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13 Dec, 2024 by Christian
I needed help with an employment issue (negotiating a severance agreement). Laura was extremely responsive and identified a host of issues in the draft document. The changes she made were great and protected me very well. I would work with her again on any employment issue
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08 Mar, 2024 by Catherine
Laura is professional, responsive, and compassionate in what can be a very stressful situation. She offers guidance and solid legal advice. I could not have been more pleased and would recommend Laura Panos to anyone needing an excellent counsel in matters of employment.
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13 Feb, 2024 by Ae
Laura helped me with an employment matter that I couldn't resolve on my own. She was very honest with me and was able to promptly obtain a much better result for me. I would recommend Ms. Panos in a heart beat.
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10 Jan, 2024 by Geoff
Graeme took on what I am sure sounded like a small project that managed to balloon its way into something bigger. What started out as a simple lease contract review devolved into Graeme needed to correct everything, even the business name and details of the party that drafted the initial Lease. He was able to stand in for us in meetings that we just couldn't make it to and always represented us professionally. He was quick with getting us information we needed and made a point to get back to us quickly whenever we called., if he didn't outright just pick up then.
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01 Apr, 2016 by Jason
Mr. Brown and his firm are not only knowledgeable but personable as well. I found myself voiceless in an unforeseen and uncontrollable crisis, unaware of what to do or where to turn. Upon hiring Mr. Brown, I was treated as a client with rights and equally, as a person whom faced frightening uncertainty concerning my health. Graeme and his team were with me every single step of the way. They explained everything to me that i needed. Every single phone call and email to Graeme and his staff have always been treated with the utmost importance. I was always made to feel like I was the top priority. Their knowledge, compassion, commitment to my case and accessibility helped guide me through one of the most difficult periods in my life. I can't thank Graeme and Kathy enough. I would strongly recommend Graeme Brown to any person.
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30 Jul, 2015 by Ron
Graeme S.R. Brown has provided exemplary legal services to me and my company for more than a decade. He not only is a skilled practitioner, but Graeme's business background makes him especially understanding and sensitive to how legal issues affect business operations. Graeme's philosophy is coined best by "can do"! I heartily recommend him.
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20 Jun, 2019 by Anonymous
Received or think you are about to receive a Summons concerning a debt lawsuit. Or you have been hurt by a product and feel you should be able to file a lawsuit. Don't want a huge mountain dealing with the court system on your shoulders. Attorney Ken Quat is the Attorney for you. Please note that the above address is wrong. Attorney Quat moved from that location and is now at 929 Worcester Road, Framingham, MA.,01701 866-907-1220. But, what is more nerve wracking,ulcer making, migraine than when you get a Summons in the mail about a credit card lawsuit. 1st one I received in 2014 I went through it myself. And had wished I had gone searching for a Consumer Protection Attorney. The experience was that horrible. Then I received another (in 2016) Summons concerning a credit card lawsuit a few years after the first. I was scared. Just the thought of going through what I went through. I searched online for an attorney to help with the lawsuit and made a list. I called a few and they were not willing to help me. Or told me to file for bankruptcy. Until I came to Attorney Ken Quat. I called him and left him a message. I honestly thought when he would call that I would get the same run around as I did with the other attorneys. NOT SO!! Attorney Quat is very easy to talk with. And I discover later very easy to work with. When I spoke to him he was very understanding of my situation. He explained to me of all my options. Remember that many debt collectors/credit card companies hire big name lawfirms. And they are very intimidating. As they take advantage of the fact you don't know what you are doing or what you are signing. Attorney Ken Quat took care of everything. I didn't have to deal with anything at all. Remember by hiring an attorney those who are suing you can not contact you. They have to contact your attorney. Huge relief. I have since had to hire him a few times. And he is always there to help. If you have a situation concerning anything to do with debt lawsuits or feel you have been hurt and feel you have to file a lawsuit. Then Attorney Quat is the attorney you want in your corner. He is not afraid to go against any big name company's. Attorney Quat is very, very professional, knowledgeable and truly cares for those who hire him. He will give you 100% of himself in helping you. (Trust me I am the type of person who will not tolerate someone who isn't.).
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24 Jul, 2024 by Charlie foskett
Avery Dooley & Noone accepted an engagement to assist the Rotary Club of Arlington MA to form a 501c3 corporation to facilitate its charitable fund-raising activities. Peter Noone (quality oversight) and Danielle Gifford (hands-on legal counsel) were the principals involved. The firm provided a cost estimate in advance and stayed on budget. We had heard various stories from other Rotary Clubs and different organizations that this could be seven-to-twelve month process. The firm worked closely with us in developing drafts of articles of organization, corporate by-laws, conflict-of-interest guidelines and IRS filing documents. We started in late December, and had our state filings in February, which were approved within days. With the firm's guidance, we filed our IRS documents in March and received approval in April, which none of our prior consultants believed could have been possible. I have had dozens of engagements with legal counsel in my decades as CEO and director of several companies. Peter Noone and Danielle Gifford made this engagement among the best.
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30 Jan, 2024 by Neal larsson
Navigating the purchase of my own business was a daunting task. The legal team at Avery Dooley made the process so much more comfortable for me. Each aspect had it's own unique twists, from lease negotiations to the business and equipment purchase itself I had a trusted advisor the whole way. I can't recommend them highly enough.
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30 Jan, 2024 by Christopher duffy
Great firm that helped us navigate through some tough issues. They always kept us informed about our situation and what to expect next.
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Questions? We have answers

What a Business Lawyer Can Do for You

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

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

When Should I Hire a Business Lawyer?

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

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

What Does a Business Lawyer Do?

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

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

How Are Business Lawyers Paid?

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

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

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

How Much Does a Business Lawyer Cost?

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

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

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

Top Questions to Ask a Business Lawyer

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

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

How to Check the Credibility of a Business Lawyer

To ensure you're hiring a reputable business lawyer:

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

What Should I Prepare for My First Consultation?

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

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

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

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