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09 Mar, 2023 by Todd perkins
29 Jul, 2022 by Barbara shannon
29 Dec, 2018 by Cliff carrillo
Great attorneys and firm.
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09 Mar, 2023 by Todd perkins
29 Jul, 2022 by Barbara shannon
29 Dec, 2018 by Cliff carrillo
Great attorneys and firm.
Read more
09 Mar, 2023 by Todd perkins
29 Jul, 2022 by Barbara shannon
29 Dec, 2018 by Cliff carrillo
Great attorneys and firm.
Read more
09 Mar, 2023 by Todd perkins
29 Jul, 2022 by Barbara shannon
29 Dec, 2018 by Cliff carrillo
Great attorneys and firm.
Read more
09 Mar, 2023 by Todd perkins
29 Jul, 2022 by Barbara shannon
29 Dec, 2018 by Cliff carrillo
Great attorneys and firm.
Read more
09 Mar, 2023 by Todd perkins
29 Jul, 2022 by Barbara shannon
29 Dec, 2018 by Cliff carrillo
Great attorneys and firm.
Read more
31 Jan, 2017 by Nick
Simon helped me out twice with 2 civil cases for my company in Denver. He's very knowledgeable and strong when it comes to dealing with third parties battling against you. I'll use him again in the future.
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22 Jan, 2017 by Nickcolus martin
Mr. Tolbert was recommended to me by the CEO and Co-Founder and one of the most prestigious Cyber Security companies in America, Mike Fleck. Given the circles in which Mr. Tolbert is affiliated I knew to expect good things from him once I made the decision to take him under retainer. That is not why I am writing this review. Mr. Tolbert surprised me, even with the high expectations I held, with how he took such scrupulous measures to insure I was well cared for. At our first meeting he provided me his personal cell phone number and told me to call him directly if I had any questions; no need to keep me waiting for his secretary to forward the call, he said. Not even half a day after our first meeting Mr. Telbert had an resolution to my Real Estate needs planned and had communicated with the Real Estate Agency I was at odds with. Less then one week later the issue had been resolved. I did not know this was a quick turnaround. My wife on the other hand, who works in the mortgage industry, was astounded Mr. Tolbert could push the paperwork so quickly. Even after the paperwork had been finalized Mr. Tolbert and his office contacted me on a couple different occasions to ensure I had all my questions answered and to assure me they were ready, willing, and able to assist me with my Real Estate legal needs again if I needed them. When you need clear and concise answers from lawyer with real heart in the matter; hire Simon Tolbert.
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20 Dec, 2016 by Amy
I had the privilege of working with Mr. Tolbert last Summer when he helped me with an employment contract issue that I was having. He went above and beyond to explain to me what my options were and ended up getting me out of a potentially complicated lawsuit. He was very professional, reliable, efficient, and easy to work with. He clearly explained everything from the documents he wrote up to how I was going to be billed. Everything he did was more than fair and I don't regret following his advice for any step of that process. I highly recommend him to anyone who needs good quality legal advice from an honest person who is also a pleasure to work with.
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30 Apr, 2013 by Tamyra
My feelings toward lawyers has changed dramatically since dealing with Idris Keith. I had an issue with the SBA that was keeping me from growing my woman owned small business. I was told that I would be throwing good money after bad in trying to take my case any further. After explaining my dilemma to Mr Keith, he gave me his honest opinion. Idris did not make any promises, but told me he would do his best if I wanted to retain his services. He said at best, I had a fifty-fifty chance of being successful. Mr. Keith was so eloquent in his brief, as well as knowledgeable of case law, the judge in Washington, DC overturned the SBA in no uncertain terms. I will be forever grateful to Idris Keith, for being such a major player in the success of my business.
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05 Nov, 2012 by Anonymous
Our company hired Mr. Keith, shortly after we received a letter from the SBA stating that our SBA 8(a) application had been denied. There were over 20 issues which the SBA required clarification on and Mr. Keith worked diligently with us, our corporate attorney and our CPA to answer all of the questions and ultimately be accepted into the SBA 8(a) program. If it were not for the expert assistance and advice of Mr. Keith, there is no way that our company would have been accepted into the program.
