Understand the Importance of the Initial Meeting
When you interview your attorney, think of it as a strategic business meeting, not just a consultation. Come prepared to describe your business clearly and to outline any legal needs you foresee. This is your opportunity to give the attorney a window into your operations, structure, growth plans, and any legal complexities you anticipate. A seasoned business attorney may quickly identify risks or opportunities that you haven’t yet considered.
This exchange should be two-sided. A strong attorney will ask probing questions to understand your goals, your industry, and your future vision. Likewise, you should engage actively in the discussion to determine if this lawyer is the right fit for your company.
Ask the Right Questions to Evaluate Fit
Interview your attorney with the same focus you would apply to hiring a top executive. Your goal is to assess whether the attorney has both the expertise and the communication skills to guide your business. Start by asking:
- Have you worked with businesses like mine?
- What legal challenges do you commonly see in my industry?
- How do you stay involved with your business clients long-term?
- How do you explain complex legal topics to clients who aren’t lawyers?
These questions give you insight into the attorney’s experience and their willingness to understand your business holistically. You want someone who communicates clearly, listens well, and respects your business knowledge—even if you’re not familiar with legal jargon.
Trust and Communication Are Key
The attorney-client relationship is deeply personal and built on trust. Most clients don’t hire law firms—they hire individual lawyers. That means your comfort level with a particular attorney is more important than the brand on the door.
Ask yourself: Do I trust this person’s advice? Am I comfortable sharing sensitive business details with them? Do they speak in a way that makes legal topics understandable?
When you interview your attorney, look for a partner, not just a service provider. You need someone who is not only legally proficient but also invested in your success and capable of offering sound, strategic counsel.
Review Credentials and Peer Recognition
A lawyer’s reputation among their peers can offer helpful insight into their professional standing. During the interview process, take time to ask about professional recognition. Is the attorney AV-rated by Martindale-Hubbell, indicating the highest level of legal ability and ethical standards? Has the attorney been recognized by Best Lawyers or similar industry directories?
While these accolades shouldn’t be the only factor in your decision, they do provide a layer of reassurance that the lawyer is respected in the legal community and meets a minimum standard of competence and integrity.
Ask for References from Other Business Clients
A trustworthy attorney should have no issue providing references from other business clients. When you interview your attorney, ask for the names of companies or individuals they’ve worked with long-term. Speaking with these references can give you a valuable perspective on how the lawyer interacts with clients and manages ongoing business needs.
You’ll gain insight into how the attorney handles communication, billing, unexpected challenges, and long-term strategy—all key factors in choosing legal counsel.
Maintain the Relationship for Long-Term Value
Once you’ve hired the right lawyer, don’t wait until there’s a crisis to call. Schedule regular meetings or check-ins, even if there’s no immediate legal issue at hand. A proactive relationship with your attorney often translates into cost savings and strategic advantages. A good business lawyer can spot potential legal problems before they escalate and provide timely advice that helps you make smarter decisions.
When you interview your attorney, you’re laying the groundwork for a long-term business relationship. The right attorney is not just a legal advisor—they’re a trusted partner in your success.
For more information on choosing the right attorney for your business, contact us. If we aren’t the best choice, we’ll be happy to help guide you to the perfect lawyer for your needs.