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Step 1
Think about all the situations where you may need help from a lawyer. This could include, but is not limited to the following types of decisions.
• Business structure
• Contracts
• Employee relations
• Financing
• Government regulations
• Intellectual property defense
• Legal Action -
Step 2
Get Referrals. If you have friends or family that operate their own businesses, talk to them for referrals in legal areas. If you do not have these types of contacts, it may become necessary to make them. Try getting in contact with owners of local businesses.
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Step 3
Don't Just Buy Legal Expertise. Expert lawyers are a dime a dozen. Seek out a lawyer who can also help you make money by adding value to your business. Look for a lawyer who has connections with venture capitalists, customers or other contacts that may prove valuable to you.
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Step 4
Fee Structure. How much does it cost and exactly who am I hiring to do the work? The most prestigious law firm may charge twice as much as another and have an intern doing all the work. Be sure to clear these things up to make sure you are getting what you pay for. Also, monitor them closely and be sure they don't overcharge you during the process. And finally, know how much you are willing to pay for a specific service and contract that fee up front.
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Step 5
Ethics. Look for a lawyer who you can befriend and that you believe takes a genuine interest in the advancement of your business. This type of individual is more likely to produce quality work efficiently. Not only that, they should view the enhancement of your company as security for them. If the work they do for you pays off, then you will be more likely to hire them back for other contracts.
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Step 6
To sum it up, you don’t always get what you pay for. Know what you want and how much you are willing to pay and then begin to seek the lawyer or firm that will best represent your interests. Contract all your terms up front to avoid paying extra money in the long run.
