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16 Jan, 2024 by Dave broderick
The best in the business always willing to help
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20 Sep, 2023 by Jeff and tenna stacy
Abby is absolutely amazing!!! She is not only an expert in her field, she is compassionate and caring at the same time. She was a God send to our family at one of the toughest times of our lives. She went way above & beyond any call of duty - simply because she cares. We first met as “clients” & now we consider her “family”.
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25 Jul, 2023 by Jim reeves
15 Mar, 2024 by Philip s
26 Jul, 2019 by Deanne frazier
18 Feb, 2018 by Danielle devries
17 Dec, 2024 by Joseph latterner
Justin and his team were incredible. They handled both the deed prep on the sale of my home and represented me on the purchase of our new home. Very thorough and reassuring. Entire team communicated with us consistently and promptly through the entire process.
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08 Oct, 2024 by Invex properties
I buy 2-3 homes a month and typically use another attorney, however my experience with Humphries was very smooth. They were very professional.
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01 Oct, 2024 by Deb bruemmer
The team is highly efficient. My closing was done quickly and professionally.
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22 Nov, 2024 by Luis chacon
Michelle Sparrow and her staff were a pleasure to work with. We were able to handle most matters via email, which I greatly appreciated for the convenience and flexibility. They were professional throughout the process and played a key role in achieving a favorable outcome. I highly recommend their services.
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21 Nov, 2024 by Linda adcock
Becky was so nice and spent alot of time over the phone answering my questions
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19 Nov, 2024 by Gary w
0/10 - Would not recommend.
Ms. Sparrow showed up late and didn't seem to be prepared for our case. My abuser was caught dead to rights on a DVPO violation. When the subpoenas for security footage and witnesses went ignored (these were vital to proving what my abuser had done), Ms. Sparrow decided to go forward with the hearing anyway. Needless to say, we lost.
It feels like I paid Ms. Sparrow almost $6k just to empower my abuser. If your case is anything more serious than a parking ticket, I would strongly recommend you look elsewhere for representation.
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03 May, 2024 by Derek ellington
25 Apr, 2024 by Ron shuster
Do not recommend this law firm! They billed us over $8000 on a review of an agreement. There was no hourly detail on the invoice. When we complained about the invoice amount they agreed to give us a $1500 refund on the invoice and then a Senior Partner reneged on the deal. Bottom line you cannot trust what they commit to!
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04 Mar, 2024 by Jean cook
Working with Jeremy made my experience go much easier. He was very honest with me and dealt with my frustrations with the legal system with such understanding. We made a good team dealing with the insurance companies in my case. I feel I got a fair settlement by using Jeremy Wilson
I highly recommend
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5.0
20 Reviews
4.2
19 Reviews
08 May, 2024 by Lana humphrey
16 Feb, 2024 by Andy taylor
02 Aug, 2023 by Michael gaither
He helped me greatly to understand my options with my employer. He made me aware of the things that they were doing.
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20 Jan, 2023 by Kyle
I would not think twice about hiring Dane for any legal representation. I have used him with several business transactions and plan to for anything in the future. He is extremely attentive. I have used other attorneys in the past and none of them have been quite as responsive as Dane. He is straightforward and to the point and always had my best interest in mind.
Dane was able to successfully navigate us through business negotiations that were stressful and seemed impossible. I strongly recommend reaching out to him for any legal needs.
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09 Jan, 2023 by Marshall
I was represented by ILM Lawyers/Dane Scalise for a Civil matter.
We were successful as Dane won the case at trial. His honesty and professional demeanor allowed me to be comfortable and I would highly recommend his Legal Services to anyone who requires representation. He has in me a client for life.
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02 Aug, 2022 by Eve
Dane is professional and extremely knowledgeable. He was able to help us with writing contracts under some difficult circumstances. He was courteous and walked us through all stages of the process. He was quick to respond and provided excellent legal advise. I would highly recommend Dane.
