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25 Sep, 2017 by Edward cross
An excellent asset to the legal community.
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01 Jun, 2017 by Randy foulds
Sebastian has handled many matters for me personally, and for my business. Professional, efficient and effective representation in every case. I will return to his office with any further legal needs without hesitation and I highly recommend his service.
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30 May, 2017 by Manuel cecena
I highly recommend Sebastian. He takes care of your needs and does more than expected from a representative. I give him a two thumbs up.
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19 Mar, 2018 by Marianne & kevin
We engaged Ed to help us in an action to recover the costs from a contractor &/or subcontractor for a failed tile floor installation on a major house renovation. We were pleased in every respect with the engagement. Ed was very upfront with us on possible outcomes to manage our our expectations rather than create false hope for his benefit. He recognized and accepted things we could do to keep his costs focussed in the value add services. And he and his team were professional and responsive throughout the multi-year process. While we ultimately prevailed in court, he helped us negotiate a reasonable settlement such that we felt wemoptimized the amount of recovery without pushing the other paries to a point of insolvency. We highly recommend Ed and his team.
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17 Mar, 2018 by Todd
Mr. Cross has been our "go to" at both Oakwood and BELFOR for many years now. Ed handles everything from contracts to litigation and is absolutely the most knowledgeable professional when it comes to the Restoration "World." With such great depth or experience in our business, we feel we have only one option for legal guidance. Law Offices of Ed Cross.
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16 Mar, 2018 by Anthony
I had a big issue with our contractor not performing and leaving us in a real bind. We reached out to Mr. Cross, not sure if he had any options or we were going to be left high and dry. Once the contractor was served with a demand letter and letter to preform, the fire was lit! And what seemed like a no hope situation turned out pretty well. None of this would have been possible without the help of Mr. Cross. THANK YOU
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07 Jun, 2021 by Christina m
Mr. Afsar was prompt, very personable, pleasant, straight forward and knowledgeable. He called
Me back with solutions and took the time to explain so that I can understand my options.
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04 Feb, 2021 by Kate
These guys were super understanding and helpful! Very rare to meet a lawyer that seems to really want to do right by you, but these guys are it! Thank you so much!
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08 Oct, 2020 by Anonymous
Amir is not only my first choice attorney, hes personable, and the kind of guy you would invite to all your family events. He makes consultations stress free, he brings customer service back to the business where most law firms are lacking this. I wouldn't look anywhere else without talking to Amir first, you won't regret it.
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22 Mar, 2022 by Joe
We were referred to Nikki by another of her clients after reaching out to three other attorneys in the area to draft a family trust. Nikki was by far the friendliest and most responsive. It was a pleasure meeting with her about estate planning as she made it all very understandable and affordable. We feel much more at ease knowing she's handled everything and can assist in the future.
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07 Mar, 2021 by Kaitlyn
Nikki was hired by me to deal with an unpleasant situation with my "landlord", which is actually a larger management company. Through no fault of my own, my apartment had been uninhabitable for nearly a month, and I could barely get them to acknowledge me. She sprang to action on my behalf immediately, never once backing down. In her interactions with my landlord, she somehow managed to be courteous yet authoritative and was quite effective in her communications. On a personal level, Nikki was knowledgeable, empathetic, responsive, reassuring, and exceedingly patient with me, continually going above and beyond what I ever could have asked or expected of her. She ensured that I knew that she was in my corner, and that she was dedicated to making things right for me. Not only did Nikki prevail for me, she took a weight off of my shoulders when I felt lost, alone, and ignored. She is not just a reputable, experienced lawyer whom I would hire again in an instant, but a truly special person as well. 100% recommend!
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28 Aug, 2020 by Elaine
I first hired Nikki Allen to get her help an issue concerning my father’s trust, of which I am a beneficiary. The trustee we had in place turned out to be engaged in illegal activity. Nikki quickly took control, had the trustee removed, and has been involved with me every step of the way since. There is no trust, real estate or probate matter that Nikki could not be an asset to. Working with Nikki on my father’s trust, made me realize that I needed to create a trust and redo the wills for my own family’s assets. Nikki worked with me to make sure that everything was put together according to my needs. I was extremely happy with the finished product. I can not recommend the work of Nikki Allen highly enough.
