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11 Nov, 2024 by Rosa garcia
Estoy muy agradecida con Abogado José Alfaro y su equipo de trabajo son muy profesionales Y amables al resolver cada una de mis preguntas, En 6 meses Obtuve mi permiso de trabajo y de entrada, Gracias a Dios y a José Alfaro Law, no lo podía creer volví a ver a mi familia después de 20 años Y pude regresar con éxito a mi ciudad en California, Gracias José Alfaro Law.🙏✨
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26 Sep, 2024 by Alberto cardozo
muy buen abogado!
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21 Sep, 2024 by Raul quijada
Excelente firma, abogado Jose Alfaro muy transparente con el proceso, muy servicial, todo se cumplió con lo que el me explico al inicio, recomendado cien por ciento!!
Muchas gracias abogado por su servicio y le deseo mucho más éxito.
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03 Oct, 2022 by J. m. little
Mr. Mellor helped me through very difficult circumstances. He offered support above and beyond an attorney's responsibilities. Friendly and helpful staff. I highly recommend Mr. Mark A. Mellor, Esq.
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22 Mar, 2019 by Nick
For over 2 decades my family has owned a real estate investment corporation... Dealing with dishonest people whether defendants or plaintiffs isn't fun. Mark is the perfect attorney to safely but powerfully represent our family & business. He's my most trusted legal friend and advisor. He was referred by a fellow business collegue that has received "THANK YOU's" for that referral several times...
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25 Feb, 2019 by Kees
This guy guenually wants to help his clients. After a extended vacation I came home to find my business had been served and missed the court date due to my absence. This guy was amazing in a short hour session. He gave me all the knowledge and told me exactly what to do in order for a retrial. A short hour and a small amount of money saved me 10,000. He was honest knowledgeable and didn't seem in it just for the money.
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31 Jan, 2025 by Jesus renteria
These law professionals exceeded my expectations! This isn’t your regular “yes” lawyers, they actually mean what they say. I appreciate their payment plan option as well. I am more than grateful for the exceptional service. I would recommend to anyone reading this!
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19 Dec, 2024 by Leticia rodriguez
Been recommending this firm to friends and family for quite sometime. They have exceptional customer service from the first call with Alejandra to representatives like Jose Luis taking our initial case. They make you feel comfortable and communicate with you whether it’s a call, txt, or email. They also provide Spanish speakers if English is not your Native language.
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19 Dec, 2024 by Jennifer taylor
17 Jul, 2016 by Patrice
Not too long a I found myself in a serious situation. My neighbors were attempting to appropriate a significant portion of my property by pretense, deceit and rampant frenzied behavior. As a result, I retained Michael V. Hesse, Esquire, a prominent Real Estate Attorney, to remedy the situation. His past experience, plus his success in high profile cases, exceptional knowledge of the law and expertise in litigation, convinced me that this was a person who would represent me in an aggressive, professional manner. His impeccable honesty, integrity and personal attention to my case was assiduous, ingenious and steadfast. To put it simply, he stays focused, treating each step as a little “win” on the way to the one big “success”, he sets as his goal. In my opinion I feel “he is the very best” real estate lawyer in the state of California, and I highly recommend him for any real estate issues, unequivocally. *****
PS PERSONAL RATING: EASY ON THE EYES VA VA VOOM
Patrice LPC
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29 Mar, 2016 by Anonymous
I had a dispute with a HOA. This HOA dispute involved thousands of dollars. Although, the opposition had three people arguing against Michael Hesse and cutting him off mid-sentence Mr. Hesse stood firm and decimated their arguments.
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10 Jan, 2009 by Anonymous
Mr. Hesse is an outstanding attorney that I have recommended to several friends. He is honest and fair, but most of all, he is highly competent and knowledgeable; he gives you a peace of mind.
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02 Nov, 2011 by Nonnie
Atty. Ryan D. Miller is our professor in Bankruptcy Law. He is able to communicate his expertise to students like us, in a manner where technical language are dissected to comprehensible morsels of information. He is very communicative, gives us his expectations of performance and he makes us feel at ease, not intimidated in this new world: the field of law.
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02 Jul, 2011 by Cathy
Ryan Miller, is a rare kind of Attorney that will represent his client with zeal. He is easy to talk with and knows the legal issues as they applied to me. He is a honorable man and I feel is worth every penny. There was a time he did not keep me updated as to the course of action and legal applicability. If you want honest representation then he is your go-to-guy. He is definitely a fighter.
