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17 Jan, 2024 by Sam rodney
Choosing a injury firm for my car accident and or injury case was crucial to getting my life back, and I'm so glad I met Mr. Broderick and his legal team. Their approach immediately instilled confidence and trust in me. Throughout my case, despite the a couple of slowdowns in the process, Brandon kept me well-informed about every development and vigorously pursued the insurance company. They achieved a settlement that left me completely satisfied. Brandon Broderick's firm stands out for being thorough, proactive, highly knowledgeable in personal injury complexities, and always putting their client's interests at the forefront. I wholeheartedly endorse injury attorney Brandon Broderick for anyone needing an expert to help you get the best settlement.
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27 Nov, 2023 by Samuel thompson
I am very impressed with the level of professionalism that I received while working with this law firm after my accident. I would recommend them for anyone who needs a top notch personal injury lawyer in White Plains, Thank you.
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07 Nov, 2023 by Thalian rojas
Very helpful and explained the process in detail.
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08 Aug, 2024 by Shu dong
I highly recommend Lever & Ecker for their exceptional professionalism and support. During my initial consultation, the staff demonstrated remarkable empathy and understanding of my situation. Although my case fell outside their area of expertise, they diligently followed up to ensure my well-being and provided valuable information relevant to my case. Their commitment to going above and beyond in assisting me, even when they could not represent me, was truly impressive. The care and consideration shown by the team surpassed my expectations. I am sincerely grateful for their assistance.
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02 Aug, 2024 by Devan
Adam Weiss at Lever & Ecker is a consummate professional. He is efficient, detail-oriented, and thorough, and I would recommend him and the firm of Lever & Ecker without hesitation.
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02 Aug, 2024 by Mom weltin
Thank you Adam Weiss and Tzivya Abikzer for the exceptional legal advice you provided us . Your expertise and clear guidance were invaluable . Your patience and professionalism exceeded our expectations
Dovid and Miriam Weltin
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18 Jul, 2024 by Carly wolf
Can't recommend Valiant Law enough for anyone seeking expert legal advice and dedicated representation in employment law matters. Their team (especially Joe) was highly knowledgeable, responsive, and provided clear guidance that resolved my employment issue efficiently and effectively. They really go to bat for their clients and succeed while doing so.
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03 Jul, 2024 by Greg davidson
I recently had the pleasure of working with Joseph John Jeziorkowski, and I am beyond satisfied with the outcome. Joseph handled my employment case with remarkable expertise, securing a settlement within just a year. His professionalism, dedication, and deep understanding of employment law were evident throughout the entire process. Joseph was always accessible, patiently answering my questions and keeping me informed at every step. I highly recommend Joseph John Jeziorkowski to anyone in need of a top-notch employment lawyer. Thank you, Joseph, for your exceptional work and for achieving such a favorable result!
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29 Jun, 2024 by Yeisell a
If you want to feel respected, valued and most important, you want to be heard then Joseph and Daniel are your number one choice. From the first call that I had with Joseph and he told me they were going to fight for me, and my rights until justice was made. And trust me they did indeed. Don’t hesitate, give them a call a make the right decision by hiring sharp and good attorneys. I will forever be gratefull with them.
I’m also very glad I had I’m my team Mr. William Knight. You guys are the best !!
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01 Jul, 2024 by Sumit haidar
18 Apr, 2024 by Richard yoest
I want to thank the folks at Filippatos Law Firm for representing me during my Age Discrimination case against a former employer. Without the fantastic leadership of Gerry, Felicia, Kimberly and Alfredo my case could not have been resolved in my favor.
Filippatos Law is companionate, driven, fact focused and determined to get YOU the best possible settlement. I recommend Filppatos to everyone seeking fair and equitable justice in their time of need. They are the BEST !!
Rick Yoest
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06 Feb, 2024 by Jj
“Going up against a large establishment can appear intimidating, so Filippatos PLLC is the perfect match for my situation. I received top professional help from individuals with years of experience and obtained proven results from a law firm determined to give me my voice and WIN my case! No corporation is too difficult or enormous for Filippatos PLLC to fight and WIN on your behalf.
