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18 Sep, 2024 by Aleksandr frolov
I have worked with Kristina Ramos(attorney) and Jocelyn (paralegal) on a closing. Prompt communication, clear guidance through the process, and no delays. 10/10, would work with them again
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12 Mar, 2024 by Ron and renee bellamy
06 Feb, 2024 by Frank coheley
05 Feb, 2025 by Joanna aiken
We worked with an attorney, Justin Friedman, during a particularly stressful eviction. This firm was efficient, easy to communicate with, highly responsive, and demonstrated a great level of professionalism and advocacy throughout the process.
Very grateful for your legal assistance, Justin, and thank you for the strong work.
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17 Sep, 2024 by Carol janis
This is a great law office. Every staff member that I worked with was professional, courteous and extremely helpful.
Mr. Ranzenhofer was especially soft-spoken and kind but yet fierce in getting my issue resolved. They left no stone unturned in getting a positive conclusion for me.
I was so pleased with the results and would use this Law Firm for any issue I would have in the future.
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19 Aug, 2024 by Boris zilberman
My father badly needs help and because I asked too many questions during the intro talk (I guess that's why? Fridman interrupted me mid sentence to say he was declining) then declined the case and coldly, cruelly, dismissively told me to look elsewhere. I guess use this law firm if you want someone who treats you like that.
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05 Feb, 2025 by Joanna aiken
We worked with an attorney, Justin Friedman, during a particularly stressful eviction. This firm was efficient, easy to communicate with, highly responsive, and demonstrated a great level of professionalism and advocacy throughout the process.
Very grateful for your legal assistance, Justin, and thank you for the strong work.
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17 Sep, 2024 by Carol janis
This is a great law office. Every staff member that I worked with was professional, courteous and extremely helpful.
Mr. Ranzenhofer was especially soft-spoken and kind but yet fierce in getting my issue resolved. They left no stone unturned in getting a positive conclusion for me.
I was so pleased with the results and would use this Law Firm for any issue I would have in the future.
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19 Aug, 2024 by Boris zilberman
My father badly needs help and because I asked too many questions during the intro talk (I guess that's why? Fridman interrupted me mid sentence to say he was declining) then declined the case and coldly, cruelly, dismissively told me to look elsewhere. I guess use this law firm if you want someone who treats you like that.
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11 Jan, 2024 by Matt paul
Very professional and knowledgeable attorneys!
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04 Sep, 2022 by Jeremiah wilkes
Mr Kaddish is great lawyer, he very straight forward and understand the system!! Don’t Hesitate to give him a call!
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13 Apr, 2022 by Don root
Great attorneys
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28 Nov, 2024 by Tiffany chu
28 Nov, 2024 by Daria briggs
02 Feb, 2024 by Amy osier
13 Mar, 2024 by Sandy decz
No reply from my request
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31 Oct, 2023 by Linda leising
Interesting stuff
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30 Jul, 2023 by Kathleen cummings
Always professional and kind. Thank you.
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13 Mar, 2024 by Sandy decz
No reply from my request
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31 Oct, 2023 by Linda leising
Interesting stuff
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30 Jul, 2023 by Kathleen cummings
Always professional and kind. Thank you.
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18 Sep, 2024 by Aleksandr frolov
I have worked with Kristina Ramos(attorney) and Jocelyn (paralegal) on a closing. Prompt communication, clear guidance through the process, and no delays. 10/10, would work with them again
Read more
12 Mar, 2024 by Ron and renee bellamy
06 Feb, 2024 by Frank coheley
18 Sep, 2024 by Aleksandr frolov
I have worked with Kristina Ramos(attorney) and Jocelyn (paralegal) on a closing. Prompt communication, clear guidance through the process, and no delays. 10/10, would work with them again
Read more
12 Mar, 2024 by Ron and renee bellamy
06 Feb, 2024 by Frank coheley
18 Sep, 2024 by Aleksandr frolov
I have worked with Kristina Ramos(attorney) and Jocelyn (paralegal) on a closing. Prompt communication, clear guidance through the process, and no delays. 10/10, would work with them again
Read more
12 Mar, 2024 by Ron and renee bellamy
06 Feb, 2024 by Frank coheley
01 Mar, 2020 by Chantel lash
09 Apr, 2019 by Karen obrien
Most worthless lawyer ever
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22 Oct, 2018 by Sarah w
10 Sep, 2024 by Dan acker
I had the worst experience with Arthur at this firm, who despite several phone calls and emails never once responded to me regarding his client's case. I would be wary to hire any firm that handles financial affairs of their clients this way.
