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07 Aug, 2024 by Donette
This guy is great! Finally getting my act together to plan for the future. He is smart, practical, knowledgable and so easy to work with! I feel comfortable with everything he’s done, no pressure. His fees are reasonable. Could not recommend him more. He has an office in both Winter Park and Cape Coral. Give him a call, you won’t be sorry!
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04 Aug, 2024 by Joanne
Bryan was extremely knowledgeable and professional throughout the preparation of my LAST WILL /POA papers. He was very helpful and accommodating. He also has an outstanding sense of humor which made the entire process quite comforting. His fee was very fair and I would recommend him for any services that he offers, which are many. 5 stars is not enough…..I would give him 10 if I could!!!
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28 Jun, 2024 by Allison
After putting this off the process of estate planning, I finally got motivated and met with Bryan and Lorraine. Bryan is very knowledgeable and walked me through the process with good examples and guidance. Lorraine and he made the process painless. The prices are very reasonable. I am happy I chose to work with this wonderful team. I have great peace of mind now that my affairs are in order.
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24 Nov, 2024 by Javier alejandro
Extremely helpful Attorney, actually took time out of his own schedule for about an hour to look into my case and give me really good feedback. He was on point with everything and was very polite and understood very well how to read and understand the Florida statue. If you are considering hiring an attorney, you definitely need to contact him and give him an opportunity to look into your case.
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28 Aug, 2024 by Stephanie guerrero
It was almost 10PM when Jonathan replied my online inquiry. Although he was not able to help with my case, I’m appreciative he took the time to speak with me and give me professional advice.
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28 Feb, 2024 by Daniel hosler
Jonathan is an absolutely first class attorney! He provided me candid, timely legal advice at a moment’s notice—after a recent auto accident. Most importantly, he was straight forward, honest and professional…I highly recommend.
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30 Apr, 2017 by William
Jon was a life saver to me and my family. As a disabled Marine Corps Veteran, we were struggling. Jon took my case to trial and got an $810,000.00 jury verdict in just over a year. Jon answered every phone call, every email, and was a Lion, at trial. Thank you Jon!
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14 Dec, 2024 by Adrien henao
06 Dec, 2024 by Ferdi's
Excellent communication and fast results!
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05 Dec, 2024 by Katherine rodriguez
Jibrael Hindi has won two of my cases. I’m so happy with the overcome of both cases. I can’t recommend him enough. Thank you so much to you and your team. Keep up the great work. Trust me. I will keep bringing business to you guys. No doubt happy holidays. !!!!!!!!
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31 Oct, 2024 by Tatiana sanchez
You can count on Mr. Gonzalez at anytime, all I can said HE IS THE BEST no doubt
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31 Oct, 2024 by Kianna newman
Great ,Great Attorney! Very polite and a man of his word. Always available to answer any questions. Couldn’t have chosen a better attorney.
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22 Oct, 2024 by Nancy galvez
Sin duda personalmente yo lo recomiendo es un excelente abogado su experiencia profesional su honestidad y sobretodo su empatía con los demás no tiene. $$$$$ precio Mi caso fue resuelto y estoy muy agradecida con el por haber cumplido todo lo que me prometió
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31 Jul, 2023 by Randall
Won a jackpot at Tampa hard rock casino while in side the casino was threat to be murder the place was in a up roar it was said that the winner was already determined being that the casino would jackpot and light up a lot of fuss was made being that's the casino pay cash I was giving a platinum vise to take to the bank that sponsored the event in Tampa jackpot was 8,888,888 was split between me and lady who accompanied me 4.3 million a piece being that I was in fear of my Life I would have a the information wrote down by Jacqueline Cannon and the card would be leth on the waitress tray who would follow protacal and rush the card to the manager office being that I had been snatched out of the casino fighting for my life therefore the casino would say they don't pay backwards like that for I was attempting to get a replacement card knowing that they seen the footage being the waitress was also involved bring attacked in fear or my life
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10 Jul, 2023 by Landus anderson
23 May, 2020 by Marco paredes
11 Sep, 2024 by Gabriel
I recently engaged with Alexander and was impressed by his no-nonsense and genuine approach. His thoughtful recommendations proved to be highly beneficial, providing much-needed clarity and direction for my company. For anyone in search of expert advice coupled with straightforward, actionable strategies, Alexander is the person to consult.
