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Michael Reed Braverman, experienced Business, Real Estate attorney in Philadelphia, PA with 7 reviews
Below Average
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
15,02
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3.3/5
Google Maps
3.3
7 Reviews
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01 Aug, 2024 by Adam silver
Do NOT let Michael Anderson lie to you. He is the worst attorney I have ever spoken with and begged to represent me and then rug pulled me immediately after gaining my trust. What was I to expect, he went to undergrad at STDU aka Arizona. Michael’s law license should be revoked immediately. Be forewarned!!!
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28 May, 2024 by Gregory heihs
Poor representation sold out clients in the Philips Respironics case. Less than 3 years of medical studies.
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03 May, 2023 by Cassandra palencia
Impossible to get a hold of anyone. My husband and I have left numerous voicemails and asked multiple times in email to call, but they won’t. They supposedly sent multiple letters, checks, and a 1099, none of which we received. They are saying my husband’s settlement check was cashed and won’t get back to us when we tell them we never got it. We don’t have the money and have already filed tax returns that don’t include a 1099 we never received. Do not recommend.
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James Rocco Molinari, experienced Business, Criminal Defense attorney in Philadelphia, PA with 7 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
15,02
star star star star star
3.3/5
Google Maps
3.3
7 Reviews
star star star star star
01 Aug, 2024 by Adam silver
Do NOT let Michael Anderson lie to you. He is the worst attorney I have ever spoken with and begged to represent me and then rug pulled me immediately after gaining my trust. What was I to expect, he went to undergrad at STDU aka Arizona. Michael’s law license should be revoked immediately. Be forewarned!!!
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28 May, 2024 by Gregory heihs
Poor representation sold out clients in the Philips Respironics case. Less than 3 years of medical studies.
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star star star star star
03 May, 2023 by Cassandra palencia
Impossible to get a hold of anyone. My husband and I have left numerous voicemails and asked multiple times in email to call, but they won’t. They supposedly sent multiple letters, checks, and a 1099, none of which we received. They are saying my husband’s settlement check was cashed and won’t get back to us when we tell them we never got it. We don’t have the money and have already filed tax returns that don’t include a 1099 we never received. Do not recommend.
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Michael James Wolfer, experienced Civil Rights, Real Estate attorney in Philadelphia, PA with 7 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
15,02
star star star star star
3.3/5
Google Maps
3.3
7 Reviews
star star star star star
01 Aug, 2024 by Adam silver
Do NOT let Michael Anderson lie to you. He is the worst attorney I have ever spoken with and begged to represent me and then rug pulled me immediately after gaining my trust. What was I to expect, he went to undergrad at STDU aka Arizona. Michael’s law license should be revoked immediately. Be forewarned!!!
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28 May, 2024 by Gregory heihs
Poor representation sold out clients in the Philips Respironics case. Less than 3 years of medical studies.
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star star star star star
03 May, 2023 by Cassandra palencia
Impossible to get a hold of anyone. My husband and I have left numerous voicemails and asked multiple times in email to call, but they won’t. They supposedly sent multiple letters, checks, and a 1099, none of which we received. They are saying my husband’s settlement check was cashed and won’t get back to us when we tell them we never got it. We don’t have the money and have already filed tax returns that don’t include a 1099 we never received. Do not recommend.
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Merrill Gene Davidoff, experienced Business, Consumer Protection attorney in Philadelphia, PA with 7 reviews
Below Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
15,02
star star star star star
3.3/5
Google Maps
3.3
7 Reviews
star star star star star
01 Aug, 2024 by Adam silver
Do NOT let Michael Anderson lie to you. He is the worst attorney I have ever spoken with and begged to represent me and then rug pulled me immediately after gaining my trust. What was I to expect, he went to undergrad at STDU aka Arizona. Michael’s law license should be revoked immediately. Be forewarned!!!
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star star star star star
28 May, 2024 by Gregory heihs
Poor representation sold out clients in the Philips Respironics case. Less than 3 years of medical studies.
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star star star star star
03 May, 2023 by Cassandra palencia
Impossible to get a hold of anyone. My husband and I have left numerous voicemails and asked multiple times in email to call, but they won’t. They supposedly sent multiple letters, checks, and a 1099, none of which we received. They are saying my husband’s settlement check was cashed and won’t get back to us when we tell them we never got it. We don’t have the money and have already filed tax returns that don’t include a 1099 we never received. Do not recommend.
