Filter by

star star star star star
19 Feb, 2024 by Tiffany
I have limited space in this review, so I will try to keep it short. The team goes above and beyond for their clients, and without them, I have no idea where I would be. They give the most straightforward advice, and if something goes bump, they know their stuff well enough to maneuver around it. There is always a way, and they find it. They are very good at letting their clients use their voice, and making their voices heard. I cannot say enough good things about them, so I'm leaving multiple reviews in multiple sites, in hopes that everyone can see what I see in the team at Hyde Law. I didn't find them, they found me, and took a chance with me, a chance I will be FOREVER in their debt in terms of owing them my life. I'm sure I've given them more than one headache, but they are ever so patient and understanding, reassuring me when they know I need it, and letting me rant and rave while they pick through the relevant pieces. I have every faith in them to do right by me and my children in the end. No matter how things turn out, I know they will and have given it their all.
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
20 May, 2022 by Bahzad abdo
The best choice I've ever made was to hire this man to help me and my family with our case. Great man very honest and super smart. We are just thankful to Mr Michael Hyde and his staff. Thank you very very much sir god bless you and your staff......❤️❤️❤️❤️
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
07 Nov, 2014 by Anonymous
My wife and I were thankful to have Mr. Hyde with us in the process of walking through this. He helped us in getting organized, and all the way how the Court worked. He helped us find where to do the online courses.
Read more Avvo
See more
star star star star star
26 Aug, 2009 by Aran
I went to Mr. Rush with a problem, two days later my problem was solved. He is one of the most down to earth, brightest persons I have ever met. If you want a cheap lawyer look in the yellow pages, if you want something done right - call Mr. Rush!
Read more Avvo
See more
star star star star star
09 May, 2022 by Jordan
I am no one of particular importance...of absolutely ZERO consequence. When I leave this world, I will've done more to "remember" than to "be remembered". And It is with tremendous esteem and profound gratitude that I write this review of Ms. Ashley McIntosh, doubtful that I'll see her again...grateful for her service...sorrow-filled I couldn't thank her in person...and...proud of this simple opportunity in which I can briefly share with all those who might be seek help, in earnest, in keeping with my own experience. A harrowing experience through which I was safely I guided by Ms McIntosh. Her counsel affected me to such an extent it was just cause for me to re-assess my life, and re-prioritize whatever precious little time I might have left... Because of my attorney, because of her compelling arguments, her patience, her compassion, her keen social skills, her understanding of "the struggle" and the uphill climb, ....because she took as much time as she was able, to understand my individual situation... The portrait of me she painted before the court was true and accurate, and accentuated by a warm glow of a soft spot light whose forced illumination revealed every part of my life in gentle ways so as to celebrate the "for betters" and provide meaning and understanding when explaining "For Worse" ...She proffered rationale arguments, brokering in urgency for my sake, while methodically defending me with intelligence repartee if/when necessary...She made the unwavering push towards our predetermined goal...After that first hearing when the Court sought either to better understand my position, or to establish some kind of baseline for my morality, Ashley was lightning quick in her effort to protect me with her brilliant articulacy in response to the direct query. Make no mistake about it, she was defending the sick with sensible, compelling eloquence...she had the necessary words on hand to speak the very things I could not say due to medical impairment. I am eternally grateful for her representation. She helped me see that my thinking needed to change...And she never once said as much to me. I figured that out cuz she was just amazing in way that make you have faith in the system and possibly humanity as a whole, again. Thank you Ms. McIntosh for all your help. And to everyone else, I can summarize, in short, by saying: IF YOU NEED AN AMAZING ATTORNEY WHO WILL LISTEN TO YOU WITHOUT EXPRESSING SKEPTICISM, BIAS, OR PREJUDICE...IF YOU NEED AN ATTORNEY TO LISTEN TO YOUR ENTIRE STORY SO THAT THE BIGGER PICTURE IS FACTORED INTO THE IMMEDIATE CIRCUMSTANCE...THEN YOU NEED ASHLEY MCINTOSH! YOU NEED TO RETAIN HER NO MATTER WHAT THE COST. SHE IS AMBITIOUS, INTELLIGENT, AND WILL REPRESENT YOU FULLY BEFORE THE COURT. NO FAVORABLE OUTCOME CAN EVER BE GUARANTEED NOR SHOULD BE PROMISED...BUT GIVE THIS ATTORNEY A CHANCE. I BELIEVE SHE WILL NOT DISAPPOINT YOU. I WOULD THANK HER PERSONALLY FOR HER AFFECT ON MY LIFE...BUT IM NOT SURE WHERE'S SHE AT RIGHT NOW. ...PROLLY DOWN BY THE RIVER...FEEDING A FLOCK OF WHITE DOVES AND WALKIN ON WATER. Jordan S
Read more Avvo
See more
star star star star star
01 Dec, 2008 by Anonymous
Mr. Overdier handled an environmental case for me and I was amazed how prepared he was. I had my doubts at first because I hadn't heard from him for a while before the case. But when he came to court, it was obvious he was no nonsence and intended to win my case. I would definitly use him again.
Read more Avvo
See more
star star star star star
24 Aug, 2023 by Gary stanley
Google Maps
star star star star star
07 Jul, 2020 by Prycless56
Leslie did not do right for bankruptcy. We hired an attorney because we don’t know what we are doing and expect our attorney to do what is needed. We had made the option to continue with our mortgage and vehicle payments, not including them in the bankruptcy. Well, she didn’t do what she was suppose to on that end and now the credit bureau shows they were included, when in fact we paid the vehicle off and still pay mortgage so we have a place to live still. Because of her not doing what she was suppose to do it can’t be changed with the credit bureaus. 😡 I would give 0 stars if that was an option.
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
12 Jan, 2018 by Diyonn fahlman
Lesley Hoenig is very knowledgeable, respectful, and kind. She gives her clients easy-to-understand information that allows them to make accurate decisions in which they feel comfortable. The clients that I have referred clients to her for the last 10-15 years have been pleased with her high level of service (P.S. I do follow-up & check). Thank you Lesley.
Read more Google Maps
See more
star star star star star
20 Mar, 2019 by Anonymous
I hired this attorney to handle a property case and was disappointed by the lack of response to my enquiries. I ended up hiring someone else.
Read more Avvo
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