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02 Oct, 2019 by Tracey
I have power of attorney of my fiancé’s IRS government check my banking institution Walmart nor any check cashing facilities will not cash how do I go about getting checked cast with all appropriate documents
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29 Mar, 2011 by Angie
MICHAEL TOOK MY MONEY AND FILED WORTHLESS PETITIONS IN COURT IN FEB.2010 AND NOW OVER A YEAR LATER I HAVE NEVER HAD A COURT DATE AND I HAVE BEEN CALLING HIM SINCE DECEMBER AND HAVE NOT HAD A CALL BACK.I HAVE BEEN ASKING FOR COPIES OF RECEIPTS,LETTERS FROM MY EX'S LAWYER.COPY OF MY RETAINER WITH HIM AND I COULD GO ON BUT TO MAKE A LONG STORY SHORT I STILL CAN NOT GET THEM OR A CALL BACK AND EVERY TIME I CALL I GET SENT TO VOICE MAIL.
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21 Jan, 2011 by Lauren
After being married for 17 years and 4 kids later, I never thought I'd get divorced. My husband met someone and wanted out. I did alot of research on the internet looking for an attorney and after meeting 6 attorneys in person, I chose Michael to represent me and I am so glad I did. There was no arguement about custody, he didn't want the burden of the kids. But trying to get child support, house payments and alimony was a huge fight. One of our boys is disabled and I've been a SAHM all their lives. Michael fought for me and the kids. He is a real family man as well and truely had our best interests in mind. The other side try to bully us and made false accusations, but in the end we prevailed and I am very happy with the results. Michael and his support staff were always available and kept me well informed as to the status of my case. Do yourself a favor and hire him if you are considering getting a divorce.
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20 Aug, 2024 by Christopher viola
Oliver and Fox handled my workers comp case and worked hard on ensuring I received due compensation for my injuries. Attorney Aimee Gartland was a pleasure to work with. She kept me informed every step of the way and was always pleasant and professional in answering all my questions. Thank you Aimee and Oliver and Fox for getting me through this difficult time of my life.
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04 Jan, 2024 by M l
Mr. Fox has been my attorney since I was injured in the line of duty in 2018. Mr Fox and his legal assistant, Chris, are amazing and caring professionals who helped me navigate through the complex Florida workers compensation system. This team is the best of the best, and my family and I owe them our gratitude. To all my brothers and sisters who are first responders here in Florida, if you are in need of legal advice or a team who will fight for you and your family, search no further... Mr. Fox and Chris are the real deal, and they will never give up.
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27 Oct, 2023 by John s
My go to for anything related to work comp law. The best
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22 Jan, 2023 by Tiffany noble
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29 Dec, 2021 by Lisa garcia
Won't return phone calls.
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06 Jun, 2021 by Rodney lozada
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22 Jan, 2023 by Tiffany noble
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29 Dec, 2021 by Lisa garcia
Won't return phone calls.
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06 Jun, 2021 by Rodney lozada
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17 Nov, 2023 by Ashley tyre
I wish I could give him a zero! I needed someone to help me with a severe case of harassment from a very large company and thought Mr. Howard could help. I called his office over 10 times I actually lost count. At the very least I should have gotten a call back. Take my case not take my case it doesn't matter. Mr. Howard please have the decency to simply return my call. He is the opposite of professional. I've unfortunately needed serval attorneys in my life. I've never experienced anything even close to this!
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11 Jul, 2022 by Shamala moore
Billy and his whole staff is very nice and very attentive when it comes to their response
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07 May, 2022 by Mf loose
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13 Nov, 2022 by Kevin kimball
I had Brian Bolves for an Eminent Domain case in Naples. He ignored my emails and kept my funds illegally in his escrow account ..TWICE!! He nor his assistant would reply to my emails even as I told him I would give him a one star review and write a complaint to the Florida Bar. He won't provide the necessary paperwork so i can file taxes so I have to get it from the County Attorney. I forwarded the emails I sent him to his assistant and the ones I sent to the assistant to Brian trying to get some response, No luck! Fortunately the County paid him.
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17 Sep, 2022 by Andrew bolves
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14 Jan, 2022 by Richard alonso
Laura Donaldson is the best...She help me so much ..like if she knew me for year's...you need help in real estate law she the best ..
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13 Nov, 2022 by Kevin kimball
I had Brian Bolves for an Eminent Domain case in Naples. He ignored my emails and kept my funds illegally in his escrow account ..TWICE!! He nor his assistant would reply to my emails even as I told him I would give him a one star review and write a complaint to the Florida Bar. He won't provide the necessary paperwork so i can file taxes so I have to get it from the County Attorney. I forwarded the emails I sent him to his assistant and the ones I sent to the assistant to Brian trying to get some response, No luck! Fortunately the County paid him.
