Lawyers map
>131
experienced lawyers
Filter by
5.0
3 Reviews
5.0
15 Reviews
20 Sep, 2024 by Ron sconyers
We were truly impressed with the personalized attention for our first meeting. We had a number of issues we didn’t quite understand and they were able to answer with ease and understandable detail. We suspect that there are few firms In the US with the expertise in Philippine law like Fil-Am. World class for sure.
Read more
31 May, 2024 by Larissa pollard
The lawyers and team at Fil-Am were very informative and knowledgeable of the laws in the US and the Philippines. They explained in great detail every aspect of what I needed to understand in my situation. Incredibly courteous and professional group of people. We will be working with them again in the future!
Read more
19 Apr, 2024 by Nikki asbeck
Inheriting assets in the Philippines when you are based in the US is a journey fraught with legal complexities and a daunting bureaucratic maze. Thanks to the help of Ms. Sheila, Dr. Rey and Attorney Edward, what would otherwise be a nightmarish ordeal is a remarkably smooth process. I cannot recommend FilAm Lawyers highly enough for anyone in need of assistance with respect to Philippine inheritance law when they are based in the states. Their combined team, attention to detail, meticulous follow through, professionalism, expertise, and commitment to excellence sets the gold standard in the legal profession. If it were possible to give bonus stars in a review I would. 6 out of 5 possible stars.
Read more
11 Apr, 2024 by Pamela
If you are looking for an attorney who has experience, confidence, and great knowledge of the law, you really should hire Randall Cohen for your legal needs. His expertise was exactly what we were looking for at a difficult time. We highly recommend Randy. There is a bonus too, he is a great person to work with.
Read more
23 May, 2018 by Aimee
Mr. Cohen helped to resolve an issue for my father. He was very efficient with his correspondence to the parties involved. He is direct, firm, knowledgable, kind, and extremely organized. He cares about his clients and fighting for what is fair and right. I highly recommend Mr. Cohen.
Read more
18 May, 2015 by Donna
I have nothing but the highest of accolades for Mr. Cohen as my Legal Counsel and Trial Litigator. Having to face trial testimony is most frightening but Mr. Cohen counseled me through the entire process, as well as entertaining, most patiently and graciously, my multitude of questions and concerns every step of the way. His acute attention to every detail crucial to my case was exhibited in and through his thorough trial preparations and case presentation. Needless to say, his courtroom litigation skills were most impressive and highly respectable . I am blessed, proud, and forever grateful to have his representation. He won my case and saved my home. I highly recommend Mr. Randall A. Cohen for all your litigation needs.
Read more
17 Mar, 2017 by Alma
I was referred to Chris, I called and left a message within the hour he called me back gave me some great advise and told me how to proceed. Since my case is small he had the courtesy of letting me know right away but he did not hesitate to guide me and tell me what the next step should be. He was very helpful.
Read more
10 Sep, 2015 by Anonymous
Once again Chris proved to be amazing. He helped me through a very traumatic lawsuit. He submitted the paperwork to the courts and the judge made his ruling prior to my court date. He is truly incredible and I am so lucky to have him. I would highly recommend him.
Read more
06 Feb, 2015 by Rachel
I had the opportunity to use Chris as my attorney. He was wonderful and made me feel comfortable right away. He translated my long winded story to make it make sense and win the case. He told me exactly what to do and what my options were. He returned every one of my calls and answered my emails promptly and kept me informed at all times. Chris was always available and made me feel safe. I will continue to use and recommend him. Thank you Chris!!
Read more
21 Jul, 2017 by Roy
We hired Mr. Debolt to help us with very complicated contracts and negotiations related to our business acquisition in Newbury Park, CA. He was very accommodating when I contacted him by telephone and dropped off the documents. At our first meeting, it was obvious that he had a strong background and knowledge base, and he asked incisive questions about the industry and made notes so that he could better understand our business practices. He pulled the stack of contracts and exhibits from his briefcase, and every page had been thoroughly reviewed and diligently marked with his handwritten notations. He remarked about the language in the contracts as if he had memorized them. He explained his comments and concerns in understandable terms, as well as the pros/cons and ramifications of negotiating each issue. We had several meetings to review changes and revisions. He was always personable and engaging, and also laser-focused on producing the best outcome for us. I am grateful that we got the deal done our way, in a short period of time, negotiating successfully for better terms, and without inciting unimportant quarrels.