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26 Dec, 2018 by Oskar
I was referred to Greg Angus by a contractor I knew because he was dealing with a similar issue. Greg Angus helped me win my case when my other lawyer said I had no chance of winning. Greg took the time to explain a lot to me and prepare me with the information I needed to win in court. I would definitely recommend him to any contractors, small business owners, or anyone dealing with insurance claims, and I would absolutely come back to him for help in the future.
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14 Nov, 2014 by Lupe
Mr. Angus did a great job on my case. I would definitely go back to him if I need help with anything and referral I friends to him...
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29 Dec, 2016 by Steve
Michael Sargent has represented our company for many years. He is very knowledgeable regarding the type of lawsuits he has represented for our company. Always has great advice, timely follow through and has been successful in getting our cases settled as quickly as possible.
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21 Dec, 2016 by Linda
I have worked with Mike Sargent for many years and have been thrilled with everything he does: we get terrific outcomes, and the cost is always kept to a minimum. He is honest as the day is long, and a super nice person. It is always a pleasure to have him work for me!!
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05 Dec, 2016 by Greg
I hired Carla to prepare a living trust for me. She was very detailed oriented and prepared a top notch trust with many extra documents like a durable power of attorney and medical directive. Later on, I had a family legal question and she was able to decipher the document and explain what it meant. Hiring a lawyer in life is probably not the best thing to have to do in life, but it seems we will all need one eventually. I would highly recommend Carla and use her again in the future.
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12 Nov, 2014 by Jim/gail
Jason has taken care of many legal matters for us for the past 10 years, and has been an excellent advisor.
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08 Jun, 2022 by Andrew
A professional that knows the law and is willing to go above and beyond what ever the situation may be. If you were going into battle she would be the one you want on your side. without a doubt. she’s the type to inform you of your weakness’s and strength’s the do and don’ts because she has expert experience and advice. The best at what she doe’s. I wouldn’t want anyone else on my side. She’s not only helped me she’s helped friends of mine with excellent results. word of mouth travels and travels extremely fast. Be informed and know your options. she took very good care of me and I know she would do the same for you. I couldn’t appreciate her more.
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10 Jun, 2015 by Anonymous
Mr.Bynum is very professional, straight to the point , understanding and honest , and when you are looking for someone to represent you you want someone like him , knowledgeable and morals not just out to get you .
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29 Jun, 2017 by Roy
I highly recommend Mr. Holmes. I am very impressed and pleased with the way he handled various litigation matters for me over the past 15 years including his successful defense/extrication of me from a high dollar complex civil litigation tort/contract matter, his prosecution of a Mandatory Arbitration for recovery of a several hundred thousand dollar claim on behalf, and his successful resolution of a complicated Trust litigation matter field against me. He is professional, ethical and efficient. He keeps you fully informed as your case progresses. Further, he is warm, friendly and easy to work with.” In addition to the above comments, he is a decent human being. He believes in the oath he took as a lawyer and takes very seriously the trust that I place in him. My best interests are always primary in his thoughts and deeds.
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11 Aug, 2016 by Bjf
Tom Jacobson was hired to address several HR issues involving the termination and untimely retirement of employees. He was prepared, professional and extremely attentive to details. Tom kept the company officers in the loop and made excellent suggestions which made a very unpleasant situation work out smoothly. We've kept him on retainer.
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03 Sep, 2024 by Chuck ev
Knowledgeable, intelligent, prepared, patient, gutsy, funny, loves the Dodgers, reasonably priced and cool guy.
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21 Jan, 2025 by Raymundo garcia
24 Dec, 2024 by Michael a
We’re so thankful for this law group. When my family was feeling stressed and confused about a legal matter, we found GGK based on many excellent reviews. The secretary was kind and professional in accepting our call and after a brief hold offered us a same day in person conference with a lawyer in their office in Riverside. Charles Kenyon met with us and treated us with kindness and respect. He listened with empathy. He has many years of experience and he was able to educate us with his legal advice and provide different perspectives. I am forever thankful to Mr Kenyon and his group and would highly recommend GGK.
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27 Nov, 2024 by Jasmin asistio
I highly recommend this law firm. Especially Atty Dan Greenberg. He was so accommodating and replies to all our messages promptly even if passed office hours. He answers all our questions and explains all possibilities clearly. Easy to make appointment. And most of all they made my husband’s charges dismissed.
