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14 Jan, 2016 by Tc
Patrick is calm friendly, smart and a gentleman. He hires the same - and their firm brought excellent results. We won, and the praise the judge heaped on Patrick's colleague Russell Mikow reflects well on Patrick. What started out sad and distressing ended up like the scene "No prisoners" scene from Lawrence of Arabia where O'Toole and Sharif charge into battle. My dad would have liked these two gentlemen! Winston Churchill said "Nothing is as exhilarating as to be shot at with no results!
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12 May, 2015 by Jackson
Patrick was wonderful to work with. He spent extra time with me getting to understand my unique circumstances (being divorced with several children) and how it would affect my will, etc. I appreciated his kind demeanor and the time he spent with me. I never felt rushed or that he was watching the clock like other attorneys that just care about getting every dime out of you. He helped me with other matters without charge because he genuinely cares about every client. Thank you Patrick and staff!
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21 Jan, 2015 by Tony
Patrick sought out my needs in helping to set up a purchase agreement for property I was purchasing from a relative. He was insightful of the sensitive issues that can arise in these situations as well as mindful of the needed details to ensure a low risk transaction for me.
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05 Oct, 2023 by George
Matt handled probate for a large estate for us and was excellent, along with his paralegal, Marissa. Phone calls and e-mails were returned promptly, everything was described enough that there was never a delay or confusion, and we were able to self-perform several things and wrap up within 8 months. Good people skills and an even temperament. Billing was more than fair. Would highly recommend.
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28 Sep, 2023 by Brian
We had a fairly complex estate planning situation with multiple heirs, businesses & real estate transfers. Matthew patiently helped all parties understand the pros & cons of several different approaches, and came up with several creative solutions that ended up eliminating a lot of headache and taxes. A+
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14 Mar, 2019 by David
We have received nothing but exceptional service for all aspects of our business.
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04 Oct, 2019 by Patricia
My mother was diagnosed with cancer and went down hill very quickly. Thomas Heye and his assistant Gayle came to her house and drew up all the papers very quickly and put my mother’s mind at ease. After she passed away, they were extremely helpful in closing my mother’s estate. They were always very quick to respond to all my many questions, even though I lived several time zones away. It has been a very stressful time, but Thomas Heye and his staff have made it a much smoother process. From being to end they have been compassionate, professional and helpful.
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17 Sep, 2015 by Jennifer
This man is amazing! Not only does he posses an incredible depth of knowledge regarding the law, but he also has a heart. My mother had terminal cancer and was already in Hospice when we found out she didn't have her estate planning in order. Tom came to Hospice with his assistant and they were able to draw up and get the documents signed within 24 hours. After Mom passed away he and his wonderful staff worked with compassion and walked us through the probate process making it as easy as possible on us during our time of grief. I have since referred multiple friends to him and every single person has come back thanking me for the connection.
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05 Dec, 2018 by Nikki
I consulted with Bret about my landlord tenant issues, myself being the tenant. I had called a few other law firms but they didn't want to help me unless I was the landlord. Bret was different, straight forward about the pros and cons of my case. He gave me the hand up I needed to get through this trying time.
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06 Jan, 2023 by Sharon morton
She is very knowledgeable and I would highly recommend her to my family and friends.
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28 Feb, 2022 by Michelle mensonides
She was very informative. She spent time and did an accurate letter with details from things we gave her instead of a form letter.
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30 Jan, 2020 by Vicky kimzey
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24 Aug, 2024 by Abigail gamayo
I have nothing but amazing things to say about Gravis! My attorney Rebecca Saitz and paralegal Terri Durham were absolutely amazing and so patient with me. I am not the greatest person with communication and they were on top of everything for me. They made sure to communicate everything with me even when I wasn't in touch. They didn't sugar-coat anything but also made me feel very confident in my case. They explained everything to me in ways easy for me to understand. In the end I ended up getting everything I asked for out of this case and I wouldn't have been able to do that without their help! I'll be going to them for any future legal matters that might come my way and will be recommending them to whoever I can!
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13 Aug, 2024 by Justin kitchen
Cost about double what I was quoted and most of the thing was pre-written so I very much doubt the "hours" put in.
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09 Aug, 2024 by Heather staudinger
My experience with Rebecca Saitz was phenomenal. She explained the process in detail, was very thorough in answering my questions, and went above and beyond what I asked her to. I appreciate everything she did to help me in my case. I would highly recommend her.
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29 Jul, 2024 by Logan kaufman
Took my payment and after three weeks cited a conflict of interest because a receptionist(?) attends the same church as the person I'm trying to evict. Seems iffy that everyone in your church is untouchable? Slow and unreliable, regardless, since conflicts are supposed to be addressed up front and not after my squatter enjoys a few more weeks on my dime.
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26 Apr, 2024 by Susan iru
It was by the grace of God that I found Rachel Woodard. I was in Dire Straits didn’t know what I was doing. Had squatters on two properties three probates I was knuckles deep in. She did for me what I couldn’t do for myself. She was always on my side, and I knew that by the way she represented me in the courtroom. You have nothing to lose with Rachel but everything to gain by calling her for representation. She has integrity, character, and professionalism. Her office staff is incredible too.
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15 Sep, 2021 by Lorna runge
Rachel was highly recommended, was extremely knowledgeable and helpful and did not disappoint!
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29 Jul, 2024 by Logan kaufman
Took my payment and after three weeks cited a conflict of interest because a receptionist(?) attends the same church as the person I'm trying to evict. Seems iffy that everyone in your church is untouchable? Slow and unreliable, regardless, since conflicts are supposed to be addressed up front and not after my squatter enjoys a few more weeks on my dime.
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26 Apr, 2024 by Susan iru
It was by the grace of God that I found Rachel Woodard. I was in Dire Straits didn’t know what I was doing. Had squatters on two properties three probates I was knuckles deep in. She did for me what I couldn’t do for myself. She was always on my side, and I knew that by the way she represented me in the courtroom. You have nothing to lose with Rachel but everything to gain by calling her for representation. She has integrity, character, and professionalism. Her office staff is incredible too.
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15 Sep, 2021 by Lorna runge
Rachel was highly recommended, was extremely knowledgeable and helpful and did not disappoint!
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08 Apr, 2024 by Betomsea
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27 Mar, 2024 by Andrea
Tyler was able to assist me in getting my gun rights back. I didn’t know I had lost them..He made the process easy and quick. Thank you Tyler Ashby
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23 Feb, 2024 by Andrew mora
Falsely accused of DV as the court tend to believe the women in this case i was attacked and when the cops came the agressor played the victim anyhow i payed hoping that betancourt law would help me in this csse but sadly he even accused me and saying it doesnt sound very good for you with threats of jail. I highly recommend going somewhere else for a dv charge.
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FAQs
Questions? We have answers

