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19 Feb, 2016 by Anonymous
Ms. George has been helping my husband and I navigate the special education maze since 2007. We have two sons with complex social, emotional and learning needs who were struggling in school throughout elementary & middle school. Kathy was extremely thoughtful, thorough and a very strong advocate for our sons. She helped us turn very difficult situations into positive by end of middle school for both of them. They are both thriving as a senior in high school and a post graduate in vocational training. The peace of mind that came with having Kathy in our corner was priceless!
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12 Sep, 2010 by Glen milner
Kathy George has represented me in several Public Records Act cases, a FOIA lawsuit and two First Amendment complaints.
Kathy George can be trusted to put the interests of her clients first. She is very knowledgeable in her field. She knows and works well with other attorneys in our area. Kathy George always kept me informed on the status of my cases, even when issues became complex.
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28 Dec, 2014 by Anonymous
Malcolm Harris took on a complex business litigation case for me in early 2013. He did a superb job helping me. I can't recommend him too highly. He is on top of things, very responsive, and is highly regarded by his peers. You can't go wrong hiring this attorney.
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06 Aug, 2009 by Anonymous
Mal Harris worked with me through a very difficult trespass case, which took over 3 years to resolve. He is diligent and works hard.
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05 Nov, 2009 by Bob
Mr. Reich helped me through a very difficult time. His integrity is unmatched. He is very well informed, honest and straight forward. He stuck to the facts, yet was compassionate and understanding when needed. I am grateful that he was able to help me out when needed. Thanks.
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28 Oct, 2009 by Kenneth
Mr Reich handled my case with respect for me and my family as though the issues were as personable to him as they were to me.To this day I am truly amazed and grateful for all his hard work. My family is better off for having met and worked with
Mr Reich.
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01 Jul, 2015 by Mathew
Frank helped me with my personal injury case from a serious motor vehicle collision and I highly recommend him. Frank was very professional and timely with his responses. I appreciated Frank's candor and realistic approach along the way. His knowledge of the law is a given, but his demeanor and care for his clients is really what sets him apart from other lawyers that I have met and worked with. I wholeheartedly recommend Frank without any reservation.
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19 Jun, 2015 by Peter
Trustworthy, reliable, and effective. Our Homeowner's Association Board reached out to Frank for help on multiple association collections issues. We expected competent legal advice, but Frank delivered extra value to our HOA by providing guidance which helped us to anticipate and avoid problems. He diligently kept us informed about our cases in a very timely manner. Frank has been generous with our board by sharing his expertise and he took the time to make certain that everyone on our HOA Board understood the issues. What initially seemed like a big headache was efficiently resolved by Frank. When a separate collections issue arose, we reach out to Frank and knew we would be in good hands. He was always easy to get a hold of and got back with us quickly. We highly recommend his services and will certainly reach out to him again on legal matters.
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09 Jan, 2008 by Anonymous
Rich has represented our firm for 20 years in a variety of construction, insurance and development situations, mostly litigation. Rich is certainly a pleasure to work with. However, we rely on Rich and his fellow attorneys because he consistently delivers on our expectations. In perhaps a dozen lawsuits (some of which threatened the survival of this firm, now a $50,000,000 annual revenue company), Rich has achieved the outcomes we had been hoping for - and more.
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08 Jan, 2008 by Anonymous
Rich successfully handled a very complex, multi layered and mulit million dollar construction liability lawsuit for me and I was very impressed with his teams ability to understand coordinate all the moving parts for a positvie outcome.
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08 Nov, 2017 by Matt
I first hired Erik to advise us about an office lease in a downtown Seattle tower that we had chosen after more than 6 months of looking and close to 50 space-tours with brokers. Ultimately, based in part on Erik's helpful advice, we decided not to complete that lease transaction. Along the way Erik mentioned he is a broker, in addition to being an attorney, and so I asked him if he would help us look for a new space for our firm. Erik came to our office, listened hard to our needs, asked a number of insightful questions, and then returned with just one space for us to tour. We went and had a look. The space Erik pointed us to was perfect for our needs, and we quickly completed that lease transaction and took occupancy. I have since hired Erik for other work, including new leases, and each time he has delivered a work process and work product that was exactly what we wanted. I recommend Erik highly, for both his legal work and his brokerage work.
