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Michael Blacksburg
Category: Professional Services Lawyers Immigration Immigration
315 Noe St(between 16th St & Market St)
San Francisco, CA 94114
Neighborhood: Castro
(415) 861-9900
- Hours:
Mon-Fri 9 am - 5 pm
69 reviews for Michael Blacksburg
69 reviews in English
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Review from melinda c.
San Francisco, CA
2/6/2012
I worked briefly with Michael Blackburg. over a year agao (It was only brief because i got pressured to change and use a family friend..) Who I might ad had turned out to be a complete disaster.(I should have trustedmy intuition,but,thats another learning experience)
That being said I want to give Michael and Myia Peard a a thumbs up for listening to what I wanted and Never pressuring me to change my mind. Very professional and good ethics and professional boundaries. I would reccomedn them highly
Melinda Costello
Melinda Costello -
Review from Janet V.
San Francisco, CA
2/9/2012
After meeting with a financial consultant several years ago, I was advised that as a single person with no children who owned real property, I should probably have an estate plan and a will in place. I procrastinated, because really, doing all of that sounds so onerous. About a year ago, I sat down with Michael and he explained to me what the optimal plan would be for me (living trust), and what the minimum would be (a simple will)/ Again, I procrastinated, because, well that's what you do with these things, isn't it? Monday night, I attended a Wills Workshop that Michael gave and came up with a completed will. Michael and his paralegal made it so simple, and Michael and I talked separately about what other steps we need to take to complete my estate planning, but at least I feel covered on this most basic step now. I have never felt that Michael was talking over my head. In fact, he went to great lengths during the Wills Workshop to explain the different terms, and why you should decide to have your will written one way or the other. It was very informative, and made it very clear, for me, which choices I needed to make.
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Review from b f.
San Francisco, CA
2/8/2012
My partner and I worked with Michael on our estate plan which was a smooth, reassuring and painless process. We had talked about doing it for years but never got around to it, it seems like it would be a complicated, super costly and drawn out affair. Michael was agreeable, easy to work with, attentive and knowledgeable. He finished our plan last year and when I had a question about it just recently I emailed him and he got back to me asap, which was greatly appreciated and indicative of his level of service. I have recommended him to friends and would not hesitate to work with him again.
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Review from Candace L.
San Francisco, CA
8/10/2011
Michael is a pro! I needed rapid help writing up a client contract and an employee contract and he was able to turn it around in record time. He is professional, and offers a wide array of services at reasonable rates. For a small business owner of a tech PR agency in SF, we are assured knowing that Michael is there anytime we need someone to decode the legalese to make sure we are doing business in the smartest way possible.
Also, Michael speaks as a regular human, and is quite seasoned and charming. All these qualities make for the best kind of legal advisor I could hope for! -
Review from Loic N.
San Francisco, CA
7/19/2011
I hired Michael a year ago based on his Yelp reviews, for my business contracts, LLC creation, etc.
Even with the inflated expectations created by the glowing reviews you can read below, he delivered repeatedly, on time, on budget, with very good deliverables ... I ask him a quick question from time to time and he is always responsive. His billing practices are clear and upfront.
Highly recommended. -
Review from Robert O.
San Francisco, CA
11/28/2011
Michael has helped us through several legal issues. He provides solid and practical advice. You could not ask for a better lawyer - I should know because I am a lawyer myself and own my own law firm - but I use Michael to handle my issues. He is lawyer's lawyer and his rates are very reasonable. Better yet, Michael returns your calls and he truly cares about his clients. Use him - you will be well represented.
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Review from Tom V.
San Francisco, CA
5/27/2011
Michael Blacksburg is the most compassionate lawyer I've ever talked to. I am having a difficult situation with my landlord and lease, and Michael told me exactly what my options are with absolutely no BS. I left our conversation knowing exactly what I need to do (and not do) in order to resolve this situation.
Michael has a humor uncharacteristic of most lawyers I know. He's affable, funny, and very clear in his advice. I highly recommend him to anyone dealing with a difficult tenancy issue. -
Review from Nikki P.
Oakland, CA
5/16/2011
I had been putting off creating a Will for many years. When our little one came into the world, I realized that I couldn't put it off any longer as I wanted to make sure that she was taken care of if something was to happen to me. Michael took this sensitive, confronting issue and helped to make it approachable. He answered all of my questions with knowledge and care. We had so many important items complete by the end of his short Wills Workshop: a will, and a healthcare directive, and everything taken care of regarding appointing a legal guardian for my daughter in case that's ever needed. It is such a relief to have all of this complete.
