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11 Jan, 2025 by Meile mafia
Incompetent, careless, forgetful, extremely expensive.
Wouldn't recommend to anyone.
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17 Oct, 2024 by Gaby karambis
I am very thankful of Mirabile Law Firm office team! It has been a successful journey since the first contact; very professional and responsive to every question or unknown legal term. Always able to assess and advise.
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30 Sep, 2024 by Grant stuart
DO NOT HESITATE TO CALL THOMAS. He is the best. He listens, he communicates directly, and explains anything you may not understand, patiently, more than once. Thomas is also not a "Let's Do it Over Zoom" or "I'll fit you in for a call between This and That" type of lawyer. He's attentive, personable, and prefers to meet in-person (remember those days?) versus trying to hurry you off a call like so many others in his profession. Thomas is the consummate professional, and if your case takes you to any court appearance, like mine did, you will rest easy knowing Thomas is in your corner! Helping to facilitate meetings is not a long line of assistants or back-and-forth emails; Thomas' legal assistant Alondra is also a total pro, and will literally get back to you within an hour if not sooner. I can't recommend Thomas more highly, he won my case, and I will be forever grateful for his time (well-priced for your budget), attention, and expertise.
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5.0
4 Reviews
4.6
43 Reviews
01 Dec, 2024 by Sil weaver
If you are in search of a Bankruptcy attorney who is knowledgable, professional, caring, empathetic, cost conscious, walks in your shoes, going that extra mile with you;… Yet is tenacious in resolution approach with each of your creditors, then you should secure the representation of attorney, Maura Zalc and the ZALC Law Firm, located in Wheaton, IL - DuPage County. I have no desire to ever file for Bankruptcy again; However, I would recommend ZALC Law in a heartbeat to anyone who unfortunately needs to go down that same grievous road. Thank you.
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27 Sep, 2024 by Joseph
Great Attorney answered all my questions clearly and honesty. Highly recommend dealing with him. It’s hard to find someone honest these days.
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16 Jul, 2024 by Lauren mclaughlin
Maura and her team are amazing! I had a dispute with a local car dealership and she was knowledgeable, attentive and prompt in helping me with the issue! With her help, we were successful in finalizing the issue with good terms! HIGHLY Recommend!!!!!!!!
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30 Jul, 2024 by Jean
Bill and his team not only have first-rate experience, they do whatever it takes to ensure that your estate planning experience is first-rate as well. The entire process was so well-managed in a most friendly, thoughtful and supportive way with every detail covered, every question answered - I now have the strongest confidence that I am well-protected with a complete estate plan.
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25 Jul, 2024 by Tinsley
This was such a pleasant experience. Working with Bill was fantastic as he made this process very easy and made my wife and I feel very comfortable.
I would highly recommend his company.
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12 Jun, 2024 by Anonymous
Bill and his staff were very friendly, punctual and made the process of setting up our trust and will painless. I highly recommend Bill and his team for personal legal needs.
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09 Dec, 2024 by J malissa jm
Mr. Therman provided tailored and thorough answers to my questions. I now understand my options based on my situation, time and location. I appreciate his personalized approach and feel comfortable about what I need to do next.
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10 Jun, 2024 by Marilyn o'neill
Dennis McNicholas is a superb estate attorney- 50 years experience. He fully explained options and details of my Last Will and Testament. Highly recommend!
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17 Mar, 2023 by Jaroc179
My wife and I first retained Dennis 24 years ago for a real estate purchase and were incredibly impressed by his professionalism, knowledge, and relaxing yet take-charge demeanor. He set everyone at ease at the closing while he handled the legal matters. We just sat back and watched the show, and the next thing we knew, we were owners of our new home. And we never forgot him.
Since then, we have used Dennis for reference on numerous occasions regarding real estate, estate planning, elder law and estate administration. He knows the law and gets things done efficiently, and he follows up matters on his own initiative.
He is also respectful, compassionate and principled, and has a sense of humor that makes dealing with him a pleasure rather than a chore.
