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06 Dec, 2019 by Janene stenzel
The BEST lawyer I have ever had! Highly recommend!
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14 Dec, 2017 by Rachel arnold
Excellent lawyer
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08 Feb, 2010 by Hamaad
I met Ryan in early 2009 after he was recommended to me by two colleagues to help settle a contract issue. After speaking to him for only a few minutes it was clear that a he had a good handle of my situation and I retained him shortly thereafter. Right off the bat I found him to be extremely knowledgeable, resourceful and responsive. Ryan worked tirelessly to represent me and did an all around great job in ensuring that I got as favorable an outcome as possible. I was most impressed, however, with his diplomatic approach and his ability to engineer an outcome that was satisfactory to all parties.
I highly recommend him and would absolutely retain him for future matters.
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07 Apr, 2018 by Karl
Dennis was not my original choice to contact on Avvo, but he is the only one who responded to my question. He offered sound and thoughtful advice, and was very professional and direct.
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14 Nov, 2017 by Brian
Dennis did a great job in getting my patent off the ground and fully approved. He knew absolutely nothing about my product when we started, but it didn't take him long to have a complete understanding and to be able to prepare my case for the examiners. I'm not funded like the Boeings and Monsantos of the world, and it was quite unusual to find that Dennis caters so well to small businesses.
Knowing what I do now, I think it is remarkable that I was able to go through the entire patent process so affordably. If I went to the large firms, hourly rates just would not have been feasible. Not only does Dennis offer a flat rate fee structure, he even offers no-cost sessions occasionally for clients so you can bounce ideas off him. I plan to take advantage of this service soon.
While I'm sure he can handle big firms quite well, my review has to do with how he handled my case. Just couldn't be happier.
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09 Oct, 2017 by James plankey
Before working with Dennis, we worked with a couple of other attorneys to process our patent without much success. What made the difference was the time Dennis took to understand, and immerse himself in our business so he could articulate our invention in a format that could easily be understood by our examiner.
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12 Jul, 2022 by Leonard komen
As a fellow attorney, I have dealt with Mike on various occasions. Here's a man I would hire to represent me if I needed an attorney. He is not only competent but conscientious and caring in representing his clients' best interests using the highest ethical standards.
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09 Jun, 2017 by Megan
Michael is not only a phenomenal lawyer, but he and his team are very compassionate and understanding. They new every detail of my case and I couldn't have asked for better legal representation. This team is awesome!
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28 Dec, 2016 by Katie
I hired Michael after being involved in a car accident where I suffered injuries. I actually was referred to him by another attorney who I have done work with. Mike was diligent in gathering the necessary and relative information from me so that he could pursue my case in a timely manner on my behalf - with little interruption to my daily life. I am a licensed attorney outside of Missouri, but do not practice in this area of law, so I was aware of the importance of hiring someone locally to assist me with my case. I also knew that this would be time consuming and complicated, so hiring competent counsel would be imperative. Mike kept me updated about my case when necessary, and I didn't have to take time out of my life to negotiate with insurance companies and other attorneys. Mike was able to resolve my case favorably, and I would recommend him to anyone finding themselves in a similar situation.
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25 Feb, 2016 by Elizabeth
I used Longo Biggs to negotiate a contract for my business. I couldn't be happier, I felt like my best interests were represented at all times. Throughout the negotiations I was contacted and informed at each stage in the process. When it came time to sign the contact I got everything I wanted and at a very fair price. I will be recommending this law firm to my family, friends, and business associates. Thank you for doing such a great job!
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22 Feb, 2016 by Brooke
I needed an easement to sell my house. The issue arose right before closing and we needed it in a rush. We recieved it within 24 hours. He was great to work with.
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22 Feb, 2016 by Kyle
I've had numerous business contracts created by Longo. They are very high quality. His fees are fair. He is accessible. The work was done in a timely fashion. I will be using him exclusively for my contract needs going forward.
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03 Feb, 2016 by Daniel
Mark Temkin has been my attorney for 30 years, and has wisely guided me in protecting my family’s interests, my assets and all the legal vicissitudes of modern life. I remember him meeting me on a Sunday afternoon, and conferencing at night when situations demanded immediate responses; he willingly answered the call. Mark has exceptional expertise across a number of fields - estate planning (he was instrumental in writing the new Missouri statute on Qualified Spousal Trusts), asset protection, real estate, and general corporate law. I have always appreciated his ability to anticipate the consequences of various scenarios and to plan accordingly. Other lawyers have remarked that his work is exemplary, and some have asked permission to call him "just to pick his brain.” It’s important that you trust your lawyer, and I trust Mark with my life and the lives of my loved ones. He is of the highest integrity, ethical standing, and honesty. Mark Temkin is completely dedicated to the benefit of his clients, and having him on your side makes a big difference.
