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28 Aug, 2019 by Darla
Truly the best Lawyer I have ever encountered!
We needed a Lawyer, we looked and researched Lawyer’s.
We made an appointment, met with him and hired him right then.
No more headaches for me. David took over and guided us.
He is a both a good person and Lawyer.
I highly recommend him.
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31 May, 2017 by Hector
I have worked closely with David for over 10 years. He is my “go to” guy when it comes to all matters involving real estate disputes, trust disputes and probate matters. I have referred him many clients and they have always been glad I did. David is not afraid to take on complicated and difficult matters. He’s sensitive to client’s concerns and is aggressive when he needs to be. Not only have I referred him to others, I have used him many times for my own personal legal matters that have come up from time to time.
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26 May, 2017 by Damon
I used David for a probate that involved the sale of real estate. True to his word, he advanced the costs and fees and helped me navigate the tricky tax and legal issues that arise in these complicated matters. David is a consummate professional who always looks out for the best interest of his clients. I highly recommend him.
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25 Oct, 2022 by Hector
Under Covide I received a Frivolous ADA WCAG website compliance lawsuit by the Frivolous "Handy Potter" Law firm who is not liked by the courts in San Francisco as their firm is an unprofessional legal milling practice & their fraudster client The plaintiff, "Un-Blinded" Andres Gomez. Of course my business was at a peril at that point in time, although Attorney Scott Karlin and his professional team, with Melissa and Dan were to the rescue. The lawsuit hit at the worse time in my family and my life as our business was struggling business. The level of service that Scott and his team brought was assuring. They even captured video surveillance of The Un-Blinded Andres Gomez walking around without any assistance discovering factually that Andres Gomez was not blind at all and consistently lied to the courts under oath. Andres Gomez and the Handy Potter has caused much harm to families and local small businesses and now, The Karlin group has brought much relief and stopped those carpet baggers from terrorising businesses using the false premises of being blind and using the ADA laws illegally. I want to thank the entire Karlin Group for their complete service from A-Z... Thank you Scott. Prayers to your team and yourself.. Case Dismissed..! Amen.
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06 May, 2018 by Mario azzopardi
He has always handled my legal matters. I. am very pleased with his services His staff are always friendly ready to help
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21 Aug, 2010 by Robert
Excellent Atorney and General Good Person
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10 Jul, 2016 by Anonymous
Mr. Cabrera is outstanding, ethical, polite, and hard-working. He is passionate about all of his cases and he is very affordable. He helped us win a breach of contract case and we are so happy we found him.
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09 Jul, 2016 by Jason
Being a 45 year old man, that has been through a rough divorce, as well as other legal challenges with respect to breach of contract and landlord-tenant laws, I have had to hire quite a few different attorneys over the years. Some did their jobs partially, others failed to satisfy at all. I am happy to say that Mr. Cabrera will be my attorney for life. He is so dedicated and passionate, and truly will fight for his clients with all he has. This man has heart, and is extremely intelligent. As a bonus, he is incredibly affordable and will work with you as needed on a case by case basis. He is truly a gem. In my situation, we were up against a greedy, unscrupulous landlord that refused to let us out of our lease from our non-smoking residence after they allowed a smoking tenant to occupy the adjacent property just months after my family moved in. We were being sued for almost $10,000 because we had to leave our lease early due to health issues exacerbated by the smoke. Not only did Mr. Cabrera win our case for us, but also got us almost $5000 payment in damages we received. We were so elated and couldn't believe that not only did we not owe anything, but received all of that money on top of it. Mr. Cabrera is truly the best attorney I have ever worked with. Again, he is so ethical, and truly passionate about all of his cases, and he is consistent. I truly feel blessed to have found Bryan as he is truly a remarkable attorney, and a genuinely good and honest person.
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03 Dec, 2015 by Arthur
I must give credit and praise to Attorney Bryan Cabrera Esq. His exceptional advocacy and timely follow up made the biggest difference. He returns calls and always keeps you abreast on ones case. I admire his integrity and straight talking ways. I highly recommend him. Thank you Bryan for your Professionilism and genuine decency. Your the Best.
