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26 Jul, 2024 by George minehart
The best attorneys, you can ask for, they are all so very professional and knowledgeable and amazing people. If you need any help call them you won’t regret it.
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06 Feb, 2024 by Aaron schwartz
18 Sep, 2023 by Diana roireau
Very professional team. Very knowledgeable in many areas of civil litigation. Highly recommend.
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08 Jul, 2024 by Whitney gamber
08 Jul, 2024 by Brian fish
My wife and I had been talking about getting our will done for years. This year was the year we got it done, and Tyler with McNeice Wheeler was fantastic. We scheduled a phone call with him due to COVID and was patient as we worked out the three way calling between my office, his office, and my wife at home. He gave a high level overview of the process and conversation we were going to have, then filled in some of the details, and then walked us through each step asking us questions about what we wanted and what our goals were. We had a less than typical case and he recognized that a traditional will was not the best option and helped us set up a trust. He asked lots of questions and allowed us to as well. It was a very collaborative process. He had the documents drafted and sent to us quickly. Due to an error on our end, we didn’t realize we had them for a few days, but when we realized it, we reviewed the drafts and were happily surprised at the small details included that we had never thought of. He was patient with our (mostly mine) several emails asking questions and requesting clarification and answering hypotheticals. Once we were satisfied, we scheduled a convenient time for us to go in and sign. They had everything ready and laid out in the conference room with the necessary witnesses and notary (all socially distanced of course!) and made it super easy to pop in, sign, and continue with the rest of our errands that day. If you need your estate planning done, or any legal support, McNeice Wheeler deserves your attention.
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08 Jul, 2024 by Steve bagdon
I have used Andy Wetzel to review multiple contracts and his interpretations have been extremely detailed and concise. He is incredibly responsive and makes himself readily available when I reach out. His knowledge and attention to detail makes him an invaluable asset to have at your side.
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29 May, 2024 by Sally miller
We would recommend Josh Grewe to anyone seeking estate planning. He is an exceptional communicator, able to explain legal issues and options in clear and understandable terms. His level of expertise and personal attention makes him a standout attorney in our area.
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25 Aug, 2017 by Jackie
Jeanne is one of the most honest, reliable, hardworking, knowledgeable and very personable attorneys I have dealt with. Jeanne proved to be the most integral attorney I have ever met. In our dealings with other local attorneys, Jeanne is by far one of the most decent human beings in her field.
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07 Apr, 2020 by Kurt rowell
Mr. Mayo was amazing. I was having a horrible time trying to deal with the manufacturer of my vehicle and it’s issues. My issues started a month after the car was purchased and continued all the way through the settlement. The settlement would not of occurred with out Mr Mayo as the manufacturer refused to respond or assist with my issues. Mr Mayo is very professional and knowledgeable and explained the whole process and what to expect through out the whole process. I will recommend him to all of my friends and peers.
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19 Jun, 2019 by Tracy
Finally, this process has been completed. What a long and drawn out process especially when my tenants did everything possible to avoid being served. Attorney Mayo made the eviction process easy for me. I knew what he was up against and he put my mind at ease. What was very convenient was that I never stepped a foot into his office. All correspondence was done by e-mail or phone. I know I could NOT have done this on my own. If ever, I find myself in this situation again, I will go to him first, before trying to serve the tenants first. Thank you for all your help!
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20 Feb, 2019 by Doug
Mack did a excellent job!! He stood up for my wife and I and truly created a positive outcome for us. I would recommend Mack to anyone that needs help.
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23 Apr, 2018 by Joanna
Highly recommend Kyle for Real Estate and Family work. He is easy to understand and patient in waiting until you grasp ideas before moving on. Very fair in billing. Gets work done in a timely fashion. I have worked with many different attorneys. Kyle is very good. We will continue to work with him!
