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26 Aug, 2024 by Zachary kochy
I got a traffic citation when traveling home from vacation. Cotten Law Firm handled my case for me so I didn’t have to travel 6 hours back to NC. Case was reduced to Improper Equipment. Could not have been more pleased! I called multiple times to check on things and was always greeted by a kind and helpful person on the other end of the phone. Highly recommend!
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23 Aug, 2024 by Hambuild 03
Was able to reduce a 81 in a 55 to 69 in a 55 and avoid my insurance from going up!
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22 Aug, 2024 by Ricardo chirinos
I recently hired Cotten Law to represent me in court for a traffic violation (never had to use the services of a law firm before) I was surprised with the low cost of representation and I’m impressed on how they handled my case and protected my driving record, they got my charges dismissed and protected me and my drivers license from points, I highly recommend this law firm, Jeremy Cotten was in point and very professional!!!
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16 Aug, 2024 by Megan mcgowan
Clayton & Jennifer at NC Planning were easy to work with, responsive, knowledgeable, and thorough during our time with them. I would recommend NC Planning for any need you may have. They were also able to provide recommendations for other services, which was very helpful.
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01 Aug, 2024 by Mitchell finch
I'm very grateful for Joshua Walthall and Boerema Blackton LLP. Josh's is humane with his clients. Courteous with other team members and stakeholders in the legal community. And the impact of his professionalism cannot be understated.
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31 Jul, 2024 by Noel mcintosh
I cannot speak highly enough of NC Planning! I just recently graduated from dental school and had the opportunity to pursue a full-time job opportunity. A dental school faculty member put me in contact with Jennifer Sweazy, who then connected me with Clayton Trice to negotiate my contract. He was incredibly helpful and understanding in what was such a daunting and anxious process for me. He was always quick to respond to me at any time and helped move the negotiation process along quickly and efficiently since my job offer was time sensitive. I truly feel like I got the most out of my contract thanks to him, and I recommend him and this firm to anyone who needs help advocating for themselves in the contract negotiation process. Thank you again Clayton and NC Planning! You all are amazing!
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26 Aug, 2024 by Zachary kochy
I got a traffic citation when traveling home from vacation. Cotten Law Firm handled my case for me so I didn’t have to travel 6 hours back to NC. Case was reduced to Improper Equipment. Could not have been more pleased! I called multiple times to check on things and was always greeted by a kind and helpful person on the other end of the phone. Highly recommend!
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23 Aug, 2024 by Hambuild 03
Was able to reduce a 81 in a 55 to 69 in a 55 and avoid my insurance from going up!
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22 Aug, 2024 by Ricardo chirinos
I recently hired Cotten Law to represent me in court for a traffic violation (never had to use the services of a law firm before) I was surprised with the low cost of representation and I’m impressed on how they handled my case and protected my driving record, they got my charges dismissed and protected me and my drivers license from points, I highly recommend this law firm, Jeremy Cotten was in point and very professional!!!
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26 Aug, 2024 by Zachary kochy
I got a traffic citation when traveling home from vacation. Cotten Law Firm handled my case for me so I didn’t have to travel 6 hours back to NC. Case was reduced to Improper Equipment. Could not have been more pleased! I called multiple times to check on things and was always greeted by a kind and helpful person on the other end of the phone. Highly recommend!
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23 Aug, 2024 by Hambuild 03
Was able to reduce a 81 in a 55 to 69 in a 55 and avoid my insurance from going up!
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22 Aug, 2024 by Ricardo chirinos
I recently hired Cotten Law to represent me in court for a traffic violation (never had to use the services of a law firm before) I was surprised with the low cost of representation and I’m impressed on how they handled my case and protected my driving record, they got my charges dismissed and protected me and my drivers license from points, I highly recommend this law firm, Jeremy Cotten was in point and very professional!!!
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26 Aug, 2024 by Zachary kochy
I got a traffic citation when traveling home from vacation. Cotten Law Firm handled my case for me so I didn’t have to travel 6 hours back to NC. Case was reduced to Improper Equipment. Could not have been more pleased! I called multiple times to check on things and was always greeted by a kind and helpful person on the other end of the phone. Highly recommend!
