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13 Dec, 2024 by Steve durkin
Had a very stressful year, a stupid mistake that could have been a lot worse in so many ways. Vincent worked with me, even when I was stressed (apologies Vincent) He was professional, calm and understanding throughout. I would absolutely recommend him. Listen to what he says, very grateful I picked him.
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13 Dec, 2024 by Daniel murphy
I called Vince to see if he could help a friend with a DUI charge. He walked me through looking up the charges at the county website and seemed knowledgeable about recent changes to legal precedence, since my friend was just sitting in his car, not driving.
We were having a nice interaction and I was thinking I had found the right lawyer, until Vince said he wanted $3,000 just to show up for the preliminary hearing. I had already mentioned that my friend was broke and would need time to work and save for legal fees. When I began to explain that I had already talked to another lawyer that only wanted $750 for the preliminary hearing, Vince interupted me, shouted some rude come back and hung up.
I was willig to work with him if he had just given me a minute to explain the situation, but alas no. That was not meant to be. That left me with even more confirmation of the reason why I find lawyers to be the rude, arrogant, and self-serving. In those departments, Vince did not disappoint. He does sound like a competent lawyer and may be able to help you. But ultimately, they're almost all just in it for the money.
Between the corrupt cops making up charges to justify their fat salaries, the immoral DAs who care nothing about the innocence of the wrongfully charged, and the judges who get paid big money for oh so little work while coddling the prosecution of the innocent, and the defense lawyers who are there to get their pound of flesh, the American judicial system is morally bankrupt.
Hopefully, Divine Justice will prevail in the end, and all these low-life, heartless, perpetrators of this huge scam will experience the pain and suffering they cause by particpating in a corrupt system they are all to happy to benefit from.
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02 Dec, 2024 by Stephanie yost
I had a great experience with Vince. He was a tremendous help with my son in reducing charges significantly and ensuring his record would not be negatively impacted. He was reasonable and extremely responsive. I would highly recommend Vince if you are in need of an attorney.
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13 Dec, 2024 by Steve durkin
Had a very stressful year, a stupid mistake that could have been a lot worse in so many ways. Vincent worked with me, even when I was stressed (apologies Vincent) He was professional, calm and understanding throughout. I would absolutely recommend him. Listen to what he says, very grateful I picked him.
Read more
13 Dec, 2024 by Daniel murphy
I called Vince to see if he could help a friend with a DUI charge. He walked me through looking up the charges at the county website and seemed knowledgeable about recent changes to legal precedence, since my friend was just sitting in his car, not driving.
We were having a nice interaction and I was thinking I had found the right lawyer, until Vince said he wanted $3,000 just to show up for the preliminary hearing. I had already mentioned that my friend was broke and would need time to work and save for legal fees. When I began to explain that I had already talked to another lawyer that only wanted $750 for the preliminary hearing, Vince interupted me, shouted some rude come back and hung up.
I was willig to work with him if he had just given me a minute to explain the situation, but alas no. That was not meant to be. That left me with even more confirmation of the reason why I find lawyers to be the rude, arrogant, and self-serving. In those departments, Vince did not disappoint. He does sound like a competent lawyer and may be able to help you. But ultimately, they're almost all just in it for the money.
Between the corrupt cops making up charges to justify their fat salaries, the immoral DAs who care nothing about the innocence of the wrongfully charged, and the judges who get paid big money for oh so little work while coddling the prosecution of the innocent, and the defense lawyers who are there to get their pound of flesh, the American judicial system is morally bankrupt.
Hopefully, Divine Justice will prevail in the end, and all these low-life, heartless, perpetrators of this huge scam will experience the pain and suffering they cause by particpating in a corrupt system they are all to happy to benefit from.
Read more
02 Dec, 2024 by Stephanie yost
I had a great experience with Vince. He was a tremendous help with my son in reducing charges significantly and ensuring his record would not be negatively impacted. He was reasonable and extremely responsive. I would highly recommend Vince if you are in need of an attorney.
