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Justin D Farmer, experienced Business attorney in Gig Harbor, WA with 62 reviews
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39,98
star star star star star
4.7/5
Avvo
5.0
4 Reviews
Google Maps
4.7
58 Reviews
star star star star star
30 Oct, 2024 by Ian macinnis
Everyone was kind and responded to any questions I had in a timely manner. They were very professional and knowledgeable. I appreciate all the help I had with my case.
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29 Oct, 2024 by Jamie fenton
Tony and his team was my 3rd lawyer attempt with my court case and happy to have them support to the end. Tony and team were able to make sure the case stayed true to the intent and not allow the case to change couse down any rabbit trails. I know court and be ugly, and mine was, but to have a good captian and navigator that can properly steer the ship to the destination is what you need for these cases and Tony will deliver on that. There was no fluff, guess work, or unattainable goals offered or given. Facts are what this team offers and only that. When questions were asked on the "if" or "what abouts" that happen when you have never been down this road before, Tony gave clear logic and understandable options with out bias opinion so clear decisions could be made. With previous bad experiences with attorneys, I am thankful that there are a few that are still here making sure the truth, like it or not, comes to light. My experience from my first phone call, to emails, to paying my bill, was all solid experience that was not cold but understanding and direct. Thank you Tony and team.
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21 Oct, 2024 by Abby mcelligott
I came to Harbor Family Law with no experience working with a law firm. I was met with compassion, understanding, timely communication, and thorough support. Over the course of my time working with Harbor Family Law, I was impressed repeatedly by the effort they all made to make me and my situation feel like a priority. If I didn't know better, I would say that I was their only client. The lawyers, paralegals, and administrative staff treated me with care during a very challenging personal journey. Additionally, they listened to me and fought on my behalf. I highly recommend this law firm.
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John D Burleigh, experienced Business, Litigation attorney in Gig Harbor, WA with 13 reviews
Average
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
39,83
star star star star star
4.7/5
Avvo
5.0
7 Reviews
Google Maps
4.5
6 Reviews
star star star star star
10 Feb, 2023 by B f
Extremely helpful and informative. Gave me the advice I needed and more. Highly recommend for family law.
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26 Jan, 2022 by Jason
I called John Burleigh with an issue I was having with my HOA. John returned my call and went through a consultation with me and was very receptive to my situation and the information I presented. I could tell right away that he was an experienced and knowledgeable attorney. He walked me through my situation and gave me solid advice on what I should do. Although I have not retained his council, if I need to I would not look elsewhere.
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30 Jan, 2021 by Nellbelle
Alysha is well versed in her expert area. She was excellent with her communications and handled the matter very professionally in court. I felt very confident in my case with her by my side.
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Paul-Stephen Aita, experienced Business, Estate Planning attorney in Gig Harbor, WA with 9 reviews
Average
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
39,28
star star star star star
5.0/5
Avvo
5.0
9 Reviews
star star star star star
26 Jul, 2008 by Steve
Handled personal and business topics. Was patient with client.
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14 May, 2008 by Anonymous
Mr. Aita has helped me set up multiple LLC's. I have also used him for estate planning and general help in legal matters. He responds quickly and is easy to work with.
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17 Apr, 2008 by Steve
Paul-Stephen set up my LLC and continues to handle all my legal matters. Responds quickly and accurately.
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Michael M.K. Hemphill, experienced Business, Estate Planning attorney in Gig Harbor, WA with 6 reviews
Average
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
39,19
star star star star star
5.0/5
Avvo
5.0
6 Reviews
star star star star star
25 Oct, 2021 by Anthony
I highly recommend the services of Mike Hemphill for his expertise in new construction law. He quickly grasps the issues at hand, and his sound advice is priceless!
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26 Jan, 2009 by Anonymous
Michael Hemphill set up my Seattle, Washington based LLC in May of 2008. He was professional, responsive, and gave outstanding guidance that I needed as a first time business owner. I continue to seek out Michael for ongoing business and contractual council. Outstanding Attorney!
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22 Jan, 2009 by Anonymous
Mike has been very helpful, cost effective, and completely responsive. His work and communication skills are excellent. Mike takes complex issues and makes them simple and direct. He also knows what he doesn't know and consults with experts in specific fields with your permission. I did not know Mike prior to hiring him and I give him my highest recommendation.
