Small Business Services: Outside, In-House Counsel

Small businesses and start-ups often lack the budget to hire in-house counsel, or, are organized in such a way that an in-house legal team isn't appropriate. More established businesses, too, chose not to have in-house counsel due to cost considerations and the inherent difficulty of managing complex legal issues without a larger office staff offered in a law firm environment. However, these businesses still frequently have questions about how to maximize their bargaining power in contracts, about compliance with federal, state and local laws, as well as more general corporate legal issues, and in each situation the business would be well served by a lawyer providing specialized analysis and proposed solutions.

JMW understands a business' struggle with the desire to have seasoned legal counsel, but at the same time grappling with limited funds to provide for that service. We help businesses bridge the gap by offering our services as "outside, in-house counsel." Our lawyers can advise on the day-to-day operations of the business providing advisory opinions on issues at hand. We can also participate in board meetings and other planning sessions, or in response to specific requests for advice on general corporate matters like drafting contracts and negotiating their terms, as well as risk assessment and mitigation.

Serving as outside in-house counsel also provides clients with a direct conduit to JMW's experienced litigators who have the practical skills needed to zealously represent our clients. Our team can also help manage litigation in foreign jurisdictions by locating and managing outside counsel and providing clients with an insider's view on the litigation process, legal billing, and tips on maximizing the effectiveness of their other lawyers.

We  provide these services hourly on demand, but also through alternative billing structures like monthly all inclusive retainers and project based flat fees. Please give us a call if outside in-house counsel can help give your business that competitive advantage you need to grow and succeed. 

Jim Conway - jconway@jmwlaw.com

952-445-2817