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13 Sep, 2022 by Alexthe4th
My family chose this firm for estate planning and we had such a great experience. They presented all options clearly and then made recommendations tailored to our family's needs. All questions were answered thoroughly. Highly recommended!
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24 May, 2022 by Jeanette bennett
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13 Apr, 2022 by Ryan keeler
They did a great job setting up our LLC and explained everything so well.
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10 Aug, 2022 by Rik
I contacted Dan regarding dividing my family's 40 acre farmland in Berks County many years ago. As a California real estate broker, I needed a PA attorney to make it happen. To make a long story short. We had a lot of opposition from the neighbors, township and county. Dan went well beyond his job and and even arranged the testing, plans, aero photos etc. He even helped use to find the right buyer! Integrity, experience, commitment and a winning attitude! That's Dan.
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02 Aug, 2017 by Lynda steiner
Thorough and compassionate lawyer. Good communication. Didn't waste my time or money, but kept me updated on what was happening through every phase of my case. I would use this lawyer again.
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23 Dec, 2016 by Anonymous
Mr. Becker returned my call right away and was very supportive. He gave me some advice and had me call him back to let him know how things went, and never pressured me to hire him. He is just a very nice man and knowledgeable in his field.
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13 Apr, 2022 by Sawsan
I spoke to Mr. Hoffman in a consultation, unprepared and unpaid and yet it was utterly simple to get through to him twice and speak in details and care that even my current paid lawyer and other lawyers (with paid consultation) never showed! He showed extensive experience, genuinely caring attitude and even when he couldn't take my case for reasons pertaining to his current work and a possible conflict he gave me a very candid advise and a potential road map to follow! Where on earth do you find something like that? Most lawyers drain you emotionally and financially before turning you from a human into a case in their files and a number in their bank accounts, I understand it's a business and living to these lawyers so I never judge them on that but I would at least expect honesty to what they or their experience can do for me and the very minimal of care for myself and my family, nothing more (God forbid I ask for a bulldog in the courtroom that's like finding a unicorn!) Mr. Hoffman doesn't advertise or run flashy marketing campaigns like other lawyers do so I was only able to find him throw a word of mouth, and how I wished I could retain him! He is a gem.
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01 Aug, 2021 by Keith smoker
Excellent unique ice cream and great service
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09 Dec, 2019 by Dale
Had Chris still been with Rowe Law offices, I know we would have won my case and custody of my children. Not only did Rowe not inform me that Chris had left the practice, they waited until last minute to let me know and to get someone new caught up to speed. In the one pre trial Chris had assisted me with, we got to keep the house in the district where my kids go to school. So that was already a win in our favor. Once he left, it all fell apart. My new lawyer who represented me didn't spend 10 minutes defending me against my ex's accusations and spent 0 minutes attacking her and bringing anything to light. Rowe Law offices charges us about 15k and didn't do anything. I know if we had Chris, the way he was the first time I met him, he wouldn't have stood for how this case went down. If I could find him and afford to go back, Chris is the guy I would go with. Instead, I have 15k in debt and basically kids will have to relocate out of state after this school year and we will share 50/50 custody and my son's grandmother with whom his mom lives with was just arrested for biting my son, 2nd degree assault. Sounds like it be a cu and dry case but without Chris, I don't stand a shot. Really missed you Chris
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07 May, 2024 by Billy quinn
I contacted Attorney Julia Adams regarding a suit. All im allowed to say about the matter is “the matter has been resolved”. That said Attorney Adams ensured that the best decsions were made for me. She actually recommended I look for another lawyer when many would have forced the case for short term profit. This is is a sign she and Kozloff Stoudt are committed to providing the best advice possible. Let me say my matter is resolved and I trust Attorney Adams to help resolve more. Absolutely excellent service to the people. This is the embodiment of freedom and liberty. I hope attorney Adams is able to continue to provide such excellent service. 10/10 Attorney Service.
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05 Apr, 2024 by Ross heebner
I highly recommend this law firm! Exceptional legal expertise, dedicated team, and effective communication. They navigated my case with professionalism and achieved a favorable outcome. Grateful for their outstanding service!
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05 Apr, 2024 by Rj sayes
Whish I could rate in the negatives. Worst council to seek. Look elsewhere. They don't inform you of costs occured during the procedure. They also make you do a majority of the leg work while asking a ridiculous fee.
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30 Aug, 2024 by Nikki krize
Highly recommend! Rowe Law Offices helped me tremendously when it came to navigating my mother's estate. I wouldn't have been able to do it without them, especially Vicki. Vicki is the best of the best!
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20 Aug, 2024 by Robert “robbie” graves
My experience with this practice has been exceptional. Divorce is hard and everyone’s case is unique, but I think my case has some extraordinarily difficult circumstances. My attorney, Jacob, has gone above and beyond in dealing with some just plain weird developments. He keeps me fully informed and has shown remarkable patience and creativity in handling my case. I know, without any doubt, he has my best interest at heart and will do whatever it takes for me to have the best possible outcome. And everyone at the office is wonderful; friendly and helpful. They are a joy to interact with, and very professional as well. I just had my estate plan done here and Vicki was incredible in preparing everything and sorting all the paperwork when I came in to sign.
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16 Jul, 2024 by Curtis stout
Nothing but a money predator. Charges $175 an email regardless of length or content. She is a crook in my opinion.
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04 Aug, 2017 by Anonymous
Andrew showed more interest in his paralegal than my case. He never seemed to be hearing anything I told him. He never asked questions or discussed a strategy, and we went into my hearing with him knowing nothing about the history or details of the case, and nothing about my concerns, arguments, opinions. He is young and cocky, and just kept patronizing me saying he had it all under control. The day of the hearing he flirted with his paralegal until the time came to state my case and ask questions of the other party- nothing. He just basically stood up and said to rule in our favor, because. And then he had the nerve to looked stunned when we lost. He looked more insulted actually. Meanwhile, the entire time I'm almost having a heart attack. He just never cared at all and thought he would skate through it with a few phone calls. This man charged me $6,500 for that. He will not put forth any effort, no matter how dire the situation apparently. Dont throw your money at him.
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19 Feb, 2015 by Anonymous
Andy provided inadequate representation and was never available when I needed him or responded to my calls. He's expensive and not worth the cost. Further, he is not professional at all, making it difficult to have any faith in his ability to represent me effectively.
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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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