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16 Nov, 2024 by Rania nicholas
Absolutely and phenomenally easy to work with David. He made the impossible; very possible. Zero pts and nothing on record! He was kind, friendly and very professional. Very highly recommend him to all seeking someone with knowledge and expertise!!
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14 Nov, 2024 by Alex ujeniuc
The only thing I did was send him a picture of the ticket and from a speeding got me down to impeding, he took care of everything and made me stress free and kept my driving record clean
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24 Oct, 2024 by Alina zalischi
I was very satisfied with the service ,I would recommend David to anyone very kind and helpful . I will definitely do businesses with him again !
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10 Oct, 2024 by Cathy escobedo
John spent the time to understand a very complicated case. He was willing to go the extra mile, did his homework, and showed up ready to fight for me. I would highly recommend him for any case you need help with. Thank you John... from the bottom of my heart.
Cathy Escobedo
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22 May, 2024 by Elizabeth collison
Jim represented me in an auto accident case. He was very professional. He was very quick to respond to my questions I had during the entire process. He fought for me to get me what I deserved for the injures is suffered.
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22 Jan, 2024 by Sharon behrens
James Elliott, my personal injury attorney, listened to my concerns patiently and was very professional and knowledgeable throughout the process. He was always just a phone call away and kept me informed on the progress of my case. He got me a very good settlement and I would highly recommend him to anyone! Thanks Jim.
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31 Dec, 2024 by John mandrick
Barron, Rosenberg, Mayoras & Mayoras P.C. helped our family process Dad and Moms estate. Their staff was professional, knowledgeable, kind, and helpful. Kathryn Searle was exceptionally helpful, experienced, and knows how to get tasks done.
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18 Dec, 2024 by Jody astrein
We had a great experience working with Don Rosenberg. Excellent communication and trust was completed in a timely manner.
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03 Dec, 2024 by Maria poggi
10 Jan, 2025 by Charlie salah
Farris Haddad He is an outstanding attorney whose dedication and availability set him apart. No matter the time of day, Farris always takes the time to answer my questions, providing reassurance and clarity with every case he handles. His remarkable expertise has earned him recognition from numerous organizations and a reputation for working with some of the most prominent clients in the industry.
Beyond his impressive professional achievements, Farris is also a wonderful person—devoted to his family, with three sons and a loving wife. His strong values and integrity are evident in every interaction, and the exceptional team he leads reflects the same level of knowledge and professionalism, ensuring that all your legal needs are managed with care and precision.
If you are seeking legal representation, look no further. Farris Haddad and his firm are second to none!
Sincerely,
Charlie Salah
This version keeps your original tone while enhancing flow, structure, and impact.
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24 Feb, 2024 by Tarik hasanovic
The best law firm for any case you have, my life was in shambles until I connected with Farris Haddad/ his amazing team. From day one I was treated like family and not just a check book. I had a few cases going on 3 being criminal and 1 being an auto injury case, I shopped around for attorneys and when it came to the criminal matters (Super Drunk DUI, Loitering with intent, and operating vehicle with illegal equipment) after speaking to the attorneys I was sure that I would be going to jail for a minimum of 3-6months with a year or two probation and at the same time have my license revoked/suspended and ignation Interlock. I had a major brain injury last year and honestly was about to give up and felt like i lost the last bit of myself that is left, I couldn’t handle the answers I was getting from other attorneys I felt like my life was over and really didn’t want to continue with it. Luckily I have Farris and his team like I stated before they treated me like family from day one and assured me they would keep me out of jail, I felt like I was reborn after speaking to Farris almost all the stress I had vanished in an instance. Farris and his team set up a strategized game plan to knock the cases out in the most aggressive but economical way possible, Farris laid out a few routes we could could take and directly got to executing said plan. Literally an All-Star team they got me the best possible outcome, I couldn’t believe it 2 of the 3 cases were completely dismissed, and the Super drunk DUI (High BAC way over .17 around a .223 which is a felony dui entails 6 months of jail, 2 years probation, 6+ points on record, crazy high tickets and a license revocation for a minimum of a year after which a blow device would need to be installed if I wanted to drive in the future is what i was expecting), I basically dug myself into a crazy deep whole talking to the officer at the time but Farris did his magic and somehow got it dropped to a misdemeanor OWVI and would have had it totally dropped if it weren’t