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14 Feb, 2023 by Rizwan alam
Very professional and great person
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28 Aug, 2021 by William duffy
Easy to find and park.Took care of our business quickly and carefully.
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10 Sep, 2024 by Dan acker
I had the worst experience with Arthur at this firm, who despite several phone calls and emails never once responded to me regarding his client's case. I would be wary to hire any firm that handles financial affairs of their clients this way.
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14 Feb, 2023 by Rizwan alam
Very professional and great person
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28 Aug, 2021 by William duffy
Easy to find and park.Took care of our business quickly and carefully.
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10 Sep, 2024 by Dan acker
I had the worst experience with Arthur at this firm, who despite several phone calls and emails never once responded to me regarding his client's case. I would be wary to hire any firm that handles financial affairs of their clients this way.
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14 Feb, 2023 by Rizwan alam
Very professional and great person
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28 Aug, 2021 by William duffy
Easy to find and park.Took care of our business quickly and carefully.
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03 Dec, 2021 by Michael enser
Great atmosphere, experienced and talented staff. I would suggest no other firm for my legal needs..
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13 Jun, 2021 by Runangun40
Great attorneys, very knowledgeable about immigration law.
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20 Nov, 2019 by Marc coppola
22 Jan, 2025 by Ty evans
Mr. Daniel Tarantino succeeded with my felony case, including three additional misdemeanors by digging deeply into every aspect of information that was put in front of him. My case was dismissed due to Mr. Tarantino’s Dedication to determine my innocence and not be claimed as a criminal. Thank you so much Mr. Tarantino for the hard work of and for my case.
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16 Jan, 2025 by Facts jr
10 Dec, 2024 by Jaime difrancesco
I did not intend on posting a negative review, until every other means I have taken was ignored by this law firm.
I was a client of Ms. Hawthorne for approximately 6 years between 2015 & 2021. I thought she represented me well in child custody matters at that time.
A new issue arose in July of 2024, so I contacted her office to retain her for the new matter. I paid the full retainer fee up front, and Ms. Hawthorne agreed to represent me.
Long story, but here is the point of the review, & caution to others who rely on reviews to choose an attorney.
1) Ms. Hawthorne repeatedly dropped the ball when it came to being prepared for court dates. I would ask a simple task be handled, & she arrived at court telling me she didn't have the information needed to pursue. It could have been addressed by a quick phone call so the information would have been presented on that court date.
2) Ms. Hawthorne avoided ALL of my emails with questions regarding legal representation & how to proceed with our Court matter. I was only able to get basic responses and interaction with her staff member, Ann.
3) I ended up having to fire Ms. Hawthorne 3 months after retaining her due to ZERO direction and follow up from her on Court deadlines. I was left on my own, when I hired her for legal representation.
4) I fired Ms. Hawthorne before all the retainer fee was used up, and by law, & by the legal code of attorney conduct, any monies paid has to be earned. Refunds are to be issued for any unused portion.
5) I terminated Ms. Hawthorne's services on October 3, 2024 & requested a current statement of services rendered. I requested a refund on that date. It was nearly a month before I received the requested statement. It showed that I had $855 CREDIT.
6) I sent several emails to Ms. Hawthorne & her office, requesting the refund, as I had to retain a different attorney to represent me for the job she failed to do. I was charged double for work Ms. Hawthorne didn't complete, and new attorney had to follow through on.
7) I filed an attorney grievance for her unethical standards pursuant to the Attorney Code of Conduct. Ms. Hawthorne lied in that case & claimed she WAS representing me.
8) When emails were repeatedly ignored for my refund, I called the Office & left a message (10 weeks after initial requests)
This is why I am resorting to a public review. No other means I have followed through with are being received and dealt with. I am just asking for the money I paid UP FRONT to be returned to me for the unused portion of $855. I have other attorney bills to cover thanks to Ms. Hawthorne not doing her job.
