How to choose a good lawyer for your building

Choosing the right lawyer for your condo or co-op can be a big decision. A good lawyer can help your building run smoothly and avoid legal troubles. But how do you know which lawyer is right for your building? We’ll break down the three main things you should look for in your lawyer: experience, responsiveness and resources. 

Experience matters

When it comes to legal representation for your building, experience matters a lot. Talking about experience, we mean more than just a general real estate attorney. Look for a lawyer who really knows the ins and outs of co-op and condo law. Their wide experience will help them anticipate potential issues early and give you better advice based on what they've seen work or not work in other buildings.

An experienced condo and co-op attorney will:

• Understand the unique challenges faced by condo and co-op buildings. 
• Acknowledge the uncommon rules and workings of both co-ops and condos

‍Responsiveness is key

Having a knowledgeable attorney is great, but if they're not responsive and keep you waiting, what’s the point?. In the real world of building life, you need answers quickly to resolve your issues. 

A responsive lawyer should:

• Get back to you within 24  - maximum 48 hours, no matter what the question is about. 
• Always be available to help when emergencies or urgent issues come up. 
• Communicate clearly and promptly in a way you understand. 

Your building can’t stop running just because you're waiting to hear from your lawyer, a responsive attorney will help you make timely decisions.

Resources make a difference

Finally, consider the resources your potential attorney brings to the table. A well-rounded legal team can offer comprehensive support for all your building's needs.

Look for a firm that offers:

• Associates who can handle routine tasks which can save your building money. 
• Specialists you need for things like hiring staff or dealing with construction issues. 
• A litigation team - If your building ever faces any disputes, it's good to have experienced lawyers who can handle it. 

This range of resources ensures you're covered for everything from simple vendor agreements to complex legal challenges.

How to make your choice

Now that you know what to look for, here are some steps to help you choose:

• Make a list of lawyers who specialize in condo and co-op law.
• Ask each one about their experience, how quickly they respond, and what resources they have.
• Check if they've helped buildings similar to yours.
• Ask for references from other buildings they've worked with.
• Meet with your top choices and see who you feel most comfortable with.

Lawyers are an integral part of a well run building ecosystem, so take your time to ask questions, and choose a legal partner who’s right for your condo or co-op building. After all, having the right lawyer can make your job as a board member much easier. 

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