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01 Oct, 2024 by Debra
I was referred to Wendell when it was discovered that a portion of my late husband's estate required opening a probate case. I could not be more pleased with the experience I received working with Wendell and his staff. The details of navigating a probate case were fully explained from the beginning to the end of the case and Wendell was always supportive and immediately responsive to my questions. He kept me informed concerning case progress and was extremely expeditious completing my case in approximately five months. Wendell and his team are knowledgeable, understanding, and thoroughly enjoyable to work with. I intend to hire them to draw up my Will and would utilize their expertise again if necessary.
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05 May, 2021 by Eric
Mr. Wendell Belknap has been handling legal documents such as Last Will and Testament for my wife and me for many years. When my wife passed away last year, I asked Wendell for help with settling an IRA account that my wife had forgotten to link to a beneficiary. He was immediately helpful, explaining the various options available. After we selected probate as most appropriate, he carefully explained all aspects of the process, guiding me through how to get the personal representative class, summarizing assets, and formal notification (listing in local papers) for creditors, which he took care of. He referred me to another attorney who specialized in estates to help with determining the value of the estate. Additionally, Wendell personally handled communications with the IRA administrators regarding the probated estate so that appropriate paperwork would be completed. Wendell was always available for my questions and was clearly concerned that the process should be as easy and painless as possible. While probate can take a long time, and this one did, I was never concerned with the process knowing that Wendell was watching it every step of the way. I would highly recommend Wendell as your first contact lawyer.
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07 Apr, 2021 by Kathy
Wendell is an excellent choice for my uncontested divorce. From start to finish it was under 2 weeks! He was not only kind and caring but also knowledgeable and thorough. His secretary is also caring and they make a great team. I highly recommend Wendell for your Attorney! If ever I am in need I will be calling on him again.
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23 Mar, 2018 by Trevor
Without Mia Getlin, my new recreational cannabis farm wouldn't exist. I'm a grower; without her guidance, I wouldn't know where to start. She helped get my farm licensed, organize my business documents and keep us compliant. She is incredibly helpful, reachable and dependable. I would recommend her to any starting, or currently licensed, cannabis company. Thank you Mia!
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17 Mar, 2018 by Allison
I run human resources and accounting for a tier 2 producer and Mia has been a great resource with employment and industry specific tax issues. She created our owner and employee contracts to fit our specific terms and conditions of employment. In addition she has helped me navigate those contracts when we have had concerns regarding the terms and how they applied to unforeseen employee issues. Overall, Mia Getlin is a skilled attorney with reasonable rates.
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09 Mar, 2018 by Michael
Mia helped us through our OLCC Producer setup and all the various elements of our business structure. She had some great recommendations and common sense solutions to some of our questions about governance and voting rights and helped us come up with a setup that works really well for us. All this was done at a significantly more affordable rate than we had been quoted by other firms.
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24 Nov, 2017 by Robyn camp
Mr. Barnes was easy to talk to, very helpful and checked the facts. I would recommend him.
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21 Sep, 2016 by Anonymous
Sam helped me solve my problem with Clackamas County zoning. Thank you Sam!
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22 Aug, 2023 by Jimmie cook
I contacted Mr. Salyards in regards to a probate for my mother. He has been helpful, prompt, compassionate, and proactive in helping me through this emotionally difficult process.
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07 Mar, 2022 by Gregorio casas
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23 Sep, 2024 by Jake waterman
Shannon is a great player you want to have on your side when you need help with your situation! Very talented and knowledgeable at what she does. She listens well and works for what you want while guiding you through hard decisions that may need to be made. Great to work with from start to finish. Very thankful for her help.
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22 Sep, 2024 by Carey walters
Excellent attorney, very professional and customer service is great!
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10 Aug, 2024 by Dean blackwelder
Shannon and Kim were absolutely amazing to work with. They know exactly what they are doing and helped me tremendously. I would contact her again if i ever needed legal help.
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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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