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10 Jun, 2021 by Samantha wickersham
10 Oct, 2015 by Curtis
David handled my case to the best of his abilities. He was very reliable, insightful, and resourceful. He told me exactly what I needed to do to insure the best results. He is accountable, he showed up on time to court, and answered any questions I had thoroughly. He was a strong advocate to take my case to whatever direction I chose, while providing sound legal advice. He also kept good contact throughout the case making sure I was updated and prepared.
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06 Apr, 2017 by Billy frazier iv
Great, reliable and stays in constant contact with Client, I'm very happy with his services and the outcome which is not guaranteed.
Very professional and dedicated to his duties
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14 Sep, 2023 by Maria rocio castro
18 Apr, 2023 by Iam varce
Jason is by far the best option that I’ve experienced in regards to an on the job injury. Would most definitely recommend his services.
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09 Sep, 2021 by Dan bergland
I broke my leg and ankle at work. It was a very serious injury. The work comp insurance company wasn't paying me according to Iowa law. Jason Neifert got me a very good settlement. He explained several different parts of the settlement. He is even getting me a large amount of money from an Iowa special injury fund.
He's a person of high values that can be trusted!
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12 Oct, 2024 by Elizabeth lemke
David, and Marica were with me throughout the process. From days after I got injured until the last day of our Mediation. Both would check in often as we reached each new step. I couldn't be more happy with the service they both provided. I was nervous but they eased my mind through it all. David and Marica even made it easy for me on days I could not make it to Des Moines. They'd come to me, or meet me half way. My family has actually used David's services in the past so when I got injured I knew to contact him immediately. David, and Marica 100% believe in getting their clients what is deserved, and treat you like more than just clients.
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07 Oct, 2024 by Dennie
30 Aug, 2024 by Hr pulley
Is it wrong to seek out a lawyer who is strong in competence and prudent in their decision-making? Steve Lombardi has been a man of integrity from the beginning of accepting us as clients, and he fought to exhaust every option helping us find resolution. Hard to find a lawyer who hates to lose nowadays so I’m grateful we’ve met Steve.
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10 Aug, 2014 by Vince
Mr. Brick has always been responsive to my legal questions and needs. He has been honest, fair and highly ethical in all my dealings with him. Mr. Brick is approachable and straightforward in his approach to resolving any issues. He anticipates and understands my needs as a client. I would trust him with any legal issues that came up for his advice and guidance. I would highly recommend Mr. Brick for any of your legal needs.
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14 Jul, 2014 by Tim
Mr. Brick has been my attorney over 10 years. He has always been incredibly informed, even though he has represented me on many different issues and in different areas of the law. I would highly recommend him, regardless of specialty, as the attorney you want to see first.
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13 Jul, 2014 by Jim
I sought out Mr. Brick this year for help with an employment issue. Mr. Brick always had time to answer my questions and review all areas of the issue with me. Through out the process Mr.. Brick has been fair, honest, and understanding. I highly recommend Mr. Brick for all that are looking at retaining a lawyer and or seeking out legal advise.
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03 Dec, 2015 by Shari
I have used Jules Ofenbakh for several different issues. Thank you Jules for being professional and knowledgeable for my start up of my LLC business. There was so much more than I had anticipated. Jules you helped with the tax end of business startup I knew nothing about. When you took care my LLC, it was off my mind and I knew in good hands, and gave me the chance to concentrate on getting my jewelry store up and running smoothly. When I called with issues regarding a customer issue, you were right there, and answered my questions and directed me to where I needed to go with the issue, lawfully. Thank you for your expediency in all you have assisted me with. Thank you being MY Lawyer!
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02 Dec, 2015 by Sarah
Julia jumps right on top of any legal issues or questions we have. She truly goes out of her way to help her clients in a professional way. We highly suggest her for all your legal needs.
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02 Dec, 2015 by Chad brewbaker
Jules was amazing helping us register our LLC. She talked us through the whole process, helped us draft our operating agreement, even filed the paperwork for us with the Iowa Secretary of State. When it comes to business and contracts Jules knows her stuff!
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19 Oct, 2020 by Alaa
Very experienced lawyer, very honest and very straight..different than all the lawyers who I hired before, made my worries vanished in 5 minutes phone call. In my first meeting I had many concerns and worries, magically I left his office and left all my worries their too!
I hired 5 different lawyers Before him, never felt safe with any of them as I felt with Mrs.sam Kreamer.