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23 May, 2018 by Anonymous
I found Mr. Blevins to be an excellent business attorney providing both sound advice and great strategies. Mr. Blevins was initially retained to review a contract that I was about to get involved. He was able to point out some deficits in the contract which were then changed (I probably would not have caught them, maybe). It has proven to be a good choice to have him review our documents. Since the initial contact with Mr. Blevins, he has been retained as our corporate council. Now most all documents are run by him. We have found Mr. Blevins to be extremely attentive, trustworthy and reasonable with his time and charges. Mr. Blevins has my utmost confidence and I would recommend him to you. He has done some work for business associates and they notice the same things.
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22 May, 2018 by John
I hired Mr. Blevins to oversee our acquisition of another company and he since stayed on to serve as our outside general counsel. He is an excellent business attorney that spends the time to understand the unique goals and strategies of our company. Mr. Blevins always provides a quick turnaround on our contract review, answers compliance questions timely and makes himself readily available for any issues that may arise. He is top notch.
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18 May, 2018 by Anonymous
Chris has helped me with a number of real estate issues over the years from negotiating agreements to dealing with local government on land use matters. He is very diligent and always works very hard to accomplish my needs and goals. He has helped me tremendously with all of my legal needs and I could not give a higher recommendation.
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31 Jul, 2023 by Lajean
I have had a great experience working with this law firm. Very knowledgeable about the legal process ins and out and very thorough! They provide an array of legal services including drafting and reviewing legal documents and notorizing services including my will. Whenever I need sound legal advice, this law firm is the one I trust to give accurate guidance and legal advice.
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13 Jul, 2023 by Dereck
Working with SNR Law Group was a pleasure. They helped me with two major transactions. They helped me sell a Trust Property that was causing me problems before our engagement. Their legal expertise was second to none. They also helped me with a Breach of Contract matter that I could not resolve for two years prior by myself. I don't think I would have gotten the resolution we did without their involvement. I would recommend SNR Law Group for all your real estate and contract needs. They are great!
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13 Jul, 2023 by Peter
Ms. Redmond really helped us a lot. Our tenants were squatting, not paying rent, and destroying the premises. Our previous lawyer tried, but didn't get them out. Ms. Redmond knew exactly what to do. We highly recommend her.
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10 Mar, 2023 by Robert
We were lucky to find Deanna Stone and Aaron Morris of Morris and Stone Law Firm!
I was being named in an Anti-Slapp case by Senator Catherine Blakespear. Morris and Stone jumped in, wrote the Judge a very well thought out and detailed statement with supporting evidence from previous Supreme Court cases demonstrating that I should not be named in the Anti-SLAPP.
In the end the judge agreed with Morris & Stone's statement in its "Entirety". It was obvious the judge was impressed with Morris and Stone's defense.
If I ever have any legal issues in the future I will certainly contact Aaron Morris and Deanna Stone. If you're reading this review I recommend you call them as well, they give a great consultation are extremely knowledgeable and fair.
I'm very thankful that I found Morris & Stone!
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16 Nov, 2016 by Anonymous
Deanna is very professional and willing to help. I called for a free consultation and was surprised that my question was answered so thoroughly that I was able to proceed without a lawyer. Deanna answered all of my questions and at no time did I feel she was waiting for me to hire her. She was genuinely interested in my problem and spent about 45 minutes talking to me and even told me to call her back if I had any other questions. Her advice was spot on and did not cost me a dime. In the event I do need an attorney in the future, I will definitely call Deanna again.
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16 Nov, 2016 by Anonymous
I hired Morris & Stone to represent me on a Construction Management issue. She was professional & most of all worked with me on payments since I am a self-employed, self-supporting individual. Having her on board has helped to relieve the stress a law suit can cause. She was receptive & available immediately for my stressful phone calls. She has been clear on explaining issues to me and I feel like I have someone on my side.
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10 Nov, 2010 by Z
I went to seen many attorneys before meeting Attorney Zwick. He was very knowledgeable, compassionate and dedicated. He listen carefully to what I needed to say and then went to court to defend our case that was about to get thrown out of court and won a TRO and we are still in our home.
God bless him!
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10 Nov, 2010 by D m
I filed a complaint against the lender In Pro Per and after visiting another attorney in Los Angeles who took my case and didn't do anything for a month, a frien of mine referred me to Attorney Kenneth Zwick who was like an angel sent y God and saved my case.
