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05 Feb, 2025 by Sari al-shehbaz
I had the pleasure of working with Jeff Abney when he represented a family member in their divorce, and I couldn’t be more grateful for his expertise and support. From the very beginning, Jeff made the entire process as painless as possible by taking the time to thoroughly explain the legal steps involved and what to expect at each stage. His communication was outstanding. He was always available to answer questions, provide guidance, and offer advice whenever it was needed. His calm demeanor and professionalism brought much-needed clarity and reassurance during a stressful time. I also appreciate his attention to detail and the care he showed in ensuring everything was handled correctly.
He helped us navigate a truly difficult time in my family member's life and helped take some of the burden off us. If you’re looking for a dedicated, knowledgeable attorney who truly cares about his clients, I highly recommend Jeff Abney.
Read more
29 Jan, 2025 by Kristian hines
I worked with Olivia Mitchell at Stange Law Firm. Not only was she very professional and knowledgeable, she also extremely relatable. Ms. Mitchell made me feel very welcomed at the Firm and reassured me of my choice to work with them. She ensure that I was well informed regarding all legal masters and everything was done in a timely manner. 10/10 would recommend.
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29 Jan, 2025 by Briana lucas
Olivia was amazing!!! She answered all my questions, showed compassion and empathy, got my case resolved to my liking. I cannot say enough good things about her and Strange. Thank you!
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23 Sep, 2023 by Matt barnhart
10 Dec, 2021 by Mary dickinson
12 Mar, 2021 by Dennis grindel
David Forth is a great guy and an extraordinary attorney.
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25 Nov, 2024 by Gypsy60 queen79
I had a problem with life insurance that was left to me by my ex-husband. I had called the insurance company and asked them if there was any problem since I was divorced and they assured me there was no problem after I filled out all the paperwork and sent it in all of a sudden there was a problem They said since I was divorced and I lived in a different state. I was no longer eligible. I got a hold of this group on a Friday. They looked at my case while I was on the phone with them. They said there was no problem. They said I needed to fill out the paperwork very quickly and they would take care of everything. They told me pretty much what it would cost me if we didn’t go to court and what it would pretty much cost me if we went to court, but we needed to move swiftly I with that hesitation build everything out that day the paperwork was straight forward on Monday. I received a phone call. Without going to court, we win our case and I had a check within weeks. It’s sad that it has to come to this, but without the law group I wouldn’t have won my case. I can’t see enough good things about this group. Thank you, Stephen.
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21 May, 2024 by Haley herrera
Beware! All they want is your money.
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10 Nov, 2023 by Bridget townes
This attorney was highly recommended and now I m wondering why, phone was never answered when I would call in, messages left were returned with a letter which followed a week or so later. I was asked to do the leg work a few times and when we would speak he was hurried and inattentive. A doctor almost killed me in November 2016, 7 months later he drops the case after previously telling us we definitely had a case. Dr. Kevin Easley has had 5 malpractice and 2 wrongful deaths in less than 10 years ago. Preston didn't care about that or the pain and suffering my husband and I endured. So not glad he wasted 7 months we could have had a legit attorney work on this. I could go on but, the gist is he was horrible and if I could I would give him a big ZERO stars. Thanks Preston for wasting 7 months of our time, you should have said up front if I was not damaged permanently you wouldn't take the case, guess you weren't going to make enough $$$$.
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22 Jun, 2022 by Renee carter
I had no idea what to expect during my Adoption process, yet Joan assured me that she would be there every step of the way; and she was!
The adoption of my little ones took longer than normal due to the COVID pandemic and court closures and postponements, yet Joan kept me abreast of any and all updates.
She returned my call and answered my emails promptly and didn't mind me calling her on her personal cell, number which she provided.
I am very thankful that I chose her law firm to represent me during my Adoption processes.
Official New Mom!🙂
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27 Dec, 2020 by Thresia maria bennett (maria)
30 Apr, 2020 by Darin rives
He was very helpful and honest with me.
