Filter by

star star star star star
03 Mar, 2024 by Rishan prasad
Google Maps
star star star star star
30 Jan, 2024 by Roxie slater
Horrible narcissistic firm
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
25 Jul, 2023 by Sue i
I am a physician and I had dealings with Kirk Neste at this firm. He seemed to be nice at first, and I, in good faith kept my end of the agreement that we had negotiated. After this, he did not answer my attempts to reach him and did not keep his end of the deal. Basically, he lied to me. Very unprofessional. I do not recommend working with a firm that has lawyers like this.
Read more Google Maps
See more
star star star star star
03 Mar, 2024 by Rishan prasad
Google Maps
star star star star star
30 Jan, 2024 by Roxie slater
Horrible narcissistic firm
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
25 Jul, 2023 by Sue i
I am a physician and I had dealings with Kirk Neste at this firm. He seemed to be nice at first, and I, in good faith kept my end of the agreement that we had negotiated. After this, he did not answer my attempts to reach him and did not keep his end of the deal. Basically, he lied to me. Very unprofessional. I do not recommend working with a firm that has lawyers like this.
Read more Google Maps
See more
star star star star star
03 Mar, 2024 by Rishan prasad
Google Maps
star star star star star
30 Jan, 2024 by Roxie slater
Horrible narcissistic firm
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
25 Jul, 2023 by Sue i
I am a physician and I had dealings with Kirk Neste at this firm. He seemed to be nice at first, and I, in good faith kept my end of the agreement that we had negotiated. After this, he did not answer my attempts to reach him and did not keep his end of the deal. Basically, he lied to me. Very unprofessional. I do not recommend working with a firm that has lawyers like this.
Read more Google Maps
See more
star star star star star
03 Mar, 2024 by Rishan prasad
Google Maps
star star star star star
30 Jan, 2024 by Roxie slater
Horrible narcissistic firm
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
25 Jul, 2023 by Sue i
I am a physician and I had dealings with Kirk Neste at this firm. He seemed to be nice at first, and I, in good faith kept my end of the agreement that we had negotiated. After this, he did not answer my attempts to reach him and did not keep his end of the deal. Basically, he lied to me. Very unprofessional. I do not recommend working with a firm that has lawyers like this.
Read more Google Maps
See more
star star star star star
03 Mar, 2024 by Rishan prasad
Google Maps
star star star star star
30 Jan, 2024 by Roxie slater
Horrible narcissistic firm
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
25 Jul, 2023 by Sue i
I am a physician and I had dealings with Kirk Neste at this firm. He seemed to be nice at first, and I, in good faith kept my end of the agreement that we had negotiated. After this, he did not answer my attempts to reach him and did not keep his end of the deal. Basically, he lied to me. Very unprofessional. I do not recommend working with a firm that has lawyers like this.
Read more Google Maps
See more
star star star star star
03 Mar, 2024 by Rishan prasad
Google Maps
star star star star star
30 Jan, 2024 by Roxie slater
Horrible narcissistic firm
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
25 Jul, 2023 by Sue i
I am a physician and I had dealings with Kirk Neste at this firm. He seemed to be nice at first, and I, in good faith kept my end of the agreement that we had negotiated. After this, he did not answer my attempts to reach him and did not keep his end of the deal. Basically, he lied to me. Very unprofessional. I do not recommend working with a firm that has lawyers like this.
Read more Google Maps
See more
star star star star star
03 Mar, 2024 by Rishan prasad
Google Maps
star star star star star
30 Jan, 2024 by Roxie slater
Horrible narcissistic firm
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
25 Jul, 2023 by Sue i
I am a physician and I had dealings with Kirk Neste at this firm. He seemed to be nice at first, and I, in good faith kept my end of the agreement that we had negotiated. After this, he did not answer my attempts to reach him and did not keep his end of the deal. Basically, he lied to me. Very unprofessional. I do not recommend working with a firm that has lawyers like this.