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22 Nov, 2017 by Anonymous
Kyle always knows what to do. He presents you with many options, the reasoning behind each option, and allows you to make a well-informed decision. He takes the time to really get to know your case. Additionally, he really makes himself available when you need him, which is critical when time is of essence. He will work evenings, nights, and weekends to help you out. He always answers his phone. He is selfless, caring, and very VERY knowledgeable. He was recommended to me by a friend to handle my divorce, and it could not have gone any smoother due to Kyle's expertise. He has a very strong, powerful personality which is a MUST for a lawyer. Highly recommend.
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25 Mar, 2016 by Gloria
Great lawyer that helped my sister and I settle my fathers estate. We both live on the other side of the country so it was very reassuring to get his name from a very close family friend. We would recommend him to anyone that needs assistance with estate planning, consultation and execution.
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17 May, 2018 by K
Steven Anderson was recommended to me and I am so very appreciative of the genuine care and professionalism he showed to me.
He and his assistant went above and beyond and I am so very thankful he was my lawyer.
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14 Mar, 2015 by Anonymous
Howdie. I wanted to tell you that we had a wonderful experience with Mr Anderson. He is very knowledgable and helpful. He answered all of our questions, and I mean all of the questions. We had so many, I did not think we would get answers to all, and yet we did. He has helped us out tramendously. I would recommend him. He made us feel that we were important and that we mattered. What a wonderful person in general. He cared about what we had to say and answered our endless question. Thank you.
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08 Jan, 2015 by Jeff & linda
Steve was recommended to us from a family real estate professional in the Spokane area. We found Steve to be efficient and highly effective in resolving our issue while cognizant of the economics involved. Our matter settled out of court with full receipt of our expected recovery in just a matter of a few weeks. We would highly recommend Steve to anyone seeking sound legal and financially reasonable advice.
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08 Dec, 2020 by Ryan and sanoma
We respect mr. Green very much for his honesty and hard work. He will not tell you something just because he thinks you want to hear it, He will speak, facts, law and truths. We highly recommend..
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19 Jul, 2019 by Tamara
I hired Alan when I started a civil case myself. I thought I could do it but I got stuck and didn’t know what to do next. Alan took my case and got me the judgement I needed. Took a ton of stress off me. He is excellent at his job and keeps you up to date! I would highly recommend Alan to anyone who needs results!
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14 Dec, 2018 by Richard
Needed help from an attorney to deal with a Contractor who was ignoring my requests to deal with damage caused by their work on my home. Mr Green was knowledgeable, proactive and communication during the process was first-rate. Mr Green is not the type of attorney who will take your retainer and disappear behind his staff and not communicate. Very happy with Mr Green. Would recommend to any one and would use again.
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13 May, 2019 by Kayla
I hired Winston earlier this year as my attorney in my Family Law case, specifically my divorce. He was professional, but kind, and responded to what felt like 1000 of my questions promptly and thoroughly. Winston had lots of great advice, but made it clear from the start that I was in control. He was positive and courteous, but was also very realistic about his expectations for the case. His advice and knowledge helped ground me in a time when I felt ignorant and confused. I would highly recommend his services to friends and family in the future!
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08 Jun, 2018 by Anonymous
This was my first time needing legal assistance. Winston listened. He was always professional and was very good at communicating via email. He kept me in the loop as to when he was available and what next steps would be taken. His rate is very reasonable. I would rehire him.
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13 Mar, 2018 by Andrew
Winston guided our family through probate after our parents passed away. He was professional, and gave us fantastic legal insight during a difficult time. It was reassuring to know we had representation who knew how to lead us through the process. We highly recommend Winston, and would not hesitate working with him again. Thank you Winston.
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16 Jan, 2025 by Patricia kowal
Emily Wilson became a total fit for my husband and me to complete our estate planning. She explained things clearly, was sensitive to our needs and her professionalism stellar. We also appreciated a flat fee for completing our documents and time spent with her in person and over the phone. No hidden fees. Grateful to have found her. Thank you, Emily.
