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30 Apr, 2024 by Anonymous
I have worked with Mr. McMullen several times regarding different legal areas. In business law he has worked diligently to strengthen my business for compliance and contracts while upholding our core values. In family law he has been invaluable in supporting me as a trustee in unraveling estates cleanly and clearly. His knowledge and deep consideration of the issues have informed clear pathways to resolution. Having worked with other attorneys on estate and trust issues, Mr McMullen was by far the most knowledgable and personally skilled to address the issues and concerns. His advise led to remarkable outcomes that strengthened family relationships at a time in life that often undermines them.
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20 Nov, 2023 by Kayte
Donald has been our legal advisor on multiple business and personal contracts. He is incredibly detail oriented. Working with him has been a huge relief and he has a way making sense of the complicated. The whole office is kind and helpful.
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07 Sep, 2020 by Nan
Donald McMullen has been representing our property owners association in a complex real estate case. He has proven himself very knowledgeable about the relevant law and able to communicate in a clear and timely manner about our options and their pros and cons. He has been strategic in his approach to the case, laying groundwork so that we have been at an advantage as future potential developments have materialized. During trial, he was extremely sharp, focused, and quick thinking (we prevailed on all counts). Mr. McMullen has, at all times, been professional, straightforward, and level headed and has well earned the respect and gratitude of each of the 20-plus members of our group.
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06 Nov, 2015 by Allison
Circumstance unfortunate but outcome EXCELLENT due to retaining Mr. KINDOPP to represent me in a few cases starting back in 2001 in a traffic case and most recently this past year in a custody battle in which a father abandoned his first born after requesting emergency custody which was denied yet felt just 6 months later without any significant changes that leaving his daughter in the mothers care 100% showing his original request was a waste of everyone's time. Mr. Kindopp is very personable with his clients yet does not offer a false sense of hope but a few various likely realities so no surprises causing upset arise. He is quick to point out facts that are backed up by evidence leaving no room for error and providing a secure expectation and an attorney / client trust like no other. He explains why things need to be done a certain way eliminating all confusion or anxiety. He presents himself in a very professional manner and always one step ahead due to his thorough review of all case notes, discovery, pleadings abd correspondence. He can be a breath of fresh air yet demonstrates his knowledge and expertise in every case or individual he represents. He's matter-of-fact and straight to the point which in turn wastes no time or money. He is fair aND communicates directly with his clients putting each one at ease rather than leaving them to question the status of their case. We are fortunate to have such a driven, justice seeking, highly educated individual practicing law in our community. I highly recommend Mr. Kindopp for any case in his field of choice if you want a pleasant experience in the court room. I'm so thankful for his gratitude. Time, effort and compassion he has put forth in my cases and will continue to use him in the future shall any legal matters arise again.
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18 Aug, 2011 by Karen
I received Mr. Kindopp's name through an Employee Assistance Program when I had an extremely difficult time dealing with a mortgage company and needed someone on my side. I was short on time due to an impending foreclosure/sale date; after seven months of getting nothing but the run around, verbal and financial abuse by a broken system and stress. I explained the time constraint to his assistant and was scheduled for an appointment quicker than I had imagined. Mr. Kindopp listened to me, provided information and the legal support I needed to effectively deal with this company who had not always been following "the rules" and conveniently lost documents, let them expire or didn't have information when it worked in their favor. I received a phone call from the mortgage company with a proposal for a permanent loan modification within days, and an apology regarding their business practices. When the modification papers arrived I faxed them to Mr. Kindopp's office, concerned about what I was signing. I was shocked to receive a telephone call at 7pm on a Friday evening from him to discuss them. I have never had an attorney who addressed my needs and concerns in such a quick and assertive fashion. Through personal necessity, and work, I have had the opportunity to come in contact with many lawyers in Mendocino County, Mr. Kindopp is at the top of my list. If my family EVER needs an attorney or legal assistance I will be calling Mr. Kindopp.
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10 Jun, 2011 by Michael
Mr. Kindopp worked on a very complicated case that I started. He has been absolutely outstanding.
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01 Aug, 2022 by John
Thank you for the opportunity to bring what Brian did for us to light. Brian came into our case in the middle of a heated family dispute over my father’s family trust. Brian also simultaneously handled a restraining order for elder abuse brought fourth by my father’s wife. Who also disputed the trust. Brian’s knowledge of the law and calm demeanor combined with his common decency offset the overall negativity and lack of respect brought on by my father’s wife’s family. Brian went above and beyond to explain everything to us and to make us more comfortable. He made an impossible situation seem bearable with his confidence. Brian guided me through one of the worst times of my life. My father’s passing along with the trust and restraining order hearing. Brian’s cross examination of the plaintiffs, my dad’s wife in my restraining order hearing was very strong and led to a ruling from the bench in my favor due to Brian’s knowledge of the law and without Brian having to call any of my witnesses or putting on my defense. The trust battle was just that. the lies, deception, misrepresentation of facts, distortion of the truth it was unbelievable. Brian was very well prepared and had us on the same page. Very comforting in an extremely difficult situation. My family’s future was on the line and Brian worked as though it was his. We felt Brian’s calm confidence was definitely demonstrated throughout the trial and once again his vast knowledge of the law was what ultimately led to our success. once again Brian received a ruling from the bench. Which is like hitting a grand slam in the MLB Allstar game. A retired judge remarked to us that was an incredible win, no one gets a ruling from the bench in a trust case such as this. We are forever grateful to Brian and his entire staff.
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05 Jan, 2011 by Robert
Mr. Momsen was very easy to reach and to work with. He was always responsive to our emails and phone calls. He understood the case, and worked hard to get us in a good settlement position. We found his ethics to be the highest, as he relied on the documented proof of our case and on the law, no tricks or false claims. He was always pleasant and friendly, and was a pleasure to work with. We are very satisfied with the outcome of our case, as he helped us obtain our objective.
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21 Jul, 2009 by Anonymous
Duncan assisted my family with a very difficult and emotional matter. We were referred to him from a close friend based on his experience and reputation. He did not disappoint and aggressively pursued our case. We had very favorable result. I would recommend Duncan without hesitation.
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04 Sep, 2024 by Melody malon
Michaell is intelligent, well educated and an amazing attorney. He will work hard to win your case with experience and compassion. Once you've hired Michael he's on your team until your case is resolved. He'll get you off!
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04 Sep, 2024 by Joseph nelson
Good lawyers
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04 Sep, 2024 by Joelle burgess
Epic person
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02 Jul, 2019 by Bruce page
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16 Feb, 2019 by Henrietta “henri” dukes
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15 Jan, 2019 by Joseph nelson
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Questions? We have answers

