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07 Oct, 2024 by Brian gabel
Courtney helped me though a very emotionally draining 6 month+ nightmare.
I was being manipulated by a very bad body shop who has cashed the insurance check but not put a finger on my car or ordered any parts. Courtney was able to work things out to get my car to another body shop and within 3 days my car was totaled. What took Grayson BMW 6 months to do, another shop was able to complete in 3 day!
Thankful to of had Courtney’s help in getting this nightmare over with so I can move on with my life.
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11 Sep, 2024 by Richard lovell
Mr Chambers is terrific—patient, personable, and extremely well versed in all the ins and outs.
Highly recommended!
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11 Sep, 2024 by Kevin steele
Mr. Chambers handled our case with professionalism and integrity. We were clueless on what we were supposed to do, and he guided us through every step. He returned our calls promptly, and never made us feel like we were part of a long list of clients. It was his personable approach that we loved most. I followed up with him, about a month after everything was finished, with some questions. Mr Chambers answered those questions, and then proceeded to ask me about my family, and how we were doing. Most attorneys could care less, Timothy Cambers cares more! Thank you
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24 Aug, 2024 by Matthew williams
I’m very happy I chose barns and fernsten. Best possible outcome for my case and Oscar helped me every step of the way.
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23 Aug, 2024 by Evan sweeny
This law firm is amazing. They are a force in the courtroom. Oscar is the most informed attorney ive ever had and the communication between client and attorney is very intune. When they say we will do our best they really do. In todays world to find these kind of people are scarce so take my word and hire them. They dont treat you like a criminal they treat you like a person. Take the time and meet them by the end of the conversation you will hire them. They are flexible on payments and stay with you until the job is done. They were able to make light of a very dark situation for me and i am very grateful. Believe me when i say you wont find better anywhere in tennessee.
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23 Aug, 2024 by Ty selleaze
20 Jun, 2023 by Kimberly
Although most of us never desire to need a lawyer, from time to time in our lives, it becomes necessary. Over the last year, I've needed a lawyer for two different situations that I faced in my life. Luke handled both cases for me. He is extremely competent and professional and also kept me up-to-date on any developments in my cases. He responds to emails and phone calls promptly. Recently, he needed to contact me during my work hours to expedite the conclusion of my case. Because I leave my cell phone in my purse on silent while I'm working, I did not hear his phone calls or see his email message. He called my company to reach me, and then was able to bring my case to an immediate conclusion as a result. I highly recommend Luke Durham.
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19 Feb, 2021 by Jj
Previous reviews speak volumes of this man's skills and concern for cases he upholds. He has turned a bleak and dreary, nearly irredeemable case into a hopeful, salvageable one.
Without going into too many details, I had to change attorneys and dump their mess onto Luke's shoulders. He had very little time to make adjustments and to absorb the case. This did not deter mister Durham. He took it upon himself to visit places handfuls of hundreds of miles away (out of state) so that he could 'paint a picture' and get the information he needed.
He did the work you would expect a phenomenal attorney to do. No stone was left unturned, no possibilities or options had gone unconsidered. He did his absolute best, and hardest work for me. My best interests were - and still are - in his heart. This is why he is my attorney, and why he should also be yours.
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16 Feb, 2021 by Anonymous
Mr. Durham was quick to look into our case and begin proceedings. He was always prompt in responding to any emails, even on weekends, and was always patient to explain verbiage and rights.
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20 Jul, 2021 by Joy
If I had three words to describe John Haines, it would be professional, knowledgeable and blunt. Divorce is always a sticky situation, but John navigated it like it was child's play. He's been doing this for a long time and if you think the retainer is too much to pay, it isn't. He chews gum and shoots from the hip. This does not mean he's cocky. He's just confident and that's what you need in a lawyer. Just listen to him, do what he tells you to do and it will be all over before you know it. He really isn't one of these sleazeball lawyers who is looking to overbill for every e-mail or call. I saw my ex's financials and he got billed 3-5 times a month. I never got a bill until the very end. He's there if you need him, but check your problem at the door to make sure you really need him. Divorce is emotional. He's not Dr. Phil. He's there to get you out of the predicament you're in and if it goes to court, fight for you. I appreciated his demeanor and when you hire him, you will too.
