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21 Aug, 2024 by Anthony mazza
I want to start off by saying Dan is a great person!! I was stressed out and nervous for almost a month before I called Dan!! After a free 30 minute consultation, Dan had made it so I was less stressed and he told me he would take care of everything!! Even while he was on vacation he was helping me (Don't tell his wife lol) but honestly he made my court case so smooth and he did exactly what I expected!! Plus I want to ask you how many other five-star businesses do you know of?? I'm glad that I have a good lawyer If I ever need one for the rest of my life Dan is just a phone call or text away!! Give him a shout for any of your criminal defense needs and let them know Anthony Mazza sent you!!
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31 Jul, 2024 by Ebony bradford
14 Jun, 2024 by Dustin parzyck
If you need an attorney, call Dan Daly immediately before anyone else. I’ve had quite a few lawyers in the past and attorney Daly is easily the best attorney I’ve had. His experience being a former police officer, former assistant district attorney, and an assistant attorney general puts him above any lawyer in western Massachusetts. Communication with your attorney is key in a hopeful good result in your case and Dan is very responsive whether it’s by call or text he will get back to you quick. He had my hearing thrown out in 2 minutes, was only in the courthouse for 15 minutes.
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09 Sep, 2024 by L p
Words cannot truly express how thankful I am for Atty. Alex and all his hard work on my case. I reached out to him in a bit of a panic, because my original attorney plan fell apart at the seams.
My case was pushed back a couple times. The original date was in June. Pushed to the beginning of August. For some reason, the court then moved it to the end of August, but without notification of my attorney. However, Atty. Alex rolled with it.
Whenever I would call, he would always get back to me as quickly as he could. I would receive updates when needed, and he thoroughly prepped me for what to expect at my hearing and how he believed things would go, based on experiences with similar cases in the past.
We even had hiccups the day of my hearing. After waiting for 2 hours, the person hearing my case excused themselves for a conflict, and we were given to someone else. About an hour later, we finished up with the hearing, and both of us could not be happier with the outcome. As Atty. Alex had told me, it truly was an "outlier" of a result.
He was calm, honest, down-to-earth, professional, and highly attentive through it all.
I highly recommend Atty. Alex! You cannot go wrong with him!!
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22 Aug, 2024 by Jonas putz
Attorney Alex Sneirson was an amazing lawyer to speak with and have working on your side. From the beginning of our phone call Attorney Sneirson began working on my case. Any questions or concerns I had were returned in a timely manner through phone calls or emails. He has an extremely hard work ethic and will give you his honest opinion about the facts of your case. It was an amazing experience to work with Attorney Sneirson and I would highly recommend him for any legal matter that you may have.
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10 Jul, 2024 by Scott dakin
Alex is a thoughtful and smart attorney. He worked hard on my case and I received a higher than expected settlement.
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09 Sep, 2024 by L p
Words cannot truly express how thankful I am for Atty. Alex and all his hard work on my case. I reached out to him in a bit of a panic, because my original attorney plan fell apart at the seams.
My case was pushed back a couple times. The original date was in June. Pushed to the beginning of August. For some reason, the court then moved it to the end of August, but without notification of my attorney. However, Atty. Alex rolled with it.
Whenever I would call, he would always get back to me as quickly as he could. I would receive updates when needed, and he thoroughly prepped me for what to expect at my hearing and how he believed things would go, based on experiences with similar cases in the past.
We even had hiccups the day of my hearing. After waiting for 2 hours, the person hearing my case excused themselves for a conflict, and we were given to someone else. About an hour later, we finished up with the hearing, and both of us could not be happier with the outcome. As Atty. Alex had told me, it truly was an "outlier" of a result.
He was calm, honest, down-to-earth, professional, and highly attentive through it all.
I highly recommend Atty. Alex! You cannot go wrong with him!!
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22 Aug, 2024 by Jonas putz
Attorney Alex Sneirson was an amazing lawyer to speak with and have working on your side. From the beginning of our phone call Attorney Sneirson began working on my case. Any questions or concerns I had were returned in a timely manner through phone calls or emails. He has an extremely hard work ethic and will give you his honest opinion about the facts of your case. It was an amazing experience to work with Attorney Sneirson and I would highly recommend him for any legal matter that you may have.