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17 Sep, 2022 by Andrew bolves
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14 Jan, 2022 by Richard alonso
Laura Donaldson is the best...She help me so much ..like if she knew me for year's...you need help in real estate law she the best ..
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26 Apr, 2023 by Patridk
Mr. Weiner perpetuated fraud and criminal acts with a beneficiary of one of his clients who was an elderly, vulnerable adult. He lied to his client to assist a beneficiary who was unduly influencing her own relative. . He listened to a 3rd party beneficiary rather than his clients wishes. He allows deeds to be signed and delivered to his official by the criminal. He cannot be that ignorant. His client’s last few years of life were filled with great suffering and emotional harm when she was essentially broke sure to Rory acting as an accomplice. That client was my grandmother and he took away the last years of her life and left her broke This submission was denied, very interseting, so that’s what is done with negative reviews. Don’t let this happen to anyone else’s. Grandparent.
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11 Jan, 2011 by Greg
Rory Weiner and his entire staff are extremely knowledgeable and professional that provides a comfort, caring and encouraging enviornment during difficult times. He displays confidence in giving his very best effort, workmenship, legal skills and advise to your specific problem. We would highly recommend his services.
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11 Jan, 2011 by Rodney
Mr. Weiner is an exemplary legal counselor in the arena of business law and he understands his clients need to be educated not only in the factual components of a case but also in the intangible or perceptual components as well. He is articulate and laid back in a general sense while also being tenacious when appropriate. (More importantly he's not tenacious when it's inappropriate like so many other attorneys!) Mr. Weiner and his team of specialists have an acute understanding of the legal process that exceeds law by incorporating a philosophical basis for case planning and execution. In my professional career (and as a business owner) I've garnered legal services from several practitioners and I would not hesitate to recommend Rory Weiner and his firm for business law.
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30 Mar, 2019 by Richie chandler
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05 Jun, 2018 by Bc
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03 Jun, 2018 by Gina harvey
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19 Jan, 2024 by Kevin
John said he would take my case for divorce. I gave him $500 he sent a couple of letters . I tried to reach he by phone by email, text message no response from him. In the beginning I told him I had no money because my wife had it all. He said no problem I’ll Paition the court for the money month went by nothing gave him $500 more to sign the papers . I had a court date he told me nothing about . He walked with my money. I’m disabled living on social security. Money is hard to come by so someone to take me for $1000. Is a lot to me. Thanks John
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03 Jul, 2019 by Anonymous
Let me start out by saying I have had several attorneys. Highly litigated ongoing family law case (8 years). John has by far been the best attorney for my case, and my husbands case as well. He is knowledgeable in many areas of the law. He is very fair in his pricing. He is honest with his clients. He wont set you up for failure, or to be let down. When he says he can get it done, he really can. One thing I can say is he defends his clients to his absolute very best ability. He is the only attorney to make me feel like he is really on my side and not feel defeated by the court system when we walk out. If I had this to do all over, he would have been my number 1 choice and I would have stuck by him the entire time. He can be aggressive or passive and that helps alot when litigating cases also. Highly recommended.
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22 May, 2019 by Denise
I hired John Panzarella to resolve a very sensitive case in court on my husband and my behalf. I am very happy with his conduct, professionalism, knowledge, charisma and positivism. I have talked to many Attorneys before about the same case and they all turned me off saying that I had no chance. John made a lot of researches about my case and found out what was the key to give me what I was for so long waiting for. I would recommend John Panzarella to any type of case because even though the case might not be his area of knowledge, John will dig deep on his researches to help you out with professionalism and care. Denise - Personal Trainer- Tampa/FL
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03 Nov, 2009 by Anonymous
Luana has been nothing but professional, thorough, and helpful during my time as her client. She has worked diligently on my case and has been very accommodating and sensitive to my particular situation.
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30 Jun, 2009 by Anonymous
By far the worst attorney I've ever incountered. I would also consider her a crook in that when we parted ways, she kept the bulk of my retainer after doing VERY LITTLE work on my case. I've never seen an invoice that "nickeled and dimed" such insignificant tasks in my life. I would have been embarrassed if I were her. She is a disgrace to the profession!
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17 Nov, 2008 by Anonymous
If you are lucky enough to get her on your case, you can rest easy knowing she is deligently working for you.
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26 Jul, 2021 by Anonymous
Mr. Castro represented me during my divorce. Because of his sloppiness and unpreparedness, my divorce which was NOT contested still cost me upwards of of $35K. Each session, he would ask me the same questions, making me repeat myself, almost like he wasn't listening or taking notes. These redundant sessions drove my cost up. He also failed to negotiate for my rights during the divorce proceeding and I had to do the lawyer thinking for him. My ex spouse's attorney was much more competent and prepared than him. Do not use him unless you are prepared to watch your hard earned money disappear.
