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04 Oct, 2015 by Anonymous
Michael helped me years ago. To this very day I am so glad I was referred to him. I have worked with attorneys and never before did I feel one went above and beyond as he did.
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05 Jul, 2013 by Anonymous
I would deifinitely recommend Michael Cerrato to any one of my friends or family in need of a lawyer. He helped me in a time of great need, when I didn't know where to turn. My case was difficult. All the lawyers I spoke with knew it would be. I was referred to Michael through another attorney. He worked diligently to help me. He went above and beyond what I ever expected from an attorney. He worked endlessly to win the case. Years later I am still grateful to him for his hard work.
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29 Sep, 2016 by Mike
Jonathan represented my wife and I in the sale of our home in Short Hills as well as the purchase of our current home. In both cases he was detail oriented, responsive, a calm and level-headed advisor and firmly represented our interests without alienating the other parties. We also used him for our wills and were very satisfied.
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11 Mar, 2015 by Jeff
Jonathan successfully helped us close two real estate transactions in the last three years, once as a buyer's attorney for our house in Short Hills, and once as a seller's attorney for our condo in West New York. Jonathan is professional, knowledgeable, kept us informed of all developments, and provided advice as needed. We gave him full power of attorney for the closing, and did not attend in person. All transactions went smoothly and closed on schedule.
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05 Mar, 2012 by Susan
Elissa made my experience very comfortable, she was patient and understanding and very knowledgable. I was very embarrassed and stressed when I came to her. I can't thank her enough for all her help!!! I highly recommend Elissa!
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26 Apr, 2011 by Jacqueline
I highly recommend Elissa Westbrook Smith. Elissa has been representing me in a very difficult employment situation. She met with me to discuss my case in a very calming setting and listened carefully to all the issues. She took prompt action to assist me and accompanied me to file my complaint. Elissa then quicky went to action assisting me to file appropriate charges. She always returns my phone calls and emails and has been a lifeline of support. Elissa is kind and speaks to me with respect, compassion and honesty. She also has a great sense of humor. Elissa is a breath of fresh air and an attorney that I can truly say I am honored to know and work with.
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11 Jun, 2019 by Larry
He has helped me with many real estate transactions in efficient, professional and reasonable outcomes. He is an adept matrimonial lawyer by reputation.
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14 Jan, 2017 by Joe
I wanted to take a moment to express how beyond pleased I am with Attorney Ira Cohen and his practice. I am not sure if you are familiar with how many hours actually go into closing a house, and how many particulars are involved. He and his Assistant Susan made this closing like champions. They went above and beyond and payed attention to my concerns, calmed my worries, and eased my stress level. This process can feel like an eternity, yet it was closed in an expedition manor. Susan is an amazing support and was always there to answer any questions that I had. I highly recommend using Attorney Ira Cohen his services will get you the results you are looking for !
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01 Mar, 2021 by Raj
Chris is an amazing professional. Known him since 2008. He had helped me with buying two homes and my children buy their first homes. He is the epitome of what you would want in an attorney. Makes you feel safe and secure!
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21 Feb, 2019 by Craig
Chris was a huge help in purchasing our first home. We had a short time-line and he always called us right back with knowledge and advice. He took time to answer all our nervous first-time-buyer questions, was very detail oriented, kept us on track and protected us through it all. It's a complicated and fast moving process, and our experience went smoothly and ended perfectly thanks in large part to Chris Strahan. I've recommended him to friends and recommend you give him a call too.
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29 Nov, 2017 by Raja gupta
Josh was our real estate attorney when we very recently sold our house in NJ. An excellent lawyer with profound knowledge in real estate deals, negotiations and communications. He chipped in at the right time with right advice and made our deal successful. We recommend him highly for his experience, work attitude and wonderful manner. He is so easy to work with. We stroke the right cord from the get go. Selling house from being out of the state (we had to move to another state because of job) was not easy and without Josh's help it would never had been possible. Thank you Josh.