When we have an issue that may require legal representation, Dennis J McNicholas is always the first person that comes to mind... always. He does not disappoint, and he has our absolute highest recommendation.
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25 Oct, 2019 by Michael
Very helpful actually cared about my concerns. I was given information and lawyers that can help in my situation, all over the phone. THANK YOU!>
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07 Apr, 2017 by Anonymous
Matt Caruso came highly recommended to us, and we in turn would recommend him, without reservation, to anyone dealing with inheritance issues. We were treated with unflagging courtesy. Our concerns were carefully noted, and we were given clear explanations that didn’t downplay negatives or exaggerate positives. Matt and his colleagues answered all our questions and concerns. We appreciated Matt's integrity, as well as his knowledge and experience, and are grateful for all the work Matt and company did resolving our case.
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11 May, 2015 by James l. ryan jr.
Matt is very good at accurately portraying the litigation process both from probable outcome and time frame to accomplish; so that as a client I can make a sensible business decision on how to proceed.
Once we decide how to proceed Matt and his team are very thorough and and committed to achieving the anticipated result.
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09 Dec, 2023 by Joseph keefe
Excellent knowledge and world class service.
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17 Nov, 2023 by David nadolski
I was confused to see these reviews. Like four of them are one star because the think he bought good stars. Not the case here anyway. I've worked with Ted on and off for the last few years and he is frank... (apparently that offends folks) but intelligent, compassionate and professional in my experience. I like him! Recommend!
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04 Oct, 2023 by Diana bunch
Ted and company are nothing but professional caring people . I completely trust them with any and all legal needs. I would recommend them to everyone who needs legal service
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05 Nov, 2014 by Anna
Thank you very much for your patience and understanding with this crazy case. Your quality of council is much appreciated. Your can-do attitude exemplifies your true dedication in providing professional legal services. Best of luck and success in your future endeavors. Your awesome!
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28 Feb, 2013 by Sue
I was the successor trustee for my deceased aunt's trust. Midway through the process the original attorney handling the trust left the law firm and Colleen Henes was assigned to us. Although we never met in person, we were able to conduct our business via email until completion. Colleen was always up on everything and responded to my emails in a timely manner, even on weekends. I felt I was always kept up to date. It was a pleasant experience working with Colleen.
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21 Jan, 2013 by Elizabeth
Colleen has helped me with all my estate planning needs. She's very responsive and thorough in her professionalism toward her clients. I would no doubt use her again as things change or need updating in my life. I also feel completely comfortable telling friends and family that Colleen is the lawyer to choose.
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17 Jun, 2020 by Anonymous
Deven has represented us with our commercial transactional matters including drafting Operating Agreements for various entities. He is very thorough and responsive and always willing to help us find the most cost-effective option for our needs. We continue to use him for our transactional needs and it is a pleasure to work with him.
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10 Mar, 2020 by Anonymous
I consulted with Deven on my employment contract and non compete agreements during contract negotiations.
It was the first time I was negotiating an employment contract and had Deven review it for me as my attorney.
He was thorough and pointed out specific areas within the contract that I could negotiate and recommended the questions I needed to ask to ensure the contract was a win win by explaining my rights and potential needs of the organization I was negotiating with.
As I was new to this, he was patient with me and answered all my questions to my satisfaction.
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04 Mar, 2020 by Anonymous
We have had Deven as our legal representative for the last 2.5 years. He has been a pleasure to work with. With a small business you worry about all the legalese. Deven has gone above and beyond in explaining the nuances, walking us through each section and recommending the approach. He is extremely responsive and is thorough in his approach. From LLC formation, to contract negotiations and employee agreements, we have been able to use his help for all our legal needs.
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01 Feb, 2023 by Anonymous
Wonderful Professional man. Joel was there for me after my car accident. He was 100% responsive to all of my communications, easy to talk to and walked me through exactly what to do right after I was hit...knew I was taken care of and didn't have to worry. Very honest and very knowledgeable. I knew he was not afraid to try my case if it came down to it (which it almost did)...which was incredibly relieving to me after a super stressful accident. Joel kept in contact until I got my settlement check sent in the mail. Great great service...and I will continue to use him for all legal needs in the future. Highly recommend to friends/family.
