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Running a successful, reputable business involves juggling multiple tasks and ticking several boxes.

One of the main requirements is to operate legally and ensure compliance with the relevant rules and regulations. There are many reasons to seek legal advice as a business owner. In this guide, we’ll highlight some of the most common scenarios.

Forming your business

Most entrepreneurs can benefit from legal advice from the early days of their journey. Seeking help from legal professionals can ensure you make the right decisions in terms of choosing a business structure and streamline the process of registering your company. It’s important to understand the differences in company structures, as this will affect your tax obligations.

Employment contracts, redundancies and employee disputes

Employment law is an area that covers everything from contracts and agreements to handling redundancies and dealing with disputes. No employer wants to be in a situation where an employee is threatening legal action or they have to let people go, but sadly, these are realities many business owners face.

Drawing up an employment contract with the help of experienced lawyers is beneficial for ensuring compliance and recognising employee and employer rights and responsibilities. If your employees complain or make a claim against you, or you make an employee redundant, and you need advice about a reasonable settlement agreement, it’s wise to look for a reputable firm with experience in employment law. Lawyers can help you identify solutions, protect your reputation and reach agreements that suit both parties.

Customer complaints and personal injury cases

Customer complaints and personal injury cases, such as slips and trips on commercial premises, can be a major headache for business owners. If a client complains about your business and they want to pursue legal action, or a customer is looking to make a claim against you on the grounds of negligence, you’ll need expert lawyers in your corner. Legal professionals can help you ascertain whether you have a strong case to refute the charges. If you don’t, they may be able to help you achieve the best possible outcome while minimising the impact on your reputation and reducing financial losses.

Buying and selling businesses or commercial property

If you’re interested in buying or selling a business or purchasing or selling commercial real estate, you’ll need to hire a lawyer. Legal experts oversee the transfer of properties from one party to another. They also play a key role in commercial acquisitions. Hiring top-rated lawyers can accelerate transactions, reduce the risk of setbacks and delays and help you get the best deal, whether you’re a buyer, investor or vendor.

When you run a business, there may be several reasons why you need to seek legal advice or hire a lawyer. From setting up a company, choosing a business structure and drawing up employment contracts to handling employee or customer disputes, buying and selling businesses or real estate and dealing with personal injury claims, there are many reasons to ensure you have experienced, knowledgeable and successful lawyers in your corner.

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