I'm trying to decide if I need to meet with an attorney prior to the official launch of my business. Anyone have opinions?

I didn't, but that doesn't mean you shouldn't.
Was there anything in particular you're worried about needing legal advice on?

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I think whether or not you seek the advice of an attorney is totally up to you and your comfort level with the business start-up process. I have spent most of my career working with entrepreneurs and have assisted in the start-up of many businesses, most of the time with attorneys and CPA's at my disposal should I need assistance. I am very familiar with the start-up process, creating contracts, bookkeeping setup, etc. so I didn't feel like it was necessary to deal with an attorney during the process of setting up my own.

If you don't have experience in the start-up arena, there is no harm in consulting an attorney or a CPA either one, just make sure you go to the right one. Attorneys specialize too, so I would make sure to talk to either a corporate or tax attorney, in most cases (especially with tax attorneys) they will be CPA's as well.

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Rebecka Melson ~ Virtual Business Services

I am in Australia, so it's probably a bit different. I asked all the questions of my accountant and then checked our state and local government websites to ensure that I had all the right things in place, like a business tax number, name, insurances etc. Or if you have something in your local area that supports small business startup they will have the correct information for you. We have a government department that specialises in starting a business which was a big help. But definitely my accountant was able to answer the pressing questions to help me get started.

Good luck!

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Marie Chandler - your virtual assistant
www.officesupportonline.com.au

Thanks everyone for the great advice. I did find out that there is a small business "center" in my area. I will contact them. I'm sure they will be helpful, too.

An attorney who specializes in small business would be able to answer any legal questions you have about starting your business. I could see how a consultation could be beneficial if you don't have a background in business.

Andrea

I use prepaid legal that way i have an attorney on retainer that looks over my contracts and documents to keep me out of legal trouble. Don't know if it's necessary, but i do feel more comfortable since i'm a sole p.