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Shannon R. Bryant, experienced Business, Criminal Defense attorney in Springfield, MO with 145 reviews
Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
33,75
star star star star star
4.8/5
Google Maps
4.8
145 Reviews
star star star star star
31 Oct, 2024 by Teri summerfield
I can't say enough good things about Jesse and Audra. They were an amazing team that helped me through all of the situations that came up during my 5 year journey. I'm so grateful for them answering all of my questions and just guiding me through this process flawlessly. It wasn't an easy journey at times, but so well worth it in the end. I'm now moving forward in life in a much better financial position. Thank you so much, Licata Bankruptcy, for everything over the last 5+ years! I wouldn't be where I am now without you.
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30 Jul, 2024 by Wendy sundstrom
I had a great experience at Licata!! Jordyn was my attorney, and he was excellent at explaining things, so we could fully understand . I would recommend him to anyone facing financial problems including Bankruptcy.
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30 Jul, 2024 by Colin judy
They made the process extremely easy. I’d recommend Jordyn to anyone thinking about filing. If you’re on the fence about making the decision, give them a call. They were amazing to work with.
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James Matthew Poe, experienced Business, Consumer Protection attorney in Springfield, MO with 45 reviews
Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
33,33
star star star star star
4.3/5
Avvo
4.8
12 Reviews
Google Maps
4.2
33 Reviews
star star star star star
08 Jul, 2024 by Leasa white
Kit is a very nice lady
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08 Jul, 2024 by Clyde mayberry
Mr. Poe is a great person. He is very understanding and works hard on your case. He also keeps you informed of how the case is going. I would recommend Mr. Poe for your legal problems. Thumbs up for him.
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star star star star star
08 Jul, 2024 by Stidz media
James recently help me establish a business by doing all the necessary paperwork in a timely and effective manner. He also explained the potential advantages of the particular business structure we used. I high reccomended him and look forward to working with James again in the future.
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Donald Matthew Brown, experienced Business, Consumer Protection attorney in Springfield, MO with 143 reviews
Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
30,91
star star star star star
4.0/5
Avvo
5.0
2 Reviews
Google Maps
4.0
141 Reviews
star star star star star
28 Jan, 2025 by Rani hutcherson
Nick and Caitlin were great! They helped me quick and efficiently.
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07 Jan, 2025 by Cricket catlett
Dakota is a top notch attorney. Listens and gathers all the facts. His proficiency is amazing. Will definitely recommend to anyone. Thank you for everything you did. Amazing
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star star star star star
21 Oct, 2024 by Levi householder
I own a general contracting and remodeling business. I dress in dirty torn up clothing as I go through things quickly. Ms Monica Whitt walked in LATE to unlock the building for my 9am appointment and noticeably looked me up and down as if to pre judge me based on my attire. She was quite aggressive in her explanation when I asked about fee schedule and pricing. (not available online) charges 385 an hour, and was clearly annoyed when I told her I wouldn’t be paying the 175 consultation fee without knowing what the prices were prior to doing so. Explained the way they operate, (not a retainer, but a cash account they keep as a “just in case” and still bill you biweekly with the expectation you keep it at 4k) and asked if I was fine with that. I informed them I thought it was odd and was told “that’s just how we operate, is that something you can afford??” I said “well if that’s the case I don’t think this is preferable as I don’t want to spend 8k in a month when I can receive the same or better representation elsewhere for less” she was clearly annoyed so we stood up to exit and I dropped my phone from a hole in my work coat, she said “looks like your phone fell from the big hole in your pocket there” if you want an attorney to judge you based solely on appearance and assume you’re broke without even getting to know you then she’s the gal for you!! If you care about respect and ambiguity then find someone else. Best of luck Stange law firm.
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Amanda Kay Dunlap, experienced Business, Elder Law attorney in Springfield, MO with 77 reviews
Below Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
29,93
star star star star star
4.3/5
Avvo
5.0
1 Reviews
Google Maps
4.3
76 Reviews
star star star star star
12 Oct, 2024 by Cindi york
Very kind, knowledgeable, and helpful
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star star star star star
05 Oct, 2024 by Ben johnson
I strongly recommend Ozarks Elder Law for their estate planning services. They provided clear answers to all of my questions and maintained excellent communication throughout the entire process. I was very pleased with the outcome and will certainly return to them for any future legal needs.
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star star star star star
03 Sep, 2024 by Shirley blades
Very informative
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Lisa Marie Sims, experienced Business, Estate Planning attorney in Springfield, MO with 22 reviews
Below Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
29,60
star star star star star
4.4/5
Google Maps
4.4
22 Reviews
star star star star star
20 Dec, 2024 by Scott gibbons
Jason is one of, if not "the best" lawyer I have ever worked with.
