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5.0
17 Reviews
4.9
353 Reviews
27 Apr, 2024 by Denise arvay
As one of Mr. Hackworth’s former client’s, I can truly say that he really does care for his clients. I had a high conflict divorce case with minor children involved and he answered every single one of my texts, at any hour of the day. He knows the law inside and out, confident in the courtroom. Absolutly the person you want sitting next to you!!!!
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24 Apr, 2024 by Sean davis
Jonathan Hackworth personally has been with me and helped me through my charges and my marchman. For almost 4 years and he has been a super blessing and his whoteam. They are very good at getting back to you. Especially when you call them and you leave a message. They always answer back and I have had nothing but success with Hackworth. Law
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10 Apr, 2024 by Lawrence kalgstein
I’m from Broward county and needed a local Tampa attorney for a situation I got into a few years ago. John was highly referred to me by a paralegal at a Ft Lauderdale firm.Well I thank my lucky stars John represented me. He is the most caring, thorough, and educated attorney you will find. Always picks up the phone and never seems to be bothered when you ask him something.
Well here we are several years later and I needed some documents pertaining to my old case and within 3 hours they were in my email. He is a God-send and you cannot go wrong with John in your corner!!
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20 Dec, 2024 by Alice graham
My company refers to Jeff and his team as "The Dream Team". The entire team is very knowledgeable, professional, dependable, and will keep you informed. I would highly recommend Lieser Skaff.
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13 Dec, 2024 by Melissa loner
Ghada and the team were very professional and super helpful. We were working on a project during the two hurricanes that were causing lots of delays in all of our schedules. They were professional and continued to make sure that I was taken care, questions were answered and we got the job done. Greatly appreciated and will be back with more projects.
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03 May, 2024 by Michael bayern
I have had the pleasure of working alongside Jeff Lieser, Ghada Skaff, and the attorneys at Lieser Skaff and I can confidently say that they are exceptional advocates. Without hesitation, I would recommend Lieser Skaff for your legal needs.
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5.0
5 Reviews
4.9
57 Reviews
27 Nov, 2024 by Jennifer
Jonah Dickstein represented me through the whole criminal process. He was always available to address my questions and concerns personally. His experience is apparent and he dealt with me in a straightforward manner (which I respect immensely). Mr Dickstein was able to get my charge dismissed!
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21 Nov, 2024 by Anonymous
He is very great!. He takes time to understand the situation and help to his best ability. Mr Jonah also is very patient and kind he’s helped me in multiple ways already.
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20 Nov, 2024 by Kim
I had a warrant that I didn't know about from 2018 for making a false police report. I was issued a warrant and didn't know about it because I had moved out of state and the detective was mad that they couldn't reach me. Mr.Dickstein was very up front and honest with me and gave me all of my optionsfor my case. He was very good with answering my calls and returning them. I was very pleased with him and he was able to get me the best outcome which was a diversion program, where I was able to walk a way with no record. His price was really good, I just had the best experience I could have asked for. I highly recommend Mr.Dickstein.
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5.0
4 Reviews
4.7
15 Reviews
07 Feb, 2024 by Melanie lopez
Great attorney.
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02 Feb, 2021 by Joanne ayala
I was not sure how to handle my car accident and Mr. Guito was very professional and guide me thru the whole process. Both him and Juliette were always there when I had a question and their response was always on point. Thank you both!
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15 Dec, 2020 by David simmons
27 May, 2022 by Mrz. castle
14 Sep, 2021 by Rachel harkins
31 Jul, 2021 by Donna hubbard
14 Jan, 2025 by Vilma morales
Nosotros la familia Mateo-Morales estamos muy agradecidos con sus orientaciones con nuestros asuntos legales,todo claro y correcto y sobretodo la humildad que demostraron en todo,mil gracias.
Nos sentimos muy honrados en ser sus clientes.
Bonito día y feliz año!!!!!!
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22 Nov, 2024 by Milagros perez
Amabilidad, Rapidez y muy profesional.
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07 Nov, 2024 by Norma maisonet
Estoy muy agradecida por la ayuda que me brindó. Muy profesional y te guían de la mano en todo el proceso. Se la recomiendo. Muchas gracias por su ayuda.
