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11 Jul, 2024 by Celena s. chong
Overpromised and underdelivered. 1. I had her on retainer but was mistakenly charged $450 twice in one month. 2. I was promised two employment contracts before the end of June, but did not receive them due to her personal reasons. I was then promised an additional two weeks of grace charge during which I was still charged. 3. She did not respond to retainer texts and email messages for updates until I reached out to her office. 4. I was again promised yesterday that I would receive my deliverables by the end of the day. I emailed and texted her at 11pm and 2 AM waiting for them, but I still have no paperwork indicating any work was done for my company. 5. She continued to argue that there was a bulk of deliverables coming my way and that her two calls (one being a free initial consultation and the other an update of the progress which I did not see or receive anything) constituted sufficient legal advice. She did not offer any refund until I asked, nor did she send me what was completed. She argued that her deliverables exceeded the $900 value, but I still question whether any work was actually done, as I have not seen anything tangible, just a lot of talk. Please do reply back to this post since I don’t hear much anyways. Update: I texted at 2am bc I was promised to have deliverables by later the night, Duh! 🙄 glad that I paid the lowest monthly retainer because I still won’t get them with a higher fee especially your over promise again. anyways…no worries! The way you responded back, hopefully helped others make a better impression of you too.
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18 Mar, 2024 by Karl
Over the past few years, Nan has been a trusted advisor for a multitude of situations pertaining to my private practice. I have found her to be very approachable and willing to spend time understanding the concerns that I have had. She has most recently helped me negotiate the sale of my practice and was a great advocate on my behalf. This most recent situation was very stressful and filled with unexpected hurdles, but she was a great sounding and was a calming voice in my ear. She has always shown concern and advised me to act in a way that would best serve my needs. She is highly recommended.
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24 Jan, 2024 by Lee
I have been working with Nan Gallagher on different issues for more than a year now. I find her to be level-headed and that helps to calm me when I am going through the stress of business and legal situations. I have worked with many lawyers, and Ms. Gallagher's integrity, professionalism, and knowledge are unmatched. Ms. Gallagher also has given me the guidance that I have needed to negotiate difficult legal issues, and has done so in a way that has kept me from getting myself into trouble, as I don't always see the forest through the trees. I would use Nan Gallagher for all of my legal issues and problems without hesitation.
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06 Nov, 2024 by Ed doerr
Michele is truly wonderful to work with. She is both helpful in navigating and compassionate to the stress that comes with divorce proceedings.
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04 Sep, 2024 by Gerald baginski
Michele Hart is an outstanding divorce lawyer. Michele walks you through the whole process and explains in detail from the beginning of the divorce until the end. I highly recommend her services and you will not be disapointed
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27 Jun, 2024 by Tara baroni
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04 Jan, 2024 by Warren wannamaker
Shareen recently represented me in the sale of my house. I'm a first-time seller, and Shareen patiently provided explanations, information, and guidance on how to proceed through each step of the closing process. She was in regular communication, providing status updates through every twist and turn. She was tenacious in helping overcome any of the various obstacles that we faced along the way. Shareen was amazing, and I would wholeheartedly recommend her to anyone!
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03 Jan, 2024 by Stanley rosario
I worked with Shareen on a recent real estate transaction. Throughout the transaction, she was a true professional, maintaining constant and transparent communication while navigating through the various obstacles encountered and keeping our clients' interests in the forefront. I would recommend her to real estate agents and clients alike, and look forward to collaborating again in the future.
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13 Feb, 2023 by Julian wang
Shareen is the best lawyer I have ever worked with. In the last 6 months she helped us with 3 different cases, one home sales, one tenant eviction and one retirement fund. All three cases were completed in time and successfully. She was very patience, explain everything to us in details, always responding our questions in time. You will never find a better lawyer than Shareen.
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03 Mar, 2024 by Chiara chandoha
Amazing team of attorneys! I immediately felt comfortable and felt I was with the correct attorneys. Deirdre Wheatley Liss, Maria Gonzales and Christine Cote helped me set up my last week and testament, my health directive and my power of attorney. Thank you for the fantastic service!
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09 Feb, 2024 by Saulio m. tuero
Deirdre R. Wheatley-Liss is the woman!
