Choose a solicitor for your business

Most legal firms cover the majority of issues that your business might need advice about. 
The Law Society of Northern Ireland can help finding a qualified specialist solicitor if your needs are more complex.

Search the Law Society of Northern Ireland's solicitor directory.

You need to be sure your solicitor is qualified and has insurance to protect you if anything goes wrong. Solicitors must hold a practising certificate, unless they are only employed by your business. The certificate means they are licensed to practice. It is issued by the Solicitors Regulation Authority, the independent regulator of the Law Society of England and Wales.

All Law Society-listed lawyers hold practising certificates. Use the Law Society's database to find out if a potential solicitor is listed.

In Northern Ireland, practising certificates are issued by the Law Society of Northern Ireland, the regulatory body for solicitors which also ensures that solicitors have insurance to protect their clients. This practicing certificate means they are licensed to practice in NI.

When seeking legal help, ask for quotes from many solicitors. Once you have gathered a shortlist of potential solicitors, meet them face to face to make sure they will be suitable for you.

Solicitors typically bill on an hourly basis, but it is possible to agree fixed spending limits so that you don't go over budget.

 Once you have worked with a solicitor and are happy with their service, it's wise to keep working with them. If they understand the needs of your business, they will be more effective in addressing legal matters.