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12 Oct, 2022 by Lenny linardos
Great Law Firm
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11 Dec, 2021 by Ashlyn lawson
Susan was the best attorney. She was so nice and professional. She worked endlessly all the time and puts her all into her work. 10000% recommended!!
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21 Sep, 2021 by Richard bokor
I have been a trial lawyer for decades and Attorney Susan Lawson is smart, conscientious, diligent and always puts her clients first!
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10 Feb, 2025 by Victoria baigush
I sincerely want to thank Emel Ersan Law Office for their professionalism and efficiency. My case was quite complex, but Emel always knew exactly what to do, even in the most challenging situations. She is a true expert in her field—clear, concise, and absolutely the best. I truly appreciate her support and outstanding work!
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06 Feb, 2025 by Branka ik
As someone who recently went through the immigration process, I can say that hiring lawyer Emel Ersan was one of the best decisions I made. She basically saved me a lot of money and time. Definitely the best immigration lawyer!
After many consultations with other lawyers we found out Emel Ersan. Unlike the others she was so confident, made this process easy and stress free and the most important thing I am extremely satisfied with the results. I highly recommend her for anyone in need of immigration legal services.
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27 Jan, 2025 by Medhat makram
She is professional, knowledgeable, and worked very hard to win our case. She explained everything clearly and made the process stress free. I’m so grateful for her help and dedication. If you need a lawyer who truly cares I highly recommend her she is the best!
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27 May, 2022 by Mrz. castle
14 Sep, 2021 by Rachel harkins
31 Jul, 2021 by Donna hubbard
10 Feb, 2025 by Victoria baigush
I sincerely want to thank Emel Ersan Law Office for their professionalism and efficiency. My case was quite complex, but Emel always knew exactly what to do, even in the most challenging situations. She is a true expert in her field—clear, concise, and absolutely the best. I truly appreciate her support and outstanding work!
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06 Feb, 2025 by Branka ik
As someone who recently went through the immigration process, I can say that hiring lawyer Emel Ersan was one of the best decisions I made. She basically saved me a lot of money and time. Definitely the best immigration lawyer!
After many consultations with other lawyers we found out Emel Ersan. Unlike the others she was so confident, made this process easy and stress free and the most important thing I am extremely satisfied with the results. I highly recommend her for anyone in need of immigration legal services.
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27 Jan, 2025 by Medhat makram
She is professional, knowledgeable, and worked very hard to win our case. She explained everything clearly and made the process stress free. I’m so grateful for her help and dedication. If you need a lawyer who truly cares I highly recommend her she is the best!
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23 May, 2024 by Jayson virostek
Had an outstanding experience with Shaina. Helped me understand my legal rights and a best course of action. If you need someone to talk with and feel like a larger firm is strong arming you, this is the place!
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08 May, 2024 by Bill bryant
Ms Thorpe provided and very informative, clear, and straight forward legal consultation. She gave me the legal clarity I needed surrounding the issue I was working through. I would highly recommend her for counsel on all employment or other related legal matters.
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15 Jan, 2024 by Amy husted
Shaina is very professional, knowledgeable and goes out of her way to help people. I highly recommend her firm.
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14 Jan, 2025 by Vilma morales
Nosotros la familia Mateo-Morales estamos muy agradecidos con sus orientaciones con nuestros asuntos legales,todo claro y correcto y sobretodo la humildad que demostraron en todo,mil gracias.
Nos sentimos muy honrados en ser sus clientes.
Bonito día y feliz año!!!!!!
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22 Nov, 2024 by Milagros perez
Amabilidad, Rapidez y muy profesional.
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07 Nov, 2024 by Norma maisonet
Estoy muy agradecida por la ayuda que me brindó. Muy profesional y te guían de la mano en todo el proceso. Se la recomiendo. Muchas gracias por su ayuda.
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01 Nov, 2021 by Ericka dunn
28 Feb, 2012 by Anonymous
Mr. Messer is a fine man with a high standard of ethic and morals. Legal issues can become quite clouded for many people but Stephen has a way to make things clear. He has a strong grasp on fairness, legal knowledge and a soothing method of guiding you to a satisfying solution. Do yourself a favor, discuss your legal concerns with Mr. Messer before you make any decisions, you won’t be sorry.
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15 Dec, 2024 by Keandre
I’m very satisfied with the results of hiring attorney Micheal Winer for my worker’s compensation case. He did exceptional research and delivered excellent results to the judge on my behalf. Thank you kindly for being so good at what you do. Wishing you all the best for you in the future.
