Filter by

star star star star star
14 Nov, 2012 by Anonymous
I would highly recommend Larry’s services to anyone with legal issues. Larry was able to spell out the risks in simple terms and the likely outcomes. He was able to negotiate a very favorable deal that worked as much in my favor as possible. There were two other co-defendants against the state in the matter and while their lawyers may have had more experience, Larry was clearly the most prepared and most professional. Just because a guy has been around for 20 years doesn’t mean he will get you the best outcome. Larry is hungry and smart and that is what matters in court.
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
07 Oct, 2011 by Timothy
I had a pretty serious traffic ticket that had potential for me to lose my driving privileges in the state of NJ. I needed an attorney and did not really have anyone in mind. I was not happy with my previous attorney and was looking to hire someone new. I was given Larry Hardcastle's number from a close friend of mine who had used him in the past and was very happy with his service. When I called Larry, right away I felt confident that he knew what he was talking about. He clearly explained to me why i got my ticket, scenarios on how it could play out, and what needed to be done. He did not beat around the bush and was completely honest with me about possible outcomes as well as how he believed things would play out. When we went to court he seemed to have a very good relationship with the judge and the prosecutor. He acted completely professional and ended up solving all of my issues. I was even thankfully able to keep my DL. When we were finished he sat down with me and answered all of my questions, gave me future advice, and explained to me possible reprocussions if i were to get this ticket again. He genuinly seemed to care instead of just rushing off which was a pleasant bonus to his services provided. Mr. Hardcastle is someone i would certainly hire again in the future.
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
22 Sep, 2011 by Bryan santos
Larry is a great lawyer , best one I've ever had. he was very helpful with all our needs. We will definitly recommend him to all our friends and family. I think I will use larry as my permanent lawyer for anything if i could
Read more Avvo
See more
star star star star star
15 Jul, 2021 by Jungmin
If you are looking for an attorney for a legal matter, look no further. Mr. Janel is THE attorney and I am going to share with you why. I was having a dispute over a return of security deposit with my previous landlord. I initially retained a different attorney (yes, my fault), but he was not only not knowledgeable in this area but also indifferent. I received an impression that he wasn’t taking my case seriously but using it just to squeeze easy money out of me. I was actually stressed out with him more than the litigation itself. Then, I found Mr. Janel. He was patient with me during my initial consultation, devoted time to really understand the situation, and even reviewed my docket on the spot. My case was unnecessarily more tangled than it was supposed to be, because my previous attorney messed up my complaint. Mr. Janel walked me through all different scenarios and his strategies and even volunteered to talk with my wife who was basically disgusted with the whole litigation situation. I felt much more at ease emotionally after speaking with him. Plus, the fact that he has been practicing for nearly 30 years and that he gives lectures to other attorneys on tenant/landlord cases made him the perfect attorney for my case. After retaining Mr. Janel, everything was a breeze. I just handed my supporting docs to him and he handled everything thereafter. I sometimes wondered why he wasn’t asking any questions before my trial, because my understanding of client-attorney communications was only from movies where an attorney coaches his/her client on every little thing. But in retrospect, it wasn’t necessary for him because he understood my case better than I did myself. Why do I say this? Because we won on every claim in the trial and Mr. Janel’s examination questions constantly revealed the landlord’s perjuries one after another. The result of the trial? Exactly what he told me in the initial consultation. You might still be thinking there are other competent attorneys out there. But what I can tell you is Mr. Janel is not only competent but also compassionate and wholeheartedly works for your best interest. I say this, because I did work with a different attorney and know exactly what it feels like to be treated like an annoying wallet. I highly recommend Mr. Janel as an attorney. You won’t regret contacting him.
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
24 May, 2010 by Andrew
I had a DUI charge that ended up at the Superior Court level when it really should have stayed at the municipal level. With hardly any hassle, he was able to bring it back to the municipal courts and I ended up with the best case scenario in terms of punishment. Real nice guy, won't BS you, but also is sympathetic to your case and stress that comes along with it.
Read more Avvo
See more
star star star star star
11 Aug, 2021 by Jana
An excellent ethical lawyer who listens carefully to me, his client, and works hard and diligently to really help me. I have not met such a decent lawyer for a long time. I strongly recommend him.
Read more Avvo
See more
Discover the ideal lawyer
You can search a lawyer by practice area, lawyer name, city, state, or ZIP code
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.

Scroll to top