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15 Jul, 2013 by Jack strunk
For the past five years Mr. Mark Rubin has represented me in my two decade long divorce proceedings that have cost me more than I care to admit prior to Mr. Rubin taking my case. He has saved me income tax returns that would have been taken by my ex-spouse and even disability benefits as I am one hundred percent disabled. I would love to tell you that this was a one time ordeal but she has attempted this three times to date and will likely try again in the future. If I did not have the assistance of Mr. Rubin I could be homeless and without proper care, he has kept me from being raped by the Department of Child Support Services and my ex-spouse as he knows the laws and he has worked for the Department of Child support services. Taking in to consideration all of these attributes and Mr. Rubin's extremely good nature and willingness to work with anyone, one would be foolish to pass up having him represent them with a man of this character and devotion to his profession. It is with these words that I recommend Mr. Mark Rubin to you for all of your legal matters and say that you will not find a better attorney in the panhandle of Florida to provide legal services.
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09 Jul, 2013 by Shannon
Negotiated my divorce over and over again with a difficult attorney and ended up getting my child support significantly reduced because I am currently unemployed, got a needed lump sum payment to me for half the equity in the house, and incredibly liberal time-sharing (and shared transportation) with my son (the most important part) even though I am technically outside of the geographic area. Took time explaining things to me probably too many times because most of this stuff is way beyond me - very patient and down to earth. His secretary Lisa is a sweetheart. I would hire him again in a second.
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08 Feb, 2013 by Tony
Mr. Rubin has unique skills in domestic relations/family law,in that, he was employed by fl. Dept of Revenue - child support. I would not hestitate to retain Mr. Rubin in other matters;he is deliberate,well versed and very thorough. I have MBA and worked as CEO/CFO in healthcare for 32 years,dealing with many attorneys; Mr.Rubin is unique;in that,he is very personable and respectfull,while providing professional advise in laymans terms. Tony
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07 May, 2013 by Mike
I would highly recommend Linda Buck for a divorce attorney. My experience, although years ago, is still very memorable . She was a caring professional who while looking out for my interest, advised me to keep things civil, for the future interest of the involved children. She is not afraid to fight for an agreement that is reasonable for everyone concerned. She deserves your respect, meet her and I am sure that she will earn it.
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22 Aug, 2024 by John bowen
The service is excellent and they go the extra mile. The people are friendly and very helpful. The legal staff and their staff know how to get things through the compliance required by our legal system. I highly recommend them!
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22 Aug, 2024 by Harry pastuszek
I have had an outstanding relationship with this law firm in both trust and guardianship matters. The firm blends the presence of both accomplished lawyers and paralegals who are always available to provide the legal services that are required for the particular problem. I highly recommend this firm if you have need of legal services in the area of Wills, Trust and guardianship matters.
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18 Aug, 2024 by Peggy carrano
I used this firm for a deed change. They answered in a timely matter and resolved the issue quickly. They told me the cost in the first consultation so there was no confusion. I would highly recommend them.
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16 Aug, 2024 by David kostecki
Thank you Glenn for your time and expertise in resolving this criminal matter. Very grateful that I made the choice to have your knowledgeable representation.
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12 May, 2024 by Camil klein
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06 May, 2024 by Chris gallaher
Great guy, knows his stuff. So glad I chose this firm to handle my case. I would definitely recommend him.
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16 Aug, 2024 by David kostecki
Thank you Glenn for your time and expertise in resolving this criminal matter. Very grateful that I made the choice to have your knowledgeable representation.
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12 May, 2024 by Camil klein
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06 May, 2024 by Chris gallaher
Great guy, knows his stuff. So glad I chose this firm to handle my case. I would definitely recommend him.
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16 Aug, 2024 by David kostecki
Thank you Glenn for your time and expertise in resolving this criminal matter. Very grateful that I made the choice to have your knowledgeable representation.
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12 May, 2024 by Camil klein
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06 May, 2024 by Chris gallaher
Great guy, knows his stuff. So glad I chose this firm to handle my case. I would definitely recommend him.
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16 Aug, 2024 by David kostecki
Thank you Glenn for your time and expertise in resolving this criminal matter. Very grateful that I made the choice to have your knowledgeable representation.
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12 May, 2024 by Camil klein
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06 May, 2024 by Chris gallaher
Great guy, knows his stuff. So glad I chose this firm to handle my case. I would definitely recommend him.
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16 Aug, 2024 by David kostecki
Thank you Glenn for your time and expertise in resolving this criminal matter. Very grateful that I made the choice to have your knowledgeable representation.
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12 May, 2024 by Camil klein
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06 May, 2024 by Chris gallaher
Great guy, knows his stuff. So glad I chose this firm to handle my case. I would definitely recommend him.
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12 Sep, 2024 by Karon east
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27 Aug, 2024 by Macie
The lawyers are so smart. They are very thorough and they know how to get the job done and they like to put their clients needs first. The staff has been very accommodating and nice as well. I will recommend this firm and this team to anyone and everyone. 5 Stars hands down.
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25 Oct, 2023 by Mouse run
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10 Feb, 2024 by Twofreedoms
A simple contract to pay between individuals and they failed to file case due to more research needed. $5000 paid and never received a call from Mr. Goodwin. The contract was for payment of settlement of partnership with an air force officer when he sold the property. The air force office made $3,000,000 on sale and did not honor his promise and signature on recorded document at Okaloosa County County. The firm told and we believe they understood the funds were to be used in continued support of the Ukraine and U.S. humanitarian charity Two Freedoms Foundation and their work helping children and families in and during the war in Ukraine. Not an apology for failure but a request for several more thousand dollars for more research. And all documents and history were recorded and kept with the Foundation from date of partnership beginning 1992 but not used for filing a letter to the air force officer to pay. The sale was in 2022 with no statue of limitation limit as our contracting his firm was in 2022. We believe all that is given is correct and given this day from eastern Ukraine where will continue to support families and children during the Russian war in Ukraine.
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24 Apr, 2023 by Anonymous
Our interactions with this firm were quite disappointing. We paid an initial consultation fee of $290 for Mr. Goodwin to provide “preliminary guidance” (their emphasis) for establishing an LLC in Florida to hold our Florida property. After a discussion of the requisite steps, we left the meeting not feeling comfortable with the matter, but still intending to move forward. At no point during the consultation were any downsides of creating an LLC brought up. Over the next couple of days I was emailed twice by a paralegal from the firm asking us to select a registered agent so she could begin work setting up the LLC. During this same time, our Georgia estate attorney contacted me wanting to know if Mr. Goodwin had warned us of the impact of creating an LLC on our non-homestead 10% ad valorem real property tax cap, which would be followed by a higher base for annual assessments. He stated there was a recent Florida 3rd DCA opinion addressing this issue. I called the Okaloosa tax office and they confirmed that if we placed our property into an LLC then the base tax rate readjusts and it would potentially cost us thousands of dollars. In my view, this is precisely the type of information which should be brought up during a paid initial consultation session. Another indicator of a lack of attention to detail on the part of the Goodwin firm is they placed the wrong home address on our documents. We had not lived at the address they used in over four years, and we had never given it to the firm. Even on a subsequent bill of $275, apparently for the paralegal’s time, they again used the wrong address. We decided not to continue our relationship with the Goodwin law firm.
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24 Feb, 2021 by Klare
Mr Goodwin very clearly explained the probate process to me in the beginning. From there to the end, his associates walked me through every step with compassion and professionalism, always keeping me informed and seeking to make the experience as convenient for me as possible. I would not hesitate to refer his services to anyone.
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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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