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11 Mar, 2024 by Steven geras
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10 Feb, 2023 by Lorraine
"I knew better than to go by "I know a lawyer!" when I'm still in pain. It's not a very astute way of choosing an attorney, So, if I am forced to make a change after these past 7 years, Eric will be the attorney I found on my own. Thank you, Eric! I sincerely appreciate your help!
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29 Nov, 2021 by Anonymous
Your advice made me feel like I still have hope to fight this. Than you for being so informative. I’ll definitely keep you in mind for future reference hope I don’t need you in the future, no offense. If I do, I know where to go. Again thank you for your time.
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19 Oct, 2024 by Sara mojtahedi
I recently had a consultation with Ali Shahrestani and I can't recommend him highly enough. He was incredibly thorough and took the time to explain everything in detail, clearing up so many questions I had. His professionalism, patience, and ability to break down complex legal matters made me feel confident and well-informed. I truly appreciate the time he dedicated to ensure I fully understood my options. Thank you so much, Ali Shahrestani for your outstanding service!
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02 May, 2024 by Cassie w.
Efficient, receptive and cares about his clients. Love having him on board for our entertainment legal matters. First call we make!
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04 Mar, 2024 by Devin mcknight
Michael never misses any details and has always been a stable and reliable force on my small team. I would recommend him to anyone!
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17 Feb, 2023 by Lev parnas
Joseph Bondy is not only an incredibly talented attorney but also a powerful human being. When you get arrested, your life changes forever. Not only yours, but your family’s, your kids, and all the people around you. You don’t know who to trust, and you don’t know where to turn. Joe was there for me, both as an attorney and a friend. The way he was present for me through the entire process was incredible. Joe understands and cares—that, combined with his talent of being an extraordinary criminal defense attorney, makes him a one-of-a-kind lawyer. In the toughest times, Joe made the sunshine. He made it bright for me when I thought darkness was upon me and gave me that light at the end of the tunnel that allowed me to stay strong and be able to fight the fight. I can wholeheartedly recommend Joe Bondy as an attorney, in the hardest of cases. Thank you, Joe. Thank you for everything. Lev Parnas
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03 Nov, 2022 by Jason abbey
Wouldn't recommend anybody else. The most attentive, caring, and loving attorney. words cannot describe Mr. Bondy. Priceless. Without Joe my life would have been much different, now I can continue Seeing my Kids, Family and friend. You are the best thank you so much.
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03 Aug, 2022 by Carolyn
My first time needing a attorney, he made me feel like things are gonna be ok, and that’s huge
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13 Apr, 2017 by Silva
I've worked with David for several years and all I can say is that he is outstanding both on a professional and personal level. His leadership is inspiring and his knowledge sets a new standard. We worked on a very complicated estate case and he guided me through every single step making smooth and easy what otherwise would have been very challenging. He's also an unbelievable mediator thanks to his diplomatic skills.
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11 Apr, 2017 by Joan
I cannot say enough about Dave, he is a lawyer one can trust in all aspects, We have used Dave for over 12 years and have never been disappointed. He is one of the most trustworthy and ethical lawyers. We have used Dave in many different areas of the law and his knowledge is mind boggling ! We trust Dave with all our legal needs.
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08 Apr, 2017 by Amy
David Holland has represented me in several cases and all were handled with extreme professionalism and ease. He was tireless in his efforts to make sure my outcomes were positive. Not only is he experienced and handles situations with the upmost expertise, he is a kind and brilliant person. If you are looking for a lawyer to handle your professional and/or personal needs, David Holland is the one.
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01 Oct, 2024 by Toyota of queens
If i could give 10 star I would ! I spoke with maybe 2 different law firm before the lawyer Alexander Zugaro I was victim of abuse in my workplace in different ways Alex immediately did an interview with me and his team, Mr. Humberto Alvarez who spoke to me in Spanish.Humberto made me feel very comfortable. He is very professional. He is the kind of person who wants to help. If you are victim of sexual harassment discrimination at your work place please call and ask for Humberto or Alex They got me the best result which for privacy reasons I can't talk about.It I hope my employer , managers etc ... has learned the lesson.
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25 Sep, 2024 by Ali daraghmeh
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25 Sep, 2024 by David taylor
From first contact to resolution, Blake Ferris and his team treated me with the upmost professionalism and respect during the most difficult time in my life. More importantly, they didn't treat me just as a client, taking the time to keep me updated and helping ease my fears and concerns throughout the entire process. Blake went above and beyond any expectations I had from an attorney. I am forever grateful for the compassion and dedication from everyone at Phillips & Associates.
