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28 Nov, 2023 by Brian harbison
Jay Bender is the most crooked lawyer in SC. Do not use him!!!
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27 Nov, 2023 by Betsy james
27 Nov, 2023 by Amara chavis
25 Sep, 2014 by Schirl
This Attorney handled my Divorce and it was the WORST experience of my life!!! He turned a simple divorce into a 2 year process… I had to constantly call him "which there is never an answer" I could only communicate with him through email and it usually took him weeks to reply. I saw him twice in the 2 years that it took to get my divorce finalized. He was very unprepared in court.. thank God that I had a Judge that was looking out for my best interest!!! Please stay away from Thomas Eppink!!! This is not personal, I just don't want anyone to go through what I went thorough with him. I trusted that mr Eppink would do his job and he did not. I had to speak with another Attorney to complete the necessary paperwork to enforce the Judges order. I never received my divorce papers from thomas eppink. When I tried calling him and emailing him about my divorce documents he never replied until months later, and by that time I had gone and picked them up myself. He mailed me a notorized copy of my "Financial Declaration" stating that it was my divorce papers. "How sad is that"!!! Please don't allow this man to ruin your life. He can make you believe that he is a confident attorney. Once he gets your MONEY.. you will not hear from him!! I feel its my duty to try and prevent someone else from going through what I went through..
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07 Aug, 2014 by Anonymous
I hated I needed an attorney, but having Mr. Eppink on my side and didn't nickel and dime me to death! Service was quick and efficient
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01 Dec, 2013 by Anonymous
Was retained the beginning of weekend, and discharged the ending of the weekend. But was charged as if work was actually performed. Also did not get back all of the retainer, nor the alleged work that was supposed to have been done on the case. Was told that he did work over the week-end and that's why I was billed. Was told he would ask for a continuance. but never contacted other attorney. So actually no work was ever done on the case, he just keep the money. And the Good ole boy system is letting him get away with it. Was retained on a weekend in the late evening, and services were terminated two days later the following work morning. If he asked for a continuance the other attorney did not know anything about it. The alleged work was not returned to the client. I was charged for the work, then the billable hours/work becomes the property of the client. No work was really done on my behalf, he just kept the money.
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11 Mar, 2024 by Anonymous
This lawyer caused unnecessary antagonism between myself and the party I was negotiating with.
She intentionally was hostile in her communications thus created a breakdown in our negotiations and prolonged the entire situation. This cost me more in attorney fees than I received in my payouts! Her actions were not professional nor were they helpful in my situations. I would never recommend her to any one. She was spiteful and out to run up her fees.
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22 Oct, 2018 by Anonymous
Very expensive. Very difficult to contact. Don't answer emails. Only on beginning he was working on my cease after few weeks his assent was working on it.
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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.
