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04 Nov, 2024 by Jana bartos
From start to finish the process of establishing our revocable trusts with Marco Schiavo was an extremely satisfying and professional experience. Marco and his team were dedicated, hardworking and responsive. They were quick to resolve any issues and made the process easy for us to understand. We highly recommend Simmons and Schiavo for any and all estate planning.
Joe and Jana
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02 Nov, 2024 by Carol sheridan
It was a pleasure to work with Joe Sciabica, with assistance from Melissa and Eleni, to draft my estate planning documents. They made the process easy and answered all my questions. I highly recommend them if you are considering creating a trust or estate plan.
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31 Oct, 2024 by Barbara fitzgerald
I highly recommend Simmons & Schiavo for any estate and trust work that you might have. The staff was wonderful, cordial and professional. The whole office was extremely knowledgeable. I had so many questions about my trust but both Marco Schiavo and John Zuccaro were there to really listen to my concerns and explain thoroughly each of my concerns. After it was all put together, I knew that I made the right decision in hiring Simmons & Schiavo.
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03 Feb, 2025 by Paul flaherty
Atty Matt Karr is excellent. He spent the time to understand our need for a credit bypass trust. He explained the process in clear declarative English rather than legalese. I feel that his fee was very reasonable. He supported his documents with a video explaining everything so that I could replay it if I had questions. We spoke to other lawyers that charged more and some that charged less. It is very hard to compare prices like buying a car. I recommend that you meet with Matt before selecting an attorney. BTW trusts are his specialty not just another work product.
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03 Feb, 2025 by V. adam
We came to Heritage Law Center for estate planning after talking to a few places. We were impressed with their professionalism, knowledge and friendliness. Matt and his team made the process so easy. We are very happy with the product and highly recommend Heritage Law Center.
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03 Feb, 2025 by Eric
We worked with Matthew Karr for Estate Planning purposes, specifically to update our existing Trusts, Wills, Healthcare Proxies, and Powers of Attorney that were prepared years ago by another law firm. Matthew excelled in asking thoughtful questions about our goals, carefully listened to our responses, and offered practical solutions to achieve them. Most importantly, he explained his reasoning and options in a way that was clear and easy to understand.
He provided a clear timeline for completion and quoted a flat fee that covered all the work. Both his turnaround time and fees were very reasonable. When it was time to sign the new documents, he patiently reviewed each one, addressed all of our questions, and ensured that we fully understood everything. His patience and thoroughness were greatly appreciated.
Matthew and his staff were professional, knowledgeable, and welcoming throughout the process. I would not hesitate to recommend his services to anyone in need of Estate Planning expertise.
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03 Feb, 2025 by Paul flaherty
Atty Matt Karr is excellent. He spent the time to understand our need for a credit bypass trust. He explained the process in clear declarative English rather than legalese. I feel that his fee was very reasonable. He supported his documents with a video explaining everything so that I could replay it if I had questions. We spoke to other lawyers that charged more and some that charged less. It is very hard to compare prices like buying a car. I recommend that you meet with Matt before selecting an attorney. BTW trusts are his specialty not just another work product.
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03 Feb, 2025 by V. adam
We came to Heritage Law Center for estate planning after talking to a few places. We were impressed with their professionalism, knowledge and friendliness. Matt and his team made the process so easy. We are very happy with the product and highly recommend Heritage Law Center.
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03 Feb, 2025 by Eric
We worked with Matthew Karr for Estate Planning purposes, specifically to update our existing Trusts, Wills, Healthcare Proxies, and Powers of Attorney that were prepared years ago by another law firm. Matthew excelled in asking thoughtful questions about our goals, carefully listened to our responses, and offered practical solutions to achieve them. Most importantly, he explained his reasoning and options in a way that was clear and easy to understand.
He provided a clear timeline for completion and quoted a flat fee that covered all the work. Both his turnaround time and fees were very reasonable. When it was time to sign the new documents, he patiently reviewed each one, addressed all of our questions, and ensured that we fully understood everything. His patience and thoroughness were greatly appreciated.