He cares about his clients as much as his cases.
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09 May, 2022 by Sue
Mr Abendroth gave me at least an hour of his free time over the phone and helped me regarding a situation that I am currently dealing with. He was professional kind and compassionate and gave me concrete advice that I could use today.
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19 Jun, 2023 by D p “dpw” w
Top notch
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26 Aug, 2022 by Tom pearson
06 May, 2022 by Dustin deese
Donahoo and Associates recently handled an employment suit I had against a previous employer. Sarah, (1 of the attorneys), from their firm was amazing! She was very thorough and attentive throughout the entire process. Any concerns or questions I had were addressed promptly, and, I felt very informed and involved. They achieved an outcome, without having to go to trial, that I could not be happier with! They're an A+ firm & everyone I dealt with was professional, informative, and very accommodating. I would refer them to anyone in need of their services!
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06 Dec, 2024 by Lori smith
I needed some employment questions answered and Hogie & Campbell got back to me right away and offered some advice along with answering my questions.
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22 Nov, 2024 by Ma cho
23 Oct, 2024 by فرزاد افشار
عالیه
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27 Nov, 2024 by Cristian hernandez cortes
Ali is not only an incredible lawyer but person as well! He made sure to always be transparent with my case and throughout the whole process I always felt like I had someone fighting for me. I’ve recommended him to friends as well and they’ve all been extremely happy with everything!
Thank you!
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21 Nov, 2024 by Nisha patel
In life you random meet extraordinary people.
I must say that Mr. Komaili is one of those people. I had been working with another lawyer for almost three years who could not do anything with my case . Through grace and Mr. Komaili abilities I was able to get my case discharged! I am forever grateful for his help in a very difficult situation . He is kind and very diligent with his work! I would highly recommend him to anyone who needs a criminal lawyer!
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25 Sep, 2024 by Wayne sheppard
Had an issue, Scott personally spoke with me and talked me through the process,
Case was dismissed.
Highly recommend Scott and his firm.
Much appreciation.thanks again
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27 Mar, 2024 by Lawrence prudhomme
Good company
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19 Mar, 2024 by Keith louton jr
Jennifer and Joel were truly helpful and patient with me when I was doing my divorce. They helped every step of the way especially questions or concerns i had they always got back to me in a timely manner. Very friendly as well and just helped me get through a tough time
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19 Mar, 2024 by Ryan n
Charles is a highly skilled attorney who fights hard for his clients. He is easy to communicate with and very reliable. He means business and is determined to get best results for your case. Charles is passionate about his work and his clients. He truly understands the value of his clients cases. He fought my case against a big firm and bigger company with amazing precision and ultimately won a settlement well into the six figures. I have referred Charles to my own family and I highly recommend him for you. You will be elated with the results that Charles can get for you.
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27 Mar, 2024 by Lawrence prudhomme
Good company
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19 Mar, 2024 by Keith louton jr
Jennifer and Joel were truly helpful and patient with me when I was doing my divorce. They helped every step of the way especially questions or concerns i had they always got back to me in a timely manner. Very friendly as well and just helped me get through a tough time
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19 Mar, 2024 by Ryan n
Charles is a highly skilled attorney who fights hard for his clients. He is easy to communicate with and very reliable. He means business and is determined to get best results for your case. Charles is passionate about his work and his clients. He truly understands the value of his clients cases. He fought my case against a big firm and bigger company with amazing precision and ultimately won a settlement well into the six figures. I have referred Charles to my own family and I highly recommend him for you. You will be elated with the results that Charles can get for you.
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03 Aug, 2018 by Bruce borden
11 Dec, 2024 by Reza heydarinia
You will not find another attorney that cares about her clients as much as Farnoush cares for her clients.
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06 Dec, 2024 by Franciesca guerrero
I’ve had the pleasure of having Mr. Charles help me renew my DACA over the past years. He is very responsive and responsible. I have had family go through him and they have had great results and experience. If you are looking for an immigration lawyer, look no further. Thank you Mr. Charles, I appreciate your help.
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15 Nov, 2024 by Bryce lujan
10/10
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11 Dec, 2024 by Reza heydarinia
You will not find another attorney that cares about her clients as much as Farnoush cares for her clients.
