Lawyers map
>6.8k
experienced lawyers
Filter by
11 Sep, 2023 by Norman schlabach
Very prompt and helpful people!
Read more
28 May, 2023 by Debra bush
Very helpful.
Read more
31 Mar, 2023 by Harlan miller
Just had a question on a legal matter and Matt Mullen answered all my questions in a very professional way.
Read more
30 Aug, 2016 by T
Recently my husband and I worked with Matthew to develop a Trust for us. We were pleasantly pleased with his professionalism and knowledge and would highly recommend him to future clients.
Read more
30 Aug, 2016 by Tom
My wife and I had more than one meeting with Attorney Lewis. We talked about family and how important the unit is. Strong families build bonds of love and support. Through these bonds memories and traditions are made. Strong families of love are made with commitment, confidence, courage and faith in God. These qualities create a legacy which is important in estate planning.
Read more
29 Aug, 2016 by Anonymous
Very thorough. He asked the right questions to get us to think about our estate planning in ways we had never considered. He discovered the deed to our property was written wrong and would have cost a lot of estate tax. When he was finished we had one binder with everything we need in one place. We would highly recommend him.
Read more
07 Apr, 2017 by Anonymous
Keeps your best interest in mind. He's not.the sales pitch type of lawyer - he's just good. He provides clarity of law and is realistic but hard working.
Read more
21 Apr, 2015 by Danno
has helped me with many things, always easy to get access to, great attitude , fast response. and best of all very resourceful, knows where , how , when and researches his work thoroughly, its like having 5 lawyers in one.
Read more
10 Feb, 2015 by Keith
Did a fantastic job resolving a business dispute that resulted in a better than anticipated outcome, and avoided a prolonged and expensive lawsuit.
Read more
22 Sep, 2024 by Aaron brown
20 May, 2021 by Dianne woods
20 May, 2021 by Bradley kernan
11 Sep, 2023 by Norman schlabach
Very prompt and helpful people!
Read more
28 May, 2023 by Debra bush
Very helpful.
Read more
31 Mar, 2023 by Harlan miller
Just had a question on a legal matter and Matt Mullen answered all my questions in a very professional way.
Read more
10 Oct, 2024 by Farid khan
ALH law group is working with us for state papers documents! So far this firm is very professional and keeps update our process! We very happy for that! Thanks!!Farid khan
Read more
07 Oct, 2024 by Dustin rall
Office staff is friendly and helpful commutation is excellent I would highly recommend
Read more
02 Oct, 2024 by Rebecca roehl
Since I've never done this before, I was apprehensive. Alison and her crew made everything understandable . I was impressed by their professionalism and warmth. Will highly recommend this firm.
Read more
07 Feb, 2018 by Barry
John is an excellent lawyer who will go above and beyond in representation of his clients. He is accessible, knowledgable and direct. He will not mislead. John is what you would call a "straigh shooter" who tells it like it is. If you find a need for crimal defense, car accident claims or landlord tenant issues, don't hesitate to contact John. If you have a solid claim, he will get you solid results.
Read more
19 Jun, 2016 by Mendy
He is very thorough, objective, easy to talk to and he spends all the time necessary to do the best job possible. He comes across very well. He weighs the evidence and makes excellent decisions.
Read more
13 Aug, 2015 by Anonymous
Mr. Mulvey is not your run of the mill attorney. He is thoughtful, patient, honest, fair, and incredibly brilliant. He has helped my family and many of our friends without judgment or ridicule. He truly stands out among his colleagues.
Read more
19 Feb, 2018 by Anonymous
Paul is profession and highly qualified. I would recommend him to everyone.
Read more
08 Feb, 2018 by Debbie
Paul has provided stellar guidance and legal advice regarding estate planning and investment property for more about Han five years. He is responsive and professional, and extremely knowledgeable. He has my full trust, and I highly recommend him with your legal needs.
Read more
08 Feb, 2018 by Whitney
Paul is very thorough, pays attention to detail, honest, and transparent. Would reccomend his services.
Read more
04 Jan, 2016 by Kunal
Anand was one of the best lawyers I've ever worked with on any Real Estate transaction. As a realtor/broker he knew every aspect of the industry. I had a large transaction that would have fallen apart but Anand knew exactly how my team should proceed. There are ALOT of lawyers out there, but he is one of the great ones! I would recommend him to all of my clients and friends!