Thank you, Gerry Filippatos, Loris Baechi, and staff, for having my back and winning my case!”
JJ
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01 Jul, 2024 by Sumit haidar
18 Apr, 2024 by Richard yoest
I want to thank the folks at Filippatos Law Firm for representing me during my Age Discrimination case against a former employer. Without the fantastic leadership of Gerry, Felicia, Kimberly and Alfredo my case could not have been resolved in my favor.
Filippatos Law is companionate, driven, fact focused and determined to get YOU the best possible settlement. I recommend Filppatos to everyone seeking fair and equitable justice in their time of need. They are the BEST !!
Rick Yoest
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06 Feb, 2024 by Jj
“Going up against a large establishment can appear intimidating, so Filippatos PLLC is the perfect match for my situation. I received top professional help from individuals with years of experience and obtained proven results from a law firm determined to give me my voice and WIN my case! No corporation is too difficult or enormous for Filippatos PLLC to fight and WIN on your behalf.
Thank you, Gerry Filippatos, Loris Baechi, and staff, for having my back and winning my case!”
JJ
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19 Sep, 2024 by Kevina lonesome
This firm and Mr. Krieger were amazing with assisting my husband and I with the purchase of our co-op. We had no idea what flip tax or anything was, since this was our first ever purchase, and they showed patience and were extremely knowledgeable. We almost made the wrong decision and Mr. Krieger aided us in deciding the best place for our money. I highly 1000% recommend them.
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27 Aug, 2024 by Michael vives
Lou , was amazing and he kept this word from day one we met and he took on my case. This firm work very hard and amazing so that i can have an great outcome. Lou , Thank you so much.
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18 Aug, 2024 by John oconnell
25 Oct, 2022 by Bob
John answered my question in detail and even responded to a second question. His answer was on point and very helpful.
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13 Dec, 2016 by Michael
John represented us during the acquisition of our company by a strategic buyer. He did a masterful job of identifying the important elements to negotiate on, and expertly moved the needle on several critical deal terms while maintaining a friendly disposition with opposing counsel. Negotiating deal terms without putting off the buyer is hyper-critical in these situations, and John showed exceptional diplomacy while firmly protecting us.
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26 Jun, 2016 by Bill
John provided us with an excellent PPM and a number of other relevant documents (board resolutions, amended bylaws, amended certificate of incorporation, capitalization table). John is thorough, professional, responsive and is a pleasure to work with. Being a CPA as well as an attorney makes John a value-added resource.
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24 Sep, 2024 by Anonymous
I'll admit that I felt a little reluctant to let Randy handle my case. He's very young and I was concerned that a lack of experience would hurt me. I needed a lawyer that could make sure the ethics issues related to my bar admission wouldn't stand in my way. And I thought Randy might not be the person to handle it.
All of my concerns were unfounded. Randy was the perfect lawyer for me. I have no complaints whatsoever and have nothing but good things to say. I gave a 5 star review, so obviously, he handled the legal aspects appropriately. But more than that, Randy recognized that being a lawyer requires something that doctors would call "bedside manner." Each case may just be a case to a lawyer, but to the client, it's their life. And he made it seem like my case was as important to him as it was to me.
I can look back now and admit that there were times I behaved unreasonably or irrationally. This case was a big deal to me, and it elicited big emotions. Randy did an incredible job of making me feel like my response wasn't absurd, while also directing me toward behavior that was more helpful to my situation.
I'm a lawyer now, in part, due to Randy Tesser's efforts. And I can tell you that it's rare that a lawyer is so capable of commiserating with his client, while also pushing them appropriately, while also excelling at the law. I highly recommend him.
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21 Sep, 2024 by Andi
Randall worked on my motion for reinstatement and from start to finish, he was excellent. He was very professional, patient to work me through the process and provided very valuable information, support and direction. Of course, my application for reinstatement was successful too.
