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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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12 Jul, 2024 by David grant
Jerry is the best at what he does I had been lucky enough to have him help me more than once he does his job and does it very well!
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02 Oct, 2023 by Mike koczor
Great concert 4!!!
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22 Jul, 2022 by Lori calvert
Attorneys did not even ask about his will as my brother had it done to add myself as his beneficiary of any of his payouts from his benefits from his laborers union. Now have to go through another attorney to file for what should have been done through them . My brother passed away on the 21st of June, and recieved a letter to our mother, saying he was no longer representing him. Pretty cold, now I see he was just making a living off of my brother's disability for years. Now he just made it cut n dry he was done. What a racket. Lori Calvert
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20 May, 2024 by Don marshall
20 Mar, 2024 by Thane meads
I can not recommend a law firm more highly. Michael Grover and April Anderson helped me through what could have been a tricky divorce and property settlement with a grace, professionalism and strategic focus that I can not imagine many firms possess. The ability to consult between both family law, and real estate/property attorneys at the same firm was invaluable. The focus also was not just to take opposing parties to court but to try to mediate a solution. This is truly a law firm with a soul.
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15 Mar, 2024 by Linda schmit
22 Oct, 2024 by Hayden hockett
Mr. Bristol helped me with a legal issue we were having with a client. He gave me the best advice he could at a reasonable price and even stayed longer then he needed to help us.
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23 Jun, 2024 by Savannah halsey
Zero stars. I don't know what makes him decide to do his job with clients but he definitely didn't do it with my wife and I. He emailed saying he failed at representing us after doing nothing but taking my money, Waist of 3000$. If you don't want to do your job every day then don't do this kind of work because your actions affects can ruin lives.
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20 Feb, 2024 by Joann waldo
Jamie represented me in a business boundary dispute. Jamie worked very hard and researched information about dispute. Jamie settled the problem without going to court. Jamie is very professional. I recommend Jamie as your attorney.
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07 Jul, 2024 by Fredrick jordan - 10q1sfab
Accusations of racism should, for the most part, be taken seriously. However, far too often the race card is pulled by folks who either shed responsibility for their own actions or subscribe to the thought of always being a victim. I do not know the person who posted the racism post about Pat and the only judgment I can make is based on my experience.
I am an African American man, and Pat represented me in a year long case and treated my family and me great. Dawn tolerated my numeroius emails and phone calls (usuahly 3 or 4 a day). She showed tremendouse patience and alwas showed compassion as I navigated the process. The things described in the previous post is FAR from the experience I had with Pat and Dawn. I have referred several people, and I will always use him in the future.
Unfortunatly, the internet allows anyone to post anything about anybody- without the burden of providing proof of his or her accusations. Patt Fannin and Dawn White handled my case perfectly and provided nothing but great service to my family and this African American man- I love the way I was treated. THANK YOU PAT AND DAWN!
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06 Jun, 2022 by Gregory
This Lawyer had my case for over a year then dumped my case... But that's not the worst part .. the insurance company made a offer to settle and he never discussed this with me.. I only found out thru his paralegal that they wanted to settle... I had to get new lawyer and settle the case 10 months later for only a fraction of what the original settlement offer was.... Thanks Pat you really screwed me..... Also if your a minority stay away from this lawyer.....He plays the have and have nots game on what he feels you deserve.... He will catch and kill your case .. I see exactly who and what you are Pat... Stay away from this lawyer... I had to file a complaint against him with the state board
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03 Sep, 2019 by Jaime
A friend of mine referred me to Pat after my son had been in a serious accident. I had waited on the insurance company for just under a year and they wouldn't even return our calls. I contacted Pat and to help my son and the case was settled within months. I feel like my sons claim got the attention it needed. Pat was knowledgable and very helpful, he explained things along the way which was what my son and I needed. I feel like my sons best interest was important to him. I am so grateful to have been referred to him and would recommend him in the future. Thank you Pat & Dawn!!
