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16 Nov, 2023 by Jacqui
I would give Mr. Baldwin and his team more stars if there were more to offer! Our property management business has been elevated to such a professional level with Tim's guidance. I highly recommend him and his team!
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07 Nov, 2023 by Barry
Tim was amazing with communication and the actual process. Logging into his portal and getting all documents that were involved in the case made it easy. I usually do evictions myself but I'll be calling Tim from now on. It was worry free. Thanks brother!
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07 Nov, 2023 by Alejandro
Tim is always extremely Professional and Always willing to Help!!! He takes all our calls replies to all emails and gives us insight and perspective. Definitely someone who I know will get the job done and has our best interest! Thanks Tim always a pleasure working with you!
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28 May, 2024 by Myles reeves - pensacola realtor
Had a great closing experience there
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18 Dec, 2023 by Stephen trekles
11 Dec, 2023 by J c
Awesome people
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13 Oct, 2016 by Jim
My wife and I retained Mr. Leuchtman to plan our estate and execute the appropriate documents. We were very impressed with his knowledge. His fee was very reasonable and we are happy with the service we recieved.
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23 Mar, 2015 by Randy
Gary did an excellent job with my case. He always had my best interest in mind. He helped guide me through the process and made recommendations when he thought would be important. He helped keep the negoations moving and kept me informed at all times.
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22 Mar, 2015 by Ramona
He has always been excellent. He does things in a timely manner. His legal work is always correct and prompt. He is great at keeping me informed.
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14 Nov, 2022 by Fred
Ryan helped me immensely while challenging improper actions by a local municipality. He is very competent and I would recommend him to anyone.
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13 Nov, 2022 by Marguerite
Lawyer Ryan treated me with respect. I could feel that he truly wanted to help me with my situation and he did. He price is very fair. He put people needs first.
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02 Nov, 2022 by Linda
It has been our pleasure to work with Ryan for years now. We appreciate his kind, caring demeanor.
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08 Nov, 2018 by Russell and lori
Over the past 2 years working with Garrett, he has demonstrated superior analytical, research, and interpersonal skills. His ability to understand complex subject matter, coupled with timeliness, attention to detail, willingness to consult with others, and perseverance have produced substantial, positive, and unique results.
He is committed to our success. He is a loyal man and professional. He, and the firm, have exceeded our highest expectations. Garrett has gone above and beyond to always be there for us, and his leadership and drive have helped us to keep going through a long and hard process. From an idea to an actual utility patent (with the help of an amazing patent attorney), to helping us meet the right people to make this dream a realty. We consider him our friend and we recommend Garrett LaBorde without reservation.
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31 Mar, 2016 by Jack
Mr. LaBorde and his staff took were very helpful answering my questions and then helping me setup my LLC. He communicated with me each step and kept me updated to the progress.
I would recommend him and will reach out to him and his team for future work.
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06 Jan, 2016 by Tim
Garrett was very knowledgable about both the areas of the law pertaining to my case and what the realities of pursuit of litigation might produce. He was willing to keep me posted throughout the entire process, much more than I would have expected from any other attorneys I have used in the past despite that we had already agreed on a set fee, I think he worked far and above what his hourly rate would have paid him had we signed an hourly contract. I was always impressed with his willingness to discuss the case as well as his willingness to keep things on track and moving forward.
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25 Mar, 2013 by Randy
I am a licensed Realtor in the state of Florida,I specialize in distressed properties. I utilize Charles and his staff to handle all my closings. There has been many of instances where Charles has found problems that have been missed by other attorneys and the court system ,as well as prevented problems from happening that have saved my clients time and money!
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22 Mar, 2013 by Knut
Charles has been our corporate lawyer for more than ten years. He represents us well and gives good honest advise and have helped us in numerous issues from contracts, real-estate transactions, litigation defense, succession planning, shareholder buy-out agreements and more. He always looks out for the best interest and give no-nonsense advise. I believe this is attributed to his own business experience and background outside of his legal profession.
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22 Mar, 2013 by Bill
Have used Charles many time's when as a bank executive I needed good legal advice or had to assign a case. Used him many time's for real estate closings. He has represented me numerous time's as my personal attorney. Excellent attorney......
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18 May, 2016 by Anonymous
Richard is a first class person and attorney. I have known him since he was a student and have now worked with him on a recent claim. He was always available whenever needed, staying in touch thru out the extended time involved and ultimately helped us settle in our favor. Very happy to recommend Richard.
