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16 Dec, 2010 by Frank
I have had the pleasure of knowing Jeff for over 12 years and the opportunity to see his legal skills in action first hand. Jeff has an intuitive sense of how to help business and individuals, which make him an excellent attorney. He is resourceful, reliable, and trustworthy. His vast repertoire of experience and knowledge are an asset to anyone fortunate enough to work with him. His legal acumen spans areas such as business law, estate planning, transactions, contracts, probate, environmental, real estate, and oil and gas. This depth and breadth of legal knowledge and sound judgment ensures that he always provides the best guidance and direction for his clients. He has the reputation of always getting the job done or the deal closed on time and within budget. If you need legal assistance, I would highly recommend sitting down and having a meaningful conversation with Jeff at your earliest opportunity.
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11 Feb, 2013 by Skeeter
We have engaged Doug Renteria on a wide variety of issues, and he consistently delivers well thought out, well researched advice for our company and for our clients
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31 Jan, 2013 by William
I could not be more fortunate than to have Doug Renteria as my attorney. I am a small business owner and Doug has helped me with many legal issues as well as many other business related issues, including reviewing contracts, labor agreements, employment agreements etc. Doug has been an intregral and vital part of my companies rapid growth over the past couple of years. His help in representing myself and my company as legal counsel has produced results and opened doors that were impossible previously. He has contaced major fotune 500 companies representing my company, written letters on my behalf, given extraordinary legal counsel and frankly, my company would not be here today if it was not for Doug Renteria. He has exceptional knowledge of the law, takes a genuine interest in his clients goals and needs and responds to every request, question, issue with the upmost professionalism and best interest of the client. Having over 30 years of business experience, I have known and dealt with many attorney's and would highly recommend Doug Renteria to anyone without hesitation.
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17 Oct, 2022 by Brad rpy
Great people and very thorough
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12 Feb, 2021 by Pat stimson
Professional and friendly. Helped us with hat we needed.
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26 Oct, 2017 by Bryce beltz
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04 Aug, 2023 by John frary
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03 Feb, 2023 by Kimberly samanen
He genuinely cares about his clients. He tells it like it is and does not lead a client on with false hope , like some other attorneys I have talked to. Definitely one of the good ones!
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03 Aug, 2022 by Laura “lil' shortcake momma” petty
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06 Dec, 2022 by Lori lamb
What can I say! If you need and elder law attorney, don't go to anyone but Anne!! She knows her stuff!
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19 Nov, 2020 by Mark sims
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25 Nov, 2024 by Jill stechschulte
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15 Sep, 2024 by Stacy johnson
I have dealt with Schaffer & Associates for 5 years and they always came through for me. They were all so polite and knew what they were doing. I Would recommend them to anyone. Thank you for representing me.
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15 Aug, 2024 by B k
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27 Feb, 2024 by Bee-safe security
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02 Jan, 2024 by Mrs c
Think LONG and hard about the Attorney you want handling your last Will and Testament! This Company WILL nickel and dime you for every jot and tittle. Another minus is that you will wait at least 6 months before you see the bill. And now all I'm needing is a copy and they are telling me that I need permission from The Attorney before that can happen. Of course, the cost to get my copy or even my original must be a secret, as the secretary wouldn't give out that info.... is there a sliding scale for such things? Humm. Jk! Nevermind that we swear we said we wanted ours filed at the courthouse. Upon calling the courthouse we were informed that they are Not there. Is our circumstance unusual? Sure. But after spending 3 years of time, anguish and 2 trips to see the judge because an attorney tells you he keeps it in his safe and then years later, he says he's never had it, you begin to distrust most of them. Go ahead, ignore the point that 3 people were in the office when That Will was constructed. We're the liars, not the Lawyer. So while I'm getting in my form of therapy in venting, let me ask you, do you really want to take the chance for your loved ones to stand in line behind us, saying, " Dang, we wish " So and so" would have done this differently!"
