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Julius A. Rivera, experienced Estate Planning, Family Law attorney in Poughkeepsie, NY with 37 reviews
Average
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31,96
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4.8/5
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4.8
37 Reviews
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21 Feb, 2025 by James wolensky
It's okay
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17 Feb, 2025 by Francis mazariego
Really professional i got divorced and make it really smooth the hall process. You can call anytime always answer thank you for everything
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12 Dec, 2024 by Joe croce
If you are looking for an attorney Julius and his colleagues are easy and efficient to work with. And they are all nice. Thank you for what you did for us!!!!
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William Fredericks Bogle Jr, experienced Real Estate attorney in Poughkeepsie, NY with 39 reviews
Average
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
30,21
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4.5/5
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4.5
39 Reviews
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24 Feb, 2025 by Manoj pillay
Very Good Lawyer. Charges are reasonable and transperent in working.
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20 Mar, 2024 by Jon
I was not expecting much from an initial consultation but Heather was more than exceptional. Her attentiveness and advice on my situation was greatly appreciated given it was the first time we spoke. It would be all to easy to sign me up as a client and take my money but she didn't. That speaks to her charecter greatly. Heather, if I need your help I will be back! Thank you.
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06 Mar, 2024 by Michelle plain
My Aunt referred Heather to me as she was represented by her in the past and after talking to Heather I felt confident and comfortable in retaining her representation in my divorce. She and her staff answered all my questions, were available and were always professional. Thank you to Heather and her team for providing me with great representation!
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Niki Pagones Quinn, experienced Real Estate attorney in Poughkeepsie, NY with 11 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
28,61
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4.3/5
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4.3
11 Reviews
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02 Jul, 2023 by Raddigan bros noise experience
It’s been great working with my real estate lawyer Megan Mossey, and her paralegal Colleen while going through the process of buying a home. They outlined, and assisted me every step of the way alleviating a lot of stress.
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10 Jun, 2021 by Max wolf
I'll remove this if there's anything done to resolve this but they lied to us and gave "good faith" assurances that are leading to thousands of dollars of repairs and being without water for days with a baby. Do not trust them when they "assure" you of anything. Not trustworthy.
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28 Jan, 2021 by Barbara toledo-buglione
Best Real Estate Law Firm, staff is Fantastic especially Lisa
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Danielle Fenichel, experienced Family Law, Real Estate attorney in Poughkeepsie, NY with 6 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
28,55
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4.2/5
Avvo
4.2
6 Reviews
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17 Oct, 2024 by Anonymous
I tried to contact her but good luck she don’t call you unless you go in and make a complaint. So she not helping don’t expect it from her either I had to hit the consulted but we did. She just said we will meet at court
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10 Jan, 2018 by Shirley
It was an absolute pleasure having Danielle represent me during my divorce matter. Meeting her the first time for consultation was quite comfortable, she was easy to talk to and she patiently listened to all my concerns. I immediately decided to hire her and don't regret it. She was knowledgeable, super constructive and accommodating throughout the entire process; every step of my case was reviewed, discussed and all my emails/questions were immediately answered. If you are in need of a lawyer, look no further. I highly recommend Danielle Fenichel for the job. You will not be disappointed. P.S. Super affordable!!
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03 Dec, 2015 by Jennifer
Danielle was amazing! She was extremely understanding and handled my case extremely well for my son and I. She always kept the best interest of my child in mind and frequently has shown that in the court room. I would highly recommend her to anyone and everyone!
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Paul L. Banner, experienced Real Estate attorney in Poughkeepsie, NY with 1 reviews
Below Average
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
25,03
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3.0/5
Avvo
3.0
1 Reviews
star star star star star
08 Oct, 2011 by Anonymous
I've known and worked with Paul for twelve years, and find much to admire in him, but he was once rash in a way that proved costly to me. More: OJudgeBanner dot com.
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Craig M. Wallace, experienced Real Estate attorney in Poughkeepsie, NY with 15 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
24,41
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4.1/5
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4.1
15 Reviews
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16 Jun, 2021 by Amy bombardieri
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18 May, 2021 by Andrea bader
I highly recommend working with them.
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18 Apr, 2021 by Robert awad
