There are currently over 804,000 lawyers employed throughout the US. Between 2020 and 2030, another 71,500 lawyers could begin offering their services. When you’re searching for a single business lawyer, it can feel difficult to narrow down your options.
Not all business lawyers have the experience and expertise your company might need, though. Here are seven tips that can help you find the best business attorney in town.
With these tips, you’ll have an easier time vetting your options. You can find the best law firm based on your distinct needs.
Don’t make the mistake of hiring the first attorney you find online. Instead, start searching for the most qualified attorney using these tips today.
1. Talk to Your Professional Network
Start your search by speaking with other business owners in the area. Leveraging your professional network can streamline your search. You can develop a list of law firms and business attorneys to research further.
Talk to your professional contacts about the business attorneys they hired in the past. Make a list of questions you want to ask, such as:
- Was the lawyer experienced and knowledgeable
- Did they accomplish your goals
- What services did you request
- How much did their services cost
- Do you plan on working with them again
- Were you satisfied with the experience
Ask each contact you speak with if they experienced any problems with the lawyer, too. If they can’t help you find a qualified lawyer, you’ll at least know who to avoid.
Take the time to consider what type of business lawyer you need as well.
You might require someone who falls within a specific specialty. Understanding your specific needs can streamline your search.
If your professional network can’t help you find the best business attorney in town, that’s okay. Start searching online instead. Google “best business attorney near me” and develop a list.
Then, use the rest of these tips to narrow down your options to the one lawyer you can count on.
2. Look for Years of Experience
Before you hire an attorney, it’s important to learn more about each lawyer on your list. Research their legal practice and professional history.
First, make sure to choose a long-established legal practice. The best law firm has likely already established themselves. They’ll have a strong reputation and history of casework.
Learn more about each individual lawyer on your list, too.
First, determine how long they’ve practiced law. Make sure they have years of hands-on experience helping clients. Then, determine how long they’ve specialized as a business lawyer.
Don’t forget to consider each lawyer’s specialty, too. For example, do you need a:
- General business attorney
- Tax lawyer
- Contract lawyer
- Employment and labor lawyer
- Intellectual property lawyer
- Mergers and acquisitions lawyer
Specifying your distinct needs will help you find the right lawyer based on their experience and qualifications.
Otherwise, consider how long each lawyer has practiced in your local area. Some laws and procedures can vary based on your location. Make sure they’re up-to-date with recent laws, procedures, and cases.
Choose someone with the experience and expertise you need. These Lawyers are more likely to accomplish your goals.
3. Consider Recent Cases
Do you need a lawyer for case litigation or for a trial? Make sure to find a lawyer with courtroom experience.
Some lawyers are nervous about standing before a judge and jury. They might avoid going to court by accepting a lowball settlement offer. Avoid lawyers who lack courtroom experience.
Consider your legal goals. Why are you looking for a business attorney? Make sure the lawyer you choose has experience specific to your request.
Ask about their experience with similar situations. What was the outcome? Were they able to accomplish the client’s goals?
If you’re dealing with a lawsuit, choose a lawyer who has handled a similar case recently. Consider the payout for that case, too.
Make sure you choose a lawyer with a strong track record of similar cases. You’ll have peace of mind in their ability to accomplish your goals. If they weren’t able to help their previous clients, look elsewhere.
4. Read Reviews
Over 90% of people read reviews about local businesses to determine each one’s quality. If you want to find the best law firm in town, read reviews. You can find reviews on the law firm’s Google My Business and Better Business Bureau listings.
Look for any major complaints. If the lawyer has a complaint or malpractice suit filed against them, choose someone else. Find a lawyer with a strong professional reputation.
Ask each lawyer if they can provide professional references as well. Speak to other business owners who were once in your shoes.
Asking them about their experience with the lawyer could help you gather additional information.
5. Schedule a Consultation
Schedule a consultation appointment with at least three lawyers on your list. Ask any lingering questions you have on your mind.
Consider asking the lawyer how they plan on accomplishing your goals, too.
Pay attention to how they speak. Are they a strong communicator? If your case goes to court, they’ll need to speak on your behalf.
Use your appointment to learn more about their skills and experience.
6. Consider Availability
Ask each lawyer how many clients they’re currently juggling. Will they pass you off to another lawyer at their legal practice?
Make sure to choose a lawyer who has the time to handle your legal needs. Otherwise, you might struggle to communicate with them in the future.
7. Discuss Their Fee Structure
Ask at least three lawyers about their fee structure. Some lawyers work based on a fixed rate. Others work based on an hourly rate.
Review the details of their contract, too.
Then, review your notes. Don’t choose the cheapest lawyer on your list. Chances are, you’ll pay for their abilities and experience.
Start Searching: 7 Tips for Finding the Best Business Lawyer in Town
Don’t make the mistake of hiring the first business lawyer you call. Instead, use these tips to find the best business attorney on your list. With these tips, you can feel confident in your final choice.
A qualified, experienced lawyer will have an easier time accomplishing your legal goals.
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