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Real Estate Attorneys in Ocala FL
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Rely on Dean Law Firm LLC for skilled representation in Real Estate, Probate, Business Law, and Personal Injury cases. Discover why clients across Florida consistently choose our firm for their legal needs.
Welcome to Dean Firm
Committed to Your Justice
Welcome to Dean Law Firm LLC, your trusted partner for comprehensive legal services in Florida. Based in Ocala, we proudly serve clients across the Sunshine State, offering dedicated representation in real estate, personal injury, and probate matters. Our experienced attorneys understand the complexities of Florida law and are committed to guiding you with professionalism, clarity, and compassion.
Real estate transactions can be intricate, often involving significant financial investments and long-term commitments. At Dean Law Firm LLC, we prioritize protecting your interests whether you are buying or selling residential or commercial property, negotiating contracts, handling title examinations, assisting with closings, or resolving property disputes. Our attorneys stay informed on Florida’s ever-changing real estate laws to provide timely, relevant, and strategic advice tailored to your unique circumstances.
When it comes to personal injury, our dedicated legal team is here to support you through challenging times. Whether you’ve been injured in an automobile accident, slip and fall incident, or due to someone else’s negligence, we work tirelessly to secure fair compensation for your injuries, medical expenses, lost wages, and emotional distress. Our attorneys understand the physical and emotional burdens of personal injury cases and are committed to advocating vigorously on your behalf.
In probate matters, Dean Law Firm LLC provides compassionate and knowledgeable guidance through the complex processes of estate administration and probate litigation. Whether you’re managing the estate of a loved one or navigating disputes over wills and inheritances, we offer clear advice, meticulous attention to detail, and empathetic support. Our attorneys help ensure that your probate issues are handled efficiently and respectfully, allowing you peace of mind during difficult times.
At Dean Law Firm LLC, your legal needs are our priority. We are dedicated to providing effective, personalized legal solutions to help you achieve your goals and protect your interests across real estate, personal injury, and probate law.
Contact our Florida attorneys at 352-820-6323
What Clients Say About Dean Firm...
Meet the Deans
Michael E. Dean
As the Managing Partner of Dean Law Firm LLC, Michael E. Dean is a native Floridian raised in Marion County. He earned his Bachelor of Public Administration from the University of Mississippi in 1993 and his Juris Doctor from Stetson University College of Law in 1997. With over two decades of experience, Michael focuses on personal injury and wrongful death cases, medical malpractice, products liability, as well as probate and trust litigation. He is committed to ensuring that those seriously injured receive the just compensation they deserve. Michael is admitted to practice in all Florida courts and the United States District Court for the Middle District of Florida .
Timothy S. Dean
Partner Timothy S. Dean was raised in Ocala, Florida, and earned his Bachelor of Arts from the University of Florida in 1988. He graduated cum laude with his Juris Doctor from the University of Mississippi School of Law in 1991. Admitted to the Florida Bar in 1992, Timothy’s practice areas include business counsel, estate planning, probate litigation, real estate counsel and litigation, as well as personal injury and wrongful death litigation. He is also a member of the U.S. Army Reserve, serving in the Judge Advocate General’s Corps since 2003
Ed Dean
Serving as Of Counsel, Ed Dean brings a distinguished legal career combined with extensive public service. He graduated with honors from Michigan State University in 1967 and earned his Juris Doctor with honors from the University of Florida College of Law in 1970. Ed has been admitted to the bar in both Florida and Michigan and has served as the Sheriff of Marion County from 1998 to 2013. His professional journey includes roles as Vice President-General Counsel for Kysor Industrial Corporation and President of Dexter Lock Company. He founded Dean & Dean, P.A. in 1988 upon returning to Ocala .