Read more
29 Dec, 2015 by Kyle
My father and I hired Anand to resolve a dispute and were very pleased with the result. He was very thorough and committed to our case.
Read more
18 Dec, 2015 by Anonymous
He did a great job helping get through a few problems I had with my business. Very easy to reach and has a great response time! I will always consult him before any new business ventures I come upon!
Read more
07 Apr, 2023 by Sandy smith
19 Mar, 2022 by Anni kay limpach
23 Jul, 2017 by Lori huff
Sheree's knowledge and enthusiasm can work for you. Sheree is family and community driven. She is committed to the safety and future of Shelby. Elect Studer Judge and everyone wins!!
Read more
08 Feb, 2023 by Vera harris
28 Dec, 2020 by Kathryn miller
In this crazy year of Covid we feel secure knowing Brian will be there if our family needs him to handle our estate. We trust Brian to see our wishes are fulfilled and there would be lots less stress on our loved ones.
Brian and Krista even met us in the parking lot (with masks on) to sign our finalized will.
Read more
19 Oct, 2019 by C h
14 Nov, 2017 by Kara hake
Could not ask for a quicker response regarding legal questions or advice. Professional, informative, and understanding. Great Experience!
Read more
10 Nov, 2017 by John
Mr. Stephen Klein is absolutely an incredible attorney as well as a terrific human being. He reminded me of something my parents and all parents try in instill in their children : the Golden Rule! He exemplifies the Golden Rule in his daily practice of law! I would not hesitate to have him help me again in any situation that I may have!
Read more
04 Nov, 2017 by Matthew
I hired Mr Klein for a collection for my small business in 2015. We were trying to collect against a career debtor and con artist who employed every evasive tactic in the book. Mr Klein went above and beyond the call of duty with tenacious commitment to recovering the debt against all odds, and long after the case seemed financially viable. He spent two years fighting for my interests in unparalleled commitment and exhibited tremendous skill in pinning the debtor down to secure every bit of what was owed. Throughout the process, Mr Klein was diligent and provided clear, regular, and personal communication. I couldn't be more pleased with his performance, and high recommend his services to anyone.
Read more
22 May, 2024 by Anonymous
Pleasure working with him! Phenomenal work and will always have my vote on future recommendations!
Read more
15 Mar, 2024 by Gino
Very pleased with the dedication and amount of effort Justin put into my case. Although it was a stressful experience he went out of his way to relieve my stress and make sure I kept my head high. He executed this case with perfection and I couldn’t be more satisfied with the results given the circumstances. Safe to say I will never go to any other lawyer again.
Read more
14 Mar, 2024 by Mec
I recently had the privilege of working with Lawyer Justin Haskamp on a DUI case, and I couldn't be more satisfied with the outcome. From our initial consultation to the resolution of the case, Lawyer Haskamp demonstrated exceptional professionalism, expertise, and dedication to securing the best possible result.
One of the most impressive aspects of working with Lawyer Haskamp was his deep knowledge of DUI laws and his ability to navigate the complexities of my case with confidence and skill. He took the time to thoroughly review the details of my situation, listened attentively to my concerns, and developed a strategic defense strategy tailored to my specific circumstances.
Throughout the entire process, Lawyer Haskamp maintained open and transparent communication, keeping me informed every step of the way and promptly addressing any questions or concerns I had. His responsiveness and accessibility were truly commendable, and it gave me peace of mind knowing that I had a dedicated advocate fighting on my behalf.
Thanks to Lawyer Haskamp's tireless efforts and expert legal representation, we achieved a successful outcome in my DUI case. His professionalism, integrity, and commitment to achieving the best possible result for his clients are truly exemplary, and I wholeheartedly recommend him to anyone in need of a skilled DUI defense attorney.
In conclusion, I am immensely grateful to Lawyer Justin Haskamp for his outstanding representation and unwavering support throughout this challenging time. If you're facing DUI charges and seeking a top-notch attorney who will go above and beyond to protect your rights and interests, look no further than Lawyer Haskamp.
