If a matter is already in litigation, the business should consult an attorney immediately. However, even if the matter is likely to lead to litigation, there are a number of steps that can or should be taken to protect the interests of the business in preparation for anticipated litigation. The knowledge of a dispute that may lead to litigation could create certain legal obligations for the business, such as the requirement to preserve of records, to avoid additional liability. Also, getting the advice and guidance of an attorney early on in a dispute may help to develop an overview of legal rights and a cost-benefit analysis of different responses, such as settlement, litigation or other alternative dispute resolutions. Often times litigation can result simply from mismanaging a dispute that could have been resolved informally with less time and expense with appropriate legal guidance from the start. Many business owners who attempt to “do it themselves” to save money end up spending more on attorney’s fees after they have created or complicated their legal issues unnecessarily.