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Law is dreadfully, dreadfully boring
Law is dreadfully, dreadfully boring
July 07, 2009
If you run a small business and you cringe at the thought of having to do anything to do with legal contracts, terms of business, disputes, leases or anything else to do with the law, rest easy - you're not alone.
In my experience, the vast majority of people in business find most things legal to be complicated, boring, annoying or even a bit scary. So business people tend to do what humans like to do when things are a little uncomfortable: hide, ignore it, and generally avoid dealing with the uncomfortable stuff. I've been involved in many businesses both as an owner and as an advisor. But I've also been a practicing lawyer and I understand just how beneficial good legal "cover" can be in almost any business.
As boring, inconvenient or dry as it may be at times the reality is that getting your legal ducks in a row is one of the most crucial parts of running a successful business (new or established). You just never know what is around the corner, or what protection you might need.
At times it can seem that there is so much in the way of compliance, rules and regulations you need to worry about - and in a lot of ways, there is. But it’s also really important to remember that basically business is all about relationships. So when good relationships go sour, if you don't have your legal i's dotted and t's crossed, then you could be in big trouble. It's essential that you develop a great working relationship with a practical, business-minded legal advisor. That way, you can be assured that any legal queries you might have can be answered quickly and that the legal side of your business is water-tight. It also means that you can spend less time being caught up dealing with the legal issues, and get on to the fun stuff! Because really, that’s what running a business is all about.
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Comments
A good lawyer is one who will spend some time gettng to know your business, so when you need their help they can be more responsive and effective. Some time ago, I engaged an accountant who had been recommended to me: he agreed an annual fee, then gave me a couple of bits of help and billed me separately for them. Not the way I would treat a client, so I am no longer their client. It's all about business relationships!
I think you're right. The key thing is to be in a position where you're informed enough that when the time comes to seek paid-for legal services, you can do so with confidence. The worst part of dealing with a legal professional sometimes can be feeling completely dependent on them. Free services like the ones you've mentioned empower you. They give you the basics. So when you have to knock on Mr Solicitors door, you've got the knowledge to know what you need and why. Suddenly your not venturing out into the dark anymore.
I have got to admit I hate much of this stuff but there are many free services that I have used for information think scottish enterprise, HRMC helps with some stuff and the best thing I have done is get myself a good accountant as the one I have always helps point me in the right direction with a lot of my legal duties.
So my tip - Get yourself a good accountant who doesn't mind being asked help with legal matters.
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