He is a top-notch professional with no ego but all the chops, and it gives us tremendous confidence to have him in our corner for all future business transactions and negotiations. I would highly recommend that other business and property owners do the same. Absolutely impressed.
Read more
20 Jul, 2017 by Thor
Bart DeBolt is top-notch. He provided excellent guidance for my company in compliance, filings and general counsel. He had a strong base of knowledge from prior experience that served us well. He also researched thoroughly any new issues, to afford the best balance possible between legal protection and aggressive business practices. I highly recommend Mr. DeBolt; he is one of the finest thinkers in the business.
Read more
19 Jul, 2017 by Colin
I landed a heap of file on Barton's desk, seeking help with a person to whom I had sold my company.I signed these papers while my wife was dying ( she died just this week) and I was under a lot of stress. Barton was amazing in how he handled all the complications, not to mention me being an emotional basket case.
He was patient, compassionate and brilliant. With his guidance I made all the right moves and, basically, escape a legal nightmare.
I could not imagine a lawyer doing a better job on an extremely complicated case.
Read more
22 Apr, 2022 by Pamela d. bouganim
Very professional !
The staff are sweet and smart as can be and mr. Alex Robertson so much kindness and professionalism to offer to clients!
Read more
28 Jan, 2020 by Wasupafly jesse
31 Jul, 2019 by Geoff spreter
22 Apr, 2022 by Pamela d. bouganim
Very professional !
The staff are sweet and smart as can be and mr. Alex Robertson so much kindness and professionalism to offer to clients!
Read more
28 Jan, 2020 by Wasupafly jesse
31 Jul, 2019 by Geoff spreter
22 Apr, 2022 by Pamela d. bouganim
Very professional !
The staff are sweet and smart as can be and mr. Alex Robertson so much kindness and professionalism to offer to clients!
Read more
28 Jan, 2020 by Wasupafly jesse
31 Jul, 2019 by Geoff spreter
04 Jun, 2011 by Anonymous
Leo represented me a number of years ago after having fired two other attornies. He's smart, and above all, fair in his pricing. He was blunt when necessary and charming the rest of the time. I would highly recommend this attorney.
Read more
30 Jun, 2007 by Anonymous
Mr. Rosen is the finest attorney I have ever met. He returns clients phone calls. He take pre-paid legal plans as well as money, contingency and has always given me a lot of advice for free. He appears to care about all his clients. He is knowledgeable and gets very good out comes in court. He is professional and does a spectacular job for his clients. He is very quick in his paperwork but Judges seem to love the way he writes his briefs. I highly recommend this lawyer because HE IS HONEST AND TRUSTWORTHY and he will not let you down if he can help it. He gives all lawyers a very good name.
Read more
31 Jul, 2021 by Nancy
In 2018 I consulted with and hired Kyle Marks to represent me as seller of my mother’s home after her death. This was a for sale by owner sale. People think you can’t sell a house without a real estate agent, but you can if you have a knowledgeable attorney like Kyle Marks. I already had a buyer but was overwhelmed and anxious by the prospect of all the forms and legal documents that are part of a home sale.
After consulting with Kyle, he knew what my goals were in the sale of this house—that I wanted to sell it in as-in condition with no concessions to the buyers. Kyle produced all the many legal documents that are necessary after a home sale and corresponded with the buyer by phone and letters. When the buyer kept trying to contact me directly and make special requests, Kyle asked them to make any requests only through him, which was much less stressful for me. His expertise and knowledge took all the anxiety out of what could have been a very complicated process; he always kept me informed about what my legal obligations and rights were and the his fee was very reasonable. I would not hesitate to hire Kyle Marks for any real estate concern.
