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04 Jul, 2024 by Thomas villar
love her and her team...she takes care of all my real estate business
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03 Jul, 2024 by Bruce ko
01 May, 2024 by Terry burwell
I'm a mortgage loan originator and get to work with several different real estate attorneys, and my experience with Cristine and her team is phenomenal! I highly recommend her.
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27 Jun, 2024 by Tune smith
Thanks so much to Attorney Bridgette Norton, and her able assistant Amanda for helping me through a difficult period of my life. Their steady hand, knowledge and expertise, made a big difference. The storm has passed, onward & upward we go!
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15 Jun, 2024 by Jay rawl
I couldn’t be happier with my representation. Ms. Norton and her staff are extremely professional. My case was handled in a compassionate manner. All steps of the legal process were explained clearly and in a timely manner. I would highly recommend this firm.
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14 Jun, 2024 by Elizabeth dowling
I used Bridget Norton for a custody/visitation battle. She exceeded all of my expectations, and left me feeling confident after every court hearing. Bridget is professional, she is very straight forward, and somebody who will fight VERY hard for her clients. I will recommend her every. single. time. A year later, and she got me exactly what I wanted out of the situation. Thank you, Bridget. You and Amanda are the best!!!!
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22 Apr, 2021 by Doug
Suzanne briefly represented my (still) wife and completely messed things up. She did not file the financial declaration, did not file a Motion to Relieve Counsel, and did not respond to or forward information from the scheduler about setting a court date. Because of her failure to do these basic things, my divorce continues to drag on.
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26 Aug, 2019 by Anonymous
I set up an appointment for a phone consultation. I had to wait a week for that consultation. I received a text at the appointment time. I called them and they said I would get a call back from the attorney. I called a second time and was told the attorney was getting my case file and would call me back. Never called. I called a third time and they hung up on me. The only person I would recommend this attorney to is my wife that I am separated from at this time.
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30 Oct, 2018 by Anonymous
In today's times there are a lot of grandfamilies that are having a difficult time supporting their grandchildren especially if on a limited income.I was having issues getting the benefits I feel my grandson deserved. With me having temporary guardianship of my grandson at this time, Suzanne helped me get in touch with the proper people and support so I could qualify for the same benefits as a foster parent through the kinship care program.
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11 Dec, 2020 by Daniel
Steadman law firm were VERY courteous helpful and patient with everything I needed. When I called with a problem they knew exactly who I was greeted me as a friend But also being professional I would highly recommend them to anyone
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18 Aug, 2020 by Mark
Everyone at the law firm from our first time stepping into their office was outstanding. We feel our case was handled timely and professionally. When a crunch time date was rapidly approaching, they went the extra mile to help ensure things went smoothly. Thanks so much! Very grateful!
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16 Apr, 2020 by Robin
So helpful and very calming to know I was going to be fine . So professional and always answered my questions.
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12 Dec, 2023 by Ramona commer
My wife and I were having problems with our HOA/POA. And Paul went way above and beyond, making numerous calls and sending emails and was able to completely clear the problem up. We recommend this practice.
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23 Aug, 2023 by Msalee
Professional and if they miss your call, they call you back. The consultation is free and they did it on the same day they called. Not too big for their britches and they are professional.
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20 Jun, 2023 by Tyrell glover
28 Feb, 2023 by Madison nicole
14 Apr, 2021 by L.d. parker
Very friendly yet professional atmosphere.
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14 Apr, 2021 by Lynn lai
Being from out of town with small window of time, they were professional friendly and easy to work with.
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10 Aug, 2022 by Ronnie jeffcoat i
24 May, 2021 by Ramon mcknight
Showed up for appointment. Came in office door, ended up being the back door. Was greeted by a office personal who was not wearing a mask. He directed us to the front of the office where we were greeted by another employee who was not wearing a mask. Then the employee without sterilizing her hands and removing a sterile mask from a sterile package, she simply placed a used mask on and walked up to the front desk with a mask. Stated that we were required to wear a mask. Then Mr. Scott came out and stated that this was a private business and until he knew that everyone was vaccinated and that the virus was totally gone. That he would require the masks. Now I told him that I don't have a problem with a policy, but that I do have a problem with ignorant policy. I asked him if he sterilized his hands before he removed the sterile mask from a Sterile package., which he had not and then got upset. I refuse to trust any legal matters with someone who cannot follow actual rules for donning PPE.
