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09 Nov, 2024 by Francisco n
Over the moon with the services that we received thank you Tim very much ! 🥰
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08 Nov, 2024 by Wanda a. carder
Looking for an attorney here in the Bay Area I was involved in an accident on my way to work near Piedmont, I was actually walking and a young girl made a right turn, not paying attention and hit me pretty bad. I had to get some medical treatment she never returned any of my phone calls, and her insurance company was not helpful. The law firm at Karns & Karns Took care of everything for us. We really appreciate the hard work they did.
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06 Nov, 2024 by Eileen d. fuller
Just an all-around great law firm they were easy to work with if you were in an accident I would recommend them to my friends and family
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08 Jul, 2024 by Lina zhu
Devin and his partner David are absolute professionals. Devin's negotiation skills helped bring my case to the finish line, concluding a difficult period in my professional life. They both helped me regain dignity and find the respect I deserve. I would advise any employee in a legally questionable situation to seek out Devin's counsel and expertise.
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08 Jul, 2024 by Clay g
Devin is hardworking and very helpful. I highly recommend him if you need a lawyer. He spends over one hour with me during our initial phone call consultation and then another hour+ when he interviewed me in his office. He also would return my calls and emails immediately. I think frankly this is one of the few lawyers that I would trust with something as serious as my legal issues. He is a very smart confident trustworthy person.
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08 Jul, 2024 by Dawn mooney
I had spent the morning calling around to different lawyer offices and getting the same type of service - getting transferred to intake, giving up loads of personal information only to be told that someone will call me back within a week maybe possibly sooner, and I couldn’t even get basic questions answered.
Not at Devin Coyle Law. I called, got a simple answering machine and left my number with a brief explanation. A couple hours later and someone called me back directly. He was very kind and polite and I didn’t have to give up a bunch of personal information in order to get my questions answered.
I am going to do the things he suggested and if down the road I turns out that I do need a lawyer for this matter, Devin Coyle Law will be the first place I call.
Three words to sum up my experience: Informative, Responsive, Direct.
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07 Feb, 2025 by Da biz
Lawyer Key was amazing. He guided me through a realy bad situation and made sure I didn't do anything foolish.
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05 Feb, 2025 by Bradley espinoza
Fantastic experience with this law firm! Their team was knowledgeable, approachable, and efficient, offering sound legal advice that really put my mind at ease. They took the time to explain everything thoroughly and made sure I was well-informed throughout the process. I highly recommend them for your legal needs.
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27 Jan, 2025 by Steven hamlin
Best experience with a lawyer. They know their stuff and really care.
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07 Feb, 2025 by Da biz
Lawyer Key was amazing. He guided me through a realy bad situation and made sure I didn't do anything foolish.
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05 Feb, 2025 by Bradley espinoza
Fantastic experience with this law firm! Their team was knowledgeable, approachable, and efficient, offering sound legal advice that really put my mind at ease. They took the time to explain everything thoroughly and made sure I was well-informed throughout the process. I highly recommend them for your legal needs.
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27 Jan, 2025 by Steven hamlin
Best experience with a lawyer. They know their stuff and really care.
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07 Feb, 2025 by Da biz
Lawyer Key was amazing. He guided me through a realy bad situation and made sure I didn't do anything foolish.
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05 Feb, 2025 by Bradley espinoza
Fantastic experience with this law firm! Their team was knowledgeable, approachable, and efficient, offering sound legal advice that really put my mind at ease. They took the time to explain everything thoroughly and made sure I was well-informed throughout the process. I highly recommend them for your legal needs.
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27 Jan, 2025 by Steven hamlin
Best experience with a lawyer. They know their stuff and really care.
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07 Feb, 2025 by Da biz
Lawyer Key was amazing. He guided me through a realy bad situation and made sure I didn't do anything foolish.
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05 Feb, 2025 by Bradley espinoza
Fantastic experience with this law firm! Their team was knowledgeable, approachable, and efficient, offering sound legal advice that really put my mind at ease. They took the time to explain everything thoroughly and made sure I was well-informed throughout the process. I highly recommend them for your legal needs.
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27 Jan, 2025 by Steven hamlin
Best experience with a lawyer. They know their stuff and really care.
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07 Feb, 2025 by Da biz
Lawyer Key was amazing. He guided me through a realy bad situation and made sure I didn't do anything foolish.
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05 Feb, 2025 by Bradley espinoza
Fantastic experience with this law firm! Their team was knowledgeable, approachable, and efficient, offering sound legal advice that really put my mind at ease. They took the time to explain everything thoroughly and made sure I was well-informed throughout the process. I highly recommend them for your legal needs.
