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20 Nov, 2019 by Anonymous
Jeff hasn’t worked in a while and I can see why. He has to have it his way. His fee was a bit on the higher side for someone who was fine with waiting on their phone call and having them make them appointments. I paid more for waiting that I did actual progress on my case.
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14 Mar, 2017 by Sue
Jeff hadn't even seen a former client for four years, and he was able to jump right in and solve a missing document problem for my friend. He cares about his clients!
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08 Mar, 2017 by Anonymous
I spoke to Jeffre Crandall a few times. He was helpful, but I felt his hourly cost may exceed some attorneys who are more experienced and who are in their profession to truly help people.
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14 May, 2024 by Rebecca shattuck
Vancouver Wills & Trusts did an amazing job preparing a will for my parents who are in their 80s. Very professional and respectful!
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13 May, 2024 by Kim brown
I felt welcomed and respected. All information was clearly presented and explained, and honestly it was just what I had hoped for. Thank you Nick and team!
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08 May, 2024 by Michele schultz
Probate!!! It is the most difficult thing I have ever experienced. Vancouver Wills and Trust Made the experience a lot easier. They held my hand when needed. Armed me with knowledge!!! I was from Gulfport Ms. I had to find an attorney to help. Nick and Blayne gave me hope and listened when I talked about the loss !!!! So sorry for your loss is just a response given. I felt their response was real and heartfelt. Call them you will be glad you did
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27 Aug, 2023 by James tasoulas
Love it!!!
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25 Aug, 2023 by Nerm m
I had a great experience with these guys, who represented me in a ridiculous lawsuit brought against me by my greedy, land grabbing neighbors (ahem- allegedly). They helped me save a TON of money so that I could take the fight over the finish line, despite the opposing counsel's constant threats and grandstanding. I was successful in holding onto the property my neighbors were attempting to take from me.
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13 Mar, 2023 by Jordyn “atlantianspecialist666” atlantian
Never call back
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06 Oct, 2022 by Debra
Jesse guided us thro a victorious court battle . He was knowledgeable well prepared an accessible . Jesse told us day one the anticipated cost of this 18 month battle . He did not price gouge the bill not exceeding the amount he quoted . He went above an beyond in all aspects of our case . Up against a senior attorney . Jesse skillfully navigated the many hurdles . I definately recommend jesse . Thank you Jesse .
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04 Nov, 2021 by Emm
My 82 year old mother and 90 year old father hired Jesse to defend them in lawsuit that spanned several years. After my father passed, I watched bill after bill arrive for my mother. Little detail, never any copies of filings…. Sometimes the bill would say see attached but nothing was attached or included. My mother doesn’t use email so she’d occasionally get a call. Jesse would charge her $35 if she was not home and he left a message for her to call him back!!! It seemed to me (and having an attorney spouse for 13 years)-after reviewing her bills that they were heavily padded. 6 months from trial Jesse insisted on a hefty retainer. After interceding and at the advice of my attorney-we told him we’d give him a retainer (20k)closer to trial… but why after paying bills timely for 4 years did he need a huge retainer. Once my mother gave him the retainer-almost half was spent in 10 days!! The case was settled in July yet my mother received yet another bill just last month. She is still upset about this attorney. I would not recommend Jesse.
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04 Oct, 2021 by John kimbrough
I sent him a message. He did not even bother to let me know he wasn't interested in helping me.
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06 Apr, 2021 by Anonymous
Jamie Robyn Graves-Haslam helped me obtain an order of protection. She was very professional. She was extremely helpful in answering my multitude of questions. I was impressed how timely was in her responses to me and not only did she provide superb legal assistance and representation she also showed me she truly cared. Her compassion towards me and my case made going through the process much less stressful. Anyone that has her as a lawyer will be very lucky because she is great at what she does and she is compassionate about helping others.
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12 Jun, 2018 by Anonymous
As a long distance Co parent who is disabled and unable to travel, I consulted with and subsequently hired this attorney to do a writ of habeas after child was kept from returning home. That was 3-2016. I still haven't seen my child. She could have been the key to getting an autistic child home but now his location is unknown. She took the case, left out of the country a week later for a week, came back to my panic over new information (allehe'd and false) but refused to check info. Instead withdrew and stated they were too busy to take me on. Since that time I've been unable to gain confidence to go pro se or hire another atty due to severe anxiety and fear.
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27 May, 2024 by Anonymous
Very unprofessional person who has been in trouble with a bar himself for disciplinary actions! Does not have a matters in a professional manner at all, rather a threatening and arrogant presentation.!
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04 Nov, 2021 by Anonymous
Razor-sharp legal acumen, accurate billing, responsive staff, scrupulous and direct. Definitely someone you want on your team!
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16 Oct, 2019 by Barbara
Lifesaver-very helpful, prompt, and just fantastic. So grateful for Mark’s help!! It is clear that he really cares about people and has a strong sense of pursuing justice. Thank You!!
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27 Aug, 2023 by James tasoulas
Love it!!!