Choosing the Right Attorney Matters
At Dean Law Firm LLC, our attorneys—Michael E. Dean, Timothy S. Dean, and Ed Dean—bring decades of combined experience to clients across Florida. Michael E. Dean, the Managing Partner, focuses on personal injury and wrongful death cases, medical malpractice, products liability, as well as probate and trust litigation. Timothy S. Dean, a Partner, specializes in business counsel, estate planning, probate litigation, real estate counsel and litigation, and personal injury and wrongful death litigation. Ed Dean, serving as Of Counsel, contributes a distinguished legal career combined with extensive public service, including serving as the Sheriff of Marion County from 1998 to 2013. Their collective expertise ensures that clients receive comprehensive legal services tailored to their unique needs.
Dean Law Firm
Our firm is committed to providing personalized, effective legal solutions in real estate, personal injury, and probate matters. Whether you’re navigating a complex property transaction, seeking compensation for an injury, or managing the estate of a loved one, Dean Law Firm LLC offers the skilled advocacy and compassionate guidance necessary to protect your interests and achieve your legal goals.
Have Questions?
We have answers!
Real Estate Law
What is Real Estate Law?
Real estate law is a multifaceted and essential area of the legal system, covering a broad spectrum of issues from residential transactions to complex commercial developments. It governs property rights, land use, zoning regulations, and outlines the procedures for buying, selling, and developing real estate. Unlike personal property law, real estate law involves unique considerations such as environmental compliance and title matters. This branch of law plays a crucial role in facilitating property ownership, resolving disputes, and ensuring lawful development.
Whether you’re purchasing a new home, investing in commercial property, or dealing with a boundary dispute, navigating the complexities of real estate law can be challenging. That’s where seasoned legal professionals come in. If you need guidance or representation in a real estate matter, don’t hesitate to reach out to Dean Law Firm. Our dedicated team is committed to providing personalized service and utilizing our extensive experience to protect your interests and achieve the best possible outcome for your case.
What is the role of a real estate attorney in Florida?
A real estate attorney in Florida plays a crucial role in property transactions. They review and prepare legal documents, conduct title searches, resolve title issues, assist with negotiations, and ensure compliance with state laws. They also attend closings, explain legal terms, and protect their clients’ interests throughout the process.
Do I need a lawyer for a real estate transaction in Florida?
While it’s not legally required to have a lawyer for a real estate transaction in Florida, it’s highly recommended. Real estate transactions involve complex legal documents and potential risks. A lawyer can protect your interests, ensure all paperwork is properly completed, and address any legal issues that may arise during the process.
What is a title search and why is it important in Florida real estate?
A title search is a thorough examination of public records to determine the legal ownership of a property and identify any claims, defects, or encumbrances on the property. In Florida, it’s crucial because it helps ensure that the seller has the right to sell the property and that the buyer will receive clear title. It can uncover issues like liens, easements, or disputes that could affect the property’s value or ownership.
What is the Florida Homestead Exemption?
The Florida Homestead Exemption is a tax benefit that can reduce the taxable value of your primary residence by up to $50,000. To qualify, you must own and occupy the property as your permanent residence. This exemption also provides certain protections against forced sale of the property and restrictions on how it can be devised after death.
How does the foreclosure process work in Florida?
Foreclosure in Florida is typically a judicial process. The lender must file a lawsuit in court to foreclose on a property. The process involves several steps including filing a complaint, serving the homeowner, allowing time for a response, and potentially a trial. If the court rules in favor of the lender, a foreclosure sale is scheduled. Florida law provides various protections for homeowners, including the right to redeem the property up to the time of sale.
What are some common title defects in Florida real estate?
Common title defects in Florida include liens (such as unpaid property taxes or mechanic’s liens), boundary disputes, easements, encroachments, errors in public records, unknown heirs, forged documents, and undisclosed marriages or divorces. These issues can complicate property transactions and may require legal intervention to resolve.
What is the significance of a quitclaim deed in Florida?