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11 Feb, 2025 by Rebekah horn
I've called multiple time and left voicemails. Detailed voicemail on when I'm on my lunch hour. They call and if you are unable to answer, they immediately reject your intake form and application. How does this help the people? It's like they don't want us to work.
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29 Jan, 2025 by Christopher sagoes jr.
21 Jan, 2025 by Donna helbig
I am very pleased with the outcome of my case handled by Gonzalez Fernando. From the initial phone call to the exchange of information and to the handing over of the check from my settlement, Gonz was wonderful. He was very professional, extremely knowledgeable, and genuinely compassionate in assisting me through a very difficult time in my life. I would highly recommend his services!
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15 Apr, 2024 by Rachel johns
Unethical! As the former co-founder of the Missouri startup HoneyToCocoa LLC, me and my now ex-business partner hired this firm to help us convert from an LLC to a C-Corp and establish our individual shares of equity, bylaws, etc. Attorney Casey Kidwell assisted with this part and everything went as planned without error or issue.
Then they “the firm” helped her railroad me out of my shares. When I complained about written documents presented to me, I was told by Attorney Gabriel Riekhof that he “represents the business.” Yeah, a business that you acknowledge I had joint ownership of at the time, and from which my commingled funds paid you.
If you were looking for a corporate attorney, there are plenty of other reputable firms in the greater St. Louis area who deserve your money, not these dirt bags.
Read more
09 Jan, 2024 by Triple s
Slime. This man will happily screw good and bad people. He's known to overcharge for his less than useful guidance and has been dumped by countless clients for that reason. Exaggerates his experience on the Labor board and continually costs clients thousands and thousands of dollars after NLRB makes decisions on his cases.
Do not ever hire or trust this man. There are TONS of labor lawyers on MO worth being represented by. Terry Potter is as cheap and unreliable as his knockoff wizard name. Would give 0 stars if possible on Google.
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23 Nov, 2023 by Mark doerhoff
05 Feb, 2025 by Sari al-shehbaz
I had the pleasure of working with Jeff Abney when he represented a family member in their divorce, and I couldn’t be more grateful for his expertise and support. From the very beginning, Jeff made the entire process as painless as possible by taking the time to thoroughly explain the legal steps involved and what to expect at each stage. His communication was outstanding. He was always available to answer questions, provide guidance, and offer advice whenever it was needed. His calm demeanor and professionalism brought much-needed clarity and reassurance during a stressful time. I also appreciate his attention to detail and the care he showed in ensuring everything was handled correctly.
He helped us navigate a truly difficult time in my family member's life and helped take some of the burden off us. If you’re looking for a dedicated, knowledgeable attorney who truly cares about his clients, I highly recommend Jeff Abney.
Read more
29 Jan, 2025 by Kristian hines
I worked with Olivia Mitchell at Stange Law Firm. Not only was she very professional and knowledgeable, she also extremely relatable. Ms. Mitchell made me feel very welcomed at the Firm and reassured me of my choice to work with them. She ensure that I was well informed regarding all legal masters and everything was done in a timely manner. 10/10 would recommend.
Read more
29 Jan, 2025 by Briana lucas
Olivia was amazing!!! She answered all my questions, showed compassion and empathy, got my case resolved to my liking. I cannot say enough good things about her and Strange. Thank you!
Read more
05 Feb, 2025 by Sari al-shehbaz
I had the pleasure of working with Jeff Abney when he represented a family member in their divorce, and I couldn’t be more grateful for his expertise and support. From the very beginning, Jeff made the entire process as painless as possible by taking the time to thoroughly explain the legal steps involved and what to expect at each stage. His communication was outstanding. He was always available to answer questions, provide guidance, and offer advice whenever it was needed. His calm demeanor and professionalism brought much-needed clarity and reassurance during a stressful time. I also appreciate his attention to detail and the care he showed in ensuring everything was handled correctly.
He helped us navigate a truly difficult time in my family member's life and helped take some of the burden off us. If you’re looking for a dedicated, knowledgeable attorney who truly cares about his clients, I highly recommend Jeff Abney.