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07 Feb, 2025 by Bryan millwe
LnI’s worst nightmare is your success! If you’re tired of being taken advantage of by LnI and there uncouth practices; trying to line their pockets and take advantage of you, despite all your money paid in to the program then you need the absolute best representation you can get. Not only did Nick Pontaralo and his team set LnI straight on numerous occasions I even received apologies from them.”Booo Yay LnI”! Going with any other firm is literally shooting yourself in the foot, cutting off your nose despite your face don’t do it. Give these guys a call. They’re absolutely, Undisputedly the best.
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03 Jan, 2025 by Nancy harrison
I injured both of my arms right and left. Falling downstairs doing in home care. On the day of my mediation halfway through, my attorney admitted, he got me confused with another lady in Harrison Idaho, my last name is Harrison. As I wanted to hold out , while the mediator joked and made light of work injuries, I am right handed.My right arm doesn't work correctly, I did a lot of work in my church. I am a homemaker. I take a lot of pride in my home being a place of comfort and inviting to people, I used to bake and feed people, and so the job that I had for wages, wasn't my main job, even though I didn't bring home a salary for it. My" job" was taking care of my home and my church and my husband and serving god with my two hands. The thing I did to make money injured me, because the lady I was working for didn't let me know that her staircase ,in the spring would move when the basement flooded. It moved.I fell, I hurt my right elbow and my left wrist, and now all the things I used to do to serve God and others I cannot do any longer. None of this meant anything to my attorney at the mediation. As I kept holding out because I didn't know how I would end up the rest of my life with these 2 injuries he kept telling me dead. There was gonna be so security disability. There was gonna be a medical fund. And so this was just the first part of the mediation for my injury. I even thought I would just go to court because I thought my case was so different than so many other people At that point, my attorney didn't want to go to court. It was obvious He was not wanting to go to court to represent me, who I am. He told me scary things about, if the judge was in a bad mood, I would lose everything. He, and I am ashamed to say, my husband, with pressure from the "mediator " talked me onto taking an offer, which I knew, would not compensate me for paying people to do for me, what I had always done for myself. Gardening, lawn care, house work, cleaning the church, changing my own oil, recently I paid Ford $600.00 for changing plugs and oil in my truck. This I used to do at a fraction of the cost. But none of this was considered, I was a part time worker to them all. After that nightmare, the medical portion was to be settled, that's when I found out, I didn't have enough "points" for SSI disability, so any leverage from SSI to keep SIF accountable did not exist. My Attorney told me the day of mediation , SSI would cause pressure for SIF to cover me medically...NOT. He was incorrect and when I , out of concer, asked him if he was doing okay, he had made a few errors in my doctors name and other odd statements which didn't pertain to me, he accused me of questioning his integrity and told me I could get a different Attorney. By then I was hurting, depressed and totally vulnerable and my attorney, the one person who supposedly knows the ins and outs of the system, chewed me out and threatened me that I could "go it alone" if I thought I could do better. I couldn't make any decisions, I was so down. I didn't think the Attorney was going to take part of the medical bank. I thought he got paid for working the entire case from my mediation, so I didn't think I could pay up front for another attorney, just another thing I misunderstood when my attorney told me the medical is put in the bank, in my name and I had comple control over it. I was told it is a new way SIF and all other workers comp. In Idaho are now doing things, rather than keep a claim open for treatment. I am not pleased at all. My best intrest was not even considered. All because in the beginning my Attorney didn't ever find out and set in his mind, who I am.
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26 Aug, 2024 by Cass & wendy
Nick Pontarolo, and the rest of the staff at this office were thorough and proffesional and did a great job on educating us on the whole process. Thank you for the help you gave us in dealing with the state.
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07 Nov, 2019 by Anonymous
Unlawfull detainer action. Attorney unprepared and unable to get before judge. No resolution.
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26 Jan, 2019 by Joe
We own rentals, and had a situation with a tenant who failed to pay rent, and was not abiding by the rental agreement. We consulted with Thomas McGarry, and he thoroughly explained the legalities of our situation. He quickly drew up a plan of action and followed through promptly with legal representation. We were able to move forward with our lives and get closure with the situation. He truly took a burden off our shoulders! Highly recommend his services, and would not hesitate to call him when needed!!! Thank You Thomas McGarry!