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01 Nov, 2024 by Micaela rivera
I wholeheartedly recommend Joel and Basil for legal support. They handled my case with exceptional care and professionalism, instilling in me a strong sense of confidence in my entitlement to a settlement. I consider myself incredibly fortunate to have had their assistance, as they managed to alleviate the stress of a challenging situation. Their extensive legal expertise left a lasting impression on me.
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23 Jun, 2024 by Anonymous
I met Martin Manco aka Marty. He has no integrity. Low character. Not trustworthy. He is very comfortable being a liar and manipulative even when he doesn't have to. It's just his character; tacky, disheveled appearance as well.
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30 May, 2024 by Dirty lenses
Highly recommended, excel in clear communication & are there every step of the way. I had the pleasure to work with Basil Joy who is an outstanding representative. Clear expectations were set prior to starting this journey, and those expectations were met. Thank you GG&M!
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23 Jul, 2016 by Dewayne
Ryan did a great job for me. I had three duis He was able to get one reduced to a general impairment other one to 10 days and the last one got me work release so I was able to keep a very good job which I had for over 20 years. I would highly recommend Ryan.
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25 Mar, 2015 by Anonymous
I had hired Ryan back in 2009 to handle a bankruptcy and during a very difficult time he made it seem less stressful always answering questions, keeping me informed and going above and beyond, lord knows I had to be a difficult client as the 5 years it took to go through there were plenty of downs to get through and he was always there. I am a very picky person I have to feel comfortable and trust my legal representation and this encompasses Ryan. I will be using him again and recommending him for any need that arises
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01 Mar, 2015 by Anonymous
I retained Ryan Paddick. Personally I think that he is a very good lawyer. I stood In a very racist county, accused of a crime that didn't even take place. Every face in the courtroom was white, except for me and my family. Ryan had never experienced racism because he was white himself. But I saw him treated differently when he refused to play their little game. At first it was all business, Ryan read all of the facts of the case and the law in Pa. It seemed like a sure win based on the law. However we both would soon see that in some counties racism is still alive and strong. I saw other white lawyers giving Ryan dirty looks and treating him different. However he never wavered. In fact he cared. At one point outside of the courtroom he said said " I know this wouldn't be happening if you were white". I watched this man fight back tears giving his closing arguments to an all white courtroom,. The prosecutor had the nerve to accuse me of being the racist. So many things were being done underhandedly. Even part of the discovery had been withheld from other black Attorneys. Well all of a sudden when Ryan Paddick who is white shows up without the black lawyers they call him in the judges chamber and missing discovery shows up, but only to try to persuade him to stick with the good old boys and his own kind. Ryan left that chamber and shared what was discussed and the missing discovery with the other black attorneys. Why am I putting all of this on here? Because I believe based on my personal experience that Ryan M. Paddick is an outstanding lawyer. He could have turned a blind eye and act like this was all normal, but he spoke up and called it like it was. Even though I did not win in that courtroom, Ryan did not hesitate to come stand by my side to appeal the ruling in that racist courtroom. During the appeal it became known by the states key witness that coaching and misconduct on the part of the prosecution had taking place during the trial. So I'm speaking up fir Ryan Paddick because the loss wasn't on him. The good old boys had an axe to grind, but they are being exposed. Thanks Ryan for being not only a good lawyer, but a decent Human Being, and not being influenced by those evil ones who sought to destroy me and my family. (BUCKKKS COUNTY)
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09 Dec, 2024 by John spadaro
MacElree Harvey is a great place to work full of thoughtful, competent attorneys who work tirelessly to get the best possible outcome for their clients and provide mentorship to younger attorneys.
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08 Oct, 2024 by Fred l
The attorneys at MacElree Harvey really care. They are exceptional at what they do. I highly recommend Joe Bellinghieri for estate planning, estate taxes, and accounting. I also highly recommend Mary Kay Gaver for business law. She really took care of me and my Mom during business buyout negotiations. All of the attorneys and paralegals are great. Thank you to Brian Nagle for recommending these great lawyers.
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25 Feb, 2024 by Randi
It was difficult finding a lawyer to handle our zoning case. Some lawyers did not return my phone calls and others were indifferent. We were so happy to find Matthew McKeon. He was always friendly, informative and patient. Matt showed a deep understanding of our personal situation and showed empathy during this difficult time. He discussed the pros and cons of our situation and helped us decide the best course of action. I would highly recommend Matt Mckeon!
