Filter by

star star star star star
01 Jun, 2020 by Ron
Tom Musi has represented me and my family for over 20+ years in a variety of areas but for the last 3 months, Tom tirelessly worked to re-structured several commercial real estate debt vehicles at two separate banks. His efforts are providing the relief we need to sustain the business during the forced shut-down and beyond. Me, my family, and staff can't thank you enough for your unrelenting effort to secure the terms we need to survive. You are a great attorney and wonderful person.
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
03 Aug, 2018 by Anonymous
Tom Musi saved me from the insurance company and got me a great settlement that helped me provide for my care and for my children. I owe him everything.
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
22 May, 2018 by Eric
Apart from being an incredible attorney, Tom is a great guy to deal with. Our firm was stuck with a development deal that was taking forever to close due to the inaction of a former attorney. We switched to MMD and could not have gotten better representation from Tom and his team. Deal is done. All parties are happy. We'll never use anyone else for acquisitions again.
Read more Avvo
See more
star star star star star
05 Aug, 2024 by Daniel van wyk
The attorneys at Thompson & Donati are the epitome of professionalism. They are dedicated to their clients needs. I would recommend the firm for any legal issues.
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
05 Aug, 2024 by Alice buggy miller
Nichole is a fantastic atty. I often refer friends and old clients to her knowing they will receive the attention they need and an atty who will fight hard for them.
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
05 Aug, 2024 by Rachel gibson
Nichole and her team helped me with a DUI and absolutely saved me! They were right on the case the minute i called her and kept me updated on everything that was going on. I didnt have to worry about anything. I would recommend them to anyone needed law assistance. They are honest intelligent individuals who know there stuff and strive to get you your goal result!
Read more Google Maps
See more
star star star star star
05 Aug, 2024 by Daniel van wyk
The attorneys at Thompson & Donati are the epitome of professionalism. They are dedicated to their clients needs. I would recommend the firm for any legal issues.
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
05 Aug, 2024 by Alice buggy miller
Nichole is a fantastic atty. I often refer friends and old clients to her knowing they will receive the attention they need and an atty who will fight hard for them.
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
05 Aug, 2024 by Rachel gibson
Nichole and her team helped me with a DUI and absolutely saved me! They were right on the case the minute i called her and kept me updated on everything that was going on. I didnt have to worry about anything. I would recommend them to anyone needed law assistance. They are honest intelligent individuals who know there stuff and strive to get you your goal result!
Read more Google Maps
See more
star star star star star
05 Aug, 2024 by Daniel van wyk
The attorneys at Thompson & Donati are the epitome of professionalism. They are dedicated to their clients needs. I would recommend the firm for any legal issues.
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
05 Aug, 2024 by Alice buggy miller
Nichole is a fantastic atty. I often refer friends and old clients to her knowing they will receive the attention they need and an atty who will fight hard for them.
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
05 Aug, 2024 by Rachel gibson
Nichole and her team helped me with a DUI and absolutely saved me! They were right on the case the minute i called her and kept me updated on everything that was going on. I didnt have to worry about anything. I would recommend them to anyone needed law assistance. They are honest intelligent individuals who know there stuff and strive to get you your goal result!
Read more Google Maps
See more
star star star star star
21 Aug, 2024 by Nasinstinctive vloggerxotic
laura dugan is this best lawyer in the world!!!!!
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
07 Aug, 2024 by E schaen
I recently had the pleasure of working with Kevin, and I can't recommend him highly enough. From the moment we first talked, Kevin demonstrated a remarkable level of professionalism and genuine care for my case. What truly stood out was how he took the time to thoroughly answer all my questions, no matter how small or complex. His patience and clarity made a world of difference, easing my concerns and helping me feel confident throughout the process. Kevin's dedication and expertise were evident in every interaction, and his thoughtful approach made a challenging situation much more manageable. If you're looking for a lawyer who genuinely invests in your case and provides exceptional support, Kevin is the one to choose.
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
31 Jul, 2024 by Laura l
I’ve referred clients to Alicia Fastman over the years that were in need of a family law attorney. I’m a lawyer, but don’t practice family law so when I need a referral in that area Alicia is my go-to. She’s personable, attentive and respected among other lawyers in the area. I’ve seen Alicia use a collaborative approach but also go to war depending on the client’s needs and wants. I would not hesitate to call Alicia for all your divorce/custody needs. I always want my clients to be happy and I always get good reports back after sending them Alicia’s way.
Read more Google Maps
See more
star star star star star
10 Oct, 2019 by Anonymous
Patrick called me and wanted to represent me in my worker’s compensation case. He said I had a great case. Most of the work wAs done by Laura, his associate. She wears very nice. The first inkling that he was lacking was that he forgot to obtain a court reporter for my deposition with the insurance company’s lawyer. Mr Hickey sent me to a “pill mill” for treatment and therapy for a rotator cuff tear. Medical care was poor and caused my pain to increase due to their failure to diagnose a compression fracture in my thoracic spine. After 6 months Mr. Hickey said we had to settle and the most he could get me was $10,000.
