Not all companies require hiring the services of a lawyer on a permanent basis. But it is possible that at times matters arise where it is advisable to have one of them, who is reliable and understands the needs of the company Law tuition.
In order to have someone with these and other essential characteristics, the experts at the SME Institute make available the following recommendations for choosing a lawyer:
1. Know when you will need legal advice: these are some typical situations:
– When you are deciding whether to transform your company into a public limited company or not, and you need the necessary documentation to be prepared.
– When trying to draft or decipher a complicated contract.
– When you receive a threat of legal action.
– When you need help collecting a debt.
– When you need information about regulations relevant to your business and help with how to comply with them.
2. Hire a lawyer who understands your business
Get your lawyer (like any other professional advisor) to understand the particular needs of your company. When interviewing to select a lawyer, ask if he or she has previously worked with a firm like yours. You don’t have to pay for their learning time. Has your firm worked with small businesses before? What type? If specialized regulations or other legal requirements govern your field of activity, you will need a lawyer who knows them well.
3. Use references
Referrals are the best way to find virtually any service you need, and an attorney is no exception. Talk to other small business owners, your banker, your accountant, or other advisors you trust. You can also consult your local professional bar association, although not all of them verify the specialization or experience of their members. Naturally, a reference from these entities guarantees that the lawyer has passed the necessary exam.
4. Understand what they charge you before you receive a bill
Lawyer fees can vary depending on where you work, how much experience you have, your specialty, and whether it is a large firm or a small law office.
Understand how the lawyer charges. When you call for advice, do you get charged for the time you’re on the phone? If so, how are these fees calculated? Are there different rates depending on who works on your account? (A lawyer, an investigator, a paralegal).
Also, ask in advance if you will be charged for the first consultation.
5. Negotiate a billing method that meets your needs
Most small businesses pay for a lawyer when they need one. If you work two hours, this is the time you are paid. If you have an ongoing relationship with your attorney, you will likely be billed once a month for services provided.
Another option is to have an equal-fee relationship with an attorney, but this is uncommon for small businesses. This means that you pay fees to a lawyer who agrees to be available to perform certain previously agreed upon tasks for your company, in a permanent employment relationship. If you must face serious litigation, or have a special project, additional fees are negotiated.
It is sometimes possible to get a prepaid legal plan where you receive a variety of services in exchange for a single annual fee.