Do you own a small business and are currently on the hunt for legal counsel? Businesses often need to speak to legal counsel regarding a wide array of matters to ensure they go about processes and procedures in the right way. But because you will be counting on legal counsel to guide you, you must find the right law firm for your needs. These four tips will make finding legal counsel for your small business much smoother.
Do They Have Direct Experience with the Issues You Need Them For?
Before hiring any legal counsel, you need to ask how long they have been practicing law and what their direct experience is with the issues they would handle for you. You need to know they have the skills and knowledge to bring to the table, which means they can offer you the best legal advice and representation possible. A law firm should have no problem disclosing this information to you.
If the law firm comes across as vague or doesn’t have much information to give you, this should act as a red flag. You may even want to ask for references, meaning clients who have business needs like yours. Keep in mind they may turn down this request due to confidentiality agreements.
The Costs Have to Factor Into the Decision
Money should never be the sole factor that makes the decision, but cost needs to be part of the discussion. Get a clear quote on how much their services would be and how they need to be paid. As a small business owner, there’s a good chance you have a tight budget, so you need to know that legal fees won’t spiral out of control or hit you with surprises.
What Can a Boutique Law Firm Offer?
As you wade through the sea of options, one thing you may come across is boutique law firms, which are available in big and small cities across the country. Niche practice areas and specialized services are what you can expect from a boutique law firm in New York or any other city for that matter. But what makes these law firms different from traditional ones?
Here are some of the benefits of using a boutique law firm:
- They tend to have highly experienced staff
- They often practice in niche areas
- They have a smaller client list
- They can offer a more personal touch
- They can usually grow with the business
- They prefer to create long-term client relationships
As a small business owner, this more hands-on approach could be exactly what you’re looking for. You won’t feel like just a number or any other client whose needs don’t matter. Your legal counsel will get to know you, and trust will be built.
Set Up a Consultation to Get a Feel for the Legal Counsel
Once you narrow down your options, it’s wise to set up a consultation. This allows you to get a feel for the legal counsel and ensures you’d be able to create a solid working relationship. You need to know that you can trust them to handle your specific needs. It’s also wise to discuss what your needs would be and hear how the legal counsel would go about addressing them.
Some of the most common reasons small businesses require legal counsel include:
- A current or former employee is suing the company
- Negotiating the acquisition of assets or another company
- Selling your company
- Environmental issues where your business has been named
- Your company is being investigated by the government for a violation of a law
Stay Steadfast in Your Search
When it comes to finding legal counsel for your small business, it’s all about remaining steadfast in your company’s specific needs.
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