolopez
16 Mar, 2024 by Lesia wood
I wouldn’t trust anyone else to handle my affairs. My father went to this law office for all of his attorney needs and I see no reason to go anywhere else. This law office does more than take your case, they handle all of the details and make it as stress free as possible. I knew everything that was going on with my case and didn’t experience any surprise details at the end. I feel much better knowing this office was in my corner.
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22 Dec, 2023 by Michael stell
Very professional quick and to the point....The staff that they have onboard there at the firm are one of a kind God handcrafted blessings
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30 Apr, 2024 by Hope gonzalez
Ched in my opinion is the best in his field. He took a situation where I was hurt, scared, and unsure about my future. Taking the lead from day one. He gave me step by step instructions, and reassurance that I was in good hands.
Giving me confidence to make it through one of the most difficult times in my life and career.
I will forever be grateful for his hasty Professionalism, but also his sincere concern for my overall well being. Ched never failed to keep me up to speed on each detail, but also was genuinely concerned about me personally. Even calling after surgery, and keeping up with my recovery . He’s not just an awesome attorney but now considered a dear friend.
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17 Apr, 2024 by Aries woods
23 Nov, 2023 by Gene embry
Mr Jennings did right by me. Great communication, always there when I needed anything.
I would highly recommend Ched Jennings.
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30 Apr, 2024 by Hope gonzalez
Ched in my opinion is the best in his field. He took a situation where I was hurt, scared, and unsure about my future. Taking the lead from day one. He gave me step by step instructions, and reassurance that I was in good hands.
Giving me confidence to make it through one of the most difficult times in my life and career.
I will forever be grateful for his hasty Professionalism, but also his sincere concern for my overall well being. Ched never failed to keep me up to speed on each detail, but also was genuinely concerned about me personally. Even calling after surgery, and keeping up with my recovery . He’s not just an awesome attorney but now considered a dear friend.
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17 Apr, 2024 by Aries woods
23 Nov, 2023 by Gene embry
Mr Jennings did right by me. Great communication, always there when I needed anything.
I would highly recommend Ched Jennings.
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30 Apr, 2024 by Hope gonzalez
Ched in my opinion is the best in his field. He took a situation where I was hurt, scared, and unsure about my future. Taking the lead from day one. He gave me step by step instructions, and reassurance that I was in good hands.
Giving me confidence to make it through one of the most difficult times in my life and career.
I will forever be grateful for his hasty Professionalism, but also his sincere concern for my overall well being. Ched never failed to keep me up to speed on each detail, but also was genuinely concerned about me personally. Even calling after surgery, and keeping up with my recovery . He’s not just an awesome attorney but now considered a dear friend.
Read more
17 Apr, 2024 by Aries woods
23 Nov, 2023 by Gene embry
Mr Jennings did right by me. Great communication, always there when I needed anything.
I would highly recommend Ched Jennings.
Read more
30 Apr, 2024 by Hope gonzalez
Ched in my opinion is the best in his field. He took a situation where I was hurt, scared, and unsure about my future. Taking the lead from day one. He gave me step by step instructions, and reassurance that I was in good hands.
Giving me confidence to make it through one of the most difficult times in my life and career.
I will forever be grateful for his hasty Professionalism, but also his sincere concern for my overall well being. Ched never failed to keep me up to speed on each detail, but also was genuinely concerned about me personally. Even calling after surgery, and keeping up with my recovery . He’s not just an awesome attorney but now considered a dear friend.
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17 Apr, 2024 by Aries woods
23 Nov, 2023 by Gene embry
Mr Jennings did right by me. Great communication, always there when I needed anything.
I would highly recommend Ched Jennings.
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05 Jul, 2024 by Brandon luttrell
Fair enough for me
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11 May, 2024 by Jimmy short
20 Aug, 2021 by Kevin denny
05 Jul, 2024 by Brandon luttrell
Fair enough for me
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11 May, 2024 by Jimmy short
20 Aug, 2021 by Kevin denny
03 Aug, 2024 by Jarrett long
Michael McCain was an absolute pleasure to work with. Easy to get a hold of and definitely would use again!
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19 Mar, 2024 by Allison spaw
04 Jan, 2024 by Brian hall
Excellent firm
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07 Jun, 2024 by Shannon wagner
Awesome quick and fast service with a smile very polite
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18 Mar, 2023 by Larry smith
20 Jul, 2022 by Michelle galeano
John Estill goes above and beyond to help anyone. Highly recommend them.