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16 May, 2017 by Sam
We purchased a home in Cherry Hill NJ in May 2017. We were first-time buyers and also from out of state. Josh was recommended to us by our realtor, and we couldn't have been happier with this recommendation. Josh was great to work with. He was very patient, thorough, and always available to answer my questions. He was especially helpful while negotiating repairs since this house needed some love before we moved in. Overall I felt extremely confident throughout the purchase since Josh was there to help.
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27 Nov, 2017 by Dania
It was such a pleasure having Delilah Magao as our attorney for the purchase of our first home. Since it was our first time buying a house, we really needed someone to guide us faithfully through the entire process. Delilah surely did not disappoint! She always explained everything in detail and was very easy to reach. Although we went through some bumps along the way, Delilah had our back 100%. She really fought for our every need with diligence. We are so grateful to have had her on our side. We were able to close on our house within a month and a half since we first saw it with practically everything we asked for! We couldn’t have asked for a better attorney!
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26 Nov, 2017 by Joann
Delilah represented us in the purchase of our first home. She was knowledgeable, responsive, and reassuring throughout the whole process. Our closing was smooth and successful. Five star service!
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12 Aug, 2024 by Janice
I contacted Mr. Echevarria on the phone hoping to get some advice . I am a tenant in Essex County . My situation was urgent at the time of my call. Mr. Echevarria answered the phone and proceeded to andwer all my questions. He was professional and very patient and kind. I would not hesitate to retain him as my lawyer or recommend him.
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30 Mar, 2020 by Tanya freeman
We are both attorneys who practice family law and I used to work with him in his office. I greatly respect him and his ability in court.
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18 Jan, 2024 by Heather grabin
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14 Jun, 2021 by Walter meislohn
Working with Milton and his staff was a pleasure they made the closing so easy for another happy buyer. Walter
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13 Mar, 2013 by Anonymous
Mr. Lehrer respesented me through my insurance company when I was sued by someone who I know wasn't hurt. He did a great job and got the jury to return a verdict in my favor. If I ever need a lawyer again I will be sure and get him!
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19 Jun, 2012 by John
I hired Brian to work on an emplyment issue with my company and can not say enough about the work that was done. I would recommend Brian highly.
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13 Apr, 2009 by Anonymous
Mr. Bennett is an excellent attorney, possessing unmatched negotiation and written skills. He develops brilliant case strategies which result in positive results. He is courteous and understanding.
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12 Apr, 2009 by Anonymous
Great lawyer, very trustworthy, informed me on everything that was going on in our case two thumbs up for Robert Ethan Bennett.
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03 Aug, 2017 by Meg
Our family went through a tremendously difficult time, dealing with false allegations by DCPP. Harvey was the heart and soul of our complex case. He fought tooth and nail for us, while also keeping our expectations realistic. In a David and Goliath situation, Harvey helped us come out on top.
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02 Aug, 2014 by Brian
As a CPA, I have an extra burden when clients ask me for a good attorney. Not only must they be well qualified, diligent but also responsive. If that attorney fails at that, my client turns their dismay towards me. I have been fortunate to have found Harvey Beran, who has always handled my clients with the utmost of professionalism. For those going thru a painful divorce or a difficult family or a business matter, my clients have raved at his exceptional abilities to understand, provide support as well as his thoroughness in resolving the matter to their betterment. I could not ask for more in sending my clients to an attorney.
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03 Nov, 2017 by Joseph giminaro
Frank Derby is a highly skilled and experienced counselor and litigator. He has practiced at several high power law firms in both NY and NJ. He is very insightful and can be depended upon to provide practical legal solutions.
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01 Nov, 2017 by Joseph
Frank has worked with me on multiple occasions through the years on both on business and personal situations. I find Frank addresses issues, options, and opportunities thoroughly, professionally and with a calming demeanor. Frank’s communication skills are impeccable as he is able to translate legal jargon into language that is understandable. Frank is a polished expert and a world-class attorney who I will definitely call upon when needed again.