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27 Jan, 2025 by Steven hamlin
Best experience with a lawyer. They know their stuff and really care.
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17 Jan, 2025 by Sharann gomez
Ravi is a top-notch attorney. Very knowledgeable in the Heggstad petition and helped me so much during the process. He checked in often & kept me informed during the process. His cost was incredibly reasonable. I had two other consultations before I chose Ravi and I couldn't have asked for more. If you're in doubt, don't, hire him, you won't regret it.
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16 Jan, 2025 by Stacey warren
Navigating the sale of my business was one of the most stressful experiences I’ve faced, but Vincent Tong of TONG LAW made it manageable and even seamless. Vincent helped me establish a thorough strategy, drafted necessary contracts that protected my interests and walked me through each step of the process, ensuring I understood all the details. Vincent is also an expert in the area of employment law; Vincent helped me with a separate situation with an employer. Vincent's expert advice and calm, steady counsel turned what could have been an overwhelming ordeal into a smooth and successful transaction. Thanks to his guidance, I felt confident and assured every step of the way. If you are a business owner, especially one who is considering buying or selling a business, or if you are an employee or employer dealing with an employment issues, I can’t imagine a better legal partner than TONG LAW. :)
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27 Dec, 2024 by Natacha lopez
The journey through the immigration process seemed daunting and choosing an attorney seemed perhaps even more daunting.
After a first consultation with Kevin,
the process just appeared very straightfoward.
All the information he gave was clear and concise, bringing alot of needed reassurance.
He consistently remained accessible during the entire process with upmost patience answering any new questions that would arise.
There we're some complex aspects to my case that required in depth law expertise and Kevin went above and beyond to finalize brilliantly!
I couldn't have found a better attorney!
For the success of my applications but also for the extra kindness demonstrated along the way.
I also want to mention how Immigrating is and can be a very costly journey to embark on. Affordability and unseen costs we're a concern. I have appreciated that Kevin kept all fees transparent and consistently fair from go to finish!
I think he could charge more in regards of his time offered, so many other attorneys do so ruthlessly but this too reflects kevin's integrity and dedication to helping others.
I classify Kevin in the world of attorneys as a rare gem and find.
He's been a blessing on my journey 🙏
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17 Jan, 2025 by Sharann gomez
Ravi is a top-notch attorney. Very knowledgeable in the Heggstad petition and helped me so much during the process. He checked in often & kept me informed during the process. His cost was incredibly reasonable. I had two other consultations before I chose Ravi and I couldn't have asked for more. If you're in doubt, don't, hire him, you won't regret it.
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16 Jan, 2025 by Stacey warren
Navigating the sale of my business was one of the most stressful experiences I’ve faced, but Vincent Tong of TONG LAW made it manageable and even seamless. Vincent helped me establish a thorough strategy, drafted necessary contracts that protected my interests and walked me through each step of the process, ensuring I understood all the details. Vincent is also an expert in the area of employment law; Vincent helped me with a separate situation with an employer. Vincent's expert advice and calm, steady counsel turned what could have been an overwhelming ordeal into a smooth and successful transaction. Thanks to his guidance, I felt confident and assured every step of the way. If you are a business owner, especially one who is considering buying or selling a business, or if you are an employee or employer dealing with an employment issues, I can’t imagine a better legal partner than TONG LAW. :)
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27 Dec, 2024 by Natacha lopez
The journey through the immigration process seemed daunting and choosing an attorney seemed perhaps even more daunting.
After a first consultation with Kevin,
the process just appeared very straightfoward.
All the information he gave was clear and concise, bringing alot of needed reassurance.
He consistently remained accessible during the entire process with upmost patience answering any new questions that would arise.
There we're some complex aspects to my case that required in depth law expertise and Kevin went above and beyond to finalize brilliantly!
I couldn't have found a better attorney!
For the success of my applications but also for the extra kindness demonstrated along the way.
I also want to mention how Immigrating is and can be a very costly journey to embark on. Affordability and unseen costs we're a concern. I have appreciated that Kevin kept all fees transparent and consistently fair from go to finish!
I think he could charge more in regards of his time offered, so many other attorneys do so ruthlessly but this too reflects kevin's integrity and dedication to helping others.
I classify Kevin in the world of attorneys as a rare gem and find.
He's been a blessing on my journey 🙏
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17 Jan, 2025 by Sharann gomez
Ravi is a top-notch attorney. Very knowledgeable in the Heggstad petition and helped me so much during the process. He checked in often & kept me informed during the process. His cost was incredibly reasonable. I had two other consultations before I chose Ravi and I couldn't have asked for more. If you're in doubt, don't, hire him, you won't regret it.
