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16 Mar, 2023 by Kravitz realtors
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21 Jan, 2023 by Bill shaner iii
Knowledgeable service oriented and well versed in land use law
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09 Sep, 2022 by Jay hershorin
I called the firm to confirm a check I had received is real or fraudulent. I spoke with Suzie who was very informative
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16 Mar, 2023 by Kravitz realtors
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21 Jan, 2023 by Bill shaner iii
Knowledgeable service oriented and well versed in land use law
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09 Sep, 2022 by Jay hershorin
I called the firm to confirm a check I had received is real or fraudulent. I spoke with Suzie who was very informative
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16 Mar, 2023 by Kravitz realtors
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21 Jan, 2023 by Bill shaner iii
Knowledgeable service oriented and well versed in land use law
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09 Sep, 2022 by Jay hershorin
I called the firm to confirm a check I had received is real or fraudulent. I spoke with Suzie who was very informative
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16 Mar, 2023 by Kravitz realtors
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21 Jan, 2023 by Bill shaner iii
Knowledgeable service oriented and well versed in land use law
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09 Sep, 2022 by Jay hershorin
I called the firm to confirm a check I had received is real or fraudulent. I spoke with Suzie who was very informative
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29 Jan, 2023 by Davita fatigate
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15 Jan, 2023 by Rigo místico
Uno de los mejores abogados en Westchester nunca te deja solo y tampoco te abandona siempre lucha y esta a tu lado lo recomiendo al 1000% gracias a mr Andrew tuve una nueva oportunidad de hacer cambios en mi vida
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03 Jul, 2017 by Tanzil chowdhury
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06 Jul, 2024 by Jennifer g. baculima
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14 Apr, 2024 by Dom laperuta
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27 Jan, 2022 by Edward c.
Joe senior is the Best lawyer I can asked for. He is very knowledgeable and friendly and helped me thru the time in need.
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29 Jan, 2023 by Davita fatigate
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15 Jan, 2023 by Rigo místico
Uno de los mejores abogados en Westchester nunca te deja solo y tampoco te abandona siempre lucha y esta a tu lado lo recomiendo al 1000% gracias a mr Andrew tuve una nueva oportunidad de hacer cambios en mi vida
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03 Jul, 2017 by Tanzil chowdhury
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08 Nov, 2023 by Laly
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29 Jul, 2021 by Solomon sharaby
The best
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28 Aug, 2020 by Harold glassberg
Always great
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08 Nov, 2023 by Laly
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29 Jul, 2021 by Solomon sharaby
The best
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28 Aug, 2020 by Harold glassberg
Always great
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20 Dec, 2021 by Roy campbell
Mr. Timko, and his partner Mr. Moses, have helped me with numerous legal matters over the years, and I highly recommend them for all legal matters, if they dont handle your matter, they will make a referral to someone who does.
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07 Jun, 2018 by H'eaven
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20 Dec, 2021 by Roy campbell
Mr. Timko, and his partner Mr. Moses, have helped me with numerous legal matters over the years, and I highly recommend them for all legal matters, if they dont handle your matter, they will make a referral to someone who does.
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07 Jun, 2018 by H'eaven
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24 Aug, 2024 by L.dalrymple
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30 Jan, 2021 by David dalrymple
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29 Jan, 2021 by Stephanie f
John Jones was so great! We'd been working with another law firm to try to close on some land in upstate NY. The closing date was supposed to be in September 2020. We switched to working with John in January 2021 and he was able to do in 4 weeks what had taken the other firm over 4 months. If only we'd switched sooner, perhaps we could have avoided the extra time spent, interest paid, and all the price hikes on building materials. However we are SO SO SO pleased with how diligently John worked on our closing. He was responsive, informative, and thorough. Thanks John!
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12 Sep, 2023 by Stoneleigh farm
I had the good fortune of retaining Lydia Milone for my divorce proceedings in 2019, and I say this with the utmost respect and gratitude- Lydia is a lioness; ferocious in her client’s defense and protective of their needs and emotions in what are for them, very turbulent times. Lydia shepherded me through one of the most difficult experiences of my life- listening to my concerns, protecting my interests and offering sage advice through the entire process. I’m eternally grateful that it was she by my side through such conflict, and I wholeheartedly recommend her to anyone in need of assistance traversing the legal system in matters of divorce and family law.
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25 Nov, 2020 by Carolyn winston
Shari is an extremely talented attorney who cares a great deal about her clients and her firm. Shari has a strong sense of organization which helped her to always gain the upper hand in court and win a large majority of her cases. Shari is very through and competent professional who always had my interest in mind. She never missed a scheduled meeting and always took my calls. She has an exceptionally strong eye for details. Shari has a very calm demeanor that was a blessing when I was in physical therapy for a total knee replacement. I owe a debt of gratitude for her service. She is a solid lawyer who practices nothing but the best customer service for her clients. She has taken pro bono cases each year to help people who would have otherwise not been able to afford legal counsel. Shari is always available for anyone who is need of legal assistance.
