Small Business Legal Services

Small business legal services attorneys help entrepreneurs and small companies with entity formation, contracts, compliance, and business transactions.

With 5+ million new businesses starting annually and existing businesses requiring ongoing legal support, attorneys generate revenue of $120,000-$500,000 annually with profit margins of 40-50% through a combination of project fees and retainer clients.

The practice requires a law degree, bar admission, and understanding of business law, contracts, and corporate structures.

Attorneys typically charge $200-$450 per hour, $1,500-$5,000 for LLC formations, and $2,500-$15,000 for M&A transactions.

Services include business formation, contract drafting and review, trademark filing, employment agreements, commercial leases, and general counsel services.

Many attorneys offer fixed-fee packages for startups and monthly retainers for ongoing support.

Success factors include business acumen, ability to explain complex legal concepts simply, and strong client relationships.

Marketing focuses on networking with accountants and business consultants, chamber of commerce involvement, and educational content.

The practice can leverage technology for document automation and virtual consultations.

With entrepreneurship continuing strong in 2025 and businesses increasingly seeking affordable legal support, small business law offers excellent opportunities for attorneys who understand the unique needs of growing companies.