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06 Jul, 2023 by Anthony
Mr. Husain is an excellent tax attorney. Even when things get tough, he will fight to help you achieve the best possible result. No review of Mr. Husain's practice would be complete without mentioning how nice and understanding he is to his clients. I would recommend hiring him for anything you might need related to taxes.
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19 Jun, 2023 by Drew
If you're searching for a lawyer and Karim's name comes up as an option, contact him immediately. He's extremely thorough, very thoughtful and will work hard to get his client the absolute best outcome, no matter how complicated the situation is or how much extra he has to do to get the job done.
We had a very stressful and potentially future-crushing IRS situation we had to work through and for us it was beyond complex and we had lost all hope. Then we contacted Karim and we knew from the first call that he was going to do his absolute best (which you'll quickly find to be above and beyond expectations). Our family is thankful for Karim and will be working with him in the future as the need arises.
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04 Jan, 2021 by Todd
My father had a small estate and for the past five years, my brother and I had not bothered to close it. Finally, I knew I needed to get it done and contacted Karim, it was a great move! Living in NC, it was great to have someone who knew what needed to be done, provided the direction and support to close the various gates and ultimately get the account closed while ensuring there were no loose ends. I would strongly recommend Karim to anyone looking for a lawyer who specializes in tax, bankruptcy or probate.
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28 May, 2009 by Anonymous
William has represented me twice and continues to advise my husband and I. We seek his advice for all legal matters. He is loyal, professional, and the best in his business.
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27 May, 2009 by Anonymous
I would highly recommend Bill Shehwen to anyone in need of legal assistance. Bill did an outstanding job representing me. He was very thorough in regards to meetings and communication with me. I have dealt with a handful of lawyers in the past, and what makes Bill stand out from the rest is his vibrant personality partnered with his expertise in law. I have used Bill more than once and each time he did a remarkable job.
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20 May, 2009 by Anonymous
Attorney Shehwen was very informative and also treates on a very personal level as if I was family.I have dealt with numerous attorneys in the past and none of them come close to Attorney Shehwen. I would recomend him to anyone that is looking for intelligent legal advice.
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02 Apr, 2014 by Paul
Mr Bevacqua is an excellent legal counselor, who is diligent, brilliant and affordable. Mr. Bevacqua took the time to explain and address each and every one of my concerns with respect and carefulness. I was going through a miserable divorce with complex financial and custody matters. In spite of dealing with an unreasonable, mean-spirited and aggressive ex-wife, I was able to walk away with primary custody of my children and retain my financial nest had I earned from years of hard work. Mr. Bevacqua is a good man and great counselor.
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19 Apr, 2010 by Anonymous
My attorney Damion Beaver has been so helpful throughout these current challenges and difficult times in my life. I am basically trusting him with my life and am so glad I did so. He is a young lawyer, but that gives him an edge since his schooling is so current. He's got to be one of the smartest men in Elk County. He uses his brain tactfully to look at my case in more than one light. I'd recommend him to anyone who is in need of a genius lawyer to work hard for you!!
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16 Jul, 2023 by Lewis esposito
Laura was a pleasure to work with. She was professional, organized, and her communication was top-notch. I highly recommend working with Dean Street Law - Law Firm.
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13 Dec, 2024 by Steve durkin
Had a very stressful year, a stupid mistake that could have been a lot worse in so many ways. Vincent worked with me, even when I was stressed (apologies Vincent) He was professional, calm and understanding throughout. I would absolutely recommend him. Listen to what he says, very grateful I picked him.
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13 Dec, 2024 by Daniel murphy
I called Vince to see if he could help a friend with a DUI charge. He walked me through looking up the charges at the county website and seemed knowledgeable about recent changes to legal precedence, since my friend was just sitting in his car, not driving.
We were having a nice interaction and I was thinking I had found the right lawyer, until Vince said he wanted $3,000 just to show up for the preliminary hearing. I had already mentioned that my friend was broke and would need time to work and save for legal fees. When I began to explain that I had already talked to another lawyer that only wanted $750 for the preliminary hearing, Vince interupted me, shouted some rude come back and hung up.