Matthew and his staff were professional, knowledgeable, and welcoming throughout the process. I would not hesitate to recommend his services to anyone in need of Estate Planning expertise.
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08 Jan, 2025 by Doreen scolastico
05 Dec, 2024 by Patrick powers
We closed with David for our first house and he perfectly balanced no-fuss efficiency while taking as much time as needed to flag or explain anything we needed or wanted to understand. We absolutely plan on using David again in the future!
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26 Nov, 2024 by Chang cynthia
David has been very helpful and patient throughout the entire closing process. As first-time homebuyers, we had a lot of questions, and David was always there to provide clear and thoughtful answers. On closing day, he took the time to carefully walk us through all the important documents, highlighting key details and making sure we fully understood everything. We're very happy with David's service!
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22 Nov, 2024 by Michelle
I contacted Shapiro Law Group on Monday regarding a serious employment issue. I was immediately scheduled that day with a phone call with Attorney Anna Shapiro . After a brief phone conversation, I felt comfortable and secure in then scheduling a consultation to discuss my concerns more in depth. Themeeting was scheduled on Wednesday and I had emailed her all my documentation pertaining to my employment. She allowed me to explain in depth my concerns regarding my job and the pressures I had been experiencing while at the same time undergoing medical treatments. She asked me questions for clarification purposes but was quickly able to explain what my rights were and options I could take to protect myself. She had a solid grasp of employment rulesabd regulations and I felt a huge weight liftedthat I was speaking with someone who understood what I was experiencing and going through. I will definitely be back in touch with her if my employment situation dies not improve !
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28 Aug, 2024 by Anonymous
Anna did a great job negotiating my severence agreement against an unethical company. I did better than I originally thought I would. She listened and was the only one who called me with updates directly.
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26 May, 2024 by Brendan
Attorney Shapiro went above and beyond for me and my family. She genuinely cares about people and will work hard for what’s right. She blew my expectations out of the water. I would recommend her to anyone that needs a lawyer. And would never hesitate to hire her again. Everything was done in a very timely manner and she kept in touch with me every step of the way. I’ve used a lot of lawyers over the years and she’s the only one I would recommend to people!!
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25 Mar, 2022 by Anonymous
Attorney Berardi was consulted on a major project for my firm to provide legal guidance on new financial regulations. Without his expertise, we could have been subject to severe penalties and fines by the regulators.
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29 Aug, 2015 by Annette
I can't sing the praises of Mr Berardi enough. He always made himself available, and responded to emails and phone calls almost immediately. He kept me in the loop every step of the way and I never felt that I wasn't his top priority.
He was responsible, respectful, and trustworthy. I couldn't have chosen a better attorney.
Our case also required a lot of running around to take care of small, but important tasks and Mr Berardi took care of all of them. It really helped to limit the amount of stress I was under to take care of these items, and it was a huge weight off my shoulders.
Simply put, he is fabulous.
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11 Feb, 2015 by Dana
I highly recommend Attorney Berardi for all your legal needs. He is the best and very motivated. I first contacted him after getting into a car accident and he suggested I come in for a free consultation. I work full time so I didn't have much wiggle room, but he worked around my schedule and came in on the weekend to meet with me.
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22 Jul, 2013 by Jim
My neighbor entered my property and cut down some trees so that he could put up a fence within 1 foot of my property line. I contacted Mr. Ionson who immediatley contacted my neighbor with a demand for settlement. Within 2 weeks the issue was resolved and 5 new trees were bought and planted on my property at my neighbor's expense. Mr. Ionson is clearly experienced in these matters and met all of my expectations at minimal cost and in an extremely timely manner.
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30 Oct, 2012 by Don
Outstanding and very professional, knows his business. He is a true advisary for small business. He did his homework on my case. Kept me informed the entire time and did more then was expected of him. Very reasonable fees also. He didn't take advantage of my situation, in fact, I don't think he charged me for all of his service. Really exceptional attorney, I would refer him every time. In fact, I am using his service again for a completely different situation.
