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18 Mar, 2020 by Nadyr
Ed guided me in avoided a bad real estate deal. Much appreciate his thorough understanding of my overall situation.
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08 May, 2019 by Anonymous
Ed was incredibly helpful from the time I reached out to ask about my matter in municipal court. The intake was seamless, Ed's billable rate was more than reasonable, and he was soooo responsive and knowledgeable. He negotiated a reduced no-point penalty for my traffic matter and walked me through exactly what to expect during the hearing. It was as painless an engagement as I could have hoped for. Ed is a consummate professional and I cannot recommend his services any more highly.
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05 Jan, 2018 by Boris
Edward is analytical, professional, and always has gone an extra mile for me. I am confident I found my lawyer for years to come. Thank you, Ed!
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16 Apr, 2015 by Anonymous
MRS. MUNOZ WAS SUCH A GREAT HELP IN MY ONGOING CHILD SUPPORT/CUSTODY BATTLE. SHE IS VERY STRAIGHT FORWARD AND HONEST. SHE TELLS IT AS IT IS. SHES VERY TRUST WORTHY, ONE OF THE FEW ATTORNEYS I KNOW WITH SUCH INTEGRITY. HER STAFF IS VERY POLITE. HER ASSISTANT SAT WITH ME PERSONALLY AND HELPED ME FILL OUT FORMS I WAS UNSURE OF AND MADE ME FEEL VERY COMFORTABLE. SHES VERY AFFORDABLE AS WELL. I WOULD DEFINITELY USE HER AGAIN IF NEEDED AND WOULDNT HESITATE TO RECOMMEND HER TO FRIENDS AND FAMILY!
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20 Mar, 2015 by Anonymous
Mrs. Munoz was not only attentive to my needs but also was able to help me when others couldn't! She is a great family law attorney and i would highly recommend her to others! She is extremely trustworthy and above all, HONEST! Her staff are very courteous and always go the extra mile to make sure i am kept informed of my case and make sure i was always satisfied.
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23 Jul, 2024 by Ze zhao
Mr. Wolfberg's professionalism was outstanding. He is incredibly knowledgeable and provided expert advice that was invaluable to my case.
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21 Jun, 2024 by Jiabin hu
Attorney Wolfberg helped me with my home purchase and mortgage. Very professional service and highly recommended!
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19 Jun, 2024 by Manny nadelman
Matt Wolfberg has been our attorney since 1977 when we closed on our house. He was outstanding then and has remained so over the past 47 years. He has written and revised our wills, defended us in traffic court, and has provided sage advice for a range of legal matters. Most recently, he was our attorney for the sale of house that we bought in 1977. As always, Matt was knowledgeable, competent, attentive to detail, and patient. Highly recommended!
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20 May, 2024 by Carol
Please don’t waste your money on this extremely unprofessional so called attorney. He had my case for almost 2 years when it shouldn’t of taken no more then 6 months. Not once did he called me or emailed me. I had to call and only got to speak with his secretary. They dismissed my case and he had no clue. 6 months later it was refilled only because I sent numerous emails. A day before going to court he tells me he wants an additional $1,250 when then whole case was suppose to cost $1,000. If I can give him zero stars I would. So now I’m out $800 and my case is not even done. Now I have to find another attorney because I refuse to pay this scammer.
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07 Aug, 2023 by Leticia
The Law Offices of Osualdo Gonzalez has been a life saver. I’ve been going through financial hardship due a career change, moving, my grandmother & younger brother suddenly passing away, The Writer’s Strike affecting my main source of income, and an unfair lawsuit against me. I called Mr. Osualdo Gonzalez’s Law Office in Union City on Bergenline Ave and he responded right away. After he reviewed my case, he advised me of my options. I decided to hire him to resolve my legal-financial issues. Mr. Osualdo’s Law Office offers prompt, confidential, fair, professional services. His pricing has been extremely fair and are about the same as his competitors. He and his team have been understanding, patient, organized, and transparent throughout my experience with them. They have over 20 years of experience- if not more; so they can even GUARANTEE a positive outcome :) due to the extensive hands-on knowledge and expertise they’ve earned in their field. Dealing with legal issues can be a confusing, emotional and overwhelming process. But luckily Mr. Osualdo, Mr. Juan, Ms. Jessica and their entire team have been making this process as painless as possible. I highly recommend this Law Office. Thank you!
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19 Apr, 2023 by Karen
Mr. Gonzalez has represented me with outstanding results. I have referred many family and friends to his practice and will continue to do so. His caring and professionalism is unmatched!
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02 Jun, 2017 by Anonymous
After accepting my case, and my money. He later advised me to close my own case, and he would return partial amount. When I disagreed he tells me he will no longer represent me, and will cancel the court date. He never returned any of my money, Mr. Molina did nothing for my case and kept all my money.
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19 Jun, 2015 by Ana
Alan Molina is thorough and completely trustworthy. I live in a different state and Alan handled the legal details of my property promptly and his advice aided me every step of the way.
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05 Mar, 2015 by Nitin
Alan was extremely thorough and straight forward in his approach to all my leases and several different business contracts. pointed out what was wrong in my approach to decision making and made be correct, thus avoiding regrets at the end. Great job.
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19 Aug, 2016 by Thomas
Over the past four years, I have solicited Mr. Wolfberg's assistance for multiple purposes. The thrust of our work together has been with real estate acquisitions, and in this regard I found him to be excellent. He has a no-nonsense, to the point efficiency that is extremely valuable especially in real estate transactions. He takes special care to protect his clients and brought up many potential risks that I had not thought about. Mr. Wolfberg is both proactive and responsive and his office staff members are friendly and equally efficient. Mr. Wolfberg also prepared a last will and testament for me, as well as helped me with a court room appearance for a traffic ticket. These experiences were also positive and resolved smoothly.
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28 Jul, 2016 by Anonymous
Difficult lawyer to work with... Uncooperative; he did not take the time to consult us (the clients) properly, always in a rush, and expects his clients to know the buying/selling process. Unprepared and disorganized; took his time to respond to our requested actions and then claimed we did not submit required documents and that we were not his priority. Would not recommend to hire again.
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25 Mar, 2016 by Anonymous
Mr Wolfberg was very professional and knowlegeable in helping us navigate a very complex short sale purchase. He gave expert advice and provided guidance throughout the 8 months process. I'm happy to have worked with him.
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02 Sep, 2024 by Lilia torres
Muy buenas tardes cabanillas es cumplidora de el comienzo de procesos Soy atentos y explícito Siempre contestan nuestras inquietudes Dan el conocimiento Son claros Y diligentes Ya tengo el status de juventudes de mis nietos Gracias
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29 Aug, 2024 by Mirian muñoz
Primero Gracias a Dios Iniciamos este proceso legal (tiempo 1 año por ejemplo) con la esperanza de un futuro mejor para mis hijos, también con fe y con la certeza de que íbamos de la mano con los mejores abogados migratorios por muchas recomendaciones. Cada día que pasamos recibimos solo buenas noticias y la tranquilidad de que invertimos bien nuestro tiempo y esfuerzo económico para conseguir La Paz en este país. Hoy recibimos la noticia que mis pequeños van a poder estar aquí en los Estados Unidos sin miedos y con mejores oportunidades, todo fue un éxito ahora van a recibir su residencia y cumplirán el sueño americano tan Anhelado. Gracias Dios, gracias a los abogados CABANILLAS Y ASOCIADOS que son leales y honestos que trabajan por sus clientes, en este caso nosotros. Estamos felices y agradecidos que todo valió la pena.
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22 Aug, 2024 by Diana quiridumbay
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FAQs
Questions? We have answers

