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Matthew Taylor Valeriane, experienced Business, Child Support attorney in Addison, TX with 30 reviews
Average
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
34,33
star star star star star
4.9/5
Google Maps
4.9
30 Reviews
star star star star star
29 Jan, 2025 by Jessica skoropinski
My husband and I bought a car from a used car dealer in early 2024. Obviously it didn’t go very well! After months and months and MONTHS of waiting to get our title, (we truly gave them way too much patience) we finally decided it was time to proceed with legal action. I honestly just searched “car title fraud lawyer dallas texas”- the first two firms we reached out to instantly declined to work with us. Matt took the time to consult with us in detail before deciding whether or not to take our case, and thank god he did, otherwise we never would’ve ended up getting our money back! We were at the point that we didn’t even want the car anymore, we just wanted the whole thing reversed, and Matt helped us achieve that. Our fraud dealer was doing god knows what while stringing us along and Matt really dug deep to figure out just what in the world was going on- the car hadn’t been inspected in the last THREE years, so they never should have sold it to us in the first place, and could not transfer the title to us. He told us straight up what our best options were every step of the way, and was extremely understanding and willing to work with us when scheduling conflicts arose (my husband is active duty military and was actually deployed while we were working everything out). Working with Matt feels like having somebody who is truly in your corner, fighting enthusiastically for you. His confidence in his ability to do a good job and right whatever wrong has happened is infectious- and true! If you’re in a similar position, waiting for a title from a fraud car dealer who just won’t get it done, I honestly cannot recommend Matt enough. Hiring him to represent us was the only bright spot of this entire fraud title debacle.
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29 Oct, 2024 by Barden family
My daughter and I purchased her first vehicle that she saved her own money up for and we paid in full cash for the vehicle from what we thought as a reputable dealer. Turns out the used car dealer went out of business shortly after our purchase and never transferred the title into our name. Furthermore, we learned from the state that there was still a lien on the vehicle from the previous owner. After a quick google search on title fraud, we found Mr. Valeriane and set up a time to meet with him to discuss our case. In that meeting, it was clear to us that Mr. Valeriane knew how to handle cases like ours. We reviewed what to expect throughout the process of suing the dealership. Mr. Valeriane was very experienced and knew the process inside and out, explaining each step to us. We felt he was the right individual to handle our case. Mr. Valeriane was able to achieve a successful outcome to our benefit. He provided us updates throughout the process and was quick to answer our questions along the way. While our patience were test, Mr. Valeriane assured us there would be an end eventually. If you ever have an issue in getting your car title from a dealer, give Mr. Valeriane a call to know your options. We are so thankful we found him on google and this nightmare for our daughter is behind us!
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08 Oct, 2024 by Christian kashala
I purchased a vehicle from a used car dealer over two years ago. I met the dealer at the auction house in Dallas and found the vehicle I ultimately purchased. Aside from certain repairs the dealership promised to pay but never did, I NEVER received title to the Vehicle. After trying to contact the dealer multiple times about the status of the motor vehicle title transfer, I came to terms that I was being ignored and that title would never come. I googled “car title fraud attorney” and found Mr. Valeriane. Mr. Valeriane is an attorney who specializes in suing used car dealers that sell vehicles to consumers but never transfer the car title. I have never sued another business so I wast a little hesitant in getting involved in a law suit. Mr. Valeriane explained the pros and cons of filing a lawsuit and I ultimately decided to move forward. I’m glad I did. Mr. Valeriane was able to get me back the money I paid for the vehicle even though two years had passed. If you’re still waiting on your car title, being ignored by the dealer, and do not think you can afford an attorney, give Mr. Valeriane a call and explain your vehicle title situation. If he cannot take your case, he may be able to lead you into the right direction. Thanks again Mr. Valeriane for all of your hard work! You’ve earned another great review from a very satisfied client. Regards, Christian 😃😃😃⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
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Steven A. Portnoy, experienced Business, Intellectual Property attorney in Addison, TX with 61 reviews
Average
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
33,66
star star star star star
4.8/5
Google Maps
4.8
61 Reviews
star star star star star
12 Jan, 2025 by Farhana haque
They are very unprofessional. And their communication is really bad. In the middle of my GC processing he told me he can not help me with my previous file which we have discussed before starting the process.Then I had to find another lawyer
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06 Jan, 2025 by Wannytta janelle ens
Definitely would recommend!! They went above and beyond to answer any questions I might have, and triple check that everything was correct before anything got sent off!! I really appreciate their help!
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16 Oct, 2024 by Cindy guzman
My experience with this law group was amazing. Garrett, who was my lawyer, was very professional and reliable. He always was available to answer questions. His assistant Candice was also very knowledgeable and was always ready to answer any questions. They were always there to ease my mind anytime I would get a letter. I have recommended this law firm to several people already and I will always be grateful for all they did. They are the very best. I don't think that I can ever find better people then them.
