Regardless of how big or small your company is, it’s important to have a business attorney working with you and your establishment. This is something that should be carefully considered as you’re starting your corporation, not afterwards. A lawyer who specializes in business law will be able to help you with nearly every aspect of your enterprise. While many people think you only need an attorney if you are being sued, in many cases you’re already in over your head at that point. A good Los Angeles business lawyer may be able to prevent you from being sued in the first place and will have a strong working knowledge of other legal aspects of the business, such as contracts.
When choosing a firm, it’s important to decide up front if you want to work with a small or large firm. There are pros and cons to each type. Small firms are intimate and typically less expensive; however they may not be a “one stop shop.” Since there are fewer lawyers in small firms, you may have to go to another lawyer for more specialized needs. Larger firms are often good because there are typically no less than ten lawyers with various specialties, so you are likely to have all your needs handled with one firm. On the down side, in many cases you’re paying more for the expertise.
For most small companies, having a law firm that deals with litigation and transactional issues will be sufficient. Litigation attorneys are those that handle disputes, while transactional attorneys take care of out-of-court, day-to-day business matters. By taking the time to look at and predict your needs, you can decide what kind of help your company should invest in.
Don’t hesitate to interview attorneys to see which one you think will fit your needs best. Ask questions about how they will be able to assist you and your company and make sure they’re knowledgeable about your industry. It’s also necessary to discuss rates and how the firm bills to determine which is best for you.
Although it can be an overwhelming process to find a Los Angeles business lawyer, it is well worth the time and funds that are invested. Having a specialized, qualified attorney that you can count on for advice will ensure that your business runs into significantly fewer obstacles than it might have otherwise. As your company grows and expands, it may be necessary to reevaluate your legal needs with your representation so they’re aware of how they can better serve you.