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21 Jan, 2025 by Raymundo garcia
24 Dec, 2024 by Michael a
We’re so thankful for this law group. When my family was feeling stressed and confused about a legal matter, we found GGK based on many excellent reviews. The secretary was kind and professional in accepting our call and after a brief hold offered us a same day in person conference with a lawyer in their office in Riverside. Charles Kenyon met with us and treated us with kindness and respect. He listened with empathy. He has many years of experience and he was able to educate us with his legal advice and provide different perspectives. I am forever thankful to Mr Kenyon and his group and would highly recommend GGK.
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27 Nov, 2024 by Jasmin asistio
I highly recommend this law firm. Especially Atty Dan Greenberg. He was so accommodating and replies to all our messages promptly even if passed office hours. He answers all our questions and explains all possibilities clearly. Easy to make appointment. And most of all they made my husband’s charges dismissed.
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01 Feb, 2024 by John
Jerry is a perfect strategist. He knows how to analyze a complex situation and creatively strategize his client out of jam. He helped me win a very difficult legal case that my previous lawyer at a big, prestigious law firm told me was unwinnable. Jerry is sure brilliance; he can pull rabbits out of hats you didn’t even know you were wearing.
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20 Feb, 2018 by James
I was being sued for $16 million in six separate lawsuits by former business partners and lenders after I had to walk away from several real estate projects that went under in the 2008 recession. Jerry formulated a sophisticated game plan from the start on how to handle all six cases, and end result: four were dismissed and two were settled for pennies on the dollar. I avoided bankruptcy, preserved my credit and was able to move on with my business and I forever thank Jerry for that. He is incredibly smart and strategic in ways I never before have seen from an attorney.
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19 Dec, 2013 by Mischelynn
I have worked with Jerry on real estate matters for the last couple of years. After working together for so long, Jerry is not just my attorney any longer; he is family. I have never met another attorney that cares about his clients as much as he does. He is literally the best and is incredibly smart and wise. The thing that I admire most about Jerry is probably his love for the law. He doesn't look for the easy way out and I think he likes to challenge himself to learn something new with each case. If you find yourself fortunate enough that Jerry takes you on as a client ...you have no more worries. He is THE best!
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06 Dec, 2024 by Pedro
I can’t thank Mohammad Qazi enough for their incredible work. I was facing multiple felony and gun charges, and from the moment I hired him, they gave me confidence and peace of mind. Not only did they protect my reputation, but they also made the entire process stress-free. His expertise, dedication, and attention to detail were truly unmatched. They handled my case with professionalism and fought tirelessly to achieve the best possible outcome. If you’re looking for the best criminal lawyer, look no further Mohammad Qazi is the one you want in your corner!
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14 Nov, 2024 by Shd
He is very incompetent he did not respect me .very bad
And he doesn't care.
And he is not courageous
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17 Apr, 2024 by Henry herrera
Muy buen servicio me brindaron estoy agradecido que mi caso salió muy bien, 100 % recomendable
Gracias Law Offices of David Chesley
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13 Jun, 2018 by Kam
The thing I like about De Novo law firm is they are responsive and dependable. They were quick to answer my questions and concerns and took care of my real estate issues without any added stress. I regularly recommend Ben and Peggy to friends.
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04 Jun, 2018 by Shelia blackwell
AFTER MY GENDER REASSIGNMENT SURGERY I RAN INTO SOME FINANCIAL TROUBLES! FILING BANKRUPTCY WAS MY ONLY OPTION AND I NEEDED TO FIND A LAW FIRM THAT WOULD HELP KEEP ME CALM DURING THIS WHOLE PROCESS. THEY WERE! THEY HELPED ME, KEPT ME INFORMED AND WERE SO WARM AND KIND!
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04 Jun, 2018 by Latisha
I came to Benjamin to have him help with a bankruptcy. I had no clue where to start and what to do. He was so nice and so kind and kept me informed during the whole process. He was great at communicating with me! He kept me informed during the whole process! In short he was AMAZING! You can go wrong with choosing Benjamin.
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10 Nov, 2024 by Abed ali
I went and explained everything to Xavier and he told me he will help me but I discovered that they are scammers. He told me everything will be ready after two days. I discovered that they did not do anything on my papers, and then I called them to see what happened, but their answer shocked me. What is your case and what are its details? They forgot everything, even though I sent them everything by email. But when I spoke to them, the price changed and rose insanely. The agreement was from the beginning on something clear and specific, but I discovered that they are scammers and they do not care about your case or anything except the money. It is all lies upon lies.
