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05 Apr, 2024 by Roy wasilco
Extremely professional and easy to work with.
Price point is very fair and transparent.
He took a very stressful occasion for me and made it simple and painless.
I can't recommend him and his office enough!
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21 May, 2023 by Kevin g
Mattias solved my legal issues quickly and professionally. He went above and beyond for me and I’m very grateful.
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06 Oct, 2022 by Tracey green
Matthias fee to help me with a sensitive probation violation was extremely fair, even though he had to travel an hour to get to court. Other lawyers wouldn’t even touch it because the $$ were not enough to make it worth their while. I’m grateful and extremely pleased!
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08 Jul, 2024 by Fannie craft
Poor communication. He rarely returned calls. Was retained for a post conviction case (appeal) and this attorney presented the same evidence as the trial attorney… no new evidence nor error was presented in the appellate brief….he was not prepared nor did he research the case. Very disappointed.. would not recommend.
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03 Jun, 2024 by Gerald mcnair
28 Mar, 2024 by Lorenna guzman
10 Jan, 2025 by Charlie salah
Farris Haddad He is an outstanding attorney whose dedication and availability set him apart. No matter the time of day, Farris always takes the time to answer my questions, providing reassurance and clarity with every case he handles. His remarkable expertise has earned him recognition from numerous organizations and a reputation for working with some of the most prominent clients in the industry.
Beyond his impressive professional achievements, Farris is also a wonderful person—devoted to his family, with three sons and a loving wife. His strong values and integrity are evident in every interaction, and the exceptional team he leads reflects the same level of knowledge and professionalism, ensuring that all your legal needs are managed with care and precision.
If you are seeking legal representation, look no further. Farris Haddad and his firm are second to none!
Sincerely,
Charlie Salah
This version keeps your original tone while enhancing flow, structure, and impact.
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24 Feb, 2024 by Tarik hasanovic
The best law firm for any case you have, my life was in shambles until I connected with Farris Haddad/ his amazing team. From day one I was treated like family and not just a check book. I had a few cases going on 3 being criminal and 1 being an auto injury case, I shopped around for attorneys and when it came to the criminal matters (Super Drunk DUI, Loitering with intent, and operating vehicle with illegal equipment) after speaking to the attorneys I was sure that I would be going to jail for a minimum of 3-6months with a year or two probation and at the same time have my license revoked/suspended and ignation Interlock. I had a major brain injury last year and honestly was about to give up and felt like i lost the last bit of myself that is left, I couldn’t handle the answers I was getting from other attorneys I felt like my life was over and really didn’t want to continue with it. Luckily I have Farris and his team like I stated before they treated me like family from day one and assured me they would keep me out of jail, I felt like I was reborn after speaking to Farris almost all the stress I had vanished in an instance. Farris and his team set up a strategized game plan to knock the cases out in the most aggressive but economical way possible, Farris laid out a few routes we could could take and directly got to executing said plan. Literally an All-Star team they got me the best possible outcome, I couldn’t believe it 2 of the 3 cases were completely dismissed, and the Super drunk DUI (High BAC way over .17 around a .223 which is a felony dui entails 6 months of jail, 2 years probation, 6+ points on record, crazy high tickets and a license revocation for a minimum of a year after which a blow device would need to be installed if I wanted to drive in the future is what i was expecting), I basically dug myself into a crazy deep whole talking to the officer at the time but Farris did his magic and somehow got it dropped to a misdemeanor OWVI and would have had it totally dropped if it weren’t for my own mistake but he still managed to get it dropped as low as possible. No jail, no license revocation or suspension, I basically received a slap on the wrist thanks to Farris. I can’t begin to express my appreciation for Farris and his law firm, I’m so thankful they came into my life they made it a breeze for me so I could actually fully focus on healing from being injured in major accident. I was working with another attorney for the auto injury case if you can even call it working, he wasn’t getting much done literally did 5 hours of work in my case in 12 months, I was left to fend for myself and damn near lost everything in the process whilst my previous attorney wasn’t even answering my calls or emails. So I asked Farris if he and his law firm could take over and they agreed to take the case over and got straight to work. Like I said this is an All-Star team and Farris hooked me up with his best and in my opinion the best Injury attorney you could possibly ask for Attorney Michael Oblizajek, Mike got straight on the case and for the first time since my injury I felt like something was getting done. Previous attorney didn’t even try to push for any of the benefits I was entitled to. I was missing doctors appointments due to transportation and was forced to sleep in my car because I had no money for rent because the previous attorney pushed for nothing bit himself, I almost lost myself/my will to live, the previous attorney and the auto insurance caused me so much stress and anguish that I wanted to give up. Thank god I found Farris and his team once they got to it everything changed. I was set up with a case manager, transportation, wage loss benefits, back pay for prior transportation, prescription/insurance card all within a month something my previous lawyer couldn’t do in a year. If you want a Law firm that actually cares and will fight for you go with The Law Office of Farris F. Haddad & Associates. I guarantee you can’t go wrong and will be treated like family not $ like others do.