The work was exceptional, the price was fair, the stories were hilarious and I'd give him and the boys in the office 5 stars any day of the week. Outstanding work!
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29 Jan, 2021 by Joseph
Jed represented in my divorce. Despite my best efforts to sabotage his excellent work he was able to achieve a fantastic result. He came highly recommended by another attorney which I had used previously. I would recommend him to anyone needing legal counsel.
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26 Jan, 2021 by Anonymous
I heard about Jed through a family friend who also used him as her divorce attorney. So I figured I would have a consultation with him. After our consultation, I was VERY satisfied and knew that I wanted to hire him. This was back in 2018. He required the retainer, which was expected, and used that retainer towards the expenses. He was very professional, listened to my needs, had my sons best interest in mind, and maintained his integrity throughout my entire case. Not only did he handle my divorce, custody, and parenting plan case, he also handled my personal injury case, got me the most that he could, and knowing full well that he would get his share, so he made sure after giving him what was owed, I still had more than enough to cover costs. I don’t like saying I have an attorney “in my back pocket”, but I enjoy having the relief of knowing I have an attorney or any legal matters. Jed comes HIGHLY recommended by me, and will be the only attorney I use.
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08 Nov, 2023 by Jonathan
When my career was altered by my company's decision to release me, I was devastated. I felt like it was wrong and reached out to an attorney friend of mine. She recommended Heather as an expert in the field. She could not have been more correct. Heather was amazing. She communicated with me in every aspect of the process and we ultimately got the outcome we desired. She was professional at every turn and always explained the situation as it developed. I would recommend her 100% She allowed me and my family to have peace with a very tough situation in our lives. I will always appreciate what she did for us. Thank you Heather.
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13 Mar, 2019 by Anonymous
I needed help with company policy and procedures and a few other HR issues. Heather did a great job at creating the company policy and procedures and gave great insight as to how to handle a few on going issues.
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29 Nov, 2018 by Anonymous
Heather is a fantastic attorney that I would highly recommend. She has assisted our company with business disputes, contract revision and general business matters. We have found her to be very knowledgeable in her practice area and a consummate professional. In the dispute she handled for our company, she showed herself to be a skilled negotiator working with the opposing side and other involved parties to achieve the outcome we had wanted. One of the things I appreciate most about working with Heather is her accessibility and quick response time. Her accessibility and constant contact during a dispute gave us the guidance we needed to resolve a very stressful and potentially costly situation. She definitely goes the extra mile for her clients.
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16 Apr, 2024 by Jennifer
We hired Carin for estate planning. She is an expert, she patiently answered all of my questions, and her team was great as well. Highly recommended (from two attorneys).
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22 Mar, 2024 by Mark
Carin Brio Law Office helped me setup a Trust for my
estate. I didn't have much background knowledge about
Trusts, and they were very patient with me and answered
any questions I had. As with the creation of any lenghty
legal document, there were a few hiccups along the way,
but they were handled appropriately and efficiently
by Carin and Paxton, her paralegal. I would definitely
consider them again for further legal tasks I might
encounter in the future.
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16 Mar, 2024 by Anonymous
Excellent communication and demonstrated professionalim when addressing all my questions and concerns. I will definitely get back for legal support as needed in the future, because I trust this lawyer. I highly reccomend.
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25 May, 2021 by Bill
Matt was instrumental in helping my sons to adopt me. Yes, they came to him to ask them to help adopt me as their father.
I am so very thankful.