This workshop (and working with Michael) is an incredibly effective way to gain the "piece of mind" that is a necessity for new parents. -
Review from Wolfram A.
San Francisco, CA
4/13/2011
My wife and I had been contemplating needing a will after getting married in 2010. I had never given much thought to this, but I had the impression that this would be a hugely convoluted, expensive, time-consuming and potentially emotionally draining process.
After we learned about Michael's Wills Workshop, we signed up for the very first one. Even though this was his "prototype" workshop, Michael delivered. Not only was it well worth the money, compared with a 1-on-1 consultation, but the workshop format really worked for us.
The Wills Workshop has taken the charge our of making a will and turned it into a straightforward, time-efficient and low cost process that was very informative and helpful, even enjoyable. I can highly recommend it.
Michael started with a straightforward and easy-to-read worksheet which educated us about the process, asked for information and pointed out some questions my wife and I had to discuss. Then we went to the workshop, and Michael handed each participant a folder with a complete set of personalized documents, based on the worksheet info previously submitted. The folder included a Will, a Power of Attorney, an Advanced Heath Care Directive and supporting information. After the workshop, Michael took the time to deal with special situations in 1-on-1 consultations, all part of the fee.
I also learned that since as foreign national, estate tax kicks in at much lower amounts ($100,000) if I inherit money from a US source (such as my wife). Michael not only educated me about this (I had no idea), but put in some complicated setup to pass my wife's money, if she pre-deceases me, to a trust, to avoid the estate tax. All this was included. Wow! -
Review from Truthful R.
San Francisco, CA
1/11/2011
I met Michael last year in his office about my rental situation. He first insisted he talk without letting me explain or him knowing my rental situation. I reassured myself that he is a tenant only lawyer but couldn't shake the impression that he sort of "defended" the landlords position.
I had barely a chance to talk and express facts about my situation. Something was increasingly irritating about the style of "consultation" if it could be so called one at all.
I had this bothersome gut feeling something is not "kosher" her. I had to pay $ 150 and knew as much as before if not less.
FOR THE RECORD AND SO RECORDED: Today, January 11, 2011 ca 9:27am I called his number (415) 861 9900 as listed, as on his business card and website and got the following phone company recording: "We're sorry you have reached a number that has been disconnected or is no longer in service. If you feel you have reached this recording in error please check the number and try your call again. No further information is available."
I had a couple of friends try from their phone but they reported that they got the same results.
Is my initial gut feeling not so wrong after all? Something is not "kosher" here. Not right at all. Not for an Attorney office and all the technology and services we have today. Something is not right in my personal opinion and I wonder..... -
Review from Ryan S.
San Francisco, CA
8/10/2011
After reading all the reviews on Yelp, my Partner and I decided to setup a consultation with Michael to discuss Estate Planning. After just a few minutes of talking, there was no question we would be hiring Michael to help us get our affairs in order.
Yes, his fees are extremely reasonable for all the time and effort involved with estate planning, but more importantly, we chose him for his personality and expertise. Michael is very laid back, extremely knowledgeable, and knows how to break things down into easily understandable pieces so you can make all the right decisions.
If you're looking for that personal lawyer experience, and not some sterile big-time law firm, Michael is definitely your guy! -
Review from Randi K.
Los Angeles, CA
10/10/2011
I met Michael Blacksburg a few years ago on a list serve for trial lawyers. I always enjoyed his commentary and insights. Since that time we've become friends, and we keep in touch by phone. Michael is passionate about his work and keeps current on the law in his specialty. If I needed a lawyer who specializes in estate planning or landlord/tenant issues, I would hire him to represent me. I would also enthusiastically recommend him to potential clients who live in the San Francisco Bay area.
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Review from miranda caroligne ..
San Francisco, CA
3/23/2011
I recently attended Michael's Will Workshop and not only did I leave the session with a will in hand, but Michael took the time to consult with me privately during the session about my specific needs as a business owner, and potential needs as my life changes over the course of time.
I'm young, single, no kids...so why the will?
Why not?
It was easy, affordable, and will make everyone's life a lot easier if I happen to get hit by a bus tomorrow (hey, it happens!).
It also gave me peace of mind to know that things will be left the way I would like them to be, and my family won't be burdened by trying to figure it all out.
Thanks Michael! This is a great service to our community! -
Review from maria K.
San Francisco, CA
3/1/2011
I called Mr. Blacksburg today seeking legal assistance. I wasn't certain if he handled the type of law I needed help with- but took a chance leaving a voice mail with my issue, and if he didn't handle that type of law; would consider giving me a recommendation of a fantastic lawyer that might?
