>305
experienced lawyers
Filter by
15 Aug, 2024 by Anonymous
Michael represented me in a case and was very easy to communicate with, always responsive to any questions or concerns I may have had. Very compassionate and fought for what was best.
I truly am thankful for all the help. Thank you!
Read more
06 Aug, 2024 by Dave
My father passed away without a will. Further complicating the situation is that he owned a property in Arizona and I live in Minnesota. Mike flawlessly executed the work I needed done. He was awesome in his follow up and attention to detail and made sure I was comfortable with the process. I would definitely recommend Mike for your legal needs.
Read more
26 May, 2024 by Patricia
Michael was very helpful with a review and guidance for a commercial lease. He responded quickly and answered all of my questions. I would recommend him to others needing this service.
Read more
25 May, 2023 by Byron
Adam responded right away to my query about tenant's rights. He explained the tenant law applicable to our situation over the phone and gave us great advice which should help address our problem. Very unselfish, knowledgeable, and a great help. Thank you!
Read more
11 May, 2023 by Peg
Adam Weisman called me as soon as he received my request for a consultation. After I reviewed my issue and gave him all the information, he immediately went to work. He gave me my options which I chose to hire him to represent me. Her drafted a letter for my approval, forwarded it. The letter was quite specific and he reviewed the laws in respect to my case. I can happily say the case was closed without having to go to court or without any follow up. He did an awesome job and I would highly recommend him to anyone who needs assistance in his area of expertise. Should any occasion occur in the future I would definitely contact him even if it would be for a referral to another type of attorney. Great job Adam!!!
Read more
19 Mar, 2023 by Chris crownover
Easy to work with, very professional and kept us informed. Assistant was very friendly and helpful in answering our questions.
Read more
05 May, 2021 by Anonymous
Jeff Brei quickly grasped our legal issues, recommended a course of action, and proceeded to put that plan into effect. When the other side realized that they were dealing with a firm that had a specialty in real estate, they withdrew their complaint. Case closed.
Read more
02 Mar, 2021 by Anonymous
Brei Law helped us with an easement description, needed for a real estate project. The firm also communicated with the other party.
Read more
26 Mar, 2020 by Claudia
I highly recommend Jeff Brei and his law office. I hired him when I had problems with the property management company that managed my rental property. He reviewed my case within a few hours, discussed the issues with me and suggested a course of action. When I mentioned that I thought the property manager wasn’t taking me seriously, he contacted the property manager himself and took care of everything immediately. All the problems with the property management company were resolved and I couldn’t be happier with the results. Jeff is the best lawyer in Tucson. His office assistants are very friendly, helpful and respond to questions in record time.
Read more
08 Oct, 2017 by Christine
Mark Heckele did a thorough job of creating all the legal paperwork I needed as a co-trustee to complete a purchase agreement for my mothers property. He was timely, courteous and answered all my questions. It also was far less hassle and less expensive then going through a real estate agent. Thank you Mark!
Read more
13 Aug, 2017 by Wayne&maureen
My wife and I were referred to Mark by a realtor and originally consulted with him on several occasions over the past several years concerning our rental property. We were considering letting the property go into foreclosure for a number of personal reasons. He gave us clear options for us to make an informed decision on how to proceed. We decided to stop payment on the house and let it go into foreclosure. During this process, we consulted with him again to get some clarity on issues we had with the process and he answered all questions and explained in terms that we understood how to continue. The process has taken over 2 years total, and at the beginning of this year (2017), we were served with papers from the bank that a dispute over the description of the property was in question. At this point, we hired Mark to assist with the legal aspect of the banks filing. In what seemed like a complicated issue, Mark was able to settle the issue with the bank and get us out from under the legal aspect of the case. I found Mark to be very knowledgeable and extremely helpful in our consultations and easy to work with. He exceeded all of our expectations in the final out come of our situation. Thank you Mark for all your assistance in what was a very stressful time.