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17 Dec, 2023 by Anonymous
I am one of thousands of out-of-state attorneys licensed in New York State who had their license unknowingly suspended en masse by a court order years ago after leaving the state and no longer filing bi-annual registrations. In my case, the NY license was not required in my new state of practice, where I also had obtained a license by passing that state’s bar exam., so my suspension persisted unbeknownst to me. Upon learning of the suspension, which was extremely unsettling to me, the best thing I did was engage Randall Tesser. He has extensive experience in the reinstatement process. Randall clearly outlined an approach and was highly skilled in successfully reinstating my license according to the accelerated timeline he laid out for me. Along the way, I found his counsel, advice and work product to be highly skilled, empathetic, judicious and very responsive. I highly recommend Randall Tesser to anyone finding themselves in a similar situation.
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12 Feb, 2020 by Jasmaine
As a first time home buyer, trying to navigate purchasing a co-op in New York, Louis was crucial in informing me about all the nuances and deciphering all the legal jargon to help me feel comfortable along the process. Although it was a long road to get to closing, Lou stayed patient and helped keep me calm even though I'm certainly prone to freaking out about everything. I can't thank Lou enough for handling everything pre, during, and after the whole co-op purchase process! It really made all the difference in making my first real estate purchase a positive experience.
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16 Apr, 2019 by David
Louis Petralia has been my family’s lawyer for several decades. He is highly competent, thorough, approachable, responsive and has always had our best interest in mind.
He has handled everything from real estate closings to wills, powers of attorney and estates.
Having him as my family’s attorney gives me a great deal of comfort and piece of mind.
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11 Apr, 2019 by Valerie
Lou Petralia is a smart, talented and honest lawyer. Driven by integrity and the priority of ensuring he protects his clients, he will be candid with you all the while offering expert legal counsel. Lou has helped our family through many legal matters, estate matters, purchase of a new home, selling of an apartment and much more. We would have been lost without Lou’s guidance and expertise. In addition, if Lou is not an expert in a legal matter, he will point you in the right direction. Never leaving you to fend for yourself, he will introduce you to credible and trustworthy resources to help you with any matters you or your family are navigating. We are grateful to have found Lou and we hope he never retires !
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27 Feb, 2023 by Anonymous
Gerry Filippatos & Theodore Filippatos will listen to your case without interruption. They will then use their years of experience to give you the BEST course of action moving forward. Communication, the BEST I’ve seen of Any Lawyer. Get the Best in the Business for the Best Results. Thank You Filippatos Law Firm!!!!
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05 Mar, 2022 by Daniela
I am incredibly happy with my results and very pleased with my experience with the team at Filippatos. Gerry and Theodore Filiippatos took my case, and I felt very confident with them by my side. They walked me through the process, and always kept me informed. On the day of our mediation, I took a backseat and they fought for me with confidence. I was incredibly impressed by the way they both were prepared to overcome any adversity. The mediation was a success in my favor. Falisha Perry is also an incredible part of the team. She is very friendly, professional, and supportive. They helped bring closure to a matter that has tremendously impacted my life. I would recommend them in a heartbeat.
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04 Mar, 2022 by Anonymous
Highly recommend him, he is someone will fight on your behalf and will give you excellent advice.
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07 Nov, 2023 by Charity
I had the privilege of working with Aaron Morris Schlossberg, a highly skilled and knowledgeable lawyer. Aaron displayed exceptional professionalism and a deep understanding of the legal matters at hand. His guidance and expertise were invaluable and I was impressed with his dedication, attention to detail, and effective communication. I wholeheartedly recommend Aaron Morris Schlossberg to anyone seeking legal assistance. He truly went above and beyond to help me achieve a favorable outcome.
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30 Oct, 2023 by Matthew
I initially contacted over 20 firms to find the right person to interpret a contract I was engaged in. Mr. Schlossberg got back to me IMMEDIATELY and was ready for a consultation call at my earliest convenience. From the beginning, Mr. Schlossberg clearly showed amazing promptness and professionalism, but most importantly, it was clear that every client no matter how small is top priority to him.
He even contacted me several times after our final consultation making sure that everything was working out well for me and if he could be of any further assistance. Mr. Schlossberg will absolutely be my go-to the next time I need legal advice.