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14 Jul, 2023 by Roger kaufman
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21 Aug, 2024 by Michael true
Todd was very personable and explained everything in detail. He listened to all our concerns and advised accordingly.
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28 May, 2024 by Kimberly mena
Sarah is absolutely phenomenal. I want to say, thank you for being so patient, encouraging, an ear to listen too and your professionalism in all aspects. I recommend Sarah to anyone in need of not just a lawyer, but of a great, determined, skilled, strong-minded, extremely intelligent and fight-till-there’s-no-more-fight lawyer! I can’t thank her enough for the outstanding counsel she was for me during a scary time in my life. 10/10 recommend
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26 Apr, 2024 by Sandy bettleheim
Avoid
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21 May, 2019 by Tom seretis
I am a Broker/Owner of an independent real estate brokerage with 28yrs experience. I not only refer Brian Romanowsky, I'm also a client. His in-depth knowledge, compassion, integrity & patience check all the boxes I look for not only in a human, but especially in a legal counselor that represents you. Two thumbs way up!
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09 Oct, 2018 by Patrick
My wife and I used Brian and team for our real estate transaction for our first home. As first time home buyers, my wife and I were very nervous about this process as we had never bought a home and have had some friends who had awful experiences. Brian was so on top of the situation, and never went a day without checking in with us. He was free for late night phone calls as well since my wife and I work during the day. In the end, I have two main takeaways aside from what I listed above: 1. Trustworthiness: Brian doesn't sugar coat the good, bad, and ugly. The home buying process is full of ups and downs and Brian will be sure to be honest and make sure you are informed. 2. Negotiation skills: Brian got us way more than we expected after inspection and advocated on our behalf to the seller. He has done this a million times so understands when you are in the driver's seat and when you shouldn't be so aggressive. I will remain as a reference for Brian as I was so impressed by his services.
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11 Apr, 2018 by Brittany
I have worked with Brian on a case for over a year. During this time, he has been available/reachable at all times day/night/weekends for any of my ridiculous questions or anxieties in the middle of the night. He has given me scenarios with various options in which things could hypothetically work out. He was diligent and strategic with all things related to the case. His colleague Lisa Marie is also amazing to work with, so friendly, quick to respond and knowledgeable. Brian is cut throat at trial, gets the job done and is more than friendly out of the court room. I highly recommend calling Brian for any real estate related questions or concerns!
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07 Jan, 2015 by Lisa
I can't thank Bill and the Ferreira Law Group enough for all their help and guidance on the purchase of my first home! As with most first-time home buyers, I was a little unsure about the process and the legal requirements along the way, but Bill took the time to explain the process to me from start to finish. His legal expertise and experience was very evident and I felt in control and reassured throughout the entire process. Bill was also very accessible and responsive which I valued greatly. My husband and I now live in house of our dreams thanks to Bill! I highly recommend Bill and his team!
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31 Dec, 2014 by Chris
Bill is an excellent lawyer, trustworthy, savvy, and is extremely knowledgeable in his practice areas. Not only is he very active in the courtroom, but I like the fact that he is involved in the local community as well as an active participant in the legal community. I had a case which involved some very difficult circumstances which he was able to deal with without issue. Not only was Bill able to explain everything to me at each step of the process, but I honestly believe he really cared about me and my case. Bill is about results, doing things the right way, and getting the job done correctly. I wholeheartedly recommend him to anyone who has a need for legal services.
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30 Dec, 2014 by Richard
I have had the pleasure of utilizing Mr. Ferreira as my attorney several times for different case types. In each situation Mr. Ferreira was knowledgeable, punctual, pleasant, and was able to get for me the result I desired. I would highly recommend Mr. Ferreira to anyone who is in need of the best attorney.
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15 Dec, 2022 by Madalene sherman
As an agent, I have to work with an excellent team that wont kill a deal or put my clients at risk. Mike is in that portfolio. I love working with him because he thinks through the issues and solves problems. He is quick and dependable. He is my "go to" and I have received "thank you"'s from my clients for referring him.
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12 Nov, 2022 by Bill
Michael did few cases for me. Real Estate Contract, Business Contract, NDA, etc. He always had time and desired to find the best solution for me. There are no office hours for him and he was available at any time of the day or week. I highly recommend him
