There are over 443,000 law firms and well over 1 million lawyers in the US.
In theory, this is a good thing. But when it comes to finding the right business attorney for your company, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed by options.
How can you sift through the masses and hire a business lawyer that will help your brand to succeed? As you research how to hire a business attorney, keep these four important factors in mind.
1. Know Why You Need an Attorney
Not all businesses need an attorney, so how do you know if you should hire one? Here are some key reasons why business owners seek professional legal help:
- Selecting a business entity
- Raising venture capital
- Drafting agreements and contracts
- Handling employment issues
- Obtaining a patent or trademark
- Business tax returns
- Real estate and zoning laws
- Government investigations or audits
As you can see, there are a wide variety of circumstances where you may need a business law attorney. Make sure you’re clear on why you need a lawyer so you can find one that specializes in that area.
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2. Consider Their Fee Structure
Any reputable lawyer will be happy to discuss their fees in a clear, understandable manner. For example, Sweet Lawyers assures clients that they won’t pay a penny unless they win their case.
Some law firms charge a flat fee for their services, while others work on an hourly basis. Others choose a hybrid model that combines both types of fees. There are no right or wrong answers — just make sure that you understand (and agree to) the chosen fee structure.
3. Large Firms vs Small Firms
Generally speaking, small business owners should seek help from a small business attorney. But keep in mind that there are pros and cons to working with large firms, small firms, and independent lawyers.
For example, a startup might find that they’re a low priority for a large firm that represents Fortune 500 companies. However, if you’re facing a lawsuit or a complex legal issue, a smaller firm may not have the experience or resources to tackle the case.
4. A Good Reputation
As you browse a potential lawyer’s website, no doubt you’ll see glowing reviews and testimonials from past clients. This is a good start, but you need to dig deeper.
What kind of reputation does the lawyer have on third-party review sites like Google, Yelp, or the Better Business Bureau? What types of comments do clients leave on their social media profiles?
One or two bad reviews aren’t necessarily enough to write them off. But beware of a string of negative comments — especially if they all have the same complaint.
Find the Right Business Attorney for You
Like other decisions you have to make about your company, choosing a business attorney can have a serious impact on your future. Use the tips listed above to help you narrow in on the best lawyer for your business needs.
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