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12 Apr, 2022 by Pam
To say that I was panicked and hit below bottom before I called Chris would be an understatement. When I finally got the courage to call I was treated with the utmost respect and care. From the moment Susan answered the phone, I knew I was in good hands. I entered Chris’s office feeling the utmost shame and embarrassment to be in this plight. All those feelings quickly dispersed as I was carefully, and gently taken through the process… And given my choices.
Everything was explained so carefully, that all the confusion and fear quickly dissipated. I hired him quickly, and he guided me through each step of the process. I feel whole again, and on my path to financial repair and security once again. Thank you all at Vonderau Law Office
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29 Mar, 2022 by Linda
When I met Chris for the first time, I was very anxious and scared. He was was very professional answering all my questions and putting me at ease.
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28 Mar, 2022 by Andre
Meeting with Chris was great because he laid out our options clearly. We were able to make a strategic decision on our situation.
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10 Nov, 2021 by Manny
Mr. Miller is amazing lawyer h took my case after having 2 denials from other lawyers. His staff is extremely friendly and they made me feel that I was important and after my case, that we won, they still make me feel important. They don't judge anyone regardless of your case. They are respectful, and friendly. I highly recommend him.
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16 Aug, 2021 by Norma
Jonathan Miller and Becky were very helpful with my case always answered any questions I had and walked me through my process of my disability case. I never thought I'd get approved first time around but I did and ad its over. I highly recommend this crew for your disability needs.
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05 Dec, 2020 by Sandy
I would like to give Jonathon Miller & Becky A1 creditability for their dedication of their work. They go above and beyond to answer any questions at all times. I recommend them for their knowledge and promptness. Thank you
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24 Sep, 2013 by Walter
Cindy and her staff provided excellent legal service on time, accurate, as promised. I can recommend Cindy without hesitation.
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08 Aug, 2013 by Damon
Cindy York has handled of few items for me and I have always had a good experience with her. She's very informative and tries to handle everything as clean and neat as possible. Going by our talks and the advice she's given, you can tell Cindy cares more about the client then the money.
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30 May, 2013 by Richard
Attorney Cindy York and her wonderful paralegal Stormie, helped me to purchase my first office. Cindy worked diligently to make sure the closing happened on time, even with unexpected last minute changes by the seller and bank. She made the closing process painless and very easy to understand.
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22 Jul, 2015 by Roger
Anyone looking into getting a conviction expunged, please give Mrs Ivey a call. I knew I had found my lawyer in the first few minutes talking with her, very responsive, very professional and she cares. It's a very lengthy process and she was there for me every step of the way. Every situation is different and mine was a difficult case, bit she stood fast, and has forever changed my life. Thank you Mrs. Ivey
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31 Mar, 2015 by Georgia
When my daughter needed a lawyer in Wilmington , she chose Melissa Collins to represent her and I'm glad she did. Her case, which included multiple charges thanks to the over eager downtown police, were able to be taken care of with a voluntary dismissal after a year. She was determined and actually cared about my daughter, always answering emails and phone calls right away and reassuring us both along the way. No question was too annoying for her and we asked a lot of questions and were quite concerned about the situation . And the price was very reasonable. I would not use anyone else if I was in the wilmington area and needed a lawyer.
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15 Dec, 2014 by Anonymous
Ms. Ivey helped me with my criminal case. DA and officer, who charged me with the offense, were intent on getting me to plead guilty because of the way I acted at the time of the offense. Ms. Ivey was able to get me out of that and get my cased dismissed. Highly would recommend!
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14 Aug, 2020 by John
Great guy to work with. Professional and positive with business or estate planning and many other legal concerns or questions.
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27 Feb, 2017 by Chris sharkey (thesharksden)
I have worked with Greg Katzman for the last 4 years (since 2012) with multiple business and personal transactions. He has assisted in multiple company acquisitions (from 2 employees to 100+ employees), business and personal litigation and then just recently in 2017. Greg is always my go to person when I need legal advise and help. He is very professional and trustworthy and always helps me know where I am at in a situation and what I need to do to get to where I want to be.