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10 Nov, 2022 by Andrew
Mr. Sterlin is one of the most impressive and well rounded attorneys I have ever come across. In 2017 he assisted us with my wife’s immigration from China. The federal immigration policies are confusing, drawn out, and frustrating to say the least. However, Mr. Sterlin made the process seamless and he kept us well well informed on status of the case. He also does a great job at explaining the intricacies of the law in a way we could understand. When I was purchasing a home in 2019, I asked Mr. Sterlin to be my attorney. Once again, I was impressed with the quality of effort he put into my case. The sellers attorney was certainly a stickler, but Mr. Sterlin was still able to achieve all the requirements I was seeking in the purchase. Due to his success, I felt comfortable to recommend him to my sister. From what I understand, their case had a positive outcome as well. Not only is Mr. Sterlin a knowledgeable attorney, but he also has a way of making you feel comfortable even in the most stressful circumstances. I highly recommend him for any of your legal needs!
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04 Oct, 2021 by Ellen
I just want to thank Smith + Schwartzstein, LLC. Kathryn Schwartzstein, Esq. is professional, kind and will fight for her client. I can't thank her enough for her legal advice and skill. I was taken back when she listened to my my dad's story and believed in his case. She never doubted any of the events that took place. She was an advocate for my Dad and so very lucky that she is on our side. I can't properly express my heartfelt gratitude for her services. When we first sought legal counsel, our case was riddled with legal issues. It felt like I was being attacked by the other lawyer, but Smith + Schwartzstein., LLC stepped up to the plate in more ways than one. You argued for us against all odds and being kind and compassionate along the way. Your legal counsel has meant the world to us. I would recommend Smith + Schwartzstein, LLC to my family and friends. Sincerely, Ellen
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27 Mar, 2019 by Kimberly
We have used Kathryn's services several times now. She is very helpful in answering questions we have and explaining the reasons behind the choices we have available to make which is extremely helpful.
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14 Mar, 2019 by Laurie
Kathryn is truly a professional. She is in constant contact and is alway available for a quick chat or a more lengthy conversation. My case was extremely difficult with many changes and lasted almost two years. She never waivered and constantly pushed forward getting me great results. Her team is amazing as well.
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28 Apr, 2022 by Matt higgins, cpa
I have worked with Eugene and his firm on numerous occasions as well as referring friends and clients. Eugene is an excellent attorney!
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22 Apr, 2022 by Mark
I have known and used Eugene's services for over 10 years. He has worked with me on many commercial closings. Eugene's was very professional and accommodating with me, taking his time to help me and understand every aspect of the transactions. Eugene keeps the necessary individuals updated the whole time with quick replies and updates in a timely manner.
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01 Nov, 2013 by Craig
Ethical, knowledgeable and effective. Eugene handled the execution of my late uncle's Last Will, of which I served as Executor. I was completely satisfied with the outcome and legal support from Eugene and WMSR Law.
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17 Jan, 2016 by Luda
I am very pleased with the service that has been provided by Natalia Shiishkin, very professional and in the timely fashion, would highly recommend.
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10 Dec, 2015 by Beverly
Natalia is a great lawyer! She is smart, thorough and highly competent. Her knowledge of labor law is extensive and she uses every bit of it to the benefit of her client. Her writing skills are impeccable! She put my case together so well and she did it with class and integrity; without sacrificing the assertiveness needed to get the job done. The way she brought it to my former employer was extremely satisfying and I would recommend her again and again.
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16 Jun, 2010 by Anonymous
Ms. Shishkin helped me navigate an employment law issue. She was professional, responsive and helpful. She was able to communicate the law and likely responses from my employer in a way that was very helpful. Ms. Shiskin also helped to provide concrete advice for interacting with my employer that was equally as helpful. Her superb advice and professional demeanor was in stark contrast to other attorneys I interviewed to assist with my particular employment law issue. Other attorneys’ advice was not as helpful or concrete and their focus seemed solely on litigating. Ms. Shiskin used her legal expertise to help me reach the best possible resolution for my particular employment law issue. I recommend her legal expertise and commend her client focus and strong strategic approach.
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19 Oct, 2024 by Judith becker
I would strongly recommend this Law Firm They were able to resolve multiple issues that I was dealing with that I needed a lawyer for, and were always available to discuss any questions I had.
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04 Oct, 2024 by Mickey mcfarland