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09 Sep, 2024 by Tamara elkins
Updated review. I cannot stress to anybody reading this enough: who you hire matters and you get what you pay for. Attorney’s have case after case slide across their desk. It’s a job at the end of the day to most. If Aaron Shapiro or the force that is Amanda Schaffer takes your case, TRUST THEM. Full disclosure: I am a nightmare client. On a scale from 1-10, I’m an 11 in terms of annoying. My son is my absolute world. I have been a “white pony” more times than you can imagine. Over-billed. None of it made sense. Those attorneys cared about a paycheck. Aaron and Amanda are not only EXCELLENT attorneys, they’re good people. They have a backbone. Their time is valuable. They’re not cheap. Know that. When your child, freedom, or immigration status is on the line — don’t put it in the hands of someone who treats you like a file. The legal progress is exhausting (mentally and financially — I know it all too well.) It’s unfair. Read that again. No attorney should ever promise you a victory. Here’s what this random stranger who’s been put through the wringer for 3 years can promise you first hand — this firm cares and they’re your best shot.
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28 Aug, 2024 by Paula vignoni
He had me sign the retainer, pay almost $7000 and disappeared. He did not show up in court saying I still had to sign a form. I never received said form and he stopped answering altogether. I cannot believe he would do this to families in need of help.
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26 Aug, 2024 by God’s child (anna)
I'm not one to typically write reviews, but my experience with Amanda Shaffer from The Shapiro Law Firm was truly exceptional and warranted sharing. I had the pleasure of working with Amanda on my immigration case, and I must say, she exceeded my expectations in every way. Her professionalism, expertise, and dedication to her clients are truly exceptional. Unfortunately, my case was previously mishandled by another lawyer, who failed to properly file my application, leading to potential denial. However, Amanda Shaffer stepped in and quickly turned things around. She was frustrated by the mistakes made by my previous lawyer and immediately took action to combat their response. Amanda's expertise and knowledge of immigration law are impressive. She took the time to understand my situation, answered all my questions, and provided clear guidance throughout the complex immigration process. Her attention to detail and ability to navigate intricate immigration laws with ease are truly remarkable. What impressed me most was Amanda's proactive approach to resolving my case. She identified solutions and opportunities that I hadn't considered and worked tirelessly to ensure a successful outcome. Her dedication and commitment to her clients are unparalleled. I also valued Amanda's empathetic and understanding nature, which made a difficult and stressful situation more manageable. Her kindness, patience, and willingness to listen made me feel heard and validated. I highly recommend Amanda Shaffer and The Shapiro Law Firm to anyone seeking a skilled, reliable, and empathetic immigration lawyer. Amanda is a true asset to her profession, and I feel fortunate to have had her by my side during a challenging time. Thank you, Amanda, for your outstanding service, support, and dedication. You truly made a difference in my life and helped me achieve my immigration goals, despite the mistakes of my previous lawyer!
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01 Oct, 2024 by Jasmin morris
Christopher J. Trochiano was efficient and very insightful , would definitely recommend!
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23 Sep, 2024 by Dmitriy kozak
I had a great experience. Igor is smart, nice and very experienced at what he does. I was very satisfied with the outcome and I would highly recommend The Barnes firm
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20 Sep, 2024 by Charnele wilson
Steven and his team worked hard and was diligent in seeing my case through. I appreciate the phone calls from Yelena whom kept me in the loop with the details and progress of the case and he always kept the lines of communication open for any questions or concerns that I may have. I highly recommend this lawfirm and I am forever grateful for finding this personal injury office and the for the hard work and time put into my case. My family and I thank you!!
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09 Nov, 2023 by Michael tenaglia
Great lawyers! answered all my questions and always got back to me.
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24 Oct, 2023 by Kurt klein
Jones’ legal advice has always been spot on. I’ve recommended him to a number of friends as well, who have all been very pleased by his diligence and perspicacity. He gets to the heart of the matter very quickly, determines the appropriate steps, and follows up (some lawyers let cases languish that could easily have been moved along had they been paying attention). Another strong point is that he won’t accept cases where he feels that potential clients would be better served elsewhere, and says so.
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23 Oct, 2023 by Danny patrick rose
Great Lawyer!
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27 Nov, 2023 by Anonymous
he refused to give back the down payment when he was not the attorney on the contract of sail he just took over the case and he is trying to grab 50 present of the down payment with any merit
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FAQs
Questions? We have answers

