7 Critical Situations When Your Business Needs an Attorney | Long Hagan Huff-Harris

Running a business is rewarding, but legal challenges can arise when you least expect them. Whether you’re starting a new venture, negotiating a contract, or dealing with a dispute, having a knowledgeable Massachusetts business attorney on your side can save you time, money, and stress. It’s important to be proactive, but when exactly should you seek legal counsel? Here are 7 key situations where hiring a business attorney is a smart move. 

1. Setting Up Your Business Entity

Choosing the right legal structure for your business is crucial. An attorney can help you:

• Form an LLC or corporation to protect assets and minimize liability.
• File articles of incorporation or organization with the state.
• Create operating agreements, bylaws, and partnership agreements that outline ownership and responsibilities.
• Ensure compliance with state and federal regulations to avoid legal trouble down the line.

If you’re unsure about which structure is best, consulting with an experienced business lawyer can help you make the right decision from the start.

2. Reviewing and Negotiating Contracts

Contracts are the backbone of any business, governing relationships with Business Partners, vendors, landlords, and customers. A business attorney can:

• Draft and review partnership agreements, non-compete agreements, service contracts, and sales agreements.
• Ensure contracts are legally sound and protect your business interests.
• Negotiate lease agreements to prevent unfavorable terms that could hurt your business.
• Help resolve contract disputes before they escalate into costly lawsuits.

Never sign a contract without fully understanding its terms—a contract law attorney can protect you from potential pitfalls.

3. Exiting a Lease or Negotiating a Commercial Lease

If you need to break a lease or sign a new commercial lease, an attorney can help you:

• Negotiate exit terms to minimize penalties.
• Review lease agreements to ensure favorable terms and avoid hidden fees.
• Handle disputes with landlords over rent, repairs, or other obligations.

Commercial leases are often complex, and an attorney ensures you don’t agree to unfair terms that could negatively impact your business.

4. You Get Served with a Lawsuit or Demand Letter

If your business is facing a lawsuit, act fast. Whether it’s from an employee, customer, vendor, or competitor, a lawsuit can be devastating if not handled properly. A business litigator can:

• Deescalate a situation after receiving a Demand Letter.
• Assess your legal position and build a defense strategy.
• Represent you in court or arbitration.
• Negotiate a favorable resolution to the dispute.
• Protect your rights by ensuring compliance with all legal deadlines and requirements.

The sooner you involve an attorney, the better your chances of resolving the dispute favorably.

5. Handling Employee Issues

Employment laws are complex and ever-changing. A business attorney can help you:

• Draft employee handbooks, workplace policies, and non-disclosure agreements.
• Navigate issues related to wrongful termination, harassment claims, or wage disputes.
• Ensure compliance with state and federal labor laws.

Avoid costly lawsuits by having clear policies and legal guidance in place via outside legal counsel.

6. Buying or Selling a Business

Mergers, acquisitions, and business sales involve significant legal complexities. An attorney can assist with:

1. Conducting due diligence to ensure you’re making a sound investment.
2. Drafting Letters of Intent (LOI), purchase agreements, and asset transfers.
3. Negotiating terms that protect your financial interests.

Having legal counsel ensures a smooth transition and prevents unexpected legal complications.

7. Protecting Intellectual Property

Your business’s intellectual property (IP) is valuable. An attorney can help you:

• Register trademarks, copyrights, and patents to safeguard your brand.
• Draft licensing agreements to control how your IP is used.
• Protect trade secrets from theft or misuse.

Without legal protection, your business’s ideas and branding could be at risk.

When in Doubt, Get a Consult

If you’re unsure whether you need legal assistance, it’s better to be proactive. Consulting with a business attorney can prevent minor issues from becoming major problems. At Long Hagan Huff-Harris, our experienced business law team is here to guide you through every stage of your business journey.

If you need help with a legal matter outside our focus areas—such as patents—we’re happy to connect you with a trusted referral partner to ensure you receive the best possible guidance for your business needs.

Schedule a consultation with our attorneys today to protect your business and ensure long-term success. Or, call us now at 617-752-2654.

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