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25 Jul, 2023 by Bob m
10 Jun, 2023 by Bruce christensen
Larry is fine attorney, and a great human being also.
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17 Oct, 2022 by Matt danielson
15 Aug, 2015 by Elizabeth
This attorney threatened me, told me that a mediation in a landlord tenant matter was NOT BINDING (Exact words - I said that the mediator said if you are not out by x, you will appear in court Monday and the eviction will be ordered - will it be ordered or will we have an eviction hearing like we were supposed to today? what exactly happens if I cannot meet the agreement? Her response - which I recorded - 'The landlord has to serve you again and start the whole process over' NO - that is NOT what occurs, you are bound by that agreement. This attorney took the simplest matter possible - an eviction where there was no grounds either technically as regards appropriate paperwork or on merit, did not ask for a dismissal on 3 days not having been given or 7 days asking tenant to fix issue prior to 3 day notice to leave, told me as her client once we were in mediation that I 'could not possibly want to stay there' that I needed to agree to move and get on with my life (again NOT what we agreed I was there for) did not even get a copy of the notice the hearing was based on (since only 2 days went by between the post office certified card arriving and being served the eviction court date I did not have it, but she did not call the opposing attorney to get it), threatened me by telling me if I did NOT accept mediation - because I spoke in mediation when she did not start as agreed saying we simply needed to get in front of the judge for dismissal and that angered her (if she had done her job I would not have needed to speak), she would not represent me in front of the judge, I'd be on my own. Though I knew that there was not even time for legal service, judges have been known to do as they like and get into the merits, she had the file and had organized it, I did not even have the notice to know what - exactly - I was fighting because there wasn't anything I'd done so I didn't know what lie the landlord had made up on the paperwork, and having been told it was not binding, I signed it to get out of there with the intent of appearing to have the eviction hearing on the named date. I am stuck. Further, she signed the agreement allowing wording that was wrong - the landlord was to be bound to leave on the AC (he liked to take away parts so it didn't work and it got to be 95 degrees in the rental) and she allowed them to write the thermostat will be kept at 70 - since it was not exact the landlord IS WITHIN HIS RIGHTS TO SET IT TO 70 BUT LET IT BLOW OUT HOT AIR INSTEAD OF FIXING IT. So I am in 90-95 degree heat and supposed to pack and move with medical issues in that heat. They were to get me a check by that Friday. She let the mediator write that they would pay "By 8/17' - that is the day after I have to be out! Then she told me it was my own fault and not to blame her because I got a bad landlord! Do not ever ever ever use this attorney. Oh, and she likes to play games with what she will charge - Example: We had to spend a Sunday putting together the file of everything illegal this landlord had been doing, really for future litigation against him but also incase we needed some of it in eviction court - and I told her I had a ton of things to print. I was very clear She said well print them here, I do not charge for ink. She then said as we were doing it well I will have to charge for this this is a lot. She assessed it at 200.00. After getting me stuck wtih having to move when I did nothing wrong and had a 6 month lease and cannot get the lawyer to turn the money over, she insists she did nothing wrong in telling me the mediation was not binding or not carefully watching the agreement wording before signing and that she tried to help.
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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.