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15 May, 2015 by Anonymous
Awesome! Incredibly knowledgeable and accommodating! Was very prompt in all correspondence and kept me informed every step of the way. Made me feel very valued, respected and represented at his fullest capability!
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15 May, 2015 by Anonymous
Making a decision to file bankruptcy is nerve wrecking, a different kind of stress. Mr. Stephen is knowledge coupled with immeasurable customer service that helped to ease the stress. He is very thorough in explaining the options. He is not forceful. He wants to make sure your are comfortable with the decision that will best fit your financial situation. His patience and follow through helped make filing bankruptcy more accepting. Once it was all said and final, I reflect back on his services and realize that he helped to change my life. I highly recommend his services to anyone needing bankrupcy or any legal advice!
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21 Oct, 2019 by Cody
Ted represented me in a real estate lawsuit I brought up against a seller. Ted could not have been more attentive, knowledgeable, informative and easy to get in touch with. I have since hired ted to represent me on other business transactions and could not be happier.
He and his wife Melissa are just all around great, down to earth people and I have yet to meet anyone more knowledgeable of the law.
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28 Aug, 2011 by Nanci
Ted has been my husband's business lawyer for six years. As the wife of a contractor, I have been the target of many substantial business disputes, the latest with my husband's bank foreclosing on his loans, therefore bringing an abrupt halt to a business that took 25 years to build. Once again, I was named in the case because the real estate assets were held in my name.
My home is my most prized asset, as I have lived in it for 25 years. Ted Donner worked with his assistant, Melissa, for many hours on this case, resulting in me being released from the suit the bank had brought against me.
I will be forever grateful as Ted in short, "saved" my life. This is one attorney you want on your side, because God help you if he were your opposing counsel!
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27 Mar, 2014 by Warren
I have contacted Mark Schmidt on numerous legal matter over the last ten years. He has a judicial temperament which sets him apart from many other lawyers. He always gives due consideration to the issues involved before responding. Once a course of action is decided upon, he stays with that course and does not vacillate between different positions. In court he has always been well prepared and respectful toward all parties and opposing attorneys.
In two very complex defense matters he proceeded to a extremely successful resolution after a trial began in one case and caused a dismissal of a will contest in the other case. Both cases also came to relatively speedy conclusions with reasonable fees.
I would never hesitate to recommend him or to refer cases to him.
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23 May, 2013 by Pierre dunn
i had called countless chicago abusive ,laxed,greedy attn:whhhhohhhw!!!i called mr gutzke off the whelm and asked questions back to back.he never scamed me with the :you gotta give me $200.00 bucks manuever.he answered all my questions and even gave indepth insight to avenues i didnt even research prior to the conversation and hes a great guy.i recommend him to everyone!!thanks John!
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23 Jun, 2014 by Kevin
My wife and I recently hired Jim to represent us on our real estate transaction. Jim was very helpful throughout the entire process and always kept us informed. There were a few unexpected bumps in the road relating to inspection issues and financing questions, but at all times Jim explained our options and helped us find the optimal solution. The day before our closing he carefully explained what would happen and went over all the closing documents with us. I would highly recommend Jim to anyone looking for quality representation.
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27 Mar, 2016 by Paul
I reached out to Mr. Pfeiffer concerning some matters and his office quickly got back to me and set up a convenient appointment. During the consultation Mr. Pfeiffer was very knowledgeable and concerned about my situation and provided several options to me. Although I did not retain his services, I kept his card for any other matters that may come up.
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28 Dec, 2024 by Katherine connell
I had the pleasure of working with Susana Jamaica, and I highly recomend her. She is incredibly kind, personable, and approachable, making an already stressful process less stressful. She is very prompt in responding to any concerns I've approached her with and has provided clear, helpful guidance from the beginning and ongoing. I truly appreciate her professionalism and dedication to ensuring my family's case is handled with care and attention.