Read more
07 Jun, 2016 by Thomas
I hired Mark to collect a debt owed to me. Mark went over my situation, answered my questions and explained the complete process prior to hiring him to be my lawyer. Mark methodically briefed me and kept me fully informed during the whole progression of my lawsuit and case. It was a pleasure working with Mark to resolve my claim against the people that owed money to me on a past due debt. Mark worked with me to recover this debt and worked on a fair settlement with the defendants before the case when to a trial. Unfortunately the defendants were not reasonable and the case had to be resolved by the court. Mark obtained a default judgement for me that included my legal fees and interest on the unpaid debt. I would hire Mark again as he was very straight with me through the entire progression of my case. His entire office staff was polite and pleasant to work with. I consider Mark to have utmost integrity and a being that makes him an excellent attorney. I am extremely happy with the outcome of my lawsuit. My thanks goes to Mark Heckele.
Read more
07 Apr, 2013 by Clayton
Russell Krone has represented my legal interests for over twenty years. The areas of representation have included corporate negotiations and litigation, real estate transactions, community service, and personal matters. I would recommend Russ without reservation as an attorney with the highest level of integrity, competence and fairness in billing. Over the years, I have recommended Russ to a number of business associates, colleagues and friends and have always found their experiences to be wholly positive.
Read more
02 Mar, 2013 by Gordon
Russ has represented me as my coporate lawyer for some 25 years. He has had a very high success rate resolving a number of corporate issues relating to various types of business disputes over that period. He has also helped structure customized contracts for numerous multifaceted complex transations. I particularly appreciate his willingness to minimize my legal costs by seeking reasonable resolutions as quickly as possible and his ability to review the outline of a unique transaction and structure a reasonable agreement acceptable to all parties involved.
Read more
27 Feb, 2013 by Amber
I have never had the experience of dealing with a lawyer before. Russ Krone has despelled everything I had ever heard about attorneys. He stayed on top of my case, and kept me informed. He was easy to talk to and very informative of what directions I could and should take. He allowed me to make the final dicisions and what would be best for me.
Even now after it is more or less a closed case their are still some loose ends and I call Russ with whatever questions I have and still have to deal with with the my x-partner. He always answers me right away and is happy to find an answer to my problem.
Read more
04 Jan, 2021 by Don
Mr. Gonzalez is an exceptional attorney. His knowledge, foresight, and compassion to do what's right are commendable. His advocacy cannot be understated.
He stepped in where other attorneys wouldn't, turned our case around, and saved the families homestead from a forced sale.
We highly recommend Mr. Gonzalez and his legal team. They will stand by you and keep you well informed of the process and progress of your case.
Read more
31 Jul, 2014 by Mellisse
I have worked for Stephen as a paralegal and investigator on many of his cases over the past twenty years. Stephen has also represented me on three cases that I can remember. He takes cases that other attorneys are not capable of handling. He is not intimidated by bullying tactics from opposing counsel. Stephen is proficient in commercial litigation, probate, construction and real estate. He also has a working knowledge of bankruptcy, criminal, and domestic law because these specialized areas of law can filter in to his primary practice. Stephen’s ethics are of the highest caliber and he works diligently for his clients although many of them do not appreciate just how hard he works. A client will never find Stephen Gonzalez faltering, tripping or stumbling in the courtroom because is always prepared when he goes to court.
Read more
01 Jul, 2014 by Rich
Stephen has been instrumental in our current legal easement case. He is knowledgeable and well versed in 'the system.' He also explains the legal process along each step of the way, and points out possible responses from opposing council, and alternate approaches. I couldn't be more pleased with the results we've received.
Read more
18 Jan, 2022 by Michelle
I called Evan Thompson to discuss a serious contractual dispute, and despite it being before hours, he took my call and the time to speak to me. I was ready to hire him and pay him, but he quickly outlined my situation from a legal standpoint, which made it obvious I needed to pursue other options for now. Clearly extremely competent in his field and unwilling to engage and take my money unless he felt he could be sincerely useful. He will be the first person I call should I need an attorney in this field.
