Filter by

star star star star star
26 May, 2015 by Dorothy
It was a very lucky day for me when Ken Kambich was asked to make a will for my terminally ill uncle back in 2009. This was a VERY complex estate, and Ken was able to draft a will that allowed us to carry out my uncle's wishes. Since that time, Ken has been the attorney for the estate. I live in Canada, so I have depended on Ken for just about everything, and he has always been there for me. Besides being a thoroughly honest and hard-working attorney, he has also become a very good friend, both to the estate and to me personally. I will be sad to see the estate finally settled because I will miss working with Ken!!
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
01 May, 2015 by Geoff
Married and with a young family, we decide we needed help in estate planning. Ken did an AMAZING job guiding us through the process and having us think about things we had never thought about in case of our untimely deaths. We feel confident our young son and our estate will be well looked after due to the wonderful job Ken did in preparing our estate planning. Not only was his work thorough, but quick as well while giving us time to have tough conversations about the future of our estate.
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
01 May, 2015 by Anonymous
I have been using Ken for all of my business related law needs for about 5 years. His proficiency is excellent and his efficiency keeps projects on time and on budget.
Read more Avvo
See more
star star star star star
23 Nov, 2019 by Anonymous
Mr. Holyoak was the only attorney who personally called me the day of my reaching out concerning a time-sensitive consultation. He scheduled an appointment first thing the next day, where he was helpful and efficient helping me understand my position. He was judicious with my time and money.
Read more Avvo
See more
star star star star star
08 Apr, 2011 by Anonymous
My husband and I were made guardians of my Mother and her estate. Kathy Walter work with me and my husband for over 4 years. Although at first, it seemed overwhelming with required annual accountings, reviews, court approvals and finally, the estate closing, Kathy helped with every step. She made it go smoothly and successfully. Kathy is extremely bright, quick, professional and compassionate. She gave us both a great sense of comfort, confidence and relief knowing she was always there for us. She is a wonderful lawyer and a wonderful person.
Read more Avvo
See more
star star star star star
30 Apr, 2024 by Christina pratt
Very aggressive representation, didn't back down. I would recommend that anyone needing a great lawyer get in touch with him. Mr. LaCross is very professional, easy to communicate with and explained everything in a way we understood.
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
10 Apr, 2024 by Nicholas stone
David got the job done. His expertise and dedication led to a full dismissal of my case. Highly recommend for his skillful and compassionate legal support.
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
08 Apr, 2024 by Chaun burchard
David was absolutely outstanding. He will be dedicated and passionate to win your case and get you the best deal possible. He even helped saved a previous charge that was going to get revoked. If I could give more stars I would without hesitation.
Read more Google Maps
See more
star star star star star
09 Nov, 2023 by John
I hired Scott to help me with my divorce and child custody case and from day 1 Scott was on the team and helped me navigate through the divorce process and made it almost painless for me, he helped me fight for custody of my daughter and won without any issues. He was always there if I had a question or concern and was amazing throughout the whole process! I HIGHLY recommend Scott if your in a divorce or child custody situation, you won’t be disappointed
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
07 Jun, 2019 by Joy
I found Scott Kalkwarf to be a professional, well-educated, and responsive attorney. He addressed the issues of my case--a challenge to my mother's trust--with acumen, bringing his experience and expertise in matters of trust law, along with a serious and calm attitude, to the table. I highly recommend Mr. Kalkwarf for your legal needs.
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
11 Sep, 2008 by Anonymous
My husband and I found Scott to be knowledgable, concise and effective, especially in his successful discerning of the important points and facts of our case and logical filtering out of those points that were superfluous. Scott does not overreact in his communications to the opposing party, instead tempering his tone and cadence with appropriate respect, yet firmness. We found Scott to possess more than adequate immediate knowledge integral to addressing our particular issues, in addition to exhibiting the humbleness and willingness needed to pursue further research to validate his initial impressions. Most importantly to us, because, in our case, we wished to ensure that the opposing party was treated with respect and dignity in court and in communications, despite our disagreements, we chose Scott because of the values and ethics we had observed in his treatment of us. This, to us, indicated that he would not likely be the type of attorney to spew baseless arguments in court and at the other party, who is a neighbor, but that he would, hopefully, rely on the truth to tell our case through detailed, documented presenting of the facts, maintaing what we believe to be ethical behavior and effectively championing our cause. We have a great deal of faith in Scott and continue to use him as our attorney.