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30 Oct, 2012 by Lisa & chris
We originally hired David when we were purchasing our condo. As first-time homebuyers, there were many aspects of the process we were unfamiliar with. David was very knowledgeable and thoroughly explained everything to us without being condescending. Since then, he has assisted us as issues have arisen within our condo association and we have also hired him to for estate planning services. He is highly responsive and professional. We fully plan hiring David for any legal services we may need and would highly recommend him to anyone.
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03 Feb, 2025 by Paul flaherty
Atty Matt Karr is excellent. He spent the time to understand our need for a credit bypass trust. He explained the process in clear declarative English rather than legalese. I feel that his fee was very reasonable. He supported his documents with a video explaining everything so that I could replay it if I had questions. We spoke to other lawyers that charged more and some that charged less. It is very hard to compare prices like buying a car. I recommend that you meet with Matt before selecting an attorney. BTW trusts are his specialty not just another work product.
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03 Feb, 2025 by V. adam
We came to Heritage Law Center for estate planning after talking to a few places. We were impressed with their professionalism, knowledge and friendliness. Matt and his team made the process so easy. We are very happy with the product and highly recommend Heritage Law Center.
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03 Feb, 2025 by Eric
We worked with Matthew Karr for Estate Planning purposes, specifically to update our existing Trusts, Wills, Healthcare Proxies, and Powers of Attorney that were prepared years ago by another law firm. Matthew excelled in asking thoughtful questions about our goals, carefully listened to our responses, and offered practical solutions to achieve them. Most importantly, he explained his reasoning and options in a way that was clear and easy to understand.
He provided a clear timeline for completion and quoted a flat fee that covered all the work. Both his turnaround time and fees were very reasonable. When it was time to sign the new documents, he patiently reviewed each one, addressed all of our questions, and ensured that we fully understood everything. His patience and thoroughness were greatly appreciated.
Matthew and his staff were professional, knowledgeable, and welcoming throughout the process. I would not hesitate to recommend his services to anyone in need of Estate Planning expertise.
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07 May, 2015 by Carol
Attorney Utke is a great attorney, a true professional. He is thorough and explained all the ins and outs of my case clearly. He took the time to make sure all of my questions were answered and understood my needs. He fought hard for what was right and helped me win my case. I would use him again if needed and would recommend him to others.
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31 Mar, 2015 by Kurt
I reached out to Attorney Utke for a free consultation on a few business matters for my start-up. I was immediately impressed by his professionalism and courtesy. It became immediately clear that Attorney Utke was knowledgeable about a variety of my concerns. When he was unsure of an answer, he was honest and forthright with me about needing time to research it. He found answers quickly and to my satisfaction. Throughout the process he was very organized, keeping me updated on any proceedings and give clear directions about any information or actions needed on my end.
In regards to a few IP questions, which were not his area of expertise, he gave recommendations and resources to get answers. Additionally, even though he was unable to help with these particular issues, he sent me an relevant current event article so that I was better prepared for my meetings with other attorneys. It is that kind of special attention that makes Attorney Utke a professional I will continue to seek out for my future business legal needs.
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10 Feb, 2016 by Richard
Lewis handled car accident and turned a horrible situation into a great outcome.
He was knowledgeable and very attentive to my case and was a pleasure to work with.
I highly recommend him.
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29 Jan, 2016 by Anonymous
Lewis Cohn and his staff (Shauna Gates) does civil litigation work for my company. the firm is first rate and ranked in the top 5 of 35 firms used. I am complete satisfied with his work and firm.
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30 Apr, 2009 by Anonymous
I've known John for about 6 years. In that time, he has gone way out of his way to help me and my business. He is smart, responsive, and truly cocerned for the best interests of his clients.
You really can not go wrong by hiring John.
