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21 Mar, 2015 by Rlb
Attorney Pearson does a remarkable job representing her clients. She took the time to listen and understand my family's complex and difficult situation. She kept us informed and responded to our concerns. Her recommendations were based on facts and the law rather than opinion. She and her staff are highly qualified, profession and handled our matter in a timely and efficient manner.
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12 Mar, 2015 by Anthony
"I cannot say enough wonderful things about Laquetta Pearson. I was treated with respect and there was not one time I felt that my case was not important to me. Great communication, phone calls answered personally & quickly. I would highly recommend anyone seeking an attorney for their case...look no further, you have found the best!!"
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19 Apr, 2024 by Olivia white
28 Oct, 2023 by Mackenzie clark
08 Sep, 2023 by Kayla jones
This firm gets the job done! They will go above and beyond for you, they truly care. I’ve worked with a few firms previously and none compare to Merritt and Merritt! The customer service is top tier from the staff as well as the attorney!
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19 Apr, 2024 by Olivia white
28 Oct, 2023 by Mackenzie clark
08 Sep, 2023 by Kayla jones
This firm gets the job done! They will go above and beyond for you, they truly care. I’ve worked with a few firms previously and none compare to Merritt and Merritt! The customer service is top tier from the staff as well as the attorney!
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19 Apr, 2024 by Olivia white
28 Oct, 2023 by Mackenzie clark
08 Sep, 2023 by Kayla jones
This firm gets the job done! They will go above and beyond for you, they truly care. I’ve worked with a few firms previously and none compare to Merritt and Merritt! The customer service is top tier from the staff as well as the attorney!
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24 Apr, 2017 by Ben
Chris Troutman is the champion of the client. Very patient. Very efficient. Able to process legal jargon and communicate to lay people with normal language. Would definitely recommend to family and friends as well as request his services for myself in the future.
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28 Jul, 2010 by Anonymous
Keisha is one of the most professional attorneys I have ever worked with. When she says she will do something she does it to the best of her ability and delivers great quality. I love working with her and would recommend that anyone who is looking for a good attorney to find her.
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18 Sep, 2023 by Shannon
When I found Ms. Koefod, I was really frustrated as I had consulted with a few other attorneys who did not seem to take me seriously. I started out with an e-commerce business and launched a Marketing firm but am pretty young and it is all online. I felt like Ms. Koefod was not only really well versed on what I needed, but also took me seriously and gave me great advice about suggestions to protect my business. She took care of my business formation and got my trademarks filed. It was nice to know the fee up front since everything was a flat rate and I got office hours and personalized attention that was focused on my specific business needs. She was very responsive and helpful and I now use her as fractional General Counsel so that I have an excellent attorney if and when things come up as my business grows! I felt really comfortable working with her. She wasn't stuffy and spoke to me in a clear way. The office is also really up to date on technology so I could do all my communications with them through my phone since I am on the go so much. I am suggesting Ms. Koefod to friends who are starting businesses and even side hustles and was excited to hear that the firm services can grow along with my company. It felt like a very tailored bespoke solution.
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21 Oct, 2024 by Ardasia faine
Raina will always be my go to. Unfortunately I was involved in another car accident 6months after my first accident. I was 8months pregnant and in a Lyft as a passenger this time. Another terrible experience, but I came back to Raina law office and she did what she always do, made sure my family and I was in good hands, with all of my therapy and appointments. Raina is very informative, helpful, and my experience will forever be a 10/10. Thank you again!… Highly Recommend Law Office for your car accidents.
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04 Oct, 2024 by Tiffany mccombs
I am so grateful that I found Attorney Raina Spencer on social media! I was in an accident and didn’t know which direction to go in order to pursue filing a lawsuit for my bodily injuries! I came across her profile and knew immediately after reviewing a few posts that she was the one that I wanted to work with. She was very knowledgeable, she gave so much information in her posts, and I could tell that her personality and attitude would be a good fit for me! Working with her was flawless. She kept me updated on my case, and was available any time I reached out to her or had a question! Her assistants were amazing as well. They kept me informed throughout the whole process. Her prompt attentiveness and hard work resulted in my case settling pretty fast! I settled and walked away with what I feel was a great and fair amount! I would recommend her to represent anyone with bodily injuries! I am so satisfied with my case, and it was a pleasure working with her, and her firm!
