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28 Mar, 2024 by Ann fields
Met all my legal needs. Took time to listen and walk me through everything.
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27 Mar, 2024 by Alice hardy
26 Mar, 2024 by Janet
28 Mar, 2024 by Ann fields
Met all my legal needs. Took time to listen and walk me through everything.
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27 Mar, 2024 by Alice hardy
26 Mar, 2024 by Janet
28 Mar, 2024 by Ann fields
Met all my legal needs. Took time to listen and walk me through everything.
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27 Mar, 2024 by Alice hardy
26 Mar, 2024 by Janet
28 Mar, 2024 by Ann fields
Met all my legal needs. Took time to listen and walk me through everything.
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27 Mar, 2024 by Alice hardy
26 Mar, 2024 by Janet
11 Dec, 2024 by Kai k
They have helped me settle my case quick.. each phone calls from them doesnt give me concern nor worries because they handled themselves very well and professional
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25 Sep, 2024 by The swimmer
Very Professional Staff. They actually CARE about YOU.
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03 Jul, 2024 by Eontjes
Having Lisa Angel represent me during the most difficult time in my life was a godsend. Her constant availability, fierce advocacy and sage advice kept me focused on what was important in my divorce settlement process and block out at times the unhelpful noise from friends and family. I would recommend her to anyone contemplating divorce and wanting a very experienced hand and fighter in your corner.
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11 Dec, 2024 by Kai k
They have helped me settle my case quick.. each phone calls from them doesnt give me concern nor worries because they handled themselves very well and professional
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25 Sep, 2024 by The swimmer
Very Professional Staff. They actually CARE about YOU.
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03 Jul, 2024 by Eontjes
Having Lisa Angel represent me during the most difficult time in my life was a godsend. Her constant availability, fierce advocacy and sage advice kept me focused on what was important in my divorce settlement process and block out at times the unhelpful noise from friends and family. I would recommend her to anyone contemplating divorce and wanting a very experienced hand and fighter in your corner.
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11 Dec, 2024 by Kai k
They have helped me settle my case quick.. each phone calls from them doesnt give me concern nor worries because they handled themselves very well and professional
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25 Sep, 2024 by The swimmer
Very Professional Staff. They actually CARE about YOU.
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03 Jul, 2024 by Eontjes
Having Lisa Angel represent me during the most difficult time in my life was a godsend. Her constant availability, fierce advocacy and sage advice kept me focused on what was important in my divorce settlement process and block out at times the unhelpful noise from friends and family. I would recommend her to anyone contemplating divorce and wanting a very experienced hand and fighter in your corner.
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11 Dec, 2024 by Kai k
They have helped me settle my case quick.. each phone calls from them doesnt give me concern nor worries because they handled themselves very well and professional
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25 Sep, 2024 by The swimmer
Very Professional Staff. They actually CARE about YOU.
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03 Jul, 2024 by Eontjes
Having Lisa Angel represent me during the most difficult time in my life was a godsend. Her constant availability, fierce advocacy and sage advice kept me focused on what was important in my divorce settlement process and block out at times the unhelpful noise from friends and family. I would recommend her to anyone contemplating divorce and wanting a very experienced hand and fighter in your corner.
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19 Nov, 2024 by K. n.
The CR Legal Team were professional and hung in there well after I wanted to give up. They get the job done! 👍👍
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16 Oct, 2024 by Michael howard
27 Aug, 2024 by Marcie rien
They dropped my case after supposedly being my attorney for months. Do not hire them!!
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13 Dec, 2024 by Meredith lara-ramirez
I’m so grateful to Polk Law for getting my case dismissed. The paralegal, Daisy, is the BEST. She is amazing—super friendly, helpful, and always kept me informed. Highly recommend this office!
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28 Aug, 2024 by Isabella mayer
My ticket after a traffic accident was addressed and resolved in a professional and uncomplicated manner. After experiencing an accident for the first time the firm made it less stressful for me. I was able to recover mentally and not stressing out about the consequences.