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02 Aug, 2024 by Beverly s
Pam worked with me across many years as a consultant during a very difficult and emotional divorce. She is a bright and savvy lawyer who was also very personable and supportive when I needed it most. Across the years she consulted, Pam was able to help me navigate and understand not only what my legal rights were, but also those of my daughter. Additionally, I appreciated her honesty during some very difficult conversations. I would highly recommend Pam as an attorney or consultant, and will be forever grateful for all of her support.
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15 Jul, 2024 by Hans blickman
My referral to Pam Schaefer occurred during a very confusing and stressful time.
My original attorney, who had very ably represented me, knew that there were remaining issues after the final ruling that would necessitate ongoing litigation. He was not keen on this, as he had developed an antipathy to my ex-wife.
He suggested someone different, and recommended someone he had very high regard for. I was apprehensive, needless to say.
During our first meeting Pam succinctly outlined the issues. She also accurately, it turned out, predicted the uphill climb we faced. Never wavering, staunchly in my corner, she and her office shepherded me through this very trying minefield.
Yes, it is true: after a settlement both parties should be a little unhappy. Schaefer law kept my unhappiness manageable. Much appreciated.
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02 Jul, 2024 by Carole zaki
Pam has a thorough knowledge of the law and defended my case with determination. She was very competent and compassionate. She and her team reassured me at a tough time and kept the communication transparent. I highly recommend this law firm.
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21 Jan, 2025 by Jared blake
When I was injured in a motor vehicle collision Faneuf Law Group helped me to receive compensation quickly & all I had to do was provide my info & let them work, definitely recommend
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02 Jan, 2025 by Kerrin mclaughlin
I recently had the pleasure of working with the Faneuf Law Group and I couldn't be more impressed with their professionalism, expertise, and commitment to their clients. From the initial consultation to the resolution of my case, the team was responsive, attentive, and genuinely invested in my best interests. Every step of the process was seamless, and I felt confident knowing I was in such capable hands. I highly recommend Faneuf Law Group to anyone in need of legal assistance. They truly go above and beyond to deliver outstanding results.
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20 Dec, 2024 by Tayla brown
Great experience through out the whole case. He helped me get justice. Thanks again , definitely recommend!
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21 Jan, 2025 by Jared blake
When I was injured in a motor vehicle collision Faneuf Law Group helped me to receive compensation quickly & all I had to do was provide my info & let them work, definitely recommend
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02 Jan, 2025 by Kerrin mclaughlin
I recently had the pleasure of working with the Faneuf Law Group and I couldn't be more impressed with their professionalism, expertise, and commitment to their clients. From the initial consultation to the resolution of my case, the team was responsive, attentive, and genuinely invested in my best interests. Every step of the process was seamless, and I felt confident knowing I was in such capable hands. I highly recommend Faneuf Law Group to anyone in need of legal assistance. They truly go above and beyond to deliver outstanding results.
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20 Dec, 2024 by Tayla brown
Great experience through out the whole case. He helped me get justice. Thanks again , definitely recommend!
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14 Jan, 2025 by Steve nomes
14 Jan, 2025 by Mary lydon
Amazing, very clear and extremely helpful !
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07 Jan, 2025 by Mary-ann marino
Today my husband and I met with Attorney Clara Jensen at Monteforte Law for our 3 year check-in appointment to review our original estate plans created and filed 3 years ago by Monteforte Law. The review was thorough; all questions were answered without hesitation or any additional research necessary. Clara was very knowledgeable and friendly. My husband and I are thoroughly satisfied with the review process and the minor recommendations that were suggested to us going forward. We would recommend this firm to anyone who is thinking about estate planning to protect their assets.
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21 Mar, 2024 by N cole
10/10 do NOT recommend hiring Austin unless you want to be taken to the cleaners during the most vulnerable time of your life. Austin deliberately ignored every valid argument that I had and failed to do his job never filing the necessary motions all while taking thousands of dollars from me.