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31 May, 2016 by Anonymous
Mr. Castro assisted me with my divorce matter from beginning to end. I was very pleased with the outcome and the assistance throughout the entire matter.
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16 Jul, 2015 by Anonymous
I wish somebody told me before-hand but apparently the "large" firms are known for running up bills. With no major court days, or other big expenses they ran up $20,000 in a month on me without notifying me. I wish I was rich. The service was great. But when you give a retainer of $5000 and they do that I think it's unethical. Now I'm told that's what big firms do. I wish somebody would have told me. I would rather leave a NEGATIVE review for SHUTTS & BOWEN b/c my beef is no so much with Eirc but I can't. This is more for information about this firm than a bad review for Mr. Adams.
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05 Jun, 2024 by Marilyn kagan
My HOA has this firm on retainer. I sent an email asking our attorney how much he would charge us to write a contract for a project. The reply was 4 quick lines and we were billed $81 for their "services". I can't figure out how else I would have found out the cost of the project without asking. Insane and insulting....we may be shopping for new legal counsel shortly!!
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08 May, 2022 by Drew brogdon
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08 May, 2022 by Colleen brogdon
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08 Jan, 2024 by Sean wright
Mark is entirely too lazy for the amount that he charges. He rarely returns emails, often withholds documents, and is entirely ineffective.
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07 Sep, 2022 by Jessica leigh
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07 Jan, 2021 by Jessi oh
You'll get nickel and dimed like you wouldnt believe. Run!!!
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23 Jul, 2024 by Anonymous
We are out $15,000 unjustly due to her mistakes in court where she was unprepared, admonished by the judge and filed the wrong initial complaint and then we had to pay the defendants legal fees because of all of this!!!!!Our case should have been contingency but she took our money and after being the victims to our home completely destroyed in a water loss, she took advantage of us and left us in a very bad position, worse than where we started. Do not give her a dime!!! Her mistakes unfairly cost us more $$$$!!!
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19 Sep, 2023 by Anthony
This attorney fully supported to pursue my claim against my HOA’s property manager in February 2023. After the initial consultation and write up with this attorney I had gotten very sporadic emails from her assistant for months. In September 2023 I was sent an email to set up a $300.00 15 minute call with the attorney. I expected the call to reveal the outcome of the months of sporadic emails over the months. Instead the attorney asked what was going on with my claim. I told her I would be expecting her to have her tell me what was going on. She did not remember the expected outcome of my claim. Many things said during the conversation did not make sense. The attorney 13 minutes into the conversation told me to call back(for another $300.00) when I was not aggravated, snarky, rude, and argumentative, and then hung up the phone. She followed up with an email saying because if the snarky, rude, argumentative, and disruptive that they are terminating services and closing my file. This was a large waste of my time and my money.
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18 Sep, 2023 by Nicole
I had an extremely disappointing experience with this attorney. I engaged their services with high hopes, but unfortunately, it turned into a complete nightmare. First and foremost, there were significant issues with transparency regarding fees. I was advised to settle my case, which ultimately left me with a settlement that didn't even cover half of the attorney fees. To make matters worse, I was billed for the attorney fees after the settlement, which I wasn't informed of in advance. If I had known, I would have pursued a different course of action, potentially going in front of a judge to ensure my legal expenses were covered. It was also shocking to discover that the company we were suing had a clause limiting their contribution to just $500 in attorney fees. If the attorney's staff had done their due diligence and informed me of this before taking my case, I would have never proceeded with the lawsuit. Another major issue was the disorganization within the office. They consistently failed to keep me updated on the progress of my case, and I had to initiate follow-ups repeatedly. At one point, I didn't hear anything from them for an astounding three months, which is completely unacceptable when dealing with legal matters of any kind. In conclusion, I strongly advise against hiring this attorney and their office. They lack competence, organization, and, most importantly, the dedication to look out for their clients' best interests. If you are in need of legal representation, there are undoubtedly more capable and client-focused options available. Save yourself the trouble and frustration, and look elsewhere for legal assistance.
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11 Nov, 2014 by Anonymous
This attorney is well versed in procedure only. He repeatedly showed his lack of knowledge of marital law in Florida. His last big mistake has cost me more than $150,000 in efforts to reverse the decision. He has a very offensive style that is a major distraction and is the source of great stress for clients who are already facing difficult situations. He has a knack for saying the wrong thing to clients and then acting with great decorum in court. He is also obsessed with money. I would pay his bill the day I received it and he would be on the phone the next day complaining he had not received payment. He is really a property attorney who has no business practicing family law. He has no sense of strategy and does not even discuss how to win a case. In my case, he started negotiations with some false assumptions about my inevitable liabilities in the case. He gave the ball to the opposition on our ten-yard line.