Read more Avvo
See more
star star star star star
28 Dec, 2023 by Stormy higginson
What a joke of a law firm! We have been waiting almost a year for them to return our call! Absolutely ridiculous!
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
28 Jul, 2023 by K m
I had a phone conference scheduled, no one called me, so when I called the office, the voice message said their office was closed for “holiday” but it wasn’t a holiday. And if that was the case, then the receptionist should have never scheduled it for that day! I’ve called back many times, left messages, emailed many times and STILL, no one has contacted me. Extremely unprofessional!!
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
26 May, 2023 by Chris gerzabek
Google Maps
See more
star star star star star
05 Nov, 2020 by Breeann
Mr. Browning, in my opinion, is one of the best lawyers you can get. He is always looking at both sides to be ready for a response in any case. The communication between the two of us was amazing! He consistently gave me updates and always gave great advice. He worked so hard on my case, even with him being injured during my case, he never failed. I could ask any question and he was never mad or irritated with it. Mr. Browning is very thoughtful about everyone’s feelings and desires when it comes to getting results. During all this for me, he has alleviated all the stress that I normally would be dealing with and I am, and will always be, extremely grateful towards this! I recommend him 100%!
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
10 Sep, 2020 by Anonymous
Mr. Browning succeeded in getting spousal support for me despite opposing counsel costing 200+% more and was able to get out motion passed, while simultaneously being able to get opposing motions denied.
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
13 Apr, 2020 by Garan
Allen thanked me at our first visit for putting my trust in him. I was consciously involved in the process and Allen educated and guided me with patience. In my case he was willing to challenge the status quo to win my case. Allen has a vibrant character and he uses it well in court. Know that aswering questions is what an attorney should do during this emotional time. Allen did that for me.
Read more Avvo
See more
star star star star star
28 Dec, 2023 by Stormy higginson
What a joke of a law firm! We have been waiting almost a year for them to return our call! Absolutely ridiculous!
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
28 Jul, 2023 by K m
I had a phone conference scheduled, no one called me, so when I called the office, the voice message said their office was closed for “holiday” but it wasn’t a holiday. And if that was the case, then the receptionist should have never scheduled it for that day! I’ve called back many times, left messages, emailed many times and STILL, no one has contacted me. Extremely unprofessional!!
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
26 May, 2023 by Chris gerzabek
Google Maps
See more
star star star star star
18 Jan, 2024 by Angie santiago
Google Maps
star star star star star
21 Apr, 2023 by Julie hahn
At first I wasn't to sure about her but now I know she truly does care about her clients and stands by what is right
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
20 Jan, 2023 by Fair one justice for all
Bad experience. Poor communication skills. Doesn't have any kind of defense strategy for trial. Not a good negotiater with prosecuting atty. Just wants you to take a deal. Waste of time. .
Read more Google Maps
See more
star star star star star
23 Aug, 2024 by Dianne brookes
My partner’s estranged husband died in the state of Arizona and she needed some legal advice regarding the estate. She called G S Jones and clearly explained that the estate was in the state of Arizona. The secretary consulted with one of the attorneys who assured us that he was able to help. We drove 2 hours to Port Orchard to the office. The $200 consultation fee was collected immediately upon entering. We then met with Norm and she outlined her issues with the estate. Many of her questions were answered by, “If this was in Washington it would be ______, but I don’t know about Arizona”. In the course of the hour there was only one of her questions he was able to answer because it was federal law. Because of Norm’s lack of knowledge of Arizona law she felt that the $200 consultation fee was unfair based on the information she was given beforehand that he would be capable of handling it She asked for a $100 refund and was refused. It was an expensive lesson learned. Don’t go to this law firm if you have any issues outside the state of Washington regardless of what they tell you they are able to handle.
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
27 Jun, 2024 by Matthew bodenberger
This is a review of a consultation I had with Mr. Groseclose about two years ago. I scheduled a consultation and almost immediately I met with John and discussed my case. I was not represented by John through my divorce however he asked some very pertinent questions and provided the best legal advice I could have possibly received at the time. John sees through the emotion of a divorce and seeks the best possible outcome, while being an expert on Washington family law. John did not "hype" my concerns nor did he downplay the issues I had. He was absolutely polite, professional and rational. At the time of the consultation I was frustrated with him (due to my own irrationality) but now that I have finished the process, I realize what an excellent attorney he is.
