Like plumbers, builders and accountants, lawyers don’t inspire the greatest trust from the world at large. But like those basic services, a lawyer is an absolute must for any start-up that wants to tread the legal minefield of the business world. Whether it’s a preventative measure against potential lawsuits, or as guidance through an acquisition, you’re going to want someone who has passed the bar by your side at some point in your entrepreneurial career. But how can you find one you really trust?
The first question you’ll need to ask yourself is: what sort of lawyer best suits your business? The law is a broad and constantly evolving behemoth, and you’ll find that most lawyers specialise in a particular aspect of its complexity. So, for example, if you’re an insurance company, you’ll likely want a lawyer or firm whose focus is finance or insurance law. There are many demarcations, some of which cross over considerably; doing your research will be key in helping you decide who is the right legal representative for you.
Although reportedly on the decline, the number of law firms in the UK exceeds 10,000. That probably means there are a few in your area to choose from, and having a legal professional in the vicinity has never done anyone any harm in a pinch. It also means that a firm’s network and reputation won’t be difficult to ascertain.
Rightly or wrongly, law firms often get bad press so investigating the reputation of your new law firm is probably the single most important thing you can do – and the easiest since the internet became a reviewer’s playground – and there’s a lot to be said for a simple Google search. Do you see the business’s name pop up negatively in an Internet forum? Maybe that’s a firm you want to get to know better before placing your trust in them. Equally, don’t be afraid to make a judgement based on your personal impression – if they aren’t personable or inspire your trust in them, it’s probably a relationship you should nip in the bud early on. Some might already have a track record for their extra-curricular activities and qualifications, which might speak volumes about their practices. You might not find your seasoned human rights lawyer right away, but you may unearth a well reputed lawyer in your area.
A good place to start searching if you’re not keen on diving into the Yellow Pages is the Legal Services Board, an independent group that regulates legal services in England and Wales. Not only will you find lists of legitimate businesses, but also a breakdown of specialties and further tools to help you find a trustworthy lawyer.
It’s an elephant in the room, and the reason business owners might think twice about seeking legal aid at all, but the question of price is definitely an important one. Feel free to shop around and check out the competition before committing to a partner in law.
Like all industries, law firms exist to make money – but if they’re fairly priced, are obviously experts in their field and have all the hallmarks of a good, longevity-focused business, you may have just found yourself a trustworthy legal partner.
