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10 Sep, 2024 by Jose gallegos
Di just helped me and my group close a real estate transaction, and let me tell you, Di is the real deal. She was able to answer all of our questions with ease, was always on time, and had no problem explaining herself until we fully understood what was going on. She fought for us on several occasions and is always on top of our legal matters as if they were her own. She is very diligent, and nothing slips past her. I highly recommend Di for any real estate transaction in the Capital Region. My group and I are going to be Di's clients for LIFE. Thank you so much, Di, for all your help!!!!
PPG
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27 Aug, 2024 by Shawna fitzsimmons
Di managed the sale of our home. We are the type to ask many questions and she answered them all! She brought such positive energy to the whole transaction and was very professional and thorough. Thank you, Di!
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08 Aug, 2024 by Hayley kellam
Di made the process of buying a house smooth and timely. She was very responsive, brought all important information to our attention, and also has a great energy! I would absolutely work with her again in the future.
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14 Aug, 2023 by Christian d
Worked with Allen for two years. Very honest and has a keen sense of what will happen. Never pressured for more work could it recommended Allen enough and am impressed with his abilities to navigate the federal personnel system
Wouldn’t hesitate to recommend him
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07 Dec, 2022 by H.w.
Unfortunately, I had EEOC issues that I could not resolve with my employer.
After several weeks of searching for a law firm with the knowledge, ability and resources to take on an EEOC case against a large agency, I heard about Tully Rinckey, PLLC.,
Allen Shoikhetbrod, my attorney at Tully Rinckey, is phenomenal. Allen is extremely knowledgeable about EEOC and government agency issues. Experienced, honest, professional,
detail-oriented, empathetic and warrior are words I would use to describe him.
Tully Rinckey is a professional law firm that cares about the individual, not just the numbers.
There were no surprise or hidden fees, phone calls and emails were promptly answered.
The legal representation and advice provided during my case was well worth the cost.
I would definitely recommend Tully Rinckey to family and friends.
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30 Apr, 2022 by Anonymous
I was close to receiving a probationary dismissal from a supervisor with negative re-hire codes as a reprisal for an EEO complaint. Although his behavior was unlawful, I had next to no options and was repeatedly harassed by the legal office to sign a vague resignation contract with an NDA clause that I was not comfortable with. I was referred to Mr. Allen Shoikhetbrod by a friend (who is also an attorney but unable to take the case). Allen immediately took action by contacting the legal office and rewriting the resignation contract to be completely in my favor. I never felt pressured and knew the firm had my best interests at heart. My family and I received the outcome we needed/desired in a period of two weeks! I could not be happier. Thank you!
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18 Jul, 2024 by Tiffany otten
I've had to use attorneys for multiple things over the years, and I remember being really surprised at the 5 star review for ANY firm, but now that I'm an immigration client, I absolutely get it! I had considered (and even retained) over 10 attorneys in the past 5 years for both personal and business matters, and my experience working specifically with Brendan Venter, a Partner in the Immigration practice, has been simply outstanding. He is the most honest, transparent, and responsive attorney I've ever met. I understand that law around marriage-based / family immigration is actually quite complex, and we immediately felt confident that we were in the right hands with Brendan, and he has not disappointed. You hear horror stories out there, and sadly most are justified. Brendan, and by extension H-B for being smart enough to make him the partner of this practice, have restored my faith in the craft... at least with them! Eternally grateful for his counsel.
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06 Aug, 2023 by Patrick jordan
20 Jul, 2023 by Linda yetto
I dealt with
Kelsey L. Hansen Esq
She was wonderful. She knew what to do, collected the information and even reached out on a Sunday night!!!
Thank you so much Kelsey
for taking charge and getting the job done Seamlessly.
