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Frederick Putnam Davies, experienced Estate Planning, Probate attorney in Syracuse, NY with 10 reviews
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22,13
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3.6/5
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3.6
10 Reviews
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08 Feb, 2024 by Anonymous
Stay as far away from this attorney as you can! I almost went with them, after their seminar. Some very trusted friends and family steered me clear!
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23 May, 2017 by Donald
We used them for estate planning; Living Trust. Friendly, seemed really interested in helping us. Couldn't ask for a better experience! His staff are really helpful, made the experience really easy. Would, and have, recommended him to others.
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13 Apr, 2017 by Anonymous
Attorney Davies put together a living trust for me and my family a few years ago. Whenever I call the office they are always helpful and friendly. If you need estate planning, I highly recommend the Davies Law Firm.
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Megan Mary Fallon, experienced Real Estate attorney in Syracuse, NY with 14 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
20,49
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3.9/5
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3.9
14 Reviews
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12 Aug, 2023 by Joseph rosario
****INCOMPETENT ****
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11 Nov, 2020 by Chuck weaver
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10 Mar, 2020 by Mark mullin
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Stephen Lance Cimino, experienced Business, Real Estate attorney in Syracuse, NY with 18 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
19,96
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3.8/5
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3.8
18 Reviews
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06 Jun, 2023 by Sarah trespasz
Our father, Theodore A.Trespasz Sr. was an advocate for low income, rental agreements to represent "tenancy law," HELPED TO CREATE IT, INTO LEGISTLATURE THROUGH CONGRESS, to represent and protect the tenant/tenancy for all. EVERY tenant. MY WWII PILOT FATHER, ALWAYS SAID... EVERYONE INTO TH CAR. EVERYONE WANT A CONE. EVERYONE WANT A PIECE OF APPLE PIE ?.HE.MMADEMADEMADE.
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23 Apr, 2023 by Matthew whitehead
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29 Jul, 2022 by Erica allen
Won’t answer the phone won’t help won’t show up to any court dates ..
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Gregory R. Thornton, experienced Real Estate attorney in Syracuse, NY with 127 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
19,52
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3.7/5
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3.7
127 Reviews
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23 Sep, 2024 by Brenda frehley
On Thursday September 12,2024 at 3:07pm,I received a call back right away from someone after calling earlier that day. The gentleman was very compassionate, knowledgeable and professional. I didn't get his name saved, however if anyone wants to find out who he was,all they have to do is search by my name,date,time,and phone number.Thank you and please keep up the great work!!People in Onondaga County are counting on you!!!
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15 Aug, 2024 by Edna johnson
Laura was quick to assist me with getting my surgery scheduled. She stayed in contact with me throughout the entire workman compensation process. She frequently checked in to see if I received information as promised, and always followed up. I would definitely use Laura Huffman in the future should the need arise. Thank you Laura for your services.
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13 Aug, 2024 by N today
I believe this is an elaborate scam to swindle money from the system. They had my case for almost a year, never lifted a single finger even though I begged them to help repeatedly, Then when the courts caught up and gave me notice and my case was going to be heard Hiscock said they didn't have enough time to prepare, amd that they actually closed my case because it was taking to long. I don't know how their scam works, but it's clearly that! A scam!
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Thomas Raymond Babilon, experienced Business, Criminal Defense attorney in Syracuse, NY with 127 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
19,52
star star star star star
3.7/5
Google Maps
3.7
127 Reviews
star star star star star
23 Sep, 2024 by Brenda frehley
On Thursday September 12,2024 at 3:07pm,I received a call back right away from someone after calling earlier that day. The gentleman was very compassionate, knowledgeable and professional. I didn't get his name saved, however if anyone wants to find out who he was,all they have to do is search by my name,date,time,and phone number.Thank you and please keep up the great work!!People in Onondaga County are counting on you!!!
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15 Aug, 2024 by Edna johnson
Laura was quick to assist me with getting my surgery scheduled. She stayed in contact with me throughout the entire workman compensation process. She frequently checked in to see if I received information as promised, and always followed up. I would definitely use Laura Huffman in the future should the need arise. Thank you Laura for your services.
