Looking for an attorney

One of the first people you will need for your chiropractic practice startup is an attorney.  You will need someone to review leases and other documents as you begin.  But don’t just look for a one-time reviewer.  Choose carefully, because you will be needing an attorney many times over the course of your career.

First, understand that (just like chiropractors!) all attorneys are not created equal.  Some are better than others, and some are better at some areas than others are.  I had a great attorney for my divorce many years ago; when I asked her to work on my will, though, she did a less-than-excellent job.

Here’s a suggestion that has worked for me:  Find an attorney who is part of a small group, one that has specialists in different areas of law.  For example, you may need an expert in employment law, or someone who can help with real estate matters, and another who can deal with family legal matters.  By getting involved with a small firm, you can get referrals to partners who can help with many different types of legal matters.

For more information on startup advisors, read Planning for Practice Success.