Filter by

star star star star star
24 Dec, 2019 by Maurice
I would highly recommend Attorney Mayer, He is very thorough, and easy to work with. He did A wonderful job with myself and my case. I was very happy with the results
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
03 Dec, 2010 by John
Mr. Mayer is a very good lawyer. He worked with me as co-counsel when I represented a client in a commercial real estate lawsuit in Sheboygan County. Although initially hired as local counsel, to assist in preparation and filing of documents with the court, he assumed a much larger and more important role as the case proceeded. He soon demonstrated his knowledge of real estate law and of foreclosure proceedings, along with a sharp eye for spotting issues, and a shrewd grasp of litigation strategy. His contribution was tremendous at every stage of the proceeding, from writing motions and briefs, to active participation in the trial. Peter is smart man, and a dependable lawyer. I would not hesitate to work with him again if the opportunity were to arise.
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
30 Sep, 2009 by Todd
Peter read a land contract for me. He accepted me as a client even though I was in another state (my mom used his services in the past). He was always very prompt to return my email. Peter was very thorough and went into great detail on the property that I purchased. He reviewed numerous documents (easements, county parcel descriptions, etc.) that I would not have thought to review. I am happy that Peter read the land contract for me and looked over the property. It was a big relief that the property and contract were free of problems. I would hire Peter again if I needed similar legal services, and I would give him a favorable recommendation.
Read more Avvo
See more
star star star star star
25 Jan, 2015 by Anonymous
Bill represented my sister and I following the death of my mother in a no-fault automobile accident of which I was a passenger and her the driver. On a contingency basis, Bill pursued our case against a large insurance company for damages owed in respect to this accident. Our case was rejected through appeals and Bill offered to submit the case to the Wisconsin State Supreme Court for review. The Justices there found merit in the case and agreed to hear arguments. Bill successfully argued our case there after approximately 6 years of litigation. Clearly Bill is a first-class litigator and brought some closure to what had been, because of a slow legal system, a long, drawn-out and emotionally trying process. He and his staff were continually responsive to questions and concerns that my sister and I shared. He was, upon prompting, willing to simplify more confusing and/or technical aspects of our case and its journey through the state legal system. He also seemed to work on a very professional basis with another excellent lawyer representing me in a related matter. Not only did he provide quality service throughout the entire process, but he also provided appreciated and important advice to us following the resolution of our case even though he had no obligation to do this.
Read more Avvo
See more
star star star star star
04 Jul, 2023 by Anonymous
This guy is ridiculous! Pay over $5000 and my situation is worse then before I hired him. Sits in court with his legs crossed, saying nothing and letting my case just sink. All he cares about is MONEY! GO TO SOMEONE ELSE
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
15 Nov, 2022 by Anonymous
Mr. Darrow is easily one of the worst attorneys I have ever dealt with. Very unresponsive and inattentive to needs. Did not share direction or strategy with me as a client. Even resorted to name calling when I expressed my dislike for his performance. Bills for hours of busy work that has no effect on the case. I would avoid this firm at all costs. Their responses to reviews also constitutes lible showing he has no respect for his clients
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
15 Feb, 2019 by Michael
Attorney Darrow is absolutely the best trial lawyer I ever observed in action. I watched him skillfully exam and cross exam witnesses. He knows how to ask questions and present a winning case. At trial he was extremely organized and well prepared. His team behind the scenes put together the facts and details, nothing was left to chance. The one thing I was concerned about was my dad and his lack of understanding of the legal process of divorce, but attorney Darrow was compassionate and helpful to him, I can not be more pleased! I live far away from my father, and when I contacted his team, they were so prompt and honest in answering all of my questions.
Read more Avvo
See more
star star star star star
07 Feb, 2014 by Brook's services
This lawyer represented a property owner. The property in question was a 3 car garage with attached office space. After renting said space for my landscaping company, I was told by the owner that I would be "Self Help Evicted". In the state of Wisconsin this is illegal. Besides there was no issue(s) present and rent was paid on the first or before every month. My entire company property (trailer, work benches, tools, equipment, 2 full offices, and much much more) was relocated, without my consent, 20 miles away. When I contacted police, they informed me that Basil had informed them that this was a legal eviction and that because I did not have an attorney it was a civil matter. (Clearly local police failed to protect ans serve as well) Over the next 3 months the property owner refused to contact me and informed me that I would need to speak to his counsel (Basil). Basil informed me that the property was not zoned correctly for the use I was using it for. I learned this was far from the truth. The building was built zoned UC (urban commercial) I was then told that I legally had to pay the rent for my items new location, moving costs, and other fees to get my property back. I learned that what he was asking was just as illegal as the property being moved without court proceedings in the first place. I was then accused of missing a months payment, justifying the relocation. I showed proof of payment and deposit, while also presenting the small fact that even if rent was missed or late, the possessions in question was taken in the first week of the month, not long enough to take ANY legal action let alone remove the property. I was then told that because there was never a contract for lease or rent, that I was trespassing for months. After presenting Basil with a singed contract between the property owner and myself, I was told it was forged. After a week of refusing to meet, speak, or respond to emails, I got a short email stating an address of where my property was and that I need to pick up my belonging as soon as possible... I feel Basil was not only bending laws and reading between lines, he was clearly disregarding the law in some if not most of this situation.
