Business lawyers can assist in a wide range of legal matters. For example, they can help you fill out IRS forms and help your business register trademarks, copyrights, or patents.
They can also help in acquisitions and mergers. Moreover, they can help you settle litigations such as wrongful termination and workplace discrimination.
Legal Issues
Many small businesses hire business lawyers after a legal issue has arisen, such as an employee lawsuit or a costly supplier contract dispute. However, consulting with a knowledgeable lawyer early in the company’s lifetime can prevent the majority of these concerns from arising in the first place.
For instance, a Linden Law Partners lawyer can help a small business create employee manuals and terms of employment that comply with local laws. Additionally, they can advise on zoning and licensing issues so the business doesn’t violate regulations and incur penalties.
A lawyer can also help with other significant business transactions, such as mergers and acquisitions. Creating legally binding contracts tailored to each business’s specific needs can avoid costly disputes in the future. When you think of a business attorney, you likely envision them in a courtroom, but most of their work is outside the courtroom.
Contracts
Whether it’s formal writing, emails, text messages, or a ‘handshake deal’ in person, businesses always enter contracts. Small business lawyers know how to review these agreements for their clients and ensure that all parties are protected.
Like individuals, businesses are obligated to pay certain taxes each year. A business lawyer understands the intricacies of business tax law and can help with filings and compliance.
Business attorneys often work closely with clients to help them grow their companies. This may include negotiating and drafting partnership agreements, franchise agreements, or other agreements that help expand the company’s reach. Business attorneys also deeply understand how to handle mergers and acquisitions, a natural part of the business landscape. This involves helping both the buying and selling sides of the transaction understand their legal rights and obligations. Also, when a lawsuit arises, they can help reduce damages. They can also assist with various employment issues, from discrimination and harassment to wrongful termination.
Litigation
Business lawyers can help with various litigation issues that may arise. It is a common mistake for small businesses to wait to hire a lawyer until the sheriff comes knocking with a summons. This approach is costly regarding attorney fees, court costs, and settlements.
Licensing is a crucial issue for many types of small businesses. Often, a license must be obtained to operate a specific type of business, and failure to comply can result in hefty fines or forced closures. A business lawyer can ensure that a company complies and all forms are correctly completed.
Generally, small business attorneys can help with employee-related legal matters, such as wage and hour lawsuits, wrongful termination, and discrimination cases. These issues are often complex and require a deep knowledge of employment law. Most importantly, a business lawyer can ensure all legal documents and processes are consistent with current laws.
Intellectual Property
Despite popular belief, intellectual property (IP) protection is not just for large companies. SMEs that register their trademarks, designs, and patents are more likely to increase and succeed.
A small business lawyer can help you identify the IP in your products and services, how to protect it, and how to use it for your benefit over time. They can also ensure that your contracts are transparent, fair, and completely understood. This helps you avoid the many legal pitfalls that cause businesses of all sizes to fold or be bought out, especially in today’s litigious world.