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09 Dec, 2024 by John spadaro
MacElree Harvey is a great place to work full of thoughtful, competent attorneys who work tirelessly to get the best possible outcome for their clients and provide mentorship to younger attorneys.
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08 Oct, 2024 by Fred l
The attorneys at MacElree Harvey really care. They are exceptional at what they do. I highly recommend Joe Bellinghieri for estate planning, estate taxes, and accounting. I also highly recommend Mary Kay Gaver for business law. She really took care of me and my Mom during business buyout negotiations. All of the attorneys and paralegals are great. Thank you to Brian Nagle for recommending these great lawyers.
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15 Feb, 2024 by Lou mincarelli
01 Nov, 2024 by Jerry gao
John was a pleasure to work with, very professional and knowledgable with his responses
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10 Jun, 2024 by Andrew - gunzonedeals.com
John V. Rafferty is extremely knowledgeable, compassionate, and sharp! It was a pleasure to work with him! We will be using Gawthrop Greenwood for all future needs!
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14 Mar, 2024 by I-regen llc
Work with Attorney Lauren A . Nehra on an eviction filing. The professionalism and speed is outstanding on how Lauren handle this matter. Will definitely work with this law firm in the future.
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01 Nov, 2024 by Jerry gao
John was a pleasure to work with, very professional and knowledgable with his responses
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10 Jun, 2024 by Andrew - gunzonedeals.com
John V. Rafferty is extremely knowledgeable, compassionate, and sharp! It was a pleasure to work with him! We will be using Gawthrop Greenwood for all future needs!
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14 Mar, 2024 by I-regen llc
Work with Attorney Lauren A . Nehra on an eviction filing. The professionalism and speed is outstanding on how Lauren handle this matter. Will definitely work with this law firm in the future.
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25 Feb, 2024 by Tina lynn frye
This is the most unprofessional “lawyer “ I have ever encountered. She is a swindler. My brother hired her after being diagnosed with pancreatic cancer, she knew this, he was not in the right frame of mind, and she pounced on that. My mom is currently in one of the worst nursing homes I’ve ever seen, and this woman wants our family to drain any savings that my single mom raising 2 children has managed to save and pay this place. The day after my brother died, she called my sister in law screaming at her that they want their money 💰. She charged 12,900 for God knows what, as a matter of fact I would like a detailed list of every phone call, email, anything that she has done because so far all she has done is cause our family grief and pain. I wish it all back on her, everything our family has been through I wish on her tenfold. She takes advantage of families in crisis, and I don’t know how she sleeps at night. Take my advice, find a REAL attorney, she is a scam artist.
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08 Jul, 2022 by Gg
10 Feb, 2022 by Glenn chelliah
Excellent professional services. Convenient and no cost parking.
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09 Dec, 2024 by John spadaro
MacElree Harvey is a great place to work full of thoughtful, competent attorneys who work tirelessly to get the best possible outcome for their clients and provide mentorship to younger attorneys.
Read more
08 Oct, 2024 by Fred l
The attorneys at MacElree Harvey really care. They are exceptional at what they do. I highly recommend Joe Bellinghieri for estate planning, estate taxes, and accounting. I also highly recommend Mary Kay Gaver for business law. She really took care of me and my Mom during business buyout negotiations. All of the attorneys and paralegals are great. Thank you to Brian Nagle for recommending these great lawyers.
Read more
15 Feb, 2024 by Lou mincarelli
09 Dec, 2024 by John spadaro
MacElree Harvey is a great place to work full of thoughtful, competent attorneys who work tirelessly to get the best possible outcome for their clients and provide mentorship to younger attorneys.
Read more
08 Oct, 2024 by Fred l
The attorneys at MacElree Harvey really care. They are exceptional at what they do. I highly recommend Joe Bellinghieri for estate planning, estate taxes, and accounting. I also highly recommend Mary Kay Gaver for business law. She really took care of me and my Mom during business buyout negotiations. All of the attorneys and paralegals are great. Thank you to Brian Nagle for recommending these great lawyers.