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28 Dec, 2024 by Leonel manrique
Muy amable atención de parte de la abogada susana muy correcta
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19 Dec, 2024 by Joel jaimes
Excelente trabajo, experiencia profesionalidad y mucha amabilidad, del abogado Robert 100% recomendado y gracias a Marisol excelente equipo de trabajo
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28 Oct, 2024 by Mahmoud faisal elkhatib
We had a good experience working with Carlo G D'Agostino Law Offices on a transaction. Their professionalism and cooperation were invaluable in completing the deal, and we’re eager to work with them on future projects
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02 Oct, 2024 by Mike barrett
Heled us through a somewhat tricky closing. Good advisor. Highly recommend!
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12 Jul, 2024 by Pellyn
Carlo enabled the most streamlined closing across 2 states. In addition, he skillfully managed a difficult co-seller who kept changing the terms thru the real estate agent team, and a shifty buyer and attorney who kept adding expanded requirements on what should have been a simple "as is" purchase after my mother's untimely passing. Carlo was straight about everything, timely in his actions and responses, plus (BIG PLUS) he still acted like a compassionate human being. A decent human-being lawyer in 2024 - there still is good in the world. I recommend him highly!
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20 Dec, 2024 by Sergey k
I am happy to write recommendations for the company professional attitude to business, you will get a positive result! Thank you very much for your work!
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10 Dec, 2024 by Denis kendall
Awesome Lawyer.
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11 Nov, 2024 by Rosena c
I wanted to take a moment to express my deep appreciation to Mr. Pat Nelson and staff for their exceptional legal representation. Throughout our case, Mr. Nelson has been incredibly patient, understanding, and professional. He and his paralegal have a remarkable ability to explain complex legal matters in a clear and concise manner, which has been invaluable in helping me understand the process and feel confident in the outcome.
I am particularly impressed with Mr. Nelson's honesty and dedication to his clients. They have always went the extra mile to ensure that my best interests were protected. I am truly grateful for their hard work and commitment.
I would highly recommend this law firm to anyone in need of legal assistance.
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01 Dec, 2024 by Sil weaver
If you are in search of a Bankruptcy attorney who is knowledgable, professional, caring, empathetic, cost conscious, walks in your shoes, going that extra mile with you;… Yet is tenacious in resolution approach with each of your creditors, then you should secure the representation of attorney, Maura Zalc and the ZALC Law Firm, located in Wheaton, IL - DuPage County. I have no desire to ever file for Bankruptcy again; However, I would recommend ZALC Law in a heartbeat to anyone who unfortunately needs to go down that same grievous road. Thank you.
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16 Jul, 2024 by Lauren mclaughlin
Maura and her team are amazing! I had a dispute with a local car dealership and she was knowledgeable, attentive and prompt in helping me with the issue! With her help, we were successful in finalizing the issue with good terms! HIGHLY Recommend!!!!!!!!
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17 May, 2024 by Nc cn
The absolute worst will go through hell and back on the internet but won’t look at your case or pick up the phone ignorant and incompetent. Would you hire a lawyer being investigated for improper use of her law degree? Disgusting morals and lack of respect for ethics the reviews posted within the last 4 months were written by her acquaintances BEWARE she removes bad reviews then will find and stalk you AFTER doing bad business and keeping your money
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01 Dec, 2024 by Sil weaver
If you are in search of a Bankruptcy attorney who is knowledgable, professional, caring, empathetic, cost conscious, walks in your shoes, going that extra mile with you;… Yet is tenacious in resolution approach with each of your creditors, then you should secure the representation of attorney, Maura Zalc and the ZALC Law Firm, located in Wheaton, IL - DuPage County. I have no desire to ever file for Bankruptcy again; However, I would recommend ZALC Law in a heartbeat to anyone who unfortunately needs to go down that same grievous road. Thank you.