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Margaret Therese Esola, experienced Adoption, Business attorney in Gig Harbor, WA with 4 reviews
Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
39,12
star star star star star
5.0/5
Avvo
5.0
4 Reviews
star star star star star
25 Feb, 2013 by David
Margie is a very warm caring knowledgeable woman. She helped me in s very confusing and difficult time. My probate case went very smoothly because of her. When I had questions. She got back to me right away. I would recommend her highly2012 and give her 5 stars. For diligence patience
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21 Feb, 2013 by Walker
I hired Margie to help me in a mediation process. She was diligent in getting it set up with all the appropriate parties and made sure I had gathered all the documentation to support my side. We meet several times before hand to review the mediation and I felt like I was well prepared and well represented by her. There was lots of communication before and even after to make sure the counter parties where abiding by their promises. The outcome was positive and got what I feel was a fair settlement. I would hire Margie again for her expertise in the areas in which she practices.
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21 Feb, 2013 by Dorothy
I first hired Margie to write a will for my gravely ill aunt while she was in the hospital. She showed great care and compassion during their meetings. She next was hired by me as the Executor of my aunts will to assist me through the probate process. She communicated with me regularly and helped me to understand and feel confident throughout each step of the process. I highly recommend Margie as an attorney who is efficient and caring in difficult family times.
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Robert R Gillanders, experienced Business, Real Estate attorney in Gig Harbor, WA with 2 reviews
Average
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
39,06
star star star star star
5.0/5
Avvo
5.0
2 Reviews
star star star star star
22 Jan, 2024 by Scorpio
I was very fortunate to have found Rob. We had a meeting and he laid out timelines and expectations. Rob got the result I was looking for in a quicker time than he stated. He was a expert in all laws concerning my case. Our family graciously thanks you. Worth every penny!
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11 Mar, 2013 by Patrick
Mr. Gillanders has a gift whereby complex legal issues are condensed into simple step by step terms. We have used Mr. Gillanders now for about 6 years; he is now our corporate counsel. I highly recommend him for counsel, very personable, engaging and very responsive to clients needs.
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Ralph Wilhem Flick, experienced Business attorney in Gig Harbor, WA with 1 reviews
Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
39,03
star star star star star
5.0/5
Avvo
5.0
1 Reviews
star star star star star
26 Nov, 2012 by Stephen
Ralph has assisted me through a very difficult and stressful period in my career. He listend to my needs and so far has successfully negotiated on my behalf.
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Carl Park Colbert, experienced Business, Criminal Defense attorney in Gig Harbor, WA with 13 reviews
Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
38,70
star star star star star
4.9/5
Avvo
4.9
13 Reviews
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18 Apr, 2024 by Xena
I was being sued by a real dirtbag and it was really serious FALSE allegations... My previous attorney just, kept telling me to settle... So I fired him and hired carl. He went to war for me and got the case Dismissed! I highly Recommend him
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26 Mar, 2021 by Annette
Carl the best lawyer . I hired Carl to evict horrible tenant and he got it done even during governor inslees moratorium!! Thank you so much !!!
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31 Aug, 2018 by Anonymous
I worked with Carl on a trust and estate matter. Carl was always responsive to any questions or documents that I needed. In the real estate world time is of the essence and he never fell short of doing the work that he said that he was going to do. He knows the laws and he’s able to articulate and advise those lies to his clients. He really is a top notch attorney and is invaluable to the community.
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William Charles Waller, experienced Business, Civil Rights attorney in Gig Harbor, WA with 1 reviews
Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
35,03
star star star star star
5.0/5
Avvo
5.0
1 Reviews
star star star star star
19 Sep, 2019 by Susan
I saw Bill for a complicated FDA legal issue. He was prompt, creative and presented solutions outside the box that made a difference. I particularly appreciated his expert advise on issues we hadn't even considered, like commercialization and privacy. Top notch.
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Mark D Nelson, experienced Business, Child Custody attorney in Gig Harbor, WA with 15 reviews
Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
32,92
star star star star star
4.3/5
Avvo
4.4
7 Reviews
Google Maps
4.3
8 Reviews
star star star star star
24 Dec, 2020 by Claire harvey
I had a phone consult with Amanda to discuss a settlement after a dissolution of an intimate partnership. The consult was on a Wednesday afternoon. She told me she would have a settlement letter drafted by the following week and out to me. It took her four additional weeks to generate a letter. Covid was a complicating factor, however each Friday afternoon that I called to check on the status of my letter, there were excuses and almost outright hostility. No emails or calls to update me on progress. When they finally generated the letter and sent it out, they didn’t send a final copy to me. I got a new lawyer who is very communicative. He sent her an email to request a refund of my trust money and She charged me $103 to review his email and refund my money along with the almost $45 a week she charged me to call to check on the status of my overdue letter. This was the worst experience I’ve ever had with a professional. I wondered at times if there was something else going on in her life.
