What do businesses look for when hiring legal counsel?
For the business owners out there, what is the number one thing you look for in an attorney and/or law firm when considering whether or not to utilize their services? Price? Size? Experience? Prior relationship?
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Mar 11, 2016
I'd have to say it's a toss up between honesty and transparency. There's too many people out here who pretend like things are more in depth than they really are just to charge a lot of money for little to no work and have every trick up their sleeve to keep the client feeling like everything is beyond their ability to read and understand for theirself. I understand there's a reason I'm hiring you, but when I see those tactics and games being played, it raises too many red flags.
Jan 26, 2014
I recommend my clients when starting and/or operating thier businesses that they should invite a well know attorney in the community to become part of their Board of Directors or at lest of their Advisory Board. In this case, when needed, you will come with answers about professional offices to hire. I go for experience to build up a lasting relationship.
Jan 22, 2014
Nathan,
May I ask your reason for asking the question ? Are you asking because you are in the legal business or because you want to market someone in the legal business ?
What is it you hope to gain from having your question answered ?
The answer to these questions will determine my ability to answer your question.
I hope this helps.
Jan 20, 2014
Hi Nathan
One should look at Experience of the Legal counsel in the type of business you are in and how they have faired in their prior relationship with other clients.
Jan 20, 2014
Nathan, I look for the industry or industries the lawyer or Firm works in for there practice. The next step is referrals to other peers of mine to know IF the work is, done with class, including the Honesty, Integrity and ethics. Once this is checked out, then I ask what type of pricing packages they have and what payment plans they have as well.
I hope this helps you and the company/firm.
Jan 19, 2014
Experience - in the same size and sector of business you are doing so they are not getting into areas they have no experience in.
Jan 18, 2014
In my experience, I have found best success with referrals from others who have used them. When I meet with the attorney I ask a number of questions, and how they answer (attitude and willingness) and the answers they provide assist me in making a decision.
1.) Does the attorney have recent experience with my type of business?
2.) Is my business too large/small for this attorney or law firm to handle? Sometimes attorneys will take a small business as a client, but then not deliver on the quality of service needed.
3.) How long has the attorney or law firm been in business? If a sole practitioner, who will asst them with my legal details?
4.) What honors or recognition has the attorney or law firm received? Have they been officially recognized by their peers?
5.) What is the attorney's reputation in the community? Has the attorney ever been reprimanded or disciplined by the State Bar?
6.) Does the attorney keep up with recent developments in law, business, tax, etc.by attending seminars and participating in workshops?
7.) How diverse is their areas of practice. If they focus more time/attention/resources on other types of clients/cases other than what I need them to do for me, then what happens if they get a client/case in their primary area of practice.
There are other questions I ask relating to what services I am seeking from this attorney. I look for practitioners who specialize in the field I need - tax attorney, employer workers comp attorney, employment attorney, contracts, investments/financing, etc.
Wishing you awesome and continuing success.
Jan 18, 2014
The ability to solve a problem in the most efficient timely manner as possible. The knowledge about the problem and the ability to give you to a counselor who can best advise you on your matter. Lawyers are people not Gods although some of them would like to think they are. Speak to them at a level that is factual, with proof and you will get further with them. It is always good to know what your retainer fee is paying for. Size of a firm doesn't necessarily mean you will get a good attorney. There are young attorney's out there who are hungry that can help you. Prior relationship is not necessary. Building a relationship is more important. Don't use someone else's recommendation. Build your own relationship with an attorney. All businesses should have a built in legal team. Never lie to your lawyer your accountant, your bookkeeper, your tax attorney nor your property manager. They cannot bail you out of trouble if they do not know how to defend a matter you got yourself into, before, during and after an event.
Jan 17, 2014
Honesty and loyalty
Expert in the area that you need him / her for.
Price, preferred related to outcome
In startups it most important your knowledge in IP angels VC and M&A - > networking
Michael,
I am an attorney looking to expand my book of corporate business and am curious to see what business owners/executives look at when selecting legal counsel.
Thanks,
Nathan