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11 Sep, 2024 by Manuel
I had the pleasure of consulting with Alexander, and his straightforward and honest approach stood out immediately. His insightful suggestions provided invaluable guidance, steering my company in the right direction. I highly recommend him for anyone seeking expert advice and clear, actionable recommendations.
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11 Sep, 2024 by Nancy
Working with Alexander was a truly positive experience. His direct and transparent style was refreshing, and his strategic advice was incredibly helpful. He offered practical solutions that were exactly what my business needed to move forward. I highly recommend him for anyone looking for clear and effective guidance.
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09 Oct, 2014 by William
I own and run a number of reasonably high-profiled companies. I came to Brett with a number of legal issues involving former business partners and competitors. I was in up to my neck. My previous lawyer had failed miserably to get the cases going and I was left in a spot where several million dollars, and my companies' existence, were on the line.
I saw Brett's online profile. He took care of me. He also reversed the tide against me, giving me victories despite what he first started with. He knows his stuff and is able to find issues where my other lawyer was left floundering. Also, he saved me money. Over the course of 18 months of representation, Brett charged me less than my former lawyer charged me in half that time.
Brett is instinctive and honorable. I would not hesitate to hire him again.
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08 Oct, 2014 by Anonymous
I have been represented by Derek Brett a number of times over the years ranging from serious matters to lesser matters. His services were professional, timely and fairly priced. I recommend Derek to anyone wanting honest and effective counsel.
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08 Oct, 2014 by Sharon
Derek Brett was there for me. I was going through a horrible struggle on an employment law issue. I was looking for someone to vindicate me and to make certain that my bosses be made to pay for their illegal actions against me. Derek handled the case, charging me a fair fee (and earning every dime and then some). He kept me informed, he made me believe that he really cared, and he fought so hard for me. In the end, we won. I believe that Derek is what lawyers are supposed to be about. He puts a good face on a profession with a mixed reputation. I encourage those out there to strongly consider his hiring.
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12 Oct, 2021 by Paul
Recently, I retained the services of Menzer & Hill, PA for a case verses a large financial services company. Michael Hill believed I had justification and agreed to represent me. He requested an arbitration hearing through FINRA and it was granted.
The arbitration was conducted via zoom with counsel from both sides and a single arbitrator.
Mr. Hill went above and beyond researching, preparing and presenting my case. He kept in constant communication with me throughout the entire case. His attention to detail during the three-day arbitration was impressive.
As a small investor, I did not think I had a chance against a large financial services corporation, but Mr. Hill won this case with facts and his expertise of the law. A satisfactory and sizable judgment was granted by the arbitrator.
Without hesitation, I highly recommend Michael Hill of the securities law firm, Menzer & Hill, PA.
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10 Oct, 2016 by Rich
my name is rich james. i was duped by a financial firm in boca raton in 2011 with promises that the money i had could be conservatively invested to match or exceed where i had previously kept the savings. this money manager knew i was physically disabled unable to generate any more income. the investments lost money month after month, i was flabbergasted looking at my monthly statements, my complaints were always answered in the same disingenuous way with promises that never materialized. it sickened me when i realized i was duped. i felt shame that i should have known better and taken action sooner. fast forward to 2013 when i felt i was ready to roll up my sleeves and sue this firm to recoup my losses. the florida bar referral service referred me to an attorney in west palm beach who claimed to have expertise in this area, well he didn't and was billing me over a prolonged period of time, by the hour, for abysmal results. now i had to extracate myself from this new nightmare: i called back the florida bar referral service with valid complaints about this referral's performance, they then referred me to michael hill. i had a free consultation with mr hill which comes with the fee paid to the florida bar referral service: mr hill listened to every word of my story then proceeded to tell me about his expertise in this financial area and how we could resolve it. this is exactly what happened: for a very affordable lat fee, mr hill saw to it that i recouped the full amount of the actual damages stated in my lawsuit. the additional bonus came when he related to me that i could contest the remaining balance i owed the previous attorney by supplying me with some ways to get info and help. this is exactly what i did on my own empowered by mr hill: i asked for a $3,000 reduction in the previous attorney's bill, he brought it to his management and they granted the full amount. they knew i was working with mr hill as he had requested records of what had been done thusfar on my case. this was resolved last year at this time. the reason i took so long to write this review was i knew i couldn't fully express how well mr hill helped me in an egregious situation. i will never be able to thank him enough. mr hill beyond your years of experience on both sides of financial arbitration cases, the humanity you brought to my case's circumstances will never be forgotten, your expertise and how you practice it is extraordinary in terms i can't fully express. i send you and yours the best thoughts and wishes always! :)
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30 Oct, 2015 by Anonymous
It is my pleasure to write this recommendation for Michael Hill and Gary Menzer, attorneys at Menzer Hill. Michael and Gary represented our family in a complex multi defendant securities arbitration case. The nature of the case required specific and sophisticated knowledge of the securities industry that is rare in most attorneys. The attorneys at Menzer Hill had the knowledge and experience necessary to achieve a successful outcome. In addition, they were able to identify and recommend an outstanding expert witness and a mediator that also had the industry knowledge necessary to understand and navigate the complexities of the case. If I ever need a securities arbitration firm in the future, I will hire Menzer Hill.