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31 Oct, 2024 by Jorge
I was involved in a Motorcycle accident and contacted Winer law group to handle my case. Hope & Starla contacted me and took care of all my needs. They are very helpful and informative and took care of my case without any problems.
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24 Sep, 2024 by Monica
MR. MIKE IS ABSOLUTELY AN AMAZING ATTORNEY AFTER ME BEING RAIL ROAD LOOSING EVERYTHING MR. MIKE HELPED ME GET THE BIGGEST SMILE ON MY FACE THAT I LOST 5 MONTHS AGO HE IS A VERY PROFESSIONAL EAGER AND PHENOMENAL ATTORNEY I WOULD RECOMMEND THE WINER LAW FIRM TO THE WORLD. HIS WORD IS HIS BOND. .
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29 Aug, 2024 by Jr rawls
Agnes was very helpful with and very knowledgeable in her field. Very friendly and never felt rushed. She took the time to understand my case and was very helpful.
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02 May, 2024 by James
I encourage you to RUN!!!! in the opposite direction. I have dealt with the firm and two different attorneys for 18 months on a custody case where I already have 46% custody of my son. My first attorney, Carl Hogenfelt, was a last-minute attorney that was almost impossible to contact via calling the main office number, email or his google line. It took my wife to call him from her phone for him to answer at all. He also was a day of attorney. Meaning he asked me to send him all types of documents and didn't look at them until the day of my hearing or day before which resulted in my case being pushed back. I was, and am a client, who annotated the parenting plan with detailed and extensive notes and made it simple enough that a teenager could have argued my case. After one year, I noticed my case still wasn't progressing and suddenly the calls stopped. After numerous failed calls, I finally was contacted by the owner Amir, and he was very apologetic and informed me that Carl, my lawyer, was terminated and my new lawyer will be Nichelle Womble. She then called to advise me that she is on the case. She also told me that there are several cases that she will be handling to catch up and every case needs their equal time, and I will need to be patient. I told her I understand but it has been a year for something like this simple case. After giving her all previous documents (for a second time with this firm) and new documents she requested, she assured me that the case should not take long (this was December of 2023). After going back and forth with emails for months -because phone calls seemed to be difficult - except for the one call we made at the very beginning, I was advised via email in early March that my parenting plan was ready and that the case should be closed before the end of the March. Mind you, I NEVER saw what plan she was agreeing to despite asking numerous times to see it. After the first of April, I contacted her to get clarification of why the case is still going. I made it clear months prior that I just wanted to go to a hearing and let the Judge decide. It seemed like an impossible task. Then, out of the blue, on May 1, Ms. Nichelle advised me that my fees had been exhausted and I owe funds. Mind you, I NEVER received a bill from them - not once (from either attorney)! But now I received a non-itemized bill that I tried to get clarification as to why there are numerous invoice numbers with no description of the cost. She also advised me that she will be withdrawing from the case. I never seen an attorney move so fast in one hour - I was begging for the same energy for OVER SIX months for my case. She emailed back and forth, filed the motion, and dropped me all in an hour! I will definitely report this firm to the Bar because my time and money wasn't taken seriously. And not just mine - my son's time! I will NOT get back the over two years that it will take just to get weekends with him. RUN FAST FROM THIS FIRM!!!
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28 Feb, 2024 by Fred beman 111
Ages is absolutely amazing and compassionate and has your best interests at hand and will personally answer your phone calls and is so awesome to speak with. If I could give a 10 star I would. Fred & Jessica Beman. Thank you a million Agnes.
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29 Jul, 2021 by Arnold
I need it some advise about a car warranty they help me to figure out how to proceed. They were very professional . I have work with lawyer before , and I can say they are the best So. yes I highly recommend them Big A1
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26 Jul, 2021 by Karl
Great response time from the entire team . The follow thru from Mr Marlow and his team was a A plus . They explain everything in full detail.