A quitclaim deed in Florida is a legal document that transfers whatever interest the grantor has in a property to the grantee, without any warranties or guarantees about the title’s status. It’s often used in situations like transferring property between family members or removing someone from a title. However, it offers the least protection to the buyer, as it doesn’t guarantee that the title is clear or that the seller actually owns the property.
How does adverse possession work in Florida?
Adverse possession in Florida allows someone to claim ownership of a property they’ve occupied without the owner’s permission for at least seven years. To succeed, the possession must be actual, open, notorious, hostile, continuous, and exclusive. The occupant must also have paid all property taxes during this period. This law is complex and rarely successful, often requiring legal expertise to navigate.
Probate and Estate Law
What is Probate & Estate Law
Probate and Estate Law is a sensitive and essential area of the legal system, dealing with the management and distribution of an individual’s assets after death, as well as planning for the future through wills and trusts. It outlines how estates are administered, debts are settled, and assets are allocated to beneficiaries, providing a legal framework for honoring an individual’s final wishes. Unlike other legal fields that deal with disputes or transactions, probate and estate law involves both careful planning and empathetic navigation of family dynamics during difficult times. This branch of law plays a crucial role in protecting legacies, ensuring legal compliance, and providing peace of mind.
Whether you’re planning your estate, drafting a will, or navigating the probate process following a loved one’s passing, the complexities of probate and estate law can be daunting. That’s where knowledgeable legal professionals come in. If you find yourself in need of guidance or representation in probate and estate matters, don’t hesitate to reach out to Dean Law Firm. Our dedicated team is committed to providing personalized service and utilizing our extensive experience to protect your legacy and assist you through every step.
What is the role of a real estate attorney in Florida?
A real estate attorney in Florida plays a crucial role in property transactions. They review and prepare legal documents, conduct title searches, resolve title issues, assist with negotiations, and ensure compliance with state laws. They also attend closings, explain legal terms, and protect their clients’ interests throughout the process.
Do I need a lawyer for a real estate transaction in Florida?
While it’s not legally required to have a lawyer for a real estate transaction in Florida, it’s highly recommended. Real estate transactions involve complex legal documents and potential risks. A lawyer can protect your interests, ensure all paperwork is properly completed, and address any legal issues that may arise during the process.
What is a title search and why is it important in Florida real estate?
A title search is a thorough examination of public records to determine the legal ownership of a property and identify any claims, defects, or encumbrances on the property. In Florida, it’s crucial because it helps ensure that the seller has the right to sell the property and that the buyer will receive clear title. It can uncover issues like liens, easements, or disputes that could affect the property’s value or ownership.
What is the Florida Homestead Exemption?
The Florida Homestead Exemption is a tax benefit that can reduce the taxable value of your primary residence by up to $50,000. To qualify, you must own and occupy the property as your permanent residence. This exemption also provides certain protections against forced sale of the property and restrictions on how it can be devised after death.
How does the foreclosure process work in Florida?
Foreclosure in Florida is typically a judicial process. The lender must file a lawsuit in court to foreclose on a property. The process involves several steps including filing a complaint, serving the homeowner, allowing time for a response, and potentially a trial. If the court rules in favor of the lender, a foreclosure sale is scheduled. Florida law provides various protections for homeowners, including the right to redeem the property up to the time of sale.
What are some common title defects in Florida real estate?
Common title defects in Florida include liens (such as unpaid property taxes or mechanic’s liens), boundary disputes, easements, encroachments, errors in public records, unknown heirs, forged documents, and undisclosed marriages or divorces. These issues can complicate property transactions and may require legal intervention to resolve.
What is the significance of a quitclaim deed in Florida?
A quitclaim deed in Florida is a legal document that transfers whatever interest the grantor has in a property to the grantee, without any warranties or guarantees about the title’s status. It’s often used in situations like transferring property between family members or removing someone from a title. However, it offers the least protection to the buyer, as it doesn’t guarantee that the title is clear or that the seller actually owns the property.
How does adverse possession work in Florida?