I'm pleasantly shocked- that Mr. Blacksburg actually took the time to call me back to let me know that unfortunately he didn't not handle my type of case, but DID recommend not one but two great lawyers he knows that do handle my type of situation.
Rather refreshing to encounter a kind lawyer- that can take the time to help, when it doesn't lead to his own personal gain.
Thank you Michael :) -
Review from Chris P.
San Francisco, CA
4/4/2011
Michael Blacksburg was extremely efficient and helpful working with me. I called him for advise and he was able to answer my questions definitively, thoroughly, on the spot, and sent me the exact legal documentation I needed, and customized it for me so that I had to do as little as possible.
If only most lawyers were as helpful has Michael is! -
Review from Tim A.
San Francisco, CA
8/3/2011
My friend recommended Michael's Will's Workshop to get these documents drafted. Michael was knowledgable, personable, and sensitive to everyone's needs in at the Workshop. I give him an A+ and highly recommend the workshop to anyone that has questions about their plan and/or doesn't have these docs prepared.
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Review from Ellen S.
Berkeley, CA
5/26/2011
For various reasons, my husband and I had been putting of completing our wills for years. We had been planning on meeting with Michael since our son was born but something always seemed to get in the way. Fortunately, Michael contacted us about the Will Workshops he's been doing and we finally went to one. It was just what we needed! Michael was so kind, respectful, helpful and thoughtful. He was VERY patient with us all and answered everyone's questions until they were satisfied. Besides being a great person and conscientious lawyer, how great and creative to have this much-needed workshop for all of us new parents where we could sit down and "bang it out," so to speak! I like that Michael can think outside of the box and really gets what his clients need.
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Review from Amanda C.
San Francisco, CA
3/27/2011
With aging parents and a new husband, getting our will & living trust paperwork finished was high on my To-Do list. Through Michael's "Will Workshop", we received a basic understanding of terms and documents needed to plan for the day when we will be no longer. It also helped me understand what I will be confronting in the next 20 or so years for my own parents' death. His workshop is totally reasonably priced when you consider how much the per hour rate is for creating these documents with a lawyer and since taking the workshop with Michael, I'm inspired to continue more planning with Michael who made everything so straightforward and more accessible to me.
This is a *must-do* for newly-married couples and domestic partners in the Bay Area. -
Review from Erik S.
South San Francisco, CA
4/20/2011
I have been investing in Real Estate in CA and NM for 9 years and have been blessed with the best tenants in the world. Never would I have guessed that my first bad experience as a landlord would have come from a shady plumber in Albuquerque who tried to take advantage of my out of town residency. I was originally quoted $1,600 for the sewer line repair which ballooned to over $8,000 once he had the entire yard dug up and tenants unable to flush toilets or take showers. I had no idea what to do and was freaking out. Just one call with Mr Blacksburg settled my nerves as he explained my rights and put an action plan in place. He was willing to work with me in the evenings and over the weekend to accommodate my full time job. His vast knowledge of landlord/tenant law as well as estate planing expertise make him a one stop shop for any real estate investor.
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Review from Fiona F.
San Francisco, CA
1/29/2011
I sure do love havin' me a lawyer! Recently, the Hub and I ran into a crazy SOB who threatened us with legal action (and physical harm) if we didn't give him money. This is called extortion and after a few days of trying to figure out what to do, we decided it was high time we added a lawyer to our circle of business advisers.
Thanks to Yelp and some great reviews, we found Michael. After a consultation with him, we decided we'd rather give our money to a helpful attorney and be able to sleep at night knowing that someone else was dealing with that crazy f*#%er extortionist.
Well, it worked! Michael dealt with the dude and he stopped calling us and stopped threatening us and disappeared back into the troll cave he crawled out of. Thanks Michael. You made our lives a lot easier! -
Review from William J.
San Francisco, CA
3/28/2011
Michael Blacksburg prepared a will and a Living Trust for me and my same-sex partner.
I won't dwell on what everyone else has said about Michael, e.g. the quality of his work, his integrity, the costs. Many reviewers have already made the point that Michael excels as what he does and at a fair price. All of that is true.
What really sticks with me about Michael is that in dealing with him, you know you are dealing with a real person who will do right for you. You soon realize that your encounter with Michael is no ordinary business encounter. He is your ally. He is your friend. You immediately relate to Michael as if you had known him for a long time. It makes the experience of having him work with you feel very satisfying and relieving. You know that whatever it is that you have been worrying about for so long, it's in good hands and you don't need to worry anymore. You know, it's getting handled.
