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 sound ground
counsel

practical legal support, grounded in real business needs

what i do

I advise service-based businesses on contract structure, client relationships, and foundational business governance. My role is to create custom documents and advise on everyday decisions that ultimately impact how services are delivered, how clients engage, and how disputes are managed when expectations are not met.

Typical engagements involve drafting and revising client agreements, defining service scope, and updating existing terms and practices as operations evolve.

 

I also provide guidance on entity formation, operating agreements, and the allocation of risks and responsibilities among owners and collaborators.

Rather than providing abstract guidance, I focus on producing concrete solutions that make the lives of business owners easier.

I’m an attorney who values clarity, intentional structure, and quality work that holds up under real-world pressure. I’m drawn to the practical side of legal work and focus on the ways in which I can improve how businesses function day-to-day. I enjoy thinking through how decisions play out over time, and I approach my work with careful analysis, responsive strategy, and consistent attention to detail.

I received my Juris Doctor from Northwestern Pritzker School of Law in 2022. Since entering practice, much of my experience has focused on papering transactions and developing agreements and structures that support strong business operations and help prevent avoidable risks. I am licensed to practice law in Illinois.

Outside of my legal work, I spend time embracing creativity, community, and the people within our communities doing meaningful work. I have always been drawn to art and expression, and I appreciate environments where thoughtful design and clear intention come together.

 

I currently live in Chicago with my husband, our twin daughters, two cats and dog! Being part of a strong local community is important to me, and I value the sense of fulfillment that comes from shared responsibility and connection. That same appreciation flows through how I approach my work. I ultimately believe that collaboration strengthens outcomes, and I am dedicated to using my training and expertise to support others in building thoughtful and sustainable businesses.

about

services
&
fees

contract development

This includes drafting and revising agreements that define the terms of your client relationships and day-to-day operations.

 

Examples include:

  • Client service agreements

  • Independent contractor agreements

  • Vendor and collaboration agreements

  • Terms and conditions

  • Cancellation and payment structures

 

Best for:
 

Businesses that need reliable, reusable agreements aligned with real operations.

legal review & risk assessment

This involves analyzing contracts prepared by others and advising on legal exposure, enforceability, and alignment with business practices.

Typical work includes:

  • Reviewing third-party agreements

  • Identifying risk exposure and ambiguity

  • Recommending revisions or negotiation points

  • Advising on whether agreements are workable in practice

 

Best for:
 

Businesses asked to sign contracts or relying on existing agreements that need legal evaluation.

business formation & governance

This includes advising on entity selection and developing internal governance documents that define ownership, roles, and responsibilities.

Typical work includes:

  • Entity selection guidance

  • Operating agreements

  • Partnership agreements

  • Ownership structure planning

Best for:
 

New businesses or partnerships establishing their legal foundation.

ongoing legal support

Designed for businesses that need regular input without engaging separate projects for every issue.

Typical work includes:

  • Contract questions

  • Policy and process updates

  • Risk-based guidance

  • Periodic document review

Best for:


Businesses seeking ongoing legal oversight and continuity.

Fees vary depending on scope, complexity, and timing. Most work is billed either on a flat-fee basis for defined projects or hourly for advisory matters. My standard hourly rate is $225 per hour, billed in increments appropriate to the task performed.

 

Flat-fee work is available for many common projects, including contract development, contract review, and governance documentation. After an initial consultation, I provide a written scope outlining anticipated work and associated fees.

 

For businesses requiring ongoing support, monthly advisory arrangements may be available.

FAQs

What types of clients do you work with?

I primarily work with service-based businesses, including therapists, coaches, consultants, and independent professionals.

Do I need a contract if I already have something written?

Often yes. Many templates or self-written agreements leave important gaps. A review can help identify risks and strengthen your existing terms.

Do you offer ongoing legal support?

Yes. Ongoing support options are available for clients who want continued guidance as their businesses grow.

 

How long does contract work typically take?

Most contract projects are completed within one to two weeks, depending on complexity and responsiveness.

Do you provide tax advice?

I provide legal guidance related to structure and contracts. For tax-specific advice, clients may be referred to a qualified tax professional.

How do payments work?

Invoices are issued electronically and may be paid securely online.

email: mariah@soundgroundco.com

This website is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Submission of information through this site does not create an attorney-client relationship.

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