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07 Feb, 2024 by Anonymous
Your vacant lot is filled with tents, dogs, human excrement, and needles. Because it is private property, nothing can be done. Maybe fence it off? Lots of people are trying to actually live and feel safe in this area and the derelict property has a growing population of houseless folks living in squalor - I realize you live in a nice area and all, but you need to do something about this.
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18 Oct, 2019 by Alicia
Shawn is very knowledgeable especially in regards to foreclosures. I was referred to him by a friend and was expecting to pay for our telephone conversation and the helpful advice he gave which resolved my issues with my client, but his first consult was free!
I am happy to work with him in the future and would recommend him to my own real estate client when the time comes.
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18 Nov, 2017 by Peter
Shawn helped us negotiate a settlement out of court which may have saved us thousands of dollars. He was diligent in his background research for our case and was professional throughout the process. I would recommend Shawn for matters pertaining to both tenants and landlords rights!
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02 Jul, 2020 by Anonymous
Bryan and his team are very professional and easy to work with! They responded quickly and answered all of our questions. We had a great experience!
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18 Feb, 2020 by Anonymous
Mr. Dawson was hired as a personal injury attorney, but I had numerous problems.
1. He overstated and oversold his capabilities. The final outcome was much less that stated.
2. After two years on the case he did not have a single medical expert to testify in court for a permanently injured client, leaving no good options.
3. Lack of transparency was a serious issue. Mr. Dawson withheld critical documents from my review and approval, then expected me to sign agree to unsatisfactory terms.
4. Mr. Dawson threatened lien(s) if the case was not resolved, even though the demand letter was rushed out-the-door without my personal review.
5. In the end I felt very strongly the attorney was more concerned about collecting fees for himself than the well being of the client.
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13 Jan, 2019 by Quinton
I was in a pretty bad car accident recently. While recovering, I received word that the other driver was not accepting reponsibility. I was referred to the Dawson Law Group by several sources...some friends, some family. I contacted Bryan Dawson specifically and explained my situation. Mr. Dawson wrote an effective letter to the insurance company and it wasn't long before they had accepted fault. My case was complicated because it involved a natural disaster. When a case gets complicated, often both sides just agree to mutual fault. In my case the other driver had been negligent and operated his vehicle in my lane. Mr. Dawson made it clear that disregarding standard driving safety laws are not excused by inconvenience...especially when you cause damage and bodily harm to others.
During my case, Mr. Dawson exhibited kindness, compassion and effectiveness. His secretary and associates were helpful when he was unavailable assisting other clients. He was punctual in returning my calls and he listened to me when decisions needed to be made. I highly recommend Bryan Dawson and his whole law group. They're professional, friendly and very effective. I am grateful for their help.
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29 Aug, 2024 by Eric
Randal assisted my family with a very complicated lawsuit revolving around a neighbor dispute/nuisance claim. Although I am a licensed attorney myself, I knew I was in over my head. Every lawyer I spoke to suggested I hire Randal, and they were correct. He was able to remove the emotion from our case and keep us focused on the facts. We had some difficult discovery issues that he carefully navigated. Finally, he guided us through multiple rounds of mediation and was able to secure a fair settlement for us. This was a long and stressful process, and I don't know how we could have done it without Randal and his firm at our back. I can't say enough about his skills. He is an excellent writer, he knows the law, and he is a great negotiator. You will not find a better lawyer in Portland. Thanks Randal!
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26 Feb, 2024 by Memo
if you are asked to retain them, that means you have no case and your money will be lost. It happened to me.
Worst experience I have ever had. I do not recommend this law firm.
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22 Dec, 2020 by Anonymous
Randal B. Acker provided expert legal work for our small business and helped us navigate a complex legal matter to a very favorable outcome, while protecting our assets. I highly recommend Acker & Associates, they are honest and go to bat for you.
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28 Jun, 2018 by Amanda
I have hired Ross three times. We won all three times! He will battle for you. He will take your call at anytime even during his kid’s track meet. He cares deeply about his clients and will give 100% and then some. If you want to win, hire Ross!
