Well, maybe love is too strong of a word to use, but for a startup, you could do worse than cozying up to the right lawyer.

Many first-time entrepreneurs often make the mistake of picking the wrong legal counsel for their startup. Not that there’s anything wrong with using the lawyer your father uses his for contracting business, or the firm recommended by the lawyer who handled your divorce, but not all lawyers are familiar with what startups need.

The right lawyer will know exactly the kind of issues startups face and can be an invaluable resource in getting your business going, from incorporating your business, to filing your patent applications, to reviewing the term sheets from prospective investors. Additionally, the right lawyer will have the networking connections to introduce you to the right folks that can help you succeed — from prospective investors to potential board members and advisers for your company.

Consider your lawyer to be part of your extended team and exercise the same diligence you use to hire your core team.

© Eye on Startups & The Startup Guidebook