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10 Sep, 2020 by Charles
The owner of apartments that border my property was negligent in maintaining his trees. The trees posed a danger to my property, including my house. Mr. McClanahan did his homework by having The University of Tennessee extension agent come to my property and assess the danger of the trees. Then, armed with the evidence, sent a letter to the owner of the apartments. I had been requesting that the trees be cut for over six months, but within one week of Mr. McClanahan's action the dangerous trees were cut and removed! Now my yard is safe and I am a fan of the excellent work of Matthew McClanahan!
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01 Sep, 2020 by Alex
Hired them for a CMV speeding ticket, they got it dropped and got just a minor non moving violation left. Would recommend for truckers.
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05 Oct, 2018 by Jim
I can not express what an excellent job attorney Brent R. Laman did for me on a recent legal matter. I had a corporate entity place a substantial burden against me and my wife. The entity was placed the burden outside their legal rights. Brent Laman took my case an handled it just like he was handling something for a friend of family member. His communication skills are excellent and the end result was that my wife and I won our case. If your looking for the BEST attorney in Knoxville in civil matters, I'd recommend you contact Brent immediately. If you have any questions about what an excellent job he will do, I give Brent my permission to give my number to anyone shopping for an attorney.
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08 Aug, 2018 by York risk services
Brent is everything you could ever want out of your representation. Clear, reliable, available (even when he shouldn't have to be). He is upfront, honest, and better at managing time, dates, deadlines, and follow-ups than any defense I've had. Constantly impressed with his ability to keep a case on track for settlement. As far as insurance defense goes, Brent is who you want in your corner.
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02 Feb, 2018 by Anonymous
I have a landlord-tenant case. Brent took the time to help guide me in the right direction. I will definitely consider hiring him if I need to take the case further!
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16 Dec, 2020 by Anonymous
I found Keith on google search for a consultation and he picked up the phone himself, not a clerk, listened to my story, and referred me to his associate, Nikki Price right away. She was amazing with excellent communication, negotiation skill, and handled my case very well. I'm very thankful to find them. They are amazing lawyers that wil truly listens and cares for their client.
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27 Jan, 2020 by Anonymous
Mr Alley has been incredible in helping my husband thru a very complicated workers comp claim and settlement. His knowledge of the laws and what the client is entitled to makes him the perfect selection for these type of cases. He was always very prompt and transparent on what was required and expected. If his services are ever required again for any type of law he practices, we would not hesitate to contact him immediately.
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23 Jan, 2020 by Jim
There are (3) angles to an effort: Cheap, Good or Fast.
In construction we say pick 2 of the 3
In legal work, it seems we only get to choose 1 of the 3.
I had a messy contract dispute that Keith unravelled and prevailed.
Keith delivered great work and was certainly cost effective in the end. Mr. Alley is an arrow in my quiver and I have increased business confidence knowing that.
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01 Jul, 2021 by Anonymous
Excellent lawyer! Mrs. Price successfully helped us deal with some issues with our homeowners' association. She was excellent at providing timely and effective communication. We could tell she truly cared about solving our issue and helping us. We highly recommend her.
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19 Mar, 2021 by Rachel
Nikki wrote a demand letter for me when I contacted her about a contract breach. She responded quickly to my initial inquiry and was extremely professional and thorough with my case. Her letter resulted in the contract being performed within the time frame she specified! I highly recommend hiring her for your legal needs!
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01 Feb, 2021 by Anonymous
My wife and I recommend Attorney Price for all of your legal matters. She developed and prepared a very detailed and thorough Will for my wife and myself. Once you have worked with her as a client, you will look no further. She responds in a timely fashion, knowledgeable and trustworthy.
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16 Apr, 2024 by Dylan
I met Dale when he and his colleague Joe Della-Rodolfa had represented me in some federal & state matters.
He is one of the best - point blank... I have been to many offices and been in several claims/cases - his team was by far the BEST out of every other encounter..
He is honest, he will listen to you, he will fight for you, and he will have no reservations whatsoever in speaking his mind to stand up for what's right. He is a very honorable person and he has no issues with being firm and aggressive in his stance while fighting for you! A++ and a 20 out of 10 in my view.. I`ll follow him and Joe for life - they will be the main two I call for any future matters if within their practice areas for sure!