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28 Oct, 2012 by Dorothy mae
About seven months ago I got a letter from the SBA. I was denied my 8A certification. I did not know what to do. I did a Google search to find an answer to my problem and I found the law firm Mr. Keith worked for. When I contacted him I told him about my concerns and he asked me to send the letter to him for review. He explained his approach in addressing each issue. He said to me every point discussed by the SBA would be addressed by legal research. Initially, I was confused, however, he explained each point so that I could understand. He redrafted my narratives and helped me get my 8-A. I am thankful he was committed to meeting my needs. I can truly say he Knows the Law.
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22 Mar, 2024 by Roberta herald
DISREGARD THE FAKE 5-STAR RATINGS!
Using CKBR was the worst decision me and my company ever made. They padded our case (and billing) with incompetent, loaf lawyers and charged for unauthorized work. One of their inexperienced, newbie attorneys attended meetings for no reason other than to pad fees, (mis)stated and exaggerated a legal position pivotal to our case. The lead attorney was borderline infirm and could barely track meetings (in-person or by phone) and would often arrive late, disheveled, and distracted by his Apple watch. CKBR talks big, bills big, but delivers small. They encouraged legal action against every party, but as our case progressed it was evident, CKBR would be the only beneficiary. We (and you) were a cash cow for their struggling firm, but too far along to halt the case. (Thankfully Google reviews can help others from suffering a similar fate.) Certain attorneys from this firm should be disbarred and reported to the bar association. There is a reason they downsized their offices—their incompetence proceeds them!
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14 Jul, 2022 by Theresa hoban
Excellent attorneys. Great listeners and extremely reassuring.
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20 Jan, 2022 by Nick k
Amazing experience with this firm. They have been honest and straightforward through my entire experience with them. I am glad I have Michael Mirabella as my attorney because he doesn't take no for an answer! He fights for his clients and that is all you can ask for in an amazing lawyer
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22 Mar, 2024 by Roberta herald
DISREGARD THE FAKE 5-STAR RATINGS!
Using CKBR was the worst decision me and my company ever made. They padded our case (and billing) with incompetent, loaf lawyers and charged for unauthorized work. One of their inexperienced, newbie attorneys attended meetings for no reason other than to pad fees, (mis)stated and exaggerated a legal position pivotal to our case. The lead attorney was borderline infirm and could barely track meetings (in-person or by phone) and would often arrive late, disheveled, and distracted by his Apple watch. CKBR talks big, bills big, but delivers small. They encouraged legal action against every party, but as our case progressed it was evident, CKBR would be the only beneficiary. We (and you) were a cash cow for their struggling firm, but too far along to halt the case. (Thankfully Google reviews can help others from suffering a similar fate.) Certain attorneys from this firm should be disbarred and reported to the bar association. There is a reason they downsized their offices—their incompetence proceeds them!
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14 Jul, 2022 by Theresa hoban
Excellent attorneys. Great listeners and extremely reassuring.
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20 Jan, 2022 by Nick k
Amazing experience with this firm. They have been honest and straightforward through my entire experience with them. I am glad I have Michael Mirabella as my attorney because he doesn't take no for an answer! He fights for his clients and that is all you can ask for in an amazing lawyer
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18 Jan, 2011 by Marla
I personally worked with Joe and I have to say that he is down-to-earth, and easy to get along with. He is trustworthy. If you have a problem, you can bet he will try his best to solve it for you to your satisfaction.
He has excellent writing, analytical, and research skills. If Joe doesn't have the answer, he knows how to find it.
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07 Dec, 2017 by Michelle sykes
I have used John for many years. He is extemely hard working and a great guy. We all make mistakes, he is no different. Very smart man, honest man, good contract attorney.
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19 Aug, 2024 by Karina english-huerta
I hired Attorney Matt Patton in July of 2023 to help me with my divorce. From the very first moment I met Matt, he was not only professional and knowledgeable, but he made me feel supported, empowered, understood, and at ease. What should have taken a few months to process took over a year because of things outside both of our control. Matt was there for me every step of the way and felt my frustrations as his own. He did everything in his power to get this handled for me quickly and efficiently.
