With so much legal work that goes into running a business, it’s essential that you have a good solicitor to help navigate you through it. There are many things a good solicitor can help you with, both as an individual and as a company. Here are a few reasons why any business needs good legal representation.
Business Structure
A solicitor can advise you on what type of business structure will best suit you. For example, they will tell you whether you should register as a partnership, sole-trader or limited company. You will be required by law to register your business with Companies House, and it’s essential that you make sure that this information is accurate.
Trademarks & Copyright
To protect your intellectual property, you will need some form of copyright or trademark agreement drawn up. Having these in place will be necessary if you wish to pursue legal action against someone who is passing off your work as their own. A solicitor can help you to determine what your rights are over these works and products. They can also help you understand different trading laws that might apply to you in your country and overseas.
Contracts
Every business will have various contracts in place. These could be between you and a client, or your employees. A solicitor will help to write an appropriate, fair contract that protects your best interests. Firms like MJW Law can help if you have any contract disputes. It is imperative that you have these in place; although verbal contracts can be binding, it is often difficult to prove they ever took place. Written contracts are a more secure method of agreeing on terms of employment and services.
Partnerships
There are many reasons as to why you might be seeking to create a partnership with another company. In some cases, this may be due to financial relief or gain. If you are looking to merge with another business to create a partnership, you will need to ensure that your company and employees are protected. A solicitor might also be able to advise as to whether this partnership is in the best interests of your business.
Human Resource Issues
Unfortunately, there will be times when a problem with an employee may arise. The HR department will have to conduct meetings and possibly investigations into these sorts of issues. A legal representative will be most useful in these cases, as they will have the knowledge required to advise you on how to move forward. Additionally, a solicitor can help with paperwork or other queries you may have about HR-related issues. This is particularly useful as it’s important that these records are accurate and kept safe.
Running a business has many stressful elements to it, but legal difficulties will be one of the hardest. Due to the different laws relating to trading, employment and other matters that your company could be involved in, it would be silly not to have a solicitor. With all the various services they can offer, it is essential that all businesses have good legal representation.
