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12 Apr, 2019 by Lynn routon
I was a client of Ricks seven years ago . Over the last couple of years, a couple of things have come up to do with my case that had already been settled. Each time I called, Rick personally has taken my call and resolved any issues in more than a timely manner. I highly recommend Rick (Palmer Firm) . At a time when your world gets turned upside down . He is someone you can count on.
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13 Mar, 2017 by 15 perry street
Rick is a very detail oriented professional who will do his very best for you. Rick will take the time needed to learn the situation and give you all the options. I would not hesitate to recommend The Palmer Firm.
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03 Sep, 2015 by D. clark
I would definitely encourage anyone seeking legal advice in this area to go and speak with Rick. Very friendly, easy going, detailed, and is very honest and upfront. He is definitely someone who is looking out for your interests and gives you the best advice possible.
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16 Oct, 2024 by Anonymous
I don’t know many honest attorneys, but if you know ONE that’s all you need. James Clifton has always been honest with me in terms of legal advice regarding actions I’ve needed to take or not take. There have been times where I thought I needed to hire him for something, but he informed me of other routes to take in some of my situations that were doable myself, saving me money! Thankful to know an attorney like this!
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16 Oct, 2024 by Anonymous
James is very attentive and very detailed oriented. This is why he does most of my legal work. He’s done my will and medical directive. He was my closing attorney on my house. He also handled my car accident which resulted in a 6 figure settlement. He’s a bulldog in the courtroom and the nicest guy. If you want someone who will fight for you and get things done, this is the attorney for you. He does it all.
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16 Oct, 2024 by Tammy
James Clifton is in the process of handling my car accident. Doing a great job for me . I have total confidence in him to get me what I deserve .
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28 Dec, 2023 by Dwayne
I used Mr. Brian (Wooldridge) for our home Closing. It was my second house Closing. He explained things to me in a manner which the other lawyer neglected. He had us all laughing and comfortable. I will always use him going forward if he has time for me.
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14 Aug, 2022 by Mark
I used Mr. Wooldridge for an extremely complex business and real estate transaction. He guided me through the negotiations and Purchase Sale Agreement. He calmed me when I became anxious or concerned. His involvement did more than save me money, it actually made me money. I never would have consummated the deal. It changed my life. I whole heartedly recommend his services.
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31 Dec, 2022 by Tereon mattox
VERY PROFESSIONAL AND PERSONABLE LOVE THE ATMOSPHERE
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27 Oct, 2022 by K. bourroughs debrow
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25 Apr, 2011 by Darrell
I am a contractual-based computer programmer and performed work for a Macon, Georgia Internet development company from 2006-2010. I was working under essentially a verbal agreement with no written contract. That's all well and good when things are fine but when push comes to shove, verbal agreements are worth the paper they aren't written on. As it turned out, the company encountered financial difficulties during 2010 and eventually told me they no longer needed my services, refusing payment to me for two months worth of work plus a flat-fee service agreement. Mr. Finkelstein contacted the company on my behalf and negotiated a settlement with very quick results. I was extremely impressed with the way he presented my position, which was pretty weak to be honest, and he came through when another attorney may not have been able to reach an agreement. I highly recommend Mr. Finkelstein to anyone needing the services of an attorney.
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15 Aug, 2013 by Anonymous
Mr. McKee helped our family at a very critical time following the passing of my husband and son. His advice could not have been more helpful for a very complicated legal situation involving a family corporation, complex financial securities, credit cards, student loans, local property issues and many other unresolved situations left in the wake of our family's tragic losses. I would highly recommend Mr. Mckee to anyone looking for a knowledgeable and compassionate professional.
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09 Feb, 2011 by Ron
Robert is from the South Georgia Area and is above and beyond amazing with his knowledge of the law and what is practical for you in your situation. He also returns your calls.....I highly reccomend him for anything you may need in legal advice.
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05 Sep, 2024 by Emily darnell
He is the best attorney!! He helped me tremendously and had thorough knowledge of the law. He put me at so much ease through the legal process. I definitely recommend!!
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26 Aug, 2024 by Pedro cardenas
He is a fair and honest lawyer
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19 Aug, 2024 by Jason eaker
I'd highly recommend Kelly! He's honest, fair priced, very intelligent and knowledge, objective and most of all...a great communicator. He changed my views on attorneys with his great service. Highly recommend.
