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08 Aug, 2014 by Tracy
After David answered my question online, we decided to schedule an appointment with him. He met with us and answered all our questions thoughtfully and intelligently. He is the best lawyer we have worked with in the last five years. He is never condescending and even has a sense of humor. He is exactly the lawyer we needed for this issue.
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30 Dec, 2012 by Aymen misawi
I myself has a super excellent experience with an attorney: Carmel.
I am always recommending her to any person, she is just a comprehensive immigration law expertise .
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07 Feb, 2020 by Michelle
I highly recommend this Attorney. I worked with Felice on creating a Will for myself and had a lot of questions about it. She was very patient with all of my questions and explained everything in a way that I could easily understand. She went above and beyond to make sure everything was as I wanted it to be. I definitely trust her with any future legal needs I may have.
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21 Nov, 2012 by Mike
Joshua represented me for a small claims case involving an individual who claimed to be a professional auto body repair, but in actuality, literally destroyed my BMW due to his negligence/inexperience. The 3 auto body repair shops I took it to for estimates totalled the car (it would cost more to repair his mistakes then the car was worth ~ upwards of $10K).
When other lawyers did not seem interested in taking the case, Joshua took it to heart and made sure I would get some sort of justice. In fact, he did, and I was granted the judgement we had asked for. I would hire Joshua again in a heartbeat.
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29 May, 2015 by Walter
I am a restructuring consultant and I have worked with Ginger on four matters over about ten years. In every one she has been extremely timely in her communications, detailed and prepared in her legal work, and clear in her verbal communications. She also sees the matter from the client's perspective, so that if it is simply procedural, she explains the why and when; if there are legal strategies to be weighed , she explains the pros and cons to prepare the client to make a decision.
She has helped in a unique state of Wisconsin receivership action under which a retail chain was sold for full repayment of the secured; in an out-of-court debt restructuring, which included a forbearance agreement and debt covenant re-set; and a contentious chapter 11 proceeding, where she served as counsel to the Chief Restructuring Officer. Potential litigation in this matter, in particular, was new territory to me, and Ginger's easy and confident style as well as legal-eagle drafting prevented tensions from rising too high.
All of the matters were successfully concluded from the client's perspective.
I strongly recommend Ginger as a partner for any restructuring, creditor's rights or bankruptcy matter, and I would be delighted to work with her again.
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25 Jun, 2015 by Mike
Consistently provides excellent advice and resources. Is extremely knowledgeable and persuasive. Has tremendous network of contacts and great breadth of firm to provide legal services in which he is not expert. Possesses great respect from his colleagues, City staff and elected officials as well as the general public.
Constructive criticism: Could delegate a bit more to other attorneys when his plate is full, and it often is.
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06 Aug, 2016 by Donna smith
Krystal drew up a will for me and was so clear on details that can be confusing to nonlegal people, like power of attorney, living will, how the will actually works. I knew her reputation and knew I was in good hands. I would highly recommend her
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04 Jan, 2018 by Anonymous
I've had Randy as my lawyer for over 20 years - everything from US Federal Court of Appeals in Washington DC to Trust and Estate planning.
I have never been disappointed
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20 Oct, 2016 by Anonymous
I have worked with John for over thirty years. Intelligent, first rate lawyer. I especially like his approach to his law practice: He solves problems. And does so effectively, Also very efficient. Does great work.
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11 Mar, 2014 by Anonymous
Attorney Kim helped me greatly with my case. He was very caring and professional, not to mention knowledgeable. I would highly recommend this attorney.
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22 Aug, 2019 by Heidi
Kathleen was very professional and incredibly easy to work with. She has extensive knowledge and background with lease agreements and protecting businesses. She guided us through our case every step of the way. She was always available when we had questions or concerns even during nights and weekends. We feel protected and confident with the services she provided. We would absolutely recommend her to any business owner needing legal services. We look forward to building a long relationship with Kathleen as our business grows.