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28 May, 2018 by Roy
Tom gave an excellent Residential Landlord-Tenant Law class at the local community college that was detailed, meaty and useful with enough examples to make it digestible. He provided a copy of the Revised Code of Washington statutes and converted general concepts to specific, detailed requirements rather than vague generalities. It was very useful. Upon subsequent consultation, we changed several aspects of our operation and intend to hire him if testy problems arise.
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13 Jun, 2023 by Mike roth
Whoever answers the phone is very rude, she cut me off while speaking. Not a good way to establish a business relationship. Good luck in the future.
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27 Feb, 2023 by Sarah stephens
Highly recommend this lawyer. Absolutely love working with Kirk and team!
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01 Dec, 2022 by Karl patureau
Terry answers and routes people needing help to the right legal and other resources competently. Even though she communicates in a Yankee dialect that reminds me of someone from the Northeast. She might be a local, who knows.
We needed help with a senior and Terry thought of all the right directions to take.
I have confidence this law firm has what it takes to help you.
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13 Jun, 2023 by Mike roth
Whoever answers the phone is very rude, she cut me off while speaking. Not a good way to establish a business relationship. Good luck in the future.
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27 Feb, 2023 by Sarah stephens
Highly recommend this lawyer. Absolutely love working with Kirk and team!
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01 Dec, 2022 by Karl patureau
Terry answers and routes people needing help to the right legal and other resources competently. Even though she communicates in a Yankee dialect that reminds me of someone from the Northeast. She might be a local, who knows.
We needed help with a senior and Terry thought of all the right directions to take.
I have confidence this law firm has what it takes to help you.
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22 Feb, 2024 by Mskim58
i was involved in an auto accident, I found his firm to be very thourgh and thoughtful. He knows his business and is very responsive to keeping in touch.
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27 Sep, 2021 by Scott
Extremely unprofessional if you ask a question he doesn’t want to answer. Tried to hire him for his services. Feel like he doesn’t want money. Taking my case somewhere else. Advise you do the same.
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07 Sep, 2017 by Anonymous
Mr. Whipple and his competent staff helped us through the complicated probate process. They explained what was happening and what would happen later and made it less of a mystery. They did their best to implement our wishes in the distribution of the estate. We have nothing but thanks for them and their integrity. We would not hesitate to use their services in the future.
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18 Apr, 2024 by K
0 stars if I could. Go elsewhere
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13 Jun, 2023 by Mike roth
Whoever answers the phone is very rude, she cut me off while speaking. Not a good way to establish a business relationship. Good luck in the future.
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27 Feb, 2023 by Sarah stephens
Highly recommend this lawyer. Absolutely love working with Kirk and team!
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01 Sep, 2022 by Dg
I worked with Carolynn Imes after interviewing several other options from personal recommendations, and as soon as I had the consult I knew I was with the right group. I found it to be comparable to other quotes I received in terms of the price, but the professionalism and timely action on my behalf was outstanding.
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10 Mar, 2022 by Brock materne
23 May, 2020 by Michael obrien
01 Sep, 2022 by Dg
I worked with Carolynn Imes after interviewing several other options from personal recommendations, and as soon as I had the consult I knew I was with the right group. I found it to be comparable to other quotes I received in terms of the price, but the professionalism and timely action on my behalf was outstanding.
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10 Mar, 2022 by Brock materne
23 May, 2020 by Michael obrien
01 Sep, 2022 by Dg
I worked with Carolynn Imes after interviewing several other options from personal recommendations, and as soon as I had the consult I knew I was with the right group. I found it to be comparable to other quotes I received in terms of the price, but the professionalism and timely action on my behalf was outstanding.
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10 Mar, 2022 by Brock materne
23 May, 2020 by Michael obrien
27 Dec, 2024 by A d
Gravis Law Firm was professional and friendly in putting together our affairs. We appreciate that they had a package price so that we would be able to plan accordingly and finish the process.