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Charles M. de Chateauvieux, experienced Business, Immigration attorney in Addison, TX with 61 reviews
Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
33,66
star star star star star
4.8/5
Google Maps
4.8
61 Reviews
star star star star star
12 Jan, 2025 by Farhana haque
They are very unprofessional. And their communication is really bad. In the middle of my GC processing he told me he can not help me with my previous file which we have discussed before starting the process.Then I had to find another lawyer
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star star star star star
06 Jan, 2025 by Wannytta janelle ens
Definitely would recommend!! They went above and beyond to answer any questions I might have, and triple check that everything was correct before anything got sent off!! I really appreciate their help!
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star star star star star
16 Oct, 2024 by Cindy guzman
My experience with this law group was amazing. Garrett, who was my lawyer, was very professional and reliable. He always was available to answer questions. His assistant Candice was also very knowledgeable and was always ready to answer any questions. They were always there to ease my mind anytime I would get a letter. I have recommended this law firm to several people already and I will always be grateful for all they did. They are the very best. I don't think that I can ever find better people then them.
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Kathleen Faye Donovan, experienced Business, Insurance attorney in Addison, TX with 9 reviews
Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
30,78
star star star star star
4.6/5
Google Maps
4.6
9 Reviews
star star star star star
06 Dec, 2024 by Laura castillo
Google Maps
star star star star star
31 Aug, 2023 by Richard allen (ricky)
Google Maps
star star star star star
26 Jul, 2021 by Tatasha whetstone
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Phillip Raymond Doepfner, experienced Business attorney in Addison, TX with 5 reviews
Below Average
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
28,39
star star star star star
4.2/5
Google Maps
4.2
5 Reviews
star star star star star
03 Aug, 2023 by 69 sawgrass chowdhury (69 sawgrass)
Excellent Estate Planning Law Firm
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06 Jan, 2023 by Ashley young
I have not had the need for their law services. However, I did call to ask about a package left at a neighboring office. Kelly is SO nice! You couldn't get any nicer. Thank you for being so sweet, professional, and willing to help.
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19 Feb, 2022 by Daniel & danielle durbin
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Susan B. Smith, experienced Business, Government attorney in Addison, TX with 1615 reviews
Below Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
26,42
star star star star star
4.2/5
Google Maps
4.2
1615 Reviews
star star star star star
06 Dec, 2024 by Zhovanne bordelon
I have had a very positive experience with Godsey Martin law firm (IJUSTGOTHIT) They are extremely prompt in their responses, I has my accident over a weekend and they responded within minutes and had my and my friend scheduled for treatment within a day...I can NOT SAY ENOUGH ABOUT MY CASE MANAGER PRISCILLA BARTLETT...baby when it comes to taken care of her clients, and taking care of business she is on POINT....she made sure I was taken care of every step of the way she cares about her people and it shows....I thank Godsey Martin for giving me someone like Priscilla Bartlett.
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03 Dec, 2024 by Sekia kindle
My attorney Juan got everything worked out for me in less than 24 hours. Thank you.
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02 Dec, 2024 by Sasha lovejoy
This lawfirm was extremely challenging to deal with on every level.
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Robert Davis Forster II, experienced Business, Litigation attorney in Addison, TX with 147 reviews
Below Average
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
26,31
star star star star star
4.4/5
Google Maps
4.4
147 Reviews
star star star star star
24 Feb, 2025 by Kelly sue meyer
Terrible!! 😉
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18 Dec, 2024 by Janiyah toombs
the process happened very quickly i am very pleased with the results and will always keep them in mind in the future
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17 Dec, 2024 by Monica napier
Neal and the team were excellent. I highly recommend this firm!
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Joseph M. Novak, experienced Business attorney in Addison, TX with 4 reviews
Below Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
21,00
star star star star star
4.0/5
Google Maps
4.0
4 Reviews
star star star star star
07 Apr, 2023 by Binhminh tran
Update: Today's deposition October 18/2024. The defense attorney set up a few traps trying very hard to lead you to walk right in his evil already prepared rat traps hopefully you fall right in. He's very well prepared to lead his victim trying admitting with yes no questions. He consistently manipulated his questions & repeatedly keep asking numerous times. Few of his traps listed here. It's showed he fully studied designed crafted built in traps. I believe the judge & jury knows recognize his attention for its too obvious. In the future if i rear-ended someone i will call for you are on my mind. Sad news: Avoiding liability insurance, it's law firm & client since February 6, 2023 totally more than 2 years. The low back pain scatia anxiety amnesia depression have cost me out of work & kicked out of house due to financial strain becoming homeless on my birthday. Sooner or later the defendant should be out of the transportation business. A new 2nd attorney has been selected for the defendant. I'm in the process of selecting another attorney helping to file for disability benefits soon. The old saying " U can run but U can't hide". The legal loopholes