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04 Oct, 2024 by Patricia perez
I had the pleasure of working with Raina Spencer, and I can’t say enough good things about her. From start to finish, she demonstrated professionalism, expertise, and genuine care for my case. Raina was always available to answer my questions and guide me through every step of the process. Her attention to detail and dedication to achieving the best outcome made all the difference. If you’re looking for a lawyer who truly has your best interests at heart, I highly recommend Raina Spencer!
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28 Sep, 2017 by Arvind raina
25 Oct, 2021 by Patrick cline
09 Jan, 2019 by Rashad mcfarland
17 Dec, 2020 by Craig d
I cannot say ENOUGH great things about Attorney Antavius Weems! He is a BOSS in EVRY sense of the word. I hired Atty Weems when my company was experiencing some growing pains. I must admit that I had not done a great job in keeping things in order (which is why I had to retain Weems) but I thank God for sending Weems my way. The craziest thing is that I actually met him in line at a concert! We began talking after I eavesdropped on his phone call to a client....I remarked to him, 'You're the kind of Atty I need....answering calls in the middle of a concert' Atty Weems response was 'im your guy then'....and he was telling NO LIE. He came in, cleaned up the frivolous litigation that we had, and allowed us to move forward into our 8th location. His staff is top notch too! I CANNOT THANK HIM ENOUGH! And yes, just like everyone else says about him, he's a Super hero with a brief case, and he literally treats you like you are family. Attorneys just dont do that these days! Thanks Weems!!!
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10 Feb, 2019 by Erica
I am incredibly happy to write this review of MY Attorney, Antavius Weems. When I first learned of Atty Weems was through the tv show Braxton Family Values, where he represents Toni Braxton and her family. Once I got him to represent me, i knew i had made the right decision. In addition to sharing an Atty with Superstars like Toni Braxton, Trina Braxton, Angie Stone and Karlie Redd, I was mesmerized by Antavius' command and recall of the law. I was thinking wow, does he study this stuff in his sleep?? And just as EVERYONE here has stated, he IS a PIT BULL I n the Courtroom. He is not to be played with. In my case, not only did we win, but the other side ended up having to pay Antavius' Atty fees for me because of their actions. THANK YOU ANTAVIUS WEEMS. You are my Attorney fir life!
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12 Feb, 2017 by Deborah
Imagine walking into a Courtroom with a Dictionary, a thesaurus, a pit bull, a security guard, and of course, a legal scholar--I've just described my experience with Attorney Antavius Weems. I cannot say enough how protected and cared for I felt by he and his team. I had heard wonderful things about Attorney Weems and his legal skills from a friend of mine who hired him, so I thought I would give him a try. Now I brag about him more than my friend. She had to remind me that he was her Lawyer first! I just felt incredibly protected during my entire case. He was concerned, informed and prepared. His entire staff makes you feel the same way he does (special kudos to his Office Mgr, Ms. Finch!) What I really liked was watching how he has such an amazing command of the law! I have never seen anyone rattle off legal cases and laws like I saw with Weems. My impression was that he either had memorized all of this stuff for my case, or he already knew it...Either way I was fine with it, and I benefited from his knowledge. The Judge gave us most of what we had asked for, and although I was incredibly happy, Attorney Weems was still a little upset that we didnt get everything that we had asked for! I am just elated to call this man my Lawyer. The Weems Firm is my team for legal issues. I love him and them!
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28 Oct, 2024 by Lisa dimoulas (ladimoul)
Zach was the perfect combination of professional and friendly. He understood my family’s situation and worked in fairness (and in earnest) to achieve the best possible outcome. My sincere thanks and I would highly recommend.