Again: highly, highly, highly recommended
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19 May, 2018 by Jaimie
I have worked with Sam both as the executor of my mother's estate after she passed away and also in my own estate planning. His office is professional, courteous, and kind during what can be difficult times. The estate planning documents were explained to us thoroughly, are comprehensive, and are easy to use. We have had several excellent experiences with Sam and his team and would recommend him to anyone who needs estate planning services.
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06 Dec, 2016 by Wanda johnson
Sam was outstanding with our contract drafting. He is thorough and detail oriented and really knows his stuff.
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24 May, 2017 by Joel
Mr. Ginkens quickly drafted our offer for a for-sale-by-owner (FSBO) property. He also provided valuable advice for the future sale of our current residence. We will definitely utilize his legal services in the future and recommend him to anyone in need of real estate or general counsel.
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24 Mar, 2016 by Chris
Aaron has been extremely helpful and thorough in writing up the conditions and execution of the sale. He presented it in person and created binding terms in the agreement.
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05 Oct, 2012 by Rachel
We contacted Austin, who was recommended to us, to see about hiring him for my husband's petition to receive his permanent residency card (green card).
Austin was willing to meet with us on a Saturday morning, which was really impressive. He really listened to us to understand our situation. This initial meeting made us confident to hire him.
We had a tight schedule to submit the petition and related materials, but Austin was aware of the deadline and got back to our questions in a timely manner. He was also great at explaining everything in a clear and concise way so that we would be as knowledgeable as possible.
He went over the final petition with us, and it was very organized and professional. I am confident that this was a main reason that the petition was processed quickly, and my husband's visa interview was scheduled for less than four months from when the petition was received. Austin encouraged us to have a mock interview with him, which proved very helpful. Many things he drilled with us were brought up in the actual interview.
Austin accompanied us to the interview, and both my husband and I felt confident and comfortable during the interview because of Austin's help. In just over a week, my husband received his permanent resident card.
We are very grateful for Austin's help, and highly recommend him as a competent and trustworthy lawyer who is willing to listen to his clients.
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16 Jun, 2009 by Anonymous
We've been working with Mr. Kennedy for almost two years now. During this time Mr. Kennedy has shown his capacity and professionalism. We are very pleased with his work and very impressed with his work ethic.
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28 Jul, 2021 by Dario
I’ve dealt with Cutler for different reasons. He is quick to respond. Always answers or calls back. I like his attitude and his way he works. He is not all about money all the time. He has a heart to help the situation even if it’s not what I wanted to hear, it’s always the best solution. He’s my attorney and so glad he is. Thank you DARIO LENARDUZZI
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28 Jul, 2021 by Mark
My neighbor and have had real safety/ health concerns about another neighbor. A lot of police calls to residence and vandalism by this individual. I met John thru my neighbor and consulted w him several times. It’s been a long time coming, but w Johns professionalism, we are finally getting some resolve. Will definitely call John if needed again.
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17 May, 2016 by Anonymous
Billy is fantastic and honest about both how to proceed and why. He has always given my good advice with fair mindedness and a respect for the process. I highly recommend.
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23 Feb, 2024 by Julie stoneking
Andrew Howie saved me from an unjust ruling. He took the time to really understand my complex case in order to write an indisputable brief. Not only did I win my appeal but across the board on all issues. His understanding of the law and credibility as a lawyer is unmatched by any other. He is by far the best lawyer in the state! If you get a wrong ruling, he’s the best lawyer to fight your case. He is worth every dime!
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17 May, 2019 by Tanya coret
Ryan is amazing at what he does. He helped my husband and I get primary custody of my stepsons and he never quit fighting for us, even when we were overwhelmed and ready to give up. We recommend him to anyone who asks especially to our friends who are fighting for equal parenting rights as men.
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01 Feb, 2018 by Aaron plaskas
Ryan has rightfully earned a fabulous reputation as one of the most talented and ethical legal professionals around. So much knowledge and more important, genuine care for his clients. Can't praise him and his entire firm (shout out to Peter Rowles as a great estate planning lawyer and real estate specialist). Very fortunate to have Mr. Weese in my corner for all of life's needs and curveballs.
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23 Feb, 2024 by Julie stoneking
Andrew Howie saved me from an unjust ruling. He took the time to really understand my complex case in order to write an indisputable brief. Not only did I win my appeal but across the board on all issues. His understanding of the law and credibility as a lawyer is unmatched by any other. He is by far the best lawyer in the state! If you get a wrong ruling, he’s the best lawyer to fight your case. He is worth every dime!
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17 May, 2019 by Tanya coret
Ryan is amazing at what he does. He helped my husband and I get primary custody of my stepsons and he never quit fighting for us, even when we were overwhelmed and ready to give up. We recommend him to anyone who asks especially to our friends who are fighting for equal parenting rights as men.
