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19 Dec, 2020 by Derrick
Gavin is a great communicator and negotiator, a great guys and at the top of his game!
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17 Dec, 2020 by Curry and kim
Gavin was a huge help for us and our Real Estate investment. He is knowledgeable and is a great communicator. We felt confident he had our best interest during this purchase. He researched and provide us with essential fundamentals of the law with our investment. He worked for us and represented us in such a professional manner. He was always available and prompt. I would highly recommend working with him and I recommend him to anybody who asks.
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11 Dec, 2020 by Albert
I had Gaven return suit against my bad brother who rented my home for 22 years. He claimed that the rent payments were made toward a verbal rent to own agreement. When he saw that I was caught in the Houston Flood where I live as a disabled veteran near the VA hospital. He, knowing that being financially ruined by the flood, I was not likely to be able to answer the Utah lawsuit within the 30 day stipulation or loose the home. Gaven Wenzel went right to work and after the Bias Judges proved their bias through discovery and evidentiary hearings, proved to outwit all of them. And I sold the home while my evil brother’s attorney Parkinson’s inability to focus, allowed the open window to jump through. Gaven is wildly good.
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25 Apr, 2017 by Nathan pearson
I found Michelle to be extremely helpful. She's a smart and experienced attorney, but also a genuine person. She was easy to work with and I felt like she took my matter seriously, assessed all options, and helped guide me down the right path. I felt completely confident in her and well protected with her support. I would highly recommend her if you're looking for someone with smarts, energy, and authenticity.
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07 Jul, 2024 by 1solar
Peter is extremely knowledgeable and reliable. We have worked with Peter for nearly a decade. He has been with us every step of the way from a small Utah startup to a well-established multi-state solar contractor. He continues to be a mouthpiece in our strategic conversations as we continue to grow.
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23 Nov, 2018 by Miles
Working in commercial real estate and having dealt with many lawyers over the years, Peter is the best in the biz! He’s responsive, helpful, intelligent, fair, and creative. He made our HOA problems go away. I would definitely recommend.
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16 Nov, 2018 by Scott
Thank you for working so hard to help our HOA. Peter was very knowledgeable and made sure we received all communications in a timely manner.
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11 May, 2021 by Dub
Not sure where to start on this amazing lady! My ex told me she hired one of the best attorneys in Utah,. I had no clue, I used Google and called first attorney. It was Veronica. She schooled my exes first and then second attorney. She is fair, she is human,. She understands the stress we are going through scared to loss our children. When I first hired her I was only seeing my kids a couple hours a week, nothing I had done just part of the games. I left with nothing but my dog and my guitar. I was in the worst possible divorce you could think of. It took time but now I have joint legal and Physical and got my fair share of equity and personal property. Something I didn't even know I should get. I will never forget going to her office one evening to drop of payment and she was working and her baby was sitting on her desk. That's when I knew I found right person. She is ultra dedicated, she will not sugar coat and she is amazing in court. She has ethics and Confidence. She knows the judges and what they don't want to hear. I am forever grateful for this lady. Well respected, I have sent another couple to her and they got same results. She does not waste your money. She will tell you what is worth fighting for. Thank you Veronica and her firm, much respect,
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19 Apr, 2021 by Imad
Two weeks before my divorce court, I hired Veronica, she worked fast in a short time and eventually got me more than I expected. Veronica is a fighter and during the hearing she's always spot on. Very pleased with the outcome
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19 Apr, 2021 by Rp
It’s clear that she either needs a better secretary or have a handle on the people that she represents and set up times to follow up on cases or petitions that she’s working on. I’ve called for a couple weeks no with no return call from her, and sent emails to a lawyer in her office who helps her: NO RESPONSE. It’s been 40 days since our petition was filed per her law office and the state of Utah requires 21 days for the served party to respond. Why haven’t we heard anything from her ?? Anytime we call this older woman answers “Law Offices” with a baby in the background crying or other noises. And it’s always an excuse why she doesn’t call back... or can’t answer the phone. We are extremely disappointed that Veronica eluded to her willingness and vowed dedication to help my husband see his daughter (as are his rights). But this is just poor business dealings. Strange how those who have cases that won’t pay more than a few hours of work never hear from her but those who go to court or are big cases are giving her rave reviews. Not impressed. Don’t take cases you can’t give 100% to, Veronica. It’s not a difficult concept. $2,000 retainer means you work for me. Not on your time. Do not hire her if you have an issue that requires her attention but won’t give her a big payout.
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FAQs
Questions? We have answers

What a Real Estate Lawyer Can Do for You

A real estate lawyer provides legal assistance in transactions and disputes involving property, including residential and commercial real estate. Whether you're buying, selling, leasing, or developing property, a real estate attorney can help ensure that your transactions are legally sound and your rights are protected. They review contracts, perform due diligence, resolve disputes, and provide legal representation in negotiations and litigation involving property matters.

Real estate lawyers are crucial in safeguarding your investment by ensuring compliance with local, state, and federal real estate laws, as well as protecting you from potential legal pitfalls related to property ownership and transactions.

When Should I Hire a Real Estate Lawyer?