There are no words to truly thank Robert Schmidt, Esq. His office was efficient and timely in resolving my legal problem.
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23 Aug, 2024 by Rashid hammouda
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07 Sep, 2023 by Colleen
Have worked with Adam Dubeck, Esq for some years now...time and time again. Wills/End-of-Life Docs/POs across 4 family members. Witnessing of docs when professional certification required. Extremely conscientious...a subject-matter expert that has always come through no matter how large or small our ask/need. Thank Adam for your sound legal counsel and pull-through.
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06 Nov, 2013 by Carol
Adam Dubeck handled my"new" will and living will. After going through a lengthy and difficult divorce, Adam did an excellent job in providing me with the guidance that I needed. My will is not a "boiler plate" document. Adam made sure that I had all that I needed to cover myself.
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13 Mar, 2013 by Anonymous
Mr. Lehrer respesented me through my insurance company when I was sued by someone who I know wasn't hurt. He did a great job and got the jury to return a verdict in my favor. If I ever need a lawyer again I will be sure and get him!
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19 Jun, 2012 by John
I hired Brian to work on an emplyment issue with my company and can not say enough about the work that was done. I would recommend Brian highly.
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09 Jun, 2017 by Anonymous
Meri Van Blarcom Gupko is highly recommend to anyone who needs help with managing an employee relations transition. She is attentive, empathetic, strong-willed and thoughtful. Meri is knowledgeable, astute and a true professional and advocate of justice. Patience, kindness and due diligence allow her to manage resolutions effectively and to keep things moving in the right direction as a key partner of the litigation process.
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18 Oct, 2016 by Jdp
Meri Van Blarcom Gupko is an attorney that I would highly recommend to anyone who needs help with an employment issue. She is very professional yet caring, friendly and compassionate. Meri was always on top of the details concerning our case and followed through on all issues of it. Never did we have to wonder what was happening with our case. Meri kept us informed by phone and email at all times. We never had to call her office and leave numerous messages because we knew that she would always reach out to us if necessary. Meri never stopped until every last issue was resolved. That is the only time she declared "case closed"! By the time the case was resolved we thought of Meri as a friend-not just an attorney. I could go on about Meri Van Blarcom Gupko's expertise and attributes; to fully recognize her knowledge, please take the time to read her profile. You will be glad you did!
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15 Dec, 2011 by Anonymous
he knows what hes doing. He knows how to talk to people and he could probably pull a rabbit out of a hat if you needed him to.
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28 Jul, 2009 by Anonymous
GOOD LAWYER, VERY PROFESSIONAL AND RESPONSIVE. I RETAINED MR FOX FOR A CRIMINAL CASE AND HE WAS VERY GOOD AT WHAT HE DID. HE WAS VERY KNOWLEDGEABLE AND ALWAYS RESPONSED TO ANY QUESTIONS I HAD.
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12 May, 2015 by Kelly
Mr. Ansell is an amazingly thorough and thoughtful lawyer. He's always reachable and thoughtful with your every request for information and guidance regarding your legal needs. My small business worked with him to file all of our initial filing papers, as well as tap into his knowledge as we grew for guidance on best practices. Whenever something came up or we had the tiniest of questions, he was always available and provided us with a thorough response, quickly. He truly looks out for your best interest as a person and a business, not just as a client.
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10 Sep, 2013 by Anonymous
We found Mr. Kane to be very intelligent, pleasant to work with and easy to get in touch with. He did a great job protecting our interests when we recently bought a house. We would highly recommend him.
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28 Sep, 2015 by Anthony
Ed is a top notch real estate attorney with vast experience in transactional real estate as well as land use and zoning matters. He has represented buyers, sellers, developers and lenders in real estate matters and also has served as special counsel to various government agencies in zoning and planning matters. I highly recommend him to anyone seeking sound, practical advice.
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16 Sep, 2019 by Mohammad
Mr. Munoz recently handled a series of complicated violations on my behalf in the Ewing Municipal Court. During the course of the process, Mr. Munoz conducted himself with utmost professionalism and candor - be it with me or the prosecutor and the judge. I'd highly recommend him.
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05 Apr, 2018 by Michael
I first met Phil while working at Johnson & Johnson and have since started my own biotech company and worked with Phil as our general counsel. I have been very impressed by the work that Phil has done for us and he has been a very supportive advocate and mentor for us in addition to his legal support. We have worked with Phil on contract review, corporate governance and have gotten feedback on negotiation in the issuance of equity securities. Phil's background has brought us an experienced view point that we rely on when dealing with large pharmaceutical companies.