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12 Jul, 2021 by Sarah wickstrom
In August 2020, I hired Mr. Marlowe to help me fight a fraudulent lien placed on my home which was filed few days prior to signing papers to sell it. Per his advice, I placed a bond on the lien right away for $5,668.69 & was able to sell my home. We were planning on taking the person who placed the lien to court but he killed himself before we could. We acted fast & filed a lien contestment, which wasn't responded to for obvious reasons. I requested my bond back, filed all the correct paperwork and didn't received my check. This was going on over the course of 7 months time, back and forth with the clerks office and their mistakes! Over the next several months Mr. Marlowe & his team work continuously to get my money back, even going to court on my behalf, all this time NOT charging me a cent. SInce the original case against the person wasn't ever brought to court Mr. Marlowe and his team still continued to fight for me because he said it was the right thing to do. After 10 months of hearings, filings, phone calls and emails him and his team sent, received, appeared in, I received my check! To this day he hasn't asked me for a penny. I would never have gotten through all this without Ronald Marlowe & his team. I would recommend them to anyone!
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01 Aug, 2024 by Sandra
After my former husband had passed I contact Attorney Daddono to assist with finalizing his Estate. I found him to be very. professional, extremely knowledgeable and included me in every aspect of the case rulings and decisions. I would highly recommend him without hesitation to any of my family members or friends if needed. Job effectively well done and completed in a timely matter!
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12 Aug, 2023 by Anonymous
Mr. Daddono was outstanding. He was patient, empathetic, and interested in helping me to understand my situation. I highly recommend anyone who has an estate, will, or probate issue(s) give Mr. Daddono a call. He gets an A+ score from me.
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15 Jun, 2023 by Dwight
The office answered my text promptly and Drew responded quickly.
He Emailed a response and then called right after.
Drew answered all my questions and discussed other issues too.
Thanks a lot!
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16 Dec, 2024 by Gopro joe
So far so good. Professional. Polite straight to the point . Free consultation!
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12 Dec, 2024 by Leroy thomas
Prompt and detailed
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10 Dec, 2024 by Sara sortzi
I worked with Marlowe Law when creating a new LLC. They were the best, I highly recommend! Ron was so friendly, insightful and really helpful through the process. Would use them again in the future!
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20 Dec, 2024 by Alice graham
My company refers to Jeff and his team as "The Dream Team". The entire team is very knowledgeable, professional, dependable, and will keep you informed. I would highly recommend Lieser Skaff.
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13 Dec, 2024 by Melissa loner
Ghada and the team were very professional and super helpful. We were working on a project during the two hurricanes that were causing lots of delays in all of our schedules. They were professional and continued to make sure that I was taken care, questions were answered and we got the job done. Greatly appreciated and will be back with more projects.
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03 May, 2024 by Michael bayern
I have had the pleasure of working alongside Jeff Lieser, Ghada Skaff, and the attorneys at Lieser Skaff and I can confidently say that they are exceptional advocates. Without hesitation, I would recommend Lieser Skaff for your legal needs.
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12 Dec, 2024 by Juan r
Anthony Rickman is truly the best in the business! He’s punctual, communicates effectively, and works tirelessly to get the job done. Highly recommend his services!
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05 Dec, 2024 by Sean edwards
When you hire Anthony Rickman (and his firm)you feel like you're being represented by a good friend and that you're not just a client. I did not have representation initially not realizing my legal situation needed an attorney and not only an attorney a good one. Once I hired Anthony the slow legal process I was stuck in without his help, then moved swiftly and smoothly. The results he got on my charges were greater than expected. He made what seemed impossible, possible. Do yourself and your pocketbook a favor and call Anthony first. If you have spoken to other attorneys and still need representation, then call him next.
Sean Edwards
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20 Nov, 2024 by Danielle albright
27 Dec, 2024 by Nicole maulucci
We had a death in the family and needed help navigating through the probate process. Micheal and Erin were very helpful with this process. They walked us through step by step from moment go. If we had questions or concerns, they were very responsive and had alot of insight. We were very worried that we were going to be stressed out with an already stressful situation. Micheal and Erin were very informative and made the process flow easily. I would definitely recommend using them.
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11 Dec, 2024 by Akhila k
I worked with Erin, who was approachable, understanding, professional, and friendly. She showed great patience, listened to our concerns, and valued our opinions. The process was smooth and seamless. Erin is highly knowledgeable, provided excellent advice, and offered fairly priced services. Both Erin and Michael were exceptional, and I would highly recommend their services to anyone seeking reliable and compassionate assistance.
