How to Hire an Internet Law Consultant

Because of the relatively new status of most laws covering the Internet, legal ramifications can be difficult to understand. However, there are many legal professionals now working to help businesses. In addition to many lawyers who are now focusing their practices on Internet law, there are some individuals who act as consultants on Internet law. An Internet law consultant typically works with people and companies who simply want to understand the ramifications of new laws regarding their online businesses.

Instructions

1. Consult an Internet law expert before establishing a new business or large-scale project. You will be better equipped to succeed if you recognize potential legal issues before your project has gone too far and Internet projects are notorious for facing new legal pitfalls.

2. Decide whether your legal question requires an attorney or a consultant. As a general rule, if you are reacting to a problem, you should hire a lawyer. If you are simply exploring potential situations, a consultant may be adequate.

3. Ask for an initial consultation or interview, to describe your needs and discuss a consultant's abilities. Consultants may refuse a project that they feel unable to complete adequately or may be able to point you in a direction that you had not previously considered.

4. Question your prospective consultant about her experience and specialties. Many consultants focus on only a few areas of Internet law, such as copyright law, and you need to know whether your consultant will be able to handle your needs before you hire her.

5. Insist on a contract setting out what you expect from your consultant and all fees that you will be charged. You may be working with a consultant from out of your area, but insist on a signed copy (either mailed or faxed).

Tips & Warnings

• If you are dealing specifically with writing legal documents, such as contracts or licensing agreements, contact a lawyer, rather than a legal consultant.

• If you are uncertain as to the abilities of your legal consultant, ask for references or examples of recent projects. If a prospective consultant is unable to provide documentation of his experience, choose a different consultant.

• Because there is no licensing requirement for law consultants, there have been many inexperienced consultants who set up a business but cannot offer adequate help to clients. Make sure you hire a consultant with demonstrated experience.

• Consulting rates can vary greatly and often reach the same level as a lawyer's fees.