If your home business is built around freelance writing, you may think that you can get away with NOT utilizing some of the professionals and advisors that other types of businesses need. Your budgeting and income may be so simple that you may not think you need an accountant or bookkeeper, and the nature of your work may be so uncluttered that you manage pretty well all by yourself. And, while you may think you don’t need to consult an attorney, there are a few times when a lawyer may be just what you need in your writing business.
For ordinary writing contracts, you can probably get away with not accessing the services of an attorney. But, for more complicated contracts and business agreements, an attorney will likely be helpful. The trick is to find one that is familiar with book contracts or other legal documents affecting writers and those in the publishing field. If you are in the market for an attorney for a publishing contract or other legal matters associated with written work, ask for referrals and do some research to find one who is experienced and current on what is going on in your field.
Additionally, I have written before about the importance of writers having a written and updated Will in order to provide for their written and published work upon death. An attorney can be extremely helpful in making sure this is a complete and legal document. While you may be able to craft a legal Will on your own—since you are doing a Will to provide for written works and this isn’t very common, having professional help can make the difference between a legally binding document and one that is not.
As a general rule, when in doubt, a writer should seek legal counsel. Just because you think you can do things on your own and get away without having help or consultation from an attorney, doesn’t mean it is the best idea for your writing business.