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James J. Binns, experienced Real Estate attorney in Philadelphia, PA with 7 reviews
Below Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
15,02
star star star star star
3.3/5
Google Maps
3.3
7 Reviews
star star star star star
01 Aug, 2024 by Adam silver
Do NOT let Michael Anderson lie to you. He is the worst attorney I have ever spoken with and begged to represent me and then rug pulled me immediately after gaining my trust. What was I to expect, he went to undergrad at STDU aka Arizona. Michael’s law license should be revoked immediately. Be forewarned!!!
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
28 May, 2024 by Gregory heihs
Poor representation sold out clients in the Philips Respironics case. Less than 3 years of medical studies.
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
03 May, 2023 by Cassandra palencia
Impossible to get a hold of anyone. My husband and I have left numerous voicemails and asked multiple times in email to call, but they won’t. They supposedly sent multiple letters, checks, and a 1099, none of which we received. They are saying my husband’s settlement check was cashed and won’t get back to us when we tell them we never got it. We don’t have the money and have already filed tax returns that don’t include a 1099 we never received. Do not recommend.
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Donald Neil Douchkess, experienced Real Estate attorney in Philadelphia, PA with 7 reviews
Below Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
15,02
star star star star star
3.3/5
Google Maps
3.3
7 Reviews
star star star star star
01 Aug, 2024 by Adam silver
Do NOT let Michael Anderson lie to you. He is the worst attorney I have ever spoken with and begged to represent me and then rug pulled me immediately after gaining my trust. What was I to expect, he went to undergrad at STDU aka Arizona. Michael’s law license should be revoked immediately. Be forewarned!!!
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
28 May, 2024 by Gregory heihs
Poor representation sold out clients in the Philips Respironics case. Less than 3 years of medical studies.
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
03 May, 2023 by Cassandra palencia
Impossible to get a hold of anyone. My husband and I have left numerous voicemails and asked multiple times in email to call, but they won’t. They supposedly sent multiple letters, checks, and a 1099, none of which we received. They are saying my husband’s settlement check was cashed and won’t get back to us when we tell them we never got it. We don’t have the money and have already filed tax returns that don’t include a 1099 we never received. Do not recommend.
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Marc Simon I, experienced Litigation, Real Estate attorney in Philadelphia, PA with 18 reviews
Below Average
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
14,47
star star star star star
3.1/5
Avvo
3.1
18 Reviews
star star star star star
21 Nov, 2018 by Joann
They do not fight for you! You feel like you have to defend yourself to them! Do not let you speak to the attorney who represents you.Never returns phone calls. Refuse to let you know what you will be getting out of the settlement! Tells me that they will not appeal the offer because they think it's a fair offer even though they won't tell you what you are coming out with!!! The worse 3 years of my life!!!!! Four times they cancelled a deposition ! They lie!! STAY AWAY!!!!!
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23 Aug, 2018 by Dave
Was a passenger on a bus that crashed did over year of therapy at least 8 procedures nerve test and all.In thee end I seen 0 after lawyer and medical bills guy gave me every reason NOT to go to trial said my chances of winning was 20% it would cost money for expert witnesses and this and that.My advice to everyone stay away from shady grady these guys had me run around for 2 years for nothing!wasted time money gas dealing with them all to feel like crap in the end
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12 Jul, 2017 by Helena
I went to trial, but the other attorney was better. The attorney's last name was Simon. I later learned that he was barred and many years later-- reinstated. I blame myself for not doing my homework. I referred someone and they are holding up his money :(. I feel horrible about it.
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Thomas F Margiotti, experienced Business, Lawsuit / Dispute attorney in Philadelphia, PA with 5 reviews
Below Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
14,43
star star star star star
2.6/5
Google Maps
2.6
5 Reviews
star star star star star
29 Jan, 2024 by Karim moharam
Andrew D. Swain provided solid legal services, meeting my needs effectively. He was professional and approachable, making the legal process smoother. I appreciate his help and would recommend him for straightforward legal support.
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04 Sep, 2023 by Edward walls
Vexatious Litigant rings a bell?
