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23 Jan, 2025 by Jan duke
Sean Patterson will help you out when you hit bottom. Good man
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17 Jan, 2025 by Tommy orput
I had the pleasure of working with Sean and I felt very comfortable with him and his team helping me through an uncomfortable part of my life.
I can't say enough good things about him and Sam.
They are professional and have been through this so much that it's second nature. Any time I had a question, they had an immediate answer. They coached me when I was scared about the next steps and assured me that things would be ok.
I am in a better spot now and I have these absolute gems of humanity to thank. They also have a sense of humor and that was just the icing on the cake.
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17 Jan, 2025 by Carolyn baber
SEAN PATTERSON!!! What a professional lawyer and human being. Sean and his assistant (Sam) worked so excellant together and I felt so comfortable with whoever talked with me. I learned so much from Sean. You are so SPECIAL!!! I could text Sean day or night and he would always respond. You were so helpful to me from Day One. I will always remember you and recommend you.
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24 Mar, 2024 by Chris winter
I should added a review years ago this man is older he does his job and he will take care of you he took me and my brother's inheritance case when nobody else would our case was very complicated and we were very poor and he guided us through the process and took care of everything even though there was complications and problems they always call you back and they explain the process this lawyer is worth your time and they are very much worth going through for probate. They also have connections and relationships established for dealing with all the aspects of probate and it made the process a lot easier on us.
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08 Feb, 2024 by Kim zbikowski
28 Jun, 2023 by Hope backman
Andrea is a rockstar and one of the kindest person I've ever met, she goes above and beyond, and I believe really cares about people.
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13 Jan, 2024 by Bob moor
24 Sep, 2023 by Richard berman
19 Nov, 2022 by Josh wood
13 Jan, 2024 by Bob moor
24 Sep, 2023 by Richard berman
19 Nov, 2022 by Josh wood
23 Aug, 2023 by Christopher st. peter
Mr. Houston has represented me in quite a few legal binds I had gotten. Myself into and I always had a great out come so ty Mr. Houston
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20 Dec, 2021 by Laycee rider
Dave was the best. You could ask around in all of Reno and anyone will tell you he's #1.+. He was a family friend and always helped me get out of trouble and I will miss him now that he's gone. Sad that he passed unexpectedly at only 69. Rest Forever In Peace Dave....
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20 Oct, 2021 by Shani stine
10 Jan, 2025 by James ross
18 Dec, 2024 by Mike g
My dad passed away and my brother, two sisters and I had no idea where to start as my father left no directions. We consulted with several firms before coming to Anderson, Dorn and Rader on a recommendation. Mr. Rader had a remote conference with all of us (we're spread all over the country), listened to us, addressed our concerns in words we could understand and agreed to work with us. Rather than telling us to surrender our father's estate to someone we'd never met (as several other firms had) he encouraged us and agreed we should be involved. Throughout the process, Monica (Senior Paralegal) was phenomenal - always answering our questions promptly and accurately, even making suggestions on how to pursue items I wasn't aware we should be looking for. My siblings and I always felt we had an advocate throughout the process and that we'd been lucky to find the firm. They earned every penny they asked us for and they did not add on additional fees or hire external agents as we'd been quoted by other firms. Thank you so much and I would definitely recommend them to anyone needing legal assistance.
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22 Nov, 2024 by Dan beyool
02 Nov, 2023 by Kim mead
Complete joke!!!!!
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23 Aug, 2023 by Anthonie weyland
Fantastic professionalism and very informative, I'd reccomend his services to anyone !
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16 Sep, 2022 by Sharon hill
After an injury at work, I mistakenly thought the doctors that workmen’s comp sent me to would help me recover. Instead, I found that their loyalty was to the insurance company paying the tab.R. Trent McAuliffe helped me get the medical treatment I needed when workmen’s comp kept trying to close my case. It took a few years to go through the process, and I am grateful that I got the surgery I needed. I’m very satisfied with the results of Trent advocating for me. I wish I had consulted him when I first got injured, instead of several months later. Get a consultation with him as soon as possible, it’s in your best interest!
