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04 Sep, 2024 by Gemma estrella
It was a breeze working with Imani Law! I am forming my LLC and gathered all information online but still wasn't able to start right away since I work at nights and by morning I'm deadbeat. Lucky me I found them online and we go through the process and they took care of everything! within a matter of days I'm officially a business owner. Definitely recommend them for business especially for starting up. Professionalism, customer service at its best!
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27 Aug, 2024 by Andrea hernandez
I had a fantastic experience with Imani Law Practice. Their team provided invaluable legal advice and support as I navigated the process of starting my private practice as a licensed clinical social worker. A special thank you to Camellia for her exceptional guidance and dedication—she was knowledgeable, responsive, and genuinely invested in my success. I highly recommend Imani Law Practice for anyone looking for expert legal guidance in starting and running their business.
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22 Aug, 2024 by Caitlin salinas
I had a consult call & it was worth every penny! Great information and a very candid conversation. Thanks so much!
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03 Mar, 2015 by Patrick
Carter has helped our company design and implement an insurance program for our business. The specifics include many aspects that our broker and the policy underwriters had never brought to our attention that turn out to be critical to have the kind of coverage we really need. He has a keen understanding of the construction liability and litigation case law that is up to date and current. Every time we do business with a new entity and this program is implemented we feel we are teaching our clients and people we do business with what the state of the art insurance coverage's are all about.
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03 Mar, 2015 by Phil
+Carter handled a complicated situation wherein my partner and I bought a partially constructed multimillion dollar home in Beverly Hills. It turned out that we inherited some construction defects, and that we were in danger of producing defects of our own. Carter resolved the issues with the seller to our satisfaction, and he guided us in such a way as we avoided anything that could come back at us later as a liability. He has also handled our insurance issues (He is an expert!), and he does our contracts. I, for one, am extremely happy with Carter. Call me, and I will go into detail. Phil deCarion (949)922-7156.
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24 Feb, 2015 by Mark
We have worked with Carter over the past seven years on our risk management matters. He has been very responsive and helpful with all of our concerns.
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03 Apr, 2013 by Steve
Land Use issues are perhaps the most contentious cases that appear before City government everywhere, particularly in Laguna Beach. It's all there: expensive properties, competing interests, and challenging development standards and review. Larry Nokes is my lawyer of choice... he has a knack of defusing hotly contested disagreements and understands the dynamics of his hometown. He has successfully assisted both myself and my clients in numerous complex and sometimes frustrating entitlement cases. His responsiveness to my legal questions and needs is unparalleled, and his staff is friendly, efficient, and reliable. It is with pleasure that I recommend Larry Nokes without any reservation.
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03 Apr, 2013 by Anonymous
I have worked with Mr. Nokes on numerous real estate matters. He is extremely knowlegable about the specific laws and requirements for this complex industry. I highly recommend him.
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03 Apr, 2013 by Thomas
Larry has been our company's "go-to" outside general council for the past 6 years. Our company manages and sells bank-owned (REO) residential properties on a nationwide basis and has sold over 55,000 properties generating proceeds in excess of $10 billion to our clients-- many of the largest banks in the country. Although we run a tight ship, we do occasionally encounter legal issues, and Larry and his firm have been a vital resource to assist us in successfully handling the myriad of issues that have arisen. We have established a great rapport with Larry, and he is an approachable, responsive, informed and honest attorney who I would recommend to any of my colleagues in a heart-beat. I have worked for over 25 years as a Chief Operating Officer/Chief Financial Officer in insurance and real estate industries with many of the top law firms/lawyers in the country (as well as in the United Kingdom and Bermuda), and I consider Larry to be one of the most trusted people I have had the privilege of working with in my business career.
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22 Jul, 2019 by Liz
Tom is such a great person. He is a great listener, he worked so hard for me and I felt I had the best representation. I could not have done this without him. He made sure that I was taken care of and fought for me every step of the way. He got back to me in seconds , I felt comfortable with Tom and trusted him 110%. Thank you Tom for winning my case.
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19 Mar, 2013 by Anonymous
Quick response and thorough answers. He called me right away, when I left a message at his office. Very helpful
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14 Mar, 2013 by Anonymous
Mr Quinn has handled and continues to handle multiple cases for us involving "breach of contract". He has provided us with pertinent information and knowledge that has allowed us to make reasonable business decisions with each of these matters. He has kept us informed and updated with each case. Mr. Quinn is extremely professional, hard working, reliable, knowledgable and resourceful. It is a pleasure to work with him, his office and his staff.
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28 Apr, 2016 by Anonymous
Nicole's ethical professionalism is what made up my mind that she was the lawyer I wanted handling my case. I found Nicole to be extraordinarily thorough, precise, honest and truly kind. I at all times felt informed. I was prepared for all possible outcomes because of the integrity of my attorney.
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27 Apr, 2016 by Anonymous
Nicole was very straightforward, and presents information in a very clear manner. She also made herself available whenever my mom was unsure about something. The end result was my mom's case went off without a hitch. She made a terrible ordeal easy to deal with.
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02 Apr, 2016 by Anonymous
Nicole has represented me for several matters and has brought each matter to closure in a cost/time efficient manner. I recommend her highly.
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29 Oct, 2013 by Robert
Richard negotiated a successful closing where there were nine other buyers competing for the same property. My offer was initially the lowest, but he kept at it as other buyers went away. I ended up purchasing the property for $25.000 below the highest offer and $15,000 below asking price. Nothing has sold in the area for close to that low a price.
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30 May, 2022 by James
Mr. Block got a better result than I could have imagined. I did not expect much since I did not have to pay him but I was pleasantly surprised. I recommended him to 3 friends who had problems with their cars and will continue to recommend him :)
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18 Dec, 2017 by Anonymous
This guy has not contact me in months!! Never answers his damn phone calls. Emails and I know 100% I ain't winning my Case with this guy!!!! I need a new lawyer
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08 Dec, 2017 by Anonymous
This man sought me out as a client in a litigation suit. He has not communicated with me in many months. I have called, sent emails, and written letters and I am not getting any response. Unless he is very sick there is no excuse for this. He has a legal obligation to me as his client. I would not hire him again. Beware.
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05 Aug, 2024 by Ss
First I wanted to address the fact that Robert McMahon threatened me if I wrote a review about him - for disparagement. I assume that he does this with many, if not all, of his clients since he has zero online reviews, though he has been in practice for over 30 years. Not even one positive one. As such, it is important to share for those who don’t know that according to California law (Civil Code 1670.8), otherwise known as “the Yelp law”, it is illegal for the likes of Mr. McMahon to intimidate or threaten anyone with regards to online reviews. This, coupled with the Federal Consumer Review Fairness Act and anti-SLAPP laws, protects online reviews and pictures and videos from meritless threats or litigation. This is important because so many of us are benefiting from reviews from community members regarding what to watch out for as well as what is recommended. If someone had written the truthful review that I am going to write about my experience with this attorney, I would have avoided him at all costs and wouldn’t have had such a horrific experience and outcome of my matter. Robert McMahon lied about so many things during the nine months he was my attorney of record that I feel like he’s a monster. The most egregious and disgusting was his lying about my writing a complaint that he wrote. He drafted and filed a complaint on my behalf that I told him sounded like someone with some sort of a disability wrote it. It was incoherent and uneducated. Then, opposing counsel also insulted him by stating that it was the WORST complaint he’d ever read in all of his years in the legal profession. Mr. McMahon lied, presumably to save face, and threw me, his client who trusted him and hired him to fight for and protect her, under the bus. I had to contact opposing counsel to set the record straight and stand up for myself against my two faced, creepy attorney, while receiving texts from Mr. McMahon asking me to spend time with him either socially or romantically. I felt so sick for so many weeks at the atrocious nature of his actions and him taking advantage of what was supposed to be an attorney-client relationship. According to public record, easily obtained by anyone via Laguna Beach City FOIA, Mr. McMahon has been described by his family members as sick, abusive and incompetent (incapable of taking care of himself). He has humiliated me, exploited my vulnerability, abused me, defrauded me and blown my matter. In my complaints to the Laguna Beach Police Department and the Bar, I have cited what I have been advised (by his attorney peers) as to his innumerable violations of the California State Bar Code of Ethics and Professional Conduct. As such, I do not believe this individual should be anywhere near the practice of law.
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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:

  1. What experience do you have with real estate law?
    Ensure the lawyer has experience in the type of real estate transaction or dispute you’re facing, whether residential, commercial, or development-related.
  2. What is your fee structure?
    Ask how the lawyer charges for services - whether it's a flat fee, hourly rate, or retainer - so there are no surprises later on.
  3. How long will the process take?
    Especially important for real estate transactions or disputes with deadlines, ask for a general estimate of how long the process will last.
  4. Have you handled cases similar to mine?
    Experience with similar transactions or disputes can give you confidence that the lawyer knows how to handle your case.
  5. Will you handle my case personally, or will it be passed to another attorney?
    Confirm who will be handling the bulk of your case work, especially in larger firms where junior lawyers may take on some responsibilities.
  6. Can you provide references?
    Speaking with past clients can give you insight into the lawyer's experience and how they handle cases.

How to Check the Credibility of a Real Estate Lawyer

To ensure you’re hiring a reputable real estate lawyer, take these steps:

  • Check with the state bar association: Verify that the lawyer is licensed and in good standing with no disciplinary actions on their record.
  • Read online reviews and testimonials: Look for reviews on legal directories and platforms like Avvo or Martindale-Hubbell to see what past clients have said.
  • Ask for references: A credible lawyer should have past clients willing to share their experiences.
  • Review their track record and expertise: Look at the lawyer’s website or LinkedIn profile for information about their experience in real estate law and any relevant cases they’ve handled.
  • Membership in professional organizations: Lawyers who are members of respected legal or real estate organizations, like the American Bar Association’s Real Property Division, often signal credibility and expertise.

What Should I Prepare for My First Consultation?

To make your first meeting with a real estate lawyer productive, you should prepare the following materials:

  • Relevant property documents: Bring purchase agreements, lease contracts, mortgage documents, zoning permits, or any other paperwork related to your case.
  • A summary of the issue or transaction: Be ready to explain the situation, whether it's a property dispute, contract negotiation, or development issue.
  • Questions about the legal process: Prepare a list of questions about how the lawyer will handle your case and what steps are involved.
  • Financial documents or loan agreements: If the case involves financing or a mortgage, bring any related documents for the lawyer to review.
  • Your goals and timeline: Be clear about what outcome you're hoping for, and if there are any deadlines that need to be considered, such as closing dates or legal filings.

By coming prepared, you can ensure that your consultation is efficient and informative, allowing you to assess whether the lawyer is the right fit for your real estate needs.