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Heather Lynn Kitchen, experienced Child Custody, Child Support attorney in Poughkeepsie, NY with 4 reviews
Below Average
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
24,09
star star star star star
4.0/5
Avvo
4.0
4 Reviews
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03 Mar, 2019 by Elizabeth
We've used Heather Kitchen for years. She did my son's divorce, my guardianship in family court and recently did our wills. She is knowledgeable about all aspects our cases, so helpful and compassionate. She held our hand through every step of the process and made us feel extremely comfortable. We were extremely happy with the results in all our cases. I constantly recommend her and will continue to do so!!!! If you hire her you will be extremely happy you did so!
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23 Feb, 2019 by Juliet
I Highly recommend Heather Kitchen. Thankfully I was refer to Heather Kitchen by a family member after I was taking advantage of and screw over by Steven Klein & Associates. The staff at Heather Kitchen law firm was able to correct and coordinate all the damage that was initially done by Steven Klein. I was able to work with Heather Kitchen and her team to put together an actual plan on how to positively pursue the completion of my pending divorce. I was met with empathy and kindness. Heather Kitchen and her staff were professional, hands-on, reactive, supportive, direct and clear. When my case needed added attention and clarity, there were no delay, when I was in need of a stern voice of advocacy they were there for me. I never felt like I was being taken advantage of or as if billing was the priority. Heather Kitchen immediately response to my email and is attentive to my concerns. More importantly she kept me focused and my eyes towards the end goal. In the end I realize this is the most important trait in a divorce attorney. The paralegal Debbie Stinson always got my messages to her and got back to me in a timely manner, produced concise documents and made sure I was given copies and was in general extremely competent before and leading up to the trial. In the end Heather Kitchen secured a settlement that I was extremely pleased with. I highly recommend the law office of Heather Kitchen for all of your matrimonial and family law needs. You won’t be disappointed.
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19 Feb, 2019 by Anonymous
Heather was great with my case. She was detail oriented, professional and courteous. She got the right results.
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James Edward Nelson, experienced Family Law, Real Estate attorney in Poughkeepsie, NY with 12 reviews
Below Average
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
24,01
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4.0/5
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4.0
12 Reviews
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16 Jun, 2021 by Amy bombardieri
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18 May, 2021 by Andrea bader
I highly recommend working with them.
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18 Oct, 2020 by Gina spagnoli
We used this form for our house closing and both Marty and Becky went above and beyond. They were extremely attentive and very quick to respond. They walked us through the entire process from beginning to end ! I would recommend them in a heart beat!
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John Karl Gifford, experienced Estate Planning, Family Law attorney in Poughkeepsie, NY with 12 reviews
Below Average
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
24,01
star star star star star
4.0/5
Google Maps
4.0
12 Reviews
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16 Jun, 2021 by Amy bombardieri
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18 May, 2021 by Andrea bader
I highly recommend working with them.
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18 Oct, 2020 by Gina spagnoli
We used this form for our house closing and both Marty and Becky went above and beyond. They were extremely attentive and very quick to respond. They walked us through the entire process from beginning to end ! I would recommend them in a heart beat!
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Gerard John Comatos, experienced Family Law, Real Estate attorney in Poughkeepsie, NY with 12 reviews
Below Average
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
24,01
star star star star star
4.0/5
Google Maps
4.0
12 Reviews
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16 Jun, 2021 by Amy bombardieri
Google Maps
star star star star star
18 May, 2021 by Andrea bader
I highly recommend working with them.
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18 Oct, 2020 by Gina spagnoli
We used this form for our house closing and both Marty and Becky went above and beyond. They were extremely attentive and very quick to respond. They walked us through the entire process from beginning to end ! I would recommend them in a heart beat!
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Jeffrey S. Battistoni, experienced Elder Law, Family Law attorney in Poughkeepsie, NY with 12 reviews
Below Average
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
24,01
star star star star star
4.0/5
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4.0
12 Reviews
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16 Jun, 2021 by Amy bombardieri
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18 May, 2021 by Andrea bader
I highly recommend working with them.
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18 Oct, 2020 by Gina spagnoli
We used this form for our house closing and both Marty and Becky went above and beyond. They were extremely attentive and very quick to respond. They walked us through the entire process from beginning to end ! I would recommend them in a heart beat!
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Cynthia Silverio Rosenzweig, experienced Family Law, Real Estate attorney in Poughkeepsie, NY with 12 reviews
Below Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