for my own mistake but he still managed to get it dropped as low as possible. No jail, no license revocation or suspension, I basically received a slap on the wrist thanks to Farris. I can’t begin to express my appreciation for Farris and his law firm, I’m so thankful they came into my life they made it a breeze for me so I could actually fully focus on healing from being injured in major accident. I was working with another attorney for the auto injury case if you can even call it working, he wasn’t getting much done literally did 5 hours of work in my case in 12 months, I was left to fend for myself and damn near lost everything in the process whilst my previous attorney wasn’t even answering my calls or emails. So I asked Farris if he and his law firm could take over and they agreed to take the case over and got straight to work. Like I said this is an All-Star team and Farris hooked me up with his best and in my opinion the best Injury attorney you could possibly ask for Attorney Michael Oblizajek, Mike got straight on the case and for the first time since my injury I felt like something was getting done. Previous attorney didn’t even try to push for any of the benefits I was entitled to. I was missing doctors appointments due to transportation and was forced to sleep in my car because I had no money for rent because the previous attorney pushed for nothing bit himself, I almost lost myself/my will to live, the previous attorney and the auto insurance caused me so much stress and anguish that I wanted to give up. Thank god I found Farris and his team once they got to it everything changed. I was set up with a case manager, transportation, wage loss benefits, back pay for prior transportation, prescription/insurance card all within a month something my previous lawyer couldn’t do in a year. If you want a Law firm that actually cares and will fight for you go with The Law Office of Farris F. Haddad & Associates. I guarantee you can’t go wrong and will be treated like family not $ like others do.
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04 Nov, 2023 by Los plagus
16 Nov, 2024 by Rania nicholas
Absolutely and phenomenally easy to work with David. He made the impossible; very possible. Zero pts and nothing on record! He was kind, friendly and very professional. Very highly recommend him to all seeking someone with knowledge and expertise!!
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14 Nov, 2024 by Alex ujeniuc
The only thing I did was send him a picture of the ticket and from a speeding got me down to impeding, he took care of everything and made me stress free and kept my driving record clean
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24 Oct, 2024 by Alina zalischi
I was very satisfied with the service ,I would recommend David to anyone very kind and helpful . I will definitely do businesses with him again !
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28 Sep, 2022 by Anonymous
Please do yourself and loved ones a favor and consider hiring Andy Mayoras. He’s extremely knowledgeable, professional and is truly looking out for the best interest for you and your family. We had a horrific experience with a recommended individual well known in our area. Mr. Mayoras saw the issues, had a solution, and acted immediately. Hire the best to start, it will save you time, money and any regret!
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06 Nov, 2020 by George, shelby township, mi
I am a very skeptical person who has a difficult time placing trust in the hands of another, especially when the consequences of it is tied to a result in which I may have no control. My main goal in seeking the right attorney was to find one whose outlook demonstrated a strong moral and ethical compass, and was passionate in their career choice to both uphold and defend the law. I had interviewed several attorneys, who in my opinion, provided nothing more than typical sales pitches, and I became deeply discouraged.
That all changed when I came across Andrew Mayoras's bio, and then reached out to him. What I found in Andy was an attorney who honestly cared about his clients, who was determined to seek the truths, was not intimidated to challenge opposing counsel, weeded through the garbage of opposing counsels arguments, and applied the law appropriately and in accordance to my particular case. What I learned, is no matter what court situation you may find yourself involved in, it is never a pleasant experience. However, when you have confidence in your lawyer, such as I found with Andy Mayoras and other members within his law firm, I fully trusted that my position was going to be zealously represented in an upstanding and professional way. Andy did NOT disappoint!!
I have nothing but deep respect and gratitude for Andy Mayoras and his associates. Thank you a thousand times over!!!
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06 Oct, 2019 by Anonymous
I would highly recommend this law firm. My attorney, Andy, was most helpful, treated me with respect and answered all my questions and concerns in a manner that was easy for me to understand. Phone calls were answered promptly and the staff was always pleasant. I thank you all for your help.
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30 Mar, 2009 by Anonymous
I have worked with Mr. Smrtka for several years and have always received personal and dedicated care and service. Mr. Smrtka has worked with me in several areas of law related to estate planning and in the operation of my business. George has earned my trust and continues to do so. I highly recommend Mr. Smrtka.
