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09 Jul, 2024 by Josephine buchanan
Clifford law firm was to represent my son in 2 counties both wake and sampson. He showed up once in wake none in sampson after being paid to be my son's rep. I would not hear from him nor my daughter in law would see him attend to business. The man mumbles and I could not understand most of what he was saying even though he was apprised I am hard of hearing. 20 months and nothing he said he would do was done. I even hesitate to give one star he deserves none.
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21 May, 2024 by Phil black
14 Aug, 2023 by Julia hobbs
Nick is a fantastic and personable lawyer. He went above and beyond to help me with my case. Even after I didn't complete everything I was suppose to, he stuck through and helped me get more time. I'm very grateful that I hired him as my attorney and would highly recommend him to anyone.
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05 Aug, 2024 by Mark north
21st century law firm. available online. They are handling my divorce. My lawyer, Victoria, is understanding, empathetic and professional. I could not be in better hands.
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03 Mar, 2024 by Sharon baumgarten
McKenzie and her team were amazing to work with- they were responsive, professional and patient. McKenzie not only listened to my concerns and answered all of my questions, she offered timely and practical solutions that worked in my best interest. I HIGHLY recommend McKenzie and her team!!!
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23 Sep, 2022 by Angela
05 Aug, 2024 by Mark north
21st century law firm. available online. They are handling my divorce. My lawyer, Victoria, is understanding, empathetic and professional. I could not be in better hands.
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03 Mar, 2024 by Sharon baumgarten
McKenzie and her team were amazing to work with- they were responsive, professional and patient. McKenzie not only listened to my concerns and answered all of my questions, she offered timely and practical solutions that worked in my best interest. I HIGHLY recommend McKenzie and her team!!!
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23 Sep, 2022 by Angela
05 Aug, 2024 by Mark north
21st century law firm. available online. They are handling my divorce. My lawyer, Victoria, is understanding, empathetic and professional. I could not be in better hands.
Read more
03 Mar, 2024 by Sharon baumgarten
McKenzie and her team were amazing to work with- they were responsive, professional and patient. McKenzie not only listened to my concerns and answered all of my questions, she offered timely and practical solutions that worked in my best interest. I HIGHLY recommend McKenzie and her team!!!
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23 Sep, 2022 by Angela
15 Aug, 2023 by Thach vincent
I would not recommend this attorney to anyone who is seeking someone who cares about all families and women especially.
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05 Aug, 2023 by Eve maletz
17 Jul, 2021 by Jon mabbett
31 Oct, 2023 by Justin card
I have used the Horsley Law Firm twice and they are the best. Jeff and his staff are incredibly professional. Jeff is the best counsel you can get!
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24 Dec, 2022 by Melony
07 Jul, 2022 by Ro
This review is about Jeff Horsley & Ana Mathamba: Ana and Jeff were exceptionally professional and enjoyable to work with on the several properties that my husband and I purchased in the last year, all in the Winston Salem Triad area. Every time we had our many and varied questions on the properties and the documentation and the process, Ana and Jeff promptly got back to us and found out the answers for us. We experienced Ana and Jeff to be scrupulously honest, knowledgeable, and quite detail oriented - all traits that are very important in the real estate industry. We have been thoroughly pleased with Ana and Jeff's work ethic and pleasant personalities. If we could have given them more stars, we would have gladly done so!!! Thank you for everything Ana and Jeff!
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09 Jul, 2024 by Josephine buchanan
Clifford law firm was to represent my son in 2 counties both wake and sampson. He showed up once in wake none in sampson after being paid to be my son's rep. I would not hear from him nor my daughter in law would see him attend to business. The man mumbles and I could not understand most of what he was saying even though he was apprised I am hard of hearing. 20 months and nothing he said he would do was done. I even hesitate to give one star he deserves none.
Read more
21 May, 2024 by Phil black
14 Aug, 2023 by Julia hobbs
Nick is a fantastic and personable lawyer. He went above and beyond to help me with my case. Even after I didn't complete everything I was suppose to, he stuck through and helped me get more time. I'm very grateful that I hired him as my attorney and would highly recommend him to anyone.
Read more
09 Jul, 2024 by Josephine buchanan
Clifford law firm was to represent my son in 2 counties both wake and sampson. He showed up once in wake none in sampson after being paid to be my son's rep. I would not hear from him nor my daughter in law would see him attend to business. The man mumbles and I could not understand most of what he was saying even though he was apprised I am hard of hearing. 20 months and nothing he said he would do was done. I even hesitate to give one star he deserves none.
