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23 Jan, 2024 by Anonymous
Michael Watters and his team are highly skilled and experienced in navigating the complexities of divorce. Not only did he skillfully navigate the legal system and advocate for my financial needs, he understood the importance of equalizing finances between households so that I can really show up for my children. He clearly has seen it all before, understands dysfunctional family dynamics and anticipated what my family needed when I was not able to advocate for myself. Michael got a court order to begin paying child support and alimony when my ex had stopped; he called for a financial deposition to reveal the money that my ex had been trying to hide and could not be revealed in a simple tax return, he got my ex to pay money to me for the house that we had acquired while we were married and then had pressurized me into getting my name off of the title as I was leaving the house before we were legally separated, and he was able to get most all of my legal fees to be paid by my ex as he had the ability to do so. I am so grateful for Michael and his team's work on my behalf. Without Michael's help I still would have been an unsupported single mom stressed and not being able to fully show up for my kids who are really the ones who suffer most in these dynamics.
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21 Jul, 2023 by Anonymous
I have had the pleasure of seeing Mike in action as a discovery referee, legal malpractice expert, and attorney. He is a seasoned litigator and expert who knows what he's doing and easily earns the respect of those who experience his work. The work product from his office is excellent. His integrity is unmatched. Importantly, Mike is an even better human being, and his care is evident at all phases. Shout out to George and Tim from his office who are also incredible to work with.
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06 Jun, 2023 by Chris
Mr. Waters is not only an exceptionally knowledgable Divorce Lawyer but a highly experienced litigator which is critical should your divorce reach the courts. I believe he represented my interests very well and I had full confidence that he would have won my case had we ended up going to court. However (against his advice) I decided to settle just to be done with the process. I felt he was fair in his billing and I would hire him again if I needed his services.
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06 May, 2024 by Alan feng
Mr. Gruchawka is a highly competent lawyer who not only helped me reach a favorable resolution to a complex legal problem, but also made the process as stress-free as possible. He communicates timely and effectively. Throughout the process, it did not take more than an hour for Mr. Gruchawka to respond to my inquiries with either a straightforward answer or an "I'm researching now" email. I also had an easy time reaching him on the phone to discuss more complex strategies. Most importantly, his style of communication always made me feel like I had someone highly knowledgeable on my side. Legal problems are stressful, but a good lawyer can make things much easier. I am grateful to Mr. Gruchawka for untangling this situation as effectively as possible. I would wholeheartedly recommend him to anyone else in need of legal services.
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03 May, 2024 by Chris macomber
Joseph’s help has been invaluable as we negotiate contracts and deal with problems that arise with some property we own—a hill with cellphone towers. He always responds quickly, and his fees are very reasonable.
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01 May, 2024 by Mark heald
I contacted Mr. Gruchawka to review a business contract. He replied to my request the same day and performed the review with relevant comments within a few days. I would use his services again and would not hesitate to recommend Mr. Gruchawka to my other business contacts.
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05 Oct, 2024 by Ryan n (neerphoria)
Thomas is a genuinely kind person. He cares about helping you and you can feel it in his voice. I had at least 30 questions when I got on the phone with him. He helped me stop, identify the important issues, and feel prepared. Highly recommend his services.
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19 Jun, 2024 by Karen brown
I spoke with Mr. Kelly about an odd situation. He was very attentive to what I needed and was quite upfront and honest with me. I would recommend him highly!
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07 Jun, 2024 by Al coate
Top notch professional, with sound advice and excellent service. I highly recommend Thomas Kelly.
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05 Oct, 2024 by Ryan n (neerphoria)
Thomas is a genuinely kind person. He cares about helping you and you can feel it in his voice. I had at least 30 questions when I got on the phone with him. He helped me stop, identify the important issues, and feel prepared. Highly recommend his services.
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19 Jun, 2024 by Karen brown
I spoke with Mr. Kelly about an odd situation. He was very attentive to what I needed and was quite upfront and honest with me. I would recommend him highly!