I was willig to work with him if he had just given me a minute to explain the situation, but alas no. That was not meant to be. That left me with even more confirmation of the reason why I find lawyers to be the rude, arrogant, and self-serving. In those departments, Vince did not disappoint. He does sound like a competent lawyer and may be able to help you. But ultimately, they're almost all just in it for the money.
Between the corrupt cops making up charges to justify their fat salaries, the immoral DAs who care nothing about the innocence of the wrongfully charged, and the judges who get paid big money for oh so little work while coddling the prosecution of the innocent, and the defense lawyers who are there to get their pound of flesh, the American judicial system is morally bankrupt.
Hopefully, Divine Justice will prevail in the end, and all these low-life, heartless, perpetrators of this huge scam will experience the pain and suffering they cause by particpating in a corrupt system they are all to happy to benefit from.
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02 Dec, 2024 by Stephanie yost
I had a great experience with Vince. He was a tremendous help with my son in reducing charges significantly and ensuring his record would not be negatively impacted. He was reasonable and extremely responsive. I would highly recommend Vince if you are in need of an attorney.
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01 Nov, 2024 by Micaela rivera
I wholeheartedly recommend Joel and Basil for legal support. They handled my case with exceptional care and professionalism, instilling in me a strong sense of confidence in my entitlement to a settlement. I consider myself incredibly fortunate to have had their assistance, as they managed to alleviate the stress of a challenging situation. Their extensive legal expertise left a lasting impression on me.
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23 Jun, 2024 by Anonymous
I met Martin Manco aka Marty. He has no integrity. Low character. Not trustworthy. He is very comfortable being a liar and manipulative even when he doesn't have to. It's just his character; tacky, disheveled appearance as well.
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30 May, 2024 by Dirty lenses
Highly recommended, excel in clear communication & are there every step of the way. I had the pleasure to work with Basil Joy who is an outstanding representative. Clear expectations were set prior to starting this journey, and those expectations were met. Thank you GG&M!
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03 Aug, 2017 by Gina
Michael Pastino is an extremely knowledgeable, thorough, kind and compassionate guy. He went the extra mile for me, not only to win my case, but to receive the maximum possible dollar amount .
He called me frequently to see how I was feeling, and to update me on the status of the lawsuit. I would definitely recommend him!
If you expect the best, go with Michael!
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01 Aug, 2017 by Angela
Mr. Michael Pastino listens to your case and evaluates it to the best of his knowledge to keep you informed of all expectations the best way that he can so that you can get what you deserve for your pain and suffering, losses. Absolute positive feedback from all four cases we have had with him, have referred him to close friends with positive results and would recommend Mr. Pastino for anyone.
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01 Aug, 2017 by Kelly
Michael is an excellent lawyer and person. When I had my automobile accident, he helped me win my case. He went above and beyond expectations and made it an easy and comfortable process for me. My trial was directly after my husband passed away suddenly. Michael called me to make sure I was doing okay and even came to my husband's funeral. After my case was over, Michael still checked on me to make sure I was doing okay And how my three children were doing. He knew how difficult it was for me and he showed genuine concern for me.When my furnace blew up, he helped me with my home owners insurance. I wound up being able to stay in a hotel for over a month for free while they fixed and replaced my furnace, the floors and my valuables. I have had him as a lawyer for years now and will stay with him for the years to come. He has always helped me out when I needed it. He looks out for everyone around him over himself. I can always count on him.
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09 Dec, 2024 by John spadaro
MacElree Harvey is a great place to work full of thoughtful, competent attorneys who work tirelessly to get the best possible outcome for their clients and provide mentorship to younger attorneys.
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08 Oct, 2024 by Fred l
The attorneys at MacElree Harvey really care. They are exceptional at what they do. I highly recommend Joe Bellinghieri for estate planning, estate taxes, and accounting. I also highly recommend Mary Kay Gaver for business law. She really took care of me and my Mom during business buyout negotiations. All of the attorneys and paralegals are great. Thank you to Brian Nagle for recommending these great lawyers.
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15 Feb, 2024 by Lou mincarelli
09 Dec, 2024 by John spadaro
MacElree Harvey is a great place to work full of thoughtful, competent attorneys who work tirelessly to get the best possible outcome for their clients and provide mentorship to younger attorneys.