Daniel Phillips, M.D.
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03 Feb, 2016 by Daniel
Mark Temkin has been my attorney for 30 years, and has wisely guided me in protecting my family’s interests, my assets and all the legal vicissitudes of modern life. I remember him meeting me on a Sunday afternoon, and conferencing at night when situations demanded immediate responses; he willingly answered the call. Mark has exceptional expertise across a number of fields - estate planning (he was instrumental in writing the new Missouri statute on Qualified Spousal Trusts), asset protection, real estate, and general corporate law. I have always appreciated his ability to anticipate the consequences of various scenarios and to plan accordingly. Other lawyers have remarked that his work is exemplary, and some have asked permission to call him "just to pick his brain.” It’s important that you trust your lawyer, and I trust Mark with my life and the lives of my loved ones. He is of the highest integrity, ethical standing, and honesty. Mark Temkin is completely dedicated to the benefit of his clients, and having him on your side makes a big difference.
Daniel Phillips, M.D.
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27 Jan, 2016 by Anonymous
Mark is a highly experienced and competent business lawyer. He keeps legal and business issues in balance. I have worked with outside counsel for 40 years, and he is among the elite.
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13 Feb, 2018 by Anonymous
Brian did a great job setting up our LLC. He was knowledgeable and available and made the process as smooth as possible.
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08 Jun, 2017 by Anonymous
I consulted with Brian on a matter concerning my small business. He was polite and engaged, and thoroughly answered my questions.
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19 Sep, 2016 by Gill
Brian helped me launch both a nonprofit organization (where he consulted on several business issues) and a for-profit holding company (where he both consulted on strategy and did all the legal work to form the entity). He has also helped to evaluate numerous contracts and other business documents.
He's intelligent, thorough, insightful and creative. I've always been a fan of attornies who will help you think through an issue from every angle before deciding how to proceed, and Brian is a great partner in that regard. And when it comes time to make a decision he knows the law and knows how to leverage it.
Can't recommend him more.
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27 Dec, 2020 by Thresia maria bennett (maria)
30 Apr, 2020 by Darin rives
He was very helpful and honest with me.
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04 Jan, 2017 by Jonathan mcallister
Paul has an impressive knowledge base in the laws of HIPPA compliance. I would recommend him without reservation to any attorney or lawyer needing assistance in this area.
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07 Sep, 2016 by Anonymous
Jeff is a great lawyer to retain. He is very personable and knowledgeable. I had a client that looked to sue my company for unsubstantiated reasons and had not paid me a fee. Mr Wax attending court hearings on several occasions, was able to substantiate to the courts that my business performed a valuable service and in fact was owed its fees. My business was rewarded a favorable judgement. Thank You Mr. Wax for all of help in my business matter.
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07 Jul, 2016 by David
I had a few landlord-tenant issues that I hired Jeff to help with. Throughout the process he was quick to respond and communicate with me. He worked very efficiently to deliver the result I was looking for and solved the problem. I would not hesitate to seek his service in the future or recommend others use him.
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24 Jun, 2016 by Mitch
Jeff handled a non profit matter involving a government assessment. Jeff was professional and completed the work in an effective and competent manner, achieving the desired outcome for our organization. I recommend Jeff without reservation.
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24 Sep, 2014 by Galit
I highly recommend Marc Jacob! I had a commercial real estate dispute and Marc successfully negotiated with the landlord on my behalf, and achieved a very favorable outcome! Also, he always responded immediately to emails and texts! It was a pleasure dealing with him!
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08 Jan, 2013 by Eric
Marc Jacob of the Jacob Law Firm, LLC has been my real estate and business
attorney for over a year and a half now, and I have had many attorneys over
the years. Since becoming involved with my business, he has guided me to
avoid potentially disastrous deals, helped review and simultaneously pursue
multiple potential real estate financing arrangements, and has both
confidently and competently negotiated with much larger law firms and bank
executives. After a long, arduous negotiations process, he was also able to
close a very complicated, time sensitive and contentious deal remotely,
while out of the state on vacation! He works effectively with me, my staff
and with all the various professionals who were key elements to finally
getting a critical deal done. I look forward to continuing to work with
Marc Jacob and his associates at the Jacob Law Firm on other future business
and personal matters. He has proven himself capable, honest and loyal. I
consider him a trusted advisor and a friend.