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05 Jun, 2024 by Marilyn kagan
My HOA has this firm on retainer. I sent an email asking our attorney how much he would charge us to write a contract for a project. The reply was 4 quick lines and we were billed $81 for their "services". I can't figure out how else I would have found out the cost of the project without asking. Insane and insulting....we may be shopping for new legal counsel shortly!!
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08 May, 2022 by Drew brogdon
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08 May, 2022 by Colleen brogdon
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05 Jun, 2024 by Marilyn kagan
My HOA has this firm on retainer. I sent an email asking our attorney how much he would charge us to write a contract for a project. The reply was 4 quick lines and we were billed $81 for their "services". I can't figure out how else I would have found out the cost of the project without asking. Insane and insulting....we may be shopping for new legal counsel shortly!!
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08 May, 2022 by Drew brogdon
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08 May, 2022 by Colleen brogdon
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05 Jun, 2024 by Marilyn kagan
My HOA has this firm on retainer. I sent an email asking our attorney how much he would charge us to write a contract for a project. The reply was 4 quick lines and we were billed $81 for their "services". I can't figure out how else I would have found out the cost of the project without asking. Insane and insulting....we may be shopping for new legal counsel shortly!!
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08 May, 2022 by Drew brogdon
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08 May, 2022 by Colleen brogdon
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05 Jun, 2024 by Marilyn kagan
My HOA has this firm on retainer. I sent an email asking our attorney how much he would charge us to write a contract for a project. The reply was 4 quick lines and we were billed $81 for their "services". I can't figure out how else I would have found out the cost of the project without asking. Insane and insulting....we may be shopping for new legal counsel shortly!!
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08 May, 2022 by Drew brogdon
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03 Nov, 2020 by Anonymous
I called Jim to receive a status update on the transfer of deed he drew up. All he said was I can’t remember and I don’t know this and that. I said why can’t you use your computer or resources to lookup the status. He literally kept dusting this off as if he had nothing to do with it. Excuse me, what?!? Why would anyone come to a lawyer like this who has a dismissive and uncooperative demeanor?? Makes no sense as to why we went to this guy. Def go to someone else because he’s of no help even on the cases he’s worked on apparently
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08 Dec, 2023 by Anonymous
This lawyer has been arrested for forgery in 2017. This review keeps getting taken down by avvo because they support lawyers who have been arrested for forgery and other crimes. I will continue to spread the word about this lawyer on any and every platform available so avvo you can continue to remove this review for this lawyer who was arrested for forgery and who practices unethically.
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01 Apr, 2019 by John
Apparently Jana Thornbury was assigned my case from Morgan & Morgan. On the calls she belittled the value of my case, and reiterated thats the costs for for expert examination would have to come out of the damages for the case, and failed to recognize that those particular damages would be in the compensatory damages, as these would thus compensate the medical needs and treatment required to recover from this case.
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01 Mar, 2018 by Sharon
I hired SCOTT CLAY and paid him a retainer to represent me in a lawsuit that was filed against me. He promptly cashed my check & never kept me notified with hearings on my case like all professional law offices do. He runs a "one man" show and works out of a rented desk in downtown Tampa. I was referred to him by another lawyer who must have felt sorry for him. Mr. Clay never sent me any paperwork about what was going on with my case...I had to keep track of it myself online. He was always having sick kids & family emergencies. I hired a real law firm who got my case settled promptly and professionally. Hiring Scott Clay was like throwing my hard earned money in the garage can...avoid him!!!
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30 Apr, 2021 by Anonymous
I have worked with numerous attorneys over my lifetime and this is the first one that spoke down to me and I had no clue what he was doing. He was very sneaky and would send emails that would make himself look innocent and pure and then he would follow up with a phone call and say the exact opposite of the email trying to comfort me and make me feel at ease. I felt talked down and disrespected. There were numerous times he set up conference calls which he would not follow through with and other times that he would drop the call and say his cell phone died and would call me back as soon as it’s charged up and yet he never did. Stunned that an attorney never heard of a phone cable to plug into the wall. Caught him numerous times lying to me. I would avoid this atterney and his firm at all costs!! Terrible atterney!
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01 Dec, 2021 by Anonymous
Mr Aidman sent a cease and desist letter, uncertified. Then when recipient stated that they did not sign for any letter, he emailed it to them. This letter used verbage that was of a condescending and personal nature. Not what I would expect from a lawyer that I would hire. I would not hire him.
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15 Jun, 2016 by Anonymous
I did business with Bret for a certain case, and expected to be treated fairly and ethically. Instead I was met with false billing statements and defiance/refusal of my basic rights in this transaction. Please look elsewhere and put your money to good use. This one does not want to help you.
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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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