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11 Sep, 2024 by Meera pradeep
Eric is an amazing lawyer!! He explained every step thoroughly and is easy to communicate with, at any time of the day which meant a lot. He’s been so professional and helpful throughout this entire process, I’m so glad I listened to the reviews and chose him!!
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10 Sep, 2024 by Henry merino
Eric Matheny is very friendly and relatable but above all he is one of the most knowledgeable, detailed, hard working and quickest people in his field. He wouldn't stop until he got me the best solution possible. I would definitely recommend him to anyone. Thanks again Eric.
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06 Sep, 2024 by Emmanual rogers
The Law Offices of Eric M. Matheny, P.A. I want to seriously thank you for the level of professionalism and efficiency you displayed and you took care of all my needs almost immediately!! I’m a Disabled Veteran that suffers from major anxiety and Eric made sure I had nothing to worry about if you are in the Miami Beach area and need legal assistance this is the man to call!! I’m so serious please seek out The Law Offices of Eric M. Matheny, P.A. you will not be disappointed.
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12 Sep, 2024 by Mária claudia ballesteros
Very good service and quick response.
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07 Aug, 2024 by Maria lopez
Satisfechos con los excelentes resultados, muy profesionales y eficientes. Buen servicio y tarifas apropiadas. Los recomendamos incondicionalmente.
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05 Aug, 2024 by Gil rodriguez
Buena atención,una conversación fructífera y fluida,,los recomiendo a cualquiera que solicite sus servicios..
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12 Sep, 2024 by Mária claudia ballesteros
Very good service and quick response.
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07 Aug, 2024 by Maria lopez
Satisfechos con los excelentes resultados, muy profesionales y eficientes. Buen servicio y tarifas apropiadas. Los recomendamos incondicionalmente.
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05 Aug, 2024 by Gil rodriguez
Buena atención,una conversación fructífera y fluida,,los recomiendo a cualquiera que solicite sus servicios..
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12 Sep, 2024 by Mária claudia ballesteros
Very good service and quick response.
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07 Aug, 2024 by Maria lopez
Satisfechos con los excelentes resultados, muy profesionales y eficientes. Buen servicio y tarifas apropiadas. Los recomendamos incondicionalmente.
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05 Aug, 2024 by Gil rodriguez
Buena atención,una conversación fructífera y fluida,,los recomiendo a cualquiera que solicite sus servicios..
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19 Sep, 2024 by Debz
Attorney Phillip Rarick and staff provided excellent services in my Estate planning. I'm forever grateful to Attorney Rarick in guidancing me through the entire process. Thank you!
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14 Sep, 2024 by Lincoln hing
Thanks to Jacqueline and her wonderful staff we were able to complete our probate case in a timely manner. I will recommend this law firm.
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03 Sep, 2024 by Diane renna
Wonderful, helpful staff. Phil Rarick is a Great attorney. I was very happy with my estate plan.
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01 Jul, 2024 by Lucia
After mistakenly hiring a different attorney who was not detailed, hard to get in touch with and was never to the point- I changed to Helen Costa and her team. What a difference. I’m so grateful and know I’m in the right hands. Details count. I would encourage others to know they don’t have to stay with an attorney who is not delivering.
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16 Aug, 2023 by Chris s.
Ms. Costa and her crew were excellent with my case. I highly recommend them. I had a previous lawyer who was horrible. I know the case was a challenge and my ex and her attorney were ridiculous, but once I used this firm, I was always part of the process and know I had strong counsel and sound advice. I highly recommend.
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01 May, 2023 by Priscilla
If you're looking for someone who will serve you with honest guidance all the while providing you with options to find creative solutions for your case - I highly recommend you give Costa & Associates the chance to show you what they can do. Ms. Costa was my attorney through an extremely tumultuous case. I walked in a complete novice to the legal field and rather than take advantage of someone's pockets, Ms. Costa walked me through what to expect from beginning to end - she did not disappoint! Oftentimes, during holidays and after hours, Ms. Costa was available to support in urgencies - very rare to see now-a-days but an example to me of how committed she was to seeing me through. Our opposition was tough but we proved to be thoroughly prepared each time. The office is also a great team of professionals who take each case as their own and place a high sense of urgency to even the smallest gesture. I'd trust Costa & Associates again. Thank you Helen and team!
