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06 Jul, 2023 by Michael bartolini
Audrey Lark is a downright wonderful human being. She is passionate about what is right and that’s what matters most.
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29 Jun, 2024 by Bill sattler
Todd was recommended to me by a friend. He has shown me respect and truth in how he can help me with real estate issues. I think he works hard for his clients and has a good standing in the community. I feel as if I am in good hands trusting him.
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31 Jan, 2024 by Bernadette giordano
We had a very complicated transaction that lasted 6 months. Mr. Kelson and his office were very informative and helpful throughout the process. He is a true professional who works very hard for his clients. Thank you Mr. Kelson and staff.
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27 Oct, 2022 by Maria c.
Todd Kelson helped me with an eviction matter. I highly recommend him!
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03 Sep, 2024 by Anonymous
Mr. Kave refused to follow requests to settle my case despite him stating in writing that he would. He was not honest with an judge about having information that he was provided in writing. Both behaviors had drastic detrimental repercussions. His response to being presented with these deficiencies were to fire him. I researched him and hired him based on reviews, but feel something may have caused a drastic decline in his capabilities because my experience was terrible. He missed a court date and regularly spend great lengths recounting his past experiences unrelated to my case verbally and via written word at a high hourly rate. He will repeat the same information via phone and text and bill you for both while forgetting what you tell him about your case. Time was further wasted listening to him bad mouthing opposing counsel and giving advice based on theory instead of fact while being found wrong on every interpretation of the law he provided. If you have risk of potential losses, don’t gamble your fate!
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29 Jan, 2021 by Dan gleesack
GUY thinks he's a know it all, and will do the bare minimum, mandated.. Not aggressive in a court room to say the least...
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15 Oct, 2020 by Anonymous
Don’t let me explain what my case about. In less of two minutes he yell at me and treated me like a bag of garbage and hang up the phone. I have never been treated like this.
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13 Apr, 2013 by Anonymous
Very unprofessional and in retrospect, incompetent, vindictive and vile. She will waste your time. For her fees you can go to ANY other lawyer and not have to worry about whether they are deliberately messing things up to charge you. She is lucky I did not file a complaint against her with the bar, but I still might. Lesson learned, if it looks like a beast, then it is.
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26 Mar, 2013 by Anonymous
We used Ms. Geronimo for a brief time, and ended up switching to a more competent, professional, responsive attorney. Ms. Geronimo will spend lots of time in conversation (and time is money!), and takes a very long time to get things done. There are much, much better attorneys in the area, whose practices are run in a much smoother, more professional manner.
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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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