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28 May, 2024 by David orr
Mr. Patel and his team clearly care about their clients and are highly effective at resolving their issues. There are a lot of law firms out there who seem to only care about making a buck, but Old City Law is one of the rare ones that put their clients’ needs above their own. Can’t recommend them enough!
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07 Mar, 2024 by Rebecca smith
Attorney Anish Patel was courteous, responsive & knowledgeable in regards to our needs and his firm. Appreciate all he did for us during his time of representation! Thank you.
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23 Aug, 2022 by Jay carter martin
I high recommend Old City Law for any of your business legal needs. They truly care about their clients. I worked with Marcus recently and cannot say enough positive things about my experience. He took the time to educate and communicate all the details to me to make sure I understood everything. He even went out of his way to make sure he completed some documents that I needed a fast turnaround on. If you need some legal help with your business, Old City Law is the best in the city! I will definitely be working with them again.
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29 Feb, 2024 by Rob jennis
Richard is a knowledgeable and empathic Attorney with a very high standard. I would recommend him to anyone that needs help.
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27 Feb, 2024 by Nelson
I was impressed immediately during my first contact with the paralegal who was very welcoming and answered all of my preliminary questions with ease. During the consultation, Richard was well-prepared, proficient in the law, and good at explaining legal complexities in a way I could understand. He showed great care in making sure that I had the information that I needed to make the best business decision for my situation. I will be recommending to my friends and family.
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19 Jul, 2023 by David r
Rich is a wonderful attorney. He is extremely knowledgeable. He provides sound legal advice and services. His rates are very reasonable and his staff is cordial and prompt in providing excellent service.
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14 Jun, 2023 by Carol
Over my thirty year career, I had much experience working with attorneys. Mr. Burnett was knowledgeable, professional and compassionate. He explained the process very clearly and we had no surprises. He represented our family on a comprehensive land plan issue. I did a lot of research before hiring him and he was always highly recommended.
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14 Jun, 2023 by Alex
We have hired Doug Burnett on several occasions. Doug has been very successful in matters ranging from land use and zoning to signage and permitting, Doug is an integral part of our team and has helped us achieve our objectives in every case. We often recommend Doug to our friends and associates.
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14 Jun, 2023 by Ron
Doug was excellent and very knowledgeable about my issue and case law. He kept me informed and abreast of all relevant developments by him contacting me. Whenever I made a call, he actually picked up the phone. If he was not available for a call, he returned my call within 24 hrs. Communication is absolutely vital and I could not ask for a more knowledgeable and informed attorney in this matter.
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18 Aug, 2020 by Naomi
Joshua Harris was such a huge help during my divorce and custody case! He was very knowledgeable and super patient with me, my concerns and my questions! I would have NEVER thought that my case would be taken care of so quickly! He was able to get me exactly what I wanted! Even through the pandemic, he always answered my calls and emails. He stayed in contact with me and walked me through everything! I will forever be grateful for his help during such a stressful time for me! He really lifted a huge weight off my shoulders! I would recommend Josh to anyone looking for legal help!
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18 Sep, 2019 by Anonymous
I was a client of Joshua Harris. He helped me tremendously with the civil legal process, and in the end it was a very positive outcome with a civil ending. I believe this would not of happened without his representation. I am greatly appreciative of what he did for me.
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30 Mar, 2019 by Nevin
Mr. Harris was always very informative, quick to respond, and caring. English is not my first language, but he made all the legal jargon easy to understand and really walked me step by step through the entire legal process. Regardless of what time of day it was, Joshua would respond and really made it a point to take his time to make sure I was understanding what is going on. He was my divorce lawyer and while that process was extremely difficult and at first overwhelming, he really made sure that I was aware of all my options and was really caring. I cannot say enough good things about him.
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30 Jan, 2017 by Anonymous
Kim was very reachable throughout my process, which I needed, and continue to need. I have worked with Kim to syndicate my first multi-family property and she guided me through the process. Actually, at times, reaching beyond expectations to help me in my process as she has experience in the MF industry as an owner as well. I feel she is more of a teammate, and I will benefit from her guidance as I move down my path. I would (and do) recommend Kim for RE Syndication's, TIC's, DST's etc.
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30 Jan, 2017 by Rob
She did a great job setting up our Fund. If there were 6 stars we would give her 6 stars.