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13 Aug, 2024 by N today
I believe this is an elaborate scam to swindle money from the system. They had my case for almost a year, never lifted a single finger even though I begged them to help repeatedly, Then when the courts caught up and gave me notice and my case was going to be heard Hiscock said they didn't have enough time to prepare, amd that they actually closed my case because it was taking to long. I don't know how their scam works, but it's clearly that! A scam!
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Crystal Michelle Doody, experienced Appeals, Real Estate attorney in Syracuse, NY with 41 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
19,46
star star star star star
3.7/5
Google Maps
3.7
41 Reviews
star star star star star
17 Jan, 2025 by Em lh
VLP provides access to legal assistance to individuals and families who might otherwise have no access to justice, particularly in civil legal matters. They are incredible! The staff at VLP are organized and supportive, providing volunteers with resources and guidance needed to help clients. Their commitment to pro bono work helps people in vulnerable situations, and also fosters a sense of community among the legal professionals involved. If you are a paralegal, attorney, or community member looking for an opportunity to contribute positively, Voluntary Lawyers Project is an outstanding organization making a realtime impact. VLP is an organization where you can contribute your focus, time, and other resources and you will see and feel lives change in profound and meaningful ways.
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09 Dec, 2024 by Richard wertman
Can't judge their services. Left my name & number and never got a call back.
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03 Dec, 2024 by Joan booth
I spoke with Kristin and she was more than helpful, she went above and beyond to find me the right lawyer that I needed. Just speaking with her I knew she would point me in the right direction and she did. Very professional and helpful.
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Daniel Michael Austin, experienced Real Estate attorney in Syracuse, NY with 36 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
19,46
star star star star star
3.7/5
Google Maps
3.7
36 Reviews
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19 Dec, 2024 by Robert strum
Google Maps
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17 Aug, 2024 by Sean vazquez
Elizabeth(Beth) was very helpful with construction contract advice. Thanks Beth
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01 Aug, 2024 by B g
Horrendous experience with Melvin and Melvin. They were referred to me by my Realtor for our house closing. Very unprofessional. Closing took 2 and a half months and was delayed so much that it ended up costing us thousands of dollars. I was going to keep my options on them to myself but after receiving the closing paperwork in the mail with “inaccurate” information, I’ve decided to give a review here and on all of my Social Media apps. Attorney, after she screwed up, wrote that I requested funds to be wired to me after the sale. This is absolutely incorrect and the Attorney must know this. It’s well documented via email that she screwed up and again cost me more money to fix her mistake. I’m sure this a CYA situation. Such a silly thing to be “inaccurate” about. This Firm certainly doesn’t need anymore bad reviews but here we are. Too bad the Attorney wasn’t “accurate” in her file. ** using accurate and inaccurate in quotes because I’m sure I’d hear from them if I used the term that actually fits!
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Mary Patricia Walsh, experienced Child Custody, Child Support attorney in Syracuse, NY with 151 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
16,94
star star star star star
3.7/5
Google Maps
3.7
151 Reviews
star star star star star
02 Jan, 2025 by Joy tang
Rude and mistakes.
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11 Dec, 2024 by Joy tang
Experienced, reliable lawyer.
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09 Dec, 2024 by 315cash
If you need a ticket taken care of this is who you want to contact. She always gets the job done. Every time I have an issue I call and sue takes care of everything and also one of the nicest people I ever met.
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Nancy L. Dyer, experienced Family Law, Real Estate attorney in Syracuse, NY with 150 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
16,94
star star star star star
3.7/5
Google Maps
3.7
150 Reviews
star star star star star
02 Jan, 2025 by Joy tang
Rude and mistakes.
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star star star star star
11 Dec, 2024 by Joy tang
Experienced, reliable lawyer.
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09 Dec, 2024 by 315cash
If you need a ticket taken care of this is who you want to contact. She always gets the job done. Every time I have an issue I call and sue takes care of everything and also one of the nicest people I ever met.
