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07 Jun, 2023 by James deragon
Over the course of one weekend, I suddenly found both of my elderly parents in the hospital. One of them would need to move into a nursing home almost immediately as the other recovered. Only, I had no clue how to even begin this process. An event like this is emotionally draining, and now, needing to quickly find a nursing home on top of this, was overwhelming. The nursing homes are ready to take patients, eager for them. Bring them on, private pay! Only going to cost you thousands of dollars a month. Easy. When I called Spencer Ghazey-Bates, this is where I was, completely lost and overwhelmed, prepared for my parents to lose a lifetime of gathered assets within the year. After getting off the phone, this all changed. I had a plan of action. I had reassurances from an expert that has done this time and time again for other families. An overall plan was made, steps were given, one at a time, so as not to be overwhelming. I finally could feel like I knew what to do and could start sorting our lives out again while the paperwork was being taken care of by professionals. The nursing home's billing departments are experts at working for themselves. Without professional legal representation, I felt defenseless from their statements and bills. With Spencer, you have an export that works FOR YOU. Over the months of this process, we gracefully landed with my parent in a good nursing home and my parent’s assets intact. Every call, email, and text to Spencer and his team was answered quickly and professionally, and at times, I almost could forget about the furious amounts of paperwork going back and forth in the background. I was able to focus instead on my family. I cannot more highly recommend Spencer-Ghazey-Bates and his team for any elder planning you could need than I already have. If your family is having a crisis, or even just planning for a crisis, this is the team you want in your corner.
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30 Apr, 2023 by Ana caban
Spencer Ghazey-Barts and team were so helpful in analyzing my parent's situation and proposing the course of action. I cannot thank them enough for their generosity and guidance. It will not be forgotten.
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19 Jun, 2021 by Jasper t
Spencer has been kind and patient, also very responsive and professional. Would be my first choice again in the future. Thank you.
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24 May, 2024 by Montserrat sole-robertson
I reached out to Zach who was Reccomnded though someone at Harvard law criminal justice department. I spoke to several other attorneys as well as Zach. Zach stands out compared to the 4 other attorneys I had consultations with. I called and he got back to me within the hour. I had a phone consultation with him about my case. He went above and beyond with out being asked. In our consult, and for several days following Zach continued to give me information I had never been presented before that could be the difference between winning and losing a case. This is all based on Zach’s experience, knowledge and research. He took the time and went far beyond the expectations of a consultation. He presented it from both sides and was able to play devils advocate well. Alone on his consult, I would highly Reccomnded Zach. There are many attorneys out there but there are few that put in the time and effort as Zach does.
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14 Nov, 2023 by Sam defranceschi
Mr. Lown is a smart and ethical collogue of mine I have known for over 30 years. I refer people to him knowing they will be taken care of and treated properly. Highly recommend.
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23 Aug, 2023 by Anna drexler
two of the kindest people i have ever known!
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05 Feb, 2010 by Lorenzo
John has handled a number of projects on my behalf, such as restaurants, business transactions & trademarks, and some smaller items. He is personable and savvy, with a great deal of expertise entertainment and business law. A great combination is his field of business.
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04 Feb, 2010 by Cheryl
I worked with John for a brief time where he negotiated licensing and IP deals that could be very complex. My past experience in entertainment IP saw many deals fall apart for lack of mutual understanding in this very new territory. Not the case with John, he was diligent, thoughtful and speaks in terms all can understand. I continue to consult with John on personal business and trust him to always be straight and guide me to the best solution.
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02 Feb, 2010 by David
I consider myself extremely lucky to have found John. He's a consummate professional and an awfully nice guy as well. He always gets back to me quickly and always seems to have time to talk, even when the meter is not running. Absolutely recommend!
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17 Jun, 2019 by Anonymous
Ms. Bogle was very helpful throughout the whole process. She did an excellent job and I highly recommend her.
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10 Jun, 2019 by Joseph
As an artist, we get taken advantaged of a lot. Not so with Attorney Bogle! I hired Attorney Bogle to do my O-1 Artist Visa. I listened and did everything she told me to do, and it was successful. A couple years later, I hired her to do my EB-1 Green Card Application. Attorney Bogle told me all the reasons why it was a difficult case with my facts, but with her expertise, she built a strong case. Still, she told me to expect a RFE. Imagine my shock when the Green Card arrived without the RFE! I couldn't have asked for a better lawyer!
