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11 Apr, 2022 by Kimberlee
This is a wonderful team of highly intelligence staff and attorneys it is not only a wonderful place to work for and work at but it is also a wonderful place to work to know that you're making a difference in the world and I will forever be grateful for the opportunity that I had to work amongst some of the smartest attorneys in the state they have your best interests at heart and they will work hard for you them and all of the support staff
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24 Jan, 2025 by Kid island
27 Dec, 2023 by Brooke messenger
27 Dec, 2023 by Brooke messenger
02 Dec, 2024 by Eternal faith
The hardest working firm in Columbia.
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10 Nov, 2023 by Thomas hill, p.a.
Check out Robert M. He's the best!
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09 Dec, 2021 by Sean c.
30 Aug, 2024 by Ashanay owens
28 Jul, 2023 by Sherrod brown
24 Sep, 2019 by Seth wilkins
Great people who work really hard to serve their clients.
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24 Jun, 2024 by Gan peng kun
I came here for a course back in September 2013. The facilities and staff are top notch. The food in the cafe are delicious back then. I still remember it after 11 years. That's how good they are.
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13 Feb, 2024 by J
This place is gorgeous and the staff who work this place is amazing! Big shout put to Heatjer and Leslie, who keep this place running perfectly. I miss this place already.
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29 Nov, 2023 by Brandon
Excellent facility, great food, excellent trainings.
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20 Nov, 2024 by Steph mureno
Don’t waste your time nor money….Elizabeth Von Keller is useless and she will tell you whatever you wanna hear in your consultation but when you’re put on a retainer, she doesn’t do nothing for you.
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03 Oct, 2024 by Roxanne dziedzic
I was referred to the Finkel Law Firm, specifically Dylan Glick by the SC Lawyer Referral Service. I was scheduled with an appointment for 10/3/24 @ 9am which was a 3 week wait. I called at 9:05 am since no one had contacted me. I was told I was Mr. Glick was tied up on another call, then I was told Mr. Glick does not have me on his schedule. I was put on hold yet again and another person came on telling me my appointment was at 2pm and she never schedules consults for early morning! I'm not really certain why I was treated this way; however, it's absolutely unacceptable. Perhaps because I was referred by the SC Lawyer Referral Service and they discount their fee for the initial consultation. I did reach back out to the SC Lawyer Referral Service to file a complaint and also to find a different attorney for my specific need!
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30 Aug, 2024 by Robert hall
As a father, nothing means more to me than my kids. At the time I had been fighting for my kids with little to no success. I was recommended to Finkle Law Firm 2 years ago, and it's the best decision I've ever invested in. They did the impossible, and helped me gain full custody of my kids, and even more so, had it finalized. Even was able to get the divorce finally done and over with. As well, Finkle Law Firm assisted me with my car wreck, and helped me gain a lot more of a settlement than had I tried it by myself. If you need a law firm that'll stick by your side til the very end, look no further than Finkle Law Firm!
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20 Nov, 2024 by Steph mureno
Don’t waste your time nor money….Elizabeth Von Keller is useless and she will tell you whatever you wanna hear in your consultation but when you’re put on a retainer, she doesn’t do nothing for you.
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03 Oct, 2024 by Roxanne dziedzic
I was referred to the Finkel Law Firm, specifically Dylan Glick by the SC Lawyer Referral Service. I was scheduled with an appointment for 10/3/24 @ 9am which was a 3 week wait. I called at 9:05 am since no one had contacted me. I was told I was Mr. Glick was tied up on another call, then I was told Mr. Glick does not have me on his schedule. I was put on hold yet again and another person came on telling me my appointment was at 2pm and she never schedules consults for early morning! I'm not really certain why I was treated this way; however, it's absolutely unacceptable. Perhaps because I was referred by the SC Lawyer Referral Service and they discount their fee for the initial consultation. I did reach back out to the SC Lawyer Referral Service to file a complaint and also to find a different attorney for my specific need!