Read more
16 Jan, 2025 by Stacey warren
Navigating the sale of my business was one of the most stressful experiences I’ve faced, but Vincent Tong of TONG LAW made it manageable and even seamless. Vincent helped me establish a thorough strategy, drafted necessary contracts that protected my interests and walked me through each step of the process, ensuring I understood all the details. Vincent is also an expert in the area of employment law; Vincent helped me with a separate situation with an employer. Vincent's expert advice and calm, steady counsel turned what could have been an overwhelming ordeal into a smooth and successful transaction. Thanks to his guidance, I felt confident and assured every step of the way. If you are a business owner, especially one who is considering buying or selling a business, or if you are an employee or employer dealing with an employment issues, I can’t imagine a better legal partner than TONG LAW. :)
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27 Dec, 2024 by Natacha lopez
The journey through the immigration process seemed daunting and choosing an attorney seemed perhaps even more daunting.
After a first consultation with Kevin,
the process just appeared very straightfoward.
All the information he gave was clear and concise, bringing alot of needed reassurance.
He consistently remained accessible during the entire process with upmost patience answering any new questions that would arise.
There we're some complex aspects to my case that required in depth law expertise and Kevin went above and beyond to finalize brilliantly!
I couldn't have found a better attorney!
For the success of my applications but also for the extra kindness demonstrated along the way.
I also want to mention how Immigrating is and can be a very costly journey to embark on. Affordability and unseen costs we're a concern. I have appreciated that Kevin kept all fees transparent and consistently fair from go to finish!
I think he could charge more in regards of his time offered, so many other attorneys do so ruthlessly but this too reflects kevin's integrity and dedication to helping others.
I classify Kevin in the world of attorneys as a rare gem and find.
He's been a blessing on my journey 🙏
Read more
28 Aug, 2015 by Tom
I worked with Tali on a settlement that should have taken a few months but stretched out far too long. When the other 'side' didn't seem to get it, she took charge and rewrote the settlement agreement to hold the intent of both sides. As the process dragged out, I felt fortunate to have Tali on my team. When there were lulls in the process, she prodded the other side to get negotiations back on track. Finally the settlement was reached, and the entire time with integrity. She was always a pleasure to work with. It is clear she has a great depth of knowledge on the ins and outs of IP law and contracts. I would absolutely recommend Tali and work with her again.
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02 Sep, 2013 by Dan
I would definitely recommend Tali to my friends and colleagues. We closed a contract (buyout) extremely quick which allowed me to move on with my professional business without getting tied up in litigation. I am definitely holding onto Tali's information for next time I need legal assistance. as nerve racking as negotiations can be, I felt taken care of knowing Tali was on my side.
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01 Sep, 2013 by Shoshanah
Tali is a smart and compassionate problem solver. She is able to think of creative ways to get you where you need to be for all your legal questions.
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25 Nov, 2023 by Ynovie
Very immoral lawyer focused on using the law for a quick payday. He needs to be investigated and have his bar license revoked
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19 Sep, 2023 by Kiera
Wooksun "Phil" Hong helps with nonprofits, businesses, tenant's rights. He is efficient, direct, great listener, solid advice, and won a quick settlement for me in 2022. He has been responsive with quick advice when I've followed up with him on any additional legal matters. He came highly recommended from my neighbor, as well as an attorney referral network, and I Highly recommend, too!
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07 Jun, 2023 by Rachel long
I have only positive things to say about Seven Hills Law Firm - Mr Ramirez-Medina was such a great help to us. His professionalism and generosity with time and patience to hear and solve our predicament gave us huge relief. Thank you!
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26 Aug, 2023 by Cathy larsen
Dedicated and caring. You will get 110% Top Drawer firm.
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15 Sep, 2022 by Ken hershbell
Even my attorneys, whom I fired, have this to say: this firm shows evidence of sloppy work in a recent divorce case. They haven’t represented me so you can guess whom they represent.
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01 Mar, 2022 by Olimpia olimpia
Very very rude person at front desk 😡
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27 Nov, 2024 by Rachelle tillis
David and his staff did a Great job representing me with my settlement case.
David and his staff were very kind each time I called for and update on my case. They got my case resolved in a short time. So grateful.
