HOW TO HIRE A GOOD LAWYER

Legal counsel will be vital to your business acquisitions. The market is saturated with lawyers, but not all are equal. Be sure to first clearly identify your business goals so that you can find a lawyer who matches perfectly.

1. Interview the Lawyer. What types of business sales and acquisitions have they handled? What  malpractice suits do they have pending against them? What are their rates? What is their communication style?

2. Check References. Don’t just take their word. Be bold and call the lawyer’s references. Ask those former clients questions like:
    --Did the attorney understand small businesses?

    --Did the attorney understand the difference between giving guidance and making personal recommendations?
    --Were you satisfied with the firm's or attorney's service?
    --Did the firm or attorney meet deadlines and answer messages promptly?

3. Negotiate the Fee.  A lawyer’s fee should always be negotiable. Retainer fees are no longer the norm.