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11 Oct, 2024 by John ford
At every turn, Mr. Kaiser fought vigorously to help me defend my name. If you're looking for someone who will go the extra mile, then look no further!
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12 Sep, 2024 by Kelly s.
My loved one was facing multiple charges and the threat of a life changing harsh sentence in a S. Georgia county with a difficult prosecutor. Joe was persistent in his defense of them and their character resulting in convincing the prosecutor to dismiss the case. Joe is personable and truly cares about his clients as well as their future. His proactive and consistent communication including follow up is unmatched, His knowledge, integrity and character puts his clients fears at ease. I had an emergency and needed information right away. Joe contacted me back immediately even while on vacation. In the moment I was reminded again why I was so thankful he was representing my family though I was sorry to interrupt his time away. We were blessed to find Mr. Habachy and made the best decision to have him represent and fight for my loved one. Joe has integrity and will do right by you. If you or someone you know needs legal help, I can’t recommend anyone more than Mr. Joe Habachy!!!
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21 Jan, 2025 by Deaundrea conover-hodge
If your looking for a excellent probate attorney, look no further because you found him! I highly recommend his services, he was very professional an extremely knowledgeable.
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10 Jan, 2025 by Julian jones
19 Dec, 2024 by Kizzy white
Very nice professional environment they are great!!
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19 Dec, 2024 by Jquondlyn johnson
Josh, Dan, & Mike all are great people and mean great business! You can trust them with all of your needs. Thanks again guys!
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16 Dec, 2024 by Robert myers
Chris and Luis are amazing! They took care of everything for my family from our car accident! They constantly followed up with us and made sure to get us the best settlement possible! We went from not knowing if we would be able to even have a Christmas for our kids to being able to have the best Christmas ever! Thank you for everything!
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18 Nov, 2024 by Tony nava
I am incredibly grateful for the outstanding legal representation we received from Andy Goldner following our car accident. From the very beginning, he demonstrated professionalism, compassion, and a deep understanding of the law. He guided us through every step of the process, ensuring we fully understood our rights and handled all the complexities of the case with expertise and fought tirelessly to secure the best possible outcome for us.
I highly recommend Andy Goldner.
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21 Jan, 2025 by Kaylan jones
I had a great experience with Attorney Stovall. He offered great advice and genuinely cares for the well-being of his clients. I would highly recommend.
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15 Jan, 2025 by Mario ochoa
I would just like to say that I had a very good experience with attorney Devun not only is he very professional but he is extremely knowledgeable I myself have some legal background and I knew from talking with him he definitely knows what he is doing in the legal profession. Highly 5 start review
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18 Dec, 2024 by Chiquita caradine
I have been with this law firm for over ten years and they are very knowledgeable and very helpful. Working with Kelly was amazing she’s always on top of things and she always makes sure that she gets the job done and for DeVun he’s a great person and he knows that he has the best job in this law firm so it shows through how he treats his clients Love this firm they are my family 💜
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13 Apr, 2021 by Charles.
Daniel Kane. Saved my life, back in 1987, I was falsely accused of rape. If it wasn't for Mr Kane. I would have went to prison for 30 years. Mr Kane got me a DNA test somehow. I've been happily married since December 10th 1990, I have six children and eight grandchildren, I truly owe my life to Daniel Kane. He believed in me when no one else would. he looked me right in the face and told me I believe you, thank you Daniel. My whole family thank you we love you. may God. continue to bless you and help you bless others peace love and happiness have a positive day. Charles E.
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01 Dec, 2020 by L. cain
Mr. Kane - represented me in several cases over the years since 80s. I met Daniel when he just moved here from PA. His preparation and presentation was stellar on all three or more cases. We clashed a couple of time but he out me in my place and I letgo & let Dan. I never looked back. life deals a hand call Dan. I'll recommend Daniel Kane if your in need of any of the services he provides.
