It’s highly likely that if you are an entrepreneur, you may have a little “issue” when it comes to controlling everything about your company — in other words, you find it hard to trust others when it comes to your “baby.”
But unless you are an experienced business attorney, you probably don’t have the knowledge — and most certainly the time — to understand the legal implications of just about every decision you will be making about your new business, including its structure, the agreements and contracts that will determine how your company will function and be profitable, and even hiring your first employee.
While entrepreneurs are usually great problem solvers, a good business lawyer is trained to see potential problems before they can adversely impact your business or put your personal wealth at risk.
Here are some tips for choosing the right lawyer for your business:
- Look for a good fit. Finding someone to meet all your legal requirements may be much easier than finding a good fit personally, but face it — you want to be in business with this person for the long haul, since his or her good advice can continue to keep you out of trouble and save you some serious cash by avoiding litigation. Find someone you click with on a personal level and who can relate to what you need.
- Do not use a friend. You need someone with total objectivity, and you want to be able to be completely honest with your attorney, so usually choosing someone who is not already a personal friend is your best bet.
- Ask for referrals. If you know other attorneys or friends who have used business lawyers, ask them for a referral. Then interview those attorneys before making a commitment by phone or email.
- Stay away from DIY websites. The do-it-yourself legal documents you can get online could get you into more trouble and end up costing you much more in litigation than you would have spent on a real, live, breathing attorney in the first place.
- Consider size. Law firms come in all sizes, with pros and cons for each. Larger firms usually offer a fuller complement of resources, including multiple locations and more specialized practice areas. Smaller firms and solos are usually more hands-on and can be more economical. Decide first what you need and choose the firm that can best deliver to those needs.
Johnson Legal PC offers effective valued solutions along with exceptional legal expertise and creative thinking for New Jersey and New York businesses. Contact us to learn more about how a great corporate attorney can help your business thrive.
