Skip to content
×
Pro Members Get
Full Access!
Get off the sidelines and take action in real estate investing with BiggerPockets Pro. Our comprehensive suite of tools and resources minimize mistakes, support informed decisions, and propel you to success.
Advanced networking features
Market and Deal Finder tools
Property analysis calculators
Landlord Command Center
ANNUAL Save 54%
$32.50 /mo
$390 billed annualy
MONTHLY
$69 /mo
billed monthly
7 day free trial. Cancel anytime
×
Take Your Forum Experience
to the Next Level
Create a free account and join over 3 million investors sharing
their journeys and helping each other succeed.
Use your real name
By signing up, you indicate that you agree to the BiggerPockets Terms & Conditions.
Already a member?  Login here
General Landlording & Rental Properties
All Forum Categories
Followed Discussions
Followed Categories
Followed People
Followed Locations
Market News & Data
General Info
Real Estate Strategies
Landlording & Rental Properties
Real Estate Professionals
Financial, Tax, & Legal
Real Estate Classifieds
Reviews & Feedback

Updated over 9 years ago on . Most recent reply

User Stats

30
Posts
7
Votes
Stephen Lassiter
  • Tulsa, OK
7
Votes |
30
Posts

My lawyer is worthless, right?

Stephen Lassiter
  • Tulsa, OK
Posted

I saw a lawyer yesterday to get advice on becoming a first-time landlord and I feel like it was a big waste of time and money. I feel like BiggerPockets forums provide better legal advice than this guy.

When he told me that I don't need to retain my rental application records, I became worried that this lawyer isn't giving me good advice. Then, he also told me I don't need to document my tenant screening criteria and that I should rent to males instead of females because "in his generation" females were tougher on properties. 

I should fire this guy right?

I've learned a ton on BiggerPockets, but I felt like I should visit an attorney to validate what I'm learning here. I'm not crazy am I? This guy is giving terrible advice right?

Most Popular Reply

User Stats

350
Posts
230
Votes
Paul Choate
  • Attorney
  • Shawnee, OK
230
Votes |
350
Posts
Paul Choate
  • Attorney
  • Shawnee, OK
Replied

OK attorney here. I am am often required to apologize for the actions and words of other attorneys. Sorry for your experience. As previous posters have said, there is a wide variation in quality and competence among attorneys. I have found there is value in the collected wisdom here on Bp. It is a great starting point. 

The big issue is you do need a licensed opinion when it comes to specifics which may vary in different jurisdictions. When it comes to selection an attorney, it might be helpful to know that the majority of bar complaints come from attorneys in practice more than 20 years followed by attorneys in practice less than 5 years. Not saying you shouldn't hire someone young or old. Just know there is little oversight when attorneys are starting out or winding down. Next, general practice attorneys have a hard time keeping up with all of the requirements of every possible situation. I started out trying to do everything and it was a disservice to my clients. I have since focused on one area of law. I feel I provide a higher level of expertise for a lower price. 

Referrals are good, but you should ask the attorney what percentage of their practice is related to the specific type of law you are dealing with. Also, verify with the individual who referred they what they did for them. 

And last but not least, some people are jerks or incompetent. You just need to move on if what they are saying doesn't square with what you know and they are not willing to explain why. 

  • Paul Choate
  • Loading replies...