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15 Jul, 2023 by Colin
To say that Doug was amazing would be an understatement. He was brilliant ! Wish their were more attorneys like him. He was very responsive to my texts / calls / emails, keeping me in the loop and status of my case every step of the way - with very comprehensive updates. Above and beyond. He was professional and courteous from the get-go through to the end - of a very successful outcome for which I am very appreciative. I can highly recommend Doug for any legal issue you might have. Colin
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15 Nov, 2019 by Paige
Loved this man he is real and cares. He took his chances on me and I will recommend him highly . His firm has heart for sure. Thanks for taking a chance on me.
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17 Oct, 2019 by Dianne
We hired Doug to handle an odd case for us and he handled it wonderfully. We live in another state and he made this process seamless and helped in any way he could. Doug did everything he said he would and was extremely professional. Even after our case was won he still is prompt in answering any and all of our questions. I would recommend Doug to anyone needing an Attorney in Athens, GA.
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09 Oct, 2017 by Linda
Adam was fantastic for us, we were a small business in the UK, new to the US and needed to know everything about how to setup our subsidiary on a shoe string budget. Adam understood that we were a micro business with International ambition, he got us setup and registered with all the official organisations and our contracts setup. We have not looked back and now have delivered 3 major projects successfully. Can highly recommend.
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22 Nov, 2024 by Saul garcía martínez
Really professionals. 👍
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08 Nov, 2024 by Chasity hicks
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03 Nov, 2024 by Trevious tripplett
If you want a Lawyer who communicates, shows concern and works hard for there client’s defense contact law firm Swingle Levin LLC in Athens,GA to represent you. This law form represents has 100% awareness of what it means to obtain the best outcome for there clients. This law firm helped me when I thought it was going to be a long time for my case to be resolved. I thought wrong. I’m GREATFUL I contacted John Toney to be my lawyer and appreciate everything you did more than 100%. You want a firm that cares about your well-being, cares, communicates, and get the job done contact Swingle Levin Lawfirm.
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14 May, 2019 by Rita
Ms. Davis was hired to obtain a trademark with the USPTO for my company logo. Michelle has in-depth knowledge in the area of Trademark and Patent Law; her keen insights helped in providing appropriate descriptions of the logo and the trademark was approved. In addition, she willingly helped with some other legal issues. Besides exceeding my expectation in her expertise, Michelle has an easy going personality, and a generous nature. I would highly recommend Michelle Davis as an attorney without any hesitation.
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22 Feb, 2017 by Morgan
I recently started by own business and needed to develop a services agreement quickly, as well as guidance on a number of other issues. Michelle was extremely quick to respond and worked within my tight turnaround time. She was helpful in walking me through the process and asking the right questions, making sure I was covered in areas I may not have considered. She made the whole process extremely simple for me, as well as fun - she is kind, cheerful and genuinely cares about helping people establish new businesses. I would recommend her highly!
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05 Oct, 2016 by Anonymous
I was referred to Michelle for some copyright work by a real professional in the entertainment business. I'm a lawyer who fools around with music, and I could not have been happier with the referral. Michelle laid out exactly what I needed to do to help her do the job I needed done. She was persistent and professional, and the fees were appropriate. I enjoyed working with her, and the work product was great.
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01 Jan, 2014 by Anonymous
Spence Johnson is an outstanding attorney who guided our corporation through a complex real estate transaction. His attention to details, perseverance, and legal acumen made all the difference to our particular circumstances. The expert counsel we received from Spence was greatly appreciated, and I highly recommend him without reservation.
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19 Sep, 2011 by Anonymous
I hired Spence to help ward off the threat that my construction company faced of being snarled in a shareholder dispute between a former general contractor that I worked with and one if its shareholders. Spence got involved, quickly got himself “up to speed” on the facts and the law, and initiated prompt communication with the opposing lawyers. He was able to keep me out of the litigation and saved me thousands in legal bills and endless headaches in the process.
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20 Jul, 2011 by Anonymous
Chris is a great guy. I used him several years ago for an international taxation issue. Very polite, timely and above all, did excellent work. I strongly believe he kept my costs down as well. Unlike a not insignificant amount of attorneys out there, Chris billed me very honestly.