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30 Sep, 2019 by Alex
Mr Underwood let me know what would happen from the begining and it happened just like he said. He didnt over charge me. He saved my Florida mortgage licenses. I highly reccomend Mr Underwood.
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08 Jan, 2010 by Jason
Very informative and personable always udated me and made me feel comfortable with his knowledge of my issue's. Was reasonable and was willing to work with me in my situation.
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24 Nov, 2009 by Anonymous
Mike gave me the correct expectation and followed through as he said he would. He acted professionally and I was honored to have him represent me. I would highly recommend him to anyone that needed his services.
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31 Mar, 2020 by Shellu
Melanie goes above and beyond for her clients. She actually joined a firm I was already working with in regards to my case. She actually took over my case and was there for me every step of the way. Her response time to my emails and phone calls were amazing. I stayed stress about my case and she was there to help me and put me at ease. I hated to see her go but am excited to see her continued success. She is definitely on my speed dial if I need her for anything in a civil matter. Thank you!
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14 Nov, 2019 by Michael
Mrs. Trogolo was my public defender in a case where my son and I had a major incident. As i have read on here, she listened to me also, was compassionate and set me at ease, the best I could be in the situation. I am a registered nurse (at the time I was in a fix financially) and this could have ruined my career, but thanks to her it was saved. Mrs. Trogolo, I hope you read these, my case was February 5, 2017 and I have yet to forget who was there for me. I wish there was a way to repay you for what you did. if that is even possible. Thank you. MJK
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16 May, 2019 by Christine
Ms. Trogolo met with us quickly, and worked diligently to get my matter resolved in court on my behalf. She kept me apprised every step of the way, and her competence left me with no concerns regarding her ability to handle my case. I will definitely use her services in the future for any legal matters I have.
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22 May, 2016 by Anonymous
Randall's performance in handling our case was of the highest professional quality. His knowledge and experience were clearly evident, and very extensive. We are totally pleased with his treatment of all issues. He was always very cordial and polite. If asked, we would gladly recommend him for any securities and investment fraud matters.
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20 Jul, 2015 by Elaine
Randall was very professional in handling our investment issue. He was always available and if not would return calls or email promptly. We would use Randall and his firm again, but hope we never have to and would recommend to anyone looking for attorney to assist and financial issues.
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17 Jul, 2015 by Elaine
Randall Place was very professional and knowledgeable in pursuing our investment case. He was very easy to contact and if not available would respond promptly. We would use him and his firm again, but hope we never have to.
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30 Nov, 2024 by Lilia suarez
The attorneys at Smith & Eulo Law Firm are top-notch! They fought for my rights and achieved an excellent outcome. I couldn't have asked for better representation
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25 Nov, 2024 by Gianmari maiorino
Quiero expresar mi más sincero agradecimiento al bufete de abogados de Smith & Eulo. Su excelente asesoría y profesionalismo han sido fundamentales para mejorar mi caso y tomar decisiones informadas. Gracias a su dedicación y apoyo, me siento mucho más seguro y preparado para enfrentar lo que venga. ¡Recomiendo sus servicios sin dudarlo!