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07 Jun, 2024 by Al coate
Top notch professional, with sound advice and excellent service. I highly recommend Thomas Kelly.
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05 Oct, 2024 by Ryan n (neerphoria)
Thomas is a genuinely kind person. He cares about helping you and you can feel it in his voice. I had at least 30 questions when I got on the phone with him. He helped me stop, identify the important issues, and feel prepared. Highly recommend his services.
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19 Jun, 2024 by Karen brown
I spoke with Mr. Kelly about an odd situation. He was very attentive to what I needed and was quite upfront and honest with me. I would recommend him highly!
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07 Jun, 2024 by Al coate
Top notch professional, with sound advice and excellent service. I highly recommend Thomas Kelly.
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05 Oct, 2024 by Ryan n (neerphoria)
Thomas is a genuinely kind person. He cares about helping you and you can feel it in his voice. I had at least 30 questions when I got on the phone with him. He helped me stop, identify the important issues, and feel prepared. Highly recommend his services.
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19 Jun, 2024 by Karen brown
I spoke with Mr. Kelly about an odd situation. He was very attentive to what I needed and was quite upfront and honest with me. I would recommend him highly!
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07 Jun, 2024 by Al coate
Top notch professional, with sound advice and excellent service. I highly recommend Thomas Kelly.
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15 Aug, 2021 by Rajesh shanmugasamy
Cuando llamé a David. Acepté contratar sus servicios y, literalmente, en dos llamadas telefónicas pudo resolver todo el caso en Santa Rosa en el Palacio de Justicia del Condado de Sonoma. Me ayudó a quedarme con mi familia e hizo lo mejor que pudo. Gracias, David por todo.
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11 Aug, 2021 by Dulce barrerra
There are few things you can control when you go to Court. Nothing is a given. You can control who represents you, and I am glad I made the best decision when I hired David. He was very methodical, and I felt comfortable with him the first time that I spoke with him. Everyone at David Chesley’s law offices are very professional and took their time with me and my case. Thank you for your work.
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19 Jul, 2021 by Wilfred martin
We called David’s law firm when seeking a Santa Rosa criminal defense attorney and he gave is helpful legal advice and he was able to answer all of our questions. Even though my brother’s criminal case was in Santa Rosa Court and he was not from California, the process the Law Offices of David Chesley had of dealing with the court was very smooth. My brother was facing 2 charges and David beat his case in front of a jury in Sonoma County Superior Court. I must admit I drove him crazy but he stood by my brother every step of the way. He gave great attention to us and applied his skill, experience, and expertise quite well in a very complex case. He seemed to have an excellent reputation inside the courthouse and in the community and was very attentive to my case. David and Debra are amazing! We are so grateful and now we can say we made the best choice, choosing David.
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27 Oct, 2021 by Jeni hough
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22 Jul, 2021 by Colleen heinrich
Always professional, supportive and knowledgable. Thank you for your time in helping to sort out all the chaos making it smooth and painless...
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08 Jun, 2021 by Aris pologeorgis
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15 May, 2023 by E mc
Top notch. Justin Hein is a VERY smart lawyer. This firm cares about clients and professionalism. Highly recommended.
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16 Nov, 2022 by Regine boudoures
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04 Jul, 2020 by Tom foley
Great service for my needs. Attorneys are prompt, responsible and very easy to work with.
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13 Jun, 2023 by Matt mcleod
I was referred by a family friend and had nothing but excellent service and legal representation from this law firm. Always responsive to my questions within days for several years! if you need their legal services you won’t be disappointed.
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15 Dec, 2022 by Kathy oakander
Working with Ryan was comforting and flawless. It was a very difficult time in our lives, but Ryan and staff were professional and walked us through, step by step. The office was quick with calls or emails, when we had questions. Thank you, Hindley Law! Highly recommend!
