There once was a time when people could trust that others were as good as their word and a handshake was all you needed to seal a deal. Unfortunately, things are a bit more complicated today. According to Brentwood business lawyer Brian T. Boyd, now, more than ever, it pays to know when to hire a personal, business, or tax attorney. Here are seven circumstances where the expense makes sense.

1. You are starting a new business.

If you are opening a new business in Brentwood, a business lawyer can help you take the proper steps needed to ensure that you are operating lawfully. Your attorney can help you create your business structure, file permits, and obtain licenses as necessary. You may also need to hire a tax attorney to put your business on the right track and circumvent any potential issues down the road. 

2. You face jail time.

There are many reasons that you could wind up behind bars. No matter what you have done – or what you are accused of – having an attorney on your side will ensure that you get a fair trial.

3. You were involved in an accident, and the other party has lawyered up.

Tennessee is an at-fault state. If you have been in an automobile accident, and the other party has secured legal counsel, this is a good sign that you should do the same. 

4. Someone is injured on your property.

If you are a home or business owner and someone is hurt on your property, you may be on the hook for their medical bills and more. Even if you have insurance, a personal or business lawyer familiar with rules and regulations in the Brentwood area should still be consulted. On the other end, if you have been hurt on someone else’s property, a personal injury attorney can help ensure that you receive the compensation you deserve for your injuries. In this case, you may not be out-of-pocket any money as many attorneys in this field deduct their fee from the settlements.

5. You must distribute assets of someone who died intestate.

If you become an executor – the person responsible for distributing someone’s assets after they die – it’s a good idea to have an experienced attorney to ensure that you do things just right. Failure to abide by the will or not follow heirship order may result in legal action being taken by snubbed relatives.

6. You have a large estate.

Like being the executor of a will, planning your own largest state may require assistance from an experienced tax attorney. Property valued at more than $5.6 million (or $11.2 million if you are married) is considered taxable estates. Your attorney can strategize a plan with you before your death to lessen the impact on your heirs. 

7. You are entering into a business agreement.

There are many types of legal agreements a business owner may have to enter into. If you own property, for example, you and your tenant will have a lease agreement. Your Brentwood-based business lawyer can review these documents to ensure the agreement is legally binding.

Whether you need a personal injury attorney, business lawyer, or tax attorney, having the right legal counsel on your side will help you get through any litigation situation. Contact us at the Law Office of Boyd & Wills, PLLC today for more information.