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20 Sep, 2021 by John
Stephen is an outstanding attorney. He listened to my case and quickly realized the facts and the flaws. He has a high sense of ethics. Where others thought I had no case( I had released contingencies) Stephen helped to craft a winning strategy. He was very encouraging. My ernest money was returned, saving me much time, aggravation, and money.
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02 Apr, 2013 by George
Stephen has represented my company very effectively for contract disputes, collection issues and just as important, a strong defense when needed.
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24 Mar, 2013 by Anonymous
I can emphatically recommend Stephen Armstrong as a responsive and effective counsel on all cases I have brought to him. He has been especially helpful in dealing with the complex real estate matters I have sought his help on. He has extraordinary computer and digital navigation skills which enable him to access information, write briefs and respond to questions much faster than the many others I have worked with in the past.
Perhaps my favorite traits in Mr. Armstrong are his generally congenial and pragmatic personality. Unlike so many other attorneys who lull you into a state of dreary gloom and doom, Stephen remains upbeat and exudes an appropriate sense of humor that is so needed when the "going gets tough". In summary, he is not only an effective attorney, but also a truly good guy! I prefer to remain anonymous for legal reasons, but asure you I am not one of his relatives or college buddies, but rather a client that met him through a need for counsel. ~BH 3-24-2013
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23 Jun, 2020 by Kristie
Mr.Rover is truly one of the best lawyers I’ve worked with. He has all the qualities that a great lawyer exhibits that separates him from others. He is professional, dedicated, and passionate about doing his job and doing it well. His communication is timely and his rapport and guidance is outstanding. Mr. Rover’s depth of knowledge and work ethic makes the legal process experience an enjoyable one. He gets results, done right, the first time. I highly recommend Mr. Rover!
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03 Jun, 2010 by Vincent
Mike is an excellent resource for me in my real estate development and construction businesses. He has been instrumental in business entity formation to protect me and my family's intertests; in the drafting of real property purchase agreements; with due diligence and feasibility; in title review; with toxic remediation issues; with equity partners and bank financing; in subcontract template creation and negotiating subcontractor (and their legal counsels' and insurance companies')-requested modifications; with licensing, insurance and bonding; SB-800 (the right-to-repair law) compliance and litigation; governmental regulations interpretation and appropriate response (i.e. - drafting development agreements, interceding for entitlements/land use issues and governing agencies delays, stormwater/erosion control compliance, wind/dust control, nuisance abatement, etc.); and project default/trustee's sale/bank foreclosure workout issues.
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24 Mar, 2010 by John
Mike Rover has been the attorney for myself and my company for approximately twelve years. Over that time, Mike has handled incorporations, contract and payment disputes with subcontractors, investor agreements, and construction lender matters with banks. As a single family home builder, I require an attorney with a broadbased and updated knowledge of the various potential matters that may arise in the course of my business. Mike possesses this knowledge and experience. Mike responds to my questions promptly and in an informative manner. Most important, Mike is trustworthy and understands my concerns with regards to a specific matter or with my business in general. Overall, I strongly recommend Mike Rover.
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29 Jul, 2019 by Nicholas
John was generous enough to give me of his time to hep me understand the legal parameters of my case. He was involved and took interest in my well being. In the future, if I ever needed a business attorney I would use John. Decency and kindness seem to be a part of his being, and that makes me trust him. I did not hire John because he provided me with all I needed to know without charging me. Thank you for your help.
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05 Oct, 2015 by Craig
In this day and age, we have many choices. As a private wealth manager, over the years I have enjoyed working with John Anderholt as he professionally yet kindly takes care of my clients Estate and Real Estate matters. If he doesn't have the answer you know he will research it for you. John is someone I trust, his intelligence and experience is valued in each transaction, I enjoy working with John client after client, and plan to do so going forward. Most importantly I appreciate his candor and willingness to point out 'red flags' in a matter that my clients otherwise would have ignored.