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11 May, 2010 by Adam
Erik has been representing me in real estate transactions for 4 years on dozens of deals.
He is: responsive, clear headed, an excellent communicator, a source of advice and business acumen, reasonable, and caring.
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06 Jul, 2010 by Kirsten
My husband was diagnosed with stage 4 nueroendocrine cancer 3 months ago. We have two young children and were strongly encouraged by family to create a will in order to see that they would be taken care of in accordance to our wishes should anything happen to us. I don't think anyone enjoys creating such a document but in our case the idea of creating a will was particularly stressful.
I had all the confidence and faith that my husband would know full health again and didn't want him to think that by creating a will that I was giving up on my belief in his future. I discussed the issues regarding our situation with Shelley Buckholz and my concerns about how my husband might feel under the circumstances. I have to say that all of my fears were for not. Shelley was very tactful and professional in her wording and handling of every aspect of our meeting. If only some of his doctors could have the grace and kindness that she did.
We are very glad that we used Shelley and appreciated her thorough knowlege and ability to guide us easily through the process. We also appreciated that she mentioned a few documents which we hadn't considered (medical power of attorney--living will) which were of great use to us. I am not sure it is that difficult to find a lawyer who can throw a will together for you. However, if you want someone who will skillfully and mindfully walk you through your legal needs and who has your highest interests in mind then I recommend that you consult Shelley.
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23 Jun, 2010 by Jennifer h. evans
I have used Shelley Buckholtz for many circumstances over the last ten years. Shelley has handled many different matters for me, from my estate planning, to incorporating my business and lastly my prenup agreement. I have been referring her to friends, family and clients over the last ten years.
Shelley Buckholtz is very efficient and I trust her immensely.
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09 Sep, 2013 by Marissa
I was really nervous hiring a lawyer for the first time. Kyle was extremely patient answering our questions and helping us decide how to deal with our contractor. We were very happy with the settlement he worked out for us.
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29 Apr, 2010 by Wb
Kyle is a highly trustworthy and intelligent legal counselor. From personal consulting to real estate to corporate structure issues, Kyle's advocacy has been precise, thoughtful and absolutely above-board. He is a passionate counselor and highly successful defender of interests while also being unflappable during stressful or time-pressured situations. He spends the time and intellect to perform completely thorough work. Not least, he's a pleasure to do business with. I recommend Kyle without hesitation.
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04 Nov, 2021 by Ashley
From the first time I reached out to Peter Pajtnov, he responded quickly, professionally, and was prepared to help me about a time-sensitive matter. We had a tricky situation where a competitor was trying to rent the location that we rent, which is crucial to our business. Pajitnov helped me to navigate a seemingly impossible negotiation to save our family business. He not only listened very carefully, he used his expertise and creative thinking to come up with multiple options and ideas for us to come out successful. He was straight-forward, trustworthy, worked quickly with limited time, and thoughtfully discussed each risk with me. Pajitnov provided valuable insight for me to make educated decisions and he strived to set us up for success and ways to protect ourselves for the future. His excellent communication skills had me at peace through the stressful process and gave me the ability to negotiate successfully. We are very grateful to Pajitnov's expertise and top-tier skills! I would highly recommend Peter Pajinov's services and use his again in the future. Thank you, Peter Pajitnov!
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16 Feb, 2017 by Rob
We had a problem with our Seattle rental whereby we were trying to get out of a lease mid 2nd year as we bought our own home. The landlady was trying to extract a huge amount of money for us to leave the property claiming we were locked into a 2 year lease, despite unclear lease terms and no early termination clause.
We found Peter on Avvo by posting a question and he provided clear and concise guidance out of the gate. We also engaged in his services to help write a strongly worded letter to the landlady explaining why the reasons why the lease was invalid and that we were on a month-to-month lease. Peter's knowledge of Seattle landlord/tenant law is amazing, as is his communication and dedication to his clients. Would happily recommend Peter to anyone with such problems
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23 May, 2014 by Nancy
Tim Jones makes Washington State real estate land use law and the permit process easier to understand and apply for personal investments. He is very prompt and responsive for all my questions and requests!! He has taught RES 141 Real Estate Land Use for the last few years at North Seattle College earning excellent reviews from his students!!!
