Choosing a Corporate Lawyer
Choosing a corporate lawyer isn’t like choosing a lawyer from another field. For one, there’s a lot more riding on your decision; you have the entire business to support. You’ll also need to pay extra attention to privacy and confidentiality clauses because large sums of money are usually involved.
With so much depending on your choice, how can you ensure that you make the right one? Here are a few tips for choosing a good corporate lawyer.
Ask for Referrals
Referrals usually make up the bulk of a corporate lawyer’s client base. Professional networking means that many of their clients spread the word through conferences, mixers and technical expos, so don’t be afraid to ask around at these events. You won’t be the first to do so, and you won’t be the last.
Look for Multiple Skills
Specialized lawyers can be useful if you have a specific legal problem that needs attending, but if you’re just looking for someone to oversee daily operations, you’ll want a lawyer with diverse talents. Choose a firm or association with experience in everything from contract review to LCC structuring.
Stay Local
Local attorneys will understand the intricacies of your city’s laws, policies and permits. They’ll also never be more than a phone call away in the event of an emergency. If you’re in Orange County, make sure you’re looking specifically for something like a business attorney Orange County.
Understand Their Prices
Different lawyers will have different methods of charging you. Some have an hourly fee, and others will work on a commission basis; others still can be persuaded into alternative fee arrangements. Before you sign any contracts or hand over any confidential company information, settle all the payment details with your attorney.
Schedule a Consultation
At the end of the day, there’s simply no way to judge a lawyer without meeting them in person. Arrange for a consultation or interview so that you can get the measure of your candidate. Bring a few of the company’s outdated or non-sensitive records. You can use them to quiz the potential lawyer until you’re satisfied that they’re the one.
These are just a few ways to sort through your options and find the corporate attorney who’s right for you. The important thing is to take your time and choose carefully. A little precaution now will help you in the future.
