How Businesses Should Go About Finding an Attorney and What to Expect

Posted July 13, 2024 in Business Law, Contracts, Litigation

I need a new attorney for my business. Where do I start?

Running a business involves navigating a complex legal landscape, from drafting contracts and protecting intellectual property to handling employment disputes and regulatory compliance. Finding the right attorney is crucial for ensuring your business operates smoothly and avoids legal pitfalls. This blog will provide guidance on how businesses can find the right attorney and outline what they should expect from their legal counsel.

How to Find the Right Attorney for Your Business

1. Assess Your Legal Needs.

• • Identify the specific legal issues your business faces, such as corporate or LLC formation, intellectual property, employment law, contracts, regulatory compliance, or commercial litigation.
  • Determine whether you need a specialist in a particular area of law or a generalist who can handle a variety of legal matters.

2. Seek Recommendations AND OPTIONS.

• • Ask for referrals from other business owners, professional associations, or industry networks.
  • Consult with your accountant, banker, or other trusted advisors who often work with business attorneys.
  • Google search for law firms who practice the type of law you need and review their websites and ratings.

3. Research and Shortlist Potential Law Firms.

• • Look for attorneys with experience in your industry and a track record of success in handling similar legal issues.
  • Evaluate Qualifications & Experience.

4. Evaluate QUalifications & Experience.

• • Review the attorney’s education, professional background, and years of experience.
  • Assess their familiarity with local, state, and federal laws relevant to your business.

5. Interview Prospective Law Firms.

• • Prepare a list of questions to ask during the consultation, focusing on their experience, approach to handling cases, and fee structure.
  • Seek to get to know the law firm within which the attorney works. A good attorney at a poorly run law firm may not serve you well.
  • Discuss your business’s legal needs and gauge the attorney’s understanding and ability to address them.

6. Consider Compatibility and Communication.

• • Choose a law firm that values and embodies clear communication, listens to your concerns, and demonstrates a genuine interest in your business.
  • Ensure their communication style and availability align with your expectations.

What to Expect from Your Business Attorney

1. Legal Expertise and Guidance

• • Your attorney should provide knowledgeable advice and solutions tailored to your specific legal issues and business goals.
  • Expect them to stay informed about changes in laws and regulations that may impact your business.

2. Drafting and Reviewing Legal Documents

• • Your attorney should be skilled in drafting, reviewing, and negotiating contracts, agreements, and other legal documents to protect your interests.
  • They should ensure that all documents are clear, comprehensive, and compliant with applicable laws.

3. Representation in Legal Disputes

• • Whether dealing with litigation, arbitration, or mediation, your attorney should represent your business’s interests effectively.
  • They should develop a strategic approach to resolving disputes, minimizing risks, and achieving favorable outcomes.

4. Compliance and Risk Management

• • Your attorney should help you understand and comply with relevant laws and regulations, avoiding potential legal issues.
  • They should assist in developing policies and procedures to mitigate risks and ensure legal compliance.

5. Transparent Communication and Billing

• • Your attorney should maintain open and honest communication, keeping you informed about the progress of your legal matters.
  • Expect transparency in billing practices, with clear explanations of fees, billing rates, and payment terms. A particular red flag to watch out for is a law firm who does not immediately provide you with an engagement letter or fee agreement outline these things.

6. Long-Term Partnership

• • Ideally, your attorney should be a trusted advisor who understands your business’s unique needs and goals.
  • They should provide ongoing support and advice, helping your business grow and succeed over time.

Conclusion

Finding the right attorney is a critical step for any business. By assessing your legal needs, seeking recommendations, and thoroughly vetting potential candidates, you can secure legal counsel that aligns with your business’s objectives. Once you have retained an attorney, you should expect expertise, effective communication, and a commitment to your business’s success. With the right legal partner, you can navigate the complexities of the business world with confidence and peace of mind.

CONTACT A BUSINESS ATTORNEY IN COLORADO TODAY

For further information, reach out to Volpe Law today to request a consultation. We can be contacted through our online form, or you call us directly at 720-770-3457. Our team of dedicated attorneys are here to listen and identify the best legal options for you.

FEES

A $5,000 retainer is required for all pre-litigation dispute cases, while active litigation matters have a minimum retainer of $10,000. As of 1/1/2025, attorney rates vary between $275 – $400/hour. These hourly rates are paid by the retainer account. Fees and retainers for contract reviews and smaller projects vary, with some cases best suited for a 1-2 hour paid consultation at $350 per hour or $700 for two hours. All retainers are evergreen and refundable. Please call to inquire for further details.

DISCLAIMER

The information contained on this website is provided for informational purposes only. It is not legal advice and should not be construed as providing legal advice on any subject matter. Laws frequently change and therefore this content is not necessarily up to date, nor comprehensive. Contact us or another attorney with any legal questions specific to your matter. You may request a consultation by completing our consultation request form.