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22 Jan, 2025 by Ty evans
Mr. Daniel Tarantino succeeded with my felony case, including three additional misdemeanors by digging deeply into every aspect of information that was put in front of him. My case was dismissed due to Mr. Tarantino’s Dedication to determine my innocence and not be claimed as a criminal. Thank you so much Mr. Tarantino for the hard work of and for my case.
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16 Jan, 2025 by Facts jr
10 Dec, 2024 by Jaime difrancesco
I did not intend on posting a negative review, until every other means I have taken was ignored by this law firm.
I was a client of Ms. Hawthorne for approximately 6 years between 2015 & 2021. I thought she represented me well in child custody matters at that time.
A new issue arose in July of 2024, so I contacted her office to retain her for the new matter. I paid the full retainer fee up front, and Ms. Hawthorne agreed to represent me.
Long story, but here is the point of the review, & caution to others who rely on reviews to choose an attorney.
1) Ms. Hawthorne repeatedly dropped the ball when it came to being prepared for court dates. I would ask a simple task be handled, & she arrived at court telling me she didn't have the information needed to pursue. It could have been addressed by a quick phone call so the information would have been presented on that court date.
2) Ms. Hawthorne avoided ALL of my emails with questions regarding legal representation & how to proceed with our Court matter. I was only able to get basic responses and interaction with her staff member, Ann.
3) I ended up having to fire Ms. Hawthorne 3 months after retaining her due to ZERO direction and follow up from her on Court deadlines. I was left on my own, when I hired her for legal representation.
4) I fired Ms. Hawthorne before all the retainer fee was used up, and by law, & by the legal code of attorney conduct, any monies paid has to be earned. Refunds are to be issued for any unused portion.
5) I terminated Ms. Hawthorne's services on October 3, 2024 & requested a current statement of services rendered. I requested a refund on that date. It was nearly a month before I received the requested statement. It showed that I had $855 CREDIT.
6) I sent several emails to Ms. Hawthorne & her office, requesting the refund, as I had to retain a different attorney to represent me for the job she failed to do. I was charged double for work Ms. Hawthorne didn't complete, and new attorney had to follow through on.
7) I filed an attorney grievance for her unethical standards pursuant to the Attorney Code of Conduct. Ms. Hawthorne lied in that case & claimed she WAS representing me.
8) When emails were repeatedly ignored for my refund, I called the Office & left a message (10 weeks after initial requests)
This is why I am resorting to a public review. No other means I have followed through with are being received and dealt with. I am just asking for the money I paid UP FRONT to be returned to me for the unused portion of $855. I have other attorney bills to cover thanks to Ms. Hawthorne not doing her job.
Read more
22 Jan, 2025 by Ty evans
Mr. Daniel Tarantino succeeded with my felony case, including three additional misdemeanors by digging deeply into every aspect of information that was put in front of him. My case was dismissed due to Mr. Tarantino’s Dedication to determine my innocence and not be claimed as a criminal. Thank you so much Mr. Tarantino for the hard work of and for my case.
Read more
16 Jan, 2025 by Facts jr
10 Dec, 2024 by Jaime difrancesco
I did not intend on posting a negative review, until every other means I have taken was ignored by this law firm.
I was a client of Ms. Hawthorne for approximately 6 years between 2015 & 2021. I thought she represented me well in child custody matters at that time.
A new issue arose in July of 2024, so I contacted her office to retain her for the new matter. I paid the full retainer fee up front, and Ms. Hawthorne agreed to represent me.
Long story, but here is the point of the review, & caution to others who rely on reviews to choose an attorney.
1) Ms. Hawthorne repeatedly dropped the ball when it came to being prepared for court dates. I would ask a simple task be handled, & she arrived at court telling me she didn't have the information needed to pursue. It could have been addressed by a quick phone call so the information would have been presented on that court date.
2) Ms. Hawthorne avoided ALL of my emails with questions regarding legal representation & how to proceed with our Court matter. I was only able to get basic responses and interaction with her staff member, Ann.
