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How to choose the right business lawyer in Indianapolis?

Hiring a business lawyer in Indianapolis isn’t just about finding someone to “look over a contract.” The right attorney can help you prevent disputes, protect your personal assets, and make confident decisions as your business grows. Whether you’re forming an LLC, negotiating a commercial lease, hiring employees, or dealing with a contract problem, here’s how to choose the right fit.


1) Start with your business needs (not a generic “business attorney” search)


Business law is broad. Before you schedule consultations, identify what you actually need help with. Look for an Indianapolis business attorney who regularly handles matters like:

  • Business formation (LLC vs. corporation, operating agreements, shareholder agreements)

  • Contract drafting and negotiation (vendors, clients, independent contractors, NDAs)

  • Employment issues (handbooks, hiring/termination, non-solicitation, wage and hour basics)

  • Commercial real estate (leases, build-out terms, purchase agreements)

  • Dispute prevention and litigation strategy (demand letters, breach of contract, collections)

A lawyer who focuses on your specific category will usually be faster, more practical, and more cost-effective.


2) Choose someone who understands your industry


A business lawyer doesn’t need to be “industry-exclusive,” but industry familiarity helps them spot risks quickly.


Examples:

  • Contractors need clear scope of work, change orders, and payment terms.

  • Online businesses need terms that address refunds, chargebacks, and IP ownership.

  • Medical, wellness, and regulated businesses may need extra compliance language.

  • Franchises and multi-location operations often need scalable templates and consistent policies.

During your consult, ask: “Do you work with businesses like mine? What contract terms tend to cause disputes in my industry?”


3) Prioritize communication and speed


Legal knowledge matters, but communication matters just as much, especially for business owners who need answers fast.


A strong business lawyer should:

  • Explain your options in plain English

  • Tell you what matters most (and what doesn’t)

  • Provide realistic timelines

  • Respond consistently and clearly

If it takes a week to get a callback during the sales process, imagine what it’s like when you have a deadline.


4) Ask about pricing and how work is structured


Many people avoid hiring counsel because they assume it will be unpredictable or expensive. A good attorney will explain billing upfront.


Ask:

  • Do you offer flat-fee contract drafting or is it hourly?

  • Can you quote a range based on scope?

  • Do you offer phased work (review first, then negotiation, then revisions)?


5) Look for a prevention-first approach (not “call me when you get sued”)


Business lawyers help you avoid disputes by tightening your contracts and policies. That includes:

  • Clear payment schedules and late fee terms

  • Deliverables, milestones, and acceptance standards

  • Termination rights (and what happens after termination)

  • Limitation of liability and indemnity clauses

  • Attorney fees and dispute resolution language

  • Ownership of work product and intellectual property

If your attorney only talks about worst-case litigation and never discusses how to prevent conflicts, keep looking.


6) Check credentials and reputation the smart way


Online reviews can be helpful, but don’t rely on them alone. Instead:

  • Confirm the attorney is licensed in Indiana

  • Look for a consistent focus on business law (not “everything under the sun”)

  • Ask other business owners, accountants, or commercial realtors who they trust


7) The consultation should feel like a strategy session


A great consult doesn’t feel like a sales pitch. It feels like a plan.


Bring:

  • Your draft contract or key deal terms

  • Emails/texts that show what was agreed

  • Business entity information (if already formed)

  • A list of your biggest risks or goals

  • You should leave knowing the next steps, expected costs, and what to prioritize.


Need an Indianapolis business lawyer?


If you want contracts that protect your time and money, or if you are starting a business and want to set it up the right way, Brinkley Law may be able to assist you with contract drafting, business formation, and ongoing legal counsel in Indianapolis.


Contact Brinkley Law today at 317-766-1379 to schedule a consultation and get clear guidance tailored to your business.

 
 
 

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