# General Counsel

- Link: https://www.lumlawgroup.com/general-counsel/
- Published: 2025-02-19T04:20:53-08:00
- Author: Ritchie Baldonado

![](https://www.lumlawgroup.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/lumlaw_whychoose_b1.webp)

# General Counsel

Are you a business owner in Southern California seeking comprehensive legal counsel
without the overhead of a full-time in-house legal department? As an experienced**
Los Angeles outside general counsel**, Lum Law Group provides a full range of legal
services tailored to your specific business needs. We allow you to focus on growing
your company with the confidence that your interests are protected.

## Strategic Business Legal Services in Pasadena

With over 60 years of experience, Lum Law Group offers a depth of expertise that
few firms can match. Our background encompasses a wide range of legal areas, including
intellectual property, business litigation, and real estate matters. Furthermore,
we provide proactive advice on diverse challenges, from day-to-day operational issues
to complex transactions.

Whether you need assistance with [regulatory compliance](https://bizfileonline.sos.ca.gov/)
or need to navigate a sensitive employment law matter, we are ready to assist. Consequently,
we act as your trusted advisor, helping you achieve your objectives while minimizing
legal risk. We also offer guidance on litigation management and mergers and acquisitions.
Because of our broad experience, we are uniquely equipped to support your business
as it scales.

### How Our General Counsel Services Benefit Your Business

We understand that legal clarity is essential for growth. Therefore, we prioritize
clear communication and ethical fee structures. Do any of the following apply to
you?

 * Are you starting or growing a business and need legal guidance on contracts, 
   compliance, or risk management?
 *  
 * Do you want to protect your business’s intellectual property or avoid costly 
   legal disputes?
 *  
 * Are you facing an urgent legal issue and need to understand your options quickly?
 *  

In short, your business deserves a dedicated partner. Contact Lum Law Group today
to discuss how our **Los Angeles outside general counsel** services can support 
your long-term success.

 [     Ensure your business is legally protected consult with us today  ](https://www.lumlawgroup.com/contact-us/)

Important Things You Should Know

## Common General Counsel FAQs

 Why does a small business need an outside General Counsel?

Most small-to-medium businesses do not have the budget for a full-time, in-house
legal department. Our outside General Counsel services give you on-demand access
to experienced business attorneys for contract reviews, employment disputes, regulatory
compliance, and strategic planning—providing executive-level legal protection at
a fraction of the cost.

 [     Get Started  ](https://www.lumlawgroup.com/contact-us/)

 Should I incorporate my business as an LLC or a C-Corp in California?

The right entity depends on your growth strategy. An LLC (Limited Liability Company)
offers liability protection with flexible management and pass-through taxation, 
making it ideal for many local businesses. A C-Corporation is typically required
if you plan to seek venture capital funding, issue stock options, or eventually 
go public. We help you structure the entity that best fits your goals.

 [     Get Started  ](https://www.lumlawgroup.com/contact-us/)

 What essential contracts do I need when hiring employees or contractors?

California employment law is notoriously strict. To protect your business, you need
airtight Independent Contractor Agreements (to avoid misclassification penalties),
customized Employee Handbooks, Non-Disclosure Agreements (NDAs) to protect trade
secrets, and clear At-Will Employment Agreements.

 [     Get Started  ](https://www.lumlawgroup.com/contact-us/)

 How can I protect my personal assets from business liability and lawsuits?

The most critical step is forming a distinct legal entity (like an LLC or Corporation)
and rigorously maintaining the “corporate veil.” This means keeping your business
finances completely separate from personal accounts, signing all contracts in the
business’s name, and maintaining proper corporate governance records.

 [     Get Started  ](https://www.lumlawgroup.com/contact-us/)

 When should I bring in a business lawyer to review a commercial lease?

You should have a lawyer review the lease _before_ you sign a Letter of Intent (
LOI). Commercial leases are often drafted heavily in the landlord’s favor, burying
hidden costs for maintenance (CAM charges), restricting your ability to sublease,
or holding you personally liable for the rent. We negotiate these terms to protect
your bottom line.

 [     Get Started  ](https://www.lumlawgroup.com/contact-us/)