If you're going to spend money on legal advice, make sure that you get the best advice that you can afford. Law, like so many professions, has become highly specialized. It's unlikely that you'll find one lawyer who can handle every possible legal need you might have. But you might find a law firm with a well-rounded group of attorneys who can help you in most instances.

Try to work with a firm that has experience representing others in your field. If you work with horses, for example, you'll want someone who knows the liability issues. If you fix cars, you'll want someone who has experience with issues such as the regulations for proper disposal of chemicals and waste oil.

The Question of Size

As a home-based business, you aren't likely to be a large client, so you may find it difficult to get the attention you want at a large, prestigious firm. On the other hand, having a large firm on your side can sometimes intimidate the competition should you find yourself in a legal conflict. If your business involves significant risk (selling wooden play equipment for children or installing underground fuel tanks, for instance), you'll want as much legal horsepower as you can afford.

You'll most likely find that a small- or medium-sized firm with reasonable business experience — which is willing to call in help when a specialist is needed — will work well for you. Or perhaps a one-lawyer shop can handle most of your garden-variety needs, but knows when to call in the cavalry for special situations. Above all, you want someone you trust — someone whose advice you'll listen to, but who will let you make your own decisions.

Finding Lawyers

Ask other small businesspeople, your accountant, or your local chamber of commerce for recommendations. Perhaps you have a personal lawyer who has a partner or knows someone else who specializes in business law. You can also check with local bar associations for legal referral services.