If you are in business, or about to set one up, a solicitor can help to identify potential risks and protect you from them.

Common problems

• Company structure

Should you trade in your own name or through a company? Your solicitor will be able to explain the merits of both and help you decide on the best option.

• Business premises

Do you understand all the implications of the terms of your lease? Can rent or service charges be increased? What are the restrictions of running your business from home?

• Finance

What sources of finance are available and what are their legal implications? Should you mortgage the family home?

• Taxes

A solicitor can advise how to keep taxes to a minimum.

• Insurance

Your business may expose you to any number of risks relating to premises, employees, assets and visitors. A solicitor will be able to give you impartial advice on the type of insurance you need.

• Goods and services

When buying or selling goods and services it is important to know your legal obligations. For instance, what about product liability? What can you legally say in advertisements?

• Employment

Most employment disputes arise out of poorly drafted service contracts or dismissal procedures that don't conform to statutory requirements. A solicitor can run a health check on these.

• Disputes and problems

What if you fall out with a partner or fellow shareholders: can you be forced out? How do you make sure that responsibilities and profits are divided fairly?