Should Your Business Hire a Lawyer?

As an attorney who has specialized in small businesses and mid-sized businesses for over 30 years, I am often asked by business people whether or not they should have an ongoing relationship with an attorney.  Most business people work hard to conduct their businesses and want to maximize time with their families, and they wonder why they should spend time and money to consult with an attorney when there is no present legal problem.

The truth is that business attorneys, particularly those of us who work with small businesses and mid-sized businesses, spend a lot of time helping clients try to prevent legal disputes before they arise.  Our primary functions are risk avoidance and risk minimization since legal disputes can be very destructive to
businesses.  Many of us have watched as a legal dispute, even when our client ultimately prevails, threatens or even sinks the entire business as a result of the incredible drain of time and money (in the form of both expensive litigation fees and staff time devoted to the dispute).  In addition, having an ongoing relationship with a business attorney before disputes arise makes the handling of such disputes more efficient and less stressful if and when they do occur.

Businesses should do everything in their power to avoid legal disputes by having an ongoing relationship with a qualified business attorney.  As one who routinely advises small businesses and mid-sized businesses, I strongly recommend personally interviewing the prospective attorney.  The business owner will inevitably share personal and confidential information with his or her attorney, much like a patient with a physician, and the close, personal connection is important.

In our next blog, we will discuss some of the ways your business attorney can help reduce the risks associated with running an ongoing business.

If you own a small business or a mid-sized business in the San Francisco Bay Area, or you are thinking of starting a business, contact Jeffrey Miller to find out how he can help you strategize.  (650) 321-0410 or jeff@jeffmillerlaw.com.