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13 Dec, 2024 by Amy walker
Joe and Barbara were outstanding! I hired them to help me with my sister's estate. She did not have a will and I needed to go through probate. She also had a ton of outstanding debt. They helped me walk through all the steps of selling her house, her car, settling her debts and closing the estate. They did it in a timely fashion with compassion. It was MUCH easier than I thought it would be- because of their help! Thank you Barbara and Joe!
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01 Oct, 2024 by Hunter kosnik
10 Jul, 2024 by Ronald
Recently I reported bad news about kemp klein law firm. Things have improved and I am happier with the services provided giving the circumstances involved. They are doing well good with my money and I want it to stay that way. Thanks sorry for any misunderstanding.
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13 Dec, 2024 by Amy walker
Joe and Barbara were outstanding! I hired them to help me with my sister's estate. She did not have a will and I needed to go through probate. She also had a ton of outstanding debt. They helped me walk through all the steps of selling her house, her car, settling her debts and closing the estate. They did it in a timely fashion with compassion. It was MUCH easier than I thought it would be- because of their help! Thank you Barbara and Joe!
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01 Oct, 2024 by Hunter kosnik
10 Jul, 2024 by Ronald
Recently I reported bad news about kemp klein law firm. Things have improved and I am happier with the services provided giving the circumstances involved. They are doing well good with my money and I want it to stay that way. Thanks sorry for any misunderstanding.
Read more
13 Dec, 2024 by Amy walker
Joe and Barbara were outstanding! I hired them to help me with my sister's estate. She did not have a will and I needed to go through probate. She also had a ton of outstanding debt. They helped me walk through all the steps of selling her house, her car, settling her debts and closing the estate. They did it in a timely fashion with compassion. It was MUCH easier than I thought it would be- because of their help! Thank you Barbara and Joe!
Read more
01 Oct, 2024 by Hunter kosnik
10 Jul, 2024 by Ronald
Recently I reported bad news about kemp klein law firm. Things have improved and I am happier with the services provided giving the circumstances involved. They are doing well good with my money and I want it to stay that way. Thanks sorry for any misunderstanding.
Read more
13 Dec, 2024 by Amy walker
Joe and Barbara were outstanding! I hired them to help me with my sister's estate. She did not have a will and I needed to go through probate. She also had a ton of outstanding debt. They helped me walk through all the steps of selling her house, her car, settling her debts and closing the estate. They did it in a timely fashion with compassion. It was MUCH easier than I thought it would be- because of their help! Thank you Barbara and Joe!
Read more
01 Oct, 2024 by Hunter kosnik
10 Jul, 2024 by Ronald
Recently I reported bad news about kemp klein law firm. Things have improved and I am happier with the services provided giving the circumstances involved. They are doing well good with my money and I want it to stay that way. Thanks sorry for any misunderstanding.
Read more
13 Dec, 2024 by Amy walker
Joe and Barbara were outstanding! I hired them to help me with my sister's estate. She did not have a will and I needed to go through probate. She also had a ton of outstanding debt. They helped me walk through all the steps of selling her house, her car, settling her debts and closing the estate. They did it in a timely fashion with compassion. It was MUCH easier than I thought it would be- because of their help! Thank you Barbara and Joe!
Read more
01 Oct, 2024 by Hunter kosnik
10 Jul, 2024 by Ronald
Recently I reported bad news about kemp klein law firm. Things have improved and I am happier with the services provided giving the circumstances involved. They are doing well good with my money and I want it to stay that way. Thanks sorry for any misunderstanding.
Read more
10 Jul, 2024 by Ronald
Recently I reported bad news about kemp klein law firm. Things have improved and I am happier with the services provided giving the circumstances involved. They are doing well good with my money and I want it to stay that way. Thanks sorry for any misunderstanding.
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08 Jul, 2024 by Rodney wasmuth
17 Mar, 2024 by Zach lokilow
I was only at Butzel Long for a brief moment. Beautiful buildings on the outside and very ornate inside.