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24 Jan, 2017 by Dmitry kremer
I have known Kim for a number of years and have been contracting her services since last year. Her expertise in multi-family real estate is superb. She makes herself available, she is thorough, thoughtful and helpful. I am once again engaging her services in my current multi-family real estate transaction. I highly recommend Kim to a potential Real Estate investor.
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18 Apr, 2023 by Sheila chinn
Quick, efficient and friendly. I'm in England and needed a legal document for my property in Florida.
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12 Mar, 2016 by Viviana
I consulted with Mrs Undine George, I only have to say I would recommend anybody to her. She is clear, very professional, smart and personal.I left her office feeling very confident she is the one who will help me ,solve my problem. I know she will be my lawyer.That is why I gave her 5 stars.
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24 Feb, 2016 by Steve
Undine represented us in an employee dispute who, in our opinion, was dismissed with good reason. Once she presented the facts in our defense to opposing legal council, the case never made it to the courtroom.
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03 Jul, 2018 by Paul
Amy managed our matter whit the utmost care, expertise and commitment. She gave our family honest, clear counsel and led us to a successful conclusion of our matter.
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05 Mar, 2018 by Robert
I am a general contractor in a dispute with a sub-contractor. Ms. Vo was quick to respond to my complaint and quick to file suite. She handled the situation professionally but considered the circumstances of all parties. I recovered all damages and fees thanks to Ms. Vo. She will always be my Real Estate attorney.
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07 Nov, 2014 by Kathy
Ms. Vo always responds as soon as possible and deals with any and all legal issues I may have at the time. She has assisted us in dealing with my husband and my legal issues-deeds, wills, end-of-life paperswork, etc.; my husband's deceased brother who had many outstanding debts and legal problems; and my children and their concerns from marriage to business.
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23 Dec, 2015 by Anonymous
Scott helped us with the title work and closing for a commercial property acquisition. He did a great job and took care of everything quickly and professionally. I would highly recommend him and his firm.
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23 Dec, 2015 by Anonymous
My wife and I met with Scott to close on the sale of our first town house. Scott made our experience comfortable and stress-free at a time when we were anxious and excited. He was quick to answer our questions and very knowledgeable on closing details and any concerns that we had. We will certainly contact Scott for our future real estate needs.
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10 Mar, 2015 by Anonymous
Scott did a phenomenal job assisting me with my misdemeanor charges, as they were all dropped. He was extremely dedicated to my case, communicating via text message and e-mail keeping me posted on what was going on. He and Mr. Ginn were courteous, non-judgemental, and carried out their duties professionally and efficiently. The two were also easy going and just great to work with. I would certainly recommend them to anyone seeking legal services for any case.
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08 Aug, 2015 by Kelly
We were very pleased with our consultation went to St. John's law group. We feel that Mr. Whiteman and Mr. Burnett had done a very thorough very comprehensive job with our wills and power of attorney's. We could've asked for a better consultation. Highly recommended
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07 Nov, 2014 by Ellen
Mr Whiteman helped me deal with a large bank who wanted to foreclose on my house, even after the mortgage was almost paid off. He never suggested giving up, like several of the other lawyers I had tried to work with. He always answered my emails and calls; was always compassionate and had empathy for my difficult and unique situation. It took years to be resolved and he never got tired of dealing with ridiculous responses. I highly recommend John Whiteman.
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08 May, 2013 by David
It was a true pleasure working with John. He always kept me informed on my case and really demonstrated that he cared. He was always available by phone or email when I needed questions answered and he always had comforting answers for me. John is an excellent attorney and a very good man, I would highly recommend him.
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23 Dec, 2015 by Anonymous
Our experience with John Ginn was very informative, relaxing, and stress-free. At a time where my wife and I were selling our first home, John made us feel calm and at ease. John is a great guy, lawyer, and friend!
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23 Dec, 2015 by Anonymous
John helped us with the title work and closing for a commercial property acquisition. He did a great job and took care of everything quickly and professionally. I would highly recommend him and his firm.
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03 Jun, 2015 by Hayden
John was incredibly helpful, responsive, and efficient. I was very impressed with his attention to detail. He made quick work of my legal issues... and even managed to get me an extension with the clerk of court on some payments that I failed to make! Saved me some additional troubles!