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08 Oct, 2024 by Fred l
The attorneys at MacElree Harvey really care. They are exceptional at what they do. I highly recommend Joe Bellinghieri for estate planning, estate taxes, and accounting. I also highly recommend Mary Kay Gaver for business law. She really took care of me and my Mom during business buyout negotiations. All of the attorneys and paralegals are great. Thank you to Brian Nagle for recommending these great lawyers.
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15 Feb, 2024 by Lou mincarelli
09 Dec, 2024 by John spadaro
MacElree Harvey is a great place to work full of thoughtful, competent attorneys who work tirelessly to get the best possible outcome for their clients and provide mentorship to younger attorneys.
Read more
08 Oct, 2024 by Fred l
The attorneys at MacElree Harvey really care. They are exceptional at what they do. I highly recommend Joe Bellinghieri for estate planning, estate taxes, and accounting. I also highly recommend Mary Kay Gaver for business law. She really took care of me and my Mom during business buyout negotiations. All of the attorneys and paralegals are great. Thank you to Brian Nagle for recommending these great lawyers.
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15 Feb, 2024 by Lou mincarelli
25 Feb, 2024 by Tina lynn frye
This is the most unprofessional “lawyer “ I have ever encountered. She is a swindler. My brother hired her after being diagnosed with pancreatic cancer, she knew this, he was not in the right frame of mind, and she pounced on that. My mom is currently in one of the worst nursing homes I’ve ever seen, and this woman wants our family to drain any savings that my single mom raising 2 children has managed to save and pay this place. The day after my brother died, she called my sister in law screaming at her that they want their money 💰. She charged 12,900 for God knows what, as a matter of fact I would like a detailed list of every phone call, email, anything that she has done because so far all she has done is cause our family grief and pain. I wish it all back on her, everything our family has been through I wish on her tenfold. She takes advantage of families in crisis, and I don’t know how she sleeps at night. Take my advice, find a REAL attorney, she is a scam artist.
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08 Jul, 2022 by Gg
10 Feb, 2022 by Glenn chelliah
Excellent professional services. Convenient and no cost parking.
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08 May, 2024 by Mr. 100
A so call person name Joelle Shanesy said she is a partner with this law firm Lamb McErlane but she is not you can go onto the website and see for your , this not so honest person worked for three law firms in the year and now she is here at Lamb McErlane ready to steal more money but this time I did not follow her to this law firm.
She promise to call me back and she don't, kept telling me that she is going over my case and she didn't but bills me for time that she wasn't working on my case and I have all the proof to show it.
For 5 months Joelle didn't even get a discovery done for a simple divorce case but billed me $2600.00
So I will tell you , your friends and family to not hire her as your lawyer she will lie and if you lie you will cheat and if you cheat you will steal and she did .
Joelle Shanesy is the name and look here profile up on the company website and you will see she is not a partner
Ask her about her other two law firms she worked for, I don't have to lie
JC Law and Berman/Voss
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02 Apr, 2024 by Samsung device
BEWARE. Corrupt to its core. If involved in custody they are very Father's Rights across the board and will not hesitate to use criminal action in their arsenal. VERY UNETHICAL.
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04 Mar, 2024 by Cristina perone
Wonderful law firm, friendly office staff and trustworthy attorneys!
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25 Feb, 2024 by Tina lynn frye
This is the most unprofessional “lawyer “ I have ever encountered. She is a swindler. My brother hired her after being diagnosed with pancreatic cancer, she knew this, he was not in the right frame of mind, and she pounced on that. My mom is currently in one of the worst nursing homes I’ve ever seen, and this woman wants our family to drain any savings that my single mom raising 2 children has managed to save and pay this place. The day after my brother died, she called my sister in law screaming at her that they want their money 💰. She charged 12,900 for God knows what, as a matter of fact I would like a detailed list of every phone call, email, anything that she has done because so far all she has done is cause our family grief and pain. I wish it all back on her, everything our family has been through I wish on her tenfold. She takes advantage of families in crisis, and I don’t know how she sleeps at night. Take my advice, find a REAL attorney, she is a scam artist.
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08 Jul, 2022 by Gg
10 Feb, 2022 by Glenn chelliah
Excellent professional services. Convenient and no cost parking.