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12 Nov, 2024 by Fruti sonrisa
I cannot express how grateful I am to Smith & Eulo Law Firm! From the moment I walked in, the team made me feel welcomed and supported. Their professionalism, attention to detail, and dedication to my case were exceptional. They took the time to listen to my concerns and provided me with clear guidance every step of the way. Thanks to their expertise, I achieved a favorable outcome! I highly recommend Smith & Eulo to anyone in need of legal assistance
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07 Jun, 2022 by Katherine
This is my first experience in hiring an attorney and needed to do so for my spouse's case. Sincerely, I didn't know where to start. While reading different reviews online, and word of mouth recommendations, Richard came into play. He is very responsive, kind, communicative and reliable. Anytime I had a question or concern either from my spouse or myself, he always answered every phone call, text message or email. Having done everything remotely with me, he was very professional and trustworthy. He was very knowledgeable and explained all legal terms and procedures to us with time and diligence.
I would recommend Richard for any of your legal needs.
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07 Mar, 2014 by Anonymous
Richard is a great attorney. He was my lawyer this past year and got what I believe to b the best possible outcome. He is diligent and very professional. Would highly recommend him to all who need a great attorney.
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29 Dec, 2023 by Anonymous
I hired Jason for investment protection work. He did a quality job. I felt like he was on my side. Honest with his billings Smart and sophisticated. This case took some thinking as it was hard to explain to laymen and court officials.
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10 Aug, 2016 by Anonymous
I hired Mr. Haselkorn for a securities case. He gave me great advice and explained the various different scenarios and litigation strategies. He got me superior results in a good time frame. I feel he gave me realistic expectations and then delivered on them, even a little bit more. If you need a securities lawyer, he's the one.
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12 Oct, 2023 by Tony
Matthew took the time to let me ask all the questions I needed. He gave me a lot of useful advice. I plan to have Matthew handle my financial planning needs in the future.
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09 Jan, 2017 by Jacqueline
I have consulted with Matthew several times regarding tax and financial issues. I have found him to be extremely knowledgeable and helpful. Every time I meet with Matthew I come away having learned something new. Matthew is incredibly patient and takes the time to break things down and explain them step by step. Matthew is an excellent attorney and I would not hesitate to recommend him.
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30 Apr, 2013 by Carlos
Douglas has been working with Entic for over 2 years now advising on various items from patent filing, corporate strategy, litigation and investment strategies. Doug is a key part of our management team and continues to guide the leadership team in all aspects of corporate governance.
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24 Apr, 2013 by John
After 4 years, including regular and monthly corporate, securities and patent issues, as well as long-term and strategic healthcare and technology industry-specific advise, direction and opinions, Mr. O'Keefe and the firm have supported our organization from Series A funding through several stages of growth. As their services relate to our company, they have proved to be no-nonsense, practical corporate, securities and IP lawyers with an eye to the long-term goals of the organization at-large and a favorable exit, where desired, for ealy-stage founders and management teams. Please find this as my unequivocal and positive recomendation of Douglas O'Keefe and all those at CRGO.
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29 Sep, 2015 by Karen
I couldn't think of a better lawyer to handle any of my deals. He is extremely knowledgeable and professional. Very detail oriented. Gives you all the time you need and his fees are fair. And most importantly: He's got years of experience and has been involved in his own Real Estate transactions - so as a client, I feel like he handles my deals as his own. Which is a great feeling.
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28 Sep, 2015 by Louis
Mr. Dubin represented me in several real estate transactions. In each case, Mr. Dubin's legal knowledge, advice, and drafting were exemplary. Mr. Dubin was also highly professional and responsive not only to me as the client, but also to counsel for the other parties to the transactions. I sincerely recommend Mr. Dubin to others in need of competent real estate counsel.
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13 Oct, 2011 by Anonymous
Stephen is very responsive, knowledgeable in handling sophisticated transactions with me. I have worked with him over 5 years and he is top notch at every level.
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20 Aug, 2021 by Dennis
My wife and I have used Gary Strohauer and his firm for several years now to handle our real estate transactions, our wills and trusts. They are very professional and very thorough. I highly recommend them and their services.