Adverse possession in Florida allows someone to claim ownership of a property they’ve occupied without the owner’s permission for at least seven years. To succeed, the possession must be actual, open, notorious, hostile, continuous, and exclusive. The occupant must also have paid all property taxes during this period. This law is complex and rarely successful, often requiring legal expertise to navigate.
Personal Injury Law
What is Personal Injury Law?
Personal injury law is a complex and critical area of the legal system, encompassing a wide range of situations where individuals have been harmed due to the negligence or wrongful actions of others. It establishes the legal framework for victims to seek compensation for injuries sustained in incidents like auto accidents, medical malpractice, or slip and fall cases. Unlike criminal proceedings, which focus on penalizing offenders, personal injury law aims to make injured parties whole through financial restitution for medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering. This area of law plays a vital role in promoting accountability and safeguarding citizens’ rights.
Whether you’re coping with the aftermath of an accident or dealing with long-term health implications, navigating the intricacies of personal injury law can be overwhelming. That’s where compassionate legal professionals come in. If you require guidance or representation in a personal injury matter, don’t hesitate to contact Dean Law Firm. Our committed team is devoted to providing personalized service and leveraging our considerable experience to protect your rights and secure the compensation you deserve.
What is the role of a real estate attorney in Florida?
A real estate attorney in Florida plays a crucial role in property transactions. They review and prepare legal documents, conduct title searches, resolve title issues, assist with negotiations, and ensure compliance with state laws. They also attend closings, explain legal terms, and protect their clients’ interests throughout the process.
Do I need a lawyer for a real estate transaction in Florida?
While it’s not legally required to have a lawyer for a real estate transaction in Florida, it’s highly recommended. Real estate transactions involve complex legal documents and potential risks. A lawyer can protect your interests, ensure all paperwork is properly completed, and address any legal issues that may arise during the process.
What is a title search and why is it important in Florida real estate?
A title search is a thorough examination of public records to determine the legal ownership of a property and identify any claims, defects, or encumbrances on the property. In Florida, it’s crucial because it helps ensure that the seller has the right to sell the property and that the buyer will receive clear title. It can uncover issues like liens, easements, or disputes that could affect the property’s value or ownership.
What is the Florida Homestead Exemption?
The Florida Homestead Exemption is a tax benefit that can reduce the taxable value of your primary residence by up to $50,000. To qualify, you must own and occupy the property as your permanent residence. This exemption also provides certain protections against forced sale of the property and restrictions on how it can be devised after death.
How does the foreclosure process work in Florida?
Foreclosure in Florida is typically a judicial process. The lender must file a lawsuit in court to foreclose on a property. The process involves several steps including filing a complaint, serving the homeowner, allowing time for a response, and potentially a trial. If the court rules in favor of the lender, a foreclosure sale is scheduled. Florida law provides various protections for homeowners, including the right to redeem the property up to the time of sale.
What are some common title defects in Florida real estate?
Common title defects in Florida include liens (such as unpaid property taxes or mechanic’s liens), boundary disputes, easements, encroachments, errors in public records, unknown heirs, forged documents, and undisclosed marriages or divorces. These issues can complicate property transactions and may require legal intervention to resolve.
What is the significance of a quitclaim deed in Florida?
A quitclaim deed in Florida is a legal document that transfers whatever interest the grantor has in a property to the grantee, without any warranties or guarantees about the title’s status. It’s often used in situations like transferring property between family members or removing someone from a title. However, it offers the least protection to the buyer, as it doesn’t guarantee that the title is clear or that the seller actually owns the property.
How does adverse possession work in Florida?
Adverse possession in Florida allows someone to claim ownership of a property they’ve occupied without the owner’s permission for at least seven years. To succeed, the possession must be actual, open, notorious, hostile, continuous, and exclusive. The occupant must also have paid all property taxes during this period. This law is complex and rarely successful, often requiring legal expertise to navigate.
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