general counsel
Definition
General counsel is the head lawyer for a company, responsible for handling all of the business's legal matters and giving legal advice to the owner and management team. Think of this person as the company's in-house attorney who knows the business inside and out, rather than an outside lawyer you call only when problems arise.
Example
A tech startup might hire a general counsel to review contracts, manage employee disputes, protect intellectual property, and make sure the company follows all relevant laws as it grows.
Watch Out
Small businesses rarely need a full-time general counsel right away, but as your company grows and legal issues become more frequent, having dedicated legal guidance can save you far more money than it costs.
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This definition is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Please consult with a licensed attorney for legal guidance.