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31 Oct, 2024 by Jaime de la cruz
un buen abogado con mucha experiencia en casos criminales y muy buena persona Recomendable 100 por ciento y que dios y la virgen te sigan iluminando en tu carrera como abogado.
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31 Oct, 2024 by Rosario & chris
**Review for Attorney Miguel** We wholeheartedly recommend Attorney Miguel without reservation. Our family has had the privilege of working with him for the past four years during a challenging criminal case. From the very beginning, Miguel has been nothing short of professional, attentive, and compassionate. His expertise provided us with hope during a time when we felt overwhelmed and uncertain. Miguel took the time to listen to our concerns, guiding us through every step of the process with clarity and understanding. Four years later, we can confidently say that hiring Miguel was the best decision we could have made. Thank you, Miguel, for your unwavering dedication and hard work. Your support has made a significant impact on our lives, and we are truly grateful.
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05 Sep, 2024 by Laura forsythe
We could not have been more satisfied with Juan. He was an absolute pleasure to have on our side. He was honest, professional, smart and really advocated for us with a positive outcome. He gets 5 stars from us! Thank you Juan for all you did for us.
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04 May, 2024 by David b
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14 Jun, 2023 by Tricia fox
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31 Mar, 2023 by Vin lapone
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04 May, 2024 by David b
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14 Jun, 2023 by Tricia fox
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31 Mar, 2023 by Vin lapone
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03 Mar, 2024 by Chiara chandoha
Amazing team of attorneys! I immediately felt comfortable and felt I was with the correct attorneys. Deirdre Wheatley Liss, Maria Gonzales and Christine Cote helped me set up my last week and testament, my health directive and my power of attorney. Thank you for the fantastic service!
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09 Feb, 2024 by Saulio m. tuero
Deirdre R. Wheatley-Liss is the woman!
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14 Jul, 2023 by Roger kaufman
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03 Mar, 2024 by Chiara chandoha
Amazing team of attorneys! I immediately felt comfortable and felt I was with the correct attorneys. Deirdre Wheatley Liss, Maria Gonzales and Christine Cote helped me set up my last week and testament, my health directive and my power of attorney. Thank you for the fantastic service!
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09 Feb, 2024 by Saulio m. tuero
Deirdre R. Wheatley-Liss is the woman!
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14 Jul, 2023 by Roger kaufman
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03 Mar, 2024 by Chiara chandoha
Amazing team of attorneys! I immediately felt comfortable and felt I was with the correct attorneys. Deirdre Wheatley Liss, Maria Gonzales and Christine Cote helped me set up my last week and testament, my health directive and my power of attorney. Thank you for the fantastic service!
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09 Feb, 2024 by Saulio m. tuero
Deirdre R. Wheatley-Liss is the woman!
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14 Jul, 2023 by Roger kaufman
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03 Mar, 2024 by Chiara chandoha
Amazing team of attorneys! I immediately felt comfortable and felt I was with the correct attorneys. Deirdre Wheatley Liss, Maria Gonzales and Christine Cote helped me set up my last week and testament, my health directive and my power of attorney. Thank you for the fantastic service!
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09 Feb, 2024 by Saulio m. tuero
Deirdre R. Wheatley-Liss is the woman!
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14 Jul, 2023 by Roger kaufman
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03 Mar, 2024 by Chiara chandoha
Amazing team of attorneys! I immediately felt comfortable and felt I was with the correct attorneys. Deirdre Wheatley Liss, Maria Gonzales and Christine Cote helped me set up my last week and testament, my health directive and my power of attorney. Thank you for the fantastic service!
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09 Feb, 2024 by Saulio m. tuero
Deirdre R. Wheatley-Liss is the woman!
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14 Jul, 2023 by Roger kaufman
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03 Mar, 2024 by Chiara chandoha
Amazing team of attorneys! I immediately felt comfortable and felt I was with the correct attorneys. Deirdre Wheatley Liss, Maria Gonzales and Christine Cote helped me set up my last week and testament, my health directive and my power of attorney. Thank you for the fantastic service!
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09 Feb, 2024 by Saulio m. tuero
Deirdre R. Wheatley-Liss is the woman!
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14 Jul, 2023 by Roger kaufman
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FAQs
Questions? We have answers