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06 Nov, 2024 by Caleb stapp
Jonas Hemenway has been a go-to attorney for me to send my clients to for several years. I appreciate his down-to-earth communication style, sense of humor, and diligence on behalf of my clients.
Last year, a client I had sent to Jonas got back to me with a review: not only was the client very pleased, but the client had already sent in two different family members to get their estate plans updated!
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28 Oct, 2024 by Krystal harras
I used them twice once for bankruptcy and once for child custody and both times at great communication and great service couldn’t be more happy
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31 Oct, 2023 by Matthew dunn
By far the best decision I have ever made. My divorce of 2 years was finalized 3 months after hiring Spencer. His approach, accountability and guidance are unmatched. He saved me 100’s of thousands of dollars and ended what was becoming one of the most stressful ordeals of my life. I HIGHLY recommend this business.
Thank you again Joanna & Spencer.
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22 Nov, 2022 by J w
Spencer is very knowledgeable of the law, the judges ruling patterns, and HE CARES about the kids. He’s an aggressive attorney that will fight hard for what is right and he will not be afraid to call his clients out if they are being unreasonable. Spencer took on my case when nobody else would because it was a mess. When watching his first court hearing, I knew within 30 seconds we were going to win. He went in strong, had studied my case thoroughly going back 7 years. He remembered pertinent details and he represented my son in that court room that day. He did an incredible job.
Joanne, his right hand is just as incredible. She remembers details, she’s prompt to respond and overall just above and beyond professional.
I highly recommend this duo for high conflict custody situations. They will handle your case with care, integrity, and exceptional knowledge.
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16 Oct, 2022 by Edward faydo
They came highly recommended and performed as such.
Perfectly executed representation at a time of need helps people to move on, and Harrington Law Office does it with ease.
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18 Feb, 2024 by Rob schoenberger
Great local attorney! His team was very helpful. We had our completed POA's completed very quickly. Will definitely use this group again.
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02 Jan, 2024 by Shannon francis
Easy, reasonable and has all you need!!
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18 Dec, 2023 by Joe l
04 Feb, 2025 by Anthony picicci
I hope you never have to deal with these clowns!
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26 Jan, 2025 by Ben gonzales
Cooney got a favorable outcome for my case that got me the help I needed and kept my life on track. Highly recommend!
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11 Oct, 2024 by Yi arias
Professional team ,excellent service! Everybody is professional and efficient! Couldn’t ask for more, Highly recommend !!
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19 Feb, 2024 by Sherrie hass
Love quest
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21 Sep, 2023 by Mike murua
Steve and his staff are amazing. I have been using Steve for the past 15 years with multiple closings.
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11 Jul, 2023 by Cindy hamilton
Attorney Raczykowsky is exemplary in her work. Highly recommended.
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19 Feb, 2024 by Sherrie hass
Love quest
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21 Sep, 2023 by Mike murua
Steve and his staff are amazing. I have been using Steve for the past 15 years with multiple closings.
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11 Jul, 2023 by Cindy hamilton
Attorney Raczykowsky is exemplary in her work. Highly recommended.
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28 Feb, 2024 by David marino
After doing okay business with him for years. He took on a new matter knowing exactly what I was asking for including filing a complaint. He ran up a bill for $900 (which was paid) to essentially make a demand letter and then waited almost a month after I instructed him to file the complaint to tell me he wasn't going to do the work. Might be time to actually retire Rob.
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09 Feb, 2024 by Awesten miller
15 Dec, 2023 by Walker storrer
As a landlord, Rob has been incredibly helpful through several issues with tenants. He knows the nuance of the law and helps put my mind at ease.
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18 Apr, 2024 by K
0 stars if I could. Go elsewhere
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23 Dec, 2022 by Michael a. mckay
Excellent work. Very pleased with the outcome!
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19 Oct, 2022 by Charles reinmuth (chippy)
Paine Hamblen was recommended to me by Legacy Law Group. They returned my call, and I provided some details. They advised I would hear back from them, but I never did. We ended up going with a guy based in Seattle. He's okay, but our situation is ongoing. So I'll wait to recommend/review him.