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04 Nov, 2023 by Los plagus
29 Jan, 2025 by Kelly ryan
If I could give 10 stars I would. I am so grateful for Ashley. From the moment she picked up the phone I knew I made the right choice when dealing with some real estate issues. Ashley made me feel comfortable, she listened, and gave me ALL information I needed in a way I could understand it. She was so kind, helpful, and I don't think I would trust anyone else. 10/10 recommend Attisha Law.
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24 Jan, 2025 by Josh markovich
Sanford did a great job with my case was with me every step of the way he went above and beyond if you need a lawyer, I strongly recommend sanford
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17 Jan, 2025 by Chris ward
We just finished a case where Mr Schulman was our lawyer.He’s very knowledgeable and court savvy.We would sometimes have communication breakdowns.But overall we were very pleased with his representation.You might have to stay on him on certain issues, in the end he is the real deal.We appreciate all of his hardworking and court generalship.He knows his job.Yes I would recommend him.
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29 Jun, 2023 by Madalyn
Mike was incredibly prompt and attentive when he did my consult; I felt definitely heard out when explaining my situation and having to make some hard choices for my family, however Mike gave amazing advice to help guide me to a solution. Although it was only a consult, I plan to move forward and hire him for anything regarding family law. Mr Goldman, the head attorney of the firm I inquired with who referred me to Mike, called me after hours because of the urgency of the situation and gave amazing advice. You can tell everyone that works in that office cares about their clients and want to do whatever they can to help them out.
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30 Apr, 2023 by Sarah g.
Mike is great. He met all of our film production needs and then some. He's a joy to work with and truly wants to see you succeed. He's an expert on the law first of all, but he knows so much about film production, cinema itself, and is the most creative lawyer I have ever dealt with. If you need anything in the world of production accomplished, you cannot go wrong by hiring Michael Mauro and Mauro Law Firm. Our business formation, releases, production contracts, and everything else was left in great hands, and we felt reassured and confident with the firm on our side throughout the entire process.
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06 Nov, 2022 by Katie
I had a great experience with the Mauro Law Firm team, especially Michael Mauro! In 70 years, this is the first time I had to hire an attorney. Mike Mauro promptly returned my call. He gave me a free consultation before hiring him for some estate planning issues. I found him very knowledgeable, polite, respectful of my time and money, and interested in discussing various methods of attacking my issues. I would definitely recommend him in the future!
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28 Dec, 2024 by Saad asim
26 Dec, 2024 by Delphine manka'abusi, dr.
23 Dec, 2024 by Danial nayeri
25 Oct, 2019 by Anonymous
Legal issues can’t be take easy and I Learn that the hard way. I found my self deeply on trouble and thankfully. God send me the right person to help me on this. Ms Peterson did a great job and proved that I was wrongly accused.
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17 Sep, 2018 by Nh
This bright young criminal defense attorney helped me with an legal issue that I was wrongly accused of, her patient and ethical strategy made an unjust situation clear to the justice system in the Metropolitan Detroit ares.
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10 Sep, 2018 by Anonymous
Ms. Peterson was hired and represented me @ the 16th District Court in Livonia.
She was very professional and did a great job.
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15 Aug, 2024 by Colby
Aaron did some legal work for my podcast and let's just say that I have never been so impressed. He is fast to reply, very kind, and truly wants what is best for you the client. He is an overall great dude and he has my highest recommendation. Thank you again Aaron
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22 Jan, 2021 by Thomasmbeats
Aaron is top tier when it comes to being a lawyer for entertainment! Very professional, organized, caring, respectful, knowledgeable when it comes to dealing with his work. He also helped me with my first artist-producer agreement. I would recommend Aaron and will continue to work with him as my attorney! 10/10!
