Did you know that an estimated 90 percent of all entrepreneurs will face a lawsuit while operating their business? Legal disputes are not only time-consuming and expensive but also hurtful to your brand.
Part of building a sustainable business requires that you seek legal counsel for developing contracts and protecting your intellectual property.
The good news? There are free legal resources available to help you learn how to protect your business and, in the case of a lawsuit, navigate the challenge. Whether you’re just starting, growing, or sustaining your business, these tools offer valuable guidance and connections to legal professionals – all at no cost.
Here are seven free legal resources every Black mompreneur should be tapping into to build a sustainable business.
1. SCORE Legal Resources
SCORE mentors provide entrepreneurs with free personalized mentoring and resources. As a resource partner to the Small Business Administration (SBA), SCORE connects you with experienced professionals who offer guided assistance to help your business grow. The organization’s legal resources include templates, checklists, and guides that will help you protect your business.
2 . Local Small Business Development Centers (SBDCs)
Small Business Development Corporations offer localized support for entrepreneurs in need of legal assistance that is tailored to your state’s laws. The organization provides free or low-cost legal assistance to small businesses needing legal consultations. Local business development centers also offer workshops and access to templates for contracts and agreements.
3. Small Business Administration (SBA)
SBA Business Law Guide
The SBA Business Law Guide provides a wealth of free resources, including contracts, compliance, and employment law. They also share information related to local legal resources and facilitate a variety of workshops.
4. Start Small, Think Big
Start Small, Think Big offers a variety of resources to entrepreneurs–from marketing and financial services to legal assistance. The organization offers online workshops as well as facilitates legal counsel sessions–either in-person or remote.
5. FindLaw Small Business Center
FindLaw’s Small Business Center publishes articles, guides, and resources on business formation, contracts, and intellectual property. FindLaw’s content is written and reviewed by legal professionals, making it a valuable hub of information for entrepreneurs.
6. Nolo Legal Encyclopedia
Nolo’s free legal encyclopedia covers business formation, intellectual property, contracts, employment law, and more – making it easy for entrepreneurs to understand their legal responsibilities.
7. LawHelp.org
Sometimes entrepreneurs have personal problems that need legal support. LawHelp.org provides resources for people needing support with immigration, housing, and domestic violence. Listed by state and region, the site offers information to protect you if you are faced with a personal crisis.
Last Thoughts for Black Mompreneurs
These shared resources are just a start to get you started in protecting your business. Build relationships with organizations such as your local Small Business Development Center and SCORE so that you are constantly receiving information and support in your business.
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