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08 Apr, 2015 by Stanley
I admit I was dumb. When I moved into NJ from NY state I had to get a NJ driver license and NJ license plates on our two cars. Doing that at the local motor vehicle office was easy. I went home with two sets of two license plates, but didn't pay attention to what I was doing when I put them on our cars. I ended up splitting the plates. I put one mismatched pair on my car and the other mismatched p air on my wife's car. A few days later I was pulled over by a cop who noticed that my front plate and rear plate were different by one number. I explained what must have happened but he didn't want ot hear it. I got a ticket for "fictitious plates" which I found out later is a major offense. I went back to Mr. Katz who handled another problem for me a few years ago. Mr. Katz kept me up to date on the case all the way to trial in the town court. The judge found me not guilty. I think that because Mr. Katz also is a volunteer cop he knows exactly how the system works.
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18 Jan, 2015 by Dana
I live in Missouri, but grew up in NJ where my mom lived until she passed some years ago. I was fighting with other siblings over the estate and needed someone I could trust in NJ to protect my rights. Mr. Katz was terrific. I always knew the status of my claim and he did what I couldn't do from MO. I finally got my share of my mom's estate along with personal items important to me.
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09 Mar, 2013 by Anonymous
Our shore home was nearly destroyed in the Superstorm. The damage wasn't flooding. It was all from wind. The insurance company wanted us to take $2,600, but the damage was $90,000. Our policy would cover that but the company called it flood damage. We had to use our retirement funds to start the repairs. My permanent home is in Springfield. Jeff was able to get the company to reevaluate our case. We got a check to cover all damages minus our deductible.
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02 Jan, 2024 by Aaron
Karen quickly understood and was responsive to our legal needs in a timely and thorough manner.
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02 Jan, 2024 by Tom
Ms Wachs has represented us on several issues with our practice and I am continually impressed with her depth of knowledge. Ms Wachs worked tirelessly on our behalf, while providing valuable and knowledgeable insight. We were fortunate to have both Ms Wachs and Ms Campanella work together and they truly are the "Dynamic Duo". We are very grateful for Ms Wachs commitment to our practice and confidently recommend her to fellow colleagues.
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26 Feb, 2022 by Konstantin
Karen was fantastic! Took her time to make sure that my needs were well taken cared of and that my business can thrive!
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07 Sep, 2010 by Anonymous
We would highly recommend John for anyone who needs estate planning. My wife and I were very impressed by his professionalism and knowledge of the area. My brother also used John when he sold his business several years ago and could not have been happier with John's great service.
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10 Feb, 2012 by Alan
I have recommended Mr. Gartenberg to clients who have business matters and they were all very satisfied with his services. He responds quickly and gets the job done professionally and efficiently.
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11 Oct, 2024 by Emilio hofacker
Our experience with Drivas Law was nothing short of exceptional. From the outset, Michael Drivas and Jennine Rozany extended the utmost respect and attentiveness towards our unique situation. As first-time homebuyers, we were navigating uncharted waters, but their guidance made the process seamless and reassuring. We wholeheartedly endorse their services to anyone in need of legal expertise, not only because of their exemplary professionalism but also due to their remarkable empathy and understanding. Their support was a pivotal element in our journey to homeownership. Thanks Michael and Jennine!
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10 Oct, 2024 by Monica salinas
Great team! I will always return to Drivas for any help!
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09 Oct, 2024 by Dj priore
Mr. Drivas and his firm conduct business with the utmost amount of professionalism. Timely, kind and extremely knowledgeable. I am very happy that I called the Law Office of Michael Drivas when I needed help. Thank you Mr. Drivas.
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17 Sep, 2024 by D c
09 Jul, 2024 by Salvatore mattiaccio
We did a project which included several change orders asked for by the Hicks at his residence . Mr. Hicks, a partner at this law firm , acted very unprofessional, his wife actually contacted my employees via text causing tortious interference with our contracts. While completing his contracts, we found his soil was sub par and full of clay and needed to be remediated. He and his wife practically had temper tantrums causing for an unbelievably unsuitable work environment at his home. Even with their attempts to cause harm to me and my company, we competed the contract. A year later, he claimed that some of the brick pavers moved, I explained to him that he refused to pay to remedy the soil situation and therefore it was not covered by our warranty. He proceeded to use his law degree to sue us, he filed suit for over $24,000.00 which included almost $12,000.00 in new landscaping which was not part of my contract. While delivering the discovery to his house, the driveway which he claimed to have been removed and reinstalled in his lawsuit had the same pavers sinking in the same spot a year after they were supposedly replaced.. if this partnership allows attorneys like this, who use their law license to try to steal from hard working contractors then I would say run away from this firm. They support disgraceful behavior like this from their partners! We just recently went to binding arbitration. The arbiter threw out 99% of his case and awarded him $2300.00, one tenth of what he was fraudulently suing me and my company for!
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23 Feb, 2024 by Paranjay joshi
17 Sep, 2024 by D c
09 Jul, 2024 by Salvatore mattiaccio
We did a project which included several change orders asked for by the Hicks at his residence . Mr. Hicks, a partner at this law firm , acted very unprofessional, his wife actually contacted my employees via text causing tortious interference with our contracts. While completing his contracts, we found his soil was sub par and full of clay and needed to be remediated. He and his wife practically had temper tantrums causing for an unbelievably unsuitable work environment at his home. Even with their attempts to cause harm to me and my company, we competed the contract. A year later, he claimed that some of the brick pavers moved, I explained to him that he refused to pay to remedy the soil situation and therefore it was not covered by our warranty. He proceeded to use his law degree to sue us, he filed suit for over $24,000.00 which included almost $12,000.00 in new landscaping which was not part of my contract. While delivering the discovery to his house, the driveway which he claimed to have been removed and reinstalled in his lawsuit had the same pavers sinking in the same spot a year after they were supposedly replaced.. if this partnership allows attorneys like this, who use their law license to try to steal from hard working contractors then I would say run away from this firm. They support disgraceful behavior like this from their partners! We just recently went to binding arbitration. The arbiter threw out 99% of his case and awarded him $2300.00, one tenth of what he was fraudulently suing me and my company for!
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23 Feb, 2024 by Paranjay joshi
09 Jul, 2012 by David
James handled two situations for me, one led to a case, which James handled with professionalism and patience. Emotions for me ran high for this particular case and James was receptive and responsive in helping me understand how the law worked in my particular case. A learning experience for me. The outcome favored the truth and the case was ultimately dismissed. More guidance from more experience would have been appreciated. The second situation, James noted in the beginning he would accept for a nominal fee, but after the main case was dismissed, he lost interest and said I would be better off dealing with it myself.
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26 Feb, 2022 by Anita sims rainford
Joanne is the absolute best. Caring, brilliant, responsive, trustworthy. I highly recommend her for any matters regarding estate planning.
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10 May, 2018 by Eladia benson
Never higher for realty representation
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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.