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09 Jul, 2009 by Anonymous
Maureen really was terrific. I gave her a 5/5 rating on 'trustworth' despite the fact she IS a lawyer. Seriously she was great, and with a caring attitude.
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25 Mar, 2009 by Anonymous
I had an up-front experience as a client... I was treated with respect and I was informed, all of my concerns and questions were answered and explained. Very intelligent, very educated. I definately recommend Maureen E Vella! An overall comfortable, proffesional enviornment and experience.
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16 Apr, 2015 by Anonymous
MRS. MUNOZ WAS SUCH A GREAT HELP IN MY ONGOING CHILD SUPPORT/CUSTODY BATTLE. SHE IS VERY STRAIGHT FORWARD AND HONEST. SHE TELLS IT AS IT IS. SHES VERY TRUST WORTHY, ONE OF THE FEW ATTORNEYS I KNOW WITH SUCH INTEGRITY. HER STAFF IS VERY POLITE. HER ASSISTANT SAT WITH ME PERSONALLY AND HELPED ME FILL OUT FORMS I WAS UNSURE OF AND MADE ME FEEL VERY COMFORTABLE. SHES VERY AFFORDABLE AS WELL. I WOULD DEFINITELY USE HER AGAIN IF NEEDED AND WOULDNT HESITATE TO RECOMMEND HER TO FRIENDS AND FAMILY!
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20 Mar, 2015 by Anonymous
Mrs. Munoz was not only attentive to my needs but also was able to help me when others couldn't! She is a great family law attorney and i would highly recommend her to others! She is extremely trustworthy and above all, HONEST! Her staff are very courteous and always go the extra mile to make sure i am kept informed of my case and make sure i was always satisfied.
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03 Nov, 2010 by Alan
Gary has served our needs in all areas with great ideas, energy, support, and experience. The best!
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25 Oct, 2010 by Dick
Gary Danis has been our company's attorney for about 25 years and I have personaly dealt with him during this time. He has been very successful in for us in the following areas: all dealings with the NJDEP & EPA for negotiating environmental and natural resources for our several chemical manufacturing locations; successfuly suing multiple insurance companies to recover mony for past pollution coverage; negotiating RAWP with NJDEP and negotiating contracts for sale of company plant sites.
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21 Jan, 2015 by Anonymous
My roommates and I were housed in a small apartment as students attending a nearby university. When our landlord sent us an invoice with expensive fabricated damages upon move-out, we did not know how to approach the situation. After our consultation with Ms. Parmigiani, we were able to feel confident and collected. Ms. Parmigiani represented us very professionally and proceeded to contact our landlord and request proof of the damages by phone and by written letter. The process was very smooth and quickly executed. Ms. Parmigiani handled herself both courteously and professionally and kept us in the loop every step of the way. When our landlord refused to answer the correspondence, Ms. Parmigiani discussed with us the different options that were available to us in going forward. She is easy to talk to and explains concepts with ease. I would highly recommend her.
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15 Dec, 2014 by Anonymous
We reached out to Cara in a time of immediate need and she agreed to help us. She made time to speak to us on the phone right away to make a plan of action, and was able to construct and send out the requested letter within a matter of days. She charged us a very reasonable fee, and through her help, the matter was quickly resolved in our favor. Calling Cara was the best thing we could have done!
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04 Nov, 2019 by Darren
Alan is excellent. From my first consult with him in a franchisee suit, I knew I was in good hands. He had a thorough and deep understanding of the law, and he had excellent insight into my particular case. He was able to help me understand my options and, as such, I was able to avoid litigation. It was a huge win for me and my company. His attention to detail was second to none.