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30 Aug, 2024 by Robert hall
As a father, nothing means more to me than my kids. At the time I had been fighting for my kids with little to no success. I was recommended to Finkle Law Firm 2 years ago, and it's the best decision I've ever invested in. They did the impossible, and helped me gain full custody of my kids, and even more so, had it finalized. Even was able to get the divorce finally done and over with. As well, Finkle Law Firm assisted me with my car wreck, and helped me gain a lot more of a settlement than had I tried it by myself. If you need a law firm that'll stick by your side til the very end, look no further than Finkle Law Firm!
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20 Nov, 2024 by Steph mureno
Don’t waste your time nor money….Elizabeth Von Keller is useless and she will tell you whatever you wanna hear in your consultation but when you’re put on a retainer, she doesn’t do nothing for you.
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03 Oct, 2024 by Roxanne dziedzic
I was referred to the Finkel Law Firm, specifically Dylan Glick by the SC Lawyer Referral Service. I was scheduled with an appointment for 10/3/24 @ 9am which was a 3 week wait. I called at 9:05 am since no one had contacted me. I was told I was Mr. Glick was tied up on another call, then I was told Mr. Glick does not have me on his schedule. I was put on hold yet again and another person came on telling me my appointment was at 2pm and she never schedules consults for early morning! I'm not really certain why I was treated this way; however, it's absolutely unacceptable. Perhaps because I was referred by the SC Lawyer Referral Service and they discount their fee for the initial consultation. I did reach back out to the SC Lawyer Referral Service to file a complaint and also to find a different attorney for my specific need!
Read more
30 Aug, 2024 by Robert hall
As a father, nothing means more to me than my kids. At the time I had been fighting for my kids with little to no success. I was recommended to Finkle Law Firm 2 years ago, and it's the best decision I've ever invested in. They did the impossible, and helped me gain full custody of my kids, and even more so, had it finalized. Even was able to get the divorce finally done and over with. As well, Finkle Law Firm assisted me with my car wreck, and helped me gain a lot more of a settlement than had I tried it by myself. If you need a law firm that'll stick by your side til the very end, look no further than Finkle Law Firm!
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20 Nov, 2024 by Steph mureno
Don’t waste your time nor money….Elizabeth Von Keller is useless and she will tell you whatever you wanna hear in your consultation but when you’re put on a retainer, she doesn’t do nothing for you.
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03 Oct, 2024 by Roxanne dziedzic
I was referred to the Finkel Law Firm, specifically Dylan Glick by the SC Lawyer Referral Service. I was scheduled with an appointment for 10/3/24 @ 9am which was a 3 week wait. I called at 9:05 am since no one had contacted me. I was told I was Mr. Glick was tied up on another call, then I was told Mr. Glick does not have me on his schedule. I was put on hold yet again and another person came on telling me my appointment was at 2pm and she never schedules consults for early morning! I'm not really certain why I was treated this way; however, it's absolutely unacceptable. Perhaps because I was referred by the SC Lawyer Referral Service and they discount their fee for the initial consultation. I did reach back out to the SC Lawyer Referral Service to file a complaint and also to find a different attorney for my specific need!
Read more
30 Aug, 2024 by Robert hall
As a father, nothing means more to me than my kids. At the time I had been fighting for my kids with little to no success. I was recommended to Finkle Law Firm 2 years ago, and it's the best decision I've ever invested in. They did the impossible, and helped me gain full custody of my kids, and even more so, had it finalized. Even was able to get the divorce finally done and over with. As well, Finkle Law Firm assisted me with my car wreck, and helped me gain a lot more of a settlement than had I tried it by myself. If you need a law firm that'll stick by your side til the very end, look no further than Finkle Law Firm!
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20 Nov, 2024 by Steph mureno
Don’t waste your time nor money….Elizabeth Von Keller is useless and she will tell you whatever you wanna hear in your consultation but when you’re put on a retainer, she doesn’t do nothing for you.
