22/50 states require a lawyer. New York, New Jersey, Connecticut, Massachusetts, Pennsylvania, and Rhode Island are included in these 22 states. New York does not have a law requiring a real estate attorney, but there is a custom in New York to have both an attorney and a real estate agent for transactions. Not hiring a real estate lawyer for New York real estate transactions could be a detrimental choice. At minimum, it will severely disadvantage you in the transaction. For real estate litigation, a law firm is necessary, so hiring one at the beginning will keep you prepared.