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01 Oct, 2015 by Reagan
I was referred to John Anderholt by a friend shortly after the my father's passing. Initially, I'd tried to manage the affairs associated with my father's estate on my own, and I quickly learned just how taxing and complex matters like these can become. (Uncharted territory for me, to say the least.) During my initial consultation with John, he helped me to make sense of everything, and quickly put me at ease. He was clear, relatable, and articulate, every step of the way. Shortly after putting things in motion, he successfully resolved the issues relating to my fathers estate, and did so with ease, care, and professionalism. He was truly a pleasure to work with, particularly given the challenging nature of my situation. I'm so very grateful to have found him.
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13 Aug, 2015 by Kim
Mr. Kinney handled my case with the utmost professionalism. His advisement thru out was impeccable. A very knowledgeable attorney, who I would definitely hire again.
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05 Aug, 2015 by Anonymous
I had purchased a home and found mold within the first week of moving into the residence. Michael was referred to me by a friend and he jumped on it right away. Michael came to my home for the consultation which was a pleasant surprise. I retained him right away and we eventually recovered 90% of the remediation costs from the seller and realtor who hid the mold. I have recommended him and will continue to do so.
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05 Aug, 2015 by Linda
I work closely with Mr Kinney with regards to contract reviews and changes for our customers. He is always very thorough and knowledgeable about any changes requested by our customers and always helpful if I have questions related to those changes.
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31 Oct, 2014 by Hartley
Henry has represented me in multiple Commercial Real Estate transactions over the past 12 years. He is knowledgeable, his advise is invaluable, his negotiating skills are excellent and everyone we have done business with holds him in high regard. Although his specialty is Commercial Real Estate, he has handled some delicate family matters with skill and diplomacy. In every instance he accomplished our goals, and always protected my legal interests. He is the BEST.
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31 Oct, 2014 by Ellen
I had the privilege of having Henry Casden handle a legal situation for us. He was amazing. He's smart, focused and knowledgeable and gets the job done. I highly recommend Henry. He is your advocate.
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24 May, 2011 by Anonymous
Mr. Morrison is always intimately involved with the case. He spends quality time understanding the case from beginning to end. Having been around lawyers for some time, I was very surprised by his creative approaches that won our case. He definitely does his homework on the case and it shows! Don't be fooled by his low key, casual appearance.
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16 Feb, 2015 by Cindy
Jim Ferguson excels in analyzing complicated matters and provides realistic solutions cost effectively. His tenacity and knowledge, combined with his attention to detail, brought me extraordinary results in my matter. What proved most helpful was his ability to analyze both sides of the issue, in an unbiased manner, before providing options. This approach greatly assisted me in making the best informed decision.
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06 May, 2009 by Anonymous
He kept me up to date, saw me when I needed help, throughly researched my case and found points that my previous attorney missed.
Reasonable, and respectful.
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18 Oct, 2016 by Keith
Robert is a highly intelligent well spoken forward thinking lawyer. Without his assistance it would have been practically impossible to bring this chapter of my life to a close. He has worked his magic and I am 1000% indebted to him. He has bestowed nothing short of the impossible upon me. Thank you thank you thank you.
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16 Nov, 2011 by Stephen little
I know the value of reviews so I have thought on this matter carefully. My name is Stephen Little, I am the president and CEO of America's Pool Service and Mr. Handyman (of the Coachella Valley). I have known Marc for a decade and there have been high's and lows in my personal life as well as my professional life but staunchly Marc was always there. Marc takes a unique position that i referred to in my heading, Marc is the quintessential counselor which is rare at best these days. From business proceedings to personal matters Marc has always been able to create an environment that is both tenable and sustainable. I offer my whole hearted support to Marc Homme as a counselor, attorney and friend.
S. Little
President
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11 Oct, 2024 by Lilly johnson
Very helpful, honest and direct. Appreciate the advice I was given.
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08 Oct, 2024 by Kevin miller
Called for a consultation and was given useful advice free of charge. Very professional
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24 Sep, 2024 by Jane rich
Mark knows his subject. He helped me to put together my trust. He was professional, courteous, timely, and kind. Thank you Mark!
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18 Apr, 2024 by David camou
The Law Offices of David and Chesley did outstanding work for my DUI case.
They were thorough and made me feel as I was their top priority at all times.
Gregory Woodward was my attorney and he was very professional and punctual.