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13 Jul, 2019 by Anonymous
Mr. Poliner has represented me in some matters over the last 13 years with a great deal of success. His thorough understanding of the law combined with his attention to detail and complete preparation has brought me the results I want from my attorney. I highly recommend Mr. Poliner.
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20 Dec, 2017 by Alice
I got my first moving violation ticket on a very busy 4th of July weekend. It was bumper to bumper traffic. The congestion was so bad a group of cars formed another lane. I only joined so I can make a left turn, away from the traffic. Unfortunately, a police officer stopped the group of cars that formed another lane. Forming another lane was illegal. I was so grateful for Attorney Abasolo to assist me. On the day I had to appear at court, the Judge granted a no moving violation with no points charged, as long as I pay the fee - just as Attorney Abasolo had advised me. I was relieved for Attorney Abasolo's helpful and professional solution to my ticket dilemma. Thank You, Attorney Abasolo.
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24 Apr, 2016 by Vanessa
I hired Mr. Abasolo's service for 2 evictions for non payment of rent. He was very dedicated and he managed to evict my tenants very quickly. He is very nice and will keep you posted at all times. Highly recommend him.
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17 May, 2022 by Raina
If you are looking for a Great, Affordable Attorney, I would HIGHLY recommend Attorney Abdul. His staff was able to assist in completing all documentation and was able to walk me thru all steps in the filing and legal process. Attorney Abdul is extremely thorough and kept me up to date with all information pertaining to my case. With his guidance and direction, My son and I were able to receive a settlement in a speedy and timely fashion.
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14 Sep, 2021 by Umar
Attorney Abdulrehman was great. He helped me with every step throughout my case and kept me updated as it went along. I was quite impressed with his professionalism and prompt communication, as opposed to attorneys that I have dealt with in the past. Next time I need help with a case, I definitely know who I am going to, and I recommend the same for others as well. Wonderful experience!
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27 Oct, 2014 by Marc
The Palace at Somerset Park works with Tony on numerous projects requiring counsel. The legal field is intimidating and concerning. Tony's demeanor and calm presence is incredibly reassuring when working with him. Without pause I have zero hesitation to both acknowledge his expertise in the craft and strongly endorse Tony.
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28 Sep, 2014 by Daniel
Mr. Koester is always accurate in his work and recommendations. He is easy to rely on for three reasons: prompt, knowledgeable, and accessible. Meetings are comfortable in an office that is well planned & organized. Technology is utilized resulting in timely responses and unlimited dialogue.
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07 Aug, 2016 by Chris
I am a NJ court reporter & recognize a talented attorney when he speaks. Mr. Dulitz has represented me in several complicated real estate transactions & I was always very satisfied with the outcome. He gets the job done right the first time. It is a pleasure to be represented by him.
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22 Sep, 2012 by Christine
I am a court reporter who retained Mr. Dulitz for a real estate matter. I was very happy with his excellent professional representation. He was very caring/patient.
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18 Jul, 2017 by Anonymous
He gave me good advice and is looking into some things on my behalf
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22 Apr, 2009 by Anonymous
Ben prepared an excellent expert report regarding legal malpractice in a divorce that went to trial. Ben worked quickly, he was thorough, he is clearly expert in malpractice matters, yet open to suggestions and opinions. He asked excellent questions and mastered the details of the case quickly. He explained his position and gained my understanding and support before finalizing the report. He kept me informed throughout. He was entirely professional in his work.
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11 Aug, 2014 by Anonymous
Sam helped me with a partnership dispute as it got ugly when everyone lawyered up. The courts took much longer than expected (first time being involved in a suit) and it got frustrating at times, but it all worked out in the end so I have no complaints. Great guy to work with and I would highly recommend him.
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15 Nov, 2013 by Michael
I met Sam through a co-worker who dealt with him in the past. He was very attentive and always kept me in the loop. I'm glad to have had him represent me and I would not hesitate to use him again.