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05 Nov, 2024 by David banner
Juan was absolutely fantastic to work with! He was knowledgeable, patient, and genuinely cared about my case.
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20 Dec, 2024 by Alice graham
My company refers to Jeff and his team as "The Dream Team". The entire team is very knowledgeable, professional, dependable, and will keep you informed. I would highly recommend Lieser Skaff.
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13 Dec, 2024 by Melissa loner
Ghada and the team were very professional and super helpful. We were working on a project during the two hurricanes that were causing lots of delays in all of our schedules. They were professional and continued to make sure that I was taken care, questions were answered and we got the job done. Greatly appreciated and will be back with more projects.
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03 May, 2024 by Michael bayern
I have had the pleasure of working alongside Jeff Lieser, Ghada Skaff, and the attorneys at Lieser Skaff and I can confidently say that they are exceptional advocates. Without hesitation, I would recommend Lieser Skaff for your legal needs.
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09 Jan, 2025 by Sonya seago
Summer Goldman is great she works hard on your case ready to fight for you or get you the best possible out come. Even when the case is over she will do what she can to help you.
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30 Dec, 2024 by Odalin tavarezg bknm
30 Dec, 2024 by Miguel blanes
23 May, 2018 by Lauren
Stanley is understanding, sharp and driven. He was able to come up with an agreement on the breaking of a construction contract for me quickly, with minimal stress and with better results than I could have hoped for. Highly recommend.
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05 May, 2015 by Anonymous
I am fortunate to have met Stan some 20 years ago. Since then, he has provided excellent representation from both a legal and practical perspective. He is prompt with communication, thorough in preparation and highly skilled. Let me repeat, highly skilled!
While no one ever wants to hire an attorney, if you are looking for one that has character, a broad range of experience, presents the issues, both good and bad, you will be happy that you've chosen him. He places a great deal of emphasis on trying to resolve the matter as expeditiously as possible.
Thank you Stan for all that you have done for me!
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26 Apr, 2015 by B. raver
Stan represents everything you need & demand in a professional attorney. Aside from his expansive legal knowledge, he has the communication skills and strategic thinking that most other attorneys do not encompass. He is efficient and does not slow play any process. His billings are always concise.
I strongly recommend using Stan Padgett he is more than just an attorney, he is a strategic consultant to our company!
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03 Oct, 2024 by Anonymous
I highly recommend Bishoy Habib as a real estate attorney! He made everything so easy for me. Bishoy was friendly, always answered my questions, and really knew his stuff. I felt supported throughout the whole process. If you need a great real estate lawyer, Bishoy is your guy!
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30 Sep, 2024 by James
As a client who recently used Levacy Legal's services, I can confidently say my experience was exceptional. Attorney Bishoy Habib went above and beyond in handling my real estate transaction. Their expertise in deal facilitation was evident throughout the process, ensuring a smooth closing while meticulously protecting my interests.
What stood out most was their genuine commitment to their "Leave a Legacy" mission. They took the time to understand my long-term goals, not just the immediate legal needs. This holistic approach made me feel like I had a true partner in my business ventures, not just a law firm.
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30 Sep, 2024 by Edward
I had the pleasure of working with my attorney at Levacy Legal, and I can't recommend them enough. hey really took the time to understand my needs and were always there to answer my questions. I felt like I had someone in my corner who genuinely cared about my situation. Their expertise in real estate made a big difference, and I couldn’t have asked for better support. If you need a real estate attorney who’s both knowledgeable and approachable, I highly recommend reaching out to them!
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08 Nov, 2024 by Rubio auto sales corp
We are incredibly grateful to David J. Brennan, Jr., Esq., LLM (Tax), of Moffa, Sutton, & Donnini, P.A., for his exceptional support and expertise in settling a highly significant case for us. From the outset, Mr. Brennan demonstrated a remarkable depth of knowledge, professionalism, and dedication, making us feel confident and well-informed throughout the process. His strategic insights and attention to detail were invaluable, and he always made himself available to address our questions and concerns. Thanks to his commitment and guidance, we achieved a successful resolution that exceeded our expectations. I highly recommend Mr. Brennan and the team at Moffa, Sutton, & Donnini, P.A. to anyone in need of knowledgeable and skilled legal representation.