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10 Jul, 2024 by Scott dakin
Alex is a thoughtful and smart attorney. He worked hard on my case and I received a higher than expected settlement.
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29 Oct, 2024 by Justin
Best lawyer in his profession hands down. He had my back the entire time and helped me out of a bad situation. I recommend his services to anyone.
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25 Oct, 2024 by Hk kennels
Highly recommended RESPECTFULLY!!
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19 Jul, 2022 by John skinnon
Thank you so much!
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14 Oct, 2015 by Stephen
Attorney Hardee worked with our nonprofit board of directors over a period of several months to review, revise and update its By-Laws and Articles. She is a keen listener and provided great legal advice, while respecting the board's decisions about governance structures.
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07 Oct, 2015 by Mary
I recently used Ms. Hardee for the closing on the sale of my home. There were several tricky aspects of this closing including the fact that the attorney who handled a re-finance 20 years ago did not properly record the deed changes.
Ms. Hardee is the ultimate professional. She persisted in her follow up on this problem until it was solved. Of course, the bank in question had been absorbed four times due to mergers, so she had to follow this chain to get the necessary information.
There were other issues, including the buyer's attorney not understanding a special agricultural status of my property. Where I would have expressed my frustration, she continued to handle these issues with grace and the provision of the legal information needed to finally educate him.
Throughout, Ms. Hardee kept me informed, coordinated with my realtor and moved the process to the final conclusion, i.e., actually closing on the designated date and making sure that everything was in order.
While Real Estate closings are often routine, this one was not. Ms. Hardee's expert handling of this indicates to me that she is very intellligent, has wide ranging understanding of the legal process, the perseverance to explore all angles of an issue, and the ability to deal professionally with many different personalities. And her integrity is beyond reproach.
I highly recommend Ms. Hardee. I feel confident that my case was handled in a thorough, professional and intelligent manner.
I am sure that Ms. Hardee would be an asset to any legal process, including those much more complex than real estate closings.
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31 Aug, 2015 by Catherine
We had a refinance with a bank that became very difficult. Felicity stuck with us through to the end, even driving to our house to get things signed and recorded on the appropriate day, despite numerous bank delays. She made us feel confident during the process, and continued to update us as things changed.
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06 Oct, 2017 by Patrick goodreau
Attorney Connolly is the first person I go to if I have questions regarding financial planning or trusts. He is well informed and able to quickly explain the complicated areas of financial advising with ease.
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08 Jul, 2015 by Ashley wilburn, j.d.
As a fellow attorney, it is often hard to sit back an allow an attorney to his job in representing you. During my divorce, I had complete confidence that Attorney Connolly would represent my interests with extreme professionalism and expertise. He kept me well informed of the proceedings, walked me through all of my concerns and handled my case in an efficient and expedited manner. I highly recommend him!
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28 Aug, 2014 by Anonymous
Attorney Connolly represented me in a real estate purchase transaction and handled all aspects in a professional, efficient, and effective manner.
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19 Apr, 2021 by Thomas
The only attorney in the area who promptly answered my call for help. She took the time to evaluate and discuss my aging/homebound parents wishes and needs in an easy to understand, compassionate, and caring way. An attorney who makes house calls...unheard of nowadays. Truly a godsend in these difficult times. Thank you for your outstanding care and service.
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18 Nov, 2020 by Tricia
Marie went above and beyond helping with my case. I didn't have to chase her down or leave a bunch of messages. She called and emailed ME to keep me updated and instructed. Marie was willing to meet with me in my home or at my office (BEFORE COVID). She navigated me through a very difficult case. She educated and helped and supported while all the time doing her amazing professional work that produced the needed support. Her fee was very reasonable and worth far more than the investment. I am so blessed!
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28 Jul, 2012 by Mark medaugh
We are a small business, single proprietor. We ran into issues, complications with old business issues. Basch and his partner Gary Breton were efficient, on top of the correspondence , and straightforward regarding discussion of risk and benefit. They have a strong understanding of small business, solid perspective, and clearly the ability to navigate conflict, and work towards resolution.
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19 Jul, 2011 by Anonymous
Mr Basch has been recognized for his legal experience. His response time with my issue was outstanding. Legal issues can be overwhelming yet with Mr Basch he is always responsive and caring.