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
31 Mar, 2016 by Robert
We have found Patrick Hickey to be an excellent Legal Partner. One of the most important things to our firm is that we can get in touch with our counsel as matters arise. Patrick is always quick in his response and thorough in his analysis of circumstance and always approaches it with fairness in mind
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
14 Mar, 2016 by Steve
Patrick was able to negotiate a much better than expected outcome for my case. I will always be thankful for how hard he worked to get me the best deal!
Read more Avvo
See more
star star star star star
16 Feb, 2020 by John may
Google Maps
star star star star star
27 Nov, 2019 by Gina sudler
Never called back
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
05 Oct, 2018 by Kathleen ann carney
Mike has been my attorney for years. He has personally helped me through some tough times and also has helped many of my clients. He is one of the best attorneys in the and Delco and Chester County area.
Read more Google Maps
See more
star star star star star
10 Jun, 2024 by James barlow
Dimitri Karapelou represented me through a very complex filing. He was proactive, astute, thorough and ultimately got me the best outcome I could have hoped for. I would thoroughly recommend Dimitri as the first person you should call if you are trying to navigate any aspect of Bankruptcy.
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
07 Mar, 2024 by Maggie adame
Totally unprofessional! “best domestic violence lawyers” Lucas A. Clark in particular is someone I wouldn’t trust in the slightest to handle any case. Gave nothing but a cold demeanor…… guess that’s what you can expect, just there for the check.
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
01 Mar, 2024 by Dan murphy
Google Maps
See more
star star star star star
19 Aug, 2024 by Robert
I hired Lindsay to represent me at a preliminary hearing. I didn't do what I was being accused of. She reassured me and asked me some questions. The day of hearing she was a beast. She objected to everything. The judge ruled there was not enough evidence and the charges were dismissed. I've never been in trouble before and I was scared, but she was patient with me and reassured me that I would be fine. Very thankful
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
08 Aug, 2024 by Anonymous
I hired Lindsay for my fiance for something very serious. I found out she went to the jail my fiance was at and told him she wasn't showing up to court if I didn't send her another send her another $2,000. We agreed upon a certain amount of money and she tried to say I was lying. Lindsay then blocked my cell and and told my fiance that I needed psychiatric help because I yelled at her. I was frustrated with Lindsay because besides my kids he is my everything and i hired her to have his back. She hadn't answered any phone calls. My fiance has never been in jail he was scared for his life and she would not take him seriously any other lawyer would have been there for him. Now imagine the love of your life being arrested on something awful he did not do hiring a lawyer who blocks you because you reacted to her lack of communicating and intimidating your loved one for more money. I'd like to see how she would react. She did her best to make my fiance think I was doing him wrong. I'm glad he's smarter cause I'm pretty sure she was trying to set him to plea on something he didn't do. Lindsay do better. My fiance said she was fired from another inmate who said she did the same thing to her family
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
07 Aug, 2024 by Cesain
Unfortunately, I hired this attorney July 6th of 2024 for a simple assault case, keep in mind, I am an individual that has never been in trouble before. I was in prison when I had my preliminary hearing at the district court for this case. The Judge at the district court was allowing me to go home on bail, under the terms to not have contact with the ‘victim’. At this preliminary hearing the ‘victim’ did not show up, Lindsay also made me waive the preliminary. I’ve never been in trouble before so not having a clue as to what I was doing I put my trust in her… when I arrived back at the prison I called my family and was told that Lindsay would be filing paperwork for the commons plea court to have me put on house arrest which was never part of the deal with the district courts, especially not for a simple assault case on an individual with no priors! I fired her immediately after consulting with a different attorney who was perplexed by how things were being done by Lindsay, my new attorney called the district court and they have confirmed that house arrest was never part of the deal! She not only lied to my family and I about what the terms for my release were but she also told me “you’re looking at some time bud”. I do not recommend her to anyone with a criminal case! She will not make you feel any better. She is not reassuring. She claims to have “worked hard” to make a “deal” with the district for my release. You will feel like she’s not there to help you, as if she wasn’t on your side but the other side that is against you, because that’s exactly how she made me feel.
Read more Avvo
See more
star star star star star
24 Mar, 2022 by G b
We hired him for a collection matter - The only collection he managed to get are his fees from us. Very slow on replying to messages with 0 results until we decided to get rid of him
Read more Google Maps
See more
Discover the ideal lawyer
You can search a lawyer by practice area, lawyer name, city, state, or ZIP code
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.

Scroll to top