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07 Jul, 2023 by Kevin
Dale handled a case for me and always great. Will use again very prompt and kept me informed.
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11 Jan, 2016 by Anonymous
All it took was a very persuasive letter from Dale to keep the client contract in place.
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02 Feb, 2018 by Cassidy
I found myself unexpectedly faced with probate court. Grieving, confused, and a bit scared I starting calling attorneys in the area. After one conversation with Mr. Casteel my family decided he was the one. We are very grateful for the patience and compassion Mr. Casteel has shown our family. He has been very kind and honest with us, helping us through each hurdle of this case. We will most definitely be using his services for any of our future legal needs.
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10 Oct, 2017 by Janice
Contacted Jarrod Casteel regarding a property contract. He provided his background and job knowledge and how he could assist me with my property matter. From the very first conversation with him I was moved. I felt he was professional and I was in great hands. I was very comfortable with Jarrod. He dove directly into the issue and it was resolved within days. I am amazed and proud to have Jarrod part of this community. Congratulations to Butler, ,Vines and Barb, PLLC for grabbing this one!!
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10 May, 2017 by Amber fawcett
Jarrod B. Casteel was extremely thorough and professional in setting up an estate for myself and for multiple family members. He was very helpful with any questions that I had along the way and his attention to detail was exceptional. He will be my go-to attorney from here on out!
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13 Dec, 2022 by Allison
David went above and beyond making our daughter’s adoption experience wonderful. He was quick to answer any and all questions we had. The whole process was quick, and special. We remember when David said upon consultation , “This is a celebration”. We knew then he was the perfect lawyer for us. Thank you David for all you did for our family! Forever grateful.
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03 Oct, 2022 by Payten
Dave Otten went above and beyond helping me sell my house. We ran into a few issues during the process, but he was extremely helpful every step of the way. I couldn’t have asked for a better agent. He even took care of things for me while I was out of the country! He was very patient with me and helped me navigate the entire process as a first-time seller. I would 100% recommend Dave to anyone looking for a real estate agent!
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07 Sep, 2022 by Brad
Dave was very helpful. His schedule was very flexible and was willing to go the extra mile to facilitate our dealings.
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13 Dec, 2021 by Ronetta
Mike was a true God send to me, he did everything he needed to do to handle my case and now I consider him a true friend
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16 Mar, 2021 by David
About 15 years ago my attorney for many years dropped his private practice to work for a Federal Judge. I wandered in the wilderness for most of time since and about two weeks ago I had something come up where I really needed good, competent legal assistance. I scanned Google for a familiar name and saw Bernstein, Stair & McAdams whom I recognized and gave them a call. I was put through to Mike Moyers.
I am not an attorney but I have a better than average understanding of business law and have a lot of practical business experience and knew within a few minutes I had found the right guy. It was clear that Mike understood the problem and knew what he was doing. He handled my situation deftly and was always out in front of what was going on. Problem solved. I found my new guy. Thank you Mike. Well done sir.
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27 Jan, 2021 by Sam
I have known Mike Moyers since he was a Chancellor on the bench for 20 years. I appeared in his Court for many years. He was compassionate about his work as a Judge.
Recently, he decided to retire as Chancellor and move to practicing law again. He wants to help people and use his expertise to help those people struggling and need help. He is an asset to our legal community. He is genuinely a kind person and very intelligent. In my life there are few people that I consider to be "real" and he is one of the few. He calls it how he sees it with honesty and integrity. His representation brings his clients the "edge" of being a Judge for years and now a litigator. I personally rely on reviews when I am searching for professionals, travel, etc. I focus on reviews that are sincere and appear to be "real." I assure you that Mike Moyers will provide you with top notch legal representation. It appears that I now have a major competitor in my profession. I welcome him back. He is a good one! Definitely 5 stars.