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25 Jul, 2023 by Swat sud
Mark Schwartz has been diligently on the top of the issues relating to the case and kept me informed all along. He was doing the right things from beginning till the end. He was honest, very caring and emphatic during my recovery. He was always concerned about me getting better and get right treatment after the auto accident injuries.
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22 Mar, 2022 by Matt schultz
I was referred to this office through another larger firm. I left multiple voicemails and no one ever bothered to contact me back. I wasted three weeks of my time trying to get in contact with them.
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20 Sep, 2021 by Dennis l hopkins
In October 2019 I had to sue my local airport manager and airport board for an egregious violation of my First Amendment rights when they wrongfully evicted me from my airplane hangar after I criticized the management of the airport. Aviation attorney Mark Schwartz was referred by a close friend of mine, also a satisfied client. Mark provided exceptional legal representation resulting in not only a significant monetary settlement, but also forced the airport to agree to that they would not enforce any further “at will” termination provisions in other airport tenants’ leases. Helping me celebrate moving into my "new" hangar in October 2020 was my flying buddy and granddaughter! If a client has aviation issues to be adjudicated, Mark Schwartz is the attorney to call!!
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25 Jul, 2023 by Swat sud
Mark Schwartz has been diligently on the top of the issues relating to the case and kept me informed all along. He was doing the right things from beginning till the end. He was honest, very caring and emphatic during my recovery. He was always concerned about me getting better and get right treatment after the auto accident injuries.
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22 Mar, 2022 by Matt schultz
I was referred to this office through another larger firm. I left multiple voicemails and no one ever bothered to contact me back. I wasted three weeks of my time trying to get in contact with them.
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20 Sep, 2021 by Dennis l hopkins
In October 2019 I had to sue my local airport manager and airport board for an egregious violation of my First Amendment rights when they wrongfully evicted me from my airplane hangar after I criticized the management of the airport. Aviation attorney Mark Schwartz was referred by a close friend of mine, also a satisfied client. Mark provided exceptional legal representation resulting in not only a significant monetary settlement, but also forced the airport to agree to that they would not enforce any further “at will” termination provisions in other airport tenants’ leases. Helping me celebrate moving into my "new" hangar in October 2020 was my flying buddy and granddaughter! If a client has aviation issues to be adjudicated, Mark Schwartz is the attorney to call!!
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18 Feb, 2025 by Ryan s
20 Dec, 2024 by John
I pause to look at this building when I'm in the area. Cool building. Ok, see ya.
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17 Feb, 2024 by Timothy milton
George Butler is a great attorney, professional, curtious, considerate.
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18 Feb, 2025 by Ryan s
20 Dec, 2024 by John
I pause to look at this building when I'm in the area. Cool building. Ok, see ya.
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17 Feb, 2024 by Timothy milton
George Butler is a great attorney, professional, curtious, considerate.
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18 Nov, 2024 by Ekimenarc
This law firm employs an outstanding attorney named Rachel Dornbush. She is articulate, effective and qualified in her particular area of practice. Her tenacity is only exceeded by her expertise and ethical professionalism. If you're in need of an attorney with skill and knowledge of landlord representation (and more), Ms. Dornbush is a great choice.
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18 Jun, 2024 by Ron simoncini
there is far more to the Paletz practice than its extraordinary success at landlord-tenant law: there is the commitment and passion that Matthew Paletz brings not just to the matters, but to a fundamental belief in property rights. He has a classic American perspective on private property that should be a standard value for everyone but has faded in recent years. Mr. Paletz carries a critical flag and I feel relieved that he has the energy and the knowledge to keep the courts and the policy makers honest.
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18 Apr, 2024 by Old orchard
Matt Paletz and staff are outstanding professional. I can’t speak enough about them.
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18 Nov, 2024 by Ekimenarc
This law firm employs an outstanding attorney named Rachel Dornbush. She is articulate, effective and qualified in her particular area of practice. Her tenacity is only exceeded by her expertise and ethical professionalism. If you're in need of an attorney with skill and knowledge of landlord representation (and more), Ms. Dornbush is a great choice.
