Kristi Kaye Elder, Business Attorney in Palo Alto, California

Kristi concentrates on business, class action, general, litigation, and white collar. Each area below outlines the kind of case Kristi handles, typical outcomes to expect, and how the intake process starts.

• Business

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• Class Action

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• General

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• Litigation

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• White Collar

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Kristi's primary office is at 525 University Avenue, 4th Floor, Palo Alto, CA, 94301. In-person meetings are by appointment; a phone intake usually comes first.

Working with a new business attorney should feel structured. Here's how the first two conversations with Kristi usually go, from the moment you request a consult to the day representation begins.

Kristi discusses fees during intake so the arrangement fits the matter. Contingency, hourly, and flat-fee options are all common in business practice — ask which fits.

• How much does it cost to hire Kristi for a business case?

  Cost depends on the type of matter, the fee model (contingency, flat, hourly), and how contested the case becomes. Kristi walks through the likely range during the consult so there are no surprises.

• Does Kristi offer a free consultation?

  Kristi charges for the initial consult; that fee is credited toward representation if you retain Kristi's office. Some business attorneys offer free consults — check Kristi's current terms during booking.

• How long do business cases in California typically take?

  Simple business matters can wrap in a few weeks; disputed cases can run 6–18 months from intake to resolution, longer if the matter goes to trial. Kristi gives a realistic estimate for your facts at the consult — vague answers here are a red flag.

• Can Kristi take my case if I'm outside Palo Alto?

  Kristi is licensed in California. Matters governed by California law are the natural fit. Out-of-state matters are handled case-by-case, sometimes with local co-counsel. Ask during intake — Kristi will tell you if the case is a fit or refer you to someone closer to your court.

• What should I bring to my first meeting with Kristi?

  Bring every document that touches the dispute: contracts, correspondence, police or medical reports, filed pleadings, invoices, photographs, insurance letters. Also bring a written timeline of what happened, in your own words. Kristi will filter what matters — over-preparing at intake is always cheaper than needing a second meeting.

• Is Kristi accepting new business clients right now?

  Kristi's intake status shifts week to week. Submit the form; the office will confirm availability or refer the matter out.