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11 Sep, 2020 by Deanna m
Best lawyer! He was very knowledgeable and won our complicated case. He comes prepared and listens to everything. Daniel W actually Had the case figured out before we even went to court.
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07 Jul, 2015 by Anonymous
Mr. Brown helped me with a DUI charge earlier this year. He was thorough and get me an excellent plea deal. I strongly recommend him for DUI representation.
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14 Oct, 2024 by Marty fields jr.
This woman is absolutely amazing. She is the definition of above and beyond. Watching her work is like watching a piece of art being created in front of you. While we did not get the outcome we were hoping for in our case, she made a case that was mind blowing. The only reasoning behind the bad verdict was 90% the jury sadly. Most of them didn't want to be there and made that clear when I heard them talking outside of the court room. The courts in GA are a whole other world I have sadly learned. However I cannot say enough good things about Leslie. I would not hesitate to hire her for anything needed. She not only does an amazing job in every way, but you can tell she truly cares about her clients and their families. The amount of time she spent talking to me alone throughout the process was mind blowing in it's own matter. Even with the case being done she is still helping with the next steps and things she doesn't even need to help me with. If you need one of the best attorneys in Northern GA, this is definitely one of the first ones you should speak with.
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10 Mar, 2024 by Elizabeth robertson
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25 Oct, 2023 by Dena hayden
Miss mcAWESOME!!!!
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09 Dec, 2024 by David kleinhans
After my car accident Jason and his team did a great job in resolving a complicated case and getting me paid what was owed! Awesome firm that knows what they’re doing with car accidents!
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30 Nov, 2024 by Breana croya
Hands down the best attorney! Very detailed and reliable. I would recommend him to anyone!
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19 Oct, 2024 by Ontoya fowler
They kept me informed of each step and was very knowledgeable. I'm very satisfied with the service I received.
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06 Dec, 2024 by Thatguyscott
Alan is a billboard lawyer who just likes to bs you. He listened to my case and told me he would speak to my criminal guy to get details he didnt told me give me 3 days. I emailed 3 days no reply waited 3 more days then told me I wasn't being reasonable in email. He told me he never asked Jason details back and forth since I don't have marks or holes in my body he dont want it. He cares nothing about being in a cage for 27 hours or the 15k it cost my family to defend myself... The fact is clear he is the type who rarely will go to court he's a office type lawyer.
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16 Aug, 2024 by Taehwa hong
Before calling Mr. Alan Cleveland, I was nervous about talking to an attorney since I had no prior experience and didn't know how to start the conversation or approach my case. But don't worry. From the moment you speak with him, you will know you are talking to the right expert. The entire conversation was very warm, and his great knowledge in this field was evident. Highly recommended!
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05 Jul, 2024 by Damina bonneau
I want to thank everyone. Alan, Samantha and Frank. Alan thank you for taking my case when know one else would touch it.You and your team got me there. Thank you kindly, Damina Bonneau
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06 Dec, 2024 by Thatguyscott
Alan is a billboard lawyer who just likes to bs you. He listened to my case and told me he would speak to my criminal guy to get details he didnt told me give me 3 days. I emailed 3 days no reply waited 3 more days then told me I wasn't being reasonable in email. He told me he never asked Jason details back and forth since I don't have marks or holes in my body he dont want it. He cares nothing about being in a cage for 27 hours or the 15k it cost my family to defend myself... The fact is clear he is the type who rarely will go to court he's a office type lawyer.
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16 Aug, 2024 by Taehwa hong
Before calling Mr. Alan Cleveland, I was nervous about talking to an attorney since I had no prior experience and didn't know how to start the conversation or approach my case. But don't worry. From the moment you speak with him, you will know you are talking to the right expert. The entire conversation was very warm, and his great knowledge in this field was evident. Highly recommended!
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05 Jul, 2024 by Damina bonneau
I want to thank everyone. Alan, Samantha and Frank. Alan thank you for taking my case when know one else would touch it.You and your team got me there. Thank you kindly, Damina Bonneau
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06 Feb, 2013 by Paul
Mr. Walker has served as my general counsel for about three years. He has advised me in a tricky traffic case, represented me in my divorce, and advised me on personal business and other legal matters. Mr. Walker is extremely intelligent, knowledgeable, and pleasant to work with. I am particularly impressed with his writing skills; his documents show legal competence but are also comprehensible and straight forward. He was considerate of my desires in handling my divorce and, even when we disagreed about the right course of action, complied cheerfully with my requests. I have recommended them to my business and many of my friends. Please note that there is another copy of my review with all ratings marked "Poor", that was a mistake; I meant for all ratings to be "Excellent" and this review is a correction.