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02 May, 2024 by Kathleen helping hands
Dear Reinhart Boerner Van Deuren s.c. and Mr. Robert Lightfoot,
I am writing to express my deepest gratitude for the exceptional legal services provided by Mr. Robert Lightfoot of Reinhart Boerner Van Deuren s.c. Mr. Lightfoot has proven to be not only an exceptional attorney but also a compassionate advocate for healthcare practices facing mistreatment and challenging circumstances.
In my darkest and most challenging times, Mr. Lightfoot emerged as a beacon of hope and support for both my family and my clients. His unwavering dedication and commitment to assisting healthcare facilities navigate complex situations within the industry have been nothing short of remarkable. Even in the face of adversity and tough opposition, Mr. Lightfoot stood by my side, believing in my vision to provide quality care to the elderly and fighting tirelessly on my behalf.
Healthcare is not just a profession for me; it is my life's passion. Unfortunately, I found myself in a situation where my ability to operate and serve my community was unjustly stripped away. It was during this dark and trying period that Mr. Lightfoot's expertise and unwavering support shone the brightest. His guidance, advocacy, and legal acumen have been instrumental in helping me navigate through challenging legal obstacles and emerge stronger on the other side.
I am beyond grateful for Mr. Lightfoot's hard work, dedication, and genuine care for his clients. His compassion and commitment to justice have been a true blessing in my life, and I thank God for guiding me to a lawyer who not only understands the intricacies of healthcare law but also genuinely cares about the well-being of his clients.
In conclusion, I wholeheartedly recommend Reinhart Boerner Van Deuren s.c. and Mr. Robert Lightfoot to anyone in need of legal representation in the healthcare industry. Their professionalism, expertise, and empathetic approach set them apart as a truly exceptional legal team. Thank you, Mr. Lightfoot, for being a guiding light in my darkest hours.
Warm regards,
Shatara J.
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17 Dec, 2022 by Craig james
Joe Bugni is a good man. Highly recommend.
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18 Feb, 2020 by Segway jeremy ryan
Joe Bugni and Peter Moyers did an excellent job for me. They really poured their heart into all of the motions and showed immense attention to the case. They were also available to talk to regularly. I will admit there is a stigma around the term "Public Defenders" but, at least for Joe and Peter (I can't speak for the other attorneys as I didn't work with them) this stigma was strongly defied. Looking back I feel representation was comparable and maybe even exceeded that which could have been acquired with a private attorney. It is evident that this is a passion not just a career. All other staff (office, interns, social workers) had the same quality of service and care as well. If you're in a position where you cannot afford a private attorney you've lucked out here.
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02 May, 2024 by Kathleen helping hands
Dear Reinhart Boerner Van Deuren s.c. and Mr. Robert Lightfoot,
I am writing to express my deepest gratitude for the exceptional legal services provided by Mr. Robert Lightfoot of Reinhart Boerner Van Deuren s.c. Mr. Lightfoot has proven to be not only an exceptional attorney but also a compassionate advocate for healthcare practices facing mistreatment and challenging circumstances.
In my darkest and most challenging times, Mr. Lightfoot emerged as a beacon of hope and support for both my family and my clients. His unwavering dedication and commitment to assisting healthcare facilities navigate complex situations within the industry have been nothing short of remarkable. Even in the face of adversity and tough opposition, Mr. Lightfoot stood by my side, believing in my vision to provide quality care to the elderly and fighting tirelessly on my behalf.
Healthcare is not just a profession for me; it is my life's passion. Unfortunately, I found myself in a situation where my ability to operate and serve my community was unjustly stripped away. It was during this dark and trying period that Mr. Lightfoot's expertise and unwavering support shone the brightest. His guidance, advocacy, and legal acumen have been instrumental in helping me navigate through challenging legal obstacles and emerge stronger on the other side.
I am beyond grateful for Mr. Lightfoot's hard work, dedication, and genuine care for his clients. His compassion and commitment to justice have been a true blessing in my life, and I thank God for guiding me to a lawyer who not only understands the intricacies of healthcare law but also genuinely cares about the well-being of his clients.
In conclusion, I wholeheartedly recommend Reinhart Boerner Van Deuren s.c. and Mr. Robert Lightfoot to anyone in need of legal representation in the healthcare industry. Their professionalism, expertise, and empathetic approach set them apart as a truly exceptional legal team. Thank you, Mr. Lightfoot, for being a guiding light in my darkest hours.