Read more
29 Jan, 2025 by Kristian hines
I worked with Olivia Mitchell at Stange Law Firm. Not only was she very professional and knowledgeable, she also extremely relatable. Ms. Mitchell made me feel very welcomed at the Firm and reassured me of my choice to work with them. She ensure that I was well informed regarding all legal masters and everything was done in a timely manner. 10/10 would recommend.
Read more
29 Jan, 2025 by Briana lucas
Olivia was amazing!!! She answered all my questions, showed compassion and empathy, got my case resolved to my liking. I cannot say enough good things about her and Strange. Thank you!
Read more
05 Feb, 2025 by Sari al-shehbaz
I had the pleasure of working with Jeff Abney when he represented a family member in their divorce, and I couldn’t be more grateful for his expertise and support. From the very beginning, Jeff made the entire process as painless as possible by taking the time to thoroughly explain the legal steps involved and what to expect at each stage. His communication was outstanding. He was always available to answer questions, provide guidance, and offer advice whenever it was needed. His calm demeanor and professionalism brought much-needed clarity and reassurance during a stressful time. I also appreciate his attention to detail and the care he showed in ensuring everything was handled correctly.
He helped us navigate a truly difficult time in my family member's life and helped take some of the burden off us. If you’re looking for a dedicated, knowledgeable attorney who truly cares about his clients, I highly recommend Jeff Abney.
Read more
29 Jan, 2025 by Kristian hines
I worked with Olivia Mitchell at Stange Law Firm. Not only was she very professional and knowledgeable, she also extremely relatable. Ms. Mitchell made me feel very welcomed at the Firm and reassured me of my choice to work with them. She ensure that I was well informed regarding all legal masters and everything was done in a timely manner. 10/10 would recommend.
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29 Jan, 2025 by Briana lucas
Olivia was amazing!!! She answered all my questions, showed compassion and empathy, got my case resolved to my liking. I cannot say enough good things about her and Strange. Thank you!
Read more
05 Feb, 2025 by Sari al-shehbaz
I had the pleasure of working with Jeff Abney when he represented a family member in their divorce, and I couldn’t be more grateful for his expertise and support. From the very beginning, Jeff made the entire process as painless as possible by taking the time to thoroughly explain the legal steps involved and what to expect at each stage. His communication was outstanding. He was always available to answer questions, provide guidance, and offer advice whenever it was needed. His calm demeanor and professionalism brought much-needed clarity and reassurance during a stressful time. I also appreciate his attention to detail and the care he showed in ensuring everything was handled correctly.
He helped us navigate a truly difficult time in my family member's life and helped take some of the burden off us. If you’re looking for a dedicated, knowledgeable attorney who truly cares about his clients, I highly recommend Jeff Abney.
Read more
29 Jan, 2025 by Kristian hines
I worked with Olivia Mitchell at Stange Law Firm. Not only was she very professional and knowledgeable, she also extremely relatable. Ms. Mitchell made me feel very welcomed at the Firm and reassured me of my choice to work with them. She ensure that I was well informed regarding all legal masters and everything was done in a timely manner. 10/10 would recommend.
Read more
29 Jan, 2025 by Briana lucas
Olivia was amazing!!! She answered all my questions, showed compassion and empathy, got my case resolved to my liking. I cannot say enough good things about her and Strange. Thank you!
Read more
05 Feb, 2025 by Sari al-shehbaz
I had the pleasure of working with Jeff Abney when he represented a family member in their divorce, and I couldn’t be more grateful for his expertise and support. From the very beginning, Jeff made the entire process as painless as possible by taking the time to thoroughly explain the legal steps involved and what to expect at each stage. His communication was outstanding. He was always available to answer questions, provide guidance, and offer advice whenever it was needed. His calm demeanor and professionalism brought much-needed clarity and reassurance during a stressful time. I also appreciate his attention to detail and the care he showed in ensuring everything was handled correctly.
He helped us navigate a truly difficult time in my family member's life and helped take some of the burden off us. If you’re looking for a dedicated, knowledgeable attorney who truly cares about his clients, I highly recommend Jeff Abney.