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08 Aug, 2024 by John rene lorelli
My wife and I were in a car accident and decided to take legal action against the person whose vehicle hit us. After consulting with a few lawyers in the area, we chose Kleczek Law and worked with David and Brendan. Our decision was based on our initial conversation, where it felt like David would fight for us and was willing to go to court if needed. Throughout the lawsuit, Brendan kept me updated as soon as he had any news, which was greatly appreciated. He was always reachable and would call back promptly if he wasn’t available. I never felt like I was chasing someone down for answers or that I was on my own. Overall, I was very satisfied with the results and deeply appreciate both David and Brendan for everything they did for us.
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08 Jul, 2024 by Cheryl tain
Great law firm! Working with David is seamless and we really appreciated the team's excellent communication. David got us a great result from a really tough situation and I would certainly work with him again!
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25 Jul, 2024 by Aniket gupta
19 Jun, 2024 by Randy fong
I feel that they are a fair personal injury attorney in the way they conduct themselves.
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19 Jun, 2024 by Shantell williams
I give this company 5 stars very good lawyer and company if you need to hire a good lawyer look no further will get you back good and running and solve any accident case hire now you will not be disappointed
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25 Jul, 2024 by Aniket gupta
19 Jun, 2024 by Randy fong
I feel that they are a fair personal injury attorney in the way they conduct themselves.
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19 Jun, 2024 by Shantell williams
I give this company 5 stars very good lawyer and company if you need to hire a good lawyer look no further will get you back good and running and solve any accident case hire now you will not be disappointed
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26 Dec, 2024 by Arlen cash
15 Oct, 2024 by Abigail zatarain
They are the best lawyers from the Bay Area.
They have my case and they are on top of everything and make sure that I understand everything a helping with all.
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11 Oct, 2024 by Hilda yohanaromsinh
26 Dec, 2024 by Arlen cash
15 Oct, 2024 by Abigail zatarain
They are the best lawyers from the Bay Area.
They have my case and they are on top of everything and make sure that I understand everything a helping with all.
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11 Oct, 2024 by Hilda yohanaromsinh
08 Jul, 2024 by Victor mondragon
Compassion, Communication and Knowledge, A clear guided experience! I cant express the gratitude I feel for the Peace of Mind brought by their knowledge. As a father, I always look for the best help for my family and I when it comes to situations that can get or have gotten out of control. Clear communication and understanding of the situation is what we wish for in desperate moments.
Right from the first conversation had with them, you will feel the security and confidence of dealing with true professionals. Making things clear is crucial in situations as such, this was provided right from the beginning.
The options provided to solve your situations are clear and explained in simple terms. Attention to detail is always present, no matter the questions or concerns had.
Highly recommend De Castroverde Law group for does want the right assistance in this unexpected and expected difficult situations.
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08 Jul, 2024 by Hu gui
After getting married, I needed to remove the conditions on my green card. Kyle helped me with form I-751 and my interview. The office even had a nice Chinese New Year display.
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08 Jul, 2024 by Christopher hikida
08 Jul, 2024 by Tomiko sharpnack
After our wonderful experience with Kyle and De Castroverde I just had to write a review. My sister-in-law had an urgent immigration matter. My brother referred me to De Castroverde. So, we called De Castroverde Law and they were extremely responsive and helpful. They gave our family a huge sense of relief and understanding. Kyle was warm and professional on top of being extremely knowledgeable. I would recommend him and his firm without reservation to anyone who needs immigration help.
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08 Jul, 2024 by Peter kim
Kyle gives great customer service and he is very responsive and knowledgeable! He helped me with my injury case tremendously. I had a lot of questions and was unsure about parts of the law, but Kyle was there with me every step of the way! I would definitely recommend him and his law group!
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08 Jul, 2024 by Steven yip
Kyle and I spoke at Courageous' Conversation National Summit. We spoke about Asian American history. He is a dedicated advocate for social justice.
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08 Jul, 2024 by Mike hoang
I had the opportunity to work with Kyle and Carolyn on a presentation. It was a pleasure working with both of them. It was fun, easy, and smooth. I appreciate their openness, which made collaborating with them a joy.
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08 Jul, 2024 by Victor mondragon
Compassion, Communication and Knowledge, A clear guided experience! I cant express the gratitude I feel for the Peace of Mind brought by their knowledge. As a father, I always look for the best help for my family and I when it comes to situations that can get or have gotten out of control. Clear communication and understanding of the situation is what we wish for in desperate moments.
Right from the first conversation had with them, you will feel the security and confidence of dealing with true professionals. Making things clear is crucial in situations as such, this was provided right from the beginning.
The options provided to solve your situations are clear and explained in simple terms. Attention to detail is always present, no matter the questions or concerns had.
