Lawyers are expensive. We know. And you don't need one for every situation — but for some things you absolutely do, and saving money in the wrong place can cost you many times over. Here's a clear guide.
When you MUST have a lawyer
1. Investment documents
Term sheet, SHA (Shareholders' Agreement), SPA (Share Purchase Agreement), convertible note. These are documents where minor wording has million-crown implications. Anti-dilution, liquidation preference, board control, pro-rata rights — do not sign without legal representation. Ever.
2. Founders' agreement
As we wrote in our dedicated article — this is the foundation. It doesn't cost as much as you think. But it's invaluable the moment a problem arises.
3. Disputes and debt recovery
If someone owes you money, is breaching a contract, or is threatening you with a lawsuit, you need a lawyer. Early legal representation saves both money and nerves — and improves your chances of success.
4. Terminating a key employee
Ending employment with a key employee (especially one with access to sensitive data, know-how, or customers) must be handled correctly. A poorly executed dismissal leads to employment law disputes.
5. GDPR when processing sensitive data
Health data, biometric data, children's data, payment information. Mistakes here are genuinely costly — and the Czech DPA actively carries out inspections.
When you can (possibly) manage without a lawyer
Simple NDA
A standard non-disclosure agreement for a minor collaboration can be downloaded from a reputable source and used directly. Be careful in specific situations (know-how, technology, investment discussions) — there a review is worthwhile.
Basic cookie policy for a simple website
For a standard website with analytics cookies, you can manage with online generators like Cookiebot or CookieYes. But verify it actually matches your real processing activities.
Simple B2B contracts for smaller amounts
Template agreements exist. But read them. And if the value of the relationship or transaction is significant, the point above applies.
The advantages of an ongoing legal retainer
Rather than one-off consultations (where you have to re-explain your context every time), an ongoing retainer gives you:
- A lawyer who knows your company, team, and decision history
- Prevention rather than firefighting — we catch problems before they arise
- Confidence that you have someone to call when you need a quick answer
- Fixed costs that are easier to budget for
For growing startups, a retainer is the most effective way to manage legal risk. Our START, GROWTH, and PARTNER packages are designed precisely for this need.
Not sure what you need? Write to us — the first consultation is free and without obligation.