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Handle Legal Concerns
It makes good business sense to know how to handle legal issues that impact your business. Not all legal matters require a lawyer, but they do require understanding. Sometimes the best way to protect yourself and your business is to know where to go for assistance.
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Legal FAQs |
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Common questions about the legal aspects of running a business. |
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Low Cost Help |
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If your business needs help with a civil legal problem and can't afford a lawyer, arbitrator, or mediator, you may qualify for free legal assistance. The American Bar Association maintains an online directory of pro bono programs searchable by state. |
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Find a Lawyer |
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The Martindale-Hubbell Law Directory lists lawyers by state and city and provides rating information as well as summaries of their education and areas of practice. Your state bar association can also assist in investigating a lawyer's background, including bar membership and grievances. |
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Fees and Expenses |
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It is important to negotiate legal fees when first visiting a lawyer. You have a right to know how you will be charged, how much the case is likely to cost, and when you have to pay. Additionally, it is important to get a fee agreement in writing. Typical fee arrangements include:
hourly fees calculated by multiplying the amount of hours an attorney works on your case by an agreed upon hourly rate,
a fixed predetermined rate for the attorney's work, and
a percentage of any judgment amount awarded to you. |
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International Center for Dispute Resolution (ICDR) |
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A resource for business, organizations, government agencies, and communities seeking to manage human relations issues and harmonize relationships that threaten productivity and performance, especially in the workplace. The ICDR respects individual interests and needs, promotes effective communications, and restores relationships through alternative dispute resolution, education, training, and learning programs. |
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American Arbitration Association |
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Arbitration is a legal solution to a business-related dispute that usually entails a fraction of the time and money of litigation. Both parties agree to recognize an arbitration panel as a legal authority, and agree that the decision is legally binding. If the losing party fails to pay the award amount, the winner can transfer the decision to a court, which will enforce the award judicially. Arbitration procedures are usually closed to the public. Visit the American Arbitration Association (AAA) or the Global Arbitration and Mediation Association (GAMA) site to find an arbitrator in your area. |
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