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09 Dec, 2024 by John spadaro
MacElree Harvey is a great place to work full of thoughtful, competent attorneys who work tirelessly to get the best possible outcome for their clients and provide mentorship to younger attorneys.
Read more
08 Oct, 2024 by Fred l
The attorneys at MacElree Harvey really care. They are exceptional at what they do. I highly recommend Joe Bellinghieri for estate planning, estate taxes, and accounting. I also highly recommend Mary Kay Gaver for business law. She really took care of me and my Mom during business buyout negotiations. All of the attorneys and paralegals are great. Thank you to Brian Nagle for recommending these great lawyers.
Read more
15 Feb, 2024 by Lou mincarelli
09 Dec, 2024 by John spadaro
MacElree Harvey is a great place to work full of thoughtful, competent attorneys who work tirelessly to get the best possible outcome for their clients and provide mentorship to younger attorneys.
Read more
08 Oct, 2024 by Fred l
The attorneys at MacElree Harvey really care. They are exceptional at what they do. I highly recommend Joe Bellinghieri for estate planning, estate taxes, and accounting. I also highly recommend Mary Kay Gaver for business law. She really took care of me and my Mom during business buyout negotiations. All of the attorneys and paralegals are great. Thank you to Brian Nagle for recommending these great lawyers.
Read more
15 Feb, 2024 by Lou mincarelli
09 Dec, 2024 by John spadaro
MacElree Harvey is a great place to work full of thoughtful, competent attorneys who work tirelessly to get the best possible outcome for their clients and provide mentorship to younger attorneys.
Read more
08 Oct, 2024 by Fred l
The attorneys at MacElree Harvey really care. They are exceptional at what they do. I highly recommend Joe Bellinghieri for estate planning, estate taxes, and accounting. I also highly recommend Mary Kay Gaver for business law. She really took care of me and my Mom during business buyout negotiations. All of the attorneys and paralegals are great. Thank you to Brian Nagle for recommending these great lawyers.
Read more
15 Feb, 2024 by Lou mincarelli
09 Dec, 2024 by John spadaro
MacElree Harvey is a great place to work full of thoughtful, competent attorneys who work tirelessly to get the best possible outcome for their clients and provide mentorship to younger attorneys.
Read more
08 Oct, 2024 by Fred l
The attorneys at MacElree Harvey really care. They are exceptional at what they do. I highly recommend Joe Bellinghieri for estate planning, estate taxes, and accounting. I also highly recommend Mary Kay Gaver for business law. She really took care of me and my Mom during business buyout negotiations. All of the attorneys and paralegals are great. Thank you to Brian Nagle for recommending these great lawyers.
Read more
15 Feb, 2024 by Lou mincarelli
09 Dec, 2024 by John spadaro
MacElree Harvey is a great place to work full of thoughtful, competent attorneys who work tirelessly to get the best possible outcome for their clients and provide mentorship to younger attorneys.
Read more
08 Oct, 2024 by Fred l
The attorneys at MacElree Harvey really care. They are exceptional at what they do. I highly recommend Joe Bellinghieri for estate planning, estate taxes, and accounting. I also highly recommend Mary Kay Gaver for business law. She really took care of me and my Mom during business buyout negotiations. All of the attorneys and paralegals are great. Thank you to Brian Nagle for recommending these great lawyers.
Read more
15 Feb, 2024 by Lou mincarelli
08 May, 2024 by Mr. 100
A so call person name Joelle Shanesy said she is a partner with this law firm Lamb McErlane but she is not you can go onto the website and see for your , this not so honest person worked for three law firms in the year and now she is here at Lamb McErlane ready to steal more money but this time I did not follow her to this law firm.
She promise to call me back and she don't, kept telling me that she is going over my case and she didn't but bills me for time that she wasn't working on my case and I have all the proof to show it.
For 5 months Joelle didn't even get a discovery done for a simple divorce case but billed me $2600.00
So I will tell you , your friends and family to not hire her as your lawyer she will lie and if you lie you will cheat and if you cheat you will steal and she did .