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27 Aug, 2018 by Lila
My Immigration case was hard and 10 other lawyers who took my money couldn’t help me for 20 years. I was ready to go back to my home country when I found Attorney Bogle! She was honest and upfront with me from the first Consultation that I may get deported, but she would do everything to fight and get me a green card. She took the time to research my issues and give me different options with a plan. I followed her instructions and the plan. She got me the Green Card and it’s really a miracle! I don’t believe any other lawyer would’ve gotten me my green card - I tried for 20 years. Hiring Attorney Bogle was the best thing I did! You should hire her too!
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30 Jul, 2016 by Justin
Liz reviewed the operating agreement for my game development start-up and provided excellent advice. She caught several errors and pointed out a number of subtle issues I - and my partner's lawyers - had missed. I was deeply impressed with her capacity for clearly communicating complicated topics, and would strongly recommend her to anyone starting a game company.
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25 Jan, 2015 by Anonymous
I've met Liz at several game development community events and I worked with a client of hers whose well written contractor agreements I have seen firsthand. When I needed specialized legal advice on a game publishing contract that my general practice attorney was not able to provide, I reached out to Liz for help. She provided a detailed assessment of the situation, the risks involved and our options to proceed in the matter.
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28 Jul, 2014 by Anonymous
I am a freelance digital artist and first met Liz at community events--she is very friendly and courteous. I remembered her when I wanted to hire a lawyer to help me draft a contract for a new project/client. She told me clearly from the outset the price for the type and quantity of work, and she stuck to it. I was out of town at the time and she was able to work with me long distance. Her feedback on the contract was analytical and clear, exactly what I needed. And the price was reasonable. I would definitely recommend Ms. Surette.
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07 Jun, 2023 by James deragon
Over the course of one weekend, I suddenly found both of my elderly parents in the hospital. One of them would need to move into a nursing home almost immediately as the other recovered. Only, I had no clue how to even begin this process. An event like this is emotionally draining, and now, needing to quickly find a nursing home on top of this, was overwhelming. The nursing homes are ready to take patients, eager for them. Bring them on, private pay! Only going to cost you thousands of dollars a month. Easy. When I called Spencer Ghazey-Bates, this is where I was, completely lost and overwhelmed, prepared for my parents to lose a lifetime of gathered assets within the year. After getting off the phone, this all changed. I had a plan of action. I had reassurances from an expert that has done this time and time again for other families. An overall plan was made, steps were given, one at a time, so as not to be overwhelming. I finally could feel like I knew what to do and could start sorting our lives out again while the paperwork was being taken care of by professionals. The nursing home's billing departments are experts at working for themselves. Without professional legal representation, I felt defenseless from their statements and bills. With Spencer, you have an export that works FOR YOU. Over the months of this process, we gracefully landed with my parent in a good nursing home and my parent’s assets intact. Every call, email, and text to Spencer and his team was answered quickly and professionally, and at times, I almost could forget about the furious amounts of paperwork going back and forth in the background. I was able to focus instead on my family. I cannot more highly recommend Spencer-Ghazey-Bates and his team for any elder planning you could need than I already have. If your family is having a crisis, or even just planning for a crisis, this is the team you want in your corner.
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30 Apr, 2023 by Ana caban
Spencer Ghazey-Barts and team were so helpful in analyzing my parent's situation and proposing the course of action. I cannot thank them enough for their generosity and guidance. It will not be forgotten.
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19 Jun, 2021 by Jasper t
Spencer has been kind and patient, also very responsive and professional. Would be my first choice again in the future. Thank you.