What a Real Estate Lawyer Can Do for You

A real estate lawyer provides legal assistance in transactions and disputes involving property, including residential and commercial real estate. Whether you're buying, selling, leasing, or developing property, a real estate attorney can help ensure that your transactions are legally sound and your rights are protected. They review contracts, perform due diligence, resolve disputes, and provide legal representation in negotiations and litigation involving property matters.

Real estate lawyers are crucial in safeguarding your investment by ensuring compliance with local, state, and federal real estate laws, as well as protecting you from potential legal pitfalls related to property ownership and transactions.

When Should I Hire a Real Estate Lawyer?

Hiring a real estate lawyer is beneficial in various scenarios, including:

  • Buying or selling property: When navigating complex real estate contracts, it’s advisable to have a lawyer review and ensure that the terms are favorable and legal.
  • Commercial property transactions: For leasing, purchasing, or selling commercial properties, a lawyer can help manage the intricate legal aspects of such transactions.
  • Zoning or land use issues: If you're planning to develop property or change its use, a real estate lawyer can guide you through zoning laws and land use regulations.
  • Resolving property disputes: For boundary disputes, title issues, or disagreements over property rights, a lawyer can help mediate or litigate the matter.
  • Foreclosures or evictions: If you're dealing with foreclosure or managing a tenant eviction, legal representation ensures that the process adheres to local laws and protects your interests.
  • Title and deed issues: Lawyers can help clear title disputes, ensure the legitimacy of property deeds, and handle transfers of ownership.

What Does a Real Estate Lawyer Do?