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08 Jul, 2020 by Nate abel
Amanda and her team were a welcome relief. The first attorney I hired in my divorce was shockingly terrible, and led to me completely losing faith in the family law system. Luckily I switched to Amanda. Amanda, Corie and Logan were incredibly professional and responsive. Their team provided expert personal advice without wasting time and money. Amanda and her team have my highest possible recommendation if you're looking for a family law attorney.
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21 Nov, 2019 by Joe urvina
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Douglas Jay Lineberry, experienced Business, Estate Planning attorney in Gig Harbor, WA with 4 reviews
Below Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
24,09
star star star star star
4.0/5
Avvo
4.0
4 Reviews
star star star star star
15 Apr, 2015 by Donna
Doug worked diligently for 3 years on my son's wrongful death case. He kept me informed, even if there was nothing to report. Between setting up mediation's with the other parties and real life rearing its head at the most inopportune times, Doug and his wife Jeanette stayed on top of things and walked me through this terrible case. I would highly recommend Doug Lineberry.
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06 Sep, 2013 by Mike
Would strongly not recommend using Mr. Lineberry based on my experience. He wasn't responsive to my calls and emails and didn't keep me informed; I seriously questioned the advice he gave me.. I finally gave up on him because he stopped communicating completely. I ultimately had my legal situation reviewed by another attorney who agreed Mr. Lineberry's recommendations were not appropriate. Would definitely avoid him.
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09 Jun, 2013 by Anonymous
I went to Doug for an NFA gun trust and was referred to him by an Army JAG officer. Doug was very prompt and professional and was very knowledgable of gun trusts and applicable NFA laws. The price was reasonable and he quickly corrected a couple minor issues I had with the trust. I would definitely recommend him to anyone seeking a similar service.
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Ronald Leeroy Ulmen Jr, experienced Business, Child Support attorney in Gig Harbor, WA with 8 reviews
Below Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
24,01
star star star star star
4.0/5
Google Maps
4.0
8 Reviews
star star star star star
27 Nov, 2024 by Sara thompson
If u want to lose hire this lousy guy even when u have proof he won’t work for u he will charge u and u will only see him when he wants more money he allowed the other attorney to lie and we have proof the county has proof that they were out right lying and he did nothing but show up and ask for more money this man ruins lives!
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02 Nov, 2024 by Ryan harris
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02 Nov, 2024 by Ricky boardman
I can't say enough about the incredible experience we had with Timberline Legal Services. From start to finish, their team was simply amazing. They handled our wills and trust with remarkable speed and efficiency, ensuring every detail was taken care of. They explained everything clearly and walked us through each step of the process, making sure we felt comfortable and understood all aspects. What really stood out was the level of compassion and care they showed throughout. They genuinely prioritize their clients, and you can feel it in the way they handle everything. The staff was incredibly friendly and knowledgeable, which made the entire process feel smooth and stress-free. The pricing was not only fair but felt like a fantastic value for the high level of service we received. I’m beyond grateful I found Timberline Legal Services. I highly, highly, highly recommend them to anyone in need of legal assistance—words truly can't describe how glad I am to have worked with them!
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John Edward Duke Powell, experienced Business, Insurance attorney in Gig Harbor, WA with 15 reviews
Below Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
22,19
star star star star star
3.6/5
Avvo
5.0
1 Reviews
Google Maps
3.5
14 Reviews
star star star star star
29 Jul, 2024 by Alexandra howe
We had an awful experience working with Felicia. We ended up going with another mediator to finish our divorce. She encourages conflict and then charged extreme rates for every email sent between the parties and even higher rates for her responses. She definitely picked sides and was quite a bully. Even when discussing the needs of our autistic children she was dismissive and said things like “they won’t be the only autistic kids there”. The new mediator was shocked at her methods and had a motto that everything that needs to be discussed can be discussed in the session. We wasted thousands in Felicia and when we went to move to another mediator, Felicia has barely any of our paperwork done even though she charged us for the work on it. Unfortunately, we aren’t the only ones with this experience. I just didn’t dig deep enough into reviews before choosing her.
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03 Apr, 2024 by Jamie lane
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star star star star star
15 Oct, 2023 by Ember richter
It is a pleasure working with such knowledgeable and committed professionals. Highly recommended..