Read more
21 May, 2024 by Phil black
14 Aug, 2023 by Julia hobbs
Nick is a fantastic and personable lawyer. He went above and beyond to help me with my case. Even after I didn't complete everything I was suppose to, he stuck through and helped me get more time. I'm very grateful that I hired him as my attorney and would highly recommend him to anyone.
Read more
09 Jul, 2024 by Josephine buchanan
Clifford law firm was to represent my son in 2 counties both wake and sampson. He showed up once in wake none in sampson after being paid to be my son's rep. I would not hear from him nor my daughter in law would see him attend to business. The man mumbles and I could not understand most of what he was saying even though he was apprised I am hard of hearing. 20 months and nothing he said he would do was done. I even hesitate to give one star he deserves none.
Read more
21 May, 2024 by Phil black
14 Aug, 2023 by Julia hobbs
Nick is a fantastic and personable lawyer. He went above and beyond to help me with my case. Even after I didn't complete everything I was suppose to, he stuck through and helped me get more time. I'm very grateful that I hired him as my attorney and would highly recommend him to anyone.
Read more
09 Jul, 2024 by Josephine buchanan
Clifford law firm was to represent my son in 2 counties both wake and sampson. He showed up once in wake none in sampson after being paid to be my son's rep. I would not hear from him nor my daughter in law would see him attend to business. The man mumbles and I could not understand most of what he was saying even though he was apprised I am hard of hearing. 20 months and nothing he said he would do was done. I even hesitate to give one star he deserves none.
Read more
21 May, 2024 by Phil black
14 Aug, 2023 by Julia hobbs
Nick is a fantastic and personable lawyer. He went above and beyond to help me with my case. Even after I didn't complete everything I was suppose to, he stuck through and helped me get more time. I'm very grateful that I hired him as my attorney and would highly recommend him to anyone.
Read more
09 Jul, 2024 by Josephine buchanan
Clifford law firm was to represent my son in 2 counties both wake and sampson. He showed up once in wake none in sampson after being paid to be my son's rep. I would not hear from him nor my daughter in law would see him attend to business. The man mumbles and I could not understand most of what he was saying even though he was apprised I am hard of hearing. 20 months and nothing he said he would do was done. I even hesitate to give one star he deserves none.
Read more
21 May, 2024 by Phil black
14 Aug, 2023 by Julia hobbs
Nick is a fantastic and personable lawyer. He went above and beyond to help me with my case. Even after I didn't complete everything I was suppose to, he stuck through and helped me get more time. I'm very grateful that I hired him as my attorney and would highly recommend him to anyone.
Read more
09 Jul, 2024 by Josephine buchanan
Clifford law firm was to represent my son in 2 counties both wake and sampson. He showed up once in wake none in sampson after being paid to be my son's rep. I would not hear from him nor my daughter in law would see him attend to business. The man mumbles and I could not understand most of what he was saying even though he was apprised I am hard of hearing. 20 months and nothing he said he would do was done. I even hesitate to give one star he deserves none.
Read more
21 May, 2024 by Phil black
14 Aug, 2023 by Julia hobbs
Nick is a fantastic and personable lawyer. He went above and beyond to help me with my case. Even after I didn't complete everything I was suppose to, he stuck through and helped me get more time. I'm very grateful that I hired him as my attorney and would highly recommend him to anyone.
Read more
09 Jul, 2024 by Josephine buchanan
Clifford law firm was to represent my son in 2 counties both wake and sampson. He showed up once in wake none in sampson after being paid to be my son's rep. I would not hear from him nor my daughter in law would see him attend to business. The man mumbles and I could not understand most of what he was saying even though he was apprised I am hard of hearing. 20 months and nothing he said he would do was done. I even hesitate to give one star he deserves none.
Read more
21 May, 2024 by Phil black
14 Aug, 2023 by Julia hobbs
Nick is a fantastic and personable lawyer. He went above and beyond to help me with my case. Even after I didn't complete everything I was suppose to, he stuck through and helped me get more time. I'm very grateful that I hired him as my attorney and would highly recommend him to anyone.
