Many small businesses operate without legal advice, but this can be risky. Although you may not need to keep an attorney on retainer or hire in-house counsel, you may benefit from legal consultation when:

• Starting a business: Should you incorporate or be a sole proprietor? Will you run a C corporation or an S corporation?
• Negotiating contracts: You want the best deal you can get. An attorney can point out potential loopholes that could help or hurt you.
• Dealing with employees: Compliance with labor laws and regulations is vital to the survival of your business. An improper action toward an employee could come back to haunt you.