Read more
15 Feb, 2024 by Lou mincarelli
08 May, 2024 by Mr. 100
A so call person name Joelle Shanesy said she is a partner with this law firm Lamb McErlane but she is not you can go onto the website and see for your , this not so honest person worked for three law firms in the year and now she is here at Lamb McErlane ready to steal more money but this time I did not follow her to this law firm.
She promise to call me back and she don't, kept telling me that she is going over my case and she didn't but bills me for time that she wasn't working on my case and I have all the proof to show it.
For 5 months Joelle didn't even get a discovery done for a simple divorce case but billed me $2600.00
So I will tell you , your friends and family to not hire her as your lawyer she will lie and if you lie you will cheat and if you cheat you will steal and she did .
Joelle Shanesy is the name and look here profile up on the company website and you will see she is not a partner
Ask her about her other two law firms she worked for, I don't have to lie
JC Law and Berman/Voss
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02 Apr, 2024 by Samsung device
BEWARE. Corrupt to its core. If involved in custody they are very Father's Rights across the board and will not hesitate to use criminal action in their arsenal. VERY UNETHICAL.
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04 Mar, 2024 by Cristina perone
Wonderful law firm, friendly office staff and trustworthy attorneys!
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08 May, 2024 by Mr. 100
A so call person name Joelle Shanesy said she is a partner with this law firm Lamb McErlane but she is not you can go onto the website and see for your , this not so honest person worked for three law firms in the year and now she is here at Lamb McErlane ready to steal more money but this time I did not follow her to this law firm.
She promise to call me back and she don't, kept telling me that she is going over my case and she didn't but bills me for time that she wasn't working on my case and I have all the proof to show it.
For 5 months Joelle didn't even get a discovery done for a simple divorce case but billed me $2600.00
So I will tell you , your friends and family to not hire her as your lawyer she will lie and if you lie you will cheat and if you cheat you will steal and she did .
Joelle Shanesy is the name and look here profile up on the company website and you will see she is not a partner
Ask her about her other two law firms she worked for, I don't have to lie
JC Law and Berman/Voss
Read more
02 Apr, 2024 by Samsung device
BEWARE. Corrupt to its core. If involved in custody they are very Father's Rights across the board and will not hesitate to use criminal action in their arsenal. VERY UNETHICAL.
Read more
04 Mar, 2024 by Cristina perone
Wonderful law firm, friendly office staff and trustworthy attorneys!
Read more
08 May, 2024 by Mr. 100
A so call person name Joelle Shanesy said she is a partner with this law firm Lamb McErlane but she is not you can go onto the website and see for your , this not so honest person worked for three law firms in the year and now she is here at Lamb McErlane ready to steal more money but this time I did not follow her to this law firm.
She promise to call me back and she don't, kept telling me that she is going over my case and she didn't but bills me for time that she wasn't working on my case and I have all the proof to show it.
For 5 months Joelle didn't even get a discovery done for a simple divorce case but billed me $2600.00
So I will tell you , your friends and family to not hire her as your lawyer she will lie and if you lie you will cheat and if you cheat you will steal and she did .
Joelle Shanesy is the name and look here profile up on the company website and you will see she is not a partner
Ask her about her other two law firms she worked for, I don't have to lie
JC Law and Berman/Voss
Read more
02 Apr, 2024 by Samsung device
BEWARE. Corrupt to its core. If involved in custody they are very Father's Rights across the board and will not hesitate to use criminal action in their arsenal. VERY UNETHICAL.
Read more
04 Mar, 2024 by Cristina perone
Wonderful law firm, friendly office staff and trustworthy attorneys!
Read more
08 May, 2024 by Mr. 100
A so call person name Joelle Shanesy said she is a partner with this law firm Lamb McErlane but she is not you can go onto the website and see for your , this not so honest person worked for three law firms in the year and now she is here at Lamb McErlane ready to steal more money but this time I did not follow her to this law firm.
She promise to call me back and she don't, kept telling me that she is going over my case and she didn't but bills me for time that she wasn't working on my case and I have all the proof to show it.