Warm regards,
Shatara J.
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17 Dec, 2022 by Craig james
Joe Bugni is a good man. Highly recommend.
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18 Feb, 2020 by Segway jeremy ryan
Joe Bugni and Peter Moyers did an excellent job for me. They really poured their heart into all of the motions and showed immense attention to the case. They were also available to talk to regularly. I will admit there is a stigma around the term "Public Defenders" but, at least for Joe and Peter (I can't speak for the other attorneys as I didn't work with them) this stigma was strongly defied. Looking back I feel representation was comparable and maybe even exceeded that which could have been acquired with a private attorney. It is evident that this is a passion not just a career. All other staff (office, interns, social workers) had the same quality of service and care as well. If you're in a position where you cannot afford a private attorney you've lucked out here.
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06 Feb, 2021 by Louis marino
20 Jan, 2020 by Jean piper
John (and Sara) were the best team I could have hired. And the fees were definitely less than others I heard about. John listened to me and appropriately relayed information to me. Thanks, John
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08 Sep, 2018 by Sie sar
Straightforward and honest. I highly recommend.
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29 Dec, 2023 by Chris van wagner
Attorney Mendoza does highly skilled and successful work for professionals who must address licensing issues. He is sharp, prompt and insightful. He is the guy to call if you are facing a challenge to your career in a licensing matter. Highly recommend.
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29 Dec, 2023 by Chris van wagner
Attorney Mendoza does highly skilled and successful work for professionals who must address licensing issues. He is sharp, prompt and insightful. He is the guy to call if you are facing a challenge to your career in a licensing matter. Highly recommend.
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05 Aug, 2023 by Josh kahle
We’ve worked with Ethan on a commercial transaction and have been thoroughly impressed. He’s super sharp and has gone above and beyond to help us get to the finish line closing a deal. Highly recommend.
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29 Dec, 2023 by Chris van wagner
Attorney Mendoza does highly skilled and successful work for professionals who must address licensing issues. He is sharp, prompt and insightful. He is the guy to call if you are facing a challenge to your career in a licensing matter. Highly recommend.
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30 Aug, 2024 by Jason etter
I had the experience with attorney Cripe. I would highly recommend this man!
Attorney Cripe was polite, ethical, and was able to solve complex issues for me! I send my deepest regards, Thank you!!
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19 Jan, 2024 by Christian velazquez
Attorney Stephannie Guzy did a great job dealing with an opposing attorney who unfairly withheld funds. She dealt with my frustrations in a very professional manner and helped expedite the proceedings.
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16 Jan, 2024 by Denise cox
I hired them for my divorce and told them up front I needed them to push back for me. They talked big, when they finally responded to me but, during arbitration, my medical records weren't discussed at all and there was very little push to get me anything like they let me to believe we would get. My attorney was more concerned with trying to wrap up early. After the dismal settlement that I signed because I didn't feel I had any other option and I told her I was very disappointed. She told me to contact her if I had any issues with my Ex complying and she would contact the judge. I had many issues with my Ex and I emailed and called her multiple times trying to get help with compliance re the sale of our house and she only called me back 12 days later which was too late. Her supervisor offered nothing except the name of a different attorney office I could work with.
While compiling the paperwork I was doing most of the work, updating her spreadsheet and constantly correcting the same errors over and over again as she kept sending me a different version of the MSA to complete.
There was NO attention to detail.
When I tried explaining I have anxiety and CPTSD & needed her to handle the conflict for me, I was told she's not a therapist and to discuss my issues with my therapist. She had no interest in understanding any of the personal issues around my case.
I was drawn in with the reasonable flat fee.
Now I realize you get what you pay for.
They caused me more stress than I would have had representing myself.
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17 Sep, 2024 by Kayla dubois
We had a fantastic experience working with Lotfi Legal regarding our immigration process! I came to our initial consultation with a complex situation and many questions after having done my own extensive research. Atty Fuchs found a path through to meet our goals that we didn't realize was available to us, which ultimately saved us many years and thousands of dollars compared to paths other attorneys were recommending. We worked together to file our applications quickly and were lucky to have full resolution of our case in a short timeframe. We couldn't be more grateful! It can be difficult to know who to trust regarding immigrations concerns and I cannot recommend Lotfi enough.