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01 Feb, 2018 by Aaron plaskas
Ryan has rightfully earned a fabulous reputation as one of the most talented and ethical legal professionals around. So much knowledge and more important, genuine care for his clients. Can't praise him and his entire firm (shout out to Peter Rowles as a great estate planning lawyer and real estate specialist). Very fortunate to have Mr. Weese in my corner for all of life's needs and curveballs.
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15 Nov, 2023 by Glen fries
Jeff and his team did a great job with my accident law suit. Guided me through the process and made it easy for me. Very happy with the outcome.
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17 Oct, 2023 by John kennedy
Them team here did a great job for us. We brought them in late they caught up very quickly and resolved our issues. They also looked out for our well being the entire time.
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02 Jun, 2023 by Nick tasson
31 Dec, 2024 by Sheryl byrkett
I've tried getting disability for years. These lawyers are top notch. She wasn't afraid to speak up on my behalf. She brought up good points to the judge. They also helped my husband a few years ago.
Special Thanks to Annie Hoth and Allie for being professional, supportive, and answering any questions or concerns no matter what.
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22 Dec, 2024 by Cindy gay
I've tried getting disability for 4 years. I just didn't have the right lawyer. These lawyers are top notch. She wasn't afraid to speak up on my behalf. She brought up good points to the judge. She also asked questions which discredited the Voc Rehab. Rep.they had there. I just wish I would of had them the first time. I could of saved myself a lot of heartache.
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25 Nov, 2024 by Cindy lewis
10 Jun, 2021 by Samantha wickersham
10 Jun, 2021 by Samantha wickersham
25 Nov, 2024 by Ron luchetti
Very courteous and professional
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20 Sep, 2024 by Travis lenig
Professional and thoughtful and made home closing for first time buyers easy
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21 May, 2024 by Karter smith
4.5
128 Reviews
25 Nov, 2024 by Ron luchetti
Very courteous and professional
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20 Sep, 2024 by Travis lenig
Professional and thoughtful and made home closing for first time buyers easy
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21 May, 2024 by Karter smith
12 Oct, 2024 by Elizabeth lemke
David, and Marica were with me throughout the process. From days after I got injured until the last day of our Mediation. Both would check in often as we reached each new step. I couldn't be more happy with the service they both provided. I was nervous but they eased my mind through it all. David and Marica even made it easy for me on days I could not make it to Des Moines. They'd come to me, or meet me half way. My family has actually used David's services in the past so when I got injured I knew to contact him immediately. David, and Marica 100% believe in getting their clients what is deserved, and treat you like more than just clients.
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07 Oct, 2024 by Dennie
30 Aug, 2024 by Hr pulley
Is it wrong to seek out a lawyer who is strong in competence and prudent in their decision-making? Steve Lombardi has been a man of integrity from the beginning of accepting us as clients, and he fought to exhaust every option helping us find resolution. Hard to find a lawyer who hates to lose nowadays so I’m grateful we’ve met Steve.
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03 Dec, 2024 by Cephus wright
I was at a loss on how to handle my case and get what I wanted out of it. I now get to see my son every moment that I'm available to. It's all thanks to Ryan Gravett and his team. Shout out Emi and and the rest of SAGW for being on my team in this difficult time.
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01 Nov, 2024 by Tasha larsen
Keep looking for a better law firm. There are others out there.
In the beginning they were great. Attentive. Action planned. Quick response time. It took my lawyer a full year to get my divorce settled. I know each case is different but we did not have a lot to settle on and we had no children. In the end I was the one pushing my ex-husband to comply. He had committed multiple contempt's of court actions. My lawyer explained the judge probably wouldn't side with me. I appreciated her opinion and chose not to take him to court. She still went through and wrote drafts (costing me more $). Once I finally got everything done on my own the law firm in general just stopped communicating. No more emails being answered. No more phone calls being answer or returned. They offered to write me a check when I was done with the business for less than my account had left in it. I wanted the full amount. The only way to get someone to talk to me was to show up at the office. At first I thought it was just my bad luck with a bad lawyer. It wasn't. It was the law firm in general. It may cost more money in the end but keep looking!!
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05 Sep, 2024 by John gilbert
I retained Steven and his team to represent me during my recent divorce proceedings. These cases tend to be drawn out and emotional for all parties involved. Steve did a great job of explaining each step in the process, what to expect, next steps and timelines. Steve will represent you with fervor and determination which is exactly what I was seeking in my attorney. They are patient and fully understand the stress that is caused by these proceedings. If you find yourself in a position of needing to retain a lawyer to assist you with your divorce case, I would wholeheartedly recommend that you speak to Steve and his team.
