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27 Nov, 2014 by Rob
We are a couple from British Columbia that had purchased a recreational cottage on the US side of the border in Oroville, WA a few years back. The developer missed the completion target which put them in default with the Purchase Agreement. The new dates were not agreeable to us, so we decided to let the agreement default and not proceed and get our deposit money returned. The developer's attorney argued on several legal doctrines that we should be forced to proceed despite the default with the agreement. Dale was our representative as we worked through the normal process of back and forth posturing and arguing that eventually led to binding arbitration. The eventual decision favoured us 100% - we received our earnest money back, they paid the arbitration fee and our lawyer's fees. Dale is extremely capable and showed this in high contrast to counsel from the other side. He made the process very straightforward and also showed extreme patience with us as we worked through a long and complicated process. We would highly recommend Dale as a very capable attorney. R & N B.C. , Canada
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06 Jan, 2023 by Anonymous
Did not prevent landlord from making false/negative statements about me so I can find suitable housing.
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01 Aug, 2018 by Anonymous
Ms. Reinbold represented me in my divorce. It was a long protracted process and involved business and personal assets. There were other complex issues she had to deal with and she faced highly paid, seasoned attorneys from Seattle, Spokane and other large markets. These attorneys tried to use various tactics to give my ex-wife unfair advantages. She beat them all... not one issue did she lose even though some cited cases used against us were not presented until trial. If you want a fighter who thinks quick on her feet I highly recommend Ms. Reinbold.
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30 Aug, 2017 by Crispin
The best decision that I have made in a while was hiring Leone Reinbold as my lawyer. She was excellent in all aspects answered or replied to all my calls and concerns. She is also a great person truly listens to her clients and continues to keep in touch after proving me innocent in a difficult trial. Definitely recommend her and her firm in any situation.
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15 Jan, 2016 by Anonymous
We hired this lawyer to help us evict a tenant late last summer and now it's the first of the year. We can't ever get ahold of him, we leave numerous messages and he doesn't return our calls. This is a huge financial burden on us. It's extremely frustrating.
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31 Jul, 2015 by Anonymous
As a client of Chancey both in the position as plaintiff and defendant, I find that people who write bad reviews of Chancey are the ones that lost in a case that he represented and they where not the ones he was representing. They are also the ones who think they are above the law being fairly applied, (such as possibly former officers of the law) and who may avoid following the county and state laws in may instances which is why they are in court in the first place.
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09 Aug, 2012 by Anonymous
After the first meeting with Chancey he was extremely bad at keeping us informed, returning calls, disorganized, many, many mistakes on paper work in which we would have to correct and then be charged for. Took almost a year to take our simple case to court and now we are forced to hire another lawyer to fix what we now have learned he didn’t do correctly. Wish we could get our time and money back.
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09 Nov, 2020 by Darrell
The worst divorce attorney in okanogan county Washington. Never answers your call and has no experience as a divorce attorney.
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20 May, 2017 by Anonymous
I thought attorney's are supposed to defend their clients. She did the exact opposite to me in court last month. I thought I was lucky she actually showed up to my hearing this last time, I was terribly wrong. For a year she hasn't been present for my hearings, but I was finally able to reach her a week before my hearing and she said it was going to all be okay. I thought we had discussed a plan of action for court. On the day of my court she threw my under the bus to the judge saying I never contact her and haven't in months and she has no idea what I've really been up to. So the judge decided to be less lenient on me then he was originally going to be. I will be switching counsel because of this last hearing. She didn't sound like someone defending me. I was humiliated in court and punished by my own attorney. She is the WORST, don't waste your time or money.
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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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