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18 Jun, 2024 by Ron simoncini
there is far more to the Paletz practice than its extraordinary success at landlord-tenant law: there is the commitment and passion that Matthew Paletz brings not just to the matters, but to a fundamental belief in property rights. He has a classic American perspective on private property that should be a standard value for everyone but has faded in recent years. Mr. Paletz carries a critical flag and I feel relieved that he has the energy and the knowledge to keep the courts and the policy makers honest.
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18 Apr, 2024 by Old orchard
Matt Paletz and staff are outstanding professional. I can’t speak enough about them.
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25 Jul, 2023 by Swat sud
Mark Schwartz has been diligently on the top of the issues relating to the case and kept me informed all along. He was doing the right things from beginning till the end. He was honest, very caring and emphatic during my recovery. He was always concerned about me getting better and get right treatment after the auto accident injuries.
Read more
22 Mar, 2022 by Matt schultz
I was referred to this office through another larger firm. I left multiple voicemails and no one ever bothered to contact me back. I wasted three weeks of my time trying to get in contact with them.
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20 Sep, 2021 by Dennis l hopkins
In October 2019 I had to sue my local airport manager and airport board for an egregious violation of my First Amendment rights when they wrongfully evicted me from my airplane hangar after I criticized the management of the airport. Aviation attorney Mark Schwartz was referred by a close friend of mine, also a satisfied client. Mark provided exceptional legal representation resulting in not only a significant monetary settlement, but also forced the airport to agree to that they would not enforce any further “at will” termination provisions in other airport tenants’ leases. Helping me celebrate moving into my "new" hangar in October 2020 was my flying buddy and granddaughter! If a client has aviation issues to be adjudicated, Mark Schwartz is the attorney to call!!
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06 Dec, 2024 by Ryan s
I utilized Powers Chapman through Legal Shield for a traffic ticket I received. While my issue, unfortunately, wasn't covered, Steven Martin happily and thoroughly walked me through my options and next steps. What impressed me the most was that he listened to my questions and gave tailored, thoughtful responses (not just boilerplate). That can be frustratingly difficult to find, but I left impressed.
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19 Oct, 2024 by Michael burkey
The Powers Chapman Office Managers and Attorneys are polite, friendly and professional. The Attorneys are area experts on the topic I’m calling about and they are always timely on their call backs. I rely on them for all my legal business questions. They are the best!!!
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10 Jun, 2024 by B a
They just need an issue hand platted or silver spoon fed. Many blessings!, and finally no call, no follow up from one of the firm attorneys I retained. This concludes how poor unprofessional and irresponsible that is I have to appear in court now in less than 4 hours, and I have no access and tighed up to an appointment prior to and after. Just great people to work with....No thank you 7/3/2024
In ongoing issue with a nasty event with HERTZ livonia location on plymouth rd I envoloved this firm and instead of assisting me in this regard they took a complete neutral approach. and totally pointed the situation at me as the corporate attorney twisted the facts to cover thier tracks.I say great service. thats what you do to ypur clients is it not. this past few experiences I had I decided to save my money. I advise you to do the same thing.Good day!
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22 Jun, 2023 by Jonathan
Disappointing. After getting screwed by the AG, all my money taken, I had to get a loan to pay this firm five grand, for nothing. The attorney assigned to my case just let it go, kicking the can down the road, allowing and asking for delays against my wishes until the money was all used up. The result: they convinced the AG to settle for fifty thousand more than the deal I got myself. He did answer questions, though.
It is not worth it to hire Chapman Law Group.
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18 May, 2016 by Anonymous
What happens when a healthcare organization/leader treats overstep the boundaries of fairness. As a healthcare professional, I experienced 'unfairness'. I entered the hospital's administrative playing field to defend what I do best and only know -patient care. My integrity, honesty, and loyalty to the healthcare profession was ridiculed and shot down by legal terms that I did not fully understand. The playing field was uneven and 'unjust'.