Read more
28 Sep, 2024 by Beth
Cristina did an amazing job revising and drafting new bylaws and conflict policies for the Waynesville Parent Teacher Organization. She is thoughtful, thorough, and a pleasure to work with.
Read more
23 Sep, 2024 by Mark
Mrs. Hyde was very helpful when I needed a knowledgeable eye to review my organization's travel policy! She provided clear, concise advice and the results were well received in my organization.
Read more
14 Sep, 2024 by Simon
We consulted Cristina in regard to a business matter. Her excellent response enabled us to resolve our concern.
Read more
04 Aug, 2023 by John frary
03 Feb, 2023 by Kimberly samanen
He genuinely cares about his clients. He tells it like it is and does not lead a client on with false hope , like some other attorneys I have talked to. Definitely one of the good ones!
Read more
03 Aug, 2022 by Laura “lil' shortcake momma” petty
15 Feb, 2020 by Seku
Martin Bielat is reliable, punctual, quick, and very thorough. He is very easy to work with and a solid attorney. I would hire him again to do work for my firm. He stands out in a very crowded industry.
Read more
14 Feb, 2020 by Anonymous
Martin took our case seriously and responded quickly anytime we had questions or concerns. I was impressed with how quickly and competently he responded to evidence presented by the defendant when we were in court. He worked hard on our case, and I believe he did a great job.
Read more
26 Nov, 2019 by Monica
Marin Bielat was amazingly instrumental in the distribution of property after my separation. He was easy to talk to and made time for me without making me feel rushed or pressured. We eventually were able to reach an agreement outside of the court room thanks to all his efforts. He really takes the time to put clients first.
Read more
18 Dec, 2020 by Rick schrand
20 Jun, 2019 by L h
14 Mar, 2019 by Bo b wolterman
16 Sep, 2024 by Dawn
After dealing with 8 other incompetent attorney's, I trusted Brian Skidmore with getting a complex foreclosure case dismissed. He was able to accomplish in 2 weeks, what my previous attorney was unable to do in 9 months. He did not talk down to me, as other's did. He explained everything very well, was quick to return phone calls, emails, questions etc. He was kind, efficient, & his expertise was apparent. I highly recommend his services. Thanks to Brian, my mother's 1969 home was saved from an illegal foreclosure in the nick of time. We are so thankful!
Read more
14 Jul, 2021 by Joe
I retained Brian after a previous general practice lawyer had destroyed my case with improper/poorly timed filings and insufficient pleadings. The last thing I wanted to do was switch lawyers in the middle of a case but I had no choice, I had no trust/faith. Brian Skidmore was able to flip my case around and get me to an end result that I was happy to live with. REASONS WHY TO USE BRIAN: When this guy starts a case he goes ‘full throttle’ This lawyer will do everything he can to always have an upper hand. He takes the extra step to know every fine detail and weighs every possible option. Possibly his best characteristic is that I truly believe he cares about his clients, you’re not just a number and a paycheck. It’s difficult to find people passionate about their career but when it comes to a real estate lawyer, do yourselves a favor and retain this one.
Read more
03 Oct, 2020 by Cb
Brian was awesome to work with and his professionalism was top notch. As we worked together to resolve the matter of a property controversy. I experienced how he easily handled the fumbling, easily confused, person that attempted to be challenging to work with. Brian would professional get the person back on track and move the matter forward to agreeable resolution. Great job!
Read more
23 Nov, 2020 by Tracey
I'm a Realtor & reached out to James with a purchase contract issue. He listened, walked me through the process & was able to provide his thoughts & insight. I really appreciated him taking time to talk with me.
Read more
16 Nov, 2020 by Anonymous
He was thorough and dealt with issues created by the title company.
The issues required extra work and I was not charged extra.
Read more
13 Oct, 2020 by Jen
Schottenstein was forthcoming with info on initial call. And he helped me sort through my options and confirmed my intuition, helping me frame my frustration in an action-oriented way
Buyers scheduled closing then said the construction costs would exceed the bank's appraisal. Being the third extension of the closing, the second one happening the day of closing, I was livid, but didn't know what recourse I actually had, and how I should respond.
Schottenstein explained how the contract worked and what should have happened, and what he would do if he were me. He was also very open about whether he could help me out not.