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09 Sep, 2024 by Mozhdeh fallahazad
Shabnam Lotfi and her team appeared in our lives when all hope seemed lost for our Petition for Alien Relative case. They expertly guided us through a seemingly complex process, providing clear explanations and personalized attention. Their extensive knowledge, keen insight, and compassionate heart made all the difference. Thanks to their exceptional service, we now have high hopes of reuniting with our loved ones soon.
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09 Sep, 2024 by Anahid eht
All I could ask for. Thank you Shabnam and the amazing team. Highly recommended.
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13 Aug, 2024 by Tad porterfield
When I was injured in a bike accident, I contacted Clay, and he offered very helpful advice even before I hired him. He was attentive and quick to respond throughout our settlement process, and thanks to his assistance we are very happy with the outcome.
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18 Jun, 2024 by Christina
We ran into a situation where we had purchased a home that started to show signs of major hidden damage only 6 months after we purchased it. After hiring multiple contractors to come look at the damage and doing a lot of research on our own, we realized that the sellers were aware of this damage before selling us the home and they chose not to disclose anything to us when we purchased the home (nor did they properly repair the damages).
When looking for attorneys, we came across Kevin's name because he had written a very informative article on this very subject. We hired him and after 2 years, we received the best possible outcome. I cannot say enough good things about Kevin and his background and skills as an attorney. He was incredibly patient with us, he did not overbill us, and he truly had our best interests at heart throughout the entire process.
I have worked for attorneys for over 30 years and if you find yourself in a similar situation as we were in here, look no further. Hiring Kevin was the best decision we have ever made and we are very grateful for everything he did for us.
I should also note that we inquired with several attorneys who didn't even give us the time of day before we contacted Kevin. He was up front and honest with us the entire time we worked with him. He's an excellent attorney with a strong background in real estate and litigation and we are very happy we hired him.
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23 Apr, 2024 by Kenneth burg
My experience with the Law Office of Clayton Griessmeyer was absolutely positive. I feel so fortunate to have had Clayton represent me throughout the challenging process of preparation and eventual trial. He was always professional, polite, and organized with all the intricate details. He continually kept me posted as things progressed and always took time to answer all of my questions. His breath of legal knowledge and ability to argue law made him formidable. His performance is court was outstanding. Due to his experience and talents, he was ultimately able to defeat a team of high powered defense attorneys, resulting in a substantial judgement in my favor. I truly can not image any attorney doing a better job than Clayton. Therefore, I recommend the Law Office of Clayton Griessmeyer without hesitation.
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04 Sep, 2024 by Elly klinzing
Eric Ryberg was a pleasure to work with. He is a very thoughtful and compassionate individual. My family and I give him an A plus!
Kudos to his paralegal, Carley Fettig, for her help too.
Elly Klinzing
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04 Sep, 2024 by Denise doerr
Breanne was wonderful to work with. She kept me in the loop, is professional, and compassionate. I am very thankful and feel lucky to have had such great representation during such a stressful time.
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03 Sep, 2024 by Derek hanson
I had the chance to work with Eric for an accident that happened on my motorcycle. I ended up with a broken pelvis which landed me in the hospital for a week and three months bed rest.
I contacted Eric to have him handle everything. He did exactly that. I didn't have to worry about Insurance Companies bothering me with forms to fill out or forms and paperwork with the doctors and hospitals. He also got all of the detailed information from the accident and the police. There were even some confusion between the insurance companies and the hospital offices which he took care of immediately.
Eric had me in a place for me to not worry about anything and I could put 100 percent focus on recovery. It was a great feeling!
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04 Sep, 2024 by Elly klinzing
Eric Ryberg was a pleasure to work with. He is a very thoughtful and compassionate individual. My family and I give him an A plus!
Kudos to his paralegal, Carley Fettig, for her help too.