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18 Mar, 2019 by Robert rodriguez
14 Jul, 2018 by Chester middlebrooks
I had the wrong lawyer office since they are in the same building I put you and I have been in your law office before y'all was not rude or mean I am sorry for the mix up and confusion
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02 Nov, 2021 by Russell mcintire
28 Oct, 2015 by Henry
I was accused of an assault and battery, it took a while until I've reached a jury trial, but that man worked long and hard to fight and prove my innocence. I will back this man up and argue for his behalf. He is a great man, and deserves more than what is given to him. No one will fight harder for you than he, I've learned more with him than anyone else.
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30 Aug, 2016 by Dan
Injured at work and found out insurance isn't there just to help. I was being cut off on my much needed services. I learned insurance is all about cutting you off as soon as they can do it and not providing you the careand services that you are entitled to. Mr Cullinan overcame the obstacles of my case and reached a just settlement with any physical care necessary related to injury for the rest of my life. I am eternally greatfull to Mr.Cullinan and his skills in handling the situations thrown at him. I thought at one point it was over for me and he very skillfully battled back and won the case. I could also say William Cullinan is a patient, caring,, skillful and hardworking attorney.
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22 Nov, 2023 by Rhys moore
This guy is good in every definition of the word.
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09 Sep, 2009 by Evelyn
Hugh Heisler represented me a couple years back and i was very satisfied with his work and i would recommend him to anyone who is in need of a good lawyer.
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21 Apr, 2020 by Cindy gauthier-rivera
Very honest. Helpful. Knows the law. Professional. Fair prices.
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19 Mar, 2020 by Maurice davis
Hablamos Español!!
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02 Nov, 2021 by Russell mcintire
04 Dec, 2019 by Jim basile
24 Apr, 2019 by John king
Handle my case with respect and high importantance. HIGHLY RECOMMEND!!
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16 Oct, 2018 by Shoshana gladstone
Despite dealing with a very difficult insurance company, Attorney Astor obtained an excellent result for my auto accident claim. He kept me fully informed throughout the entire process and was a pleasure to work with. I highly recommend him!
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06 Mar, 2024 by Jay michael
When called was treated with respect no matter what the issue was.
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01 Jan, 2024 by Y m
Very knowledgeable. Attorney Harris is our angel.
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20 Feb, 2023 by Jerry c
He's a good looking black man, who dresses nice and can hold a conversation well. He was 30 minutes late to our call. Secretary told me that I would be meeting him in his office in Springfield, but found out that was a phone call later on. How does he have offices in ATL and Springfield. Don't every state have different set of laws and qualifications or something. Should have sensed something fishy, but was so out of it because of my recent employment situation that I was ready to give money to the first person that could help. The $195 is nonrefundable, and his suggestion was that I made good money and to basically move on. Spent the whole 30 minutes reciting the documents and powerpoint that I spent days on putting together. Get a free evaluation and google eeoc.
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06 Mar, 2024 by Jay michael
When called was treated with respect no matter what the issue was.
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01 Jan, 2024 by Y m
Very knowledgeable. Attorney Harris is our angel.
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20 Feb, 2023 by Jerry c
He's a good looking black man, who dresses nice and can hold a conversation well. He was 30 minutes late to our call. Secretary told me that I would be meeting him in his office in Springfield, but found out that was a phone call later on. How does he have offices in ATL and Springfield. Don't every state have different set of laws and qualifications or something. Should have sensed something fishy, but was so out of it because of my recent employment situation that I was ready to give money to the first person that could help. The $195 is nonrefundable, and his suggestion was that I made good money and to basically move on. Spent the whole 30 minutes reciting the documents and powerpoint that I spent days on putting together. Get a free evaluation and google eeoc.
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06 Mar, 2024 by Jay michael
When called was treated with respect no matter what the issue was.
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01 Jan, 2024 by Y m
Very knowledgeable. Attorney Harris is our angel.
