Filter by

star star star star star
28 Aug, 2019 by Regina cossey
Fresh food and great service 👌
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
15 Jan, 2019 by Caroline yanovic
Google Maps
See more
star star star star star
11 Jun, 2015 by Anonymous
He is very trust worthy. Kept well informed on status of all events. Very thorough in his research. Money well spent on a person who is out for justice and not caught up in buddy buddy system our society has become do accustomed to. He is for what's right and not wrong especially by the officers of the Court and land. Well respected guy.
Read more Avvo
See more
star star star star star
11 Oct, 2023 by Steven taskoff
Google Maps
star star star star star
15 Apr, 2022 by Bill kehoe
Google Maps
star star star star star
07 Oct, 2020 by Bonnie lee
Well this review is a long-time in coming...! And the first one I have ever written. I would like to say that this law firm, which has helped me for over 10 years, is quite professional and personable. Specifically, Christine Otterbacher. I love her!! I really haven't thanked her properly and probably never can, for all of her hard work to help my family. I have had to use the legal services of ONE LAW for many reasons and the care Christine took to make sure every detail in my cases were covered was amazing. Even details that I had over-looked. And the way that these women attorneys work together is inspiring. I have always felt that I was in more than capable hands, and could trust any advice given. Look no further for a great attorney here!!!! Thanks Christine! ❤️❤️❤️ Sincerely, Bonnie
Read more Google Maps
See more
star star star star star
06 Oct, 2024 by Jesseme bysong
This law firm has never let me down. I own a real Estate investment company and on several occasions I referred home owners to RG to handle their estate issues so they are able to sell their property. RG is fair in his prices. He’s attentive to the people that I have sent to him. Estate attorneys can be very expensive and drag out the estate process. He is not one of those attorneys. Highly recommend.
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
20 Apr, 2024 by Jamie fankhauser
They have helped us greatly.
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
05 Apr, 2024 by Diane pierce
We worked with RG at CCSK Law Offices. From start to finish it was an easy process. He is so good at breaking everything down so you understand the process. Answers all your questions without making you feel rushed through the appointment. He truly cares about helping his clients!
Read more Google Maps
See more
star star star star star
27 Oct, 2022 by Chris
I had a case where an attorney was needed. I was referred from a friend to call Adam Sworden. I am glad I hired his service. He helped me to feel at ease along with straight forward answers of what we can do and expect. I am very satisfied with the outcome of my case and would highly recommend him. I have him as an attorney for future council.
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
20 Oct, 2022 by Lisa
Adam helped me create my LLC and directed me to other resources to assist with tax questions and resources. He was very professional and personable.
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
10 Jul, 2022 by Jeff
Adam was great. He is very thorough and professional. He gets the job done quickly. He handled our situation very well and I couldn’t ask for better service! Thank you!
Read more Avvo
See more
star star star star star
21 Nov, 2018 by Anonymous
This attorney is one of the best attorneys we have had. I have to keep an attorney because of my business deals and also personal lawyer. He is very professional and a great guy to talk to. What I like about him, if it is something he do not understand or don't know, he was say I don't know instead of telling me something off the top of his head. He will research and find out the answer to my problem.
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
16 Aug, 2018 by Dave
I hired this guy for business law starting around 2010. We used him for a contract dispute and a few civil collection cases. Every thing seemed normal with him until around 2015 when he was more interested in taking my wife out to lunch and dinners trying to convince her to leave me for him. Luckily I found out before it went to far. I made a complaint to the Indiana bar association due to his dishonest and unethical behavior. He knows what he did was wrong and I hope karma punishes him one day. On a brighter note my wife and I are still married and happier than ever.
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
04 Mar, 2018 by Anonymous
Hired Chris to handle my child custody battle in 2016. He was able to help me relocate out of state with my child and keep primary physical custody. Recently had an emergency custody situation and Chris made my case his top priority. My child was returned safely back to my care within 24 hours of contacting him. Chris has excellent knowledge of Indiana family law and works very quickly. His compassion for my situation was very much appreciated, I would highly recommend him to anyone needing a family lawyer.
Read more Avvo
See more
star star star star star
03 Jul, 2023 by Dan recktenwall
Very good lawyers!
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
09 Jan, 2021 by Juliana vic
Google Maps
star star star star star
24 Sep, 2019 by Christa clifford
🙏 thank you
Read more Google Maps
See more
star star star star star
19 Jul, 2022 by Anonymous
I hired Mike Langer when I went through my divorce in 2011. I was a stay at home mom and had no income whatsoever and when it came time for support checks to start, he did not set anything up. I had to not only borrow money from my mom, I had to call him instead of him getting it started for me then charged me for the phone call. By this time my ex was over 3 months behind.. I was looking frantically for a job to support myself and my two children and he kept telling me to hurry and get a job since my soon to be ex was tired of supporting me… I had at least 3 interviews a week and no one was hiring a 45 year old mom that hasn’t worked in 20 years. I had to walk away from the home because I did not make enough money to retain it and had to use my 401(k) money from a previous job to put down on the new home and Langer was supposed to Quadro the money and did not so I was taxed on the money that I took out and all the IRS over $8000. When I called him on this he immediately had the money transferred and charged me an overnight fee for it! Never once did he suggest having my soon to be ex pay attorney fees nor did he offer to correct the errors he and his office had made. If I would’ve known I would’ve gotten them on errors and omissions! Do not hire this lawyer!
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
10 Jan, 2014 by Anonymous
Mr. Langer was my second attorney in my recently settled divorce. He is what I refer to as "The Closer". He was able to take the necessary steps to move my divorce toward its conclusion. Mr Langer, as well as his entire office staff, impressed me with the professionalism and kindness with which they handled my case; as it was one of the most difficult times in my life. I always felt informed, and I felt as though my money was well spent on this highly regarded attorney in our community. You can't go wrong with Langer and Langer!
Read more Avvo
See more
star star star star star
02 Jan, 2022 by Anonymous
Does not return phone calls just takes money and runs .worst attorney in valpo stay away from her.
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
08 Jan, 2019 by Margaret
Retained this attorney. What a waste of money and time. Does not return calls. Abandoned me. Phone is always full and when you are able to leave a message she does not reply. Has not replied to emails or phone calls in 9 months. When 1st retained she will answer phone. After that good luck trying to get a hold of her.
Read more Avvo
See more
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:

  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.

Scroll to top