Read more
26 Sep, 2017 by Sherman
Used Gary many times for our Entertainment related business. Very creative and effective lawyer. Has the sometimes needed aggressiveness that we expect from an attorney representing our business.
Read more
09 May, 2016 by Anonymous
Karl produced prompt and impeccable legal documents that were instrumental in successfully navigating a very tricky real estate issue among family members. Not only did he accomplish what we needed he also provided valuable insight about other potential areas of concern that might arise that none of us had imagined. I highly recommend Karl and am so glad to have such an intelligent and caring lawyer onboard.
Read more
13 Jun, 2017 by David
We have worked with John on two separate issues and he has advised us well.
Read more
28 Jun, 2024 by Art schwartz
This is my second review on RELAW and without boring everyone with a repeat of my first review, let me just say that I had a very consistent experience. Timely responses by both the attorney (Lauri) as well as their front-office staff. It appears my first outstanding experience with them was not a fluke. I highly recommend RELAW.
Read more
12 Feb, 2024 by Andrew robles
An absolute pleasure to work with. Will be using services again in the future.
Read more
08 Dec, 2023 by Gracie
My husabnd and I reached out to RELAW for assistance in canceling a list agreement with a broker. We worked with Lauri Shahar and her amazing team. They were able to objectively handle our case and answered our numerous questions. Lauri recognized our urgency in relisting our home. She worked diligintly and and was able to get us out of contract within 2 weeks time. THANK YOU RELAW!!!
Read more
17 Aug, 2024 by J d
Your choice of a lawyer makes all the difference in how you feel about the experience and can impact the outcome. From my first interaction, I knew Karen was highly knowledgeable, would treat me as a valued client and not just another case in the queue, and was an empathetic professional. Besides knowing bankruptcy law, she is an expert communicator. She breaks down what can seem like an overwhelming complex process into manageable parts. She explains the overall process and timelines, presents transparent fees, provides worksheets to help you gather the needed information, meets with you (in person or via Zoom) at appropriate points, answers your questions, and identifies any potential areas that need further clarification. She utilizes specialized software and a secure client portal to keep you organized and the process effective and efficient. She prepares you for your hearing with the court’s Trustee; not every lawyer does this or does it as well. She also understands the roller coaster of emotions that filing for bankruptcy takes you on. She is patient, a good listener, and gives you the confidence that you will come out the other side just fine. I did. Choose the Law Offices of Karen Ware to represent you, and I bet you will come out the other side just fine, too.
Read more
31 Jul, 2024 by Jabalie altes
28 Jun, 2024 by Tim hoag
17 Aug, 2024 by J d
Your choice of a lawyer makes all the difference in how you feel about the experience and can impact the outcome. From my first interaction, I knew Karen was highly knowledgeable, would treat me as a valued client and not just another case in the queue, and was an empathetic professional. Besides knowing bankruptcy law, she is an expert communicator. She breaks down what can seem like an overwhelming complex process into manageable parts. She explains the overall process and timelines, presents transparent fees, provides worksheets to help you gather the needed information, meets with you (in person or via Zoom) at appropriate points, answers your questions, and identifies any potential areas that need further clarification. She utilizes specialized software and a secure client portal to keep you organized and the process effective and efficient. She prepares you for your hearing with the court’s Trustee; not every lawyer does this or does it as well. She also understands the roller coaster of emotions that filing for bankruptcy takes you on. She is patient, a good listener, and gives you the confidence that you will come out the other side just fine. I did. Choose the Law Offices of Karen Ware to represent you, and I bet you will come out the other side just fine, too.
Read more
31 Jul, 2024 by Jabalie altes
28 Jun, 2024 by Tim hoag
20 Sep, 2024 by Ron sconyers
We were truly impressed with the personalized attention for our first meeting. We had a number of issues we didn’t quite understand and they were able to answer with ease and understandable detail. We suspect that there are few firms In the US with the expertise in Philippine law like Fil-Am. World class for sure.