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10 Mar, 2009 by Anonymous
Mr. Smrtka is a caring person who ensures that his client is well informed. He explains each situation in layman's terms so that his client feels confident in their decisions. I would definitely recommend Mr. Smrtka to any family member or friend.
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06 Mar, 2009 by Anonymous
George was wonderful!
He worked through everything we needed to set up for my mother's trust / will.
He explained everything in terms we could understand and helped guide us through the process of protecting her interests. George took the time to make sure she was comfortable with everything and showed us all her options.
His kindness and gentle handling made things flow smoothly.
I would highly recommend him to anyone...
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15 Nov, 2016 by Tom
My wife and I used David for estate planning for our 2 young children and we are very happy that we did. He took estate planning and other complex topics and made them easy to understand. He was patient with our questions but also very thoughtful on how to help us with some of our unique circumstances. Not only that but as other questions have come up he has made himself available and willing to answer those as well. I have recommended David to a number of people and they all have had a similar outstanding experience. David prides himself on his professionalism and it shows in his work and interactions.
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13 Sep, 2016 by Steve
My wife and I had an estate plan drawn up by another lawyer about 8 years ago. When it was time to update it, our original lawyer had retired so we need to find a new lawyer. This site was actually one of several source we used to select David. It has turned out to be a wise decision as David has proved to be very proficient in the area of estate planning with a wealth of experience to draw on. I attribute this in large part because he has a sincere passion for this area of law and interest in providing his client the highest levels of satisfaction. He certainly made the process as easy as possible. Although our original plan was sufficient, there were items that David addressed in our updated version that will definitely add value. We are grateful for those who left their reviews and are happy to add our feedback as well.
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17 Aug, 2016 by Paul
David helped us develop a trust and living will. He was a pleasure to work with and always very prompt when we had questions. I would highly recommend David and his team to friends and family.
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08 Mar, 2018 by Srija nakka
Joseph is Very diligent and thorough, He did a tremendous job and I was extremely satisfied with the work he did for me. I would recommend her to everyone I know.
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05 Mar, 2018 by John
I have known Joe for more than 20 years. We formerly worked together in the same firm. He has always been intelligent, hard-working, and zealous in the representation of his clients. His business and litigation knowledge makes him an attorney I am proud to refer others to. He is also a pleasure to deal with.
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28 Feb, 2018 by Wayne
I have retained Joe Yamin on numerous occasions to serve as local counsel on significant commercial real estate transactions for my clients. Joe provided excellent advice and legal services at a reasonable cost. He was efficient and effective, helping us to close complex transactions on time. Moreover, Joe is a first class, caring individual who is more than an attorney - he is a true friend.
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24 Dec, 2024 by Nicholas salem
24 Dec, 2024 by Daniel omambo
18 Dec, 2024 by Paul bathanti
Called and tried getting an appointment to sit down with someone, discuss my.issues and was told they don't do that unless I pay $450 just to speak with someone for about 20 minutes. Absolutely ridiculous
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20 May, 2018 by David
My parents, after years of thinking, wanted to have an estate plan set up. After a lengthy research process, I found Mark's law firm. After reaching out to Mark and learning about his decades of estate planning expertise, I felt very comfortable setting up a consultation for my parents with Mark. After my parents met with Mark and his team, they were also very impressed with Mark's legal knowledge as he was able to address each and every questions they had. Overall, Mark and his team, (especially Nicole who the made signing process a breeze), made the entire process of getting an estate plan and putting it into a place very easy and stress free. We wholeheartedly recommend Mark and Nicole to anyone or any family thinking about getting an estate plan in place.
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28 Aug, 2016 by Agnes
After thoroughly updating my husband's and my will, power of attorney, etc, I asked Mark to provide me some background on a matter I had to make a decision on soon. I was so pleased to have a clear, instructive response in several days. He was very thorough, giving me legal background and the current rules pertaining to my concern. Very pleased with all his work.
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27 Aug, 2016 by Carol
Mark executed multiple legal transactions on my behalf after the sudden death of my spouse in a timely , efficient & compassionate manner. I appreciate the fact that he is very accessible by phone or email. He always takes the time to explain everything thoroughly to enable me to make informed decisions. He recently assisted me in the sale of my home, purchase of a condo, transferring property into a trust, & locating legal representation for the sale of out of state property. Very grateful for his trusted counsel & friendship.