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08 Feb, 2024 by Sergio
Had an HOA issue and he gave me some great advice on how to handle the situation. I’m extremely happy with the outcome and glad I reached out to him for help.
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07 Apr, 2022 by Bhav
Alex is a fantastic lawyer. He is very knowledgeable, helpful and easy to talk with. He is also friendly and works in a very time-efficient manner. He has all the qualities I needed when searching for a lawyer.
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05 Apr, 2022 by Laura s
Alex was great! He helped us with a very important civil case and got the best results possible! I highly recommend him!
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20 Jul, 2017 by Anonymous
Phillip handled my criminal case for DUI. This isn’t the law he most often practices but he did everything to educate himself. He was always honest, upfront and nonjudgmental. He believed in me, he was genuine and finally we won. NOT GUILTY! But in case you find yourself in my shoes uneducated on any sort of criminal or legal process, the following is a little more detailed.
To begin, I called him just a half hour after being released from jail. My job involves driving so you can imagine the distress I was in about my license… Within the hour he was able to gather all the documents necessary as well as instruction for my completion of them in order to begin the hardship process and keep my right to drive for work.
My case went eight months before being set for trial. During the eight months Phillip was
always a text message or phone call away. He never went more than an hour without
responding, which in this situation was extremely comforting because I had no priors and was extremely unfamiliar with this process. No matter how many questions I had or how many times he had to repeat himself, he always did so in a respectful and informative manner.
Finally, looking back now when it came to trial he was very strategic and smart about how and when to explain things to me. While being very honest, he simultaneously put me at ease and gave me hope. I knew he believed and wanted the NOT GUILTY just as badly as I needed it. I never shared this with him, but in those eight months I spoke with many lawyers over the phone about my case and possible consultation. I was always unsure of whether I had made the
right decision going to a lawyer that didn’t specialize in DUI like everyone strongly suggests. But not one of them were as authentic as Phillip truly is, which is why I never met with any of them. I would argue that authenticity and trust are perhaps the most important characteristics anyone should want in a lawyer. Phillip changed my life. I would have been fired and all of the
money I have invested in school would have been nothing more but a debt waiting to be collected. I highly recommend
him for representation.
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16 Feb, 2017 by Marlen
I don't know how we can thank Phillip Ortiz for everything he did for my family and I after the death of my Mother. He helped us navigate the settling of her estate and his ability to explain the process so well put us all at ease. Every challenge and issue that popped up along the way he met head on and resolved. He always treated us with respect and responded quickly to all our questions and concerns. I would highly recommend Mr. Ortiz and wish him the best in his career.
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08 Feb, 2017 by Anonymous
Philip and his firm went above and beyond what seems to be the standards for most law offices in "todays" world. The Firm Law groups knowledge and insight, attention to detail, accessibility and communication earn these guys a very positive 5 star review and more importantly one very happy client whom actually had a positive experience when dealing with legal matters. I would highly recommend these guys!
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06 Aug, 2019 by Alma vega
I arrive at your office recently opened in 1994 after you travel more than 10, 12 lawyers. He took my case, he studied it he resolved it and even today very grateful with his professionalism, goodness and his staff the best.
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04 Mar, 2015 by Flor angel
HE DEMOSTRATED KNOWLEGMENT WITH MY CASE , AND HIS IMPLEMENTATION WAS SASTIFACTORY , AM GREATIFUL WITH HIS SERVICE AND RECOMMEND THIS LAWYER TO ANY PERSON THAT NEED GOOD RESULTS ABOUT EMIGRATION CASE
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04 Feb, 2010 by Anonymous
Thanks to Mr. Florido's knowledge and experience, my case has finally been resolved. He and his staff treated me in a very professional and respectful manner. Mr. Florido is trustworthy and reliable, works very hard and makes sure that you are treated with respect and honesty. I would definitely without a doubt recommend him to anybody that deserves a great attorney. =)
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26 Jul, 2023 by Rj
Having been through an ugly divorce I was getting a real estate property. Attorney Maurice Costa and his sister Helen did a great job at giving me the certainty I was not keeping a piece a headache piece of real estate. I will keep coming back for all my legal concerns.
