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20 Sep, 2022 by Michael scarsellato
We needed legal assistance and Gina Zumpella was beyond exceptional. Every question we had was quickly answered and we couldn’t have been more grateful and appreciative of the level of professionalism we received.We would definitely recommend this firm.
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10 Oct, 2019 by Lindsay robinson
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20 Sep, 2022 by Michael scarsellato
We needed legal assistance and Gina Zumpella was beyond exceptional. Every question we had was quickly answered and we couldn’t have been more grateful and appreciative of the level of professionalism we received.We would definitely recommend this firm.
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10 Oct, 2019 by Lindsay robinson
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30 Jul, 2014 by Adam
Dave has been my attorney for over 20 years. He is a very thorough Real Estate Attorney and always watching out for your best interest. Great attorney and I would Highly recommend him to anyone.
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27 Jan, 2015 by Scott
Harry is considered a valuable resource and key component in my corporations EH&S program. Harry's relentless approach in environmental regulatory compliance has permitted the facilities to operate at maximum capacity. Harry's approach has allowed the facilities to plan for future expansion while achieving emission reductions. His reputation has facilitiated open communication with several regulatory agencies and has introduced the company to many key experts.
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16 Dec, 2014 by Anonymous
I launched my technology start-up in 2011. I had yet to discover exactly how much I did not know – including how to identify appropriate counsel. My first stop for legal advice was with a big name legal firm. They certainly knew their trade, but they also treated my account no differently than US Steel. The large legal organization was accustomed to ‘taking care of business,’ and then sending the bill. I learned my lesson via a bill for $10,000 to review a contract (the contract was for $35,000). Mark was recommended to me by someone who was a few years ahead of me on the tech start-up timeline, and who was successfully emerging from his first priced round. Like me, his start-up began on a shoestring budget. In those early days it is imperative to focus your limited budget on ‘core’ issues. It would be wonderful if there was enough cash from the start to address everything from contract development to shareholders agreements, but the reality is there is not. So how does the new entrepreneur decide which issues are ‘core’ and which can evolve over time? And exactly how will the legal terrain evolve as the organization matures? Mark has been nothing short of a godsend in these regards. At the end of the day the decision is always mine, but he is completely candid regarding the pros and cons of prioritizing one legal action over another. This alone would win him a high recommendation, but he also takes it to another level. He has made it a point to get to know the vision of my company, and to get to know me personally. As a result, his legal advice is tailored to my organization and to my temperament. I recently took a moment to consider the significance of this approach – He would never ask me to implement a strategy that stands in contrast to my personal strengths, and as a result my business strategy has evolved in a way that plays to my strengths. My start-up is now sitting at the threshold of entering its first priced round, and if I had it to do all over again, I would again pick Mark Sullivan.
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05 Mar, 2014 by Anonymous
Mr. Jarboe handled a complex matter for us and expediently brought the issue to a favorable conclusion. We were very impressed and would request his assistance should any further issues arise.
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10 Jun, 2024 by Luke
This was the 2nd time I used him during an assessment appeal and both times he submitted the best possible evidence as to why they should lower it and both times it was a success. I would highly recommended him and will definitely be passing his name around!!!
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26 Apr, 2024 by Anonymous
He hates veterans and hard working people. He goes out of his way to sue disabled veterans.
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19 Mar, 2024 by Nicholas furlani
David is very professional, very quick to respond, and kept us updated on the process for our tax assessment appeal. He did a fantastic job and we will be using him in the future.
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02 Apr, 2024 by Sheila reed
Colleen is patient in answering questions. I highly recommend meeting with her for your elder law needs. Thanks Colleen!
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06 Sep, 2023 by Pat balok
James prepared my legal documents with professionalism and knowledge. I felt very comfortable and confident with the process.
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28 Feb, 2023 by Maxine kostrzewa
James was very professional and explained everything to us which made it so easy to prepare our will. James was so friendly and talked about where he grew up which I knew where it was because very close to where I grew up in Elizabeth . Mike and I felt very comfortable with James and made our experience of our making our will a good experience! I would highly recommend James to family and friends. He helped my nieces when my sister passed away in May of 2022. They had a great experience and recommended James to us. Maxine Kostrzewa
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24 Apr, 2024 by Rob potter
Mees Morrison was well prepared. She was excellent before the arbitration started as far as educating us as to the process. She was precise and prepared in the courtroom. Our outcome could not have been better.
