Best Lawyers in America for Closely Held Companies and Family Businesses Law

Leila Naghibi is a top attorney recognized by Best Lawyers in the practice area(s) of Closely Held Companies and Family Businesses Law. Leila, who practices law in Washington, District of Columbia, has been recognized since 2024. This recognition is based on an exhaustive peer-review survey, reflecting the high esteem in which Leila is held by other top lawyers in the same geographic and legal practice area.

Sierra L. McConnell is a top attorney recognized by Best Lawyers in the practice area(s) of Banking and Finance Law, Business Organizations (including LLCs and Partnerships), Closely Held Companies and Family Businesses Law, Corporate Governance and Compliance Law and Privacy and Data Security Law. Sierra L., who practices law in Des Moines, Iowa, has been recognized since 2023. This recognition is based on an exhaustive peer-review survey, reflecting the high esteem in which Sierra L. is hel...

Professional Experience Kelsey Ondrak’s practice encompasses estate planning, probate, business succession planning, trust administration, and taxation. She helps families and individuals achieve their estate planning goals by utilizing wills, trusts, healthcare & financial durable powers of attorney, and advanced directives. By understanding who and what is important to her clients, she can customize and create a comprehensive estate plan. Kelsey also works with business owners and...

Joshua D. Apel is a top attorney recognized by Best Lawyers in the practice area(s) of Business Organizations (including LLCs and Partnerships), Closely Held Companies and Family Businesses Law and Commercial Litigation. Joshua D., who practices law in Bloomfield Hills, Michigan, has been recognized since 2022. This recognition is based on an exhaustive peer-review survey, reflecting the high esteem in which Joshua D. is held by other top lawyers in the same geographic and legal practice area.

Maria Zumpano is a distinguished attorney and Certified Public Accountant with a Master of Business Administration, focusing on corporate law, business strategy, tax planning, and estate and business succession planning. Licensed in New York and Florida, she brings a comprehensive perspective to business owners, helping them navigate complex legal environments to formulate strategic plans that align with immediate priorities and long-term objectives. With a wealth of experience in business la...

Daniel Sievert is a top attorney recognized by Best Lawyers in the practice area(s) of Business Organizations (including LLCs and Partnerships), Closely Held Companies and Family Businesses Law and Tax Law. Daniel, who practices law in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, has been recognized since 2026. This recognition is based on an exhaustive peer-review survey, reflecting the high esteem in which Daniel is held by other top lawyers in the same geographic and legal practice area.

Mary Talamantez is a top attorney recognized by Best Lawyers in the practice area(s) of Business Organizations (including LLCs and Partnerships) and Closely Held Companies and Family Businesses Law. Mary, who practices law in Lake Oswego, Oregon, has been recognized since 2026. This recognition is based on an exhaustive peer-review survey, reflecting the high esteem in which Mary is held by other top lawyers in the same geographic and legal practice area.

Regan E. Rule Ph.D. is a top attorney recognized by Best Lawyers in the practice area(s) of Closely Held Companies and Family Businesses Law, Litigation - Trusts and Estates and Trusts and Estates. Regan E., who practices law in Tulsa, Oklahoma, has been recognized since 2026. This recognition is based on an exhaustive peer-review survey, reflecting the high esteem in which Regan E. is held by other top lawyers in the same geographic and legal practice area.

Michael T. Sandfort is a top attorney recognized by Best Lawyers in the practice area(s) of Banking and Finance Law, Closely Held Companies and Family Businesses Law and Mergers and Acquisitions Law. Michael T., who practices law in Boston, Massachusetts, has been recognized since 2024. This recognition is based on an exhaustive peer-review survey, reflecting the high esteem in which Michael T. is held by other top lawyers in the same geographic and legal practice area.

Drew Erickson’s practice is focused on all aspects of business law. His practice includes general corporate transactions, contract drafting, entity choice and formation, mergers and acquisitions, and asset protection. His experience includes: Entity selection, formation, governance Employment/independent contract agreements, construction documents, building & equipment leases, master services agreements, and intellectual property protection Develop strategies for corporate reorganiz...

Tyler’s corporate practice focuses on helping professionals such as physicians, dentists, veterinarians, CPAs, and attorneys with all of their business needs. He helps professionals form their own companies, structure partnership and other joint ventures, and acquire existing practices. Once established, he assists with all legal matters that arise during a company’s tenure, including lease renewals, real estate acquisitions, space-sharing arrangements, issues with clients/patient...

Daniel J. Padilla is a top attorney recognized by Best Lawyers in the practice area(s) of Banking and Finance Law, Closely Held Companies and Family Businesses Law, Employee Benefits (ERISA) Law, Financial Services Regulation Law, Real Estate Law, Tax Law and Trusts and Estates. Daniel J., who practices law in Honolulu, Hawaii, has been recognized since 2021. This recognition is based on an exhaustive peer-review survey, reflecting the high esteem in which Daniel J. is held by other top lawye...

“Smart answers only come from smart questions. I actively listen to thoroughly understand what is driving your issue. With a clear vision of the big picture, I can advise you on the most effective resolution for your immediate situation and the long-term growth of your business.” My goal is to help you actively move forward to achieve your objectives while ensuring that you and your business are protected. Whether you are forming, buying or selling a business, seeking advice for y...

Ryan Schultz is a top attorney recognized by Best Lawyers in the practice area(s) of Closely Held Companies and Family Businesses Law, Family Law and Family Law: Arbitration and Mediation. Ryan, who practices law in Wilmington, North Carolina, has been recognized since 2023. This recognition is based on an exhaustive peer-review survey, reflecting the high esteem in which Ryan is held by other top lawyers in the same geographic and legal practice area.

John N. Thorpe works in Frazier Law's Business Litigation and Alternative Dispute Resolution practice. He represents clients in areas including business disputes, education law, complex commercial litigation, constitutional law, and government relations. John’s clients benefit from his intimate understanding of the federal court system, his passion for legal writing, and his background in sophisticated, high-stakes, and sometimes high-profile litigation. John graduated magna cum laude f...

Corey W. Moore is a transactional attorney with Otis & Bedingfield, LLC, serving individuals, families, and business owners in Loveland, Colorado. His practice centers on estate planning, estate administration, and business law, with particular emphasis on Closely Held Companies and Family Businesses Law. Corey regularly advises clients on planning for the transfer of wealth involving closely held and family-owned businesses, structuring plans to address potential gift and estate tax cons...