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16 Mar, 2015 by Ryan
I have had the pleasure of working with Greg both personally and professionally for over a year now. There is no situation too big or too small for Greg to handle. Greg's wide breadth of knowledge, professional demeanor, and unrivaled work ethic make him stand out from amongst the crowd. Greg's services have become an invaluable part of our company and I will highly recommend him moving forward.
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28 Jul, 2017 by Steve
I have known Wes for many years now and I use him in collection matters and now a construction defect case. He has been effective for me in the past and he writes a very detailed complaint. I recommend him to anyone looking for a collections or construction defect attorney.
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27 Jul, 2017 by Aletha hart
Wesley acted in my interests in just about every capacity due to the fact I line in Southwest Florida and had a case in the Wilmington NC area. He was thorough, professional, and took care of every aspect of my case with great attention to every detail. I have no hesitation in recommending his services.
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26 Jul, 2017 by Lori
Mr. Jones has been the best attorney for us. He is knowledgeable, professional and successful in every lawsuit we have hired him to perform. I would not use anyone else.
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27 Mar, 2016 by Sooryudu
Helped me close a beach property
Excellent communication can reach the attorney directly
High quality work at reasonable cost
Highly recommend for all your real estate transactions
Get your own high quality representation - do not go by your realtor recommendation - always get your own closing attorney who will represent YOUR interests
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11 Dec, 2014 by Phil
My wife and I have had the pleasure of Ryan representing us for multiple transactions. From purchasing a buisness to selling one. In addition to handling the purchase and closing of our home. We are now moving on to a new venture with Ryan by our side every step of the way. Always available !!
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04 Dec, 2014 by Nicole
Ryan is definitely one of the most thorough attorneys I've worked with in the last several years. He is extremely detailed and his review process is 5 stars plus! He goes above & beyond by digging deeper to make sure all T's are crossed and I's are dotted. His concern for his clients is apparent in the clean work he produces, his amazing accessibility & quick response time. Ryan's excellent work ethic & top notch customer service makes my job easier!
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16 Aug, 2018 by Ally
It has taken me a while to get my thoughts on how best to write a review for a situation that was less than pleasant. I consulted with a couple of attorneys in the summer of 2016, when divorce reared its ugly head into my life. I instantly felt comfortable with Ryan. He was down to earth, and seemed to “understand” where I was coming from. I know that attorneys do try to “sell” their services by agreeing with you and telling you that they will be the best and get you everything you want in a divorce situation, but this simply isn’t true. Ryan didn’t over promise. The very first consultation, he told me what he thought about my situation, and didn’t promise me the world. He was up front and honest. I know most people do not think of the words honesty and attorneys/lawyers in the same sentence, but he didn’t try to sell himself to me. I appreciated this. I was in a weird state at the time, and definitely didn’t need to hear things that weren’t true (honestly, I had enough of that in my marriage). Anyway, he explained everything every step of the way. He never told me that I was calling or emailing too much, and trust me when I say, I emailed a lot. I emailed him a whole 10 page document of the situation and the past, and why I think things happened in my divorce the way they did. This information was probably not relevant to the “case”, but it was most definitely relevant to my life, and I felt like my attorney needed to know the whole story. He never once told me that I was giving him too much information, or to send it to his staff. I never felt like I was bothering him too much, and when I called “freaking” out about something that I received in the mail, he never once told me that I was over reacting or it was something I shouldn’t worry about. When it comes to my kids, there is always worry, and he understood that.
His staff is amazing and very easy to contact either through email or phone. In the court room Ryan fought for me. We got the best possible outcome for my situation. I am thankful to him as I am not sure had I chosen a different attorney that they would have understood me as well, or understood what I was looking for in the outcome. I am not sure the outcome would have been in my favor, had I chosen someone else. He knew my situation and my story in and out.
My divorce is final and custody is final and equitable distribution is final, but in most custody cases, it is never FINAL. I am sure that my ex will file for more custody/visitation, and I will have to go back to court, and even though this chapter of my life is over, I know that Ryan will be there if I need him in the future.
