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15 Oct, 2017 by Mary
After our father's death in Aug. 2016, and our "brother" threw out our father's beloved pets, changed the locks to our father's house, including all the gates surrounding the house, my sister and I hired Mike for a fee of $2500, which HE said would be the "flat fee "from beginning to end to take care of EVERYTHING." My sister and I had the initial consult with Mike in Sept. 2016, at which time he collected the $2500, promising to file a motion QUICKLY, in order to remove our "brother" as administrator. Six months later, Mike had done NOTHING, while our "brother" listed the house for sale, emptied the furniture, contents, and heirlooms, and sold our father's vehicle. ALL done without my and my sister's permission or involvement! MIKE ALLOWED IT ALL TO HAPPEN with NO action taken! I would text Mike periodically, just trying to get him to do his JOB! Mike would barely respond, and no action taken. Finally, in FEBRUARY 2017, when everything out of the house was gone, and the vehicle was sold, and the house up for sale, Mike finally filed a 6 month old motion to remove our "brother" as administrator, AFTER he had it all! Now the house has a buyer, though I have never been consulted. And the kicker of it all, is that Mike says that I was "abusive", a real joke, because I tried to get him to do his job! Had Mike just filed the initial motion in Sept. 2016, it all could have been resolved. He is a NIGHTMARE!
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25 May, 2015 by Kevin
Mike was paid to do a social security disability case for me . He was paid 2500 up front and two and a half years later the only thing that has been done was by me sighning five medical release documents that he never even sent out . I personally called all five places and each one told me they never received anything . went to the social security office and they verified by my name, social and birthday that I wasn't in the system .
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21 Dec, 2020 by Ehab
Very bad experience. She charged me for every single email and phone conversation and the results is nothing. Don’t waste your money!
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06 Jan, 2015 by Matthew
On June 2, 2014 I had mediation. Previous to the mediation I was told not to roll over that it looked like the other party was after more money. Any time that Mr. Gilbert talked with the other attorney he agreed that they were correct and should be accommodate. When the mediation was over the other party got more money and full custody. While mediation began Mr. Gilbert sat there and did very little. I let him know prior that I was willing to do anything to be able to continue to be able to see my children. I now have less contact with my kids than before. I also am struggling to keep my house, because of the bills that have been acquired from this incident. I am not a felon and have not been convicted of anything. This is not the reason that I see my kids less.
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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.
