The best attorney is determined by the entrepreneur's own business sophistication, personality, and skills. Asking friends, coworkers, and other entrepreneurs who have used a law firm for similar needs is one of the better sources for a good lead. Other entrepreneurs in a similar industry will also provide some perspective on how to evaluate legal needs and prospective attorneys, and how to work with them. Local community groups and universities may also provide good leads. Attorneys who specialize in helping start-ups often attend local entrepreneur conventions and meetings.
Local colleges offering entrepreneurship classes often feature attorneys as guest speakers.
Additional sources of good leads include local bar associations, chambers of commerce, and accountants. There is no single way to find a lawyer that is right for you and your case. One way to start the process is to call several lawyers to whom you have been referred. This helps you get an initial feel for the lawyer. The lawyer, in turn, will likely have a few questions for you, to help the lawyer identify potential conflicts with an existing matter or client.