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14 Jun, 2024 by Gianna soussan
The lawyers at VSCP Law are the best of the best. Not only are they incredibly knowledgeable - but they truly care about their clients and their outcomes. They take the time to learn the ins and outs of your case (with empathy) and get individuals the justice they deserve. Highly recommend!
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26 May, 2024 by Montia crawford
Not nice. Told me on a Sunday that they can’t help me. Probably racist because I don’t see no black people that they help. So I wouldn’t recommend anyone to work with Ryan Phillips .
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02 May, 2024 by Floris gomez
My family and I are very grateful for John and his team. We came into this process without knowing anything and he guided us and answered every single question we had, regardless of how silly it may have been. They were extremely professional and patient with us and very quick on answering emails and phone calls. We came into this process completely unknowledgeable and I am grateful we chose John and his team. They exceeded our expectations. Even still when we have any questions our calls never go ignored. Definitely recommend!
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14 Jun, 2024 by Gianna soussan
The lawyers at VSCP Law are the best of the best. Not only are they incredibly knowledgeable - but they truly care about their clients and their outcomes. They take the time to learn the ins and outs of your case (with empathy) and get individuals the justice they deserve. Highly recommend!
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26 May, 2024 by Montia crawford
Not nice. Told me on a Sunday that they can’t help me. Probably racist because I don’t see no black people that they help. So I wouldn’t recommend anyone to work with Ryan Phillips .
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02 May, 2024 by Floris gomez
My family and I are very grateful for John and his team. We came into this process without knowing anything and he guided us and answered every single question we had, regardless of how silly it may have been. They were extremely professional and patient with us and very quick on answering emails and phone calls. We came into this process completely unknowledgeable and I am grateful we chose John and his team. They exceeded our expectations. Even still when we have any questions our calls never go ignored. Definitely recommend!
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24 Feb, 2024 by Peterman215
So basically I used Nadum every encounter I've co.email in with the law and pitbull is what he is ...anyway my biggest case in 2013 I was facing 9 to years for drugs , and gun charges including conspiracy don't ask me how but he turned it into a nine month sentence time served dude does his homework nd he's HUNGRY ...he had me home to see my son born ...enough of my story ...if u must know got my man on stand by with the way these cops are playing like best nd smartest money I've EVER spent!
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21 Aug, 2018 by Anonymous
I've had the pleasure of meeting with Nadum & heard so much about him on a friend's case in 2013 & all I can say is he is a great guy, great attorney & he is very passionate when it comes to his clients. I've also consulted him reguarding other matters since & he was very helpful every time. I appreciate & cant thank him enough for all of his help! I would recommend him to anyone that needs a great attorney.
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13 Aug, 2017 by Drew underwood
He helped me with advice for my DUI situation that I had not considered before. I was satisfied with my consultation with him and if you are in Philadelphia I would strongly recommend you hire him for any criminal defense issue.
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11 Jul, 2016 by Rich
To whom it may concern:
I engaged Josh Marks for a Residential Real estate closing. Collaborating with Josh was nothing short of outstanding. From the onset of the closing, Josh went above and beyond the call of duty. This was a FSBO closing so his guidance was not only needed but it was impactful.
Josh was very thorough in his explanation of all matters related to the closing. He went through all of the necessary documents line by line so I could understand every aspect of the process. In sum, he helped facilitate a seamless transaction. I would recommend Josh to anyone looking for an attorney in a business or real estate setting.
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19 Aug, 2014 by Anonymous
I hired Josh for a residential purchase. He recommended a reliable home inspector and title company and worked with me at my convenience. He responded to my questions and concerns in a professional and timely manner. The fee for his services is reasonable. The purchase went very smooth and it was a good experience working with Josh. I would hire him again in the future and recommend his services for anyone.
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30 Dec, 2013 by Martin
I didn't have much experience with Josh, but he provided some quick legal advice on a real estate transaction. He was very helpful and knowledgeable and took time to speak with me even though he determined that his services were not needed at the moment. I certainly plan to contact Josh if and when I need real estate legal advice.
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11 Oct, 2024 by Shen jiangchuan
This law group is, in my point of view, a scam group. They responded to you pretty well for initial contact and payment collection, however, they disappeared later. They took 15k from me and wrote me a demanding letter based on my personal narratives. Since then, I never had any updates, however hard I tried to set up a communication. Very disappointing experience. So after almost 10 months, I requested that the service fee to be refunded and one more time, they disappeared. My life needs to move on with more important aspect and I had unsuccessful experience searching for legal service from Lento's and so should you not consider hiring them. Terrell Ratliff was the so called attorney that was assigned to me and he is horrible. He doesn't seem to have any professional competence for what he is doing and nor does he care about customer, very cocky. Stay away.