Read more
03 Oct, 2024 by Roxanne dziedzic
I was referred to the Finkel Law Firm, specifically Dylan Glick by the SC Lawyer Referral Service. I was scheduled with an appointment for 10/3/24 @ 9am which was a 3 week wait. I called at 9:05 am since no one had contacted me. I was told I was Mr. Glick was tied up on another call, then I was told Mr. Glick does not have me on his schedule. I was put on hold yet again and another person came on telling me my appointment was at 2pm and she never schedules consults for early morning! I'm not really certain why I was treated this way; however, it's absolutely unacceptable. Perhaps because I was referred by the SC Lawyer Referral Service and they discount their fee for the initial consultation. I did reach back out to the SC Lawyer Referral Service to file a complaint and also to find a different attorney for my specific need!
Read more
30 Aug, 2024 by Robert hall
As a father, nothing means more to me than my kids. At the time I had been fighting for my kids with little to no success. I was recommended to Finkle Law Firm 2 years ago, and it's the best decision I've ever invested in. They did the impossible, and helped me gain full custody of my kids, and even more so, had it finalized. Even was able to get the divorce finally done and over with. As well, Finkle Law Firm assisted me with my car wreck, and helped me gain a lot more of a settlement than had I tried it by myself. If you need a law firm that'll stick by your side til the very end, look no further than Finkle Law Firm!
Read more
20 Nov, 2024 by Steph mureno
Don’t waste your time nor money….Elizabeth Von Keller is useless and she will tell you whatever you wanna hear in your consultation but when you’re put on a retainer, she doesn’t do nothing for you.
Read more
03 Oct, 2024 by Roxanne dziedzic
I was referred to the Finkel Law Firm, specifically Dylan Glick by the SC Lawyer Referral Service. I was scheduled with an appointment for 10/3/24 @ 9am which was a 3 week wait. I called at 9:05 am since no one had contacted me. I was told I was Mr. Glick was tied up on another call, then I was told Mr. Glick does not have me on his schedule. I was put on hold yet again and another person came on telling me my appointment was at 2pm and she never schedules consults for early morning! I'm not really certain why I was treated this way; however, it's absolutely unacceptable. Perhaps because I was referred by the SC Lawyer Referral Service and they discount their fee for the initial consultation. I did reach back out to the SC Lawyer Referral Service to file a complaint and also to find a different attorney for my specific need!
Read more
30 Aug, 2024 by Robert hall
As a father, nothing means more to me than my kids. At the time I had been fighting for my kids with little to no success. I was recommended to Finkle Law Firm 2 years ago, and it's the best decision I've ever invested in. They did the impossible, and helped me gain full custody of my kids, and even more so, had it finalized. Even was able to get the divorce finally done and over with. As well, Finkle Law Firm assisted me with my car wreck, and helped me gain a lot more of a settlement than had I tried it by myself. If you need a law firm that'll stick by your side til the very end, look no further than Finkle Law Firm!
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24 Jan, 2025 by Kid island
27 Dec, 2023 by Brooke messenger
27 Dec, 2023 by Brooke messenger
24 Jan, 2025 by Kid island
27 Dec, 2023 by Brooke messenger
27 Dec, 2023 by Brooke messenger
24 Jan, 2025 by Kid island
27 Dec, 2023 by Brooke messenger
27 Dec, 2023 by Brooke messenger
02 Dec, 2024 by Eternal faith
The hardest working firm in Columbia.
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10 Nov, 2023 by Thomas hill, p.a.
Check out Robert M. He's the best!
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09 Dec, 2021 by Sean c.
06 Jan, 2025 by Shakelle bryan
my experience with this law firm was wonderful & very easy going !I highly recommend!!
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03 Dec, 2024 by Natalia cortés
We have a case open for MONTHS and the lawyer assigned to us send my husband to the chiropractor and once he finished it’s been IMPOSIBLE to contacted them again.
We call and always we have to leave a voice mail, which they never return. I’m not really sure if the case is still open.