Read more
19 Dec, 2016 by Anonymous
Mr. Thompson handled two construction claims for us in both mediation and arbitration. He was professional and resourceful in building winning arguments. He knows the law and is practical in his approach. I would recommend him in to help in any business related matters.
Read more
30 Jun, 2015 by Will
I called, wondering if I could speak with Mr. Thompson himself and was pleased. I was put right through to him.
He explained his answers clearly and in a friendly, helpful manner! I would recommend this firm to anyone needing help with complex contract issues.
Read more
24 Oct, 2020 by Ellen
March Enterprises LLC had the need for legal assistance with a commercial tenant . Justin Castillo did a very professional job for us in a timely manner after discussing the issues with us thoroughly and following through with our instructions
We would be very comfortable hiring Mr. Castillo to assist us in the future.
Read more
04 Mar, 2020 by Marcia
We contacted Justin regarding an eviction. He was able to complete task in the most professional manner, He Was very thorough, and was able to complete the process in a timely manner. We were able to complete the process without going to court. my sister and I would recommend Justin and use his services again.
Read more
02 Mar, 2019 by Judith d.
Justin D. Castillo, Esq, of the Brei Law firm is a most knowledgeable, conscientious and diligent lawyer. He promptly resolved a contractual dispute on my behalf and saved me thousands of dollars. I highly recommend this exceptionally gifted lawyer.
Thank you, Justin.
Read more
18 Aug, 2019 by Laura
I have known Doug Zirkle for over thirty years. I hired him to represent me many times through out these years and was very happy and satisfied with the result. When in need I turned to him for his knowledge and expertise. Doug has seen me through difficult times without fail more than once. I have found him to be ethical and very helpful in his areas of the law he practices, giving of his time in a fair manner.
In the past He has represented me in court also with success, and was excellent. I was relieved to have him there by my side. He has a patient manner explaining things to me repeatedly if need be in turn keeping me calm and confident. I feel fortunate to have found him and hired him to be my representative through out these times. He assisted me in family matters, as well as Real Estate, Wills, Trusts and other Legal matters. I have been very pleased and satisfied with the result and his representation. When I was uncertain how to proceed he was there to give me direction, dependable at each turn of events over time. Therefore, developing a sense of trust, in knowing he would help me. I would highly recommend him to others without hesitation in need of a lawyer in court or otherwise.
I feel fortunate to have know him and am appreciative of the work and time he has given me, and believe you will be too if in need of an Attorney. He gave me his undivided attention while we were in discussion of Matters repeating the details to make certain I fully understood the facts moving forward. It has been a privilege knowing him these past years, assisting me in different areas of the law with success. I am thankful to Doug for his help and again would not hesitate to recommend him to others.
Read more
12 Jul, 2019 by Cindy
Doug is a skilled attorney as well as a patient and kind man. He is an excellent communicator and he kept me well informed. Doug was thorough and diligent, always working to secure my best interests. He kept me sane throughout a long, frustrating process during which I never doubted his honesty and ability. I believe he did an outstanding job handling my divorce.
Read more
30 Apr, 2019 by Sandy
Throughout the process, Doug Zirkle covered all the possibilities in a most thorough manner. Although he is obviously well qualified in family law, he patiently explained details to me and was never condescending. Replying to my e-mail and phone inquiries in a prompt fashion, Doug was genuinely concerned that I completely understand whatever situation was discussed. At every step, he was well-prepared. Ending a forty-seven year marriage is never an easy task, but Doug’s knowledgeable and compassionate guidance was certainly appropriate and appreciated.
Read more
10 May, 2016 by Gary
My wife and I have been clients of Charles Smith for many years. He wrote our estate plan, established our LLC and has advised us about business and tax planning. We are very pleased with his service which is timely and accurate. We highly recommend Charles Smith.