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15 Jul, 2010 by Anonymous
Jill is the type of attorney every client wants. She never promises to win she only promises to do her best for you. She prepared us well for the years of litigation we were involved in and prevailed. She is smart, professional, knowledgeable and persistant. You couldn't ask for a better attorney to represent you and you don't want her to represent the opposing side!
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10 Apr, 2022 by Steve
I worked a case with Nick recently. I found him to be very knowledgable, thorough and detail-oriented.
I do not often give accolades to opposing counsel but he was polite, timely and everything that an attorney should be. Over the years, I have dealt with very unprofessional opposing counsel and very professional opposing counsel. Nick does it right, and he does it well.
He did an excellent job representing his client and skillfully resolved the issue at hand quickly and with a minimum of expense to both parties. I can't hire him due to a conflict of interest, but you can.
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03 Jan, 2017 by Michelle
Jeff Moussignac is a skilled and effective Lawyer whom I have relied upon many times to handle my legal problems! Great strategic negotiator and litigator! I highly recommend him!
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22 Jul, 2016 by Norton
Dale, and the Soto Law Group-Dale Evans were a pleasure to deal with. They told me exactly what to expect, and how to proceed in prevailing. What was very interesting was that they said to me, do you want to go soft? Or hit them hard? Advice was perfect. Thank you Dale. I look forward to dealing with you in the future.
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03 Jun, 2010 by Ceo g g
Mr. Pearlman worked with us under extreme time constraints to insure that we closed a public merger on time. His fees were very reasonable, and other attorneys who were associated with the transaction were impressed with the professionalism of his work.
We completely endorse this attorney for both standards of work and responsiveness.
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15 Jan, 2020 by Nick swerdlow
09 Oct, 2019 by Carlos diaz-silveira
06 Jan, 2025 by Skip colvin
Very professional organization with excellent communication to me throughout. Good advice and no pressure. Dealing with the state was impossible without them. Highly endorse.
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23 Dec, 2024 by Yonier leon
Best experience I ever had with a law firm. They are truly committed to help their customers. Highly recommend their services.
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24 Aug, 2024 by Ailyn l
The were very efficient with the whole process and results in both cases came sooner than expected.
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08 Jul, 2024 by Abdel bacchus
Romano Law helped me out on a quick turnaround insurance contract review. They were quick and responsive and helped me understand the documents that I had received. They sent a follow up with additional information after our call. Would definitely recommend and also will definitely use them for future contract reviews!
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14 Jun, 2024 by Lloyd steven
Super professional and attentive team. They made resolving my legal dispute simple and efficient. Best of they got my company the result I was looking for.
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13 Jun, 2024 by Paul boardman
This law firm, in my personal, genuine experience, is unethical. In my personal, genuine experience I felt judged. All I requested was one hour’s consultation for $800 and they refused after informing me that they would do so. In my personal, genuine experience I feel that this law firm behaved unethically by not agreeing to what they promised, which was one hour of counsel for $800.
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13 Jan, 2025 by M e
I would not use them again.
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19 Dec, 2024 by Terry n
I really appreciate Catania And Catania and all their employees NEVER had to wait for a phone call back or a response. They’re very professional, always taking consideration to my feelings and injuries. I would recommend Catania And Catania 100% to anybody who needs a good attorney. Special thanks to Desiree, Peter, Madelyn.
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11 Dec, 2024 by Bezo chad
First off I want too thank the entire Catania and Catania team for constantly fighting for me throughout my whole journey.The Catania and Catania team gave me constant communication throughout my journey and even exceeded what I thought the outcome would be. I want to give a special thanks to LUCY BERMUDEZ & LISA KEELER for all your help ! If you ever need injury lawyers call on this team !!!
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06 Feb, 2025 by Maighenn west
Moe is a fantastic personal injury attorney and I would recommend him to anyone that was in a motorcycle accident!
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06 Feb, 2025 by Janelle
I cannot think of a harder working lawyer and team. They really stand in your corner and fight. I would highly recommend them!
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05 Feb, 2025 by Summer beauregard
Our attorney was amazing! She thought for us every step of the way. We cannot thank her and the team at Dewitt enough! You could not in better hands if you choose Dewitt.