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12 Nov, 2014 by Anonymous
Brandon assisted me with a tenant landlord situation. He was very helpful and kind and provided direct feedback. Fortunately we were able to avoid a court case but I would have used Brandon for this service had it escalated to that point. Should I have further landlord/tenant issues I would not hesitate to call Brandon again.
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18 Mar, 2014 by Ronnie
Brandon is an exceptional attorney. He drafted two contacts for me within 7 days. Aside from his knowledge, he kept me informed and stayed in contact with me throughout the entire process. Definitely doing more business with him in the future!
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13 Nov, 2021 by Anonymous
Hire Jay Cooke you won't be sorry he's great in court an gets many cases dismissed.
He takes all types of cases from Divorce to traffic to felony cases.
He is very reasonable an always there when you need to talk to him.
He also has a great staff !!!!
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25 Jul, 2021 by Jennifer
Mr. Cooke has done wonders for me an he'll do the same for you.
I would never hire another attorney after hiring Mr
Jay Cooke
Hes always there when u need him and has reasonable rates.
He handles all types of law from traffic tickets to DUIS an divorce he's there to help an take care of your needs
From a loyal client Jennifer
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15 Mar, 2024 by Snsernow24
I have known Paula for 20+ years. I have consulted with her on several business and personal matters. She knows her stuff. When she doesn't know something, she humbly admits it and then finds the answer for you.
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12 Oct, 2014 by Djuana
The day i meant Nick he put me with such a positive attitude i walk out of his office with my head up high i was like omg he kept me informed of everthing so professional you can talk to him an u know he's not judging you i speak so highly of him an if i ever need an attorney again he will be the first on my list i even recommend him to my niece thanks Nick for all you have done for me
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03 Aug, 2024 by Mike p
You could ask for no one better to be in your corner. Great communication, smart, thorough, and tough. Liz is an amazing attorney and human being.
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10 Jul, 2024 by Lion heart
Liz is sharp and attentive and very caring. She is willing to help her clients and go above and beyond the call of duty.
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08 Jun, 2024 by Emily ogilvie
If you are looking for someone who will give you honest, heartfelt advice and guidance, look no further. Elizabeth is professional and direct while getting to the root of the issue and guiding you through it. Cannot recommend enough.
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16 Aug, 2024 by Stephen burke
Elite group of attorneys
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18 Jan, 2024 by Mendel goldstein
09 May, 2022 by Michael davis
Thanks for the quick response
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19 Oct, 2020 by R s
I simply cannot speak highly enough of Mr. Tomaszycki. He helped me and my husband (who was also an attorney) at the end of my husband's life with some complex issues. He is not just a consummate professional, he is a compassionate and honorable man.
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19 Jun, 2018 by Rose oliveira
“I had a very complicated divorce case. As an immigrant married to an abusive American, was hard to find someone that will take my case. What I can say is that I was represented better than I could have ever imagined for Mr. Christopher Tomaszicky. His office was highly professional and responsive. My needs were put first and were treated as a friend rather than just a client. My opinions were valued and my doubts were always reassured. My emails always answered in no time and I can't remember any occasion that I called him and he could not talk to me. My nerves were calmed and the process was always explained. He did walk me through depositions, questionnaires and everything else.
Sometimes little people that don't have money don't receive so much attention from their attorneys, but in my case (and I am sure this happens with each of his customers) Mr. Christopher Tomaszicky and his team fought hard for me.
He always took a pragmatic approach to law and don't over complicate things unnecessarily. With that said, if a matter is complex they are very capable of handling it with success. He went above and beyond with very good strategies and did everything he could to ensure a great outcome. I couldn't have asked for a better law firm or attorney.
If you ever need someone that has decades of experience and can handle your case with maximum competence I will say call Mr. Christopher Tomaszicky office and schedule a consultation.
Thank you so much, guys. You are the best!!!”
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20 Feb, 2017 by Jonatan davi
23 Jan, 2025 by Jasmine jackson
I spoke with John C. today & he answered all my questions. He was a big help.
