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08 Aug, 2024 by Elizabeth welch
Dustin and Sarah were excellent to work with. They were pivotal in the success of my case. I am pleased with the outcome.
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19 Sep, 2023 by Patrick hickey
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09 Aug, 2023 by Jennifer cain
Dustin VanDyke did a fantastic job on our lawsuit, took care of everything in a very timely manner and was more than exceptional at doing his job!
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13 Jul, 2016 by Kevin
Chris has done great work as we have expanded and found ourselves in multiple legal issues both preemptive and litigation related. I would definitely recommend his services for those involved in the construction industry.
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20 Jun, 2016 by John
My case was a bit unique, in that the disputed issues centered around the use and possession of electronic information and intellectual property. Chris demonstrated a high degree of technical aptitude in addressing the nuances surrounding these points. Given the absence of sound historical case law regarding these types of disputes, Chris and his team worked relentlessly completing research and correlating similar defenses. Above all, Chris and his team exemplify professional ethics, courtesy, and experience. Plainly stated, they're the best!
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14 Aug, 2023 by Ryan shaughnessy
Been working with Adam Hall since before he worked with this firm and he is the absolute best attorney I have ever worked with. He is honest and reliable. I recommend his expertise to anyone.
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24 Jul, 2020 by John ellena
We have used Todd Thompson for our legal advisor for over 25 years. Always does a great job for us.
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02 Jul, 2013 by Jeff
I hired him to help with some complicated real estate problems I was having. He kept me informed and involved in the decisions as we went along. The bills were fair. It was nice to have an attorney who would really talk with me and who didn't just look at me as a check-writer.
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24 Sep, 2024 by Just fnatic
Matt Donnelly was exceptional and so kind to me from the beginning. He worked with me day in and day out! Highly recommend!
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19 Aug, 2024 by Gnomesbykaeluv
I am very grateful to Matt Donelly. He negotiated an out-of-court settlement for me, avoiding a long and costly trial. His negotiating skills are impressive. He answered all my questions with great clarity and patience. He kept me informed every step of the way, which gave me great peace of mind. I am very satisfied. Thanks again!
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20 Jun, 2024 by Johnny buschardt
Matt Donnelly was not only courteous, knowledgable, and professional, but he truly was protecting my best interests at every step of my legal process. I wouldn't hesitate to recommend him highly and I feel very confident he'll be able to meet your legal representation needs as well. Wonderful service and a fantastic attorney!
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30 Mar, 2024 by Jake brown
Fagan & Emert have been instrumental to my company's performance! From contracts, legal documents, entity formations, etc.. They go above and beyond to ensure we are set up for success! I could not be happier with their counsel.
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14 Feb, 2024 by Tom pagano
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01 Nov, 2022 by Felisha mcdougald cic cprm mlis
Jennifer Johnson, Atty. has been phenominal with my contractor and cmall biz clients. Very reasonable on contracts/contract review and litigation.
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17 Sep, 2021 by Rachel ohmes
I can’t imagine what going through my divorce and the protection from abuse process would have been like without Brenda and Alyssa. They are knowledgeable, kind, empathetic, patient, and prompt. Brenda will also be very honest and straightforward with you, which will save you money and frustration. I always felt important and like I was a priority, and I never had to wait more than 24 hours for a return email, though I often received something back the same day. Brenda has no tolerance for abusers and that shows in court. It felt so good to know I had someone on my side who felt strongly that the individual in my case should be held accountable for his actions. You’ll have a dedicated team who will fight for and guide you through your case when you hire Brenda. I truly wish I could give her and Alyssa a thousand stars!
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14 Jun, 2021 by Michael goad
Brenda represented me with strength and confidence. She was responsive to my needs. I never felt like I had to wait around forever to get a response. She was very consistent in fighting for my requests and did not give up. Her paralegal Alyssa Bradford was just as incredible as Brenda. She sincerely cared about me and my case. I wasn't just a money sign to Brenda. She took time to understand me and my position. I am forever grateful for her and Alyssa's hard work.
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03 Sep, 2019 by Kim giles
Easy to work with, staff was awesome
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25 Feb, 2024 by Lina rose
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21 Feb, 2020 by Andy
Great bussiness practices
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06 Aug, 2019 by Linda mcinroy
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19 Dec, 2023 by Sheryl brooks
Listened to us and provided the needed service without any hassle.
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07 Nov, 2023 by Connie bailey
They don't have the BALLS to take on a Pre-Meditated Murderer and habitual Drug Addict/Dealer.
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03 Oct, 2023 by Gary lucas
Very nice for a lawyer meeting.
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19 Dec, 2023 by Sheryl brooks
Listened to us and provided the needed service without any hassle.
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07 Nov, 2023 by Connie bailey
They don't have the BALLS to take on a Pre-Meditated Murderer and habitual Drug Addict/Dealer.
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03 Oct, 2023 by Gary lucas
Very nice for a lawyer meeting.
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19 Dec, 2023 by Sheryl brooks
Listened to us and provided the needed service without any hassle.
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07 Nov, 2023 by Connie bailey
They don't have the BALLS to take on a Pre-Meditated Murderer and habitual Drug Addict/Dealer.
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03 Oct, 2023 by Gary lucas
Very nice for a lawyer meeting.
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19 Dec, 2023 by Sheryl brooks
Listened to us and provided the needed service without any hassle.
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07 Nov, 2023 by Connie bailey
They don't have the BALLS to take on a Pre-Meditated Murderer and habitual Drug Addict/Dealer.
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03 Oct, 2023 by Gary lucas
Very nice for a lawyer meeting.
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19 Dec, 2023 by Sheryl brooks
Listened to us and provided the needed service without any hassle.
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07 Nov, 2023 by Connie bailey
They don't have the BALLS to take on a Pre-Meditated Murderer and habitual Drug Addict/Dealer.
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03 Oct, 2023 by Gary lucas
Very nice for a lawyer meeting.
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19 Nov, 2024 by Wes thygerson
Mike is great!
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21 May, 2024 by Sonya gardner harris
This office is horrible. My mother wanted a second set of ears when she talking with this office and they refused to speak to her because SHE wanted someone to listen in. They insisted on a power of attorney for the person my mom requested present. These demands are unrealistic. There's no need for a p.o.a.. Possibly a confidentiality issue but not even that. It's like going to the doctor and having an extra set of ears present. It's not any concern of this office who a member chooses to have present. I would NEVER recommend Riling, Burkhead, and Nitcher! Represent yourself before you bother with this place. There are plenty of qualified attorneys that are happy to help a client.
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21 Apr, 2024 by Patrick manning
Chris Peoples has helped me out and recovered over a $1000 in expenses. Thank you for what you do.
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19 Nov, 2024 by Wes thygerson
Mike is great!
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21 May, 2024 by Sonya gardner harris
This office is horrible. My mother wanted a second set of ears when she talking with this office and they refused to speak to her because SHE wanted someone to listen in. They insisted on a power of attorney for the person my mom requested present. These demands are unrealistic. There's no need for a p.o.a.. Possibly a confidentiality issue but not even that. It's like going to the doctor and having an extra set of ears present. It's not any concern of this office who a member chooses to have present. I would NEVER recommend Riling, Burkhead, and Nitcher! Represent yourself before you bother with this place. There are plenty of qualified attorneys that are happy to help a client.
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21 Apr, 2024 by Patrick manning
Chris Peoples has helped me out and recovered over a $1000 in expenses. Thank you for what you do.
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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.

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