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FAQs
Questions? We have answers
What a Financial Markets and Services Lawyer Can Do for You
A financial markets and services lawyer specializes in providing legal advice and representation to individuals, corporations, and financial institutions involved in various aspects of financial markets and services. These lawyers deal with issues related to securities regulations, banking laws, investment management, financial transactions, mergers and acquisitions, and regulatory compliance. They help clients navigate complex financial regulations, mitigate risks, and resolve disputes that arise from financial dealings.
Whether you're an investor, corporation, or financial institution, a financial markets and services lawyer can help ensure that your financial activities are compliant with the law and structured to protect your interests.
When Should I Hire a Financial Markets and Services Lawyer?
You should consider hiring a financial markets and services lawyer in the following situations:
- Compliance with financial regulations: If your business is subject to financial regulations, such as those enforced by the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) or other regulatory bodies, a lawyer can ensure compliance to avoid penalties or legal issues.
- Securities law and investment management: If you’re issuing, buying, or selling securities, a financial lawyer can help ensure that your activities comply with applicable laws and regulations, such as the Securities Act and the Dodd-Frank Act.
- Banking and financial transactions: Whether you’re a financial institution or a business engaged in complex financial transactions, a lawyer can draft and negotiate agreements, ensuring compliance with banking laws and regulations.
- Mergers and acquisitions: If your business is involved in a merger, acquisition, or significant restructuring, a lawyer can provide legal guidance on the transaction and ensure compliance with financial regulations.
- Resolving disputes: If you’re involved in disputes regarding securities fraud, financial misconduct, or breaches of fiduciary duty, a lawyer can represent your interests in litigation or arbitration.
- Investment fund formation: If you're setting up an investment fund, such as a hedge fund or private equity fund, a lawyer can help with legal structuring, regulatory compliance, and drafting fund documents.
- Financial product development: For financial institutions developing new financial products, a lawyer can ensure that these products comply with relevant regulations and market standards.
Hiring a lawyer with expertise in financial markets and services can help prevent costly legal disputes, ensure compliance with complex regulations, and protect your financial interests.
What Does a Financial Markets and Services Lawyer Do?
A financial markets and services lawyer provides a wide range of services, depending on the specific needs of their clients. Their responsibilities often include:
- Ensuring regulatory compliance: Financial markets lawyers help clients navigate federal and state regulations, including securities laws, banking regulations, and consumer protection laws. They ensure clients are compliant with laws such as the Securities Exchange Act, the Investment Advisers Act, and the Bank Secrecy Act.
- Advising on securities and investments: These lawyers provide guidance on issuing securities, registering securities with the SEC, and complying with insider trading and disclosure rules. They also advise investment managers and funds on compliance with the Investment Company Act.
- Drafting and negotiating contracts: Lawyers draft and review contracts related to financial transactions, including loan agreements, investment agreements, and derivative contracts, ensuring the terms are favorable and legally sound.
- Representing clients in litigation: Financial markets lawyers represent clients in disputes involving securities fraud, regulatory investigations, financial misconduct, and breaches of fiduciary duties. They also handle arbitration between investors and financial institutions.
- Mergers and acquisitions: Financial lawyers assist with the legal aspects of mergers, acquisitions, and restructuring transactions, conducting due diligence, negotiating terms, and ensuring compliance with relevant laws.
- Advising on financial products and services: Lawyers provide legal guidance to financial institutions on structuring and offering new financial products and services, ensuring compliance with financial laws and mitigating legal risks.
- Handling investment fund matters: For investment funds, financial lawyers assist with fund formation, management, and regulatory compliance, including preparing offering memorandums and filing with relevant authorities.
How Are Financial Markets and Services Lawyers Paid?
Financial markets and services lawyers typically charge for their services based on the complexity of the case and the type of legal work involved. Common payment structures include:
- Hourly rate: Many financial markets lawyers charge by the hour, with rates ranging from $300 to $1,500 or more, depending on the lawyer’s experience, the complexity of the work, and the jurisdiction. Hourly rates are common for advisory and compliance work.
- Flat fee: For specific projects, such as drafting a particular agreement or filing a regulatory document, lawyers may charge a flat fee. Flat fees are typically used for straightforward legal tasks.
- Retainer: For ongoing legal services, such as handling compliance issues over time or advising on multiple transactions, financial institutions may pay a retainer. This is an upfront payment that is billed against as the lawyer works on various matters.