R Linda Yetto
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18 Jul, 2024 by Tiffany otten
I've had to use attorneys for multiple things over the years, and I remember being really surprised at the 5 star review for ANY firm, but now that I'm an immigration client, I absolutely get it! I had considered (and even retained) over 10 attorneys in the past 5 years for both personal and business matters, and my experience working specifically with Brendan Venter, a Partner in the Immigration practice, has been simply outstanding. He is the most honest, transparent, and responsive attorney I've ever met. I understand that law around marriage-based / family immigration is actually quite complex, and we immediately felt confident that we were in the right hands with Brendan, and he has not disappointed. You hear horror stories out there, and sadly most are justified. Brendan, and by extension H-B for being smart enough to make him the partner of this practice, have restored my faith in the craft... at least with them! Eternally grateful for his counsel.
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06 Aug, 2023 by Patrick jordan
20 Jul, 2023 by Linda yetto
I dealt with
Kelsey L. Hansen Esq
She was wonderful. She knew what to do, collected the information and even reached out on a Sunday night!!!
Thank you so much Kelsey
for taking charge and getting the job done Seamlessly.
R Linda Yetto
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25 Aug, 2015 by Nicole
Justin was extremely great to my husband and I during our 1 st time home buying process! He made us feel completely confident that he was taking care of us and in a timely manner! There was never a doubt in our mind, Justin is trusted 100%. Not to mention every time we ended a phone call we were blown away by his knowledge and ability to help us understand! Not a single phone call/email went without a response and in most cases immediately! Thank you for everything Justin!!
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18 Mar, 2015 by John
Working with Justin Rutherford was a fantastic experience. He's brilliant. A great people-person coupled to a very well versed lawyer. It's hard to find someone as personable and intelligent as Justin. Justin worked incredibly hard to make me happy as a client. He went out of his way on several occasions to go the extra mile. The net results of my experience with Justin left me feeling confident in his work.
I would recommend Justin to anyone, especially as it relates to home purchase closings.
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20 Feb, 2015 by Patrick
Justin and his firm make transactions happen for his clients. He is dedicated to using the latest in technology combined with old-fashioned customer service. He is always available and very responsive whether you just need your legal rights explained or if you need to discuss more complicated legal issues. He helped overcome last minute obstacles that were going to delay closing on the property. He was always looking ahead during the process and making sure that we addressed things before they became a problem. At the closing he went through all of the closing statements and documents in detail to make sure that there was no question unanswered.
They don't come any better! I highly recommend Justin.
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23 Apr, 2014 by Michael
I was very impressed with the zeal and determination that Joel Hodes brought to my case. His professional ability and his talent for clear communication brought clarity and cohesiveness to a situation that was begging for logic. Joel's dedication to this case could not have been greater had he been presenting his own personal case. Even though, in the end, the case was not resolved in my favor I would go out of my way to employ Joel at any opportunity in the future. He is a rare professional who is able to couple his legal talent with a genuine sensitivity that makes him not only a fine lawyer but an impressive human being.
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12 Apr, 2014 by George
While Joel and I have worked together for more than 40 years on commercial, labor and health care litigation, our most recent collaboration was in 2011-12 on behalf of an international reinsurance company named as one of 6 lead defendants in a 60-party asbestos litigation in New York State Supreme Court. Joel is smart, articulate and absolutely dedicated to his clients. I highly recommend him without reservation.
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10 Apr, 2014 by Nathan
Joel, is a smart, knowledgeable and trust worthy attorney, how has handled the cases he has undertaken on our behalf with care and personal interest I would highly recommend him.
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29 Sep, 2015 by Anonymous
I have worked with Ms. Hogan for years and refer healthcare professionals seeking counsel for matters involving professional discipline, Medicaid regulatory issues and third-party contracting to her. She is a significant source of expert legal and practical guidance for me as well.
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21 Sep, 2015 by Howard
Ms. Hogan has been my attorney for years, specializing in healthcare issues for my Durable Medical Equipment company.
She has successfully won numerous cases on my behalf saving me very significant amounts of money. What else is important to say? Honest? absolutely. Qualified? without a question. Who else would be successful against government and private entities. Feel free to contact me regarding documentation to confirm my statements. I wish I could find a general attorney as qualified.