Elly Klinzing
Read more
04 Sep, 2024 by Denise doerr
Breanne was wonderful to work with. She kept me in the loop, is professional, and compassionate. I am very thankful and feel lucky to have had such great representation during such a stressful time.
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03 Sep, 2024 by Derek hanson
I had the chance to work with Eric for an accident that happened on my motorcycle. I ended up with a broken pelvis which landed me in the hospital for a week and three months bed rest.
I contacted Eric to have him handle everything. He did exactly that. I didn't have to worry about Insurance Companies bothering me with forms to fill out or forms and paperwork with the doctors and hospitals. He also got all of the detailed information from the accident and the police. There were even some confusion between the insurance companies and the hospital offices which he took care of immediately.
Eric had me in a place for me to not worry about anything and I could put 100 percent focus on recovery. It was a great feeling!
Read more
04 Sep, 2024 by Elly klinzing
Eric Ryberg was a pleasure to work with. He is a very thoughtful and compassionate individual. My family and I give him an A plus!
Kudos to his paralegal, Carley Fettig, for her help too.
Elly Klinzing
Read more
04 Sep, 2024 by Denise doerr
Breanne was wonderful to work with. She kept me in the loop, is professional, and compassionate. I am very thankful and feel lucky to have had such great representation during such a stressful time.
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03 Sep, 2024 by Derek hanson
I had the chance to work with Eric for an accident that happened on my motorcycle. I ended up with a broken pelvis which landed me in the hospital for a week and three months bed rest.
I contacted Eric to have him handle everything. He did exactly that. I didn't have to worry about Insurance Companies bothering me with forms to fill out or forms and paperwork with the doctors and hospitals. He also got all of the detailed information from the accident and the police. There were even some confusion between the insurance companies and the hospital offices which he took care of immediately.
Eric had me in a place for me to not worry about anything and I could put 100 percent focus on recovery. It was a great feeling!
Read more
04 Sep, 2024 by Elly klinzing
Eric Ryberg was a pleasure to work with. He is a very thoughtful and compassionate individual. My family and I give him an A plus!
Kudos to his paralegal, Carley Fettig, for her help too.
Elly Klinzing
Read more
04 Sep, 2024 by Denise doerr
Breanne was wonderful to work with. She kept me in the loop, is professional, and compassionate. I am very thankful and feel lucky to have had such great representation during such a stressful time.
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03 Sep, 2024 by Derek hanson
I had the chance to work with Eric for an accident that happened on my motorcycle. I ended up with a broken pelvis which landed me in the hospital for a week and three months bed rest.
I contacted Eric to have him handle everything. He did exactly that. I didn't have to worry about Insurance Companies bothering me with forms to fill out or forms and paperwork with the doctors and hospitals. He also got all of the detailed information from the accident and the police. There were even some confusion between the insurance companies and the hospital offices which he took care of immediately.
Eric had me in a place for me to not worry about anything and I could put 100 percent focus on recovery. It was a great feeling!
Read more
04 Sep, 2024 by Elly klinzing
Eric Ryberg was a pleasure to work with. He is a very thoughtful and compassionate individual. My family and I give him an A plus!
Kudos to his paralegal, Carley Fettig, for her help too.
Elly Klinzing
Read more
04 Sep, 2024 by Denise doerr
Breanne was wonderful to work with. She kept me in the loop, is professional, and compassionate. I am very thankful and feel lucky to have had such great representation during such a stressful time.
Read more
03 Sep, 2024 by Derek hanson
I had the chance to work with Eric for an accident that happened on my motorcycle. I ended up with a broken pelvis which landed me in the hospital for a week and three months bed rest.
I contacted Eric to have him handle everything. He did exactly that. I didn't have to worry about Insurance Companies bothering me with forms to fill out or forms and paperwork with the doctors and hospitals. He also got all of the detailed information from the accident and the police. There were even some confusion between the insurance companies and the hospital offices which he took care of immediately.
Eric had me in a place for me to not worry about anything and I could put 100 percent focus on recovery. It was a great feeling!
Read more
04 Sep, 2024 by Elly klinzing
Eric Ryberg was a pleasure to work with. He is a very thoughtful and compassionate individual. My family and I give him an A plus!
