Frequently Asked Questions About The Law Office of Jennifer M. Settles
Running a business means facing complex legal questions, from contracts and compliance to corporate governance and mergers. This Business Law FAQ page was created to give business owners, executives, and entrepreneurs clear answers to common questions about working with a business lawyer in Arizona. Here you’ll find details on legal fees, contracts, mergers and acquisitions, Fractional General Counsel services, and what it’s like to work with Jennifer M. Settles — an attorney with more than 25 years of experience guiding businesses with strategic, cost-effective legal solutions.
What business law services does the Firm provide?
The Law Office of Jennifer M. Settles focuses exclusively on business law. Our practice areas include:
- Fractional General Counsel Services
- Mergers and Acquisitions (M&A)
- Commercial Contracts
- Commercial Real Estate
- Financing Transactions
- Business Entities
- Corporate Law and Governance
Explore our services for details on how we can protect your company and position it for growth.
With all the advances in AI, do I really need a business attorney anymore?
AI can be useful for research and rough drafts, but artificial intelligence cannot replace the judgment, experience, and accountability of a licensed business attorney. Business legal issues are often complex and fact-specific—something AI is not equipped to fully resolve.
AI tools cannot represent you in negotiations, ensure compliance, or accept fiduciary responsibility for your company’s future. Worse, they often generate inaccurate or outdated information.
For routine preparation, AI may help you understand documents before meeting with counsel. But when it comes to contracts, disputes, or corporate structure, the expertise of an attorney like Jennifer M. Settles is essential. Schedule a free consultation today to ensure your business decisions are sound and defensible.
Can I use AI tools to review or edit my contracts?
While you may use AI tools for your own understanding, The Law Office of Jennifer M. Settles does not incorporate AI-generated edits into legal work. Here’s why:
- AI lacks legal training and context.
- It often produces generic suggestions that add confusion or legal risk.
- Our contracts are based on over 25 years of experience, tailored to your business and industry.
Every clause we draft serves a purpose. If you have questions about a provision, we welcome them — but AI-based revisions often conflict with strategic legal decisions. To discuss your agreements directly with Jennifer, call 602-617-3938.
How much does it cost to hire The Law Office of Jennifer M. Settles?
At our Firm, legal fees are clear and predictable. We offer several billing structures depending on the matter:
- Low hourly rates
- Flat fees for defined projects
- “Not-to-exceed” capped fees
- Success fees (collars)
- Phased billing
- Monthly subscriptions
All fees are discussed in advance and confirmed in writing, so there are never surprise costs. In some cases, a retainer may be required.
Want to discuss which billing structure fits your needs? Schedule a consultation today.
How does a flat fee work?
A flat fee is a fixed, pre-agreed cost for a clearly defined scope of work. This structure is ideal for clients who want predictable legal costs and transparency.
How does a capped fee work?
With capped billing, you pay an hourly rate up to a set maximum. The final fee may be below the cap or equal to it, but never above it.
How does a success fee (collar) work?
A success fee shares risk between attorney and client. For example, in an M&A transaction, the fee may be reduced by 15% if the deal does not close, or increased by 15% if it does. Collars typically range between 10–20% of the agreed fee.
What about contingency fees?
Contingency fees are typically used in personal injury or workers’ compensation cases, where the attorney is paid only if money is recovered. Our Firm does not take cases on a contingency fee basis, as our work focuses on business law services.
Why was the Firm established?
After 25 years in law as both a provider and consumer of legal services, Jennifer M. Settles recognized the need for experienced business counsel at affordable rates.
She founded the Firm to provide strategic, personalized representation for business owners, entrepreneurs, and investors, with a “white glove,” client-first approach.
Why should I hire The Law Office of Jennifer M. Settles?
Jennifer M. Settles brings over 25 years of experience in M&A, contracts, financings, real estate, and governance. Clients benefit from her creativity, strategy, integrity, and value-driven approach.
By working with Jennifer, clients save time, save money, reduce risk, and gain peace of mind. Call today at 602-617-3938 to learn how we can support your business.
What’s it like to work with the Firm?
Clients describe the experience as smooth and stress-free. Jennifer personally handles every matter, so your case will never be handed off to junior staff.
Her values include:
- Integrity
- Clear communication
- Strategic problem solving
- Respect for your time and resources
Expect prompt responses to calls and emails, and a professional partner who treats your business like her own.
What can I expect from the Firm’s blog?
Our business law blog provides timely insights on corporate governance, M&A, financing, contracts, and regulatory changes that matter to business owners and executives.
Please note: Blog content is for general informational purposes only and does not establish an attorney-client relationship. For advice specific to your situation, schedule a free consultation.
What is a business lawyer, and how can one help me?
A business lawyer helps clients structure transactions, draft and negotiate contracts, and manage corporate governance.
Unlike a litigation attorney who gets involved after problems arise, a business lawyer works proactively to prevent disputes and minimize risk. Services include:
- Reviewing and explaining contracts
- Closing deals under favorable terms
- Advising on compliance and liability exposure
Jennifer M. Settles acts as both a legal advisor and strategic partner, helping you foresee issues before they occur so you can focus on growth.
What types of clients does the Firm represent?
We represent a wide range of clients, including:
- Small and mid-sized businesses
- Publicly traded corporations
- Investors and lenders
- Entrepreneurs and sole proprietors
- Family offices and private equity groups
- Corporate legal departments
Industries served include transportation, eCommerce, medical devices, banking, infrastructure, maritime, real estate, and professional services.
Because Jennifer has represented both buyers and sellers, lenders and borrowers, and lessors and lessees, she brings unique insight into all sides of a transaction. This perspective gives our clients a strategic advantage.
What is the Firm’s Fractional General Counsel Service?
Our Fractional General Counsel program provides ongoing legal support without the cost of a full-time in-house lawyer.
- Typically structured as a monthly subscription
- Customized scope of work based on your needs
- Builds a long-term relationship before urgent legal issues arise
With this service, you have a trusted attorney on call who knows your business, anticipates risks, and helps you focus on growth. To learn more, schedule a free consultation.
