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

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

Does Michael offer a free consultation?

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

How long do business cases in Rhode Island 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. Michael gives a realistic estimate for your facts at the consult — vague answers here are a red flag.

Can Michael take my case if I'm outside Providence?

Michael is licensed in Rhode Island. Matters governed by Rhode Island law are the natural fit. Out-of-state matters are handled case-by-case, sometimes with local co-counsel. Ask during intake — Michael 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 Michael?

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. Michael will filter what matters — over-preparing at intake is always cheaper than needing a second meeting.

Is Michael accepting new business clients right now?

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

Michael J. Gardiner, Business Attorney in Providence

Quick answer

Michael J. Gardiner is a member based in Providence, RI. The practice focuses on Business, Car Accidents, and Criminal Defense. Michael has over 37 years of legal experience. Currently practicing at Michael J. Gardiner Attorney at Law. Rated 5.0 out of 5 from 2 client reviews.

Based in: Providence, RI
Experience: over 37 years
Known for: Business · Car Accidents · Criminal Defense

Handles Business, Car Accidents, and Criminal Defense matters from Providence, RI.
Over 37 years of practice as a licensed attorney.

Areas of practice

Legal matters Michael takes on

Michael concentrates on business, car accidents, criminal defense, divorce, and dog bites. Each area below outlines the kind of case Michael handles, typical outcomes to expect, and how the intake process starts.

Business cases in Providence, Rhode Island

Michael takes business matters in Providence, Rhode Island. Typical engagements include intake calls to scope the issue, review of any records or filings you already have, and a written strategy memo before Michael agrees to represent you.

Car Accidents cases in Providence, Rhode Island

Michael takes car accidents matters in Providence, Rhode Island. Typical engagements include intake calls to scope the issue, review of any records or filings you already have, and a written strategy memo before Michael agrees to represent you.

Criminal Defense cases in Providence, Rhode Island

Michael takes criminal defense matters in Providence, Rhode Island. Typical engagements include intake calls to scope the issue, review of any records or filings you already have, and a written strategy memo before Michael agrees to represent you.

Divorce cases in Providence, Rhode Island

Michael takes divorce matters in Providence, Rhode Island. Typical engagements include intake calls to scope the issue, review of any records or filings you already have, and a written strategy memo before Michael agrees to represent you.

Dog Bites cases in Providence, Rhode Island

Michael takes dog bites matters in Providence, Rhode Island. Typical engagements include intake calls to scope the issue, review of any records or filings you already have, and a written strategy memo before Michael agrees to represent you.

Biography

Meet Michael J. Gardiner — business lawyer in Providence

Michael J. Gardiner is a member based in Providence, RI. The practice focuses on Business, Car Accidents, and Criminal Defense. Michael has over 37 years of legal experience. Currently practicing at Michael J. Gardiner Attorney at Law. Rated 5.0 out of 5 from 2 client reviews.

Michael J. Gardiner is a lawyer practicing criminal defense, personal injury, medical malpractice and 24 other areas of law. Michael received a B.A. degree from University of Rhode Island in 1984, and has been licensed for 37 years. Michael practices at Michael J. Gardiner Attorney at Law in Providence, RI.

How Michael handles business matters

Michael J. Gardiner is a lawyer practicing criminal defense, personal injury, medical malpractice and 24 other areas of law. Michael received a B.A. degree from University of Rhode Island in 1984, and has been licensed for 37 years. Michael practices at Michael J. Gardiner Attorney at Law in Providence, RI.

The kind of cases Michael takes

Michael reviews new inquiries case-by-case for business, car accidents, and criminal defense matters in Providence and the surrounding Rhode Island area.

Credentials

Education, bar admissions, and languages

Western New England School of Law
J.D. · 1989
University of Rhode Island
B.A. · 1984

Jurisdictions

Michael's state bar admissions

Massachusetts
1990 · ACTIVE
Rhode Island
1989 · ACTIVE

Michael studied at J.D. in Western New England School of Law and B.A. in University of Rhode Island.

Law school and academic background

Michael completed J.D. in Western New England School of Law and B.A. in University of Rhode Island. Formal legal training is one signal of substantive knowledge — the day-to-day practice Michael runs in Rhode Island is where that training gets applied to real client questions.

Locations

Michael J. Gardiner's office in Providence

Michael's primary office is at 48 East Manning Street, Providence, RI, 02906. In-person meetings are by appointment; a phone intake usually comes first.

