FAQs
Mergers & Acquisitions
When should a business involve a lawyer in an acquisition or sale?
ParttimeAttorney.com should be involved as soon as you think you might want to acquire or divest a business interest. Definitely before a letter of intent is signed. Early involvement helps address tax structure, risk allocation, and governance issues before momentum limits options.
Do you replace M&A deal counsel?
It depends on the complexity and size of the transaction. If outside counsel is retained, they handle technical execution. PartTimeAttorney.com provides strategic oversight and coordination.
How does tax planning affect M&A deals?
Tax structure impacts net proceeds, ongoing obligations, and post-closing flexibility for both the business and owners.
Litigation Management & Dispute Oversight
What is litigation management as outside general counsel?
It means owning strategy, scope, and budget while outside litigators execute the work.
Can this reduce total legal spend?
Yes. Proactive scope control and strategic oversight often reduce overall cost.
Do you attend calls with outside counsel?
Yes. This is necessary to ensure alignment and accountability.
Tax & Employee Benefits
Is tax planning included with fractional general counsel services?
Yes. Legal and financial decisions are evaluated for business and owner-level tax impact.
Do you prepare tax returns?
Why combine legal and tax strategy?
Separation often leads to rework and missed opportunities.
Corporate Governance
Do small businesses need formal governance?
Yes. Governance failures are a common source of disputes and lender issues.
Can governance be scaled as we grow?
Yes. Governance should evolve with the business.
Do you work with boards and owners directly?
Yes, governance guidance is provided at the leadership level.
Employment & Workforce Strategy
Do you handle day-to-day HR questions?
Yes, as part of fractional general counsel support.
How do benefits affect tax planning?
Benefits design impacts both business deductions and owner taxation.
Can this help prevent disputes?
Yes. Clear policies and guidance reduce risk.
Technology & Commercial Contracts
Do you negotiate technology and SaaS agreements?
Yes, including risk allocation, MSAs, SLAs and pricing structures.
How do contracts affect tax planning?
Revenue recognition and allocation can have tax consequences.
Can you standardize our contracts?
Yes. Standardization reduces friction and risk.
Estate Planning for Business Owners
Should estate planning be separate from business planning?
No. For owners, the business is often the largest asset in the estate plan.
Do you coordinate with tax planning?
Yes. Estate planning is aligned with business and owner tax strategy.
When should owners start planning?
Earlier planning provides more options and flexibility.