Clifford Christy Barton, Business Attorney in Columbia, Missouri

Clifford concentrates on business, elder law, estate planning, probate, and tax. Each area below outlines the kind of case Clifford handles, typical outcomes to expect, and how the intake process starts.

• Business

  View other Business attorneys

• Elder Law

  View other Elder Law attorneys

• Estate Planning

  View other Estate Planning attorneys

• Probate

  View other Probate attorneys

• Tax

  View other Tax attorneys

Clifford's primary office is at 2516 Forum Blvd., Ste. 101, Columbia, MO, 65203. 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 Clifford usually go, from the moment you request a consult to the day representation begins.

Clifford 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 Clifford for a business case?

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

• Does Clifford offer a free consultation?

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

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

• Can Clifford take my case if I'm outside Columbia?

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

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

• Is Clifford accepting new business clients right now?

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