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17 Feb, 2024 by Dom decinti
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08 Dec, 2023 by Tim k
I’m a little disappointed I dealt with this law firm for a long time . I sent dornish law over a lease that was not fulfilled from one of my previous tenants. Two years went past and absolutely nothing happened. I had to keep calling and asking Anthony what’s going on and he would always tell me well you didn’t pay your bill so we stopped working on it . Soon as he said that, I would pay my bill and not hear from him for months. When I call back, he would tell me the same thing. They have gotten nowhere with this case I lost $30,000 because I never got rent from these tenants that signed the lease. Dornish law Keeps sending me a bill with interest compounding and I keep telling them just have Brad call me so I can talk to him and I will pay my bill. They are ignoring me and letting the interest compound. . A business owner every time my customers said they wanted to talk to the owner. I would call immediately this unprofessional I don’t know what happened to them. They used to be a good law firm, but I will never use them again. No, they build me over $3500 and I owe them about $1800 over $300 of that interest . Beware of this law firm they are lazy, disorganized, and don’t know how to communicate
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12 Jun, 2024 by Krystal crow
John is amazing. He was very professional and understanding. I have already recommended him to a friend and I'd don't again. Thank you John and your office for all of your help.
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12 Jun, 2024 by Krajis32
My biggest regret is that I did not have John representing me from the beginning of my custody case. John encompassed everything you would expect from an extraordinary lawyer and represented me to the greatest of expectations. He was clear and concise with advising me, and his communication was excellent. He was very responsive and strategic in handling any situation that arose from my case. He was truly invested into my case and brought results that I could not get from anyone else. Highly recommend attorney John M. Schaffranek!
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15 May, 2024 by Tanner wallace
I highly recommend Dawn as a family lawyer. She is honest, direct, and incredibly collaborative. Throughout my experience, she consistently aimed to achieve the best outcome for everyone involved. Her willingness to work with all parties to find optimal solutions created a sense of security in the midst of processes that can feel really out-of-control. If you need a family lawyer who is willing to be honest with you about likely outcomes so that you do not waste time and money, but is also willing to fight hard for things that you are deserving of, Dawn is the one to choose.
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24 Apr, 2024 by Rob potter
Mees Morrison was well prepared. She was excellent before the arbitration started as far as educating us as to the process. She was precise and prepared in the courtroom. Our outcome could not have been better.
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17 Feb, 2024 by Dom decinti
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08 Dec, 2023 by Tim k
I’m a little disappointed I dealt with this law firm for a long time . I sent dornish law over a lease that was not fulfilled from one of my previous tenants. Two years went past and absolutely nothing happened. I had to keep calling and asking Anthony what’s going on and he would always tell me well you didn’t pay your bill so we stopped working on it . Soon as he said that, I would pay my bill and not hear from him for months. When I call back, he would tell me the same thing. They have gotten nowhere with this case I lost $30,000 because I never got rent from these tenants that signed the lease. Dornish law Keeps sending me a bill with interest compounding and I keep telling them just have Brad call me so I can talk to him and I will pay my bill. They are ignoring me and letting the interest compound. . A business owner every time my customers said they wanted to talk to the owner. I would call immediately this unprofessional I don’t know what happened to them. They used to be a good law firm, but I will never use them again. No, they build me over $3500 and I owe them about $1800 over $300 of that interest . Beware of this law firm they are lazy, disorganized, and don’t know how to communicate
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star star star star star
24 Apr, 2024 by Rob potter
Mees Morrison was well prepared. She was excellent before the arbitration started as far as educating us as to the process. She was precise and prepared in the courtroom. Our outcome could not have been better.
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
17 Feb, 2024 by Dom decinti
Google Maps
star star star star star
08 Dec, 2023 by Tim k
I’m a little disappointed I dealt with this law firm for a long time . I sent dornish law over a lease that was not fulfilled from one of my previous tenants. Two years went past and absolutely nothing happened. I had to keep calling and asking Anthony what’s going on and he would always tell me well you didn’t pay your bill so we stopped working on it . Soon as he said that, I would pay my bill and not hear from him for months. When I call back, he would tell me the same thing. They have gotten nowhere with this case I lost $30,000 because I never got rent from these tenants that signed the lease. Dornish law Keeps sending me a bill with interest compounding and I keep telling them just have Brad call me so I can talk to him and I will pay my bill. They are ignoring me and letting the interest compound. . A business owner every time my customers said they wanted to talk to the owner. I would call immediately this unprofessional I don’t know what happened to them. They used to be a good law firm, but I will never use them again. No, they build me over $3500 and I owe them about $1800 over $300 of that interest . Beware of this law firm they are lazy, disorganized, and don’t know how to communicate
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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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