For 5 months Joelle didn't even get a discovery done for a simple divorce case but billed me $2600.00
So I will tell you , your friends and family to not hire her as your lawyer she will lie and if you lie you will cheat and if you cheat you will steal and she did .
Joelle Shanesy is the name and look here profile up on the company website and you will see she is not a partner
Ask her about her other two law firms she worked for, I don't have to lie
JC Law and Berman/Voss
Read more
02 Apr, 2024 by Samsung device
BEWARE. Corrupt to its core. If involved in custody they are very Father's Rights across the board and will not hesitate to use criminal action in their arsenal. VERY UNETHICAL.
Read more
04 Mar, 2024 by Cristina perone
Wonderful law firm, friendly office staff and trustworthy attorneys!
Read more
08 May, 2024 by Mr. 100
A so call person name Joelle Shanesy said she is a partner with this law firm Lamb McErlane but she is not you can go onto the website and see for your , this not so honest person worked for three law firms in the year and now she is here at Lamb McErlane ready to steal more money but this time I did not follow her to this law firm.
She promise to call me back and she don't, kept telling me that she is going over my case and she didn't but bills me for time that she wasn't working on my case and I have all the proof to show it.
For 5 months Joelle didn't even get a discovery done for a simple divorce case but billed me $2600.00
So I will tell you , your friends and family to not hire her as your lawyer she will lie and if you lie you will cheat and if you cheat you will steal and she did .
Joelle Shanesy is the name and look here profile up on the company website and you will see she is not a partner
Ask her about her other two law firms she worked for, I don't have to lie
JC Law and Berman/Voss
Read more
02 Apr, 2024 by Samsung device
BEWARE. Corrupt to its core. If involved in custody they are very Father's Rights across the board and will not hesitate to use criminal action in their arsenal. VERY UNETHICAL.
Read more
04 Mar, 2024 by Cristina perone
Wonderful law firm, friendly office staff and trustworthy attorneys!
Read more
08 May, 2024 by Mr. 100
A so call person name Joelle Shanesy said she is a partner with this law firm Lamb McErlane but she is not you can go onto the website and see for your , this not so honest person worked for three law firms in the year and now she is here at Lamb McErlane ready to steal more money but this time I did not follow her to this law firm.
She promise to call me back and she don't, kept telling me that she is going over my case and she didn't but bills me for time that she wasn't working on my case and I have all the proof to show it.
For 5 months Joelle didn't even get a discovery done for a simple divorce case but billed me $2600.00
So I will tell you , your friends and family to not hire her as your lawyer she will lie and if you lie you will cheat and if you cheat you will steal and she did .
Joelle Shanesy is the name and look here profile up on the company website and you will see she is not a partner
Ask her about her other two law firms she worked for, I don't have to lie
JC Law and Berman/Voss
Read more
02 Apr, 2024 by Samsung device
BEWARE. Corrupt to its core. If involved in custody they are very Father's Rights across the board and will not hesitate to use criminal action in their arsenal. VERY UNETHICAL.
Read more
04 Mar, 2024 by Cristina perone
Wonderful law firm, friendly office staff and trustworthy attorneys!
Read more
08 May, 2024 by Mr. 100
A so call person name Joelle Shanesy said she is a partner with this law firm Lamb McErlane but she is not you can go onto the website and see for your , this not so honest person worked for three law firms in the year and now she is here at Lamb McErlane ready to steal more money but this time I did not follow her to this law firm.
She promise to call me back and she don't, kept telling me that she is going over my case and she didn't but bills me for time that she wasn't working on my case and I have all the proof to show it.
For 5 months Joelle didn't even get a discovery done for a simple divorce case but billed me $2600.00
So I will tell you , your friends and family to not hire her as your lawyer she will lie and if you lie you will cheat and if you cheat you will steal and she did .
Joelle Shanesy is the name and look here profile up on the company website and you will see she is not a partner
Ask her about her other two law firms she worked for, I don't have to lie
JC Law and Berman/Voss
Read more
02 Apr, 2024 by Samsung device
BEWARE. Corrupt to its core. If involved in custody they are very Father's Rights across the board and will not hesitate to use criminal action in their arsenal. VERY UNETHICAL.