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06 Feb, 2013 by Sara
Excellent advice and counsel through the emotional and difficult divorce. Thanks for taking the extra time to explain all the little things and for taking care of all the big things. I would go nowhere else for legal counsel.
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05 Feb, 2013 by Adam
Wayland Worked with me on a not very complicated or contested divorce. He explained all of my options and ways to do things. he was not very expensive and kept in touch with me about every question or situation that came up. The only drawback that I could even think about is that he has not practiced a lot here in Athens yet and may not be very well known around the town. I have recommended him to others and he is working with one right now.
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16 Oct, 2009 by Ron orlando
Ms. Gamble provide legal work for incorporating my start-up biotechnology company (BioInquire), i.e., reviewing our operating agreement, reviewing documentation concerning our intellectual property negotiations, etc. She was dedicated, knowledgeable, worked in a timely manner, and took the extra time needed to learn about our specific situation. I am very impressed with her high ethical standards and how she strives to meet our needs. She is an exceptional and experienced attorney.
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28 Nov, 2024 by Teri elizabeth
RIP Laken Riley
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24 Nov, 2024 by M k
Great guy
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22 Nov, 2024 by Rene talley
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08 Oct, 2024 by P.j. childers
.I'd give them 0 stars but they don't give that option . Father and son tulley Spencer and Ed both. The father not so much as the son ..I am sure my constitution reads the same as theirs . I am sure the laws of this land that I have read didn't say That if you are appointed a l awyer by a court due to the inability to afford one. You will not be represented to the best of their ability.Even worse for a paying client. If you receive the same collective representation as .my son .who had evidence to prove he was innocent . Was told by the appointed attorney the son tully we not gone fool with that . I believe my constitution calls that as a crime .Daddy tulley reiterates the nonuse iof evidence by informing my son If his son put him on the stand I.defense of himself and he was on the jury looking at his past history an his face tat he would vote him guilty anyway. This was the first conversation these men had with my son .my question to daddy tully is this isn't UT your son's job to be smart enough to see your prejudice ass coming and not pick you for my son's jury. ? My question toyour son is this . If daddy has to hold your hand would he be able to when you are held responsible for misconduct .if you don't know how to obtain body cam evidencebor it walked away somehow do you know how to have the officers appear themselves give first hand account cause 3 of them said my son your client was innocent . Yet here we are you allowed my son to be sentenced to 8 years in a federal pen . After exhausting him and convincing him a guilty plus was his only way home. My constitution says you should have my son as your celll mate
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03 Mar, 2024 by Candace rader
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12 Dec, 2023 by Greg garcia
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26 Feb, 2017 by Anonymous
David Ellison does not like women or children. He will not fight for a stay at home mom. David Ellison was the worst lawyer one could possibly have. He took my money and did not even provide the services paid for such as a discovery. I continue to have a hard time with my kids father due to the lack of help by David with custody issues. I could go on about how he did not represent me. He is not a nice person. A lawyer is supposed to guide his client not railroad them. I do not recommend this lawyer even if he is the only one in your price range.
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28 Jan, 2016 by Brandon mintz
David did an excellent job resolving my matter. First of all when you call him you get David on the phone. Not some answering service or assist but actually David every single time. Second, David has a sense of urgency unlike most lawyers and gets back to you immediately with an intelligent and informative response. From the time I spoke to him to the time my situation was resolved in my favor it was 2 days. I was super impressed with this crazy fast resolution. Lastly, his rates are affordable, and I will be using him for all of my legal needs from here on out. Wether you are in Athens, Ga or not David has your back!
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08 Oct, 2023 by Anonymous
Paid 50K in full, talked to me twice, withdrew from my case on day of bond hearing and left me to rot in jail. Ultimately, all charges were dropped and he never gave me any of my money back. Firm should be called "Crook is Tolley"
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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:

  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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