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01 Jul, 2024 by Christina peele
Ania Dejoy was more than amazing
My family will forever be grateful to her for the handling of my wife’s federal case
She did above and beyond what we expected
We would’ve been grateful for the lower end of 16 years however Ania got us an unbelievable 12 years
Sounds like a lot to some but my wife was considered a career criminal and could’ve received 40!!!!
She also made us feel included in every decision
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09 Jul, 2024 by Josephine buchanan
Clifford law firm was to represent my son in 2 counties both wake and sampson. He showed up once in wake none in sampson after being paid to be my son's rep. I would not hear from him nor my daughter in law would see him attend to business. The man mumbles and I could not understand most of what he was saying even though he was apprised I am hard of hearing. 20 months and nothing he said he would do was done. I even hesitate to give one star he deserves none.
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21 May, 2024 by Phil black
14 Aug, 2023 by Julia hobbs
Nick is a fantastic and personable lawyer. He went above and beyond to help me with my case. Even after I didn't complete everything I was suppose to, he stuck through and helped me get more time. I'm very grateful that I hired him as my attorney and would highly recommend him to anyone.
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09 Jul, 2024 by Josephine buchanan
Clifford law firm was to represent my son in 2 counties both wake and sampson. He showed up once in wake none in sampson after being paid to be my son's rep. I would not hear from him nor my daughter in law would see him attend to business. The man mumbles and I could not understand most of what he was saying even though he was apprised I am hard of hearing. 20 months and nothing he said he would do was done. I even hesitate to give one star he deserves none.
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21 May, 2024 by Phil black
14 Aug, 2023 by Julia hobbs
Nick is a fantastic and personable lawyer. He went above and beyond to help me with my case. Even after I didn't complete everything I was suppose to, he stuck through and helped me get more time. I'm very grateful that I hired him as my attorney and would highly recommend him to anyone.
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09 Jul, 2024 by Josephine buchanan
Clifford law firm was to represent my son in 2 counties both wake and sampson. He showed up once in wake none in sampson after being paid to be my son's rep. I would not hear from him nor my daughter in law would see him attend to business. The man mumbles and I could not understand most of what he was saying even though he was apprised I am hard of hearing. 20 months and nothing he said he would do was done. I even hesitate to give one star he deserves none.
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21 May, 2024 by Phil black
14 Aug, 2023 by Julia hobbs
Nick is a fantastic and personable lawyer. He went above and beyond to help me with my case. Even after I didn't complete everything I was suppose to, he stuck through and helped me get more time. I'm very grateful that I hired him as my attorney and would highly recommend him to anyone.
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27 Jul, 2021 by Rietika patel
23 Dec, 2020 by Timothy aull
04 Nov, 2018 by Kurt d
30 Oct, 2024 by Peter gemborys
As lawyers go, Alan Schneider is a ROCK STAR! He helped me with a legal matter that I will forever be grateful. For many years, he took my calls and read my emails yet never charged me.
I've known quite a few lawyers and Alan stands above them all. He should be in a lawyer's Hall of Fame. Warm, friendly and smart as a whip are just a few adjectives I'd use to describe him. I'll never forget what he did for me. To quote a line from the movie Jerry McGuire, Alan is "my ambassador of Quan!"
God bless Alan Schneider and his law firm.
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24 Jul, 2024 by Mikayla bare
I have had the distinct honor and pleasure of working with Amy for nearly two years, and it has been an experience that has far exceeded my highest expectations. Amy is an extraordinary professional whose dedication, talent, and expertise are truly unparalleled. She is revered and respected by all who have the privilege of knowing her, and her presence in the courtroom is nothing short of awe-inspiring—commanding, influential, and profoundly respected.
Amy exemplifies the highest standards of professionalism. Her unwavering commitment to her clients and their families is unmatchable. She approaches every concern with heartfelt sincerity and fights with unyielding passion for the best interests of her clients' children. In my extensive experience consulting with numerous family law attorneys, Amy shines as a brilliant beacon of excellence. Her relentless work ethic, exceptional skill, and unwavering dedication set her far above the rest.