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20 Dec, 2020 by Marvin
My family has been provided with excellent service from Stephen, after one year of reaching out to insurance company with no resolution. Stephen was professional as well as informative of action would be required. He continue to follow up with steps of process going forward was timely. Was made knowledgeable of actions of other party, and provided resolution after everything was completed. Exceeded our expectations.
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18 Oct, 2017 by Anyely franco
Mr. Difato was very professional and completed my real estate transaction at a very reasonable price and with great advice. I cannot thank him for this help, honesty, and integrity. He worked through the transaction with his staff to a very satisfactory conclusion.
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10 Oct, 2017 by Katalin
Stephen Difato handled all of our transactions associated with creating multiple LLCs for real estate properties & transferring the deeds. He and his staff were all detail oriented and most eager to provide quality service. We encountered some challenges on the way, but Stephen said that just made his work more rewarding. You will be in great hands choosing his firm!
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25 Feb, 2021 by Mark
Jonathan did a great job in revamping and updating all of our estate documents. He was thorough, professional and most courteous in all of our dealings; on the phone and in person! He is outstanding in his ability to present everything in very understandable lay terms! We look forward to continuing to work with him in the years ahead, and we have already secured his services for other family members.
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15 Mar, 2019 by David
Jonathan listened to our concerns about moving to Florida and suggested putting our new house in a revocable living trust to avoid probate. He also prepared our wills and various power of attorneys to our satisfaction in a timely fashion.
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15 Mar, 2019 by Ron
My wife and I found Jonathan to be attentive to our specific needs and was careful to explain things in detail if needed. He is honest, courteous and trustworthy and understands the important details of trusts/wills etc. We both highly recommend him.
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18 Jul, 2018 by Elizabeth
Mark Parsons guided me through a complicated divorce with great poise. I highly recommend him for representation in legal matters. I have found him to be a talented mediator. He is trustworthy as well as fair regarding fees. I chose him after working in a legal office, which allowed me to see the disposition of many local attorneys. Mark always treated me with the utmost respect.
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02 Jan, 2012 by Ron
Mr. Parsons was great to work with and honest. He did care and worked on our will and divorce papers. He was on time, explained out options and We felt he did what was right for us at a reasonable cost.
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14 Dec, 2018 by Maggie
Jeremiah represented us in a dispute with a tenant in our rental property. He resolved the matter quickly and professionally. We were pleased with a solution that fair to the tenant and appropriate according to the terms of the lease and Florida statues. Jeremiah returned calls promptly. His staff was polite and efficient. And the view from his conference room window can't be beat!
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19 Jul, 2009 by Anonymous
He was very knowledgeable and his recommendations were spot on... I would definitely use him again if I were in need!
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11 Mar, 2015 by Melinda
I cannot stress enough how impressed I was with Jane West as an attorney. For 35 years I have been a successful advocate for residential neighborhoods and never relied much on attorneys for help. However, when it came time to file an appeal on a building permit issued to a proposed 7 Eleven, I knew we would need a good land use attorney. Unlike many land use attorneys, she is willing to work for the resident and little guy, as opposed to the developer. From the beginning Jane was willing to look at our research and let us know where our strengths were and how to present the case. She warned us of problems and stayed realistic the whole time. Everyone who contributed to our legal defense fund was impressed with how Jane West handled the case and the hearing. She was easy to stay in touch with and kept everything on tract. Her legal writing was tight and she argued our case brilliantly. We won the case with a unanimous 5/0 vote of the City Commission. I highly recommend her as an attorney.
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17 Mar, 2021 by Anonymous
Very good lawyer. Smart gamesman. Gets the fodder down where the cows can eat it. Likes to win.
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08 Aug, 2024 by Mr. almanza
Practical, professional, friendly, and on point! Thank you Mola and Krisha!
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12 Jul, 2024 by Paul beaton
Mola was very knowledgeable.
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13 May, 2024 by Martin turner
Excellent Service. I really enjoy talking with Krisha. She's super encouraging and very inciteful. Mola and Kim are knowledgeable and personable as well. This will be a benefit to my business
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07 Oct, 2024 by Cynthia tillo
The staff and professionalism of Zakrocki Law Firm are top-notch. I would highly recommend this law firm for their friendly and professional attitude. As a bonus, this firm hand delivered important documents to me. They are conveniently located on US1.