Read more
05 Nov, 2013 by Russell
Mr. Smith has handled estate planning documents and contracts for me for years. He is straight-forward, incredibly helpful and insightful.
His knowledge is absolutely invaluable. Thank you very much for your help.
Read more
02 Nov, 2013 by Alicia wadas
Charles is one of the smartest people you'll meet. He knows the law well and is able to draw upon his experience and worldly knowledge in guiding clients. He's always answered my questions thoroughly and in a way that a non-lawyer can understand. Charles has also been able to help me see a comfortable resolution to any issue. He's also personable and is able to contribute to a conversation beyond law. Last but not least, his billing is fair and the hourly rate quite reasonable for an attorney of his experience. I have worked with Charles for most of the years he has been in practice and intend to stick with him for my business needs.
Read more
30 Dec, 2019 by Rebecca
They are good lawyer they are helping me with everything in my case i would referral him to anyone who needs a lawyer..thank you so very much
Read more
15 Sep, 2013 by Andrew
Richard has handled 4-6 legal matters for me, one of a serious and protracted nature. He certainly cares for his clients and ethically pursues the best possible outcome, but is unafraid to throw down the gloves and fight when necessary. He kept me well-informed, I understood all may options and he received my input thoughtfully. His background as a professional engineer and a long-time businessman with an MBA, gives him a well-roundedness that is not always seen among lawyers. Finally, having learned the specifics of his so-called "disciplinary record," what Richard did was 100% commendable because he gave a voice to a juvenile client who was counting on him and whom no one else would help. He was the only one in "the system" to reach this young man and he put his client's rights above a judge's bogus order. Well done, Richard!
Read more
23 Jan, 2018 by Jm
Jim Whitehill has advised me regarding my business for many years. He has reviewed contracts, assisted with real estate transactions, and given advice regarding other business issues. I am highly satisfied with his legal services and unconditionally recommend him. I have given his name to several of my colleagues and acquaintances through the years.
Read more
16 Dec, 2009 by Anonymous
He handled my collection matters and acted very professional when things got persnickety. It's good to have someone you can trust like Jim around.
Read more
17 Sep, 2019 by Carol
Mr. Sundt advised my husband and me over several years relating to a major home renovation project. When a subcontractor seriously deviated from the contract and permitted plans, creating a halt to the entire job, Mr. Sundt was able to made a very prompt and positive settlement on our behalf.
He not only has exceptional knowledge and experience in construction law, but his professionalism and demeanor make him a pleasure to work with.
Read more
02 Aug, 2013 by Rollin
Review by Rollin, retired VP of Sundt Corp
I have known and worked with John for over ten years. This includes working with him at Sundt Corp, as well as his help in starting my own company.
John has always been very responsive in helping with contractural legal advice on projects that I was working on, including advice on projects in Mexico. His advice and recommendations always proved to be correct.
John's personality is very upbeat and cheerful, and a pleasure to work with.
I highly recommend John.
Read more
13 Jun, 2013 by James
Jodi has been a pleasure to have on my team and has quided me through a very difficult building purchase but at the end all parties are happy.
Read more
10 Jan, 2018 by Anonymous
Blythe was extremely knowledgeable and diligent with our case. Blythe is professional and responded promptly to all our questions and concerns. Was so thankful to find Blythe as she was advantageous and successful with our stressful tenant situation. I would highly recommend Blythe to anyone!
Read more
26 Mar, 2012 by Sylvia
Richard is a very good at what he does, he makes sure he does every thing he can for his clients, he is very respectful and is very knowledgeable. He is the best attorney I have ever had work on any of my cases.
Read more
15 Oct, 2012 by Adam garcia.
Mr, Manning is the best lawyer I have ever hired. My daughter was in toruble witht he la for something she did not do, and Mr. Manning helped prove her innocence. mr. Manning should be hired by all business men and women also, because he knows where his head is and he knows how to get you what you deserve.