What a Real Estate Lawyer Can Do for You

A real estate lawyer provides legal assistance in transactions and disputes involving property, including residential and commercial real estate. Whether you're buying, selling, leasing, or developing property, a real estate attorney can help ensure that your transactions are legally sound and your rights are protected. They review contracts, perform due diligence, resolve disputes, and provide legal representation in negotiations and litigation involving property matters.

Real estate lawyers are crucial in safeguarding your investment by ensuring compliance with local, state, and federal real estate laws, as well as protecting you from potential legal pitfalls related to property ownership and transactions.

When Should I Hire a Real Estate Lawyer?

Hiring a real estate lawyer is beneficial in various scenarios, including:

  • Buying or selling property: When navigating complex real estate contracts, it’s advisable to have a lawyer review and ensure that the terms are favorable and legal.
  • Commercial property transactions: For leasing, purchasing, or selling commercial properties, a lawyer can help manage the intricate legal aspects of such transactions.
  • Zoning or land use issues: If you're planning to develop property or change its use, a real estate lawyer can guide you through zoning laws and land use regulations.
  • Resolving property disputes: For boundary disputes, title issues, or disagreements over property rights, a lawyer can help mediate or litigate the matter.
  • Foreclosures or evictions: If you're dealing with foreclosure or managing a tenant eviction, legal representation ensures that the process adheres to local laws and protects your interests.
  • Title and deed issues: Lawyers can help clear title disputes, ensure the legitimacy of property deeds, and handle transfers of ownership.

What Does a Real Estate Lawyer Do?

A real estate lawyer provides a range of services to help with property transactions and disputes, including:

  • Contract drafting and review: Ensuring that purchase agreements, leases, and other contracts are legally binding, fair, and protect your interests.
  • Title search and clearance: Conducting a thorough title search to ensure that the property has no legal claims or liens that could affect ownership.
  • Facilitate closing: Managing the closing process in real estate transactions, including reviewing final documents and ensuring that everything is in order before the transfer of ownership.
  • Resolve disputes: Handling legal disputes related to property ownership, boundaries, zoning, or tenants.
  • Assist in financing: Reviewing loan agreements and mortgage documents to ensure the terms are fair and legally sound.
  • Zoning and land use advice: Guiding clients through the complexities of zoning laws and building regulations for property development or renovation projects.