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21 May, 2020 by Sean
Kane helped me recover my son .
Take it to trial or work a deal.
He can seduce a hostile jury with his flamboyance and persuade a prosecutor and judge with experience and knowledge,
Sean
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20 Feb, 2025 by Cristobal
Mr. K.R. Chowbey was extremely helpful with my lease termination. He showcased his knowledge with the subject and was directed with his answers. I would definitely recommend booking a consultation with his office.
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12 Feb, 2025 by Julie tran
He was really helpful and answered all the questions I needed.
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11 Feb, 2025 by Stephen & diana mason
Adam was a really big help and I really appreciated his consultation
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19 Feb, 2025 by Daija the muse “daija”
Iyisha was such an amazing help!
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19 Feb, 2025 by Eryn freeman
Awesome Law Firm, Iyesha Taylor is great!!!
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19 Feb, 2025 by Castleberry hill chapter
27 Feb, 2025 by Yung quan
I was driving through Atlanta late one night. Almosts got into an accident and was then pulled over. The officer had me get out of the car and had me do field evaluations. I was taken to jail for DUI. I hired Mr. Kevin Fisher and he was able to get the DUI changed to a much better outcome. Thank you Kevin. I appreciate your guidance.
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20 Feb, 2025 by Tre b
Working with Jason and Bryan made a stressful time easy to get through. They provided excellent service and I will recommend them to anyone I know in need of a good law team!
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18 Jan, 2025 by Caleb jones
I got a pretty bad speeding ticket because I was late going to my pregnant wife’s appointment to meet the specialist because she had a high risk pregnancy. The ticket I received was also a super speeder. My job requires that I have a clean record. I hired Kevin and he was able to help me get a great outcome. No points, no reporting to my MVR, this helps SO much because I work and drive a company vehicle for an insurance company. Kevin made the process very easy and seamless. Out of FOUR lawyers that I contacted, Kevin was the only one who was responsive, he was up front about his pricing and steps that I would need to take going forward. Most lawyers are lazy but not Kevin. I would hire Kevin again if ever needed his services! Thanks for the hard work Kevin!
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02 May, 2024 by Christopher carroll
07 Dec, 2023 by Ishita shah
03 Jul, 2023 by Calozzie lee
Great professional location
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25 Feb, 2025 by Dante waters
25 Feb, 2025 by Robert richards
Ryan Porter thoroughly answered all of my questions with clear and concise wording that made it easy to make my decisions.
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24 Feb, 2025 by Destiny bower
My one-year-old and at the time four year-old were in a horrible accident that can extremely affected our life and we cannot be more thankful for our attorney and paralegal Keyanna Wilder. When I tell you that she went above and beyond, making sure that she let this stressed out and overwhelm mom feel confident, Secure and heard was such an amazing feeling. We were in a very very vulnerable situation and she and her team were amazingly thorough, compassionate, and showed real ethics. We could not recommend them enough they follow up with you. They listen to you and they do their job.
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07 Oct, 2024 by Jusmeullc
Tired of her unethical actions towards, a loved ones case in Cobb county, as a public defender. I have been dealing with this lawyer for over a year and she has visited my family member 1 time and knows nothing about his cases. I call for updates she has hung up on me or more than 2 occasions. Everyone deserves her to handle their cases for the best possible outcome per the state bar. This lawyer is also on social media making videos,when she could be studying my family members case. Less than 1 star and will be taking this review further until justice is served according to the codes of conduct as an attorney in the state of GA
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07 Oct, 2024 by Mrs walkerosiraladazeraya
This has been a road with this lawyer as I would give her less than 1 star if I could because of the way she has treated my family member in their court case in Cobb county. Instead of admitting she knows nothing about his cases (felony) & her YSL case is her priority she denies and lies as if she has visited when it is documented that she has not but once. Every case she takes or is assigned to, deserve a fair chance of representation & the oath states that she is supposed to “adhere to all articles of conduct while working tirelessly for the best possible outcome.” When I call to ask about updates she is rude. A life should be her concern paid or not! I will be complaining to state bar as this matter has been ongoing with her for over 1 year with her unprofessional manner.