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09 Dec, 2012 by Jonathan
Marc has been a huge asset to my business. From our initial consultation it was clear Marc was the type of attorney I needed - someone who knew the real estate business inside and out, and able to add value in every aspect. From establishing entities to transactional work to litigation, Marc has always been patient, accessible, insight and clear. I feel very fortunate to have found him and recommend him without hesitation.
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27 Jul, 2016 by Marshall
My client was sued in southern Illinois and I retained Josh as local counsel. Josh did a great job of helping us navigate through local procedures and customs. He was very knowledgeable about the law and court practices, and was invaluable to have "on the ground" in St. Louis.
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27 Jul, 2016 by Ken
I have sought Josh’s counsel on a number of items over the past 10 years. They have included employment matters, contracts, and business combinations to name a few. Without exception, I have found Josh Avigad to be not only extremely knowledgeable, but particularly practical when it comes to the application of the law. Avigad seeks to find ways to mitigate risk and resolve issues so that the wheels of business can keep turning. He will simplify your legal alternatives with an eye toward the achieving the desired end result as expeditiously as possible.
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26 Jul, 2016 by Todd
My company was involved in a contract dispute. A vendor was attempting to collect for a service that was sold based on false performance claims. Being a more experienced attorney, Josh was able to capitalize on a number of technical errors by the opposing counsel. One such error the counselor made was with respect to introducing a witness, effectively resulting in his dismissal. He also identified--and subsequently had thrown out by the judge--provisions in the contract which proved unenforceable in Missouri, effectively eroding their case and resulting in the case's dismissal. I couldn't be more pleased with the outcome.
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13 Feb, 2015 by Ritu
I have worked with Ms. Dooley on many occasions. She is everything one seeks in an attorney. She is reliable and available during the most challenging times in ones life. When I sought her out, not only did she provide me with impeccable legal counsel but she also referred me to other professionals (for other issues) outside her realm of expertise. She takes on what she can do and she does an amazing job! I really appreciate a professional that works within their realm of competence and has integrity in their work. That is what you get when you work with Anjali Dooley. I give Anjali Dooley my highest recommendations without any reservation to anyone needing an attorney.
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26 Jan, 2015 by Josh
I was referred to Anjali by a good friend at a time when I was making a big change in my career. Unexpectedly I had legal issues involving my ability to obtain a job that had been in discussion for quite some time. I really needed assistance with my healthcare employment contract. I was very concerned that it would be difficult to find someone that I could trust and had the same urgency to help to relieve my anxiety as well as help to resolve my issues. Fortunately Anjali was as trust worthy as my friend who had made the recommendation. She spent a great deal of time discussing my case with me from the moment she learned of my situation. From that point on there never seemed to be any delay in a response to my questions or concerns. I believe because of her previous work experience and life contacts she was able to discuss things with individuals from my field of practice, while still keeping everything anonymous in my regards. Even now months after helping me to a very satisfactory resolution she is available for questions. Once I saw that I had the opportunity to give a review and make a recommendation for Anjali I jumped at the chance. Even with being the busiest I have ever been in my career, thanks to my new position I wanted to make sure I took the time to express how much I appreciated Anjali's help. I will continue to recommend her to colleagues and feel she would give the same effort with any aspect of her career as she did for mine.
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12 Jan, 2015 by Leslie
Anjali Dooley is my attorney that I have known and trusted for several years. She has helped me with contract negotiations with my employment with a major hospital group in town as an employed physician. Without her help and legal guidance I do not think that I would have received a contract that was worthy of my skill set and qualifications. She has also assisted me with other business endeavors outside of my private practice to ensure that I was making the most sound decisions possible for my career as a physician. Anjali Dooley is a excellent, well respected and knowledgeable attorney. I would strongly recommend her to anyone who is looking for sound legal advice that you can TRUST.
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27 Oct, 2016 by Matt
My dad had just passed away and we did not know how to proceed with estate. Everybody in the family was getting conflicting information. A friend referred me to The Hartung Law Firm. After a consult with Nate, we had enough information about the process that we were able to move smoothly through the small estate process.