3) I ended up having to fire Ms. Hawthorne 3 months after retaining her due to ZERO direction and follow up from her on Court deadlines. I was left on my own, when I hired her for legal representation.
4) I fired Ms. Hawthorne before all the retainer fee was used up, and by law, & by the legal code of attorney conduct, any monies paid has to be earned. Refunds are to be issued for any unused portion.
5) I terminated Ms. Hawthorne's services on October 3, 2024 & requested a current statement of services rendered. I requested a refund on that date. It was nearly a month before I received the requested statement. It showed that I had $855 CREDIT.
6) I sent several emails to Ms. Hawthorne & her office, requesting the refund, as I had to retain a different attorney to represent me for the job she failed to do. I was charged double for work Ms. Hawthorne didn't complete, and new attorney had to follow through on.
7) I filed an attorney grievance for her unethical standards pursuant to the Attorney Code of Conduct. Ms. Hawthorne lied in that case & claimed she WAS representing me.
8) When emails were repeatedly ignored for my refund, I called the Office & left a message (10 weeks after initial requests)
This is why I am resorting to a public review. No other means I have followed through with are being received and dealt with. I am just asking for the money I paid UP FRONT to be returned to me for the unused portion of $855. I have other attorney bills to cover thanks to Ms. Hawthorne not doing her job.
Read more
22 Jan, 2025 by Ty evans
Mr. Daniel Tarantino succeeded with my felony case, including three additional misdemeanors by digging deeply into every aspect of information that was put in front of him. My case was dismissed due to Mr. Tarantino’s Dedication to determine my innocence and not be claimed as a criminal. Thank you so much Mr. Tarantino for the hard work of and for my case.
Read more
16 Jan, 2025 by Facts jr
10 Dec, 2024 by Jaime difrancesco
I did not intend on posting a negative review, until every other means I have taken was ignored by this law firm.
I was a client of Ms. Hawthorne for approximately 6 years between 2015 & 2021. I thought she represented me well in child custody matters at that time.
A new issue arose in July of 2024, so I contacted her office to retain her for the new matter. I paid the full retainer fee up front, and Ms. Hawthorne agreed to represent me.
Long story, but here is the point of the review, & caution to others who rely on reviews to choose an attorney.
1) Ms. Hawthorne repeatedly dropped the ball when it came to being prepared for court dates. I would ask a simple task be handled, & she arrived at court telling me she didn't have the information needed to pursue. It could have been addressed by a quick phone call so the information would have been presented on that court date.
2) Ms. Hawthorne avoided ALL of my emails with questions regarding legal representation & how to proceed with our Court matter. I was only able to get basic responses and interaction with her staff member, Ann.
3) I ended up having to fire Ms. Hawthorne 3 months after retaining her due to ZERO direction and follow up from her on Court deadlines. I was left on my own, when I hired her for legal representation.
4) I fired Ms. Hawthorne before all the retainer fee was used up, and by law, & by the legal code of attorney conduct, any monies paid has to be earned. Refunds are to be issued for any unused portion.
5) I terminated Ms. Hawthorne's services on October 3, 2024 & requested a current statement of services rendered. I requested a refund on that date. It was nearly a month before I received the requested statement. It showed that I had $855 CREDIT.
6) I sent several emails to Ms. Hawthorne & her office, requesting the refund, as I had to retain a different attorney to represent me for the job she failed to do. I was charged double for work Ms. Hawthorne didn't complete, and new attorney had to follow through on.
7) I filed an attorney grievance for her unethical standards pursuant to the Attorney Code of Conduct. Ms. Hawthorne lied in that case & claimed she WAS representing me.
8) When emails were repeatedly ignored for my refund, I called the Office & left a message (10 weeks after initial requests)
This is why I am resorting to a public review. No other means I have followed through with are being received and dealt with. I am just asking for the money I paid UP FRONT to be returned to me for the unused portion of $855. I have other attorney bills to cover thanks to Ms. Hawthorne not doing her job.
Read more
21 Sep, 2024 by Chris crawford
This is a 2.5 rating. I have substantial legal experience myself and have attended law school and been involved in regulatory compliance and regulation and law development for many years.
Keith was empathetic and potentially realistic.