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20 Feb, 2023 by Jerry c
He's a good looking black man, who dresses nice and can hold a conversation well. He was 30 minutes late to our call. Secretary told me that I would be meeting him in his office in Springfield, but found out that was a phone call later on. How does he have offices in ATL and Springfield. Don't every state have different set of laws and qualifications or something. Should have sensed something fishy, but was so out of it because of my recent employment situation that I was ready to give money to the first person that could help. The $195 is nonrefundable, and his suggestion was that I made good money and to basically move on. Spent the whole 30 minutes reciting the documents and powerpoint that I spent days on putting together. Get a free evaluation and google eeoc.
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06 Mar, 2024 by Jay michael
When called was treated with respect no matter what the issue was.
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01 Jan, 2024 by Y m
Very knowledgeable. Attorney Harris is our angel.
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20 Feb, 2023 by Jerry c
He's a good looking black man, who dresses nice and can hold a conversation well. He was 30 minutes late to our call. Secretary told me that I would be meeting him in his office in Springfield, but found out that was a phone call later on. How does he have offices in ATL and Springfield. Don't every state have different set of laws and qualifications or something. Should have sensed something fishy, but was so out of it because of my recent employment situation that I was ready to give money to the first person that could help. The $195 is nonrefundable, and his suggestion was that I made good money and to basically move on. Spent the whole 30 minutes reciting the documents and powerpoint that I spent days on putting together. Get a free evaluation and google eeoc.
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06 Mar, 2024 by Jay michael
When called was treated with respect no matter what the issue was.
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01 Jan, 2024 by Y m
Very knowledgeable. Attorney Harris is our angel.
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20 Feb, 2023 by Jerry c
He's a good looking black man, who dresses nice and can hold a conversation well. He was 30 minutes late to our call. Secretary told me that I would be meeting him in his office in Springfield, but found out that was a phone call later on. How does he have offices in ATL and Springfield. Don't every state have different set of laws and qualifications or something. Should have sensed something fishy, but was so out of it because of my recent employment situation that I was ready to give money to the first person that could help. The $195 is nonrefundable, and his suggestion was that I made good money and to basically move on. Spent the whole 30 minutes reciting the documents and powerpoint that I spent days on putting together. Get a free evaluation and google eeoc.
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04 Dec, 2019 by Jim basile
24 Apr, 2019 by John king
Handle my case with respect and high importantance. HIGHLY RECOMMEND!!
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16 Oct, 2018 by Shoshana gladstone
Despite dealing with a very difficult insurance company, Attorney Astor obtained an excellent result for my auto accident claim. He kept me fully informed throughout the entire process and was a pleasure to work with. I highly recommend him!
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14 Aug, 2024 by Katie jordan
You may want to consider other options before coming here! I’ve closed a lot or real estate transactions and never had an attorney charge me for requesting my funds to be disbursed via wire transfer, additionally your bank will charge a fee so you’re paying double fees to get your money. An attorney’s job is to disburse funds… you’re already getting fees on the HUD why charge again?
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27 Jun, 2024 by Wade
Neil and his colleagues at dun & Phillips are outstanding! Both as legal minds and compassionate people.i would recommend this firm to any who needs great representation.if I could give them 1000 stars I would. Sincerely Wade Roberts.
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20 May, 2024 by Joshtay3
Very polite and curtious, very knowledgeable, and easy to talk to. Even just my experience with a consultation was refreshing compared to other Atty's I had consultations with. Hope to hear from you soo! And hopfully we can work together on this.
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06 Mar, 2024 by Jay michael
When called was treated with respect no matter what the issue was.
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01 Jan, 2024 by Y m
Very knowledgeable. Attorney Harris is our angel.
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20 Feb, 2023 by Jerry c
He's a good looking black man, who dresses nice and can hold a conversation well. He was 30 minutes late to our call. Secretary told me that I would be meeting him in his office in Springfield, but found out that was a phone call later on. How does he have offices in ATL and Springfield. Don't every state have different set of laws and qualifications or something. Should have sensed something fishy, but was so out of it because of my recent employment situation that I was ready to give money to the first person that could help. The $195 is nonrefundable, and his suggestion was that I made good money and to basically move on. Spent the whole 30 minutes reciting the documents and powerpoint that I spent days on putting together. Get a free evaluation and google eeoc.
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03 Oct, 2024 by Marisa fernandes
Attorney Johnson represented my fiancé and I in purchasing our first home. He was always available and helped make the process less stressful. Very friendly and followed up afterwards to make sure me and my partner were settled into our new home. Couldn't recommend him enough.