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14 Dec, 2013 by Dave
I can't speak highly enough about Valerie. First off, she's an amicable person. I know that doesn't count for much in a world governed by law, but just her tone of voice is so comforting. And it's nice to have a lawyer you feel like you can trust. She is a professor @ Berklee College of Music in Boston, MA. So if that doesn't scream credibility, then I don't know what does! Let's get down to business: Valerie knows everything regarding music law. Period. End. You will never need to retain another lawyer. And she's honest! I feel like most lawyers just want quick money. But her rates are surprisingly quite reasonable. I highly doubt you'll find another lawyer with rates as competitive as hers, who will put the same amount of time and energy into your case(s) as she will. Valerie helped my band with trademarks, copyrights, professional name searches, and so much more. Seriously, without Valerie we probably would have made a several major mistakes upon entering the music industry. She helped us dodge & squash all of that, along with a few red flag issues we were having with our former recording studio. I've learned so much in the process as well. As a result, I'm more aware, and I feel like a better musician now. Valerie doesn't offer free consultations. BUT the pre-consultation form is pretty much a free consultation in itself. I like it because it asks you questions that you may not have even thought of yet because you've been focused on making music/booking gigs. For example: your goals, your concept, if you have a manager/agent, your creative process, copyrights filings, etc. It gets you really thinking about the overall bigger picture. And it helps Valerie get to know you or your band better. From there, she can help guide you in the right direction. I remember my consultation with was 2 hours long. We literally covered at least 10+ different things extensively over the phone. I couldn't remember some of what we discussed the next day, but I was SO happy when 2 days later she emailed me a professionally drafted follow up consultation document that contained everything we talked about in detail. It had a glossary, and everything. Just like a book. She even included a to do list, ha! That consultation was worth every single penny! And I still reference the follow up document every now and then when I need to.
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13 Feb, 2012 by Debbie
Valerie is an outstanding music attorney. She's smart, fair, organized, proactive, and a pleasure to work with. She's great at the big picture and fine details and she's excellent at what she does. Indeed, she usually finds errors in my third-party contracts that they are thrilled to learn of and fix. Valerie does what she says she'll do, for the price she quotes and in the time she says it will take. She's a woman of her word. There are never any surprises. People looking for a music attorney should jump at the chance to work with Valerie Lovely.
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12 Feb, 2012 by Max
I cannot speak highly enough of Valerie. She has reviewed several contracts for me and ensured I was protected in a copyright dispute! She is incredibly responsive, even replying on weekends, If you are lucky enough to retain her services you will not be disappointed. She takes great care of small artists, going out of her way to help my co-writer and I avoid some common contractual errors. I always look forward to working with her, she is fantastic!
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24 Feb, 2021 by Jennifer
Having never worked with an attorney before, we had no idea what to really look for in selecting someone. But Hun Ohm came very highly recommended and from our very first meeting, we could tell we were in good hands. Now three years later, after working very closely with him on several detailed Intellectual Property agreements, I count my lucky stars every day that we chose Ohm for this work. He is everything you would want in an attorney. He works quickly. He catches every detail. He ensures that he is protecting your interests every step of the way. He was patient when we had many questions. He was also a joy to work with, as we very much appreciated his calm, grounded demeanor. I recommend him enthusiastically.
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15 Feb, 2021 by Justin
Hun has done a wonderful job helping me navigate tricky legal situations over the past few years in the realm of entertainment and intellectual property. He's highly responsive and professional over all forms of communication, and has always been quick to find straightforward solutions to my problems. When working on business contracts together, he clearly enumerates every outcome and works closely with me to ensure the final agreements are comprehensive and fair.
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09 Jan, 2021 by Anonymous
Working with Fierst Bloomberg Ohm LLP has been excellent. I've been their client for several years and I have never been left wanting for more responsive or thorough support. In cases where a question lies outside of their areas of focus they have referred me to others who can better answer my questions. I recommend their practice to anyone. Specifically, Hun has worked with me on our IP licensing contracts. He has a wealth of knowledge about what is common practice and is ethical and fair in his recommendations. It helps us to maintain a moral business while still protecting our financial future. He had great advice, therefore, on how/when to calculate recoupment of publisher costs. And he has had many creative solutions to write safety net protections for both developer and publisher so we can navigate negotiations.
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23 Jun, 2022 by Richelle murray
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23 Oct, 2018 by Madeline molina
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04 May, 2022 by Rita
Mr Hecht solved my Michigan business issues that I was dealing for about two years. I had a great attorney in MI, but my case had to be transfer to MA. I am glad that my attorney in MI Jeffrey Fleury found Mr Hecht it was the best. He has common sense in every word he says, very calm do not make me anxious, honesty with his fees, he really cares about what our needs are. I am so grateful and really ul for have him to take care of my business. I 100% recommend Mr Grant Hecht office. Rita Filippini
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15 Aug, 2017 by J j g
Julie was the closing attorney that I hired, and because of the ease of that transaction, I would not hesitate to refer her to anyone making their first - or last! - home purchase. Julie took the time to educate me on the process (being a first time home buyer) to be sure that I understood every part of the transaction. She is well-educated, informative, friendly - and goes above and beyond for her clients!!