If you are in search of a family law lawyer who is not only extraordinarily skilled but also deeply committed to her clients, I wholeheartedly and unequivocally recommend Amy. Her unsurpassable dedication, remarkable talent, and compassionate approach make her an invaluable ally in any legal matter.
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08 Feb, 2024 by Chris johnson
Imogen Baxter was a fantastic resource as a family member created a premarital agreement. She was knowledgeable, proactive, timely, and a prompt communicator. When the opposing law firm fell short with their responsibilities, Imogen and her team made sure that our family member was protected and represented with the best care. I would highly recommend Imogen for anyone needing representation through marital matters.
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10 Oct, 2024 by Lauren bridgers
In my experience it appears they're so desperate for clients they will Support someone making 15k a month in trying to obtain Support from a mother barely making ends meet. Pathetic.
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08 Oct, 2024 by Brinx ;*
12 Jul, 2024 by Megan giroux
Eric is passionate about connecting with his clients who may be in crisis to let them know their options and walk every step of the way with them. I have been so impressed with his professionalism and approachability as a family law attorney.
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10 Oct, 2024 by Lauren bridgers
In my experience it appears they're so desperate for clients they will Support someone making 15k a month in trying to obtain Support from a mother barely making ends meet. Pathetic.
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08 Oct, 2024 by Brinx ;*
12 Jul, 2024 by Megan giroux
Eric is passionate about connecting with his clients who may be in crisis to let them know their options and walk every step of the way with them. I have been so impressed with his professionalism and approachability as a family law attorney.
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08 Dec, 2024 by Annadurai nataraj
I’m giving this review a 5-star rating solely due to the exceptional service I received from Wendi W. Berry, who worked as the paralegal during the closing process of my home purchase. From start to finish, Wendi was absolutely fantastic. She is incredibly professional, approachable, and highly knowledgeable, making what could have been a stressful experience smooth and straightforward.
Wendi’s communication skills were top-notch—she was always prompt in responding to emails, often before I had the chance to follow up, which made the entire process feel seamless. Her attention to detail and commitment to keeping everything on track were truly impressive.
It’s rare to come across someone as skilled and reliable as Wendi, and it’s clear that she has a genuine passion for her work. Her dedication and positive attitude will undoubtedly make her a tremendous asset to any team or company she’s a part of. I feel very fortunate to have worked with her and highly recommend her for anyone in need of professional assistance during a home purchase. She went above and beyond, and I can’t thank her enough!
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27 Nov, 2024 by Tung vu
18 Oct, 2024 by Ashutosh ghimire
16 Mar, 2024 by Paul odland
David takes time to listen and then provide solutions. I appreciate his approach. I also appreciate working with a business leader who gives so much to the North Raleigh community.
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23 Jan, 2024 by Corey johnson
Never called me back!
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30 Aug, 2023 by Robert hooks
01 Mar, 2025 by Diana cameron mcqueen
Just amazing work. Took all the stress off me immediately and went out of their way to make sure everything was taken care of. Absolutely hire them.
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01 Mar, 2025 by Chris holland
26 Feb, 2025 by Ashley okon
they don’t really communicate with clients well. they won’t tell you anything on the court date, they’ll send an email with the updates. i had to call and ask for them to have the lawyer talk to me. i hired a lawyer bc i live in another state and there was some miscommunication resulting in my court date being moved back a month and a half. i only found out bc i called them to ask for updates. when the second court date came around they got my case dismissed tho!
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01 Mar, 2025 by Diana cameron mcqueen
Just amazing work. Took all the stress off me immediately and went out of their way to make sure everything was taken care of. Absolutely hire them.
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01 Mar, 2025 by Chris holland
26 Feb, 2025 by Ashley okon
they don’t really communicate with clients well. they won’t tell you anything on the court date, they’ll send an email with the updates. i had to call and ask for them to have the lawyer talk to me. i hired a lawyer bc i live in another state and there was some miscommunication resulting in my court date being moved back a month and a half. i only found out bc i called them to ask for updates. when the second court date came around they got my case dismissed tho!