Read more Google Maps
See more
star star star star star
03 Mar, 2024 by Rishan prasad
Google Maps
star star star star star
30 Jan, 2024 by Roxie slater
Horrible narcissistic firm
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
25 Jul, 2023 by Sue i
I am a physician and I had dealings with Kirk Neste at this firm. He seemed to be nice at first, and I, in good faith kept my end of the agreement that we had negotiated. After this, he did not answer my attempts to reach him and did not keep his end of the deal. Basically, he lied to me. Very unprofessional. I do not recommend working with a firm that has lawyers like this.
Read more Google Maps
See more
star star star star star
06 Oct, 2024 by Jonalyn pacoma
No words can express how grateful and blessed we are to meet with Attorney Blake Goodman and his staff. They helped us every step of the way and kept us updated. All the staff are friendly and supportive. I highly recommend them to anyone who is going through financial difficulties and challenges, right when you leave the office you feel relieved.
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
05 Oct, 2024 by Deborah iijima
The whole process was very fast, and all of the staff were very helpful and professional! I am glad I chose Blake Goodman’s office to help!
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
02 Oct, 2024 by Bill doyle
I was pleased to receive a return call promptly after requesting a consultation. Knowledgeable, courteous, ready to assist, Blake Goodman listens carefully and provides his best counsel for a path forward. He thoughtfully referred me to another attorney with more relevant practice for my question. Top marks!
Read more Google Maps
See more
star star star star star
06 Oct, 2024 by Jonalyn pacoma
No words can express how grateful and blessed we are to meet with Attorney Blake Goodman and his staff. They helped us every step of the way and kept us updated. All the staff are friendly and supportive. I highly recommend them to anyone who is going through financial difficulties and challenges, right when you leave the office you feel relieved.
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
05 Oct, 2024 by Deborah iijima
The whole process was very fast, and all of the staff were very helpful and professional! I am glad I chose Blake Goodman’s office to help!
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
02 Oct, 2024 by Bill doyle
I was pleased to receive a return call promptly after requesting a consultation. Knowledgeable, courteous, ready to assist, Blake Goodman listens carefully and provides his best counsel for a path forward. He thoughtfully referred me to another attorney with more relevant practice for my question. Top marks!
Read more Google Maps
See more
star star star star star
06 Oct, 2024 by Jonalyn pacoma
No words can express how grateful and blessed we are to meet with Attorney Blake Goodman and his staff. They helped us every step of the way and kept us updated. All the staff are friendly and supportive. I highly recommend them to anyone who is going through financial difficulties and challenges, right when you leave the office you feel relieved.
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
05 Oct, 2024 by Deborah iijima
The whole process was very fast, and all of the staff were very helpful and professional! I am glad I chose Blake Goodman’s office to help!
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
02 Oct, 2024 by Bill doyle
I was pleased to receive a return call promptly after requesting a consultation. Knowledgeable, courteous, ready to assist, Blake Goodman listens carefully and provides his best counsel for a path forward. He thoughtfully referred me to another attorney with more relevant practice for my question. Top marks!
Read more Google Maps
See more
star star star star star
06 Oct, 2024 by Jonalyn pacoma
No words can express how grateful and blessed we are to meet with Attorney Blake Goodman and his staff. They helped us every step of the way and kept us updated. All the staff are friendly and supportive. I highly recommend them to anyone who is going through financial difficulties and challenges, right when you leave the office you feel relieved.
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
05 Oct, 2024 by Deborah iijima
The whole process was very fast, and all of the staff were very helpful and professional! I am glad I chose Blake Goodman’s office to help!
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
02 Oct, 2024 by Bill doyle
I was pleased to receive a return call promptly after requesting a consultation. Knowledgeable, courteous, ready to assist, Blake Goodman listens carefully and provides his best counsel for a path forward. He thoughtfully referred me to another attorney with more relevant practice for my question. Top marks!