Read more
04 Mar, 2024 by Cristina perone
Wonderful law firm, friendly office staff and trustworthy attorneys!
Read more
08 May, 2024 by Mr. 100
A so call person name Joelle Shanesy said she is a partner with this law firm Lamb McErlane but she is not you can go onto the website and see for your , this not so honest person worked for three law firms in the year and now she is here at Lamb McErlane ready to steal more money but this time I did not follow her to this law firm.
She promise to call me back and she don't, kept telling me that she is going over my case and she didn't but bills me for time that she wasn't working on my case and I have all the proof to show it.
For 5 months Joelle didn't even get a discovery done for a simple divorce case but billed me $2600.00
So I will tell you , your friends and family to not hire her as your lawyer she will lie and if you lie you will cheat and if you cheat you will steal and she did .
Joelle Shanesy is the name and look here profile up on the company website and you will see she is not a partner
Ask her about her other two law firms she worked for, I don't have to lie
JC Law and Berman/Voss
Read more
02 Apr, 2024 by Samsung device
BEWARE. Corrupt to its core. If involved in custody they are very Father's Rights across the board and will not hesitate to use criminal action in their arsenal. VERY UNETHICAL.
Read more
04 Mar, 2024 by Cristina perone
Wonderful law firm, friendly office staff and trustworthy attorneys!
Read more
08 May, 2024 by Mr. 100
A so call person name Joelle Shanesy said she is a partner with this law firm Lamb McErlane but she is not you can go onto the website and see for your , this not so honest person worked for three law firms in the year and now she is here at Lamb McErlane ready to steal more money but this time I did not follow her to this law firm.
She promise to call me back and she don't, kept telling me that she is going over my case and she didn't but bills me for time that she wasn't working on my case and I have all the proof to show it.
For 5 months Joelle didn't even get a discovery done for a simple divorce case but billed me $2600.00
So I will tell you , your friends and family to not hire her as your lawyer she will lie and if you lie you will cheat and if you cheat you will steal and she did .
Joelle Shanesy is the name and look here profile up on the company website and you will see she is not a partner
Ask her about her other two law firms she worked for, I don't have to lie
JC Law and Berman/Voss
Read more
02 Apr, 2024 by Samsung device
BEWARE. Corrupt to its core. If involved in custody they are very Father's Rights across the board and will not hesitate to use criminal action in their arsenal. VERY UNETHICAL.
Read more
04 Mar, 2024 by Cristina perone
Wonderful law firm, friendly office staff and trustworthy attorneys!
Read more
15 Sep, 2019 by On top tree service 484-343-1113
29 Nov, 2017 by Berardi’s detailing
15 Sep, 2019 by On top tree service 484-343-1113
29 Nov, 2017 by Berardi’s detailing
19 Mar, 2019 by Anthony
I used Angela in my Grandparents rights custody case, she is simply the most professional Lawyer I have ever met, She did everything possible to get good results for my wife and I , she was on time for court proceedings and always stayed in contact throughout the case and she put her heart and soul into our case. I’ve dealt with lawyers in the past but I’ve never met an attorney like Angela. She brings something special to the practice of Family Law. Our case ended with great results because of Angela..... If you want the best of the best, she’s right here....
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11 Jan, 2016 by Brian
Had an unfortunate experience working with this firm to appeal property taxes. I reached out to them after receiving a mailer regarding property tax reduction. After signing up, they asked for $50 to submit an appeal. A few months later they asked for an additional $250 for an appraisal which I sent with no hesitation. Some weeks after the appeal date I called to get an update and was informed that it was "canceled" by the appraiser. I probably should have asked more questions like, why was it canceled? or why didn't anyone perform an appraisal on my home? Overall it was a disappointing experience. Fortunately, I was able to complete the process on my own.
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08 Dec, 2024 by Anonymous
She was responsible for assisting us with closing the estate of my late Father. Communication was inconsistent. Her explanations seemed to always go in circles and were difficult to understand. The whole process took much longer than expected for what we thought was a fairly simple estate.
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14 Jul, 2020 by Alex c
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:
-
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.
