Running a business today means navigating complex legal, regulatory, and compliance challenges. For many companies, hiring a full-time in-house general counsel is expensive and unnecessary. That’s where Outside General Counsel (OGC) comes in. Outside general counsel provides businesses with experienced legal guidance on an as-needed basis, giving companies the benefits of a lawyer without the overhead of a full-time salary.
But what types of businesses benefit most from outside general counsel? Let’s break it down.
1. Startups and Emerging Companies
Startups often move quickly and operate with limited resources. Legal issues such as entity formation, intellectual property protection, contracts, and compliance can overwhelm founders who are focused on growth. Outside general counsel gives startups cost-effective access to seasoned legal advice without requiring a full legal department. This helps new businesses avoid costly mistakes that can derail future funding or growth opportunities.
2. Small and Mid-Sized Businesses
Many small and mid-sized businesses deal with regular legal needs, including employment matters, vendor contracts, real estate leases, and liability concerns. However, they usually don’t generate enough legal work to justify hiring in-house counsel. Outside general counsel provides flexible, ongoing support for these day-to-day matters, ensuring businesses are protected while controlling costs.
3. Family-Owned Businesses
Family-owned companies face unique challenges, such as succession planning, shareholder agreements, and internal disputes. An outside general counsel can help create clear governance structures, draft agreements, and resolve conflicts before they escalate. This support helps families preserve both their business and their relationships for the long term.
4. Companies Facing Growth or Expansion
When a business begins expanding—whether by opening new locations, entering new markets, or hiring additional employees—the legal risks grow as well. Outside general counsel ensures that expansion is compliant with employment laws, licensing requirements, and industry-specific regulations. They can also provide guidance on mergers, acquisitions, and strategic partnerships.
5. Regulated Industries
Businesses in healthcare, finance, real estate, and technology often face strict compliance and regulatory obligations. Mistakes can result in severe penalties or lawsuits. Having outside general counsel with industry-specific experience provides critical oversight and helps companies stay compliant while adapting to changing laws.
6. Companies Involved in Frequent Contracts or Disputes
Some businesses regularly negotiate vendor agreements, licensing deals, or client contracts. Others may face disputes or potential litigation. Outside general counsel can draft, review, and negotiate contracts to protect business interests, as well as provide representation or coordination if litigation arises.
Why Choose Outside General Counsel?
The main advantage of hiring outside general counsel is flexibility. Businesses get the legal expertise they need—when they need it—without the overhead of a full-time legal department. Whether it’s day-to-day compliance or high-stakes negotiations, OGC offers scalable legal services tailored to the company’s needs.
Frequently Asked Questions About Outside General Counsel
What is outside general counsel?
Outside general counsel is a lawyer or law firm that provides ongoing legal services to a business without being a full-time employee. They handle contracts, compliance, risk management, disputes, and strategic legal advice.
How is outside general counsel different from in-house counsel?
In-house counsel is a salaried employee who works only for your company. Outside general counsel works on a part-time or as-needed basis, offering the same expertise at a fraction of the cost.
Do small businesses really need outside general counsel?
Yes. Even small businesses face contracts, employment laws, and liability issues. Outside general counsel ensures those risks are managed without requiring a large legal budget.
Can outside general counsel help with litigation?
Absolutely. They can provide direct representation or coordinate with specialized litigators to ensure your business is protected in court.
What industries benefit most from outside general counsel?
While all businesses can benefit, startups, family-owned companies, growing businesses, and those in regulated industries (such as healthcare, finance, and tech) often see the greatest value.
Not every business needs a full-time general counsel, but nearly every business can benefit from outside legal guidance. Startups, small businesses, family enterprises, companies in regulated industries, and organizations facing growth all rely on outside general counsel services to protect their interests and support long-term success.
If your business is navigating contracts, compliance, or growth challenges, consider partnering with experienced outside general counsel to safeguard your future.