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12 Jun, 2017 by Dan
Francine was an absolute professional when working with her to have our retirement planning process trademarked. Over a period of months we communicated via email, telephone conference, and webinars to layout our plan to achieve our goal. Francine was able to guide us through the labyrinth of legal potholes and landmines which allowed us to not only get our process trademarked, but to obtain a registered trademark! There is no doubt that without her help we would not have been able to achieve the highest standard. Thanks again Francine!
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11 Sep, 2014 by Anonymous
Francine went above and beyond in responding to our urgent need for intervention in a business crisis with a rogue associate. Because this turned out to be a specialty case with unique requirements, she spoke personally the very next day with a top colleague, who in turn cleared her schedule to meet with us ASAP. It would have taken days and probably weeks to get to see this second lawyer. We are forever in Francine's debt for the help she gave us.
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07 Sep, 2014 by Rhr_chat
She answered my Avvo query with respect and knowledge generously shared. She picked up on fact that it wasn't just about a $2600 fee paid - the acct blew a sol and an 80 year old lost $30K. Other attys answered as if "not worth any atty's time" bc money is so small. That seems like an stand for our legal system. I wish NC & USA had more attys like this fine lady.
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03 May, 2012 by Anonymous
Alice helped us work through a complex issue involving nonprofit law and accounting (we paired her with our accountant, and it's turned out to be a fabulous combination). She's both a strategic thinker and very detail-oriented. She provides great assistance and is tremendously responsive. And, she was able to provide us with a marvelous referral for an IP attorney.
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23 Nov, 2011 by Anonymous
I have worked with Alice on various projects for a decade or so. She understands how to ask for context about the project so that she can tailor her advice so that it is relevant, specific, and helpful. She always seems to be on top of the latest issues, and has been happy to refer me to various public websites for information, as opposed to her doing so and then charging! She has great experience and is a delight to work with.
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19 May, 2011 by David
To me, the hallmark of a good attorney, is that they listen, and carefully assess the requirements of their clients without making too many assumptions. Alice Anderson was careful and thoughtful in her approach. I think my case was unusual in that it bridged non-profit business law and aspects of other areas of law as well, and when I asked her if she would have a conference with my other lawyer, she handled that carefully and did her homework. I am an individual, not a corporation, and Alice made sure that I understood all the details and ramifications of my situation. She advised me and gave me options without dictating the "only solution". It was a complicated situation (at least it seemed that way to me) so I'm glad she was thorough. It was also reassuring to get a little hand-holding and coaching when I needed it. She was efficient, and the process actually went faster than I had anticipated. My honest feeling is that if you are looking for a non-profit attorney who does their job efficiently, carefully and creatively, you couldn't find a better lawyer than Alice Anderson. When the bill came I was very pleasantly surprised at how she added up the hours. No complaints here; it was a great experience and I would use her services again in a second.
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27 May, 2013 by Dave
Ben is personable whilst being able to explain the legalese and counsel in a way that allows the client (me) to absorb complex issues and manage them and continue to perform without interruptions to my time which I need to spend on a myriad of other issues, as most of us do.
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22 Jan, 2017 by Tom mcintyre
I had been giving anesthesia for Kaiser for twenty years when I had routine back surgery for a herniated disc. The surgeon operated at the wrong level and damaged sacral nerve roots, leaving me disabled, with intractable pain. David was thorough, expert, and aggressive. I was very fortunate to have him representing me, the settlement meant that though I can not work my family did not suffer financially.
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12 Jun, 2023 by Martin siggins
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12 Jan, 2023 by Ron evans
Review Outstanding, the best attorney I have ever worked with. Her professor at Princeton said at one point “Gina DeVito, she would fight the devil in a phone booth”. And that really sums up and defines how she represents her clients and protects them from the opposing side while she is completely on the offensive. Whenever I was in depositions, or whatever stage of a lawsuit, I always felt safe, having her right next to me, and literally felt sorry for the other side at one point. Gina is strategic, smart, collaborative, and relentless when it comes to representing her client. Truly, a Tigres with lockjaw. Gina has also been a guest Several times on major news networks as a legal law contributor on the nightly news. I just cannot say enough wonderful things about her. If you’re lucky enough for her to take your case you will be glad she did. You can count on her, no matter where you are in your legal situation. On a personal note, she is kind, caring, loving, spiritual and stunning when you meet her in person. She is an athlete, very fit, and the best dressed person I have ever seen. Absolutely stunning. You are welcome to contact me anytime you want to discuss my experience with the DeVito law, group, and Gina DeVito. Ron Evans, former President and COO of First California Title division of United Title.
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05 Jul, 2023 by Nycarol painter2
Simply the best!
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08 Mar, 2024 by Dario
Although chronic pain can sometimes feel like a curse, mostly I feel lucky to be alive and grateful for the help I've received since i got a second chance at living. It's been my recent experience that Zinn Law and Co. Are the best in the Bay at handling personal injury cases. When it comes to getting hit off your bike in the city, as I was, there really is no amount of$that can heal such injuries. But something is better than nothing, and in my case that something was great!! Thanks everyone (praying hands emoji)
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05 Jan, 2023 by Eliot reiner
I had a case against Barri years ago. I still remember her after nearly 30 years- Extremely bright, charming, very effective strategist and tactician. Barri is a talented attorney and someone you'd prefer to have on your side, not "their's".