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18 Oct, 2024 by Jana fowler
22 Jun, 2024 by Lee w
I am writing to highly recommend higgins law firm for their legal services. Throughout the entire process, they demonstrated exceptional consideration and fairness, consistently putting my best best interests first all while considering how i wished to pursue my case. They took the time to explain each step clearly, ensuring I felt comfortable and informed. I hold Grant and Stewart in the highest regard and would not hesitate to seek their services again or recommend them to others.
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09 May, 2024 by Arianna williams
I had a really sticky situation with a previous employer. I was at a point that I didn’t know what to do, or where to turn. Higgins law firm was there for me from the second I called, to see if I even had a case. Candace and Stuart are absolutely amazing individuals. They listened to what my issue was and told me if I had a case or not, so I didn’t waste my money. Stuart goes above and beyond to make sure he is listening to what you want, and that you fully understand what is happening with the case. He generally cares about his clients, and does everything he can to get the best result's. Stuart is bold, and not afraid to take risks. He helped me get an amazing win, even without years of court. I will forever be thankful to Higgins law firm. Thank you once again. ❤️
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15 Nov, 2023 by Glen fries
Jeff and his team did a great job with my accident law suit. Guided me through the process and made it easy for me. Very happy with the outcome.
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17 Oct, 2023 by John kennedy
Them team here did a great job for us. We brought them in late they caught up very quickly and resolved our issues. They also looked out for our well being the entire time.
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02 Jun, 2023 by Nick tasson
31 May, 2024 by Chandra gangareddy
Mr Anderson was so helpful doing our will and answering our questions with our llcand the trust, thank you so much for all your help. Recommend to our friends as well
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20 Jan, 2024 by Narayan & sangeetha
Great experience
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12 Oct, 2023 by Karen perry
03 Dec, 2024 by Cephus wright
I was at a loss on how to handle my case and get what I wanted out of it. I now get to see my son every moment that I'm available to. It's all thanks to Ryan Gravett and his team. Shout out Emi and and the rest of SAGW for being on my team in this difficult time.
Read more
01 Nov, 2024 by Tasha larsen
Keep looking for a better law firm. There are others out there.
In the beginning they were great. Attentive. Action planned. Quick response time. It took my lawyer a full year to get my divorce settled. I know each case is different but we did not have a lot to settle on and we had no children. In the end I was the one pushing my ex-husband to comply. He had committed multiple contempt's of court actions. My lawyer explained the judge probably wouldn't side with me. I appreciated her opinion and chose not to take him to court. She still went through and wrote drafts (costing me more $). Once I finally got everything done on my own the law firm in general just stopped communicating. No more emails being answered. No more phone calls being answer or returned. They offered to write me a check when I was done with the business for less than my account had left in it. I wanted the full amount. The only way to get someone to talk to me was to show up at the office. At first I thought it was just my bad luck with a bad lawyer. It wasn't. It was the law firm in general. It may cost more money in the end but keep looking!!
Read more
05 Sep, 2024 by John gilbert
I retained Steven and his team to represent me during my recent divorce proceedings. These cases tend to be drawn out and emotional for all parties involved. Steve did a great job of explaining each step in the process, what to expect, next steps and timelines. Steve will represent you with fervor and determination which is exactly what I was seeking in my attorney. They are patient and fully understand the stress that is caused by these proceedings. If you find yourself in a position of needing to retain a lawyer to assist you with your divorce case, I would wholeheartedly recommend that you speak to Steve and his team.
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03 Dec, 2024 by Cephus wright
I was at a loss on how to handle my case and get what I wanted out of it. I now get to see my son every moment that I'm available to. It's all thanks to Ryan Gravett and his team. Shout out Emi and and the rest of SAGW for being on my team in this difficult time.
Read more
01 Nov, 2024 by Tasha larsen
Keep looking for a better law firm. There are others out there.
In the beginning they were great. Attentive. Action planned. Quick response time. It took my lawyer a full year to get my divorce settled. I know each case is different but we did not have a lot to settle on and we had no children. In the end I was the one pushing my ex-husband to comply. He had committed multiple contempt's of court actions. My lawyer explained the judge probably wouldn't side with me. I appreciated her opinion and chose not to take him to court. She still went through and wrote drafts (costing me more $). Once I finally got everything done on my own the law firm in general just stopped communicating. No more emails being answered. No more phone calls being answer or returned. They offered to write me a check when I was done with the business for less than my account had left in it. I wanted the full amount. The only way to get someone to talk to me was to show up at the office. At first I thought it was just my bad luck with a bad lawyer. It wasn't. It was the law firm in general. It may cost more money in the end but keep looking!!
