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14 Nov, 2009 by Anonymous
Eric Kraft is the best of the best. He's a concerned person, knowledgeable, goes the extra mile to get all the details, listens closely, and is true professional. In the courtroom he is confident but not arrogant, gives a smooth presentation in front of the judge, and speaks clearly so everyone can understand. He never shows signs of frustration or loses his cool. He won one case for me and now I have him working on another one. I have confidence the outcome will be the same as the first.
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08 Aug, 2024 by Casey
I had the pleasure of working with Jack, and I can't say enough about the incredible job he did for me. As a plaintiff’s attorney, Jack truly goes above and beyond for his clients. He took on my case on a contingency fee basis, which was a huge relief since it meant I didn’t have to worry about paying costly fees upfront. From the start, Jack was not only professional but also incredibly compassionate. He took the time to understand every detail of my case, always made sure I felt heard, and provided clear explanations of what to expect throughout the process. His dedication to fighting for justice was evident in every interaction we had. Jack’s expertise and determination led to a successful outcome, and I am beyond grateful for his hard work. He was always accessible, kept me informed, and made me feel like I was his top priority. If you’re looking for an attorney who genuinely cares about his clients and will fight tirelessly on your behalf, I highly recommend Jack. He is an outstanding attorney who delivers results!
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15 Feb, 2024 by C. midgett
Our litigation took years because we weren't in it for a quick settlement. Jack and his team worked with us every step of the way. He gave honest feedback in the preparation of what was to come and didn't rush the process. He wasn't just our lawyer, he became a trusted family friend. I am both pleased and proud of the work done. I would recommend him and his team to anyone.
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13 Apr, 2023 by Tony delcavo
I can't say enough good things about the McInnes Law firm. Jack is diligent, patient, empathetic and talented. He is willing to do what he can to see that justice is served and not so much about billable hours as most attorneys are. If I could give him 10 stars I would. Thanks Jack!!!
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20 Jul, 2022 by Maya williams
Mike and Michelle were very helpful and experienced, they helped guide me through my first experience with an attourny and court. They really helped ease my anxiety and assured me everything would work out and it did! I would highly recommend the Sharp firm!
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20 Jul, 2022 by Maya williams
Mike and Michelle were very helpful and experienced, they helped guide me through my first experience with an attourny and court. They really helped ease my anxiety and assured me everything would work out and it did! I would highly recommend the Sharp firm!
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21 Jun, 2024 by Tim and patty jacobsen
Working with Jennie was an amazing experience! We had established a trust nearly 25 years ago, which was in definite need of an update. This was one of those things we kept intending to do, but never quite seemed to get around to it. After our referral to Jennie, we decided to get to work on updating our estate planning, imagining this project was going to be time-consuming, overwhelming, and stressful. It was quite the opposite! Jennie made the entire experience a pleasant one from beginning to end. Her warm and friendly personality put us at ease right away as she answered our many questions. Jennie is highly organized and communicated with us promptly each step of the way so that we could complete this task easily and in a timely manner. We feel so much peace in knowing that we have a plan in place when needed and that our children won't be left trying to make difficult decisions on their own. If you have been putting off your own estate planning process, we highly recommend you take the next step and contact Jennie. This is one of the greatest gifts you can give to those you love!
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21 May, 2024 by Theresa shump
Jennie Carter helped me in several ways: First, she helped me by agreeing to engage with me as my attorney and by acknowledging me for what I had already accomplished before I engaged her, as well as encouraging and supporting me, calming down any fears and/or concerns that I had. She did this in all of our interactions. The above is extremely important as well as her looking over a Valid Probate Settlement Agreement that I needed assistance with because prior to Jennie agreeing to become my attorney I had been attempting to obtain one who would work for and with me for six months. I had called, left messages, wrote out on-line questions and answers, went in person to attorneys' offices to at least 90 different legal entities, law schools, legal agencies, private solo attorneys, big Legal attorney firms, etc. to no avail. Many would not even return my calls, weren't accepting new clients, didn't do the type of representation that I needed, wanted to charge me thousands of dollars for items that I didn't want or need to do. It was a very frustrating, angering, saddening, dejecting, rejecting process for me. I was at my wits end as to where and who I could or should turn to next when I got the Valid Probate Settlement Agreement. Especially since I had been calling, etc. all over Topeka, Lawrence and even some in the Kansas City, Ks and Mo areas. Once I obtained Jennie as my attorney my life and I calmed down. I didn't have to face each day knowing that I had to keep going through every means of communication possible to obtain an attorney. Plus, as stated above it was calming and peaceful to me knowing that I had someone on my side supporting and representing me who knew the Probate laws, procedures, etc. Jennie further demonstrated the above through how she handled the Valid Probate Settlement Agreement with and for me. She gave me her overall professional, expert legal opinion of it and whether or not it was favorable to me or not, answered questions over items that I had related to it, provided a written list of items that she felt that I should include in my next interaction with my brother's attorney as well as explained the Probate Hearing Procedures Process and other Probate items that I had questions about. I see Jennie as a very competent, straightforward, honest, supportive, patient, informative, professional attorney and person who I felt really cared about my legal Valid Probate Settlement Agreement matter and myself and one who would go out of her way if needed to assist me. She did call me back promptly if I needed her to due to the urgency of an upcoming Court Hearing. This promptness left me feeling important and valued as well as my concerns, questions, etc. Finally, I felt that she helps people like me by weighing and listening to what had happened in my search to obtain an attorney, what it was that I wanted her to assist me with, by being non-judgmental and being very clear, specific and direct as to what services that she would provide and the exact costs for these services and for additional services and/or her time if needed. Words will never be able to express my deep appreciation and gratitude for who Jennie was for me as an attorney and person as well as for the services and everything that she provided for me. Sincerely, Theresa Shump-Melito
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07 May, 2024 by Phil peterson
The Counts Law Firm and probate attorney Michelle Burge have helped me with long, complicated but successful defenses of my parents' wills and trusts from a litigious brother and his family. They have provided personal and professional service to the highest standards. I highly recommend both The Counts Law Firm and Michelle Burge.
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29 Jun, 2024 by Kevin cummings
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15 Dec, 2021 by Sandy andrew
Great Professionals. Took the time to listen to my issues and even though we were not the right fit, they referred me to the exact match without hesitation. Definitely will reccomend them!
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28 Jul, 2018 by Sarah wilkins
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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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