Filter by

star star star star star
25 May, 2017 by Debbye
I only wish there were 10 stars for Josh Freeman and his excellent work updating my Living Trust! Legal work falls right behind taxes on my list of not too fun things to deal with. Necessary but defiantly not fun. Josh LISTENED to my desires, EXPLAINED legal jargon and in a few cases SUGGESTED what was in my Trust's best interest. All in all a painless and affordable resolution that will help me rest easier that all is in order.
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
17 Nov, 2016 by Derrick
I was referred to this firm by my CPA. Joshua did a great job assisting me with a real estate transfer and cleaning up our business filings with the state. He handled everything very professionally and required surprisingly little help from me to understand our needs and get it done. Would definitely recommend and would hire again.
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
17 Nov, 2016 by Shawn
I worked with Josh on a number of items including business formation, product liability, and trademark needs. He was an absolute pleasure to work with and he was incredibly efficient and thorough. Not to mention, he was always conscience of staying within my budget for my startup business and walked me through the different paths I could take while clearly articulating my best options. I would highly recommend engaging with Josh for your legal matters.
Read more Avvo
See more
star star star star star
15 Apr, 2019 by Richard
Chris was by far the best lawyer I've ever dealt with. I've had several occasions to work with other attorneys which don't hold a candle to Chris. He was very responsive and very persuasive in court. He is from London England and his Brittish accent can be very persuasive in American Courts. He got me everything I was hoping for and more. I will never use another attorney other than Chris from this time forward. Amazing results, amazing follow up and communication. I felt like I was informed throughout the entire process. That is a first for me!! Great job Chris!!
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
25 Jun, 2015 by Janet
Christopher Rogers is a pleasure to work with. He is thorough, stays in touch, and communicates very well. I would recommend him to anyone needing a criminal attorney.
Read more Avvo
See more
star star star star star
25 Jun, 2019 by Rick
I contacted Steven Lovell on the advice of a trusted friend. He was friendly and a good listener. He was very helpful with our particular problem. I'd give him highest marks possible.
Read more Avvo
See more
star star star star star
15 Oct, 2018 by Anonymous
Scott Help me through a very rough patch in my life. I needed to work through a marriage fraught with trials and challenges. He did not encourage me to hurry and get a divorce, rather he encouraged me to do several things to save the marriage. I followed his advice and in the end he did help me with the divorce process, but by the time we did that, I was well prepared for the end. I knew that everything possible had been tried, and having tried many, many solutions gave me insight into the situation that I otherwise would never have known. My ex-wife was married to me but she was in love with someone else. Had we filed for divorce right away, I would have ended up in a much worse situation. Having waited until the more complete story came out put me in a great position to keep the children with full custody. I get to stay in the family home and the money I earned goes to support the family not to support someone who is untrustworthy. During the time I was trying to put things back together, I found out about secret banking accounts, real estate, and other possessions that were part of her life but not mine. Scott helped me understand why she pushed so hard for some things (mostly financial.) She pushed hard for all of the things we owned together to be put into a family trust which for some reason didn't include me. She said that because we were married in reality I was a member of the trust. She wanted access to my bank account, but refused to allow me to even go into her bank with her. When it came time for the financial statements to be filed, I had the information needed to confront her about the assets that she had and had not declared. Due to the lack of her disclosure it was clear that she was not telling the truth and therefore had no credibility with the judge. The judge looked much more favorably at the arguments we presented even though the truth of my position was not always pretty, it was the truth. I had given Scott all of the ugly details of the marriage, so there were no surprises for him during negotiations or when we got to court.
Read more Avvo
See more
star star star star star
24 Nov, 2014 by Bryant
We have retained Craig Kleinman on 3 issues in the last year for our business and found his guidance and counsel to be excellent. He was very responsive to our needs and was able to resolve our difficult matters. I would recommend him to any one seeking help with business legal matters.
Read more Avvo
See more
star star star star star
09 Oct, 2024 by Mj design custom cabinets
I spent several days interviewing lawyer after lawyer for a case I felt that needed the right lawyer. After talking with a friend who deals with Trusts and Estate Law, he introduced me to Freeman Lovell as he doesn't litigate. I brought 4 cases before Freeman Lovell firm and used 4 different lawyers, Kristine, Krystaly, Tiffany, and Karissa. Each case had it's own challenges, but the most important thing is the communication was outstanding by each one of these ladies. I think this goes to the founders for finding the right lawyers to work for their firm. Weather these ladies like it or not, they have me for life and I will continue to use this firm in the future.
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
25 Sep, 2024 by Vicki depontes
They did asolutely fantastic at keeping me up to date on what was going on and it all came together very quickly. I had absolutely no worries! Thank you so much Chrissy and Paul and anyone else who worked on my case! guys are the best!!!
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
25 Sep, 2024 by Chloe barlow
My experience specifically with Paul and Chrissy Childs has been fantastic! They are very thorough, have been very attentive to my needs, and they have always had my best interest in mind. They have always been professional and easy to work with, and I can’t recommend them enough!
Read more Google Maps
See more
star star star star star
22 Aug, 2024 by Rhonda hamilton
Melvin is an outstanding lawyer and he works with people to get the job done . I highly recommend his services as you will not be disappointed . His prices are amazing and he listens to his clients . Call him first !
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
05 Aug, 2024 by Brenda cruz
Google Maps
star star star star star
23 Jan, 2024 by Cammie beck
Google Maps
See more
star star star star star
07 Oct, 2016 by Steven
I hired Mr.Bray to represent me in my divorce, based on statements and suggestions he made at our initial interview/consultation. However, once he got my retainer he filed no temporary motions he talked about, drafted no countersuit as indicated he would, and completely vanished with no responses for 2 weeks before labor day when I needed advice going into mediation. When finally managed to locate him through Overson & Sheen to verify he still worked there, he offered no explanation and scheduled a meeting the following week. He did not address any of my concerns at that meeting, in fact he was still unprepared for mediation issues the day before it was scheduled. I was lucky enough to retain competent representation for my divorce proceeding and release Mr. Bray as my attorney. I have asked repeatedly for an itemized accounting of his services against my retainer and have yet to get one. My mistake, this man did nothing for me, just took my money. Later found out he was disciplined by the state licensing authority for similar poor performance!
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
15 Sep, 2014 by Mark
Terrible attorney, failed to attend 7of8 detention hearings for my son, was a no show at my sons first hearing in adult court, failed terribly in juvenile court hearing, be super careful with this guy, DO NOT PAY UPFRONT
Read more Avvo
See more
Discover the ideal lawyer
You can search a lawyer by practice area, lawyer name, city, state, or ZIP code
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.

Scroll to top