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28 Jun, 2018 by Jillian
Ross Day is our attorney for our non profit organization called FARMS. He has been there for us since day 1 to help us with everything from organizing, public relations, and everything in between. Thanks to his extensive knowledge in land use and property rights law we have won at every step of the way in our legal battle against Josephine County infringing upon our rights as property owners. His confidence, generosity, and sense of humor puts my mind at ease and reassures me that we have the BEST attorney possible!
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27 Jun, 2018 by Chris
Does a great job communicating with clients and is an expert in his field . Highly recommended
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23 Sep, 2021 by Ray lewandowski
4 me is it
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03 Jun, 2021 by Linda
Mr.Rezvani, is beyond exceptional, he help with a situation that took four years to resolve, in everystep of the way he was knowledgeable of what to do or just plainly stepped in and took over the situation. I would highly recommend him to anyone or I would rehire him in the future if a situation were to ever come up again.
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13 Jun, 2020 by Carrie
This man is amazing. He does his job as a professional quite well. Answered questions and concerns I had about the foreclosure process, kept me up to date and in the end my deceased mother's home did not foreclose, it sold! Everyone got paid and made money for my brother and I. If I ever needed an attorney I would hire this man in an instant. Great guy, friendly, professional, understanding and informative what more could you ask for! Thank You Sia
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21 Jul, 2024 by Dawn w
Facing a lawsuit from a debt collector was incredibly stressful, but contacting Chris Mertens was the best decision I made! Chris took on my case with great professionalism, compassion and provided invaluable support throughout the process. He not only alleviated my concerns but also counter sued on my behalf. As a result, the debt was dismissed, removed from my report and I will be receiving compensation for my distress, which will cover his fees as well. Chris went above and beyond my expectations, and I highly recommend his services!
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09 Jun, 2024 by Chai vang
As a landlord, if you have been harassing your tenants and violating their rights, have no fear, Frank is here.
-Update 07/06/2024
Frank represented my landlord. After our case was settled, my landlord expressed how much regret he had for hiring this guy. A scumbag that represents other scumbags.
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25 Feb, 2024 by Elaine gultry
14 Mar, 2024 by Tashina rose “tashina†odonnell
26 Jan, 2023 by Ashleigh
I was involved in a car accident where I was not at fault so I at contacted and hired Peter to help me with a car insurance claim because I felt the insurance company was not being fair. I couldn’t recommend Peter enough because He and his team were so responsive, organized and they won my case! This was my first time going through the legal process so I was nervous and not sure what to expect. But Peter and team constantly communicated with me and took so much stress off my plate. My only regret was not reaching out to Peter sooner.
They earned my trust and I would tell anyone to reach out to Peter.
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12 Apr, 2022 by Anonymous
Our case was complex business divorce that involved multiple entities, business valuation dispute(s), and various fraud allegations/management disputes. Peter was able to help us understand and focus on the critical issues of the case, hire specialists that helped in formulating a winning strategy. He eventually lead us to a settlement that was favorable to us. Peter has been professional in his approach and was responsive to all our questions.
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06 Oct, 2024 by Nina b
Mark and his firm handled our case with professionalism and courtesy. We had so many questions and each and every one was answered in a timely and comprehensive manner. The outcome of our case was positive and we would recommend Mark and his associate, Tim Grishkevich, to anyone needing representation.
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04 Oct, 2024 by Connor rogers
I greatly appreciate the work done on my behalf by Mark and team. They were professional, the process working with them was smooth, and communication was excellent! Thank you all again!
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30 Sep, 2024 by Guest love
If you are facing not one but multiple criminal charges (counts) involving the operation of a motor vehicle which carry the potential consequences of jail time and a big license suspension if convicted, there is good news. You can call Ben and Mark.
Prior to facing this type of vexing ordeal, I had never been arrested in my lifetime. My case went all the way past a favorably conducted evidentiary hearing and legal conferences, just shy of having a 6-person jury trial scheduled with the Court over several months (longer than a year)—where Ben and Mark tirelessly, diligently, masterfully worked as the lead Attorney on defeating the entire case. All charges are being dismissed! Thank you.
