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21 Feb, 2019 by White moses
Used him twice
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14 Sep, 2015 by Gerrold belk
Diane was very helpful in answering all of our questions at the initial meeting so we could have all of our preferences outlined when we went for our final review. She expalined all of the different options and final paperwork where we could set down with our children and discuss. Very thorough and helpful. I've passed on our experience to several of my co workers and recommended they get in touch with her.l
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31 Aug, 2015 by Anonymous
Diane has been helping my company since she went into business. She writes and reviews all of our contracts. I also send my clients to her for their corporate needs as well. We always get a fast turnaround and she helps answer the questions that we didn't even know we had. Always friendly and easy to work with.
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14 Aug, 2024 by V
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19 Oct, 2023 by Tonica rae
Friendly service!
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13 Sep, 2022 by Fay baby
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08 Sep, 2023 by Dee woodruff
Always have a great experience here with Robert and Bobby
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15 Jun, 2023 by Kellie roach
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13 Jun, 2022 by Caroline green
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07 Oct, 2024 by Jennifer
Very kind, understanding and easy to work with.
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20 Sep, 2024 by Jordan slider
Mrs. Hatley from Hatley Law Firm is an incredible attorney and a hard worker. I'm Jordan Slider, a performer, and I truly appreciate the gift of freedom that allows me to express my craft and passion to the world. Hatley Law Firm is outstanding at what they do, and my lawyer was very quick to execute everything that needed to be done. I highly recommend Mrs. Hatley and her firm to anyone in need of legal assistance!
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11 Sep, 2024 by Irma mcintyre
Mary Brown, Thank you profoundly for your legal guidance regarding my brother’s estate. Your knowledge and counsel were invaluable to me while giving me peace of mind, knowing how you individualized attention to my case. As a caregiver, and with the loss of my brother, I had so much anxiety and stress on how to proceed and you literally jumped in with your kindness and concern along with your professional expertise ensuring me on your commitment to my case which made a big difference during this long and difficult path. I am deeply grateful for your dedication and exceptional service. Best Regards, Irma McIntyre
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01 Nov, 2023 by Louis maldonado
Lawyer did terrible job with my case. It felt like he didn’t even try. Couldn’t answer why insurance company did not offer to pay ER bill. Called me once to tell me he was going call again in a week with an answer then called two weeks later with still no reason as to why insurance didn’t want to pay ER bill. Very disappointed with lawyer’s work. Paralegals were good.
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30 Sep, 2022 by Sadie chapa
Great Customer Service!
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04 Feb, 2021 by Isaac cordova
Very comfortable throughout my case and would retain his services in the future.
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19 Dec, 2022 by Teresa fernandez
I HIGHLY recommend 👌 5***** "If an opinion contrary to your own makes you angry, that is a sign that you are subconsciously aware of having no good reason for thinking as you do. If some one maintains that two and two are five, or that Iceland is on the equator, you should feel pity rather than anger, unless you know so little of arithmetic or geography that his opinion shakes your own contrary conviction. The most savage controversies are those about matters as to which there is no good evidence either way. Persecution is used in theology, not in arithmetic, because in arithmetic there is knowledge, but in theology there is only opinion. So whenever you find yourself getting angry about a difference of opinion, be on your guard; you will probably find, on examination, that your belief is going beyond what the evidence warrants." — Bertrand Russell, An Outline of Intellectual Rubbish (1943)
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19 Aug, 2022 by Vernice jackson
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19 Aug, 2022 by Deborah sandoval
Awesome lawyer... I recommend him to everyone.. He is the best
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16 Apr, 2024 by Hunter kliem
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24 Mar, 2024 by Rebecca johnson
We used Dianne to do our estate planning. We are so happy with the process. She made things so easy. She is very friendly, kind and courteous. Her staff are very friendly as well. I highly recommend them!!!
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02 Mar, 2024 by Alan currie
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18 Feb, 2024 by Valerie crapnell
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06 Jan, 2024 by Virginia brandenburg
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08 Aug, 2023 by Brenda r. guajardo
Dennis is one very smart and very helpful man. He answered all the questions that Paul & I had for him. He did is so pleasantly and took time to make sure we felt taken care of. I HIGHLY RECOMMEND him. We will be calling you again Mr. Kowalik.
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09 Mar, 2024 by Matthew perez
Paralegal Andrea harassed my girlfriend at H‑E‑B plus, tried to threatened her. Then continued by calling her non stop and texting threats. That she would “beat her up on site and catch her from the back”. So unprofessional.
