If you do business in the state of West Virginia, knowing where to turn when you need a West Virginia lawyer, can benefit you and your business.

The complex world of West Virginia's law includes its constitution, state statues and state supreme court decisions. When navigating the laws in West Virginia, take guesswork out of the equation by seeking the advice of a licensed West Virginia attorney. A good attorney can protect you and your business by providing you with sound advice if you change your business's status.

When seeking a West Virginia law firm, consider the following:

1. You may or may not need a large law firm for your small business needs. Consider rates and success histories as you contact West Virginia law firms.

2. If you have a complex legal issue, your West Virginia attorneys should be able to outline all your possible options, including arbitration and mediation.

3. Depending on your needs, you may want a West Virginia law firm that specializes in a particular area of law.

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Protect your business by consulting with a West Virginia attorney regarding intellectual property

If you want to protect intellectual property assets, consult with a West Virginia law firm that knows the intricacies of intellectual property law.

I recommend: Bowles and Rice, McDavid Graff and Love, LLP represents a wide variety of clients and their intellectual property needs, from applying for patents to intellectual property disputes. With over 120 attorneys in 3 states, this firm also has many other areas of law in which it practices. For a smaller firm, try Kay Casto and Chaney PLLC; they have an intellectual property group and may be able to assist you in protecting your rights.

If your business's status needs to change, consult a West Virginia attorney

Whether you want to form a partnership, corporation or a limited liability company, a trusted attorney, familiar with federal law and the laws in West Virginia, can help you decide which avenue will be of most benefit to you.

I recommend: From entity options to employment issues, Campbell Woods, PLLC serves many businesses and their business needs. Shuman, McCuskey and Slicer, PLLC offers a full range of business services, including the organization of entities, under federal and West Virginia state laws.

Consult with a West Virginia law firm and be proactive if you're concerned about litigation

West Virginia law firms can help you avoid disputes by advising you on contracts and business practices. When disputes do occur, your attorneys can guide you through the litigation process and help you, as you navigate the complexities of West Virginia state laws.

I recommend: Pullin, Fowler, Flanagan, Brown and Poe, PLLC specializes in business and corporate law. They offer seminars guiding businesses on how to avoid possible lawsuits. If you do need to litigate, Bailey & Wyant, PLLC has a corporations and business litigation division as well.

Seek a West Virginia law firm that knows about your concern

From equine law to product liability defense, attorneys familiar with the laws of West Virginia as they pertain to your needs may be able to offer you the best advice.

I recommend: Attorney Locate, Inc.'s website allows you to find an attorney by city and then by that attorney's specialty. FindLaw also lists lawyers in West Virginia, first by city, and then by specialty.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  When meeting with an attorney who can represent your business needs, come prepared. Bring any questions regarding West Virginia state laws you may have, as well as any related documents and paperwork you may have.