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14 Aug, 2024 by Djtranell hsmg
28 Nov, 2024 by Jessica brothers
Only office I would recommend. The staff- Patrick specifically has been amazing. I really trust their process and ease of understanding. They use a great tonality as well, which really makes the world of “taxes”digestible.
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31 Oct, 2024 by Minh trinh
31 Oct, 2024 by Misha
07 Feb, 2025 by Amber sheriff
I had the privilege of working with Foster Law Firm for both criminal and family law matters, and I couldn't be more impressed with the service they provided. Janee Hawkins, ESG, and the entire team demonstrated exceptional professionalism and expertise throughout the entire process.
What stood out to me the most was their fantastic and timely communication. Janee was always readily available to address any issues, even immediately following court sessions, and her prompt responses put me at ease during a very stressful time. The entire team was honest, transparent, and dedicated to ensuring I fully understood each step of the legal process.
I highly recommend Foster Law Firm to anyone seeking legal assistance in Atlanta. Their professionalism, commitment to their clients, and attention to detail are second to none. If you're looking for reliable, experienced legal representation, this is the firm to trust.
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29 Jan, 2025 by Ms. kristal “theblackcherry10100” brown
I was in search of a Black firm and found one. The service I received was A1. They have your best interest and will fight as much as possible for you. To the staff, James, and the young lady that made sure my msgs, appointments, court dates, as well as questions don’t get missed and my lawyer Hawkins and Anderson, I thank you. I have referred 2 ppl to this firm from court already.😅
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06 Jan, 2025 by Fleta daniel
The Foster Law Group showcased exceptional professionalism with an incredibly informative and empathetic team. Knowing that we were entering a highly emotional situation, you skillfully guided us to a resolution that benefits everyone involved."
Thank you.
Fleta Daniel
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07 Feb, 2025 by Amber sheriff
I had the privilege of working with Foster Law Firm for both criminal and family law matters, and I couldn't be more impressed with the service they provided. Janee Hawkins, ESG, and the entire team demonstrated exceptional professionalism and expertise throughout the entire process.
What stood out to me the most was their fantastic and timely communication. Janee was always readily available to address any issues, even immediately following court sessions, and her prompt responses put me at ease during a very stressful time. The entire team was honest, transparent, and dedicated to ensuring I fully understood each step of the legal process.
I highly recommend Foster Law Firm to anyone seeking legal assistance in Atlanta. Their professionalism, commitment to their clients, and attention to detail are second to none. If you're looking for reliable, experienced legal representation, this is the firm to trust.
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29 Jan, 2025 by Ms. kristal “theblackcherry10100” brown
I was in search of a Black firm and found one. The service I received was A1. They have your best interest and will fight as much as possible for you. To the staff, James, and the young lady that made sure my msgs, appointments, court dates, as well as questions don’t get missed and my lawyer Hawkins and Anderson, I thank you. I have referred 2 ppl to this firm from court already.😅
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06 Jan, 2025 by Fleta daniel
The Foster Law Group showcased exceptional professionalism with an incredibly informative and empathetic team. Knowing that we were entering a highly emotional situation, you skillfully guided us to a resolution that benefits everyone involved."
Thank you.
Fleta Daniel
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07 Feb, 2025 by Amber sheriff
I had the privilege of working with Foster Law Firm for both criminal and family law matters, and I couldn't be more impressed with the service they provided. Janee Hawkins, ESG, and the entire team demonstrated exceptional professionalism and expertise throughout the entire process.
What stood out to me the most was their fantastic and timely communication. Janee was always readily available to address any issues, even immediately following court sessions, and her prompt responses put me at ease during a very stressful time. The entire team was honest, transparent, and dedicated to ensuring I fully understood each step of the legal process.