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19 Oct, 2020 by Ashley brice
31 Jul, 2024 by Jay wingard
Kevin and Rachel worked above and beyond to not only handle the sell of our inherited property, but took the time to answer all our questions in a very timely manner and took the time to explain the process to us along the way. I felt in good hands through the entire process of selling our home.
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28 Mar, 2024 by Tori king
My husband a I just purchased our first home together and Kevin Brown was a huge help to us and we are very grateful!
However i have to draw a lot of attention to the paralegal Rachel as she was in CONSTANT communication with us, I had so many questions and she was so quick, kind and professional! Honestly without Rachel we would’ve been lost! Thank you for helping us!
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09 Dec, 2023 by Robert mixon
12 Jun, 2024 by Bethany heigis
Words cannot express how thankful I am for San Stathos and Daniel Bunting. The end result was not what I was expecting, however it ended up working out even better than anticipated. Thank you guys for all your hard work!
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08 Jan, 2024 by Amanda suhr
05 Jan, 2024 by Jim gilnack
I hired them for a simple Commercial eviction and was given a quote and a timeline on getting the tenant out. The price was 3 to 6 times what was quoted and it took 3 times longer than they said. I finally started making phone calls to the court and I got got the tenant out myself !!! They don't communicate, and when you pressure them for an update via email (1 or two sentence email) they charge you big time, every time. They are lazy and don't follow up with the courts. They cost me an additional tens of thousands of dollars. Do yourself a favor and find a law firm that actually does there job!!! Your better off representing yourself !!! Too bad there is no ZERO star option. They suck!!!
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12 Apr, 2021 by Bobbie hodson
We have used this attorney Many times and have received excellent service every time. Highly recommend.
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07 Aug, 2019 by Robert warrington
01 Apr, 2013 by Joe
When my mother was fighting for her well deserved SSDI payments, very few attorneys had the ability to build and successfully execute the case which Miss Mockler did. She has proven herself to be a zealous and capable advocate in her specialization of the law.
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09 Aug, 2009 by Anonymous
Was quick in returning information asked for.
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11 Sep, 2024 by Danielb.
Beth was always there when i needed her to talk to her, she gave me great advice as im a single dad and got me full C. About impossible in SC, somwtimes the dad is the correct choice for the children and imnso glad she sees that also. I can only thank Beth. 4 stars because i have never gave 5 to anyone i think there is always room for inprovment other than that to me she is a 5 star lawyer. Thank you Beth B. From the bottom of my heart.
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09 Aug, 2024 by Mary szpara
In July 2023, I contracted Beth Bullock to file urgent legal paperwork for my son-in-law and paid a deposit. Since then, she didn't do anything and wouldn't return messages. I recently settled my legal matter totally without her assistance through another attorney and requested a refund of the deposit made and not getting any results.
I do not recommend using this attorney if you need anything to be done in a timely manner or get a refund.
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09 Aug, 2024 by Mary
In July 2023, I contracted Beth Bullock to file urgent legal paperwork for my son-in-law and paid a deposit. Since then, she didn't do anything and wouldn't return messages. I recently settled my legal matter totally without her assistance through another attorney and requested a refund of the deposit made and not getting any results.
I do not recommend using this attorney if you need anything to be done in a timely manner or get a refund.
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20 Jan, 2024 by Vicki davis
Left messages. Totally unable to reach anybody at this office.
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05 Dec, 2023 by Suzanne
05 Mar, 2022 by Chris quick
24 Oct, 2023 by Paige norris
MGC makes the home buying process smooth and painless. They had everything ready to go when we arrived. We were in and out in about 30 minutes
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11 Mar, 2023 by Jane helms
18 Oct, 2022 by Lucia nieves
🙏🏠
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23 Feb, 2023 by Riley accounts
Worst firm ever
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22 Sep, 2020 by Bill gagnon
Good lawyers
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25 Oct, 2017 by Bryan jeter
23 Feb, 2023 by Riley accounts
Worst firm ever
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22 Sep, 2020 by Bill gagnon
Good lawyers
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25 Oct, 2017 by Bryan jeter
12 Oct, 2024 by Tiffany richardson
She is an amazing lawyer thus far. She works fast and is very understanding and works with you. She understands that things happen and this life ain’t easy and most importantly understands that you don’t have a money tree in your back yard. I will be updating later. But right now 1000 out of 1000. Will be updating in a couple of weeks.