Read more
27 Jul, 2021 by Rietika patel
23 Dec, 2020 by Timothy aull
04 Nov, 2018 by Kurt d
27 Jul, 2021 by Rietika patel
23 Dec, 2020 by Timothy aull
04 Nov, 2018 by Kurt d
27 Jul, 2021 by Rietika patel
23 Dec, 2020 by Timothy aull
04 Nov, 2018 by Kurt d
18 Sep, 2024 by Bobby browder
I had a closing where I sold a house and property where the buyer's agent wanted to use Midtown Law in Raleigh. I had no issues and in the interest of getting the deal done agreed. There were really no issues at closing other than receiving the funds just before close of business in a Friday but oh well. The problem arose when I received the property tax bill for that parcel 5 months after the closing date. I checked my closing documents and verified the funds were in fact withheld from my disbursement so I contacted the tax office. The tax office informed me to contact the closing attorney which was Midtown Law. I placed a call and was instructed there was NO WAY TO CONTACT the person I needed to see except email. I asked several times to speak with an officer of the corporation, the attorney that did the closing or anyone who could help me with no help from the attendant. I got the email and then promptly sent the property address as well as described the problem at hand and asked the person to call me to advise how to clear this up? I received an email telling me it was the new owners responsibility to pay the taxes and pretty much they were out of the loop. It seems they didn't care to help resolve the situation. I don't know how the new owners would even know they owe the taxes or the amount they owe? Midtown Law provided no way to contact the present owners even though they had to have that information in order to complete the closing. I guess it falls on me to do the job I paid them to do in the first place. I would not recommend this law firm . I guess if everything turns out right you'll have no problem but if you ever need to contact them to resolve an issue good luck. I'd be embarrassed if I were an associate.
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16 Sep, 2024 by John niola
Wonderfully quick and efficient. Courteous service.
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06 Sep, 2024 by Volodymyr d
Midtown Law has very professional team! I love to continue working with them!
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07 Nov, 2024 by Heather shuart
The team was kind and Cory was thorough, worth getting on their schedule for estate planning!
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07 Oct, 2024 by Tedra lewis
I called the Asheville branch to ask about a free consult because I live outside of NC, but my recently deceased sister lived in NC.
Bonnie answered my call and I'm so sorry she did. I hung up feeling frustrated and disrespected. She was rude and not very helpful at all. Her attitude was quite condescending and very unprofessional. She should be able to ask strategic questions to gain an understanding of my needs, but instead she was curt, snooty and too busy trying to get me off the phone to be able to understand WHY I was calling. It was like pulling teeth, and I was getting no where with her, so I simply asked her name, thanked her, and hung up. She rattled off some title after her name, but at this point I had tuned her out, because it didn't matter who she was. I would NEVER do business with them and WOULD NOT recommend them to anyone. I was able to find another attorney in NC, Kirschbaum, Nanney, Keenan & Griffin and they were awesome! They were kind, friendly and most of all professional. They asked the right questions to make sure they were the right 'type' of attorney I needed. They were truly the professionals I needed to talk to. I simply wanted to share MY experience with this practice and the end result.
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03 Oct, 2024 by Keri peevey
Excellent job putting our documents together and walking it through with us.
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18 Sep, 2024 by Bobby browder
I had a closing where I sold a house and property where the buyer's agent wanted to use Midtown Law in Raleigh. I had no issues and in the interest of getting the deal done agreed. There were really no issues at closing other than receiving the funds just before close of business in a Friday but oh well. The problem arose when I received the property tax bill for that parcel 5 months after the closing date. I checked my closing documents and verified the funds were in fact withheld from my disbursement so I contacted the tax office. The tax office informed me to contact the closing attorney which was Midtown Law. I placed a call and was instructed there was NO WAY TO CONTACT the person I needed to see except email. I asked several times to speak with an officer of the corporation, the attorney that did the closing or anyone who could help me with no help from the attendant. I got the email and then promptly sent the property address as well as described the problem at hand and asked the person to call me to advise how to clear this up? I received an email telling me it was the new owners responsibility to pay the taxes and pretty much they were out of the loop. It seems they didn't care to help resolve the situation. I don't know how the new owners would even know they owe the taxes or the amount they owe? Midtown Law provided no way to contact the present owners even though they had to have that information in order to complete the closing. I guess it falls on me to do the job I paid them to do in the first place. I would not recommend this law firm . I guess if everything turns out right you'll have no problem but if you ever need to contact them to resolve an issue good luck. I'd be embarrassed if I were an associate.