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06 Dec, 2024 by Franciesca guerrero
I’ve had the pleasure of having Mr. Charles help me renew my DACA over the past years. He is very responsive and responsible. I have had family go through him and they have had great results and experience. If you are looking for an immigration lawyer, look no further. Thank you Mr. Charles, I appreciate your help.
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15 Nov, 2024 by Bryce lujan
10/10
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02 Aug, 2024 by Aylinn huerta flores (student whs)
22 May, 2024 by Test
25 Nov, 2023 by Chad richardson
No words can describe the gratitude that me and my family have for you. The way you took time you and your team with the investigation and how thoroughly you put together your arguments from beginning until closing you gave us hope, when hope was lost. Mr Garson, you changed a potential 75 year sentence to a 1 year sentence. The Brown and Richardson family appreciate YOU. You got a man with 3 strikes 1 year on a 664/187 charge. We are forever grateful. Best Criminal Defense Attorney.
Sincerely,
Chad Richardson
Aka FREE MAN!
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25 Jul, 2024 by Ruth relf
I am so grateful to Katie Walsh for her professional and compassionate service. From Day 1, dealing with completely panicked parents who had no idea what was going on and why our young teen was being detained, Katie was able to provide the information, and the guidance, we needed to calm down and move forward.
Katie responded very quickly to our enquiry for help, spent time with us on the phone on a weekend, told us what to do/say and what not to, what the process would be, and most of all provided assurance.
Katie knows the Orange County Juvenile Court, the people and how it works inside and out. She is worth every penny. She got our teen back home with us as quickly as was possible and steered us through the court and probation process to getting the most positive outcome we could expect. The case is dismissed and sealed!
Thank you, thank you, thank you. Don't hesitate to call Kate Walsh for a brief consultation - you won't regret it.
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24 Jun, 2024 by Kimberly oli
This review is long overdue. I would highly recommend Katie Walsh for legal representation for your child!!! Katie was very professional and in constant communication about our situation. She helped us in working with the district attorney’s office to get the best outcome for our daughter.
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22 Jun, 2024 by Chet hartley
Will Bruzzo is honest, reliable, responsible, savvy, confident, flexible, knowledgeable, reassuring, calm,
experienced, communicative, supportive, patient and well-connected. What set Will apart initially, was that he was the only attorney that responded to me virtually immediately after I submitted a contact form. He listened to me and didn’t judge my behavior nor actions. After becoming familiar with what
transpired, he developed a plan – a reasonable plan based on the circumstances and evidence. As the
process unfolded, at each decision point, he described the possible outcomes and then recommended that he believed was the best course of action - but always allowed me to make the final decision on
which way (when and how) to go. He was never patronizing and was careful to never over-promise. He always answered my texts, emails and phone calls in a timely manner. I never felt that he was “aloof,” avoiding me, too busy or difficult to reach. I never felt that he “didn’t care.” While I went through multiple emotional stages (anger, frustration, confusion, helplessness, impatience, uncertainty, etc.), he remained resolved that his plan would work. He never promised that his plan would be 100% successful, but he laid it out clearly and stuck to it. He knew most of the other players (judges, DAs and courtroom staff) and they knew him. Over time, he has become familiar with how specific judges decide on certain
issues. Some judges are more lenient in certain areas, while others are more strict. He combined this experiential knowledge with his patient and methodical manner to guide me to the best possible outcome. In the end, his plan worked – exactly how he said it would. He would probably be the first to
say that my case could have gone any number of other ways, but it was no accident that the plan he laid out came together just as we both had hoped.
Regarding money, it's hard to tell if Will's fees were appropriate or excessive, because I didn't have time to "shop around." Could I have "saved money" by hiring someone else? Maybe. But you never know if someone else will charge less upfront, but then nickel and dime you to death later on. Will had a fixed fee that I thought was pretty high, but looking back, his services (and his character) were worth every penny.
Will Bruzzo is a straight-shooter, does what he says, and is a man of his word. Tough to put a price tag on that.
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27 Mar, 2023 by M
Charged me over $40,000 came to court unprepared every single time did not have the proper documentation that I provided to him months in advance.
Take copies of your own documents to court if you decide you want to hire him.
The only thing he did, that was good, was the deposition, but he was not able to use it in court, because he forgets things and he’s very rude.