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21 Aug, 2019 by Pamela corley
The Law offices of Hindley & Henderson handled my bankruptcy with compassion for a person who made poor choices. I would highly recommend them. They walk you through every step and answer all questions that you have about the process. Tabitha was very patient with me when I called to often with stupid questions.
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15 May, 2023 by E mc
Top notch. Justin Hein is a VERY smart lawyer. This firm cares about clients and professionalism. Highly recommended.
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16 Nov, 2022 by Regine boudoures
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04 Jul, 2020 by Tom foley
Great service for my needs. Attorneys are prompt, responsible and very easy to work with.
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25 Aug, 2023 by Jyc kadlec-rivera
Trustworthy, thorough, easy to work with, and with very reasonable fees.
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27 May, 2015 by Ian
I cannot recommend Jeremy enough. I was recently involved in a very stressful and convoluted real estate/civil matter. If it wasn't for Jeremy, it would have ended very badly for me. He is one of the most professional, courteous and overall capable people I have ever had the pleasure of working with. If I am ever in need of legal representation again, Jeremy will be the absolute only person I will contact. I cannot stress enough what an outstanding attorney Jeremy Olsan is.
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03 May, 2012 by Timothy
I serve of the Board of Directors for the North Bay Association of Realtors and Jeremy serves as our chief legal counsel. Jeremy has also spoken to my office about legal issues arising out of real estate transactions. Jeremy is one of the most thorough and thoughtful attorneys I have met. He returns call within 24hrs and takes time to really listen to the concerns and outline possible remedies. I have referred Jeremy to some of my best clients, an indication of how much I trust his work
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29 May, 2022 by Anonymous
Promptly addressed my concern. Very helpful and knowledgeable attorney. Thank you Mr. Hein!
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13 May, 2020 by Anonymous
Justin was attentive and promptly addressed all of my questions and concerns. He also revealed unknown issues about my situation that helped me make a well-informed decision. I highly recommend him.
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26 Mar, 2020 by Ingrid
I received a correspondence from Mr. Hein in the mail & it was right on time for what I was thinking about in reference to my ins. license. He promptly left me a message & email to assist me. I responded & he gave me very good & realistic advice for my situation. I took his advice & all went well. I shared my results & he was genuinely happy for me. I would recommend him to anyone needing his expertise. :-)
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18 Feb, 2016 by Janet
We not only know John Borba on a Professional level but have been friends with John for many many years. We would never hesitate to recommend John or have him represent us in any legal matter. We have had great experiences with him on several occasions, recently he helped our friends settle an elder abuse case within their family. John also helped us with a wedding venue for our sons wedding that was withholding a deposit from us when we hadn't even signed a contract. We never would of reached a successful conclusion without the professional representation he and his firm provided. If you want piece of mind a phone call is worth so much more!
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09 Jan, 2016 by Jeanette
Mr. Borba has handled various legal matters for me over the past 15 years; Family Trust, Business Incorporation, and a very difficult, but successful, Personal Injury Auto Accident case in which I suffered a serious shoulder injury due to the fault of the other driver involved. At all times he comported himself in a courteous and respectful manner. He is pragmatic and deliberately thorough in demeanor but possesses razor sharp legal acuity, a nimble mind, and keen intuition he can call upon to aggressively defend and represent his clients when necessary. These attributes, coupled with a sterling reputation, make him my one and only choice for legal representation or advice.
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06 May, 2015 by Colleen m.
Legal matters are never comfortable, but having John Borba as our legal representative for two generations for our family business, John brings a sense of compassion for his clients, but never less than extremely knowledgeable and aggressive with his legal acumen. John having served in Sonoma County for many years, I know his reputation is highly regarded by both client and other legal counsel and is held in high esteem. I would offer John as my highest recommendation for anyone needing his specialized legal services, as we have often done without regrets.