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15 Dec, 2020 by Robin
It is a miracle that I found Mr. Ragland when I did. Andy prevented my daughter from being moved out of state after my divorce, a situation that was terrifying and confusing, and a challenge that he accepted with immediacy. He brought a lifelong career's worth of experience as well as the empathy of being a father and grandfather into this case and we fought back fiercely and won. This child relocation case was a high stakes, lengthy, and emotional journey for me as a father, and Mr. Ragland brought empathy, humor, and clarity of mind to an otherwise harrowing experience, and for such a sustained amount of time. To be frank, Andrew Ragland is my personal hero. He kept me grounded and focused and it's impossible for me to imagine how I could have gone through that case with any one else. A rare and wonderful human, and an immensely skilled, wise, and consummate attorney - I recommend Mr. Ragland immensely.
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03 Feb, 2015 by Anonymous
I consulted Mr. Ragland when I needed legal advice before becoming a first-time landlord. He reviewed my lease agreement and fee policy form, and he gave me timely and appropriate suggestions – all for a reasonable fee. I was pleased with the result, which lead to my new role as landlord with a very responsible and law-abiding tenant. Thank you!
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03 Feb, 2015 by William
I have employed Mr. Ragland's services about once a year for the last ten years. I have found Andrew to be approachable and responsive, his advice sound and based on a high level of integrity and moral standards, and good humored. I will continue to use Mr. Ragland's services and recommend him.
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06 Sep, 2019 by Thomas
He is pebbly best represented attorney anyone can ask for.. he is very professional an sharp .he has given me an my fiance a huge weight off out shoulders an he brings the real truth out an is very straight forward
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21 Mar, 2019 by Jen
While Mr Ainsworth wasn't the attorney I needed for my particular case, he still took the time to listen and guide my next steps. While looking over my case he also found an error made by the plaintiff's atty and explained how to challenge it and thus he potentially saved me thousands of dollars. When faced with lots of bureaucracy and frustrations his friendly kindness made everything feel far more manageable!
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13 Jul, 2014 by Chavon
I recently had Harry as my attorney, and he was very helpful. He went above and beyond. I would definitely recommend him to anyone who may be going through landlord tent issues.
Thank you so much Harry.....
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04 Mar, 2024 by Johnso116
Thank you so much for your quick response to my sister having a stroke w/o will or POA. Since the eldest son is here from overseas, it was a great comfort to discuss his options with him. We spent most of Sunday with the family and my sister...she passed quietly in her sleep early Monday morning...once again...thank you so much..
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24 Oct, 2019 by Georg
Ms Reisman was a great help to me. I came to her with my legal problem which was also a great source of stress. She was very responsive to my request, and helped me personally. She provided relevant and useful information and also showed that she cared about me and my well-being. She is very knowledgeable and also showed that she is a kind and caring human being, and not just looking for clients, but does want to help people.
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19 Jul, 2019 by Denise
I spoke with Joanne and she really knows her stuff. She helped point me in the right direction which was more than helpful. I would definitely recommend her to fight for me on any case.
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30 Jan, 2014 by Anonymous
It was great to work with David. He was knowledgeable and spent time educating me about my options, and, once hired, was a reassuring person to go through the paperwork and to the bankruptcy court with, which are stressful experiences, ones nobody hopes to face. I felt well prepared, and could tell that the Bankruptcy Trustee respected him. He went above and beyond what I expected, and his actions indicated that he has a good heart - priceless, in my book.
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30 Apr, 2013 by Mark
David was knowledgeable and professional. But most importantly, he made what could have been a humiliating and depressing experience a necessary and navigable transition back to the road of fiscal responsibility. His factual, no-nonsense demeanor made it easy to understand where we were going and his calm, reassuring way made you believe we would get there. And we did!
He and his staff stayed on top of my case, were always available and went the extra mile to get the job done. I couldn't be more pleased with their service. Thank you, David.
