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28 Oct, 2024 by Daniel kim
This review is long overdue. Caroline and her team helped us with my wife's green card and it couldn't have gone any smoother. Excellent, clear, and timely communication, precision and attention to detail, reliability, and professionalism are what you and your loved ones can expect from Ostrom Law Office. While waiting at the USCIS office with Caroline for our interview, we could see first-hand the difference in preparation and care that was offered by Caroline and her team compared to others. Thank you, Caroline!
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30 Aug, 2024 by Allen colucci
Caroline helped my wife get her green card. She even dealt with my awful anxiety with professionalism. She was knowledgeable, considerate, timely and most importantly showed she cared about our case.
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15 Aug, 2024 by Jie xiang
I worked with Caroline and her team to get my F1 student visa and green card in 2022 and 2023. The Caroline team helped me with all of document work and they were highly experienced. They were also extremely quick to answer any questions or concerns. I couldn’t have chosen a better team to work on my cases. I would highly recommend them to anyone.
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14 Dec, 2023 by Patrick burns
Great firm. Great client service.
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15 Feb, 2023 by Tyner helms
Lockridge is a firm with devoted attorneys. Gregg and Laura are great to work with.
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10 Sep, 2022 by Deb allen
I found myself needing competent legal representation and what I received from Mark Thieroff was even better than I expected. He provided outstanding legal representation and advocacy. Mark was very professional and thorough. Thank you again Mark for all your hard work on my behalf.
DA
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08 Jul, 2024 by Cheryl kelly
Kirk and Lisa were outstanding! I had been denied SSDI twice before getting on board with them. Kirk was well prepared for the appeal hearing, definitely did a ton of work! I was approved and received an award along with back pay. I recommend this law firm!
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04 May, 2024 by John torvik
Kirk Thompson is one of my legal heroes. He helped me prepare for and execute my appeal hearing before a Social Security administrative law judge so well that I was awarded Social Security Disability benefits after my application had been rejected by Social Security multiple times. Social Security finally got it right, after Kirk helped me help them get it right. Thank you Kirk.
If you have Parkinson's Disease, or another disease that the Social Security Administration has a hard time understanding, and you are struggling to get approved for Social Security Disability benefits, I highly recommend Kirk Thompson.
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15 Aug, 2023 by Deanna lynn poling
I am extremely happy with working with Lisa. Originally I was set to have a hearing for my social security disability but was approved before hand. They helped me so much on staying on track and getting all my paperwork in on time. I highly recommend them.
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19 Sep, 2024 by Alex raishe
Professionalism and integrity on full display.
Very attentive and efficient. Handled everything very promptly.
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10 Sep, 2024 by Quan nguyen
When searching for lawyers for my fathers DUI case, I came across several lawyers but from the few that I spoke with over the phone or in person, no one came close to David. From start to finish he was so kind, understanding and responsive! When meeting with him I truly appreciated his honesty and expertise regarding options and knew that we would be in good hands moving forward with him. He is very knowledgeable about the Anoka court system and was very patient and in explaining the process with my father and I. In the end the case was able to be dismissed! We are very happy with the outcome and working with David. We always got latest updates throughout the process and communication was top notch! I can’t recommend him and his team enough!!
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20 Aug, 2024 by Peter vang
Adam worked with me to get me great results on my case and was quick to answer all my questions.
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04 Oct, 2024 by Victoria williams
Joel was awesome! He worked hard to see the case through and his communication and on time responses were excellent. There was no delay in reaching him. He was always in communication and keeping me updated. Great work Tyroler Leonard-Team Joel!
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03 Oct, 2024 by Chai yang
After being bitten by a dog, I sought Rachel's assistance with my claim, and she exceeded all expectations. Her expertise and outstanding communication skills ensured that the entire process was smooth and reassuring.
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23 Sep, 2024 by Chris marquez
Rachel was super awesome. Helping me out With my car accident
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07 Jul, 2021 by Aubrey
He is a very sweet guy & helped me out in the spare of time I had and gave his honest time!
Seriously recommend
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19 Mar, 2019 by Rod and nancy
My husband and I visited with David Porter regarding Medicare/Medicaid coverage in light of land ownership in Texas and Wisconsin. He was very helpful in answering our questions and giving us the resources needed. Since our initial consultation he has continued to alert us to further information and possible considerations.