Joelle Shanesy is the name and look here profile up on the company website and you will see she is not a partner
Ask her about her other two law firms she worked for, I don't have to lie
JC Law and Berman/Voss
Read more
02 Apr, 2024 by Samsung device
BEWARE. Corrupt to its core. If involved in custody they are very Father's Rights across the board and will not hesitate to use criminal action in their arsenal. VERY UNETHICAL.
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04 Mar, 2024 by Cristina perone
Wonderful law firm, friendly office staff and trustworthy attorneys!
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08 May, 2024 by Mr. 100
A so call person name Joelle Shanesy said she is a partner with this law firm Lamb McErlane but she is not you can go onto the website and see for your , this not so honest person worked for three law firms in the year and now she is here at Lamb McErlane ready to steal more money but this time I did not follow her to this law firm.
She promise to call me back and she don't, kept telling me that she is going over my case and she didn't but bills me for time that she wasn't working on my case and I have all the proof to show it.
For 5 months Joelle didn't even get a discovery done for a simple divorce case but billed me $2600.00
So I will tell you , your friends and family to not hire her as your lawyer she will lie and if you lie you will cheat and if you cheat you will steal and she did .
Joelle Shanesy is the name and look here profile up on the company website and you will see she is not a partner
Ask her about her other two law firms she worked for, I don't have to lie
JC Law and Berman/Voss
Read more
02 Apr, 2024 by Samsung device
BEWARE. Corrupt to its core. If involved in custody they are very Father's Rights across the board and will not hesitate to use criminal action in their arsenal. VERY UNETHICAL.
Read more
04 Mar, 2024 by Cristina perone
Wonderful law firm, friendly office staff and trustworthy attorneys!
Read more
08 May, 2024 by Mr. 100
A so call person name Joelle Shanesy said she is a partner with this law firm Lamb McErlane but she is not you can go onto the website and see for your , this not so honest person worked for three law firms in the year and now she is here at Lamb McErlane ready to steal more money but this time I did not follow her to this law firm.
She promise to call me back and she don't, kept telling me that she is going over my case and she didn't but bills me for time that she wasn't working on my case and I have all the proof to show it.
For 5 months Joelle didn't even get a discovery done for a simple divorce case but billed me $2600.00
So I will tell you , your friends and family to not hire her as your lawyer she will lie and if you lie you will cheat and if you cheat you will steal and she did .
Joelle Shanesy is the name and look here profile up on the company website and you will see she is not a partner
Ask her about her other two law firms she worked for, I don't have to lie
JC Law and Berman/Voss
Read more
02 Apr, 2024 by Samsung device
BEWARE. Corrupt to its core. If involved in custody they are very Father's Rights across the board and will not hesitate to use criminal action in their arsenal. VERY UNETHICAL.
Read more
04 Mar, 2024 by Cristina perone
Wonderful law firm, friendly office staff and trustworthy attorneys!
Read more
08 May, 2024 by Mr. 100
A so call person name Joelle Shanesy said she is a partner with this law firm Lamb McErlane but she is not you can go onto the website and see for your , this not so honest person worked for three law firms in the year and now she is here at Lamb McErlane ready to steal more money but this time I did not follow her to this law firm.
She promise to call me back and she don't, kept telling me that she is going over my case and she didn't but bills me for time that she wasn't working on my case and I have all the proof to show it.
For 5 months Joelle didn't even get a discovery done for a simple divorce case but billed me $2600.00
So I will tell you , your friends and family to not hire her as your lawyer she will lie and if you lie you will cheat and if you cheat you will steal and she did .
Joelle Shanesy is the name and look here profile up on the company website and you will see she is not a partner
Ask her about her other two law firms she worked for, I don't have to lie
JC Law and Berman/Voss
Read more
02 Apr, 2024 by Samsung device
BEWARE. Corrupt to its core. If involved in custody they are very Father's Rights across the board and will not hesitate to use criminal action in their arsenal. VERY UNETHICAL.
Read more
04 Mar, 2024 by Cristina perone
Wonderful law firm, friendly office staff and trustworthy attorneys!
Read more
08 May, 2024 by Mr. 100
A so call person name Joelle Shanesy said she is a partner with this law firm Lamb McErlane but she is not you can go onto the website and see for your , this not so honest person worked for three law firms in the year and now she is here at Lamb McErlane ready to steal more money but this time I did not follow her to this law firm.
