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08 Aug, 2018 by John
We interviewed Sharlene to help us update or trust and will documents. She immediately realized that an entire revamp of the documents was required to incorporate some of the new changes and updates in the NC laws. She worked with us in person in Raleigh and through email exchanges to finalize all the required documents. When it came time to put the proper paperwork in place, we met again in person. Sharlene took time to answer all questions, was available by phone, email, or in person any time. She also gave us options on what to do going forward, offering her services, or guiding us how to complete the process. I would highly recommend Sharlene for anyone who is nervous about the estate planning process. She made the entire process comfortable and thorough.
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01 Mar, 2024 by Cat bird
Professional, efficient legal services. Best experience I've had for legal needs. Staff is excellent and helpful.
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12 Oct, 2022 by Jeff biehl
27 May, 2022 by Amanda curtis farr
Helpful on point and get results, would not go anywhere else for real estate law. They do the work and get the information right the first time!
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01 Mar, 2024 by Cat bird
Professional, efficient legal services. Best experience I've had for legal needs. Staff is excellent and helpful.
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12 Oct, 2022 by Jeff biehl
27 May, 2022 by Amanda curtis farr
Helpful on point and get results, would not go anywhere else for real estate law. They do the work and get the information right the first time!
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01 Mar, 2024 by Cat bird
Professional, efficient legal services. Best experience I've had for legal needs. Staff is excellent and helpful.
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12 Oct, 2022 by Jeff biehl
27 May, 2022 by Amanda curtis farr
Helpful on point and get results, would not go anywhere else for real estate law. They do the work and get the information right the first time!
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06 Sep, 2024 by Connie r
We’re about 6mths into settling an estate from out of town, and I can’t sing the praises of Mark Vaughn, Spenser Combs and Crystal loud enough. I’m serving as the Executor, and they have been truly fantastic to work with. Most importantly they have helped me avoid mistakes BEFORE making them! I hate redoing work that should have been done right and would require extra explanation to the probate court to correct, so I GREATLY appreciate that when they say, just call/email and ask us first, they MEAN it :) Also, on several occasions that I’ve come to town to clear out the house, they have bent over backward to assist me on minor and major tasks I saw as unsolvable *problems* but to them, it was Par for the course and easily addressed.
After being in this now for several months, a couple notes of advice to offer, for those looking for estate planning & administration: 1) Request for them to do an “Heirs meeting” so they can interpret the Will/trust/whatever documents FOR you. Don’t even try to explain what you don’t know will occur on your own. Let the heirs ask the *attorneys* answer any questions they’re allowed to and describe who works for whom, and why. They essential represent the person who died so they’re basically not allowed to disclose or advise almost anything to the heirs; only the PR is under obligation/allowed to update them (and should do so regularly as the heirs sole their touch point). Having the meeting will keep costs down in the end, since they’ll not need to field all those calls/email from heirs, and not have to reexplain the correct wording, when you explain something wrong or *incompletely* accidentally LOL. When you’re deep in fresh grief after the loss of your loved one, do NOT even try to answer everyone’s questions on your own right off the bat. I’ve learned that even what I read online is grossly inaccurate for how it *actually* works so just ask them every question you have. 2) Take their advice. They really do know their stuff — backwards and forwards. Rely heavily on them b/c mistakes will cost time or money, or both. Better to get it right the 1st time.
Pro Tip: Set up your financial accounts for the estate with Susan/Martha/Dana over at FirstBank in the *Pinterest Plaza* location. Together, with this firm, they have been an efficient dream team, after a very rough start at another local bank. You won’t regret using either.
Lastly, we had to sell property and used Craig Phifer to review the listing agreement and close our side, and had a great experience. Very knowledgeable, very detail-oriented, fairly-priced, and clear instructions. (Not a lot of “hand-holding” since they’re probably used to dealing with higher-end clientele who know what they’re doing already LOL) But, that said, every single question I had if Melissa (his paralegal/assistant), she was happy to answer clearly and in as much detail as I needed :) This office is everything a team of attorneys SHOULD be.
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20 Aug, 2024 by Taylor renee
I have done 2 transactions with this firm. Tabitha being the main point of contact for each. I am only giving two starts because the transactions closed and there were not any huge issues that held up closing. Tabitha is not someone that I would ever work with again. She is rude, and has no communication skills whatsoever as well as no customer service skills. It felt like I was inconveniencing her when I would call to ask questions. I get several emails with documents attached to them with absolutely no explication on what they were. If I didn’t have experience in the real estate industry I wouldn’t have had a clue what they were. I will be taking my business elsewhere in the future.
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08 Jul, 2024 by Dennis lefond
Timely service
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06 Sep, 2024 by Connie r
We’re about 6mths into settling an estate from out of town, and I can’t sing the praises of Mark Vaughn, Spenser Combs and Crystal loud enough. I’m serving as the Executor, and they have been truly fantastic to work with. Most importantly they have helped me avoid mistakes BEFORE making them! I hate redoing work that should have been done right and would require extra explanation to the probate court to correct, so I GREATLY appreciate that when they say, just call/email and ask us first, they MEAN it :) Also, on several occasions that I’ve come to town to clear out the house, they have bent over backward to assist me on minor and major tasks I saw as unsolvable *problems* but to them, it was Par for the course and easily addressed.
