Is Your Lawyer up to the Task?
Before you lock in a lawyer to handle your contract, make sure you know exactly what to look for.
Choosing the right lawyer is like choosing a heart surgeon. A GP gives great general advice, but you wouldn’t trust them with heart surgery. Business sales work the same way. You need a specialist with deep experience in business sale and acquisition contracts.
Strong systems and clear processes also make a huge difference. They help your deal move forward smoothly and reduce costly delays.
Here are the top five questions every business owner should ask before hiring a lawyer for a business sale or purchase.
1. How Many Business Sales Have You Completed in the Last 12 Months?
A generalist lawyer may handle only a few transactions each year. That’s not enough if you want confidence and speed.
Look for someone who handles business sales regularly — ideally five to ten per month. A lawyer who works in this area every day will:
- Spot risks quickly
- Anticipate common roadblocks
- Keep negotiations focused
- Prevent unnecessary delays
Frequency builds expertise. Expertise protects your deal.
2. What Process Do You Use to Keep Deals Running Smoothly?
Don’t accept vague answers.
A strong lawyer should explain their exact process from start to finish. They should describe clear steps, realistic timelines, and structured communication.
Ask whether they use:
- Standardised checklists
- Proven contract templates
- A trained support team
- Clear milestone tracking
Good systems prevent forgotten details. They also keep momentum strong when negotiations become complex.
3. How Long Does Contract Completion Usually Take?
A specialist should give you a clear timeframe based on your situation.
While every transaction differs, an experienced lawyer can explain:
- The average completion timeframe
- What speeds a deal up
- What typically causes delays
- Which risks may affect your timeline
- If they hesitate to answer or speak in generalities, that’s a red flag.
4. Can You Share Testimonials from Business Sale Clients?
Results matter.
Ask for testimonials from clients who bought or sold a business. Look for evidence of:
- Smooth transactions
- Strong negotiation support
- Clear communication
- On-time completion
Past performance often predicts future results.
5. How Quickly Will You Provide a Draft Contract?
Speed matters once the deal is on the table.
After you provide the necessary information, your lawyer should start drafting promptly. Ask directly:
- Can you guarantee a 48-hour turnaround?
- Or will it take two weeks?
- Do you avoid committing to a timeframe?
Delays at this stage can weaken your position and frustrate the other party.
Choose Expertise, Not Just a Lawyer
Business sales involve high stakes, tight deadlines, and complex negotiations. The right lawyer doesn’t just “review paperwork.” They drive the process forward and protect your position at every step.
If you want a more comprehensive checklist, download our printable How to Choose a Lawyer for Business Sales and make your next decision with confidence.
If you’d like a more comprehensive checklist – feel free to download our printable How to Choose a Lawyer for Business Sales.
