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14 Aug, 2024 by Sara d.
Justin & Julia have been fabulous to work with! As a healthcare provider & new business owner, it has been a relief to have such knowledgeable professionals to turn to for advice & guidance. Highly recommend.
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11 Jul, 2024 by Erin b
I appreciate all of the work Justin and Julia put in to help navigate complex business and legal compliance. They were always available to answer questions and know the ins and outs of the aesthetics field. I am more comfortable knowing they have set me up for success.
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09 Jul, 2024 by Chris tagliavini
Justin and his entire team (Julia, Jorden, and Hannah) are all fantastic. I trusted them with the review of my commercial lease as well as setting up the structure of my medical office. Throughout the process they were extremely professional and answered any and all questions I had. As someone who had never done this before, I am extremely happy with how helpful and knowledgeable they were with the process. I would work with them again without hesitation.
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14 Aug, 2024 by Sara d.
Justin & Julia have been fabulous to work with! As a healthcare provider & new business owner, it has been a relief to have such knowledgeable professionals to turn to for advice & guidance. Highly recommend.
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11 Jul, 2024 by Erin b
I appreciate all of the work Justin and Julia put in to help navigate complex business and legal compliance. They were always available to answer questions and know the ins and outs of the aesthetics field. I am more comfortable knowing they have set me up for success.
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09 Jul, 2024 by Chris tagliavini
Justin and his entire team (Julia, Jorden, and Hannah) are all fantastic. I trusted them with the review of my commercial lease as well as setting up the structure of my medical office. Throughout the process they were extremely professional and answered any and all questions I had. As someone who had never done this before, I am extremely happy with how helpful and knowledgeable they were with the process. I would work with them again without hesitation.
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06 Jan, 2021 by Anonymous
My experience with Chris McCormick alleviated all stress regarding my case. He was always quick to answer any questions I had along the way and very clearly explained all aspects of my case to me.
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23 Dec, 2020 by Jennifer
Atty Mccormick was extremely honest and professional and exhibited great patience guiding me through the legal process. He answered all questions timely and in a manner that made me feel at ease with the bankruptcy process.
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27 Aug, 2020 by Debbie
Mr. McCormick was very thorough and explained things. He made me feel very comfortable during a rather stressful time in my life. I was totally impressed. He handled the remote meetings great. I'm pretty sure I was the first client during the Covid-19. I was very relaxed speaking to him. He was professional yet down to earth. I would recommend Christoper McCormick to anyone in need for a Bankruptcy issue or any other legal issue that he handles.
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10 Feb, 2021 by Byron
If you ever need someone trustworthy, honest, and gets at it! She can be found here, and her name is Irene Bassock
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01 Dec, 2020 by Anonymous
I hired Atty. Bassock for an employment discrimination case. She was extremely competent, organized, calm and very communicative. She really helped me understand the process with CHRO and my other options. She involved me every step of the way. Atty. Bassock was very direct, assertive and strategic in her approach for handling my case. I felt completely supported. The case outcome was better than I expected. I would highly recommend her!
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01 Jul, 2020 by Eileen
Attorney Irene E. Bassock responded to my request for her legal expertise with expediency, professionalism, empathy, and detailed information. Attorney Bassock relieved my concerns promptly and comprehensively so I could move forward with confidence regarding my issues.
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05 Aug, 2017 by Uwe
It was a pleasure from start to end to have Doug Thomas take charge of all legal aspects of starting my company Pretzelhaus LLC. Doug was patient, always had a listening ear and answered all question to feel assured in the process and guidelines to create the company. Thank you Doug, I highly recommend Doug for his skills and expertise of all legal advice.
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12 May, 2017 by Robert
During the franchise discovery process Doug provided sage advice and thorough review of a mountain of paperwork. He not only set the stage for a smooth negotiation, but he took the time to cover more personal areas of impact regarding my business decisions as well. The extent to which Doug cares for his clients' well being sets him apart from the crowd.
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23 Apr, 2017 by David
Doug advised me on a potential franchise opportunity. Doug reviewed the proposed franchise agreement and provided timely and valuable advice. Doug brings broad business experience and thoughtful legal advice.