She promise to call me back and she don't, kept telling me that she is going over my case and she didn't but bills me for time that she wasn't working on my case and I have all the proof to show it.
For 5 months Joelle didn't even get a discovery done for a simple divorce case but billed me $2600.00
So I will tell you , your friends and family to not hire her as your lawyer she will lie and if you lie you will cheat and if you cheat you will steal and she did .
Joelle Shanesy is the name and look here profile up on the company website and you will see she is not a partner
Ask her about her other two law firms she worked for, I don't have to lie
JC Law and Berman/Voss
Read more
02 Apr, 2024 by Samsung device
BEWARE. Corrupt to its core. If involved in custody they are very Father's Rights across the board and will not hesitate to use criminal action in their arsenal. VERY UNETHICAL.
Read more
04 Mar, 2024 by Cristina perone
Wonderful law firm, friendly office staff and trustworthy attorneys!
Read more
27 Jan, 2023 by Anonymous
Cecil was unprepared and stammered through the whole hearing. Embarrassing. Things did not go my way as a result and irreparable damage has been done to my family.
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24 Aug, 2016 by Anonymous
Cecil laid out my options during an initial consultation. The divorce process was longer than expected but he answered questions I didn't understand, helped guide me in the right direction and followed through with what he said he was going to do.
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16 Aug, 2016 by Anonymous
Cecil represented me in a divorce. He was available to answer questions and responsive to my needs. Cecil was respectful of all parties involved and carrier himself well with the other attorney. I appreciated his attention to detail.
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01 Feb, 2018 by Anonymous
I hired Attorney McDonald for an appeal of a condo association matter. Despite holding herself out as an appeal attorney, she initiated the appeal in the wrong court! She also drafted the appeal at the last moment despite having months to do so. Needless to say, I was not successful in my appeal. When I decided to exhaust my remaining appeal opportunity to the Pa. Supreme Court, McDonald refused to represent me and gave me incorrect advice telling me that I had 90 days to initiate an appeal when in reality I had only 30 days.
While the appeal was going on, McDonald also prepared extensive litigation with numerous counts against 15 defendants involved in my condo association dispute. Every single count was dismissed by the court against each and every one of the 15 defendants before trial because each and every one of McDonald’s legal arguments was deemed to lack legal merit! Not one of the counts was even tried as each and every count was dismissed prior to trial because there was not enough legal substance to her arguments to warrant a trial! The judge stated that many of the issues had already been litigated in the prior case! And Attorney McDonald either knew or should have known this because she handled the appeal of the prior case! McDonald even filed counts against the condo association’s attorneys, which any legitimate attorney will tell you that you cannot do! McDonald lead me on a wild goose chase in this matter. I only found out there was no legal merit to all of the court filings that she prepared after the cases were dismissed through preliminary objections and motion for summary judgment! McDonald would not refund any of the thousands of dollars of legal fees that I paid to her. She then refused to participate in binding arbitration per the terms of our agreement which she herself drafted.
STAY FAR FAR AWAY FROM ATTORNEY MCDONALD!
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30 Apr, 2012 by Anonymous
I had a minor incident with the police and she Kept it to a small incident.
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14 Dec, 2011 by Cassie
Ms. McDonald is one of the best lawyers I have worked with. She was very helpful to me after my car accident and got me the settlement we both felt I deserved. She was more then willing to put in extra hours for research, and once she even drove 4 hours just to sit with me in court for 20 minutes. She kept me involved throughout the process of settling our lawsuit and responded to my emails the same day i sent them. She kept me appraised about what she was doing for me and also kept me informed about the other sides actions. She was very patient and willing to help me understand what all the legal stuff I didn't understand meant. Hiring Ms. McDonald was the best decision I made after my accident!
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15 Sep, 2019 by On top tree service 484-343-1113
29 Nov, 2017 by Berardi’s detailing
15 Sep, 2019 by On top tree service 484-343-1113
29 Nov, 2017 by Berardi’s detailing
08 Dec, 2024 by Anonymous
She was responsible for assisting us with closing the estate of my late Father. Communication was inconsistent. Her explanations seemed to always go in circles and were difficult to understand. The whole process took much longer than expected for what we thought was a fairly simple estate.
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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.