unveil. Let see how the justice system prevail. The defendant may have been advised by avoiding to be serve by the court since February 06/2023. The defendant has 30 days from today 04/15/24 to defend. Pain & Suffering: Physical pain. The pain exits though chiropractor help little in relieving the pain. Mental pain. It's marked over a year since my rear-ended accident. I continue fighting with the physical pain and living with no car. I have borrowed from here and there and a life with no transportation. What's an astonishing experience in suffering. The insurance had been advised "refused to pay". Great work.!!! It's a shameful of work. " Denied". My case was first disputed. Now it's denied. I was informed today by my paralegal assistant. "Speechless". I'm speechless and unable to comprehend. What can I say. What's an heartless evil irresponsible insurance companies. Dispute reasons: 1. The flies popped in my eyes. 2. The honey bee bites my ass. 3. The rain pee hard i can't see 4. The devil made me do it. Why did the evil attorney bring a ladder to court? Because they wanted to take their cases to a whole new level of injustice!🤣👹😈 Extremely very busy attorney. The whole page letter sent out just only one single word " disputed.! ". Nothing else. Nada.! 🤣 " Disputed " rear-ended accident. Isaiah 59:4 - None calleth for justice, nor any pleadeth for truth: they trust in vanity, and speak lies; they conceive mischief, and bring forth iniquity. Luke 10:25-37 - And, behold, a certain lawyer stood up, and tempted him, saying, Master, what shall I do to inherit eternal life? Proverbs 17:15 - He that justifieth the wicked, and he that condemneth the just, even they both are abomination to the LORD. Proverbs 14:25 - A true witness delivereth souls: but a deceitful witness speaketh lies. Leviticus 19:15 - Ye shall do no unrighteousness in judgment: thou shalt not respect the person of the poor, nor honour the person of the mighty: but in righteousness shalt thou judge thy neighbour. Recommendation. Rear-ended accident. Insurance company refused to pay & other party was at fault. This is the right place to call. A real song from heaven. https://youtu.be/Tbic5sXdnE4?si=GIB2D0KRi77tn9xr. Inspiration of a Buddhist monk Thich Minh tue a life of total abandon.
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24 Jan, 2018 by Ashley hodge
great attorney who is intelligent, thorough and honest. Highly recommend Frank Cawley.
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star star star star star
24 Jan, 2018 by Frank hart
Mr. Cawley is truly one of the finest attorneys in Dallas. Highly recommended.
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Rebecca Mae Gilberg, experienced Business, Personal Injury attorney in Addison, TX with 4 reviews
Below Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
21,00
star star star star star
4.0/5
Google Maps
4.0
4 Reviews
star star star star star
07 Apr, 2023 by Binhminh tran
Update: Today's deposition October 18/2024. The defense attorney set up a few traps trying very hard to lead you to walk right in his evil already prepared rat traps hopefully you fall right in. He's very well prepared to lead his victim trying admitting with yes no questions. He consistently manipulated his questions & repeatedly keep asking numerous times. Few of his traps listed here. It's showed he fully studied designed crafted built in traps. I believe the judge & jury knows recognize his attention for its too obvious. In the future if i rear-ended someone i will call for you are on my mind. Sad news: Avoiding liability insurance, it's law firm & client since February 6, 2023 totally more than 2 years. The low back pain scatia anxiety amnesia depression have cost me out of work & kicked out of house due to financial strain becoming homeless on my birthday. Sooner or later the defendant should be out of the transportation business. A new 2nd attorney has been selected for the defendant. I'm in the process of selecting another attorney helping to file for disability benefits soon. The old saying " U can run but U can't hide". The legal loopholes unveil. Let see how the justice system prevail. The defendant may have been advised by avoiding to be serve by the court since February 06/2023. The defendant has 30 days from today 04/15/24 to defend. Pain & Suffering: Physical pain. The pain exits though chiropractor help little in relieving the pain. Mental pain. It's marked over a year since my rear-ended accident. I continue fighting with the physical pain and living with no car. I have borrowed from here and there and a life with no transportation. What's an astonishing experience in suffering. The insurance had been advised "refused to pay". Great work.!!! It's a shameful of work. " Denied". My case was first disputed. Now it's denied. I was informed today by my paralegal assistant. "Speechless". I'm speechless and unable to comprehend. What can I say. What's an heartless evil irresponsible insurance companies. Dispute reasons: 1. The flies popped in my eyes. 2. The honey bee bites my ass. 3. The rain pee hard i can't see 4. The devil made me do it. Why did the evil attorney bring a ladder to court? Because they wanted to take their cases to a whole new level of injustice!🤣👹😈 Extremely very busy attorney. The whole page letter sent out just only one single word " disputed.! ". Nothing else. Nada.! 🤣 " Disputed " rear-ended accident. Isaiah 59:4 - None calleth for justice, nor any pleadeth for truth: they trust in vanity, and speak lies; they conceive mischief, and bring forth iniquity. Luke 10:25-37 - And, behold, a certain lawyer stood up, and tempted him, saying, Master, what shall I do to inherit eternal life? Proverbs 17:15 - He that justifieth the wicked, and he that condemneth the just, even they both are abomination to the LORD. Proverbs 14:25 - A true witness delivereth souls: but a deceitful witness speaketh lies. Leviticus 19:15 - Ye shall do no unrighteousness in judgment: thou shalt not respect the person of the poor, nor honour the person of the mighty: but in righteousness shalt thou judge thy neighbour. Recommendation. Rear-ended accident. Insurance company refused to pay & other party was at fault. This is the right place to call. A real song from heaven. https://youtu.be/Tbic5sXdnE4?si=GIB2D0KRi77tn9xr. Inspiration of a Buddhist monk Thich Minh tue a life of total abandon.