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01 Oct, 2024 by Erik (erik)
Melissa Gay is an excellent attorney. She has the experience, the knowledge, and the connections to get the job done quickly and effectively. If you are trying to find legal representation, do yourself a favor and hire her immediately. Melissa and her staff are very profesional. They went above and beyond for me. Her prices were more than fair, but she would be my first choice at any price. Thank you to melissa and her staff! Great job!!
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23 Apr, 2024 by Delee kinney
Awesome! Tough as nails. Who wants an attorney that's not tough and/or blunt. This is no time to beat around a bush. Sometimes the truth hurts, but we gotta face it eventually!!!! Thanks a million Ms. Melisa!!!
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09 Oct, 2019 by Alan van heusen
Love Ann, nice firm and basically offers full service.
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01 Dec, 2018 by Ann again
03 Oct, 2018 by Christine collins
04 Feb, 2019 by Benna hindle
Lester & Lester is now Hutchens Law Firm. We had a real estate closing handled by this office, January 31, 2019. While we were able to close, it was only because our realtor and we put forth the effort required to have things in order. They performed all necessary work for title transfer but that’s about all they did. We weren’t given any of the necessary information needed until we asked. Meaning, with our realtor’s help, we were doing the thinking. As a result we had to make a last minute, out of town, eight hour trip to initiate the transfer of funds. They did, upon our request, refund part of the their closing fee to cover expenses for the trip. While they were courteous, their lack of client care bordered on the unethical.
Do not use this firm for your real estate closing!
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04 Oct, 2017 by Becky calcutt
Dickey Lester is a personable man in a very nice office but I cannot recommend him. We hired him to review the mortgage documents prepared by the buyer's attorney but found that we had to do the legwork all the way through the closing process. Our agent told us that the terms were a legal matter but the senior paralegal said that that was his responsibility. Then it was our responsibility to get the title insurance policy but the issuing attorney's office said that Lester's paralegal needed to contact them. The closing went through on time but when I received the original promissory note and mortgage, there was a discrepancy between the two. The buyer's attorney prepared them but neither he, his paralegal, Mr. Lester nor his paralegal caught the error. I wrote a letter to Mr. Lester and spoke to him with my concern about having to do all the work but he told me that I was not "harmed" and he therefore would not refund the legal fees I had paid at closing. If I had been harmed, I could have sued him but I felt I was due a refund since I did not get the service I paid for. Find someone else who will read your documents.
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02 Jun, 2017 by Sammy spann
I have used the Lester Law Firm for multiple real estate closings over the past 30 years. Mr Lester and his staff have always been very prompt, courteous and meticulous in handling my affairs.
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30 Jul, 2022 by Karen allen
23 Aug, 2019 by Weldon holtzclaw
I felt money was the PRIMARY goal
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14 Jul, 2018 by Wardell sims
Mr. Lineberry is the best!
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28 Apr, 2021 by Julian heard
Fast and curteus
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04 Dec, 2019 by Chris marchi
Susan and Ray were tip top for my first home purchase, very professional. Best title company!
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23 Sep, 2019 by Candy duff
Great people to work with.
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22 Sep, 2020 by Anonymous
I sought Mr. Starkes’ service for 2 matters. His staff was very nIce and helpful. I requested assistance for my family purchase of property and for a will amendment for my mom.
The closing was handled in a very professional manner and Mr. Starkes addressed various concerns of my family members, who were located in California. Long story short, the closing was handled in the manner my family desired. And as a result, my has used his firm for more closings and other matters. I found him to be very pleasant, polite, and knowledgeable.
As to the will, I sent my mom to Mr. Starkes to make amendments bc I could not do the amendments. My mom was very satisfied and appreciated Mr. Starkes services. She was able to repeat the advice to me and received all the help regarding her concerns. Since then, she has passed and in review of the Will, Mr. Starkes address must mom’s will in the manner she requested. I think this is why she adored him as her attorney. Since then, I have given Mr. Starkes’ information to several friends and customers in the Columbia area.