24,01
star star star star star
4.0/5
Google Maps
4.0
12 Reviews
star star star star star
16 Jun, 2021 by Amy bombardieri
Google Maps
star star star star star
18 May, 2021 by Andrea bader
I highly recommend working with them.
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18 Oct, 2020 by Gina spagnoli
We used this form for our house closing and both Marty and Becky went above and beyond. They were extremely attentive and very quick to respond. They walked us through the entire process from beginning to end ! I would recommend them in a heart beat!
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Susan Shwe Htoo, experienced Business, Personal Injury attorney in Poughkeepsie, NY with 5 reviews
Below Average
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
23,80
star star star star star
4.0/5
Google Maps
4.0
5 Reviews
star star star star star
19 May, 2022 by John namerow
After a horrible experience with another lawyer, I used Gary Levine's law services. he did a great job for me, and answered every single one of my many questions. Nice guy, and and I would highly recommend him to others.
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10 Nov, 2021 by Chris guglielmo
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12 Aug, 2021 by Gregg farina
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Julie Estee Iacobucci, experienced Estate Planning, Real Estate attorney in Poughkeepsie, NY with 27 reviews
Below Average
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
18,40
star star star star star
3.5/5
Google Maps
3.5
27 Reviews
star star star star star
09 Mar, 2024 by Michael verrastro
Great experience with DKL. Very professional. Helped get a positive result with my claim. Ed Delauter was great.
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24 Sep, 2023 by Laura conca
So helpful to so many people!
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08 Sep, 2023 by Emmet
Dennis is amazing!
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Kelly L. Traver, experienced Elder Law, Estate Planning attorney in Poughkeepsie, NY with 16 reviews
Below Average
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
18,11
star star star star star
2.5/5
Avvo
1.0
1 Reviews
Google Maps
4.1
15 Reviews
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24 Jun, 2024 by Anonymous
It is hard to assess someone's competence when they rarely, if ever, respond to your calls or emails. My mother died in 2022 and I hired her to deal with the probate court. Initially, everything seemed fine but it is more than halfway through 2024, and I can't get her to respond to calls or emails. As far as I know, all we need to do is file a final tax return and submit the final docs with the probate court, and I was told we don't have to wait until next tax season so I am baffled why we haven't completed this process. Complete lack of empathy. Why prolong our pain? I do not recommend!!!
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16 Jun, 2021 by Amy bombardieri
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18 May, 2021 by Andrea bader
I highly recommend working with them.
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Kevin Patrick Barry, experienced Real Estate attorney in Poughkeepsie, NY with 4 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
13,73
star star star star star
3.0/5
Avvo
3.0
4 Reviews
star star star star star
14 Jun, 2018 by Anonymous
Although it has been several years ago, I'm still upset.. Mr Barry was my attorney for my divorce. Of course it was a trying time. Mr Barry lost his temper at a meeting with my ex's attorney and we were asked to leave. After all was said and done, we finally signed the last of the paperwork and were divorced. I thought. Eight months later, Mr. Barry's office calls me and asked me if I still had my original documents. They could not find theirs and they discovered that they had never filed my divorce papers with the court! I went to another attorney who filed the papers that made my divorce final. Not very impressive at all
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03 Oct, 2017 by Anonymous
Kevin Barry was not only a great lawyer but a great person. His office was very welcoming and I knew I could trust him to do good work for me. Very pleased and will recommend to friends and family.
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31 Jan, 2012 by Anonymous
i had serious legal trouble and i contacted Mr. Barrys office. He always answered his phone (cell) when i really needed him. The office staff was more than concerned and filled the gaps when my lawyer wasnt available. I felt like i was in the hands of a concerned professional. I was very pleased and told close friends and family to call his office when they needed a lawyer.
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Eugenia Brennan Heslin, experienced Criminal Defense, Litigation attorney in Poughkeepsie, NY with 2 reviews
Below Average
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
13,69
star star star star star
3.0/5
Avvo
3.0
2 Reviews
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28 Dec, 2014 by Anonymous
Responsive, sympathetic, honest, straightforward. Helped me and my family through some very hard times.
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17 Apr, 2012 by Anonymous
It's all in "who" you know. Had confidence in this lawyer. Worked with her for a year, but as the court date approached, NO communication!! Betrayed. My children have suffered immeasurably. If I knew then, what I know NOW (yes, I know exactly what went on-disgusting), I would have sought new counsel. Shameful!
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Richard Ivan Cantor, experienced Real Estate attorney in Poughkeepsie, NY with 4 reviews
Below Average
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
13,65
star star star star star
3.0/5
Google Maps
3.0
4 Reviews
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05 Jan, 2024 by R w kirby
Vincent Teahan has represented my interests and those of my family for decades. He has always brought highly informed, intelligent, and constructive attention to the various and generally complex matters presented to him, and done so at reasonable rates
