Hiring a Lawyer Do your homework before you hire a lawyer for yourself and your business.  This page contains information about the American Bar Association, the International Center for Dispute Resolution, what to do if someone sues your business, low cost help, referral services, fees, expenses, and more. When Your Business Has Been Sued Your business has just been served with legal papers. Now what? Low Cost Help If your business needs help with a civil legal problem and can't afford a lawyer, arbitrator, or mediator, you may qualify for free legal assistance. The American Bar Association maintains an online directory of pro bono programs searchable by state. Consumer's Guide to Legal Help on the Internet Link to the American Bar Association's page on legal help for consumers. ABA Lawyer Referral Service Find a lawyer in your state prepared to help you. NFIB Tips on Finding a Lawyer One of the best ways to find the right lawyer for your business is to ask people you trust for referrals. Pre-Hire Detective Work The Martindale-Hubbell Law Directory lists lawyers by state and city, and provides rating information as well as summaries of their education and areas of practice. Your state bar association can also assist in investigating a lawyer's background, including bar membership and grievances. Your State Bar Association Your state bar association can assist in investigating a lawyer's background, including bar membership and grievances. Fees and Expenses Link to the American Bar Association's page regarding lawyer fees, expenses, and billing practices. Small Claims Court Small Claims Court is usually the best option if the size of the case doesn't justify the cost of hiring a lawyer. Before filing, it is important to make sure that your state courts have jurisdiction over the defendant. In addition, find out what the maximum amount is that can be asked for in your state. International Center for Dispute Resolution (ICDR) A resource for business, organizations, government agencies, and communities seeking to manage human relations issues and harmonize relationships that threaten productivity and performance, especially in the workplace. The ICDR respects individual interests and needs, promotes effective communications, and restores relationships through alternative dispute resolution, education, training, and learning programs. American Arbitration Association Arbitration is a legal solution to a business-related dispute that usually entails a fraction of the time and money of litigation. Both parties agree to recognize an arbitration panel as a legal authority and agree that the decision is legally binding. If the losing party fails to pay the award amount, the winner can transfer the decision to a court, which will enforce the award judicially. Arbitration procedures are usually closed to the public. Visit the American Arbitration Association (AAA) or the Global Arbitration and Mediation Association (GAMA) site to find an arbitrator in your area. Hiring a Lawyer FAQs Answers to general questions about hiring a lawyer.	Home . Compliance Assistance . FirstGov Agency List SEARCH Find Forms Advanced Search Business Laws Employees Finances Government Contracting International Trade Research and Resources Special Entrepreneurs Taxes Training Working Environments Need to replace seasonal summer help? Learn how to find and keep good employees. Hiring Procedures Managing Employees Employing Minors
	About Us . Site Map . Give Feedback . Accessibility . Privacy & Security . FAQs