Main office

Michael J. Gardiner Attorney at Law

48 East Manning Street

Providence, RI 02906

Open in Google Maps

Client feedback

Client reviews of Michael J. Gardiner — 5.0/5 rating from 2 verified client reviews

Every review below is from a verified client of Michael. Reviews cover communication, case outcome, and value — the three signals that matter most when comparing business attorneys in Providence.

5.0

2 client reviews

Client ratings are sourced from public records and editorial research. Reviews on LawyersListed are accepted from verified clients once Michael J. Gardiner claims this profile.

Read all reviews

Hiring guide

How to hire Michael J. Gardiner — what to expect in your first consultation

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

Consultation formats and pricing

Michael charges for the initial consult. That fee is credited toward representation if you retain Michael's office.

What to bring to your first meeting

Bring any documents you already have — police reports, medical records, filed pleadings, correspondence from an insurer, a copy of the contract at issue. If you're not sure, err on the side of bringing everything; Michael will tell you what matters and what doesn't.

Questions to ask a business attorney in Providence, Rhode Island

A short list to run through before you commit: How many business matters have you handled in the last year? What's your fee structure? Who else in the office will work on this? What's your realistic estimate of timeline and range of outcomes? How do I reach you between meetings?

Fees & payment

Fees, payment methods, and consultation options for Michael

Michael 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.

Hourly rates, contingency fees, and flat-fee options

Every business matter is priced differently. Simple document review might be a flat fee. Injury litigation is often contingency. Complex commercial disputes usually run hourly with a retainer. Michael confirms the model in the engagement letter before any work starts.

Payment methods and payment plans

Michael's office accepts standard payment methods. Ask about payment plans if the retainer is a stretch — many business practices work with clients on structured schedules.

Frequently asked

Frequently asked questions about Michael J. Gardiner

How much does it cost to hire Michael for a business case?
Cost depends on the type of matter, the fee model (contingency, flat, hourly), and how contested the case becomes. Michael walks through the likely range during the consult so there are no surprises.
Does Michael offer a free consultation?
Michael charges for the initial consult; that fee is credited toward representation if you retain Michael's office. Some business attorneys offer free consults — check Michael's current terms during booking.
How long do business cases in Rhode Island 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. Michael gives a realistic estimate for your facts at the consult — vague answers here are a red flag.
Can Michael take my case if I'm outside Providence?
Michael is licensed in Rhode Island. Matters governed by Rhode Island law are the natural fit. Out-of-state matters are handled case-by-case, sometimes with local co-counsel. Ask during intake — Michael 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 Michael?
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. Michael will filter what matters — over-preparing at intake is always cheaper than needing a second meeting.
Is Michael accepting new business clients right now?
Michael's intake status shifts week to week. Submit the form; the office will confirm availability or refer the matter out.

Community Q&A

Real questions asked by Rhode Island residents in the last few months, answered by business attorneys like Michael J. Gardiner. Each link opens the full answer thread.

Can I Create A Partnership Agreement Without A Lawyer In Rhode Island?
I’m starting a business with a friend in Providence, Rhode Island, and we want to create a partnership agreement. I’m wondering if we can draft it ourselves or if we need to hire a
1 verified answer · Business · Rhode Island
What Are The Penalties For Non-Compliance With Labor Laws In Texas?
My business in Houston just received a notice for a labor law violation regarding employee overtime pay. I’m worried about the potential penalties, including fines or back pay. Wha
1 verified answer · Business · Texas
What Are The Consequences Of Not Complying With Business Licenses In South Carolina?
I launched a catering business in Greenville, South Carolina, without realizing I needed specific licenses. I could face fines or even business closure if I'm not compliant. What a
1 verified answer · Business · South Carolina
What Are The Steps To Dissolve My Corporation In California?
My partnership decided to dissolve our corporation in California due to lack of business. We filed all taxes but didn't know about the formal steps to dissolve it legally. We still
1 verified answer · Business · California
What Are The Filing Requirements For A DBA In Nevada?
I want to operate my online business under a different name in Las Vegas, Nevada, but I’m not sure what the filing requirements are for a DBA (Doing Business As). What do I need to
1 verified answer · Business · Nevada
Can I Franchise My Business Without Legal Help In Minnesota?
I’ve been running a successful coffee shop in Minneapolis, Minnesota, and I want to franchise it. I’m not sure if I can handle the legal side of franchising on my own. Is it advisa
1 verified answer · Business · Minnesota

Areas served

Business attorneys serving Providence, Warwick and Cranston in Rhode Island

Michael handles business matters throughout Rhode Island. Each city below is a direct link into the search page for verified business attorneys in that community.