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17 Sep, 2015 by K. michelle
Carla Hogan is everything I want in a lawyer -experienced, honest, well connected and well respected. When I spoke, she listened not just to the facts, but managed to hear the subtext and context. When I wanted to act, she gave advise that I could really hear and understand. Ms Hogan's understanding of the law and of the community are outstanding.
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30 Sep, 2023 by Heather connell (sunshine)
12 Nov, 2021 by Mona bumpers
24 Feb, 2021 by Greg restino
25 Feb, 2014 by Kelley
I recently hired Mr. Palmateer in a Federal trademark dispute case in which I was the defendant. First of all, Lee is very personable and an excellent communicator, which I have found to be qualities lacking in some attorneys. He is diligent about returning phone calls and e-mails and is scrupulously honest in his billing practices. He is, in short, a credit to the legal profession.
But don't let Lee's unassuming demeanor fool you, he excels as a litigator. In fact, he is a litigator of uncommon ability and judgment. I have found him to be tenacious in pursuit of his client's best interests, and I would not hesitate to recommend him to someone in need of a seasoned intellectual property attorney. I credit his expertise and hard work for the amicable end to my case.
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09 Jun, 2011 by Patricia
I had been sitting on my business trademark for years knowing I need to secure an official trademark but clueless on where to start. I was seriously considering using an online legal filling service but very uncomfortable with the unknowns and completely overwhelmed by the process knowing there was much more that had to be considered. A colleague recommended I contact Lee. It was the best move I could have made. I called his office and he got back to me immediately. He listened very carefully and answered all of my questions to complete satisfaction. In all of our conversations I felt like we were communicating as equals. There was no condescension whatsoever. All of the fees were presented in detail and I completely trust his judgement.
He is timely with any follow up issues and clear about deadlines and the consequences in regard to my application for not meeting them. I highly recommend Lee Palmateer and look forward to working with him in the future.
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03 Mar, 2011 by Joseph
Having Lee Palmateer for our lawyer, was one of the lucky things that have happened to us. Easy to talk to, always returns our phone calls, very attainable. We feel he cares.
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24 Sep, 2019 by Rosa
John-Raphael is not only a good lawyer but a very nice person. I have always found him to be knowledgeable, straightforward, honest, very polite and friendly. He always comes through and truly has your best interest in mind. He keeps you well informed. If you are looking for an attorney who can get the job done. I would highly recommend John-Raphael Pichardo, he is an excellent lawyer!
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23 Aug, 2019 by Fabiola
John-Raphael has been nothing but exceptional since meeting him. As soon as I contacted him, he quickly responded and was able to meet with me for a consult on my family’s case. His ability to speak Spanish was really helpful in being able to keep my family involved in the conversation. He took his time in explaining all of our possible options and made sure that my family fully understood as well. I have never seen an attorney take this much care in his job. It was very clear how knowledgeable he is and how all his experiences make him very qualified for his job. Thankfully he is able to take on my family’s case and I look forward to continuing working with him. It is amazing to find someone who truly loves what they do and do it to help others.
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24 Jun, 2019 by Drew
John-Raphael provides amazing counsel and expert advice related to my public charities work - on matters of governance, Employment-based practices, gifts from large donors and supported us through some rough patches as a charity. I’m highly recommend him and the work of his law firm.
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01 Oct, 2014 by Ted
Jake Lamme is a lawyer who goes above and beyond what can be expected. He is knowledgeable of the law and works endlessly with us through this difficult time. He keeps us informed and makes useful suggestions as to the direction he feels we need to pursue. Jake talks to us as a friend as well as our attorney. Jake has traveled near and far, as needed, to help defend us and makes things right. I consider Jake to be a man of honor, great work ethics, and true friend.
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08 Aug, 2013 by Joanna
I can't begin to thank Jake enough for his help and guidance with my personal injury case. He was diligent and responsive and really easy to work with. He gave me peace of mind. I highly recommend his service.