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04 Dec, 2023 by Gigi gigi
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13 May, 2021 by Brian h
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Lillian Sandra Weigert, experienced Business, Debt Collection attorney in Poughkeepsie, NY with 1 reviews
Below Average
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
11,72
star star star star star
2.0/5
Avvo
2.0
1 Reviews
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25 Jan, 2015 by Anonymous
I was one of 3 equal partners in a horse farm/real estate LLC; unfortunately the other two were grifters and in many deliberate ways sabotaged the corporation, They submitted an unsigned by me agreement to buy out one of the partners who was a lawyer who, acting pro-se while receiving SSD due to incapacity to practice law, sued me to buy him out despite the fact that the second suit began after the time limited contract had run out. He placed a lien on my house. Despite the Appellate Division's decision that the Supreme Court Justice had no legal rationale to order me to pay, (as the deep pocket), who never signed the time limited buy out; the lawyer partner proceeded with his dissolution cause of action. When the dissolution of the LLC case was resumed, Ms. Weigert overcharged me to "think about" my case and review almost every document in this large file despite my telling her the facts to focus on for the action brought by the attorney partner to dissolve the LLC. I separated the documents that were necessary to review and wrote a history of the lawyer and horse trainer grifter partners and what they had done and how much money they cheated me out of and how they worked to sabotage the LLC including not paying their share of the mortgage payments nor fixing the rate; non- payment of taxes and a phoney $90,000 construction agreement that the trainer illegally signed; which all contributed to the land being forclosed on. The operating agreement of the LLC stated that all 3 partners had to agree on anything over $2500 spent. The lawyer partner was to act as the business officer. Ms. Weigert did nothing to work out the financial losses that these grifters caused me and only agreed to dissolve the LLC. She also "advised" me not to appear in Court do as not to get involved in any arguments with the other two. Even with being grossly overcharged for unprovable and obscure "work" on the case and incorrect information, (the name and address of the person who bought the forclosed property at auction after the construction company signers of the phony work order- lien, could not afford to buy it and who, in addition, removed all the good farmland topsoil and did not reimburse the LLC, I still have not received any justice in this travesty and probably never will.
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Michael John O'Connor, experienced Business, Family Law attorney in Poughkeepsie, NY with 1 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
4,57
star star star star star
1.0/5
Avvo
1.0
1 Reviews
star star star star star
28 Aug, 2017 by David
Should not be practicing any kind of real estate law. Brought him my case and totally botched every. Never contacted anyone. Did no research and if he had he would have found a major conflict of interest in the opposing side.
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Joan Quinn, experienced Business, Real Estate attorney in Poughkeepsie, NY with 0 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
4,00
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0.0/5
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Stephen Martin Saland, experienced Estate Planning, Real Estate attorney in Poughkeepsie, NY with 0 reviews
Below Average
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
4,00
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0.0/5
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Stephen Edwin Ehlers, experienced Business, Real Estate attorney in Poughkeepsie, NY with 0 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
4,00
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0.0/5
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Sean Michael Kemp, experienced Business, Litigation attorney in Poughkeepsie, NY with 0 reviews
Below Average
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
4,00
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0.0/5
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Richard John Olson, experienced Business, Real Estate attorney in Poughkeepsie, NY with 0 reviews
Below Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
4,00
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0.0/5
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Richard J. Graham, experienced Business, Real Estate attorney in Poughkeepsie, NY with 0 reviews
Below Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
4,00
star star star star star
0.0/5
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Paul O. Sullivan, experienced Litigation, Real Estate attorney in Poughkeepsie, NY with 0 reviews
Below Average
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
4,00
star star star star star
0.0/5
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Lou Lewis, experienced Appeals, Litigation attorney in Poughkeepsie, NY with 0 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
4,00
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0.0/5
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Linda Marie Johnson Terner, experienced Business, Litigation attorney in Poughkeepsie, NY with 0 reviews
Below Average
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
4,00
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0.0/5
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Karen Folster Lesperance, experienced Business, Civil Rights attorney in Poughkeepsie, NY with 0 reviews
Below Average
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
4,00
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0.0/5
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FAQs
Questions? We have answers