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12 Sep, 2024 by Lenae phonville
I am very pleased with the level of service that was provided for me if anything else was to happen they would be the first ones I call on speed dial they will go over and beyond for their clients and you won't be disappointed so they get a 100 A++
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04 Jan, 2025 by Hannah
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
As a loan officer and real estate investor, collaborating with MGC Law has been a consistently positive experience. Their team provides prompt, efficient, and friendly service, ensuring seamless closings for my clients. Their professionalism and attention to detail are truly commendable. I highly recommend MGC Law to anyone seeking a dependable legal partner for real estate transactions.
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16 Jan, 2023 by Kevin lewis
I've used them several times, and they always perform flawlessly !!
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10 Jan, 2023 by Amelia robinson
I have been working closely with MGC Law Firm for 7 years now. David Ross, Kelly, Brenda & all supporting staff are amazing, very professional, down to earth, easy to talk with and quick with responses. They are my preferred closing attorney office to work with and its always a pleasure.
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04 Jan, 2025 by Hannah
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
As a loan officer and real estate investor, collaborating with MGC Law has been a consistently positive experience. Their team provides prompt, efficient, and friendly service, ensuring seamless closings for my clients. Their professionalism and attention to detail are truly commendable. I highly recommend MGC Law to anyone seeking a dependable legal partner for real estate transactions.
Read more
16 Jan, 2023 by Kevin lewis
I've used them several times, and they always perform flawlessly !!
Read more
10 Jan, 2023 by Amelia robinson
I have been working closely with MGC Law Firm for 7 years now. David Ross, Kelly, Brenda & all supporting staff are amazing, very professional, down to earth, easy to talk with and quick with responses. They are my preferred closing attorney office to work with and its always a pleasure.
Read more
19 Oct, 2024 by Joejoe_
Does not know basic constitutional law. Mislead me into giving them $250 to be rejected.
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06 Sep, 2024 by Raymond lique
Mr.Wallace was very helpful with my case also very honest. Unlike most people these days he was more interested in helping me than taking my money!!! So if you’re looking for a honest hard working attorney that knows what he is talking about this is your guy!!!!
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05 Jul, 2024 by Randy rabon
Great attorney. He gave me great advice for a situation I'm dealing with in regards to work. I'd recommend him to all my contractor friends
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20 Nov, 2024 by Steph mureno
Don’t waste your time nor money….Elizabeth Von Keller is useless and she will tell you whatever you wanna hear in your consultation but when you’re put on a retainer, she doesn’t do nothing for you.
Read more
03 Oct, 2024 by Roxanne dziedzic
I was referred to the Finkel Law Firm, specifically Dylan Glick by the SC Lawyer Referral Service. I was scheduled with an appointment for 10/3/24 @ 9am which was a 3 week wait. I called at 9:05 am since no one had contacted me. I was told I was Mr. Glick was tied up on another call, then I was told Mr. Glick does not have me on his schedule. I was put on hold yet again and another person came on telling me my appointment was at 2pm and she never schedules consults for early morning! I'm not really certain why I was treated this way; however, it's absolutely unacceptable. Perhaps because I was referred by the SC Lawyer Referral Service and they discount their fee for the initial consultation. I did reach back out to the SC Lawyer Referral Service to file a complaint and also to find a different attorney for my specific need!
Read more
30 Aug, 2024 by Robert hall
As a father, nothing means more to me than my kids. At the time I had been fighting for my kids with little to no success. I was recommended to Finkle Law Firm 2 years ago, and it's the best decision I've ever invested in. They did the impossible, and helped me gain full custody of my kids, and even more so, had it finalized. Even was able to get the divorce finally done and over with. As well, Finkle Law Firm assisted me with my car wreck, and helped me gain a lot more of a settlement than had I tried it by myself. If you need a law firm that'll stick by your side til the very end, look no further than Finkle Law Firm!
Read more
20 Nov, 2024 by Steph mureno
Don’t waste your time nor money….Elizabeth Von Keller is useless and she will tell you whatever you wanna hear in your consultation but when you’re put on a retainer, she doesn’t do nothing for you.