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31 Jul, 2024 by Covering llc
Matt Parker assisted us with some sales tax issues we were experiencing. He worked with the state on our behalf and set up an easy to use system to make sure all our tax woes are never to occur again. Definitely and highly recommend Matt and his team, I hope to never have to use them again, but if I do I won't hesitate to reach out to Matt again!
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17 Jul, 2024 by Southern diesel and automotive
Absolutely wonderful to deal with. Amazing results. A big personal thank you to Mr. David Brennan for everything he did for me.
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12 Dec, 2024 by Jennifer toribio
Mariette has outstanding customer/client service. Her genuine personality and the willingness to answer questions is unmatched. She has incredible work ethic and a passion to provide white glove service with everything. Anyone who interacts with her is lucky! Mariette, thank you for everything you do!
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12 Dec, 2024 by Terry baez
Excellent
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12 Dec, 2024 by Maribel
Called into the law firm and spoke with Mariette Toribio. She was very professional and understanding of my needs.
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09 Jan, 2025 by Angela mineo
Angela responded to an urgent issue I had with my landlord quickly. I look forward to working with her more to get everything resolved.
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19 Aug, 2024 by Mackenzie
Started the eviction process with Patrick back in December 2023. It is now nine months into an eviction that’s was pretty routine in nature it seemed. The last email I received was in July asking me how the auction portion of the eviction went. I subsequently asked for help with the process of changing ownership in July. Still have not received a reply email or a reply from my certified letter. All the while I’m losing rent monthly. Do not hire this attorney if you value communication between your lawyers and yourself. I even consulted a colleague of his for help finishing this eviction who has now had to reach out to Patrick twice to follow up with me.
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06 Aug, 2024 by Tom kisthart
Angela is a very effective attorney. She's responsive and on top of things. She came highly recommended to me by another attorney and did not disappoint.
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27 Dec, 2024 by Kevin smith
Wpuld not recommend. He dont fight for rights and facts. My employer worked me over a month, didnt pay me, then when i quit, harrassed me and this firm denied my claim so i guess they believe its right for people to get done any old way. Or wait...mabye not enough money for them. So again...dont recommend. So sad this firm dont fight for rights and now, here i am a single dad with nothing, Christmas ruined for my 7 year old and im a nobody still to this firm. They could care less.
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12 Dec, 2024 by Ana cristina
I cannot speak highly enough of Troy! I called the firm, not knowing what to do about my situation and he took the time to answer every question I had, did not rush me as I told him what was going on and genuinely seemed to care about what I was going through. He was very compassionate and empathetic with my situation. If you need help, ask for Troy!!!
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09 Dec, 2024 by Richard morrison
They are the best at what they do they were 100 percent honest got me the top pay and were supper helpful to me with my case I would definitely recommend them to anyone
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13 Jan, 2025 by Mary saldana
READ THIS AND CHECK OTHER REVIEWS.. FIND SOMEONE ELSE. I hired this attorney back in July 2024 on a case against a car dealership and since then I have not been able to get any communication back from him or his office regarding the status of this case. In fact, the last I heard from him was October in which he states he will get back with me on an update. Many many phone calls and messages left for him and many many unanswered emails later i have heard not one word back. I paid his fee in full when I hired him and now am left with no result. I will be getting with the Florida Bar and submitting a complaint there also.
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24 Dec, 2024 by Winter crawford
24 Dec, 2024 by Rebecca braden
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FAQs
Questions? We have answers
What a Business Lawyer Can Do for You
A business lawyer provides critical legal guidance and support to entrepreneurs, startups, and established businesses. Whether you are forming a new company, drafting contracts, or navigating complex regulations, a business attorney ensures you are legally protected and operating within the law. They can also help prevent legal disputes or represent you in negotiations, transactions, or lawsuits that arise during the course of business operations.
Business lawyers have expertise in areas such as business formation, contract law, intellectual property, employment law, mergers and acquisitions, and corporate governance. They ensure that your business is compliant with relevant laws and help mitigate risks that could threaten your company's success.
When Should I Hire a Business Lawyer?
Hiring a business lawyer is essential at various stages of business development, including:
- Forming a business: When deciding on the best structure for your company (LLC, corporation, partnership, etc.), a lawyer can guide you through the registration and compliance process.
- Drafting contracts: If you need contracts for employees, partners, suppliers, or clients, a lawyer ensures these documents are legally sound and in your best interest.