And then, I retained AJK, a healthcare attorney who understood my concerns. He saw my passion, the value I add to patient care, and most importantly believed in what I was saying. AJK stood up for me, guided me through the step-by-step process, and together we stood up for what was right. The outcome resulted in the reestablishment of my character and no black mark against my healthcare licensure.
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06 Dec, 2024 by Ryan s
I utilized Powers Chapman through Legal Shield for a traffic ticket I received. While my issue, unfortunately, wasn't covered, Steven Martin happily and thoroughly walked me through my options and next steps. What impressed me the most was that he listened to my questions and gave tailored, thoughtful responses (not just boilerplate). That can be frustratingly difficult to find, but I left impressed.
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19 Oct, 2024 by Michael burkey
The Powers Chapman Office Managers and Attorneys are polite, friendly and professional. The Attorneys are area experts on the topic I’m calling about and they are always timely on their call backs. I rely on them for all my legal business questions. They are the best!!!
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10 Jun, 2024 by B a
They just need an issue hand platted or silver spoon fed. Many blessings!, and finally no call, no follow up from one of the firm attorneys I retained. This concludes how poor unprofessional and irresponsible that is I have to appear in court now in less than 4 hours, and I have no access and tighed up to an appointment prior to and after. Just great people to work with....No thank you 7/3/2024
In ongoing issue with a nasty event with HERTZ livonia location on plymouth rd I envoloved this firm and instead of assisting me in this regard they took a complete neutral approach. and totally pointed the situation at me as the corporate attorney twisted the facts to cover thier tracks.I say great service. thats what you do to ypur clients is it not. this past few experiences I had I decided to save my money. I advise you to do the same thing.Good day!
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04 Jul, 2024 by John
This so called attorney has never followed up on my case.
I would not use him he is worthless
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03 Oct, 2023 by Matt
My company had to file liens against property because we didn't get fully paid by the owner or general contractor. I spent hours listening to the advice of 2 other lawyers and it was expensive and got me nowhere. Made a single call to Mr. Karam and in 20 minutes he told me things the two other lawyers didn't and said to call back if needed. Well it wasn't necessary because it worked and we got paid in full within days. Will definitely go to Mr. Karam first next time for future issues.
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14 Feb, 2017 by Mary
Mr. McGlynn had my case for six months. He never filed for a motion for summary disposition of my case.
Mr. McGlynn did not take any depositions on my case in the same six months. As far as I am aware, he never even submitted any written interrogatories or request to produce.
In my opinion he had charged too much and accomplished too little, so I chose to hire a new attorney.
My new attorney actively and efficiently pursued the case, took discovery, and the case was dismissed.
My new attorney advised me that if he had been representing me in the beginning of the case he would have immediately sought a dismissal of the case based on the defenses that were available and was surprised that such a motion was not filed.
My experience with Mr. McGlynn was upsetting. In my opinion his not efficiently pursuing these existing defenses added unnecessarily to the cost and was emotionally draining.
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19 Jun, 2014 by Mark
I have (unfortunately) had to hire a number of lawyers over the past couple decades. And I have to say that Dan has been the best. He goes above and beyond for his clients and is always fair at invoice time. I will recommend Dan to everyone that needs a good attorney.
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13 Apr, 2024 by Farhan hussain
Despite dismissing my case, my lawyer continued to charge me for their services. This lack of transparency and consideration for my situation was disappointing. I would advise others to be cautious when engaging with this firm.
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13 Apr, 2024 by Ahmed naeem
My case was dismissed but, my lawyer continued to charge me for their services. This lack of transparency and consideration for my situation was disappointing. Much more professional and transparent attorneys out there to work with. Avoid at all costs.
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07 Sep, 2023 by Jessica bryant
Your radio ad is tacky and very weird.
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13 Apr, 2024 by Farhan hussain
Despite dismissing my case, my lawyer continued to charge me for their services. This lack of transparency and consideration for my situation was disappointing. I would advise others to be cautious when engaging with this firm.