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11 Jan, 2025 by Tanya keeble
I cannot say enough good things about working with Kathy Pauktert. She represented me in a State Farm car accident case, that went on for 6 years and was quite stressful. Every step of the way, I really felt that she was representing me fully, with no evidence of influence because it was a State Farm case, and she gave me excellent guidance but ensured that I made my own choices regarding next steps. She communicates very promptly, is kind, and gives an extremely persnalised experience. Her expertise was evident and I would recommend her (and do!) to folks going through similar cases. Knowing how competant she is, I would use this group for any case that they have expertise in.
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10 Dec, 2024 by Nikolai jones
I have never had a better experience with a law firm than the experience I had with Gilbert Law. They kept me updated on the process and the direction we were going every step of the way. They also fought hard to make sure I was covered in my recovery.
There experience and compassion was evident every step of the way.
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23 Feb, 2017 by Amanda
I had the opportunity of working with Kevin Roberts with 2 separate cases. Never in the past have I felt and seen so much passion and dedication from a law professional. He was extreamly attentive, very approachable, and honest with his thoughts. I have recommended friends to Kevin's law firm personally on many occasions because I strongly beleive hes the best. I cannot thank him enough for his UNDIVIDED attention and hard work!
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22 Feb, 2017 by Brooke
Kevin was patient and responsive to all of my many questions. He was realistic and didn't just tell me what I wanted to hear but showed a great deal of empathy for my situation. I felt like his reputation with opposing counsel helped my case to be taken seriously and led to a favorable resolution. I have and will continue to recommend him to others.
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06 Jun, 2016 by Anonymous
Kevin Roberts was highly recommended to me by another local business person who has worked with him and I completely agree with the great things that were said about him.
He helped me with information and advice and really improved our situation. While professional and sharp, he seemed to care about our issues and was compassionate in dealing with me.
I appreciate his help and recommend you getting in touch if you need a lawyer.
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29 Nov, 2014 by Anonymous
Mischelle evaluated a professional employment contract for me. She is a superb lawyer, because she balances humanistic care and concern for my long-term best interests, with a keen analytical mind that identifies potential problems rapidly. She has real-world solutions and suggested changes to contract language that all parties to the contract agreed would be fair, reasonable and an improvement over the original proposed document. I quickly learned to trust Mischelle with my legal questions, feeling that I am consistently receiving the best possible legal representation. To objectively rate Mischelle as a "superb" attorney is an understatement.
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24 Nov, 2014 by Fred
My concerns dealing with a municipality were in the development and annexation lines. My points of concern were dealt with in a precision like manner. The legal and practical aspects were addressed from a municipal and a developers view. Having this information allowed me the opportunity to make my decisions based not only on economics, but time and "frustration" factors. Mischelle R. Fulgham has earned my respect and future business.
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20 Nov, 2014 by John
I have been fortunate to have Mischelle provide to me legal advice and services for over 10 years. I have found her knowledge and legal expertise to be unsurpassed. She is extremely proficient in many legal areas and is able to combine that legal knowledge with great "street smarts" and business savvy successfully accomplish the matters that she was asked to work on. From simple business issues to representing me in the State Supreme Court I felt I could have no finer attorney or individual looking out for my best interest. She has the ability to be tenacious when required to accomplish her objective but also possesses the negotiating skills and intuition to settle issues with minimal legal expenses, an invaluable combination. I would strongly recommend Michelle for any legal challenge you may face and feel privileged to have representing my interests.
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23 Nov, 2019 by Tim
Teresa (Keene Law) did an awesome job for our eviction case. She was very patient with us and answered all questions we had as this was our first eviction. She was always available to us during the whole process and speaks to you in layman's terms. I can go on about her but let her work speak for itself. I would highly recommend, Teresa. If ever confronted with this type of thing again you can bet that we'll call Teresa at Keene Law!!
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16 Jul, 2019 by Ryan
I contacted Teresa, who is out of my local area, after a full day of being dismissed by law practices in my area. She promptly spoke to me and was able to give me the much needed lawful reassurance I was seeking. I only had a few exchanges with Teresa in total but every time she was prompt, professional, direct, and most importantly kind. I would not hesitate to use her again or recommend her to a loved one.