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18 May, 2016 by Melanie
Richard was one of the best attorney's I have worked with. Almost every attorney prior to using him never returned phone calls or emails.
Richard was diligent in updating me and keeping my case moving forward without dragging it out, which seems to be what most attorney's do.
I would use him again should I ever need legal services!
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17 May, 2016 by Kevin
Mr Turner was very helpful in settling the estate of my Aunt. He was very Honest and professional, I would not hesitate at all in recommending him to anyone. Anyone who needs an attorney in Pensacola Florida should use him and the firm he is with. With out hesitation I would recommend him !!!!
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18 May, 2017 by Anonymous
I used several other attorney for different legal issues concerning my divorce, which spanned a 10 year period. Ms. Waddell was the only attorney that seemed to really listened to my needs and was willing to challenge established outdated mindsets/laws on divorce. She is extremely professional and knowledgeable of new family law. If I need an attorney in the future I would definitely use Ms. Waddell.
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09 Jun, 2014 by Anonymous
I currently use Mrs. Waddell in my divorce. She gives detailed information on what to expect, estimated costs, and how to save money. I have never had any issues with staff and they always clamed me when I was paniced. She is highly knowledgeable and will defend you and your family. She is fair throughout the whole duration. I would and have recommended Mrs. Waddell to others.
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18 May, 2013 by Gary
I hired Mrs. Waddell to represent me in my divorce action. My wife was asking for an unreasonable amount of alimony and wanted custody of our kids. Mrs. Waddell always took the time to explain everything, how to keep good records in case we had to go to court. The thing I like most about her was that she would always give me a good estimate of what it would cost for my case and was open to helping me make decisions on what to do in my case to find ways to reduce the fees. I felt like it was always my decision on what to spend money on in my case. I also was very impressed with her at my temporary hearing. At my temporary hearing I could tell the Judge gave her a lot of credibility and I was happy with the results.
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23 May, 2023 by Gina
My experience with the Penton Law Center has been very positive. My initial meeting with the firm was informative and not "pushy" at all. Christy takes a personal approach in all of her dealings regarding the sensitive topic of estate planning. She always responds quickly to my questions.
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23 Sep, 2020 by Tierra
My experience with Mrs. Christy was nothing short of amazing. She was able to resolve my legal issues in no time. She is also a resource for multiple things. There is nothing that I have asked her that she did not know. I highly recommend her services to ALL. Thank you again Mrs. Christy for everything.
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15 Sep, 2020 by Rey
Excellent lawyer! Hired for a debt collection that went way better than I could've imagined. Hired again for other legal help and has been an overall wonderful experience. I even contact her with non-related legal questions and she immediately gets back to me with answers. I found my lawyer for life! Thank you Christy!
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22 May, 2015 by Anonymous
Ms. White consistently provided excellent, timely, and professional service through the probate of my brother's complex estate. I was particularly impressed with how accessible Katie was, and how quickly and thoroughly she responded to my many questions. Katie's calm competence and warm, friendly personality greatly eased the burden on me as the out-of-state personal representative. I highly recommend her as a probate attorney.
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16 Apr, 2015 by Bill
I live in Houston and my father who lived in Florida passed in February. My fathers Will was not proven nor original so we needed an attorney to handle what was referred to as a summary administration over certain minor assets. I considered several attorneys but Ms. Whites office was the most responsive. I was skeptical as anyone would be given the distance we were apart but as I got into the detail of the workscope involved they immediately put me at ease. I also liked the fact that they were not out to "nickel and dime" me to death with hourly rates and I was very pleased with the fixed fee I was charged for there services. I have hired legal council in the past with mixed results but would recommend Kate Monroe White and her office staff namely Wendi Westmoreland to anyone with a legal issue to be solved in a totally transparent process!
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11 Jun, 2014 by Anonymous
Mr. Magaha is the most professional, reliable, and trustworthy attorney I have ever met. He handled a major financial issue for me and it was a smooth process all the way through. He kept me informed of the possible outcomes and updates as they transpired. His paralegal, Glenda, is equally amazing. She is knowledgeable and courteous and always available. Unlike other blood sucking law firms in the Gulf Coast area Mr. Magaha is up front and honest about his fees which are more than fair for the amount of time and effort he puts in. Highly recommend! I wouldn't even consider another attorney.