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04 May, 2017 by Anonymous
Ryan Schultz is an amazing attorney that fought for justice for my daughter and me. He is incredibly knowledgeable, caring, and believes in his clients. Ryan was able to prove the unjust acts that were committed against me. Ryan was victorious in getting previous legal documents set aside.
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16 Sep, 2015 by Anonymous
Within the first 10 minutes of my initial consultation with Mr. Schultz I knew he was the best of the top family law attorneys. I am Confident that he has my best interest at heart!
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17 Sep, 2022 by Scott
Attorney Coble proved to be exactly the attorney we needed. Initial consultation certainly is worth the cost. He does have an exceptional ability to grasp a very complex situation in an hour, and make a recommendation regarding a course of action.
He does not pretend to be an expert in all aspects of the law, but he is relentless in acquiring input and assistance from associates , then presenting and following a clear course of action. We were more than pleased with the outcome of our association with him.
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11 May, 2016 by Robert@maureen
Steve is a very honest attorney who shoots you straight with the facts. My experience has been wonderful and his ability is that of a very experienced lawyer. He is compassionate, knowledgeable and always there for all his clients. In seeking councel IWould highly recommend him for any and all legal issues.
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06 Feb, 2012 by Anonymous
I was very satisfied with Mr. Coble. His representation is tough in the court room, yet friendly and approachable at the office when you really need to tell your side of the story. You can tell that Mr. Coble takes pride in his work, as even the opposing lawyers in court treat him with respect. I found Mr. Coble to be extremely knowledge, professional, and ethical, and would highly recommend him to anyone facing Litigation.
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09 Sep, 2016 by Mike
We have worked with Charles for over 20 years and he has consistently guided us through challenging transitions. Most memorable was his steady guidance during an emotional contract negotiation. While we were inflamed enough to go to court, Charles had the integrity to talk us through a settlement that, while shorting his fee potential, left our firm on much stronger footing. For that, I recommend none other.
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23 Mar, 2015 by Kevin
Charles is an incredible asset for our firm. He has been handling our legal work for over 20 years. He foresees the potential problems and has the international expertise and contacts to make our projects go smoothly. Could not do without him.
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18 Mar, 2015 by Kevin
Charles has been both a critical advisor to our company and a strong business partner. He has proven his value time and time again with his outstanding legal skills and personal character. I personally and professionally recommend Charles.
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19 Jul, 2019 by Andrew
Cory was retained by my company at the time as a result of a buyers agent not properly informing his client of the condition of the property she was purchasing. Cory navigated us through a two year legal battle with these folks that ended most triumphantly in our favor. The communication with Cory and his paralegal, Patty, was almost instantaneous and incredibly informative at all times. We were very pleased with all aspects of the process and would highly recommend him to anyone seeking legal consult!
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15 Jul, 2019 by Joe
In fact, I have highly recommended Cory to a close friend of mine. My case with Cory might have been his first case as the lead attorney. He was extremely well prepared. It was a complicated case and in the end Cory sorted out the facts and we won rather easily. I'm very grateful to Cory. I'd hire him again without hesitation.
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11 Dec, 2018 by Sharon
Dave Ervin handled a legal dispute with a home builder that my husband and I had been dealing with for well over a year. He is very knowledgeable and efficient as well as caring and considerate of his clients. I would highly recommend him for all of your legal needs.
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11 Aug, 2017 by Anonymous
Dave helped me with a very difficult case against my ex. He went deep into the financial information and reconstructed it with charts and graphs to illustrate to the court that I was telling the truth, and we prevailed. Dave believed in me when it seemed like nobody else did and he would not quit until the truth finally came out. I felt vindicated.
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05 Nov, 2017 by Laurie
Susan was an amazing "guiding light" throughout the complex estate settlement and home sale after my mother's passing. She responded to an on-line inquiry to her firm and continued to handle all facets of this process most efficiently. I would recommend her to anyone seeking legal advice and counsel in her area(s) of expertise; a pleasure to work with as well.