Read more
31 May, 2024 by Larissa pollard
The lawyers and team at Fil-Am were very informative and knowledgeable of the laws in the US and the Philippines. They explained in great detail every aspect of what I needed to understand in my situation. Incredibly courteous and professional group of people. We will be working with them again in the future!
Read more
19 Apr, 2024 by Nikki asbeck
Inheriting assets in the Philippines when you are based in the US is a journey fraught with legal complexities and a daunting bureaucratic maze. Thanks to the help of Ms. Sheila, Dr. Rey and Attorney Edward, what would otherwise be a nightmarish ordeal is a remarkably smooth process. I cannot recommend FilAm Lawyers highly enough for anyone in need of assistance with respect to Philippine inheritance law when they are based in the states. Their combined team, attention to detail, meticulous follow through, professionalism, expertise, and commitment to excellence sets the gold standard in the legal profession. If it were possible to give bonus stars in a review I would. 6 out of 5 possible stars.
Read more
17 Aug, 2024 by J d
Your choice of a lawyer makes all the difference in how you feel about the experience and can impact the outcome. From my first interaction, I knew Karen was highly knowledgeable, would treat me as a valued client and not just another case in the queue, and was an empathetic professional. Besides knowing bankruptcy law, she is an expert communicator. She breaks down what can seem like an overwhelming complex process into manageable parts. She explains the overall process and timelines, presents transparent fees, provides worksheets to help you gather the needed information, meets with you (in person or via Zoom) at appropriate points, answers your questions, and identifies any potential areas that need further clarification. She utilizes specialized software and a secure client portal to keep you organized and the process effective and efficient. She prepares you for your hearing with the court’s Trustee; not every lawyer does this or does it as well. She also understands the roller coaster of emotions that filing for bankruptcy takes you on. She is patient, a good listener, and gives you the confidence that you will come out the other side just fine. I did. Choose the Law Offices of Karen Ware to represent you, and I bet you will come out the other side just fine, too.
Read more
31 Jul, 2024 by Jabalie altes
28 Jun, 2024 by Tim hoag
15 Apr, 2024 by Gabby renteria
Randall possesses an innate ability to alleviate the apprehension that comes with legal consultation. His approach seamlessly combines accessibility with extensive expertise. His meticulous attention to detail and decisiveness not only streamline processes but also yield resolutions that are comprehensive and definitive, minimizing financial expenditures for his clients. Entrusting Randall with my business as well as my personal matters has been the best decision by far as he has since evolved into an invaluable confidant and advisor for my husband and I. Without hesitation, I extend my highest recommendation to the Cohen Law Firm, a bastion of unparalleled proficiency and integrity.
Read more
09 Apr, 2024 by Brendon garcia
Randall is amazing. It can be intimidating to reach out to an attorney and Randall makes it easy. Not only that, he's thorough and decisive, which saves time and money since he solves issues the first time and for good. I engaged Randall for my business formation and he's continued to be a trusted advisor. I can highly recommend Cohen Law Firm.
Read more
11 May, 2022 by Jasmine johnson
Needed a real estate lawyer to assist me with a transaction. Was referred to Randall Cohen, at Cohen Law firm. Mr Cohen has been expedient in his responses to questions and accommodating for zoom meetings.
Read more
17 Nov, 2021 by Trish simmons
08 Aug, 2020 by Neda ostovari
13 Oct, 2019 by Sheldon westbrook
Revolution Financial is here too
Read more
07 Nov, 2021 by David andres
05 Sep, 2024 by Anonymous
Tom is absolutely the top lawyer for Landus, development and entitlement zoning issues in Ventura County. I have worked with other lawyers in the past but nobody nearly as sharp with it as Tom Cohen. I can’t recommend him highly enough pick up the phone and call and you will see. Thanks, Tom, Andy.