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04 Sep, 2024 by Carmen rodriguez
01 May, 2024 by Steve horst
I received a DUI in a very small town in northern Nevada after allegedly running a stop sign. My wife and I were on vacation from Arizona and it was a very stressful series of events. The closest lawyers I was able to find was in Reno and there were not too many choices. After thoroughly reviewing each profile of the lawyers that were available I chose to hire Lee Hotchkins. Lee was known as being fierce in court and he had years of experience defending cases such as mine. The trial eventually occurred 9 months after the incident. During the 9 month period Lee made many motions to dismiss and the prosecution opposed each motion. The case file containing emails back and forth with the DA was substantial. No video evidence was ever turned over. Lee continued to push to the point where a different prosecutor assumed the case after the original prosecutor became frustrated. On the day of the trial the DA made a deal to drop the DUI to a reckless driving citation. The plea was very unexpected and surprised Lee almost as much as it surprised me and my wife. Lee Hotchkins is admirable, a man of his word who fights fiercely for the rights of his clients in a passionate and forceful manner. Lee will not beat around the bush and will astutely advise you in your own best interest. My wife and I gave Lee a very big hug after the trial. Without his council the ramifications would have been much more severe. If you are in the position that I found myself in, I would highly recommend that you call Lee Hotchkins and get him on your case immediately. Trust me, you can't afford not to. Thank you, Lee.
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07 Mar, 2024 by Patrick grecian
Mr Hotchkin is a great lawyer his experience really shows in the courtroom. Hire this man you will be very satisfied with your decision.
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08 May, 2023 by David mc kee
Tell me it's gonna cost 20k in retainer to go after county officials for misuse of funds and everything else you should be jumping on cases like this but nope you have rude receptionists who don't know the definition of commercial litigation when a company owns a subdivision and the contract cut with the county is in violation and the constituents are being left to fend for them selves well that's commercial litigation when it involves a llc and county commisioners
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09 Jul, 2022 by Michael florsheim
Extremely reliable law firm with quick response time. Wonderful work with real estate contracts. Very detailed oriented and accurate. All staff is great to work with; always polite and helpful. I highly recommend Robertson, Johnson, Miller & Williamson.
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09 Jun, 2022 by Justin sherman
I strongly recommend RJM&W to anyone in need of legal services in any of their practice areas. The entire staff is friendly, professional, and a pleasure to speak with. I know this not only from an internship with the firm, but also as a client. I highly recommend Rich Williamson - He has been an absolute pleasure to work with. He is a brilliant legal mind, projects a calm confidence, keeps client cost/benefit considerations in mind, and treats everyone with the utmost respect and professionalism. He has been a valuable voice of reason in a variety of areas and I look forward to working with him for years to come.
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15 Sep, 2019 by John powers
Excellent attorney and litigator. Highly recommend him!
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14 Sep, 2019 by Elizabeth rayburn
I have been fortunate enough to have Mike Sullivan represent me for legal services for the last 14 years for both personal and business reasons. He is always honest, to the point and got the job done. He kept me informed every step of the way and we always prevailed! I could not imagine using anyone other than Mike Sullivan. Thank you Mike!
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09 Sep, 2019 by Swope rumors
04 Sep, 2024 by Carmen rodriguez
01 May, 2024 by Steve horst
I received a DUI in a very small town in northern Nevada after allegedly running a stop sign. My wife and I were on vacation from Arizona and it was a very stressful series of events. The closest lawyers I was able to find was in Reno and there were not too many choices. After thoroughly reviewing each profile of the lawyers that were available I chose to hire Lee Hotchkins. Lee was known as being fierce in court and he had years of experience defending cases such as mine. The trial eventually occurred 9 months after the incident. During the 9 month period Lee made many motions to dismiss and the prosecution opposed each motion. The case file containing emails back and forth with the DA was substantial. No video evidence was ever turned over. Lee continued to push to the point where a different prosecutor assumed the case after the original prosecutor became frustrated. On the day of the trial the DA made a deal to drop the DUI to a reckless driving citation. The plea was very unexpected and surprised Lee almost as much as it surprised me and my wife. Lee Hotchkins is admirable, a man of his word who fights fiercely for the rights of his clients in a passionate and forceful manner. Lee will not beat around the bush and will astutely advise you in your own best interest. My wife and I gave Lee a very big hug after the trial. Without his council the ramifications would have been much more severe. If you are in the position that I found myself in, I would highly recommend that you call Lee Hotchkins and get him on your case immediately. Trust me, you can't afford not to. Thank you, Lee.
