How to Find the Right Lawyer for You and Your Business

Business owners hire an attorney for different reasons, such as licenses or litigation. An excellent attorney works closely with companies, regardless of the situation. Finding the right business lawyer can be challenging, especially for new entrepreneurs. Capable attorneys bring valuable skills and experience needed to help you be successful in your business.

5 Ways to Find a Suitable Business Lawyer

Enterprises have different needs that require the help of an attorney. Some might be trying to merge or acquire new businesses, and others need a lawyer to guide them through business succession and offshore services.

Choosing an attorney requires deliberation and a plan before settling for one. Here are five ways to find a suitable business lawyer.

1.    Experience Matters

Business owners should consider experience when looking for a business attorney. During the initial consultation, it might be helpful to know how long the lawyer has been working. Entrepreneurs can also inquire if the legal expert has handled similar cases before.

Start-ups might want to work with an attorney who can negotiate contracts and choose the proper business structure. An experienced lawyer can speed up legal issues for the business to start operating within a short time.

2.    Mode of Communication

Lawyers have different communication preferences. Some would prefer to meet their clients in person, and other attorneys email or text clients based on their schedules. Businesses should know who within the law firm will be their primary contact.

An excellent legal counsel should discuss a convenient mode of communication with a client. Availability shows an attorney is responsible and reliable, and businesses deserve timely updates about their cases.

3.    Fees Structure

Enterprises should pick lawyers with a pocket-friendly fee structure that aligns with the business’ budget. Business attorneys need to talk about their hourly rates and mode of payment from the start. If it is a fixed amount, a client should have all the details before closing the deal.

The arrangement could also be a contingent fee, retainer agreement, or equity in a business. Charges will depend on the case at hand and the attorney’s experience. A trusted attorney explains to a client all the general expenses at the initial consult to prevent surprises.

4.    Resources are Crucial

A lawyer who can bring additional resources to the table is beneficial. Businesses with special needs can take advantage of a legal firm’s strategic partners and trade associations. Aspiring entrepreneurs can meet potential customers if the law firm hosts webinars.

Some lawyers might be willing to introduce current clients to their past clients. As a result, businesses in different niches can network and help each other grow.

5.    Recommendations

Business owners can seek the right lawyer among friends, family, or other entrepreneurs. Legal counsel in other fields might be able to help in the search. Trustworthy lawyers come from personal references. 

After finding three or four attorneys, it might be beneficial to research them. Reviews, practice areas, and testimonials can provide helpful information.

Companies can also choose a lawyer based on their locations for convenience. Small enterprises, start-ups, and multinational corporations in White Plains, NY, and throughout Westchester county that need a business lawyer can rely on Khader Law for legal help.

6 Questions to Ask a Court Reporter

Finding a deposition reporter with experience in their field can be a challenge. And that’s especially true if you’ve never had to hire a court reporter before. Different court reporting firms provide various types of services at varying fee rates. They’re not all the same. To ensure you’re getting the services you need, consider asking the following six questions before signing a service contract. 

1. Are Your Court Reporters Certified?

Certification is regulated by each state. Therefore, it’s important to understand your state’s requirements and make certain your potential hire complies with whatever licensing and certification is appropriate for your area. If no state certification is required, certification from the National Court Reporters Association is an alternative that shows you can trust the court reporter is a trained professional.

2. How Much Will it Cost?

Of course, you should ask how much the court reporting services will cost! It’s understandable that costs depend on the exact services provided, so be sure you represent your needs clearly. A reputable reporting firm should be able to provide you with rates for transcript, travel, and appearance fees. It’s fair to expect a transparent estimate before signing a service contract. If a company seems hesitant to provide that information, consider it a red flag and take your business somewhere else.

3. How Much Advance Time do you Need?

Some circumstances require you to hire a court reporter without much notice. While it may not always be possible to fulfill last-minute requests, a busy reporting firm that works with several reporters will usually be able to accommodate you. But for everyone’s benefit, it’s best to be upfront with your timeline.

4. Do You Provide Realtime Services?

Not every deposition reporter is equipped with the technology or the training to provide Real-time reporting. With this advanced service, the reporter converts their stenographic notes into text, providing involved parties with immediate “in real-time” access to the testimonies being given. Even if you don’t need real-time services for this hearing, it’s helpful to know where you can find them in the future. 

5. When Will I Receive the Transcript?

Transcripts are typically available within a few days after a deposition. If a firm seems hesitant to provide a clear timeline, consider it a red flag. A reputable court reporting firm will clarify when transcripts will be finished and may also be able to provide expedited or same-day transcripts.