When your small business is new and still finding its feet, finding legal representation won’t be top of your list. You have numbers to crunch, new employees, induct, and a world to conquer with your own self-built empire.
But lawyers are needed in all parts of life. And they aren’t always the harbingers of negativity they may seem on the surface. Attorneys can help you in all walks of life. And your small business is no different.
Why Are Lawyers So Important For Your Small Business?
Having attorneys on your side can be helpful no matter what happens in life. And having legal representation specific to your needs is a must. For example, if you’re in a car accident, you’ll want a car accident lawyer. So if you’re in business, you’ll want a business lawyer.
Lawyers representing you in business can help save you money as well as your reputation. If another company smears your name, you’ll want to deal with the situation efficiently. But there are several business lawyers you might need for your fledgling company.
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5 Types Of Lawyers For Your Small Business
A lot goes into growing your small business. And having legal representation can help protect your company as you grow. Here are 5 types of lawyers that will help you get ahead in your industry. And why you might need their services.
- A General Business Lawyer
You can probably guess exactly what a general business lawyer does. They can handle business advice across a broad range of legal topics. General business lawyers have a decent handle on all matters in law. And they’re perfect for the small business that doesn’t have any specific or special circumstances.
When considering hiring a general business lawyer, make sure you ask questions specifically about your company. Then you’ll be able to tell if they’re right for you or whether you’ll need a lawyer more specific.
- An Employment Lawyer
As the name suggests, an employment lawyer is only needed if you have employees. Something not all small businesses have. A lawyer specializing in this area will be able to ensure you are compliant with all state and federal laws. Plus, you’ll get excellent advice and help when it comes to drafting safety guidelines and employee handbooks.
Employment law tends to change as it comes more in line with human rights and society’s expectations. Therefore, an attorney specializing in this area will be key to keeping your business on track and growing into the future.
Since the arrival of COVID-19 employment law have been rapidly evolving. Employees want to work from home and often times in different jurisdictions. For example, what happens when an employer in California employs someone to work remotely from Colorado? In case of litigation, will the employee get Colorado employment lawyers or California employment lawyers? The courts have very little legal precedent and are answering those questions one case at a time.
- An M&A (Mergers And Acquisitions) Lawyer
M&A lawyers are needed when you’re buying or selling a business. Buying and selling can become sticky situations if you’re not aware of your asset entitlements. M&A attorneys are well versed in these areas and will be able to represent you properly in these transactions.
M&A deals can be complicated, so entering into proceedings without an experienced lawyer will come back to bite you. Intellectual Property (IP) may come into play here, so check your M&A lawyer can deal with that. Otherwise, you’ll need an IP-specific attorney.
- A Tax Lawyer
Tax lawyers do exactly what it says on the tin. They’re so beneficial for your business because company tax can be tricky. For a fledgling business, getting it right the first time is an absolute must. You don’t want to tarnish your reputation by owing tax that you should have already paid.
- An Intellectual Property Lawyer
If you have trademarks and patents in the mix, you’ll need an IP lawyer. They’re qualified to deal with all matters concerning your brand and everything that comes with it. They’ll also make sure that you’re not infringing on other company’s IP rights. They’ll save you a lot of headaches and keep you compliant.
Hiring lawyers for your business might not sound like a huge amount of fun. But you can see that they have their advantages. Opting for attorneys that specialize in specific areas of business will make life a lot easier for you. And your business.