What a Cannabis Lawyer Can Do for You

A cannabis lawyer specializes in the complex and evolving laws surrounding the cannabis industry. These attorneys assist businesses, entrepreneurs, investors, and individuals with legal matters related to the cultivation, distribution, sale, and use of cannabis. They navigate federal, state, and local regulations to ensure compliance, advise on licensing requirements, help with business formation, and represent clients in legal disputes or criminal charges related to cannabis.

Whether you're starting a cannabis-related business, investing in the industry, or facing legal issues involving cannabis, a cannabis lawyer can provide the legal expertise necessary to protect your interests and ensure compliance with all applicable laws.

When Should I Hire a Cannabis Lawyer?

You should consider hiring a cannabis lawyer in the following situations:

  • Business Formation and Licensing: If you're starting a cannabis business, a lawyer can help you choose the appropriate business structure, draft organizational documents, and navigate the complex licensing process required to operate legally.
  • Regulatory Compliance: Cannabis laws vary widely between states and are subject to frequent changes. A lawyer can help you understand and comply with federal, state, and local regulations, including zoning laws, packaging requirements, and testing protocols.
  • Transactional Matters: For buying or selling a cannabis business, merging with another company, or entering into partnerships, a lawyer can draft and review contracts, conduct due diligence, and ensure the transaction complies with all legal requirements.
  • Real Estate Transactions: Leasing or purchasing property for a cannabis business often involves unique legal challenges. A lawyer can negotiate lease terms, ensure zoning compliance, and address landlord-tenant issues specific to the cannabis industry.
  • Intellectual Property Protection: If you're developing proprietary strains, branding, or technology, a lawyer can help protect your intellectual property through trademarks, patents, and copyrights.
  • Employment Law Compliance: Cannabis businesses must comply with employment laws, including hiring practices, workplace safety, and labor regulations. A lawyer can draft employment contracts and advise on compliance.
  • Legal Defense: If you're facing criminal charges related to cannabis possession, cultivation, or distribution, a lawyer can defend your rights and advocate on your behalf in court.
  • Dispute Resolution: For any legal disputes with partners, competitors, or regulatory agencies, a lawyer can represent your interests in negotiations, mediation, or litigation.

Hiring a cannabis lawyer early can help prevent legal issues and ensure that your business operates smoothly within the legal framework.

What Does a Cannabis Lawyer Do?

A cannabis lawyer provides a range of legal services tailored to the unique needs of the cannabis industry:

  • Regulatory Guidance: Advises clients on federal, state, and local laws governing cannabis, helping them understand the legal landscape and avoid violations.
  • Licensing Assistance: Guides clients through the complex licensing process, preparing applications, and ensuring all regulatory requirements are met.
  • Business Formation and Compliance: Assists with forming the appropriate business entity (e.g., LLC, corporation), drafting operating agreements, and implementing compliance programs.
  • Contract Drafting and Review: Prepares and reviews contracts such as partnership agreements, supply contracts, distribution agreements, and purchase agreements to protect clients' interests.
  • Real Estate and Land Use: Negotiates leases, assists with property purchases, and ensures compliance with zoning laws and land-use regulations specific to cannabis operations.
  • Intellectual Property Protection: Helps clients secure trademarks, patents, and copyrights to protect their brands, products, and innovations.
  • Employment Law Compliance: Advises on hiring practices, employee policies, wage and hour laws, and workplace safety regulations.
  • Litigation and Dispute Resolution: Represents clients in legal disputes, including regulatory enforcement actions, contract disputes, and intellectual property litigation.
  • Criminal Defense: Defends individuals and businesses facing criminal charges related to cannabis, such as possession, distribution, or cultivation offenses.
  • Policy Advocacy: Engages with policymakers and regulatory agencies on behalf of clients to influence legislation and regulations affecting the cannabis industry.

How Are Cannabis Lawyers Paid?