Hiring a real estate lawyer is beneficial in various scenarios, including:

  • Buying or selling property: When navigating complex real estate contracts, it’s advisable to have a lawyer review and ensure that the terms are favorable and legal.
  • Commercial property transactions: For leasing, purchasing, or selling commercial properties, a lawyer can help manage the intricate legal aspects of such transactions.
  • Zoning or land use issues: If you're planning to develop property or change its use, a real estate lawyer can guide you through zoning laws and land use regulations.
  • Resolving property disputes: For boundary disputes, title issues, or disagreements over property rights, a lawyer can help mediate or litigate the matter.
  • Foreclosures or evictions: If you're dealing with foreclosure or managing a tenant eviction, legal representation ensures that the process adheres to local laws and protects your interests.
  • Title and deed issues: Lawyers can help clear title disputes, ensure the legitimacy of property deeds, and handle transfers of ownership.

What Does a Real Estate Lawyer Do?

A real estate lawyer provides a range of services to help with property transactions and disputes, including:

  • Contract drafting and review: Ensuring that purchase agreements, leases, and other contracts are legally binding, fair, and protect your interests.
  • Title search and clearance: Conducting a thorough title search to ensure that the property has no legal claims or liens that could affect ownership.
  • Facilitate closing: Managing the closing process in real estate transactions, including reviewing final documents and ensuring that everything is in order before the transfer of ownership.
  • Resolve disputes: Handling legal disputes related to property ownership, boundaries, zoning, or tenants.
  • Assist in financing: Reviewing loan agreements and mortgage documents to ensure the terms are fair and legally sound.
  • Zoning and land use advice: Guiding clients through the complexities of zoning laws and building regulations for property development or renovation projects.

How Are Real Estate Lawyers Paid?

Real estate lawyers typically charge for their services in the following ways:

  • Flat fee: Many real estate transactions, such as reviewing a sales contract or assisting with a closing, are charged on a flat-fee basis.
  • Hourly rates: If a lawyer is handling complex disputes or litigation, they may charge by the hour. Hourly rates can vary significantly based on the lawyer’s experience and location.
  • Contingency fees: In rare cases, such as property disputes or claims for damages, a lawyer may work on a contingency fee basis, meaning they only get paid if you win or settle the case.
  • Retainer: For ongoing legal support, some clients may pay a retainer, which is an upfront fee used as a deposit for future legal services.

It's important to clarify the fee structure with your attorney before hiring them to avoid any surprises.

How Much Does a Real Estate Lawyer Cost?

The cost of a real estate lawyer varies based on the complexity of the matter, the location of the property, and the lawyer’s experience. Key factors that affect pricing include:

  • Type of transaction or issue: Simple tasks, like contract reviews, typically cost less than handling a complex property dispute or litigation.
  • Experience and location: More experienced lawyers or those in high-demand areas, like urban centers, often charge higher rates.
  • Billing structure: Lawyers may charge a flat fee for basic services like document review or hourly for more time-intensive work such as disputes or litigation.

Flat fees for straightforward services like closing assistance may range from $500 to $1,500.

Hourly rates can range from $150 to $400 or more, depending on the attorney’s experience and location.

Always discuss fees upfront to understand the overall cost of the legal service you're receiving.

Top Questions to Ask a Real Estate Lawyer

Before hiring a real estate lawyer, ask the following questions to ensure they are the right fit for your legal needs:

  1. What experience do you have with real estate law?
    Ensure the lawyer has experience in the type of real estate transaction or dispute you’re facing, whether residential, commercial, or development-related.
  2. What is your fee structure?
    Ask how the lawyer charges for services - whether it's a flat fee, hourly rate, or retainer - so there are no surprises later on.
  3. How long will the process take?
    Especially important for real estate transactions or disputes with deadlines, ask for a general estimate of how long the process will last.
  4. Have you handled cases similar to mine?
    Experience with similar transactions or disputes can give you confidence that the lawyer knows how to handle your case.
  5. Will you handle my case personally, or will it be passed to another attorney?
    Confirm who will be handling the bulk of your case work, especially in larger firms where junior lawyers may take on some responsibilities.
  6. Can you provide references?
    Speaking with past clients can give you insight into the lawyer's experience and how they handle cases.

How to Check the Credibility of a Real Estate Lawyer

To ensure you’re hiring a reputable real estate lawyer, take these steps:

  • Check with the state bar association: Verify that the lawyer is licensed and in good standing with no disciplinary actions on their record.
  • Read online reviews and testimonials: Look for reviews on legal directories and platforms like Avvo or Martindale-Hubbell to see what past clients have said.
  • Ask for references: A credible lawyer should have past clients willing to share their experiences.
  • Review their track record and expertise: Look at the lawyer’s website or LinkedIn profile for information about their experience in real estate law and any relevant cases they’ve handled.
  • Membership in professional organizations: Lawyers who are members of respected legal or real estate organizations, like the American Bar Association’s Real Property Division, often signal credibility and expertise.

What Should I Prepare for My First Consultation?

To make your first meeting with a real estate lawyer productive, you should prepare the following materials:

  • Relevant property documents: Bring purchase agreements, lease contracts, mortgage documents, zoning permits, or any other paperwork related to your case.
  • A summary of the issue or transaction: Be ready to explain the situation, whether it's a property dispute, contract negotiation, or development issue.
  • Questions about the legal process: Prepare a list of questions about how the lawyer will handle your case and what steps are involved.
  • Financial documents or loan agreements: If the case involves financing or a mortgage, bring any related documents for the lawyer to review.
  • Your goals and timeline: Be clear about what outcome you're hoping for, and if there are any deadlines that need to be considered, such as closing dates or legal filings.

By coming prepared, you can ensure that your consultation is efficient and informative, allowing you to assess whether the lawyer is the right fit for your real estate needs.

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