Top Tips When Hiring A Commercial Lawyer
Most business owners often experience challenges when hiring commercial lawyers. More often than not, they find it hard to choose one lawyer over the other. Besides, they are often worried about whether they will get value for their money. Below is an excerpt detailing a few questions you can use to interview a commercial lawyer. Hopefully, it will enable you to hire an experienced and reasonably priced lawyer.
What Are Your Qualifications And Experience?
Other than the standard law degree, look out for lawyers with post-graduate training and continuous professional development courses. Besides providing high-quality work, these professionals will have first-hand information regarding industry trends and changing government regulations. It is a sure way to keep your business ahead of its competition.
Typically, the commercial lawyer should be experienced in your industry. It ensures that they understand how your business runs and the various laws that guide your enterprise. Contact some of the lawyer's clients and inquire how they rate their services. Positive comments are an indication that you will receive quality services.
What Services Will You Provide?
The commercial lawyer should provide the following services:
- Drafting and negotiating commercial business contracts, employment, and sales agreements
- Representing your interests if you have a commercial dispute with your publics
- Reviewing business mergers and partnerships
- Assessing your business operations and transactions to ensure you do not flout the law
- Ensuring that your business is adequately protected from legal liabilities. For example, they will ensure you have sufficient insurance coverage
You may not require all these services from the onset. However, changing situations could compel you to seek these services. For example, take a case where a client takes your business to court for defective products.
What Is Your Availability?
Inquire about the lawyer's availability. For instance, some lawyers will offer part-time services while others will be available for full-time employment. When hiring a part-time lawyer, inquire how they will handle emergencies. Consider lawyers that have paralegals who can act and offer advice when they are not available.
What Are Your Terms?
Most business owners will be concerned about the lawyer's pricing. It is especially so when working with a part-time lawyer. Most lawyers will charge per hour. Negotiate this rate and ask for a fixed fee to avoid hidden charges. You should also inquire about how the lawyer will protect confidential business documents. Besides, read the terms of contract termination and dispute resolution.
When hiring a commercial lawyer, inquire about their qualifications, experience, services, availability, and terms.