Read more
03 Oct, 2024 by Roxanne dziedzic
I was referred to the Finkel Law Firm, specifically Dylan Glick by the SC Lawyer Referral Service. I was scheduled with an appointment for 10/3/24 @ 9am which was a 3 week wait. I called at 9:05 am since no one had contacted me. I was told I was Mr. Glick was tied up on another call, then I was told Mr. Glick does not have me on his schedule. I was put on hold yet again and another person came on telling me my appointment was at 2pm and she never schedules consults for early morning! I'm not really certain why I was treated this way; however, it's absolutely unacceptable. Perhaps because I was referred by the SC Lawyer Referral Service and they discount their fee for the initial consultation. I did reach back out to the SC Lawyer Referral Service to file a complaint and also to find a different attorney for my specific need!
Read more
30 Aug, 2024 by Robert hall
As a father, nothing means more to me than my kids. At the time I had been fighting for my kids with little to no success. I was recommended to Finkle Law Firm 2 years ago, and it's the best decision I've ever invested in. They did the impossible, and helped me gain full custody of my kids, and even more so, had it finalized. Even was able to get the divorce finally done and over with. As well, Finkle Law Firm assisted me with my car wreck, and helped me gain a lot more of a settlement than had I tried it by myself. If you need a law firm that'll stick by your side til the very end, look no further than Finkle Law Firm!
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23 Jan, 2025 by Curt williams
Failed to return email and phone call
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14 Jan, 2025 by Chad dorman
I am a real estate agent and worked on the closing of a home in Irmo with this Law Firm. They were on top of it all from A to Z. I have had many closing in my years of real estate, but I do believe this may be the first time I have used these guys. They are in the heart of Downtown Columbia, and I dealt with Jennifer for the most part. She always responded quickly to emails, returned calls within the hour and made the entire process painless. At the closing itself, they explained things well and the Attorney was very knowledgeable and personable. Thanks you for being a integral part of this process.
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19 Jan, 2024 by La tesha smalls
Thomas was wonderful to work with
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04 Jan, 2025 by Hannah
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
As a loan officer and real estate investor, collaborating with MGC Law has been a consistently positive experience. Their team provides prompt, efficient, and friendly service, ensuring seamless closings for my clients. Their professionalism and attention to detail are truly commendable. I highly recommend MGC Law to anyone seeking a dependable legal partner for real estate transactions.
Read more
16 Jan, 2023 by Kevin lewis
I've used them several times, and they always perform flawlessly !!
Read more
10 Jan, 2023 by Amelia robinson
I have been working closely with MGC Law Firm for 7 years now. David Ross, Kelly, Brenda & all supporting staff are amazing, very professional, down to earth, easy to talk with and quick with responses. They are my preferred closing attorney office to work with and its always a pleasure.
Read more
19 Oct, 2024 by Joejoe_
Does not know basic constitutional law. Mislead me into giving them $250 to be rejected.
Read more
06 Sep, 2024 by Raymond lique
Mr.Wallace was very helpful with my case also very honest. Unlike most people these days he was more interested in helping me than taking my money!!! So if you’re looking for a honest hard working attorney that knows what he is talking about this is your guy!!!!
Read more
05 Jul, 2024 by Randy rabon
Great attorney. He gave me great advice for a situation I'm dealing with in regards to work. I'd recommend him to all my contractor friends
Read more
01 Oct, 2024 by James mondell
Cannot get in touch with anyone at this firm. I’ve waited over an hour before on hold and still didn’t get to speak with anyone. It is ridiculous. Good thing they are not regular lawyers but lawyers for midland credit.
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20 Jul, 2024 by Myrtle beach
Predatory legal team - don't spend a dime employing the legal predators! They collaborate with predatory credit companies that have purchased consumer information and then created accounts with this information alleging debts are owed to them, although there was never any credit relationship. This legal team is their SC partner and works in the inconjuntion with Midland Credit Management to file numerous law suits against people in the SC courts to try profit financially from malicious use of dark web data MCM, the partner who they file for, has many customer complaints against them with the Better Business Bureau (BBB) and the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB). Action by the SC Attorney General and Supreme Court was taken against them in 2021 for their predatory actions. They have hundreds of cases open in SC courts across the state to assist these predators in taking hard-working South Carolinians money.