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04 Mar, 2020 by Charlotte
We hired Xavier Starkes to help my mother get her will, papers, directives in order. He was recommended by a friend. Boy, am I glad she suggested we go to him. He was very professional, but personable at the same time. He was very precise about what he was doing and even made calls to banks, etc. to make sure everything was in order. We have, finally, found a lawyer we can use forever.
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22 May, 2017 by Anonymous
Hired Xavier to represent me to negotiate with the insurance company after a boat accident in which I sustained significant facial injuries.
I feel Xavier didn't put the time in to understand the whole picture. He seemed to do a cursory review, if that, of everything. He was telephoning me at least five or six times a week for five months during his representation of me, and I felt I continuously had to reiterate the same things over and over to him. I finally became frustrated and had a conversation with him about it, relayed to him everything he kept getting incorrect, and expressed I was not happy. Three, four days later, he sends me his first draft of the demand letter, and the things I had JUST expressed to him in that conversation were incorrect were still incorrect!
In his initial draft of the demand letter to the insurance adjuster, he didn't even have the mechanics of the accident correct. He indicated I was thrown from the boat necessitating a water rescue. I had relayed to him AT LEAST 50 times the boat hit the pylon, my face flew into the center console and was knocked unconscious, another occupant got a life jacket on me, and THEN the boat sank. Although I told him repeatedly I remembered floating in the river and then being pulled up on the overturned boat and that I had floated in the river for at least 30-40 minutes before the rescuers got to us, he indicated in the letter I had no memory of anything. In fact, he was also told I was not sleeping well because I was having nightmares about it. So with all the information I provided him, plus our nearly-every-day telephone conversations about everything, he definitely should have had that down by five months!
He also didn't have my medical providers or all of the treatment I received correct, and it didn't include some of the significant injuries I sustained outlined (tooth shoved up in my jaw, breaking the jaw and requiring surgery, and shifting of facial bones from impact were the big ones, but there was swelling and bruising that lasted for months as well).
I kept copious notes of my recovery and treatment and conversations with my medical providers and photographed my injuries and the healing process. Xavier was in possession of all of it. In fact, I mainly maintained those records for him so that everything would be all laid out for him. It was disheartening to learn at the end the information I was providing him he wasn't taking the time to read and digest. That is what a client hires an attorney for!
Along with a couple of facial surgeries, I had a few bumps in the road during my recovery. My life consisted of and I was focused on doctor's appointments, surgeries, and recovering. That's why I hired a lawyer in the first place. So I put my trust in Xavier, and I feel it was his job to know my case intimately, to learn all the facts, understand the treatment and surgeries and who the medical providers are, and have a concrete grasp of all the injuries suffered, all so that when it comes time to put the demand letter together and begin negotiations, he is able to speak intelligently about my case and advocate for me with vigor. Unfortunately, that didn't happen.
Therefore, Xavier gets two thumbs down.
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05 May, 2023 by Courtney randleman
Completely unresponsive!!
Doesn’t record until much later.
Gives funds before property is officially transferred.
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12 May, 2022 by James harris
22 Apr, 2022 by Kk true
Why is it do hard to get in touch with this man? I understand that he is a lawyer but still. Need to meet with him as soon as possible
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31 Jan, 2023 by Anonymous
This lady is a complete fraud she's in a position to help people, but instead using her platform to do harm against people. Shame on you LAMPKINS REMEMBER GOD DONT LIKE UGLY.
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06 Jan, 2022 by Kristen
I got into an accident and called Lampkin Law right away, as I have worked with them several times previously. I was able to speak with Attorney H. Lampkin and received great customer service. I was in great hands. She got us to a timely resolution and I am extremely satisfied. Highly recommended!
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04 Jan, 2022 by Tanna j.
I hired Attorney Lampkin in May of 2021 for a personal injury matter of mine where someone hit me in the back, and it was the BEST decision I could have ever made. She was compassionate, punctual, and communicative. There was never a time where I did not know what was going on with my case, nor was there ever a time where I felt like I was given a "run-around". This attorney and her firm were very diligent, prompt, and personable. HIRE HER!!! She knows what to do!!!
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02 Jun, 2017 by Anonymous
One issue, not eager enough. I don't know if after so many years the passion is gone or not but it seemed like we never got any updates on our case and when we would nothing had changed from one instance to the next. During a court preceding he showed up late for court, which was embarrassing to say the least. Once in court all the facts that were presented to him on our end were wrong. There were several times corrections had to be made during court so the judge had the facts straight, embarrassing again. The price for him is fair, but remember, you get what you pay for.