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17 Oct, 2023 by William
Our company, located in Ontario, Canada, makes license plate recognition equipment that is used by cities and towns across the United States and Canada to manage parking. Our product monitors and encourages parking compliance and provides insight into people’s parking habits and their patronage of shops, restaurants and night clubs, dentists, doctors and lawyers and other commercial activity in downtown business areas. The general goal is to encourage parking turnover which makes a significant and positive impact to an average business’s revenue increasing the vitality, vibrancy, and desirability of the downtown core, and more generally, a city’s cachet and appeal.
We are a niche engineering-oriented company, and have a good reputation for quality, ease of use and customer service. A new client on Long Island, New York, approached us about our product. They liked what they saw and what it could do for their town and issued a Request for Proposal (RFP). Our company won the RFP and the town council approved the purchase, with the Mayor stating emphatically and publicly that they were very excited to have our equipment operational in their popular downtown. We were also very excited! We had a firm contract in a new area and their down payment in the bank. It takes about 12 weeks to build, customize and deliver our product.
After installing our equipment (during the peak of Covid19 in the fall of 2020), the town began to use it to monitor and enforce parking compliance and expressed complete satisfaction with their purchase. Around this time, a new Mayor and new councilors were voted in. The new Mayor soon made it clear that he did not like the look of the equipment, and stated they would not pay the remaining money, about $50,000. This was a body blow to us. The amount of money was substantial, but equally so was the arbitrary and unethical behaviour of the town’s mayor and colleagues. We had won the RFP, had a purchase order, a contract, and this was a fundamental breach of contract. Initial discussions with the town went nowhere.
I searched online for New York lawyers skilled in business litigation and with my daughter (a lawyer by training) teased out the type of person we thought most likely to succeed against a well funded town such as our misbehaving client. Aaron Schlossberg quickly rose to the top.
We spoke on the phone, and he immediately grasped the significance of the breach of contract. Moreover, Aaron brought energy and passion for justice which resonated with us. Internally we discussed and debated whom should we pick, and Aaron won hands down. So we started down the long and winding road to a just conclusion.
Aaron’s qualities as a lawyer are many.
Besides his intense passion for justice, Aaron is extremely knowledgeable, and proposed strategy, tactics, and analogous experience from his many years of practicing, listing legal principles, examples, and case studies. As the case dragged on, and the town continued to thwart, block, and frustrate a constructive conclusion, Aaron worked with us, listening to our concerns, advising and picking initiatives that reduced our legal costs. He demonstrated resilience and tenaciousness, researching precedents, shredding and deflating our opponent’s claims and counter arguments and presented overwhelming evidence in our favor. Moreover his writing was lucid, compelling, powerful. The court certainly agreed with him! We won our case, settled the legal action, and got paid.
As you can see, we highly regard Aaron and, facing similar circumstances, would reach out to Aaron in a heartbeat. If you are considering hiring a lawyer and need a skilled and resourceful practitioner that will listen carefully and passionately defend you with tenaciousness and grit, integrity and professionalism, Aaron would be an excellent choice.
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16 Mar, 2023 by Kravitz realtors
21 Jan, 2023 by Bill shaner iii
Knowledgeable service oriented and well versed in land use law
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29 Nov, 2022 by Maryann micillo
15 Apr, 2014 by Julissa scopino
I had the extreme pleasure of working with Hakim on my last film production. Stepping into a larger film arena meant that I had to bring on a lawyer who understood my objectives clearly and was willing to commit a 100%. Hakim brought his professionalism on board, as well as, his great attitude. He was dedicated and quickly partnered up on the production.
He was mindful to explain any legal terms which were foreign to me. The legal process was unfolded to me in such an easy way that it became fun. He broke the stigma I had about consulting a lawyer. Hakim is my go-to lawyer!!!! I look forward to working with him again!!!!
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01 Apr, 2014 by Wendy
A first time author, I felt alone and afraid until I found Hakim and he provided me with solid knowledge and gave me the feeling that someone was finally on my team. Hakim was impeccable in every way: he came through on everything promised, followed up in a timely way, and he even chased me down to return my remaining retainer. I have whole heartedly recommended him to others .
