| The resources on this page are NOT meant to replace legal advice from your own attorney or other advisors. All information is for information purposes only. Please use due dilligence before hiring an attorney or other professional. Make sure you understand what your obligations and rights are before signing any contract - that's just sound business advice.
From the desk of: Cheryl Antier
During my last strategic planning mastermind group, one of the members brought up a question about finding a good business attorney - what to look for and what questions to ask. This question brought in a flood of additional questions, and so I've created this page because I think the resources we found might help you too!
Q. What do business law attorneys do?
A. Business law is actually very diverse and includes: acquisitions and mergers, banking and finance law, business formation and organizational structure, civil law, divestiture and selling, business litigation, business planning and negotiation, environmental business law, labor law, intellectual property, trademark law, copyright law, and transactional business law.
Like other entrepreneurs, business attorneys tend to specialize in one or two areas, which can help insure that you receive the help you need from someone who understands the complex legalities and regulations for your business.
Q. When should I consider hiring a business law attorney?
A. You should consider hiring a business law attorney for any of a number of reasons, such as:
- forming a corporation or LLC (Limited Liability Company)
- going into a partnership with another person or people
- research for public domain information
- intellectual property issues
- hiring employees
- tax issues or problems
- patent law
- trademark law
- banking and finance
- planning the best structure for your business
- negotiation and contract law
A business law attorney can advise you about the specific laws and regulations pertaining to your state or locality, and can give you advice pertaining to these and other issues.
Of course, when it comes to business litigation, the best time to find an attorney is before you need one!
Q. Where can I find a business law attorney in my state?
A. To find a good business law attorney, check with your local State Bar Association or Better Business bureau. Ask for recommendations from business associates, friends or your Chamber of Commerce. Other sources of information for business law attorneys in your area could be your local university, small business development center, women's associations or local business associations.
Q. I have some general questions I'd like to ask a business law attorney, but I'm worried about the cost. Any suggestions?
A. Especially in the case of finding the right business law attorney, the old saying "You get what you pay for" usually rings true. Don't let price alone make the choice of a business law attorney. Instead, make sure that you find someone who understands the area of business law that you need help with. Also, many attorneys offer a free first consultation, so they can get a feeling for what kind of business law you need help with, and if they are the right attorney for your business.
Don't be afraid to ask for referrals, or how much experience the attorney has in this area. Also, it's a good idea to prepare a list of questions before your first appointment, so that you don't forget anything.
Q. How do I find a business law attorney in my area?
A. The American Bar Association offers a state by state referral service. To find a business law attorney in your state, start by clicking this link:
Q. What is dispute resolution and should I choose that over having an attorney?
A. Click here for more information about dispute resolution.
Lemon Law
Valuable source for information on all aspects of the Lemon Law, and attorneys dealing with the Lemon Law.
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