What a Business Lawyer Can Do for You

A business lawyer provides critical legal guidance and support to entrepreneurs, startups, and established businesses. Whether you are forming a new company, drafting contracts, or navigating complex regulations, a business attorney ensures you are legally protected and operating within the law. They can also help prevent legal disputes or represent you in negotiations, transactions, or lawsuits that arise during the course of business operations.

Business lawyers have expertise in areas such as business formation, contract law, intellectual property, employment law, mergers and acquisitions, and corporate governance. They ensure that your business is compliant with relevant laws and help mitigate risks that could threaten your company's success.

When Should I Hire a Business Lawyer?

Hiring a business lawyer is essential at various stages of business development, including:

  • Forming a business: When deciding on the best structure for your company (LLC, corporation, partnership, etc.), a lawyer can guide you through the registration and compliance process.
  • Drafting contracts: If you need contracts for employees, partners, suppliers, or clients, a lawyer ensures these documents are legally sound and in your best interest.
  • Mergers, acquisitions, or dissolutions: If you are buying, selling, or dissolving a company, legal counsel is critical to avoid costly mistakes.
  • Compliance and regulatory issues: A lawyer can help navigate complex regulations, particularly in industries like healthcare, finance, or tech.
  • Resolving disputes: Whether it's contract disagreements, intellectual property infringement, or employment issues, a business lawyer helps mediate, negotiate, or litigate on your behalf.

