Do I Need A Lawyer For My Small Business?
Among the many worries that small business owners face, there is always the question of whether they need to hire a lawyer. The misconception is that attorneys charge an arm and a leg, and most small enterprises don’t have extra capital to spare. Due to this, many hire a lawyer only when confronted with a serious legal complication. However, if you’re looking for an affordable business lawyer near me, you’re at the right place.
The truth is that business attorneys are a valuable resource that every entrepreneur should have in their portfolio of advisors for discussing a range of issues. You may benefit from a lawyer at certain times more than others if you have a small business. For this reason, it is best to always have an attorney at your fingertips in an emergency.
Don’t put it off Until It’s Too Late
As a smart entrepreneur, you shouldn’t put off hiring a lawyer until a major problem arises. Don’t wait until you are sued since lawsuits are time-consuming, expensive, and stressful. Although hiring a lawyer may not always come cheap, involving them at an early stage can help you steer clear of situations that increase your business’s exposure to liability, thereby saving you time and money in the long run.
Do You Need to Hire a Lawyer for Your Small Business? Issues where you Will Need a Business Lawyer
Whether you have a new or established small business, you may encounter several hiccups from time to time. Uncertainties and issues are unavoidable; this is where a lawyer can protect you against legal consequences. Having a reputable attorney for your small and growing business will provide peace of mind and long-term value to your company. Here are a few instances where you will need a lawyer for your small business.
Choosing an Appropriate Business Structure
If you have an infant business, choosing the right structure from the get-go will prevent any unnecessary legal issues. You will be exposed to more liability from sole proprietorships and partnerships than from an LLC corporation. Hiring a business lawyer will help you understand tax requirements, liabilities, setup expenses, and employee concerns, so you can decide what type of business structure is most suitable.
Avoiding Lawsuits
Small businesses aren’t safe from lawsuits. A lawyer can help you get your company in legal order for federal and employment laws. Staying prepared for a lawsuit will save you thousands of dollars and countless headaches in the future. You should build a relationship with an attorney before you need one so they can fully understand your business and its related laws.
Dealing with Employee Issues
Employee-related problems are common in all types of organizations, making small businesses short on money. However, if you have sought the services of a lawyer, those problems are quickly resolved since they can facilitate the recruitment process, administer employees’ compensation, prepare agreements for independent contractors, and allow you safely fire workers without any legal repercussions.
Debt Collection
At some point, every small business experiences the hassle of not getting paid. If you decide to take the client to court, a lawyer can offer you valuable advice or represent you until you receive the compensation you deserve.
Applying for Patents and Trademarks
Every business, whether big or small, should trademark its logo and other identifying marks. Similarly, if you have developed a new service or product, it is important to apply for a patent, which is more complex. An attorney can help you get approved for patent and trademark applications within a reasonable timeframe.
Complying with Environmental Regulations
The environment has become a hot topic of discussion nowadays, and an increasing number of people and businesses are trying to save it. As a result, certain laws and rules may impact your small business. Additionally, a good attorney can be your primary line of defense if you fail to comply with a rule and come face-to-face with a lawsuit.
Understanding Real-Estate Contracts
Unless you are operating your small business from home, you will have to set up your company in a commercial space, office building, or warehouse. Whether leasing or buying a piece of land, you will want a lawyer to scrutinize the fine print on all contracts, agreements, and terms.
What to Look for in a Lawyer for Your Small Business?
Knowledge and Experience
When looking for a business lawyer, opt for someone who is profoundly experienced and knowledgeable. Every attorney depends on a certain body of law, so it is essential to ensure the lawyer you hire has experience representing businesses in your niche and a solid knowledge of corporate law.
Honesty and Integrity
Your lawyer should not only safeguard your business but also reflect the company’s standards. Honesty is thus a crucial quality to consider when hiring an attorney for your small business. Transparent communication between you and your attorney can drastically avoid legal misunderstandings and protect your brand image.
Excellent Listening Skills
Successful lawyers are excellent communicators; they not only communicate their side of the story but also intently listen to their clients, opposing counsel, witnesses, and the court. Being attentive is an important quality that can help lawyers build their cases.
Affordable Business Lawyer Near Me
The law is intimidating for many small business owners, but it doesn’t have to be. By hiring a reputable lawyer, you can prepare yourself for what to expect and understand the steps you need to take to protect yourself, your assets, and your business.
The good news is that hiring an experienced lawyer doesn’t have to break your bank account. The Underhill Legal Plan is specifically developed for small businesses so owners can enjoy legal protection at a very reasonable price. With over 28 years of experience representing small and closely-knit businesses, attorneys at Underhill Law, P.C. can handle a range of matters. These include business establishment, independent and employee contractors, collections, regulatory issues, shareholder disputes, dissolution, succession, and other matters.
The Legal Plan is a one-year commitment that allows your business to receive legal support without incurring the expense of full-time counsel. This makes it an affordable solution for many small business owners. For more information, visit us at Underhill Law or call us at (303) 721-7112.