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23 Sep, 2024 by Andrea hairston
We were in a rush for time to find a lawyer in the Jacksonville/Saint Augustine area that would be the best fit, that could help us with complexities and estate planning. Upon reading reviews of multiple lawyers, we felt inclined to contact The Zakrocki Law Firm. The reviews were spot on and matched our experience, and we are so blessed and thankful that we were able to work with Lawyer Steve. As I told him in his office, he is the G.O.A.T (at least in our opinion). Everything we asked for was done quickly, and efficiency. Thank you so much for all your support, preparation, and diligence, with helping solidify my father‘s estate plan! The West Family
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23 Aug, 2024 by Sword krefting
Friendly, compassionate, a great listener, and a down-to-earth demeanor with a much-needed level of professionalism.
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28 May, 2024 by David orr
Mr. Patel and his team clearly care about their clients and are highly effective at resolving their issues. There are a lot of law firms out there who seem to only care about making a buck, but Old City Law is one of the rare ones that put their clients’ needs above their own. Can’t recommend them enough!
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07 Mar, 2024 by Rebecca smith
Attorney Anish Patel was courteous, responsive & knowledgeable in regards to our needs and his firm. Appreciate all he did for us during his time of representation! Thank you.
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23 Aug, 2022 by Jay carter martin
I high recommend Old City Law for any of your business legal needs. They truly care about their clients. I worked with Marcus recently and cannot say enough positive things about my experience. He took the time to educate and communicate all the details to me to make sure I understood everything. He even went out of his way to make sure he completed some documents that I needed a fast turnaround on. If you need some legal help with your business, Old City Law is the best in the city! I will definitely be working with them again.
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03 Feb, 2023 by Sonya romero-drouare
Super sweet guy and very knowledgeable!!!
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30 Aug, 2022 by Robin wilson
You cannot go wrong with John Galletta. He is always available for you, usually right away. I have never had to wait an unreasonable amount of time for him. He treats you like you are his only client. Additionally his fees are so reasonable I actually called him once to ask if I've paid him all I owed! Unbelievable! I have had need of good lawyers in the past, from time to time and I can assure you he is the only lawyer I have ever actually called to make sure I'm paid up with! Anyway sometimes I read these reviews and wonder if they are paid reviews. This review is definitely unsolicited and I am in no way related to John. I recently referred a friend to John and he is giving him the same great service for the same great price as he did for me. This is just how he does business. Again, you cannot go wrong with John Galletta!
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19 Aug, 2022 by Tara mcnaught
Mr. Galletta and staff are wonderful to work with. We used his law firm for a probate case from when my husbands dad passed away suddenly. Even though it was a difficult time, this office was totally on top of things and compassionate too. I highly recommend using Mr. Galletta for probate or what ever you need. He will treat you fairly and help you out through the entire process!!! Thank you Mr. Galletta for helping our family!!!!!
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08 Jul, 2023 by Janna & jimmy taylor
Very grateful for her services! Thank you for all your help!
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28 Mar, 2023 by Doug morgan
She is an amazing Attorney ! No second guesses. Happy she is on our side. Best practice I have dealt with since living in NE Florida. I have been a resident for 18 years and all my kids have been born and raised in Florida. Christy....You are the best !
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02 Mar, 2023 by Tracy bier
If you want the best to represent you , Christy is the woman you want , she has over 15 years experience and can get you the best deal . I highly recommend her for any case , D.U.I. , probation , she is absolutely phenomenal.
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25 Oct, 2023 by Denova air
Highly reccomend Attorney Terence Keyes.
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06 Sep, 2023 by Jd mckinney iii
After unsuccessfully working to get builder to back up his product, I got a hot tip about The Law Office of Terence Keyes, P.A. specializing in construction law and issues related to quality of work from the numerous contractors and builders in North Florida. Just like the lottery, my numbers came up! He was able to get background information and the builder's past track record. Very prepared, we went into the hearing and prevailed. Good news ending-not so fast! The deadbeat builder decided he did not agree with a court of law decision and would not pay up! Mr. Keyes was able to get a license review and some other legal maneuvers that put pressure on the rascal and he finally complied with the Judge's decision. Great experience and knowledge of law-You want Terence on your team!