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
24 Nov, 2010 by Jessica
Basil Buchko is great in and out of the court room. He knows what it takes to get the job done right. He helped me with my divorce as well as placement of my two kids. He's an honest and trust worthy att. that wants the best for his clients.
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
21 May, 2010 by Tammy & derek
Mr. Buchko helped my husband and I out of a land contract with a scam artist. We will now be able to save our money and buy when the time is right for us. We want to THANK him over and over again.
Read more Avvo
See more
star star star star star
21 Jan, 2021 by Anonymous
Good: He was courteous and respectful. He kept me updated on changes consistently throughout the process. He comes highly recommended based on his previous cases and knowledge. Bad: His presence in court was nonexistent. He basically got steamrolled by the other attorney and could not muster the energy to stop it. The other attorney even referenced being friends with him WHILE IN COURT. If you give him any feedback, he will become upset and instantly tell you to go find another attorney. I felt like my own private detective and attorney in my divorce case. I had to fire him. Within a month, my new attorney fixed his mistakes and started getting me results. If you are a male, get ready for him to do nothing for you.
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
14 Jun, 2019 by Anonymous
I retained Atty Dietrich a few years ago because his firm was highly recommended to me. I was very disappointed with the lack of communication, slow-moving process, and unpreparedness for court. I will not be retaining this attorney again.
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
05 Jun, 2018 by Orlando
Mr. Dietrich is a good lawyer but an even better person. I fired my first attorney and was desperate to find a replacement. It took 3 months to negotiate and settle my divorce. I wish I would have found him sooner. He's a solid negotiator and his focus is to get you out of court as soon as possible.
Read more Avvo
See more
star star star star star
26 Jul, 2024 by Galen kincanon
Very unprofessional and unethical lawfirm. I can only speak from my experience with Oliver Bauer, but he uses witnesses that lie on the stand. I made him aware that purjery was committed, and the same witness was used as a credibility witness on another court date.
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
30 May, 2024 by Beau
Paul was great.
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
19 Dec, 2023 by Lisa morgan docter
Do not....I repeat do not hire Herbert Humke unless you want to be ignored. Tells you that you can't afford to file contempt of court!!! Tell you what Herbert I will take my money elsewhere.
Read more Google Maps
See more
star star star star star
26 Jul, 2024 by Galen kincanon
Very unprofessional and unethical lawfirm. I can only speak from my experience with Oliver Bauer, but he uses witnesses that lie on the stand. I made him aware that purjery was committed, and the same witness was used as a credibility witness on another court date.
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
30 May, 2024 by Beau
Paul was great.
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
19 Dec, 2023 by Lisa morgan docter
Do not....I repeat do not hire Herbert Humke unless you want to be ignored. Tells you that you can't afford to file contempt of court!!! Tell you what Herbert I will take my money elsewhere.
Read more Google Maps
See more
star star star star star
26 Jul, 2024 by Galen kincanon
Very unprofessional and unethical lawfirm. I can only speak from my experience with Oliver Bauer, but he uses witnesses that lie on the stand. I made him aware that purjery was committed, and the same witness was used as a credibility witness on another court date.
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
30 May, 2024 by Beau
Paul was great.
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
19 Dec, 2023 by Lisa morgan docter
Do not....I repeat do not hire Herbert Humke unless you want to be ignored. Tells you that you can't afford to file contempt of court!!! Tell you what Herbert I will take my money elsewhere.
Read more Google Maps
See more
star star star star star
14 Jan, 2021 by Tammie
I hired Herb to handle my case. The experience was unfortunate. He wouldn't return phone calls. Though many messages were left, it sometimes took weeks. This made everything take so much longer than necessary; the case dragged on and on. Papers needing my signature came with my name misspelled. That was never corrected. For the final, legal, paperwork, I just crossed it out and rewrote it. He made me feel very insignificant . . . he was too busy to take my case seriously.
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
03 Dec, 2018 by Lee
I've been working with Attorney Humke for about a year. In all this time, I've found him to be professional and great at putting forth my best interests. The way I wanted to handle my case was by fighting it standing up instead of getting down in the muck. Attorney Humke has done an outstanding job of being direct and clear, striking hard when necessary, but being cautious and not overplaying his hand. Also, he reminds me of Sam the Eagle. I recommend him highly.
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
23 Aug, 2015 by Faith
My husband hired this attorney because he believed he had the reputation of his father, not the case. He was interested in us in the beginning but that changed during the process. He waited until the last moment to do things which he told us he was going to do the day we met with him,which we have in writing. This caused us to have to file for extensions which we feel we should not have been charged for since they were his mistakes. This happened more than once. He would not return calls, and made us feel as though we were not important clients. We asked for monthly statements, it took many months of asking before we received any. I would not recommend him .
Read more Avvo
See more
Discover the ideal lawyer
You can search a lawyer by practice area, lawyer name, city, state, or ZIP code
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.

Scroll to top