After being in this now for several months, a couple notes of advice to offer, for those looking for estate planning & administration: 1) Request for them to do an “Heirs meeting” so they can interpret the Will/trust/whatever documents FOR you. Don’t even try to explain what you don’t know will occur on your own. Let the heirs ask the *attorneys* answer any questions they’re allowed to and describe who works for whom, and why. They essential represent the person who died so they’re basically not allowed to disclose or advise almost anything to the heirs; only the PR is under obligation/allowed to update them (and should do so regularly as the heirs sole their touch point). Having the meeting will keep costs down in the end, since they’ll not need to field all those calls/email from heirs, and not have to reexplain the correct wording, when you explain something wrong or *incompletely* accidentally LOL. When you’re deep in fresh grief after the loss of your loved one, do NOT even try to answer everyone’s questions on your own right off the bat. I’ve learned that even what I read online is grossly inaccurate for how it *actually* works so just ask them every question you have. 2) Take their advice. They really do know their stuff — backwards and forwards. Rely heavily on them b/c mistakes will cost time or money, or both. Better to get it right the 1st time.
Pro Tip: Set up your financial accounts for the estate with Susan/Martha/Dana over at FirstBank in the *Pinterest Plaza* location. Together, with this firm, they have been an efficient dream team, after a very rough start at another local bank. You won’t regret using either.
Lastly, we had to sell property and used Craig Phifer to review the listing agreement and close our side, and had a great experience. Very knowledgeable, very detail-oriented, fairly-priced, and clear instructions. (Not a lot of “hand-holding” since they’re probably used to dealing with higher-end clientele who know what they’re doing already LOL) But, that said, every single question I had if Melissa (his paralegal/assistant), she was happy to answer clearly and in as much detail as I needed :) This office is everything a team of attorneys SHOULD be.
Read more
20 Aug, 2024 by Taylor renee
I have done 2 transactions with this firm. Tabitha being the main point of contact for each. I am only giving two starts because the transactions closed and there were not any huge issues that held up closing. Tabitha is not someone that I would ever work with again. She is rude, and has no communication skills whatsoever as well as no customer service skills. It felt like I was inconveniencing her when I would call to ask questions. I get several emails with documents attached to them with absolutely no explication on what they were. If I didn’t have experience in the real estate industry I wouldn’t have had a clue what they were. I will be taking my business elsewhere in the future.
Read more
08 Jul, 2024 by Dennis lefond
Timely service
Read more
06 Sep, 2024 by Connie r
We’re about 6mths into settling an estate from out of town, and I can’t sing the praises of Mark Vaughn, Spenser Combs and Crystal loud enough. I’m serving as the Executor, and they have been truly fantastic to work with. Most importantly they have helped me avoid mistakes BEFORE making them! I hate redoing work that should have been done right and would require extra explanation to the probate court to correct, so I GREATLY appreciate that when they say, just call/email and ask us first, they MEAN it :) Also, on several occasions that I’ve come to town to clear out the house, they have bent over backward to assist me on minor and major tasks I saw as unsolvable *problems* but to them, it was Par for the course and easily addressed.
After being in this now for several months, a couple notes of advice to offer, for those looking for estate planning & administration: 1) Request for them to do an “Heirs meeting” so they can interpret the Will/trust/whatever documents FOR you. Don’t even try to explain what you don’t know will occur on your own. Let the heirs ask the *attorneys* answer any questions they’re allowed to and describe who works for whom, and why. They essential represent the person who died so they’re basically not allowed to disclose or advise almost anything to the heirs; only the PR is under obligation/allowed to update them (and should do so regularly as the heirs sole their touch point). Having the meeting will keep costs down in the end, since they’ll not need to field all those calls/email from heirs, and not have to reexplain the correct wording, when you explain something wrong or *incompletely* accidentally LOL. When you’re deep in fresh grief after the loss of your loved one, do NOT even try to answer everyone’s questions on your own right off the bat. I’ve learned that even what I read online is grossly inaccurate for how it *actually* works so just ask them every question you have. 2) Take their advice. They really do know their stuff — backwards and forwards. Rely heavily on them b/c mistakes will cost time or money, or both. Better to get it right the 1st time.
Pro Tip: Set up your financial accounts for the estate with Susan/Martha/Dana over at FirstBank in the *Pinterest Plaza* location. Together, with this firm, they have been an efficient dream team, after a very rough start at another local bank. You won’t regret using either.
Lastly, we had to sell property and used Craig Phifer to review the listing agreement and close our side, and had a great experience. Very knowledgeable, very detail-oriented, fairly-priced, and clear instructions. (Not a lot of “hand-holding” since they’re probably used to dealing with higher-end clientele who know what they’re doing already LOL) But, that said, every single question I had if Melissa (his paralegal/assistant), she was happy to answer clearly and in as much detail as I needed :) This office is everything a team of attorneys SHOULD be.
Read more
20 Aug, 2024 by Taylor renee
I have done 2 transactions with this firm. Tabitha being the main point of contact for each. I am only giving two starts because the transactions closed and there were not any huge issues that held up closing. Tabitha is not someone that I would ever work with again. She is rude, and has no communication skills whatsoever as well as no customer service skills. It felt like I was inconveniencing her when I would call to ask questions. I get several emails with documents attached to them with absolutely no explication on what they were. If I didn’t have experience in the real estate industry I wouldn’t have had a clue what they were. I will be taking my business elsewhere in the future.
Read more
08 Jul, 2024 by Dennis lefond
Timely service
Read more
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FAQs
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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:
-
What is your experience with businesses like mine?
Find out if the lawyer has handled legal issues for companies in your industry. -
What services do you offer?
Ensure the lawyer can meet all your business's legal needs, from contract drafting to dispute resolution. -
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. -
How do you handle conflicts of interest?
Ask how the lawyer ensures there is no conflict in representing your business. -
Can you provide references from other business clients?
Speaking with past clients will give you an idea of the lawyer's expertise and professionalism. -
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.