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02 Jul, 2019 by Shawna
Theresa Keen is a very intelligent, confident and hard working individual and that positively reflects her work. My husband was charged with a DUI and resulted with Negligent Driving in the first degree. . Just from my experience with Teresa throughout my husbands case she was very warm and comforting and beyond. She is a well known lawyer in a very positive way I have felt confident throughout the whole process. There was no time where I felt or thought that Teresa did not know what She was doing or wasn’t Always working to reach the best possible end result of my husbands case. Although my husbands own failure to obey the law, the outcome of the consequences are steps that I believe ended fair in my husbands situation
Thank you, Teresa
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13 Mar, 2015 by Ruby
When I came to Steven Schneider's office I was afraid of what was happening to me. In a short time, he took care of my problem. I was very satisfied with the outcome. Thanks, Mr. Schneider
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22 Oct, 2014 by Penny
our bankruptcy was handled so well and so quickly that I couldn't believe it was over! I would heartily recommend him to anyone, especially if they are nervous about the proceeding.
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21 Oct, 2014 by Kathryn
Mr. Schneider was very kind and made me feel a lot better about my situation. It was easy to get an appointment and my issue was taken care of quickly. He made everything understandable and I felt much more in control of my life.
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28 Oct, 2013 by Craig and jennifer
We are very thankful that Elizabeth handled our case in real estate and mortgage matters. She listened carefully and thoroughly researched every detail of our case, keeping us informed and calm during difficult situations. She was resourceful, utilizing key experts and facts to help our case. Elizabeth was always well prepared, maintaining high ethical standards and couth while acting on our behalf, which qualities we have found hard to find these days. Without a doubt, we would call on her again and place our full trust in her. Elizabeth goes above and beyond making herself available for her clients. We cannot recommend her highly enough.
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14 Nov, 2008 by Anonymous
Elizabeth is very intelligent and is willing to research every aspect of the case she is working on. She maintains dignity, couth and calmness even when others are at their worst and stays focused on what needs to be done, hardly an easy task it today's society, or when dealing with difficult people. She maintains her credibilty with a zeal that is most needed for herself, clients and as a representative of Winston & Cashatt. True ethical behavior is hard to find these days. We were so happy to have her represent us and would trust her with anything as she is so straight forward and willing to stand by her beliefs and ethics. You would be remiss in not condsidering her to represent you. Any employer would be lucky to have her. Elizabeth also lets you know what's needed or happening at all times and is even willing to come to your home when circumstances require her to do so. Elizabeth goes far out of her way to make herself available to her clients.
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13 Nov, 2008 by Anonymous
Elizabeth impressed me from our first phone conversation. She listened carefully and asked thoughtful questions. She always responded immediately to my calls and emails. Her knowledge and strategy were exellent. The day we went to arbitration, she was remarkable in making me feel comfortable with my own presentation , as well as confident in her abilities. I recommend her highly for her knowledge, her diligence, and her caring.
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14 Oct, 2021 by Savannah
Last year I started my private practice as a Naturopathic Physician. I felt incredibly overwhelmed by the legal side of setting up a medical practice. Max assisted me throughout this process, and I don’t know what I would have done without his guidance. He taught me what I didn’t know I needed to know in order to set up a successful practice. Max helped me write my consent forms and financial agreements, ensuring they clearly defined my role and the limitations of my scope as a licensed provider. Max is quick to respond to my questions and spends time not only researching the topics that arise, but takes the time to explain confusing concepts so that I feel more empowered in my choices. I recommend Max’s expertise to anyone seeking legal advice. He’s been an enormous asset in my business and I’m grateful to have him on my team.
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07 Oct, 2021 by Slag
I've had the pleasure of working with Max for a few legal matters over the course of the last couple of years. His council and responsiveness undertaking the issues at hand has been stellar. Max is genuine and conscientious and consistently makes me feel as if my business is his top priority, while being gracious with his time and with mine alike. Max is very intelligent, steadfast, and motivated to get things handled quickly and professionally and the results have been apparent. I plan to continue to use Max anytime I need legal council and I would highly recommend him to anyone else.
