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04 Jun, 2015 by Anonymous
Living in Hawaii his whole life, Matthew is a seasoned veteran with an acute awareness of the business environment in Hawaii. Meets all deadlines and is sensitive to client needs.
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07 Aug, 2020 by Travis meints
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01 Dec, 2018 by Greyforestmaui
Awesome staff. Especially Deborah! Helpful, knowledgeable and friendly.
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18 Apr, 2017 by J morris
Ongoing interaction/case. Feel super well supported as we investigate legal angles and possible strategies together. If you want to feel like someone has your back, Debbie Wright may well be the ally you are looking for. I was recommended to hire her "if I really meant it" by a good friend, that is how this relationship began a few months ago. Very pleased so far.
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03 Apr, 2024 by Joel pederigan
Whatever situation you feel like you're in, after talking with him you'll have a much better understanding, feel a lot more prepared and feel a lot better. Professional, knowledgeable and cares about your situation. I highly recommend him if you need any legal help or even advice.
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19 Dec, 2023 by K lee
5 Stars are not enough for this outstanding law office ! Bryan, Erin and Madelyn worked on our case for over a year and successfully navigated a very fair and equitable settlement for us. From the first phone call with them, we knew we had the right team. They are extremely caring and professional and through out the process, they kept us informed, provided guidance when requested, promptly responded to all of our questions and made us feel we were their only client. This review was written with gratitude and respect for this team!
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02 Sep, 2023 by Tasha church
In 2021, I experienced an excruciating motor vehicle accident. It was so challenging and each day felt like I came up against different road blocks. The person who struck me had his license revoked and had no insurance. I felt very helpless. The medical bills were stacking up and I knew that if I didn't do something I would be in loads of debt. I called Tateishi and Tanaka and spoke to a very kind woman named Madelyn, she scheduled a time for me to meet with her boss, Bryan Tanaka. I felt like there was no good case here but he was willing to take me on. I had uninsured motorist coverage and essentially was working to get bills covered by my own insurance even though I was not driving a car at the time of the accident. Bryan helped me navigate so many challenges with the insurance companies, different practitioners, and took a huge load off my plate by taking on the responsibility of communicating with them, so I didn't have to. What got me about having him represent me is that he genuinely cared as to if I was okay. If I was stressed about anything, I would just call or email. In my much younger years, I had experienced a hit and run where someone struck my car. Because I didn't know how to navigate the system, I was unable to get compensation to help with medical bills. Because of Bryan, I had all my bills taken care of and enough to cover future medical procedures or care. Mahalo Bryan! You and Madelyn are the best!
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26 Aug, 2023 by Michael mclaughlin
Joy to the world, thank God for Joy, Joy Yanagida is the most conscientious, on top of it Lawyer a person could want in their corner. Joy doesn’t miss a beat . She covers every base and accomplishes the task and is always ahead of the game . I felt safe and protected under her care. Joy definitely has your back. Thanks Joy for a great job. Well done.
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17 Dec, 2022 by Lara omaljev
I cannot recommend Joy highly enough. You will be hard-pressed to find another attorney anywhere with her level of education, knowledge, wisdom, and experience, paired with her work ethic and integrity. She personally led me through the most horrific experience of my life (divorce from a most unsavory, unscrupulous predator) with her full attention, a strong sense of urgency, and a solid plan. I had the makings of a very messy divorce, involving assets and children -- the kind that could have dragged on in court for well over a year. With Joy leading the charge, we were able to avoid litigation and get the divorce finalized less than 2 months after filing. And through it all, she gave me encouragement and compassion. Anything legal is highly stressful. The peace of mind you gain by having complete confidence in your attorney is immeasurable. Joy is that kind of attorney.
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20 Oct, 2022 by Jake fernandez
Joy was absolutely amazing in her preparation and communication when it came to fighting for me and my kids. She goes over and beyond to ensure you know what to expect with the deliberation process. She is transparent in her works and will do everything in her power to provide the best possible defense for you. I highly recommend her! She’s a blessing and I will be forever grateful for her service.
