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02 Aug, 2024 by Robert pacheco
Phil and Steve are the best. Phil takes the time to explain complex issues and makes them easy for us to understand. Whenever we reach out to Phil, he responds immediately. He is reliable and dependable, which is something we value and appreciate. We plan on working with Phil and Steve for a long time, and are glad to have found them. Highly recommend. Thank you Phil and Steve!
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03 Jul, 2024 by John addario
I highly recommend them if you are looking for an estate attorney or financial advisor or, as in my case, both. I contacted them based on their reviews and they exceeded our expectations.
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13 Jun, 2024 by Christine lapinski
The Monthie Law Firm is well worth your visit. Phillip is professional, understanding, thorough and a good listener. I would highly recommend them for your home and personal needs.
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28 Aug, 2024 by Will
We used Jami for a commercial matter and she handled it with a professionalism and poise I had not experienced with past real estate attorneys or attorneys in general to be honest.
I highly recommend her services!
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13 Jan, 2022 by Tom
Jami and her team were amazing in helping me and my wife purchase our home. Jami is responsive and knowledgeable. And we are so thankful that we found her. We highly recommend hiring Jami for your real estate transactions. It was a pleasure working with her.
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09 Sep, 2021 by Jay
Jami went above and beyond to make my closing as easy as possible while dealing with extremely difficult buyers. She kept it all together when I was ready to walk away. Greatly appreciate all her efforts and would highly recommend to anyone!
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02 Jan, 2018 by Melissa
Nico Caridi was highly recommended to us by our real estate broker Anthony Gucciardo (who I also highly recommend, he sold our house in 5 days!) to handle the sale of our home. Right out of the gate I was very impressed with Nico. His approach with his clients is top notch in every way. His personable demeanor, self confidance, timely communication, accessability, and attention to detail was right on point. Our closing went off without a hitch, and happened within 3 weeks of selling our home!!! On the day of the closing Nico had all the parties at the table for a timely start, and we finished within 20 minutes due to his swift handling of the paperwork, and top organizational skills. By the way we were Nico's 6th closing of the day, yet you would never have known it. Nico greeted us all with a high energy, smiling face. He took a stressful situation and turned it into an enjoyable one. If you are looking for an attorney that can deliver all of this for you, then Nico's your guy. My husband and I will be using Nico again and we highly recommend him to you. Thanks Nico! It was such a fantastic experience!!!
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15 Mar, 2016 by Adam
Nico Caridi assisted my wife and I with the purchase of our new home recently. Nico's attention to detail is unmatched and he answered every question we posed to him with professionalism and enthusiasm. I would highly recommend Nico Caridi for any legal needs.
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14 Mar, 2016 by Jaylene
Mr. Caridi is a outstanding real estate attorney. He has helped several of my clients get into their dream home. He's very professional & is keeps me involved through the entire process. So many times I've dealt with other attorneys and have to constantly calling to find out what is going on. This is not true with Nico. I get cc'd on all correspondences & I could not ask for a better team to work with.
Thank you for making even the toughest of deals seem so easy! I will forever refer my clients to you.
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19 Oct, 2021 by Anthony gucciardo
I have worked with attorney Marnie abbott for nearly 20 years and I can confidently say that she is one of the most knowledgeable and trusted attorneys that I know. She goes above and beyond to protect her clients and I never hesitate to refer her my most challenging deals.
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08 Dec, 2019 by Jonny
Marnie was extremely helpful and patient. I was a complete novice with much of the procedure that goes into selling a home. Marnie gave me complete and clear explanations when ever needed.
I feel very fortunate to have worked with some one not only very skilled but more than willing to take time to explain.
I highly recommend Marnie Abbott
Sincerely Jonny L
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06 Dec, 2019 by Adam
Marnie Abbott is Habitat for Humanity of Northern Saratoga, Warren and Washington Counties' pro-bono attorney. With her support we are able to support more families in our community!
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21 Apr, 2022 by Igor
We used Paul and his office for our commercial leasing and we were very satisfied with their services.
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04 Jan, 2017 by Bill
I have never posted a review for anyone or anything before, but I was so appreciative for the job Paul and his firm did for me that I felt compelled to write something. I was involved in an extremely complicated transaction, my realtor and my accountant both told me I should retain Paul Sciocchetti. They were right, I highly recommend Paul Sciocchetti.
