Reference no: EM131658067

Question: If you are contemplating a career in the business world, sooner or later you will probably face the question, "Do I need a lawyer?" The answer will likely be "Yes," at least at some time during your career. Today, it is virtually impossible for nonexperts to keep up with the myriad rules and regulations that govern the conduct of business in the United States. It is also increasingly possible for businesspersons to incur penalties for violating laws or regulations of which they are totally unaware. Although lawyers may seem expensive-anywhere from $100 to $500 or more per hour-cautious businesspersons will make sure that they are not "penny wise and pound foolish." The consultation fee paid to an attorney can be insignificant compared with the potential liability facing a businessperson. Obtaining competent legal advice before a dispute arises may enable a businessperson to avoid potentially costly mistakes. Also, keep in mind that sometimes higher-priced attorneys from larger firms may be worth the extra expense because they may have more clout in the local legal community to wield on your behalf. Selecting an Attorney In selecting an attorney, you can ask friends, relatives, or business associates to recommend someone. Alternatively, you can call the local or state bar association to obtain the names of several lawyers or check the Yellow Pages in your local telephone directory for listings. West Group has an online database containing biographies of attorneys throughout the country, listed by area of specialty and by state.

You can find attorneys in your area by accessing West's Legal Directory online at directory.findlaw.com. You might also investigate legal clinics and prepaid legal service plans. For your initial meeting with an attorney you are considering hiring, prepare a written list of your questions and a brief summary of the problem for which you need legal advice. Also, bring copies of any relevant documents that the lawyer might need to see. While at the meeting, ask about legal fees, discuss the legal problem you are facing (or anticipate facing), and clarify the scope of what you want the lawyer to do for you. Remember that virtually everything you say at this meeting is protected by the attorney-client privilege of confidentiality. Evaluating Your Attorney Before hiring the attorney, ask yourself the following questions after your first meeting: Did the attorney seem knowledgeable about what is needed to address your concerns? Did he or she seem willing to investigate the law and the facts further to ensure an accurate understanding of your legal situation? Did you communicate well with each other? Did the attorney perceive what issues were of foremost concern to you and address those issues to your satisfaction? Did the attorney "speak your language" when explaining the legal implications of those issues? Even after you hire the attorney, continue to evaluate the relationship over time. For many businesspersons, relation ships with attorneys last for decades. Make sure that your relationship with your attorney will be a fruitful one.

CHECKLIST FOR CHOOSING AND USING A LAWYER

1 If you ever think that you need legal advice, you probably do.

2 When choosing an attorney, try to get recommendations from friends, relatives, or business associates who have had long-standing relationships with their attorneys. If that fails, check with your local or state bar association, West Group's online directory, or the Yellow Pages.

3 When you initially consult with an attorney, bring a written list of questions to which you want answers, perhaps a summary of your problem, and copies of relevant documents.

4 Do not hesitate to ask about the legal fees that your attorney will charge, and be sure to clarify the scope of the work to be undertaken by the attorney. Ask any and all questions that you feel are necessary to ensure that you understand your legal options.