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05 Sep, 2016 by Anonymous
My family and I have used Mr. Murphy's law firm for several matters. He has provided excellent, professional service. He has assisted in an estate matter and real estate. I would recommend his office to your legal needs.
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04 Feb, 2016 by Susan
I've hired Mr. Murphy to take care of some tricky real estate transactions for me and handle some family matters. He was professional and his office is kind, efficient and discrete. I also found his charges to be somewhat less than other local attorneys that I had previously used in similar instances with less success. Mr. Murphy's experience is best displayed in a courtroom situation where I've seen him dominate my adversary. From now on, Mr. Murphy is my family's attorney of choice.
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13 Aug, 2024 by A p
Most definitely recommended, very polite and patient to explain things and work on things in timely manner. Response all the concerns and questions with ease.
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27 Jan, 2024 by Alisia carey
Prepared my Will a year ago, totally ghosted me when I tried to schedule an appointment to make a couple of changes to it. Rude!
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08 Oct, 2022 by Orlando robinson
Great ðŸ‘ðŸ‘
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15 May, 2019 by Anonymous
There were a lot of things he could've done to help win my case but he didn't. I even offered a lot evidence that he never brought up to help win my case. All he cared about was that I paid the legal fees and didn't try very hard to help win my case. I had tons of evidence against the other side that he ignored. I think his agenda was to drag the case out for as long as possible so to rack up the legal fees for me to pay him more over time as opposed to using the evidence to shut down the other side.
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09 Jun, 2017 by Wade
Called Leonard to let him know about a misunderstanding regarding a land deal. He was incredibly rude, even when I explained my reason for calling as being a courtesy for his information. Called me a jerk and then tried to force a deal. I felt like I was talking to a school yard bully instead of a 41-year professional attorney.
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26 Feb, 2015 by Dallas
I responded to an ad to buy waterfront property out of a development on a nearby lake. The one day sale was set up to do mass showings then if you wanted to buy you signed a contract on the spot for the lot of your choice. The land was beautiful and prices were very good so I entered into a contract. The Seller made no provisions for any due diligence and set an aggressive closing date. After several months I got suspicious and hired Mr. Jordan to review the entire transaction. He found numerous issues with the covenants and restrictions rendering the property unmarketable. These issues were not apparent to me and I am an attorney with the experience of many deals under my belt. Mr. Jordan was able to terminate the contract against the Sellers vigorous efforts to force the closing, saving me from a terrible and expensive mistake. His knowledge of real estate law was immense and instrumental in causing the Seller to return my earnest money. His fee was very reasonable and I would have no hesitation in recommending him to anyone needing real estate advice.
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02 Jun, 2024 by Anonymous
Wendi closed her private practice in February 2024 to accept the in-house position as underwriting counsel for Old Republic National Title Insurance Co of South Carolina.
LinkedIn
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14 Jan, 2020 by Mackenzie
I contacted Ms. See recently for a consultation about a real estate issue and experienced firsthand how incredibly knowledgeable and generous she is with her time and expertise, but also how pleasant, personable and warm she is. Taking into consideration her acumen, I have no doubt that Ms. See is both tenacious and compassionate in her representation of her clients. I would highly recommend her services for real estate and special needs matters.
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10 Jan, 2024 by Pamela
This lady, who has a small child herself, had me thrown in jail for my sperm donors attorney fees. She sentenced me too 30 days,I could get out when I paid my ex's attorney fees of $2300. I am an unemployed,single parent who home schools her son. Kimmons did not give me a chance to pay the money back over time, did not let me make arrangements for my child or his school work,she found me guilty of almost all the accusations, strictly on hear say and did not let my witnesses speak to prove these were lies. My son is 9 years old,his sperm donor wanted nothing to do with him and did not even meet him until he was 7 years old,he drinks and drives with my child in the vehicle but she didn't care about any of that. She was rude,nasty,biased and did NOT have the best interest of my child in mind.
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12 Apr, 2016 by Christopher l. hosch
Mandy far exceeded my expectations. Mandy personalized the relationship, owned my concerns, and engendered a belief she would do everything possible to help me succeed. And she did. Most of all, Mandy was available and responded in a timely manner. I would most definitely recommend her.
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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:
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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.