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10 Nov, 2024 by Grace pahlinha
I found this law firm to be more harmful than helpful to our case. It originally went well until the payment terms of our settlement agreement was changed without our knowledge while we waited for the check to arrive. It was not disclosed until the check was already cut to include their name on the check which, was not on the agreement we signed. From there, an additional large amount was invoiced to keep some of it and we are still trying to get it back nearly a year later. I think the shocking part was being billed over 40k for work they did not even do. Took a year to receive our files to even discover that. A material expert witness opinion was also never shown to us before settlement. I gave 2 stars for the law clerk who did help a bit but this firm should stick to defending DUI's and dealing with probate. Personal injury, med mal, and elder cases will fail here.
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08 Oct, 2024 by Kareen dale
17 Sep, 2024 by Suzy hackworth
The worst family law attorney. Laurel is extremely hard to get a hold of. She did not explain legal terminology when I filled out forms for my divorce which has now resulted in lifelong spousal support. She had someone from her office call at the last minute to say that if I don’t submit certain information by that day then I would be fined $5,000 when I was never asked to submit the info prior to that moment. Overall she did not act in my best interest. I really regret hiring her.
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20 Apr, 2024 by Cynthia martinez
Amazing Great job keep going
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17 Dec, 2023 by Jennifer garcia
Laura Buchanan and her associates are some of the best attorneys around they absolutely are worth the money and I recommend them to everybody... I have retained them numerous times and they have never fail me than u to all of them they have picked up calls from me even on her weekend and night and talked me threw my brake downs and i will for ever be grateful to all of them.thank u again .....
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22 Aug, 2024 by Heather
I would recomend this lawyer. She gave me a lot of useful valuable information over the phone along with some great advise. Very kind and talked with me for a very long time giving me peace of mind. I felt more knowlegable and comforatable with my situation after talking with her. Very appreciated! A++
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14 Aug, 2024 by Anonymous
I contacted Attorney Farrell concerning an upcoming conservatorship case, and I found her knowledge of proceedings, and proper methods of addressing concerns impeccable. She is very detailed; Provides references for information given, and very patient when addressing questions ensuring there is enough clarity to make well informed decisions. I highly recommend Attorney Farrell for any of your legal matters. She is AWESOME!
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20 Jun, 2024 by Christine
C L was great! She went above and beyond. She took the time to explain options for my situation and had my best interest at heart. She genuinely cared! Very glad was able to speak with her.
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03 Jan, 2025 by Cellselassie 39
Thanks Arsany! You represented me well with no judgement! Got my felony case dismissed in a matter of months. Your knowledge and professionalism is unmatched. Blessings my brother!
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15 Dec, 2024 by Nehemiah johnson
First off I just want to give thanks to my guy, you said I'll be home for the holidays and here I am, excellent service, good representation, and an overall comfortable experience. I always felt like I was in good hands. Thanks again brother and God bless
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22 Nov, 2024 by Hajnalka s-k
I can’t express enough how much we appreciate Arsany, and his secretary Isabel for guiding us through a situation, also Alex for bringing us to Arsany Law, in the time when my son find himself in trouble with the law. Arsany is honest and straightforward, an amazing attorney and got my son through a tough time. Arsany’s professionalism and knowledge regarding our son’s case made us feel protected through the process. We are ever so grateful. He is acknowledged, liked and connected in the court system. Worked on the case for a year able to get an incredible deal. Giving my son hopes to continue with his life as law abiding citizen. Will highly recommend Arsany Law to anyone in need of a criminal justice attorney. Thank you Arsany Law! God bless you.
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16 Sep, 2022 by Crystal c. s.
Mr. Geller has proven to be the most knowledgeable attorney that continually demonstrates his concern for his clients rights and well being. Thank you Mr. Geller for all of your hard work, caring assistance and professionalism in all you do. I wish there were more people with your level of integrity and you made a difference in my life. So grateful our paths crossed.
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14 Sep, 2022 by Anonymous
We unfortunately purchased an expensive Class A motorhome last February. We never received title and license from California. In June we were advised by California DMV that the motorhome had some mileage discrepancies. We contacted Michael Geller. The case was settled the other day. We were able to return the motorhome to the dealership and receive a full refund of the purchase. I am so appreciate of Michael Geller, Lisa Bellow and Tamara Decauter. They are all top professionals. We could never have done this on our own.