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19 May, 2024 by Molly patrick
A Lifesaver in Family Law: Krystal Myge & Sarah Vibinwell at Wong Leong Cuccia My situation was incredibly complex, and after contacting literally dozens of lawyers, I felt hopeless. Then I found Krystal Myge at Wong Leong Cuccia. Krystal was a beacon of hope! She, along with her amazing assistant Sarah Vibinwell, exuded kindness, compassion, and professionalism throughout the entire process. They were clear and prompt in their communication, which was invaluable during such a stressful time. But Krystal and Sarah weren't just brilliant and professional - they were also badass! They got to work and achieved the outcome I desperately wanted. The relief I felt is indescribable, and I will never be able to thank them enough. If you're facing a family law challenge, look no further than Krystal Myge and Sarah Vibinwell at Wong Leong Cuccia. They're the dream team!
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14 May, 2024 by Kelly kaspar
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30 Apr, 2024 by Charles gibson
We needed to locate legal counsel for a child custody situation involving our son who lives in Maui but is not native to the area. As many folks in the same situation would quickly learn, trying to source legal representation for this purpose presents a challenge on this tiny island. Wong Leong Cuccia was recommended to our family through a long-term friend and lawyer from the Boston area. His suggestion was absolutely the right choice for us. Krystal Myge, assistant attorney was appointed to our case. From the initial free consultation to the eventual custody agreement being finalized, we could not be happier. Krystal understood the nuances of Hawaii custody law, understood the courts position on such custody agreements, and worked closely with the opposing lawyer to foster an agreement before the case even went to trial. We are truly thankful that she was able to negotiate on our behalf with the minimal financial output and to our satisfaction.
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19 May, 2024 by Molly patrick
A Lifesaver in Family Law: Krystal Myge & Sarah Vibinwell at Wong Leong Cuccia My situation was incredibly complex, and after contacting literally dozens of lawyers, I felt hopeless. Then I found Krystal Myge at Wong Leong Cuccia. Krystal was a beacon of hope! She, along with her amazing assistant Sarah Vibinwell, exuded kindness, compassion, and professionalism throughout the entire process. They were clear and prompt in their communication, which was invaluable during such a stressful time. But Krystal and Sarah weren't just brilliant and professional - they were also badass! They got to work and achieved the outcome I desperately wanted. The relief I felt is indescribable, and I will never be able to thank them enough. If you're facing a family law challenge, look no further than Krystal Myge and Sarah Vibinwell at Wong Leong Cuccia. They're the dream team!
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14 May, 2024 by Kelly kaspar
Google Maps
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30 Apr, 2024 by Charles gibson
We needed to locate legal counsel for a child custody situation involving our son who lives in Maui but is not native to the area. As many folks in the same situation would quickly learn, trying to source legal representation for this purpose presents a challenge on this tiny island. Wong Leong Cuccia was recommended to our family through a long-term friend and lawyer from the Boston area. His suggestion was absolutely the right choice for us. Krystal Myge, assistant attorney was appointed to our case. From the initial free consultation to the eventual custody agreement being finalized, we could not be happier. Krystal understood the nuances of Hawaii custody law, understood the courts position on such custody agreements, and worked closely with the opposing lawyer to foster an agreement before the case even went to trial. We are truly thankful that she was able to negotiate on our behalf with the minimal financial output and to our satisfaction.
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27 Sep, 2024 by Honokowai pokemon
What horrible poor excuse for humans
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26 Mar, 2024 by Cliff curry
Professional with high attention to detail. Very grateful to them for their services!!!
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30 Jun, 2022 by Coe huston
I've worked with this firm for the last 5 years on multiple different issues and I trust them completely. They are quick to understand, wise, honest, fair and tough when needed. Great, experienced local lawyers.There is nothing more you could want from you attorney or anyone you do business with.
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10 Feb, 2021 by Anonymous
was able continue on this issue; letter seni to state; and forward email to an acting attorney;claim was sent down from state farm head office amount is at 1500; vks
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12 Jul, 2023 by Maynard raquinio
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12 Oct, 2016 by Alex embernate
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12 Oct, 2016 by Anonymous
He constructed a very poor trust for my mother that lead to legal problems after my mother passed away. He refused to communicate and work with our family after the fact, and was extremely rude and unprofessional. If I could give a negative score I would.
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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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