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05 Feb, 2024 by Luciana chacón
Excellent service offered by attorney Austin, recommended 100%, he helps communities from all over the world, Brazilians, Latinos, I am very grateful to him!
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02 Feb, 2024 by Anne panni
It was a great experience working with Austin Andenmatten. He was professional and kept us informed of all upcoming legal matters in a timely manner. He also involved us in the decision making process with all probable and possible outcomes. He comes highly recommended by my family and me!
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24 Dec, 2024 by Tim catoggio
It has taken me over three months to fully reflect on and articulate my 18-month experience with this firm, after we mutually decided to part ways. Throughout a lengthy and costly divorce and custody battle, which involved multiple court appearances and nearly six figures in combined legal fees, the outcomes grew progressively worse with each hearing—without a single positive result. As someone with no prior court or criminal experience, I found the court's decisions utterly baffling, some of which defied all logic. When I later consulted with a potential successor counsel and shared the case details, the responses were often filled with disbelief. At each of the approximately six court appearances with this firm, I felt as if a freight train was coming at me with no brakes, and by the time I reached my breaking point of just "dealing with it", it was far too late to undo the damage.
Consider this a warning—don’t let this happen to you.
Instead of simply venting my frustrations, I want to offer a more constructive perspective for anyone considering this firm:
If you’re thinking of hiring them, approach the decision strategically. From the outset, set clear expectations around costs, timelines, and the firm’s reputation with judges. Don’t take everything at face value. Educate yourself about the legal process so you can differentiate between what’s routine and what’s inefficient or excessive. Both clients and attorneys shape the trajectory of a case through their expectations, so make sure you’re aligned on these before signing anything. Insist on a detailed plan of action for each court date—one that everyone agrees upon. Don’t be afraid to shop around. Compare the firm’s answers to those of other firms to ensure you’re making an informed decision. Your hard-earned money, time, and mental well-being deserve nothing less than the best.
Be selective in your choice. Ask the right questions, trust your instincts, and speak up if something feels off. The legal system, especially family law, is often driven by billable hours—and longer cases mean more charges and potential promotions for attorneys. Quick resolutions are rarely prioritized, particularly when emotions run high. Once you understand this dynamic, you’ll be in a better position to navigate the process and avoid unnecessary costs.
Take your time. Don’t rush into aggressive strategies just because they’re suggested. Give yourself at least 24 hours after your initial consultation to reflect. Ask important questions: Are they overextended with too many clients? Is financial gain influencing their advice? What does "success" mean for your case, both at the start and as the process evolves?
I strongly encourage prospective clients to prioritize these considerations. If a firm can’t provide clear, straightforward answers, don’t move forward just because you’re desperate. Make sure you’re making a deliberate, informed choice.
For me, this process has set me back at least a decade in every aspect of my life. Don’t assume it couldn’t happen to you. The wrong legal counsel—whether due to the firm’s expertise, the local legal environment, or the judges involved—can have a far greater impact on your case than you might realize, starting from the very first hearing.
Read more
21 Dec, 2024 by Kim demetri
Marc and his team are amazing! Tough and compassionate. If you want a lawyer that has your back Marc is your guy. He is extremely knowledgeable and a beast when needed. He was able to get me the best possible outcome is the messiest of situations and I was able to gain custody of my son. I highly recommend Marc and his team for anyone looking to get a divorce! Thank you for everything!
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13 Dec, 2024 by Jm d
I have had the privilege and benefit of seeing first hand how hard Attorneys Grimaldi and Pesiridis work and their level of dedication to their practice and clients. Attorneys Grimaldi and Pesiridis not only put in the extra effort to try and get their clients the best results but also genuinely and sincerely care about the people they represent and want their families to be in the best possible position for success.
Attorneys Grimaldi and Pesiridis are strong advocates and able to litigate a case aggressively if the circumstances warrant, but first always look for a path forward which maximizes the best possible result for a client in the most civil, cost effective and expeditious manner possible.