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13 Jun, 2013 by Stef
This highly recommended rating may look more like a family member or close friend s review but I have been a client of Mr Lamme for almost the past 2 years due to a very complicated case that I am involved with. He is not only knowledgeable but does not hesitate to double check the facts with the experts. I am the type of person who appreciares and actually requires being updated and informed and what to expect next. I can honestly say that I have never waited more than 48 hours tops for a response from Jake or another member of his legal team. Litigation is never inexpensive yet the value and service of what our costs have accumulated to date ,I know their is no one out there that can match the top notch service and knowledgeable direction that Jake has given us.
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29 Mar, 2015 by Dennis
I am a Physician in the local area. In January, Mr. Wagoner reviewed my contract with one of the local hospitals. I found him to be dependable, trustworthy, and knowledgeable. His work ethic was exceptional. When given a job to do he did not forget or delay but got it done. I found Mr. Wagoner to be a pleasant, understanding, and caring individual. He spent quite a lot of time with me and he explained the complex terminology in easy to understand terms. He proved to be a thorough, courteous, and dedicated attorney. I could not be happier with the outcome of his work and would recommend him with the highest regard for all future assignments. Thank you.
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28 Mar, 2015 by Andrew
I count on Matt as a trusted advisor for my business and my family. He's helped me navigate nuanced business issues, advised me on complicated contracts and has done my estate plan for my family. He's well informed, responsive and I would highly recommend him to anyone looking for a business attorney.
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24 Oct, 2014 by Anonymous
Matt helped me with a confidential matter, that caused great stress in my life. Once I was hook-ed up with him, everything seemed to go smoother. He took the time and attention to get to know the facts of my case and explained things to me in an understandable way, not like some lawyers who only use legal jargon to confuse you and try to prove how smart they are. I would highly recommend him to anyone! Thanks for all your help, Matt!!
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16 Aug, 2019 by Ginette
Excelent professional. Knows all the concepts, very helpful and it’s a person that you can count on. He got the best analysis and skills to help. Highly recommended!
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15 Aug, 2019 by Juan
He was very attentive, precise, responsible and made me feel like my case was in good hands. Very much recommended. Thank you, Mr. Rivera!
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15 Aug, 2019 by Anonymous
Rivera is an excellent attorney. Very professional and competent. He has an exceptional capacity for analysis, in addition to his excellent skills to establish legal strategies on complex matters. He helped me with the legal strategy in a personal injury claim and an extrajudicial negotiation was achieved in a short time. Highly recommended.
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27 Apr, 2010 by Brigid
I wouldn't hesitate to recommend David to anyone. He is a very thorough, ethical, knowledgeable, well spoken attorney. At court there was no comparison to the other attorney! David outshone him in every area!
He always treated me with dignity, kindness and compassion, and always made time to explain things to me in a way that I could understand.
Recently I had occasion to use the firm for a real estate deal and David again- in a supervisory position for one of the associates- ( who in her own right was excellent)- was an a great resource and available for questions all the way through the transaction.
I am delighted to have such a wonderful attorney in my corner and plan to call on David Siegfeld any time I need legal help.
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19 Apr, 2010 by Anonymous
Mr. Siegfeld helped my family with my grandmother's estate. He was able to balance the personalities of all family members in a compassionate and efficient manner to timely resolve my grandmother's estate. I would whole-heartedly recommend him to anyone!
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14 Apr, 2010 by Ross
David has been trustworthy and reliable legal council both professionally and personally.
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03 Feb, 2011 by Satisfied client
A good lawyer is hard to find. I engaged Mat Tully’s services about 6 months ago. I went into the case thinking I was going to be spending a lot of money for a pretentious lawyer / law firm that would end up overcharging me for very little in the end. His team of lawyers worked tirelessly on my case and helped me obtain the result I was looking for. The legal team at Tully Rinckey could handle any situation I threw at them, they worked tirelessly on my case and were courteous, respectful, compassionate, aggressive and responsive every step of the way. Mat Tully is the American dream. He left New York City after 9/11 to start a law firm by himself and has grown his business from scratch. His selfless service to our country and community is significant; he is currently a National Guard reservist. The values of service transcend to his business. If you are looking for a great lawyer, call Tully.
