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24 Sep, 2024 by Ugomma
Attorney Debra and her office have provided the best legal experience I've had in my six years of ongoing custody litigation. She is incredibly knowledgeable, patient, and respectful—truly a breath of fresh air. Unlike many others, she isn't just focused on money but is fully dedicated to using all resources to ensure the best possible outcome. Even though my appellate case has concluded, I still reach out to her for guidance on my modification, and she continues to be just as helpful and supportive as she was when she was my appellate attorney. I highly recommend her!
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23 Aug, 2024 by Stephanie
Professional all the way Ms. Sutton’s work on my case was very well organized. She is fabulous in the courtroom and presents your case clearly and precisely to the judge for rulings. Ms. Sutton’s staff Kerry and Shari were integral and put long hours in getting all of the financial information in order to aid Ms. Sutton in the hearing. Ms. Sutton is by far one of the best family law attorneys you can hire in Polk County! She was exceptional and thorough, working very long to get the settlement finished and we're almost there!
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21 Aug, 2024 by Mike
Debra Sutton and everyone in her firm is first class. Very thorough, professional and kind . Communication was easy with prompt replies . From the consultation I was like she's the one .
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02 Aug, 2024 by Nayleth lopez
If you are looking for a divorce lawyer, do not call them, because their firm does not handle divorce cases, in direct contract to the information on their website. They need to update their information so that people calling for assistance do not waste their time.
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23 Jul, 2024 by Ryan dush
Hands down the best legal team around!
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23 Apr, 2024 by R f
We worked with two different lawyers from this firm, initially being referred there for a third. Each of the lawyers worked on a total of 3 different cases. We didn't work with the initial referral but he did a free consultation and provided us with alot of info that was really helpful. Jillian Spangler was fantastic with our first two cases. We had an extremely unconventional situation and when no one else was able to accommodate, Jillian took us on and we are so grateful for it. What started out as a devastating situation to find ourselves in, ended exactly with resolve we didn't even imagine we could get in our favor so smoothly. Our initial consultation with her we did not feel rushed and she listened attentively. I half jokingly told my husband (and she will never know this till reading this review) that she reminded me of Harley Quinn: Similiar in looks (gorgeous), smart and quick thinking, and not intimidated easily. Harley Quinn and Jillian Spangler both get things done! She remains calm under pressure and is in it to get you the results you want. Our situation was so very stressful and unfortunately this was very dragged out, partially because we had one of our cases out of the area and she had to do a bit more research that was location exclusive to real estate in that area. I really don't know how she put up with our anxieties and concerns so tactfully because we were STRESSED. In hind sight, we had no reason to be and were in good hands. Her short answers we sometines received were spot on and I eventually learned through these that she was a very straight to the point, don't sweat the small stuff, kinda gal. I greatly appreciate her taking us on and working with us thru the holiday season in a timely manner even when short staffed due to an employee emergency. Savannah C was the other associate we worked with. We didn't need her services to the extent we thought we might with a real estate transaction, but she was always attentive, informative and timely to respond when we did and guided us when needed. Overall we got the results we wanted, and more, under the terms that we wanted. What more can you ask for?
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02 Aug, 2024 by Nayleth lopez
If you are looking for a divorce lawyer, do not call them, because their firm does not handle divorce cases, in direct contract to the information on their website. They need to update their information so that people calling for assistance do not waste their time.
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star star star star star
23 Jul, 2024 by Ryan dush
Hands down the best legal team around!
