Hiring a business attorney is one thing. Knowing how to work with them productively is another. The relationship you build with your legal counsel can directly impact both the quality of advice you receive and the cost of obtaining it.
Our friends at Ghassemian Law Group discuss how business owners can maximize the value of their attorney relationships through better communication and preparation. An business lawyer may also provide valuable guidance when your business interests intersect with personal wealth management or succession planning.
Know What You Need Before You Call
Many business owners contact an attorney with a vague sense that something needs attention. That’s fine as a starting point. But the more clearly you can articulate your concerns, the more efficiently your lawyer can respond.
Think about the outcome you want. Are you trying to prevent a problem or solve one that already exists? Do you need a contract drafted, reviewed, or renegotiated? Is there a dispute brewing that might require litigation?
Write it down. A brief summary of the situation helps you organize your thoughts and gives your attorney a head start.
Gather Your Documents Early
Lawyers work with information. The faster they can access relevant documents, the faster they can move forward.
Common Documents to Have Ready
- Operating agreements or partnership documents
- Contracts related to the matter at hand
- Email exchanges with other parties
- Financial records if money is at issue
- Previous legal correspondence
Missing documents slow everything down. If something is lost or never existed in writing, say so upfront. Your attorney can work around gaps, but only if they know about them.
Be Forthcoming About Problems
This matters more than most clients realize.
Attorneys cannot help you effectively if they don’t have the full picture. Information that seems embarrassing or damaging is often the information that matters most. Your lawyer has likely seen worse. And attorney-client privilege protects what you share.
Withholding details creates risk. Problems that surface later can undermine your position or strategy. Surprises in legal matters are rarely good ones.
Ask About Costs Upfront
Legal fees concern most business owners. That’s reasonable. But avoiding the conversation doesn’t make costs go away.
Ask how your attorney bills. Hourly? Flat fee? Some combination? Understand what activities generate charges. Emails, phone calls, research, and travel can all add to your bill depending on the arrangement.
Request periodic updates on fees. Most attorneys are willing to provide estimates or running totals if you ask. It’s better to have an ongoing conversation about costs than to receive a surprising invoice at the end of a matter.
Respect Their Time and Yours
Attorneys manage many clients simultaneously. Response times vary depending on urgency and workload.
If something is time-sensitive, say so clearly. If it can wait, mention that too. This helps your lawyer prioritize appropriately.
On your end, respond promptly when they need something from you. Delays on your side create delays on theirs. A matter that could have been resolved in two weeks can stretch to two months when documents or decisions are slow to come.
Think Long-Term
A good business attorney becomes more valuable over time. They learn your company, your industry, your preferences. They can spot issues before they become disputes and offer advice that fits your specific circumstances.
Don’t treat legal counsel as a one-time transaction. Building an ongoing relationship pays dividends when unexpected issues arise.
Take the Next Step
Working with a business lawyer does not need to be stressful or confusing. With clear communication and reasonable preparation, you can develop a partnership that serves your company’s interests well. If you are looking for legal guidance on a business matter, consider reaching out to an attorney who can evaluate your situation and discuss how they might assist you.