- Contingency fee: In some cases, particularly litigation or arbitration over financial disputes, a lawyer may work on a contingency fee basis. This means they are paid a percentage of the settlement or judgment if they win the case.
It’s important to clarify the fee arrangement with your lawyer during the initial consultation to ensure you understand the total cost of services.
How Much Does a Financial Markets and Services Lawyer Cost?
The cost of hiring a financial markets and services lawyer depends on the complexity of the legal issue, the size of the transaction, and the lawyer’s experience. General cost estimates include:
- Hourly rates: Financial markets and services lawyers typically charge between $300 and $1,500 per hour. For example, routine compliance advice or contract drafting may cost between $5,000 and $20,000, depending on the scope of the work.
- Flat fees: For specific tasks like filing a securities registration or forming an investment fund, flat fees may range from $10,000 to $100,000, depending on the complexity of the project and the lawyer’s expertise.
- Retainers: Financial institutions or large corporations that require ongoing legal advice may pay retainers ranging from $10,000 to $100,000 or more, depending on the scope of the legal services and the length of the engagement.
- Contingency fees (for litigation): In financial litigation cases, a lawyer may charge a contingency fee of 20% to 40% of the settlement or judgment amount. For instance, if the case settles for $1 million, the lawyer may receive $200,000 to $400,000 as their fee.
Be sure to ask for a detailed breakdown of fees and costs during your consultation to ensure that legal services fit within your budget.
Top Questions to Ask a Financial Markets and Services Lawyer
Before hiring a financial markets and services lawyer, it’s important to ask key questions to ensure they have the necessary experience and skills for your case. Key questions to ask include:
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What experience do you have in financial markets and services law?
Make sure the lawyer has experience in the specific area you need help with, such as securities law, investment management, or banking regulations. -
How do you charge for your services?
Clarify whether the lawyer charges by the hour, offers flat fees, or requires a retainer. Ask for a detailed estimate of the total cost, including any potential additional fees. -
What regulatory issues should I be aware of?
Ask the lawyer to identify potential legal issues related to your financial activities or transactions and how they plan to ensure compliance with relevant laws. -
How will you protect my business interests?
Ask how the lawyer plans to mitigate legal risks and protect your financial interests in any transactions, disputes, or compliance matters. -
What is your track record in financial litigation or disputes?
If you’re involved in a legal dispute, ask the lawyer about their experience in financial litigation and their success rate in similar cases. -
How long will the process take?
Whether you need help with regulatory compliance, a transaction, or litigation, ask the lawyer how long they expect the process to take. -
Can you provide references?
Ask for references from other clients in the financial sector who have worked with the lawyer on similar matters.
How to Check the Credibility of a Financial Markets and Services Lawyer
To ensure you are hiring a reputable financial markets and services 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 relevant financial experience: Review the lawyer’s website or professional profile to ensure they specialize in financial markets and services law and have experience in the specific areas you need help with.
- 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 working with the lawyer.
- Ask for references: A credible lawyer should be able to provide references from past clients who have worked with them on financial markets or services matters.
- Check for certifications or memberships: Look for certifications or memberships in relevant legal and financial organizations, such as the American Bar Association’s Business Law Section or the Securities Industry and Financial Markets Association (SIFMA).
What Should I Prepare for My First Consultation?
To get the most out of your first consultation with a financial markets and services lawyer, it’s important to come prepared with relevant documents and information. Here’s what you should bring:
- Details of the financial matter: Provide a clear summary of your financial transaction, regulatory issue, or dispute, including key details and any potential legal concerns.
- Contracts and agreements: Bring any contracts, investment agreements, or loan documents related to the matter so the lawyer can review them.
- Correspondence with regulatory agencies: If you’ve received communication from regulatory bodies (e.g., the SEC or FINRA), bring copies of these documents to help the lawyer assess your compliance or legal exposure.
- List of questions: Prepare a list of questions about the legal process, potential outcomes, costs, and the lawyer’s strategy for handling your case.
- Details of previous legal issues: If you’ve faced previous legal challenges related to financial matters, provide information on those cases, including any settlements or judgments.
By preparing thoroughly for your consultation, you can help the lawyer assess your situation more effectively and provide the best possible legal advice for your financial markets and services needs.