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15 Jan, 2023 by Erick
First time seller here, and I had a very pleasant experience. Costa & Associates came recommended from a family member when I needed someone to hold my hand through a first time property sale. It didn’t take me long to see the authenticity of the team. The communication was clear, concise, and more importantly — accurate. This combination created an environment of trust for me, and for that, I’m grateful. — Thank you
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30 Sep, 2022 by Gini
My husband and I have been real estate investors for over 15 years and for EVERY single property we have purchased or sold, Costa & Associates have been and still are our trusted attorneys. The staff is always courteous, professional and efficient. If we ever call with questions or concerns about a contract, closing or anything related to the property we are buying or selling, they always have the answers we need immediately or get back to us before the end of the business day. Costa & Associates gives us the peace of mind we need knowing they look out for our best interest. We are extremely satisfied with their services and HAVE recommended them to our family and friends.
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18 Oct, 2010 by Gustavo
Mr. Elias and his firm have represented me on a variety of real estate and corporate matters. They are knowlegeable, ethical and responsive. They are highly regarded in the South Florida legal community and I highly recommend the firm.
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27 Sep, 2010 by Johanna berenguer
My family and I have retained The Elias Law Firm for a both real estate and estate planning matters. Mr. Elias is an outstanding attorney with an excellent legal staff. He considers all aspects of the matter and is an excellent legal strategist. Moreover, he is highly respected in the legal community and active in the civic and charitable communities. We would highly recommend him and his firm.
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25 Sep, 2010 by Phillip
Robert Elias is an established and highly respected attorney in Miami Lakes. I have worked with Mr. Elias on real estate, banking, and land use issues for over 7 years. He is exceptionally knowledgeable and an excellent attorney to work with. I have recommended attorney Elias to many of my clients and they have all been very satisfied with the promptness and thoroughness of his legal work. I recommend him without any reservation.
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15 Sep, 2015 by Anonymous
My family an I are so Blessed to have such a wonderful lawyer and staff, who helped us through a long foreclosure. In the end, Mr. Anderson made sure we kept our home, he stood up for our familyand got us our home back!!! Thank you Mr. Anderson and staff we are so Blessed to have you as our lawyer.
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30 Jun, 2015 by Anonymous
Mr Anderson is an excellent communicator who helped my wife and I through a difficult bankruptcy case. Our prior legal counsel was no match for an aggressive trustee attorney, but Mr Anderson rescued our retirement fund through careful, tireless dedication, working many hours to help us rebut the Trustee in court. His significant knowledge base and skill set in bankruptcy court helped dig us out of a deep dark hole. We will forever be thankful that we had Mr Anderson to help and represent us.
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31 May, 2015 by Joseph barosy
I want to thank you for doing such a great job representing me. I normally do not write letters, but, I would like to say thank you so much for all of your assistance over the past year. I appreciate your help and guidance, I am very satisfied with the work you all have done to resolve this legal problem. Once again, I would like to thank your staff for their professionalism, ‘’a job very well done.” You are the best in town and you have my deepest respect and appreciation, because your service is awesome.
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23 Jul, 2015 by Samad
mr florido is smart and is a compassionate person very rear thing to find among lawers. in court he is strong and defends as if he defends his own family. i am so greatful to him.
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06 Oct, 2011 by Alex
Great attorney. Professional, caring, honest, and SMART!
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08 Jul, 2010 by Jose o
I would recommend this lawyer to my friends and anyone that reads his wesite.
He is Honest, trust worthy and fair.
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18 Jun, 2016 by Anonymous
Mr. Bakerman was efficient and professional in dealing with the multi-state probate process from my parent's estates. He has skills, patience and understands the process.
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09 Jun, 2016 by David cassell
In addition to money savings that I explained in my first review, I also want to mention that Mr. Bakerman also provides better service than the high profile downtown law firm I was using previously. In dealing with Mr. Bakerman I have never had to work through a paralegal, unlike the downtown firm. Also, Mr. Bakerman is available to me via telephone and email, which is especially important to me as I travel a lot. I have never regretted moving my legal affairs from the large downtown firm to the office of Roger Bakerman. His level of service and willingness to get the best answer to a question is of great value to me.