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23 Aug, 2024 by Hambuild 03
Was able to reduce a 81 in a 55 to 69 in a 55 and avoid my insurance from going up!
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22 Aug, 2024 by Ricardo chirinos
I recently hired Cotten Law to represent me in court for a traffic violation (never had to use the services of a law firm before) I was surprised with the low cost of representation and I’m impressed on how they handled my case and protected my driving record, they got my charges dismissed and protected me and my drivers license from points, I highly recommend this law firm, Jeremy Cotten was in point and very professional!!!
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26 Aug, 2024 by Zachary kochy
I got a traffic citation when traveling home from vacation. Cotten Law Firm handled my case for me so I didn’t have to travel 6 hours back to NC. Case was reduced to Improper Equipment. Could not have been more pleased! I called multiple times to check on things and was always greeted by a kind and helpful person on the other end of the phone. Highly recommend!
Read more
23 Aug, 2024 by Hambuild 03
Was able to reduce a 81 in a 55 to 69 in a 55 and avoid my insurance from going up!
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22 Aug, 2024 by Ricardo chirinos
I recently hired Cotten Law to represent me in court for a traffic violation (never had to use the services of a law firm before) I was surprised with the low cost of representation and I’m impressed on how they handled my case and protected my driving record, they got my charges dismissed and protected me and my drivers license from points, I highly recommend this law firm, Jeremy Cotten was in point and very professional!!!
Read more
26 Aug, 2024 by Zachary kochy
I got a traffic citation when traveling home from vacation. Cotten Law Firm handled my case for me so I didn’t have to travel 6 hours back to NC. Case was reduced to Improper Equipment. Could not have been more pleased! I called multiple times to check on things and was always greeted by a kind and helpful person on the other end of the phone. Highly recommend!
Read more
23 Aug, 2024 by Hambuild 03
Was able to reduce a 81 in a 55 to 69 in a 55 and avoid my insurance from going up!
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22 Aug, 2024 by Ricardo chirinos
I recently hired Cotten Law to represent me in court for a traffic violation (never had to use the services of a law firm before) I was surprised with the low cost of representation and I’m impressed on how they handled my case and protected my driving record, they got my charges dismissed and protected me and my drivers license from points, I highly recommend this law firm, Jeremy Cotten was in point and very professional!!!
Read more
26 Aug, 2024 by Zachary kochy
I got a traffic citation when traveling home from vacation. Cotten Law Firm handled my case for me so I didn’t have to travel 6 hours back to NC. Case was reduced to Improper Equipment. Could not have been more pleased! I called multiple times to check on things and was always greeted by a kind and helpful person on the other end of the phone. Highly recommend!
Read more
23 Aug, 2024 by Hambuild 03
Was able to reduce a 81 in a 55 to 69 in a 55 and avoid my insurance from going up!
Read more
22 Aug, 2024 by Ricardo chirinos
I recently hired Cotten Law to represent me in court for a traffic violation (never had to use the services of a law firm before) I was surprised with the low cost of representation and I’m impressed on how they handled my case and protected my driving record, they got my charges dismissed and protected me and my drivers license from points, I highly recommend this law firm, Jeremy Cotten was in point and very professional!!!
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28 Sep, 2024 by Chris zwolinski
Mr. Portnoy did an amazing job with timely email communication and ultimately got my traffic ticket completely dismissed. 10/10 would use his firm again.
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27 Sep, 2024 by Fern 17
25 Sep, 2024 by Artemio garcia
Highly recommend him 100% took care of my case really quick and got dismissed. Wouldn’t have chose a better attorney to take care of my case.
Muy buen abogado, se lo recomiendo 100% agarró mi caso y lo resolvió muy rápido y me lo despidió. Mi caso se buscan abogados. Se los recomiendo a él.
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28 Sep, 2024 by Chris zwolinski
Mr. Portnoy did an amazing job with timely email communication and ultimately got my traffic ticket completely dismissed. 10/10 would use his firm again.
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27 Sep, 2024 by Fern 17
25 Sep, 2024 by Artemio garcia
Highly recommend him 100% took care of my case really quick and got dismissed. Wouldn’t have chose a better attorney to take care of my case.