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29 Jan, 2011 by Janet
He took my brothers case to the United States Supreme Court and won!! He is a fighter who never gives up. I have met a lot of lawyers but I have never meet a lawyer who won before the US Supreme Court. His office has photos of him and his wife with the Chief Justice of the Court (Roberts). Hopefully we will never need to go to the Supreme Court again but if we do he is our man! One of the smartest lawyers in upstate New York.
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29 Jan, 2011 by Mike
When I got back from Iraq, I learned that I lost my job during my deployment. Mat took my case for free and got me my job back PLUS $50,000 in case and $80,000 in attorney fees. I learned AFTER he won my case that he and his firm have won more USERRA cases than EVERY OTHER LAWYER in the COUNTRY COMBINED since the law took effect in 1994 (and remember he has only been doing this since 2003). I also that he left the law to serve in Iraq in 2005 and is now a LTC. You will never have a better lawyer than LTC Tully
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03 Feb, 2017 by Anonymous
Nancy was one of the lawyers I interviewed, at various legal firms, to become my health attorney when I was setting up my private health practice. During the free interview, she covered a tremendous amount of material, and explained complicated subjects, and put me at ease about my legal concerns. Since then, it has given me comfort to know that she is an email or phone call away, as the advice she gives is thorough and reassuring. She impresses me as someone who is in her profession for all the right reasons -- to help others. I highly recommend her!
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06 Mar, 2014 by Anonymous
I have known Nancy for over twenty years and consider her to be a most genuine, humble and loyal friend. Her generosity extends beyond the boundaries of friendship as she gets great pleasure from supporting a wide variety of organizations and people in our community.
Finally, she is a true professional. The qualities that make her a great person we have found, also make her a great lawyer. My husband and I endorse Nancy in every way as a first-rate attorney.
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04 Mar, 2014 by Mary
Ms. Sciocchetti is thorough, hard working, devoted and a pleasure to work with. Her approach is always well thought out and executed. She is a true professional who is dedicated to her clients. I would recommend her without any reservations.
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09 Jan, 2019 by Anonymous
I hired Mr. Jordan to assist with a real estate transaction. Throughout the process he was knowledgeable and professional. I would highly recommend this Attorney for any legal needs.
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12 Jan, 2018 by John
Mr Jordan was great he handled all my legal matters quickly and effeciently. Was able to have several of my tickets dropped or greatly reduced. I would reccomend him to anyone.
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11 Jan, 2017 by Kiera
Mr. Rock handled a loss mitigation for me with a very difficult lender and took all of the embarrassment away. His approach to this matter was calm and well thought out. I always felt that he had my best interests in mind. Such a great attorney to work with!
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25 Nov, 2015 by Linda
I have had occasion to work with dozens of lawyers over the years dealing with such matters as inheritance, real estate and business issues.
One lesson I have internalized is that the right attorney makes a major impact on whether or not you will achieve your legal goals.
Mr. Robert J Rock is a lawyer you want in your corner. He is a brilliant, no nonsense, results-producing winner!
Due to Mr. Rock's superb legal mind and comprehension of American Jurisprudence I not only prevailed against my foes but triumphed. Keeping the time clock running made all the difference in the outcome of my game plan.
Thanks Mr. Rock! I am a client for life!
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22 Jan, 2009 by Anonymous
Very professional and easy to work with.
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01 Nov, 2011 by Anonymous
On a pro bono basis, Mr. Sandak represented me in both Family Court, for support and custody, and Traffic Court during the fall of 2011. All outcomes exceeded my hopes. He provided me with copies of all letters and petitions prior to their being submitted, he provided me with all available strategies we could pursue and made sure I was comfortable with adopted legal approaches prior to moving forward. Where-ever I lost documents, Mr. Sandak always had retained a copy when needed, he was always early, organized, thorough, patient, and available for my questions. He knew the CPLR in detail and overcame a process service obstacle efficiently. On behalf of my children and myself, Thank You!