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16 Sep, 2024 by John niola
Wonderfully quick and efficient. Courteous service.
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06 Sep, 2024 by Volodymyr d
Midtown Law has very professional team! I love to continue working with them!
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18 Sep, 2024 by Bobby browder
I had a closing where I sold a house and property where the buyer's agent wanted to use Midtown Law in Raleigh. I had no issues and in the interest of getting the deal done agreed. There were really no issues at closing other than receiving the funds just before close of business in a Friday but oh well. The problem arose when I received the property tax bill for that parcel 5 months after the closing date. I checked my closing documents and verified the funds were in fact withheld from my disbursement so I contacted the tax office. The tax office informed me to contact the closing attorney which was Midtown Law. I placed a call and was instructed there was NO WAY TO CONTACT the person I needed to see except email. I asked several times to speak with an officer of the corporation, the attorney that did the closing or anyone who could help me with no help from the attendant. I got the email and then promptly sent the property address as well as described the problem at hand and asked the person to call me to advise how to clear this up? I received an email telling me it was the new owners responsibility to pay the taxes and pretty much they were out of the loop. It seems they didn't care to help resolve the situation. I don't know how the new owners would even know they owe the taxes or the amount they owe? Midtown Law provided no way to contact the present owners even though they had to have that information in order to complete the closing. I guess it falls on me to do the job I paid them to do in the first place. I would not recommend this law firm . I guess if everything turns out right you'll have no problem but if you ever need to contact them to resolve an issue good luck. I'd be embarrassed if I were an associate.
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16 Sep, 2024 by John niola
Wonderfully quick and efficient. Courteous service.
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06 Sep, 2024 by Volodymyr d
Midtown Law has very professional team! I love to continue working with them!
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01 Aug, 2024 by Ramiro cortes
25 Jun, 2024 by Roro linares
04 Jun, 2024 by Darling
Great lawyers and staff.
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16 Mar, 2024 by Paul odland
David takes time to listen and then provide solutions. I appreciate his approach. I also appreciate working with a business leader who gives so much to the North Raleigh community.
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23 Jan, 2024 by Corey johnson
Never called me back!
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30 Aug, 2023 by Robert hooks
15 Jul, 2023 by Dennise kowalczyk
My heartfelt thanks to Adam Gottsegen for assisting me with an unfortunate collection matter with one of my clients. He made it easier to navigate communications with that client who paid for all past due monies without a need to go to court! I highly recommend you reach out to the firm in the event you are dealing with any business disputes. Highly professional and respectful service!
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19 Jun, 2023 by Tony ioppolo
Very personable firm and made my business closing as easy as possible. Mr Sid Aldridge was my attorney in this firm. I highly recommend him for any business representation. I had a second great experience with this practice around a year later from my first experience. The second experience was dealing with an easement issue. Mr. Steven Newton was very helpful with this easement concern. This is a great practice for all kinds of law.
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25 Jan, 2022 by Karen czysz
He was very nice and very professional. He gave me info on where to proceed with my issue over the phone. Told me that I really could do this myself and didn`t require his services which was very up front . Not something you get often .I would highly recommend him . Thank you Mr. Wooten
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20 Aug, 2024 by Jeremy franklin
MC did a great job for me, very patient in answering questions and revising documents.
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31 May, 2024 by Joseph santa
John McKnight was the worst divorce lawyer one could ask for. Completely took advantage of someone in the wrong state of mind. Ripped us off for $7500. John said that we would pay a set fee of 5,000 for separation through divorce if both parties were agreeable. He mentioned 7500 for a retainer in case things became disagreeable. He charged 7500, we met one time, and were agreeable on everything. We went back to him 1 year later for the divorce and he said we did not have any more time left and refused to help. Reporting him to the BBB, for him being a scam artist.
HES A RIP OFF
SCAM ARTIST
If you get divorced, don’t go anywhere near this creep.
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20 Jan, 2024 by Lauren bridgers
MC skinner is a rip off. Nice waste of 8K. Sits there says and does nothing. submits no evidence and watches you lose without a care. Better off going to Vegas and putting it all on black. Should have been a social worker not a family law attorney.what a waste
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15 Jul, 2023 by Dennise kowalczyk
My heartfelt thanks to Adam Gottsegen for assisting me with an unfortunate collection matter with one of my clients. He made it easier to navigate communications with that client who paid for all past due monies without a need to go to court! I highly recommend you reach out to the firm in the event you are dealing with any business disputes. Highly professional and respectful service!
