Filter by

star star star star star
24 Jul, 2019 by Thomas
Ok.... I’m from Las Vegas and Reno and thought it would be good to invest in a piece of property in Hamtramck. Going into the purchase paperwork got delayed by months (very frustrating). I found Parakh Law online, the price structure for services was perfect and so were the results! I closed the deal. Two years later I wanted to sell it, my plans changed and I just wanted out. Again Parakh Law was there with great rates to look the contract over. But the deal fell through and I was stuck in limbo for a month. I contacted Kathleen’s office and within and hour I was out of the dead deal so I could pursue a new one.
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
22 Jul, 2019 by Chip
I have used Kathleen and her team for over 20 cases, and she is professional, knowledgeable, and personable. Very detailed and thorough, and I can recommend without hesitation.
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
17 Oct, 2017 by Zakir
I have used Parakh for two cases, first on Jun 2017 and second in Sep 2017. I did not get a chance to put review after the first service, but felt obliged to put a review after the second excellent service. I have talked with Kathleen, but mainly dealt with Mike Pierce. They provided excellent service in both cases. 1) Jun 2017: Tenant did not pay for 1.5month and did not respond to my calls. Parakh law helped to file a case with city and got a court date. The tenant called me and made plans and deposited payments accordingly to catch up with payment 2) Sep 2017: I paid a concrete contractor 1/2 deposit for driveway concrete work and they kept delaying the work. Parak Law send appropriately drafted letter to pressure them and followed up with 2 calls and the contractor agreed to refund a percentage of the deposit. I hired a different contractor to complete the job Thanks Parakh Law!
Read more Avvo
See more
star star star star star
24 Mar, 2015 by Peter
Stuart represented me in the closing of an SBA Loan for the purchase of a business and real estate. Stuart made the entire process easy and relatively hassle-free. He did a terrific job and we would recommend him .
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
04 Mar, 2015 by James
Stuart responded to my request for documents for a startup. He provided materials, and provided direction on moving forward. I then contacted him regarding another case and he took the initiative to place a phone call on my behalf.
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
30 Sep, 2014 by Joe
Stuart helped me organize my business . He is very straight forward but his overall advise always puts things back on trac. When it comes to solid guidence his legal skills shine. Joe
Read more Avvo
See more
star star star star star
21 Dec, 2012 by Anonymous
Guided us through difficult process. Answered all questions clearly and returned calls promptly.
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
14 Aug, 2012 by Chris
Made my bankruptcy much less difficult than I thought. He cleaned up the mess made by my previous lawyer too.
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
04 Apr, 2012 by Anonymous
Paul handled the probate of my father, as well as settling the disagreements within the family. He took the time with me and never made me feel like I was being rushed.
Read more Avvo
See more
Discover the ideal lawyer
You can search a lawyer by practice area, lawyer name, city, state, or ZIP code
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:

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

How to Check the Credibility of a Business Lawyer

To ensure you're hiring a reputable business lawyer:

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

What Should I Prepare for My First Consultation?

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

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

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

Scroll to top