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24 Apr, 2023 by Kathy
Finding Richard was the best thing that could have happened to me when my claim was denied by my long term disability insurance company. it was so frustrating and scary, even, with so much on the line. His expertise, great listening skills, and calm demeanor always reassured me when we spoke. I really appreciate everything he did for me, and I know the positive outcome was a result of his knowledge and experience. I can't recommend him highly enough. You would be lucky to have him. I certainly was. Thank you again, Richard.
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29 Mar, 2023 by Anonymous
Mr. Johnston agreed to represent me in a retirement plan case with a former employer. He was very knowledgeable about ERISA and knew exactly what arguments to make to the judge on my behalf. Mr. Johnston was thorough in his preparation and confidently argued the key elements of my case. The judge agreed with him and he won the case for me. Mr. Johnston was a pleasure to work with and I highly recommend him.
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29 Jul, 2022 by Anonymous
I contacted Richard when my LTD benefits were improperly denied by my former employer‘s insurer. His knowledge and experience in ERISA law were essential to the successful resolution of my case. He was able to clearly explain the process and confidently guide me down the long road to resolution, honestly and strongly advocating in my favor. Richard was a careful and patient listener, respectful of the path that brought me to his proverbial door, and considerate of the emotional struggle when a lawyer needs to hire a lawyer. He’s a true wordsmith, polite, and highly recommend.
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12 May, 2015 by Anonymous
I have used the team of Borba, Frizzell Kerns for personal and professional reasons. I find them professional and understanding. They helped me set up my LLC for my new business and also helped out when we had a problem with a neighbor. I find them compassionate and helpful and would recommend them to anyone, which I have done on more then one occasion :)
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06 May, 2015 by Rob
Borba, Frizzell Kerns has provided impeccable service. Their knowledge of business and employment law has served my company well. The firm as a whole has been extremely responsive. I would wholeheartedly recommend them as they provide a wide range of legal services.
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26 May, 2013 by Susanna
I would whole-heartedly recommend Ms. Fritz, she's knowledgeable, has common sense and keeps her clients' best interests in the forefront always. Not only is she good with litigation but she's also good with settlement. She won't waste your time or your money and she'll fight for you. Good, strong character is the best way to describe Ms. Fritz
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25 May, 2013 by Dominic
Theresa has represented my company for over 11 years with both unemployment and workers compensation issues. She has proven to be very knowledgeable as well as practical in resolving issues while maintaining a cost / risk perspective.
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30 Jan, 2016 by Anonymous
Joe was highly recommended when I was doing the legwork for a friend in need of an attorney. Not only did he return my call right away, he did so even though he had taken time off for the birth of his child. He was very knowledgeable and skillful, clearly answered every question we had and was such a comfort that he was the first call I made when my son caught his own case not long after. Unfortunately, due to financial reasons, we weren't able to hire Joe for my son but I HIGHLY recommend him to anyone and everyone. At the worst time in my family's life, Joe treated us with empathy and compassion while being realistic and straightforward about our options.
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22 Oct, 2012 by Chai
Words can not explain how lucky I was to have found a criminal attorney as good as Joe Rogoway. A situation led to my fiance, my roommate, and myself facing numerous aggrivated felony charges. Joe was my only hope against these aggrivated felony charges. My immigration status in the US was in jeopardy of Deportation, and whole life and future were now at the mercy of the criminal justice system. Joe was extremely educated and experienced with every one of my felony allegations, spanning from felony cultivation, felony possession with intent to distribute and felony possession of a stolen firearm, along with others. He was sensitive to my situation, and even assisted my co-defendants in finding suitable representation. Joe communicated with my immigration attorneys and very professionally navigated the whole fleet through our legal process. Joe was not only successful in getting me the best possible outcome (which most people didn't believe was possible in my situation), but also played the role of my therapist. Joe always found a way to be there for me and communicated with everyone from my attorneys to my family. Over all I truly believe Joe Rogoway is the BEST criminal defense attorney in CA, was underpaid for everything he did for me, and anyone facing criminal charges would be lucky to retain his services.