Read more
29 Jan, 2025 by Kristian hines
I worked with Olivia Mitchell at Stange Law Firm. Not only was she very professional and knowledgeable, she also extremely relatable. Ms. Mitchell made me feel very welcomed at the Firm and reassured me of my choice to work with them. She ensure that I was well informed regarding all legal masters and everything was done in a timely manner. 10/10 would recommend.
Read more
29 Jan, 2025 by Briana lucas
Olivia was amazing!!! She answered all my questions, showed compassion and empathy, got my case resolved to my liking. I cannot say enough good things about her and Strange. Thank you!
Read more
4.0
82 Reviews
25 Nov, 2024 by Teresa garrison
Great firm!
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23 Jun, 2024 by Russell grafton
I went here to fill out my paperwork for disability. The ladies in this office were a big help and very courteous. I was very impressed by the way I was treated.
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01 Jun, 2024 by Colin schwartz
If zero was an option I’d select that. Dennis is an incompetent lawyer. Wasted years of my life and got me nothing. Thank you for using the medical evidence in court that would have won the case. If you use this lawyer. You’ve been warned. He is a bad lawyer
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4.0
82 Reviews
25 Nov, 2024 by Teresa garrison
Great firm!
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23 Jun, 2024 by Russell grafton
I went here to fill out my paperwork for disability. The ladies in this office were a big help and very courteous. I was very impressed by the way I was treated.
Read more
01 Jun, 2024 by Colin schwartz
If zero was an option I’d select that. Dennis is an incompetent lawyer. Wasted years of my life and got me nothing. Thank you for using the medical evidence in court that would have won the case. If you use this lawyer. You’ve been warned. He is a bad lawyer
Read more
25 Nov, 2024 by Gypsy60 queen79
I had a problem with life insurance that was left to me by my ex-husband. I had called the insurance company and asked them if there was any problem since I was divorced and they assured me there was no problem after I filled out all the paperwork and sent it in all of a sudden there was a problem They said since I was divorced and I lived in a different state. I was no longer eligible. I got a hold of this group on a Friday. They looked at my case while I was on the phone with them. They said there was no problem. They said I needed to fill out the paperwork very quickly and they would take care of everything. They told me pretty much what it would cost me if we didn’t go to court and what it would pretty much cost me if we went to court, but we needed to move swiftly I with that hesitation build everything out that day the paperwork was straight forward on Monday. I received a phone call. Without going to court, we win our case and I had a check within weeks. It’s sad that it has to come to this, but without the law group I wouldn’t have won my case. I can’t see enough good things about this group. Thank you, Stephen.
Read more
21 May, 2024 by Haley herrera
Beware! All they want is your money.
Read more
10 Nov, 2023 by Bridget townes
This attorney was highly recommended and now I m wondering why, phone was never answered when I would call in, messages left were returned with a letter which followed a week or so later. I was asked to do the leg work a few times and when we would speak he was hurried and inattentive. A doctor almost killed me in November 2016, 7 months later he drops the case after previously telling us we definitely had a case. Dr. Kevin Easley has had 5 malpractice and 2 wrongful deaths in less than 10 years ago. Preston didn't care about that or the pain and suffering my husband and I endured. So not glad he wasted 7 months we could have had a legit attorney work on this. I could go on but, the gist is he was horrible and if I could I would give him a big ZERO stars. Thanks Preston for wasting 7 months of our time, you should have said up front if I was not damaged permanently you wouldn't take the case, guess you weren't going to make enough $$$$.
Read more
15 Apr, 2024 by Rachel johns
Unethical! As the former co-founder of the Missouri startup HoneyToCocoa LLC, me and my now ex-business partner hired this firm to help us convert from an LLC to a C-Corp and establish our individual shares of equity, bylaws, etc. Attorney Casey Kidwell assisted with this part and everything went as planned without error or issue.
Then they “the firm” helped her railroad me out of my shares. When I complained about written documents presented to me, I was told by Attorney Gabriel Riekhof that he “represents the business.” Yeah, a business that you acknowledge I had joint ownership of at the time, and from which my commingled funds paid you.
If you were looking for a corporate attorney, there are plenty of other reputable firms in the greater St. Louis area who deserve your money, not these dirt bags.