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13 Sep, 2024 by Yan yan
We highly recommend Mr. Lento and the attorney that was assigned to our case - Mr. Thomas Terrill! They helped us navigate a challenging situation involving unfair treatment at our son's public elementary school in Houston, TX, and their support was invaluable. From the start, Thomas was compassionate and approached the case with sound reasoning, helping us to prioritize our demands and stay focused on what was most important—not only improving our son's current situation, but also ensuring a better future for him. He was incredibly responsive, always quick to answer our questions and provide guidance during a stressful time. Thomas is an exceptional lawyer who genuinely cares about his clients, and we are so grateful for his expertise and dedication!
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10 Sep, 2024 by A gia
I did a chat on the website because I was looking for an educational attorney after a thorough explanation of my situation the employee failed to mention this is a law firm that handles criminal defense not and educational attorney. They then proceeded to send me an email to collect a $350.00 consultation fee to speak with one of there attorneys about a matter they don’t even handle. I would steer clear of this place deceptively trying to collect unfair fees for services they don’t handle.
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09 Oct, 2024 by Patricia clymer
I hired Michael to consult on a situation I found myself in with an attorney I hired to handle a debt collection resulting from the pandemic who let a default judgement happen and a second attorney I hired to resolve the situation. Michael was thorough, gave me sage advice, and was down to earth. Michael is unlike any other attorney that I've enountered in that he genuinely cares about his clients and is a good person, and demonstrated that each time we spoke. He was a bright light in a dark situation and I would highly recommend him to anyone. I hope to never need representation again, but if I do, he will be my first call.
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15 Jul, 2024 by Tiray jackson
⭐☆☆☆☆
Michael Fineman was the worst lawyer I’ve ever dealt with. He took my case without doing any research and charged me $2,000 for a preliminary hearing where he didn’t even need to show up—I waived it myself. Initially, he wanted to charge me $2,500 for that. Then, he charged me another $3,500 to “negotiate” a deal, but he did nothing. He pushed me to accept the first offer from the DA without even trying to negotiate the probation terms.
When I asked for a refund because I had to hire another lawyer for better advice, he offered me a measly $400 out of the $5,500 I paid him. This was after he disrespected me and suggested a partial refund only if I hired another lawyer.
To make matters worse, he made racist comments about Black people and Asians. So if you’re Black or Asian, do not hire him!!
This is the worst lawyer in the city. His representation is no better than a public defender’s, and honestly, I feel I would have been better off with a public defender. I’ll be letting everyone know how terrible his services are.
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17 Mar, 2024 by Malik hashim
14 Oct, 2024 by Tiffany burton
I had the great Lawyers at Dion Solomon & Shapiro L.L.C kevin proud was the best her fight to get you wat u deserve Also Gray was the best I First getting into an accident and they fought there Hatdesy from me
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26 Sep, 2024 by Victor torres
Jeffrey Soloman and Kevin Proud were amazing. From the beginning I felt very comfortable with Dion, Soloman and Shapiro. My needs were always met and I received the best care and attention from my attorneys and their team. Dion, Soloman and Shapiro will fight for you, not just represent you. Thank you for everything.
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26 Sep, 2024 by Cynthia canty
Pleasent good lawyer Mr Kevin Proud
Thank you
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20 Aug, 2024 by Ian mattikow
20 Aug, 2024 by Chris sheridan
was a great experience, always got a return call, great people, will be a return customer, thank you again
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12 Aug, 2024 by Trey gammino
Great attorney. Has helped me out so much
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27 Aug, 2024 by Chuck lewandowski
I’ve had the pleasure of working with Jay Edelstein and his team on several occasion’s and I cannot recommend them highly enough! From the moment I reached out for their assistance, I was met with professionalism, compassion, and a genuine commitment to my case. Jay Edelstein and his team took the time to listen to my concerns, thoroughly explain the legal process, and provide me with the guidance I needed.
I felt supported every step of the way, and their proactive approach made a significant difference in the outcome. Jay's knowledge of the law is impressive, and he truly advocates for his clients with passion and dedication.
I’m incredibly grateful for their help and would recommend them to anyone in need of legal assistance!
Charles Lewandowski
Berlin, NJ
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27 Aug, 2024 by Kayla devlin
I can’t say enough great things about this firm. When I first called for information I was transferred to speak to Maria. She spent an hour speaking with me. I knew from the first 5 minutes of our conversation that this was the firm for me. Everyone who works here is amazing! Matthew has been great at communicating during this process. He’s kept me up to date on everything happening. Jay, reassured me that he would get me justice. He got me more than justice. They made the entire process so easy. If you’re looking for a lawyer, I highly recommend using them! I can’t thank everyone here enough for what they’ve done for me.