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02 Oct, 2014 by Nena zamora
I'm very happy and pleased with jenni klose...she does her job and explains everything... very understanding and sincer...even does extra for her clients....she is a super star in my eyes...
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13 Sep, 2018 by Anonymous
Doug did an outstanding job representing our interests. As he has many years of business experience himself he understood our complex issues both from a business and legal perspective. He expertly guided us through a challenging business dispute and we were very pleased with the outcome. Unlike an attorney we had previously worked with, he was very responsive and a true pleasure to work with. I highly recommend him to any business owner.
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31 Jan, 2012 by Gail
Had a through knowledge of mechanic liens and resulting civil suits. But best of all? Excellent communication skills; she has the ability to translate proceedings to my level so I could clearly understand everything that was going on as well as what to expect. Between her suggestions and our open discussions, I was able make informed decisions.
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04 Sep, 2009 by Anonymous
A thorough and well thinking attorney. I have long experience with Warren, and have consistently found that he looks out for our interests and knows where to draw the line and where to let it slide.
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10 Sep, 2021 by Stacey swanson
Honest and caring people.
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01 Dec, 2011 by Candyce moore
Mr.Wargo is well informed and knollegable of all facits of his job. he is polite and a careing considerate person professionally, and yes I would recommend him for services needed by others with NO hisatations.
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24 Nov, 2014 by Anonymous
Richard Nelson has served as counsel regarding current contracts and leases I have requested his legal advice and expertise on. As a positive, Richard does not emulate the typical attorney profile. He is genuine and trustworthy, complimented by being one of the most skilled, analytical, and brilliant attorneys I have ever worked with. He worked passionately to remove the barriers to success in negotiating my contract, working promptly to help me clarify my position. He was extremely communicative throughout the process. He stood true to his focus and remained goal oriented thoughout my negotiations, upholding our position with fervor and clarifying points for further discussion in my best interest. If you are in search of an attorney who will keep the best interest of his clients as a first priority, I would highly recommend Richard Nelson.
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20 Jun, 2017 by Mike
Chris prepared a full estate plan package for my wife and I that included a Trust, Will, Power of Attorney, Advance Health Care Directive, etc. The process was painless and the finished work product was outstanding. Chris was very knowledgeable and answered all of our questions. His support staff was friendly and the office environment was very receptive to our needs. I would recommend Chris to anyone interested in estate planning.
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28 Jul, 2024 by Cynthia edington
Thomas Jeffrey helped me immensely with my issue He was painstaking with his execution of my issues. He held my hand all the way through and I got the results I wanted. He was great.
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16 Feb, 2024 by Cj jay
Retaining Tom changed my life. I was in debt and being sued by several law firms representing various debtors. Tom was transparent, realistic, and extremely patient and understanding, he didn’t judge me and most importantly he was successful. We settled one case for less than half and then Tom fought another because Tom knew the law and guess what, TOM WON. Five+ years after retaining Tom my credit is 800+ and I’m financially sound.
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09 May, 2022 by Sharon eager
This review is 10 years overdue. Since Tom handled our bankruptcy, we have flourished. Filing for bankruptcy was one of the lowest points in our professional and personal lives. We were so ashamed. Our experience with Tom was excellent. His handling of the myriad of paperwork, appointments and the nuances of the bankruptcy system was amazing. He is also a very kind, compassionate person. His representation made the process less painful and we never felt judged - he is a great advocate. Thank you, Tom.
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13 Mar, 2021 by Carrie paff
Matthew Chavez is the absolute best. He has been an incredible asset to me throughout a very complicated estate process. You could not do better than to work with him. Kind, professional and deeply knowledgeable.
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25 Aug, 2023 by Jyc kadlec-rivera
Trustworthy, thorough, easy to work with, and with very reasonable fees.
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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:

  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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