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15 Aug, 2013 by Ray
Paul has been fantastic for me. He has handled many things such as closings , business contracts , and complicated Real Estate Deals. His pricing is very fair and he gets the job done every time. His advice has been right on the money . I would strongly reccommend Paul . Paul has done my work for over 15 years. He is very responsive and also can explain situations in layman's terms . i cant say enough good things about him.
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15 May, 2018 by Joanne
I have worked with Ken Schwartz, Esq. as a colleague and a client for various real estate matters over the years. Ken is top-notch. He is a caring and compassionate attorney who is also extremely knowledgeable and is impeccable in his attention to detail. I have referred him to many people over the years, including dear friends and family members. Every client has been extremely satisfied with Ken's representation.
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06 Jan, 2015 by Lynn pucino
Nia is an excellent and thorough advocate and is someone you would want on your side. I have practiced in 3 states and Nia ranks high on the list of superb attorneys I have worked with.
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24 Oct, 2021 by Chris
Very knowledgeable and experienced local attorney located in Latham has done two closings for me over the years and both were very smooth and no problems. Highly recommend it to anybody who needs real estate or estate planning etc.
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03 Sep, 2024 by Cindy bisnett
Wonderful office to do business with!
After spending several months researching an attorney to assist with my unusual circumstances, Meier Law Firm was my "saving grace". From the time I first called -Penny was able to help me right away. The document signing was seamless. Christina and the Office Staff were right on the ball!
Extremely professional and forthcoming with information.
I highly recommend Meier Law Firm!
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17 Jun, 2024 by Susan hoffa
The Meier law firm has done a tremendous job working with us on our parents estates which were recently closed. We worked closely with Carol on a number issues throughout the process with great results. She is knowledgeable, professional, and a pleasure to work with. We also worked with Christina and other members of the staff and were pleased with everyone.
This is a great firm to work with.
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01 May, 2024 by Ing-nang wang
I had a question regarding court appearance for a traffic ticket. I wondered if I needed to retain an attorney. Ms. Olivia Lupolis gave me a rather detailed rundown on what to expected, after hearing my situation. This is the very first time I've faced a situation like this and Olivia has been very nice and generous in her advice, all over the phone without charge. I am very grateful for that. Unlike the very first law firm I called.
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03 Sep, 2024 by Cindy bisnett
Wonderful office to do business with!
After spending several months researching an attorney to assist with my unusual circumstances, Meier Law Firm was my "saving grace". From the time I first called -Penny was able to help me right away. The document signing was seamless. Christina and the Office Staff were right on the ball!
Extremely professional and forthcoming with information.
I highly recommend Meier Law Firm!
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17 Jun, 2024 by Susan hoffa
The Meier law firm has done a tremendous job working with us on our parents estates which were recently closed. We worked closely with Carol on a number issues throughout the process with great results. She is knowledgeable, professional, and a pleasure to work with. We also worked with Christina and other members of the staff and were pleased with everyone.
This is a great firm to work with.
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01 May, 2024 by Ing-nang wang
I had a question regarding court appearance for a traffic ticket. I wondered if I needed to retain an attorney. Ms. Olivia Lupolis gave me a rather detailed rundown on what to expected, after hearing my situation. This is the very first time I've faced a situation like this and Olivia has been very nice and generous in her advice, all over the phone without charge. I am very grateful for that. Unlike the very first law firm I called.
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03 Sep, 2024 by Cindy bisnett
Wonderful office to do business with!
After spending several months researching an attorney to assist with my unusual circumstances, Meier Law Firm was my "saving grace". From the time I first called -Penny was able to help me right away. The document signing was seamless. Christina and the Office Staff were right on the ball!
Extremely professional and forthcoming with information.
I highly recommend Meier Law Firm!
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17 Jun, 2024 by Susan hoffa
The Meier law firm has done a tremendous job working with us on our parents estates which were recently closed. We worked closely with Carol on a number issues throughout the process with great results. She is knowledgeable, professional, and a pleasure to work with. We also worked with Christina and other members of the staff and were pleased with everyone.
This is a great firm to work with.