What a Real Estate Lawyer Can Do for You

A real estate lawyer provides legal assistance in transactions and disputes involving property, including residential and commercial real estate. Whether you're buying, selling, leasing, or developing property, a real estate attorney can help ensure that your transactions are legally sound and your rights are protected. They review contracts, perform due diligence, resolve disputes, and provide legal representation in negotiations and litigation involving property matters.

Real estate lawyers are crucial in safeguarding your investment by ensuring compliance with local, state, and federal real estate laws, as well as protecting you from potential legal pitfalls related to property ownership and transactions.

When Should I Hire a Real Estate Lawyer?

Hiring a real estate lawyer is beneficial in various scenarios, including:

  • Buying or selling property: When navigating complex real estate contracts, it’s advisable to have a lawyer review and ensure that the terms are favorable and legal.
  • Commercial property transactions: For leasing, purchasing, or selling commercial properties, a lawyer can help manage the intricate legal aspects of such transactions.
  • Zoning or land use issues: If you're planning to develop property or change its use, a real estate lawyer can guide you through zoning laws and land use regulations.
  • Resolving property disputes: For boundary disputes, title issues, or disagreements over property rights, a lawyer can help mediate or litigate the matter.
  • Foreclosures or evictions: If you're dealing with foreclosure or managing a tenant eviction, legal representation ensures that the process adheres to local laws and protects your interests.
  • Title and deed issues: Lawyers can help clear title disputes, ensure the legitimacy of property deeds, and handle transfers of ownership.

What Does a Real Estate Lawyer Do?

A real estate lawyer provides a range of services to help with property transactions and disputes, including:

  • Contract drafting and review: Ensuring that purchase agreements, leases, and other contracts are legally binding, fair, and protect your interests.
  • Title search and clearance: Conducting a thorough title search to ensure that the property has no legal claims or liens that could affect ownership.
  • Facilitate closing: Managing the closing process in real estate transactions, including reviewing final documents and ensuring that everything is in order before the transfer of ownership.
  • Resolve disputes: Handling legal disputes related to property ownership, boundaries, zoning, or tenants.
  • Assist in financing: Reviewing loan agreements and mortgage documents to ensure the terms are fair and legally sound.
  • Zoning and land use advice: Guiding clients through the complexities of zoning laws and building regulations for property development or renovation projects.

How Are Real Estate Lawyers Paid?