I highly recommend Foster Law Firm to anyone seeking legal assistance in Atlanta. Their professionalism, commitment to their clients, and attention to detail are second to none. If you're looking for reliable, experienced legal representation, this is the firm to trust.
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29 Jan, 2025 by Ms. kristal “theblackcherry10100” brown
I was in search of a Black firm and found one. The service I received was A1. They have your best interest and will fight as much as possible for you. To the staff, James, and the young lady that made sure my msgs, appointments, court dates, as well as questions don’t get missed and my lawyer Hawkins and Anderson, I thank you. I have referred 2 ppl to this firm from court already.😅
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06 Jan, 2025 by Fleta daniel
The Foster Law Group showcased exceptional professionalism with an incredibly informative and empathetic team. Knowing that we were entering a highly emotional situation, you skillfully guided us to a resolution that benefits everyone involved."
Thank you.
Fleta Daniel
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24 Feb, 2025 by Jorge wolff (wesnetwork)
Mones Law Office helps my son with extremely good results for him and for us (the family). He represented my son in a criminal case with 100% expectation and beyond of that. I strong recommend the Mones Law Office in Atlanta.
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05 Dec, 2024 by Kaila welcome
He was a great lawyer. Very knowledgeable and I didn’t have to go to court. Job well done! Thanks!
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04 Dec, 2024 by Jeffrey nelson
Everyone involved in my case is helpful.
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24 Feb, 2025 by Jorge wolff (wesnetwork)
Mones Law Office helps my son with extremely good results for him and for us (the family). He represented my son in a criminal case with 100% expectation and beyond of that. I strong recommend the Mones Law Office in Atlanta.
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05 Dec, 2024 by Kaila welcome
He was a great lawyer. Very knowledgeable and I didn’t have to go to court. Job well done! Thanks!
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04 Dec, 2024 by Jeffrey nelson
Everyone involved in my case is helpful.
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24 Sep, 2024 by Jeffrey pollock
I had the good fortune of being represented by Allen Lightcap. From the outset, Allen was compassionate and caring. His demeanor was professional and calm at all times. I always felt like he sincerely cared for me and helping me to the best of his ability. The best part is he was always kind. In the time since, I've had a few occasions to reach out to Allen for various follow up questions, both related and unrelated. He always promptly answered my calls, texts, and emails. Several times, he has reached out to me, just to check in on me. I can't say enough nice things about Allen as a professional and as a human. Definitely the best of both worlds. Highly recommended.
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19 Sep, 2024 by Julien grhas
I had an excellent experience working with Lawyer Allen Lightcap. He helped me get a citation canceled quickly and efficiently. Throughout the process, He was very professional, knowledgeable, and kept me well-informed. I highly recommend Attorney Allen Lightcap for anyone in need of legal assistance!
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07 Sep, 2024 by Haoyu chen
I had an excellent experience working with Allen regarding a traffic citation. He was professional, knowledgeable, and took the time to explain the process clearly, which helped ease my concerns. His expertise made a real difference in my case, and I couldn’t be happier with the outcome. If you’re looking for a trustworthy and effective attorney for traffic issues, I highly recommend Allen!
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19 Apr, 2024 by Olivia white
28 Oct, 2023 by Mackenzie clark
08 Sep, 2023 by Kayla jones
This firm gets the job done! They will go above and beyond for you, they truly care. I’ve worked with a few firms previously and none compare to Merritt and Merritt! The customer service is top tier from the staff as well as the attorney!
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Discover the ideal lawyer
You can search a lawyer by practice area, lawyer name, city, state, or ZIP code
FAQs
Questions? We have answers
What an Entertainment Lawyer Can Do for You
An entertainment lawyer specializes in legal matters related to the entertainment industry, including film, television, music, publishing, sports, and digital media. They assist artists, creators, producers, and companies with contract negotiations, intellectual property protection, licensing deals, royalties, and disputes. Entertainment lawyers also help clients navigate complex industry regulations and ensure their creative rights are protected.