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29 May, 2024 by Debbie morris
Very professional and friendly
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03 Oct, 2021 by Joan hanson
Very professional yet kind in a way you feel that you have a true, trusting friend willing to go the distance
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14 Aug, 2021 by Dee reed
Fast & good.
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02 Aug, 2024 by Jacquelyn myers
I’ve not needed Rufus Smith services personally but I have worked with their staff, specifically Bonnie Latham, she is dedicated to making sure all their clients receive exceptional service. She goes above and beyond to make sure that their clients get the best possible outcome.
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01 Aug, 2024 by Callie winkles
I have had the pleasure of working with Rufus Smith and associates his paralegal Bonnie was exceptionally helpful. She always responded in a timely manner and was able to answer all of our questions regarding any of our issues. She truly went above and beyond to help with our situation.
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09 May, 2024 by Jacqueline bennett
Mr Smith wasn’t able to assist me at this time due to a short notice on my behalf. He did take the time out to listen to my concern and offered me help in finding another attorney that may be able to help. Mr. Smith sounds like he really cares. If I ever need help with a legal matter again Mr. Smith will be the 1st Lawyer I’ll reach out to. 😊
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07 Sep, 2016 by Anonymous
Jared helped me to beat a TPO that my husband was granted to remove our son from my home. He worked quickly with short notice to handle the situation. I am so thankful for that.
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21 Jul, 2016 by Eric
I cannot say enough good things about Jared Craig. But I will try: He helped me preserve my remaining sanity for my children in what was an awful domestic situation. As my seemingly straightforward case for divorce was sidetracked by several minor criminal issues, Jared never missed a beat. Not only did he help me remain calm as we proved my civil assertions, Jared and Abigail also worked very closely with me to debunk the false criminal assertions. These are commonly seen but were not anything that I was used to at all. Along the way, Jared actually dismantled the defense team. I mean that LITERALLY. We went by the book...methodically. Jared never let emotion override or outpace the facts of the case. Several of the opposing counsel actually quit when they were presented with our overwhelming evidence and airtight case. My ex-wife was using her fifth attorney by the time I was awarded custody of our four children. Thank you, Jared and Abigail and everyone at Prader and Craig. As we start this next chapter in our lives, the happiness and joy in my children's eyes makes all of the struggle somehow worthwhile.
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20 Feb, 2013 by David
I would strongly recommend to anyone that thet should not hire this lawyer! I paid him an initial consultation fee and then he wanted a $ 1000 retainer to" investigate" my case. He did not repond to me for months and only did so after prompting from me. He could not provide any information that he obtained during his "investigation". He stated that my $1000 were for his "legal conclusions and opinion" which should have been determined during my initial consultation. I got the same service from other attorneys for FREE.
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26 Mar, 2019 by Anonymous
We were having financial issues due to high medical bills. We consulted with Mr. Cates, and he was highly professional and courteous. He contacted us personally and spent quite a bit of time explaining our options.
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30 Sep, 2013 by Anonymous
Our first meeting with Mr. Cates wasn't too impressive. His door was open and he was on the phone with, I assume, a client. Apparently an unhappy client. He was loud and brusk with his caller. He apparently was getting more agitated by the minute. He finished the call and after a few minutes called us in. We explained our situation. To be fair it was going to be complicated. In order to file a bankruptcy we (he) had to go over 3 years of amended tax returns. He say he would help for $1500.00. We paid in 3 installments. after 2 weeks I called to check on his progress. We went back to his office and listened to how long and complicated our case was going to be for him to go through. He asked for an additional $500.00. I wrote a check. By this time I couldn't have paid our bills if I had wanted to. He advised us to not pay anyone or try to make arrangements with our creditors now. Long story short. We didn't pay our bills. He never filed not one paper with the court in advance of starting bankruptcy proceedings. He said our case was complicated. (Again and again) Our creditors had already cancelled cards and threatened foreclosure and car repossession. He said it really wouldn't do any good to file bankruptcy now. Creditors were charging off or threatening to sue. He said we should just forget it now. Our credit was gone and now unfixable. He looked up and said "you know you are not getting any money back don't you?" He said our phone time and his reading had run his bill up. We left in shock! In my opinion he should check into anger management classes. I would NEVER refer anyone to this ONE man office. (Oh, he did have a receptionist that worked part time.) And we were out $2,000.00 for NOTHING!
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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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