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28 May, 2024 by Ben marcus
They will NOT answer the phone and the off chance you do get a call back they refuse to help. One guy actually told me he was too lazy to do his job. I hate these people. I don’t know how they are a legit business.
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15 May, 2019 by Anonymous
There were a lot of things he could've done to help win my case but he didn't. I even offered a lot evidence that he never brought up to help win my case. All he cared about was that I paid the legal fees and didn't try very hard to help win my case. I had tons of evidence against the other side that he ignored. I think his agenda was to drag the case out for as long as possible so to rack up the legal fees for me to pay him more over time as opposed to using the evidence to shut down the other side.
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09 Jun, 2017 by Wade
Called Leonard to let him know about a misunderstanding regarding a land deal. He was incredibly rude, even when I explained my reason for calling as being a courtesy for his information. Called me a jerk and then tried to force a deal. I felt like I was talking to a school yard bully instead of a 41-year professional attorney.
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26 Feb, 2015 by Dallas
I responded to an ad to buy waterfront property out of a development on a nearby lake. The one day sale was set up to do mass showings then if you wanted to buy you signed a contract on the spot for the lot of your choice. The land was beautiful and prices were very good so I entered into a contract. The Seller made no provisions for any due diligence and set an aggressive closing date. After several months I got suspicious and hired Mr. Jordan to review the entire transaction. He found numerous issues with the covenants and restrictions rendering the property unmarketable. These issues were not apparent to me and I am an attorney with the experience of many deals under my belt. Mr. Jordan was able to terminate the contract against the Sellers vigorous efforts to force the closing, saving me from a terrible and expensive mistake. His knowledge of real estate law was immense and instrumental in causing the Seller to return my earnest money. His fee was very reasonable and I would have no hesitation in recommending him to anyone needing real estate advice.
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27 Mar, 2019 by Kristi plyler
19 Feb, 2019 by Globe trekker13
Their attorney Daniel Abernathy is a asinine disrespectful bag, the boy is worthless
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12 Dec, 2024 by Leah walker
Everyone here is nice and understanding. They kept me updated and in the loop on everything that was going on. Even checked in on me to see how things were going with my recovery. By far the best service. You won’t regret hiring them if you need them.
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07 Nov, 2024 by Matthew ard
Hired Mark due to an accident where I was struck on my motorcycle. The amount of stress he has lifted off of me and help he has provided has been amazing. He truly seems to care and wants to help! They are truly amazing, you won't be dissapointed!
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16 Sep, 2024 by Dl b
I had the unfortunate experience of dealing with this law office, specifically with Ryan McCabe, and it was nothing short of unpleasant. My issue involved an HOA financial matter, and McCabe’s attitude was condescending from the start. He treated me as if I were beneath him, dismissing my concerns and making me feel like my issue was insignificant. It’s no surprise, though—this firm, in my opinion, represents the worst of the legal profession, especially given their involvement as legal representation for local HOAs. They come across as bottom-feeder attorneys, lacking professionalism or basic courtesy.
If I could, I wouldn’t give them a single cent for their services. The lack of respect and poor attitude were astounding. I’m certain they’ll respond to this review with the usual deflection, claiming they have no record of me as a client, but anyone who’s had the misfortune of dealing with them knows exactly what I’m talking about.
Save yourself the frustration and avoid doing business with this law office. There are far better attorneys out there who will treat you with respect and handle your legal matters with the seriousness they deserve. I absolutely do not recommend them.
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25 Apr, 2024 by John reit
Joe worked tirelessly to get me out of a very difficult situation with the IRS due to a nasty divorce. I highly recommend him. He negotiated on my behalf, knew just who to call, and billed me at a very fair rate. Thank you Joe!
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25 Jun, 2021 by B walsh
Paid good money to Joe, had an appeal date he gave me the. Build up. Then never even showed up for the appeal. Broke my heart...
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FAQs
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:
-
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.
