Hiring a Lawyer for Your New Business

Finding the Right Attorney for Your Business Needs

One of the hardest issues in starting a small business is making sure everything is done legally.  The law has been slowly expanding to include every aspect of small business operation, including how you deal with landlords, zoning regulations, your suppliers and the government.  It's a wonder the small-business owner can do anything without a lawyer.

The question of when you need a lawyer is tough, but it's usually a good idea to consult an attorney before making any decision that could have potential consequences later on, such as when setting up a partnership or corporation, complying with regulations, obtaining trademarks or patents, applying for a loan, drawing up contracts or pension plans, tax preparation, and collecting debt.  You also need an attorney when going to court against an employee dispute or if you're caught up in a liability suit.  Don't wait for something to go wrong before seeking out a lawyer; by that time it's usually too late for them to do you much good.  Without knowledge of a good attorney before getting caught in a crisis, you may choose poorly in desperation and pay the price for a long time thereafter.  A relationship with your lawyer takes time to develop; don't wait until you're going down with the ship to look for one.

Ask other business owners in your industry or from people you trust who have knowledge of legal assistance, such as your accountant.  Ask what the strengths and weaknesses of the attorneys they recommend are, then ask the attorneys of your business associates and colleagues for lawyers they recommend and ask them the same questions.  Be respectful of this latter category, and phrase your question in a way they won't find offensive.  You can even contact your local Bar Association and ask whom they would recommend.