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12 Sep, 2023 by Stoneleigh farm
I had the good fortune of retaining Lydia Milone for my divorce proceedings in 2019, and I say this with the utmost respect and gratitude- Lydia is a lioness; ferocious in her client’s defense and protective of their needs and emotions in what are for them, very turbulent times. Lydia shepherded me through one of the most difficult experiences of my life- listening to my concerns, protecting my interests and offering sage advice through the entire process. I’m eternally grateful that it was she by my side through such conflict, and I wholeheartedly recommend her to anyone in need of assistance traversing the legal system in matters of divorce and family law.
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29 Jan, 2021 by Stephanie f
John Jones was so great! We'd been working with another law firm to try to close on some land in upstate NY. The closing date was supposed to be in September 2020. We switched to working with John in January 2021 and he was able to do in 4 weeks what had taken the other firm over 4 months. If only we'd switched sooner, perhaps we could have avoided the extra time spent, interest paid, and all the price hikes on building materials. However we are SO SO SO pleased with how diligently John worked on our closing. He was responsive, informative, and thorough. Thanks John!
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12 Sep, 2023 by Stoneleigh farm
I had the good fortune of retaining Lydia Milone for my divorce proceedings in 2019, and I say this with the utmost respect and gratitude- Lydia is a lioness; ferocious in her client’s defense and protective of their needs and emotions in what are for them, very turbulent times. Lydia shepherded me through one of the most difficult experiences of my life- listening to my concerns, protecting my interests and offering sage advice through the entire process. I’m eternally grateful that it was she by my side through such conflict, and I wholeheartedly recommend her to anyone in need of assistance traversing the legal system in matters of divorce and family law.
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29 Jan, 2021 by Stephanie f
John Jones was so great! We'd been working with another law firm to try to close on some land in upstate NY. The closing date was supposed to be in September 2020. We switched to working with John in January 2021 and he was able to do in 4 weeks what had taken the other firm over 4 months. If only we'd switched sooner, perhaps we could have avoided the extra time spent, interest paid, and all the price hikes on building materials. However we are SO SO SO pleased with how diligently John worked on our closing. He was responsive, informative, and thorough. Thanks John!
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29 Jan, 2021 by Stephanie f
John Jones was so great! We'd been working with another law firm to try to close on some land in upstate NY. The closing date was supposed to be in September 2020. We switched to working with John in January 2021 and he was able to do in 4 weeks what had taken the other firm over 4 months. If only we'd switched sooner, perhaps we could have avoided the extra time spent, interest paid, and all the price hikes on building materials. However we are SO SO SO pleased with how diligently John worked on our closing. He was responsive, informative, and thorough. Thanks John!
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star star star star star
12 Sep, 2023 by Stoneleigh farm
I had the good fortune of retaining Lydia Milone for my divorce proceedings in 2019, and I say this with the utmost respect and gratitude- Lydia is a lioness; ferocious in her client’s defense and protective of their needs and emotions in what are for them, very turbulent times. Lydia shepherded me through one of the most difficult experiences of my life- listening to my concerns, protecting my interests and offering sage advice through the entire process. I’m eternally grateful that it was she by my side through such conflict, and I wholeheartedly recommend her to anyone in need of assistance traversing the legal system in matters of divorce and family law.
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star star star star star
25 Nov, 2020 by Carolyn winston
Shari is an extremely talented attorney who cares a great deal about her clients and her firm. Shari has a strong sense of organization which helped her to always gain the upper hand in court and win a large majority of her cases. Shari is very through and competent professional who always had my interest in mind. She never missed a scheduled meeting and always took my calls. She has an exceptionally strong eye for details. Shari has a very calm demeanor that was a blessing when I was in physical therapy for a total knee replacement. I owe a debt of gratitude for her service. She is a solid lawyer who practices nothing but the best customer service for her clients. She has taken pro bono cases each year to help people who would have otherwise not been able to afford legal counsel. Shari is always available for anyone who is need of legal assistance.
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See more
star star star star star
12 Sep, 2023 by Stoneleigh farm
I had the good fortune of retaining Lydia Milone for my divorce proceedings in 2019, and I say this with the utmost respect and gratitude- Lydia is a lioness; ferocious in her client’s defense and protective of their needs and emotions in what are for them, very turbulent times. Lydia shepherded me through one of the most difficult experiences of my life- listening to my concerns, protecting my interests and offering sage advice through the entire process. I’m eternally grateful that it was she by my side through such conflict, and I wholeheartedly recommend her to anyone in need of assistance traversing the legal system in matters of divorce and family law.
Read more Google Maps
See more
star star star star star
25 Nov, 2020 by Carolyn winston
Shari is an extremely talented attorney who cares a great deal about her clients and her firm. Shari has a strong sense of organization which helped her to always gain the upper hand in court and win a large majority of her cases. Shari is very through and competent professional who always had my interest in mind. She never missed a scheduled meeting and always took my calls. She has an exceptionally strong eye for details. Shari has a very calm demeanor that was a blessing when I was in physical therapy for a total knee replacement. I owe a debt of gratitude for her service. She is a solid lawyer who practices nothing but the best customer service for her clients. She has taken pro bono cases each year to help people who would have otherwise not been able to afford legal counsel. Shari is always available for anyone who is need of legal assistance.
