Michael Chen
Partner
Real Estate Law
18+ Years
2 States
View Profile
Practice Area
Real Estate
Full-service real estate legal support for buyers, sellers, landlords, and developers throughout the tri-state area.
Overview
Real estate transactions involve significant financial and legal complexity. Our Real Estate practice provides comprehensive legal services for all types of property matters, from residential purchases to major commercial developments.
**Residential Transactions** Buying or selling a home is one of the biggest financial decisions you'll make. We handle all aspects of residential real estate transactions, including contract review, title searches, and closings.
**Commercial Real Estate** Our commercial real estate attorneys represent developers, investors, and businesses in acquisitions, dispositions, leasing, and financing. We understand the unique challenges of commercial property transactions.
**Leasing** Whether you're a landlord or tenant, we draft and negotiate lease agreements that protect your interests. We handle commercial and residential leases of all types.
**Zoning & Land Use** Navigating zoning regulations and land use requirements can be complex. We help clients obtain necessary permits and approvals for their projects and represent them in zoning disputes.
**Construction** From contract drafting to dispute resolution, we handle all legal aspects of construction projects. We represent owners, contractors, and subcontractors.
**Real Estate Litigation** When disputes arise over property matters, our litigation team is ready to protect your rights in court. We handle boundary disputes, title issues, and landlord-tenant conflicts.
Our Real Estate Attorneys
Meet the experienced attorneys who handle real estate matters at our firm.
Related Case Results
Examples of our successful outcomes in real estate matters.
Mediation 2023
$3.7 Million
Commercial Real Estate Dispute
Developer client was facing claims of breach of contract from investors in a major commercial development project.
Outcome: Through mediation, resolved all claims and preserved business relationships, allowing the project to proceed to successful completion.
Real Estate Verdict 2023
$5.4 Million
Construction Defect Litigation
Condominium association discovered significant construction defects affecting multiple buildings.
Outcome: Jury verdict against the developer and general contractor, covering repair costs and related damages.
Real Estate Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about real estate matters.
How much does it cost to hire an attorney?
Our fee structure varies depending on the type of case. Many cases are handled on a contingency basis, meaning you pay nothing unless we win. For other matters, we offer hourly rates and flat fees. We provide transparent fee agreements and are always happy to discuss costs during your initial consultation.
How long will my case take?
The timeline varies significantly depending on the type of case and its complexity. Simple matters may resolve in weeks, while complex litigation can take years. During your consultation, we'll provide a realistic assessment of the expected timeline for your specific situation.
What is the difference between a co-op and a condo?
In a condo, you own your unit outright. In a co-op, you own shares in a corporation that owns the building, giving you the right to occupy a specific unit. Co-ops typically have stricter approval processes, higher down payment requirements, and more restrictions on subletting.
What is the statute of limitations for my case?
Statutes of limitations vary by case type and jurisdiction. In New York, personal injury claims generally have 3 years, contract disputes 6 years, and employment discrimination claims may require filing with agencies within 300 days. Contact an attorney promptly to ensure you don't miss important deadlines.
What should I bring to my initial consultation?
Bring all relevant documents such as contracts, correspondence, court papers, medical records, photos, and a timeline of events. The more information you provide, the better we can assess your case. Don't worry if you don't have everything—we can discuss what additional documents may be helpful.
Get Expert Real Estate Counsel
Our experienced attorneys are ready to help you navigate your real estate matter. Contact us today for a free consultation.