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26 Jan, 2019 by Jennifer
David is a commensurate professional and always does his best to help his colleagues, both professionally and personally. I am always impressed with David's depth and breadth of knowledge, and would recommend him to anyone looking for a great attorney.
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08 Jul, 2024 by Cheryl kelly
Kirk and Lisa were outstanding! I had been denied SSDI twice before getting on board with them. Kirk was well prepared for the appeal hearing, definitely did a ton of work! I was approved and received an award along with back pay. I recommend this law firm!
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04 May, 2024 by John torvik
Kirk Thompson is one of my legal heroes. He helped me prepare for and execute my appeal hearing before a Social Security administrative law judge so well that I was awarded Social Security Disability benefits after my application had been rejected by Social Security multiple times. Social Security finally got it right, after Kirk helped me help them get it right. Thank you Kirk.
If you have Parkinson's Disease, or another disease that the Social Security Administration has a hard time understanding, and you are struggling to get approved for Social Security Disability benefits, I highly recommend Kirk Thompson.
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15 Aug, 2023 by Deanna lynn poling
I am extremely happy with working with Lisa. Originally I was set to have a hearing for my social security disability but was approved before hand. They helped me so much on staying on track and getting all my paperwork in on time. I highly recommend them.
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19 Feb, 2023 by Courtney
Rebecca helped me work through parenting time schedules, financial issues and helped me finalize my divorce. She was really great to work with and made the process so easy for me. I would definitely recommend her to everyone and would use her again in the future.
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17 Jan, 2023 by Lisa c.
Rebecca was very professional and honest. She always kept me up to date on the progress of my case, and always had my best interests in mind . She stayed true to the timeline I requested for resolution. I would recommend her to anyone.
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11 May, 2022 by Catherine
I am thrilled with the service that Rebecca provided. She was highly recommended to me and I am happy to recommend her to any of my friends and family needing her professional expertise. She went above and beyond to take care of me and my best interests.
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30 May, 2012 by Paul
I am an independent contractor - commissioned sales rep - and wanted advice about choice of law and where would be the best location to file a lawsuit for unpaid commissions.
Craig helped me by analyzing my potential claim and the applicabilty of Minnesota laws to my case. Specifically, he addressed the Minnesota Termination of Sales Representatives Act and Minnesota Statutes 181.145 as it might apply to a contractor not located in or having territory including Minnesota (the company not paying commissions is located in MN). He was able to boild down a stack of paperwork to the most important details in a very short period of time.
Craig was honest, clear, puctual and truly had my best interests in mind during our meetings.
The entire staff, especially Kelly Fiege, were very helpful and supportive.
I recommend Craig for any contract or commision related dispute that a person may have.
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12 May, 2012 by Barbara
I am a medical device salesperson in New York facing issues surrounding termination of employment by a Minnesota company, negotiating a severance package, and modifying restrictions under a non-compete agreement. Craig is a true professional with his realistic advise and take charge attitude..
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02 Apr, 2012 by Chris
I consider calling Craig Trepanier to represent me to be one of the best decisions I have made. Craig Trepanier and Mike McCain completely immersed themselves in the intricacies of my case and worked tirelessly to achieve a favorable outcome. They were sensitive to the fact that I had limited resources available with which to defend myself, and always gave candid, sound advice about how best to use those resources. In the course of my legal case I quickly learned that there is a huge range in the quality of representation provided by different employment law firms. I absolutely recommend Trepanier & MacGillis to anyone involved in an employment law dispute.
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14 Dec, 2023 by Patrick burns
Great firm. Great client service.
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15 Feb, 2023 by Tyner helms
Lockridge is a firm with devoted attorneys. Gregg and Laura are great to work with.
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10 Sep, 2022 by Deb allen
I found myself needing competent legal representation and what I received from Mark Thieroff was even better than I expected. He provided outstanding legal representation and advocacy. Mark was very professional and thorough. Thank you again Mark for all your hard work on my behalf.
DA
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14 Dec, 2023 by Patrick burns
Great firm. Great client service.
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15 Feb, 2023 by Tyner helms
Lockridge is a firm with devoted attorneys. Gregg and Laura are great to work with.
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10 Sep, 2022 by Deb allen
I found myself needing competent legal representation and what I received from Mark Thieroff was even better than I expected. He provided outstanding legal representation and advocacy. Mark was very professional and thorough. Thank you again Mark for all your hard work on my behalf.