What a Business Lawyer Can Do for You

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

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

When Should I Hire a Business Lawyer?

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

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

What Does a Business Lawyer Do?

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

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

How Are Business Lawyers Paid?

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

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

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

How Much Does a Business Lawyer Cost?

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

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

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

Top Questions to Ask a Business Lawyer

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

  1. What is your experience with businesses like mine?
    Find out if the lawyer has handled legal issues for companies in your industry.
  2. What services do you offer?
    Ensure the lawyer can meet all your business's legal needs, from contract drafting to dispute resolution.
  3. What are your fees, and how do you bill?
    Get clarity on how you'll be charged - whether by the hour, flat fee, or retainer.
  4. How do you handle conflicts of interest?
    Ask how the lawyer ensures there is no conflict in representing your business.
  5. Can you provide references from other business clients?
    Speaking with past clients will give you an idea of the lawyer's expertise and professionalism.
  6. Do you have experience in my specific industry?
    Industry-specific knowledge can be crucial, especially in highly regulated fields like healthcare or finance.

How to Check the Credibility of a Business Lawyer

To ensure you're hiring a reputable business lawyer:

  • Check state bar association records: Verify that the lawyer is in good standing and has no disciplinary actions against them.
  • Look for client reviews or testimonials: Online reviews, testimonials, or word of mouth from other business owners can provide insight into the lawyer's reliability and effectiveness.
  • Ask for references: A credible lawyer should have satisfied clients who can vouch for their services.
  • Check professional memberships: Membership in respected legal organizations (such as the American Bar Association or a local business lawyer association) can signal credibility.
  • Review their website and professional profile: A well-established lawyer typically has a professional website showcasing their areas of expertise, credentials, and case success.

What Should I Prepare for My First Consultation?

To make the most out of your first consultation with a business lawyer, prepare the following:

  • A description of your business and its structure: This will help the lawyer understand your legal needs.
  • Any current contracts or agreements: If you're seeking contract advice, bring copies of existing contracts.
  • A list of legal issues or concerns: Be ready to discuss any potential legal challenges, such as regulatory compliance, disputes, or transactions.
  • Financial documents: If applicable, bring financial records related to the legal matter you're seeking help with.
  • Questions about fees and billing: Ensure you understand the lawyer’s payment structure and fees upfront.

By preparing these materials, you can ensure that your first meeting with a business lawyer is productive and informative.

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