Whether you're an actor, musician, producer, writer, or influencer, an entertainment lawyer can help safeguard your rights and ensure that your business deals are legally sound.
When Should I Hire an Entertainment Lawyer?
You should consider hiring an entertainment lawyer in a variety of situations, including:
- Contract negotiations: If you're signing a contract for a film role, recording deal, or publishing agreement, an entertainment lawyer can review the terms and negotiate on your behalf to ensure your interests are protected.
- Intellectual property protection: If you're a creator (musician, writer, filmmaker), an entertainment lawyer can help secure copyrights, trademarks, and licensing agreements to protect your work from unauthorized use.
- Disputes or litigation: If you’re involved in a legal dispute, such as breach of contract, copyright infringement, or defamation, an entertainment lawyer can represent you in negotiations or court.
- Representation agreements: If you’re hiring or entering into a contract with a manager, agent, or publicist, a lawyer can ensure that the terms of representation are fair and comply with industry standards.
- Royalties and licensing: If you're licensing your work for use in film, TV, or digital platforms, a lawyer can negotiate royalty agreements to ensure you receive proper compensation.
- Talent contracts: Whether you are hiring talent for a project or negotiating your own appearance or performance fees, an entertainment lawyer can ensure the terms are legally binding and beneficial.
- Film and television production: If you're producing a film, TV show, or other media project, a lawyer can handle contracts with crew, talent, and distributors, and ensure that all legal aspects of the production are covered.
Hiring a lawyer early in your entertainment career or project can prevent costly legal mistakes and protect your creative and financial interests.
What Does an Entertainment Lawyer Do?
An entertainment lawyer provides a range of legal services to professionals in the entertainment industry. Their responsibilities often include:
- Reviewing and drafting contracts: Entertainment lawyers review, draft, and negotiate contracts for talent, production, licensing, distribution, and endorsements. This ensures that the terms are fair and protect their client's interests.
- Securing intellectual property rights: They help clients obtain copyrights, trademarks, and patents for their creative works, and assist with licensing those rights to third parties.
- Negotiating deals: Whether it's a film deal, music contract, publishing agreement, or endorsement, an entertainment lawyer ensures that their client gets favorable terms and is protected from potential legal pitfalls.
- Handling disputes and litigation: In cases where contract terms are violated, intellectual property is infringed, or other legal issues arise, an entertainment lawyer can represent clients in negotiations, arbitration, or court.
- Advising on industry regulations: Entertainment lawyers help clients navigate industry-specific laws, such as union regulations, labor laws, or FCC rules for broadcasting.
- Managing royalties and residuals: They assist in tracking and collecting royalties or residuals for music, film, television, and digital content to ensure clients receive the compensation they are owed.
- Talent agreements and representation: Entertainment lawyers often work with talent agents and managers, ensuring that their clients' representation agreements are legally sound and financially beneficial.
How Are Entertainment Lawyers Paid?
Entertainment lawyers may be paid in various ways, depending on the type of service provided. Common payment structures include:
- Hourly rate: Many entertainment lawyers charge by the hour, with rates typically ranging from $250 to $1,000 or more, depending on the lawyer’s experience and the complexity of the case.
- Flat fee: For specific legal services, such as drafting a contract or filing a trademark, some lawyers offer flat fees. Flat fees are common in simpler or one-time transactions.
- Contingency fee: In some cases, especially when working with talent, entertainment lawyers may charge a contingency fee, meaning they take a percentage (usually 5% to 10%) of the client's earnings from a particular project.
- Retainer: For ongoing legal services, such as managing contracts and royalties over a long period, a lawyer may require a retainer fee. This is an upfront payment that covers future legal services, and the lawyer bills against the retainer as they work on the case.
It’s important to discuss fee structures with your lawyer at the outset to ensure you understand the total cost of legal services.
How Much Does an Entertainment Lawyer Cost?