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Ronda T. Akl, experienced Real Estate attorney in Syracuse, NY with 16 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
16,57
star star star star star
3.0/5
Avvo
3.0
16 Reviews
star star star star star
11 Oct, 2021 by Anonymous
Ronda is an amazing attorney. She was very helpful and very responsive. Her staff worked hard to ensure that everything went smoothly and that we were represented properly. Truly a pleasure to work with.
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01 Oct, 2021 by Anonymous
Should of read the reviews before using her. Didn't really have a choice so here I am.
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04 Feb, 2021 by Anonymous
Make closing a breeze. As an investor I could trust her to get things done. Would definitely recommend.
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Samuel J. Costa, experienced Business, Debt Collection attorney in Syracuse, NY with 3 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
16,38
star star star star star
3.6/5
Google Maps
3.6
3 Reviews
star star star star star
05 Jan, 2024 by Mela
Google Maps
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17 Aug, 2023 by Chet s
Michelle and her have been on top of things, answered all my questions, and responded to all my emails most of the time within the hour. They have also made meetings convinent for me
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15 Aug, 2023 by Sarah
I would not waste your time going through Rudderow Law . They spent months after meeting with us only to look at half the records when the records they needed to look at the main reason for our case were not even requested or looked at when we asked repeatedly if they needed the records. Huge waste of time and when it was questioned they chose to ignore our email. Many other lawyers out there that will review all your records.
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Mark N. Wladis, experienced Government, Real Estate attorney in Syracuse, NY with 1 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
7,17
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1.0/5
Avvo
1.0
1 Reviews
star star star star star
15 Sep, 2016 by David
I used Wladis several years ago and was treated to nothing other than a big fat bill, a bunch of hot air and promises that he couldn't keep and had no intention of keeping. Once he had my retainer fee, he was inaccessible, delegating responsibility to a younger attorney who was honest but incompetent. Stay away from this guy.
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John Richard McDermott Jr., experienced Real Estate attorney in Syracuse, NY with 1 reviews
Below Average
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
4,57
star star star star star
1.0/5
Avvo
1.0
1 Reviews
star star star star star
15 Apr, 2010 by Adrienne
I had this attorney close on my current house 9 years ago. Went to buy a new house in 2010 and my original abstract was destroyed in a flood in his office. He REFUSED TO PAY FOR A REPLACEMENT which cost me $400.00. Am taking him to small claims court. Do not use this firm!! He is responsible for replacing the abstract, but refused to do so. There are millions of attorneys - choose another one.
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A Sheldon Gould, experienced Criminal Defense, Debt Collection attorney in Syracuse, NY with 1 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
4,57
star star star star star
1.0/5
Avvo
1.0
1 Reviews
star star star star star
24 Jun, 2021 by Anonymous
I was assigned this attorney by Judge David Bruffett in Cicero, New York. This attorney and Judge Bruffett are friends. After being assigned I experienced an almost three year battle to get this attorney relieved as my assigned counsel. He was condensending, arrogant, and in league with the judge and DA's office to get me convicted. He did absolutely nothing on my case but email me a one (1) page undated Discovery request, and nothing else besides showing up in court. We exchanged many emails in which I suggested an investigator, preserving evidence at the police precinct (videos) and a myriad of things which he ignored. I truly believe he was involved in a conspiracy to have me convicted. After almost three (3) years of battling with my court appointed attorney, I found out he was fired from Legal Services for failing to do any work on his defendants cases including mine. Thank God. I witnessed him speed when leaving the court and I recorded him. When I confronted him about his speeding he said he was "entitiled to speed" due to his "years of service as a public defender." Hmmmm...really? He thinks he is above the law and does not have to do work despite receiving payment for his services by the County. This man accused me of being prejudice towards him for being Jewish and old. I told him I serve a Jewish Messiah as a Christian and was not prejudice against anyone especially people of the Jewish faith. I do not recommend hiring him especially after being fired from Legal Services. I was forced to file an Attorney Grievance Complaint for his failure to zealously represent me. It is being considered and I believe I presented enough credible evidence to back up my claims. Do your due diligence before hiring this attorney and check into his background. Dav Savlov his former boss was forced to reveal his firing to me. He prejudiced my case by failing to do any legal work of substance and by having me do my own motions and legal work. I have faith I will be exonerated but it was a hard journey dealing with ineffective assistance of counsel. Again, I warn you, be careful and think twice before hiring this attorney. He is toxic and has severe issues.