Cannabis lawyers typically charge for their services in one of the following ways:

  • Hourly Rate: Charging an hourly fee for the time spent working on your case or project. Rates can range from $250 to $700 or more per hour, depending on the lawyer's experience and location.
  • Flat Fee: For specific services like licensing applications, business formation, or contract drafting, some lawyers offer a flat fee, providing cost predictability.
  • Retainer Fee: An upfront payment against which the lawyer bills their hourly rate. The retainer may need to be replenished as work progresses.
  • Monthly Retainer: For ongoing legal services, especially for businesses requiring continuous legal support, a lawyer may charge a monthly retainer fee.
  • Contingency Fee: Less common in cannabis law but may be used in litigation cases where the lawyer receives a percentage of any monetary recovery.
  • Payment Plans: Some lawyers offer payment arrangements to make their services more affordable over time.

It's important to discuss payment structures and fees during your initial consultation to understand the financial commitment involved.

How Much Does a Cannabis Lawyer Cost?

The cost of hiring a cannabis lawyer varies based on several factors:

  • Hourly Rates: Typically range from $250 to $700 or more per hour. More experienced lawyers or those in large metropolitan areas may charge higher rates.
  • Flat Fees: May range from:
    • $2,000 to $5,000 for business formation and basic compliance.
    • $5,000 to $15,000 for licensing applications, depending on complexity.
    • $1,000 to $3,000 for drafting standard contracts.
  • Retainer Fees: Initial retainers can range from $5,000 to $20,000 or more, depending on the anticipated workload and scope of services.
  • Litigation Costs: If involved in litigation or criminal defense, total costs can vary widely, potentially exceeding $20,000 or more, depending on the case's complexity and duration.

Additional costs may include:

  • Government Filing Fees: Costs for license applications, permits, and registrations.
  • Administrative Expenses: Charges for document preparation, copying, postage, and other administrative tasks.
  • Expert Fees: Costs for consultants or expert witnesses, if needed.

Always request a detailed fee agreement and discuss all potential costs upfront to avoid unexpected expenses.

Top Questions to Ask a Cannabis Lawyer

  1. What experience do you have in cannabis law?
    Ensure the lawyer has a strong background in cannabis-related legal matters and is familiar with the specific regulations in your state.
  2. How do you charge for your services, and what are the estimated costs?
    Understand the fee structure, including hourly rates, flat fees, retainers, and any additional expenses.
  3. What services can you provide for my specific needs?
    Clarify whether the lawyer can assist with licensing, compliance, contracts, litigation, or other areas relevant to your situation.
  4. How familiar are you with local and state regulations affecting the cannabis industry?
    Confirm that the lawyer is up-to-date with the latest laws and regulations in your area.
  5. Can you help with federal law considerations?
    Discuss how the lawyer navigates the conflicts between state and federal laws regarding cannabis.
  6. What potential legal challenges should I be aware of?
    Ask about common legal issues in the cannabis industry and how they might impact you.
  7. Do you have experience working with regulatory agencies?
    Experience interacting with agencies can be beneficial for licensing and compliance matters.
  8. Can you assist with intellectual property protection?
    If you need trademarks, patents, or copyrights, ensure the lawyer can handle these areas.

How to Check the Credibility of a Cannabis Lawyer

  • Verify Their License: Ensure the lawyer is licensed and in good standing with your state's bar association.
  • Experience and Specialization: Look for a lawyer who specializes in cannabis law and has a proven track record in the industry.
  • Client Reviews and Testimonials: Research online reviews or ask for references to learn about other clients' experiences.
  • Professional Memberships: Membership in organizations like the National Cannabis Bar Association (NCBA) or state-specific cannabis industry associations indicates a focus on this area of law.
  • Disciplinary Record: Check for any past disciplinary actions or complaints filed against the lawyer.
  • Publications and Speaking Engagements: Lawyers who publish articles or speak at conferences on cannabis law demonstrate expertise and engagement with industry developments.

What Should I Prepare for My First Consultation?

To make the most of your initial meeting with a cannabis lawyer, bring the following:

  • Business Plan: A detailed description of your business concept, including objectives, target market, and operational plans.
  • Licensing Information: Any materials related to licensing applications you've started or questions about the process.
  • Financial Documents: Information about your budget, funding sources, and financial projections.
  • Existing Legal Documents: Any contracts, agreements, leases, or organizational documents you've already prepared or signed.
  • Regulatory Correspondence: Communications with regulatory agencies or local authorities.
  • Questions and Concerns: Prepare a list of questions about licensing, compliance, legal risks, and how the lawyer can assist you.
  • Stakeholder Information: Details about business partners, investors, or key personnel involved in your venture.

By being thoroughly prepared, you enable the lawyer to assess your situation effectively and provide tailored legal advice to support your cannabis-related endeavors.

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