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24 Feb, 2017 by Wincy chin
She is very nice and experienced, helped me for trademark issue including litigation and new registration. She is very helpful !
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01 Apr, 2024 by Sarah christiansen
Peter and Beth were incredibly helpful handling the closing of our home after we had moved out of state. Highly recommend!
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12 Dec, 2023 by Caroline costello
Incredible practice! Peter and team were so helpful with explaining the real estate closing process and walked us through all of the steps with kindness and support. Thank you all!
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21 Nov, 2023 by Eve jenkins
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10 Oct, 2024 by Gary boston
I am very grateful to Attorney Murphy for helping my family. He successfully resolved our issues and we couldn't be happier with his work. Great communications, very knowledgeable and a very nice person. I would definitely recommend him to anyone.
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05 Oct, 2024 by Andrew goldberg
Ethical, great lawyer who helped me tremendously during tremulous times. He was always readily available for communication when needed. Thank you for getting me through difficult times Darius!
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10 Dec, 2023 by Laura goode
From the very first conversation I had with Darius, I felt like he was on my side, something I didn’t feel when I was discussing my case with other attorneys. He was ethical and supportive and made himself available throughout the ups and downs of the case. In the end, I was able to get to a successful resolution to my case and decided to retain Darius for corporate counsel.
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20 Jul, 2023 by Mandy garland
Gregory was very helpful with my spouse’s immigration case! Thank you so much!! We would definitely recommend:)
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03 Oct, 2024 by Gilberto cora
I'm very happy with the law office of Brian Simone they work very quick to get me a date with the registry and I received my license with in weeks I will recommend them 100 percent thank you very much Brian
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01 Oct, 2024 by Raymond cruz
Bryan Simoneau is, without a doubt, the best attorney for handling these types of cases. I was absolutely blown away by his dedication and expertise! I initially hired him for an interlock device-related hearing & appeal but casually mentioned in an email that I had a hearing with a magistrate for a suspended license violation. Fully expecting to handle it myself, I was shocked when, without hesitation, Bryan joined the Zoom call and swiftly resolved the issue on the spot. I've never experienced such outstanding representation. Thank you, Attorney Simoneau!
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30 Sep, 2024 by Mike rachiele
Attorney Simoneau is who you want in your corner. From my first call, to the final email results from Attorney Simoneau, he was professional, detail oriented, thoroughly knowledgeable and confident. I was facing an extremely tough set of circumstances and conditions. Attorney Simoneau walked me through everything I needed to do and represented me in a manor that far exceeded anything I expected. I highly recommend Attorney Simoneau for any RMV related issues. I can’t thank him enough for how he helped me!
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25 May, 2024 by S y
I have known Ed as as a colleague, friend, and personal counsel for over 20 years. Ed has thorough knowledge of the law and with his expertise and creativity, he knows how to come up with an innovative solution. He is an attorney other attorneys hire for their own matters.
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28 Feb, 2024 by Erxat mmt
Mr.Hung, my attorney, exemplified a remarkable commitment to his work, demonstrating a strong sense of responsibility and meticulous attention to detail. In less than two years, I achieved the successful acquisition of the necessary documents. I am genuinely pleased with his professionalism and the effective manner in which he managed my case.
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30 Jan, 2024 by Adrian stafford-browne
Mr. Hung was readily available as a consultant to provide insight into my situation regarding a transfer of deed. He was thorough in reviewing the details and provided alternative options to make the best decision for my family and I. Based on his advice a positive outcome was achieved in a matter of days. I would definitely recommend him based on his professionalism and responsiveness.
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18 Sep, 2024 by Justina gannon
It seems the only way I get a call back from this firm is when I leave a bad review. It’s been almost 3 years and my case is still not settled. Every time I call, I get the run around with “they are in a meeting”. THREE YEARS. This is ridiculous. Don’t take on more cases if you can’t even settle the ones you have open!!
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26 Aug, 2024 by A z
It was a pleasure to have business with Jeffrey Glassman Law Firm and especially Jerry Fox! Thank you again!
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24 Aug, 2024 by Shaisha mccall
Sarina Ahmed, from Jeffrey Glassman did a great job helping me with my case, I’m very happy with the service I received
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02 Oct, 2024 by Manux
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02 Oct, 2024 by 田园漫步
哈佛最顶尖专业之一。
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29 Sep, 2024 by Erikanne hidalgo
Extra Ordinary Experience.. Simply and Truly the Best!.. Thank you.