Read more Google Maps
See more
star star star star star
29 Jan, 2021 by Stephanie f
John Jones was so great! We'd been working with another law firm to try to close on some land in upstate NY. The closing date was supposed to be in September 2020. We switched to working with John in January 2021 and he was able to do in 4 weeks what had taken the other firm over 4 months. If only we'd switched sooner, perhaps we could have avoided the extra time spent, interest paid, and all the price hikes on building materials. However we are SO SO SO pleased with how diligently John worked on our closing. He was responsive, informative, and thorough. Thanks John!
Read more Google Maps
See more
star star star star star
29 Jan, 2021 by Stephanie f
John Jones was so great! We'd been working with another law firm to try to close on some land in upstate NY. The closing date was supposed to be in September 2020. We switched to working with John in January 2021 and he was able to do in 4 weeks what had taken the other firm over 4 months. If only we'd switched sooner, perhaps we could have avoided the extra time spent, interest paid, and all the price hikes on building materials. However we are SO SO SO pleased with how diligently John worked on our closing. He was responsive, informative, and thorough. Thanks John!
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04 Oct, 2024 by Maria arandia
Great experience working with this firm!
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30 Sep, 2024 by Lori miller
I wanted to write a note and to express my gratitude for the legal council Nicole Walker provided me. I came to the law firm after two lawyers did not deliver on what they said they would do and overcharged me. I was in extreme emotional distress. I provided Peter/Nicole with my story and a lot of information that I felt was important for the legal situation. You listened to my story, reviewed the information (actually read it), and delivered on exactly what I requested. You did not judge me and treated me with respect (unlike the other lawyer). You were gracious with all of my inquiries. I cannot believe that you were able to accomplish this legal issue! I have been trying since November of 2022. You did this in 1.5 months! This is beyond a miracle. The firm acted with integrity, knowledge, and perseverance. Again, thank you, thank you, thank you!!!!!!
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29 Sep, 2024 by Gregory davis
Disappointing Experience with Lack of Communication My brother had high hopes when he reached out to this law firm, given their specialization in Second Amendment and gun rights issues. Unfortunately, his experience has been very frustrating. He has been denied his pistol permit three times by Westchester County and Despite multiple phone calls and emails, he has yet to receive a response back from his attorney/law firm on his now, third most recent denial for his pistol permit. Communication is key when dealing with legal matters, and it's disappointing when a firm promises to help but fails to follow through. He expected professionalism and timely updates, but instead, he was spoken to with such disrespect by his lawyer Robert M. Schechter and left in the dark. I would caution others to think twice before engaging with this firm if you're looking for reliable, responsive and respectful services.
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04 Oct, 2024 by Maria arandia
Great experience working with this firm!
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star star star star star
30 Sep, 2024 by Lori miller
I wanted to write a note and to express my gratitude for the legal council Nicole Walker provided me. I came to the law firm after two lawyers did not deliver on what they said they would do and overcharged me. I was in extreme emotional distress. I provided Peter/Nicole with my story and a lot of information that I felt was important for the legal situation. You listened to my story, reviewed the information (actually read it), and delivered on exactly what I requested. You did not judge me and treated me with respect (unlike the other lawyer). You were gracious with all of my inquiries. I cannot believe that you were able to accomplish this legal issue! I have been trying since November of 2022. You did this in 1.5 months! This is beyond a miracle. The firm acted with integrity, knowledge, and perseverance. Again, thank you, thank you, thank you!!!!!!
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
29 Sep, 2024 by Gregory davis
Disappointing Experience with Lack of Communication My brother had high hopes when he reached out to this law firm, given their specialization in Second Amendment and gun rights issues. Unfortunately, his experience has been very frustrating. He has been denied his pistol permit three times by Westchester County and Despite multiple phone calls and emails, he has yet to receive a response back from his attorney/law firm on his now, third most recent denial for his pistol permit. Communication is key when dealing with legal matters, and it's disappointing when a firm promises to help but fails to follow through. He expected professionalism and timely updates, but instead, he was spoken to with such disrespect by his lawyer Robert M. Schechter and left in the dark. I would caution others to think twice before engaging with this firm if you're looking for reliable, responsive and respectful services.
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08 Oct, 2024 by Vinnie
Spoke with Michael Schwartz today about an issue i have he was very helpful with his advice . I would highly recommended him . very kind and friendly
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03 Oct, 2024 by Abdullah alebdy
Michael H. Schwartz was very helpful, knowledgeable, and courteous. His staff were very respectful and helpful.
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01 Oct, 2024 by J i
If you want a human being and a straight shooter for your lawyer then Michael is for you. He cares and he tells it like it is A+++++++++++++
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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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