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01 Jun, 2016 by David
Mr. Bakerman saved me a lot of money. As guardian of a family member, who is a ward of the court, I was using the legal service of a large law firm in downtown Miami. I asked Mr. Bakerman if he could perform the same services for less money. He investigated the matter and, after a few days, said yes. For the last 5 years Mr. Bakerman has been handing the legal maters of the guardianship for substantially less money than the previous firm. Mr. Bakerman is always available for consultation regarding the guardianship and has provided excellent service.
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25 May, 2023 by Ana
Bryan,
I’m thankful for the services provided by MLG during my case.
I would like to recognize the good and efficient work provided , as well as the professionalism. I feel that I was well represented by MLG, and If I’m ever in need of another lawyer, I would consider using MLG again. They have gained my trust.
-satisfied customer, Ana
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17 Oct, 2022 by Justin
Bryan went above and beyond the call of duty in order to get our transaction closed. This was not an easy transaction and I believe most would have not been able to handle it. If you need someone strong with great communication skills, Bryan is your man. Thank you Bryan for getting the job done with professionalism and excellence! Will definitely use again.
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08 Jul, 2013 by Eduardo
When dealing with legal counsel it is not always the case that you encounter someone that right of the bat tells you what they expect to happen, the time and cost for the process, and then delivers on that pretty much right on target. Also someone that even when you are not following up on matters that they are hadnling them and making sure that all time tables and deadlines are being met and not allowing anything to fall through the cracks.
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30 Apr, 2013 by Pablo
I can't begin to tell you how content I am with Rene Coto and his staff. They treated me very well and handled my problem in a timely manner. They really understood my case and I left the office after the first visit with no worries.
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22 Feb, 2017 by Pat
I had to pleasure to work several cases involving Real Estate transactions with Perla Calas, I found her to be top-notch in her field. She is very meticulous, and always protecting the clients interest.
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17 Sep, 2014 by Ryan
I had just entered into a contract to purchase a home when I hired Ms. Patchen's firm to handle the title work and the closing. Ms. Patchen handled my real estate transaction with the utmost professionalism. She worked very diligently and was always available to talk. I will not hesitate to request the services of her firm in the future, or to send her a referral.
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04 May, 2020 by Jill
I definitely recommend Mr. Spiriti.. last year I bought a house from the county auction in Broward. Completely remodeled my home.. What I didn't realize was there was a mortgage owed on the home. I received a letter stating that my home was going to be put up for auction & I was going to loose it. The court date was less then a month away. Mr. Spiriti worked magic& helped me save my home. He was fast, efficient, & very knowledgeable about the entire process. He didn't give up& worked hard to make sure that my house didn't go to the auction... i am very grateful to have hired him & i continue to use him him for other real-estate matters.. great office staff, Lisa is very friendly, & helpful, & polite. Mr. Spiriti is a Great lawyer that truly cares about his clients.
save my house and he did it very quickly and efficiently..
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16 Apr, 2011 by Ruben
One of the few good guys in this business. He was very honest, he tried to settle because he was well aware that protracted litigation was going to do more harm than good, this speaks volumes of the quality of representation. Many other lawyers would have just let the litigation ride because at the end of the day that is how they make money, but he truly has his clients best interest in mind, not his own. He was very informed and honest as to costs and time frames. And very fare with billing.
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04 Apr, 2018 by Jorge
Yesterday afternoon i had the pleasure to meet Mr. Stuart Mitchell Gold. He is an excellent professional,
He explained with care and knowledge about the plan of action that is require to succeed with the solution of my consultation.
He is great and I will recomend him to my colleagues and friends.
Thanks a lot Mr. Stuart.
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19 Sep, 2024 by Debz
Attorney Phillip Rarick and staff provided excellent services in my Estate planning. I'm forever grateful to Attorney Rarick in guidancing me through the entire process. Thank you!
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14 Sep, 2024 by Lincoln hing
Thanks to Jacqueline and her wonderful staff we were able to complete our probate case in a timely manner. I will recommend this law firm.
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03 Sep, 2024 by Diane renna
Wonderful, helpful staff. Phil Rarick is a Great attorney. I was very happy with my estate plan.
