So I decided to break down and buy a house in the Catskills. OK, prices are falling, so what the hell. Worst I can do is buy a worthless house, right? So everything went moderately well. The seller was a gentleman, all the real estate people were comparatively honest, and things went off without a hitch. The only sore point was my lawyer. Ugh. I'm not a lawyer so I can't really judge her legal work. She seems to be experienced and competent, but I would NOT recommend this woman for two reasons: attitude and accessibility, and also price I guess. I'm a first-time homebuyer and I need a bit more hand-holding than perhaps one needs if one is experienced. I found her to be consistently abrasive, with an impatient and condescending phone manner. She seemed *really* annoyed when I asked her to help me figure out how much I owe at closing. I mean, even if I wasn't a first timer that's something I'd be reluctant to figure out by myself. She was not accessible at this crucial time in the process, so I had to bother the bank's law firm and the plaintiff's lawyer (both of which were perfectly helpful; I wish I'd hired one of them). Finally I reached her and, with great sighing and clear unhappiness, she worked out the numbers. What an imposition! Then came the bill, presented at closing, which I paid even though it was MUCH higher than I expected. Yes there was a "flat rate," but the retainer agreement allowed charges for a bunch of stuff that I didn't anticipate she'd charge for. If the retainer agreement seems a bit too open-ended, don't sign it. Don't make my mistake. Do NOT hire the lawyer recommended by your real estate agent. Ask around. Also, stay away from one-person law firms that don't have paralegals to help with the small stuff. read more

I made an appointment to see Isabelle Rawich for a divorce consultation. It was an expensive hour and we spoke mostly about how she will be charging me, her rates and other important items that where her concern. Never did we get a chance to talk about my concerns, questions, reasonable expectations, etc. When she told me that the "hour" was up, I stated that I have many unanswered questions. She replied that once my $5,000 deposit clears and I sign her retainer, we can meet again and discuss whatever I wanted. Basically, I paid her for an hour lecture on her fees, payments and contract. I wish she cared as much about my situation than she did herself. Naturally, I went and sought legal representation elsewhere at a far more friendly atmosphere and affordability! read more

This is the second catskill cabin I am purchasing using Ms. Rawich as my lawyer. I found her very professional . She always returned my calls answering all my concerns. Her price was fair, comparing her fee other country lawyers, of course price dos'nt include postage, phone calls, as most all lawyers add these on. I would recommend her. 5 stars from me !! read more