Counsel that earns the
trust it asks for.
Straightforward legal guidance for individuals and small businesses. Consultations available the same week — no runaround.
Focused expertise.
Not a little of everything.
Business & Corporate
Entity formation, partnership agreements, employment law, contract drafting, M&A. We represent small businesses, startups, and family enterprises.
Track record, in plain numbers.
You'll talk to an attorney. Always.
No paralegals taking your initial call. No rotating cast. Direct access to the lawyer handling your matter.
James W. Hargrove, Esq.
- J.D., Wake Forest University School of Law
- B.A. cum laude, University of Virginia
- AV-Preeminent® rated, Martindale-Hubbell
- Super Lawyers, Rising Stars (2014–2019)
Patricia M. Chen, Esq.
- LL.M. in Taxation, Georgetown Law
- J.D., Duke University School of Law
- Board Certified Estate Planning Specialist
- ACTEC Fellow (2020)
Our process is straightforward.
Free Consultation
A 30-minute conversation to understand your matter and assess whether we're the right firm for you.
Honest Assessment
A clear, written evaluation — likely outcomes, probable costs, and recommended next steps.
Flat or Hourly
Most matters are flat-fee. Where hourly is appropriate, we provide written estimates and monthly billing detail.
Active Communication
Returns within one business day. Monthly status reports. No black-box billing or surprise updates.
In their own words.
Hargrove helped me structure my LLC and draft my first client contracts. Their advice saved me from three mistakes I didn't even know I was about to make.
After my mother passed, the estate process felt overwhelming. The team here handled everything and kept me informed every step. I'm so grateful.
I had a landlord dispute that seemed unwinnable. Hargrove reviewed my lease, spotted a clear violation, and resolved it in three weeks. Incredible.