Read more
06 Feb, 2022 by Amanda
Jonathan is incredibly knowledgeable and we'll versed legally. He is by far the best lawyer I have ever dealt with and there have been quite a few. He is not my favorite because he is nice. I have been upset with him more than once. This was because he was honest with me and I was unhappy with what he was telling me. Jonathan is fair and honest. Finding that in a lawyer is rare.
Read more
25 Jul, 2016 by Anonymous
I have frankly not had good experiences with lawyers in the past. Jonathan is the exception to the rule. He worked with me on a custody case that could have been prolonged, painful and expensive. Yet his depth of knowledge, breadth of experience and strategic thinking led to an outcome that was as optimal as I could have hoped for and quickly brought to a conclusion. And, on top of that, he is one of the most ethical people I have met. *Gasp* - yes, I did put those two things together: 'ethical' and 'lawyer'. I highly recommend him and am thankful he was recommended to me.
Read more
23 Jun, 2016 by Stephen farfsing
I have worked with small firms and large firms in my professional carer and I wouldn't give many a positive review. Jonathan is one of the exceptions. Mr Smith guided me through a process with advice that saved me a lot of time and money. He put it in prospective and outlined potential outcomes in layman terms. We got the job done quick and without pain. He is man of reason and integrity that I would highly recommended to anyone seeking legal advice. He might even change my opinion on lawyers.
Read more
04 Dec, 2023 by Ennette rowe
17 Sep, 2023 by Mike and melanie wages
02 Aug, 2023 by Vicky henley
08 Oct, 2019 by Carolyn
I had an over the phone consultation. It helped me to clear my mind, to put things in perspective, to know what information to gather, and to know what to look out for. My mind is at ease , and I no longer have to wonder as to whether I have a case or not. The attorney was very knowledgeable. He was patient and actually listened and gave useful feedback. I will continue to conduct business with this attorney and recommend anyone who is seeking legal representation to do the same!
Read more
16 Sep, 2019 by Kyle
I have hired Mr. Menoski multiple times over the last three years. Throughout every interaction with him, I know he always has my best interests at heart and will relieve any bit of stress I have relating to my legal matter. I highly recommend him without hesitation, will continue to hire him for all my legal needs, and strongly encourage anyone needing expert legal help to reach out to Mr. Menoski.
Read more
25 Oct, 2018 by Amanda
He was very kind and understanding while discussing my options. He gave me great advice and was totally upfront and honest. He listened to my problem with actual concern and compassion.
Read more
25 Apr, 2024 by Ashley burghardt
Eric Brand was very helpful with my estate planning. I can't recommend him enough. Office staff was great. I would use this firm again.
Read more
03 Apr, 2022 by Laura davis
I can't say enough how wonderful my attorneys have been.
Read more
29 Mar, 2021 by J davidson
Very knowledgeable, and polite.
Read more
18 Jun, 2013 by Aira
Jeff Crossman very responsible man that takes is job very seroiusly, will hire him again if I needed too.
Read more
14 Jun, 2013 by Anonymous
While selling my house during the housing market collapse and after losing my job, Mr. Crossman spent many hours going over options with me. He took the time to speak with my mortgage company and my realtor. Mr. Crossman was walking me through each and every step of the process. His patience with me and ability to put ease into stressful situations was remarkable. Mr. Crossman never once gave me a feeling of helplessness. He was going to take care of me and nothing was going to stop him. I will always have a special place in my heart for Mr. Crossman. One of the most stressful and upsetting situations in my life was more bearable because of Jeff.
Read more
13 Jun, 2013 by Shelley
Jeff was the perfect balance of assertive and understanding. He was incredibly thorough as he tackled the many problems a failing business requires - debt resolution, individual protection, creating solutions that all parties could uphold. He made me feel comfortable by constantly keeping me informed and explaining everything to me in terms I understood. I never felt ignored or that my case was "too small". We are still in business, thanks to Jeff. I highly recommend Jeff for all your business needs!
Read more
04 Jul, 2023 by Jim
Fortunate to have Nick not only as a friend but also as a wonderful and dedicated attorney. Highly competent and always available.
Highly recommend!