Doug is easy to work with and I would recommend him to anyone who is looking for sound legal advice.
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11 Oct, 2022 by Sarah
Nick was great! He had excellent communication, was knowledgeable, and won my case outside of court. He assisted me quickly and was below budget. Highly recommended.
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10 Oct, 2021 by Anonymous
Attorney Ouellette came highly recommended to me. He immediately demonstrated his skill after resolving a critical issue experienced by one of my businesses. I didn’t know if it was possible to get through this unscathed, but he far exceeded my expectations. Highly recommended.
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29 Nov, 2017 by Anonymous
Nicholas kept me abreast of all aspects of my case. I received regular updates and he prepared me for the unexpected. The legal system can be lengthy and complex and he was a superior navigator. He was an excellent strategist with thoughtful execution. My case was successfully resolved and it was no doubt due to Mr. Ouellette’s counsel. I sought him ought based on a recommendation and want to do the same for someone else seeking legal services.
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03 Apr, 2012 by Dan
My wife was torturing me to get our estate planning started, and I was hesitant - more due to the icky nature of the topic than anything else. I was referred to Charles by a financial planner, and I couldn't be happier.
Attorney Basil is extremely knowledgeable, especially when it comes to Connecticut matters. He understood the delicate nature of this topic, and handled it professionally and well. He is affordable and does great work.
I have no problem recommending him for financial and estate planning.
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02 Feb, 2012 by M
Attorney Basil was instrumental in making the start of my business a success. He is articulate, knowledgeable and has a keen ability to understand project scope. He is a brilliant communicator with an excellent business acumen and work ethic. I would recommend Attorney Basil to be a partner in any collaboration.
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02 Feb, 2012 by Cynthia
Attorney Basil is a great lawyer. He has a way of explaining the law to clients which makes working with him a pleasure. He is well-respected in the law community and is a person of integrity. Pursuit of justice is important to him and he uses the law to improve people's lives. He has keen negotiating skills and he stands out among other lawyers as a person one would want to put their faith in and rely on in times of need. Attorney Basil is wise, competent and skilled. If you ask me, I would highly recommend him.
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14 Feb, 2024 by Lauren
I cannot speak highly enough of the experience of working with Jessica. From the outset, Jessica demonstrated remarkable efficiency in handling our case.
One of the most impressive aspects was how she addressed our concerns with precision and empathy. She took the time to listen to both of us, ensuring that each of our perspectives was fully understood before moving forward.
Thanks to Jessica's guidance, we were able to reach a resolution that felt fair and satisfactory to both of us and it cost us less than we were expecting!
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13 Apr, 2021 by Clement
Jessica is. a great attorney is extremely professional in every aspect of the job. I loved working with her
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13 Apr, 2021 by Joshua ritto
I am so lucky to have gotten to work with such an incredible attorney. Jessica has proven to be an incredibly intelligent attorney while also helping maintain positivity and even humor (when appropriate) during this process. She has made this difficult process as easy as it could have been, and I am so glad that she has quickly gotten me out of my horrible marriage.
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07 Nov, 2015 by Anonymous
I have hired Attorney Rosan a handful of times to assist with contracts, leases and real estate related matters. Her attention to detail, her understanding of the legal issues, and always being accessible has made working with her a pleasure. I would highly recommend her.
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26 Oct, 2015 by Tom
Shellie has changed the way we view lease negotiations and greatly enhanced our understanding of leases and has helped us to gain great advantage in our real estate dealings. She has saved us from repeated past sins in real estate dealings and is a tireless advocate for us. Additionally, she has connected us to some of her associates and clients to our mutual benefit! We love Shellie!
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21 Nov, 2013 by Jim
Jay Weintraub represented me in a law suit in which I was the plaintiff suing my former business partner. Besides the fact that we won on all accounts, I was very impressed with the way he listened, counseled, analyzed and informed me all along the way. Since then Jay has represented me and my adult children in matters relating to real estate, estate planning, etc. I trust him for his knowledge, clarity of explanation, tenacity, and demeanor. Jay is not an attack oriented lawyer. He tries reason, communication and win-win results but he can be steel-minded when necessary. I always felt that my benefit was his primary objective- not his best interests.
