Top Berkeley, CA Easement Lawyers Near You

What Are Easements?

An easement is the granting of a right-of-way across someone else’s real estate. An affirmative easement allows one party access to another party’s property, while a negative easement restricts a property owner from taking certain actions on their own property. Legal disputes can arise over easements when property owners refuse to grant access to their private property.

What Are Some Examples of Situations Where I Might Need a Real Estate Lawyer To Help With an Easement?

You should consult a real estate lawyer as soon as possible if:

• A utility company is seeking an easement on your property to work on pipes or power lines that run across your land
• A neighboring property owner needs to cut across your property to reach another parcel of property that they own
• A neighbor is refusing you access to their private road to reach your property after allowing you to do so for years
• Your city wants to create access to public property, such as a forest or beach, that can only be accessed by cutting across your private property

How Can a Lawyer Help Me With an Easement?

Whatever side of an easement you are on, you should have a lawyer’s help. Your lawyer can write up an easement agreement that clearly spells out the terms and conditions, along with the length of time that the easement will run for. Having a clear easement written and agreed to will limit future disputes and litigation.

What Could Happen if I Don’t Hire a Real Estate Lawyer To Help With an Easement?

Without a lawyer’s help, you are more likely to face disputes and confusion over an easement. “Implied easements” will be more difficult to enforce if one party suddenly changes their mind. If you are negotiating with a utility company or a local government, you will be at a disadvantage when drafting an easement to your property if you don’t have a lawyer.

What Questions Should I Ask When Trying To Find a Real Estate Lawyer in Berkeley?

These questions can help you decide if you feel comfortable and confident that a lawyer has the qualifications, experience, and ability to manage your case. Many real estate lawyers offer an initial consultation that allows you to understand your options and get specific legal advice before hiring them. The top questions to ask include:

• What is your experience in handling real estate cases in California?
• Have you represented property owners in cases like mine?
• What are potential issues that can come up during the property purchase?
• How will you keep me informed about updates in my case?
• What is the likely timeline for resolving my case?
• What is your fee structure for legal representation?

Tips for Hiring a Real Estate Lawyer

Take the time to find a real estate attorney who is right for you and will represent your best interests. Find a lawyer who understands your case, knows your needs and goals, and has the experience to get the best outcome. Things to do:

• Ask for recommendations
• Research lawyers online
• Schedule consultations
• Review experience and expertise
• Talk about fees and billing
• Trust your instincts