DA
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14 Dec, 2023 by Patrick burns
Great firm. Great client service.
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15 Feb, 2023 by Tyner helms
Lockridge is a firm with devoted attorneys. Gregg and Laura are great to work with.
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10 Sep, 2022 by Deb allen
I found myself needing competent legal representation and what I received from Mark Thieroff was even better than I expected. He provided outstanding legal representation and advocacy. Mark was very professional and thorough. Thank you again Mark for all your hard work on my behalf.
DA
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21 Apr, 2020 by Bill
Joe Maternowski was referred to me to represent our company in an Administrative Penalty Order. I quickly learned how familiar Joe was with the APO process and how he would best represent us. Ultimately we received a favorable decision from the administrative law judge to have our APO dismissed. Joe did an extraordinary job representing us and helping us to navigate our way through a long and difficult process. Many thanks go out to Joe and his staff of Hessian & McKasy, P.A.
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06 Mar, 2017 by Ga
We had the task of selling a facility with an existing air permit in Minnesota that we had constructed and intermittently run for one year. The buyer had one of the nation's largest in-house environmental teams and dedicated their team as well as prominent environmental lawyers to this asset purchase. We hired Joe to be our leader on all environmental issues because of his reputation and history of working with the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency. During the three month due diligence process, the issues expanded from the air permit to EPA issues and Joe led all of our negotiations with the buyer's team. We had a successful transaction outcome due, in large part, to Joe's knowledge and communications and negotiating skills.
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25 Jan, 2012 by Lee
Joe Maternowski was able to reduce the proposed EPA fines by almost 98% with his professional research, hard work, attention to detail and thoroughness. We could not have done it without the aid of his sound legal advice. I cannot imagine a kinder, more able attorney. He bridged the gap between Minneapolis and Kansas with no communication issues.
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14 Mar, 2021 by Lenay
Chris helped me resolve two issues. He was very prompt and thorough. It was a pleasure working with him. I highly recommend him.
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19 Mar, 2020 by Kat
Represented an appeals case for me. It was ultimately dismissed. Kept me in the know of the next steps. Articulated the risks and rewards. I was very happy with Chris and would use him again hands down.
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28 Apr, 2019 by Paul
My automobile was ruined due to a manufacturer's engine defect. I was connected with Chris through the legal service at my company. I spoke with Chris on several occasions to explain the specifics of my case and to find out what my options were for getting compensation from the manufacturer. In each conversation Chris was polite, well informed and explained very clearly to me what was needed from me to proceed with a legal action. Chris also made clear what outcomes I could expect if I pursued any action. As issues and milestones came up Chris always kept me informed. When I had questions Chris would respond in a timely and informative manner. When decisions needed to be made, Chris provided clear and concise options and likely outcomes, and made it plain that it was up to me as to how to proceed. However the case would have been resolved I would have felt that I was represented by an excellent advocate who was on my side. Chris was an honest, forthright partner who was an excellent communicator.
Happily, the outcome was much better than I had hoped for and I know full well that I would not have received the same settlement, if any, without Chris' outstanding work.
I would recommend Chris to anyone who needs legal assistance and if I need help in the future I will surely call on Chris.
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13 Sep, 2024 by Jerry windley-daoust
Joseph Kukla at this law firm helped us through the process of obtaining guardianship for our son who has developmental disabilities. Joseph was thorough, friendly, and professional, and we would recommend him to any of our friends who need to go through the guardianship process.
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01 Mar, 2023 by Autumn thayer
If you are an independent sales representative you need to have Clay Taylor in your contacts. He does amazing work for sales person. I have used Clay on several occasions and i have never been disappointed.
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11 Feb, 2023 by Carmen desimone
Clay is smart, thorough, concise, and organized. His strategy, navigation, guidance, and clarity have been invaluable. Highly recommend.
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26 Mar, 2022 by Jeff eigenheer
I highly recommend Kaufhold & Dix Patent Law . After several attempts, I turned to these guys who where able to get a patent for me. Great job! Thank You
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26 Mar, 2022 by Jared de santis
Very knowledgeable attorney's. Very impressed at their ability to interperet my invention into words. I received my patent from the USPTO and couldn't have done it without their help and expertise. I highly recommend Kaufhold & Dix Patent Law.
