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11 Sep, 2021 by Anonymous
Matthew Meyer did an exemplary job at negotiating our lease agreement. He was very timely and answered all of the questions we had. He kept us very informed every step of the way. Thank you Matthew for doing such an outstanding job!!
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03 Jun, 2021 by Shaun
Mathew handled my ligation against a business with the upmost professionalism. It took over a year to complete but he was there every step of the way. He was able to explain all the legal terminology to me without making me feel left in the dark. Mathew’s communications with their lawyers and the judges was done so precisely to the facts and legal boundaries of the courts. I know that this is what helped my case along with his thorough knowledge of the law. I highly recommend him.
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11 Mar, 2021 by Toya
Mr. Meyer was hired, after consultation. He is very professional and knowledgeable Lawyer. He is a person of Integrity and kept me abreast every step of the way. During the consultation he gave me his rates. He Negotiated my settlement with the financial institution that I had the debt with. So happy I hired him. And if anything else comes up I'd call Mr. Meyer first.
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22 Oct, 2020 by Nick rogers
We recently worked with Mike to build our estate plan. We came into this with very little background knowledge and Mike took the time to explain everything in great detail. By the end we felt very comfortable that we understood the plan and how everything was constructed. We would definitely recommend Mike.
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14 Sep, 2020 by Marietta mcleod
Mike assisted us with a real estate transaction as part of a trust. We were very happy with his service and his professionalism, and were very satisfied with the results. We would gladly use him for future transactions and would recommend him to our family and friends.
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15 Aug, 2020 by Gary teagarden
We hired Mike to prepare estate documents, including a trust, after he was referred to us by close friends. Mike was great; educating and leading us through what can be a detailed and frustrating process. But Mike made everything much simpler due to his experience and knowledge. He's a patient "guide" we would work with again!
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28 Mar, 2024 by Brian fitzgerald
Johanna Clyborne was called as an expert witness by the opposing counsel in my divorce trial. I was pro se (representing myself) and I am not a lawyer. She was supposed to opine on my military pension. She instead offered speculation on my security clearance and nature of separation. She is not an expert witness in either area. Opposing counsel and Johanna tried to pull a fast one. They violated the MN rules of civil procedure by not introducing a her expert witness report prior to trial. After more than an hour of testimony - which I objected to on the grounds of her lack of qualification, speculation, and failure to follow civil procedure - Johanna was dismissed from the stand and all her testimony was stricken from the record. The judge chastised opposing counsel for her lack of competency - which I thought was generous as it seemed very calculated to me rather than legal bumbling. This shameful performance should be cause for Johann's sanction and / or dismissal from the National Guard as she clearly is using her military position as an officer for profit. She is doing this unethically as there is no way she can establish herself as an expert in military pensions (which our judge agreed was true) and apparently pulls this sort of move on veterans as a form of character assassination regularly. @mnnationalguard you paying attention?
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05 Feb, 2024 by Sandy weierke
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30 Nov, 2023 by Joyce heiland
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09 Sep, 2024 by Scott swanson
In the fall of 2022, my Personal Representative services were requested to administer the estate settlement for a close friend who had passed away. Without hesitation, I reached out to Kevin Wetherille who partnered me with probate attorney Dan Sagstetter. Dan’s expertise was tested as we worked through the estate's unique challenges. Dan proved to be far more than an exceptionally gifted attorney. Dan became a trusted advisor and mentor to me. As an excellent communicator, Dan explained the “why” behind actions taken, allowing beneficiaries to understand and appreciate them. Dan made the law easy to consume for everyone involved. A good attorney makes all the difference. I had a great one with Dan Sagstetter. As my business grows, I look forward to future partnerships with Dan, Kevin, Jim, and the JMW team.
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29 Aug, 2024 by Allen soderbeck
We were very satisfied with Jim, his knowledge, experience, and how he handled a very complicated business case for us. He came recommended from another attorney and didn't dissappoint us. We would use Jim again and recommend him to others.
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29 Aug, 2024 by Sarah oliver
I've worked with JMW for over 10 years both personally and professionally. Their staff is very professional, informative, knowledgeable, meticulous, and easy to work with. I feel reassured when they are involved in whatever manner I might need them to be. They are always my recommendation to others when I hear about any situation needing representation. JMW is definitely the firm you want in your corner!
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09 Sep, 2024 by Scott swanson
In the fall of 2022, my Personal Representative services were requested to administer the estate settlement for a close friend who had passed away. Without hesitation, I reached out to Kevin Wetherille who partnered me with probate attorney Dan Sagstetter. Dan’s expertise was tested as we worked through the estate's unique challenges. Dan proved to be far more than an exceptionally gifted attorney. Dan became a trusted advisor and mentor to me. As an excellent communicator, Dan explained the “why” behind actions taken, allowing beneficiaries to understand and appreciate them. Dan made the law easy to consume for everyone involved. A good attorney makes all the difference. I had a great one with Dan Sagstetter. As my business grows, I look forward to future partnerships with Dan, Kevin, Jim, and the JMW team.
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29 Aug, 2024 by Allen soderbeck
We were very satisfied with Jim, his knowledge, experience, and how he handled a very complicated business case for us. He came recommended from another attorney and didn't dissappoint us. We would use Jim again and recommend him to others.
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29 Aug, 2024 by Sarah oliver
I've worked with JMW for over 10 years both personally and professionally. Their staff is very professional, informative, knowledgeable, meticulous, and easy to work with. I feel reassured when they are involved in whatever manner I might need them to be. They are always my recommendation to others when I hear about any situation needing representation. JMW is definitely the firm you want in your corner!
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15 Aug, 2023 by Anonymous
Mr. Conway was moonlighting defending people who were facing civil commitment. I found him to be dishonest and apathetic. While his dishonesty was not material to the outcome of my case, at the time, I was really put off and felt I was railroaded. I suggest getting anything he promises to do in writing or just avoid hiring him.
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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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