Read more
09 Jan, 2024 by Triple s
Slime. This man will happily screw good and bad people. He's known to overcharge for his less than useful guidance and has been dumped by countless clients for that reason. Exaggerates his experience on the Labor board and continually costs clients thousands and thousands of dollars after NLRB makes decisions on his cases.
Do not ever hire or trust this man. There are TONS of labor lawyers on MO worth being represented by. Terry Potter is as cheap and unreliable as his knockoff wizard name. Would give 0 stars if possible on Google.
Read more
23 Nov, 2023 by Mark doerhoff
29 Jan, 2024 by Logan sneed
I gave Steve a 2500 retainer to help me with my divorce. He ended up billing me for about $2000 and then saying he didn't want to handle it and released me. I still haven't received a check even though I gave his secretary my address.
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31 Aug, 2023 by Nolan james
Major Neely went out of his way to protect and defend my constitutional rights. He is a stellar American, a patriot, and a United States Marine. Good on him, good on him and his actions.
Thats all i have to say
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12 Dec, 2021 by Genny b
PLEASE BEWARE.. these lawyers gouge clients, add frivolous charges and are not ethical. Clients pay their high rent and not for appropriate legal services. Reporting them to be investigated.
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4.2
5 Reviews
2.6
93 Reviews
12 Sep, 2024 by Heliga loogan
I am receiving calls from debt collectors for a debt I do not owe. The previous owner of this cellphone number is the one who owes the debt, not me. Despite explaining this multiple times, I continue to receive calls, often during my work hours and early in the morning. I have called back to inform them that they have the wrong person and requested that they stop calling, but the calls persist. Additionally, the person they are trying to reach and I don’t even have the same name at all. This situation is very frustrating and disruptive.
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22 Aug, 2024 by David
Very knowledgeable lawyer. Learned alot using him for real estate
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22 Aug, 2024 by Theberliner
Roger’s advice and guidance were pitch-perfect. I am glad I reached out, and I got everything I could have hoped for when hiring him. Moreover, Roger was very generous with availability and accessibility through-out my moment of high stakes, jostling for my clients. His advice and assistance in fine-tuning my negotiations with precision towards the gravamen of the issue at hand in an adversarial situation with the other side. Roger helped me protect my real estate clients. Everything Roger provided to me was simply excellent. On top of that, I enjoyed every one of our conversations. Roger, you made a loyal client, and should the time come when you need a posse, call my number.
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12 Jul, 2022 by Michael young
Awesome results
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01 Sep, 2019 by Jomarco lang
07 Aug, 2019 by Taylor bey
12 Jul, 2022 by Michael young
Awesome results
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01 Sep, 2019 by Jomarco lang
07 Aug, 2019 by Taylor bey
09 Jun, 2020 by Bob settle
They were proffisional from day one/
thanks
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08 Jun, 2018 by West
06 Oct, 2017 by John bracamontes
Don Murphy is the Man!
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28 Jul, 2023 by Dgv11
I think they are awesome, knowledgeable and professional but admittedly I am biased! Truly, though, I have enormous respect for the lawyers and staff.
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23 Jun, 2022 by Kendall sibala
CVR really knows their stuff when it comes to municipal law. It was a wonderful place to work as well.
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05 Jan, 2022 by Chid von
28 Jul, 2023 by Dgv11
I think they are awesome, knowledgeable and professional but admittedly I am biased! Truly, though, I have enormous respect for the lawyers and staff.
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23 Jun, 2022 by Kendall sibala
CVR really knows their stuff when it comes to municipal law. It was a wonderful place to work as well.
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05 Jan, 2022 by Chid von
29 Oct, 2024 by Mark h levison
16 Apr, 2024 by Vladhq
Predatory law firm that prioritizes profits over people. Extremely unprofessional, they seem to be “in bed” with the judges as they represent million dollar corporations. That’s why they get so called “results”.