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11 May, 2021 by Diane
Eric Rothauser is an incredible attorney. Eric is very professionally, knowledgeable, personable and highly professional. What I like most about Attorney Rothauser is his sound ethical advice. Without question, he is one of the most hard-working dedicated attorneys I have ever hired.
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16 Jun, 2011 by Anonymous
Scott is a great attorney and a fantastic person to help you through any business transaction. I have had a great experience with various business dealings with Scott. Can't recommend him highly enough.
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23 Mar, 2015 by Todd
John made time to answer an email I sent regarding a property dispute I was having. There were multile correspondence which amazed me that I was getting instant responses to. He helped me tremendously and I would recommend him to anyone because of his knowledge and personal attention
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22 Apr, 2024 by Kellie burke interiors
Best firm to help in multiple types of legal issues as well as family planning. Highly recommend! A warm, trusted environment.
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19 Apr, 2024 by Shellyann tulloch
This is my story, In 2016 I started my journey at nursing school at Stone Academy in the evening program. I encountered many delays during this time, I finally graduated in the year 2020 instead of 2019. I have been trying to pass my NCLEX from November 2020 until January 2024, I passed. I felt accomplished and all congrats were in order. I applied for a job went through the process but my license keep saying pending on DPH website.
I called the Board of Nursing and the person who answered the phone informed me that my license will not granted until they receive an updated transcript that I graduated from this institution as the one they have on file said withdrawn. The emotions were high when I heard these words my response was how could you have sent me ATT to write my boards for the past 3 years? The backlash was awful, detached and no empathy. She did refer me to call OHE ( Office of Higher Education) to find out if they have the transcript but they did not! Long story short….OHE put me on a list to request an official transcript from Stone Academy, this school stop existing in 2022 and currently have lawsuits.
I decided to higher a Lawyer, I called Keily Mira Law Firm and was connected to Jon. I went in the office, I explained my case but he never had a case like mine. He got the understanding and decided to take my case, he was also hitting close doors! I gave him all the information for him to work with, when I thought getting a Lawyer would perform a miracle, I felt frustrated and overwhelmed. Jon reminded me that he is working on my behalf and he is my ADVOCATE, I would have to be patient because it wasn’t an easy task.
OHE placed my name on a list to receive my official transcript, even though a copy was sent wouldn’t be enough, on 2/20/2024. I emailed OHE 2 weeks ago to find out if there were any updates the person responded to me yesterday 4/18/2024 “as of right now there hasn’t been any updates and I have escalated your case”. I forgot to forward this email to Jon yesterday, I was rushing to work. While I was at work yesterday my phone rang and I saw that the call was coming from Jon’s Office.
He was excited too, He said your license is in your inbox, I was thinking this is too good to be true but he kept saying it. I started crying on the phone, He insist I check and so I did. I couldn’t see from my eyes being filled with tears. I said where is it coming from and he told me and I saw it! Awwwwh what a relief Jon has been working behind the scenes while I was being patient, Jon was definitely my advocate! I am forever grateful, I am now moving forward with my life to make a better living for myself and my family. I cannot thank you enough! You didn’t turn me away. Thank you! Thank you!
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22 Mar, 2024 by One two rydes llc
29 Mar, 2024 by Glenn edgewood
29 Nov, 2023 by Ryan mckeen
I use Attorney Peter Van Dyke for all of my real estate transactions both residential and commercial. As an attorney, I know many real estate attorneys in the area. Peter is the absolute best real estate attorney in Hartford county. I highly recommend him. He is the person that I both use and refer all of my friends and family to and have for years.
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20 Nov, 2022 by Firegirl3
I purchased my first home March 2022, and attorney Van Dyke was knowledgeable, kind, and patient with me. He is caring and wants the best for his clients. Thank you for your assistance.
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06 Mar, 2024 by Andrew gangidine
I worked with Chris and his paralegal Aneta through my home-buying process and cannot recommend them enough. They were both extremely helpful in answering all my questions and moving the process along without a hitch.