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23 Aug, 2024 by Robert lutzky
Edelstein Law LLP…Jay Edelstein and his associates represent a highly professional, extremely knowledgeable and compassionate law firm. My experience was seamless. The personal support was unwavering and the results went well beyond my expectations.
Justice prevailed…thanks to Jay and his associates.
Thank You Edelstein Law LLP.
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08 Nov, 2023 by Mary beth bryan
20 Oct, 2023 by David emerson
I had the privilege of working with Attorney Kathy Kirkpatrick and had a wonderful experience!
In short, I was tied up in a frivolous lawsuit with lots of questions and concerns having not been entangled in a lawsuit before. She and her firm were prompt and professional, but most importantly drove my desired outcome which absolutely saved me tens of thousands of dollars.
Highly recommend!
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02 Jun, 2021 by Anwar muwwakkil
Kathleen Kirkpatrick EsQ tried to help me find a lawyer Md. Get customer service, however it was more than customer service. Definitely would give them a call if I had any questions about anything.
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08 Nov, 2023 by Mary beth bryan
20 Oct, 2023 by David emerson
I had the privilege of working with Attorney Kathy Kirkpatrick and had a wonderful experience!
In short, I was tied up in a frivolous lawsuit with lots of questions and concerns having not been entangled in a lawsuit before. She and her firm were prompt and professional, but most importantly drove my desired outcome which absolutely saved me tens of thousands of dollars.
Highly recommend!
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02 Jun, 2021 by Anwar muwwakkil
Kathleen Kirkpatrick EsQ tried to help me find a lawyer Md. Get customer service, however it was more than customer service. Definitely would give them a call if I had any questions about anything.
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08 Nov, 2023 by Mary beth bryan
20 Oct, 2023 by David emerson
I had the privilege of working with Attorney Kathy Kirkpatrick and had a wonderful experience!
In short, I was tied up in a frivolous lawsuit with lots of questions and concerns having not been entangled in a lawsuit before. She and her firm were prompt and professional, but most importantly drove my desired outcome which absolutely saved me tens of thousands of dollars.
Highly recommend!
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02 Jun, 2021 by Anwar muwwakkil
Kathleen Kirkpatrick EsQ tried to help me find a lawyer Md. Get customer service, however it was more than customer service. Definitely would give them a call if I had any questions about anything.
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5.0
2 Reviews
4.8
1139 Reviews
04 Oct, 2024 by Mike assad
03 Oct, 2024 by Mrs bailey alexandria trippett
Well done Law Offices Team of Mr. Sadek.
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01 Oct, 2024 by Minor garro
08 Oct, 2024 by Allen dori
I am a long-time Law Enforcement Officer in the suburbs of Philadelphia. Marni Snyder came highly recommended by an attorney who I have gotten to know both personally and professionally. The attorney who I know unfortunately does not work in Philadelphia any longer. Without hesitation, when asked who he would suggest to defend a close personal friend of mine who lives in Philadelphia, he immediately said to hire Ms. Marni Snyder. He told me that he has worked with her in the past and said she is of the highest quality. My close friend hired her and could not have been happier in doing so. My friend was successful in all regards of her case. I am grateful to my attorney friend for recommending Marni Snyder; I am even more grateful to Ms. Snyder for her highly effective and successful litigation.
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08 Oct, 2024 by James leake
I was a character witness in a case that Ms Snyder tried.
I was so impressed with her performance that I decided if I ever needed a criminal lawyer in Philadelphia that she would be the first person I would call.
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08 Oct, 2024 by Karen gallagher
06 Sep, 2024 by Brian vino
Brooke is the best!
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17 Aug, 2024 by Court gucci
Oh how i wish this was a 5 star great experience like the others but unfortunately Mr.Ellis did not give 5 star service.Instead he charged me $3500 to go see my father (20 Min visit) who I explained to him was in need of a fighter (facing federal charges/Life) . These monies are non refundable and a 20 min visit for a case as big as this is certainly unacceptable.
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14 Aug, 2024 by The bn show
Ellis Palivias is a genius, he beat my case only using 12 words. He didn't over charge me or just take my money. This gentleman knows the law. If he runs for governor I'm voting for him. Thanks for everything....
M.Skp
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06 Sep, 2024 by Brian vino
Brooke is the best!