Throughout, Matt was communicative, kind, and represented me with integrity and grit. One of the more notable parts of Matt’s representation of me was whenever we had mediations or hearings in front of the Court, he stood up for me in ways that I have never been able to do for myself. To have a lawyer like that in my corner meant more to me than words can describe. I can honestly say that I would not have been able to make it through this process without him.
Matt was able to get me everything I asked for and more. For the high level of representation I received, and for the care he gave to me and my case from the beginning to the end (especially in such an emotionally charged and delicate situation), Matt was worth every penny I spent to hire him as my lawyer. I could not give him a higher recommendation.
Thank you, Matt, from the bottom of my heart, and thank you to your amazing Paralegal, Amanda, for making this process as least painful and as smooth as possible given the circumstances. You guys are truly the best!
-Karina
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01 Jul, 2024 by C f
Highly recommend Patrick Watkins and Kimberly Williams for all your legal needs. Very easy to work with and always answered all my questions. Explained all the legal procedures and walked me through everything. Great team to work with!
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26 Mar, 2024 by Adrien tubbs
Will do a good job at misrepresenting minorities while getting paid to do so I highly do not recommend for ANYONE . Trust me there is better representation elsewhere
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15 Oct, 2018 by Victor stewart
My wife Lora and I consider Ralph and the rest of his office to be LIFESAVERS! We had to fight to keep our home after the seller breached our contract & were literally trying to steal our home from us! During this INCREDIBLY stressful time, not only was Ralph always the voice of experience, counsel & reason, but also of comfort, allowing us to digest this ordeal with wisdom instead of emotion. Thank you Ralph & all at Cantafio Law! We will refer you to anyone in need of your services.
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03 Oct, 2018 by Greg doser
Overall a very good experience. The law firm was going through a transaction so there was a couple of times things were confusing but as a lawyer, Mr. Cantafio is knowledgeable, caring and down to earth.
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21 Jul, 2018 by Troy leonard
This is the worst law firm in Denver. You have to watch Ralph like a hawk to be sure he doesn’t over bill you. Then once you catch him good luck on getting your money. He will for get your name address every thing he can to not pay you. And of course his staff will fallow his direction in an attempt to save there jobs. CLIENTS BEWARE DO NOT US THIS LAW FIRM. IT WILL GO BADLY ME DOMESTIC LAWYER TOLD ME NOT TO. USE HIM OH HOW I SHOULD HAVE LISTENED. If you want the full store hit me you. Late to every phone call if at all late to every meeting we ever had the very worst.
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15 Oct, 2018 by Victor stewart
My wife Lora and I consider Ralph and the rest of his office to be LIFESAVERS! We had to fight to keep our home after the seller breached our contract & were literally trying to steal our home from us! During this INCREDIBLY stressful time, not only was Ralph always the voice of experience, counsel & reason, but also of comfort, allowing us to digest this ordeal with wisdom instead of emotion. Thank you Ralph & all at Cantafio Law! We will refer you to anyone in need of your services.
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03 Oct, 2018 by Greg doser
Overall a very good experience. The law firm was going through a transaction so there was a couple of times things were confusing but as a lawyer, Mr. Cantafio is knowledgeable, caring and down to earth.
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21 Jul, 2018 by Troy leonard
This is the worst law firm in Denver. You have to watch Ralph like a hawk to be sure he doesn’t over bill you. Then once you catch him good luck on getting your money. He will for get your name address every thing he can to not pay you. And of course his staff will fallow his direction in an attempt to save there jobs. CLIENTS BEWARE DO NOT US THIS LAW FIRM. IT WILL GO BADLY ME DOMESTIC LAWYER TOLD ME NOT TO. USE HIM OH HOW I SHOULD HAVE LISTENED. If you want the full store hit me you. Late to every phone call if at all late to every meeting we ever had the very worst.
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24 Apr, 2022 by Darren white
05 Apr, 2022 by Roxana orellana
18 Mar, 2021 by Missy bkillingit
05 Sep, 2024 by Michele bourgeois
Maxted Law (David Maxted) made a traumatic and difficult legal experience regarding the wrongful death of a loved one, tolerable, supportive, and even healing. David's (and his team's) compassion, kindness, brilliance, and patience were of critical support to me in a very challenging time. He was always respectful and never pressured me as he presented legal options, weighed pros and cons and potential outcomes, and honored my needs and desires, as well as, my grief process. He took the time to know me and my situation, yet remained objective. His intelligence and competence were beyond what I could have hoped for and he was willing to "take on" agencies for justice that others were not-- WITH SUCCESS. I cannot recommend Maxted Law enough!