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01 Sep, 2022 by Dg
I worked with Carolynn Imes after interviewing several other options from personal recommendations, and as soon as I had the consult I knew I was with the right group. I found it to be comparable to other quotes I received in terms of the price, but the professionalism and timely action on my behalf was outstanding.
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10 Mar, 2022 by Brock materne
23 May, 2020 by Michael obrien
01 Sep, 2022 by Dg
I worked with Carolynn Imes after interviewing several other options from personal recommendations, and as soon as I had the consult I knew I was with the right group. I found it to be comparable to other quotes I received in terms of the price, but the professionalism and timely action on my behalf was outstanding.
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10 Mar, 2022 by Brock materne
23 May, 2020 by Michael obrien
22 Aug, 2023 by Alias
Highly recommend
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21 Oct, 2019 by Joe coutu
01 Sep, 2019 by Craig wilber
Great people
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01 Sep, 2022 by Dg
I worked with Carolynn Imes after interviewing several other options from personal recommendations, and as soon as I had the consult I knew I was with the right group. I found it to be comparable to other quotes I received in terms of the price, but the professionalism and timely action on my behalf was outstanding.
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10 Mar, 2022 by Brock materne
23 May, 2020 by Michael obrien
15 Feb, 2014 by Sheena. carector
I had a very messy case in another jurisdiction and he was fantastic kept me informed the whole time I have no complaints he's a fantastic guy with a great since of humor and went the extra mile for me as a client :)
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20 Feb, 2012 by Anonymous
Mr. Wall is very arrogant. He also did not get back to me regarding my case, where I was injured, because he didn't think I "got hurt bad enough" for us all to profit.
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20 Feb, 2010 by Anonymous
I had a small legal issue, which I needed some help on almost immediately. Richard was incredibly helpful and accessible. Response was surprisingly fast and thorough. So I can definitely recommend!
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19 Jan, 2016 by Anonymous
Mr Rodriguez is a really great attorney. He was always returned my calls and explained my case to me so that I could understand everything. We had a good outcome. I would hire him again if needed. Hopefully I don't need to though hahaha.
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19 Jan, 2016 by Peggy
If you need legal assistance, please give Marco a call!!!! He is a wonderful lawyer. I was having some legal problems and he got me out of trouble. He is totally professional, caring and compassionate, and doesn't charge an arm and a leg, yet gets the job done. I highly recommend him!!!!! He is wonderful!!!!!
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01 May, 2012 by Anonymous
I hired him for child support and alimny issues. I met with him one time, paid him $1000 and he did nothing for me. I called him 20-30 times never to recieve a call back. He left me one voice message without actually calling stating that he had been out of town and would call me the following day....that was 2 months ago. He is unreliable has no concept of communication and cannot be trusted. I would not recommend him.
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27 Jun, 2024 by Jason cooley
I have been working with Lukins & Annis now for two years, and I must say that all the staff I have interacted with are truly professional. David Webster and his team helped me navigate the probate arena, while Charles Hausberg and Zaine M. Yzaguirre have been stellar in helping me with my litigation. Their expertise and advice is well above the price they charge, and I cannot recommend this law firm enough; you will not be disappointed.
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18 Apr, 2024 by K
0 stars if I could. Go elsewhere
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23 Dec, 2022 by Michael a. mckay
Excellent work. Very pleased with the outcome!
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27 Jun, 2024 by Jason cooley
I have been working with Lukins & Annis now for two years, and I must say that all the staff I have interacted with are truly professional. David Webster and his team helped me navigate the probate arena, while Charles Hausberg and Zaine M. Yzaguirre have been stellar in helping me with my litigation. Their expertise and advice is well above the price they charge, and I cannot recommend this law firm enough; you will not be disappointed.
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18 Apr, 2024 by K
0 stars if I could. Go elsewhere
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23 Dec, 2022 by Michael a. mckay
Excellent work. Very pleased with the outcome!
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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.