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07 Oct, 2021 by Ryan
Max assisted me during a very difficult time last year. He was professional, very responsive and answered all of my questions and concerns. He made me feel valued, important and provided me with the assistance I needed to understand the legal vernacular of various contracts. I would recommend him to anyone and everyone, he works incredibly hard and will be your best advocate.
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26 Sep, 2013 by Anonymous
She handled my mother's probate, and was caring, compassionate and very competent. She made a tough time less stressful for all of us. I recommend her highly.
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11 Jun, 2007 by Anonymous
Teresa stays focused and agressive in the court room. She is accommodating and easy to work with.
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20 Sep, 2012 by Ray
Delian worked on my case and I was totally impressed with his passion and abilty to listen to my thoughts and then reflect my thoughts together with his in the court system. Delian has great communication skills, kept me abreast on all issues from opposing council and reponded to all my concerns in a very prompt manner. We were blessed with a very favorable judge ruling. Thank you Delian
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31 Jul, 2011 by Craig
Delian was a pleasure to work with and his legal assistant was also nice and responsive. We got the results we were wanting. I would recommend for bankruptcies and I plan to use him again if I need to for his areas practice.
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23 Feb, 2012 by Jay
Brian worked out a very complex easement dispute. He kept us informed and took the time to explain the information in detail.
We had dealt with another lawyer, with litlle satisfaction, before Brian. Now when someone asks, we recommend Brian McGinn!
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23 Dec, 2008 by Anonymous
Brian McGinn is highly skilled, responsive. thorough and most important, he spent sufficient time with client so we had a firrm grasp of the issues that we were addressing and felt that we were suficiently informed and confident to move forward with proceedings.
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31 Mar, 2011 by Steve
Since 1998 John Zeimantz has represented my company in numerous legal matters.John has handled many complex matters for us, such as Copyright Infringements , Trademark Infringement Claims , Domain Name Disputes , along with Employment matters and Breach of Contract Claims. John has been successfull in every single matter or case. 100% slam dunk. A perfect record over thirteen years.John is very knowledgeable , well organized and when needed, he can be TOUGH as REBAR .As a client I couldn't be more SATISFIED. I would highly recommend Mr. John Zeimantz
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20 Nov, 2008 by Anonymous
In addition to John Zeimantz our company uses several other attorneys in various firms. The reason we use other law firm has to do with areas of expertise however Mr. Zeimantz works well as a jack of all trades. Of all the law firms we use his billing rates are the fairest and we find the least padding of any other lawyer our company uses from coast-to-coast. Therefore I would highly recommen John Zeimantz when looking for an attorney with integrity who will get the job done for you. Mr. Zeimantz can be a bulldog when necessary and I appreciate his aggressiveness as needed.
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30 Jul, 2017 by Tod
I consulted him in a short notice but with his experience he delivered good service on and off the court.
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05 Nov, 2012 by Todd startzel
I strongly recommend Mic to any client needing skilled and effective litigation counsel. I have been both co-defense counsel and opposing counsel with Mic. I much prefer the former position, knowing that Mic will provide strong representation for his client, that will eventually benefit my client. Mic understands how to present a consise and targeted case, a very valuable litigation skill.
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23 Feb, 2023 by Richard
Thor was fantastic he did everything he said he was going to do. He handled it professionally and I have no complaints if I ever needed him again I would never hesitate to call that law office.
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09 Nov, 2017 by Robert and michele
Ms. Myers was referred to us by a family friend who employed her services for their family law needs. Unfortunately, by the time we contacted Ms. Myers, she was transitioning her area of focus and was unable to take our case. However, she took the time, at no charge, to answer our questions and help us better understand our needs. Ms. Myers is knowledgeable, professional, and passionate about helping others. I endorse this lawyer.