Read more
03 Aug, 2012 by Dave
Jim Sakrison has advised me multiple times on business-to-business contracts I needed to complete. He is experienced, easy to understand and pragmatic. I recommend him.
Read more
30 Jun, 2015 by Anonymous
We are very pleased with the services Mr. Sylvester provided. He is very professional and knowledgeable. Rates were very reasonable. We could not have been happier. We plan to use Thomas for many other transactions in the future.
Read more
22 Jan, 2010 by Liam
My case was tough and filled with seedy details. Like a Samurai swordmaker, this counsel methodically evaluated the case from different angles until his recommendation came shining through. He takes his work very seriously and takes crap from no one. Both he and the lawyer who gave me his name are straight shooters, this is true.
Read more
11 Mar, 2020 by Mike c
I hired Mike and I recommend him. He understood my situation quickly and gave me concise advice.
Read more
20 May, 2015 by Deborah
Kathy Winger has helped me with a business legal issue for my company. She is on top of the issue and has great follow up. It is a real pleasure to work with her. I would highly recommend her.
Read more
10 Oct, 2018 by Meg
John represented me in an overdue situation where we were forced to react to a claim from my ex husband. John was very through and effective and saved me from a settlement. He was very clear and direct. He was exactly what i needed in a strong advocate to not get pushed around or taken advantage of. Thank you :)
Read more
25 Jul, 2024 by Carol weber
Simply the best experience we could have had with our Estate planning process!
Read more
14 Jul, 2023 by Sheri pfautz
After my inquiry email, Mr. Leonard graciously called me right away, even though it was late in the evening after his normal work hours. We discussed my situation in an initial consultation, and even though he was unable to assist on the matter, he offered me detailed advice on options for proceeding. I would recommend Mr. Leonard.
Read more
20 Dec, 2021 by David ifflander
Great place to take care of estate planning!!!
Read more
25 Jul, 2024 by Carol weber
Simply the best experience we could have had with our Estate planning process!
Read more
14 Jul, 2023 by Sheri pfautz
After my inquiry email, Mr. Leonard graciously called me right away, even though it was late in the evening after his normal work hours. We discussed my situation in an initial consultation, and even though he was unable to assist on the matter, he offered me detailed advice on options for proceeding. I would recommend Mr. Leonard.
Read more
20 Dec, 2021 by David ifflander
Great place to take care of estate planning!!!
Read more
10 Jun, 2023 by Jennifer becker
No-nonsense, highly experienced, professional, and notably superior to my other limited experiences with lawyers.
Read more
02 Nov, 2021 by O k
07 May, 2021 by Kelsey thompson
11 Dec, 2017 by Bobby haapala
I dont know the words to use to show how thankful we are for Mrs. Haralambie's services. If you are looking for a dependency attorney or any other family law situation you won't find another attorney with the experience of Ann Haralambie. She is both aggressive and straight brilliant in the court room. She is very confident in the court room and very well spoken.She will tell you the way it is and she does not make false promises. Everyone that we talked to told us that its impossible to get you child back at a temporary custody hearing. Ann told us not to expect her to come home that it is very hard to win these hearings. Thank's to Mrs. Haralambie's 40 plus year's of family law experience we brought our daughter home on that date. Mrs. Haralambie is not only a great Attorney but a very compassionate person.Both my wife and I highly recommend anyone with a case like a dependency case to not waste any time and get Mrs. Haralambie on your side.There is nothing more important then family and I am very thankful that Mrs. Haralambie was the one that we had fighting to keep ours together.She was the only dependency attorney that a origination called Mito Action had to refer us to.Mito Action is a non profit group that helps protect children with mitochondrial issues and educate both doctors and the public about this very difficult to diagnose disease. They dont hand out recommendation's to just anyone. Thank you Ann for all that you have done we will for ever be in debt to you
Read more
20 Nov, 2016 by J. myers
11 Dec, 2017 by Bobby haapala
