I’m Already an Attorney, So Why Do I Need a Business Law Attorney?
I’m Already an Attorney, So Why Do I Need a Business Law Attorney?
There is an old saying that a lawyer who represents himself has a fool for a client and a fool for a lawyer. Old sayings are just that . . . old sayings. However, does this particular saying apply to an attorney who does not have experience in the area of business law, but has a business law matter to handle? Should the attorney need to hire a business law attorney?
Reasons Why an Attorney May Need a Florida Business Law Attorney
Many of the reasons why you may need to hire a business law attorney are the same as the reasons why any other person may need to hire a business law attorney. One important reason is that even though you may have extensive experience in one or more areas of law, if your experience does not extend to matters related to business law, you could make the same mistakes as anyone would make who attempts to handle legal matters in which they have no experience. Say you practice criminal defense; how does that knowledge carry over into setting up a franchise or new business venture?
Furthermore, even if you have experience handling business law matters, you may be too close to the subject to analyze the matter rationally and make clear decisions. Those two reasons alone should encourage you to seek the advice of an experienced Florida business law attorney.
Hiring a Business Law Attorney Now Can Avoid Future Legal Problems
An experienced business law attorney can help you avoid future legal problems by helping you structure and operate your business in ways that limit legal liability. For example, a business law attorney can assist you in choosing a business entity that offers you the highest level of protection from personal liability while giving you the structure and operating flexibility you need to meet your business needs.
Your attorney can also draft business contacts, including employment-related contracts, leases, non-disclosure agreements, service contracts, and sales contracts that protect your business. Even though you may understand contract law, you may not have a thorough understanding of all business contracts and forms.
In addition to setting up your business and drafting business contracts to protect your business and your personal assets, a business law attorney can provide legal advice and guidance in a wide variety of matters related to conducting your business. Some of those areas include:
- Obtaining the necessary licenses and permits to conduct business
- Real estate matters
- Business taxes
- Protecting intellectual property
- Drafting and implementing employee handbooks, policies, and benefits
- Negotiating business agreements
- Drafting operating agreements, partnership agreements, shareholder agreements, and bylaws
- Writing a business plan and a business succession plan
The above examples are just a few of the matters in which a business law attorney can provide guidance and legal advice. As with any legal matter, it is always best to consult an attorney who has experience in that field of law. The advice you receive can give you an advantage in and out of a courtroom or conference room.
Contact a Florida Business Law Attorney for More Information
Every business person, even attorneys, can benefit from sound, experienced legal advice. You may not need a business law attorney to help you with all areas of your business operation, but consulting a business lawyer now may help prevent future problems that can lead to legal liability. A consultation now, and establishing an existing relationship with a business law attorney could save you significant time and avoid costly litigation in the future.
Matthew Fornaro provides comprehensive business law services throughout Broward County, including Coral Springs and Parkland. If you have questions related to business matters, contact our office to speak with an experienced Florida business law attorney. You can reach our firm by calling 954-324-3651 or contact us online.