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07 Jun, 2024 by Shannon wagner
Awesome quick and fast service with a smile very polite
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18 Mar, 2023 by Larry smith
20 Jul, 2022 by Michelle galeano
John Estill goes above and beyond to help anyone. Highly recommend them.
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05 Sep, 2024 by Laura gray
Mr Bryant Armstrong do get the job done I appreciate all what he have done for me and my family he's an honest man and you can hold him to his word I just want to let him and his whole team knows me and my family appreciate what he have done for us God bless you and keep you thank you
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12 Aug, 2024 by Alisbex galvan
07 Aug, 2024 by Brenda gardner
05 Sep, 2024 by Laura gray
Mr Bryant Armstrong do get the job done I appreciate all what he have done for me and my family he's an honest man and you can hold him to his word I just want to let him and his whole team knows me and my family appreciate what he have done for us God bless you and keep you thank you
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12 Aug, 2024 by Alisbex galvan
07 Aug, 2024 by Brenda gardner
05 Sep, 2024 by Laura gray
Mr Bryant Armstrong do get the job done I appreciate all what he have done for me and my family he's an honest man and you can hold him to his word I just want to let him and his whole team knows me and my family appreciate what he have done for us God bless you and keep you thank you
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12 Aug, 2024 by Alisbex galvan
07 Aug, 2024 by Brenda gardner
05 Sep, 2024 by Laura gray
Mr Bryant Armstrong do get the job done I appreciate all what he have done for me and my family he's an honest man and you can hold him to his word I just want to let him and his whole team knows me and my family appreciate what he have done for us God bless you and keep you thank you
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12 Aug, 2024 by Alisbex galvan
07 Aug, 2024 by Brenda gardner
19 Mar, 2024 by William sutton
Kelli Brown, was the best, she works really hard for her clients, is very good at communicating, and is extremely knowledgeable about her work. She was also very professional in her court dealings. I cannot say enough good about her!
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29 Feb, 2024 by Amber betner
Caitlin was absolutely wonderful to work with. She helped guide me through a pretty complex adult disability/guardianship case. I wish I had brought her in from the beginning, but she got up to speed quickly and made great progress for us once she joined the team.
Communication was frequent and thorough. If I had questions, she was there with an answer and direction. Her prices were fair and clear. I wouldn't hesitate to lean on Caitlin and her services again.
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20 Feb, 2024 by The magic mystic
After paying almost $10,000 and providing all documentation Caitlin dropped me. She promised to help me find another attorney that would take payment. The only 2 names she provided either declined my case or requested $10,000 up front. Please don’t waste your time.
**Edit- after several phone calls and research with other attorneys, I have a much better understanding of how convoluted this process can be. My particular case was very detailed and Ms. Kidd advised me to the best of her abilities given the circumstances. I cannot in good conscience leave a one star review and have changed it to 5 stars.
Ms. Kidd knows what she’s talking about and was very clear that she would no longer be able to continue with my case due to the motions filed by opposing counsel. I appreciate her honesty and am very grateful for her hard work. Any fees paid are comparable to other attorneys and I would recommend her and the law firm.
These cases can bring out the worst in people and I would never want my comments to have negative effects.
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19 Mar, 2024 by William sutton
Kelli Brown, was the best, she works really hard for her clients, is very good at communicating, and is extremely knowledgeable about her work. She was also very professional in her court dealings. I cannot say enough good about her!
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29 Feb, 2024 by Amber betner
Caitlin was absolutely wonderful to work with. She helped guide me through a pretty complex adult disability/guardianship case. I wish I had brought her in from the beginning, but she got up to speed quickly and made great progress for us once she joined the team.
Communication was frequent and thorough. If I had questions, she was there with an answer and direction. Her prices were fair and clear. I wouldn't hesitate to lean on Caitlin and her services again.
Read more
20 Feb, 2024 by The magic mystic
After paying almost $10,000 and providing all documentation Caitlin dropped me. She promised to help me find another attorney that would take payment. The only 2 names she provided either declined my case or requested $10,000 up front. Please don’t waste your time.
**Edit- after several phone calls and research with other attorneys, I have a much better understanding of how convoluted this process can be. My particular case was very detailed and Ms. Kidd advised me to the best of her abilities given the circumstances. I cannot in good conscience leave a one star review and have changed it to 5 stars.
Ms. Kidd knows what she’s talking about and was very clear that she would no longer be able to continue with my case due to the motions filed by opposing counsel. I appreciate her honesty and am very grateful for her hard work. Any fees paid are comparable to other attorneys and I would recommend her and the law firm.
These cases can bring out the worst in people and I would never want my comments to have negative effects.