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23 Jan, 2025 by Chanel brown
23 Jan, 2025 by Blizz4everwow
Eric was very helpful. Thank you!
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24 Sep, 2024 by C. kitt
After unknowingly signing on to work with the single most INCOMPETENT AND ANTAGONISTIC realtor in all of Detroit, we had to hire Madana to come in and take over our house purchase deal. She was not only thorough and communicative, but she handled every aspect of the negotiation to protect us from a shady deal. You won't be disappointed working with her.
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08 Sep, 2024 by Jordan gallo
Very helpful and dealt w my legal issues in a professional way. Made it a super easy process
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08 Jul, 2024 by Dulce mulvihill
Carrah helped my husband and I go through the process of getting a green card for me. She was very good to work with. Knowledgeable, professional and pleasant
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09 Nov, 2024 by Martin gorgess
Whenever I’m in a bind I don’t stress I simply call HB Law.
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20 Sep, 2024 by Keyanni
My attorney was amazing she helped me out when I really needed it. I appreciate her so much I am so thankful. She absolutely worked above and beyond for me. So thankful.
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11 Sep, 2024 by Antonio asmar
I had Hillary over look a few contracts for me and she was professional , friendly, charged me a very fair rate and her feedback was amazing. I highly recommend
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31 Dec, 2024 by John mandrick
Barron, Rosenberg, Mayoras & Mayoras P.C. helped our family process Dad and Moms estate. Their staff was professional, knowledgeable, kind, and helpful. Kathryn Searle was exceptionally helpful, experienced, and knows how to get tasks done.
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18 Dec, 2024 by Jody astrein
We had a great experience working with Don Rosenberg. Excellent communication and trust was completed in a timely manner.
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03 Dec, 2024 by Maria poggi
11 Nov, 2012 by Anonymous
I have been having a very difficult time dealing with the new health care laws and my practice was dealing with so many issues I just could not handle anymore. I am so glad a friend told me about Serene. She recognized what was causing all the practice problems and made everything work so much better. Relief!
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07 Nov, 2012 by Anonymous
She truly helped me with my estate planning needs. I happen to be a physician and have retained her to help me with my practice. I have been extremely happy with the way she reviewed my office compliance and has instituted measures to help us with all the new health care laws. I am so happy with my legal services!
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25 Jul, 2015 by Anonymous
Steve helped me through a difficult family dispute, with professionalism and kept me on track. He always responded in a timely fashion and kept me updated along the way. I would recommend Steve to anyone in need of an attorney.
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16 Oct, 2017 by Anonymous
I was very pleased with her knowledge and experience in law and she helped me with my case not only in court but in my life.
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02 Sep, 2013 by Mahmoud
i want mr : marc a mattoni to take care of my case , because he handle my case since i have been in muskegon prison , and i was not guilty to be in prison but i plead guilty cause i spent over 9 months in jail , and mr mattoni knows about my case [ i was in muskegon prison in 1980] and now i am n egypt
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06 Dec, 2010 by Anonymous
Attorney was very professional in every contact. Gave unbiased opinions and explained things in a straight forward manner.
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03 Aug, 2024 by Mike p
You could ask for no one better to be in your corner. Great communication, smart, thorough, and tough. Liz is an amazing attorney and human being.
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10 Jul, 2024 by Lion heart
Liz is sharp and attentive and very caring. She is willing to help her clients and go above and beyond the call of duty.
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08 Jun, 2024 by Emily ogilvie
If you are looking for someone who will give you honest, heartfelt advice and guidance, look no further. Elizabeth is professional and direct while getting to the root of the issue and guiding you through it. Cannot recommend enough.
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24 Dec, 2024 by Nicholas salem
24 Dec, 2024 by Daniel omambo
18 Dec, 2024 by Paul bathanti
Called and tried getting an appointment to sit down with someone, discuss my.issues and was told they don't do that unless I pay $450 just to speak with someone for about 20 minutes. Absolutely ridiculous
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24 Dec, 2024 by Nicholas salem
24 Dec, 2024 by Daniel omambo
18 Dec, 2024 by Paul bathanti
Called and tried getting an appointment to sit down with someone, discuss my.issues and was told they don't do that unless I pay $450 just to speak with someone for about 20 minutes. Absolutely ridiculous
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Discover the ideal lawyer
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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.