Read more
08 Oct, 2024 by Jea jea
My experience with Bojat Law Group was very positive and I would recommend them to anyone. After my car accident with a drunk driver I experienced serious injuries. From the first consultation to the last steps they were very caring and professional and got me the highest possible settlement! They also took care of my medical treatment with so much attention. The best law firm 🙌🙌🙌
Read more
08 Oct, 2024 by Mikazu moran
I highly recommend Bojat Law Group to anyone in need of a personal injury attorney. From the very first initial contact they were professional and responsive in every possible way. Sasha Bojat and his team of attorneys took care of my car accident case while guiding me through each step of the way. They explained everything and made sure I was comfortable with all the explanations. If you're looking for an attorney who will fight for your best results then look at Bojat Law Group. Honestly they are the best injury law firm I have ever worked with here in Los Angeles.
Read more
08 Oct, 2024 by Phoebe gonzales
Extremely supportive and stepped in right when I needed it most. I was in pain and overwhelmed but they took over my case and managed everything for me. They successfully negotiated my medical bills down which made a big difference. I highly recommend Bojat Law Group for anyone needing personal injury representation!
Read more
18 Aug, 2024 by Francesca doeding
We contacted Faucher Law for a second opinion after having a bad experience with a tax attorney. I was immediately taken aback by how friendly and pleasant our interactions were over the phone/zoom with John and his secretary. John helped us confidently address complicated tax issues we didn’t know how to manage. We are relieved to have someone so friendly and knowledgeable to call on for advice. If you need help, call their office. He is quick to respond and get you the help you need. Friendly, efficient, professional.
Read more
18 Aug, 2024 by Lorna bank
John was extremely helpful in explaining the ramifications of the notifications we received and clarifying what they did (and did not!) mean. Initially I went into panic mode, but he put my mind at ease and discussed how and what needed to be done to resolve our issues and educated us on now not to make things worse. We came away from our consultation with a firm plan and could see light at the end of the tunnel. He will be with us through this process and I am so pleased he was recommended to us by a CPA. John Faucher really is an expert and we can highly recommend him to others.
Read more
12 Jul, 2024 by Dan sherman
Our business occasionally encounters a client with a complex tax issue beyond our knowledge. A fellow tax professional referred me to John, and it was an excellent experience. John offered to review our client's case and provided a very professional and confident expert opinion. We appreciate his time and knowledge. We were referred, and I would also refer our clients to John.
Read more
21 Jul, 2024 by Suzanne baran
I am so glad that I decided to pay for a detailed and thorough consultation with Kristina. She was extremely thorough and broke down complex concepts and legal speak into mirror mortal terms so that I could understand the pros and cons of hiring an attorney or having a divorce with a capable mediator to remedy disagreements and forge agreements that could be submitted to the court advice and information is invaluable!
Read more
02 Jul, 2024 by Anya romano
I would recommend the Modern Divorce Mediation to anyone getting divorced. I worked with family law attorney Kristina Kell and she was able to get us to a settlement when nothing I had tried in the past worked with my ex. I have friends spending ten's of thousand on their divorces and lasting for years - that is not happening at this firm. Our divorce was fast, professional, and mostly stressless. The best part, I saved a fortune.
Read more
13 Jun, 2024 by Michelle murphy
I highly recommend attorney Kristina Kell! She did a fantastic job with settling my divorce case in Los Angeles, helping settle both financial and complicated custody issues. Kristina was always available to answer my questions and made me feel confident throughout the whole process. Her expertise and dedication ensured that I got a fair financial settlement and a great custody arrangement for my kids. On top of that, Kristina charged reasonable fees for her services, which was a huge relief during such a stressful time. If you need a family law attorney who is skilled, supportive, and affordable, Kristina is a great choice!
Read more
5.0
1 Reviews
4.9
37 Reviews
21 Jul, 2024 by Suzanne baran
I am so glad that I decided to pay for a detailed and thorough consultation with Kristina. She was extremely thorough and broke down complex concepts and legal speak into mirror mortal terms so that I could understand the pros and cons of hiring an attorney or having a divorce with a capable mediator to remedy disagreements and forge agreements that could be submitted to the court advice and information is invaluable!