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06 Apr, 2022 by Erica
I am so grateful for Mark Zanobini. Throughout the lengthy lawsuit process, he was always professional, kind, and responsive. I would recommend him - and his incredible team - to anyone seeking a lawyer.
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08 Mar, 2024 by Dario
Although chronic pain can sometimes feel like a curse, mostly I feel lucky to be alive and grateful for the help I've received since i got a second chance at living. It's been my recent experience that Zinn Law and Co. Are the best in the Bay at handling personal injury cases. When it comes to getting hit off your bike in the city, as I was, there really is no amount of$that can heal such injuries. But something is better than nothing, and in my case that something was great!! Thanks everyone (praying hands emoji)
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05 Jan, 2023 by Eliot reiner
I had a case against Barri years ago. I still remember her after nearly 30 years- Extremely bright, charming, very effective strategist and tactician. Barri is a talented attorney and someone you'd prefer to have on your side, not "their's".
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28 Jun, 2021 by Rob morse
Did not return a phone message. Do not trust a lawyer unwilling to take your money.
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08 Mar, 2024 by Dario
Although chronic pain can sometimes feel like a curse, mostly I feel lucky to be alive and grateful for the help I've received since i got a second chance at living. It's been my recent experience that Zinn Law and Co. Are the best in the Bay at handling personal injury cases. When it comes to getting hit off your bike in the city, as I was, there really is no amount of$that can heal such injuries. But something is better than nothing, and in my case that something was great!! Thanks everyone (praying hands emoji)
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05 Jan, 2023 by Eliot reiner
I had a case against Barri years ago. I still remember her after nearly 30 years- Extremely bright, charming, very effective strategist and tactician. Barri is a talented attorney and someone you'd prefer to have on your side, not "their's".
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28 Jun, 2021 by Rob morse
Did not return a phone message. Do not trust a lawyer unwilling to take your money.
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08 Mar, 2024 by Dario
Although chronic pain can sometimes feel like a curse, mostly I feel lucky to be alive and grateful for the help I've received since i got a second chance at living. It's been my recent experience that Zinn Law and Co. Are the best in the Bay at handling personal injury cases. When it comes to getting hit off your bike in the city, as I was, there really is no amount of$that can heal such injuries. But something is better than nothing, and in my case that something was great!! Thanks everyone (praying hands emoji)
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05 Jan, 2023 by Eliot reiner
I had a case against Barri years ago. I still remember her after nearly 30 years- Extremely bright, charming, very effective strategist and tactician. Barri is a talented attorney and someone you'd prefer to have on your side, not "their's".
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28 Jun, 2021 by Rob morse
Did not return a phone message. Do not trust a lawyer unwilling to take your money.
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15 Jan, 2022 by Aileen bandong
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24 May, 2021 by James butts
Believe all the negative reviews here because the positive reviews are highly suspect. I used Terry for a legal matter and would not recommend him. I never had the urge to write a review on Yelp, but here I am and out of all the business establishments to write one about, it was a law firm and not a restaurant. My main issue I had was that Terry was very rude to me! He was rude to the person who was paying him. That alone should tell you everything. He secretly judges you. I honestly feel as if I was paying someone while they were not caring about my situation. Terry is one of the most u professional attorneys I have ever met. The fact that his wife lives on this page to cover up his actions is appalling. It's about time you stop enabling him! Please do your self a favor and find another capable attorney from a more reputable law firm. Some of the issues I had with Terry included him being abusive to me and yelling at me and cutting me off while talking. He also made me do my own legal work because he was so lazy. I had such an unpleasant experience with him. He mentally scarred me! He also was very unprepared. It's as if he never been to law school. He didn't know certain legal procedures to the point where I now have to hire another attorney. A more capable attorney to fix his mess. At least I am now treated with respect for my legal matter and he is handling it more professionally. Unlike Terry. I could go on but please save yourself and use another law firm. These reviews cannot be for the same person. A small law firm has reviews akin to a popular restaurant. Who are these people?! Terry also seems to have issues with billing. Especially from what I have read. It seems they do this often. I was also defrauded by this practice. Apparently he was also reported to the Bar. I suspect that this is normal business for this law firm. So if you use this firm, check your Billings or else they will just over-bill you for work never done. Please stay away! You are welcome.
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26 Feb, 2021 by Reilly grills
Used Mayo & Mayo for a legal matter. I selected them based on their Yelp rating and that they were close to my office. I would not recommend this law firm based on my interaction with both individuals. I felt that the quality of service could have been better. Also I do agree that Terry can be bit rude to his clients. I felt I got similar treatment. I also did not like how I was quoted one fee and then asked for additional funds with no hourly breakdown. Overall I would say to use another law firm. I didn’t have much time to pick so I choose poorly. Don’t make my mistake. To the owner, please provide better service and treat your clients with respect.
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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.