Brendon Burchard, my mentor, told me that “never let your small company make you small-minded.” Consider yourself the CEO. A great CEO surrounds himself with bright people. You need smart lawyers to help you – read more.

Most people don’t believe they need a business lawyer. It’s often too late when you realize you need one. Even if you believe you don’t require an attorney right away, it is important to build relationships with one. You never know when you might need one.

Problems can be prevented by smart business lawyers. Although it may cost more to hire an attorney, it could save you more than it would to fix a major issue. An attorney who is there for you is essential. It is important to have someone who can help you avoid making mistakes.

Get out there and build relationships with several types of attorneys.

An attorney for business transactions (contracts and business deals).

Ask an employment lawyer about employee handbooks.

An intellectual property attorney (patents/copyrights/trademarks)

Lawyer for litigation (tell them all about your business)

Here are 8 things to remember when you work with attorneys

1. An attorney can help you create a contract to protect you and your clients if you are working with suppliers or vendors. It is better to be safe than sorry. It’s all in the details. CYA is key. It’s amazing how many times my clients have been screwed by not having their clients sign a good contract.

2. A business attorney should be able to help you in the specific area that you require. A general attorney cannot take you beyond the point where he/she can refer you to a specialist. If you are looking for an attorney to help you draft contracts you can share with your clients, don’t hire a family lawyer.

3. You will likely pay less per hour if you hire an individual attorney and not a part of a larger firm. Although this may sound great, you should be aware that your attorney may not have the same resources as a larger firm, such as more attorneys and support staff.