If you are looking to hire a criminal defense attorney, choose David Chesley.
If my family or friends ever need legal help I will not hesitate to refer them to The Law Offices of David and Chesley.This criminal law firm was incredibly helpful, courteous, knowledgeable throughout the whole process.
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25 Oct, 2022 by Christine willinsky
Christopher Hickey and Miles Booth worked on my case and were professional and handled everything for me. Mr. Hickey showed up at all my court dates and I only had to show up the day the charges were dismissed because my ex-husband wanted to make up lies. Mr. Booth worked on the motion to get the charges dismissed. After every court date I got a follow up email letting me know how it was going. I was given their direct contact info right away. I would highly recommend.
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28 Jan, 2022 by Marcus rodriguez
I was in a car accident and luckily I called Tim. He was very professional and helpful, they treated me like family. Will continue to recommend Tim and his team to others.
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18 Jun, 2015 by Anonymous
La Quinta,CA was hit hard by Hurricane Odile when it came through On September 8, 2014. Wind driven rain to the tune of 3 inches an hour fell in our area. Along one side of my house rain poured into the house from all along the bottoms of the window sills. The next day the insurance co. was notified.The adjuster came out called various companies to tear out the walls and insulation below the window sills to dry out the inside of the walls.
It was now my job to find an experienced contractor to find out what was wrong and to complete the job.
Robert Gilliland's name was given to me to help find a proper contractor which indeed he did.
The insurance company was sure the reason for the storm damage to my home was builder related and refused to pay for any more than the closing of the walls and painting. In calling the contractor Mr Gilliland recommended, which incidentally had 35 years of experience, he found a different reason for the water entry.
Mr Gilliland handled all the personal phone calls and correspondence with the Insurance company.
The Insurance company dragged their feet for a long nine months, but Mr Gilliland persevered until the Insurance company paid the claim
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06 Jul, 2014 by Michael
I have had an opportunity to work with Rob on two different HOA boards where I was a member. Both cases were very complicated and time consuming. In my opinion Rob was the right attorney at the right time to handle both of these cases. After a very long legal battle Rob was successful on winning these cases for the HOA.
One of the many things that I admire about Rob is his ability to take a very complicated case and break I down so HOA board members, homeowners and juries can easily understand what is occurring in the case. Rob has excellent people skills and a great knowledge of the law and how it applies in “real world” situations. He is very hard working and he is not intimidated by other attorneys. He is not afraid of a fight. Rob is the guy who you want “watching your back” in a legal situation”.
It has been my experience working with Rob that he always has his client’s best interest in mind. I have complete confidence is Rob’s knowledge, experience, and expertise. If I was being sued personally I would not hesitate in using Rob and his law firm.
I have had lots of experience in my law enforcement career interacting with all sorts of attorney. Both in the criminal and civil field. Rob is one of the best. I recommend he with no reservations.
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28 Jan, 2012 by Jim
Mr. Gilliland is an incredibly good attorney who cares about his clients. He obtained an outstanding monetary result for my wife and I, and he kept us informed throughout our case. We observed him in depositions and in court, and he commands a strong presence. We were very glad he was our attorney and not the other side's attorney. He is a winner. Thank you Mr. Gilliland!
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14 Mar, 2023 by Anonymous
Called to consult about an issue. Monica is very rude and doesn't even try to be listening to what my cases and needs are.
Would not recommend to anyone.
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20 Sep, 2019 by Robert
I have worked with Monica and she is tenacious. She is also extremely creative in how she is able to solve sticky issues. I highly recommend her.
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28 Nov, 2018 by Russel
I am a realtor and I had a legal issue. I called Car legal hotline as we are supposed to. They told me there is a conflict of interest as the other agent working on the transaction called in to them as well. They told me to contact Monica as she is outsourced to help with these matters When there is a conflict of interest. She answered the phone and as our conversation proceeded after every sentence I said she gave me a very snappy and angry response. I continued to be polite. We proceeded with conversation, she was having an issue with her computer. My wife walked in the room to say goodbye and I love you to as she left for work (took about 3 and1/2 seconds) . She reprimanded me and said that She does this for free for you so you need to listen up and pay attention. I said ma’am you have been nothing but rude to me for no reason for this whole conversation and I have no idea why.. She said get somebody else to do it and hung up the phone. That is fine that she does this for free but I actually pay real estate dues for legal counsel. They outsourced her so what they have worked out as pay is between them. That is no reason to treat a client that way. Very upset, unimpressed and very disappointed in her service.