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22 Jul, 2024 by Tianna glasgow
I had a great experience with Attorney Shawn O’connor! He was very understanding, professional, and a load of help navigating through the legal system. He is very knowledgeable and is amazing at what he does! I’m so grateful and couldn’t have asked for a better choice of representation! Thank you again !
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18 Jun, 2024 by Michelle bozarth
03 Oct, 2024 by Marisa fernandes
Attorney Johnson represented my fiancé and I in purchasing our first home. He was always available and helped make the process less stressful. Very friendly and followed up afterwards to make sure me and my partner were settled into our new home. Couldn't recommend him enough.
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22 Jul, 2024 by Tianna glasgow
I had a great experience with Attorney Shawn O’connor! He was very understanding, professional, and a load of help navigating through the legal system. He is very knowledgeable and is amazing at what he does! I’m so grateful and couldn’t have asked for a better choice of representation! Thank you again !
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18 Jun, 2024 by Michelle bozarth
08 Apr, 2021 by Les atwood
Attorney McKenna was very professional and down to earth. She took care of our needs in one session. I would highly recommend using her for your mediation needs.
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02 Mar, 2020 by Jarrett hebert
04 Sep, 2017 by Andrea fish
She knows her stuff. Lol. Nice practice.
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02 Nov, 2023 by Anthony torres
12 Oct, 2023 by Eddy l
10 Jul, 2023 by Rob ruiz
They're horrible with relaying information to kee6one updated
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05 Sep, 2024 by Alyss c
I highly recommend Bacon and Wlison law firm. Julie Dialessi-Lafley has represented my family for several years and is beyond dedicated to her clients best interests upon ensuring quality and excellencent representation. Julie is extremely knowledgeable in family law and gives you her undivided attention at all times due to her wide knowledge and experiences threw out her career. Julie and her associates are worth every penny. My family is beyond greatful amd blessed to have Julie and her team of elites behind her. Our family can not that Julie enough for all of her hard work and dedication to us. Thank you again for another victory!
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02 Jul, 2024 by Troy d
Had went to this firm as I knew many people went here and heard good things and hired Julie A. Dialessi-Lafley as our attorney. Biggest mistake ever!!! We payed thousands upfront for her help and in the end we ended up doing it all ourselves. In beginning we gave all the information we needed to give to get our alcohol license. After that it was the paralegals who were the ones that did EVERYTHING! All forms kept having mistakes and being sent back! What should have taken maybe a month or two months took almost a year and it was only done because we went online and looked it up and did everything ourselves. Wasted thousands of dollars on this lawyer when we didn’t even deal with her but paralegals and everything they did was wrong😑. Don’t hire Julie A. Dialessi-Lafley because she will just pass off everything to incompetent paralegals Who can’t fill forms out correctly.
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16 May, 2024 by Don
05 Sep, 2024 by Alyss c
I highly recommend Bacon and Wlison law firm. Julie Dialessi-Lafley has represented my family for several years and is beyond dedicated to her clients best interests upon ensuring quality and excellencent representation. Julie is extremely knowledgeable in family law and gives you her undivided attention at all times due to her wide knowledge and experiences threw out her career. Julie and her associates are worth every penny. My family is beyond greatful amd blessed to have Julie and her team of elites behind her. Our family can not that Julie enough for all of her hard work and dedication to us. Thank you again for another victory!
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02 Jul, 2024 by Troy d
Had went to this firm as I knew many people went here and heard good things and hired Julie A. Dialessi-Lafley as our attorney. Biggest mistake ever!!! We payed thousands upfront for her help and in the end we ended up doing it all ourselves. In beginning we gave all the information we needed to give to get our alcohol license. After that it was the paralegals who were the ones that did EVERYTHING! All forms kept having mistakes and being sent back! What should have taken maybe a month or two months took almost a year and it was only done because we went online and looked it up and did everything ourselves. Wasted thousands of dollars on this lawyer when we didn’t even deal with her but paralegals and everything they did was wrong😑. Don’t hire Julie A. Dialessi-Lafley because she will just pass off everything to incompetent paralegals Who can’t fill forms out correctly.
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16 May, 2024 by Don
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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.