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24 Sep, 2023 by Todd darch
We have used Chris McCormick for years and for numerous closing . I offer my highest recomendation to his firm . Honest and fair with the ability to find win-win solution for multiple situation s. Love working with him and his paralegal Aneta, possible the best in the business.
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23 Mar, 2023 by Regina taufen
Christopher McCormick at Steier & McCormick handled our house purchase and closing. He and his office were always professional, courteous and quick to respond. They went above and beyond to make sure our desires were met and our interests were protected. Highly recommend.
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10 Sep, 2024 by Sandy pena
Amazing lawyer Kara best on the best
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20 Mar, 2024 by Rich hollant
I met Kara at the beginning of a tedious process to re-establish my citizenship. The first highlight of working with her: she returned my initial call. If that sounds like a low bar, then you'd be surprised at the number of folks who either didn't return calls or who wanted to convert my call to a payment stream before understanding what I was up against. With Kara, I spoke to the person who would handle my case—and that's an important benefit because nothing got lost in the relaying of information. Kara was professional, friendly, and made a complex process simple and sequential. We discussed how much I was willing to take on myself and what she would do on my behalf. This created clear expectations of my time and costs, and ultimately led to a customized plan of action to resolve my case as quickly as possible. She knows what she is doing, communicated clearly along the way, and the process went according to plan. Kara Hart is truly the best and I highly recommend her services.
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08 Mar, 2024 by Nicholas smith
Can't imagine anyone providing a better service than Kara. Will definitely return to her again next time we need a lawyer! Very highly recommended.
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10 Sep, 2024 by Sandy pena
Amazing lawyer Kara best on the best
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20 Mar, 2024 by Rich hollant
I met Kara at the beginning of a tedious process to re-establish my citizenship. The first highlight of working with her: she returned my initial call. If that sounds like a low bar, then you'd be surprised at the number of folks who either didn't return calls or who wanted to convert my call to a payment stream before understanding what I was up against. With Kara, I spoke to the person who would handle my case—and that's an important benefit because nothing got lost in the relaying of information. Kara was professional, friendly, and made a complex process simple and sequential. We discussed how much I was willing to take on myself and what she would do on my behalf. This created clear expectations of my time and costs, and ultimately led to a customized plan of action to resolve my case as quickly as possible. She knows what she is doing, communicated clearly along the way, and the process went according to plan. Kara Hart is truly the best and I highly recommend her services.
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08 Mar, 2024 by Nicholas smith
Can't imagine anyone providing a better service than Kara. Will definitely return to her again next time we need a lawyer! Very highly recommended.
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22 Apr, 2024 by Kellie burke interiors
Best firm to help in multiple types of legal issues as well as family planning. Highly recommend! A warm, trusted environment.
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19 Apr, 2024 by Shellyann tulloch
This is my story, In 2016 I started my journey at nursing school at Stone Academy in the evening program. I encountered many delays during this time, I finally graduated in the year 2020 instead of 2019. I have been trying to pass my NCLEX from November 2020 until January 2024, I passed. I felt accomplished and all congrats were in order. I applied for a job went through the process but my license keep saying pending on DPH website.
I called the Board of Nursing and the person who answered the phone informed me that my license will not granted until they receive an updated transcript that I graduated from this institution as the one they have on file said withdrawn. The emotions were high when I heard these words my response was how could you have sent me ATT to write my boards for the past 3 years? The backlash was awful, detached and no empathy. She did refer me to call OHE ( Office of Higher Education) to find out if they have the transcript but they did not! Long story short….OHE put me on a list to request an official transcript from Stone Academy, this school stop existing in 2022 and currently have lawsuits.
I decided to higher a Lawyer, I called Keily Mira Law Firm and was connected to Jon. I went in the office, I explained my case but he never had a case like mine. He got the understanding and decided to take my case, he was also hitting close doors! I gave him all the information for him to work with, when I thought getting a Lawyer would perform a miracle, I felt frustrated and overwhelmed. Jon reminded me that he is working on my behalf and he is my ADVOCATE, I would have to be patient because it wasn’t an easy task.