What Does a Business Lawyer Do?

Business lawyers provide a wide range of services that cater to different legal needs of a business. They can:

  • Help you choose the best legal structure for your business.
  • Draft, review, and negotiate contracts with employees, suppliers, customers, or business partners.
  • Ensure regulatory compliance with local, state, and federal laws.
  • Advise on tax strategies to minimize your business's tax burden.
  • Assist with intellectual property protection, such as trademarks, patents, and copyrights.
  • Handle mergers, acquisitions, and business sales, ensuring all legal paperwork is in order.
  • Resolve disputes through negotiation, arbitration, or litigation.

How Are Business Lawyers Paid?

Business lawyers typically charge either by the hour or on a flat-fee basis, depending on the complexity of the work. Common payment structures include:

  • Hourly rates: The lawyer charges based on the time spent working on your case. Rates vary depending on the lawyer's experience and location.
  • Flat fees: For certain tasks, such as incorporating a business or drafting a standard contract, a lawyer may offer a flat fee.
  • Retainer: Some businesses may hire a lawyer on retainer, paying a fixed amount each month to have ongoing access to legal services.

The payment structure is often discussed during an initial consultation so you can choose the one that best suits your business needs and budget.

How Much Does a Business Lawyer Cost?

The cost of hiring a business lawyer depends on factors such as:

  • The complexity of the legal issue: More complex matters, like mergers or intellectual property disputes, typically cost more than routine tasks like contract drafting.
  • The lawyer's experience and location: More experienced lawyers or those in larger cities often charge higher fees.
  • The nature of the billing arrangement: Hourly rates can range from $150 to $1,000 or more, depending on the lawyer's expertise. Flat fees are usually available for simpler matters like forming an LLC or drafting a standard contract.

It's essential to discuss fee structures upfront to avoid surprises.

Top Questions to Ask a Business Lawyer

Before hiring a business lawyer, ask the following questions during your consultation:

  1. What is your experience with businesses like mine?
    Find out if the lawyer has handled legal issues for companies in your industry.
  2. What services do you offer?
    Ensure the lawyer can meet all your business's legal needs, from contract drafting to dispute resolution.
  3. What are your fees, and how do you bill?
    Get clarity on how you'll be charged - whether by the hour, flat fee, or retainer.
  4. How do you handle conflicts of interest?
    Ask how the lawyer ensures there is no conflict in representing your business.
  5. Can you provide references from other business clients?
    Speaking with past clients will give you an idea of the lawyer's expertise and professionalism.
  6. Do you have experience in my specific industry?
    Industry-specific knowledge can be crucial, especially in highly regulated fields like healthcare or finance.

How to Check the Credibility of a Business Lawyer

To ensure you're hiring a reputable business lawyer:

  • Check state bar association records: Verify that the lawyer is in good standing and has no disciplinary actions against them.
  • Look for client reviews or testimonials: Online reviews, testimonials, or word of mouth from other business owners can provide insight into the lawyer's reliability and effectiveness.
  • Ask for references: A credible lawyer should have satisfied clients who can vouch for their services.
  • Check professional memberships: Membership in respected legal organizations (such as the American Bar Association or a local business lawyer association) can signal credibility.
  • Review their website and professional profile: A well-established lawyer typically has a professional website showcasing their areas of expertise, credentials, and case success.

What Should I Prepare for My First Consultation?

To make the most out of your first consultation with a business lawyer, prepare the following:

  • A description of your business and its structure: This will help the lawyer understand your legal needs.
  • Any current contracts or agreements: If you're seeking contract advice, bring copies of existing contracts.
  • A list of legal issues or concerns: Be ready to discuss any potential legal challenges, such as regulatory compliance, disputes, or transactions.
  • Financial documents: If applicable, bring financial records related to the legal matter you're seeking help with.
  • Questions about fees and billing: Ensure you understand the lawyer’s payment structure and fees upfront.

By preparing these materials, you can ensure that your first meeting with a business lawyer is productive and informative.

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