What Kind of Law Firm Do I Need?
A commercial real estate law firm has a very particular area of practice. A law firm that dedicates the bulk of its practice to real estate will have more focus and experience than a law firm that lists commercial real estate as one bullet point among many. Look for keywords that match your issue: landlord-tenant dispute, land acquisition, lease negotiation, etc.
A smaller firm will generally be more affordable than a larger firm. Larger firms have more resources, including employees, but they have to support those resources with higher costs. This is a reason why hiring lawyers can seem unaffordable to the general public. However, smaller firms often have more flexibility on their fees and more affordable costs for an average small business. Commercial real estate law firms that focus on small businesses, start-ups, real estate investors or other similar niches will probably have more affordable rates. They will also have more familiarity with the common issues and challenges facing this audience and will be more prepared to help.
How Do I Find A Law Firm I Can Afford?
The Internet is a great resource here. There are lots of sites online where you can find a law firm that can help you. The local chamber of commerce or a lawyer referral service will probably offer free referrals or access to their directories. Your own business and personal network could be a great resource to find an attorney as well.
I Can’t Afford a Commercial Real Estate Law Firm
Affordable doesn’t mean cheap. You’re paying for a customized, tailored legal solution and legal knowledge. Real estate brokers and Google can’t do that. If you don’t invest in a commercial real estate law firm at the beginning of the transaction, when there’s time to understand and evaluate the consequences of the transaction, you will pay the price. The opposition will have knowledgeable legal counsel that will protect them and advocate for their interests. If you don’t get help at the beginning, you will need a lot more help to navigate the legal and financial consequences of the poor deal you are trapped in.
Call several law firms and ask for a fee quote based on the transaction. Have all of the transaction information ready so you can answer the questions to get an appropriate quote. Be candid with the law firm. They may have some creative solutions regarding the fee.
If you feel you can’t afford a commercial real estate law firm to assist in your transaction and you’ve gotten fee quotes from several of them, then you are probably not ready for the transaction. Commercial real estate is an investment transaction, whether you are buying, selling, or leasing, and the transaction needs to be capitalized properly. Your commercial real estate attorney will require an investment up front, but you will reap the benefits in a properly negotiated transaction where you understand your legal and financial rights and obligations.
Jenna Zebrowski focuses on affordable, tailored legal real estate solutions. Reach out today to set up a consultation or to receive a no-obligation fee quote.
Disclaimer
The transmission and receipt of information contained on this website does not constitute an attorney-client relationship. Persons should not act upon information found on this website without first seeking professional legal counsel.