A real estate lawyer provides a range of services to help with property transactions and disputes, including:

  • Contract drafting and review: Ensuring that purchase agreements, leases, and other contracts are legally binding, fair, and protect your interests.
  • Title search and clearance: Conducting a thorough title search to ensure that the property has no legal claims or liens that could affect ownership.
  • Facilitate closing: Managing the closing process in real estate transactions, including reviewing final documents and ensuring that everything is in order before the transfer of ownership.
  • Resolve disputes: Handling legal disputes related to property ownership, boundaries, zoning, or tenants.
  • Assist in financing: Reviewing loan agreements and mortgage documents to ensure the terms are fair and legally sound.
  • Zoning and land use advice: Guiding clients through the complexities of zoning laws and building regulations for property development or renovation projects.

How Are Real Estate Lawyers Paid?

Real estate lawyers typically charge for their services in the following ways:

  • Flat fee: Many real estate transactions, such as reviewing a sales contract or assisting with a closing, are charged on a flat-fee basis.
  • Hourly rates: If a lawyer is handling complex disputes or litigation, they may charge by the hour. Hourly rates can vary significantly based on the lawyer’s experience and location.
  • Contingency fees: In rare cases, such as property disputes or claims for damages, a lawyer may work on a contingency fee basis, meaning they only get paid if you win or settle the case.
  • Retainer: For ongoing legal support, some clients may pay a retainer, which is an upfront fee used as a deposit for future legal services.

It's important to clarify the fee structure with your attorney before hiring them to avoid any surprises.

How Much Does a Real Estate Lawyer Cost?

The cost of a real estate lawyer varies based on the complexity of the matter, the location of the property, and the lawyer’s experience. Key factors that affect pricing include:

  • Type of transaction or issue: Simple tasks, like contract reviews, typically cost less than handling a complex property dispute or litigation.
  • Experience and location: More experienced lawyers or those in high-demand areas, like urban centers, often charge higher rates.
  • Billing structure: Lawyers may charge a flat fee for basic services like document review or hourly for more time-intensive work such as disputes or litigation.

Flat fees for straightforward services like closing assistance may range from $500 to $1,500.

Hourly rates can range from $150 to $400 or more, depending on the attorney’s experience and location.

Always discuss fees upfront to understand the overall cost of the legal service you're receiving.

Top Questions to Ask a Real Estate Lawyer

Before hiring a real estate lawyer, ask the following questions to ensure they are the right fit for your legal needs:

  1. What experience do you have with real estate law?
    Ensure the lawyer has experience in the type of real estate transaction or dispute you’re facing, whether residential, commercial, or development-related.
  2. What is your fee structure?
    Ask how the lawyer charges for services - whether it's a flat fee, hourly rate, or retainer - so there are no surprises later on.
  3. How long will the process take?
    Especially important for real estate transactions or disputes with deadlines, ask for a general estimate of how long the process will last.
  4. Have you handled cases similar to mine?
    Experience with similar transactions or disputes can give you confidence that the lawyer knows how to handle your case.
  5. Will you handle my case personally, or will it be passed to another attorney?
    Confirm who will be handling the bulk of your case work, especially in larger firms where junior lawyers may take on some responsibilities.
  6. Can you provide references?
    Speaking with past clients can give you insight into the lawyer's experience and how they handle cases.

How to Check the Credibility of a Real Estate Lawyer

To ensure you’re hiring a reputable real estate lawyer, take these steps:

  • Check with the state bar association: Verify that the lawyer is licensed and in good standing with no disciplinary actions on their record.
  • Read online reviews and testimonials: Look for reviews on legal directories and platforms like Avvo or Martindale-Hubbell to see what past clients have said.
  • Ask for references: A credible lawyer should have past clients willing to share their experiences.
  • Review their track record and expertise: Look at the lawyer’s website or LinkedIn profile for information about their experience in real estate law and any relevant cases they’ve handled.
  • Membership in professional organizations: Lawyers who are members of respected legal or real estate organizations, like the American Bar Association’s Real Property Division, often signal credibility and expertise.

What Should I Prepare for My First Consultation?

To make your first meeting with a real estate lawyer productive, you should prepare the following materials:

  • Relevant property documents: Bring purchase agreements, lease contracts, mortgage documents, zoning permits, or any other paperwork related to your case.
  • A summary of the issue or transaction: Be ready to explain the situation, whether it's a property dispute, contract negotiation, or development issue.
  • Questions about the legal process: Prepare a list of questions about how the lawyer will handle your case and what steps are involved.
  • Financial documents or loan agreements: If the case involves financing or a mortgage, bring any related documents for the lawyer to review.
  • Your goals and timeline: Be clear about what outcome you're hoping for, and if there are any deadlines that need to be considered, such as closing dates or legal filings.

By coming prepared, you can ensure that your consultation is efficient and informative, allowing you to assess whether the lawyer is the right fit for your real estate needs.

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