Muy buen abogado, se lo recomiendo 100% agarró mi caso y lo resolvió muy rápido y me lo despidió. Mi caso se buscan abogados. Se los recomiendo a él.
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28 Sep, 2024 by Chris zwolinski
Mr. Portnoy did an amazing job with timely email communication and ultimately got my traffic ticket completely dismissed. 10/10 would use his firm again.
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27 Sep, 2024 by Fern 17
25 Sep, 2024 by Artemio garcia
Highly recommend him 100% took care of my case really quick and got dismissed. Wouldn’t have chose a better attorney to take care of my case.
Muy buen abogado, se lo recomiendo 100% agarró mi caso y lo resolvió muy rápido y me lo despidió. Mi caso se buscan abogados. Se los recomiendo a él.
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28 Sep, 2024 by Chris zwolinski
Mr. Portnoy did an amazing job with timely email communication and ultimately got my traffic ticket completely dismissed. 10/10 would use his firm again.
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27 Sep, 2024 by Fern 17
25 Sep, 2024 by Artemio garcia
Highly recommend him 100% took care of my case really quick and got dismissed. Wouldn’t have chose a better attorney to take care of my case.
Muy buen abogado, se lo recomiendo 100% agarró mi caso y lo resolvió muy rápido y me lo despidió. Mi caso se buscan abogados. Se los recomiendo a él.
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14 Apr, 2024 by George
I highly recommend her. She was professional, knowledgeable, and easy to work with. She took the time to understand my business and provided personalized guidance throughout the entire process. She was also very responsive to my questions and always made herself available when I needed her. Thanks to her, my trademark application was approved in a timely manner. I couldn't be happier with the service she provided and would definitely use her services again in the future.
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05 Apr, 2023 by Keith
Katrina walked me through step by step in getting my business trademarked. She was super-detailed, very communicative, patient and she was fun to work with and she is not a boring lawyer!
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21 Aug, 2022 by Carmon
Katrina is AMAZING! Her knowledge and expertise provided me with a better understanding of the trademark process and helped me reevaluate my business and how it’s structured. I would recommend her!
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23 Sep, 2024 by Ali alsous
I cannot recommend Kevin and his services enough! Working with him was a pleasure from start to finish.
He was very relatable and easy to trust right away and worked dilligently and effectively to get my case resolved.
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28 Aug, 2024 by Donta spruill
Amazing attorney very nice and caring handled every case I gave him with no problems and the least damage to my record, never hassled me about money and always kept it professional and honest
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15 Aug, 2024 by Bailey
I cannot express how thankful I am that I hired Kevin as my lawyer. He not only got everything dismissed but he is genuinely just a good person. He was very empathetic and kind, he took time to listen and answer all questions, he made me feel like I was not alone. He is wonderful, and I cannot express that enough.
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07 May, 2019 by Tim
Brian was friendly, efficient and helpful. He made the house closing a very pleasant experience.
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07 May, 2019 by Kevin
Brian was very friendly and professional. He walked us through the massive stack of documents and explained each one to us. He made closing on a house very painless!
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05 May, 2019 by Ariele
Great, quick experience. The attorney was very knowledgeable and spoke in plain, easy to understand english. Great attorney for a first time home purchase.
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18 Dec, 2019 by Amy
Doug McClanahan is a very professional and well skilled lawyer. We have worked with him on several occasions and can say we will continue to turn to him when needed. He is knowledgeable, concise, skilled and well mannered.
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21 Oct, 2019 by Tom
I have worked with Doug Since 2001 after meeting him at a conference where he gave a presentation. After hearing him speak I knew he would be a good addition to my business for what he could offer. I have always worked well with Doug as he has taken care of the clients I have referred to him in a most professional, honest, courteous and timely manner, and with very reasonable costs. It has always been a pleasure to work with Doug, and will continue to do so.
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12 Oct, 2019 by John
My wife and I had an issue with our home. Doug was recommended by our closing attorney. He performed as expected and we received a settlement that was what we expected. Excellent with contract work and avoids pitfalls. He has earned our highest rating.