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17 Dec, 2024 by Doctor b
Chris Floyd is the best out there, hands down. He obtained the best possible outcome, getting all my charge dismissed then expunging it from my record! All I can say is thanks so much! He is so awesome at his job!
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14 Dec, 2024 by Terrell hilliard
Highly recommended, Chris Floyd is the best lawyer hands down. Promise made, promise kept. He will definitely be in your corner and fight for the best outcome possible.
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26 Nov, 2024 by Lil spr
Amazing attorney. Got my son case dismissed. I recommend him.
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07 Dec, 2024 by Kierston bredon
Awesome attorney! Would recommend!
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26 Nov, 2024 by Emblem zone
10 Oct, 2024 by Ashley jensen
Efficient and effective, professional, quick to respond, and kept me well updated. Was able to break down complicated terminology in a way I understood. 10/10
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07 Dec, 2024 by Kierston bredon
Awesome attorney! Would recommend!
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26 Nov, 2024 by Emblem zone
10 Oct, 2024 by Ashley jensen
Efficient and effective, professional, quick to respond, and kept me well updated. Was able to break down complicated terminology in a way I understood. 10/10
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07 Dec, 2024 by Kierston bredon
Awesome attorney! Would recommend!
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26 Nov, 2024 by Emblem zone
10 Oct, 2024 by Ashley jensen
Efficient and effective, professional, quick to respond, and kept me well updated. Was able to break down complicated terminology in a way I understood. 10/10
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07 Dec, 2024 by Kierston bredon
Awesome attorney! Would recommend!
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26 Nov, 2024 by Emblem zone
10 Oct, 2024 by Ashley jensen
Efficient and effective, professional, quick to respond, and kept me well updated. Was able to break down complicated terminology in a way I understood. 10/10
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03 Jan, 2025 by Chasman phelps
It is with great regret that I am leaving a bad review. I was hopeful that he would serve me well based on our initial conversation, however he did not. My case is drug related and on his website it states he has 30 years of experience with drug cases but if you ask around… he’s a traffic lawyer. My vehicle, money, and phones were confiscated and he all but told me I wouldn’t get my car back until after my case was settled but my current lawyer filed a motion and got it back within days. I was told my money would not be returned but again my current lawyer advised me that with proper proof a judge wouldn’t refuse giving back my money(my case is on going will update on how that goes). I essentially paid $3,500 of which I was refunded $1250, for him to appear at court one time and respond to 2 portal messages. After receiving better counsel I feel I have been completely ripped off and will probably be reporting my grievances to the BAR. I don’t know if he was just keeping my expectations low so that he can later over exceed them or if I’m just making excuses for him at this point but I’m really disappointed with his counsel and glad I switched before it was too late.
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01 Dec, 2024 by Magnus delarosa
29 Nov, 2024 by Claire deville
This is the right law firm. One star. Really hurting someone. She is their client and it’s hard to watch. I pray they do the right thing, this is a horrible situation to be a part of not be able to help, I pray these attorneys will change their ways and decide to do the right thing. Watching a loved one suffer over the holidays (or anytime) from choosing the wrong attorneys is a nightmare. I pray day and night these attorneys will see the light and not cause any more suffering. I am watching a loved one who is a “current or former client”. She is someone who is dear to my heart and being harmed tremendously by your choice of behavior. She won’t write her own review but is so terrified and hurt she can barely get out of bed most days for the last two weeks strictly on account of your choices. I’m sure she will write a review of this path you have chosen continues, but she is too scared to speak up and you need to stop what you have chosen to do to your client. Don’t make excuses replying to google review as I can easily delete this, when what you should be doing is what’s right towards a human’s life. She trusted you. Replying to this with an excuse or any response will only serve to show people you care more about your appearance than helping your client. I hope today is the last day I pray you two do what is right.