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23 Apr, 2024 by R f
We worked with two different lawyers from this firm, initially being referred there for a third. Each of the lawyers worked on a total of 3 different cases. We didn't work with the initial referral but he did a free consultation and provided us with alot of info that was really helpful. Jillian Spangler was fantastic with our first two cases. We had an extremely unconventional situation and when no one else was able to accommodate, Jillian took us on and we are so grateful for it. What started out as a devastating situation to find ourselves in, ended exactly with resolve we didn't even imagine we could get in our favor so smoothly. Our initial consultation with her we did not feel rushed and she listened attentively. I half jokingly told my husband (and she will never know this till reading this review) that she reminded me of Harley Quinn: Similiar in looks (gorgeous), smart and quick thinking, and not intimidated easily. Harley Quinn and Jillian Spangler both get things done! She remains calm under pressure and is in it to get you the results you want. Our situation was so very stressful and unfortunately this was very dragged out, partially because we had one of our cases out of the area and she had to do a bit more research that was location exclusive to real estate in that area. I really don't know how she put up with our anxieties and concerns so tactfully because we were STRESSED. In hind sight, we had no reason to be and were in good hands. Her short answers we sometines received were spot on and I eventually learned through these that she was a very straight to the point, don't sweat the small stuff, kinda gal. I greatly appreciate her taking us on and working with us thru the holiday season in a timely manner even when short staffed due to an employee emergency. Savannah C was the other associate we worked with. We didn't need her services to the extent we thought we might with a real estate transaction, but she was always attentive, informative and timely to respond when we did and guided us when needed. Overall we got the results we wanted, and more, under the terms that we wanted. What more can you ask for?
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star star star star star
02 Aug, 2024 by Nayleth lopez
If you are looking for a divorce lawyer, do not call them, because their firm does not handle divorce cases, in direct contract to the information on their website. They need to update their information so that people calling for assistance do not waste their time.
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
23 Jul, 2024 by Ryan dush
Hands down the best legal team around!
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
23 Apr, 2024 by R f
We worked with two different lawyers from this firm, initially being referred there for a third. Each of the lawyers worked on a total of 3 different cases. We didn't work with the initial referral but he did a free consultation and provided us with alot of info that was really helpful. Jillian Spangler was fantastic with our first two cases. We had an extremely unconventional situation and when no one else was able to accommodate, Jillian took us on and we are so grateful for it. What started out as a devastating situation to find ourselves in, ended exactly with resolve we didn't even imagine we could get in our favor so smoothly. Our initial consultation with her we did not feel rushed and she listened attentively. I half jokingly told my husband (and she will never know this till reading this review) that she reminded me of Harley Quinn: Similiar in looks (gorgeous), smart and quick thinking, and not intimidated easily. Harley Quinn and Jillian Spangler both get things done! She remains calm under pressure and is in it to get you the results you want. Our situation was so very stressful and unfortunately this was very dragged out, partially because we had one of our cases out of the area and she had to do a bit more research that was location exclusive to real estate in that area. I really don't know how she put up with our anxieties and concerns so tactfully because we were STRESSED. In hind sight, we had no reason to be and were in good hands. Her short answers we sometines received were spot on and I eventually learned through these that she was a very straight to the point, don't sweat the small stuff, kinda gal. I greatly appreciate her taking us on and working with us thru the holiday season in a timely manner even when short staffed due to an employee emergency. Savannah C was the other associate we worked with. We didn't need her services to the extent we thought we might with a real estate transaction, but she was always attentive, informative and timely to respond when we did and guided us when needed. Overall we got the results we wanted, and more, under the terms that we wanted. What more can you ask for?
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See more
star star star star star
02 Aug, 2024 by Nayleth lopez
If you are looking for a divorce lawyer, do not call them, because their firm does not handle divorce cases, in direct contract to the information on their website. They need to update their information so that people calling for assistance do not waste their time.
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
23 Jul, 2024 by Ryan dush
Hands down the best legal team around!
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
23 Apr, 2024 by R f
We worked with two different lawyers from this firm, initially being referred there for a third. Each of the lawyers worked on a total of 3 different cases. We didn't work with the initial referral but he did a free consultation and provided us with alot of info that was really helpful. Jillian Spangler was fantastic with our first two cases. We had an extremely unconventional situation and when no one else was able to accommodate, Jillian took us on and we are so grateful for it. What started out as a devastating situation to find ourselves in, ended exactly with resolve we didn't even imagine we could get in our favor so smoothly. Our initial consultation with her we did not feel rushed and she listened attentively. I half jokingly told my husband (and she will never know this till reading this review) that she reminded me of Harley Quinn: Similiar in looks (gorgeous), smart and quick thinking, and not intimidated easily. Harley Quinn and Jillian Spangler both get things done! She remains calm under pressure and is in it to get you the results you want. Our situation was so very stressful and unfortunately this was very dragged out, partially because we had one of our cases out of the area and she had to do a bit more research that was location exclusive to real estate in that area. I really don't know how she put up with our anxieties and concerns so tactfully because we were STRESSED. In hind sight, we had no reason to be and were in good hands. Her short answers we sometines received were spot on and I eventually learned through these that she was a very straight to the point, don't sweat the small stuff, kinda gal. I greatly appreciate her taking us on and working with us thru the holiday season in a timely manner even when short staffed due to an employee emergency. Savannah C was the other associate we worked with. We didn't need her services to the extent we thought we might with a real estate transaction, but she was always attentive, informative and timely to respond when we did and guided us when needed. Overall we got the results we wanted, and more, under the terms that we wanted. What more can you ask for?