Going through a divorce is obviously challenging but having counsel that you know has your back and will be there when you are at your darkest and lowest moment is reassuring.
I strongly recommend Grimaldi and Pesiridis as family lawyers.
Read more
24 Dec, 2024 by Tim catoggio
It has taken me over three months to fully reflect on and articulate my 18-month experience with this firm, after we mutually decided to part ways. Throughout a lengthy and costly divorce and custody battle, which involved multiple court appearances and nearly six figures in combined legal fees, the outcomes grew progressively worse with each hearing—without a single positive result. As someone with no prior court or criminal experience, I found the court's decisions utterly baffling, some of which defied all logic. When I later consulted with a potential successor counsel and shared the case details, the responses were often filled with disbelief. At each of the approximately six court appearances with this firm, I felt as if a freight train was coming at me with no brakes, and by the time I reached my breaking point of just "dealing with it", it was far too late to undo the damage.
Consider this a warning—don’t let this happen to you.
Instead of simply venting my frustrations, I want to offer a more constructive perspective for anyone considering this firm:
If you’re thinking of hiring them, approach the decision strategically. From the outset, set clear expectations around costs, timelines, and the firm’s reputation with judges. Don’t take everything at face value. Educate yourself about the legal process so you can differentiate between what’s routine and what’s inefficient or excessive. Both clients and attorneys shape the trajectory of a case through their expectations, so make sure you’re aligned on these before signing anything. Insist on a detailed plan of action for each court date—one that everyone agrees upon. Don’t be afraid to shop around. Compare the firm’s answers to those of other firms to ensure you’re making an informed decision. Your hard-earned money, time, and mental well-being deserve nothing less than the best.
Be selective in your choice. Ask the right questions, trust your instincts, and speak up if something feels off. The legal system, especially family law, is often driven by billable hours—and longer cases mean more charges and potential promotions for attorneys. Quick resolutions are rarely prioritized, particularly when emotions run high. Once you understand this dynamic, you’ll be in a better position to navigate the process and avoid unnecessary costs.
Take your time. Don’t rush into aggressive strategies just because they’re suggested. Give yourself at least 24 hours after your initial consultation to reflect. Ask important questions: Are they overextended with too many clients? Is financial gain influencing their advice? What does "success" mean for your case, both at the start and as the process evolves?
I strongly encourage prospective clients to prioritize these considerations. If a firm can’t provide clear, straightforward answers, don’t move forward just because you’re desperate. Make sure you’re making a deliberate, informed choice.
For me, this process has set me back at least a decade in every aspect of my life. Don’t assume it couldn’t happen to you. The wrong legal counsel—whether due to the firm’s expertise, the local legal environment, or the judges involved—can have a far greater impact on your case than you might realize, starting from the very first hearing.
Read more
21 Dec, 2024 by Kim demetri
Marc and his team are amazing! Tough and compassionate. If you want a lawyer that has your back Marc is your guy. He is extremely knowledgeable and a beast when needed. He was able to get me the best possible outcome is the messiest of situations and I was able to gain custody of my son. I highly recommend Marc and his team for anyone looking to get a divorce! Thank you for everything!
Read more
13 Dec, 2024 by Jm d
I have had the privilege and benefit of seeing first hand how hard Attorneys Grimaldi and Pesiridis work and their level of dedication to their practice and clients. Attorneys Grimaldi and Pesiridis not only put in the extra effort to try and get their clients the best results but also genuinely and sincerely care about the people they represent and want their families to be in the best possible position for success.
Attorneys Grimaldi and Pesiridis are strong advocates and able to litigate a case aggressively if the circumstances warrant, but first always look for a path forward which maximizes the best possible result for a client in the most civil, cost effective and expeditious manner possible.
Going through a divorce is obviously challenging but having counsel that you know has your back and will be there when you are at your darkest and lowest moment is reassuring.
I strongly recommend Grimaldi and Pesiridis as family lawyers.
Read more
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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.