- Mergers, acquisitions, or dissolutions: If you are buying, selling, or dissolving a company, legal counsel is critical to avoid costly mistakes.
- Compliance and regulatory issues: A lawyer can help navigate complex regulations, particularly in industries like healthcare, finance, or tech.
- Resolving disputes: Whether it's contract disagreements, intellectual property infringement, or employment issues, a business lawyer helps mediate, negotiate, or litigate on your behalf.
What Does a Business Lawyer Do?
Business lawyers provide a wide range of services that cater to different legal needs of a business. They can:
- Help you choose the best legal structure for your business.
- Draft, review, and negotiate contracts with employees, suppliers, customers, or business partners.
- Ensure regulatory compliance with local, state, and federal laws.
- Advise on tax strategies to minimize your business's tax burden.
- Assist with intellectual property protection, such as trademarks, patents, and copyrights.
- Handle mergers, acquisitions, and business sales, ensuring all legal paperwork is in order.
- Resolve disputes through negotiation, arbitration, or litigation.
How Are Business Lawyers Paid?
Business lawyers typically charge either by the hour or on a flat-fee basis, depending on the complexity of the work. Common payment structures include:
- Hourly rates: The lawyer charges based on the time spent working on your case. Rates vary depending on the lawyer's experience and location.
- Flat fees: For certain tasks, such as incorporating a business or drafting a standard contract, a lawyer may offer a flat fee.
- Retainer: Some businesses may hire a lawyer on retainer, paying a fixed amount each month to have ongoing access to legal services.
The payment structure is often discussed during an initial consultation so you can choose the one that best suits your business needs and budget.
How Much Does a Business Lawyer Cost?
The cost of hiring a business lawyer depends on factors such as:
- The complexity of the legal issue: More complex matters, like mergers or intellectual property disputes, typically cost more than routine tasks like contract drafting.
- The lawyer's experience and location: More experienced lawyers or those in larger cities often charge higher fees.
- The nature of the billing arrangement: Hourly rates can range from $150 to $1,000 or more, depending on the lawyer's expertise. Flat fees are usually available for simpler matters like forming an LLC or drafting a standard contract.
It's essential to discuss fee structures upfront to avoid surprises.
Top Questions to Ask a Business Lawyer
Before hiring a business lawyer, ask the following questions during your consultation:
-
What is your experience with businesses like mine?
Find out if the lawyer has handled legal issues for companies in your industry. -
What services do you offer?
Ensure the lawyer can meet all your business's legal needs, from contract drafting to dispute resolution. -
What are your fees, and how do you bill?
Get clarity on how you'll be charged - whether by the hour, flat fee, or retainer. -
How do you handle conflicts of interest?
Ask how the lawyer ensures there is no conflict in representing your business. -
Can you provide references from other business clients?
Speaking with past clients will give you an idea of the lawyer's expertise and professionalism. -
Do you have experience in my specific industry?
Industry-specific knowledge can be crucial, especially in highly regulated fields like healthcare or finance.
How to Check the Credibility of a Business Lawyer
To ensure you're hiring a reputable business lawyer:
- Check state bar association records: Verify that the lawyer is in good standing and has no disciplinary actions against them.
- Look for client reviews or testimonials: Online reviews, testimonials, or word of mouth from other business owners can provide insight into the lawyer's reliability and effectiveness.
- Ask for references: A credible lawyer should have satisfied clients who can vouch for their services.
- Check professional memberships: Membership in respected legal organizations (such as the American Bar Association or a local business lawyer association) can signal credibility.
- Review their website and professional profile: A well-established lawyer typically has a professional website showcasing their areas of expertise, credentials, and case success.
What Should I Prepare for My First Consultation?
To make the most out of your first consultation with a business lawyer, prepare the following:
- A description of your business and its structure: This will help the lawyer understand your legal needs.
- Any current contracts or agreements: If you're seeking contract advice, bring copies of existing contracts.
- A list of legal issues or concerns: Be ready to discuss any potential legal challenges, such as regulatory compliance, disputes, or transactions.
- Financial documents: If applicable, bring financial records related to the legal matter you're seeking help with.
- Questions about fees and billing: Ensure you understand the lawyer’s payment structure and fees upfront.
By preparing these materials, you can ensure that your first meeting with a business lawyer is productive and informative.