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15 Aug, 2008 by Richard
Mr. Wakeman was, and continues to be, instrumental in the success of a pooled bond program used to finance projects that serve people with developmental disabilities. Excellent at facilitating solutions to obstacles. Highly respected by everyone on the financing team, as well as the borrowers he represents. Knows his stuff. Has been part of the financing program for 10 years, during which 210 projects were financed
Good sense of humor too.
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19 Aug, 2009 by Patricia
Marcia is an excellent lawyer. She is our current in-house counsel. In addition to the above ratings, she is efficient, gives good sound judgement, accomodating (available beyond normal work hours), thorough, and diplomatic,
Marcia has handled many unusual cases for us as we are more than healthcare.
Our facilities cover long term care as well as psychiatric care - an unusual combination. In addition, she handles corporate, foundation real estate, licensing and contracual issues.
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18 Feb, 2015 by Francois
It is a pleasure to meet and retain a lawyer who, in addition to being expert and very professional in his areas of practice, is also personable, creative, speaks in plain english. He believe in forming and nurturing relationships with his clients and is diligent in keeping me updated as to the status of my case and my legal options. I highly recommend his services.
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08 Jun, 2009 by Anonymous
He handled a difficult and emotional foreclosure/eviction with firmness and reasonabllity. We got an apology from the plaintiff and got 90 days to vacate the premises.
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26 Jan, 2018 by Craig
John has provided patent attorney and trademark services to me, in both my previous job as The Director of Printing Systems at Mimeo.com as well as in my current role as CEO of nobleIQ, LLC. John is very knowledgeable and provides excellent advice and insight into the patent application process. I have yet to be denied a patent when submitting an application with John as my patent counsel. Highly recommended.
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30 Dec, 2019 by Smoc
Ms. Hedgeman has personally and professionally represented my my interests for many years. She is an expert in the areas of real estate investment, economic development, and nonprofit law, all of which I have experienced first hand. She is honest, loyal, and wholeheartedly committed to the success of her clients. Ms. Hedgeman is trustworthy, committed to the community and approachable.
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15 Dec, 2011 by Anonymous
Straight-forward and practical, Carrianna is the best attorney I could ask for. She has served as an intelligent and loyal advisor to me throughout the years and I am proud to call her my attorney.
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31 Dec, 2008 by Anonymous
I used Ms. Vestal in 2008 for a Real Estate matter. She was very professional, and always available to take my calls and answer any questions I had. As a first time home buyer, she made me feel comfortable and excited about the process. Anyone who is looking to buy a home should contact her!
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30 Sep, 2014 by Renee
After going through 3 attorneys, James Braman was recommended to me and I cannot thank him enough. He actually read each and every piece of paper, document, articles, depositions, etc. that I gave to him. I truly felt he "knew" and "understood" my circumstances and events that had transpired. I have the utmost confidence in is ability to negotiate for me. I highly recommend him in any administrative law, Department of State matter or real estate matter. He did an outstanding job for me :) 2014
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03 Mar, 2015 by Ronak patel
Brian has helped my company really consolidate all of our legal needs, and has consistently provided proper and actionable advice in regards to legal affairs. He often goes above and beyond the required services and really cares about each and every one of his clients. Even though we were a startup, Brian still paid us the attention and time that we weren't able to ever receive with previous legal professionals. It has been an absolute pleasure working with Brian.
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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:
-
What is your experience with businesses like mine?
Find out if the lawyer has handled legal issues for companies in your industry. -
What services do you offer?
Ensure the lawyer can meet all your business's legal needs, from contract drafting to dispute resolution. -
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. -
How do you handle conflicts of interest?
Ask how the lawyer ensures there is no conflict in representing your business. -
Can you provide references from other business clients?
Speaking with past clients will give you an idea of the lawyer's expertise and professionalism. -
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.