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10 Apr, 2024 by Danielle mickens
I love them they went up and beyond for me they are the greats I know I will use them if I have to again they checked on me and my kids all the time they made sure I knew what was going on at all times they are just the best
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25 Mar, 2024 by Paula rek
Although my case did not go in my favor, Attorney Posch was always professional, did his best and worked hard and diligently. I appreciate everything he and his staff did.
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26 Feb, 2024 by Iris cuchillas
17 Feb, 2022 by Mark
I had a wonderful experience working with Paige who was able to bring my case to a successful conclusion. Thanks again Paige you are highly recommended,
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14 Apr, 2021 by Anonymous
Paige came highly recommended from an attorney friend of mine. She did not disappoint me at all. I was starting a new business and she guided me down a bumpy path you go through with a startup. She gave me great advice on contracts, business decisions and legal questions. I could not thank her enough. I almost consider her a partner in my business.
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14 Apr, 2019 by Robin
Paige brought our faith back in lawyers. We had a horrendous experience with another attorney. We didn't listen to any other recommendations and found Paige online. She helped us successfully with our case. Along with her knowledge of the construction industry, she was also, honest, fair, quietly confident and diligent. Our case took 2.5 years and she was there for us the entire way. We would highly recommend Paige.
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10 Oct, 2019 by Christian
I've hired Chris Peck several times now. As a real estate investor, he has helped me with several closings. Chris is unbelievably thorough. He has "caught" countless errors in contracts and other intricate details of properties.
Also Chris helped my nonprofit organization get formed properly... and then he personally donated to the cause!
I am so glad I met Chris Peck, and I hope you have the pleasure as well!
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14 Jul, 2015 by Doug mcclanahan
I have worked with Chris for over a decade on a variety of business deals. He has always been responsive and professional. His work is top notch. I highly recommend him for legal business needs.
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07 Apr, 2014 by David
In my 20 years in banking I have aligned myself with a handful of exceptional referral partners. Chris is one of those trusted partners. Chris has done many commercial real estate closings for my clients through the years. His thorough title work goes above and beyond and he covers the challenges and potential risks in detail with the clients. Not only does he deliver this this excellent level of work, he does so at a great value compared with other firms I have worked with over the years. He has also done a personal (residential) closing for me that was handled in an excellent manner as well.
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02 Feb, 2010 by Bill
Ms. Brumback was the lead attorney on a team that defended a large national Architectural firm in a complicated claim brought by a very aggressive health care institution's legal team.
At all times, Ms. Brumback patiently and competently led our firm through the process. Our firm had been very successful over the many years it had been in operation in avoiding such claims and, as a result, required much guidance from the legal team in assisting in our own defense.
I, personally, and the firm, generally, would recommend Ms. Brumback to any design firm in need of an excellent defense.
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26 Jan, 2010 by Chris
I returned a product to a store owner and he claimed he would issue me a credit on my credit card once his credit card machine was working again. He never did after multiple phone calls and then sent me a bad check. Melissa wrote him a letter to "put the fear of God (or fear of lawyers, perhaps)" into him, which seemed to work, since he finally sent me a check for my refund that cleared.
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29 Dec, 2009 by James
Ms. Brumbach represented my firm on two separate occasions. The first as a member of a legal team who defended us against a former client. Rather than meet to discuss the concerns in person, this client was persuaded by an aggressive law firm to resolve the matter through the courts. Their incentive being the expectation of a large insurance settlement from a policy we carried at the time.
The second was as our attorney in a suit to collect fees from a client who withheld final payment for work we performed. Rather than meet to discuss, this client ceased communication.
In both instances she became familiar with the facts very quickly and developed a well conceived plan for both our defense and the merits of our claim.
We would not hesitate to engage her if the need arose once again.
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21 Aug, 2017 by Stephanie
We have used Donna for several years for our personal and professional needs. She is incredibly knowledgeable and advocates for her clients. We are a small family without large assets, but Donna and her team have always been generous with their time and given us the attention and advice we needed.
She helped us close several mortgages and a sale of our house, which would not have closed without Donna and her team going above and beyond (the buyer's attorney was clueless).
She has handled our estate planning, as well as healthcare powers of attorney. We have a unique family situation, and Donna's knowledge of NC law helped us create custom documents that have brought us tremendous peace of mind.