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29 Mar, 2023 by Audrey newton
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26 Mar, 2023 by Kathleen floryan
Ellen Avery Smith with Rogers Tower is an outstanding real estate attorney and advocate.
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26 Aug, 2024 by Steve cupolo
I have known and worked with Doug Burnett and The St. Johns Law group for many years. I have found them to always be Professional, Knowledgeable, Responsive, and Fair. I do, and will continue to refer anyone in need of legal advice to them knowing that they will be well looked after.
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23 Aug, 2024 by Kelly simmons
Such a wonderful experience with all those we worked with. Very pleasant, knowledgeable and helpful. I was able to reduce my stress levels to a managable-low level. Thank you so much!
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21 Aug, 2024 by Jason fitzpatrick
Detailed, Professional, Educated, Skillful, Strategic.
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26 Aug, 2024 by Steve cupolo
I have known and worked with Doug Burnett and The St. Johns Law group for many years. I have found them to always be Professional, Knowledgeable, Responsive, and Fair. I do, and will continue to refer anyone in need of legal advice to them knowing that they will be well looked after.
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23 Aug, 2024 by Kelly simmons
Such a wonderful experience with all those we worked with. Very pleasant, knowledgeable and helpful. I was able to reduce my stress levels to a managable-low level. Thank you so much!
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21 Aug, 2024 by Jason fitzpatrick
Detailed, Professional, Educated, Skillful, Strategic.
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24 Sep, 2024 by Larry weeks
David Naples law office provided excellent services for our estate planning documents. He and his team were very responsive, produced excellent documents and David’s explanation of the documents were exceptional. We highly recommend David and his staff.
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17 Aug, 2024 by Scott stanley
Mr. Naples created a Will and Trust for me. He took the time to help me understand the options and made recommendations. I left with a clear understanding of what was needed and what he created. Very easy to work with.
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15 Aug, 2024 by James heritage
Friendly and knowledgeable staff
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26 Aug, 2024 by Steve cupolo
I have known and worked with Doug Burnett and The St. Johns Law group for many years. I have found them to always be Professional, Knowledgeable, Responsive, and Fair. I do, and will continue to refer anyone in need of legal advice to them knowing that they will be well looked after.
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23 Aug, 2024 by Kelly simmons
Such a wonderful experience with all those we worked with. Very pleasant, knowledgeable and helpful. I was able to reduce my stress levels to a managable-low level. Thank you so much!
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21 Aug, 2024 by Jason fitzpatrick
Detailed, Professional, Educated, Skillful, Strategic.
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28 Mar, 2017 by Anonymous
This attorney is too young and immature to handle family law cases. She was paid $1200 and got NOTHING done. She has at most a little more legal knowledge than a paralegal in my opinion. Don't waste your money with this lawyer, instead hire a more experienced one.
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10 Feb, 2017 by Danel
I hired Ms. Teelon after being formerly represented by another attorney who I didn't feel was working for me. Elizabeth was always available and very helpful in explaining and working with me to bring my divorce case to a close. Elizabeth made sure that she answered all my questions. With the unique nature of my case she made sure that she always had a complete understanding of what my focus and direction I was looking for my case to go. She was always professional and had great knowledge of the law. I am so grateful that I switched to such an amazing attorney.
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22 Aug, 2016 by Anonymous
I hired Ms. Teelon for post divorce issues and I wish I had her during my divorce! She is always going out of her way for me and has shown so much to me what a passionate and intelligent lawyer can do. Everyone should deeply consider her, I know that she is my go to attorney for any other family issues!
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13 May, 2024 by Frank holt
Mr. Mercer is a great sincere honest person to speak with.
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25 Mar, 2024 by Robert wagner
“A steady hand on the tiller, stays the course.” Our Case was not a quick and easy issue but Matt saw it through to the end. We got everything we requested and then some in what we considered was fair and equitable to both sides.To Matt and his Team, Bravo Zulu! That’s Navy-speak for “Good Job”.
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11 Jan, 2024 by John thomas
Mercer Kutch is an excellent law firm. Matt Mercer expertly helped me and my family with a construction law issue. Our builder had improperly poured the concrete foundation. Matt provided us legal counsel that helped solve our construction issues!
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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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