Selecting the best commercial law firm is not as easy as finding a company from a quick internet search or the phone book. Finding the best law firm for your business will take some thought and consideration but will be well worth it when you are able to avoid potential hassles and miscommunication in the future. The key factors to consider in a business law firm are competence, reputation, style and price.
Some businesses require attorneys that specialize in complicated issues, while others have general business matters that need to be tended to. If your business has special needs, it is best to find a firm that is knowledgeable in such matters. Competence is very important in a commercial law firm, and the firm you choose firm to already be experienced in the specific areas of law with which your business is concerned. A firm that has been in business a long time is not automatically the best. Actual experience and proven results are indicators a firm's competence.
Another factor to consider is the reputation of the commercial law firm. You may check with family, friends or other business owners in your area to see if they have dealt with a qualified firm in the past. If the same name comes up many times, the firm may be worth looking into. Check to see if there are any lawyer referral services in your area. These services can screen and narrow down a pool using the characteristics and qualifications of the firm.
Style is also very important when deciding on a commercial law firm. Some firms are very aggressive, while others are less intense. The style of the firm and the primary means of communication they use should meet your needs and those of your business. When preparing for the face-to-face meeting with the firm representative, make a list of the legal matters your company faces or issues of any lawsuit that is already in the works. This meeting is to determine if the attorney and client are the right fit. It is okay to take notes to review later to make your final decision.
Most firms will offer the initial meeting free of charge, if not, the firm may not be the best fit for you. Price is also significant when choosing a commercial law firm. All billing policies should be discussed up front with your contact at the firm. Although an exact bill is not given until services are complete, a range should be determined to avoid surprises later. Some more specialized firms will come at a higher rate than commercial law firms that handle more general matters.