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27 Dec, 2012 by Minoo
David has exceeded my expectations on every level. He is extremely knowledgable and responsive and will take the time to explain everything until fully understood. I was an emotional mess when I first met him and he honestly could not have been more caring. He has earned my trust over the years and I cannot recommend him highly enough! His staff is also just as professional, knowledgable, and responsive and they've all been a pleasure to work with.
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26 Apr, 2020 by Elaina batey
07 Jun, 2016 by Wendy rigsby
We are in a difficult fight for our home, with tax debt problems. He made us feel like we have hope. He is confident and concise. He is a real person with understanding, not a full of himself showy attorney. Would recommend him to anyone!
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06 Oct, 2024 by Nina b
Mark and his firm handled our case with professionalism and courtesy. We had so many questions and each and every one was answered in a timely and comprehensive manner. The outcome of our case was positive and we would recommend Mark and his associate, Tim Grishkevich, to anyone needing representation.
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04 Oct, 2024 by Connor rogers
I greatly appreciate the work done on my behalf by Mark and team. They were professional, the process working with them was smooth, and communication was excellent! Thank you all again!
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30 Sep, 2024 by Guest love
If you are facing not one but multiple criminal charges (counts) involving the operation of a motor vehicle which carry the potential consequences of jail time and a big license suspension if convicted, there is good news. You can call Ben and Mark.
Prior to facing this type of vexing ordeal, I had never been arrested in my lifetime. My case went all the way past a favorably conducted evidentiary hearing and legal conferences, just shy of having a 6-person jury trial scheduled with the Court over several months (longer than a year)—where Ben and Mark tirelessly, diligently, masterfully worked as the lead Attorney on defeating the entire case. All charges are being dismissed! Thank you.
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21 May, 2024 by Chris jensen
Chris and his team are professional, knowledgable, and thorough. Chris has established himself as an attorney who can navigate the waters and his experience is unmatched.
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05 Apr, 2024 by Madonna coats
12 Mar, 2024 by Monica brackett
21 May, 2024 by Chris jensen
Chris and his team are professional, knowledgable, and thorough. Chris has established himself as an attorney who can navigate the waters and his experience is unmatched.
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05 Apr, 2024 by Madonna coats
12 Mar, 2024 by Monica brackett
11 Sep, 2021 by Rachel g
06 May, 2021 by Ken corbin
24 Mar, 2020 by :adam
He's an attorney, he serves nobody but the states interest.
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07 Oct, 2019 by Anonymous
I hired this lawyer to represent me in a landlord tenant case. It appeared to me that he did not have many clients, which was bad for me because I felt that he did everything he could to rack up my bill. He took MAX from his office downtown to Washington county courthouse and charged me his hourly rate. He could have taken a limo and charged it to me and it would have been cheaper.
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20 Jun, 2018 by Kara
Tim is truly the best to work with. He has been representing my company in all landlord/tenant related cases for the last few years. He is professional, kind, knowledgable and just amazing to work with. We would recommend him to anyone in need of a landlord/tenant attorney. Thank You Tim for everything!
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11 Nov, 2015 by Deb
Tim Murlphy knows His business. Sharp as a tack and well
Versed in Landlord Tennant Law.
My case was complicated because of a Tennant who not only refused to leave but had turned the property into a homeless camp.
Tim did a great job and with his expertise I'd use his services again in a heartbeat if needed.
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27 Aug, 2020 by Jessica b
I have worked with Shane Swilley several times over the last year or so - I can't recommend him enough. His thorough knowledge and excellent communication is unmatchable. He was able to provide guidance through a muddy situation that has now left both me and my business thriving. If you have any employment law needs I can't recommend Shane enough. He will absolutely be my go-to Employment Attorney moving forward.
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14 Nov, 2019 by Kevin hurst
I used this firm a few years ago to create my Will. They charged thousands of dollars and left me with a document I can’t understand and no directions for my heirs once I die. When I ask for clarification, they want more money ($250-$500/hr). I would never recommend using them for any legal service.