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12 Sep, 2012 by Marcel
I've hired Aaron Silvenis to handle the needs of myself and all of my clients. After meeting Aaron and discussing our needs, I knew that he was the man for the job. It truly is hard to find trustworthy individuals in the music industry but Aaron is definitely that individual. I've dealt with a couple of Entertainment Lawyers in the past and while they all talk a good game, none delivered the results and professionalism that Aaron has.
I would highly recommend Aaron Silvenis for anything you're working on. I put my name, reputation, and brand behind this endorsement!
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14 Jul, 2015 by Katrina
Attorney Kristina Wilson assisted me with preparing a contract for a major project.. She was very professional and extremely knowledgeable about contracts. Kristina was very communicative during the process and answered all of my questions. I am very thankful for the help that Kristina provided, and would highly recommend her to anyone seeking an attorney.
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14 Jul, 2015 by Kai p
Kristina comes very recommended. She gives great advice, very professional and prompt. Having the experience with contracts made my relationship with her great. She
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13 Jan, 2017 by O.c.
Great attorney he handle my DUI in redford mi Michigan reasonably priced and got me off with probation he really goes the extra mile
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02 Oct, 2018 by Anonymous
This lawyer went over a belong . New all the steps it took to ensure that my petition for expungement was to be granted on October 2nd 2018 the judge Grant my petition
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23 Oct, 2024 by Julie parks
I had to open probate for my dad's estate and I was referred to Kyle. My brother and I knew nothing about probate and Kyle was very knowledgeable and accommodating to our needs. His Legal Assistant, Dianne was amazing. She was very responsive to our requests. I ended up having to use them to help with my mom's estate as well. I definitely recommend Kyle and his team.
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10 Jun, 2024 by Will cook
Kyle did a trust for our family and we would highly recommend his services. He approached our plan in a highly personal way, and I felt like he crafted something to our specific needs. He took care of us at every step of the process and made it fun. Recommend retaining him if you have young children. We felt very secure in our son's future if something should happen to us.
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06 Aug, 2023 by Lisa rozewski
Updated our living trust documents.
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22 Sep, 2016 by Surendra kelwala
Ed Plato represented me for getting back 2600 dollars on water bill which the City where I have rental property was trying to collect from me. The meter was running backwards and therefore my renter was not being charged for the water consumption. The city did not detect the error for over an year and then using some complex mathematics tried to collect the money from me. Ed found negligence on part of the city to not detect what was happening through their meter readers and the city, who had collected the money from me in advance via using threat of cutting the water altogether, had to pay me back the entire sum.
It was very gratifying to see Ed beat the city.
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17 Dec, 2019 by Sarah dragich
13 Oct, 2024 by Deborah g
I am grateful to have found Attorney Schlussel. She listened to my concerns and assisted me in understanding the “Legal Jargon” that I did not understand and she explained it very well. The reason I was able to understood so well is because she explained it in “lay terms” at my level of understanding. It helped ease my anxieties about what may lie ahead for me in my legal situation. I recommend Attorney Schlussel because before I found her , it difficult for me to find a good lawyer who did not rush me off the phone and make me feel like my case was financially beneath them. Attorney Schlussel made me feel like I mattered and that my feelings and concerns mattered. I found her to be knowledgeable, professional,, easy to communicate with and a person of good character. She actually cares about people and their issues. I want to also add, she returned all my calls in a timely manner. Thank you so much Attorney Schlussel.
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01 Oct, 2024 by Scott
Retaining Debbie as your counsel is the best choice for you to make.
She is experienced in what she practices and most importantly cares for you and your interests as her client.
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24 Sep, 2024 by Rhonda
She was smart, friendly and most Professional. She knew what she was doing and was a calming presence. Best lawyer with whom I have had interaction.
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02 Jan, 2025 by Renee heinzman
They are very professional firm, I’m glad that I chose them as I trust them as well, it’s comforting to know that you can rest your head at night knowing that you picked the BEST !!
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15 Dec, 2024 by Deborah baker
Was a great experience working with Lee Steinberg Law Firm. Would highly recommend them. Blessings & Thank You
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12 Dec, 2024 by Brittany hiner
They were very responsive and answered all my questions. I was able to get the help I needed.