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18 Apr, 2011 by Joan
Tim has been wonderful to work with. He is very knowledgeable and has guided us with a keen focus on our goals. We highly recommend Tim!
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10 Sep, 2008 by Douglas
Chris is my top choice for outside counsel on any commercial or construction law matter in the Pacific Northwest. Chris is an excellent negotiator. Her drafting skills are top notch. She is honest, diligent and client focused. Chris quickly goes to the heart of any project she has and moves it to completion in an efficient and timely way. Chris does a fabulous job of keeping us informed on her progress. She relates well with other lawyers and with her clients. Chris would be a tremendous asset for any client looking for high quality representation in commercial, construction or real estate matters.
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03 Sep, 2008 by Christopher
Chris has worked for the last ___ years for Louisiana-Pacific Corporation, in-house as Assistant General Counsel, outside as a contract attorney and as a partner with Short, Cressman and Burgess. Chris was an experienced transactional attorney when she began with LP and has built her skills to become one of the best transactional, construction and real estate attorneys with whom I've worked over the years. Her exceptional work ethic, attention to detail and communication skills have repeatedly caused our business managers to praise her work, efficiency and responsiveness and request her representation. Chris has been responsible for developing and improving our transactional, capital projects and divestiture contract forms as well as a myriad of other contract forms supporting our contracts management department. Combining the high level of competency and ethics with someone who relates and communicates well with the client creates the high caliber representation we have come to expect from Chris.
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21 May, 2021 by Louis
I have used Drew for the past 15 years both for my personal and business use. I've been 100% satisfied with him and the results he has produced. I have recommended him to my friends and associates to whom they have all have thanked me and think of Drew and his results the same way I do.
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10 May, 2021 by Paulyne
I work in the Credit Department for a material supplier. I have used Drew Chisholm as our attorney for many, many years. Drew knows the complexities of all the lien laws in private jobs (both commercial and residential), as well as the many hurdles in asserting claims on Federal and State Projects. He knows when and how to assert those rights and gets us paid.
He is also very creative and adept at crafting agreements so our customers pay us. Drew is personable, practical and resolves our legal issues.
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09 Dec, 2013 by David
Andy is the most professional, tenacious, and relentless attorney I have used over the last 15 years. I have used him for numerous legal situations ranging from property disputes, landlord tenant act, and overall general legal counsel. He is the first attorney I call when a potential situation could arise. He is phenomenal to work with and has always exceeded my expectations.
If you use Andy – feel good he is representing your legal situation! I have recommended him to several of my friends and family and will continue to recommend.
I can’t say enough about how good he is!
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06 Dec, 2013 by Gordon
I have been friends with Andy for more than a decade, but a business entanglement was what finally gave me the opportunity to avail myself of his expert services. What started as a simple debt collection matter turned into a near trial. Andy was prepared for all phases, and while he was encouraging us to do smart things along the way that would have shortened his engagement with us, he was fully prepared (and maybe looking forward to) going the distance. He was directly involved in all phases of the case, from deposition to mediation, and took it as his personal mission to see that we got a satisfactory result in the end. I highly recommend Andy and his firm for your legal matters.
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15 Oct, 2008 by Anonymous
Having a young lawyer assigned your case can initially send shivers through the spine of a defendant. After our first few meetings with Ana, we recognized her ability to thoroughly research the allegations, their non-significance as it pertains to laws, and the facts of the case. She prepared a straight forward defense, and in the end, won our case via a dismissal.
She is a quick study, and learned a lot about the rules and laws pertaining to our business. She knows when to ask for help from others, and will keep you well informed of events.
I highly recommend having Ana on your side of the table.
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06 Aug, 2008 by Anonymous
I’m truly blessed to have stumbled across her. She made everything go smoothly with no worries!
Thank you!
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18 May, 2012 by Caleb
Gideon was very receptive to our needs from the very beginning. We contacted him to help us start a new small business. We were looking for help on government documents and with forming an LLC. he immediately started the ball rolling and had us on a timeline which he always stuck too. If he was unavailable then he would let us know prior. Everything that we asked for was provided for us as well as much more. He explained all the aspects of a small business start up and even included things that we were completely unaware of, such as intellectual property (ideas) and different ways to split ownership vesting. All legal government forms were handled by Gideon in a timely manner and it made things very easy for us as a business. Even though he took on many of the responsibilities, he never failed to keep us totally informed on every action he was taking.