Read more
16 Feb, 2015 by Tony
Working with Nicholas DeBaltzo has been an absolute pleasure over the many years that I have known him and I can not say enough great things about him that could accurately describe how wonderful he has been on a personal level and in handling my legal affairs. Extremely knowledgeable, he goes over and above the call & always keeps me well informed every step of the way. I highly recommend Nick’s legal services when confidence, trust & expertise are all top priorities.
Read more
06 Feb, 2015 by Dean
I've known and worked with Nick for years. I'd highly recommend him for any and all legal matters. The key with Nick is if it's something he doesn't specialize in, he'll find a legal specialist in that area to make sure the job gets done correctly the first time.
Read more
22 Apr, 2024 by Jill papesh
We met with Carmen & Pam to have our estate planning updated.
From the beginning to the final signing they were prompt with any questions we had, and professional.
Read more
29 Feb, 2024 by David
Carmen Scott helped guide us through the process of setting up an estate plan and trust documentation for our mother. She was wonderful throughout the process, quick to respond to our questions, with a thorough understanding of the entire process.
Read more
14 Feb, 2024 by Anne schaum
Making a modification to our estate plans was quick and easy working with Carmen. We happily follow her and were thrilled to hear she joined Kurt's practice in Oberlin.
Read more
21 Jun, 2024 by Rosie pifer
05 Jun, 2024 by Jennifer candel
31 May, 2024 by Mike & melissa
Tani took care of our estate planning as well as my parents. Very knowledgeable and friendly. Highly recommend for estate planning and Medicaid preparation.
Read more
06 Feb, 2013 by Jason
Rarely do you find a professional who has the intellect for challenging cirucumstances, and the ability to communicate in a fashion which delivers results. Matt has helped me with Estate Planning, Civil issues, Business Consulting, Business Formation, Mergers, Contract Negotiations, and others. He has given me excellent advice, and actionable ideas on how to make certain positive results are repeated, and negative ones are not duplicated.
Read more
05 Feb, 2013 by Tom
Matthew Heinle is an exceptional resource for all the changes in healthcare law as it relates to hospitals and doctors. He is not only an expert but a good listener, provides timely options and support in strategy and contracting. He is very efficient, positive and helps to create "win-win" outcomes. I wish to highly recommend him for any legal services needed.
Read more
04 Feb, 2013 by Dan
Matt is a superior lawyer. I have seen Matt manage a team of lawyers in a highly complex, high stakes matter, with many strategic issues to consider. He transcends the role of legal advisor, and takes full responsibility and ownerhsip for the client's interests. Matt possesses the skill and dedication to drive both himself and the team he's working with to the necessary result. All this, and he's a lot of fun to work with, too.
Read more
29 Apr, 2015 by Linda miller
My daughter bought a home on land contract. She paid religiously for two years but noticed the neighborhood was really declining and the property almost lost half of its value since the inception of the contract, (She paid 72,500 for the house in Jan 2013 and its now valued at 44,500). Knowing she would never be able to get a conventional loan since the value of the home was far less than what she owed, I reached out on AVVO for some quick advice ( she was just going to finish the land contract out and not seek additional financing) . I heard from several attorneys, most of which said she would be sued hugely. They said the home would be sold as a sheriff sale and what monies were owed after that on the remainder of the contract, she would be responsible for and consequently, sued for!!! I was panicked, as she is 23 years old and put all of her savings down on the home. Mr Ott reached out to me, citing an old Land Contract Law which could apply. I met with him that week. He was knowledgable , throrough and kept my emotions in tact saying this sectionaed law could apply. He was so eloquent when trying to negotiate the terms on which to opt out.
What I have learned from this is......................dont ever sign a contract without an attorney reviewing it! Mr. Ott said that we should have put a stipulation in the land contract that she would refinance only if the market value of the home was worth the owed price. Mr. Ott negotiated a cancellation of land contract professionally and with minimal monies needed by my daughter. He was upfront about legal costs and billed accordingly and more than fairly.
If you need an attorney, hire him!!!!
Read more
14 Mar, 2015 by Carl
Mr. Ott has been helping me in a probate/potential will contest matter. He gave me good personal service and was very responsive to my questions, concerns, and needs. He did speedy research (on issues dealing with out-of-state law) and continues to monitor my case as it unfolds (or drags out), which is work beyond what I initially expected. When I ask for specific counsel, he is usually very responsive. What I like about his service is that I feel that he "has my back", i.e., he's been acting as my eyes and monitor even when very little on the case is going on.