Read more
19 Mar, 2024 by William sutton
Kelli Brown, was the best, she works really hard for her clients, is very good at communicating, and is extremely knowledgeable about her work. She was also very professional in her court dealings. I cannot say enough good about her!
Read more
29 Feb, 2024 by Amber betner
Caitlin was absolutely wonderful to work with. She helped guide me through a pretty complex adult disability/guardianship case. I wish I had brought her in from the beginning, but she got up to speed quickly and made great progress for us once she joined the team.
Communication was frequent and thorough. If I had questions, she was there with an answer and direction. Her prices were fair and clear. I wouldn't hesitate to lean on Caitlin and her services again.
Read more
20 Feb, 2024 by The magic mystic
After paying almost $10,000 and providing all documentation Caitlin dropped me. She promised to help me find another attorney that would take payment. The only 2 names she provided either declined my case or requested $10,000 up front. Please don’t waste your time.
**Edit- after several phone calls and research with other attorneys, I have a much better understanding of how convoluted this process can be. My particular case was very detailed and Ms. Kidd advised me to the best of her abilities given the circumstances. I cannot in good conscience leave a one star review and have changed it to 5 stars.
Ms. Kidd knows what she’s talking about and was very clear that she would no longer be able to continue with my case due to the motions filed by opposing counsel. I appreciate her honesty and am very grateful for her hard work. Any fees paid are comparable to other attorneys and I would recommend her and the law firm.
These cases can bring out the worst in people and I would never want my comments to have negative effects.
Read more
19 Feb, 2024 by Elizabeth lowry
I called seeking counsel and they called me back within the hour. Aaron was honest and professional would highly recommend them to any family member or friend!
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12 Dec, 2023 by Silver
When are they actually open? I’ve called every hour of the day and they’re always “currently busy and on another line.” So what is a real number to call or when are they actually open?
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24 Jan, 2023 by Gerren washington
The level of condescension was off the charts the person didn't show any type of concern and gave me a lawyers name,but said under her breath I was wasting my time
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08 Jul, 2024 by Johnnie billings
08 Jul, 2024 by Wes terry
08 Jul, 2024 by Zach lehmann
02 May, 2022 by Ian rowe
I had an attorney here named Paige draw up a generic lease document. The meeting went well and she seemed quite nice. When I asked how much it would cost, she thought about it briefly and said $200. I said sounds good and asked when she would have the docs to me. She told me a couple days at the latest. It ended up taking her a week to send them over and then told me that it would cost $300 because of a personal guarantee document that we had already discussed in our original meeting. Really left a sour taste in my mouth and certainly will not be recommending to anyone. Be more organized and/or more upfront with pricing instead of acting like a stereotypical attorney.
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09 Mar, 2020 by Jackie johnson
31 Jan, 2020 by Mike m
I've used this firm to draw up wills and PoA documents for my parents. They also handled those documents for my grandmother. They patiently listened to my concerns and answered all my questions and made it easy for me to understand. They also assisted promptly during a follow up visit regarding new developments with my mother who had legal issues. I would recommend them.
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12 Jun, 2024 by Amanda wilson
I only write reviews when I am absolutely blown away. In this case, I was blown away with how unbelieveably disrespectful, rude and arrogant Fred Keith was. The first few times I spoke with him, he was talking "at" me which I was willing to overlook as just trying to be informative. However, his true colors showed when I emailed inquiring about the status when my taxes would be completed. Never have I ever be spoken to from a "professional" the way I was by him. He responded via email and immediately blamed the "delay" on me saying I didn't provide information they needed in a timely manor (which is not true, from the first time I spoke to him in December my goal was to having filing completed no later than the end of Janurary so I was very timely with my responses in order to meet the deadline I had set.) and he said lacked basic P&L knowledge (been doing a P&L for 5 years, it's generally pretty straight forward- he did as for some pretty indepth information that's not typical for standard P&L and no one else has ever asked me before). I wasn't complaining about a delay, simply inquiring as it had been a few weeks since there was any type of coorespondence (and well after my goal date). I was able to get on the phone with him (was hoping I misread his tone) but sure enough he continue to be condensing, quite frankly he was totally out of control, calling me stupid, in fact the "stupidist person he'd ever worked with." Thankfully I know myself well and his words are merely a reflection of his own emotional state. Even if I lacked P&L knowledge and was stupid, I believe that clients should be treated respectfully. As professionals its our job to educate our clients in the areas we specialize in. I'm a very upfront person and have to have hard conversations with my clients all the time; There's rarely (if any) a time when a rude, condensending approach is acceptable. If I make a mistake, I apologize genuinely. I received no call back or email from him regarding his behavior. His staff was very helpful and apologized calmly for his behavior which leads me to believe they weren't surprised by my complaint. If you're looking for a professional that will treat you the way you treat your clients, look elsewhere.