I am 87 years old I would like to live long enough to see my goddaughter is not treated worse in this world as a woman than what I have known for most of my life. YOU ARE WOMEN, DO WHAT’S RIGHT!
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10 Dec, 2024 by Ajani murdaugh-wright
I got into a bind and was reluctant at first because of prices. I saw Mrs . Lacy H online and after already seeing great reviews I decided to reach out via email to discuss my case. Mrs. Lacy was very understanding and was very willing to negotiate my price as well being that I could have well spent over 1,000 is dollars I ended up paying only roughly 5-7 hundred. After a few emails back and forth she was very straightforward and helpful regarding possible outcomes and reassuring me every step of the way and showing up promptly to my case. I felt very validated. Thanks for helping me get the best outcome for my case .
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03 Dec, 2024 by Candace fish
13 Nov, 2024 by Donna walker
It has been an honor and privilege to have Sonya Dubree represent me for 2+ years throughout my divorce process. I am deeply grateful for her expertise, compassion, and dedication.
Sonya's partnership with Tharrington Smith (THS), alongside Steven Mansbery's representation, allowed them to expertly manage my divorce case, including the complex business and financial aspects involved. Their exceptional efforts led to favorable outcomes, including temporary spousal support, successful contempt motions and orders, attorney’s fees, and alimony. Although delays were unavoidable due to the defendant’s non-compliance and intentional obstruction—even in defiance of court orders—Sonya and Steven navigated these challenges with remarkable skill and professionalism, ultimately securing significant victories on my behalf.
I want to extend my heartfelt thanks to Sonya, Steven, Monica, and Carolynn for their outstanding work during my alimony trial. Sonya’s opening statement was deeply compelling, compassionate, and credible, showcasing her commitment to my best interests. She excelled in cross-examinations and demonstrated genuine care and understanding when questioning me. Steven’s dedication, exceptional handling of expert witnesses, and strong expertise in complex financial analysis were invaluable in addressing the business, accounting, and economic aspects of my case, giving me confidence in his advocacy. I also appreciated Carolynn’s support throughout the hearing; her presence made a meaningful difference, strengthening our case. Together, they navigated the defendant’s tactics with finesse and crafted expertly tailored filings.
The diligence and commitment of the THS team have not gone unnoticed, and I am sincerely grateful for all they have done for me. I feel truly fortunate to have had their representation. Throughout this process, I developed a strong bond with Sonya, who not only fought tirelessly on my behalf but also kept me grounded, providing both expert legal guidance and compassionate support. She is an exceptional attorney and a wonderful person, and I am deeply thankful for her. Despite the frustrations—particularly with the defendant’s failure to substantiate financial claims and expenses—Sonya and her team offered me something invaluable: hope for the future and a sense of peace as this chapter nears its close.
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10 Dec, 2024 by Ajani murdaugh-wright
I got into a bind and was reluctant at first because of prices. I saw Mrs . Lacy H online and after already seeing great reviews I decided to reach out via email to discuss my case. Mrs. Lacy was very understanding and was very willing to negotiate my price as well being that I could have well spent over 1,000 is dollars I ended up paying only roughly 5-7 hundred. After a few emails back and forth she was very straightforward and helpful regarding possible outcomes and reassuring me every step of the way and showing up promptly to my case. I felt very validated. Thanks for helping me get the best outcome for my case .
Read more
03 Dec, 2024 by Candace fish
13 Nov, 2024 by Donna walker
It has been an honor and privilege to have Sonya Dubree represent me for 2+ years throughout my divorce process. I am deeply grateful for her expertise, compassion, and dedication.
Sonya's partnership with Tharrington Smith (THS), alongside Steven Mansbery's representation, allowed them to expertly manage my divorce case, including the complex business and financial aspects involved. Their exceptional efforts led to favorable outcomes, including temporary spousal support, successful contempt motions and orders, attorney’s fees, and alimony. Although delays were unavoidable due to the defendant’s non-compliance and intentional obstruction—even in defiance of court orders—Sonya and Steven navigated these challenges with remarkable skill and professionalism, ultimately securing significant victories on my behalf.