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08 Mar, 2013 by Renee
Very sweet, honest, tactful attorney. This was my second time utilizing an attorney, and also the best. Didn't judge me or talk down while offering sound advice. Straight forward and easy to talk to. Doesn't rush you to make rash decisions you will regret later. Personally returns your phone calls. He actually took the time to speak with me regarding my problem and advised me before any money exchanged hands without knowing if i would retain him before the office visit. As someone new to Florida, this was the main reason that I hired him. Very professional and he has a very good rap-ore with is secretary who is great as well and they both treated me with the utmost respect. Ms, Glenda is very efficient to. They both are true to their word, and always respond in a timely manner when you call. Up to date with technology which makes it easier to communicate with them when you work a full-time job. I worked the same hours as they did, and they would stay past quitting time to allow me to conduct my business once I got off work even if it was past 5pm.
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28 Nov, 2022 by Jason blackmarr
Called in with a question and Tami was lightning fast to respond. Not only did she answer my question but she also was able to provide me with essential documents from years ago. 5 and a half stars!!! Thank you.
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26 Jul, 2019 by Creig speed
Very efficient process with extremely competent people.
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19 Mar, 2015 by Anonymous
I recently just talked to Elizabeth, just to get to know her, and she is the kindest lady, she cares, and she is a single mother just supporting her children. I have lived in Pensacola my whole life and it seems like anyone and everyone knows her, for being a great lawyer. She cares a lot about her clients and she has won 95% of her cases. She worked at the state attorney office and that is when she met the love of her life. Anyway she is the best, kindest, and most caring lawyer you can meet. I hope you will use her one day.
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21 May, 2015 by Kristen
I first met Megan when we were on opposing sides of a contested probate matter. Megan was a strong legal advocate for her client and fortunately, we were able to reach an amicable solution for all involved. Having gained my utmost respect for her legal knowledge and savvy, I've since referred numerous clients to her for a variety of civil litigation matters. Feedback has been great and I will continue to recommend Megan to my clients. I strongly recommend Megan!
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27 May, 2014 by William
Very, very knowledgeable. Law Degree from UVA. About 60 years of age with excellent experience in Estate Planning. Recently joined the Beggs Law Firm in charge of the Estate Planning area. Beggs is the oldest law firm in Pensacola, Fl. But his history is that of a private practitioner and that is his style, which is much preferred if anyone has ever had the Corporate treatment. He is very good at sizing a situation up and finding and planning a solution. His wife, who is very knowledgeable is his assistant and they are dedicated to their pursuit of excellence . I have used many lawyers in 6 states. Specifically I have used 3 different estate planning attorneys in my 66 years. I would rank him at the very top. He and his wife pretty much have it all.
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30 Apr, 2015 by Melissa
Mr. Passeretti goes over and above to get the job done well. He strives for excellence, is thorough with detail, and takes the time to communicate and listen. I highly recommend him and will be sure to seek his help for any future legal services.
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30 Aug, 2019 by Anonymous
I was selling a small piece of vacant property to a neighbor I've known and trusted for years. The property wasn't worth much, but my neighbor and I both wanted to make sure all the paperwork was done correctly. We contemplated printing our own documents off of a website, but I've heard too many horror stories of things going wrong years later with the sale of property. So, wanting to make sure my neighbor and I didn't accidentally mess up something in the paperwork on our own, I hired Ms. Fox to handle the closing. As it turns out, there were so many documents we would have never known needed to be signed and notarized, let alone submitted to the county clerk. Ms. Fox and her assistant Alisa were respectful of the fact that some neighbors still operate on handshakes and they didn't do anything to turn the situation into a contentious process. We were able to close in about two weeks, and when we got to Ms. Fox's office, everything was perfectly organized and ready for us. She definitely knows her stuff, and she did a great job of explaining things to us in terms we understood. The whole thing took about 30 minutes (they had sent the documents over ahead of time for us to review). I appreciate that Ms. Fox treated us as though our time was equally valuable as hers. Her retainer was very affordable (in fact, I was expecting it to be a lot more). When I saw how much work she had done at such a reasonable rate I wondered why I had ever thought of NOT using an attorney. Unlike some attorneys, she didn't even charge us for copies of everything. I do a lot of research before I hire somebody or make a significant purchase, and I'll say this: save yourself time and money because I've already done the legwork. Hiring Ms. Fox instead of using those online forms or another attorney was a great decision.