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star star star star star
28 Oct, 2024 by John banes
Honest, since dealing with other attorneys since Jason represented me I can his honesty is second to none.
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star star star star star
30 Jun, 2024 by Crystal graham
Clough is a matador who won't put up with any bull from the opposing party.
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Gregory Warren Aleshire, experienced Business, Car Accident attorney in Springfield, MO with 5 reviews
Below Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
28,39
star star star star star
4.2/5
Google Maps
4.2
5 Reviews
star star star star star
12 Sep, 2024 by Larry f
Smart attorney
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star star star star star
01 Dec, 2023 by Dana holden choate
Google Maps
star star star star star
14 Jan, 2023 by Annie collier
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Raymond Benjamin Lampert, experienced Business, Estate Planning attorney in Springfield, MO with 5 reviews
Below Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
28,39
star star star star star
4.2/5
Google Maps
4.2
5 Reviews
star star star star star
12 Sep, 2024 by Larry f
Smart attorney
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01 Dec, 2023 by Dana holden choate
Google Maps
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14 Jan, 2023 by Annie collier
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Richard H. Stevens, experienced Business, Criminal Defense attorney in Springfield, MO with 301 reviews
Below Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
27,86
star star star star star
4.2/5
Avvo
3.0
2 Reviews
Google Maps
4.2
299 Reviews
star star star star star
04 Feb, 2025 by Carolyn may
John pushed for me to close even though I was still having issues! then he had a Doctor Who was 90 years old look at me or look at my injury! told me, yeah that would cause pain! John didn’t hear anything I had to say half the time no one would call me back. I would constantly have to call them to get any information of what was going on. And then it just seemed like it was a circus with him and he didn’t care
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14 Nov, 2024 by Cheyenne parson
Google Maps
star star star star star
14 Nov, 2024 by Patsy wilks
The Bradshaw office treated us very well We were very happy with their service
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Andrew Ross Lipscomb, experienced Business, Debt Collection attorney in Springfield, MO with 106 reviews
Below Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
26,85
star star star star star
3.8/5
Avvo
5.0
3 Reviews
Google Maps
3.8
103 Reviews
star star star star star
11 Jan, 2025 by Rudolph calzada
Google Maps
star star star star star
09 Dec, 2024 by Makennon doran
Super simple process. Kyle took care of everything without my family and I needing to lift a finger. Easiest traffic ticket situation I’ve been a part of!
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26 Nov, 2024 by Paul harris
I highly recommend Show MO Justice. Kyle was incredibly professional, knowledgeable, and supportive throughout the entire process. He took the time to understand my situation, explained everything clearly, and worked diligently to ensure the best possible outcome. His expertise and dedication made a challenging situation much easier to navigate. If you need legal assistance, Show MO Justice is definitely the firm to call!”
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Warford Burdette Johnson, experienced Business, Car Accident attorney in Springfield, MO with 5 reviews
Below Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
24,99
star star star star star
4.2/5
Google Maps
4.2
5 Reviews
star star star star star
20 Mar, 2023 by Shana porter
Horrible experience. Called trying to find an attorney. Tried to explain to Millington what was going on. He kept cutting me off and jumping to conclusions I asked him politely to please allow me to explain so that he has the correct details and he began yelling at me at the top of his lungs and then screams " forget it" and hung up. The total phone call was about 5 mins. HORRIBLE HORRIBLE EXPERIENCE. DIDNT NEED AN ANGRY MAN YELLING AT ME WHEN I WAS TRYING TO HIRE AN ATTORNEY!!!! Unprofessional and abusive. Couldn't even get through a 5 min conversation without him blowing up at a potential client. I've never experienced anything like it.
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star star star star star
05 Feb, 2023 by Tina rochin
Pleasant, positive experience assisting this reputable firm for the past several weeks. Answered calls and performed clerical tasks. From my front-row seat, I can attest to the professionalism that goes on behind the scenes. The eldest partner, Topper, works diligently and tirelessly, spending considerable time with each client, handling each case conscientiously and compassionately. He treats everyone from the commissioner to the commoner with deep respect. He completely changed my outlook on aging in the workplace. Topper tops 'em all! In actuality, I'm impressed with the entire practice, the legal skill and kindness of everyone on board. Millington & Glass has rejuvenated my faith in the legal profession.