He promised me everything and delivered nothing, failed every single time.
Other lawyers called him a showman.
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13 Jan, 2023 by Anonymous
Look at all of the reviews. I have a similar experience as one of the reviewers. My case was also passed off from father to son. Great experience with the father (Milo), horrible experience with the son (Mathew). The attorney failed to close out my case administratively. I didn't even get a final judgement (of course they charge you for every document, "even emails"). My issues are deep with this office and I'm about to go file a complaint and enter into some litigation behind the outcome of my past case. Just like the prior reviewer stated they don't return calls (at least Matthew doesn't, father is now retired). Most importantly is the lack of respect.
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22 Mar, 2022 by Kate
Best attorney you can ask for in criminal/family law. He manages your expectations so you know exactly what to expect. In serious matters like this, I greatly value how straight forward he is. He as also referred me to the best traffic lawyer that I have now used for years. He is also very reliable and answer your questions and concerns with urgency. You really get what you pay for with Matthew!
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03 Apr, 2019 by Anonymous
I should have read these reviews before hiring Mr. Silverstein for an unlawful detainer, because I had similar issues with him as these reviewers mention. I manage an apartment complex, but am also in my final year of law school, so I've learned a great deal about what to expect from attorneys. Mr. Silverstein did not comport with my expectations of a good attorney:
1. Mr. Silverstein did not send a retainer agreement, even when I requested a formal statement of the proposed fee and what services that would entail. His paralegal instead told me that we would be sent an invoice at the conclusion of the case. As a result, I was disappointed to learn after paying for his services that his fee for an unlawful detainer did not include a request for money judgment.
2. In addition, he did not send me anything he filed without me requesting it from him. In fact, he did not update me on the case at all unless I specifically followed up with him, and even then, he (or his paralegals) would only answer one of my questions in an email with multiple questions. It was frustrating. Potential clients of his should note that California Rule of Professional Conduct 1.4(a)(3) creates an affirmative duty for the attorney to keep the client reasonably informed of significant developments relating to the representation. His failure to update me on what he filed with the court is arguably a violation of this rule.
3. Lastly, while this may not matter to some people, I found his email etiquette to be atrocious. My professors would probably reprimand me for composing emails as dismissive and informal as his. No salutation, no sign-off. Sometimes I had no idea who I was communicating with.
I suppose he got the job done (though I have no proof, as I never saw a judgment or writ of execution, and the tenants being evicted vacated before the lock-out), but I would appreciate more effective, polite, and professional communication. I think I could find another eviction attorney who is more affordable, comprehensive, and professional.
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03 Mar, 2019 by Lee
I am a landlord. Unfortunately I allowed my tenants to move in to my rental property without their move in deposit paid in full.
My tenants than proceeded to reside at my property and never paid rents nor the remainder of their deposits owed. This carried one for 3 months.
After I paid Mr Silverstein’s office the correct fees in full ... I never heard from him again nor did he ever returned my phone calls or emails. I was in the dark as to what his gameplan was or is.
Day of court date he showed up an hour late and told me he is having a colleague of his stand in for him. I TOLD HIM UNACCEPTABLE.
ON MY COURT DATE... I REALIZED MR SILVERSTEIN NEVER EVEN TEVIEWED THE FILINGS OR THE CASE THEREFORE MY CASE FILED (by Silverstein) WAS INVALID.
WHAT KIND OF ATTORNEY IS HE REALLY? AND NOW HE WILL NOT REFILE HIS MISTAKE AND BLAMES ME FOR DISMISSAL.
I’m not the attorney nor do I have a law degree and this is why I hired an attorney. So that someone with knowledge of the law as well as knowledge of what is to be filed and NOT FILED.
Mr Silverstein failed me in every possible way and has refused to re-file nor accept his mistakes in my case. Even the judge stated that my case was dismissed due to my filing.
I will be filing a complaint against Mr Silverstein. He should jot hold a bar license.
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27 Dec, 2018 by Anonymous
I used his firm a few years back to help with an eviction. While it was a stressful situation for me, the law firm's communication and handling didn't make it much easier. They sent someone to help represent me in court, and it was the first time I had ever met that particular individual. Though the outcome was satisfactory, it felt like they did the minimum to complete my case.
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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.