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02 May, 2012 by John
Matt is an excellent lawyer with whom I have been most impressed. Not only is he both bright and engaging, he also is exceedingly ethical and very prompt in responding to our needs. Over the years I have used a number of attorneys in connection with my various businesses, but I have found Matt is by far the best. He has been creative in helping us solve some business difficulties and in successfully defending us in connection with unusual commercial litigation. I would highly recommend Matt with the utmost confidence.
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13 Jun, 2019 by Lauren green
26 Jun, 2023 by Alex franzoni
I had the pleasure of working with Matthew Massey. He's very passionate and knowledgeable about what he does! He shows a genuine concern for the well-being of his clients and he'll help you every step of the way. He's extremely on point with keeping his clients updated with new information. Very good attorney and a down to earth man!
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23 Jan, 2023 by Dale
I couldn’t be happier with the service and advice I received from Mr. Passeretti. Joe is very professional, incredibly knowledgeable, and acted quickly on my case. Just from speaking with him I felt confident in his abilities to solve the problems I was having with a “not so honest” contractor.
I also had some interaction with Mr. J. Nix Daniel on a different issue. Mr. Daniel was also very professional and courteous.
Everyone I interacted with at the firm was top-notch and pleasant.
I can see why so many folks at this firm have won so many awards and the firm is so highly touted.
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24 Dec, 2022 by Graham poole
Hays Mathis went above and beyond what I expected from an attorney. He was very personable and kept me updated on my case every step of the way. I was treated like a real person, and not just another claim. He was always available and responded promptly to my calls. Hays always took his time when answering my questions and explaining the intricacies of the case. He was never in a rush. I can’t say enough. I most definitely recommend Hays Mathis.
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26 Jun, 2023 by Alex franzoni
I had the pleasure of working with Matthew Massey. He's very passionate and knowledgeable about what he does! He shows a genuine concern for the well-being of his clients and he'll help you every step of the way. He's extremely on point with keeping his clients updated with new information. Very good attorney and a down to earth man!
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23 Jan, 2023 by Dale
I couldn’t be happier with the service and advice I received from Mr. Passeretti. Joe is very professional, incredibly knowledgeable, and acted quickly on my case. Just from speaking with him I felt confident in his abilities to solve the problems I was having with a “not so honest” contractor.
I also had some interaction with Mr. J. Nix Daniel on a different issue. Mr. Daniel was also very professional and courteous.
Everyone I interacted with at the firm was top-notch and pleasant.
I can see why so many folks at this firm have won so many awards and the firm is so highly touted.
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24 Dec, 2022 by Graham poole
Hays Mathis went above and beyond what I expected from an attorney. He was very personable and kept me updated on my case every step of the way. I was treated like a real person, and not just another claim. He was always available and responded promptly to my calls. Hays always took his time when answering my questions and explaining the intricacies of the case. He was never in a rush. I can’t say enough. I most definitely recommend Hays Mathis.
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29 Jul, 2024 by Waleed qader
Travis M. is great!!
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10 Feb, 2024 by Ronald whaley
Had an appointment with Mr. Rushing. Outstanding results. Very knowledgeable & professional. Thank you Sir
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25 Oct, 2023 by Jessica ford
Great experience meeting with Travis! Looking forward to working with this firm.
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29 Jul, 2024 by Waleed qader
Travis M. is great!!
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10 Feb, 2024 by Ronald whaley
Had an appointment with Mr. Rushing. Outstanding results. Very knowledgeable & professional. Thank you Sir
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25 Oct, 2023 by Jessica ford
Great experience meeting with Travis! Looking forward to working with this firm.
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29 Jul, 2024 by Waleed qader
Travis M. is great!!
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10 Feb, 2024 by Ronald whaley
Had an appointment with Mr. Rushing. Outstanding results. Very knowledgeable & professional. Thank you Sir
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25 Oct, 2023 by Jessica ford
Great experience meeting with Travis! Looking forward to working with this firm.
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29 Jul, 2024 by Waleed qader
Travis M. is great!!
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10 Feb, 2024 by Ronald whaley
Had an appointment with Mr. Rushing. Outstanding results. Very knowledgeable & professional. Thank you Sir
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25 Oct, 2023 by Jessica ford
Great experience meeting with Travis! Looking forward to working with this firm.