Read more
04 Mar, 2015 by Barb
It was a pleasure working with Mr. Ott. He seems to always be a step ahead. Great communication and was always available for any concerns or question I had. Very knowledgeable of the law. Always explained things and kept me informed. And best of all we won!! Thank You
Read more
08 Apr, 2016 by Anonymous
We hired Tom to do a bankruptcy for us. He was very personable and helpful. He also was very resourceful and able to answer are unique questions. He made us feel comfortable and never shamed us of our situation. I would highly recommend Tom. With all his help, we are back on track with a credit score of 700+ and was able to refinance our home for a lower rate.
Read more
02 Apr, 2016 by Deanna
I have hired Tom a few times over a 23 year period, very knowledgeable, professional, and personal, he cares. And would recommend, and hire him again, if needed.
Read more
18 Mar, 2016 by Kristen b. ornatowski
Tom is very helpful. He has been very knowledgeable and has completed every task that I have thrown his way, I have referred family members to him also and he has also been very successful in helping her as well. I would refer him to anyone that is in need of legal assistance
Read more
Browse lawyers
Cities in Ohio - Find a Lawyer Near Me
-
Columbus
-
Cleveland
-
Cincinnati
-
Akron
-
Toledo
-
Dayton
-
Canton
-
Dublin
-
Beachwood
-
Youngstown
-
Westlake
-
Westerville
-
Independence
-
Medina
-
Warren
-
Hamilton
-
Shaker Heights
-
Delaware
-
Chagrin Falls
-
Mason
-
Elyria
-
Miamisburg
-
Painesville
-
Findlay
-
Mentor
-
Rocky River
-
Springfield
-
Lakewood
-
Sandusky
-
Fairlawn
-
Lancaster
-
Lebanon
-
Mansfield
-
Lima
-
Newark
-
Worthington
-
New Albany
-
Hilliard
-
Powell
-
Hudson
-
West Chester
-
Sylvania
-
Solon
-
Wooster
-
Ravenna
-
Perrysburg
-
Strongsville
-
Batavia
-
Zanesville
-
Bowling Green
-
Canfield
-
Blue Ash
-
Troy
-
Cuyahoga Falls
-
Maumee
-
North Canton
-
Cleveland Heights
-
Willoughby
-
New Philadelphia
-
Marion
-
Marysville
-
Chillicothe
-
Athens
-
Mayfield Heights
-
Gahanna
-
Chardon
-
Reynoldsburg
-
Beavercreek
-
Xenia
-
Marietta
-
Portsmouth
-
Parma
-
Middletown
-
Avon
-
Centerville
-
Brecksville
-
Avon Lake
-
Fairfield
-
Steubenville
-
Loveland
-
Port Clinton
-
Lorain
-
Pickerington
-
Fairview Park
-
Kent
-
Bellefontaine
-
Pepper Pike
-
Broadview Heights
Browse lawyers
Practice Areas in Ohio
-
Business
-
Litigation
-
Real Estate
-
Personal Injury
-
Estate Planning
-
Criminal Defense
-
Family Law
-
Government
-
Juvenile Law
-
Tax
-
Intellectual Property
-
Workers Compensation
-
Social Security & Disability
-
Probate
-
Civil Rights
-
Appeals
-
Consumer Protection
-
Medical Malpractice
-
Insurance
-
Elder Law
-
Immigration
-
Child Custody
-
Bankruptcy
-
Debt Collection
-
Car Accident
-
Wrongful Death
-
Lawsuit / Dispute
-
Divorce
-
Entertainment
-
Trusts
-
Child Support
-
Employment / Labor
-
Mediation
-
Domestic Violence
-
Class Action
-
Financial Markets And Services
-
DUI / DWI
-
Adoption
-
Foreclosure
-
Discrimination
-
Copyright Application
-
Wrongful Termination
-
Federal Crime
-
Sexual Harassment
-
Landlord & Tenant
-
Sex Crime
-
Debt Settlement
-
Construction
-
Environmental Law
-
Education Law
-
Credit Repair
-
Drug Crime
-
Cannabis Law
-
Life Insurance
-
Admiralty / Maritime
-
Constitutional Law
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:
-
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.