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01 May, 2024 by Ing-nang wang
I had a question regarding court appearance for a traffic ticket. I wondered if I needed to retain an attorney. Ms. Olivia Lupolis gave me a rather detailed rundown on what to expected, after hearing my situation. This is the very first time I've faced a situation like this and Olivia has been very nice and generous in her advice, all over the phone without charge. I am very grateful for that. Unlike the very first law firm I called.
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03 Sep, 2024 by Cindy bisnett
Wonderful office to do business with!
After spending several months researching an attorney to assist with my unusual circumstances, Meier Law Firm was my "saving grace". From the time I first called -Penny was able to help me right away. The document signing was seamless. Christina and the Office Staff were right on the ball!
Extremely professional and forthcoming with information.
I highly recommend Meier Law Firm!
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17 Jun, 2024 by Susan hoffa
The Meier law firm has done a tremendous job working with us on our parents estates which were recently closed. We worked closely with Carol on a number issues throughout the process with great results. She is knowledgeable, professional, and a pleasure to work with. We also worked with Christina and other members of the staff and were pleased with everyone.
This is a great firm to work with.
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01 May, 2024 by Ing-nang wang
I had a question regarding court appearance for a traffic ticket. I wondered if I needed to retain an attorney. Ms. Olivia Lupolis gave me a rather detailed rundown on what to expected, after hearing my situation. This is the very first time I've faced a situation like this and Olivia has been very nice and generous in her advice, all over the phone without charge. I am very grateful for that. Unlike the very first law firm I called.
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13 Feb, 2024 by Marianne maggio
14 Dec, 2022 by Markie blackburn
Professional and helpful.
Lisa Taber is easy to work with, intelligent and a breath of fresh air.
Highly recommended.
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17 Dec, 2021 by Tara oneill gochenaur
16 Mar, 2024 by Paul novak
07 Feb, 2024 by Mark kos
Great attorneys.
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29 Jun, 2023 by Teal schaming
Everyone at the office was happy and very helpful. I had a closing at this office the attorney was very friendly and did not rush the procedure.
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13 Feb, 2024 by Marianne maggio
14 Dec, 2022 by Markie blackburn
Professional and helpful.
Lisa Taber is easy to work with, intelligent and a breath of fresh air.
Highly recommended.
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17 Dec, 2021 by Tara oneill gochenaur
13 Feb, 2024 by Marianne maggio
14 Dec, 2022 by Markie blackburn
Professional and helpful.
Lisa Taber is easy to work with, intelligent and a breath of fresh air.
Highly recommended.
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17 Dec, 2021 by Tara oneill gochenaur
01 Sep, 2024 by Tom peyton
27 Aug, 2024 by Luci marsh
When you buy or sell real estate communication and proficiency are Key!! I should know.. as a Real Estate Broker I have witnessed a lot that can go wrong after the contract has been written. Kerr-deVoe is one you can trust to be on your side to get what you need.
Top notch service is provided around the clock - for clients and industry professionals alike. I know as both a past client myself, as well as a broker, that I can count on Susan and James to help get us to the closing table fast.
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14 Jul, 2024 by Charles schwartz
16 Mar, 2024 by Paul novak
07 Feb, 2024 by Mark kos
Great attorneys.
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29 Jun, 2023 by Teal schaming
Everyone at the office was happy and very helpful. I had a closing at this office the attorney was very friendly and did not rush the procedure.
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01 Sep, 2024 by Tom peyton
27 Aug, 2024 by Luci marsh
When you buy or sell real estate communication and proficiency are Key!! I should know.. as a Real Estate Broker I have witnessed a lot that can go wrong after the contract has been written. Kerr-deVoe is one you can trust to be on your side to get what you need.
Top notch service is provided around the clock - for clients and industry professionals alike. I know as both a past client myself, as well as a broker, that I can count on Susan and James to help get us to the closing table fast.
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14 Jul, 2024 by Charles schwartz
11 Apr, 2024 by Meaghan smith
Maureen Keegan is one of the best lawyers in the nation! Her experience and success fuels her ferocity in court. She will not back down until justice is served for her clients! Choose Maureen, nobody else competes, she will change your life too.
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07 Mar, 2023 by Christina
Karen has represented us in several transactions over the years and has always been extremely professional and her work is flawless! I would highly recommend her! She always puts her clients interests first and communicates well to keep you informed.