OHE placed my name on a list to receive my official transcript, even though a copy was sent wouldn’t be enough, on 2/20/2024. I emailed OHE 2 weeks ago to find out if there were any updates the person responded to me yesterday 4/18/2024 “as of right now there hasn’t been any updates and I have escalated your case”. I forgot to forward this email to Jon yesterday, I was rushing to work. While I was at work yesterday my phone rang and I saw that the call was coming from Jon’s Office.
He was excited too, He said your license is in your inbox, I was thinking this is too good to be true but he kept saying it. I started crying on the phone, He insist I check and so I did. I couldn’t see from my eyes being filled with tears. I said where is it coming from and he told me and I saw it! Awwwwh what a relief Jon has been working behind the scenes while I was being patient, Jon was definitely my advocate! I am forever grateful, I am now moving forward with my life to make a better living for myself and my family. I cannot thank you enough! You didn’t turn me away. Thank you! Thank you!
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22 Mar, 2024 by One two rydes llc
4.7
14 Reviews
4.8
117 Reviews
22 Apr, 2024 by Kellie burke interiors
Best firm to help in multiple types of legal issues as well as family planning. Highly recommend! A warm, trusted environment.
Read more
19 Apr, 2024 by Shellyann tulloch
This is my story, In 2016 I started my journey at nursing school at Stone Academy in the evening program. I encountered many delays during this time, I finally graduated in the year 2020 instead of 2019. I have been trying to pass my NCLEX from November 2020 until January 2024, I passed. I felt accomplished and all congrats were in order. I applied for a job went through the process but my license keep saying pending on DPH website.
I called the Board of Nursing and the person who answered the phone informed me that my license will not granted until they receive an updated transcript that I graduated from this institution as the one they have on file said withdrawn. The emotions were high when I heard these words my response was how could you have sent me ATT to write my boards for the past 3 years? The backlash was awful, detached and no empathy. She did refer me to call OHE ( Office of Higher Education) to find out if they have the transcript but they did not! Long story short….OHE put me on a list to request an official transcript from Stone Academy, this school stop existing in 2022 and currently have lawsuits.
I decided to higher a Lawyer, I called Keily Mira Law Firm and was connected to Jon. I went in the office, I explained my case but he never had a case like mine. He got the understanding and decided to take my case, he was also hitting close doors! I gave him all the information for him to work with, when I thought getting a Lawyer would perform a miracle, I felt frustrated and overwhelmed. Jon reminded me that he is working on my behalf and he is my ADVOCATE, I would have to be patient because it wasn’t an easy task.
OHE placed my name on a list to receive my official transcript, even though a copy was sent wouldn’t be enough, on 2/20/2024. I emailed OHE 2 weeks ago to find out if there were any updates the person responded to me yesterday 4/18/2024 “as of right now there hasn’t been any updates and I have escalated your case”. I forgot to forward this email to Jon yesterday, I was rushing to work. While I was at work yesterday my phone rang and I saw that the call was coming from Jon’s Office.
He was excited too, He said your license is in your inbox, I was thinking this is too good to be true but he kept saying it. I started crying on the phone, He insist I check and so I did. I couldn’t see from my eyes being filled with tears. I said where is it coming from and he told me and I saw it! Awwwwh what a relief Jon has been working behind the scenes while I was being patient, Jon was definitely my advocate! I am forever grateful, I am now moving forward with my life to make a better living for myself and my family. I cannot thank you enough! You didn’t turn me away. Thank you! Thank you!
Read more
22 Mar, 2024 by One two rydes llc
03 Sep, 2024 by Kelly santiago
I was treated very well and kept up to date on my case every step of the way. Danielle was awesome!! We fight like girls and we win!
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03 Sep, 2024 by Tariq dawson
I want to thank this team very much everyone was very helpful and they have worked wonders all over the phone 0 hassle you sit back & they handle it all thank you again for being the best !
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27 Aug, 2024 by Erin mansfield
I cannot speak highly enough about Brooke and her team…from the day we called them to the end of our case they have been diligent, supportive and fierce! Danielle, Rebecca and Pam fought relentlessly for us and we couldn’t be more grateful for all of their hard work. They listened and always got back to us right away. Every step of the process was explained and they handled all of it professionally. I wouldn’t recommend anyone else to be on your side if you need a law firm.