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25 Oct, 2016 by Erin
Nate was timely in writing my Will and Estate Planning documents. He offered great advice on how to protect my children and my family assets. Not only do I feel confident that I chose the right attorney, he was reasonable priced. I would highly recommend The Hartung Law Firm.
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25 Feb, 2011 by Sarah
I was impressed by the level of professionalism demonstrated by Mr. Hartung. He was always prepared when we had court appearances and he really understood my case. He also was very good at keeping me up-to-date on the status of my case. I felt like is fees were fair and appropriate.
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16 Nov, 2016 by Dianna hilgendorf
We hired Chuck for a situation that made us very uncomfortable. Not only did he help me work through the situation but he made the process as seemless as possible. He has been upfront about the challenges and doesn't sugar coat or exagerate. I will definately hire him in the future for our legal needs.
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11 May, 2015 by Anonymous
Chuck Billings has been our corporate attorney for 25+ years. He has always performed above our expectations and given us nothing but sound advice over the years, even if it wasn’t what we wanted to hear. He has guided us though many, many a legal matter and we have always been satisfied with the outcome. He is professional, honorable, knowledgeable, and diligent; both he and his staff are easy to work with. He is an excellent attorney.
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29 Apr, 2015 by Dave
I give my strongest recommendation to Chuck, and his firm Bruntrager and Billings. I have worked with Chuck for 20+ years and have always found him to be top-notch in all of our dealings. He is extremely personable and has helped guide our family through the complexities of the legal system on several occasions. Before I met Chuck, I had a distrust of all lawyers, but having worked closely with him I can assure anyone that he is a lawyer that you can trust with any legal issue you may have. I have recommended him to several of my friends and I know that every one of them is 100% satisfied with his advocacy, knowledge of the law, and eventual outcome.
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24 Sep, 2018 by Lori
On two separate and unrelated real estate issues Mr Disabato was able to quickly resolve title issues and deed filings. Living out of state it could have been a disaster hiring an attorney sight unseen but I was very, very fortunate and pleased with his representation. I would use him again in a heartbeat and highly recommend him.
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12 Mar, 2018 by R. hunter
We hired Mr. Disabato and his brother for a lawsuit surrounding real estate that had been going on for 1 full year with an attorney. They met with me and were frank and to the point. They put me at ease by explaining every aspect of the process. They listened and heard my concerns and gave realistic possibilities. Within 3 months the case that had been dragged out by another attorney for 1 full year had ended with a huge victory. You will not be disappointed with their high skill set and professionalism. Complete WIN_WIN_WIN!! Thank You
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02 Jan, 2017 by Jake
Rodney has serviced my tenant and eviction needs through 2016 and has done a great job. He is reliable, thorough, professional, and almost always gets me consent judgments against my non-paying tenants. Thank you fifor your outstanding service Rodney.
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06 Oct, 2016 by Linnea
Rodney does collections for us on a property we manage. He is professional, intelligent, and pro-active.
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23 Jul, 2023 by K. a.
Grant Mabie is EVERYTHING a you need if you're looking to resolve a legal hiccup. He didn't try to oversell himself because he KNOWS what he's talking about. He didn't try to "sell" me either. He spoke to me in a down to earth manner and provided practical advice allowing me to make an informed decision. I wouldn't hesitate to call him again if I need representation in the future.
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12 Aug, 2014 by Pablo
Nathan was a pleasure to deal with during my Chapter 7. He answered all my emails promptly and thoroughly. I highly recommend him.
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24 Jun, 2017 by Chuck
I have worked with Patrick for the past 4 years on many different engagements. Everything from collections cases, contract disputes, business contract review, real estate transactions and business acquisitions. Patrick is responsive, has a diverse background and willing to research in depth if he had not had specific experiences with a particular facet of law. I would highly recommend Patrick for any of your business needs.
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14 Jun, 2017 by Charles
We have been using Patrick as our corporate counsel since before we started our business in 2005. Patrick handled the purchase of our business, contracts with vendors and customers, several miscellaneous legal issues and the sale of a commercial property. We have come to rely on his judgment and professionalism.
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23 Jul, 2023 by K. a.
Grant Mabie is EVERYTHING a you need if you're looking to resolve a legal hiccup. He didn't try to oversell himself because he KNOWS what he's talking about. He didn't try to "sell" me either. He spoke to me in a down to earth manner and provided practical advice allowing me to make an informed decision. I wouldn't hesitate to call him again if I need representation in the future.