We highly recommend Donna.
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18 Aug, 2017 by Jeremy.drawas
I have been working with Donna for many years now and she has become an absolutely essential part of my team and a truly trusted partner.
She always takes my calls (early, late, weekends) and if she can't, she gets back to me very quickly -- as if I were her only client. She almost always knows the answers, but if she doesn't she knows the right people to contact. I know that she won't quit until the job gets done. And above all, I know that Donna is always working in my best interests and will always go above and beyond to ensure I am covered from a legal standing.
I could not more highly recommend Donna.
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17 Aug, 2017 by Joseph
We have used Donna's services several times from mortgage closings to customer collection issues to estate planning.
She answers all questions immediately and has a plan of action within minutes.
Donna is not only professional, but also a woman of her word and now a family friend.
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09 Feb, 2015 by Anne
Stacey Carless handled my uncontested divorce. I didn't have to go to her office or appear in court. It was efficient, fast and reasonably priced. She even sent me money back!
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11 Dec, 2014 by Ms. thornton
I had the pleasure of working with Stacey Carless. She was very attentive, knowledgeable, assertive and genuine.
She helped me to find a middle ground for all parties involved. I was able to voice my concerns, she welcomed my suggestions and encouraged positive feedback. She provided tools and conducts follow-ups.
I was truly satisfied with her services and would highly recommend her to others.
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18 Nov, 2014 by Dianne
Stacey's work on my case was great. It was such a relief not to have to worry about everything. She took care of everything for me. She was very responsive to my phone calls and emails and always kept me in the know of what was going on. She treated me as a person not just a case file. Anyone would be very lucky to have her represent them as an attorney.
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11 Jun, 2020 by Christopher balling
26 Jun, 2019 by Joel howell
22 Jan, 2018 by N goel
Great service.
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14 Dec, 2016 by Austin
1. A+ on legal knowledge
2. A+ on research on addressing the legal issues
3. A+ on genuine concern for client's case
4.A+ on customer service
5. Overall A+ Summa Cum Laude
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14 Jul, 2015 by Doug
I have known Jimmy for a number of years, working both collaboratively and having him as opposing counsel. I respect his legal experience and knowledge. His approach to legal matters is very practical, always keeping his eye on the overall goal and the bottom line. I do not hesitate to refer cases to him.
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19 Nov, 2013 by James
Jimmy Sprouse has taken great care of me for nearly a decade. As a small business owner I have found myself in some tough situations and have always been able to rely on Jimmy for timely and sound advice. He has been fair, honest and firm what it's been needed. I trust Jimmy, I'll continue to use his services and refer him to friends and colleagues. He's top notch.
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09 Jan, 2016 by Dominic high
I had several speeding tickets in NC dating back to 2001. I contacted Ms Bostrom and she immediately got back with me and we planned out a strategy to pursue these tickets. Seeing that the tickets were in several counties, Ms Bostrom had to do a bit of leg worked to make contact with several small county DAs. That was not an obstacle for her!
When all was said and done, Ms Bostrom somehow was able to get me out of a ticket that carried a possible suspension of my license,etc. I was able to pay other tickets and fines through Ms Bostrom and that was really great, seeing that I now live in New Jersey.
We communicated on the phone and via email and she was always forthright in what the possible scenarios entailed.
I'd suggest that you retain Ms Bostrom's services because she is that good. Thank you.
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21 Apr, 2015 by Shareasa
I received a speeding/revoked license ticket about 2 years ago while employed with a transit company. In order not to lose my job and my remaining driving privileges I was ordered to attend a driving class. Mrs. Bostrom was a great helper in getting me the information I needed in a fast and timely matter. Once class was paid for and completed I received a certificate as verification and Mrs. Bostrom presented it to the right person and charges were dismissed. She is SO great!!!
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22 Feb, 2013 by David
Michaela is smart, hard working, and extremely passionate about her profession. She will work hard to make sure you get what you need, and is understanding to most circumstances. She was very flexible in working with my busy scheduled and I was very happy with the outcome.