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Terry J. Kirwan Jr, experienced Business, Litigation attorney in Syracuse, NY with 1 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
4,57
star star star star star
1.0/5
Avvo
1.0
1 Reviews
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15 May, 2020 by Anonymous
Terry J Kirwan took my Civil lawsuit for $ and had no experience in the field. He told me I could sue the Women my deceased former Husband gifted my family's money too (after paying him, he suddenly remembered I could not sue the Woman because she was "gifted". We also sued The Life Insurance Co. For allowing my former Husband to withdraw the Life Insurance money. The Life Insurance Co. Had a Federal law protecting them called Erisa Law, Terry never even knew what that was nor did he research it? He just wanted me to accept the $10,000 offer from the Insurance company to settle it, I was disgusted. We also sued my Divorce attorneys for Legal Malpractice for not freezing the Policy so my X could not withdraw it. Terry used Insurance Law 3113...WRONG LAW, I needed a Qualified Domestic Relations Order to freeze my X Husband's Employee Welfare Benefits Plan! Terry didn't know! Not did he have me sign a Retainer until I ASKED FOR ONE. He called me to Wire him $3000 more and he hadn't even filed the case yet! I declined until complaint was filed. I lost on every matter while Terry did NOTHING. He never told me of communications from the Defendants or court dates! I fired him. He would not be fired so the Judge fired him on the record. I mediated against him to get my $ back, he brought a Lawyer to represent him against me, a lay person! I won more than 1/2 back. I later sued my Divorce attorneys Prose', as my own Attorney, for not providing the QDRO to lock the Policy in my Divorce and won a settlement! Oh, and the Woman who was "gifted" countersued my for $100,000 for Terry's mistakes. He had published her bank account #. She and I dropped our cases against each other, I had to handle that myself also...and Terry published my Social Security # and my X's in our complaint! I had to have it redacted! The people we were suing he gave my information too! What a cluster f#+k! I grieved him with the NYS Bar association and the Disciplined him "off the record"! BEWARE!
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Andrew T. Coyle, experienced Divorce, Family Law attorney in Syracuse, NY with 0 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
4,00
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0.0/5
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Joseph John Centra, experienced Criminal Defense, Domestic Violence attorney in Syracuse, NY with 0 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
4,00
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0.0/5
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Maria Morse, experienced Divorce, Education Law attorney in Syracuse, NY with 0 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
4,00
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0.0/5
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Russell Dombrow, experienced Consumer Protection, Real Estate attorney in Syracuse, NY with 0 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
4,00
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Roger W. Bradley, experienced Real Estate attorney in Syracuse, NY with 0 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
4,00
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Karla M. Corpus, experienced Business, Government attorney in Syracuse, NY with 0 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
4,00
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Steven R. Shaw, experienced Business, Real Estate attorney in Syracuse, NY with 0 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
4,00
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0.0/5
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Louis Levine, experienced Business, Debt Collection attorney in Syracuse, NY with 0 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
4,00
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James William Cunningham, experienced Car Accident, Government attorney in Syracuse, NY with 0 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
4,00
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0.0/5
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James Daniel Lantier, experienced Car Accident, Government attorney in Syracuse, NY with 0 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
4,00
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0.0/5
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Shelby Catherine Redmond, experienced Consumer Protection, Elder Law attorney in Syracuse, NY with 0 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
4,00
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0.0/5
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Wendy Ann Marsh, experienced Business, Real Estate attorney in Syracuse, NY with 0 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
4,00
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0.0/5
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Lee Alcott, experienced Litigation, Personal Injury attorney in Syracuse, NY with 0 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
4,00
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0.0/5
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Warren William Bader, experienced Business, Estate Planning attorney in Syracuse, NY with 0 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
4,00
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Warren David Wolfson, experienced Business, Real Estate attorney in Syracuse, NY with 0 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
4,00
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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:

  1. 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.
  2. 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.
  3. 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.
  4. 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.
  5. 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.
  6. 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.

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