And having worked with Michael, you just know that, when the need arises again, of course you will go back to him. Why wouldn't you go back to a person who really helped you out, like that?
I was kind of a picky client. I had lots of questions, lots of emails back and forth with Michael. I had to understand everything in the will and trust, and I reviewed it like a technical writer reviews a technical manual. Having to answer all my questions and issues undoubtedly took more time for Michael than he was expecting. But you know what? He went over all of it with me until everything was perfect and I understood the whole thing, like time and money were no object.
That's Michael Blacksburg. I am glad to know he's available when I need him, and it's absolutely a pleasure to unconditionally recommend Michael. -
Review from Gunther J.
Oakland, CA
2/28/2011
I have recently took Michael's Estate Planning Workshop, it was well worth the time and money. Now I'm resting easier knowing that the basics are covered in case I am incapacitated, and all in just 2 and a half hours. Additionally, his business advice has been really good too. You are in good hands with Michael Blacksburg.
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Review from Christopher N.
San Francisco, CA
4/1/2009
I haven't been yelping much lately, but I figured that I really needed to give this guy a damn good review. When I found out that I was being sued FOR POSTING A NEGATIVE REVIEW OF A BUSINESS, I had no idea what to do, or who to have represent me.
I met Michael previously through a friend, and when he heard my predicament he was all over it. He instantly went to work on my case, and made me feel so much better. He was professional, understandable, and he actually cared about the issue. I was overwhelmed throughout the entire process, I was stressed and scared shitless. Michael made things as easy as they could be, and I was glad to have him by my side from start to finish. He was always looking out for my best interests, he kept me informed, and helped me make the right decisions.
I cannot think of a better guy to have on your side, he definitely knows his stuff. -
Review from Justice Cat ..
Oakland, CA
3/11/2009
I LOVE Michael Blacksburg. I would give him six stars if it was possible!
I was referred to Michael by another attorney who had said that he is good at unusual cases and is willing to go the extra mile if a case is not cut-and-dry.
I have had the misfortune of dealing with a few attorneys in my life and I have found that many can be indifferent, and even downright lazy. You can tell Michael loves what he does and is intellectually curious. He brings this to his cases and to his clients. -
Review from J M.
Fresno, CA
3/10/2009
We contacted Michael regarding a landlord-tenant issue. He was very professional and helpful and explained our rights in a very clear, easy to understand manner. He made sure that all our questions and concerns were addressed before we left and he stayed in contact with us afterward. He was also very down-to earth and approachable.
We are so glad we contacted him! He informed us of options that we didn't know we had. Michael is a great choice for tenants who need to know what their rights are, or for anyone else who needs legal advice.
We found his information and help invaluable, and highly recommend him! -
Review from Scout A.
Oakland, CA
1/17/2011
Two years ago I was referred to Michael when I was looking to start up a new business and needed help with a variety of legal questions. I knew right away that I had made a great choice because Michael not only provided me with all the answers to the legal mumbo-jumbo, but he gave me great advice regarding the way I was structuring my business.
Since then I've kept him on retainer and he's been an invaluable resource for me. He's kept me out of bad deals, helped me make good ones, and been an all around great counselor. He's smart, savvy, honest, and is great at cutting through complex legal documents. While law is obviously his specialty, he has a great business sense which is vital for small companies like mine.
On top of all that, he's a genuinely great guy who really cares about his clients. -
Review from Elinor M.
San Francisco, CA
1/25/2011
I highly recommend Michael. I have turned to him for consultation and help on issues involving defamation and tenant rights and he gave excellent advice. He also is knowledgeable about estate planning law. He is practical, thorough, professional and responsive, and he keeps well abreast of the latest cases and trends.
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Review from Sally M.
San Francisco, CA
12/28/2010
I went to Michael to get some estate planning work done. He was easy to understand and made the process very easy for us. His rates were affordable and we got what we needed very quickly. Aside from his efficiency and professionalism, Michael Blacksburg is a very cool person. I think this is rather important when choosing a lawyer, as there are MANY to choose from. You want someone who you can relate with and you feel comfortable with. Call Michael and you will see what I mean.
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Review from SatSarbat K.
San Francisco, CA
1/5/2010
I am a tenant that contacted Michael for help dealing with my landlord. His advice was consistently focused on what was most important to me: avoiding unnecessary conflict.
His advice at our initial consultation was so good I didn't need to formally engage him as my lawyer. Without his advice I would have found myself in a legal fight with my landlord and be required to pay lawyers fees to defend myself.