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29 Jul, 2024 by Waleed qader
Travis M. is great!!
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10 Feb, 2024 by Ronald whaley
Had an appointment with Mr. Rushing. Outstanding results. Very knowledgeable & professional. Thank you Sir
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25 Oct, 2023 by Jessica ford
Great experience meeting with Travis! Looking forward to working with this firm.
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09 Aug, 2024 by Sarah alcott
Love this law firm! 10/10 recommend. Everyone is so friendly.
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05 Aug, 2024 by Mindy mcmillan
Well, I haven’t had an actual experience with them because I can’t get anyone to call me back. Started last Wednesday to check on pricing for wills /estate planning. Was told a paralegal would call me by Friday. At 3 on Friday I called back to say that this is pretty important as my husband has stage 4 lung cancer. She told me all the partners were out of the office on Friday, but promised someone would call Monday because of our urgent cancer situation. Still have heard nothing. If you don’t want to take on a client then please be honest at the beginning
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14 Oct, 2023 by Bobbie dunnington
This group is outstanding! Dewitt & Haley are some of the best attorneys I have had the pleasure of working with. Their support team Bonnie & Julia are exceptional! They know how to get the job done. Always responsive, kind, dedicated. Trust them and call them first!
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11 Sep, 2024 by Tiffany f
Brett and Debbie provided outstanding support and kept me informed at every step of the process for SSA disability. They are extremely kind and very caring about their clients. I highly recommend them for any legal help!!
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18 Aug, 2024 by C m
Mr. Brett Vigodsky and Mrs.Debra Bourne did an amazing job helping me through my workman's comp case. Without them I would've never been taken care of as they were able to on my own. From Dr appointments, medications, taking over communications with workers comp, and more they saved me alot of the hassle and kept me as stress free through the process as possible. Not only did they handle my case but my grandfather's aswell and did an exceptional job with the both of us. With out their help I would've been truly screwed. I highly recommend them for any workers comp case!
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13 Aug, 2024 by George blackburn
A special thank you to Rachael Gilmer and the entire team at the Levin Papantonio Law Firm for your excellent representation! While this process was new to us, you guided us through step by step, exceeding our expectations. Would definitely recommend Ms. Rachael and the Levin Papantonio Law Firm. Again, thank you, George Blackburn
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11 Sep, 2024 by Tiffany f
Brett and Debbie provided outstanding support and kept me informed at every step of the process for SSA disability. They are extremely kind and very caring about their clients. I highly recommend them for any legal help!!
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18 Aug, 2024 by C m
Mr. Brett Vigodsky and Mrs.Debra Bourne did an amazing job helping me through my workman's comp case. Without them I would've never been taken care of as they were able to on my own. From Dr appointments, medications, taking over communications with workers comp, and more they saved me alot of the hassle and kept me as stress free through the process as possible. Not only did they handle my case but my grandfather's aswell and did an exceptional job with the both of us. With out their help I would've been truly screwed. I highly recommend them for any workers comp case!
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13 Aug, 2024 by George blackburn
A special thank you to Rachael Gilmer and the entire team at the Levin Papantonio Law Firm for your excellent representation! While this process was new to us, you guided us through step by step, exceeding our expectations. Would definitely recommend Ms. Rachael and the Levin Papantonio Law Firm. Again, thank you, George Blackburn
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5.0
5 Reviews
4.1
9 Reviews
09 Aug, 2024 by Sarah alcott
Love this law firm! 10/10 recommend. Everyone is so friendly.
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05 Aug, 2024 by Mindy mcmillan
Well, I haven’t had an actual experience with them because I can’t get anyone to call me back. Started last Wednesday to check on pricing for wills /estate planning. Was told a paralegal would call me by Friday. At 3 on Friday I called back to say that this is pretty important as my husband has stage 4 lung cancer. She told me all the partners were out of the office on Friday, but promised someone would call Monday because of our urgent cancer situation. Still have heard nothing. If you don’t want to take on a client then please be honest at the beginning
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14 Oct, 2023 by Bobbie dunnington
This group is outstanding! Dewitt & Haley are some of the best attorneys I have had the pleasure of working with. Their support team Bonnie & Julia are exceptional! They know how to get the job done. Always responsive, kind, dedicated. Trust them and call them first!
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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.
