Common legal work for businesses
- Customer, supplier, distribution and partnership contracts.
- Website terms, privacy notices and data processing agreements.
- Company formation, shareholder agreements and investment.
- Employment contracts, policies and disputes.
- Trademarks, copyright, licensing and confidentiality.
- Expanding into new countries: agents, distributors and local entities.
Check the lawyer is qualified where it matters
- United States: attorneys are licensed by state bars. Check the state bar’s directory.
- England and Wales: solicitors are regulated by the SRA. Check the Solicitors Register.
- EU countries: lawyers are regulated by national bars or law societies. The EU’s Find a Lawyer tool on the e-Justice portal links national registers.
For a contract that crosses borders, agree which country’s law applies and where disputes will be decided.
Questions to ask
- Have you handled matters like this for businesses of our size and sector?
- Do you charge a fixed fee, hourly rates or a retainer?
- Who will do the work, and at what rate?
- Can you work with lawyers in the other countries involved?
What affects the cost
Complexity, urgency, the seniority of the lawyer, and how many jurisdictions are involved. Many firms offer fixed fees for standard documents, and hourly rates for advice and disputes. Always ask for an engagement letter that sets out scope and fees.
Last updated: 16 October 2026