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11 Nov, 2017 by Pamela
Karen was awesome. She always took my concerns seriously and she never down played what could happen. She was up front and I thank her for that. Very personable and I would definitely hire her for any legal situations that she may handle.
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28 Jul, 2019 by Lisa
Jim has handled several closings for us. The most recent was rather complicated. He has always been very thorough, professional and amiable. I highly recommend him.
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14 Nov, 2017 by John vadney
Jim has handled real estate for years and he's a true professional at his craft. I recommend Jim all the time to friends and associates, all positive feedback.
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31 Jul, 2017 by Donald hopkins
I had this law firm do a closing on a 3 unit rental property I owned in Troy. Jim Blendell was the lawyer. The closing date was 7/6/17. The loan didn't actually get paid off until 7/20/17! Whoever was in charge of writing out the pay off check, wrote in "aurora bank" instead of the correct "nationstar bank". Our lawyer who we paid almost $500 for a few hours "work", didn't bother looking over the check and it was sent in error to our bank. The bank sent it back and then 2 full weeks later (after much complaining by me) the title company finally issued another check to the correct bank.
In those 2 weeks, we incurred a late fee and a credit ding AND Nationstar mortgage company disbursed $699.99 in property takes on 7/12/17)! So, we paid the new owners property tax.
I emailed and called Jim Blendell but got no response. I emailed a second time and he basically said that the city of Troy would send the $699.99 back to the mortgage company and then Nationstar would send it to us. I knew that was HOGWASH. I called the treasurer and the comptroller of Troy and was told that my lawyer needed to get involved to get the $699.99 back. They would not just
I called Jim Blendell again and let him know this and he gave me a nasty attitude and would not help me. He got his money at the closing 2 weeks ago so he evidently felt no need to right the wrongs his mistakes had created.
As of this date, 7/31/17 I have not heard from Lecce arcodia law firm of the lawyer jim blendell. No one ever apologized for their complete screw up of this closing AND I had to pay a late fee because of their ineptness.
Please please please, if you have a real estate closing DO NOT USE lecce arcodia. Find another law firm. There are many in the capitol region.
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16 May, 2024 by Anonymous
I hired her for a RE transaction. First contact seemed great and my contract requests were treated with full support however nothing was ever addressed until just before the deadline and when their breach of contract was imminent I was told by her paralegal there was no legal remedy and I should accept it or back out. I had to engage someone else entirely to do the heavy lifting. Ms. McAvoy never returned a single call even when my panicked messages were left for her, desperate for legal advice. She was completely disconnected from all of it .. only there to contract me, then to close. Seemed to do nothing else at all for me in the interim.
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07 Jan, 2015 by Kumar
Brittnay handled my mortgage closing and throughout the transaction I have had the pleasure working with her. She is very responsible, returned calls and emails on time. I had successful home closing. I would highly recommend Brittnay.
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15 May, 2014 by Tony
Brittnay paid attention to the details and kept me informed of her progress thoughout the matter she handled for me resulting in a satisfactory resolution of the matter with no surprises.
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02 Aug, 2023 by Thomas
I hired Dorothy from a recommendation from my former divorce attorney Joanne White, who is excellent in her own legal specialty.
She was excellent throughout the period of the transaction but when the buyers used an out of town bank to purchase my home, the closing went sideways because the money was not wired. But Dorothy protected us and did an excellent job to get information on where the funds where and followed through completely through the next day when we did receive our funds. Ken her paralegal assistant was very detailed oriented and I can see why he is invaluable asset to the Dorothy Tischler legal team.
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19 Oct, 2020 by Jenny
Firstly, thank you, Dorothy, for your incredible help throughout the purchase of our first home. My husband and I heard wonderful feedback from other clients who had previously enlisted Dorothy's services and we were not disappointed. Not only was Dorothy extremely detail-oriented when initially going over the contract with us, she also went out of her way to truly protect us, explain anything we didn't understand, and saved us a LOT of money. When a large storm swept through the region the day before we were scheduled to close (and power was out at our new house), Dorothy arranged to have a generator power the needed office equipment at her office so we could still close on time (meanwhile, just down the street from Dorothy's office, a large tree had fallen and blocked off traffic). To still be treated as a priority - even in such extenuating circumstances - just added to our overall positive experience. Both Dorothy, and her amazing paralegal, Ken, were very responsive and always got back to us with answers to any of our many questions incredibly quickly. Everyone told us buying a house would be stressful, but we couldn't have had a smoother experience. I would absolutely recommend Dorothy and her team. Thank you!!
