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29 Sep, 2024 by Christina mcdonough
Eric is absolutely fantastic! He is smart, very knowledgeable, and very responsive. He is always available when you need him and I am beyond impressed by his ability to move quickly and efficiently. His advice is excellent and practical. I feel very fortunate to be his client.
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21 Apr, 2022 by Timothy ladd
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21 Apr, 2022 by Matthew bresette
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09 Mar, 2015 by Anne & frank
Attorney McNichols has demonstrated her impressive knowledge and effective demeanor to us through many projects over the past ten or more years. She has taken the time to get to know our business and family situations so that she can be as thorough, accurate and economical as possible. Our projects have included multiple residential and commercial real estate (including condominium organization) and business transactions, LLC set-up and filings, preparation of wills. She recently helped us successfully close a complex business sale that was drawn out over a protracted period due to buyers' issues. She stuck with us and advised us soundly every step of the way. Thanks to Attorney McNichols we have secured our retirement through this transaction! We are extremely grateful for her availability, responsiveness and prompt and thorough communication. Excellent communication is so important in any successful relationship but especially in the attorney-client relationship. Attorney McNichols is always quick to respond to the smallest of questions in a prompt and courteous manner. She is informative without being the least bit condescending. On the rare occasion that she has not had an immediate answer for us she has been able to consult with her team members to promptly meet our needs. Attorney McNichols is great on her own and even stronger as a member of like-minded, professional and dedicated team of advisors at her firm. She also maintains a strong paralegal staff to back her up. Her fees have always been fair and reasonable. We look forward to working with Attorney McNichols and her colleagues for many years to come!
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09 Mar, 2015 by Harry
Liz is smart, dependable and focused. She has a strong background in real estate, condominium and timeshare law, also conveyancing, financing and commercial transactions. Her documents are enforceable and protect the client - while still being readable! She is also a good listener and a quick study, it never takes her long to grasp (and often improve-upon) a transaction.
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01 May, 2020 by Joel
I recently sold my home in Falmouth, Mass. on my own and I called Mr. Garner. He walked me through the process clearly, telling me what issues I would need to address. From the start, he and his paralegal, Denise, made the process go smoothly. I emailed Denise numerous times and she is a real problem-solver. This law office is professional and experienced, and I recommend them to others who have real estate legal needs.
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22 Mar, 2015 by Dj
I first met Brian when he represented another party in a real estate transaction. We went on to use Brian and his firm to represent our company in its mortgage lending activities. During the course of the last 10 years, he has handled all real estate documentation and been involved in many property negotiations representing our company. As a company active in mortgage lending and discounted mortgage acquisitions, Brian has dealt with our challenges including bankruptcies and foreclosures. We are happy to have Brian on our side of the table.
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16 Sep, 2019 by Grant
Ms. Johansen reviewed and substantially overhauled—and improved—existing legal agreement templates for my business. In the process, I found her to be patient, clear, highly intelligent, thorough, consummately professional, and a delight to work with. Her excellent work afforded me greater protection and peace of mind. I happily and heartily recommend her services.
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09 May, 2021 by Anonymous
I hired this lawyer to offer legal advice on a small claims related matter for our business. He failed to do proper diligence on the party bringing the claim against us, attempted to charge us for his own mistakes that delayed our response to the courts, and was quite unprofessional throughout. Avoid this attorney.
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What a Business Lawyer Can Do for You

A business lawyer provides critical legal guidance and support to entrepreneurs, startups, and established businesses. Whether you are forming a new company, drafting contracts, or navigating complex regulations, a business attorney ensures you are legally protected and operating within the law. They can also help prevent legal disputes or represent you in negotiations, transactions, or lawsuits that arise during the course of business operations.

Business lawyers have expertise in areas such as business formation, contract law, intellectual property, employment law, mergers and acquisitions, and corporate governance. They ensure that your business is compliant with relevant laws and help mitigate risks that could threaten your company's success.

When Should I Hire a Business Lawyer?

Hiring a business lawyer is essential at various stages of business development, including:

  • Forming a business: When deciding on the best structure for your company (LLC, corporation, partnership, etc.), a lawyer can guide you through the registration and compliance process.
  • Drafting contracts: If you need contracts for employees, partners, suppliers, or clients, a lawyer ensures these documents are legally sound and in your best interest.
  • Mergers, acquisitions, or dissolutions: If you are buying, selling, or dissolving a company, legal counsel is critical to avoid costly mistakes.
  • Compliance and regulatory issues: A lawyer can help navigate complex regulations, particularly in industries like healthcare, finance, or tech.
  • Resolving disputes: Whether it's contract disagreements, intellectual property infringement, or employment issues, a business lawyer helps mediate, negotiate, or litigate on your behalf.

What Does a Business Lawyer Do?

Business lawyers provide a wide range of services that cater to different legal needs of a business. They can:

  • Help you choose the best legal structure for your business.
  • Draft, review, and negotiate contracts with employees, suppliers, customers, or business partners.
  • Ensure regulatory compliance with local, state, and federal laws.
  • Advise on tax strategies to minimize your business's tax burden.
  • Assist with intellectual property protection, such as trademarks, patents, and copyrights.
  • Handle mergers, acquisitions, and business sales, ensuring all legal paperwork is in order.
  • Resolve disputes through negotiation, arbitration, or litigation.

How Are Business Lawyers Paid?

Business lawyers typically charge either by the hour or on a flat-fee basis, depending on the complexity of the work. Common payment structures include:

  • Hourly rates: The lawyer charges based on the time spent working on your case. Rates vary depending on the lawyer's experience and location.
  • Flat fees: For certain tasks, such as incorporating a business or drafting a standard contract, a lawyer may offer a flat fee.
  • Retainer: Some businesses may hire a lawyer on retainer, paying a fixed amount each month to have ongoing access to legal services.

The payment structure is often discussed during an initial consultation so you can choose the one that best suits your business needs and budget.

How Much Does a Business Lawyer Cost?

The cost of hiring a business lawyer depends on factors such as:

  • The complexity of the legal issue: More complex matters, like mergers or intellectual property disputes, typically cost more than routine tasks like contract drafting.
  • The lawyer's experience and location: More experienced lawyers or those in larger cities often charge higher fees.
  • The nature of the billing arrangement: Hourly rates can range from $150 to $1,000 or more, depending on the lawyer's expertise. Flat fees are usually available for simpler matters like forming an LLC or drafting a standard contract.

It's essential to discuss fee structures upfront to avoid surprises.

Top Questions to Ask a Business Lawyer

Before hiring a business lawyer, ask the following questions during your consultation:

  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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