I dont know the words to use to show how thankful we are for Mrs. Haralambie's services. If you are looking for a dependency attorney or any other family law situation you won't find another attorney with the experience of Ann Haralambie. She is both aggressive and straight brilliant in the court room. She is very confident in the court room and very well spoken.She will tell you the way it is and she does not make false promises. Everyone that we talked to told us that its impossible to get you child back at a temporary custody hearing. Ann told us not to expect her to come home that it is very hard to win these hearings. Thank's to Mrs. Haralambie's 40 plus year's of family law experience we brought our daughter home on that date. Mrs. Haralambie is not only a great Attorney but a very compassionate person.Both my wife and I highly recommend anyone with a case like a dependency case to not waste any time and get Mrs. Haralambie on your side.There is nothing more important then family and I am very thankful that Mrs. Haralambie was the one that we had fighting to keep ours together.She was the only dependency attorney that a origination called Mito Action had to refer us to.Mito Action is a non profit group that helps protect children with mitochondrial issues and educate both doctors and the public about this very difficult to diagnose disease. They dont hand out recommendation's to just anyone. Thank you Ann for all that you have done we will for ever be in debt to you
Read more
20 Nov, 2016 by J. myers
11 Dec, 2017 by Bobby haapala
I dont know the words to use to show how thankful we are for Mrs. Haralambie's services. If you are looking for a dependency attorney or any other family law situation you won't find another attorney with the experience of Ann Haralambie. She is both aggressive and straight brilliant in the court room. She is very confident in the court room and very well spoken.She will tell you the way it is and she does not make false promises. Everyone that we talked to told us that its impossible to get you child back at a temporary custody hearing. Ann told us not to expect her to come home that it is very hard to win these hearings. Thank's to Mrs. Haralambie's 40 plus year's of family law experience we brought our daughter home on that date. Mrs. Haralambie is not only a great Attorney but a very compassionate person.Both my wife and I highly recommend anyone with a case like a dependency case to not waste any time and get Mrs. Haralambie on your side.There is nothing more important then family and I am very thankful that Mrs. Haralambie was the one that we had fighting to keep ours together.She was the only dependency attorney that a origination called Mito Action had to refer us to.Mito Action is a non profit group that helps protect children with mitochondrial issues and educate both doctors and the public about this very difficult to diagnose disease. They dont hand out recommendation's to just anyone. Thank you Ann for all that you have done we will for ever be in debt to you
Read more
20 Nov, 2016 by J. myers
11 Dec, 2017 by Bobby haapala
I dont know the words to use to show how thankful we are for Mrs. Haralambie's services. If you are looking for a dependency attorney or any other family law situation you won't find another attorney with the experience of Ann Haralambie. She is both aggressive and straight brilliant in the court room. She is very confident in the court room and very well spoken.She will tell you the way it is and she does not make false promises. Everyone that we talked to told us that its impossible to get you child back at a temporary custody hearing. Ann told us not to expect her to come home that it is very hard to win these hearings. Thank's to Mrs. Haralambie's 40 plus year's of family law experience we brought our daughter home on that date. Mrs. Haralambie is not only a great Attorney but a very compassionate person.Both my wife and I highly recommend anyone with a case like a dependency case to not waste any time and get Mrs. Haralambie on your side.There is nothing more important then family and I am very thankful that Mrs. Haralambie was the one that we had fighting to keep ours together.She was the only dependency attorney that a origination called Mito Action had to refer us to.Mito Action is a non profit group that helps protect children with mitochondrial issues and educate both doctors and the public about this very difficult to diagnose disease. They dont hand out recommendation's to just anyone. Thank you Ann for all that you have done we will for ever be in debt to you
Read more
20 Nov, 2016 by J. myers
Discover the ideal lawyer
You can search a lawyer by practice area, lawyer name, city, state, or ZIP code
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.