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12 Oct, 2019 by Terese demanuelle
Absolutely top notch law firm. Great team of attorneys. Worked with them for years with a complicated case. David Morrison and Dan Peterson greatly exceeded my expections. Wonderful communications, expert legal advice. Highly recommend. Terese
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27 Aug, 2020 by Jessica b
I have worked with Shane Swilley several times over the last year or so - I can't recommend him enough. His thorough knowledge and excellent communication is unmatchable. He was able to provide guidance through a muddy situation that has now left both me and my business thriving. If you have any employment law needs I can't recommend Shane enough. He will absolutely be my go-to Employment Attorney moving forward.
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14 Nov, 2019 by Kevin hurst
I used this firm a few years ago to create my Will. They charged thousands of dollars and left me with a document I can’t understand and no directions for my heirs once I die. When I ask for clarification, they want more money ($250-$500/hr). I would never recommend using them for any legal service.
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12 Oct, 2019 by Terese demanuelle
Absolutely top notch law firm. Great team of attorneys. Worked with them for years with a complicated case. David Morrison and Dan Peterson greatly exceeded my expections. Wonderful communications, expert legal advice. Highly recommend. Terese
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27 Aug, 2020 by Jessica b
I have worked with Shane Swilley several times over the last year or so - I can't recommend him enough. His thorough knowledge and excellent communication is unmatchable. He was able to provide guidance through a muddy situation that has now left both me and my business thriving. If you have any employment law needs I can't recommend Shane enough. He will absolutely be my go-to Employment Attorney moving forward.
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14 Nov, 2019 by Kevin hurst
I used this firm a few years ago to create my Will. They charged thousands of dollars and left me with a document I can’t understand and no directions for my heirs once I die. When I ask for clarification, they want more money ($250-$500/hr). I would never recommend using them for any legal service.
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12 Oct, 2019 by Terese demanuelle
Absolutely top notch law firm. Great team of attorneys. Worked with them for years with a complicated case. David Morrison and Dan Peterson greatly exceeded my expections. Wonderful communications, expert legal advice. Highly recommend. Terese
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05 Dec, 2020 by Paul burkett
09 Jun, 2020 by Fei stetzwa
Great lawyers building a great community. Thanks for hosting OC-NBA in your new digs. Fabulous art work, breath taking views, and hospitality galore.
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11 Aug, 2019 by Sam kuzma
05 Dec, 2020 by Paul burkett
09 Jun, 2020 by Fei stetzwa
Great lawyers building a great community. Thanks for hosting OC-NBA in your new digs. Fabulous art work, breath taking views, and hospitality galore.
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11 Aug, 2019 by Sam kuzma
05 Dec, 2020 by Paul burkett
09 Jun, 2020 by Fei stetzwa
Great lawyers building a great community. Thanks for hosting OC-NBA in your new digs. Fabulous art work, breath taking views, and hospitality galore.
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11 Aug, 2019 by Sam kuzma
05 Dec, 2020 by Paul burkett
09 Jun, 2020 by Fei stetzwa
Great lawyers building a great community. Thanks for hosting OC-NBA in your new digs. Fabulous art work, breath taking views, and hospitality galore.
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11 Aug, 2019 by Sam kuzma
05 Dec, 2020 by Paul burkett
09 Jun, 2020 by Fei stetzwa
Great lawyers building a great community. Thanks for hosting OC-NBA in your new digs. Fabulous art work, breath taking views, and hospitality galore.
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11 Aug, 2019 by Sam kuzma
10 Oct, 2024 by Courtney frost
Troy is rude, does not listen, is incredibly aggressive and argumentative. These are all traits that were exhibited outside of any kind of case. He is not somebody who works cooperatively he would like you to treat him as a God, which makes for a really bad attorney. He also didn’t seem to understand the nuances of the laws that we were referencing, which is incredibly concerning given that he is a landlord, tenant lawyer.It was very clear that he did not go over any of our case information before our phone call and so he just took money from us and wasted everyone’s time. He was more concerned with being right than actually addressing our case in a real way. Would not suggest working with this person as he immediately throws temper, tantrums like a toddler.
