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26 Jul, 2018 by Jessica
In todays day and age, it is rare you find someone or a company, who is ethical, kind, and a fighter. Our family was crushed with by a dealership, with a devastating experience that occurred on a Saturday! Saturday night, I knew we would need legal service to assist us. On a Sunday, by miracle of a chance I was able tor each Mr. Stevenson. His reassurance, made a dark day a little brighter. This law firm fights for what is right, and their endless dedication to resolving matters with ease and patience is not only something I admire, but someone I will support, advocate, and share! There are not enough words to express my gratitude and appreciation for Mr. Stevenson and this firm. If you ever find yourself needing a professional attorney, I would hands down give you this recommendation. By Monday morning, Mr. Stevenson had resolved our issue, and followed through in all aspect of communication! They are beyond a 5 start rating, and if you need a strong, passionate fighter, Mr. Stevenson will hands down shake the ground of any opponent and be the force I dare anyone to reckon with. Thank you for your outstanding service you give, your not just doing a job, you are changing lives.
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31 Oct, 2017 by Anonymous
Ralph gave me very insightful instruction to my case and help me to found out a solution first before turning it into a law case. I hope everything would work out fine. Thank you for all your advices
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17 Mar, 2014 by Marshall
Steve was retained to help my business collect past due debts for work done and services provided. Specifically, we had rented road trailers, ten, to a farm operation which did not pay and it was necessary for me to repossess them. We were unable to collect based on debtor's bankruptcy. Another case involved trailer repair work performed for customer who would not pay. Not able to collect. Another case involved contract to trade a diesel farm tractor to former employee in exchange for lawn maintenance services -- which were not provided. Unable to repossess or to collect as ruled by small claims court magistrate. Steve did the best he could given the circumstances of these cases. I would not hesitate to use his services again and do recommend him to others.
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18 Feb, 2015 by Denise anderson
I had hired him awhile ago, but he did such an outstanding job! I trust him 100% and when I need an attorney I will most definitely hire him! Everything he did for me was done in a timely manner. His communication skills are great. He explains things so you can understand them, He is easy to get a hold of and retuned calls in a timely fashion,
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26 Mar, 2015 by Diane
I've used Jacob for many closings and he has made that tedious signing of papers fun for my clients. He is very personable and trustworthy. After closing when I am walking out of the attorneys office, everyone of my clients have said how nice and efficient he was. Will use him for all my closings!
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20 May, 2015 by Anonymous
A highly experienced professional who not only corresponds effectively with his clientele, but too also ensure that the best resolution is the one that's sought and desired. Even with being an extremely busy attorney, Mr. Sperati still took time out to handle the case (on such short notice) and satisfactorily navigate me through the experience. Not only is he an excellent professional, his character as a person exhibits that he genuinely cares for his clients and I'm a true witness of it . TW
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19 Apr, 2013 by Anonymous
Mr. Naylor recently helped me with my case. He did a amazing job and helped me through a very difficult time... I would not have made it with out him!
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06 Jan, 2010 by Mitchell
Mr. Naylor was difficult to get in touch with on several occasions. I mostly delt with his secretary and sometimes got misleading or even blatantly wrong information. I was told by the secretary that I could take my ex wife to court because she would not sign a Free Trader agreement. When I called back to ask about the progress of the trial, the secretary gave me a court date. As the court date approached, I called again and happened to get Mr. Naylor on the phone as he was trying to call someone else. He informed me that I could not take my exwife to court for not signing the Free Trader agreement and that the court date was actually my exwife taking me to court over something else. I felt completely misled. When we went to court, as I waited for the trial, I noticed that my lawyer and her lawyer were working "against" each other on a number of cases. As I reviewed my legal fees, I noticed that I was billed a lot for phone calls between the two lawyers when nothing seemed to be accomplisheed. I also sent communication to my exwife through my lawyer that would have ended the entire proceedings. My exwife also tried to do the same thing. Neither one of us received the others communication and we were both told that the other one did not want to speak to us directly. Overall, I felt taken advantage of and misled. I would not recommend Mr. Naylor ot anyone, including my ex wife
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18 Nov, 2023 by Smacnallys
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05 May, 2023 by Cosmic mike
Unethical, immature, lazy, and childish.
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15 Mar, 2023 by Judy king
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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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