Atlanta Business Lawyer

Atlanta business lawyers fall into two major categories: litigators, who handle courtroom disputes; and transactional attorneys, who handle contract law, securities and everyday business matters. Whether a company is a startup or established firm, research is the key to identifying a proper fit in either category. Some lawyers do handle both types of duties, but many concentrate in one area or the other. Businesses may require a very specialized attorney with a specific skill-set or prefer a representative with a certain type of personality. There are many criteria that make each search for an Atlanta business lawyer a highly individualized process.

A business must determine what it requires of an attorney before launching a search. Attorneys can be critical to the whole process of setting up a new business, so those planning to do so should first locate a compatible attorney. Even established firms may have a need to search for new representation for any number of reasons. For businesses involved in the medical industry, media or securities, there are often complicated regulatory concerns and a client should search for an attorney with experience in the field. Even those involved in more general types of business should attempt to locate an attorney with experience in their respective line of work. When an attorney understands a client's everyday concerns, he or she will make a better fit. If a client faces a litigious situation, then an Atlanta business lawyer with a proven track record in court will be most beneficial.

A company should determine the reason they need to find an Atlanta business lawyer. If the purpose is for general all-around counsel, an attorney should be selected with a broad range of experience. If the matter is very specific in nature such as business incorporation, then a specialist with expertise in the area should be sought. Competent general counsel can often make suggestions for highly specialized issues, especially if the attorney has a network of other lawyers that can be brought in to assist. Personality is often a key concern. Some clients prefer a driving take-no-prisoners personality, while others prefer more collegial representation, fearing the former may be a deal-breaker in sensitive negotiations.

Locating Qualified Attorneys

When a company has determined its needs, then it should create a list of attorneys that meet those qualifications. There are a number of ways to research Atlanta business including the following.

Personal knowledge or referrals can be significant. Those who are acquainted with an attorney from school, church, synagogue or as a neighbor, may include these candidates on their lists, especially those seeking a compatible long-term lawyer, since a personal relationship may be an overriding concern. Referrals can be useful when they come from companies involved in a similar field.

Internet research is simple and effective for quickly locating an Atlanta business lawyer qualified in particular areas. Search engines can narrow the field quickly and precisely. The Atlanta Bar Association is also a good resources to cross reference. All qualified attorneys may not elect to list themselves under this service, however. There are many legal directories available in print and online. These can be quite comprehensive and will point companies in the right direction of attorneys claiming experience in the appropriate field.

Narrowing the Field

Any of these methods can help compile a list of potential attorneys that may suit a clients needs. Now it is time for a company to complete its due diligence by narrowing the list to two or three attorneys to interview.

Research about the specific attorney selected and also about the firm. Determine their resources and whether they make sense for a company. Some may want an independent attorney. This will allow for a more personalized experience than one will get with a large firm. Others may choose to focus on searching for lawyers that specialize in a specific niche, such as contract law.

Check to see if there have been any disciplinary There may be many informational pieces about the attorney, including articles and FAQs that the lawyer has published. Find out what other firms the lawyer represents.
Check local newspaper archives for any articles about the attorney. Ask other people if they have any thoughts on the subject.

Closing the Deal

When two or three candidates have been selected for interviewing, it is time too focus on specifics. Businesses should ask for references from clients, banks, and other lawyers. Since many will be involved in financial negotiations, it is necessary to be comfortable with an attorney's financial situation. During the interview, determine if there are any possible conflicts of interest that may arise. The personal interview is a great place to determine a lawyers personality, but be sure to ask for the lawyers own assessment of his or her characteristics.

Fees should be discussed and a copy of the retainer agreement should be furnished before making a final determination. Due diligence is the key to helping a firm locate the best Atlanta business lawyer for any situation.