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27 May, 2017 by Edward
I have dealt with numerous Attorneys with my real estate investments, and only with Bill did I feel that I had a person who really cared about my rough situation. I knew without a doubt he had my back the entire time! Bill gave me well researched and outstanding legal advice by taking the extra time and effort to give me all my options. With all the emotional turmoil/harassment going on, I knew I was off my A game and felt extremely clouded, but Bill made me feel relaxed and gave me strength/courage through one of toughest time in my life! it was comforting to feel supported and be grounded again so I could make good decisions. Mr. Kroll was outstanding in negotiations, and was always ready to act and power through at the exact right time (I am seeing timing is everything).. with his legal expertise there was no bluffing him from my opponents... and in fact they were eager to settle after a few talks! I speculate they knew he and his firm would have kicked their asses.
I would highly recommend Mr. Kroll to anyone who is looking for one of the strongest lawyers in the country... Bill helped me solve my delicate situation... and not to sound like an geico ad ... saved me a load of money as well! Thank you Bill.. I am grateful!
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04 Apr, 2016 by Karen
William Kroll was an EXCELLENT attorney! Intelligent and detail oriented, yet has a relaxed personality. Definitely made, what was a miserable time in my financial life, so much easier to get through! And his assistant Melissa was THE BEST!! Never missed a detail, and helped me every step of the way! So very grateful to them both!!!
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12 Nov, 2015 by Anonymous
We we very nervous and scared when we consulted Bill. From day one he put us at ease, calmed us down and explain that sometimes in life we have to do things that go against our believes. Bill was always available to answer any question that we had. We hope to start anew again and want to thank him for giving us the light at the end of the tunnel. Antonio and Maria
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20 Jan, 2019 by Bridget
I highly recommend Mr. Rhodenhiser. He is efficient, professional, and compassionate that is why I am happy he is representing me. He always keeps me updated on my case and he is always available to answer all of my questions I have anytime of day! I highly recommend him to all of my family and friends or anyone seeking legal advice.
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14 Jan, 2019 by Jen
He is efficient, professional, organized, knows the law just to name a few reasons why I am glad he is representing me. I appreciate that he keeps good communication on the progress of my case. I do highly recommend him to my family and friends, to anyone who needs any legal needs.
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18 Jun, 2018 by Jason
Giles is your best choice when facing a difficult situation. He was very thorough in clearly communicating the best options for my specific situation, he was always available to continuously update me on my case. You will be impressed by his professionalism, his compassion.
I'm 100% satisfied with the resolution of my legal situation. Mr. Rhodenhiser rates are reasonable, and he is available whenever I need him.
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09 Oct, 2015 by Susan
I used the services of Nancy Wall, Wall Law Firm, for a 1031 Exchange Rental Property I was doing. The time frames for the 1031 Exchange were tight. Nancy was very thorough in researching title and timely in dealing with the 1031 Exchange Coordinator. Nancy earned my trust and respect. Not only that, she provided me support and encouragement along the way. I am deeply grateful. I would not hesitate to use Nancy as my escrow agent for North Central and North Eastern North Carolina in the future.
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11 Mar, 2015 by Stephen
My family and I were looking for an honest, “no nonsense” attorney who would be responsive to our needs (real-estate closing). We found that in Ms. Nancy M. Wall Esq. She kept her promises, was on time, and she was very professional (she actually listened to us). As an investigator I have spent my entire professional life working around and working with attorneys. We highly recommend this attorney. Thank you Ms. Wall.
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30 Nov, 2017 by Rick
Mr. Bratcher responded to my emails promptly and answered every question that I asked him. He went over a lease contract that I emailed to him and explained everything that I needed to know. I would hire Mr. Bratcher in an instant and recommend him very highly. This attorney knows his stuff and will not hesitate to respond to you.
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30 Jul, 2013 by Paul
Mr Bratcher helped me a great deal with my legal issues and I would recommend him anytime. He told me where to look in the statutes of law to my specific case. Thanks for a great job.
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11 Jan, 2020 by John yates
24 Aug, 2015 by Mike zetts
Mr. Isley is not only a brilliant attorney but also a tireless worker. When I visited Mr. Isley, I could tell that he was sincerely interested in me and my predicament.
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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.