Kudos to his paralegal, Carley Fettig, for her help too.
Elly Klinzing
Read more
04 Sep, 2024 by Denise doerr
Breanne was wonderful to work with. She kept me in the loop, is professional, and compassionate. I am very thankful and feel lucky to have had such great representation during such a stressful time.
Read more
03 Sep, 2024 by Derek hanson
I had the chance to work with Eric for an accident that happened on my motorcycle. I ended up with a broken pelvis which landed me in the hospital for a week and three months bed rest.
I contacted Eric to have him handle everything. He did exactly that. I didn't have to worry about Insurance Companies bothering me with forms to fill out or forms and paperwork with the doctors and hospitals. He also got all of the detailed information from the accident and the police. There were even some confusion between the insurance companies and the hospital offices which he took care of immediately.
Eric had me in a place for me to not worry about anything and I could put 100 percent focus on recovery. It was a great feeling!
Read more
04 Sep, 2024 by Elly klinzing
Eric Ryberg was a pleasure to work with. He is a very thoughtful and compassionate individual. My family and I give him an A plus!
Kudos to his paralegal, Carley Fettig, for her help too.
Elly Klinzing
Read more
04 Sep, 2024 by Denise doerr
Breanne was wonderful to work with. She kept me in the loop, is professional, and compassionate. I am very thankful and feel lucky to have had such great representation during such a stressful time.
Read more
03 Sep, 2024 by Derek hanson
I had the chance to work with Eric for an accident that happened on my motorcycle. I ended up with a broken pelvis which landed me in the hospital for a week and three months bed rest.
I contacted Eric to have him handle everything. He did exactly that. I didn't have to worry about Insurance Companies bothering me with forms to fill out or forms and paperwork with the doctors and hospitals. He also got all of the detailed information from the accident and the police. There were even some confusion between the insurance companies and the hospital offices which he took care of immediately.
Eric had me in a place for me to not worry about anything and I could put 100 percent focus on recovery. It was a great feeling!
Read more
04 Sep, 2024 by Elly klinzing
Eric Ryberg was a pleasure to work with. He is a very thoughtful and compassionate individual. My family and I give him an A plus!
Kudos to his paralegal, Carley Fettig, for her help too.
Elly Klinzing
Read more
04 Sep, 2024 by Denise doerr
Breanne was wonderful to work with. She kept me in the loop, is professional, and compassionate. I am very thankful and feel lucky to have had such great representation during such a stressful time.
Read more
03 Sep, 2024 by Derek hanson
I had the chance to work with Eric for an accident that happened on my motorcycle. I ended up with a broken pelvis which landed me in the hospital for a week and three months bed rest.
I contacted Eric to have him handle everything. He did exactly that. I didn't have to worry about Insurance Companies bothering me with forms to fill out or forms and paperwork with the doctors and hospitals. He also got all of the detailed information from the accident and the police. There were even some confusion between the insurance companies and the hospital offices which he took care of immediately.
Eric had me in a place for me to not worry about anything and I could put 100 percent focus on recovery. It was a great feeling!
Read more
04 Sep, 2024 by Elly klinzing
Eric Ryberg was a pleasure to work with. He is a very thoughtful and compassionate individual. My family and I give him an A plus!
Kudos to his paralegal, Carley Fettig, for her help too.
Elly Klinzing
Read more
04 Sep, 2024 by Denise doerr
Breanne was wonderful to work with. She kept me in the loop, is professional, and compassionate. I am very thankful and feel lucky to have had such great representation during such a stressful time.
Read more
03 Sep, 2024 by Derek hanson
I had the chance to work with Eric for an accident that happened on my motorcycle. I ended up with a broken pelvis which landed me in the hospital for a week and three months bed rest.
I contacted Eric to have him handle everything. He did exactly that. I didn't have to worry about Insurance Companies bothering me with forms to fill out or forms and paperwork with the doctors and hospitals. He also got all of the detailed information from the accident and the police. There were even some confusion between the insurance companies and the hospital offices which he took care of immediately.
Eric had me in a place for me to not worry about anything and I could put 100 percent focus on recovery. It was a great feeling!
Read more
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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:
-
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.
