3 Signs You Need A Business Attorney

Most business owners don’t have a legal background—and for the most part, they don’t need one. But the business world is full of fine print, legal jargon and lawsuit threats, so sometimes expert help is needed. Here are some signs that your company may be in need of a business attorney.

1. Employee Relations Get Complicated

Business attorneys are a must-have when it comes to settling harassment or discrimination suits. While these cases are rare, they can seriously damage your business through lawsuit payments and damage to your reputation. A business attorney will be able to guide you through the process, whether you try to settle out of court, or have to enter into courtroom proceedings.

Remember that you do not have guaranteed confidentiality when speaking to HR Generalists about employee concerns, as these conversations can still be used against you in a court of law. However, employment law attorneys will be able to answer your questions or provide advice under the strictest confidentiality.

2. You’re Making Major Changes to an Employee Contract

Business attorneys are not only knowledgeable in complicated legal phrasing and channels, they also make great mediators when it comes to contract negotiations. Whether your company is adding amendments to an existing contract, usually with a member of upper management, or drafting a new contract to include recent company changes, business attorneys work to ensure that both sides are fairly represented. They are also skilled at making sure nothing is forgotten and avoiding exploitable loopholes.

3. You’ve Landed Major Purchasing or Partnership Opportunities

Major business transactions are another situation where it is important to get legal counsel. Buying out another company, for example, is a complicated and delicate process. This is also usually true when it comes to changing vendors or long-term product suppliers.

If you have to break a contract or are interested in switching to a distributor’s competitor, a business attorney can take a look at both the old contract and the preferred company’s new contract, to determine your final cost.

Don’t wait to talk with a lawyer until you’re left with no other choice. Many small business owners associate the thought of a hiring a lawyer with high expenses and fees, and refrain until legal trouble arises. However, legal counsel doesn’t need to be a huge out of pocket expense. Our HR Resource Center provides unlimited confidential access to employment law attorneys, in addition to many other HR services, for a low monthly fee. If you are a new client, you will also receive six months of free access to decide if the HR Resource Center is the right choice for your business. Schedule an appointment to get started!