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03 Sep, 2024 by Kelly santiago
I was treated very well and kept up to date on my case every step of the way. Danielle was awesome!! We fight like girls and we win!
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03 Sep, 2024 by Tariq dawson
I want to thank this team very much everyone was very helpful and they have worked wonders all over the phone 0 hassle you sit back & they handle it all thank you again for being the best !
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27 Aug, 2024 by Erin mansfield
I cannot speak highly enough about Brooke and her team…from the day we called them to the end of our case they have been diligent, supportive and fierce! Danielle, Rebecca and Pam fought relentlessly for us and we couldn’t be more grateful for all of their hard work. They listened and always got back to us right away. Every step of the process was explained and they handled all of it professionally. I wouldn’t recommend anyone else to be on your side if you need a law firm.
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24 Jul, 2024 by Sharon guess
Our Experience With Mr. Welcome And His Team Thus Far Has Been Very Punctual With Answering Any Questions Or Concerns We May Have. They Have Shown Great Professionalism And Is Pleasurable To Speak With. We Look Forward For Our Continued Business With Mr. Welcome & His Team. :)
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26 Apr, 2024 by Michelle rdz
El abogado se portó muy amable y pudo aclarar todas las dudas con su consultoría
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27 Mar, 2024 by Erol turk
03 May, 2021 by Emanuel
If you hire this individual to represent you, you will live to regret it. My experience with Rich started when he helped me with a home closing. That was actually ok. But A few years I hired him to represent me in a divorce. That was frankly one of my biggest mistakes. He is at times unorganized (never did he even provide an itemized bill - requested many times however) and at times he seems unable to even provide minimal guidance or even effective negotiations. In the end, with the divorce 2 weeks from "closing" he chose to retire from the case...which frankly was ok. Our relationship was strained to say the least. Again, for what you will end up paying this man, he is not worth it. Please also keep in mind that he is a one man operation with serious health issues. If you hire him, good luck.
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25 Apr, 2018 by Erica
I am forever thankful to have Rich on my side for my separation case. It is never easy with children involved, and there were so many hurt feelings it was hard for myself and the other parent to see eye to eye. Rich sat and listened to my story, and immediately gave me insight and direction. Thankfully we didn’t need to go through the entire court process; we settled some differences through mediation. I applaud this mainly to Rich and his outstanding dedication and knowledge in our custody case. I would highly recommend Rich to anyone in need of a custody case lawyer; he is so easy to talk to, genuine, and clearly very knowledgeable in the family court system. He gave us (the other parent and I) the stepping stone towards a better communication line for our child. Thank you Rich, you are incredible!
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25 Jan, 2017 by Anonymous
Richard was amazing in the court room. He is always a step ahead and always was willing to answer any questions I had. Best Lawyer I have ever met!
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10 Jun, 2021 by Jennifer bakowski
We hired one of their attorneys to represent my brothers interests and had to provide a $20k retainer. She spent all but $1500 of that retainer in less than 3 months and only went to court once. Anything and everything was charged back which in researching other lawyers, is not normal practice unless the lawyer is performing the service. She ended up just telling us to give up everything my brother has here in the US because and I quote “you should just give it to her, she’s going to get it anyways”. Mind you my brother has a will that was dated after his marriage which does not mention his wife in any way. I would NOT recommend this firm and would instead look for a lawyer that will not charge you for opening mail and provide more sound advice other than “just give her everything”.
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05 May, 2021 by Joshua goss
08 Feb, 2021 by Ed nadeau
12 Oct, 2022 by Anonymous
Eliot Nerenberg never even filed a motion after I hired him to represent me in a custody and Child support matter. I kept waiting for a court date and after almost two months I asked him why it was taking so long and at that time he said he hadn’t expected my ex to be as difficult and uncooperative. Apparently Eliot thought an agreement could be reached without going in front of a judge but he was wrong. I used up what I had in savings to retain Eliot and he never filed the motion. I was devastated that someone I trusted and once thought so highly of was so cavalier as he said he would need another $10,000 to proceed with filing the motion.
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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.
