Just because a lawyer says they specialize in real estate law doesn’t
automatically make them the right attorney for you. There are certain crucial
details that you need to consider before hiring a lawyer to handle your real
estate transactions. Here are some of the important things that you need to ask
before hiring any real estate lawyer.
First off, you need to ask the lawyer how long they have been in
practice. This will help you determine the amount of legal experience under
their belt. If what you are looking for is help making a purchase agreement,
then a lawyer with 1-2 years of experience may suffice. However, if you are
dealing with a complex case like real estate development, then you need to hire
a lawyer with at least 8 years of active experience.
Next, you need to ask the attorney how many questions similar to yours
that he has handled in the past. While every real estate case is unique, it
will help if the lawyer has experience in handling cases similar to the one you
are hiring him for. In addition, find out what the outcome of these cases was.
Next, ask the lawyer how they intend to handle your case. You have the
right to ask how the lawyer intends to represent you. In fact, this is a great
way to find out if the lawyer is knowledgeable and whether he is interested in
helping you. A skilled lawyer should be able to provide you with a plan that he
will use while handling your case.
Fourth, find out how the lawyer plans to bill you. Knowing the actual
cost of representation will save you from unpleasant surprises at the end of
your case. Most lawyers charge their clients on an hourly basis hence it is a
good idea finding out how you will do business.
Finally, find out who will be working on your case. This is important if
you are contracting a large law firm with several real estate lawyers. Some law
firms have a tendency of assigning cases to junior lawyers with no experience.
Be sure to find out who will be working on your case and whether you will be
comfortable with them.