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19 Jun, 2023 by Tony ioppolo
Very personable firm and made my business closing as easy as possible. Mr Sid Aldridge was my attorney in this firm. I highly recommend him for any business representation. I had a second great experience with this practice around a year later from my first experience. The second experience was dealing with an easement issue. Mr. Steven Newton was very helpful with this easement concern. This is a great practice for all kinds of law.
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25 Jan, 2022 by Karen czysz
He was very nice and very professional. He gave me info on where to proceed with my issue over the phone. Told me that I really could do this myself and didn`t require his services which was very up front . Not something you get often .I would highly recommend him . Thank you Mr. Wooten
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30 May, 2024 by Richard mason
Don't bother calling them. They do not take new cases that are not referred to them by another attorney. Waste of time!
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31 Mar, 2024 by Don martin
24 Mar, 2023 by G s
06 Nov, 2024 by Isabella
I contacted Antoine via email about a landlord/tenant issue and I got a prompt response. We discussed my situation over the phone and he offered me multiple options and answered all of my questions. He was extremely personable and sympathetic towards my situation. I am extremely thankful for the helpI received.
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23 Feb, 2024 by Joahanna
I consulted with Antoine over an issue with my leasing office and he was very knowledgeable and direct. He answered all of my questions and was very professional. If I ever need a lawyer in the future I know who to call.
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12 Oct, 2023 by Joseph
Very responsive, easy to talk to and the best part is he talks to you very respectful and will explain any questions or concerns you may have. The only accident attorney you will ever need. Thank you!
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03 Sep, 2024 by Keith kronenwetter
I choose this company from all the flyers because of the professionalism of the pamphlet. Just the right amount of information. Great communication throughout the process. Very happy with results considering I knew nothing about the situation.
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29 Aug, 2024 by Yonatan seyoum
Attorney Elledge is wonderful, he was very honest about my case (pre-arranged speed competition) & what to realistically expect. It was a very hard case but he got it dismissed without a trial & was also very understanding of my situation & offered a fair price. Thank you guys for everything!
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16 Aug, 2024 by Siva koneru
03 Aug, 2024 by Dg hurst
My unfortunate accident happened on my husband’s bday visit to Vegas 6/23.I had to obtain a lawyer in Las Vegas, I was referred by a local NC lawyer.to VAN LAW FIRM. I was appointed to be on KARIN’S Team. I must say from day 1 Karin has been very helpful, honest and upfront. There were several lawyers that came & went throughout the journey but KARIN has never changed!! I can go on & on about how Kari has been a GREAT representation of the Van Law firm.
KUTOS KARIN!!!! Karin 4 the WIN!!!!
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29 Jul, 2024 by Lauren mccallum
Good luck EVER hearing from James Vann or his assistant Kaitlin. My attorney has reached out to him via phone call, voice mail, email, FedEx, and even dropping into the office and yet we have received nothing but "out of the office" messages in return. We were told he had a completed document just sitting on his desk ready to sign in March and we've yet to receive a copy. It's two days from August. Completely unprofessional. Would not recommend anyone use Vann as your attorney, even if it was offered free!
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15 Apr, 2024 by Eric lozano
Profesional, friendly, and knowledgeable
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03 Aug, 2024 by Dg hurst
My unfortunate accident happened on my husband’s bday visit to Vegas 6/23.I had to obtain a lawyer in Las Vegas, I was referred by a local NC lawyer.to VAN LAW FIRM. I was appointed to be on KARIN’S Team. I must say from day 1 Karin has been very helpful, honest and upfront. There were several lawyers that came & went throughout the journey but KARIN has never changed!! I can go on & on about how Kari has been a GREAT representation of the Van Law firm.
KUTOS KARIN!!!! Karin 4 the WIN!!!!
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29 Jul, 2024 by Lauren mccallum
Good luck EVER hearing from James Vann or his assistant Kaitlin. My attorney has reached out to him via phone call, voice mail, email, FedEx, and even dropping into the office and yet we have received nothing but "out of the office" messages in return. We were told he had a completed document just sitting on his desk ready to sign in March and we've yet to receive a copy. It's two days from August. Completely unprofessional. Would not recommend anyone use Vann as your attorney, even if it was offered free!
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15 Apr, 2024 by Eric lozano
Profesional, friendly, and knowledgeable
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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.