In following his advice I got everything I wanted. But I was impressed by his commitment to ensure that I also got what I needed over generating fees or "proving" myself right at the expense of my sanctuary. I recommend him every time I meet a fellow tenant who has issues with their landlord. -
Review from N V.
Walnut Creek, CA
4/15/2011
The Wills Workshop was informational and our docs were customized and waiting for us on arrival. Easy as pie, and now I have the peace of mind that my affairs are in order. Thanks Michael.
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Review from Jennifer S.
San Francisco, CA
3/24/2011
Recently I attended the Wills Workshop and I found this extremely helpful. I really liked that he made this daunting process easier and even though I don't have children yet, it was a good set-up for when I do. Also, I feel like creating a health care directive was really comforting as I now know who will be in charge of my affairs and I'm assured that my desires will be carried out. Thanks Michael!!
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Review from Ron H.
Alameda, CA
3/26/2011
I recently contacted Michael about malicious content on Yelp about my business, which had nothing to do with our business practices, or the service we provide our customers. Michael has a great heart, cares about people, and really cares about businesses who are bringing good things to the community.
In this day and age in our country people like Michael Blacksburg step forth to see that a wrong is righted, and does so with a heart felt thought that all people need an opportunity to bring good things to the community they live in.
Michael is surely inspired by God in all he does, and I know that anyone who hires Michael to represent them will have the best counsel they could have. His values, both moral and ethical will be congruent with the services he provides. You won't be dissapointed should you choose to hire him.
Thank you Michael, May God Bless -
Review from Teri V.
Walnut Creek, CA
3/22/2011
I can't believe how many people haven't completed their wills and that we waited so long. My husband and I walked out of Michael's brief workshop with a will and peace of mind; Michael provided us with an easy, comprehensive and economical way to do it! Thanks, Michael!
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Review from Larry O.
San Francisco, CA
1/12/2011
What an excellent lawyer. Michael advised me on an urgent matter with a very straight forward, easy to understand information. I'd recommend him in a heartbeat!
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Review from Bryan B.
Berkeley, CA
8/23/2011
Michael Blacksburg's Estate Planning Workshop was the perfect mix of efficiency (estate plan handled in two hours), competence (Michael easily fielded every question the group had), and ease (down-to-earth, no-legalese conversational style). I completely trust Michael to thoroughly and efficiently handle this and all of my legal estate matters.
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Review from J. K.
San Francisco, CA
1/25/2010
Michael is great. I found him last summer after some research. I first went to him with landlord, tenant, subtenant issues. He listened carefully to my concerns and then gave me really solid advice and direction. He prepared the necessary papers as well. From the moment I met him, I had confidence that he knew what he was talking about.
I went to him again recently but this time with business, LLC, and strategic planning questions. Again, he listened and responded with great advice. He showed himself to be a good business advisor with connections.
If you're looking for a knowledgeable, fun, dynamic lawyer, I can't recommend him highly enough. -
Review from Marc R.
San Francisco, CA
1/22/2011
Based on the excellent reviews and recommendations on yelp, we visited Michael in order to arrange for our estate planning and the reviews didn't lie! Michael is professional, very efficient and extremely friendly. In addition to comprehensive and affordable estate planning, we got some great free tips on how to get our infant to sleep through the night. Thanks Michael!
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Review from Matthew T.
Berkeley, CA
12/12/2010
A buddy referred me to Mr. Blacksburg who told me that he handles the weird situations. I've got this backpay, breach of contract, equity deal gone bad, and wasn't sure of my options or how to move forward to get paid and get my stock. I had gone to a couple other lawyers who gave me all these options to my case but didn't help with a strategy. Michael broke down all the legal issues in my language and made sure I got it before he moved on. Michael guided me through a variety of options for me to seek justice, suggested the best strategy for getting what I want, and he's effectively supporting me as I prepare to file a claim to recover my just wages and equity. who knows how this is all going to turn out, but I know my options and what's involved in getting what I want. I highly recommend Michael for his excellence, professionalism, and expertise in these arenas.
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Review from Oren J.
San Francisco, CA
10/12/2010
Michael Blacksburg is a consummate professional in every sense of the word. I had an urgent need for him to help me craft a letter to a former employer and he not only took extra time to listen and understand my situation, but turned around the work earlier than expected. I cannot recommend Mr. Blacksburg highly enough.
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Review from Kristen W.
San Francisco, CA
4/18/2011
My tenant/landlord issues were solved quickly, thoroughly, and economically. It was a pleasure to work with Michael, I recommend anyone looking for a great lawyer choose him!