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25 Feb, 2024 by Anita durden
Horrible attorney my opinion,I made the mistake of hiring him n I regret it for the rest of my life. No morals,loyality,.
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21 Jan, 2024 by B. mathis
Let me first start off by saying that the justice system for people of color is a joke. I contacted Attorney Kelly Collier for representation by a referral of Zona Long Bailbond in Bartow. Being that my family had never had to seek bail or a defense attorney we weren't familiar with either company. We selected the two above mentioned companies. Not one of best decisions. I should have been alarmed when I was advised by the bondsman that they were legally unable to provide any attorney info but just so happen to have Attorney Colliers contact information visible for me to use. Once the initial meeting with Mr. Collier took place he was paid in full. He advised that he would be getting with the state to discuss if charges would even be filed against his newly hired client. We met Mr. Collier on 4/24/23 he seemed as if he was truly going to be able to assist in the matter. At time of initial meeting Mr. Collier was made aware that the potential plaintiff want to sign a waiver of prosecution but due to personal reason was unable to go to courthouse. I asked as the attorney for defendant would he be able to assist with get the waiver completed, his response was less that helpful. He could care less with assisting with clearing his clients name. From that point forward he was just another body at every appointment and seemed to never know what was going on. He was late to every hearing never recognized his client when he finally showed up. Just tacky and very unbecoming. He allowed the courts to continue to drag out proceedings instead speaking up on his clients behalf. The case was drug on for 7 months and Mr. Collier did absolutely nothing. He rarely answered the phone or responded to emails. On the morning of the final hearing 11/08/23 Mr. Collier was yet again late and walked into the courtroom and could not identify his client. As I sat in the hall he walks out and I addressed him. There is no victim & no actual proof of a crime committed so we are still uncertain how the state has a case. He acted as if he was dumbfounded as to this news. Yet he has the audacity to tell me the state wants to offer his client 1 year of probation. Funny thing is he never notified his client prior to this hearing. He assumed that we would accept this under duress. I instantly said no and it’s time for him to do his job. At this time he proceed to tell me that he is working two courtrooms and would be back. I had to the remind him that he has been paid in full & this defendant is also just as important even if he can’t remember his name or face. Time comes as his client stands before the judge the charges are instantly dropped. But of course had we accepted that one year of probation he would be another victim of the unjust justice system. We paid Attorney Collier for representation and almost got railroaded. To make matters even worse he wants to charge $500 to assist with record expungement. I would NOT recommend this attorney to anyone. Did not feel that he valued the importance of ensuring that my family was vindicated.
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19 Dec, 2023 by Herman.threat
This guy is a trash attorney just go with a public defender.He will not defend you at all he only wants your money to buy coke then he only tries to make you take a deal with the state, if you dot not take it you are done period. STAY AWAY.
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03 Dec, 2018 by Anonymous
I Belive he will fight for my fiance and have him home By CHRISTMAS....He seems To Know What we realy want and need...And working hard on his case to Make that happend....
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23 Sep, 2013 by Anonymous
After he was paid off, he stopped contacting me. He just stopped caring and really showing interest in the case. When it was time to sign the deal he talked to me like I Was scum of the earth. I do not recommend, you can definitely find a bettee attorney. He is also not aggressive when he needs to be, and he will not listen if you ask him to do something. He does it in his own time.
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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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