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07 Mar, 2024 by Patrick grecian
Mr Hotchkin is a great lawyer his experience really shows in the courtroom. Hire this man you will be very satisfied with your decision.
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04 Sep, 2024 by Carmen rodriguez
01 May, 2024 by Steve horst
I received a DUI in a very small town in northern Nevada after allegedly running a stop sign. My wife and I were on vacation from Arizona and it was a very stressful series of events. The closest lawyers I was able to find was in Reno and there were not too many choices. After thoroughly reviewing each profile of the lawyers that were available I chose to hire Lee Hotchkins. Lee was known as being fierce in court and he had years of experience defending cases such as mine. The trial eventually occurred 9 months after the incident. During the 9 month period Lee made many motions to dismiss and the prosecution opposed each motion. The case file containing emails back and forth with the DA was substantial. No video evidence was ever turned over. Lee continued to push to the point where a different prosecutor assumed the case after the original prosecutor became frustrated. On the day of the trial the DA made a deal to drop the DUI to a reckless driving citation. The plea was very unexpected and surprised Lee almost as much as it surprised me and my wife. Lee Hotchkins is admirable, a man of his word who fights fiercely for the rights of his clients in a passionate and forceful manner. Lee will not beat around the bush and will astutely advise you in your own best interest. My wife and I gave Lee a very big hug after the trial. Without his council the ramifications would have been much more severe. If you are in the position that I found myself in, I would highly recommend that you call Lee Hotchkins and get him on your case immediately. Trust me, you can't afford not to. Thank you, Lee.
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07 Mar, 2024 by Patrick grecian
Mr Hotchkin is a great lawyer his experience really shows in the courtroom. Hire this man you will be very satisfied with your decision.
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04 Sep, 2024 by Carmen rodriguez
01 May, 2024 by Steve horst
I received a DUI in a very small town in northern Nevada after allegedly running a stop sign. My wife and I were on vacation from Arizona and it was a very stressful series of events. The closest lawyers I was able to find was in Reno and there were not too many choices. After thoroughly reviewing each profile of the lawyers that were available I chose to hire Lee Hotchkins. Lee was known as being fierce in court and he had years of experience defending cases such as mine. The trial eventually occurred 9 months after the incident. During the 9 month period Lee made many motions to dismiss and the prosecution opposed each motion. The case file containing emails back and forth with the DA was substantial. No video evidence was ever turned over. Lee continued to push to the point where a different prosecutor assumed the case after the original prosecutor became frustrated. On the day of the trial the DA made a deal to drop the DUI to a reckless driving citation. The plea was very unexpected and surprised Lee almost as much as it surprised me and my wife. Lee Hotchkins is admirable, a man of his word who fights fiercely for the rights of his clients in a passionate and forceful manner. Lee will not beat around the bush and will astutely advise you in your own best interest. My wife and I gave Lee a very big hug after the trial. Without his council the ramifications would have been much more severe. If you are in the position that I found myself in, I would highly recommend that you call Lee Hotchkins and get him on your case immediately. Trust me, you can't afford not to. Thank you, Lee.
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07 Mar, 2024 by Patrick grecian
Mr Hotchkin is a great lawyer his experience really shows in the courtroom. Hire this man you will be very satisfied with your decision.
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21 Jun, 2024 by Jaryd bernabei
Never have i ever been treated so rudely on the phone
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31 Dec, 2023 by Rhea simpson-weber
22 Oct, 2023 by Sandra matteucci-alexander
08 May, 2023 by David mc kee
Tell me it's gonna cost 20k in retainer to go after county officials for misuse of funds and everything else you should be jumping on cases like this but nope you have rude receptionists who don't know the definition of commercial litigation when a company owns a subdivision and the contract cut with the county is in violation and the constituents are being left to fend for them selves well that's commercial litigation when it involves a llc and county commisioners
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09 Jul, 2022 by Michael florsheim
Extremely reliable law firm with quick response time. Wonderful work with real estate contracts. Very detailed oriented and accurate. All staff is great to work with; always polite and helpful. I highly recommend Robertson, Johnson, Miller & Williamson.