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29 Dec, 2023 by Russ rhea
Lazy or incompetent!
We were very disappointed with the counsel we received from Robert J. Gilliland, Jr and Guralnick and Gilliland, Attorneys At Law. Our family was accused of Failure to Disclose in a home sale transaction and we were shocked at Gilliland’s lack of knowledge of the law in such cases. All he did was try to get us to accept the demands of the accuser and gave no indication that he reviewed the inspection report or other facts of the case. When we questioned his rationale, all he really said was “I’ve been doing this for 30 years.” Fortunately, we sought several other opinions from attorneys who thought the accuser’s case was extremely weak, if not laughable. The case eventually went away and we spent far less than what Gilliland encouraged us to pay. Also, he was the only attorney we talked to who required a $500 fee for an initial conversation.
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19 Oct, 2023 by Tim newton
08 Dec, 2019 by Jim crawford
30 Sep, 2012 by Anonymous
I have used Mr. Jackson for a variety of legal needs. From corporate formation, contracts, real estate to general issues. He is knowledgeable, insightful and has saved me thousands in legal fees by getting the job done efficiently and quickly. He is one of the best I have ever worked with. Fair, honest and a keen grasp on "business" sense. I would recommend him highly.
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28 Sep, 2012 by Marcel
I've used Mr. Jackson on several occasions ranging from matters as simple as corporation formations to intricate litigation matters. Mr. Jackson has always responded in a timely manner, provided excellent insight as to legal options and outcomes (in simple terms) and has always been fair with the stop watch (meaning he doesn't hit the clock with ever little question you may call him with).
With multiple businesses from retail to real estate to online and otherwise, I cannot express enough my gratitude for Mr. Jacksons calm, cool and collective approach to settle matters from the less scrupulous business people out there.
I would recommend Randall Jackson to anyone interested in quality representation or advice.
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16 Jul, 2012 by Anonymous
I would not do business with this attorney. I had an urgent situation with a problem tenant and was recommended to talk with Randall Jackson. I discussed the situation with him and he told me to send him a copy of the lease, a 3 day notice I served myself and statements that I had gathered from witnesses. I scanned the documents and called several times to start the eviction and never even received a return call. I have a solid case and he never even bothered to call even if he choose not to take the case. I can't imagine anybody doing business this way.
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08 May, 2023 by Chesty smith
WORST EVER!! They steal your money and then forget who you are. You’ve been warned!
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01 Apr, 2023 by Mathew baker
Jacob is the best lawyer I have ever had the opportunity working with and continue to work with. I have an extremely difficult case due to an extremely difficult ex-wife. Jacob continues to go above and beyond my expectations through the whole process. I greatly appreciate you and your entire team Jacob without you I would be lost in court.
I highly recommend Jacob and his team to anyone in the area that could use his services.
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23 Jan, 2023 by B r
He really screwed me out of a lot of money and didn't accomplish a thing. I was out 10k and the bills were just racking up. Nothing was happening in my case though. I was paying him what I could, about 200 a month. I didn't have any lump sum money left to pay him after the 10k. Just before a court date his office informed me he was not going to continue representing me unless I paid him another 8k upfront. I told them I was paying him all I could, so he quit my case. He left me right where we started over a yr prior only without any money and without representation. I mean it, absolutely nothing had been accomplished in my case after all that money and ask that time. I immediately stopped paying him at that point. I had already paid him close to 15k and my case had gone nowhere. He spent all the time in court arguing with the opposing attorney or requesting continuance just to rack up fees. I really think he and the other attorney (Richard Gahn) had a racket going together to rack up fees for their clients. Now, his office continually calls threatening me if I don't pay him. I've given him ALL I'm going to give him for the lack of service I received. I will have to say, he is kind, seems to know his stuff or where to find answers, and he seemed prepared for court .He did seem to know my case when he got to court, which is more than most can say about a lot of lawyers.
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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.