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16 Jul, 2024 by Lauren mclaughlin
Maura and her team are amazing! I had a dispute with a local car dealership and she was knowledgeable, attentive and prompt in helping me with the issue! With her help, we were successful in finalizing the issue with good terms! HIGHLY Recommend!!!!!!!!
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17 May, 2024 by Nc cn
The absolute worst will go through hell and back on the internet but won’t look at your case or pick up the phone ignorant and incompetent. Would you hire a lawyer being investigated for improper use of her law degree? Disgusting morals and lack of respect for ethics the reviews posted within the last 4 months were written by her acquaintances BEWARE she removes bad reviews then will find and stalk you AFTER doing bad business and keeping your money
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25 Sep, 2014 by Tim
Christine Tani has been writing and reviewing our franchise documents for over 10 years. She is very professional and provides us with the information we need to advance our company year after year. Christine is always easy to get a hold of and is very responsive to our needs. I would recommend Christine without reservation!
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24 Oct, 2012 by Julia
Our condo association was trying to make us get rid of our pitbull. We were given and signed old bylaws without any pet weight restrictions, so we thought winning this fight would be fairly simple. Ms. Carey gladly and promptly helped us and was very reasonable when acknowledging the light case load. Every other attorney was asking hundreds of dollars in retainer fees in order to begin helping us.
She did research to find that the association did not even record the new bylaws, therefore, could not enforce them upon us or other residents until they had done so. It took her a simple, yet well written and polite letter to win our case!
I highly recommend her for any issue you may have as she kept lines of communication open, kept us well informed, was kind and pleasant to talk to, and highly intelligent.
I have worked as a legal assistant for the past eight years for firms big and small, and find it refreshing to meet people like Ms. Carey who genuinely care for justice, their clients, and do not fixate on the dollar at the end of the day.
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28 Dec, 2024 by Katherine connell
I had the pleasure of working with Susana Jamaica, and I highly recomend her. She is incredibly kind, personable, and approachable, making an already stressful process less stressful. She is very prompt in responding to any concerns I've approached her with and has provided clear, helpful guidance from the beginning and ongoing. I truly appreciate her professionalism and dedication to ensuring my family's case is handled with care and attention.
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28 Dec, 2024 by Leonel manrique
Muy amable atención de parte de la abogada susana muy correcta
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19 Dec, 2024 by Joel jaimes
Excelente trabajo, experiencia profesionalidad y mucha amabilidad, del abogado Robert 100% recomendado y gracias a Marisol excelente equipo de trabajo
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09 Dec, 2024 by J malissa jm
Mr. Therman provided tailored and thorough answers to my questions. I now understand my options based on my situation, time and location. I appreciate his personalized approach and feel comfortable about what I need to do next.
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10 Jun, 2024 by Marilyn o'neill
Dennis McNicholas is a superb estate attorney- 50 years experience. He fully explained options and details of my Last Will and Testament. Highly recommend!
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17 Mar, 2023 by Jaroc179
My wife and I first retained Dennis 24 years ago for a real estate purchase and were incredibly impressed by his professionalism, knowledge, and relaxing yet take-charge demeanor. He set everyone at ease at the closing while he handled the legal matters. We just sat back and watched the show, and the next thing we knew, we were owners of our new home. And we never forgot him.
Since then, we have used Dennis for reference on numerous occasions regarding real estate, estate planning, elder law and estate administration. He knows the law and gets things done efficiently, and he follows up matters on his own initiative.
He is also respectful, compassionate and principled, and has a sense of humor that makes dealing with him a pleasure rather than a chore.
When we have an issue that may require legal representation, Dennis J McNicholas is always the first person that comes to mind... always. He does not disappoint, and he has our absolute highest recommendation.
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09 Dec, 2024 by J malissa jm
Mr. Therman provided tailored and thorough answers to my questions. I now understand my options based on my situation, time and location. I appreciate his personalized approach and feel comfortable about what I need to do next.
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10 Jun, 2024 by Marilyn o'neill
Dennis McNicholas is a superb estate attorney- 50 years experience. He fully explained options and details of my Last Will and Testament. Highly recommend!