Read more Google Maps
See more
star star star star star
06 Oct, 2024 by Jonalyn pacoma
No words can express how grateful and blessed we are to meet with Attorney Blake Goodman and his staff. They helped us every step of the way and kept us updated. All the staff are friendly and supportive. I highly recommend them to anyone who is going through financial difficulties and challenges, right when you leave the office you feel relieved.
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
05 Oct, 2024 by Deborah iijima
The whole process was very fast, and all of the staff were very helpful and professional! I am glad I chose Blake Goodman’s office to help!
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
02 Oct, 2024 by Bill doyle
I was pleased to receive a return call promptly after requesting a consultation. Knowledgeable, courteous, ready to assist, Blake Goodman listens carefully and provides his best counsel for a path forward. He thoughtfully referred me to another attorney with more relevant practice for my question. Top marks!
Read more Google Maps
See more
star star star star star
06 Oct, 2024 by Jonalyn pacoma
No words can express how grateful and blessed we are to meet with Attorney Blake Goodman and his staff. They helped us every step of the way and kept us updated. All the staff are friendly and supportive. I highly recommend them to anyone who is going through financial difficulties and challenges, right when you leave the office you feel relieved.
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
05 Oct, 2024 by Deborah iijima
The whole process was very fast, and all of the staff were very helpful and professional! I am glad I chose Blake Goodman’s office to help!
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
02 Oct, 2024 by Bill doyle
I was pleased to receive a return call promptly after requesting a consultation. Knowledgeable, courteous, ready to assist, Blake Goodman listens carefully and provides his best counsel for a path forward. He thoughtfully referred me to another attorney with more relevant practice for my question. Top marks!
Read more Google Maps
See more
star star star star star
13 Mar, 2024 by Anonymous
I’ve met some arrogant attorneys in my day but Kirk takes the cake! I was referred to this clown by a federal judge friend and I couldn’t have been more disappointed. He never returned one phone call, one email and never gave any status update as to his conflict check status! He was a complete waste of my time never mind losing months waiting around for him to show one once of credibility or integrity! He is exactly what gives attorneys a bad name and my suggestion would be to get yourself a better attorney because they are out there. On a positive note, I landed one of the most prestigious firms after dumping this guy, so I count myself lucky. I am in much better hands at the end of the day. Good Riddance Kirk!
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
03 Mar, 2024 by Rishan prasad
Google Maps
star star star star star
30 Jan, 2024 by Roxie slater
Horrible narcissistic firm
Read more Google Maps
See more
star star star star star
24 Jan, 2024 by Anonymous
I am very disappointed with this man, only interested of what he is going to get from the case. Not sincere, not even interested unless $$$$ Question he asked, , do you have life insurance? And then at the end of the visit , will you give me a hug .
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
22 Jan, 2016 by Jan
One of a kind! In addition to being an expert in his field, he is honest, kind, patient and understanding. His rates are more than fair, and he is always more than willing and able to go beyond the call of duty. He has been my lawyer and trusted friend for more than 15 years.
Read more Avvo
See more
star star star star star
06 Sep, 2024 by Emily belloso
Google Maps
star star star star star
09 Jul, 2024 by Christian brown
I've had an absolutely terrible experience. He took a 5.5k retainer, my case was moved to Canadian Courts, and now he's failing to respond, not returning the retainer, and appears to be attempting to steal my money. These actions have been preventing me from acquiring the appropriate legal representation. I strongly advise staying away from this law firm. UPDATE: He ended up padding the bill when asked for a refund of the retainer. Charged me for text messages and emails that he never responded to including messages listed below were I requested my funds be returned. "You are negatively impacting my ability to secure legal counsel and leaving me with no other options but to explore pursuing a civil case against your firm. If my money isn't returned this week, I'll be pursuing a civil case as well as filing a complaint with the Hawaii State Bar Association. This is absolutely ridiculous." CHARGED me $55. "Are you planning on returning the funds at all? It's very concerning that my requests have gone unanswered." NO RESPONSE and CHARGED another $55. "Good morning, We secured a lawyer in Ontario to handle the extradition/child custody. Would it be possible to return the remainder of the retainer? If the case ends up coming to Hawaii, we can send resend a retainer. Funds are just tight at the moment." NO RESPONSE and CHARGED another $55. "Hello, Are you able to help me formulate the response to the OCL report? This is my draft so far. OCL Response .docx" NO RESPONSE and CHARGED another $55. I think everyone can see the trend. I strongly advise looking elsewhere for a lawyer.