How Are Real Estate Lawyers Paid?

Real estate lawyers typically charge for their services in the following ways:

  • Flat fee: Many real estate transactions, such as reviewing a sales contract or assisting with a closing, are charged on a flat-fee basis.
  • Hourly rates: If a lawyer is handling complex disputes or litigation, they may charge by the hour. Hourly rates can vary significantly based on the lawyer’s experience and location.
  • Contingency fees: In rare cases, such as property disputes or claims for damages, a lawyer may work on a contingency fee basis, meaning they only get paid if you win or settle the case.
  • Retainer: For ongoing legal support, some clients may pay a retainer, which is an upfront fee used as a deposit for future legal services.

It's important to clarify the fee structure with your attorney before hiring them to avoid any surprises.

How Much Does a Real Estate Lawyer Cost?

The cost of a real estate lawyer varies based on the complexity of the matter, the location of the property, and the lawyer’s experience. Key factors that affect pricing include:

  • Type of transaction or issue: Simple tasks, like contract reviews, typically cost less than handling a complex property dispute or litigation.
  • Experience and location: More experienced lawyers or those in high-demand areas, like urban centers, often charge higher rates.
  • Billing structure: Lawyers may charge a flat fee for basic services like document review or hourly for more time-intensive work such as disputes or litigation.

Flat fees for straightforward services like closing assistance may range from $500 to $1,500.

Hourly rates can range from $150 to $400 or more, depending on the attorney’s experience and location.

Always discuss fees upfront to understand the overall cost of the legal service you're receiving.

Top Questions to Ask a Real Estate Lawyer

Before hiring a real estate lawyer, ask the following questions to ensure they are the right fit for your legal needs:

  1. What experience do you have with real estate law?
    Ensure the lawyer has experience in the type of real estate transaction or dispute you’re facing, whether residential, commercial, or development-related.
  2. What is your fee structure?
    Ask how the lawyer charges for services - whether it's a flat fee, hourly rate, or retainer - so there are no surprises later on.
  3. How long will the process take?
    Especially important for real estate transactions or disputes with deadlines, ask for a general estimate of how long the process will last.
  4. Have you handled cases similar to mine?
    Experience with similar transactions or disputes can give you confidence that the lawyer knows how to handle your case.
  5. Will you handle my case personally, or will it be passed to another attorney?
    Confirm who will be handling the bulk of your case work, especially in larger firms where junior lawyers may take on some responsibilities.
  6. Can you provide references?
    Speaking with past clients can give you insight into the lawyer's experience and how they handle cases.

How to Check the Credibility of a Real Estate Lawyer

To ensure you’re hiring a reputable real estate lawyer, take these steps:

  • Check with the state bar association: Verify that the lawyer is licensed and in good standing with no disciplinary actions on their record.
  • Read online reviews and testimonials: Look for reviews on legal directories and platforms like Avvo or Martindale-Hubbell to see what past clients have said.
  • Ask for references: A credible lawyer should have past clients willing to share their experiences.
  • Review their track record and expertise: Look at the lawyer’s website or LinkedIn profile for information about their experience in real estate law and any relevant cases they’ve handled.
  • Membership in professional organizations: Lawyers who are members of respected legal or real estate organizations, like the American Bar Association’s Real Property Division, often signal credibility and expertise.

What Should I Prepare for My First Consultation?

To make your first meeting with a real estate lawyer productive, you should prepare the following materials:

  • Relevant property documents: Bring purchase agreements, lease contracts, mortgage documents, zoning permits, or any other paperwork related to your case.
  • A summary of the issue or transaction: Be ready to explain the situation, whether it's a property dispute, contract negotiation, or development issue.
  • Questions about the legal process: Prepare a list of questions about how the lawyer will handle your case and what steps are involved.
  • Financial documents or loan agreements: If the case involves financing or a mortgage, bring any related documents for the lawyer to review.
  • Your goals and timeline: Be clear about what outcome you're hoping for, and if there are any deadlines that need to be considered, such as closing dates or legal filings.

By coming prepared, you can ensure that your consultation is efficient and informative, allowing you to assess whether the lawyer is the right fit for your real estate needs.

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