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23 Jul, 2017 by Todd
Nicole handled a complex closing for me and knew more than any attorney I have ever dealt with. WhenI received the bill at closing, it was reasonable and almost exactly what she told me to expect. Definitely recommend her.
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23 Jan, 2013 by Jeff
Nicole was very down to earth and easy to deal with. She did not talk down to me and explained to me what to expect and why. It was nice to have a good lawyer and not some pompass lawyer to handle my case as has happened in the past.
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13 Apr, 2022 by Cathy merrell
Allen McDonald is one of the best attorneys I know. He did an excellent job for a friend of mine & I've known him to excel in all areas of practice. Highly recommend him with 5 stars! Experienced & has proven results.
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08 Sep, 2020 by Jeffrey cox
Great lawyer. Very friendly, and most importantly very honest - in my case he was very upfront at all points about what he thought our odds were, and gave excellent advice that made it clear that he had my best interests in mind, and wasn't trying to get extra billable hours. If I ever need to hire a business lawyer in Tennessee again, he would 100% be my first call.
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22 Oct, 2015 by John
My firm has been associated with Mr. Dickenson since 1985. I have personally dealt with him since 1991. He represents us in several areas related to Credit Union operations including Collections, Bankruptcy, foreclosure, contract review and extensive legal research.
His primary role as our attorney has been representation in foreclosure and bankruptcy matters. He not only has extensive knowledge of the bankruptcy code and case law, he has a pristine reputation with the local Federal court system. He also has the respect of other law practitioners, both debtor and creditor slanted, which is extremely valuable when dealing with potentially contentious cases. On many occasions, I feel certain that other attorneys have decided that if Mr. Dickenson feels strongly enough about a case to let them know our position is to litigate if not resolved, they often resolve the case instead of facing him in a trial situation. In a trial environment or a deposition, his demeanor is one of someone organized and confident. He is not cocky or blustery, but is polished and authentic. This demeanor has served him well. He never talks down to the other parties in a case, but always right at them. He can be intimidating by his demeanor, but only due to his mannerisms. When on a break in depositions or trials, he is very polite and personable to the opposing parties. When it is time to talk under oath, he is very thorough and straight forward.
As to foreclosures, he is completely knowledgeable in the statutes covering all the nuances of statutory and case law. On more than one occasion, a situation has arisen that scared me when a person of interest would raise an issue I was unfamiliar with only to find out Mr. Dickenson had addressed during the process. One case in particular involved an IRS lien. An agent went after me for not providing a certain notification to the IRS. I found out Mr. Dickenson had taken care of it properly during the foreclosure process.
In summary, the fact that I have many choices and have still elected to use Mr. Dickenson for 24 years is a testament to the respect my company and I personally have for him. It is always satisfying to hear the relief a good attorney has when learning we are represented by him, and the sigh of resignation when a not-so-good attorney learns who represents us. While not obtaining total perfection in every issue for 24 years, he has more than exceeded my expectations and there are no plans to change. His rates are very fair, and he actually picks up the phone when called if he is in the office. His integrity is also without question which is very important to my firm and myself.
I highly recommend Tom Dickenson for competent representation. While specializing in bankruptcy and foreclosure, he is well versed in many areas of the law and will only take cases that he believes are ethical and worthy. An individual or organization needing a good attorney, especially in bankruptcy, foreclosure, or contract matters cannot go wrong in choosing Mr. Dickenson.
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14 Oct, 2015 by Ron
I have retained MR. Dickenson's services several times over the last 15+ years. I have always trusted his judgment and knowledge of his profession. I would recommend highly.
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23 Jun, 2015 by Mark
I hired Matt for estate planning. He was very knowledgeable and professional in helping me establish a will and a trust, and he advised me on how to list beneficiaries on IRAs and life insurance policies and how all that works with the trust. He also helped me file quit claim deeds to transfer property into the trust. I would hire Matt again and recommend him to anyone for estate planning.