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31 Mar, 2014 by Patricia
Mr. Mulraine assisted me in setting up my LLC last year (2013). I found him to be very informative, efficient and trustworthy throughout the process. We still have an ongoing business relationship. If you're looking for a law firm that exercises compassion and expertise, I highly recommend Hakim Abdel Mulraine's practice.
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24 May, 2017 by C.p.
I hired Brittany to settle a financial dispute between myself and other officers of my corporation. She was extremely knowledgeable in this area of law and was able to work out an agreement before causing us to endure endless and costly litigation. I plan to use Brittany's legal services in the future and would highly recommend her for all corporate matters.
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05 May, 2017 by Luca palombo
Brittany is an extremely capable attorney. She always responds to calls and emails promptly and she's prepared to address any issue. I expect her to only get better at her chosen profession. Don't let her young age fool you; she has plenty of experience. I've seen much older attorneys make monumental blunders on simple cases. I guess talent trumps all!!
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01 May, 2017 by Anonymous
I just recently had to take someone to court for a small claims suit. Typically small claims court makes it easy for individuals to file and appear before a judge with no need for legal representation; however, this case was VERY personal to me. Someone had belongings of mine that had enormous sentimental value to me, and I was freaking out about the entire process. One thing that stuck out to me right off the bat was how Brittany took the time to listen to my situation, without judgement- there were a lot of "different" factors about my particular situation, but she really took the time to listen and ask questions so she could get the "full story" without jumping to any conclusions. She took the time to sit with me and review everything I had, and made some amazing suggestions as to what I should add to my claim/evidence I should bring with me to provide to the judge. I am happy to say, that the matter was settled, and the judge had order the belongings be returned to me. I would definitely say, after having been through the process, my outcome may have been significantly different had Brittany not advised me.
In my experience, dealing with lawyers is sometimes really challanging- I have dealt with lawyers who are extremely busy, and you can just tell; it almost appears that you are more of a burden to the lawyer than anything; not Brittany!! There were a few times I reached out, and she didn't hesitate to take the time with me, despite her hectic schedule. Because this matter was so personal to me, I really felt awful going into the process, but she really made me feel at ease, and assured me that as long as I present what I have I would be fine. This was a huge relief! She was clearly very knowledgable about her profession, and was honest with me- she told me what could go right, but also what could go wrong. That type of honesty was extremely valuable to me! She gave me direct answers to my questions, and if she couldn't answer my question (because all judges are different) she was honest about that as well. Between her effort, knowledge, and honesty, I would recommend Brittany to anyone who ever asked if I "know someone."
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13 May, 2024 by Ny baker
They don't put enough stars here to select from when it comes to Lou. We hired him to represent us with the sale of our home. He was amazing. He was so professional and knows the legal biz like no other, yet serves his client with such a great "bedside manner" that we felt comfortable throughout the entire process. Can't thank him enough!
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14 Oct, 2020 by Nicole bliss
My husband and I just finalized the purchase of our first home, with Lou's help. From our first conversation, we could tell that Lou cared about helping us and making sure we understood the process. He knows White Plains backward and forward and we appreciated his commitment to the local community that we are now a part of. Lou is personable, knowledgeable, and pays close attention to detail; on top of that, his pricing was very reasonable. We would use him again and would recommend him to anyone looking to buy property in the area.
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25 Nov, 2018 by Brian tschinkel
My wife and I were in need of an attorney when purchasing our first home. I spoke to a few attorneys, but Lou came via way of a good friend. Lou came across as fair but firm, knowledgeable, and experienced. My wife and I knew he would get the job done and he was the type of person we needed to help us close on our first home. Lou was extremely professional, responsive at all hours of the day and even on weekends, more than patient with our many questions, and meticulous and thorough as he guided us through the closing process. Everything went smoothly -- much smoother than we ever could have expected for our first home purchase -- and we couldn't be happier. Thank you, Lou!