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08 Sep, 2024 by Teresa gual
I have MetLife Legal Plans insurance and called his office on August 21st. 2024 to request a service. I left 3 messages and they assured me that I would get a call back. Today September 9th. 2024 I'm still waiting for this call. I would not recommend such unprofessional law office that doesn't even have the time for a courtesy call back.
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30 Aug, 2024 by Eddie carnero
15 Aug, 2024 by Keith parrimore
I cannot say enough about the exceptional service I received from The Law Offices of Jorge Abreu. They handled my traffic citation with the utmost professionalism and care. From the moment I contacted them, I felt confident that my case was in good hands. Attorney Abreu was knowledgeable, responsive, and went above and beyond to achieve a favorable outcome. I highly recommend their services to anyone facing a traffic violation. Thank you for everything!
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09 May, 2024 by Juan alberto morales sánchez
Thank you Nelson for fighting on my behalf, when I was seriously injured.
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06 May, 2024 by Marlene leon-rodriguez
Nelson & his team did an amazing job with our case. It was a difficult case trying to find those needles in a hay stack issues but they overcame. Thanks again for all the work done.
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28 Apr, 2024 by Dale goldman
The Pena Law Firm has been a wonderful experience from the time I first met the Penas and their staff. They have always been available when I needed them. If anyone is looking for firm that will work for you in a very friendly and yet very professional manner the Penas are the answer!
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08 May, 2024 by Ramires valle
Excelente
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07 May, 2024 by Rocio rodriguez
07 May, 2024 by Bryan anderson
Jany was very helpful!
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09 May, 2024 by Juan alberto morales sánchez
Thank you Nelson for fighting on my behalf, when I was seriously injured.
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06 May, 2024 by Marlene leon-rodriguez
Nelson & his team did an amazing job with our case. It was a difficult case trying to find those needles in a hay stack issues but they overcame. Thanks again for all the work done.
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28 Apr, 2024 by Dale goldman
The Pena Law Firm has been a wonderful experience from the time I first met the Penas and their staff. They have always been available when I needed them. If anyone is looking for firm that will work for you in a very friendly and yet very professional manner the Penas are the answer!
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21 Sep, 2024 by Athletum fc mls next
Excelente servicio!
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21 Sep, 2024 by Juan david martinez herrera
20 Sep, 2024 by Daniel martines
Gracias a Henry mis dudas fueron esclarecidas una a una me dio confianza para continuar en mi caso
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14 May, 2024 by Maydelis german
I met lawyer Trevilla about 3 years ago because of my oldest son's case and it was a success and now with my youngest son, As a lawyer for me the best..very professional and dedicated to your case..always attentive to every doubt or question I had regarding my son's case..everything was resolved satisfactorily and quickly..I recommend them 100%.. Thank you so much for him and his work team.
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21 Dec, 2023 by Humberto cardoso
The Best,a Savage
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19 Dec, 2023 by Maria contreras (mari)
05 Apr, 2024 by Evette estrada
Annette was a great mediator. She stayed neutral and really cared about the best outcome for our daughter. She is thorough and asks the right questions to help come to a solution. Highly recommend. Very grateful she was able to assist us. Especially since we were pressed for time. She filed all the necessary documents with the courts right after. She definitely knows what she’s doing. Thanks, Annette 🙏
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05 Apr, 2024 by Brian roffman
Very skilled and affordable mediator. Have used her many times and have been very pleased with her wealth of expertise and mediation skills.
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26 Mar, 2024 by Olivia lewis
Ms. Sanchez is an excellent divorce lawyer. She provided the exact help I needed and educated me on all my options. Since her office is in Miami Lakes only a couple of blocks from work, it was easy to get to as well.
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27 Sep, 2024 by Yospa abin
My experience with attorney Ricardo Rodriguez was of the highest quality. He knows what he is doing! He explains everything thoroughly, very professional, I recommend him 100%.I had a very pleasant experience and I am eternally grateful to him. He will fight tooth and nail for you!
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13 Dec, 2023 by Alain peñate
The experience with Lawyer Dr. Ricardo Rodriguez was excellent, professionalism to the test. Highly recommended in his treatment and in his performance. Eternally grateful...
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29 Sep, 2023 by Karen ochoa
He is the best…. Fully recommend him!
Very professional,my husband and I were on a very bad situation and he helped us.
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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.