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29 Apr, 2015 by Anonymous
Mr. Duggin was appointed to represent me. I was worried at first, but Mr. Duggin knew how to handle things at the courthouse. He called me and talked to me before we went to court so I knew what to expect. He spent a lot of time with me. I know a lot of people never get to talk to their lawyer much. I think Mr. Duggin is a great lawyer who took good care of me. I am glad I met him.
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25 May, 2017 by Kerri
Briton handled our complaint swiftly and professionally. We received the results we specifically requested.
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17 May, 2017 by Jay
In December 2015 my house had an upstairs water line break while I was out of the house for a kitchen remodel. Water ran for 12-18 hours and ruined the newly placed hardwood flooring and most of my content. Insurance stepped in and provided a fair estimate of the work, but I was hasty in selecting a new contractor for the work that turned out to not be qualified (to say the least). This was a grave mistake. The contractor was behind schedule, placed my new kitchen cabinets outside to get rained on, but worst of all he did not know how to install hardwood flooring and did the worst job possible. When I expressed dissatisfaction with the work in place he walked off the job and let my house in ruin. Knowing that I was going to have to fire and sue, I started asking around for legal advice. Briton Collins was recommended to me by my mother who is in tune with the local legal community, so I consulted with Briton and decided he was the best advice available.
Briton navigated me through the Notice of Default procedures so that the "process" was correct from the beginning. Then we stepped through the beginning of the arbitration process. Arbitration clause=red flag, don't sign that contract! We ultimately settled just before the hearing. Without Briton's strong presence during the process, I know I would have gotten nothing. I believe somewhat surprised I decided to settle (pleasantly surprised, I believe), Briton was extremely clear with me to make sure I understood what I was doing. I appreciate the repetition when it comes to confirming big decisions.
I don't wish what I was put through on anyone, but if something similar happens to you, you will be better off consulting with a professional such as Briton.
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19 Aug, 2020 by Stephen
I had a personal injury and was told by everyone that the settlement would be pittance... but Ms. Cacace went to work and was persistent, bringing in arguments from her vast experience in seeking the best for her clients. She continued to negotiate for the best outcome all the way to the end, resulting in a very satisfactory finish line. She knows her way around a personal injury case. Thank you for fighting for me!
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14 Sep, 2013 by Robert
Larry's an excellent attorney. Experienced. Professional. Excellent in the courtroom and out. I wouldn't hesitate for a moment to hire him again, because we won a very long and complicated case by jury trial! I think that says it all. God Bless you Larry. Thanks for being there.
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23 Feb, 2023 by Robert
I have used Bob Edwards on many cases. He has always done me a great job. Robert Edwards is THE BEST
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29 Jul, 2016 by Anonymous
Mr Hodge handled my auto claim. He was very professional and I received more money than I expected.
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09 Jul, 2009 by Anonymous
Mary Jane Borden is one of the most responsive, professional attorneys that I've ever worked with. She is a real credit to the legal profession.
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26 Mar, 2019 by Kayla
Lyndsey was fantastic! I have zero complaints with choosing her to help me with my divorce. She was very kind and helpful and always got back to me quickly.
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23 Feb, 2016 by Twannia
Jon Mac is helping my mother with my stepfathers estate. He has been extremely helpful, prompt and very friendly so far. He always returns calls or answers his calls. We couldn't have made a better choice for legal representation!
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15 Nov, 2019 by Mel barnes
13 Jun, 2017 by Trenece earley
Bill went beyond for me and my family and was there for me when I was nervous and scared in court. If you want an honesty attorney who will work hard for you because everyone deserves justice contact bill Duffey
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15 Nov, 2019 by Mel barnes
08 Dec, 2020 by Anonymous
Erica is one of the best lawyers I have ever had the pleasure of working with. Not only does she excel greatly at her profession but she also has a high sense of integrity and is very adept at her work. Anyone who has given her a bad review is obviously out of spite and talking out of their rear. 5/5 Would definitely recommend
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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.
