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26 Sep, 2024 by Marisol aleman
I recently had the pleasure of working with Ben Sharlin and his exceptional team during a real estate transaction for my new home. From start to finish, Ben and his team were incredibly diligent, ensuring that every detail was meticulously handled. They made certain that all the "I's" were dotted and "T's" crossed, giving me peace of mind throughout the process. What truly stood out was their commitment to protecting my interests. They provided clear and concise advice, ensuring I fully understood every aspect of the transaction. Their negotiation skills were impressive—they successfully secured a significant reduction in pricing, backed by well-researched facts and receipts. Beyond their professionalism, I found Ben, Elizabeth, Carmen, and the rest of the team to be genuinely kind and approachable. They kept me informed at every step, which made the experience much more comfortable and reassuring. This was not my first transaction with Ben's law office, and it certainly won’t be my last. Their unwavering support and dedication to their clients make them a standout choice. I wholeheartedly recommend Ben Sharlin and his team for anyone seeking legal representation in real estate transactions. They truly fight for their clients and ensure they get what they deserve!
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29 Feb, 2024 by Lou boltik
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17 Dec, 2023 by Lohany santos
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21 Jan, 2024 by Lisa megaro
I am writing this review as an ex employee whose opinions are formed from experiencing what really goes on “behind the scenes”. I worked for other law firms but worked at B&C for probably 10 years, if not more. This is the only law firm that I would recommend with complete confidence. You will not find more caring, decent and truly client focused lawyers than Laura Cassavell or Ed Butrym. I highly recommend this law firm if you are looking for a firm you can trust and who is not just looking at the “billable hours”.
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20 Sep, 2023 by Jennifer vazquez
Ladies are great and very polite Great firm
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03 Feb, 2023 by Diane valenza
Wills and estate planning.
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09 Jan, 2015 by Minal
Dan did a complicated closing for me and my wife and did a superb job interpreting regulations as well as negotiating the deal for us. Would definitely recommend him!
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15 May, 2013 by William
I've used Dan on a number of transactions. He has always gone above and beyond to ensure my needs were being met. He combines experience, drive and knowledge to deliver a superior attorney experience. It's very important to have someone of Dan's caliber working on your side because real estate matters typically carry major ramifications and little details can be mean big "situations" later.
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08 May, 2013 by Anonymous
Dan worked for me and was an excellent attorney
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07 Aug, 2021 by Hoseok lee
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09 Oct, 2017 by Kenneth g.
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15 Dec, 2015 by Ken
Kevin Pollock did a great job of setting up our Wills and recently when we needed to make some simple changes he reviewed the entire package and made some smart suggestions for changes. He is an expert on Estates, Trusts for families with children with disabilities and he even is fluent in Jananese.
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29 Aug, 2024 by Roger schneider
They are a excellent law firm
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12 Jul, 2024 by Jenn demarco
Unprofessional
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03 Jul, 2024 by Lisa septak
My husband has had the absolute pleasure to have Sam as his attorney. Sam & his staff are no joke! They are extremely thorough and leave zero pages unturned. We highly recommend Sam a billion times over! Also highly recommend watching his show on Saturdays at 9am on FB. This show is a plethora of information!
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29 Aug, 2024 by Roger schneider
They are a excellent law firm
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12 Jul, 2024 by Jenn demarco
Unprofessional
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03 Jul, 2024 by Lisa septak
My husband has had the absolute pleasure to have Sam as his attorney. Sam & his staff are no joke! They are extremely thorough and leave zero pages unturned. We highly recommend Sam a billion times over! Also highly recommend watching his show on Saturdays at 9am on FB. This show is a plethora of information!
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29 Aug, 2024 by Roger schneider
They are a excellent law firm
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12 Jul, 2024 by Jenn demarco
Unprofessional
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03 Jul, 2024 by Lisa septak
My husband has had the absolute pleasure to have Sam as his attorney. Sam & his staff are no joke! They are extremely thorough and leave zero pages unturned. We highly recommend Sam a billion times over! Also highly recommend watching his show on Saturdays at 9am on FB. This show is a plethora of information!