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03 Aug, 2022 by Dennis
Thankyou Mr. Geller for your passionate defense in Court. The fact you took our case indicates how you put justice and passion for others first. I have much respect for you.
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12 Aug, 2023 by Paul
Retained Company after becoming Administrator in Pro Per to file 850 Petition and recover assets for probate in March 2021. They filed an incomplete 850 Petition which had to be corrected and refiled by another law firm, after the Judge asked for additional information. Never even asked for an inventory or Trust accounting, ever. The invoices however, never stopped. After 2.5 years they recovered $0 and charged over $50,000 in fees.
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13 Jan, 2021 by Deanna
Kyle was very supportive, and listened to me. Would highly recommend him for anyone that is having family problems. He settled my case, and won. After four lawyers, I finally found him thank God. Thank God and him. He had to deal with some real devious people, and was never intimidated by them or their lawyers. Thank you Kyle for supporting and representing me. Thanks also for your People. They were wonderful to work with❤️
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04 Mar, 2020 by Merci
I cant enough regarding Kyle Patrick and his staff. Professional, knowledgeable, compassionate. Fought for me. Went above and beyond .
Top notch attorney. He knows his stuff !
Thank you Kyle for being there for me through this difficult time.
Highly recommend
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12 Nov, 2024 by Keemz frenchie
I was extremely disappointed with my initial interaction with Reid and Hellyer office. The woman who answered the phone was incredibly rude and unprofessional. She seemed unwilling to assist me with my legal inquiry, and her demeanor was quite insulting. I was seeking a consultation to discuss a potential case, but she made me feel as if my concerns were trivial. I ended the call immediately, as it was clear that my matter would not be handled with the care and respect it deserved.
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15 Mar, 2024 by Ashley boguett
Don't call here, Save time, I was calling to inquire if they help tentants with their landlords but whoever answers the phone is having a bad day already with a bad tone and attitude, save yourself time.
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20 Jan, 2024 by Mona mckenzie
The trust litigation team at Reid & Hellyer resolved our estate disputes with care and knowledge, ensuring a fair and stress-free solution.?
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09 Aug, 2024 by Jessica rangel
Mr. Carson and his team took on a case for the family. From the beginning to the end they were helpful, informative, professional, and kind. I would definitely recommend them for any legal help. Personally I learned a lot through the whole process and we ended up having a successful outcome all thanks to Mr. Carson.
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19 Jul, 2024 by Jose luis trejo
Mr Carson he is the best. Thank you for everything and his team … sherley his assistant thank you
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12 Mar, 2024 by Breshea d (shea)
10 Sep, 2024 by Guillermo quintero
10 Sep, 2024 by Matthew fuller
10 Sep, 2024 by John
21 Sep, 2023 by Robert
this lawyer is the worst thing ever happened to me
he works very slow and he never answer the phone his secretary is very mean and unrespectful she likes to argue with you for no reason I try to get rid of very bad tenants and they finally vacate the property after nine months. because this lawyer takes for ever to file a case against these people.
they left the property and never recuperate any money they own me.
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25 Feb, 2020 by Martha
I came to Gilbert Gutierrez with my Uncle to set up a Family Trust. This Family Trust was not a straight forward Trust. It has some components in it that made it a bit complicated. Shortly after the Family Trust was set up my Uncle pasted away. Gilbert's office was very professional and helpful through this whole process. I had many questions on how to proceed as the Trustee of the Trust. Mr. Gutierrez's office guided me all along the way. Helping me step by step. They handled the transferring and recording of several properties. This process has been very smooth. The staff has always been friendly and helpful when I have questions or concerns. Jiri has been great at communicating and keeping me informed. Making time to sit down and bringing me up to date on where we are in the process. Never rushed through, always making sure my questions were answered. Gilbert has been great to defend and address issues that came up legally. I did not have to worry about attending court or how to respond when corresponding with other attorney's. Gilbert has taken care of all of this. I have been very happy with Gilbert Gutierrez and Jiri and office staff. As the Trustee of the Trust I have responsibilities and duties to fulfill that are mine to complete. Gilbert's office has been great at keeping me on track throughout this process. I am very happy with the work they have done and are doing for me.
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28 Mar, 2015 by Lisa
Mr. Gutierrez was incredibly professional, upfront and honest about dealing with my case and costs involved. He offered options and provided extremely helpful advice. I would not hesitate to return for any legal issue handled by his office.
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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.
