When Your Attorney Becomes More Than A Lawyer

Every business needs legal representation. Having an attorney applies to you even if you are the sole owner/employee of a company you began. If you own a small to medium-sized business, having a dedicated legal department is (likely) unnecessary.

However, you still need a lawyer to assist you with potential legal disputes or compliance with evolving state and federal laws. Some businesses may decide to hire a lawyer as required. Find an attorney who specializes in whatever you need at that moment.

A Different Kind of Business Partner

There is a middle ground. When you choose to retain an attorney as general counsel, you get more than a lawyer looking to resolve an issue. You have someone with legal experience and advice who knows your business. They could have an insider’s perspective on the following:

• How your business is structured
• Your business’s strategy and long-term plans
• Your day-to-day operations

The deeper their understanding of your goals and expectations, the more tailored their advice becomes.

Consider the indirect savings you may incur. As a business owner, you are behind the helm. But the more options you have to weigh, the better your chance of a favorable outcome. Each time you have a legal question, you’ll be turning towards someone who knows you and your business.

When they are approached with a question, it is not unreasonable to think an attorney couldn’t look over, review, and understand your profit and loss statements before offering their advice.

Secondly, by speaking to an attorney, you can potentially limit your risk and exposure to legal issues or litigation. You are investing in prevention rather than a solution.

A Broader Perspective

Your general counsel is like a senior-level employee who has an intricate understanding of the law—and has a vested interest in the business’s success. Attorneys who serve as general counsel have a broad skill set. Their knowledge of the law is filtered through their understanding of the market you are in.

You may be wondering why there is a need for general counsel when there are so many complex issues you can come across. Could one attorney solve every legal issue you face? This is unlikely. However, a lawyer who serves as your general counsel will know who can resolve your problem.

Not only will you have access to this attorney’s connections and professional relationships, but you possess an attorney to speak to them for you. General counsel can and will approach other lawyers on your behalf.

Maxwell Dunn

Legal representation is a powerful asset. Maxwell Dunn can provide you the general counsel assistance you need. Contact us to schedule your consultation today.