What to Expect in Real Estate Litigation

By The Law Office of Macy D. Hanson, PLLC
Model house, gavel and scale of justice

Real estate disputes can feel overwhelming and deeply personal, often involving your home, investments, or financial security. Whether you are facing disagreements over contracts, property transactions, boundary lines, or zoning regulations, understanding the litigation process is essential to protect your rights and achieve a favorable outcome.  

Understanding what to expect in real estate litigation can help you feel more confident and prepared as you work to protect your rights and achieve a favorable outcome. With over a decade of experience, The Law Office of Macy D. Hanson, PLLC is equipped to guide clients through every step of the real estate litigation process and provides transparency, diligent representation, and a focus on achieving the best possible results. 

Common Types of Real Estate Disputes  

Real estate litigation encompasses a wide variety of disputes. Clients may encounter issues such as breaches of contract, landlord and tenant disagreements, title defects, or misrepresentation during property transactions. Below are some of the most common types of real estate conflicts: 

  • Breach of contract: Purchase agreements and other real estate contracts outline specific obligations for both buyers and sellers. When one party fails to fulfill its responsibilities, disputes can arise, often leading to litigation.  

  • Boundary disputes: These involve disagreements between property owners regarding where one property ends, and another begins. They often stem from unclear property descriptions or encroachments.  

  • Title disputes: Clouded titles, conflicting claims of ownership, liens, and other issues with title insurance can cause significant financial and legal challenges that often require legal or court intervention.  

  • Easement disagreements: Easements grant individuals or entities the right to use another's property for a specific purpose, such as access or utility maintenance. Misunderstandings or improper use of easements frequently lead to legal disputes.  

  • Zoning and land use: Property owners may find themselves in conflict with zoning ordinances or land-use restrictions imposed by local governments. Navigating these regulations often requires skilled legal counsel.  

  • Landlord-tenant issues: Evictions, lease violations, and disputes over the terms of a commercial or residential lease are also common real estate matters that may be escalated to litigation.  

By working with an experienced real estate attorney, clients can identify the key legal issues at play in their specific dispute and pursue an appropriate course of action. Based in Madison, Mississippi, The Law Office of Macy D. Hanson, PLLC serves local clients as well as individuals across the United States.  

Steps in the Real Estate Litigation Process  

Knowing what to expect during the litigation process can help clients feel more prepared and informed as their case progresses. Below is an outline of the key stages involved in resolving real estate disputes through litigation. 

  1. Consultation and case evaluation: The first step in any real estate dispute is seeking legal counsel. During an initial consultation, a skilled attorney, such as Macy D. Hanson, will evaluate the situation by reviewing relevant documents, identifying legal claims, and discussing potential strategies. An honest assessment of the risks, costs, and likely outcomes is essential at this stage.

  2. File a complaint or respond to a lawsuit: Once it is decided that litigation is the best course of action, the process begins with filing a formal complaint. The complaint outlines the legal claims against the opposing party. If you are the defendant in a real estate lawsuit, your attorney will file a response defending your position.

  3. Discovery phase: Discovery is the pre-trial phase, where both parties gather evidence to support their case. This includes exchanging documents, conducting depositions, and submitting interrogatories. A strong discovery process can unveil critical facts and evidence that will shape the litigation strategy.

  4. Negotiations and alternative dispute resolution (ADR): Many real estate disputes are settled before going to trial. Negotiation, mediation, or arbitration offers parties the opportunity to resolve their disagreements amicably and avoid the expense and time involved in a courtroom trial.

  5. Trial preparation and representation: If settlement efforts fail, the case will proceed to trial. Your attorney will prepare arguments, file motions, and compile evidence to present in court. Representation by experienced litigators is essential to navigating the detailed procedural and substantive aspects of a trial.

  6. Judgment and enforcement: Once the trial concludes, the court issues a judgment. If the judgment is in your favor, your attorney will assist with enforcing it, whether through monetary compensation or other legal remedies.  

How an Attorney Can Help  

Real estate litigation can feel daunting for those unfamiliar with the legal system, but having a knowledgeable attorney by your side can make all the difference. Attorney Macy D. Hanson is committed to providing exceptional legal representation tailored to the unique circumstances of each client. Some key services provided by the Law Office of Macy D. Hanson, PLLC include: 

  • Comprehensive contract reviews to assess the strength of claims  

  • Representation during negotiations, mediations, and arbitration proceedings  

  • Advocacy in court for individuals and businesses facing real estate disputes  

  • Guidance on complying with zoning laws and resolving boundary disputes  

  • Legal strategies designed to minimize risk and protect your financial investment  

From the early stages of dispute resolution to trial advocacy, Attorney Hanson brings more than a decade of experience and extensive knowledge of real estate law to the table. With a client-focused approach, he is committed to delivering effective and efficient solutions for even the most complicated real estate matters.  

Take Swift Action Today

Time is of the essence when addressing real estate disputes. Delayed action can result in diminished legal options and increased financial losses. If you suspect a potential conflict, consult with an attorney immediately to explore your rights and obligations.  

Effective litigation strategies often rely on timely evidence collection and careful analysis of state laws, title records, and contract provisions. With the Law Office of Macy D. Hanson, PLLC, you can trust that your real estate matter will be handled with professionalism, integrity, and a commitment to delivering the best outcome possible.  

Whether you are a homeowner, business owner, landlord, or tenant, Attorney Macy Hanson strives to help you successfully resolve your real estate disputes. Contact the Law Office of Macy D. Hanson, PLLC today to schedule a free consultation. Located in Madison, Mississippi, The Law Office of Macy D. Hanson, PLLC serves clients across the United States.