He acted very professional throughout the entire process and even volunteered conference calls on the weekend to accomodate our busy schedules. Everything was clearly lined out for us as a company and Gideon also continued to follow through after our business was done just to check on our Company's well being.
The pricing was great and the service he delivered was of far greater worth than what was charged!!
I would reccommend using Gideon to anyone that is looking to start a small business.
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02 Feb, 2012 by Wendy
I am a Realestate Broker. I hired Gideon for two legal issues.
I currently upgraded my license to Employing Broker and I was working in a commercial Coop transaction with another Broker.
Gideon was highly recommended to me by my son. I am usually uptight when working with the lawyers because I am not always sure of the right question to ask.
I felt very comfortable with Gideon he is easy to talk with, he was very prompt with needed information and the results were outstanding. Although I am more impressed by how well he heard all my needs. Gideon also advised me with issues concerning relationships and agency that he could see I needed.
I would highly recommend this attorney.
I will be using him for my company in the future.
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01 Jul, 2023 by Kim
Mike was the second lawyer we hired for an adverse possession claim we had against the commercial neighbors next door after our first counsel was....disappointing... in his advocacy. Mike has been both a thorough and very knowledgeable advocate as well as an incredibly nice guy throughout the whole (very long but now over) legal process and I can't recommend him highly enough. My husband and I are both lawyers ourselves so I understand all too well the heavy caseload and many pressures lawyers in fact feel every day. With Mike, it was as if we were his only clients, even though I knew he had dozens of other client obligations. He's stellar and I'd recommend him to anyone.
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23 May, 2014 by Nancy
Not only is Mike the first attorney I call about real estate legal issues, but he is also the first attorney I continue to recommend to others! He is very knowledgeable, trustworthy and tells it like it is which my friends, family, students and I greatly appreciate!! Thank you, Mike, for excelling in real estate law!!!
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15 Nov, 2021 by Glendis montes
Mi abogada eliana es la mejor abogada que existe ella tiene una gran personalidad es muy inteligente y está muy bien preparada sabe lo que hace con cada caso trata de ayudar de la mejor manera es muy carismática siempre te recibe con una sonrisa yo la recomiendo es muy buena persona y la mejor abogada que puedes encontrar es Eliana juarez
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09 Nov, 2021 by Emma lopez m
Eliana is such an amazing, supportive, determined and kind lawyer, still while maintaining her professionalism in what she works so hard to achieve. She has shown great effort in ensuring that my family and I are served the justice we deserve. Eliana was able to turn our life around and bring hope into our home. Although she knew my husband’s case was not easy, she worked countless hours towards his case and was able to bring him back home after being held in an Immigration Detention Center. She is truly a passionate trooper! My family and I could not be more grateful for all that she has done.
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03 Jan, 2025 by Michael clacher
Wheat Legal offers a service I can only commend.
Timely responses, detailed explanations and overall just a pleasure to deal with. I'm grateful to have found this entity.
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29 Nov, 2024 by Gary dewitt
Jeff at Wheat Legal helped me during a tough time with my business. He provided me insights and advice that helped me immensely. He is thorough and professional, and I cannot recommend his services enough.
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05 Sep, 2024 by Kelsie alford
Have loved working with Jeffrey! He’s the best when it comes to business disputes and contracts! Never a doubt that he’ll do what’s right for us!
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03 Jan, 2025 by Michael clacher
Wheat Legal offers a service I can only commend.
Timely responses, detailed explanations and overall just a pleasure to deal with. I'm grateful to have found this entity.
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29 Nov, 2024 by Gary dewitt
Jeff at Wheat Legal helped me during a tough time with my business. He provided me insights and advice that helped me immensely. He is thorough and professional, and I cannot recommend his services enough.
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05 Sep, 2024 by Kelsie alford
Have loved working with Jeffrey! He’s the best when it comes to business disputes and contracts! Never a doubt that he’ll do what’s right for us!
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03 Jan, 2025 by Michael clacher
Wheat Legal offers a service I can only commend.