Read more
02 Jul, 2024 by Anya romano
I would recommend the Modern Divorce Mediation to anyone getting divorced. I worked with family law attorney Kristina Kell and she was able to get us to a settlement when nothing I had tried in the past worked with my ex. I have friends spending ten's of thousand on their divorces and lasting for years - that is not happening at this firm. Our divorce was fast, professional, and mostly stressless. The best part, I saved a fortune.
Read more
13 Jun, 2024 by Michelle murphy
I highly recommend attorney Kristina Kell! She did a fantastic job with settling my divorce case in Los Angeles, helping settle both financial and complicated custody issues. Kristina was always available to answer my questions and made me feel confident throughout the whole process. Her expertise and dedication ensured that I got a fair financial settlement and a great custody arrangement for my kids. On top of that, Kristina charged reasonable fees for her services, which was a huge relief during such a stressful time. If you need a family law attorney who is skilled, supportive, and affordable, Kristina is a great choice!
Read more
27 Apr, 2024 by Bill e brock
Sara Fazio was an excellent choice for my business contract dispute. She grasped the issues promptly, explained the options thoroughly, demonstrated integrity with billing and worked diligently to reduce unnecessary costs. There were never any communication concerns. I highly recommend Ms. Fazio.
Read more
11 Apr, 2024 by Mike mantel
Sara helped us to collect on an invoice for over $10,000 that had gone unpaid for almost 4 years. We were even able to recoup interest which more then covered her fees.
Read more
18 Oct, 2023 by Liz
I was involved in a restraining order case that was filed against me out of malice and revenge. Vernon Ellicott took my case, fought for me and we won. He is a highly skilled, professional, experienced attorney who knows what he’s doing. If you’re looking for an attorney that is a beast in court and hates to lose, Vernon Ellicott is your guy.
Read more
23 May, 2024 by Zach umann
Steve is an exceptional attorney who truly goes above and beyond for his clients. His expertise, professionalism, and dedication make him stand out in his field. He provided me with clear guidance throughout my case and achieved the best possible outcome. I highly recommend Steve to anyone in need of legal representation.
Read more
03 Apr, 2023 by Mirror mirror
Thank you soooo much for your help. We, all of us greatly appreciate it.
Read more
21 Jan, 2023 by Jeannie
I was relieved to be put in touch with Steve Ostrove who came with high recommendation. He not only returned my phone call same day but also spent the time to understand the issue I am dealing with and provided me with sound legal and cautionary advice including a preliminary direction to take. I found him to be very knowledgeable and genuine. If I'm unsuccessful with a resolution, I won't hesitate to to retain him.
Read more
23 May, 2024 by Zach umann
Steve is an exceptional attorney who truly goes above and beyond for his clients. His expertise, professionalism, and dedication make him stand out in his field. He provided me with clear guidance throughout my case and achieved the best possible outcome. I highly recommend Steve to anyone in need of legal representation.
Read more
03 Apr, 2023 by Mirror mirror
Thank you soooo much for your help. We, all of us greatly appreciate it.
Read more
21 Jan, 2023 by Jeannie
I was relieved to be put in touch with Steve Ostrove who came with high recommendation. He not only returned my phone call same day but also spent the time to understand the issue I am dealing with and provided me with sound legal and cautionary advice including a preliminary direction to take. I found him to be very knowledgeable and genuine. If I'm unsuccessful with a resolution, I won't hesitate to to retain him.
Read more
5.0
20 Reviews
4.3
38 Reviews
28 Aug, 2024 by Daniel rignack
22 Jul, 2024 by Monique garcia
Thank you for winning my case I appreciate your help
Read more
27 Apr, 2024 by Bill e brock
Sara Fazio was an excellent choice for my business contract dispute. She grasped the issues promptly, explained the options thoroughly, demonstrated integrity with billing and worked diligently to reduce unnecessary costs. There were never any communication concerns. I highly recommend Ms. Fazio.
Read 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:
-
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.