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02 Jul, 2024 by Janeel williams
Satisfaction Guaranteed very Professional and above the rest
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29 Jun, 2024 by James mervin
In 1994, David Lane, represented me against the Colorado Prison System for setting me up to be severely hurt. Recently while going through all the legal work from that case(93-n-2129), I discovered if not for David, I probably would have been set up to murdered by the corrupt guards & officials of that era. David fought for me behind the scenes like a pit bull. Thank you David! I'm humbled and grateful for what you did for me.
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16 Sep, 2024 by Chris clemens
Thank you to your team you have given us a peace now about our trust and our family planning Thank you
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13 Sep, 2024 by Renee d
Great team!!
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11 Sep, 2024 by Stef tollefsen
Anastasia and team helped my husband and I put together a trust and will after the birth of our daughter. They made a complicated process very simple and smooth. Definitely recommend!
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11 Apr, 2024 by Emir dini
A cesspool of legal malpractice. I watched several parents go through agonizing ordeals despite ORPC being aware (and failing to intervene). Lots of embedded institutional bias, particularly towards Hispanic clients. In my opinion, ORPC needs a leadership change and more judicial scrutiny.
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24 Aug, 2023 by Anna beer
I was trying to get in contact with then for 4 weeks regarding my lawyer and I only got a response after leaving nasty voice-mail on their general mailbox. Once I got in contact with them they fairly quickly reached out to my lawyer and he became response after that so I do appreciate that. But then after I needed to speak with them again I've called 5 times and I'm still awaiting a call back. It's very frustrating.
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21 Jun, 2023 by Cami garcia
Such an amazing company! Supporting parents that are at their lowest point is truly admirable!!
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11 Apr, 2024 by Emir dini
A cesspool of legal malpractice. I watched several parents go through agonizing ordeals despite ORPC being aware (and failing to intervene). Lots of embedded institutional bias, particularly towards Hispanic clients. In my opinion, ORPC needs a leadership change and more judicial scrutiny.
Read more
24 Aug, 2023 by Anna beer
I was trying to get in contact with then for 4 weeks regarding my lawyer and I only got a response after leaving nasty voice-mail on their general mailbox. Once I got in contact with them they fairly quickly reached out to my lawyer and he became response after that so I do appreciate that. But then after I needed to speak with them again I've called 5 times and I'm still awaiting a call back. It's very frustrating.
Read more
21 Jun, 2023 by Cami garcia
Such an amazing company! Supporting parents that are at their lowest point is truly admirable!!
Read more
11 Apr, 2024 by Emir dini
A cesspool of legal malpractice. I watched several parents go through agonizing ordeals despite ORPC being aware (and failing to intervene). Lots of embedded institutional bias, particularly towards Hispanic clients. In my opinion, ORPC needs a leadership change and more judicial scrutiny.
Read more
24 Aug, 2023 by Anna beer
I was trying to get in contact with then for 4 weeks regarding my lawyer and I only got a response after leaving nasty voice-mail on their general mailbox. Once I got in contact with them they fairly quickly reached out to my lawyer and he became response after that so I do appreciate that. But then after I needed to speak with them again I've called 5 times and I'm still awaiting a call back. It's very frustrating.
Read more
21 Jun, 2023 by Cami garcia
Such an amazing company! Supporting parents that are at their lowest point is truly admirable!!
Read more
22 Feb, 2024 by Jaclyn ardon
Great professional law firm that provides excellent customer service advocacy. Highly recommend.
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25 Jan, 2024 by Yvette jones
No help
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15 Jun, 2023 by Pipkin braswell
Exceptional estate planning services. Detailed and through legal help provided at fair cost. Very friendly and ultra professional team.