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23 Jan, 2025 by Sneh bansal
I was looking for help at a short notice to fight a traffic ticket.Tiffany at DeBruin Law, PLLC took my case and since then I had a piece of mind. She was always prompt in her representation and reaching out to me with updates. Hiring her for this case saved me so much time and struggles of uncertainty.
Tiffany was always realistic in what outcome to expect and got me the best possible.
And then she was prompt again to reach court for getting an error corrected.
She was very patient , professional, kind, honest and reliable during the duration of case.I would recommend her 100%. And I would approach her in future if needed.
Thanks Tiffany for all you did!
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22 Jan, 2025 by Elizabeth “mehhch217” hoffman
An empowering and exceptionally competent person and professional whose service in a case, no matter the extent, significantly positively impacts her clients. All charges were dropped in our particular case because of this beautiful woman, even though she was not the lead defense attorney. As a strong female lawyer, her strength makes her clients who are women feel instantly secure and self-assured, but she does that for all people she represents. Thank you.
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17 Jan, 2025 by Mike b
Tiffany is awesome! If I need her services again she will be at the top of my list!
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26 Nov, 2024 by Brad behlow
If you’re looking for the best defense attorney, Andrew Kassab is the one to call. He represented me over 8 years ago, and my case lasted more than 9 months. Throughout that time, he was professional, thorough, and always kept me informed. Andrew’s confidence and knowledge of the law are unmatched, and his background as a former prosecutor truly sets him apart. He fought tirelessly and achieved the best possible outcome for my case. I’m still incredibly grateful for everything he did. Highly recommend Andrew Kassab!
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22 Nov, 2024 by David diroma
When I moved to Detroit, I found myself in a bit of a difficult situation. Andrew listened to my story and reached out a helping hand. His assistance and guidance played a major role in the success I’ve found myself in today.
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14 Nov, 2024 by Vera pattah
Andrew was phenomenal in representing me! He had the best attitude, communicated with me the whole way through so I felt comfortable and knew what was going on every step of the way, and he definitely knows his criminal law!! I highly recommend him; he is the best criminal defense attorney out there!
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28 Sep, 2024 by Farmer craft
Had an agreement written and needed to make amendments to be made but I was left hanging. No response to my email. Waste of money. I do not recommend this firm.
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06 Jun, 2024 by Carrie freeman
Tom is a fantastic mediator. His staff is exceptional.
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17 May, 2024 by M k
Kuiper Kraemer was great to work with. Tom gave me honest advice right from the start and explained my options in an understandable way. He explained the risks and rewards of my various options and informed me of the costs upfront. It was like we were sitting on the same side of the table trying to find the best solution to the issue at hand. He was very responsive, even replying on weekends.
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20 Feb, 2013 by Anonymous
Tom prepared my estate plan. His work was thorough and meticulous. Unlike many lawyers in his field, he makes sure that all of the tasks that need to be taken care of in order to implement the plan (e.g., retitling of assets) are accomplished.
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08 Apr, 2013 by Marsha
He was calm, confident and knowledgeable. He handled serious situations with ideal outcomes.
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12 Oct, 2010 by Anonymous
My daughter had a great contact with Mr. Hadley when she had a serious concern at her previous employer. His advice was invaluable. I referred an elderly neighbor for estate questions to him, he treated her like he would his own mother, he went to her home rather than have her drive to his office. She was so grateful and never ceased to sing his praises to me. I had worked with him as well, in a prior employment and know he is trustworthy, hardworking, knowledable and would not hesitate to recommend him to anyone.
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27 Nov, 2024 by Janet messina
We hired the draper lawfirm recently and had complete confidence in Mr. Draper, he was extremely competent and de-stressed a stressful situation. His paralegal megan was not only helpful, but knowledgeable and prompt in communication with us. We would absolutely refer this lawfirm!
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23 Oct, 2024 by Ct i
We were referred to Dave Draper and Draper Law to get help applying for a Special District Michigan liquor license. Draper Law provided sound advice and stayed with the process through to its successful ending!
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15 Oct, 2024 by Jimmy stevens
We received amazing support on and away from the court room. They made not only dealing with the prosecution easy but all the paperwork and fines. David and his team is top notch
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19 Sep, 2024 by Salil sahu
04 Aug, 2024 by Fatima nahhal
He’s a great lawyer. He handled my case great will definitely recommend to other people.
