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12 Jul, 2024 by Bob wilbraham
They are my financial and tax people. They stay on top of things for me.
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13 Jun, 2024 by A ferraro
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21 Mar, 2024 by Brenda hartman
Needed some legal paperwork done in a hurry and they had it done for me in an hour. Very nice and understanding of sensitive situations. Thank you for the real fast service.
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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!!!!
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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.
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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
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08 Jan, 2021 by Anonymous
Extremely grateful for Nathan and his wonderful service! I had a situation with a client where they refused to pay and I had no idea what to do. His clear and prompt service helped me understand my options and then how best to act. The situation was resolved soon after. I can't recommend Nathan enough.
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27 Nov, 2020 by Glenda
Attorney NBZ was hired to act on my behalf as a seller in a cash, "As-Is" for-sale-by-owner (FSBO) transaction. He drafted a purchase agreement (PA) to meet my specific needs as the seller and ensured that the PA was legally defensible covering all aspects of the binding contract. NBZ navigated me through a difficult breach of contract by one prospective buyer and he was prepared to move forward with whatever legal action might have been required. NBZ shared options pertaining to how to work with the buyer and cautioned me about ramifications of exercising various options, but respectfully left the choice up to me. We moved forward with another prospective buyer and successfully closed the sale. Throughout the process from writing the PA to orchestrating the closing, NBZ provided solid legal advice and readily responded to my queries in a timely fashion. He intuitively sensed my anxiety and responded sensitively and quailed any apprehensions by forthrightly addressing matters with dispatch. NBZ readily wielded his weight as an attorney to represent my needs to all parties involved whether buyer, another legal representative, Title Company, County Court or even the Utilities Company! Through it all, he demonstrated exceptional integrity making sure that my interests were regarded and lawfully entreated. I found NBZ to be a focused and clear communicator who easily translated legalese into understandable terms for me. He was always poised and personable with a consistently discerning and empathetic manner. NBZ is a consummate professional who ably engaged all parties in my real estate transaction with a very successful end result. My experience with NBZ was nothing but positive! I was truly blessed to find and work with Attorney Nathan B. Zion and will recommend him without reservation to family, friends, colleagues, and acquaintances for their real estate or contract needs.
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05 Oct, 2020 by Maryjo
Nathan was excellent explaining everything we needed to know about the POA forms that we needed sign. I felt very confident and at ease. Thank you so much!
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03 Apr, 2024 by Alla chistik
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29 Feb, 2024 by Jack wolford
David was super professional and well versed in the law. He fought for me and got my Ovi charges reduced. He definitely is the guy you want if you are fighting a charge in Parma court. I would recommend him to anyone.
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23 Feb, 2024 by Teresa polk
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03 May, 2024 by Ashley ransom
I have to make sure I let EVERYONE know about an amazing attorney!! God sent us Vince Pacetti and he worked many long hours, many long days, many years and didn't give up. He goes above and beyond for his clients, he pushes for justice, he pushes to make sure the does everything possible for you. He is the best attorney I have ever EVER EVER came across!! So if you are in need of an attorney please call him right away don't call anyone else!!
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02 May, 2024 by Sue g
Vincent is our old neighbors son and he was fantastic and we also currently use Blake and him and the secretary are wonderful (and I am picky as I worked for 25 years in a major law firm in Florida previously). Would highly recommend and has to many friends and family
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01 Feb, 2024 by Ashley ransom
Gid sent us Vince right when He knew Vince was needed. Vince has been a great attorney, he is open, honest, truthful, and doesn't sugar coat things. This a man I pray God blesses for all he does!!
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03 May, 2024 by Ashley ransom
I have to make sure I let EVERYONE know about an amazing attorney!! God sent us Vince Pacetti and he worked many long hours, many long days, many years and didn't give up. He goes above and beyond for his clients, he pushes for justice, he pushes to make sure the does everything possible for you. He is the best attorney I have ever EVER EVER came across!! So if you are in need of an attorney please call him right away don't call anyone else!!
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02 May, 2024 by Sue g
Vincent is our old neighbors son and he was fantastic and we also currently use Blake and him and the secretary are wonderful (and I am picky as I worked for 25 years in a major law firm in Florida previously). Would highly recommend and has to many friends and family
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01 Feb, 2024 by Ashley ransom
Gid sent us Vince right when He knew Vince was needed. Vince has been a great attorney, he is open, honest, truthful, and doesn't sugar coat things. This a man I pray God blesses for all he does!!
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11 Oct, 2023 by Tom heil
They know there work and are very diligent
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04 Feb, 2023 by Matt kubinski
Highly recommend
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06 Sep, 2022 by Cindy roman
He helped me several times. Enjoyed working with him.
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02 Feb, 2022 by Joe
Worse attorney ever. Unresponsive. Unprepared and utterly worthless. I can fill this page up with reasons to avoid her. Wow she is bad. You get 1 chance in court. Don't waste it on her.
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16 Dec, 2020 by Debbie
Mary does not listen well and is slow to respond. After you have asked the same question several times, she responds once but charges you for reading all your previous requests with the same question. She sends emails with incorrect information even though she was well informed previously and then charges you to correct her errors. Once my case was settled, but orders of the court were not followed, she will not assist you in pursuing compliance of those orders. Once she has her money, she is done with you. FIND ANOTHER ATTORNEY!
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17 Jan, 2016 by Jamie
Finding an attorney that is willing to connect personally with your situation at hand in my experience is hard to find. Thankful that I found Mary Papcke! She is the most caring, professional, honest and hard working attorney I have met (and I've met plenty). She showed concern and faught with all she could to settle my case. After years of issues with insurance attorneys and doctors she came out on top for me. Never once did she want to give up or say there were no options for me! Her legal fees are well deserved and are not above the effort and hard work she puts out. Also the compassion and heartfelt caring she expressed was grately appreciated and unforgettable! Mary Papcke is very good at what she does with a heart for people and fairness! I absolutely recommend her for any legal needs! She will fight with everything she can and go beyond her limits to get you what is deserved!! She is a wonderful lady and so thankful she was there for me in my time of and need and I will always use her in future legal indevers! I do believe she is one of the best out there! I think everyone should check her out before settling with any other attorney because she is good at what she does and won't give up until the fairness of her client is established through the legal system! She truly is a Life saver and that ray of Hope needed in times dealing with legal issues!!!
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FAQs
Questions? We have answers

What a Real Estate Lawyer Can Do for You

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

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

When Should I Hire a Real Estate Lawyer?

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

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

What Does a Real Estate Lawyer Do?

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

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

How Are Real Estate Lawyers Paid?

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

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

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

How Much Does a Real Estate Lawyer Cost?

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

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

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

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

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

Top Questions to Ask a Real Estate Lawyer

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

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

How to Check the Credibility of a Real Estate Lawyer

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

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

What Should I Prepare for My First Consultation?

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

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

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

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