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09 Jun, 2022 by Justin sherman
I strongly recommend RJM&W to anyone in need of legal services in any of their practice areas. The entire staff is friendly, professional, and a pleasure to speak with. I know this not only from an internship with the firm, but also as a client. I highly recommend Rich Williamson - He has been an absolute pleasure to work with. He is a brilliant legal mind, projects a calm confidence, keeps client cost/benefit considerations in mind, and treats everyone with the utmost respect and professionalism. He has been a valuable voice of reason in a variety of areas and I look forward to working with him for years to come.
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08 May, 2023 by David mc kee
Tell me it's gonna cost 20k in retainer to go after county officials for misuse of funds and everything else you should be jumping on cases like this but nope you have rude receptionists who don't know the definition of commercial litigation when a company owns a subdivision and the contract cut with the county is in violation and the constituents are being left to fend for them selves well that's commercial litigation when it involves a llc and county commisioners
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09 Jul, 2022 by Michael florsheim
Extremely reliable law firm with quick response time. Wonderful work with real estate contracts. Very detailed oriented and accurate. All staff is great to work with; always polite and helpful. I highly recommend Robertson, Johnson, Miller & Williamson.
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09 Jun, 2022 by Justin sherman
I strongly recommend RJM&W to anyone in need of legal services in any of their practice areas. The entire staff is friendly, professional, and a pleasure to speak with. I know this not only from an internship with the firm, but also as a client. I highly recommend Rich Williamson - He has been an absolute pleasure to work with. He is a brilliant legal mind, projects a calm confidence, keeps client cost/benefit considerations in mind, and treats everyone with the utmost respect and professionalism. He has been a valuable voice of reason in a variety of areas and I look forward to working with him for years to come.
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08 May, 2023 by David mc kee
Tell me it's gonna cost 20k in retainer to go after county officials for misuse of funds and everything else you should be jumping on cases like this but nope you have rude receptionists who don't know the definition of commercial litigation when a company owns a subdivision and the contract cut with the county is in violation and the constituents are being left to fend for them selves well that's commercial litigation when it involves a llc and county commisioners
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09 Jul, 2022 by Michael florsheim
Extremely reliable law firm with quick response time. Wonderful work with real estate contracts. Very detailed oriented and accurate. All staff is great to work with; always polite and helpful. I highly recommend Robertson, Johnson, Miller & Williamson.
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09 Jun, 2022 by Justin sherman
I strongly recommend RJM&W to anyone in need of legal services in any of their practice areas. The entire staff is friendly, professional, and a pleasure to speak with. I know this not only from an internship with the firm, but also as a client. I highly recommend Rich Williamson - He has been an absolute pleasure to work with. He is a brilliant legal mind, projects a calm confidence, keeps client cost/benefit considerations in mind, and treats everyone with the utmost respect and professionalism. He has been a valuable voice of reason in a variety of areas and I look forward to working with him for years to come.
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08 May, 2023 by David mc kee
Tell me it's gonna cost 20k in retainer to go after county officials for misuse of funds and everything else you should be jumping on cases like this but nope you have rude receptionists who don't know the definition of commercial litigation when a company owns a subdivision and the contract cut with the county is in violation and the constituents are being left to fend for them selves well that's commercial litigation when it involves a llc and county commisioners
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09 Jul, 2022 by Michael florsheim
Extremely reliable law firm with quick response time. Wonderful work with real estate contracts. Very detailed oriented and accurate. All staff is great to work with; always polite and helpful. I highly recommend Robertson, Johnson, Miller & Williamson.
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09 Jun, 2022 by Justin sherman
I strongly recommend RJM&W to anyone in need of legal services in any of their practice areas. The entire staff is friendly, professional, and a pleasure to speak with. I know this not only from an internship with the firm, but also as a client. I highly recommend Rich Williamson - He has been an absolute pleasure to work with. He is a brilliant legal mind, projects a calm confidence, keeps client cost/benefit considerations in mind, and treats everyone with the utmost respect and professionalism. He has been a valuable voice of reason in a variety of areas and I look forward to working with him for years to come.