The cost of hiring an entertainment lawyer depends on the complexity of your legal needs, the lawyer’s experience, and the type of fee arrangement. General cost estimates include:
- Hourly rates: Entertainment lawyers typically charge between $250 and $1,000 per hour. More experienced lawyers with extensive connections in the entertainment industry may charge higher rates.
- Flat fees: For simpler services like drafting a basic contract, flat fees can range from $500 to $5,000, depending on the complexity of the agreement.
- Contingency fees: Lawyers working on a contingency basis typically charge between 5% and 10% of the earnings from a project or deal. For example, if a lawyer helps you secure a $100,000 film contract, their fee might be $5,000 to $10,000.
- Retainers: For ongoing legal representation, retainers can range from $2,500 to $50,000 or more, depending on the scope of the legal services and the length of the engagement.
Always discuss the costs and fee structure during your initial consultation to ensure that the services fit within your budget.
Top Questions to Ask an Entertainment Lawyer
Before hiring an entertainment lawyer, it’s important to ask key questions to ensure they are the right fit for your career or project. Key questions to ask include:
-
What experience do you have in entertainment law?
Ensure the lawyer has experience in your specific area of the entertainment industry, whether it's film, music, television, or digital media. -
How do you charge for your services?
Clarify whether the lawyer charges by the hour, flat fee, or contingency fee, and ask for a detailed cost estimate. -
Do you have industry connections?
Ask about the lawyer’s experience and connections in the entertainment industry, which can be valuable for contract negotiations and deal-making. -
What contracts or legal issues should I be aware of?
Ask the lawyer to identify potential legal pitfalls in your specific project or career and how they would help you avoid them. -
What intellectual property protections do I need?
If you’re a creator, ask how the lawyer will help protect your intellectual property rights and prevent others from using your work without permission. -
How will you negotiate deals on my behalf?
Ask about the lawyer’s approach to negotiating contracts, ensuring they focus on getting favorable terms while maintaining strong industry relationships. -
What happens if there is a dispute?
Ask the lawyer how they handle disputes, including whether they aim for negotiation or litigation and how they would protect your interests.
How to Check the Credibility of an Entertainment Lawyer
To ensure you are hiring a reputable entertainment lawyer, take the following steps to verify their credentials and experience:
- Verify their bar status: Check with your state bar association to confirm that the lawyer is licensed to practice law and has no disciplinary actions against them.
- Look for entertainment law experience: Review the lawyer’s website or professional profile to ensure they specialize in entertainment law and have successfully handled cases or negotiations relevant to your industry.
- Read client reviews and testimonials: Look for reviews on platforms like Avvo, Martindale-Hubbell, or Google to see what previous clients say about their experience with the lawyer, especially in terms of contract negotiations and industry knowledge.
- Ask for references: A reputable lawyer should be able to provide references from past clients who have worked with them on entertainment-related matters.
- Check for industry memberships: Membership in entertainment law organizations, such as the Beverly Hills Bar Association Entertainment Law Section, can indicate a lawyer’s dedication to staying up-to-date on industry trends and regulations.
What Should I Prepare for My First Consultation?
To get the most out of your first consultation with an entertainment lawyer, it’s important to come prepared with relevant documents and information. Here’s what you should bring:
- Current contracts or agreements: Bring any contracts you have already signed or are considering, such as talent agreements, recording contracts, publishing deals, or management contracts.
- Intellectual property portfolio: Provide details about any copyrights, trademarks, or other intellectual property you own or are seeking to protect.
- Project details: If you’re working on a specific project (e.g., film, album, book), provide a summary of the project, your role, and any legal needs, such as contract negotiations or copyright protection.
- List of collaborators or stakeholders: Provide information about other parties involved in your project, such as agents, managers, producers, or distributors, and any contracts related to them.
- Questions about your legal needs: Write down any questions you have about the legal process, potential issues, and how the lawyer can help you protect your interests.
By preparing thoroughly for your consultation, you can help the lawyer assess your legal needs effectively and provide the best possible advice tailored to your entertainment career or project.