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23 Sep, 2020 by Maria
Dorothy and her team are fantastic. She represented us in both the sale and purchase of our homes this spring/summer. Dorothy was so patient, easily accessible and very knowledgeable. For example, I wasn’t sure of a certain document that I needed, and Dorothy stayed on the phone with me until I found the correct one (after many failed attempts at locating what I needed). Her team kept us informed every step of the way so we always knew where our file was. Definitely recommend!! Thank you Dorothy!
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15 May, 2024 by Rachel
Just has the pleasure of talking with this firm. Extremely Rude and Pompous!!!
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09 May, 2024 by Shujie xiao
I had the pleasure of working with Matt at Mann Law Firm, and I cannot recommend him enough. Matt's warm personality and patience truly set him apart. He took the time to explain everything in detail, ensuring that I fully understood each step of the process. His approachable manner made a typically stressful experience much more manageable. If you're looking for an attorney who not only excels in his field but also genuinely cares about his clients, Matt is your go-to.
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26 Mar, 2024 by Alice nash
13 Oct, 2020 by Anonymous
Spent years working with Steve and got nowhere. Just invoices. No updates, just excuses. Asks the same questions over and over and gets defensive when pressed for answers. Most questions are ignored.
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23 Jan, 2020 by Holly
Steve is the most personable, trustworthy attorney I have ever worked with. He really focuses on the case at hand whatever it may be. He puts his clients first and always goes the extra mile.
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24 Oct, 2014 by Anonymous
Steven D Farer has represented me for the past 9 years. I was referred to him by another attorney who was confident in his knowledge of involved real estate litigation. Mr. Farer was in constant communication with me, always keeping me apprised of the status of my case. Mr. Farer has since helped on business transactions, redrafting my commercial leases, handling my corporate issues and filings and more.
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29 Dec, 2022 by Bruce
I was the seller, and I didn't come to closing (5 hours away). They wanted to charge 200 to wire funds which is absolutely theft of services since the banks charge $20, and then decided they don't and won't do wire transfers anymore. They waited 4 days to put the funds in the overnight envelope provided by my attorney, and they sent my attorney proceeds to me . Now I have the check but it's not certified funds so I need to wait for funds to clear as r.... meanwhile their clients (buyers) have the key to the house the day of closing. The gentlemen in the firm who answered the phone was amazing, but his hands were tied by the people running the show. If I ever have to do business with this firm I will tell buyers they get the key to the house WHEN I GET PAID. Poor business practices.
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18 Nov, 2013 by Richard
He represented me in my real estate closing. He handled the matter professionally and in a very timely manner.
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22 May, 2017 by Anonymous
Unfortunately I had a similar experience. I met with Ms. Verner in Dec. 16 to draw up a will for me. I gave her a downpayment of $500, but never heard back. I called her recently, but learned that she had left the law firm awhile ago. In our last conversation she assured me that the will was nearly completed. It is a half year later and I've never received it.
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15 Nov, 2016 by Carolyn
We went to Kimberly to set up our wills and trusts. She was absolutely wonderful, or so we thought. She explained everything so well and we were so comfortable with her. There was only one thing left for her to do for us and that was to make an amendment to our will. It was supposed to be done mid August. Late Sept. we realized we never heard from her. I emailed her twice leaving her a week in between each email. Then I called her twice, leaving a week between each call, she never responded. I stopped in her office to see if I could catch her in, unfortunately she was out that day. I left my name and phone numbers (it is now early November) still no response. Of course, we paid her in full, she was done with us. We still can't believe she would do that, we thought she was so great.
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17 Jun, 2014 by Carol
I was in a purchase agreement at the last min the mortgage fell threw . The attorney George slingerland 12 Cornell rd Latham was suppose to write up a contract to cancel it so I could get my deposit back, he will not return my calls, emails, so now my money sits in the sellers escrow account. Now I have to hire a lawyer to get that back . I am going to bring charges against George for misconduct and make him pay for everything. so now I would now recommend him.
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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.
