Hiring a Fractional General Counsel (FGC) can be a game-changer for your business, helping you mitigate risks, streamline contracts, and ensure compliance—all without the commitment of a full-time in-house attorney. However, not all fractional GCs are created equal. Knowing what to look for when selecting the right legal partner is crucial for making a smart, strategic decision.
Here’s what you need to consider when choosing a fractional general counsel for your business.
1️⃣ Experience & Industry Knowledge 📚
Experience matters—but it doesn’t always have to mean decades in the field. While some fractional GCs have long-standing careers, others bring specialized knowledge in specific industries.
✅ Look for: Someone who understands your industry’s unique legal challenges. Whether it’s SaaS, healthcare, franchising, or professional services, they should be familiar with common risks and compliance requirements.
🔹 Pro Tip: A fractional GC with 3-5 years of experience but deep expertise in contract law, risk management, or business transactions can often provide more relevant guidance than a lawyer with 20 years of general practice.
2️⃣ Contract & Negotiation Skills ✍️
One of the biggest advantages of hiring a fractional GC is their ability to draft, review, and negotiate contracts that protect your business interests.
✅ Look for: A lawyer who excels at contract drafting and negotiation. They should be able to quickly assess agreements, spot risks, and suggest changes that strengthen your position.
🔹 Ask: Can they streamline contract execution to avoid unnecessary delays in business deals?
3️⃣ Risk Management Expertise ⚠️
Legal issues aren’t just about compliance—they’re about protecting your business from financial and reputational damage before problems arise.
✅ Look for: A fractional GC who can help identify and mitigate legal risks, whether it’s employment law concerns, vendor agreements, intellectual property, or regulatory compliance.
🔹 Bonus: They should be proactive, not just reactive—offering strategic advice to prevent legal headaches down the road.
4️⃣ Communication & Business Acumen 🎯
Your fractional GC should not just be a lawyer—they should be a trusted business advisor who understands your company’s goals and aligns legal strategy accordingly.
✅ Look for: Someone who explains complex legal matters in plain English, so you can make informed business decisions without drowning in legal jargon.
🔹 Pro Tip: Ask about their approach to balancing legal protection with business practicality. You don’t want someone who blocks deals—you want someone who enables smart growth while minimizing risks.
5️⃣ Availability & Flexibility 🕒
Unlike full-time in-house counsel, a fractional GC works on an as-needed basis—but that doesn’t mean they should be hard to reach.
✅ Look for: Someone who provides clear expectations about their availability and response times.
🔹 Ask: What’s their turnaround time for contract reviews? How do they handle urgent legal matters?
6️⃣ Cost-Effectiveness & Transparent Pricing 💰
One of the biggest benefits of hiring a fractional GC is cost savings compared to hiring a full-time lawyer. However, pricing models vary.
✅ Look for: A lawyer who offers clear, transparent pricing—whether it’s hourly, retainer-based, or project-based.
🔹 Pro Tip: Avoid fractional GCs who are vague about costs. Ask for an estimate upfront so you can budget accordingly.
Ready to Find the Right Fractional GC? Let’s Talk!
Choosing the right fractional general counsel is a critical decision that can impact your business’s legal security and growth. Whether you need contract reviews, risk assessments, or ongoing legal guidance, a skilled fractional GC can be a powerful asset.
👉 Book a consultation today to explore how a fractional general counsel can protect and strengthen your business! 💼