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03 Sep, 2019 by Richie
I'm in real estate sales and Brad is always available at the drop of a hat if I have any questions on a particular contract/form that might have loose wording or language. He's helped me out with surveys and potential title issues as well on some of my deals. I've known him for a long time and can trust him with anything that I or my clients might need consulting on.
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29 Oct, 2020 by Annemarie gamache
Working with the Watts Group was a great experience! They were very professional and provided thoughtful insight on what to expect during the legal process and my case. I was very satisfied with the outcome and would definitely work with them again.
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08 Nov, 2015 by Nataly
Paul is knowledgeable, intelligent, and he took our case very seriously. He always kept us abreast of the status and was honest and concerned throughout. If there were more stars to give, I would gladly give them. I'm thankful I chose his services and highly recommend him.
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22 Dec, 2014 by Terence philip
Timothy has assisted me in various legal matters over the years and has been nothing short of a consummate professional every time. Although his attention to detail is impeccable, I was most impressed by how accessible and knowledgeable he was. I highly recommend him and plan to use him in the future should I need legal representation.
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07 Feb, 2013 by Mark
Very bright, hardworking and responsive. Would highly recommend Sean to anyone needing assisitance in the real estate or tax area.
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28 Jan, 2019 by Terri
I have had several conversations with Mr. Davis and each time have been impressed with his knowledge base, his kindness and his flexibility. Thus far I've only needed to consult, and have found him to be quite fair and generous in terms of his time, his fees, his expertise and his advice. He made stressful situation much easier-- If I ever need to hire him for a full case I would not hesitate to do so.
Thanks for all your help, Matt.
TS, St. Louis
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12 Nov, 2015 by John
Simply put, Tom is the best in the business! He always goes above and beyond to ensure his client gets the best possible outcome in their business negotiations, contract drafting, or business incorporation. I've used Tom on dozens of cases, and can rest easy knowing that Tom will deliver nothing but the best results! He's one of the most resemble and knowledgeable attorneys' I've ever worked with. I highly recommend Tom Niemann!
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24 Sep, 2012 by Anonymous
He worked quickly and effectively to create a new limited liability company that I needed for my new business. I highly recommend Patrick for starting a new company.
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14 Nov, 2014 by Sarah
I required a very quick evaluation of a request I received from a book publisher to use graphics and mapping visualizations I had developed in a textbook. Laura provided excellent guidance in how to move the conversation forward to an agreement while protecting my immediate and longterm interests.
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04 Nov, 2015 by Anonymous
I had the pleasure to work with John on a very difficult and sensitive employer issue, and would recommend John to anyone who finds themselves in a difficult position.
John demonstrated clear understanding of the facts and specific situation. He was compassionate, very knowledgeable, offered clear explanations, and developed several clever approaches for this delicate issue. Finally, John provided that level of comfort and firm representation that a client always desires - I felt he was committed to finding a satisfactory and fair resolution for me, irrespective of the effort involved, and spoke eloquently and comprehensively on my behalf. Thank you, counselor!
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28 Mar, 2014 by John
I am General Counsel to a small college. We have used Mr. Vilbig on many occasions to assist our benefactors to complete complicated charitable gifts to the college in their estate plans. He has wide expertise in charitable trust and tax law. Most important to us, however, is Mr. Vilbig's ability to put our benefactors at ease in working with them to achieve their charitable intent. They trust him and he has secured for our college substantial estate gifts as a result. I recommend him without reservation.
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05 Dec, 2011 by Chuck n.
I have known Brad for a few years now. He has handled both my personal legal business, and I've sent several referrals to him. I have had nothing but top notch service from him, and have confirmed repeatedly that my trust in him is well placed. The people I referred speak to the same, without exception.
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01 Nov, 2017 by Robert
Tom Applewhite of Donner Applewhite LLC helped me when I needed them most. I contacted this firm regarding Employment & Labor laws. Tom was very informative during my case & always kept me informed and updated with anything related to my case. This firm gave me a FREE consultation & took my case on a contingency basis when money was a little tight for me! They fought hard to get the best possible outcome & I would recommend you reach out to Donner Applewhite LLC if your in need of Real Lawyers with Real Experience!
Thank you Tom Applewhite for helping me !
Best regards,
Rob W
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12 May, 2014 by Ricki
Mr Bell created and managed my families Trust, and after my grandfathers death,
everything went as planned , and we avoided probate court. It was pleasure working with Mr.Bell.
I would refer him to family and friends!
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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.
