Filter by

star star star star star
13 Sep, 2024 by Patti o
I called Joel Drucker when I needed immediate assistance with POA's and wills for my parents. He responded promptly and guided me through the process since I was never put in that position before. I was very fortunate to find Joel. He was always available to answer any questions or concerns I had. I highly recommend him and will definitely use his services again when the need arises in the future.
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
14 Jul, 2024 by Andrea cubas
Google Maps
star star star star star
12 Dec, 2023 by Lucy durando
Mr Drucker drew up our documents in a timely fashion. We were under time constraints and Mr. Drucker made sure all of the documents were completed to meet our needs. He also took the time to answer all our questions in person, on the phone and via email.
Read more Google Maps
See more
star star star star star
27 Nov, 2022 by Jaya abe babu
Tanya worked with us on buying and selling our home. She is responsive, always took time to explain all details and helped us with all the stumbling blocks and e hit with the transaction. We are grateful that we had a great attorney that was looking out for our interests. Highly recommend her for real estate transactions.
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
08 Aug, 2022 by Kyle & gina
Tanya represented os on a recent home sale as well as previous legal matters. She is excellent to work with: professional, efficient, proactive, and thorough. Most importantly she cares about her clients. We highly recommend her!
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
21 Jul, 2022 by Scott
We used Tanya for a house sale / purchase in early 2022. Tanya was great to work with and made the stressful process of selling / buying a house much easier. She communicated up front what the process would involve (we hadn't had a real estate transaction in over 20 years so it was a good refresher!) and was extremely proactive in all aspects of the process. We appreciated her attention to detail and patience with all of the many questions we had! We also were very happy with the title agency she recommended - they were great to work with. We would highly recommend Tanya for any real estate related legal work.
Read more Avvo
See more
star star star star star
21 Mar, 2016 by Yuri
I came across Jordan P. Brewster in summer 2015, when was searching for new divorce lawyer, since was about to fire my lawyer Aniello Ceretto (do not even think to come close to this guy, despite his undeserved high rating of 8.1 in Avvo.com, you will be misled, manipulated and ripped off) and also was seeking advice what to do about him. It is not secret that a lot of divorce lawyers take advantage of client’s mental and emotional conditions going through that terrible and devastating event, particularly when you are not initiating party. Mr. Brewster not only listened to all details of my already complicated divorce case without any financial benefits for himself, but also gave me priceless advice what can be done to bring Aniello Ceretto to some kind of justice. Unfortunately, I did not sign a substitution of attorney form and did not fire Mr. Ceretto at the moment and let him continue to harm and humiliate me for another 6 months and paid him additional 1,750 for exactly that. I finally get rid of him early this month and first think contacted Jordan again. He called me back in a couple of days and gave priceless legal advice. I highly recommend this lawyer. He is very detail oriented; fare, very knowledgeable in all aspects of law and specific details applicable only in NJ. If you want to represented by somebody with honor and integrity you are making an excellent choice.
Read more Avvo
See more
star star star star star
30 Dec, 2017 by Vicky
I have sought legal advice from Griffin Alexander for various matters off and on through the years pertaining to matters of whether or not to refinance my mortgage on a potential rental property and reviewing contracts. The firm and its lawyers have always been responsive and extremely professional and have always given me good advice. Their advice was invaluable and they are my go to lawyers when I need any advice.
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
06 Nov, 2017 by Anonymous
I was faced with a complex litigation involving a multitude of defendants. It was an intricate real estate matter that had many moving parts and a complicated fact pattern. Jennifer and Bob were able to seize control of critical problem areas and have keen insight and understanding of the case to help induce a settlement. I would highly recommend this law firm.
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
08 Oct, 2017 by Jennifer
I began using Jennifer Alexander a number of years ago for Roseland Management (now Mack Cali), and then for The Bozzuto Group, for Landlord/Tenant issues. She has always been honest, succinct, detail oriented and timely. I was pleased to introduce her to colleagues within other companies, who also chose to utilize her legal services. Additionally, I have used Ms. Alexander for residential real estate title work, small claims court issues, and forming an LLC. She again proved herself to be trustworthy, strategic, knowledgeable and primarily professional. When I require the use of an attorney, Jennifer Alexander is the one I look to.
Read more Avvo
See more
star star star star star
12 Aug, 2024 by Brittany page
The entire law firm is reminiscent of "used car salesmen". Jennifer Alexander is an extremely emotionally abusive "attorney" and is very dangerous. She does not believe that rules apply to her and her clients. She knowingly and willingly has discriminated, inflicted severe emotional distress, engaged in extreme manipulation and is a liability to her clients. She has purposely retaliated even though it WILL cause her clients serious liability. She issued me a "notice to cease" based on outrageously false claims then blocked me. Her client will have to pay for her actions, and she does not care. It's quite disgusting and disturbing because she will do ANYTHING to victimize someone rather than advising her client to do what's morally right. SHE IS A LIABILITY. I have been emotionally paralyzed by her abuse and she refuses to stop. I decided to stop giving her the power to affect my life and move forward with healing and getting justice. She is the definition of ineffective counsel and a person who is an abuse of power. Most of her correspondences towards tribunal start with "as you know" to demean and manipulate her victim. I will make it my life's mission to make sure she is held accountable for her actions. I almost committed suicide due to her pervasive intentional infliction of emotional distress and I will take this to the highest level to make sure no one else has to suffer from her abuse of power again.
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
12 Nov, 2023 by Betty guzman
Went to Jennifer Alexander with HOA board problem. She listened carefully and understood the need of our community. I never felt rushed. All my calls and emails were answered quickly. Her team of experienced professionals took us seriously and we accomplished our goal as needed! Thank you Jennifer, Kimberly and your whole team! You guys rock!!
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
20 Jan, 2023 by Jake skurchak
Does not understand any situation you present to them. Terrible
Read more Google Maps
See more
Discover the ideal lawyer
You can search a lawyer by practice area, lawyer name, city, state, or ZIP code
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.

Scroll to top