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13 Apr, 2024 by Ahmed naeem
My case was dismissed but, my lawyer continued to charge me for their services. This lack of transparency and consideration for my situation was disappointing. Much more professional and transparent attorneys out there to work with. Avoid at all costs.
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07 Sep, 2023 by Jessica bryant
Your radio ad is tacky and very weird.
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13 Apr, 2024 by Farhan hussain
Despite dismissing my case, my lawyer continued to charge me for their services. This lack of transparency and consideration for my situation was disappointing. I would advise others to be cautious when engaging with this firm.
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13 Apr, 2024 by Ahmed naeem
My case was dismissed but, my lawyer continued to charge me for their services. This lack of transparency and consideration for my situation was disappointing. Much more professional and transparent attorneys out there to work with. Avoid at all costs.
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07 Sep, 2023 by Jessica bryant
Your radio ad is tacky and very weird.
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13 Apr, 2024 by Farhan hussain
Despite dismissing my case, my lawyer continued to charge me for their services. This lack of transparency and consideration for my situation was disappointing. I would advise others to be cautious when engaging with this firm.
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13 Apr, 2024 by Ahmed naeem
My case was dismissed but, my lawyer continued to charge me for their services. This lack of transparency and consideration for my situation was disappointing. Much more professional and transparent attorneys out there to work with. Avoid at all costs.
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07 Sep, 2023 by Jessica bryant
Your radio ad is tacky and very weird.
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13 Apr, 2024 by Farhan hussain
Despite dismissing my case, my lawyer continued to charge me for their services. This lack of transparency and consideration for my situation was disappointing. I would advise others to be cautious when engaging with this firm.
Read more
13 Apr, 2024 by Ahmed naeem
My case was dismissed but, my lawyer continued to charge me for their services. This lack of transparency and consideration for my situation was disappointing. Much more professional and transparent attorneys out there to work with. Avoid at all costs.
Read more
07 Sep, 2023 by Jessica bryant
Your radio ad is tacky and very weird.
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13 Apr, 2024 by Farhan hussain
Despite dismissing my case, my lawyer continued to charge me for their services. This lack of transparency and consideration for my situation was disappointing. I would advise others to be cautious when engaging with this firm.
Read more
13 Apr, 2024 by Ahmed naeem
My case was dismissed but, my lawyer continued to charge me for their services. This lack of transparency and consideration for my situation was disappointing. Much more professional and transparent attorneys out there to work with. Avoid at all costs.
Read more
07 Sep, 2023 by Jessica bryant
Your radio ad is tacky and very weird.
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13 Apr, 2024 by Farhan hussain
Despite dismissing my case, my lawyer continued to charge me for their services. This lack of transparency and consideration for my situation was disappointing. I would advise others to be cautious when engaging with this firm.
Read more
13 Apr, 2024 by Ahmed naeem
My case was dismissed but, my lawyer continued to charge me for their services. This lack of transparency and consideration for my situation was disappointing. Much more professional and transparent attorneys out there to work with. Avoid at all costs.
Read more
07 Sep, 2023 by Jessica bryant
Your radio ad is tacky and very weird.
Read more
13 Apr, 2024 by Farhan hussain
Despite dismissing my case, my lawyer continued to charge me for their services. This lack of transparency and consideration for my situation was disappointing. I would advise others to be cautious when engaging with this firm.
Read more
13 Apr, 2024 by Ahmed naeem
My case was dismissed but, my lawyer continued to charge me for their services. This lack of transparency and consideration for my situation was disappointing. Much more professional and transparent attorneys out there to work with. Avoid at all costs.
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07 Sep, 2023 by Jessica bryant
Your radio ad is tacky and very weird.
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01 Oct, 2015 by Anonymous
I have retained Mr Toombs' services for roughly 6 years now. He has dealt with my catastrophic claim without fail. He has been attentive, responded in a speedy manner and has always put my best interests first. He has been a well of knowledge and has helped me in a multitude of other matters. I would recommend him to others if God forbid they need such services.