Highly recommend De Castroverde Law group for does want the right assistance in this unexpected and expected difficult situations.
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08 Jul, 2024 by Sofia marie greenwald
Kyle spoke at a legal panel I attended and his passion for the law and helping others was extremely evident in the way he spoke. He was so kind to correspond with me afterwards and give me advice as a pre-law student, and his legal insight and understanding was very greatly appreciated.
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16 Mar, 2015 by Michellr
I would have been unable together through the battle and stress of the legal mess and turbulent litigation being wrongfully attempted to be unseated in unlawful detainer action my property management company Hawthorn and Stone, Rob Cassil and untenable tactics of their lawyer. It became harrowing and complicated and Leah and her adept legal mind and work brought me through Appeal Court winning my case to save my home, a long held rent control in San Francisco. As a working person of not prolific means she truly is an activist that redress position in champion of those that would be crushed in taking advantage of by the greed and power that the system does not always support. Her legal work professionality commitment restored a sense of justice that I had been grievously wounded in. Ivan not speak of any Lawyer as higher than she and she is worth her weight in gold.
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05 Nov, 2014 by Anonymous
Mr. Woodruff represented me many years ago against a large survey company in a complicated boundary dispute problem. His handling of my case was exemplary on all counts: diligence, responsiveness, doggedness. His billing was in my opinion reasonable and fair and I doubt it fully reflected the actual number of hours he put into researching the issues involved to be able to negotiate on equal footing with opposing counsel. I was completely satisfied with Mr. Woodruff's work.
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05 Sep, 2013 by Anonymous
Lawyer helped w. a case that was taking a physiological changes in my life, taught me the real strength of the pen and paper and how sometime the law can work in your defense. Very knowledgeable of cases he takes on .
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17 Aug, 2021 by Bettina
I have been the lucky recipient of Garrett Riegg's guidance and advice for 10 years now. I referred my brother and my partner to Garrett as well, and I know I speak for all of us when I say, we have NEVER found an estate attorney who comes close to what Garrett offers! He is always extremely responsive in a timely way, offers great guidance (explaining the mysteries of the legalities clearly) and it is always delivered with a genuine concern for our well-being and future. Garrett is the essence of integrity and kindness, a rarity in this field. And a plus is that he has always been sensitive to my budget. A fairer and more qualified attorney you will be hard pressed to find. I dread the day he retires. Those shoes of his will be impossible to fill.
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14 Sep, 2015 by Elvis
An exceptional attorney. She took my case one month before a jury trial and we won! She is phenomenal. Pays great attention to detail and preparation to present her case.
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22 Sep, 2017 by Marc
I have been licensed to practice law in California since 1980 and I have served as a Chapter 7 bankruptcy trustee for USDOJ for ten years. Jim Hand has served as my attorney in a very complicated case involving the misconduct of developers whose actions led to the bankruptcy of one of the debtors who were assigned to me. Jim is a brilliant, thoughtful, and affable attorney whose preparation for the case was incomparable. His exceptional performance in court, and his command of the facts and nuances of the case resulted in a multi-million dollar recovery and a strong decision in our favor from one of the most senior and respected members of the Santa Clara County bench. Jim is an exceptional lawyer. And a "good guy".
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11 Jan, 2019 by Jennifer
After unknowingly moving into a house with a huge mold problem, Mr. Yockey was able to help my family recover the costs associated with having to move again, damaged property and medical bills as well as preventing the landlord from evicting us unlawfully after filing several complaints about the condition of my unit. Dan's prices are very reasonable and I would definitely hire him again!
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06 Nov, 2022 by Christine marie
23 Jul, 2022 by Jewell hickman
They will help you with your legal issues
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31 Mar, 2020 by Ben allen
I would recommend Bob Salinas to anyone facing bad behavior from a landlord. We went to him when our landlord tried to illegally evict every person in our complex, and he guided us through the process of collecting evidence and responding to the eviction threats, and then helped us through mediation and to a settlement that kept us all in our homes.
The thing I really want to stress, though, is how kind and patient he is with his clients. Needless to say we were beyond anxious and stressed out over the landlord's threats, but he was always there for us, giving us so much more of his time than he had to -- even though our case was much smaller than many of the other cases his firm handles.
Going with the Salinas Law Group is one of the best decisions we've ever made.
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11 Feb, 2024 by Jaime flores
Buen abogado me arreglo mi residencia en dos meses
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25 Jul, 2023 by Mari aguilar
Una gran abogada en leyes de inmigración.
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26 May, 2023 by Heyitsjocelyn
Discover the ideal lawyer
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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.