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21 Nov, 2022 by Leonarda
We were referred by our bank to make our wills with Mr. Kontogiannis. He wrote 2 wills plus other estate documents. He was thorough and conscientious. Also, efficient, understanding and courteous. He answered all questions is a timely manner, even non-business hours.
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19 Feb, 2021 by Jill
George Kontogiannis, is the most professional, courteous and patient attorney we have ever dealt with. We have used him for all our estate administration matters along with all of our residential real estate deals. We will be using George in the near future for our own Estate Planning needs, there is no one we would trust other than him.
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26 Jan, 2012 by David
After years of questionable experiences and swapping lawyers due to unsatisfactory service and poor responsiveness, I have been amazingly pleased with Mr. DeTommasi as a lawyer and a business professional. I have come to rely on and trust in his counsel in managing my own business decisions, finding a "maybe" or a "likely" predicted outcome from Anthony, to be more reliable and valued than the GUARANTEES from other professionals which generally fall flat and disappoint.
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03 Nov, 2011 by Barry m.
I have been involved in the legal system, unfortunately as a side-effect of my business, for the last 40 years. Of all the attorneys and firms I have had experience with, I have not come across a better or more effective litigator at any price, and certainly NOT at the bigger, brand-name firms.
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12 Jan, 2016 by Anonymous
Covered every aspect of my commercial real estate transaction to perfection. Solved complex and contentious issues with unique and creative thinking and ideas. Would highly recommend him.
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05 Jun, 2013 by Anonymous
Tremendous knowledge of both the law and business aspects of my transaction. Well respected by the attorneys on the other side.
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27 Jun, 2023 by Hayden farmer
Collegial and professional place to work. The full service law firm has many experienced attorneys and a wonderful support staff!
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27 Jun, 2023 by Hayden farmer
Collegial and professional place to work. The full service law firm has many experienced attorneys and a wonderful support staff!
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27 Jun, 2023 by Hayden farmer
Collegial and professional place to work. The full service law firm has many experienced attorneys and a wonderful support staff!
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27 Jun, 2023 by Hayden farmer
Collegial and professional place to work. The full service law firm has many experienced attorneys and a wonderful support staff!
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5.0
1 Reviews
26 Nov, 2020 by Jamie
Francis was intelligent and friendly. He understood the details of my claim and knew how to litigate successfully. Highly recommended.
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26 May, 2023 by Rolando & nancy
Case / Qosqo Restaurant -R. Rosales -R Cerna Vs E. Cardenas C.- Juan Cardenas c. ( Rent- Shareholders)
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14 Jan, 2019 by Andrew
Alexander worked very hard to clear my name and was very understanding about my situation. I would absolutely recommend him to family and friends. He did a great job listening to my needs and was dedicated to get a resolution for everything I asked. He helped me avoid a very sticky situation.
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16 Sep, 2015 by Daniel
Alex is the most diligent, honest, caring, and knowleable attorney I know, and I know lots of attorneys. He can advise and represent clients on a wide range of topics covering criminal and civil proceedings to real estate closings and financial transactions. And he if he can't directly help, he will help you find someone who does.
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12 Mar, 2015 by Anonymous
I worked with Mr. Zadrima on a few different matters, closings, two contracts and one civil case. He knows everything about real estate, from contracting to building to the legal pitfalls.
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23 May, 2012 by Anonymous
I was assigned Mr. Friedberg to defend me in my first malpractice case. I could not be in better hands. He explained the process to me and prepped me well. He delved into the specifics of the case and surprised me with his almost boyish excitement in learning the important medical aspects of the case. With every word I spoke, his mind was working overtime fashioning the best defense strategy for the case. There is no greater friend to a physician facing the stress and pain of a malpractice case than Mr. Friedberg
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27 Jun, 2023 by Hayden farmer
Collegial and professional place to work. The full service law firm has many experienced attorneys and a wonderful support staff!
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27 Jun, 2023 by Hayden farmer
Collegial and professional place to work. The full service law firm has many experienced attorneys and a wonderful support staff!
Read more
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.