I want to extend my heartfelt thanks to Sonya, Steven, Monica, and Carolynn for their outstanding work during my alimony trial. Sonya’s opening statement was deeply compelling, compassionate, and credible, showcasing her commitment to my best interests. She excelled in cross-examinations and demonstrated genuine care and understanding when questioning me. Steven’s dedication, exceptional handling of expert witnesses, and strong expertise in complex financial analysis were invaluable in addressing the business, accounting, and economic aspects of my case, giving me confidence in his advocacy. I also appreciated Carolynn’s support throughout the hearing; her presence made a meaningful difference, strengthening our case. Together, they navigated the defendant’s tactics with finesse and crafted expertly tailored filings.
The diligence and commitment of the THS team have not gone unnoticed, and I am sincerely grateful for all they have done for me. I feel truly fortunate to have had their representation. Throughout this process, I developed a strong bond with Sonya, who not only fought tirelessly on my behalf but also kept me grounded, providing both expert legal guidance and compassionate support. She is an exceptional attorney and a wonderful person, and I am deeply thankful for her. Despite the frustrations—particularly with the defendant’s failure to substantiate financial claims and expenses—Sonya and her team offered me something invaluable: hope for the future and a sense of peace as this chapter nears its close.
Read more
10 Dec, 2024 by Ajani murdaugh-wright
I got into a bind and was reluctant at first because of prices. I saw Mrs . Lacy H online and after already seeing great reviews I decided to reach out via email to discuss my case. Mrs. Lacy was very understanding and was very willing to negotiate my price as well being that I could have well spent over 1,000 is dollars I ended up paying only roughly 5-7 hundred. After a few emails back and forth she was very straightforward and helpful regarding possible outcomes and reassuring me every step of the way and showing up promptly to my case. I felt very validated. Thanks for helping me get the best outcome for my case .
Read more
03 Dec, 2024 by Candace fish
13 Nov, 2024 by Donna walker
It has been an honor and privilege to have Sonya Dubree represent me for 2+ years throughout my divorce process. I am deeply grateful for her expertise, compassion, and dedication.
Sonya's partnership with Tharrington Smith (THS), alongside Steven Mansbery's representation, allowed them to expertly manage my divorce case, including the complex business and financial aspects involved. Their exceptional efforts led to favorable outcomes, including temporary spousal support, successful contempt motions and orders, attorney’s fees, and alimony. Although delays were unavoidable due to the defendant’s non-compliance and intentional obstruction—even in defiance of court orders—Sonya and Steven navigated these challenges with remarkable skill and professionalism, ultimately securing significant victories on my behalf.
I want to extend my heartfelt thanks to Sonya, Steven, Monica, and Carolynn for their outstanding work during my alimony trial. Sonya’s opening statement was deeply compelling, compassionate, and credible, showcasing her commitment to my best interests. She excelled in cross-examinations and demonstrated genuine care and understanding when questioning me. Steven’s dedication, exceptional handling of expert witnesses, and strong expertise in complex financial analysis were invaluable in addressing the business, accounting, and economic aspects of my case, giving me confidence in his advocacy. I also appreciated Carolynn’s support throughout the hearing; her presence made a meaningful difference, strengthening our case. Together, they navigated the defendant’s tactics with finesse and crafted expertly tailored filings.
The diligence and commitment of the THS team have not gone unnoticed, and I am sincerely grateful for all they have done for me. I feel truly fortunate to have had their representation. Throughout this process, I developed a strong bond with Sonya, who not only fought tirelessly on my behalf but also kept me grounded, providing both expert legal guidance and compassionate support. She is an exceptional attorney and a wonderful person, and I am deeply thankful for her. Despite the frustrations—particularly with the defendant’s failure to substantiate financial claims and expenses—Sonya and her team offered me something invaluable: hope for the future and a sense of peace as this chapter nears its close.
Read more
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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:
-
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.