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star star star star star
24 Jan, 2018 by Ashley hodge
great attorney who is intelligent, thorough and honest. Highly recommend Frank Cawley.
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star star star star star
24 Jan, 2018 by Frank hart
Mr. Cawley is truly one of the finest attorneys in Dallas. Highly recommended.
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Gary W. Blanscet, experienced Business attorney in Addison, TX with 1 reviews
Below Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
9,12
star star star star star
2.0/5
Avvo
2.0
1 Reviews
star star star star star
07 Mar, 2013 by Tom
Very disappointed in this lawyer who looks really good on his resume. He did not know the simple mechanics of filing corporate documents causing me to incur penalties. Nice guy but didn't seem to be very hard working.
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Grant Gerleman, experienced Business, Consumer Protection attorney in Addison, TX with 0 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
7,00
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0.0/5
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James Douglas Uloth, experienced Bankruptcy, Business attorney in Addison, TX with 0 reviews
Below Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
4,00
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0.0/5
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Justin Martin, experienced Business, Personal Injury attorney in Addison, TX with 0 reviews
Below Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
4,00
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0.0/5
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William G. Milne, experienced Business attorney in Addison, TX with 0 reviews
Below Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
4,00
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0.0/5
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David Reuben Brickman, experienced Business attorney in Addison, TX with 0 reviews
Below Average
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
4,00
star star star star star
0.0/5
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Tracy Lynn Tucker, experienced Business attorney in Addison, TX with 0 reviews
Below Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
4,00
star star star star star
0.0/5
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Kathryn Jean Lemire, experienced Business, Insurance attorney in Addison, TX with 0 reviews
Below Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
4,00
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0.0/5
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Timothy David Ryan, experienced Business attorney in Addison, TX with 0 reviews
Below Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
4,00
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0.0/5
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Israel Sylvester Saucedo, experienced Business, Consumer Protection attorney in Addison, TX with 0 reviews
Below Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
4,00
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0.0/5
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Robert Roy Robinson, experienced Business, Intellectual Property attorney in Addison, TX with 0 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
4,00
star star star star star
0.0/5
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Heather Lynn Davis, experienced Business, Insurance attorney in Addison, TX with 0 reviews
Below Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
4,00
star star star star star
0.0/5
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Jong S. Kim, experienced Business, Real Estate attorney in Addison, TX with 0 reviews
Below Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
4,00
star star star star star
0.0/5
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Christopher Lee Summers, experienced Business, Estate Planning attorney in Addison, TX with 0 reviews
Below Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
4,00
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0.0/5
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Gerald Philip Urbach, experienced Business, Debt Collection attorney in Addison, TX with 0 reviews
Below Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
4,00
star star star star star
0.0/5
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R. Randall Wooley II, experienced Business, Intellectual Property attorney in Addison, TX with 0 reviews
Below Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
4,00
star star star star star
0.0/5
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Bretton Craig Gerard, experienced Business, Debt Collection attorney in Addison, TX with 0 reviews
Below Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
4,00
star star star star star
0.0/5
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Leslie Paris Legrand Jr., experienced Business, Probate attorney in Addison, TX with 0 reviews
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info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
4,00
star star star star star
0.0/5
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Catherine Lee Langley, experienced Business attorney in Addison, TX with 0 reviews
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info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
4,00
star star star star star
0.0/5
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Robert M. Clark, experienced Business, Real Estate attorney in Addison, TX with 0 reviews
Below Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
4,00
star star star star star
0.0/5
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Arthur Reed Snyder Jr., experienced Business, Elder Law attorney in Addison, TX with 0 reviews
Below Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
4,00
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0.0/5
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Discover the ideal lawyer
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FAQs
Questions? We have answers