Shame on these people. The judgement day will come and there will be Justice for ALL. Mark my words
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27 Dec, 2022 by Jorge amorin
Had to call 10 times to get a secretary to call me and then the lawyer never c9ntacted me
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29 Oct, 2024 by Mark h levison
16 Apr, 2024 by Vladhq
Predatory law firm that prioritizes profits over people. Extremely unprofessional, they seem to be “in bed” with the judges as they represent million dollar corporations. That’s why they get so called “results”.
Shame on these people. The judgement day will come and there will be Justice for ALL. Mark my words
Read more
27 Dec, 2022 by Jorge amorin
Had to call 10 times to get a secretary to call me and then the lawyer never c9ntacted me
Read more
29 Oct, 2024 by Mark h levison
16 Apr, 2024 by Vladhq
Predatory law firm that prioritizes profits over people. Extremely unprofessional, they seem to be “in bed” with the judges as they represent million dollar corporations. That’s why they get so called “results”.
Shame on these people. The judgement day will come and there will be Justice for ALL. Mark my words
Read more
27 Dec, 2022 by Jorge amorin
Had to call 10 times to get a secretary to call me and then the lawyer never c9ntacted me
Read more
29 Oct, 2024 by Mark h levison
16 Apr, 2024 by Vladhq
Predatory law firm that prioritizes profits over people. Extremely unprofessional, they seem to be “in bed” with the judges as they represent million dollar corporations. That’s why they get so called “results”.
Shame on these people. The judgement day will come and there will be Justice for ALL. Mark my words
Read more
27 Dec, 2022 by Jorge amorin
Had to call 10 times to get a secretary to call me and then the lawyer never c9ntacted me
Read more
02 Jan, 2025 by Brian wright
If you need a glorified legal secretary who can find the courthouse and file paperwork, Bob is your guy. If you need a competent, hard-nosed family attorney to fight for you and what you hold dearest, stay a hundred miles away and pray he’s the opposing counsel. So ill-prepared for my support modification trial. I was prepared. Opposing counsel was prepared. Judge was prepared. What about Bob? Constantly scrambling for notes and fumbling for words. Oddly timed and worded objections. Horrible report with the judge. Outcome was shockingly one-sided and one of the worst judgements in the history of the St. Louis family court system. Use anyone else to fight and protect your rights. You can only do better.
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20 Nov, 2024 by Derek dees
After some time and hard work John was able to get the results I wanted. Thanks Fen.
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13 Oct, 2024 by Liz ——
This “attorney” is a joke. More like lazy jerk who just does gimme landlord tenant actions. He doesn’t practice law. He collects bad debt for apartment complexes-and he’s lazy and inept. Glad he found a cash flow. Hope the laws don’t update and ruin his game. Would put no stars, but that isn’t an option. Not as if this matters-his clientele are all word of mouth apartment complexes-he doesn’t work for actual people or on their behalf.
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29 Oct, 2024 by Mark h levison
16 Apr, 2024 by Vladhq
Predatory law firm that prioritizes profits over people. Extremely unprofessional, they seem to be “in bed” with the judges as they represent million dollar corporations. That’s why they get so called “results”.
Shame on these people. The judgement day will come and there will be Justice for ALL. Mark my words
Read more
27 Dec, 2022 by Jorge amorin
Had to call 10 times to get a secretary to call me and then the lawyer never c9ntacted me
Read more
29 Oct, 2024 by Mark h levison
16 Apr, 2024 by Vladhq
Predatory law firm that prioritizes profits over people. Extremely unprofessional, they seem to be “in bed” with the judges as they represent million dollar corporations. That’s why they get so called “results”.
Shame on these people. The judgement day will come and there will be Justice for ALL. Mark my words
Read more
27 Dec, 2022 by Jorge amorin
Had to call 10 times to get a secretary to call me and then the lawyer never c9ntacted me
Read more
31 Jul, 2013 by Tony
Very knowledgeable, trustworthy. I trust no one else to my needs. His wealth of knowledge exceeds in all facets including finance, family and criminal!
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10 Oct, 2011 by Anonymous
Fails to return phone calls, constantly out of town. If I had known this I would have hired a LOCAL attorney. A friend recommended me to this man, only with great disappointment.
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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.