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16 May, 2024 by Shawn hamilton
I hired Todd for a very serious charge pertaining to operating a motor vehicle under the influence of alcohol. This was a Felony matter and the possibility of an extend jail sentence was real and highly probable. From the first visit with him in Oakland county Jail he was honest and upfront with me on what he felt he could bring to the table. I couldn’t be happier with his services from the day of retention all the way through to sentencing. He was always very responsive and fought hard against the prosecutor when they tried to make a case for a harsher punishment. Todd was also very fairly priced for the experience and knowledge of the Judges and Prosecutors in Oakland county. I truly believe he got me the best possible outcome in a situation that could have turned out very ugly. Great guy and a great lawyer – worth every penny!!
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05 Jul, 2023 by Thiany riddihough
I highly recommend ZVMLaw. I had the pleasure of working with Mackenzie C. Burns. He walked me through each aspect of my case beforehand and while we were working through it. He answered every question I had in detail and was very communicative. He genuinely cared about my case and it showed through his exceptional work. I couldn't be more pleased with the end result.
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29 Jan, 2023 by Arvind-pal mandair
Excellent Law firm. They worked with absolute integrity and took a genuine interest in my case. Zach was great to work with; he explained and simplified aspects of internet law in a way that was also very educational.
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18 Aug, 2022 by King of innovation
16 Jan, 2024 by Byrd dorgin
My family and I would like to thank Matt, Mickey, Janice, and your entire law firm for your dedication to my wife’s wrongful death case. We realize that we had the best law firm to successfully help us. We appreciate the obviously hard work and the efforts you put into it. You are a terrific team and I, along with my family, sincerely thank you for all you have done to settle this case. We would highly recommend using Sommers Schwartz!
Ed
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14 Dec, 2023 by Camille moore
The lawyers at Sommers Schwartz helped my family with a medical malpractice case. Thank you Robert B. Sickels!
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24 Jun, 2022 by Shannan whitaker
I would VERY highly recommend Matt Curtis to anyone that needs the help of a top-notch attorney! After my husband was hit by a car and very seriously injured, fighting with insurance was the last thing we had energy for. Matt took on the task of fighting the insurance company and allowed us to focus on what was important, my husband's care. Matt treated us like we were family, always showing genuine concern for how my husband was doing while working tirelessly to help get us the benefits my husband deserved. I can honestly say that without Matt's fierce advocacy, overwhelming intelligence and commitment we could not have made it through the process.
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23 Mar, 2023 by Brian o
Best attorney ever, fair honest helped me with a real-estate transaction Marvelous
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20 Dec, 2021 by Carl coker
Tuff and good attorney!!!
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29 Jun, 2020 by Gj hin
Leslie has helped me settle my Mom's estate and also successfully helped me win custody of my children. She is very knowledgeable about financial issues. She returns calls quickly, offers great advice and knows how to get things done in a courtroom when necessary.
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28 Aug, 2023 by Wes eddington
02 Jan, 2022 by R j
Marc, is patient and takes time to explain everything. We are very happy with his service and staff.
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14 Nov, 2020 by Brian swindler
Experienced estate attorney. Makes planning and execution of estate very easy.
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14 Jul, 2024 by Kbdacapo capo
21 Jan, 2024 by Gustavia jones
15 Oct, 2019 by Tamika bryant cromer
03 Jan, 2020 by Dale campbell
Rodney Glusac was recommended to me by a lawyer friend. I needed help in setting up a new business. We were able to agree on a date to meet to discuss my questions within days. He was very friendly and easy to talk to. He was also knowledgeable about the best way, legally, to set up my business. After our meeting, he got to work and submitted all the required forms to the state. Within days I received an email letting me know it was complete, with a detailed list of things I needed to do. I would highly recommend Rodney for anyone needing help in setting up a small business.
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31 Dec, 2019 by Jeff williams
Awesome experience! Mr. Glusac was awesome in our experience and helped us above and beyond! Explained everything and helped us understand everything that was going on.Recommend if you need help. Great great job!
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18 Sep, 2019 by Rose grzech
My colleague and I were referred to Mr. Glusac during the our purchase of a new company. In 2019 we sat down with him and immediately felt confident in his advice. The process was less scary then we had anticipated. With his expert advice, which we had followed, every step through the purchase made us feel very comfortable. It was one of the best referrals I have ever followed up on.
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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:
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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.