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Michael Wayne Johns, experienced Business, Real Estate attorney in Gig Harbor, WA with 7 reviews
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info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
20,86
star star star star star
3.4/5
Google Maps
3.4
7 Reviews
star star star star star
30 Dec, 2023 by Glenda calvin
Ok
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16 Dec, 2019 by Riley harrison
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star star star star star
22 Jul, 2019 by Matt buckner
Dont like
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Jane Ryan Koler, experienced Appeals, Business attorney in Gig Harbor, WA with 6 reviews
Below Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
16,50
star star star star star
3.6/5
Avvo
3.6
6 Reviews
star star star star star
18 Nov, 2022 by Bill
My experience with Ms, Koler did not have a good outcome. I used her in a land use case in 2004. She started out appearing to be a decent lawyer but when my wife left me she decided she didn't like me but liked her. She had this "I'm better than you attitude" toward me and she didn't bother to tell me the last two times she went to court with my case. These two times that I should have been in court was for settlement damages from Snohomish County and as a result I was only awarded $1 dollar for denile of due process (actually my ex wife got that so I didn't actually get anything personally but the court awarded her fee to be payed by Snohomish County. I see she was disciplined by the State in 2014 which doesn't surprise me.
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09 Oct, 2014 by Anonymous
I've known Jane Koler about 30 years and recently needed her help with some land use matters: a boundary dispute and a tax foreclosure sale of property. She was professional in every way and helped me immeasurably to secure results. I know her to be ethical, hard-working, and highly knowledgeable in her field. Would not hesitate to use her again. I'm aware that the bar association sanctioned her over a technical discovery issue, but in my opinion it didn't amount to a hill of beans and doesn't change my opinion of her one bit.
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01 Aug, 2012 by Elizabeth
Jane Koler is an excellent attorney. She assisted me with a zoning penalty action. She has an excellent abilty to analyze zoning problems. She thought of a great solution to our problem and convinced city officials to accept it. The city withdrew its penalty order. She has an excellent ability to analyze city codes and think of creative theories, Jane Koler works very effectively with City officials. She has deep and extensive knowledge of land use law and as well as constitutional law which she utiliized in solving our problem.
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Kenneth W Strauss, experienced Business, Litigation attorney in Gig Harbor, WA with 1 reviews
Below Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
4,57
star star star star star
1.0/5
Avvo
1.0
1 Reviews
star star star star star
25 Sep, 2021 by Anonymous
This lawyer was hired by our HOA. While representing the HOA, openly advised the HOA to shift the HOA’s maintenance costs to homeowners against bylaws and state laws. This lawyer's strategy appears to be based on the premise that the homeowners would not be willing to sue the HOA for violating bylaws and state laws. Under his guidance the HOA discriminated against homeowners who were fighting for their rights under bylaws and state laws.
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Jacob L. Potak, experienced Business, Estate Planning attorney in Gig Harbor, WA with 1 reviews
Below Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
4,57
star star star star star
1.0/5
Avvo
1.0
1 Reviews
star star star star star
01 Apr, 2017 by Anonymous
I went to see him about a real estate transaction. Unconcerned interested in me doing estate planning instead.
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Bianca Iulia Alexander, experienced Business, Real Estate attorney in Gig Harbor, WA with 0 reviews
Below Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
4,00
star star star star star
0.0/5
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Joshua Steven Rouse, experienced Business, Real Estate attorney in Gig Harbor, WA with 0 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
4,00
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0.0/5
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Kira Meshawn Rubel, experienced Business, Consumer Protection attorney in Gig Harbor, WA with 0 reviews
Below Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
4,00
star star star star star
0.0/5
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Bianca Iulia Alexander, experienced Business, Real Estate attorney in Gig Harbor, WA with 0 reviews
Below Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
4,00
star star star star star
0.0/5
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Donald H. Graham, experienced Business, Estate Planning attorney in Gig Harbor, WA with 0 reviews
Below Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
0,00
star star star star star
0.0/5
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Christopher Reid McLeod, experienced Business, Civil Rights attorney in Gig Harbor, WA with 0 reviews
Below Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
0,00
star star star star star
0.0/5
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Joshua Steven Rouse, experienced Business attorney in Gig Harbor, WA with 0 reviews
Below Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
0,00
star star star star star
0.0/5
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Sandra B. Bobrick, experienced Business, Lawsuit / Dispute attorney in Gig Harbor, WA with 0 reviews
Below Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
0,00
star star star star star
0.0/5
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Richard Michael Barney Jr, experienced Business, Estate Planning attorney in Gig Harbor, WA with 0 reviews
Below Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
0,00
star star star star star
0.0/5
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Randon H Draper, experienced Business, Civil Rights attorney in Gig Harbor, WA with 0 reviews
Below Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
0,00
star star star star star
0.0/5
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Philip R Sloan, experienced Business, Lawsuit / Dispute attorney in Gig Harbor, WA with 0 reviews
Below Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
0,00
star star star star star
0.0/5
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John Edward Kincaide, experienced Business, Government attorney in Gig Harbor, WA with 0 reviews
Below Average
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
0,00
star star star star star
0.0/5
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Mark Ronald Roberts, experienced Business, Estate Planning attorney in Gig Harbor, WA with 0 reviews
Below Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
0,00
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0.0/5
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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:

  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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