Is it normal for a real estate lawyer to ask for money up front? What are the odds of getting a loan modification when you go through a litigation lawyer.
It is UNLAWFUL for Attorneys in California to take upfront fees for loan modification services.
Attorneys and real estate brokers/agents are prohibited by California law from collecting an advanced fee for negotiating or assisting consumers with loan modifications. There is no guarantee a loan modification can be obtained by using a litigation attorney as opposed to any other attorney or real estate professional.
It's illegal and unethical for any type of attorney to ask for money up front for a loan modification.