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10 Sep, 2024 by Cody
Fantastic service. Quick, easy, affordable. Highly recommend to anyone and everyone. The process was very smooth and clear. It provided helpful videos to explain less straightforward topics and made it easy to discuss with your partner. The offered online notary service seems like a great option for those without easy access to a notary
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08 Sep, 2024 by Alexia hayashi
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07 Sep, 2024 by Paul ross
Very easy to use and easy to understand. 10 out of 10
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15 Apr, 2024 by Amber
Just amazing. The bad review on here is hilarious. Lmao. He’s known in the area for being one of the best lawyers. Everyone I know either knows of him or has hired him. Such a great guy.
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12 Sep, 2020 by Richard bingle
Great guy Got back to me on a Saturday. Really put the time in for me. Very easy to work with
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31 Aug, 2020 by Anonymous
I scheduled a 30 minute free consultation. Marvin was 15 minutes late and rushed to end the phone call. The call lasted 8 minutes. Some of my questions were answered. At the end of the 8 minutes I had additional questions to ask. While I was mid-asking my questions, he ended the call. I completely understand time is money, but my purpose for this consultation was to ultimately determine if Marvin is the lawyer I plan to hire. If the intent were to have a 15 minute max discussion then why are 30 minute blocks available? Or, provide an email informing me of the shorten duration of allocated time. If 8 minutes were only available, then I would have rearranged my questioning accordingly. I dislike giving poor reviews in a customer centric environment because I have been there myself, but I felt like my call inconvenienced Marvin and I felt extremely undervalued.
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15 Nov, 2023 by Nathan wagner
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18 Sep, 2020 by Scott guilbeault
I am not one to write many recommendations but I am compelled to do so because of the superior service I have received over the years. Specifically I have been a client of Chris Agostino for over a decade and I could not articulate in writing how much I appreciate him and his firm. Chris has provided guidance on both personal and business issues over the years and I forever grateful for everything he has done for me. In fact, over the years we have developed more than a client/attorney relationship...I consider him a friend and trusted advisor that I have referred to multiple individuals and business owners to him and his firm. I give my highest personal and personal reccomendation to RIW and Chris Agostino. Call me if you have any questions or are considering engagement with this firm.
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11 Sep, 2020 by Steve anderson
Great team at RIW. They have knowlege and experience needed for sophistcated transactions. I can count on them to see a deal through. Highly recommend, especially for restaurant and hospitality matters.
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11 May, 2024 by Luke haller
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11 May, 2024 by David bernadino
Great law firm. Provided professional service, and treated my company with personalized attention. I would highly recommend the Morse law firm.
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11 May, 2024 by Stratford planter
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11 May, 2024 by Luke haller
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11 May, 2024 by David bernadino
Great law firm. Provided professional service, and treated my company with personalized attention. I would highly recommend the Morse law firm.
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11 May, 2024 by Stratford planter
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08 Nov, 2021 by Sean king
Under construction. Awful signage. Had to ask 3 people where to park.
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16 Nov, 2017 by Chris
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04 Sep, 2017 by Alex nee
Typical lawyers. Won't call you back no matter how often you contact them. Well tell you one thing, but never get around to it.
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26 Jun, 2024 by Anonymous
His father, Peter Caruso Sr., wrote my parents will. As a result, we paid him (he was NH certified- dad was not) to probate it when they passed away. Several months were needlessly lost due to inaction on Peter's part. Each month was costing us approx. $1000 in expenses to maintain the property. All the while, we were under the impression that he was handling the situation with the court. He was not. In fact, the form was filed incorrectly and late. When the probate court sent him an email to correct the situation he never responded. He later blamed his spam folder. We finally had to end the relationship and handle the process pro se. He returned $20 out of $1500, claiming that he had put 3hrs into the case at $395 per hour plus filing fees. Don't use this attorney, he doesn't seem to take his responsibilities seriously enough.
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30 Dec, 2019 by Anonymous
Linda is the rudest attorney I've worked with. She is on top of things but has the most abrasive personalities I have ever encountered. Expect to be chastised constantly through her communications. She was curt and accusatory to me as a client. She did her job but at the expense of alienating practically everyone involved.
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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:

  1. 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.
  2. 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.
  3. 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.
  4. 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.
  5. 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.
  6. 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.
  7. 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.

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