Choosing a business lawyer is a vital step in any company’s formation strategy as having the right one can be a significant factor in how well your company can operate. There are so many areas of your business that can come under legal trouble, making it essential that you have a legal team that is on your side and knowledgeable about your firm.
So, before you hire a business lawyer, consider these four things.
1. Reputation
First and foremost, you want to be working with a lawyer or law firm that has a stellar reputation. You can always use an online review site to find a business lawyer, but the best strategy is to inquire with those in your network about people they have worked with and who they personally recommend.
Additionally, you can communicate with your local bar association for suitable attorneys who specialize in your area such as a Middle East legal firm.
After you have gathered a list of potential candidates, make sure to review their website to look for information about their experience and education. Read through their FAQs and browse their social media profiles to get a sense of how they convey themselves to the world as this will help you get a greater understanding of whether or not they have the sort of legal team for you.
2. Experience
Generally, you want to hire a business lawyer with at least three to five years of experience in the particular type of law in which you require assistance. As there is a wide array of law specializations, it is pointless to hire a lawyer who isn’t currently practicing in the area you need.
While most business lawyers can handle everyday formation needs (such as creating an LLC or composing common business contracts), if you are looking for something more specific (like assistance with a trademark or answers about taxes), then it is best to find a law firm with a focus on that particular area.
3. Size
Too many business owners overlook the simple fact that the size of a law firm greatly matters when it comes to finding the right attorney. On the one hand, you have firms that have only one attorney while others have hundreds, so it is crucial that you consider who can provide you with the best representation and who will be able to give your case the necessary amount of attention.
Usually, a smaller firm is ideal for more minor issues and is more likely to give you personalized time and attention. On the other hand, larger firms (such as the top law firms in Dubai) will have more specialists and an extended network, which may be beneficial to you in the long run.
Whatever size the firm you choose to hire, make sure that they have a zeal to learn about and study what your firm does and who your primary clients and partners are.
4. Cost
To be fair, you may want to consider the big question of cost at the beginning of your search, particularly if you are a small or medium sized business owner with a strict budget.
If you don’t have a big budget to spend on legal fees, consider negotiating a fixed price instead of agreeing to an hourly rate. This will help you decrease the chances of running up a significant bill as most experienced lawyers will know how much time they will have to dedicate to an issue and, therefore, will be able to give you an accurate-enough figure upfront.
Obviously, the more complex the legal matter you are presenting to them, the more it is going to cost, and a flat fee might not even be possible. However, if you need legal advice for more routine cases, then it may be an excellent way to go.
Have you recently hired a business lawyer? What considerations did you make before you chose one?
If you are currently looking for legal representation, what challenges are you finding in the process?
Let us know in the comments below!
AUTHOR BIO
Sharon Danso-Missah is the Head of Marketing at Al Tamimi & Company, the largest law firm in the Middle East, with 17 offices across nine countries. Established in 1989, they are a full service commercial firm combining knowledge, experience and expertise to ensure all clients have access to the best legal solutions that are commercially sound and cost effective.