Whether you’re an entrepreneur embarking on your first start-up or a long-standing business in need of new representation, choosing a corporate attorney requires an understanding of what you need from both a business perspective and a personal perspective. While most of us base our understanding of what an attorney does on performance in a courtroom or in negotiations, corporate lawyers do most of their work behind a desk, drafting documents, and structuring deals. They help their clients navigate mergers and acquisitions, intellectual property, and their corporate responsibilities and obligations, and provide advice on topics ranging from corporate structure and taxes to real estate and other ventures.
Knowing all this, choosing the right corporate attorney requires that you do your due diligence to ensure that the lawyer you choose will suit your business and your needs. Here are the specific things that you should consider:
- Familiarity with your industry
Though business and corporate law doesn’t necessarily change based on your niche or industry, there is no question that having an attorney who has already worked with other clients in your industry will help them to understand the particular issues that you are likely to encounter.
- A history of accomplishments demonstrating their skill
A corporate attorney should be able to point to specific accomplishments that they have achieved on behalf of previous clients (such as deals that they have negotiated or succession plans that they have crafted) to show that they are qualified to provide you with the representation that you need.
- Firm size
Though the size of a law firm is largely a matter of personal choice, it is important to remember that with larger firms you may find yourself dealing with multiple people who may not know you and your business as intimately as would be the case with smaller firms. On the other hand, a larger firm is likely to have a team that has expertise in a broader range of specialty areas and is more immediately available when you have an urgent need.
- Fee structure
Some corporate attorneys will bill by the hour while others have established prices for specific services. The determination of which will be best for your firm will depend upon your needs.
If you are in need of a corporate attorney, our experienced firm can provide you with the guidance and expertise that you need. Contact us today to set up a time to speak with us and learn about the service we provide.