Timely responses, detailed explanations and overall just a pleasure to deal with. I'm grateful to have found this entity.
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29 Nov, 2024 by Gary dewitt
Jeff at Wheat Legal helped me during a tough time with my business. He provided me insights and advice that helped me immensely. He is thorough and professional, and I cannot recommend his services enough.
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05 Sep, 2024 by Kelsie alford
Have loved working with Jeffrey! He’s the best when it comes to business disputes and contracts! Never a doubt that he’ll do what’s right for us!
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03 Jan, 2025 by Michael clacher
Wheat Legal offers a service I can only commend.
Timely responses, detailed explanations and overall just a pleasure to deal with. I'm grateful to have found this entity.
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29 Nov, 2024 by Gary dewitt
Jeff at Wheat Legal helped me during a tough time with my business. He provided me insights and advice that helped me immensely. He is thorough and professional, and I cannot recommend his services enough.
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05 Sep, 2024 by Kelsie alford
Have loved working with Jeffrey! He’s the best when it comes to business disputes and contracts! Never a doubt that he’ll do what’s right for us!
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05 Jan, 2011 by Daniel
After two attorneys who botched my case, Mr. Bartlett stepped in, took command, made the correct moves and motions and ultimately won my case in court.
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28 Mar, 2009 by Anonymous
Andrew understands construction and provides consistent, practical advice that allows my organization to avoid disputes.
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11 Jan, 2009 by Anonymous
David was extremely helpful, knowledgeable and understanding. He took the time to explain all legal issues in terms that were understandable. I highly recommend this attorney.
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07 Mar, 2011 by Alex
Rod handled a business dispute for my company. Within a month of taking over the case from another attorney, Rod completely changed the momentum in our favor. His deposition skills are unbelievable as he was able to get to the truth. Can't praise him enough and would most definitely recommend him to handle your legal issues.
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04 Oct, 2008 by Anonymous
I have known Mr. Brower since 1994...just prior to his writing the Washington State bar examine.
Having over 40 years in the construction and real estate development industry (26 years in my own business) I've had the opportunity to work with dozens of attorneys. Mr. Brower tops the list as a real estate development attorney...supported by his prior education and experience as a planner.
He's very conscientious about his professional responsibility...demonstrated continuously through his efforts to seek creative solutions; rather than a short cut pursuit of litigation. He never hesitates to go the extra mile in his research, exploring potential solutions and communicating with all parties. With Mr. Brower on our development team, I'm reassured that we're receiving the best legal advise and a keen interest in attaining the project goals.
Given his positive contributions to our development projects...he'll be on our team for a long time.
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31 Mar, 2016 by Anonymous
Elizabeth is probably the most affordable attorney that I could find, and I had been told by six other attorneys (via consultations) that I had a doomed case. Elizabeth didn't tell me that, and over the course of the next year, she proceeded to win practically every battle, including the big one. I can't say enough but how wonderful she has been. If you're looking for an attorney that won't break your bank and does a good job, she's your best bet.
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11 May, 2010 by Ron
40% of our life savings was lost due to trader negligence. We were told by several attorney's that due to contractual disclaimers as well as the difficulty in proving negligence, our case was too weak to litigate. Phil McCune turned the case into a winner. His legal acumen and tactical and psychological insight were superb. He outmaneuvered our opponent's at every turn, and when their defenses were undermined, exposed the firm's claims of poverty as false. In the end we received a settlement that exceeded the amount of funds we originally lost! Responsive, proactive and thoroughly reliable, his manner was both frank and realistic, as well as supportive and positive .In addition, Summit's support staff, from the receptionist to their legal assistants, were stellar. HIghest recommendations for Phil McCune and Summit Law Firm of Seattle.
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10 Jan, 2011 by Jason
She helped a good friend of mine save her home! Very personal service, and above all, honest and to the point. I would recommend her to anyone.
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02 Jul, 2009 by Anonymous
“Ken Hart has a calm, quiet confidence. He came highly recommended, and I knew immediately I was in good hands. In court, he was the ultimate professional, showing great respect for the legal system and the judge. He knew how to handle my case quickly, and he did a fine job!”
~ Lee (Helene) Davis
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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.
