Five Things You Can Do To Keep Your Small Business Out Of Court


by Melinda Powelson - Date: 2007-06-16 - Word Count: 535 Share This!

Small business owners face a myriad of decisions every day and, at some point, will need to decide if they should hire a lawyer or not. In starting a new business, most people are aware they will need to hire an accountant at some juncture, but they're not always sure if they will need an attorney, or even if they actually require one, why they should consider it. After all, hiring an accountant to handle taxes and other financial information makes sense - but when should you consider hiring a lawyer?


There are so many areas that can make or break the success of a small business. From zoning laws, to copyright and trademarks, to formal business incorporation, lawsuits, and liability - a good business attorney can offer valuable assistance in most aspects of your business. Here is a small breakdown of what an attorney can do for you and your business:



Business Organization. Is your business a corporation? An LLC? An attorney will know the ins and outs of each type of business organization and can help you decide the best way to organize your business. They can also prepare the paperwork needed for you, explain the nuances of each type, and help you get started in the best possible way.


Contracts. A business attorney can prepare any of the contracts you may need for your business, from your customers, to your clients, and to your suppliers. They will also go through any contracts you are considering signing to be sure it is in your best interests, as well as explaining the details of the contract in easier to understand terms than the standard legal wording of contracts.


Intellectual Property. Is your business a media, design, or another type of creative business? If so, you will find it much easier to deal with trademarks and copyright protection registrations if you have a lawyer. Even if your attorney does not normally handle intellectual property, they will have referrals for you so you can find the right intellectual property specialist for your business. Normally, these will be people the lawyer has worked with before and can recommend based on prior experience.


Real Estate. This can encompass anything from purchasing commercial property to leasing commercial space for your business. These sorts of leases tend to be drafted in a complex, difficult to understand manner that almost always benefit the landlord. An attorney can help you sort through these documents and add provisions to benefit you.


Taxes. Yes, your accountant will actually prepare and file your tax returns, but your attorney will register your small business for the necessary state and federal tax identification numbers.

Hiring an attorney for your small business may not seem to be a requirement if you're not facing any legal battles. This is not true! You want an attorney who is familiar with you and your business, so if you do end up in a legal mess, they'll be able to smooth it out. Hopefully, before it ends up in court.


Having an established relationship with a good business attorney is critical - for you and for the success of your business.



To find a good business lawyer in your town visit the Attorney Aisle.



Related Tags: business law, business lawyer, business attorney

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