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12 Aug, 2023 by Adam clark
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John Joseph Martucci Jr., experienced Real Estate attorney in Philadelphia, PA with 2 reviews
Below Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
13,69
star star star star star
3.0/5
Avvo
3.0
2 Reviews
star star star star star
08 Mar, 2017 by Anonymous
John basically committed legal malpractice on my matter for one year and four months - at which time he failed to show up for two mandatory hearings and therefore the result of my case being dismissed by the City of Philadelphia. This was a premises liability matter in which I sustained severe injuries where surgery was required. LEGAL MALPRACTICE.
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23 Aug, 2012 by Andrew
John answers every single one of my calls within 24 hours. Every letter he sends on my behalf, he copies me on. John is incredibly intelligent and his staff are courteous. I've been his client for six years and give him my highest recommendation.
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Hilary Anne Fuelleborn, experienced Real Estate attorney in Philadelphia, PA with 2 reviews
Below Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
13,69
star star star star star
3.0/5
Avvo
3.0
2 Reviews
star star star star star
29 Aug, 2024 by Anonymous
Hilary is an experienced attorney who is always helpful and communicative. She was able to answer any and all of my questions to the best of her ability. I felt comfortable and at ease when meeting with her.
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17 Jun, 2024 by Anonymous
She was paid a lot of money to do hardly any work, but even that required my asking her repeatedly to please take the next step in the process almost the entire time. It was so painful, I curse the attorney who referred me to her.
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Harris J. Chernow, experienced Business, Real Estate attorney in Philadelphia, PA with 0 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
12,00
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0.0/5
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David A. Feldheim, experienced Business, Real Estate attorney in Philadelphia, PA with 0 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
8,00
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0.0/5
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Mark G. Wendaur IV, experienced Business, Real Estate attorney in Philadelphia, PA with 0 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
8,00
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0.0/5
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Kyle T. Garabedian, experienced Business, Construction attorney in Philadelphia, PA with 0 reviews
Below Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
8,00
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0.0/5
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Henry J. Donner, experienced Business, Construction attorney in Philadelphia, PA with 0 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
8,00
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0.0/5
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Beth A. Hurley, experienced Bankruptcy, Business attorney in Philadelphia, PA with 0 reviews
Below Average
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
8,00
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0.0/5
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Edward T. Kang, experienced Business, Real Estate attorney in Philadelphia, PA with 0 reviews
Below Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
8,00
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0.0/5
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David A. Feldheim, experienced Business, Real Estate attorney in Philadelphia, PA with 0 reviews
Below Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
8,00
star star star star star
0.0/5
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John D'Intino Jr., experienced Criminal Defense, Personal Injury attorney in Philadelphia, PA with 0 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
8,00
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0.0/5
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Robert Edwin McCann, experienced Car Accident, Personal Injury attorney in Philadelphia, PA with 0 reviews
Below Average
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
8,00
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0.0/5
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Brian E. Fritz, experienced Personal Injury, Real Estate attorney in Philadelphia, PA with 1 reviews
Below Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
7,17
star star star star star
1.0/5
Avvo
1.0
1 Reviews
star star star star star
06 Oct, 2022 by Anonymous
I only had dealings with Meghan McCormack. Very low settlement holding my check for three weeks would not recommend.
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Scott E Diamond, experienced Litigation, Personal Injury attorney in Philadelphia, PA with 1 reviews
Below Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
7,17
star star star star star
1.0/5
Avvo
1.0
1 Reviews
star star star star star
22 Apr, 2016 by Anonymous
Scott was assigned to my case a few years ago. In the beginning, he was very concerned about myself and family. I was told what I wanted to hear up until a few days before trial. On the day of trial, he wasn't so confident anymore. I think his overall skills as a lawyer are there but he has to answer to his higher ups that affect him in the end. That was his downfall. When your dealing with people's lives, you need to handle them in a certain kind of fashion. Like I said, they tell you one thing in the beginning and then change their attitude in the end. Very disappointed
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Alexander Francis Barth, experienced Litigation, Real Estate attorney in Philadelphia, PA with 1 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
7,17
star star star star star
1.0/5
Avvo
1.0
1 Reviews
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29 Oct, 2011 by Adam
CASE: quite title Lawyer/Firm Alexander Barth - Cohen-Seglias-Furman Result: Barth basically handed my signature over to opposing counsel for him to attach a legal description of a property of mine to mortgage as security on the settlement he worked out..The mortgage was supposed to be on the property in dispute.But another property of mine was mortaged because Alex Barth had failed to do a simple title search ,that would have found an existing mortgage already on the disputed property. Instead,Barth handed my signature over to opposing counsel,without knowing(or did he?) what it was going to be attached to... The result,,i still have no deed - a property of mine i owned free & clear is now fouled up by a bogus mortgage..And Cohen-Seglias sued me for $70k.. Partner Marion Corneilous,who was suphoned for arbitration,didnt even show up.Contemt!! and Barth was voted against %100 by the ARB panel.His defense was that he had built in remedies into our serttlement,which were to pay Cohen-seglias more money to go back into court... They royally screwed it up - mortgaged the property i was going to get a loan on to pay them..case never settled to this day.. and tried to charge $70k for a simple quite title,,that never happened.I hired James Pearl who shot down Cohen - Seglias at the arbitration and has almost gotten me the deed to the disputed property that started this whole mess...