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17 Aug, 2024 by Court gucci
Oh how i wish this was a 5 star great experience like the others but unfortunately Mr.Ellis did not give 5 star service.Instead he charged me $3500 to go see my father (20 Min visit) who I explained to him was in need of a fighter (facing federal charges/Life) . These monies are non refundable and a 20 min visit for a case as big as this is certainly unacceptable.
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14 Aug, 2024 by The bn show
Ellis Palivias is a genius, he beat my case only using 12 words. He didn't over charge me or just take my money. This gentleman knows the law. If he runs for governor I'm voting for him. Thanks for everything....
M.Skp
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17 Aug, 2024 by Court gucci
Oh how i wish this was a 5 star great experience like the others but unfortunately Mr.Ellis did not give 5 star service.Instead he charged me $3500 to go see my father (20 Min visit) who I explained to him was in need of a fighter (facing federal charges/Life) . These monies are non refundable and a 20 min visit for a case as big as this is certainly unacceptable.
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14 Aug, 2024 by The bn show
Ellis Palivias is a genius, he beat my case only using 12 words. He didn't over charge me or just take my money. This gentleman knows the law. If he runs for governor I'm voting for him. Thanks for everything....
M.Skp
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21 Jun, 2024 by 4j's everyday (rocked_em4_u)
My guy Ellis beat a case for my son. Ellis was very honest and straightforward about my sons case and possible outcomes. He was very thorough, strategic and his cross examination with the witness was gentle but brutal. This guy definitely plays chess while the D.A was playing checkers. Highly recommend him and the five stars do him no justice. (No pun intended)
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04 Oct, 2024 by Austin edelman
Steve and Debra were very helpful and attentive when hearing about issue. I had a very positive experience with the team and wouldn’t hesitate to reach back out to them if I needed it.
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29 Aug, 2024 by Stephen boyle
Pat Doherty from The Town Law has his client’s best interests in mind in all of his actions. He understands the needs of clients and uses his legal knowledge, experience, and relationships to effectuate great outcomes. Fantastic lawyer!
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28 Aug, 2024 by ????
Great guy and even greater results, and ready to answer any questions i had!
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04 Oct, 2024 by Mike assad
03 Oct, 2024 by Mrs bailey alexandria trippett
Well done Law Offices Team of Mr. Sadek.
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01 Oct, 2024 by Minor garro
04 Oct, 2024 by Mike assad
03 Oct, 2024 by Mrs bailey alexandria trippett
Well done Law Offices Team of Mr. Sadek.
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01 Oct, 2024 by Minor garro
04 Oct, 2024 by Mike assad
03 Oct, 2024 by Mrs bailey alexandria trippett
Well done Law Offices Team of Mr. Sadek.
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01 Oct, 2024 by Minor garro
29 Aug, 2024 by D knf
I knew very soon after signing with Eric and John that I had made the right choice. They and their team took care of everything for me while always keeping me fully in the loop, which was a huge weight off that allowed me to focus on healing physically and mentally.
I'm confident they got me the largest settlement I could have gotten. They also got me the professional psychiatric help that I didn't realize I needed. . which made a profound difference in reclaiming my peace of mind and over time helped reduce the frequency and severity of many of the negative symptoms I've dealt with since the accident.
Eric, John, Donna, Megan . . everyone there made this really hard chapter of my life as easy on me as possible for the last 2.5 years and I'll always be grateful for that. Thank you so much to everyone at Pearson Koutcher Law
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21 Aug, 2024 by Clyde fayorsey
Pearson Koutcher Law is by far the best law firm. I would definitely recommend them to anyone I know. They fought to make sure that my mother was treated fairly for her workers compensation case.
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22 Jul, 2024 by Sandi chladni
I can’t begin to say enough grateful & complimentary comments on my experience with Shawn. She was very helpful from the start & gave me a good insight on what I was going through. She was always available & prompt in answering any of the questions I had. Wonderful job Shawn. I’d recommend her to anyone who needed guidance in her area of expertise!!!!
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18 Sep, 2024 by Ramata ba
I am beyond satisfied of the consultation i had with David Bercovitch, he was an amazing listener and give me all the answers i needed . I am definitely recommending this field for any immigration matters THANK YOU again for your time
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06 Sep, 2024 by Brian vino
Brooke is the best!
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24 Aug, 2024 by Anthony domonick
David is a excellent lawyer. He truly cares about his clients. I highly recommend him.