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03 Apr, 2022 by Dawn dickerson
They are the most helpful, friendly, informative pleasant attorney and paralegal. They made me feel relaxed in stressful times and I would recommend them to everybody. Absolutely live working with them. Thank you Pay and Janet. 😁❤️
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27 Feb, 2024 by Bee-safe security
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02 Jan, 2024 by Mrs c
Think LONG and hard about the Attorney you want handling your last Will and Testament! This Company WILL nickel and dime you for every jot and tittle. Another minus is that you will wait at least 6 months before you see the bill. And now all I'm needing is a copy and they are telling me that I need permission from The Attorney before that can happen. Of course, the cost to get my copy or even my original must be a secret, as the secretary wouldn't give out that info.... is there a sliding scale for such things? Humm. Jk! Nevermind that we swear we said we wanted ours filed at the courthouse. Upon calling the courthouse we were informed that they are Not there. Is our circumstance unusual? Sure. But after spending 3 years of time, anguish and 2 trips to see the judge because an attorney tells you he keeps it in his safe and then years later, he says he's never had it, you begin to distrust most of them. Go ahead, ignore the point that 3 people were in the office when That Will was constructed. We're the liars, not the Lawyer. So while I'm getting in my form of therapy in venting, let me ask you, do you really want to take the chance for your loved ones to stand in line behind us, saying, " Dang, we wish " So and so" would have done this differently!"
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03 Apr, 2022 by Dawn dickerson
They are the most helpful, friendly, informative pleasant attorney and paralegal. They made me feel relaxed in stressful times and I would recommend them to everybody. Absolutely live working with them. Thank you Pay and Janet. 😁❤️
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26 Jul, 2024 by Kris largent
I highly recommend! I have had custody of my grandkids for almost 5 years in Florida and was facing a custody battle, Interstate can be very tricky and expensive. John took the case on for a very reasonable price and he fought like it was his own grandchildren. I have 0 complaints! If you’re looking for a great attorney that will fight for you he is your pick!!
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18 Jul, 2024 by Andrea smith
Attorney Whitman and his staff are amazing people, they have helped me with legal issues over the past 10 years and I couldn’t have done it without them 💖
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29 May, 2024 by Brad
Trash
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26 Jul, 2024 by Kris largent
I highly recommend! I have had custody of my grandkids for almost 5 years in Florida and was facing a custody battle, Interstate can be very tricky and expensive. John took the case on for a very reasonable price and he fought like it was his own grandchildren. I have 0 complaints! If you’re looking for a great attorney that will fight for you he is your pick!!
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18 Jul, 2024 by Andrea smith
Attorney Whitman and his staff are amazing people, they have helped me with legal issues over the past 10 years and I couldn’t have done it without them 💖
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29 May, 2024 by Brad
Trash
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05 Apr, 2024 by Tom nesbitt
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02 Mar, 2024 by Darlene knowlton
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02 Jan, 2024 by Heaven miracle
We hired Kalina for my boyfriend to help with his divorce and to get him off child support. She was no help. When it came time for court, she had plenty of evidence needed to give the judge and still didn't do anything. No communication, Secretary was rude and disrespectful. Save your money and look for someone better!
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24 Sep, 2013 by Anonymous
We used this attorney twice. She is very inexperienced and spends much of her time on political and social causes to promote herself in Findlay. We just do not appreciate an attorney that is not strong about confidentiality. Perhaps with time she will gain experience. We might consider her in 10 years.
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12 Jun, 2012 by Sharleen
Christie has been an excellent attorney for myself. She is very knowledgeable and follows through with things promptly. I have enjoyed every visit with her. She listens and answers my questions and treats me as an equal and doesn't have the topically air to herself that most attorneys have. I highly recommend her!!!
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13 Dec, 2014 by Anonymous
Mr. Whitman had been my mother's attorney for several years; he prepared her Will, Financial Power of Attorney & Health Care Power of Attorney. He was well aware that my mother worked at Marathon Oil Company and knew their requirements for her caretaker to have access to her 401(1) Plan's funds if need be. An attorney employed at Marathon Oil Company knew Mr. Whitman personally and told Mr. Whitman that his standard POA did not include the correct wording. Mr. Whitman's colleague repeatedly instructed Mr. Whitman to revise his standard POA to no avail. Mr. Whitman's lackadaisical work ethics, incompetence and negligence was the catalyst for other unscrupulous individuals to swindle away my mother's rights and disregard her final wishes. Thus, causing my mother irreparable harm.
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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.

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