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Joseph Strampello, experienced Business, Litigation attorney in Philadelphia, PA with 1 reviews
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info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
7,17
star star star star star
1.0/5
Avvo
1.0
1 Reviews
star star star star star
05 Nov, 2013 by Anonymous
This man is one of the most ineffective non-aggressive lawyers I have ever encountered. He allows himself to be intimidated by opposing counsel, gets thrown off track by irrelevant details, and doesn't familiarize himself with the real facts of a case. Would not trust him in front if a judge...would probably let opposing counsel run over him like a steam roller. He is good at running up large fees. Personally I think he is incompetent.
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William J. Brennan IV, experienced Business, Litigation attorney in Philadelphia, PA with 1 reviews
Below Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
7,17
star star star star star
1.0/5
Avvo
1.0
1 Reviews
star star star star star
20 Apr, 2018 by Denise fox
I met Mr. Brennan at an East Vincent Township zoning hearing. He was very rude, aggressive, interrupted us and treated my husband and I like we were second class citizens. He did not allow us to have a reasonable debate with the zoning board. He once again last evening would not allow me to speak uninterrupted for five minutes. He is a bully and unfairly uses his authority to conduct these meetings.
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Brian Paul Kelly, experienced Business, Personal Injury attorney in Philadelphia, PA with 1 reviews
Below Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
7,17
star star star star star
1.0/5
Avvo
1.0
1 Reviews
star star star star star
22 Jul, 2009 by Anonymous
While employed with Messa & Assoc. Law firm in Phila. Brian Kelly was assigned to handle a real estate matter for me. I now see from this profile that he has no real estate background. He bungled my case and when he departed the firm, I was not informed by him or the firm. It was a two part case. The matter was handled in the reverse and the primary and optimal objective was never achieved. I lost large sums of money not only in legal fees but as a result of the matter remaining unresolved. Messa & Associates at S. 22 St. in Phila. is culpable. They suggested assigning another attorney at additional costs. I terminated our association and would not recommend the firm nor Brian Kelly. I understand Brian went on to work with a title company. Does that not require real estate knowledge? I have since engaged another attorney to complete the matter at additional costs.
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Carrie A. Ward, experienced Business, Estate Planning attorney in Philadelphia, PA with 0 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
7,00
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0.0/5
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Louis Coffey, experienced Business, Consumer Protection attorney in Philadelphia, PA with 1 reviews
Below Average
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
4,57
star star star star star
1.0/5
Avvo
1.0
1 Reviews
star star star star star
11 Nov, 2018 by Anonymous
I have used Consol to help me put some cases and he took me for my money and never got me any results please do not use him if you care about your money
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Lawrence J. Avallone, experienced Family Law, Real Estate attorney in Philadelphia, PA with 1 reviews
Below Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
4,57
star star star star star
1.0/5
Avvo
1.0
1 Reviews
star star star star star
30 Aug, 2019 by Anonymous
I hired Mr Avallone to handle a foreclosure. He handed the case off to another attorney in his office who retired right before the court case. As a result I ended up with Avallone who was not prepared to handle the case. It’s 5 years later and I’m still dealing with the fall out from Avallone’s incompetence and unpreparedness. Although Avallone cannot seems to find the time to prepare for your case he can always find the time to send you a bill.
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Evan Ross Bachove, experienced Business, Litigation attorney in Philadelphia, PA with 1 reviews
Below Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
4,57
star star star star star
1.0/5
Avvo
1.0
1 Reviews
star star star star star
04 Apr, 2022 by Anonymous
He creates the problem, encourages litigation, then settles the problem he created. Completely fee driven. Avoid.
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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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