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24 Feb, 2015 by Mary
HIRED ME FOR A NURSING POSITION, NO CALLS NO RESPONSE, NO NOTHING!!!! HE SET ME UP FOR WHAT WAS TO BE A NURSING JOB BUT NOTHING CAME OF IT.
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23 Jun, 2014 by Robert
Mr. Toombs asked me to help him located a home for his handicapped client. when I was able to help him, I phoned him three times. He never returned my calls.
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15 Jun, 2015 by Randy
Bill's favorite saying is 'Cash is King". (that is relative) When I met him, he told me his price was $450.00 per hour, and his assistant's and secretary's time was billed at a much decreased amount. That part was true, but when you have to pay him his fee to review all that his assistant and secretary do, it's a moog point. I have given Bill Horton's law firm all for the information to file the lawsuit. Instead of just using just my info, he and his firm decided to go to the defendants Facebook account a gather more information without checking with me. From his research, he tried to subpoena more information, but the judge denied. That act of his also drew a Federal Lawsuit by the defendant, The lawsuit alleged that I breached the security of the defendant's Facebook. I had requested he talk with the attorney that filed that lawsuit and let him know that it was Horton's law firm that breached the account and make it be known that I had nothing to do with the alleged breach of the defendant's facebook account. Bill Horton did not do what I had requested, Instead he billed me thousands of dollars to reply to the lawsuit.
Bill Horton also made changed to the final agreement, without discussing those changes with me. This in turn will cost me in the future. When I confronted him with this, he denied it. I then sent him with copies of the agreement as we went through the process with all of the red line changes. Those changes Bill Horton made, never appeared in any of the redline changes.
A buy out plan between the defendant and I was agree upon, but Bill failed to put in a penalty for the defendant being late on his payment. I thought I'd hired better, especially with Bill Horton having 35 years experience, but I was WRONG.
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11 Dec, 2024 by Paige powell
They garnished my taxes and took too much. Now I cannot get a hold of them to get my refund back! Every time I talk to someone he says he can't handle it and he needs to send it to his boss and his boss does nothing and never gets back to me! I am so freaking frustrated with this place!
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20 Nov, 2024 by Aurora tyson
They garnished MY wages when they were going after my ex husband. I’m not even the person they’re going after!
I have nothing to do with their case, they didn’t even have my name when I called to dispute the fraudulent charges, hard to get a hold of, and then given complete attitude by a rude person when I have the right to be understandably upset.
You drained the bank account of a struggling mom of a two month old and not the person you were going after.
Congratulations!
I’ve filed a court proceeding to deal with them since they failed to acknowledge any type of solution, even though my bank said they could 100% do so.
ACH payments can be reversed or paid back then gone after the right person.
I’d give 0 stars if I could.
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12 Oct, 2024 by Artie smirnov
These people are horrible.
I made arrangements with them multiple times then they garnish my bank account and I call to try to work again with them and make arrangements they don’t follow through and take everything. Then when I try to call them they twist my words blame everything on someone else and speak to me like it’s my fault and I’m incompetent.
The money they garnished which was way more then what was agreed on was the money for my partners insulin. I guess they are so good at their jobs not sure how they can sleep at night. if someone works with them im so sorry truly. one day karma will catch up im sure of it.
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01 Sep, 2024 by Tony
We hired Mr. Elias regarding our Tenant eviction, which was living and using our business without a contract. He came to the court and it happened that he knew the The other Lawyer and they settled there and I took a loss. I pay him around 4000 for doing nothing. I still have to hire somebody else we take care of that case with way less money.
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19 Jan, 2016 by Anonymous
I hired Mr. Elias to help me with a real estate matter between my small business and another small business owner. Mr. Elias was very enthusiastic and very confident about my case, strongly encouraging me to pursue litigation. However, he did not submit paperwork to the court in a timely manner, although he said he did (it is possible to check this online.) And when we went to court, he did an about-face and told me my case was doomed and guaranteed to lose, and I should give up. I was really shocked by the complete turn around in advice and effort. I was not able to resolve my concerns with Mr. Elias amicably.
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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.
