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04 Jan, 2019 by Ashley
Mr. Mircovich handled the closing for our first home. Throughout the entire process, he was very helpful and easy to contact. He made our attorney review process quick and easy and worked to help us get what we wanted. At the actual closing, Mr. Mircovich was prompt, professional and extremely organized. The entire closing process took about 15 minutes and he made my fiancé and I feel at ease during a very important time in our lives.
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22 Nov, 2018 by Melissa
My husband and I just used Nicholas Mircovich with our closing. He was very knowledgeable and professional. Always answered my questions and made this process very easy. We highly recommend him.
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06 Jul, 2018 by Brittany
My husband and I just closed on a house and Mr. Mircovich made it so easy. I’ve heard horror stories from others about other lawyers and I’m so happy it was stressless with Mr. Mircovich. He was neat, organized, and very easy to talk to. Highly recommended!!
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04 Feb, 2022 by Nina
I really recommend Forrest G . he helped me so much with my case and kept me updated throughout the process until everything was taken care of.
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07 Apr, 2020 by Patrick
Forrest has been our entire family attorney for over 25 years. We have used his services for home closings, probate of wills, estate set up, and other various legal affairs. He is very reasonable and always explains things in layman’s terms. I’d recommend Forrest to anyone seeking consultation on a wide array of legal situations.
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10 Nov, 2019 by Anonymous
I have employed Mr Merrill to help my daughter whith DWI charges and he did an incredible job in helping us to deal with the whole situation for a very very reasonable amount of money and I am internally grateful to him for his help.
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08 Mar, 2022 by Saad
Whether accurate or not, and if accurate, percentage can be argued but one thing cannot be argued is the general impression across the Law Profession is that a great lawyer and a great human don't always go together. In Michael's case, they absolutely do. I was involved in a situation where one of our senior citizens/community members had been alleged in not a completely false but an over-blown/exaggerated allegation. I was tasked with finding the lawyer. In the process, as I spoke to Michael, I realized that not only was he well versed in law, he was a human who placed himself in the shoes of the victim. Above all, I felt that he would look for justice. Well, that is exactly what he did. He got the absolute best possible outcome in the case without charging any additional fees. He easily could have charged another $1K to $2K that which the person alleged would have paid without hesitation. I do NOT believe you can find many lawyers who would do that. Additionally, there was a situation/misunderstanding (caused by alleged person's daughter and niece which made me furious. I wrote an email to Michael that I wish I had not. Michael very easily could have just been mad at me/us and told us to go to hell. He did the exact opposite. He called and explained the whole situation from a legal stand point as well as the calls that caused the misunderstanding. That call from him not only embarrassed me but made me realize that this is no ordinary lawyer/human. Over the years, I have to deal with lawyers on many occasions, twice for myself directly and countless times for other people, I have NEVER come across as great a lawyer and as nice a person as Michael. If he takes your case, retain him. You will realize yourself you will be in good hands from the very beginning.
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15 Feb, 2022 by Sean
Mr. Beatrice is an excellent attorney. A consummate professional who really knows the law. He was thoroughly prepared for my case. He is very familiar with the area he works in. Mr. Beatrice got me a better deal than expected. I could reach him whenever I had any questions or concerns. I would recommend Mr. Beatrice any time.
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29 Jan, 2022 by Bonita
Michael is an extremely experienced, knowledgeable, and thorough attorney. His client is his top priority. Michael responds to calls and emails quickly. He keeps you informed of any updates with your case and takes the time to review and explain developments. Michael goes above and beyond for his client. Michael has been my attorney for many years. Recently he handled a very complicated Estate which involved selling a property. He did an excellent job and the property sold for above asking price. I would highly recommend him.
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13 Oct, 2021 by John
We recently needed to hire a lawyer for a New Jersey estate home sale. Being from out of the area, we weren’t familiar with the practice of using legal help for home selling or with Bergen County’s legal talent. After some online research, we came across Toni Marabello’s name and were impressed by her background and career involvement. Toni spoke with us on several occasions before signing on about what the process entailed and we felt comfortable with her approach. Starting with the sales offer and continuing throughout to closing, Toni served as our long-distance representative and advocate, offering her expertise and advice with courtesy and professionalism while balancing the challenges of being a sole practitioner. Thank you, Toni!
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30 Oct, 2018 by Pat
I haved consulted with and hired Toni Ann in her compacity as an Elder Care and Estate Planning attorney. Her knowledge and advice was always right on target. She helped me make difficult decisions with patience and understanding. In regard to Real Estate transactions her expertice, diligence and timely respnses helped make everything go as smoothly as possible. In short Toni Ann is the Best! I recommend her highly.
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19 Feb, 2018 by Sean
My wife and I hired Toni to handle the closing of our first home. A closing is always stressful but ours was made more stressful by the seller not being the nicest guy, and we were getting married 2 months after the closing. Toni handled everything with amazing professionalism. She dealt with the opposing attorney and fought for our interests fervently. In addition to fighting for our interests she explained every step of the process in great detail, so we knew exactly what was going on each step of the way. She ended up saving us over 10K off the sales price and we closed the exact day we were supposed to. In closing Toni was a phenomenal attorney with all of the required knowledge, but her calm professional manner in handling a complex situation made working with her a dream.
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11 Mar, 2016 by Anonymous
Mary has been our family lawyer for thirty years. Mary is forthright, a concise thinker and renders affordable help.
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26 Nov, 2010 by Anonymous
Mary is completely trustworthy and will handle your case/closing with the greatest of care. Mary knows her business and is extremely knowledgeable. Mary will keep you informed every step of the way and will respond to your inquiries very fast. Mary is the BEST!
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28 Mar, 2024 by Chevon shearer
Lauren is an amazing human. Her professionalism, attention to detail and her knowledge is second to none. Highly recommend her services!
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18 Jan, 2024 by Strait-up straitz
If I could give Debra INFINITY stars I would! From start to finish she gets it! She knows the precise approach to take with schools in which to be heard, and heard we were! Thanks to Debra my daughter is now 💯 mainstream! We both knew she was capable, but convincing the school board is a whole 'nother story. Debra stands in her POWER with grace and poise! She makes people want to work with her, and not against her! I was about to go in gun's a blazing, but Debra reassured me that SHE GOT IT, AND SHE DID! I cannot more highly recommend this intelligent, loving, kind and intuitive soul to guide you on your's and your child's journey. She WILL get you what your child deserves! She is the absolute BEST, and I feel so blessed to know her and now call her my friend. I love you Debra! Get your needs met with dignity and pride! DO NOT HESITATE, and Contact Debra today!!! 🙏🏼❤️🙏🏼
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10 Jan, 2024 by Casey dougherty
Lauren is great, we highly recommend! Selling and buying a house is so stressful and emotional, and Lauren is really good at keeping you updated while also staying really calm throughout the entire process. Would definitely use again if we ever decide to buy/sell a house again!
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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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