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10 Feb, 2020 by Mc mikey
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Joshua David Neally, experienced Business, Real Estate attorney in Springfield, MO with 103 reviews
Below Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
23,03
star star star star star
3.8/5
Google Maps
3.8
103 Reviews
star star star star star
11 Jan, 2025 by Rudolph calzada
Google Maps
star star star star star
09 Dec, 2024 by Makennon doran
Super simple process. Kyle took care of everything without my family and I needing to lift a finger. Easiest traffic ticket situation I’ve been a part of!
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star star star star star
26 Nov, 2024 by Paul harris
I highly recommend Show MO Justice. Kyle was incredibly professional, knowledgeable, and supportive throughout the entire process. He took the time to understand my situation, explained everything clearly, and worked diligently to ensure the best possible outcome. His expertise and dedication made a challenging situation much easier to navigate. If you need legal assistance, Show MO Justice is definitely the firm to call!”
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Keaton Ashlock, experienced Business, Estate Planning attorney in Springfield, MO with 103 reviews
Below Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
23,03
star star star star star
3.8/5
Google Maps
3.8
103 Reviews
star star star star star
11 Jan, 2025 by Rudolph calzada
Google Maps
star star star star star
09 Dec, 2024 by Makennon doran
Super simple process. Kyle took care of everything without my family and I needing to lift a finger. Easiest traffic ticket situation I’ve been a part of!
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
26 Nov, 2024 by Paul harris
I highly recommend Show MO Justice. Kyle was incredibly professional, knowledgeable, and supportive throughout the entire process. He took the time to understand my situation, explained everything clearly, and worked diligently to ensure the best possible outcome. His expertise and dedication made a challenging situation much easier to navigate. If you need legal assistance, Show MO Justice is definitely the firm to call!”
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Richard Eugene Davis, experienced Business, Insurance attorney in Springfield, MO with 61 reviews
Below Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
21,57
star star star star star
4.1/5
Google Maps
4.1
61 Reviews
star star star star star
02 Oct, 2024 by Mike
Gary cares nothing of his clients and does not keep in contact terrible service
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10 May, 2024 by Jess hummert
I was seeking a civil rights lawyer and this law firm states that they are criminal defense only now, but that they used to be civil rights but no longer. Since I searched Google for it under civil rights attorney in spfd. Mo and got these guys, (secretary was nice enough even apologized for the waste of time), they didn't have a referral or a reference for who I could call instead=. Very irritated that my VALUABLE TIME WAS WASTED
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star star star star star
09 May, 2024 by Trevor croley
Great Attorneys to work with!!
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Thomas J. O'Neal, experienced Business, Probate attorney in Springfield, MO with 141 reviews
Below Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
21,11
star star star star star
4.0/5
Google Maps
4.0
141 Reviews
star star star star star
28 Jan, 2025 by Rani hutcherson
Nick and Caitlin were great! They helped me quick and efficiently.
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
07 Jan, 2025 by Cricket catlett
Dakota is a top notch attorney. Listens and gathers all the facts. His proficiency is amazing. Will definitely recommend to anyone. Thank you for everything you did. Amazing
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star star star star star
21 Oct, 2024 by Levi householder
I own a general contracting and remodeling business. I dress in dirty torn up clothing as I go through things quickly. Ms Monica Whitt walked in LATE to unlock the building for my 9am appointment and noticeably looked me up and down as if to pre judge me based on my attire. She was quite aggressive in her explanation when I asked about fee schedule and pricing. (not available online) charges 385 an hour, and was clearly annoyed when I told her I wouldn’t be paying the 175 consultation fee without knowing what the prices were prior to doing so. Explained the way they operate, (not a retainer, but a cash account they keep as a “just in case” and still bill you biweekly with the expectation you keep it at 4k) and asked if I was fine with that. I informed them I thought it was odd and was told “that’s just how we operate, is that something you can afford??” I said “well if that’s the case I don’t think this is preferable as I don’t want to spend 8k in a month when I can receive the same or better representation elsewhere for less” she was clearly annoyed so we stood up to exit and I dropped my phone from a hole in my work coat, she said “looks like your phone fell from the big hole in your pocket there” if you want an attorney to judge you based solely on appearance and assume you’re broke without even getting to know you then she’s the gal for you!! If you care about respect and ambiguity then find someone else. Best of luck Stange law firm.