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25 Aug, 2023 by Nerm m
I had a great experience with these guys, who represented me in a ridiculous lawsuit brought against me by my greedy, land grabbing neighbors (ahem- allegedly). They helped me save a TON of money so that I could take the fight over the finish line, despite the opposing counsel's constant threats and grandstanding. I was successful in holding onto the property my neighbors were attempting to take from me.
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13 Mar, 2023 by Jordyn “atlantianspecialist666” atlantian
Never call back
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27 Aug, 2023 by James tasoulas
Love it!!!
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25 Aug, 2023 by Nerm m
I had a great experience with these guys, who represented me in a ridiculous lawsuit brought against me by my greedy, land grabbing neighbors (ahem- allegedly). They helped me save a TON of money so that I could take the fight over the finish line, despite the opposing counsel's constant threats and grandstanding. I was successful in holding onto the property my neighbors were attempting to take from me.
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
13 Mar, 2023 by Jordyn “atlantianspecialist666” atlantian
Never call back
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27 Aug, 2023 by James tasoulas
Love it!!!
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star star star star star
25 Aug, 2023 by Nerm m
I had a great experience with these guys, who represented me in a ridiculous lawsuit brought against me by my greedy, land grabbing neighbors (ahem- allegedly). They helped me save a TON of money so that I could take the fight over the finish line, despite the opposing counsel's constant threats and grandstanding. I was successful in holding onto the property my neighbors were attempting to take from me.
Read more Google Maps
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13 Mar, 2023 by Jordyn “atlantianspecialist666” atlantian
Never call back
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19 Mar, 2020 by Anonymous
Update April 2nd 2020- I have been receiving emails from AVVO that James now disputes information in my review. I want to make it clear that they are the ones pestering me by phone and email to write a review. Now that I wrote my honest feelings about the emotional roller coaster and screw-ups working together he wants to try and remove my review. Further reasons to stay away from James Pak Lawyer. They are trying to remove anything potentially negative about them even though they asked for the review. This speaks volumes about how they do business. STAY AWAY. March 20th 2020- I was being pestered by these people non-stop to write a review about their services working on my case. I tried ignoring them since my experience was pretty bad but alas... they kept asking for it. So here it goes. I retained James and his crack team of professionals because they showed up first in Google for personal injury attorney. I see thats not the case anymore and should have chosen one of the others that appeared on there now. I didn't call anyone else because I assumed they were the best. Boy was that a big mistake. Shortly after hiring them they sent me to a local chiropractor for a few months. This was okay, they did a great job although it was constant 3 times a week. Once the chiropractor said everything was better James' receptionist said that they would begin negotiating my case with the insured driver. The weirdest thing happened, after hearing weekly or monthly from someone during the first month or two of my case they went radio silent for over a year. I had ideas of the thousands of dollars they were making off of my case and no one could bother picking up the phone and giving me a call. And then it came... a phone call. From the receptionist. She told me that they've been negotiating hard on my behalf and they have reached a settlement. The offer? 50% lower than the national average for someone with my injuries. How do I know this? After 15 months of radio silence I started calling other attorneys and looking for second opinions. They were all too willing to share their opinions of my case and one looked up my injuries and told me the national average settlement amount. Armed with my new knowledge of the injuries and how personal injury law was negotiated, I declined the offer. I refused to take that low ball offer against my own attorneys advice. And I'm glad that I did! They went back to the insurance company and came back with a little better offer. Which I did take. I needed to put this behind me. It had been a long road. Would I hire this same law office again? Highly unlikely. After speaking to the other law offices in the area for 10 minutes, I was armed with much more information and now know they were all smoke and mirrors. Just because someone shows up on google first, doesn't mean they will negotiate your case properly.
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19 Feb, 2020 by Pamela
We gave him a budget of 20k to solve a relatively simple easement issue. After 26k we fired him. All he gave to our new lawyer was paper emails, not even a zip drive to search. Zero research, zero case law. Nothing. If he had any integrity he'd offer to do our appeal for free. How he made partner is beyond me.
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07 Apr, 2024 by Raymond
DEA LEGACY PROPERTIES 9LLC Dale & Leta Anderson Kirsten and Brandon have employed Heather & John Porter are complicate in self help eviction,keeping deposits,refused housing to 4yo 12yo and two adults in good standing.Dec.22 after locking us out. at the same time locking up our recovered belongings in a separate building ,leaving us out in our SUV with 0 money cause Dec rent $1529 + $429 repayment plan was paid In the winter and only $2400.00 income. OUTRAGEOUS. a person that represents such violations and doesn't remedy the tenants in this RCW 59.18.085 Is not going to mitigate their penalties and ultimately may serve time in one of these Rich properties Anderson property management owns ,Timbers we are still waiting for summons to court and the civil matter would continue forward but nothing but $1100.00 and boxes to get another place Heather promised a referral too. So weird too,she also blames me for the electric blower fan motor (1968) ignited the subflooring in the crawlspace located in the basement.fire Marshall says different.its just cheaper to let the family be homeless they will move out and then they will rent it out when we are gone.well see you in court.
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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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