Account
Get our app
Account Start free trial Log in

Ask a Lawyer a Question

You'll hear back in one business day.

Ask a Lawyer a Question

Get started

When You Absolutely Must Hire a Lawyer

You don't always have to hire a business contract lawyer. However, before signing a business contract, always have a lawyer look it over and confirm that you're getting what you expected. This doesn't mean that the lawyer has to be there when the contract is signed, but at some point before that, he or she must go over all of the clauses. Stock contracts can even create problems if you don't get them adapted to your state and local laws. This is because boilerplate language—the basic language included in a stock contract—is quite easy to break in certain states. So you need to make sure that the agreement protects your interests specifically and not just a general consumer's.

When You Probably Should Hire a Lawyer

Whenever possible, hire a business contract lawyer to help you negotiate the key terms of the contract. Lawyers often make excellent negotiators, and a good one can help you get a better deal. She or he can also help you consider alternatives. A finalized contract is less likely to allow additional creative solutions or proposals; most of the time, the lawyer will just go over the terms and clauses that are already present. However, if he or she actively participates in drafting and negotiating the contract, you're more likely to get one that meets your needs and advances your goals.

This article contains general legal information and does not contain legal advice. Rocket Lawyer is not a law firm or a substitute for an attorney or law firm. The law is complex and changes often. For legal advice, please ask a lawyer.


Ask a Legal Pro

Our Legal Pros are here for you.
Characters remaining: 600
Meet our featured Legal Pros

Try Rocket Lawyer FREE for 7 days

Get trusted legal help at a price that works for you. Your free 7-day trial includes:

Unlimited documents & signatures
Personalize, RocketSign®, and share any legal document you need

Business filings made simple
Start your business, stay compliant, and protect your ideas — all in one place

Ask a Legal Pro
Get answers to your legal questions or have your documents reviewed by a Legal Pro

Retain a Legal Pro
Get personalized help for more complex legal matters

Member-only savings
Enjoy exclusive discounts for Legal Pro services and partner offers

Legal help, anywhere
Use our free app to get legal support whenever and wherever you need it