6 Reasons Business Owners Avoid Lawyers… And Why They Shouldn’t
As the Director of Client & Community Connections here at The Legal Department, I am usually the first point of contact for business owners exploring the idea of working with an attorney. We’ve worked hard to redefine what it means to be a legal advisor to our clients, and I’m always excited to share how we do it.
Yes, I know lawyers aren’t the ones everyone lines up to hang out with (although our attorneys at TLD are pretty cool 😉). Most small business owners (and rightly so) feel that attorneys are not set up to help them.
In this journal entry, I’m addressing the common obstacles people have when they are considering working with a business attorney and explaining how we make it easier to work with us.
- “Using an attorney is too expensive.”
This one’s no surprise. Legal services have a reputation for being pricey. But here’s the thing: quality legal advice is an investment in your business’s future. Each of our attorneys at The Legal Department brings incredible value by helping businesses avoid costly mistakes and take advantage of opportunities.
To address the expense concern, we’ve embraced a Flat Fee Value-Based Model. This means:
- Transparent pricing: We quote our clients upfront, allowing them to budget confidently and understand what they’re getting for the cost.
- No ticking clock: Clients can ask questions and get important advice without worrying about hourly charges creeping up. This includes legal work, meetings, emails, and calls. We want our clients to communicate with us! It makes for better outcomes all around.
- Pay-as-you-go: Our clients tackle legal projects with us as needed without committing to ongoing retainers.
- “I don’t understand legal language and feel left in the dark.”
It’s true, “legalese” can be intimidating. Attorneys have earned a reputation for focusing on the letter of the law without translating it into usable advice. At The Legal Department, we take pride in using clear, everyday language. We partner with our clients, ensuring they fully understand their legal options and outcomes, so they feel empowered—not confused. One of our superpowers is breaking things down so that the information can be used in the real world.
- “It takes too long.”
Legal work doesn’t have to be a drawn-out process. At The Legal Department, we prioritize efficiency by deeply understanding your business and needs upfront. This begins with an initial intro meeting with me, followed by an Assessment meeting with your legal team once you’re engaged. With this foundation, we deliver actionable solutions that align with your timelines.
That said, quality legal work does take time. Rushing through legal matters can result in cutting corners, which often leads to mistakes, oversights, and, ultimately, more expenses for your business in the long run. We strike the perfect balance by working project by project to ensure you receive thorough, reliable, and high-quality legal solutions—without unnecessary delays. After all, business doesn’t wait, and neither should you.
- “This seems simple; I can do it myself.”
DIY legal solutions can be tempting. For certain matters, it might even work—until it doesn’t. Complexities or errors in seemingly simple legal issues often emerge later, leading to larger problems. Think of us as your safety net: we identify and address risks you might not see, saving you time, money, and stress down the road.
More and more, people are turning to AI tools like ChatGPT for legal answers, assuming they can replace professional guidance. While AI can be great for quick explanations, it doesn’t understand the full picture of your unique situation. It can miss critical details, apply outdated laws, or even generate completely incorrect information – all without warning. We’ve already seen instances where AI-drafted contracts, filings, or even court submissions have led to costly mistakes. When it comes to legal matters, there’s no substitute for real expertise. A conversation with an experienced attorney can save you from major headaches and bigger legal fees down the road.
- “I have a CPA. Why do I need a business attorney?”
CPAs are a must for tax and financial matters, but their expertise doesn’t extend to legal issues like legal structure, contracts, or regulatory compliance. A business attorney complements your CPA by ensuring your legal foundation is solid. Together, we create a strong framework for your business to thrive and grow.
- “I’m not being sued, so why do I need an attorney?”
Many business owners think attorneys are only necessary during a lawsuit. But here’s the truth: the best time to work with an attorney is before problems arise.
Preventative legal support ensures your business is structured properly, contracts are airtight, and compliance is maintained. Waiting until you’re being sued means playing defense which puts you in a costly and stressful position. We help you stay proactive, so you can focus on growth rather than damage control.
At The Legal Department, we’re more than just a law firm; we’re partners in your success. Whether you’re starting out, scaling up, or managing the complexities of growth, our approach is designed to fit your needs.
We believe in providing clear guidance, value-based solutions, and trusted advice, so you can focus on what you do best: running your business. If you’ve been holding back on legal support because of one of these objections, let’s start a conversation. You’ll see how we’re different—and why businesses trust us to help them grow smart, strong, and protected.
Jena Crews, MBA
Director of Client & Community Connections
The Legal Department for Service Professionals, PA
