Although it can be difficult to choose a legal representative as a technology solution provider, it is one of your most important investments in your business. Here are the steps to get you started. Although it can be difficult to choose a legal representative as a technology solution provider, it is one of your most important investments in your business. You need someone who is an expert in your field, who will give you and your company the right amount of attention, and who will be comfortable talking about matters that do not affect your livelihood. It’s not as simple as a Google search or a referral by a friend.
Technology business owners should not wait to contact an attorney if there is a serious legal issue. Establishing a relationship for routine services with legal counsel gives you the chance to evaluate how you and your attorney work together. Are you unsure where to begin? We offer guidance in Legal Resources for Tech SMBs, a CompTIA member-only toolkit that includes information about how to choose legal counsel.
Are you not a CompTIA member? No problem. Register here to access members-only resources such as Legal Resources for Tech Small Businesses.
How to Get Started with Legal Representation
While word-of mouth referrals and recommendations can be a good place for you to start, it should not be your only step in your search to find the right attorney who specializes in IT business law. Consider resources such as the National Association of Women and Minority Owned Law Firms and local bar associations.
Once you have identified potential attorneys, schedule initial meetings with each of them. While many attorneys don’t charge for an initial meeting, others may. Make sure to ask before you schedule. Don’t decline a meeting with prospects because they charge a fee.
Meetings should be approached with the intention of discussing your business and asking questions that will help you find the right lawyer. CompTIA members will find a checklist in Legal Resources for Tech SMBs that outlines what to do before, during, and after your initial meetings. This includes what questions to ask potential attorneys and what questions to prepare to answer. You’ll be more successful in your job search if you view your legal counsel as a business friend.
Do I need an attorney? Frequently Asked Questions
It’s time to research if you find yourself in a legal situation. SMBs often have questions about contracts. Common questions include whether service agreements are legally binding if they are not in writing, what terms should be included in a Service-Level Agreement (SLA), and the difference between a Master Services Agreement (MSA), and a Statement of Work (SOW).
These FAQs are answered by Legal Resources for Tech SMBs. They also answer billing questions and concerns about liability coverage. These questions should be reviewed before you meet with potential attorneys. You may be able to see situations you didn’t know existed.
Your business attorney is your friend. It is not easy to find the right firm or person, but it will pay off. Legal Resources for Tech SMBs provides access to a list compTIA-reviewed legal professionals who specialize in employment and privacy, corporate transactions, litigations. Intellectual property, tax law, real estate, and real estate law.
CompTIA can help you find and retain the right lawyer to represent your IT business.
Download Legal Resources for Tech SMBs to get a list of CompTIA-reviewed legal professionals and a master service agreement (MSA).