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06 Dec, 2023 by Albert partida
I engaged this firm to represent my interest in a Real Estate matter and submitted a significant amount in a Retainer Account, but during the years that this case dragged on and no progress, the attorneys moved on to other firms. This place is nothing but crooks.
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11 Oct, 2023 by Kara sloan
These attorneys go above and beyond to be a bull dog for you. Hilary Duncan is no longer affiliated with this firm and her actions only made their firm stronger. Sometimes you get to see something you watched on dateline actually freaking happen. Now they ARE the team and will fight for your rights. All the coercion is taken out with the trash. Best lawyers around! Especially Bryan Fitzgerald. Bulldog is his nickname. ;)
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09 Mar, 2024 by Matthew perez
Paralegal Andrea harassed my girlfriend at H‑E‑B plus, tried to threatened her. Then continued by calling her non stop and texting threats. That she would “beat her up on site and catch her from the back”. So unprofessional.
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06 Dec, 2023 by Albert partida
I engaged this firm to represent my interest in a Real Estate matter and submitted a significant amount in a Retainer Account, but during the years that this case dragged on and no progress, the attorneys moved on to other firms. This place is nothing but crooks.
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11 Oct, 2023 by Kara sloan
These attorneys go above and beyond to be a bull dog for you. Hilary Duncan is no longer affiliated with this firm and her actions only made their firm stronger. Sometimes you get to see something you watched on dateline actually freaking happen. Now they ARE the team and will fight for your rights. All the coercion is taken out with the trash. Best lawyers around! Especially Bryan Fitzgerald. Bulldog is his nickname. ;)
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17 Jan, 2023 by Cheryl anzaldua
I recommend Don Crawford to help getting your disability. I was denied twice and the 3rd time was a charm when I got Him to represent my case. It took less than a year. Its was a bench decision. I was very Happy of the outcome! Thanks again Don!
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22 Aug, 2012 by Frederick
During our first meeting, outside of Judge Weiser's Courtroom-Victoria TX, Mr. Lewis told me, "We're not going to win. If you don't take the DA's deal then we're going to enhance your misdemeanor charge to felony counts." Immediately, you should notice 2 things: 1. This young man didn't say that we might lose or that there was a high probability of us losing. He said that "we would lose." 2. He said "we're" going to enhance the charges. He didn't say the DA's Office. He said "we're." From the beginning this attorney revealed that he was highly inexperienced and/or nothing more than a "puppet" for the State(looking at this attorney's AVVO profile, you will note that he has been practicing law for a short period in Texas). Our next meeting was at Mr. Lewis's Office. I proceeded to demonstrate in which direction that I desired my case to proceed. Nearly all my suggestions were refuted. Mr. Lewis stated, "I am the Captain of this ship and it will go where I steer it." Excuse me! Excuse me! Correction! This is my life that the State of Texas is playing with; not Mr. Lewis'. It is "my ship" that is being attacked; not his. Now, let me be clear on something! As a minister, I am not supposed to agree to something that I did not do. In regards to the State's plea bargain pertaining to a charge that I was not guilty of, it would be a "lie" before God if I excepted their offer. However, I am guilty of becoming weak during Mr. Lewis's representation. I told him to except the DA's offer which amounted to almost a year in County Jail. On at least 2 occassions, I asked Mr. Lewis if he had heard anything pertaining to the matter. He said that the DA had not yet contacted me and reassured me that the offer of exceptance was on his desk. Eventually, Mr. Lewis was removed as my attorney. While attorney Brent Dornburg was representing me, the same said misdemeanor charge was changed to 3 felony offenses. I asked Mr. Dornburg to check on the offer that Mr. Lewis was supposed to have on the DA's desk. When Mr. Lewis finally responded to Mr. Dornburg, he stated that I never agreed to except any plea bargain. However, I knew that this young man could not be trusted; therefore, I kept records during our association. On 7-19-12, I took such a record before Brent Dornburg. The record consisted of a "motion" that I presented before the "Weiser Court" which explained that I had told Mr. Lewis to except the DA's plea bargain agreement. The motion made it crystal clear that me and Mr. Lewis did not see "eye to eye." The motion made it crystal clear that I had excepted the plea bargain and wanted no discrepancies concerning the matter. What is a lie? As a minister, I have often taught that a lie is when you intentionally deceive or try to deceive someone. Mr. Lee Lewis deceived me, the Court, and Mr. Dornburg. [ the motion was filed in Victoria County Court, State of Texas vs Frederick O. Scott, cause no. 2-98092, filed on or about 10-7-11 ]. At present, I have Mr. Lewis's behavior before the STATE BAR OF TEXAS. Minister Scott, B.A. University of North Texas
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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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