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04 Jun, 2024 by Carol turni
Great team to work with…. Fred and Joe are knowledgeable professionals. Timely and accurate.
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14 May, 2024 by Brandon c
Keith and Associates is the professional lawyer/accountant we have ever worked with.
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12 Jun, 2024 by Amanda wilson
I only write reviews when I am absolutely blown away. In this case, I was blown away with how unbelieveably disrespectful, rude and arrogant Fred Keith was. The first few times I spoke with him, he was talking "at" me which I was willing to overlook as just trying to be informative. However, his true colors showed when I emailed inquiring about the status when my taxes would be completed. Never have I ever be spoken to from a "professional" the way I was by him. He responded via email and immediately blamed the "delay" on me saying I didn't provide information they needed in a timely manor (which is not true, from the first time I spoke to him in December my goal was to having filing completed no later than the end of Janurary so I was very timely with my responses in order to meet the deadline I had set.) and he said lacked basic P&L knowledge (been doing a P&L for 5 years, it's generally pretty straight forward- he did as for some pretty indepth information that's not typical for standard P&L and no one else has ever asked me before). I wasn't complaining about a delay, simply inquiring as it had been a few weeks since there was any type of coorespondence (and well after my goal date). I was able to get on the phone with him (was hoping I misread his tone) but sure enough he continue to be condensing, quite frankly he was totally out of control, calling me stupid, in fact the "stupidist person he'd ever worked with." Thankfully I know myself well and his words are merely a reflection of his own emotional state. Even if I lacked P&L knowledge and was stupid, I believe that clients should be treated respectfully. As professionals its our job to educate our clients in the areas we specialize in. I'm a very upfront person and have to have hard conversations with my clients all the time; There's rarely (if any) a time when a rude, condensending approach is acceptable. If I make a mistake, I apologize genuinely. I received no call back or email from him regarding his behavior. His staff was very helpful and apologized calmly for his behavior which leads me to believe they weren't surprised by my complaint. If you're looking for a professional that will treat you the way you treat your clients, look elsewhere.
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04 Jun, 2024 by Carol turni
Great team to work with…. Fred and Joe are knowledgeable professionals. Timely and accurate.
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14 May, 2024 by Brandon c
Keith and Associates is the professional lawyer/accountant we have ever worked with.
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23 Feb, 2024 by Ray megie
I am an out of state real estate investor and hired Attorney Leah Hawkins to help me resolve a real estate situation. She was very helpful and responsive. Fair priced also. I highly recommend her.
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28 Aug, 2023 by T m
Nice receptionist very helpful. Reasonably priced compared to other attorneys in the area. Worth calling.
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03 May, 2023 by Vicki chappel
20 Jun, 2024 by J mar
I don't know who screwed me more ..JT Skinner or the guy I wanted to sue.
Never had any contact..always had to call to see what was going very unprofessional..
HE KNEW the person I wanted to sue was a career con artist that had multiple lawsuits against him and knrew nothing would get settled..
.but took my retainer fee anyway..
That's a horrible attorney!!!!
.
Now you know why everyone hates crooked lawyers..
Stay away from this hack .He's a pig
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12 Apr, 2024 by Jdhook312
The office is very nice. The receptionist was always nice and extremely helpful. The reason for using this law firm was an estate. The seller wish to use the law firm I was the buyer. Lawyers on multiple occasions did not return my phone calls and were very hard to reach. When closing day came, they gave no advance notice to the sellers, which There was five of, and I had to contact them all myself. They did finally contact the seller the day of and asked them to meet at noon. Poor planning in my opinion. In the closing documents there was a questionable charge went Mentioned. I got two different answers from two different people. In the end, I never received the original wet Deed to the property. When I asked about it, the first person told me that they mailed it out. There was nothing they could do but she assured me that they mailed it. The next phone call The lawyer said they never received it from the courthouse that I needed to check with the bank. Both phone calls were very professional, Even when I may have been a little bit Agitated. Overall the law firm got past few hurdles and perform their jobs adequately. Not returning phone calls multiple Different Answers to questions, and the fact that I didn’t get the deed I will not personally be using them again. You can do the big things right and mess up on the small personal interactions and be a fail.
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13 Mar, 2024 by David davidson (big dave)
Completely new to this process and not quite sure who to believe and what to expect as it relates to the recent passing of my Mother.
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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:
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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.