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26 Jul, 2024 by Kelsey burke
Troy is absolutely amazing and I am SO glad I was referred to him! I was in the process of being evicted from the extended stay hotel where I've been living since March and no one I'd reached out to seemed to want to take on my case. Out of sheer desperation, I emailed Troy 24 hours before my court date and within 15 minutes, he gave me a call! I was amazed at how fast he reached out.
We talked more about the case and he discovered the hotel had made a very big mistake when filing the eviction and Troy immediately agreed to take on my case.
He kept me in the loop the entire time and his communication was great. Within a few hours, he actually got the opposing lawyer to file a dismissal and I didn't even have to go to court today!
I really just cannot recommend Troy enough. He took a huge weight off my shoulders and I'm very grateful.
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07 Jul, 2024 by Tobias wenzel
A few good things. Troy has helped me and my wife twice before and we were very successful with his advice the first time, thats why I choose him again, he even gave us free advice sometimes. The second time was more to assert a point. Ayway, I had a slip and fall case that is my old landlords fault and no attorney wanted it, let alone reply to me. I consulted with troy (350$). We even had a meeting with my doctor, after this it turned out he thought I had a case. Some time went by over the holidays and Troy helped me submit a lawsuit right on Time and interrupted his holiday for this (after I searched almost a year for a pi attorney). He actually contacted me and told me I had to do it now! At this point he wasnt representing me but gave good advice. We talked again after the holidays on how to proceed and after he heared that there was a hiccup with a "liability waver" that our landlord had us sign (which is also against the law by the way and I also later pointed ors90.245 out), I feel like he instantly was not interested and thought it was too complicated and he also couldn't do it pro Bono. I followed up with an email discussing my decision and asked another question but literally never heared from him again. In search of other attorneys, he was still always the first recommended and this expierience doesn't line up with our first expierience with him. Nobody is perfect but as a lawyer there should be better and more timely communication. I am rather disappointed and feel a little misled, I did have to pay a substential consultation fee twice plus a expensive filing fee. Unfortunately throughout my journey of reporting my landlord everywhere possible, I found out that Oregon does not enforce tenant law. If you are poor, you are doomed. If you are rich, you can take them to court. But literally NO Agency exists that will help. Troy was my last chance in getting justice and failed me...."sticking it to the man.." yeah sure.
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20 Nov, 2023 by Mode
This attorney is your 100% Bernie Sanders attorney, if you want to have affordable housing being narcotics replete with all the violence and said people with the "right" to be that way then this is your attorney--narcotics addicts should consider him their #1 mob attorney.
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14 Nov, 2022 by Anonymous
I faced a difficult situation with tenants who refused to leave after legal notices were sent. After months of working to resolve the situation, it was apparent legal assistance was required to evict. This attorney was initially recommended by the Oregon State Bar. He worked with compassion for the tenants as requested, and excellent knowledge of the laws and procedures required. As a result, the case was resolved timely. Questions were answered with patience. Billing was clear, and was reasonable cost compared to others. No hidden charges or surprises. Highly recommend.
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14 Jul, 2022 by Bruce
I contacted eight lawyers and firms looking to get advice. Lewis Farmer was the only one to respond and his advice turned out to be accurate for what eventually happened with the company I was getting no communication from. Thank you.
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31 Jul, 2024 by Denycia haley
The attorneys here were so incredibly helpful and were able to point me in the right direction. Such a relief after speaking with so many offices who didn't provide me with any direction. Unfortunately, I will have to contact an attorney in another state but if it were here I would recommend them! Everyone I spoke with was lovely including the receptionist. Thanks so much for your help!
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15 Nov, 2023 by Barry haskins
14 Sep, 2022 by Jean topconstruction
BEWARE . They gave away my inheritance and I was the personal representative. They accepted a forged document and gave away my 1/3. In excess of 600k. Years later when I inquired they said SORRY and the receptionist laughed.
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11 Sep, 2021 by Rachel g
06 May, 2021 by Ken corbin
24 Mar, 2020 by :adam
He's an attorney, he serves nobody but the states interest.
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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.
