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What Does a Real Estate Attorney Do During a Property Transaction?

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Real estate transactions involve complex legal documents, title examinations, regulatory compliance, and substantial financial stakes that make professional legal guidance essential. While many understand attorneys help with transactions, most don't fully appreciate the comprehensive services real estate lawyers provide. Understanding what real estate attorneys do helps you recognize their value and know when their expertise becomes critical for successful property transfers that protect your rights and investment. Contract Review and Negotiation One of the most critical services real estate attorneys provide is comprehensive contract review before clients sign binding purchase agreements. Real estate contracts are complex legal documents filled with technical language, contingencies, and terms that significantly affect parties' rights and obligations. Standard real estate contracts often favor one party or contain ambiguous language creating disputes later. Real estate agents ...

What Homebuyers Should Know About Real Estate Laws in St. Louis

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Purchasing a home represents one of the most significant financial decisions most people make. In St. Louis, homebuyers navigate complex real estate laws and regulations that protect their interests while ensuring fair transactions. Understanding Missouri's real estate laws before signing contracts prevents costly mistakes and protects your investment. Whether you're a first-time buyer or experienced homeowner, knowing your legal rights ensures smooth transactions and reduces inherent risks in property purchases. Missouri's Real Estate Contract Requirements Real estate contracts in Missouri must meet specific legal requirements to be valid and enforceable. Under Missouri's Statute of Frauds (Section 432.010 RSMo), all real estate sales agreements must be in writing and signed by the parties. Verbal agreements to purchase property cannot be legally enforced in Missouri courts. Valid real estate contracts require several essential elements. The contract must identify all ...

What Should You Do If the Other Driver Doesn't Have Insurance in St. Louis?

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  Getting hit by an uninsured driver creates frustrating complications that can leave victims feeling helpless about recovering compensation for injuries and damages. Unfortunately, uninsured driving remains common in Missouri despite legal requirements. Approximately 12% of Missouri drivers operate without insurance, meaning roughly one in eight accidents involves uninsured motorists. Understanding your legal options and available insurance coverage when uninsured drivers cause accidents protects your ability to recover fair compensation despite their lack of coverage. Missouri's Insurance Requirements and Penalties Missouri law requires all drivers to carry minimum liability insurance of $25,000 per person and $50,000 per accident for bodily injury, plus $25,000 for property damage (Section 303.030 RSMo). Despite these requirements and penalties for noncompliance, thousands of Missouri drivers operate illegally without coverage. Penalties for driving uninsured include license sus...