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Kara N. Ransom, experienced Business, Elder Law attorney in Springfield, MO with 0 reviews
Below Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
8,00
star star star star star
0.0/5
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Cameron G. Jones, experienced Business, Elder Law attorney in Springfield, MO with 0 reviews
Below Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
8,00
star star star star star
0.0/5
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Joshua Keith Roberts, experienced Business, Criminal Defense attorney in Springfield, MO with 1 reviews
Below Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
7,17
star star star star star
1.0/5
Avvo
1.0
1 Reviews
star star star star star
29 Nov, 2024 by Nathan
He does not deserve any stars at all, actually. Unfortunately, that's not an option. Be very careful if considering hiring Joshua Roberts. He demands money, money, money and does nothing, nothing, nothing. Check out his other reviews online. I gave him $24,000.00 and he did nothing of value in representing me. He eventually withdrew from my case without reason or warning. Shortly thereafter he told me that the $24k retainer was used up. There was absolutely no way. I demanded a refund and he refused, saying "That's the nature of the business." I have hired attorneys before who have done a fantastic job and ripping people off was certainly not the "nature" of their businesses. He actually had the gumption to tell me I needed to pay him more money. Once he withdrew, I scrambled and tried to raise the money to find a legitimate attorney that could actually help me defend my position. I was unable to afford getting a different attorney, had to finish the case by trying desperately to defend myself, and ended up losing my case and getting a massive judgment against me. This man (if he should even be called one) is no good. He's a liar, cheater, and a thief. He thinks he's superior to the law. Again, he's a liar, cheater, and a thief.
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Christiaan David Horton, experienced Business, Criminal Defense attorney in Springfield, MO with 1 reviews
Below Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
7,15
star star star star star
1.0/5
Google Maps
1.0
1 Reviews
star star star star star
29 Jun, 2018 by Chad adamson
Google Maps
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Brandy Mellissa McShane, experienced Business, Elder Law attorney in Springfield, MO with 1 reviews
Below Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
4,57
star star star star star
1.0/5
Avvo
1.0
1 Reviews
star star star star star
07 Feb, 2018 by Anonymous
I hired brandy for a case involving my children. She is nice at first but before you know it (after she gets paid) she hardly ever responded to any of my texts, e-mails or phone calls! Half the time she wouldn't even show up to a scheduled appointment and when she did she was always always late! She didn't show up for court at least 5 times and it was important hearings that put my kids and I on a very thin line with not saying a word to me or other clients Brandy is untrustworthy and will fail you! A 5 year old could do a better job then her! She is soooo full of excuses and would never just shut up and listen to me! Brandy decided to re locate with no communication to me and along with other clients saying what she was doing! I am far from the only one who feels this way! Brandy is selfish and has no place being a attorney at law or anything important! I'm in the process of having her disbarred (which she has once already been) She acts like she's cares but drops off the face of the earth! She (how I feel) stole my money and never did her job.. Not even a little bit! I will stop at nothing to make sure everyone knows how she is! Brandy also drinks a lot or taking one of her many meds she told me about.. even durning court and while in office! She is a disgrace! I am normally loving and easy going but when my kids are at stake my gloves come off!
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Megan Elizabeth Ray, experienced Business, Personal Injury attorney in Springfield, MO with 0 reviews
Below Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
4,00
star star star star star
0.0/5
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James R. Owensby, experienced Business, Estate Planning attorney in Springfield, MO with 0 reviews
Below Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
4,00
star star star star star
0.0/5
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Kenneth Andrew Sprenger, experienced Business, Litigation attorney in Springfield, MO with 0 reviews
Below Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
4,00
star star star star star
0.0/5
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Richard Russell, experienced Business, Estate Planning attorney in Springfield, MO with 0 reviews
Below Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
4,00
star star star star star
0.0/5
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Douglas L Healy, experienced Business, Lawsuit / Dispute attorney in Springfield, MO with 0 reviews
Below Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
4,00
star star star star star
0.0/5
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Rachel Fortenberry, experienced Business, Elder Law attorney in Springfield, MO with 0 reviews
Below Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
4,00
star star star star star
0.0/5
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R. Clancy Parks, experienced Business, Elder Law attorney in Springfield, MO with 0 reviews
Below Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
4,00
star star star star star
0.0/5
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Joseph John Piatchek, experienced Business, Estate Planning attorney in Springfield, MO with 0 reviews
Below Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
4,00
star star star star star
0.0/5
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Richard Brian Maltby, experienced Business, Real Estate attorney in Springfield, MO with 0 reviews
Below Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
4,00
star star star star star
0.0/5
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Mary Hays Neal, experienced Business, Estate Planning attorney in Springfield, MO with 0 reviews
Below Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
4,00
star star star star star
0.0/5
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Lloyd Joseph Carmichael, experienced Business, Estate Planning attorney in Springfield, MO with 0 reviews
Below Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
4,00
star star star star star
0.0/5
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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.

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