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30 Aug, 2024 by Tandika john
This was my first time working with this lawyer, they were very professional and kind, Andrew the attorney kept me updated at all times. Heather made sure I knew everything that was going on, and contacted me to let me know which steps we were in, I highly recommend them to anyone looking for representation‼️‼️
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14 Aug, 2024 by Npal lp
Absolutely excellent law firm! 100% thorough! His honesty and transparency along with his professionalism and dedication to his clients(me) is unmatched. Without his top notch service, my life would be very different. Thank God for Gregory Pagano Law. If you need lawyer services, look no further. 100% recommend Pagano Law!
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13 Aug, 2024 by David fioravanti
I am compelled to express my deepest gratitude for the outstanding representation from the Law offices of Gregory Pagano
In particular Sarah Jones.
Sarah's professional experiences and knowledge of the law are essential qualification when dealing with a legal situation in the criminal justice system.
Choosing Sarah for representation was the right decision for me and I am thankful for the positive result that was achieved.
Thank you Sarah
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30 Aug, 2024 by Tandika john
This was my first time working with this lawyer, they were very professional and kind, Andrew the attorney kept me updated at all times. Heather made sure I knew everything that was going on, and contacted me to let me know which steps we were in, I highly recommend them to anyone looking for representation‼️‼️
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14 Aug, 2024 by Npal lp
Absolutely excellent law firm! 100% thorough! His honesty and transparency along with his professionalism and dedication to his clients(me) is unmatched. Without his top notch service, my life would be very different. Thank God for Gregory Pagano Law. If you need lawyer services, look no further. 100% recommend Pagano Law!
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13 Aug, 2024 by David fioravanti
I am compelled to express my deepest gratitude for the outstanding representation from the Law offices of Gregory Pagano
In particular Sarah Jones.
Sarah's professional experiences and knowledge of the law are essential qualification when dealing with a legal situation in the criminal justice system.
Choosing Sarah for representation was the right decision for me and I am thankful for the positive result that was achieved.
Thank you Sarah
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04 Oct, 2024 by Austin edelman
Steve and Debra were very helpful and attentive when hearing about issue. I had a very positive experience with the team and wouldn’t hesitate to reach back out to them if I needed it.
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29 Aug, 2024 by Stephen boyle
Pat Doherty from The Town Law has his client’s best interests in mind in all of his actions. He understands the needs of clients and uses his legal knowledge, experience, and relationships to effectuate great outcomes. Fantastic lawyer!
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28 Aug, 2024 by ????
Great guy and even greater results, and ready to answer any questions i had!
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04 Oct, 2024 by Austin edelman
Steve and Debra were very helpful and attentive when hearing about issue. I had a very positive experience with the team and wouldn’t hesitate to reach back out to them if I needed it.
Read more
29 Aug, 2024 by Stephen boyle
Pat Doherty from The Town Law has his client’s best interests in mind in all of his actions. He understands the needs of clients and uses his legal knowledge, experience, and relationships to effectuate great outcomes. Fantastic lawyer!
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28 Aug, 2024 by ????
Great guy and even greater results, and ready to answer any questions i had!
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04 Oct, 2024 by Austin edelman
Steve and Debra were very helpful and attentive when hearing about issue. I had a very positive experience with the team and wouldn’t hesitate to reach back out to them if I needed it.
Read more
29 Aug, 2024 by Stephen boyle
Pat Doherty from The Town Law has his client’s best interests in mind in all of his actions. He understands the needs of clients and uses his legal knowledge, experience, and relationships to effectuate great outcomes. Fantastic lawyer!
Read more
28 Aug, 2024 by ????
Great guy and even greater results, and ready to answer any questions i had!
Read more
04 Oct, 2024 by Austin edelman
Steve and Debra were very helpful and attentive when hearing about issue. I had a very positive experience with the team and wouldn’t hesitate to reach back out to them if I needed it.
Read more
29 Aug, 2024 by Stephen boyle
Pat Doherty from The Town Law has his client’s best interests in mind in all of his actions. He understands the needs of clients and uses his legal knowledge, experience, and relationships to effectuate great outcomes. Fantastic lawyer!
Read more
28 Aug, 2024 by ????
Great guy and even greater results, and ready to answer any questions i had!
Read more
04 Oct, 2024 by Austin edelman
Steve and Debra were very helpful and attentive when hearing about issue. I had a very positive experience with the team and wouldn’t hesitate to reach back out to them if I needed it.
Read more
29 Aug, 2024 by Stephen boyle
Pat Doherty from The Town Law has his client’s best interests in mind in all of his actions. He understands the needs of clients and uses his legal knowledge, experience, and relationships to effectuate great outcomes. Fantastic lawyer!
Read more
28 Aug, 2024 by ????
Great guy and even greater results, and ready to answer any questions i had!
Read more
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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.