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18 Feb, 2022 by Paul mcgrane
Great quality at affordable rates - I highly recommend.
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26 Mar, 2022 by Jeff eigenheer
I highly recommend Kaufhold & Dix Patent Law . After several attempts, I turned to these guys who where able to get a patent for me. Great job! Thank You
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26 Mar, 2022 by Jared de santis
Very knowledgeable attorney's. Very impressed at their ability to interperet my invention into words. I received my patent from the USPTO and couldn't have done it without their help and expertise. I highly recommend Kaufhold & Dix Patent Law.
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18 Feb, 2022 by Paul mcgrane
Great quality at affordable rates - I highly recommend.
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26 Mar, 2022 by Jeff eigenheer
I highly recommend Kaufhold & Dix Patent Law . After several attempts, I turned to these guys who where able to get a patent for me. Great job! Thank You
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26 Mar, 2022 by Jared de santis
Very knowledgeable attorney's. Very impressed at their ability to interperet my invention into words. I received my patent from the USPTO and couldn't have done it without their help and expertise. I highly recommend Kaufhold & Dix Patent Law.
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18 Feb, 2022 by Paul mcgrane
Great quality at affordable rates - I highly recommend.
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26 Mar, 2022 by Jeff eigenheer
I highly recommend Kaufhold & Dix Patent Law . After several attempts, I turned to these guys who where able to get a patent for me. Great job! Thank You
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26 Mar, 2022 by Jared de santis
Very knowledgeable attorney's. Very impressed at their ability to interperet my invention into words. I received my patent from the USPTO and couldn't have done it without their help and expertise. I highly recommend Kaufhold & Dix Patent Law.
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18 Feb, 2022 by Paul mcgrane
Great quality at affordable rates - I highly recommend.
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26 Mar, 2022 by Jeff eigenheer
I highly recommend Kaufhold & Dix Patent Law . After several attempts, I turned to these guys who where able to get a patent for me. Great job! Thank You
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26 Mar, 2022 by Jared de santis
Very knowledgeable attorney's. Very impressed at their ability to interperet my invention into words. I received my patent from the USPTO and couldn't have done it without their help and expertise. I highly recommend Kaufhold & Dix Patent Law.
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18 Feb, 2022 by Paul mcgrane
Great quality at affordable rates - I highly recommend.
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06 Feb, 2019 by Wendy
Mr. Weintraut represented me through a very complicated employment breach. In a brief window of time, he was able to determine and give advice on the best course of action to deal with issues as to resignation, investigation, litigation and then mediation strategy. I always felt Steve had my best interest in mind. He worked tirelessly to achieve a very fair outcome. Thank you Steve for your respect, responsiveness and expertise.
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22 Jun, 2015 by Anonymous
Steve represented me in a property dispute that involved a complicated easement. We were able to avoid a trial by engaging in early mediation with the adjacent property owner. Steve was easy to work with, kept me informed on what was going on, and helped me resolve the dispute in a timely manner with a good outcome.
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20 Jun, 2015 by Anonymous
Steve is definitely on top of his game. He helped me through a difficult legal situation with his knowledgeable advice and expertise. I found him to be easily accessible, a clear communicator and a great support during a stressful time. I definitely would recommend him to anyone looking for a great attorney who pays attention to every detail.
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26 Mar, 2022 by Jeff eigenheer
I highly recommend Kaufhold & Dix Patent Law . After several attempts, I turned to these guys who where able to get a patent for me. Great job! Thank You
Read more
26 Mar, 2022 by Jared de santis
Very knowledgeable attorney's. Very impressed at their ability to interperet my invention into words. I received my patent from the USPTO and couldn't have done it without their help and expertise. I highly recommend Kaufhold & Dix Patent Law.
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18 Feb, 2022 by Paul mcgrane
Great quality at affordable rates - I highly recommend.
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25 Aug, 2023 by Sherri brown
Mr. Joseph Wetch was my attorney on a personal injury case. He was very informative in every aspect of the progress of my case.He worked tirelessly to get the best results for me. I have great respect for him and his abilities . I will forever be grateful to him for his expertise.
Cheryl Brown
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16 Sep, 2022 by Neil clark
Lommen Abdo Law Firm has done a absolutely fantastic job resolving cooperate litigation to personal legal issues for me.