What a Business Lawyer Can Do for You

A business lawyer provides critical legal guidance and support to entrepreneurs, startups, and established businesses. Whether you are forming a new company, drafting contracts, or navigating complex regulations, a business attorney ensures you are legally protected and operating within the law. They can also help prevent legal disputes or represent you in negotiations, transactions, or lawsuits that arise during the course of business operations.

Business lawyers have expertise in areas such as business formation, contract law, intellectual property, employment law, mergers and acquisitions, and corporate governance. They ensure that your business is compliant with relevant laws and help mitigate risks that could threaten your company's success.

When Should I Hire a Business Lawyer?

Hiring a business lawyer is essential at various stages of business development, including:

  • Forming a business: When deciding on the best structure for your company (LLC, corporation, partnership, etc.), a lawyer can guide you through the registration and compliance process.
  • Drafting contracts: If you need contracts for employees, partners, suppliers, or clients, a lawyer ensures these documents are legally sound and in your best interest.
  • Mergers, acquisitions, or dissolutions: If you are buying, selling, or dissolving a company, legal counsel is critical to avoid costly mistakes.
  • Compliance and regulatory issues: A lawyer can help navigate complex regulations, particularly in industries like healthcare, finance, or tech.
  • Resolving disputes: Whether it's contract disagreements, intellectual property infringement, or employment issues, a business lawyer helps mediate, negotiate, or litigate on your behalf.