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29 Aug, 2024 by Roger schneider
They are a excellent law firm
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12 Jul, 2024 by Jenn demarco
Unprofessional
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03 Jul, 2024 by Lisa septak
My husband has had the absolute pleasure to have Sam as his attorney. Sam & his staff are no joke! They are extremely thorough and leave zero pages unturned. We highly recommend Sam a billion times over! Also highly recommend watching his show on Saturdays at 9am on FB. This show is a plethora of information!
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06 Oct, 2019 by Angela
Ian helped me with setting up a living will and a power of attorney document; the process was simple and quick, and the price was very reasonable. He was very helpful in explaining everything. I will definitely be going to him for any future needs.
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01 Oct, 2019 by Gil
I needed Mr. Dember's advice on some matters of creating a new operating agreement, and his work helped us avoid many headaches down the line. I cannot recommend him enough!
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04 Sep, 2019 by Anonymous
Used Dember through the legal benefit from my firm for two real estate transactions. It was a horrible experience from beginning to end. The title company sent him documentation twice, which he did not forward to me until 3 days before the supposed closing. I immediately determined there was an error and spent the 3 days before closing trying to get it fixed. The stress was unbelievable, and should have never happened since this could have been addressed easily if it had been presented to us on a timely basis. The other professionals in the transactions (2 title companies, 2 realtors, 3 banks) all indicated that they were appalled by the way Dember transacted his business. Then when it was the other party who had paperwork issues that held up closing, Dember merely communicated the offer from the seller that we should pay them $100 per day for usage and occupancy. It was our realtor, who was there at the meeting, who insisted that the problem was with the seller and we shouldn't have to pay. Our realtor contacted their realtor and got an agreement where we paid $200 just to keep things moving, or we would have been out $500 or more. A good lawyer would have seen that we paid nothing since it was the other party's problem. I wasn't going to bother writing a review because I would rather just forget about the entire experience but then felt guilty about anyone else who hired him without any idea of what they would experience.
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08 Nov, 2019 by Tamika
I used John for a tenant issue and power of attorney request. He took his time to explain everything to me and I understood exactly what was needed. He also gave me very insightful information that I was not aware of at all that I feel most attorneys would not take out the time to advise. He is a friendly guy and fights for his clients. Thanks for everything John. I will continue to use your services and refer others to your office for legal help.
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17 Dec, 2018 by Anonymous
hired him for tax appeal using my employers legal plan. Refused to take any input during the tax appeal. Kept telling me why, how we are going to lose the appeal or why we don't have the case. Ultimately i decided to go with his comparable for the appeal as he would not accept the once i was suggesting. Did not tell me he was going to make me present the entire case to appeal board. His partner did not said single word other then to introduce me as client. Wont say single thing to counter appeal board argument or direct me what he want me to say, I was caught totally off guard doing all the defending of the comparable chosen by him. I lost simple appeal where assessor had priced my home higher by 40K then what i had paid, with mistakes in assessment by putting incorrect information. We would have just pointed that mistake to the board and we would have better shot at winning then hiring this guy.
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23 Apr, 2018 by Eric
I have worked with John Dember on many matters and would gladly use him again. I have hired him for 2 house closings, divorce, DUI (dismissed), and an animal at large matters. John has been helpful, friendly and professional. I don't know the law and don't pretend to know. I like that I can give John the information that he needs and the outcome I desire and he makes it happen. Calling him right now for another matter.
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25 Aug, 2016 by Anonymous
Hired this attorney to buy a house. First, after my mortgage was denied, this lawyer did not represent me (the buyer) and get me out of the contract, but instead asking for a $5000 penalty payment (which I declined to pay), then asking for $1000-$1500. Second, with the push from my real estate agent and the seller’s attorney’s email – the agreement to cancel the contract and authorize my attorney to return the entire deposit back to me, this attorney did not negotiate with the title company and help me to get the deposit back after the cancellation of the contract. This attorney deferred the question to me and the title company. It was me as the buyer who contacted the title company and surveying company to reduce the cost. I took care of the deposit issue by myself. Throughout this entire process this attorney was not representing my interests as he was hired to do, and refused to provide support.
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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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