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15 Feb, 2019 by Linda wines (forever freddie's girl)
Top of the line representation. These are the folks you want on your side.
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25 Aug, 2023 by Sherri brown
Mr. Joseph Wetch was my attorney on a personal injury case. He was very informative in every aspect of the progress of my case.He worked tirelessly to get the best results for me. I have great respect for him and his abilities . I will forever be grateful to him for his expertise.
Cheryl Brown
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16 Sep, 2022 by Neil clark
Lommen Abdo Law Firm has done a absolutely fantastic job resolving cooperate litigation to personal legal issues for me.
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15 Feb, 2019 by Linda wines (forever freddie's girl)
Top of the line representation. These are the folks you want on your side.
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25 Aug, 2023 by Sherri brown
Mr. Joseph Wetch was my attorney on a personal injury case. He was very informative in every aspect of the progress of my case.He worked tirelessly to get the best results for me. I have great respect for him and his abilities . I will forever be grateful to him for his expertise.
Cheryl Brown
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16 Sep, 2022 by Neil clark
Lommen Abdo Law Firm has done a absolutely fantastic job resolving cooperate litigation to personal legal issues for me.
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15 Feb, 2019 by Linda wines (forever freddie's girl)
Top of the line representation. These are the folks you want on your side.
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02 Dec, 2019 by Xiaoxu
Mr. Savage is very professional and has patient. He answered all of my questions and replied to me very soon. He ensures the best outcome on my behalf, and he is a powerful resource for me throughout the times of processing my case. I would recommend Sam to any of my friends or family,
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21 Aug, 2017 by Patricia
Sam filed a lawsuit that requested a full refund from a contractor who was supposed to fix a broken sewer line. Six months after the job was complete, I discovered another break in the line and other problems. Sam won a full refund. An attorney where I work said it is very difficult to win cases against contractors, but Sam did it!
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06 Aug, 2015 by Mimi
Sam was recommended to us by a friend after my boyfriend got a confusing traffic ticket that required him to go to court. Sam was courteous right off the bat, and went out of his way to explain what everything meant and keep us informed through out the process. He was able to get my boyfriend out of the ticket completely and also was able to get the court date moved so we didn't have to deal with it the same week we were moving. The day of, my boyfriend didn't even have to set foot in the courtroom, Sam took care of everything. Afterwards, he followed up with us. Going to traffic court felt like it was going to be a total nightmare, and Sam made it as easy and comfortable an experience as possible. He was also very reasonably priced. I would recommend Sam to any of my friends or family, he is great!
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14 Dec, 2023 by Patrick burns
Great firm. Great client service.
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10 Sep, 2022 by Deb allen
I found myself needing competent legal representation and what I received from Mark Thieroff was even better than I expected. He provided outstanding legal representation and advocacy. Mark was very professional and thorough. Thank you again Mark for all your hard work on my behalf.
DA
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15 Mar, 2022 by Errol ostlund
26 Feb, 2023 by Christopher siebenaler
26 Dec, 2020 by Headstartwruuh learner
01 Sep, 2018 by Ken levinson
Thank you for inviting this Chicago trial lawyer to help teach at many of your education programs. I am more than impressed with all the great work MAJ does to assist trial lawyers and their clients. Keep up the fantastic work!
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21 Jul, 2022 by Anonymous
Jennifer is very professional and obviously knowledgeable in current laws and thorough in documentation. Exudes confidence and ease of process. A pleasure to work with.
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19 Feb, 2020 by Amanda westby
09 Apr, 2019 by Greg b
As the executor of my parents' estate, I hired Ms. Athanases twice to help with closing credit card and insurance accounts. Her sage advice saved us the expense of probate. Her strategy to get an annuity (about which our family was unaware) allowed us to avoid a lengthy legal process. She is extremely efficient, very cordial, and highly efficient. Her fees were very reasonable. She is excellent!!
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31 Oct, 2022 by Antonio murry
Cole took what I thought to be a loosing case and was able to secure me a $100K settlement from a slip and fall on ice. Cole and his team were AMAZING!!!!!!!
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02 Jan, 2015 by Jay zender - state farm insurance agent
Cole is an excellent, hard working Personal Injury Attorney. He's the only person I would contact for any guidance in his field. Thanks for all of your help in past and in the future!
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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.