Real estate lawyers typically charge for their services in the following ways:

  • Flat fee: Many real estate transactions, such as reviewing a sales contract or assisting with a closing, are charged on a flat-fee basis.
  • Hourly rates: If a lawyer is handling complex disputes or litigation, they may charge by the hour. Hourly rates can vary significantly based on the lawyer’s experience and location.
  • Contingency fees: In rare cases, such as property disputes or claims for damages, a lawyer may work on a contingency fee basis, meaning they only get paid if you win or settle the case.
  • Retainer: For ongoing legal support, some clients may pay a retainer, which is an upfront fee used as a deposit for future legal services.

It's important to clarify the fee structure with your attorney before hiring them to avoid any surprises.

How Much Does a Real Estate Lawyer Cost?

The cost of a real estate lawyer varies based on the complexity of the matter, the location of the property, and the lawyer’s experience. Key factors that affect pricing include:

  • Type of transaction or issue: Simple tasks, like contract reviews, typically cost less than handling a complex property dispute or litigation.
  • Experience and location: More experienced lawyers or those in high-demand areas, like urban centers, often charge higher rates.
  • Billing structure: Lawyers may charge a flat fee for basic services like document review or hourly for more time-intensive work such as disputes or litigation.

Flat fees for straightforward services like closing assistance may range from $500 to $1,500.

Hourly rates can range from $150 to $400 or more, depending on the attorney’s experience and location.

Always discuss fees upfront to understand the overall cost of the legal service you're receiving.

Top Questions to Ask a Real Estate Lawyer

Before hiring a real estate lawyer, ask the following questions to ensure they are the right fit for your legal needs:

  1. What experience do you have with real estate law?
    Ensure the lawyer has experience in the type of real estate transaction or dispute you’re facing, whether residential, commercial, or development-related.
  2. What is your fee structure?
    Ask how the lawyer charges for services - whether it's a flat fee, hourly rate, or retainer - so there are no surprises later on.
  3. How long will the process take?
    Especially important for real estate transactions or disputes with deadlines, ask for a general estimate of how long the process will last.
  4. Have you handled cases similar to mine?
    Experience with similar transactions or disputes can give you confidence that the lawyer knows how to handle your case.
  5. Will you handle my case personally, or will it be passed to another attorney?
    Confirm who will be handling the bulk of your case work, especially in larger firms where junior lawyers may take on some responsibilities.
  6. Can you provide references?
    Speaking with past clients can give you insight into the lawyer's experience and how they handle cases.

How to Check the Credibility of a Real Estate Lawyer

To ensure you’re hiring a reputable real estate lawyer, take these steps:

  • Check with the state bar association: Verify that the lawyer is licensed and in good standing with no disciplinary actions on their record.
  • Read online reviews and testimonials: Look for reviews on legal directories and platforms like Avvo or Martindale-Hubbell to see what past clients have said.
  • Ask for references: A credible lawyer should have past clients willing to share their experiences.
  • Review their track record and expertise: Look at the lawyer’s website or LinkedIn profile for information about their experience in real estate law and any relevant cases they’ve handled.
  • Membership in professional organizations: Lawyers who are members of respected legal or real estate organizations, like the American Bar Association’s Real Property Division, often signal credibility and expertise.

What Should I Prepare for My First Consultation?

To make your first meeting with a real estate lawyer productive, you should prepare the following materials:

  • Relevant property documents: Bring purchase agreements, lease contracts, mortgage documents, zoning permits, or any other paperwork related to your case.
  • A summary of the issue or transaction: Be ready to explain the situation, whether it's a property dispute, contract negotiation, or development issue.
  • Questions about the legal process: Prepare a list of questions about how the lawyer will handle your case and what steps are involved.
  • Financial documents or loan agreements: If the case involves financing or a mortgage, bring any related documents for the lawyer to review.
  • Your goals and timeline: Be clear about what outcome you're hoping for, and if there are any deadlines that need to be considered, such as closing dates or legal filings.

By coming prepared, you can ensure that your consultation is efficient and informative, allowing you to assess whether the lawyer is the right fit for your real estate needs.

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