However he was also unresponsive and seemingly not interested in pursuing a difficult case.
The negotiated consent order on custody of children perpetuated a situation that is likely not in the best interests of the children.
We are back in court. I am representing my self and making good progress. Admittedly, this is a tough case involving the professional misconduct of child’s mental health counselor, who recommended that the children leave my custody. After filing a complaint with the NYS Education Department, this counselor is currently being prosecuted on numerous charges associated with professional misconduct including incompetence and negligence.
I can’t fault Keith for this, he has likely never seen a fact pattern like this. It is pretty unique.
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10 Sep, 2024 by Savannah leyton
I would not recommend this attorney at all; he is extremely rude and unprofessional.
Once again, rude and unprofessional; and it clearly shows that just by his choice of words in his response to this review. Please refer to the prior reviews that express his rude and unprofessional traits.
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17 Jun, 2024 by Michael nigrin
Excellent Attorney. Everything played out exactly how he described it would, in our first visit, 7 months earlier. Extremely knowledgeable and experienced. Highly recommend!
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12 Nov, 2024 by Dean jones
I am not having the best experience with this organization, I'm sure that everyone there is like the person that is supposed to be helping me, but I feel like the individual is very opinionated and is emphasizing more on what I need to show the landlord when the landlord isn't violation of not providing heat for over two years. I have decided as of last month withhold renting to the issue is fixed and it has not been, yet my council has been on me showing that I have all the rent and nothing in regards to giving the landlord a time frame into which they need to fix my heat. Pretty disappointed I will be looking into another organization to help me out with this matter or just deal with it myself cuz I have done the research and I pretty much know what I need to do and what paperwork I need to file and so on and so forth.
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19 Oct, 2024 by Jackie toews
27 Sep, 2024 by Victoria pol
Taking g over a week for a lawyer to return a call he calls on a day ??? What still can't get through even pressing 0. No one answers
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25 Jul, 2024 by Dawn kristesis
If I could I would give you a zero was wonderful to hear her giggle as she told me they could not assist me. Totally disgusted I feel sorry for anyone who is represented by these stuck up elitest snobs.
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13 Jan, 2024 by Kenji saito
I’m embarrassed about it, but I was a victim of scam. so I asked for advice. Even though I’ve given them the contact information of the scammer’s email address and telephone number, they never contacted the scammer. I was still receiving several emails and texts from the scammer, but the attorney said just ignore it. Later, I received letter from the attorney regarding my case. It was written my case was closed. What’s more, it dated one months before I received the letter!! Nothing was resolved in the end.
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07 Jan, 2024 by Caralyn mirand
25 Jul, 2024 by Dawn kristesis
If I could I would give you a zero was wonderful to hear her giggle as she told me they could not assist me. Totally disgusted I feel sorry for anyone who is represented by these stuck up elitest snobs.
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13 Jan, 2024 by Kenji saito
I’m embarrassed about it, but I was a victim of scam. so I asked for advice. Even though I’ve given them the contact information of the scammer’s email address and telephone number, they never contacted the scammer. I was still receiving several emails and texts from the scammer, but the attorney said just ignore it. Later, I received letter from the attorney regarding my case. It was written my case was closed. What’s more, it dated one months before I received the letter!! Nothing was resolved in the end.
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07 Jan, 2024 by Caralyn mirand
28 Nov, 2024 by Tiffany chu
28 Nov, 2024 by Daria briggs
02 Feb, 2024 by Amy osier
27 Mar, 2022 by Anonymous
Jeff took our very sensitive family law case and assured us he could properly represent me, but it was clearly out of his scope . Jeff doesn't make clients a priority, never communicated and would get upset when I called him. He made a bad experience absolutely horrible, best yet in 2 months not one thing got resolved, besides a lunch with the opposing attorney. Thank god for Bob Vario, resolved our issue to a favorable outcome and at a reasonable and more than worthwhile price.