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04 Feb, 2015 by John
Susan helped settle our mother's estate. It was a difficult time and she guided us through the process with amazing compassion and clarity. She handled all the details and explained the process of probate, notice to creditors, etc. She really helped with the burden of our mothers passing. If you're looking for help with a loved one's estate, call Ms. Hill.
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07 Jan, 2025 by Oday sara
all across 5 stars .
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21 Dec, 2024 by Juan carlos leon
14 Oct, 2024 by Lioness of the south social club
20 Jul, 2012 by Peter
AWESOME LAWYER 2 THINGS FOR 1 CHILD SUPPORT MATTER THAT WAS MISCALCUALATED BY X WIFE LAWYER DIDNT HAVE THE OVERNIGHTS IN THERE AND AFTER CARE WAS IN THERE AS WELL SHE CORRECTED ALL ERRORS OF X WIFES LAWYER THEN HAD HEARING OFFICER REPORT OVER TURNED BY THE JUDGE WHO HANDLED THE DIVORCE CASE THEN WHEN GOT BACK TO HEARING OFFICER WHO TRIED TO BLAME FOR ME FOR NOT TELLING HIM ABOUT OVERNIGHTS THIS ATTY HANDLED HIM ACCORDINGLY AS HE SHOULD HAVE BEEN THE HEARING OFFICER WAS PUT IN HIS PLACE BUT THIS ATTY WHO THEN HAD ANOTHER MATTER HANDLED WHICH WAS OVER TURNING X WIFES IN JUCTION WHEN SHE CROSS X WIFE SHE HANDLED X WIFE ACCORDINGLY AND MADE HER LOOK RIDICULOUS BUT DID IT PROFESSIONAL MATTER WOULD RECOMEND THIS LAWYER TO ANY ONE SHE IS AWESOME GOT THESE MATTERS ON CALANDER QUICK AND RESOLVED IN MY FAVOR SHE KNOWS HER STUFF AWESOME ATTORNEY RECOMEND HER VERY HIGHLY I WILL BACK WHEN NEEDED . SHE IS THE BEST AND DID ALL THE WORK IN EFFECIENT MATTER
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19 Apr, 2016 by Marc
I used JC Hearne for my house real estate closing and it was a painless, smooth experience. He took his time to explain everything to me. I would highly recommend him.
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18 Feb, 2013 by Brian
I have known Ladd for almost 15 years now and have known his work ethic as an attorney and business man in the community. He is great family man, a hard worker, and strives to know the most relevant information in his marketplace to help his clients. Ladd is a trustworthy and compassionate attorney and an asset to his community.
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19 May, 2023 by Joe z
Todd, Vicky and Karla are an amazing team. Words cannot adequately express my gratitude for them. Todd is a straight shooter and will tell you exactly how it is, even when it may not be in his benefit to do so. His attention to detail and work ethic are unmatchable. Vicky and Karla are extremely attentive and responsive, and ensure all i’s are dotted and t’s are crossed. The McCurry team are true stewards for their clients who will work tirelessly to ensure the best possible outcome is reached. I highly recommend Todd and his team, and could not imagine where I would be without them. Thank you for everything Todd, Vicky and Karla!
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25 Oct, 2022 by Duke lineberry
Todd is one of the premier attorneys in Wilmington. very professional and knowledgeable.
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06 Sep, 2022 by Dawn powell
best attorney I have ever had. He helped me get a 50B and get custody of my child. was wonderful to work aside him in all my cases
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15 May, 2023 by Stephen hagen
Greg Katzman and his assistant Kayla did a great job both selling my business and doing my wills . I would highly recommend him.
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03 Jun, 2022 by Erik sullivan
Worked with Samuel B Potter on the sale of a small business in Wilmington. Our team represented the seller, and Samuel represented the buyer. Samuel was very professional, hard-working, and approachable. Together, we were able to swiftly navigate all last-minute logistics and issues to achieve a successful closing for both of our clients. I would highly recommend him for buyer or seller representation in the purchase or sale of a small business.
