Running a business is exciting, but it can also get tricky, especially when it comes to legal stuff. Whether you’re starting out, growing fast, or selling up, having the right legal help makes all the difference.
That’s where the best Aussie business solicitors step in.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through what to expect when you hire a commercial or Company Lawyer in Australia. We’ll keep it simple, clear, and full of useful tips to help you make smart decisions.
Why Should You Hire Business Solicitors?
Business solicitors are legal experts who help with all the rules and paperwork that come with running a company. From setting up the right structure to sorting out contracts or dealing with staff issues, they’re there to keep your business out of trouble.
Here’s What Business Solicitors Usually Handle:
- Writing and checking contracts
- Helping with commercial leases
- Protecting your brand or products (intellectual property)
- Giving advice about staff and workplace rules
- Helping you buy or sell a business
- Sorting out disputes before they get messy
How Do Business Solicitors Help Keep You Safe?
When you bring in an experienced solicitor, you’re getting a lot more than help with your legal paperwork. You’re getting someone’s expertise who looks out for your business and helps you avoid costly mistakes.
Here’s a closer look at what Business Solicitors can do:
1. Setting Up Your Business Properly
The first step in any new Aussie business journey is choosing the right structure. Your company lawyer can help you:
- Decide if you should be a sole trader, a partnership, a company, or a trust
- Register your business with ASIC
- Create agreements between business partners or shareholders
2. Drafting and Reviewing Contracts
Contracts are part of everyday business life. A good commercial solicitor will:
- Write contracts that suit your business and industry
- Review agreements with suppliers, clients, or distributors
- Add clear terms that protect you if things go wrong
3. Employment and Staff Issues
From hiring staff to handling disputes, legal advice is crucial. Business solicitors help with:
- Writing fair and legal employment contracts
- Making sure you follow Fair Work Laws
- Setting up workplace policies and managing staff issues
4. Dealing with Commercial Property
Leasing a shop, office, or warehouse? A Commercial Solicitor can:
- Review your lease before you sign
- Negotiate better terms
- Spot risks hiding in the fine print
5. Buying or Selling a Business
If you’re planning to buy or sell a business, your solicitor will:
- Do background checks (due diligence)
- Write up sale contracts and confidentiality agreements
- Handle all the legal steps to make the deal smooth and secure
6. Staying Compliant and Reducing Risk
Australian commercial laws change all the time, and you don’t want to be caught out. A company lawyer will:
- Keep you up to date with new rules
- Do legal “health checks” on your business
- Help you steer clear of future disputes
What to Look for in a Commercial Solicitor?
Not all lawyers are the same. When you’re choosing someone to work with your business, here are a few must-haves:
✅ Experience in your industry – They’ll understand the ins and outs of your work.
✅ Clear communication – No confusing legal talk.
✅ Fast replies – Some legal matters are urgent.
✅ Practical advice – Not just theory, but real solutions.
How a Company Lawyer Helps Your Business Grow?
A good company lawyer isn’t just for emergencies, they’re a long-term partner for your business.
Here’s how they bring value over time:
● Stopping Problems Before They Start
They’ll flag risky deals or legal gaps before they turn into real problems.
● Helping With Big Decisions
When you’re expanding, raising funds, or making major moves, legal advice makes things safer.
● Making Deals Work in Your Favour
Whether it’s contracts or negotiations, your solicitor strengthens your position.
● Protecting Your Reputation
They’ll help you steer clear of legal battles that could damage your brand.
What the Hiring Process Looks Like?
Hiring a business solicitor isn’t hard. In fact, it’s easy and straightforward. Here’s a step-by-step look at how it usually works:
Step 1: Chat and Get to Know Each Other
Most business solicitors offer a free or low-cost first meeting. You’ll:
- Talk about your business
- Ask questions
- Learn about their fees and services
Step 2: They Assess What You Need
Your solicitor will look at things like:
- Your industry
- Where your business is at
- What legal documents do you already have
Step 3: They Send You a Proposal
If you’re happy to move forward, they’ll send you a clear agreement. It’ll include:
- What work they do
- How much will it cost
- When you’ll get it
Step 4: They Get to Work
Once you agree, the solicitor gets started, whether that’s contracts, advice, or handling a legal issue.
Step 5: You Can Keep Them On
Many businesses keep their solicitor on retainer (a monthly service). This means they’re always available for:
- Quick advice
- Reviewing new deals
- Sorting out problems before they grow
Comparing Different Types of Legal Support
| Legal Service Type | When to Use | Main Benefit |
| One-Off Consult | For one simple issue | Quick answers, low cost |
| Fixed-Fee Projects | Like contracts or lease reviews | You know the price upfront |
| Retainer Agreement | Ongoing legal needs | Peace of mind and fast help |
How Much Does It Cost?
Prices depend on the solicitor, your location, and the type of work.
Here’s a rough guide:
- Hourly Rate – Around $250 to $600 per hour
- Fixed Fee – One set price for a specific job
- Retainer – A monthly fee for ongoing support
Always ask for a detailed quote before getting started.
Why it’s Smart to Hire Local Business Solicitors in Australia?
Hiring someone local has big perks:
- They know your state laws (like NSW, VIC, QLD)
- They understand local courts and tribunals
- You can meet face-to-face
- You’ll get faster responses and turnaround
A local commercial solicitor gives advice that actually works in your area.
Watch Out for These Red Flags
Most business solicitors are highly skilled and a great partner to have on your team, but here’s what to avoid:
- Unclear fees or dodgy contracts – Always ask for everything in writing.
- Big promises with no plan – Be wary if they claim they can “guarantee” outcomes.
- No experience in your industry – General advice isn’t always enough.
- Slow replies or poor communication – Time matters in business law.
At the end of the day, you should feel confident working with your solicitor. If something feels off, don’t be afraid to shop around.
The Benefits of Having a Skilled and Trusted Legal Partner
Hiring a business solicitor, commercial solicitor, or company lawyer goes beyond staying legal. I’s more about setting your business up for long-term success. With the right person on your side, you’ll:
- Make better business decisions
- Stay protected from legal risks
- Save time and money in the long run
- Be ready for any bumps in the road.
So, if you’re just starting your business or already well-established, a reliable legal expert can be one of your biggest assets.
Wrapping Up: Get Legal Peace of Mind
Hiring a solicitor for your business needs might feel like a big step, but it doesn’t have to be daunting or complicated. Having a trusted business solicitor on hand is actually one of the smartest moves you can make as a business owner in Australia.
They’re not just there to fix problems; they’ll help you avoid them in the first place. They bring confidence, clarity, and peace of mind so you can focus on growing your business.
Remember, when you’re looking for a commercial solicitor or company lawyer, take the time to find someone who gets you, your industry, and your business goals.
FAQs
Q: Do I need a solicitor if I already have an accountant or business advisor?
Yes. Accountants help with your finances, but only a solicitor is trained to handle legal issues, contracts, and compliance.
Q: Can I use a contract template I found online?
You can, but it’s risky. Templates don’t always cover your unique business needs and you may not understand the terms it contains. A solicitor will make sure the contract is legally sound and protects you in every single area.
Q: What’s the difference between a commercial solicitor and a company lawyer?
They often overlap. A commercial solicitor handles general business legal work, while a company lawyer might be more focused on corporations law or even work in-house for larger businesses.
👉 Contact us today at Sydun & Co. to find out how we can help protect and support your business at every stage.