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31 Oct, 2020 by Anonymous
Jeff seems to be a very worked up individual. I don't know if he has too many cases to deal with or just does not work well under pressure. Jeff seems to be knowledgeable enough in the field, but he did not work well with me as a client. He wouldn't respond when I needed him, but if he needed something he would call and scream over the phone that he needed me to do something that very minute. For these reasons I was assigned to another attorney, but after that attorney left the firm I was stuck again with Jeff. Jeff never told me that he left the firm as well months later and he was still treating me like his client. After his old firm notified me of this we ceased all communication with him for good. Would never want someone who is seeking real help to go through this and therefore he is getting a poor review.
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06 Nov, 2017 by Anonymous
I had some legal issues and was recommended to Jeffery. He handled everything on a timely matter and was very thorough. I would strongly recommend his services.
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02 Apr, 2014 by Michael-cheektowaga, ny
I have had the need to work with Harvey Siegel numerous times over several years and he has immensely helped myself, my friends and my family. Harvey has always been up-front, honest, sincere, compassionate and genuinely concerned for my interests. I have used Harvey for my Divorce, Child Custody matters, and several other issues. I highly recommend this attorney if you are looking for excellent, down-to-earth legal representation by an experienced attorney who will respect your legal expenditures while fiercely and passionately addressing your concerns.
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02 Apr, 2014 by Michelle-lancaster, ny
I was referred by a friend to see Harvey Siegel following a DWI charge. I was going through a hard time in life and made a bad decision to drive after having some cocktails with friends. I found this attorney very knowledgeable, honest and responsive to my needs. He walked me through this disaster I created, represented me fairly and worked with the courts passionately to come to a resolution that I could live with. I would have made out much worse had I not had his help!
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22 Mar, 2013 by Anonymous
Harvey became very unresponsive in the first few months of my case. he didn't do a lot of the work which was left for me to do and in the end I received an extraordinary bill. For months at a time I would not know what was going on with my case and when I'd ask for an update, I would not get a response as well. In the end, all of the things that I originally wanted changed in my custody agreement had not been addressed or resolved. Very overpriced for the quality of service he offers.
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02 May, 2024 by Scott wilcox
I have worked a very complex case with this firm (and Hogan-Willig before it) for over a decade. The case had it is ups and down but throughout it I was impressed by the professionalism and care that they showed me as a client. As the case draws to a close, I wanted to leave a review to say I would definitely recommend them and the staff to others and say thank you for sticking with me.
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18 Mar, 2024 by Ciji vandyke
03 Oct, 2023 by Mario avarello
Barb, is old school with pad and paper she knows her stuff.. made progress while the 2 other attorneys stumbled and were more interested on”in their bills then moving the case along…I would recommend her … honest and fair attorney…
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02 May, 2024 by Scott wilcox
I have worked a very complex case with this firm (and Hogan-Willig before it) for over a decade. The case had it is ups and down but throughout it I was impressed by the professionalism and care that they showed me as a client. As the case draws to a close, I wanted to leave a review to say I would definitely recommend them and the staff to others and say thank you for sticking with me.
Read more
18 Mar, 2024 by Ciji vandyke
03 Oct, 2023 by Mario avarello
Barb, is old school with pad and paper she knows her stuff.. made progress while the 2 other attorneys stumbled and were more interested on”in their bills then moving the case along…I would recommend her … honest and fair attorney…
Read more
02 May, 2024 by Scott wilcox
I have worked a very complex case with this firm (and Hogan-Willig before it) for over a decade. The case had it is ups and down but throughout it I was impressed by the professionalism and care that they showed me as a client. As the case draws to a close, I wanted to leave a review to say I would definitely recommend them and the staff to others and say thank you for sticking with me.
Read more
18 Mar, 2024 by Ciji vandyke
03 Oct, 2023 by Mario avarello
Barb, is old school with pad and paper she knows her stuff.. made progress while the 2 other attorneys stumbled and were more interested on”in their bills then moving the case along…I would recommend her … honest and fair attorney…
Read more
25 Jul, 2024 by Vitta t
Sent email, no response… placed call, no response. The integrity of this business is questionable. It appears that they want to drag things out on the estate. What is concerning? Is that Surrogates court is not pushing for all reports to be filed. Don’t expire in New York without a will and trust. Erie County Surrogates court will draw out the process for years before closing the estate. YEARS.
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29 Jan, 2024 by Michelle k
24 Jun, 2023 by M sp pm
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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.
