Technology has changed the face of the way we do business, and with whom we do business, forever. This is particularly true of Internet-based enterprises or businesses that use Internet-based technologies to access their target markets and sell goods and services across territories. No longer is business defined to the local operating space. Instead, it has expanded to include territories half-way across the world – and in real-time.

Admittedly, with the increase in business being done internationally as facilitated by technology has come the need to ensure that no laws are being broken and that safe business is being conducted by all parties and stakeholders. This is where the services of an International Business Attorney could prove particularly useful. Below, we take a closer look at exactly how this is so.

The need for sound international contracts

As stated above, business is being done across territories now more than ever before. As such, businesses are increasingly in need of contracts, policies, and terms of agreements that will speak to these cross-border arrangements. This will help businesses safeguard themselves whenever there are disputes or discrepancies. For example, these contracts and terms will often speak to which country’s laws will apply when there are such disputes.

Due Diligence Before Hiring

It is important that certain steps be taken by businesses before taking the decision to hire a business attorney that speaks to their status as an international entity. For starters, it is imperative that the lawyer is licensed and certified to carry out the services for which he or she is to be hired. Of course, this would include being qualified to speak to legal matters pertaining to your industry as well as matters pertaining to your international conduct within the same.

Having a bit of IP and Internet savvy could also prove useful as the attorney in question would then be in a position to guide the business as is necessary so that the best decisions are made and that conduct going forward does not put the business in jeopardy. This could go a long way in saving the business having to face lawsuits or other potentially expensive situations that could result from business deals gone wrong.

Importantly, a business or organization can opt to hire or contract the services of an International Business Attorney on a one-time basis for a special project or period of time. On the other hand, they can also opt to have said business attorney on retainer. The choice in this regard would be determined by the nature of the business and the needs therein.