Attorneys

What to look for when selecting an ethical Real Estate Attorney:

Remember, when you hire an attorney you are paying for a service and you should be satisfied with the quality of that service. They should return your phone calls promptly, communicate with you personally and keep you updated on the status of your case. The attorney should also discuss the terms of your contract, including fees, up front. If you believe your attorney's performance is less than stellar, realize that you can replace them at your own discretion.

Interview them to decide which attorney you would like to handle your case. This interview takes place at an initial consultation. Don't expect your case to be solved during this visit. Consultations usually last 30 minutes so be prepared. Here are a few tips to get you ready.

• Write down your story, in your own words before your meeting to organize all of your thoughts;

• Make sure to bring copies of any documents that may affect your case;

• Give your attorney any names or dates that affect your case so the attorney has an idea of who is involved;

• Be prepared to answer all the attorney's questions; the attorney knows which questions to ask to help you;

• Always tell the truth even if you think some details may hurt your case.

• Don't lie or exaggerate the facts;

• Avoid becoming too emotional;

• Make sure you feel comfortable before leaving the attorney office. Don't be afraid to ask questions.

Questions to ask an attorney:

1. How long have you been in business?

2. Do I need legal representation for my problem?

3. Have you handled cases like mine in the past?

4. What have results been on my type of case?

5. Will you be handling my case personally? If not, what kind of work will you be doing and who will be doing the rest of the work?

6. How available are you for meetings and phone calls?

7. How do you handle fees? Get a written retainer including:

   • Charges: Do you charge by the hour, a flat rate or contingency?

   • Services that are included

   • Extra fees that will be assessed

   • How you will be billed

8. What are the possible outcomes in cases such as this?

9. How long do you expect this matter to take?

10. What are my alternatives?

11. Do you recommend arbitration or mediation?

The law offices of
Karen Wonsetler, P.A.

The Law Office of Karen Wonsetler P.A. is conveniently located three blocks north of the Orange County Courthouse in the Park North at Cheney Place complex, 860 North Orange Avenue. Easily accessible from I-4 via the Ivanhoe exit, our office provide reserved, covered, off-street parking for our clients and guests.

Our services include contracts, foreclosures, title insurance, real estate closings, litigation, sale of real estate, landlord/tenant disputes, condominium and HOA disputes, and drafting lending documents. Ms. Wonsetler is also a licensed Realtor assisting buyers and sellers with purchases and refinancing. Our focus is to provide superior legal and title services to every client with a personalized touch.

The hiring of a lawyer is an important decision that should not be based solely upon advertisement.  Before you decide, ask us to send you free written information about our qualifications and experience.

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