During the course of operating a
business, owners or operators may encounter disputes with other
businesses, clients, competitors or employees. Often times, these
disputes are not resolved amicably and require the services of an
attorney. At Rikard & Dobson, we offer legal services to such
businesses regarding contract interpretations, breaches of
agreements, enforcement of agreements, drafting of contracts and
litigation.
Q. How much does an attorney
charge for his or her services?
A.
That would depend on what services the attorney is providing. Most
often, the attorney will be working on an hourly basis. This
requires an up-front retainer fee.
Q. Are there any services
related to businesses that your firm does not provide?
A. Yes. While we do
provide services in many areas, there are areas that we do not
handle. Please contact our offices to find out if we are able to
assist you in a particular matter. If we do not handle your type of
matter, we will try to refer you to another attorney.
Q. Why do I need an
attorney?
A. You may not. At
Rikard and Dobson, we offer a ½ hour free initial consultation to
advise you on this. It will be your choice thereafter as to whether
you wish to retain an attorney.
Q. I am already involved in
litigation involving a dispute. Am I still able to retain the
services of an attorney?
A. Yes, but the
longer you delay in retaining an attorney, the more risk you run to
undermining your case.
Q. I am currently involved in a
contractual dispute. Is there anything I can do to protect myself
or my business in event a lawsuit does arise?
A. Yes. Document,
document, document. Keep written records of discussions,
agreements, etc., along with the respective dates. Never agree to
do something that you have no intention of fulfilling. Try to make
the other party reduce their statements or agreements to writing
and obtain a copy. If a lawsuit does arise, you will have written
documentation as evidence to support your position, as opposed to
your oral testimony.
Q. I have only a small business
and am not currently involved in any disputes. Are there situations
where an attorney is needed?
A. In some areas,
yes. (For example, if you have work orders drawn up, you should
include language allowing you to be reimbursed for attorney fees in
event you have to take steps to collect the money owed.) Again, the
first ½ hour of the initial consultation is free. Take the
opportunity to learn whether anything can be done to protect your
business in event of future litigation.
Q. In contract disputes, do you
only represent businesses?
A. No. In some
instances, we will handle a dispute from the employee or customer's
perspective.
Q. I am involved in a dispute,
but do not wish to take the matter to trial. Are there other
options available?
A. Yes. Arbitration
and mediation are two alternative methods that may be utilized to
resolve disputes. (For a general definition of arbitration and
mediation, please look under Personal Injury Frequently Asked
Questions.)