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08 May, 2023 by David mc kee
Tell me it's gonna cost 20k in retainer to go after county officials for misuse of funds and everything else you should be jumping on cases like this but nope you have rude receptionists who don't know the definition of commercial litigation when a company owns a subdivision and the contract cut with the county is in violation and the constituents are being left to fend for them selves well that's commercial litigation when it involves a llc and county commisioners
Read more
09 Jul, 2022 by Michael florsheim
Extremely reliable law firm with quick response time. Wonderful work with real estate contracts. Very detailed oriented and accurate. All staff is great to work with; always polite and helpful. I highly recommend Robertson, Johnson, Miller & Williamson.
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09 Jun, 2022 by Justin sherman
I strongly recommend RJM&W to anyone in need of legal services in any of their practice areas. The entire staff is friendly, professional, and a pleasure to speak with. I know this not only from an internship with the firm, but also as a client. I highly recommend Rich Williamson - He has been an absolute pleasure to work with. He is a brilliant legal mind, projects a calm confidence, keeps client cost/benefit considerations in mind, and treats everyone with the utmost respect and professionalism. He has been a valuable voice of reason in a variety of areas and I look forward to working with him for years to come.
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25 Nov, 2024 by Thomas eger
Helpful but limited pleasurable staff. I don't know. Maybe my particular experience was one of an oddity though I may be underrating but I'll give it three for now
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05 Nov, 2024 by Shante hill
26 Aug, 2024 by Gary snider
Wonderful people and very knowledgeable
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25 Jun, 2024 by Sergio echeverry
They practically hung up on me as they said they’re not taking new clients… sour sour they sounded!
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20 May, 2022 by Lali sekhon
Very professional. Ed Lemons is amazing!
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20 May, 2022 by Lali sekhon
Very professional. Approachable. Thorough. Ed Lemons is amazing.
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21 Feb, 2024 by Matthew laverone
Great customer service and very knowledgeable about real estate law. Elaine has been very helpful. Look forward to continuing to work with this Maddox, Segerblom and Canepa.
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02 Jan, 2024 by I m
Friendly people but unless you have a bunch of money I wouldn't bother.
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25 Oct, 2023 by Paula penrod
Ardea was very instrumental in resolving a water damage claim which resulted in extensive damage to the first floor of our home. After 6 months of trying to deal with the insurance on our own, and the insurance company not willing to pay for the damages caused by their client's negligence, we hired Ardea. Once Ardea was involved, the insurance company finally took full responsibility for the damages done to our home and we were able receive a settlement which allowed us to repair the damages done to our home.
I highly recommend Ardea and her staff. They are very professional, knowledgeable and a pleasure to work with.
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21 Jun, 2023 by Anonymous
Experienced in HOA law. Well respected amongst her peers. My HOA hired Gayle, but I also consulted with her, on a personal matter. She provided excellent advice, free of charge.
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12 Oct, 2017 by Anonymous
Ms Kern was retained by our HOA to help us stop an Airbnb from doing business in our condo complex. We, as individual owners, do Not feel she represented us as we are still having to find a way to make this condo owner Cease and Desist immediately. She found numerous reasons and ways the Airbnb condo owner Could continue operating But did Not help Us Stop this short term rental. Airbnb is a Business and we are not zoned for a business. And the people who are using Airbnbs are Transients and Not Residents; as our HOA requires in order to to live here. We should not have to rewrite our CC & Rs to limit rental times as it is already illegal for people who are Not Residents to live here Short term or longer if they do not meet our CC &Rs definition off a Resident!
Any other rulings regarding Airbnbs Should not Supersede our CC&Rs as they were written 30 plus years ago......long before Airb&bs were even Invented!!!
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10 Jan, 2024 by Eric howe
22 Oct, 2020 by Alex leibel
07 Sep, 2019 by Pepper man
10 Jan, 2024 by Eric howe
22 Oct, 2020 by Alex leibel
07 Sep, 2019 by Pepper man
04 Dec, 2019 by Brad
Jerry, Took my case based on his confirming his expertise needed to represent me and my company. He in fact did not and because that my case is stalled. I fired him and I’m looking for another lawyer who had litigated successfully against the State of Nevada Department of Taxation.
.
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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.