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05 Sep, 2024 by Michele bourgeois
Maxted Law (David Maxted) made a traumatic and difficult legal experience regarding the wrongful death of a loved one, tolerable, supportive, and even healing. David's (and his team's) compassion, kindness, brilliance, and patience were of critical support to me in a very challenging time. He was always respectful and never pressured me as he presented legal options, weighed pros and cons and potential outcomes, and honored my needs and desires, as well as, my grief process. He took the time to know me and my situation, yet remained objective. His intelligence and competence were beyond what I could have hoped for and he was willing to "take on" agencies for justice that others were not-- WITH SUCCESS. I cannot recommend Maxted Law enough!
Read more
02 Jul, 2024 by Janeel williams
Satisfaction Guaranteed very Professional and above the rest
Read more
29 Jun, 2024 by James mervin
In 1994, David Lane, represented me against the Colorado Prison System for setting me up to be severely hurt. Recently while going through all the legal work from that case(93-n-2129), I discovered if not for David, I probably would have been set up to murdered by the corrupt guards & officials of that era. David fought for me behind the scenes like a pit bull. Thank you David! I'm humbled and grateful for what you did for me.
Read more
22 Apr, 2024 by Heidi algha
Attorney (I feel embarrassed even calling him that) Rechard Tegtmeier frequently made excuses and exhibited a lack of diligence in handling my case. Throughout the duration of my interactions with Tegtmeier, I found his behavior to be extremely inappropriate and disrespectful. I had to tell him to withdraw and had a different attorney represent me. He consistently came across as rude and displayed a clear disdain towards individuals of color, including myself. Despite my attempts to maintain professionalism and cooperation, I could sense an underlying prejudice in his demeanor towards me.
It became evident to me, and subsequently to others in similar situations, that his representation was marred by discrimination against minority groups. I have since learned that I am not the only individual who has felt marginalized and mistreated by Tegtmeier's actions.
Read more
01 Apr, 2024 by Jazmin rodriguez
Unethical charges when they have conversation within there own team, you as the client get charged for them talking about your case amongst them! STAY AWAY
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15 Dec, 2023 by Beans2g0
Wonderful people in a beautiful office. Staff and attorneys are friendly and happy
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22 Apr, 2024 by Heidi algha
Attorney (I feel embarrassed even calling him that) Rechard Tegtmeier frequently made excuses and exhibited a lack of diligence in handling my case. Throughout the duration of my interactions with Tegtmeier, I found his behavior to be extremely inappropriate and disrespectful. I had to tell him to withdraw and had a different attorney represent me. He consistently came across as rude and displayed a clear disdain towards individuals of color, including myself. Despite my attempts to maintain professionalism and cooperation, I could sense an underlying prejudice in his demeanor towards me.
It became evident to me, and subsequently to others in similar situations, that his representation was marred by discrimination against minority groups. I have since learned that I am not the only individual who has felt marginalized and mistreated by Tegtmeier's actions.
Read more
01 Apr, 2024 by Jazmin rodriguez
Unethical charges when they have conversation within there own team, you as the client get charged for them talking about your case amongst them! STAY AWAY
Read more
15 Dec, 2023 by Beans2g0
Wonderful people in a beautiful office. Staff and attorneys are friendly and happy
Read more
22 Apr, 2024 by Heidi algha
Attorney (I feel embarrassed even calling him that) Rechard Tegtmeier frequently made excuses and exhibited a lack of diligence in handling my case. Throughout the duration of my interactions with Tegtmeier, I found his behavior to be extremely inappropriate and disrespectful. I had to tell him to withdraw and had a different attorney represent me. He consistently came across as rude and displayed a clear disdain towards individuals of color, including myself. Despite my attempts to maintain professionalism and cooperation, I could sense an underlying prejudice in his demeanor towards me.
It became evident to me, and subsequently to others in similar situations, that his representation was marred by discrimination against minority groups. I have since learned that I am not the only individual who has felt marginalized and mistreated by Tegtmeier's actions.