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09 Aug, 2011 by Jeff j in englewood
Used Toporpvsky for house purchase in Bergen County - Excellent. No nonsense, stern yet professional on issues with sellers. Kept me in the loop and always emailed back promptly .....Wrote outstanding letter after issues surfaced following inspection - got me $. I would use him again.
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20 Feb, 2011 by Anonymous
We had an atypical home purchase and Asher was very helpful in making the deal happen. The home purchase was straightforward at first but began to take unexpected turns. Asher was able to keep up with these issues and "roll with the punches" to get the deal completed. The purchase resulted in a decision to go through with a minor subdivision, a development that was not expected at first. He worked with the township to submit our application promptly and without issue. I would undoubtedly recommend Asher to anyone interested in a prompt and reliable attorney for their residential real estate purchases.
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10 May, 2018 by P chandra
Sharmila is one of the most intelligent attorneys I've worked with. She is extremely detailed and thorough and focusses on clients. I highly recommend Sharmila. She's the best.
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29 Apr, 2016 by Karan
I have worked with Sharmila for 6 months with my current company, Profreight and have worked with her before on some other deals. She is very professional, a pleasure to be around and will fight for her client in every capacity she can. I would recommend her to every client/vendor/customer I have as she is a pleasure to work with and her advice is always on the mark and ideal.
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25 Nov, 2009 by Elena
Sophy represented me in a child custody case. During the process she kept me informed of exactly what was going on and fought aggresively in court for my right to keep my child, which ultimately, custody was awarded to me. I am forever grateful for her work in my case and I highly recommend her.
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26 Oct, 2009 by Patricia
Ms. Sedarat handled my recent divorce case and I would highly recommend her to clients looking for a trustworthy and knowledgeable attorney who will put your needs first. She kept in touch with me throughout the process, made sure I understood everything that was taking place as well as all my options and successfully negotiated a settlement that I am very pleased with. In the end, I would say that Ms. Sedarat made the divorce process as smooth and as painless as possible and, due to her diligence and dedication to her field, the divorce was finalized in a matter of weeks rather than months or years. I wholeheartedly recommend her to anyone searching for an intelligent, capable and caring attorney.
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24 May, 2022 by Lenny
I was facing multiple charges and Matthew Lang fought hard for me and was able to get it all dropped down to an ordnance violation! (A ticket) Also, he is very easy to get in touch with, answers his phone almost every time, and when he cannot he returns your call in a VERY timely manner.
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25 Mar, 2021 by Richard
I would recommend him to anyone he is a great lawyer and did exactly what I hired him for he is worth hiring to protect your rights.
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13 Oct, 2017 by Ralph edwards
working with joseph maccarrone was the best decision my wife and I made when we were looking to purchase our first home. As first time home buyers, joseph guided us and gave his expertise advice throughout the whole process. His patience and understanding of our personal worries in purchasing a home really made the most stressful times easier. Joseph answered all our questions, no matter how many, very willingly. It is thanks to joseph my wife and I are offically home owners! I would definitely recommend any potential home buyers to uses joseph maccarone's services.
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12 Oct, 2017 by Amelia
I have been a client of Joe's for over 20 years. Working in the legal field I come across many lawyers but never have I met a more devoted lawyer who legitimately cares about his clients. His advise is always honest and I always feel that he has my best interests in mind. I have - and continue to - recommend him to anyone who needs a lawyer for family matters, real estate or motor vehicle matters.
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25 Aug, 2016 by Karl
Vanessa provided a free consultation. I hired her to represent me for a DUI charge, with other citations. Her services were excellent. Always available to contact with questions, or to exchange information. I was well represented, and satisfied with my court outcome. I Would recommend her services. After being charged, I was contacted by Vanessa by mail. Her letter was the most professional of all the offers for representation that I received.
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09 Oct, 2015 by Anonymous
I used Ms Henderson in a Landlord dispute case. She not only got the result I was seeking but she was very professional and really knew the laws. I would highly recommend her to anyone.
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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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