Common Situations and Considerations When to Hire an Attorney
Hiring an attorney is a major decision and should not be taken lightly. An effective lawyer could save you thousands in future litigation expenses; thus it’s crucial that you consider these factors when making your selection:
As you consider different attorneys, take time to research their areas of expertise. Many attorneys specialize in particular areas; therefore, it’s essential that you find one who fits with your specific requirements.
1. You’re a business owner
Finding the appropriate lawyer to represent your business takes research and interviews. Get referrals from other businesses in your industry, and search reviews online. Look for an attorney with experience working with companies similar to yours so they understand any issues which might affect you directly, while choosing someone who communicates well and will take the time to keep you updated as necessary.
Lawyers can be invaluable resources in business matters, from starting up your company to handling an employee dispute. A simple pay dispute could become a liability issue; building a relationship with an attorney early can save both money and headaches down the line.
Before meeting with any prospective lawyers, the Contra Costa County Bar Association recommends compiling a list of questions for yourself to bring with you during your meeting. Be sure to ask how much the matter will cost (including disbursements such as filing fees or overnight courier charges). This will enable you to compare different attorneys and select one who best meets your needs.
2. You’re a business owner facing litigation
While some business owners might be tempted to cut corners when it comes to legal costs in order to save money, this decision will ultimately cost more in the long run. An attorney will assist with setting up your entity correctly and drafting custom contracts that protect both you and your company from potential liability issues; cookie-cutter forms downloaded off the Internet might work temporarily but could potentially lead to costly and time-consuming litigation later on. In addition, having access to an experienced legal advisor ensures they keep abreast of changing laws within your industry while offering advice accordingly.
People often don’t consider attorneys to be specialists in conflict or dispute resolution – which can be a mistake. Working with an attorney from the start will help find ways to settle disagreements faster, saving both court fees, attorneys’ fees and settlement payments in the process. Finding a reliable and trustworthy attorney should make you feel at ease during an initial meeting.
3. You’re a business owner facing criminal charges
If someone has disparaged your business, engaged in fraud or caused emotional distress, hiring the appropriate lawyer can help resolve these matters and potentially obtain compensation. Furthermore, legal assistance should always be available when needing help registering an Employer Identification Number/Assumed Name/Formed Business Entity and basic contracts.
Of course, hiring an attorney is expensive but worth every penny if your business or personal reputation could be at stake. Furthermore, often the best way to protect your company from potential issues is enlisting their assistance early. For example, an experienced attorney could help negotiate contract terms that have potential tax ramifications or give one party too much power or leeway than necessary and can advise when outside consultants or contractors should sign a nondisclosure agreement.
4. You’re a business owner facing divorce
At happy moments, many couples fail to consider what may result if they decide to divorce. Divorce can have dire repercussions for both spouses, especially if they own a business together and can have devastating ramifications on its future.
Divorce can pose unique property division and community property law concerns that require attention from both sides. Depending on how your state handles these laws, it can be challenging for couples to come to an agreement about the valuation and division of businesses owned jointly by both. A qualified attorney with experience handling such cases can anticipate potential obstacles while navigating you towards solutions that protect your best interests.
Even if they do not plan on filing for divorce, business owners should still protect their assets by having an attorney draft prenuptial agreements and other necessary documents. That way, should their circumstances change or should their company go bankrupt or they separate, you won’t be left holding the bag should any assets become subject to division by either your partner or another third party.