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03 Jun, 2022 by Jonah pollone
Sam Potter represented the buyer in a recent transaction I was involved with in the Wilmington area. I was a part of the team at MidStreet Mergers and Acquisitions who served as the sell-side M&A advisor for the business owner exiting the company.
Even though we were on opposite sides of the table, Sam was a pleasure to work with throughout the process. He operated well under time constraints and provided a high level of service for his client who was purchasing the business.
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09 May, 2024 by Travis ray
To keep a long story short, Randall Hoose saved me from insurmountable amounts of headache. You're more than just a dollar sign to him, and you can tell he genuinely gives a damn about his clients. Would recommend, 100%.
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16 Nov, 2023 by Jeff blake
I hired Nick as an defense attorney recently and initially we had a consultation first. He seemed to be mostly on the same page as me his potential client at this time. Two weeks later after hiring him and only having one (1 hour and 15 minute) phone call and just a few emails that we sent back and forth. He talked to me like he was working for the plantiff. Also I feel that I was taking complete advantage of by the outrageous charges for his very brief time spent on my case before I removed him as counsel for me.
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29 Aug, 2023 by Aaron broderson
When I called with a couple questions, Susan went above and beyond to help me even though they did not charge me for the time she spent helping me! Unbelievable and unselfish customer service! Would highly recommend Susan and Atlanta Coast Law to anybody!😊
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09 Jan, 2025 by Neven vrbetić
I can wholeheartedly recommend Mr. Gint when it comes to legal representation. He distinguished himself with such a high level of professionalism and empathy guiding me through the process every step of the way as well as quickly answering my emails and returning my phone calls. If you have any legal issues I can attest that your money will be well spent here.
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08 Jan, 2025 by Hayden durr
Had a great experience working with Gint Krulikas. He was professional, knowledgable, and made the entire process smooth and stress free. Highly recommended his services for anyone requiring legal help!
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07 Jan, 2025 by Robert mann
I was part of a group effort this morning to help a Brunswick County NC gentleman have his drivers license restored by the DMV.
The application was well managed by Monica/Law. The attorney that represented us was G. K. Krulikas esquire
I was very impressed with how our attorney made everyone comfortable and accomplished getting the motor vehicle license restored .
Job well done, keep up the good work
Robert Mann
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09 Jan, 2025 by Neven vrbetić
I can wholeheartedly recommend Mr. Gint when it comes to legal representation. He distinguished himself with such a high level of professionalism and empathy guiding me through the process every step of the way as well as quickly answering my emails and returning my phone calls. If you have any legal issues I can attest that your money will be well spent here.
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08 Jan, 2025 by Hayden durr
Had a great experience working with Gint Krulikas. He was professional, knowledgable, and made the entire process smooth and stress free. Highly recommended his services for anyone requiring legal help!
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07 Jan, 2025 by Robert mann
I was part of a group effort this morning to help a Brunswick County NC gentleman have his drivers license restored by the DMV.
The application was well managed by Monica/Law. The attorney that represented us was G. K. Krulikas esquire
I was very impressed with how our attorney made everyone comfortable and accomplished getting the motor vehicle license restored .
Job well done, keep up the good work
Robert Mann
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22 Nov, 2024 by Luis chacon
Michelle Sparrow and her staff were a pleasure to work with. We were able to handle most matters via email, which I greatly appreciated for the convenience and flexibility. They were professional throughout the process and played a key role in achieving a favorable outcome. I highly recommend their services.
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21 Nov, 2024 by Linda adcock
Becky was so nice and spent alot of time over the phone answering my questions
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19 Nov, 2024 by Gary w
0/10 - Would not recommend.
Ms. Sparrow showed up late and didn't seem to be prepared for our case. My abuser was caught dead to rights on a DVPO violation. When the subpoenas for security footage and witnesses went ignored (these were vital to proving what my abuser had done), Ms. Sparrow decided to go forward with the hearing anyway. Needless to say, we lost.
It feels like I paid Ms. Sparrow almost $6k just to empower my abuser. If your case is anything more serious than a parking ticket, I would strongly recommend you look elsewhere for representation.
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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.
