Running a small business often involves navigating a range of legal matters, from contracts and employment issues to intellectual property and disputes. Selecting the right legal partner can make all the difference in ensuring that your business operates smoothly while staying compliant with Australian laws. Below is a list of five highly-regarded small business law firms in Adelaide, South Australia, each offering expert legal guidance to support your business success.
1. Lynch Meyer Lawyers – Small Business Lawyers
Lynch Meyer Lawyers is a well-established Adelaide law firm with a strong reputation for advising small businesses across various sectors. The firm provides comprehensive legal services, including contract drafting, business structuring, and dispute resolution. Atty. Paul Turner leads their commercial law team and is renowned for his pragmatic advice tailored to small business owners, offering clear solutions to complex legal issues.
Fantastic Lawyer: Atty. Paul Turner (Partner)
Practice Areas: Commercial Contracts, Business Structuring, Employment Law, Dispute Resolution, Intellectual Property
Locations Served: Adelaide and across South Australia
2. DMAW Lawyers – Small Business Lawyers
DMAW Lawyers is a leading law firm in Adelaide, specialising in business and commercial law for small and medium enterprises (SMEs). The firm provides strategic legal advice to businesses at every stage of development, from startup to expansion. Atty. Greg Griffin, a senior partner, is highly regarded for his expertise in corporate governance and business transactions, ensuring that small business clients receive robust legal protection.
Fantastic Lawyer: Atty. Greg Griffin (Senior Partner)
Practice Areas: Business Startups, Corporate Governance, Contracts, Mergers and Acquisitions, Intellectual Property
Locations Served: Adelaide and South Australia
3. Mellor Olsson Lawyers – Small Business Lawyers
Mellor Olsson Lawyers has been serving the South Australian business community for over 100 years, with a focus on providing legal services to small businesses and startups. Atty. Peter Shakes, who leads the firm’s commercial division, is known for his hands-on approach to solving business-related legal issues. His extensive experience helps small business owners navigate contract negotiations, dispute resolution, and employment law with ease.
Fantastic Lawyer: Atty. Peter Shakes (Partner)
Practice Areas: Business Agreements, Commercial Disputes, Employment Law, Corporate Advisory, Intellectual Property
Locations Served: Adelaide, regional South Australia
4. Norman Waterhouse Lawyers – Small Business Lawyers
Norman Waterhouse Lawyers is a well-respected Adelaide firm that provides a full range of commercial legal services to small businesses. The firm is particularly strong in areas such as business structuring, contracts, and intellectual property protection. Atty. Mark Henderson, the head of the commercial team, is recognised for his in-depth understanding of small business needs and his ability to offer strategic advice that ensures compliance with local laws while supporting business growth.
Fantastic Lawyer: Atty. Mark Henderson (Partner)
Practice Areas: Business Structuring, Commercial Contracts, Intellectual Property, Business Sales and Purchases, Leasing
Locations Served: Adelaide and surrounding regions
5. Cowell Clarke – Small Business Lawyers
Cowell Clarke is a top-tier Adelaide-based law firm with significant expertise in advising small businesses on a wide array of legal matters. The firm offers specialist advice in areas such as franchising, business transactions, and regulatory compliance. Atty. Geoff Black, a key figure in the commercial law practice, is known for providing clear and actionable advice, helping small business owners navigate complex legal environments with confidence.
Fantastic Lawyer: Atty. Geoff Black (Partner)
Practice Areas: Franchising, Business Sales and Purchases, Commercial Transactions, Regulatory Compliance, Employment Law
Locations Served: Adelaide, South Australia, and interstate
FAQs
What Should I Look for in a Small Business Lawyer in Adelaide?
When choosing a small business lawyer in Adelaide, it’s important to consider their experience with businesses of similar size and sector. Ensure they have expertise in areas critical to your business, such as contracts, employment law, intellectual property, and dispute resolution. Additionally, look for a lawyer who is approachable and able to offer practical, actionable advice.
How Can a Lawyer Help My Small Business in Adelaide?
A small business lawyer can provide essential legal advice to protect your business from potential legal disputes and ensure compliance with local and national laws. They can assist with contract drafting, employment law issues, business structuring, and intellectual property protection. A lawyer can also help with resolving disputes efficiently, helping your business avoid costly litigation.
What Are the Costs Involved in Hiring a Small Business Lawyer in Adelaide?
The costs of hiring a small business lawyer in Adelaide vary depending on the complexity of the case and the lawyer’s experience. Many firms offer fixed-fee services for straightforward legal matters, while more complex cases may be charged on an hourly basis. It’s recommended to discuss fees upfront with your lawyer to ensure transparency and avoid unexpected costs.
These five law firms offer a range of legal services tailored to the needs of small businesses in Adelaide, ensuring that entrepreneurs and business owners receive the support they need to navigate legal challenges with confidence. For more information, please visit their respective websites.
