In some instances the lawyer may be hired for a one-time fee. For example, a patent attorney may be hired as a specialist to help the entrepreneur obtain a patent. Once the patent is obtained, this lawyer would be needed, except perhaps if there was any litigation regarding the patent. Other specialist for setting up the organization or for purchase of real estate may also be paid on a service-performed basis. Whatever the fee basis, the entrepreneur should confront the cost issue initially so that no questions arise in the future.
Choosing a lawyer is like hiring an employee. The lawyer with whom you work should be someone you can relate to personally. In a large law firm, it is possible that an associate or junior partner would be assigned to the new venture. The entrepreneur should as to meet with this person to ensure that there is compatibility.