What Does a Business Lawyer Do?

Business lawyers provide a wide range of services that cater to different legal needs of a business. They can:

  • Help you choose the best legal structure for your business.
  • Draft, review, and negotiate contracts with employees, suppliers, customers, or business partners.
  • Ensure regulatory compliance with local, state, and federal laws.
  • Advise on tax strategies to minimize your business's tax burden.
  • Assist with intellectual property protection, such as trademarks, patents, and copyrights.
  • Handle mergers, acquisitions, and business sales, ensuring all legal paperwork is in order.
  • Resolve disputes through negotiation, arbitration, or litigation.

How Are Business Lawyers Paid?

Business lawyers typically charge either by the hour or on a flat-fee basis, depending on the complexity of the work. Common payment structures include:

  • Hourly rates: The lawyer charges based on the time spent working on your case. Rates vary depending on the lawyer's experience and location.
  • Flat fees: For certain tasks, such as incorporating a business or drafting a standard contract, a lawyer may offer a flat fee.
  • Retainer: Some businesses may hire a lawyer on retainer, paying a fixed amount each month to have ongoing access to legal services.

The payment structure is often discussed during an initial consultation so you can choose the one that best suits your business needs and budget.

How Much Does a Business Lawyer Cost?

The cost of hiring a business lawyer depends on factors such as:

  • The complexity of the legal issue: More complex matters, like mergers or intellectual property disputes, typically cost more than routine tasks like contract drafting.
  • The lawyer's experience and location: More experienced lawyers or those in larger cities often charge higher fees.
  • The nature of the billing arrangement: Hourly rates can range from $150 to $1,000 or more, depending on the lawyer's expertise. Flat fees are usually available for simpler matters like forming an LLC or drafting a standard contract.

It's essential to discuss fee structures upfront to avoid surprises.

Top Questions to Ask a Business Lawyer

Before hiring a business lawyer, ask the following questions during your consultation:

  1. What is your experience with businesses like mine?
    Find out if the lawyer has handled legal issues for companies in your industry.
  2. What services do you offer?
    Ensure the lawyer can meet all your business's legal needs, from contract drafting to dispute resolution.
  3. What are your fees, and how do you bill?
    Get clarity on how you'll be charged - whether by the hour, flat fee, or retainer.
  4. How do you handle conflicts of interest?
    Ask how the lawyer ensures there is no conflict in representing your business.
  5. Can you provide references from other business clients?
    Speaking with past clients will give you an idea of the lawyer's expertise and professionalism.
  6. Do you have experience in my specific industry?
    Industry-specific knowledge can be crucial, especially in highly regulated fields like healthcare or finance.

How to Check the Credibility of a Business Lawyer

To ensure you're hiring a reputable business lawyer:

  • Check state bar association records: Verify that the lawyer is in good standing and has no disciplinary actions against them.
  • Look for client reviews or testimonials: Online reviews, testimonials, or word of mouth from other business owners can provide insight into the lawyer's reliability and effectiveness.
  • Ask for references: A credible lawyer should have satisfied clients who can vouch for their services.
  • Check professional memberships: Membership in respected legal organizations (such as the American Bar Association or a local business lawyer association) can signal credibility.
  • Review their website and professional profile: A well-established lawyer typically has a professional website showcasing their areas of expertise, credentials, and case success.

What Should I Prepare for My First Consultation?

To make the most out of your first consultation with a business lawyer, prepare the following:

  • A description of your business and its structure: This will help the lawyer understand your legal needs.
  • Any current contracts or agreements: If you're seeking contract advice, bring copies of existing contracts.
  • A list of legal issues or concerns: Be ready to discuss any potential legal challenges, such as regulatory compliance, disputes, or transactions.
  • Financial documents: If applicable, bring financial records related to the legal matter you're seeking help with.
  • Questions about fees and billing: Ensure you understand the lawyer’s payment structure and fees upfront.

By preparing these materials, you can ensure that your first meeting with a business lawyer is productive and informative.

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