Target Focus: Outside General Counsel, Business Contracts & Corporate Risk Management
Growing businesses frequently encounter legal issues before they are large enough to justify hiring a full-time in-house legal department.
Contracts need to be reviewed. Vendors need agreements. Employees need appropriate documentation. Business partners may disagree. Customers may assert claims. Investors may request corporate records.
An outside general counsel relationship can provide ongoing legal support without the structure of a full-time internal legal department.
What Does Outside General Counsel Mean?
Outside general counsel services can involve an ongoing relationship in which a law firm provides legal advice concerning the company’s recurring business needs.
- Contract drafting and review;
- Contract negotiation;
- Vendor agreements;
- Business-to-business disputes;
- Employment documentation;
- Corporate governance;
- Partnership matters;
- Risk management;
- Demand letters;
- Litigation strategy; and
- Coordination with outside specialists when necessary.
The exact scope should be defined by the engagement agreement.
Preventing Problems Before They Become Lawsuits
One of the practical benefits of ongoing legal counsel is the opportunity to identify potential problems before they develop into litigation.
For example, a business may have a contract that does not adequately address payment terms, indemnification, termination, intellectual property, confidentiality, or dispute resolution.
Reviewing those provisions before a dispute occurs may allow the company to address risks while the relationship is still productive.
Employment and Compliance Issues
Businesses may also benefit from legal review of employment-related practices, agreements, policies, and procedures.
California employment law is particularly complex. Companies should obtain advice specific to their workforce, industry, business structure, and practices rather than relying on generic internet templates.
Corporate Governance
As a company grows, ownership and governance become increasingly important.
Board actions, shareholder rights, operating agreements, equity arrangements, buyouts, and ownership transfers should be documented carefully.
A business lawyer can help identify legal issues and coordinate appropriate documentation.
Leeran S. Barzilai, A Professional Law Corporation provides civil litigation and business legal services for companies that need practical legal support.
If your business is growing and you want ongoing legal guidance regarding contracts, disputes, employment issues, or corporate matters, contact our office.
Phone: (619) 436-7544
Email: receptionist@lbatlaw.com
Website: https://lbatlaw.com/