Read more
05 Sep, 2024 by John gilbert
I retained Steven and his team to represent me during my recent divorce proceedings. These cases tend to be drawn out and emotional for all parties involved. Steve did a great job of explaining each step in the process, what to expect, next steps and timelines. Steve will represent you with fervor and determination which is exactly what I was seeking in my attorney. They are patient and fully understand the stress that is caused by these proceedings. If you find yourself in a position of needing to retain a lawyer to assist you with your divorce case, I would wholeheartedly recommend that you speak to Steve and his team.
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26 Aug, 2024 by Dee campbell
10 Mar, 2024 by Chad chaplin
Lack of ethics at this place. Go elsewhere.
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01 Sep, 2023 by Michael thompson
Nice building, prime location. I use Charles Bottenberg he is a sold dude he takes care of my will and things of that nature highly recommend him!
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13 Mar, 2023 by Gerald washington
This tax place has a reasonable price for doing good tax
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18 Oct, 2022 by Mo om
I have been using Learned & Associates for several years for tax and legal advice and have had exceptional service from them. They have provided first rate legal advice to me and my family when I established my own business and when I sold my house and other family members houses. Because of their top notch work, they continue to prepare my taxes every year even after I moved out of state. I have referred several people to them and they have been extremely satisfied as well.
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29 Feb, 2020 by Merisa hec
I was referred by Nick to learned law and Chad referred us to Heartland Credit restoration and told us to reach out when our credit score was better. Finally after getting everything resolved. I called and I left a message with their receptionist if Chad would be able to call us back to see if he has an appointment available to come in and speak to him about what all he needs from us to get a home loan. Never heard back. The receptionist was very rude when i was speaking with her. When i have not heard back from Chad for a week i went ahead and emailed him. Its been over a month and half since i have not heard back. At least a phone call or a response to my email would have been appreciated.
Definitely was disappointed because Chad was very helpful in the beginning with all of the information.
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27 Dec, 2024 by Benjamin shaw
Frank's the man for family law.
Dan does magic in traffic court.
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08 Jul, 2024 by Courtney elliott
The lawyers at this firm are extremely rude, condescending, and apathetic. They overtalk you, use loud tones and come off as very superior. There are other firms out there that will take time to listen to you and are willing to help you out. Go there and avoid this place!
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14 Jun, 2024 by Natasha brown
I spoke with Gotsdiner today, a managing partner of this law firm, and he is EXTREMELY rude, arrogant, and ornery! His demeanor reeks of a superiority complex. I needed assistance on a legal matter through my pre-paid legal services. He got on the phone without even a salutation! He immediately says, they could not find a referral attorney for my legal matter. He told me to go to the Iowa Bar Association and find an attorney on my own. Imagine a law office with lawyers allegedly with all areas of practice saying they can’t provide you with an attorney who practices what would presumably fall under real estate law.
He continued to aggressively overstate that they can’t find an attorney or make an attorney take my case, and he’s not going to answer a bunch of questions on my legal matter. He unnecessarily stressed that I needed to find an attorney who could take my case and stated that rather than hang up on me, I needed to find one on my own. I was appalled at the way I was being spoken to unprovoked. While he went on this rant, I was mostly silent because I was so taken aback that my mouth was agape and just totally aghast. He also told me they do not have to provide me with a referral attorney.
The whole purpose of having pre-paid legal services is to be able to get legal advice on legal matters when and if they arise. If they cannot provide you with legal representation, they can refer you to an attorney who can. Imagine a managing partner arrogantly and rudely telling you that he will not provide you with any of the things that are specifically mentioned in what they are supposed to provide. I am appalled and disgusted by the way this man spoke to me today. I will certainly be canceling my pre-paid membership and implore anyone considering pre-paid legal services or Gotsdiner in the state of Iowa to reconsider another option. Such as the bar association, as I was so rudely referred to.
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02 Aug, 2024 by Joe kelly
I enjoyed working with Roger Hudson and Brenda, if you need a good divorce lawyer I recommend working with these two.
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28 Jun, 2024 by Hilary nelson
He will ditch you and pull out of the case when you need him the most. Dont recommend as when the heat comes on he dips out and leaves you stranded.
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15 Mar, 2024 by Dave brown
Discover the ideal lawyer
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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.