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15 Dec, 2015 by Vickie
Corey Quinn is a very conscientious and focused attorney. From the start he was quickly able to grasp the situation from our perspective. He then made adjustments to the previously filed lien in order to secure our position more readily. He stayed on top of each detail, he prepared a settlement letter to the other party, that cleared things up, preparing the way for mediation. He make sure that we had time for resolution, and gently lead the way with conviction and assurance. We did not get all of what we would have liked to have, but he made a way to get an acceptable solution done. I felt he was very conscious of our need to not lose any more dollars, and was very conservative with his use of time, never forgetting to check in on progress, and follow up with advice. He was pleasant and kind to all parties, and made sure it didn't blow out of control into litigation due to tempers and upset. However, if it needed to go there, he assured me that we had no problem with proceeding. He had done his job securing our interest. I have had many attorney's over the years and Corey Quinn, stands alone as the most excellent, and detailed. He was specific when required, never lied, never fudged. He was always straight forward, sharing the risks and not making promises, that couldn't be kept. I would advise any business or person to fully trust his judgment. He does his home-work carefully, and strategizes without a problem, promoting the opportunity to change gears as required. He was not afraid to stop and confer with someone else, when needed, therefore, he did not come off as a know it all. Not a lawyer to be underestimated. He seems content to help you come up with a resolution you can live with, and he watches your money. I would never hesitate to trust his judgment, and I am grateful he took my case, he is an asset to his firm as he makes them look very professional. I highly recommend him, and anyone he would recommend gets a first look from me.
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24 May, 2016 by Mike
During a contractual disagreement between myself and the government Tyler and his firm was able to bring common sense negotiation and agreement to a situation that would have destroyed my company. He was very informative to the action he was wanting to take and always asked for my approval in any action he took. They have always explained to me what they think the best outcome and worst outcome could be and they never sugar coat anything. Always upfront and honest.
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25 May, 2016 by Thomas lariviere
Richard Campbell has represented our company for several years and has always provided excellent service and advice no matter the size of our issue. Rich has always been available for our emergency and last minute requests and proves to be extremely proactive with guidance on our general business matters. We view Rich with the highest level of respect and will always recommend his services.
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19 Sep, 2019 by Kris
John worked very hard on my case, and was always honest about the sentencing expectations. In the end he delivered the best possible outcome i could have hoped for with the charges i was facing.
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24 Jun, 2011 by Jim
Darren recently represented my daughter in a bankruptcy as a creditor. He came on board at the last minute, and with his knowlwdge and expediency was able to get my daughter the protection she needed. He then went forward and by his diligent efforts was able to not only protect the monies owed her, but established a claim and payment configuation that will ultimately ensure she will recieve all of the monies owed her.
I was involved in the process throughout as my daughter lives in a different city.
Darren fits in the category of one the most trustworthy people that I know. During this process he kept my daughter and myself informed almost to a fault. He anticipates questions and can usually answer them without additional file review or legal research. If additional review was required for any reason, Darren would be back with his answer and opinion very quickly. I could write on and on, but the most important items are:
1. Darren is extremely knowledgable in the areas of law he practices, and has a good knowledge of other areas as well.
2. He treats his clients with respect and dignity by quickly responding to questions and concerns.
3. His ability to explain legal issues in an understandable way to non-legal individuals is amazing.
4. Darren is very personable and you will find him easy to talk with.
5. He is really concerned about the issues you have hired him to help you with.
Bottom line - If you need an attorney in an area Darren practices, hire him, you will not be disapointed
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23 Sep, 2010 by Jj
Casey Lund was very effective in helping me file a lmechaics ien on a project that I had finished and was not being paid on. In the end I was pleased with the negotiated settlement and glad to be done worrying whether or not I would ever get paid.
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26 Oct, 2017 by Dominic adams
I have recently worked with Tyler, and it was a pleasure dealing with him. He was fast to respond, thorough and complete in his emails, and overall very very easy to work with. I would recommend Tyler to friends, and family members.
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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.