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17 Mar, 2023 by Jaroc179
My wife and I first retained Dennis 24 years ago for a real estate purchase and were incredibly impressed by his professionalism, knowledge, and relaxing yet take-charge demeanor. He set everyone at ease at the closing while he handled the legal matters. We just sat back and watched the show, and the next thing we knew, we were owners of our new home. And we never forgot him.
Since then, we have used Dennis for reference on numerous occasions regarding real estate, estate planning, elder law and estate administration. He knows the law and gets things done efficiently, and he follows up matters on his own initiative.
He is also respectful, compassionate and principled, and has a sense of humor that makes dealing with him a pleasure rather than a chore.
When we have an issue that may require legal representation, Dennis J McNicholas is always the first person that comes to mind... always. He does not disappoint, and he has our absolute highest recommendation.
Read more
09 Dec, 2024 by J malissa jm
Mr. Therman provided tailored and thorough answers to my questions. I now understand my options based on my situation, time and location. I appreciate his personalized approach and feel comfortable about what I need to do next.
Read more
10 Jun, 2024 by Marilyn o'neill
Dennis McNicholas is a superb estate attorney- 50 years experience. He fully explained options and details of my Last Will and Testament. Highly recommend!
Read more
17 Mar, 2023 by Jaroc179
My wife and I first retained Dennis 24 years ago for a real estate purchase and were incredibly impressed by his professionalism, knowledge, and relaxing yet take-charge demeanor. He set everyone at ease at the closing while he handled the legal matters. We just sat back and watched the show, and the next thing we knew, we were owners of our new home. And we never forgot him.
Since then, we have used Dennis for reference on numerous occasions regarding real estate, estate planning, elder law and estate administration. He knows the law and gets things done efficiently, and he follows up matters on his own initiative.
He is also respectful, compassionate and principled, and has a sense of humor that makes dealing with him a pleasure rather than a chore.
When we have an issue that may require legal representation, Dennis J McNicholas is always the first person that comes to mind... always. He does not disappoint, and he has our absolute highest recommendation.
Read more
27 Mar, 2023 by Marty
Jeffrey handled my unemployment insurance claim in a timely manner. He is very professional, friendly, and he explained the procedure thoroughly. He answered all my questions. He kept me updated with any new information as it arrived. Jeffrey explained the hearing process and was very supportive during the online hearing. We won the case. I do recommend Jeffrey for your needs.
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13 Apr, 2021 by Lina vinchev
I am very grateful for having Miley as my divorce attorney. Miley goes above and beyond for me and always available to provide guidance.
Not only does Miley fight for me, she is constantly Protecting my interests.
Miley is an absolutely excellent lawyer. She has strong knowledge of the law, very compassionate, great work ethic, creative, honest and has great judgment.
I really feel protected and fortunate having her on my side.
THANK YOU SO MUCH MILEY!
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30 Sep, 2020 by Andrea
10 Dec, 2024 by Magaly cuautle
I had the pleasure to work with Catherine Sheehan, she did a wonderful job with my case. Hold my hand through everything and always gave me positive energy throughout the whole process! She is a mother and also when through divorce her self so she knows what to expect and will always look for the best interest for your self and your children.
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08 Dec, 2024 by John tsang
George Frederick came highly recommended by my business coach, and George recently helped me with my ongoing post marital agreement lawsuits with my ex-wife. Since my lengthy and most challenging divorce, I had multiple attorneys and George by far has been the most effective, responsive and caring divorce attorney that I have worked with. He was able to help me keep my emotions in check and provide the clarity needed for us to focus and execute the necessary steps for my case resolution. George was always super responsive and provided excellent consult - I highly recommend George to anyone who needs a top divorce attorney.
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08 Dec, 2024 by Melissa clark
I have been very happy with the effort and work done to complete my divorce, Jessica McGary, showed compassion and concern to both parties involved in the divorce., she was fair in working with everyone involved.
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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.