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
15 Jun, 2024 by Robert richardson
Ed charges 5k and doesn’t do his work for you , he doesn’t return your calls , he doesn’t follow up on emails , he doesn’t answer your email. He says he will meet you and don’t show up or even call . He is the worse I’ve hear of , warning he will take you for your hard working money , and then send you a bill that is made up of things he didn’t do.
Read more Google Maps
See more
star star star star star
24 Jun, 2018 by Anonymous
Erika Amatore is the worst attorney hired by our consulting business. Our consulting business has been active for almost ten years around the world (e.g. Canada, Korea, US, Belize, Russia, Bolivia, Switzerland, Africa, Singapore, etc) and used a variety of attorneys for various matters relating to intellectual property, tax matters, patents, regulatory matters, and most recently breach of contract. We've had excellent legal support many times, however, no lawyer has ever treated our firm in the poor manner that she did. The worst--Erika did not disclose that the judicial official working in our case has a conflict of interest worth our review and when another attorney flagged the issue she did not share that concern (that conflict ended up being exposed six months later and is worth knowing). She did not get to know our company's case nor fact check case details with us before committing our company to key deadlines. She did not follow directions on almost any request---she failed to use prepared legal material by prior legal counsel and instead recreated legal documents at our company's expense. In files we gave her she introduced legal and factual errors that she did not highlight so those changes and errors were not caught in time. Her errors actually contradict the cornerstone of our case that we asked her to review three or more times at the beginning--meaning her errors are incompetence or disobedience possibly both. She did not consult with our firm about deposing a witness nor review key documents that would have prepared her for the deposition. She shared company files outside the firm without seeking the firm's prior informed consent which put intellectual property of client's at risk. Erika was under prepared for our discovery deadline and sent us on multiple wild goose chases regarding how to produce documents (e.g. the format requested changed multiple times making our staff spend dozens of hours of repetitive unnecessary work). She ended up dropping the case with little notice, right before the discovery request, without consulting the company nor informing it of it's legal rights. If a person professionally commits to representing a case at the very least, commit to key a few milestones and come up with a strategy to transition if one cannot commit long-term. She did not have the maturity to do that. To sum it up, Erika comes across as a self-absorbed and heartless millennial that is distracted, doesn't care, and is sloppy. This firm and our management has worked with and/or supervised over sixty people and she, undoubtedly, is the worst professional worked with. Our firm worked with the legal firm to get the answers/find a solution and/or give her the benefit of the doubt for over a month. The only thing we accomplished was finding out that our gut feeling presented here is more than true and grounded by fact and we found out worse things beyond our imagination. We are left feeling that if we found truth to our complaints---imagine the additional damage she did because we probably found out only a portion of the truth. It is our formal opinion this person lacks the intellectual and moral character to represent others needing legal help. Erika Amatore is also in dire need of some serious soul searching. We wish her luck in conducting that intense reflection because she is going to need it.
Read more Avvo
See more
star star star star star
06 Jun, 2014 by Anonymous
When I spoke with Carolyn Oshiro she stated that her first consultation was free. We did not have a first consultation. We had a few phone calls which SHE initiated to me after my first call to her, asking about a consultation. She never told me that each time she called me she was charging me. She initiated all the calling. The bill for just her phone calls to me where I answered some questions, was over $200. Had I known she was initiating calls that she was charging me for, I would not have spent the time I did with her. You can imagine my surprise when I got the bill. Also, I asked her to send me copies of what she was doing, and she did not. However she charged me over $500 for two sheets of paper with a dozen or so questions. Beware. I would not recommend this attorney.
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