Read more
01 Apr, 2024 by Jazmin rodriguez
Unethical charges when they have conversation within there own team, you as the client get charged for them talking about your case amongst them! STAY AWAY
Read more
15 Dec, 2023 by Beans2g0
Wonderful people in a beautiful office. Staff and attorneys are friendly and happy
Read more
22 Apr, 2024 by Heidi algha
Attorney (I feel embarrassed even calling him that) Rechard Tegtmeier frequently made excuses and exhibited a lack of diligence in handling my case. Throughout the duration of my interactions with Tegtmeier, I found his behavior to be extremely inappropriate and disrespectful. I had to tell him to withdraw and had a different attorney represent me. He consistently came across as rude and displayed a clear disdain towards individuals of color, including myself. Despite my attempts to maintain professionalism and cooperation, I could sense an underlying prejudice in his demeanor towards me.
It became evident to me, and subsequently to others in similar situations, that his representation was marred by discrimination against minority groups. I have since learned that I am not the only individual who has felt marginalized and mistreated by Tegtmeier's actions.
Read more
01 Apr, 2024 by Jazmin rodriguez
Unethical charges when they have conversation within there own team, you as the client get charged for them talking about your case amongst them! STAY AWAY
Read more
15 Dec, 2023 by Beans2g0
Wonderful people in a beautiful office. Staff and attorneys are friendly and happy
Read more
22 Apr, 2024 by Heidi algha
Attorney (I feel embarrassed even calling him that) Rechard Tegtmeier frequently made excuses and exhibited a lack of diligence in handling my case. Throughout the duration of my interactions with Tegtmeier, I found his behavior to be extremely inappropriate and disrespectful. I had to tell him to withdraw and had a different attorney represent me. He consistently came across as rude and displayed a clear disdain towards individuals of color, including myself. Despite my attempts to maintain professionalism and cooperation, I could sense an underlying prejudice in his demeanor towards me.
It became evident to me, and subsequently to others in similar situations, that his representation was marred by discrimination against minority groups. I have since learned that I am not the only individual who has felt marginalized and mistreated by Tegtmeier's actions.
Read more
01 Apr, 2024 by Jazmin rodriguez
Unethical charges when they have conversation within there own team, you as the client get charged for them talking about your case amongst them! STAY AWAY
Read more
15 Dec, 2023 by Beans2g0
Wonderful people in a beautiful office. Staff and attorneys are friendly and happy
Read more
22 Apr, 2024 by Heidi algha
Attorney (I feel embarrassed even calling him that) Rechard Tegtmeier frequently made excuses and exhibited a lack of diligence in handling my case. Throughout the duration of my interactions with Tegtmeier, I found his behavior to be extremely inappropriate and disrespectful. I had to tell him to withdraw and had a different attorney represent me. He consistently came across as rude and displayed a clear disdain towards individuals of color, including myself. Despite my attempts to maintain professionalism and cooperation, I could sense an underlying prejudice in his demeanor towards me.
It became evident to me, and subsequently to others in similar situations, that his representation was marred by discrimination against minority groups. I have since learned that I am not the only individual who has felt marginalized and mistreated by Tegtmeier's actions.
Read more
01 Apr, 2024 by Jazmin rodriguez
Unethical charges when they have conversation within there own team, you as the client get charged for them talking about your case amongst them! STAY AWAY
Read more
15 Dec, 2023 by Beans2g0
Wonderful people in a beautiful office. Staff and attorneys are friendly and happy
Read more
22 Apr, 2024 by Heidi algha
Attorney (I feel embarrassed even calling him that) Rechard Tegtmeier frequently made excuses and exhibited a lack of diligence in handling my case. Throughout the duration of my interactions with Tegtmeier, I found his behavior to be extremely inappropriate and disrespectful. I had to tell him to withdraw and had a different attorney represent me. He consistently came across as rude and displayed a clear disdain towards individuals of color, including myself. Despite my attempts to maintain professionalism and cooperation, I could sense an underlying prejudice in his demeanor towards me.
It became evident to me, and subsequently to others in similar situations, that his representation was marred by discrimination against minority groups. I have since learned that I am not the only individual who has felt marginalized and mistreated by Tegtmeier's actions.
Read more
01 Apr, 2024 by Jazmin rodriguez
Unethical charges when they have conversation within there own team, you as the client get charged for them talking about your case amongst them! STAY AWAY
Read more
15 Dec, 2023 by Beans2g0
Wonderful people in a beautiful office. Staff and attorneys are friendly and happy
Read more
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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.