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
31 May, 2024 by Kalia
I did my research and thought I picked a great outstanding attorney when I paid 200 to have a consultation with John. I was prepared with my concerns and what I was requesting to change in our PP! I sent a detailed email the day before my phone consultation so we could discuss my concerns in my current PP. From the very moment he got onto the phone he was rude and very off putting. Ya how can I help you? I told him my name and that we had a consultation, and I sent over an email with changes I needed to request to my PP. Again, how can I help you! Ok now this is odd… Seemed like he did not have time nor the desire to take this consultation. Did you receive my email? Yes I have it here! Phone call got worse every second. He only talked about himself. Told me it’s not possible for just about everything that I wanted to change. Defended the other party even though he had no idea what type of abusive situation my child was dealing with every time he has a visitation. I would give no stars if I could. This attorney seems as though he hates his profession lacks empathy and has no time to take on any new clients. Now I paid 200 for absolutely nothing. I feel frustrated, belittled, and my time was definitely wasted.
Read more Google Maps
See more
star star star star star
10 May, 2024 by Clint roerig
Jeff has poor communication. Waited 2 weeks for nothing. Not even a call back. Don't deal with this group of unprofessional.
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
10 May, 2024 by Cully ecklund
Google Maps
star star star star star
30 Jul, 2023 by D og
They have been helping me take care of my friends estate. Very nice to work with.
Read more Google Maps
See more
star star star star star
10 May, 2024 by Clint roerig
Jeff has poor communication. Waited 2 weeks for nothing. Not even a call back. Don't deal with this group of unprofessional.
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
10 May, 2024 by Cully ecklund
Google Maps
star star star star star
30 Jul, 2023 by D og
They have been helping me take care of my friends estate. Very nice to work with.
Read more Google Maps
See more
star star star star star
12 Nov, 2023 by Kevin
Yall can fool yourself this guy is pathetic disrespectful and a joke and believe me when i say this i will have his job he bull shits through his teeth constantly cries wolf about being sick and i will be pulling all reviews and video recordings of his representation and taking them in front of the judge and the state governor and representatives as well as posting it all on every social media websites the best thing i got out this guy was the ratings he has and the laughs i got of being better off hiring your own belly button lint. He doesnt deserve his license especially when i who never studied law knows more about rcw and rights than he does.... Hes a pathetic waste of time and human life sorry not sorry.
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
06 Dec, 2021 by Jay
At the beginning of my case with Mr. Bougher, he was very helpful, informative, and all around a great guy. Far better than the only other attorney I've had. However, I've made 10-20 attempts between each hearing to contact him and he never responds. He then goes into the hearing and tells the Judge I'm the one who's failing to communicate. It's hard to recommend someone who behaves like this despite my first impression of him being so good.
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
15 Jan, 2021 by Anonymous
I hired Scott as my divorce attorney back in April. He sounded like a very promising lawyer and knowledge, dressing was questionable. After the first court hearing which I watched him shake while talking to the judge and other attorney, he went mute and told me he is in the hospital. There was no communication about the case. In November I was tired and ready to move on. I went to present my divorce documents myself. Scott got angry at me when I told him what I did and he send the papers to the other lawyer with words “this document was prepared by my clinical. She is from Somalia and does not know American laws.” I had to correct him and tell him I have never been to Somalia. I was shocked when he told me I am from Nigeria again I had to tell him I am not from Nigeria and he should take me as a client and know what I want and need and stop assigning me countries. I had the feeling he has no clue whom he was presenting. He would also tell me things like “you married your ex deal with it” this happens when I tell him to let my ex’s lawyer know that my ex has not given me his address as the parental plan required .on the last meeting with Scott, he started yelling at me told me he was going to get a lawyer and sue me for putting a review online then after talking about how he will sue me he asked me if that was a treat . Scott would not pick my calls will not return missed calls and even emails. I fired him after the incident. If you want peace of mind do not hire him.
Read more Avvo
See more
Discover the ideal lawyer
You can search a lawyer by practice area, lawyer name, city, state, or ZIP code
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.

Scroll to top