What should you look for in a transactional attorney? Simple – broad range of experience. While there are basic overarching tenets to every contract or business transaction, there are always nuances that can be crucial to the outcome of a negotiated contract. What may seem like a boilerplate provision on the last page of a contract at the outset may well be turn out to be one of the material terms of the contract when a dispute arises. How does one spot and negotiate these key terms that may seem innocuous to the untrained attorney? Again – the answer is experience. Experience is important not just relating to how long an attorney has been in practice, but the various areas of practice that attorney has been involved in. Again, contrary to today’s focus of the niche specialty areas, which have their place in the law, a formidable transaction lawyer typically has practiced in various areas of the law. For instance, a transactional lawyer who has litigation experience, will know the importance of choice of law and venue provisions, or whether an arbitration provision is in the best interest of the client under the circumstances. A well versed contract lawyer should also have strong writing skills that will help alleviate as much ambiguity in a contract as possible so that if a dispute arises many years later, the parties have a clear understanding as to their rights, obligations, and remedies. A strong transactional lawyer will also have the ability to pinpoint business issues that the parties have failed to address as part of their contract negotiations. Once again, in addition to skill and education, experience is the differentiating factor when it comes to drafting a solid business contract.
Los Angeles Contract Attorney
Afshin Hakim has the broad range of legal experience that is absolutely necessary to be an exceptional transactional attorney. Mr. Hakim has been trained in top tier international firms, both as a litigator and a corporate attorney, and has served as General Counsel of a privately held company. His clients have ranged from startups to publicly traded international companies, in industries including technology, fashion, real estate, consumer goods, and professional services.
To learn more or to set up a free consultation with transactional attorney Afshin Hakim, please call (213) 238-1600 or email him at afshin@hakimlawgroup.com.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does a transactional contract attorney do?
A transactional contract attorney drafts, reviews, and negotiates agreements to ensure they are legally sound, enforceable under California law, and aligned with your business objectives. This includes identifying hidden risks, negotiating unfavorable terms before you sign, and structuring agreements so your rights are clearly protected if the other party does not perform. At Hakim Law Group, we help Los Angeles businesses create contracts that reduce disputes and support long-term relationships.
Why is it important to have a lawyer review contracts before signing?
Contracts are enforced as written under California law, which means unclear or unfavorable terms rarely get corrected after you sign. Common risks in unreviewed contracts include automatic renewal clauses, unlimited liability provisions, overly broad non-compete terms, and one-sided dispute resolution requirements. Having a lawyer review an agreement before signing typically costs a fraction of what it takes to resolve a dispute arising from a problematic contract.
What types of contracts can a business attorney handle?
A business attorney can handle vendor and supplier agreements, client service contracts, independent contractor agreements, commercial leases, non-disclosure agreements, partnership and operating agreements, employment contracts, and licensing agreements. In California, many of these agreements have specific drafting requirements, particularly independent contractor agreements, which must comply with AB5, and employment agreements, which are subject to strict limitations on non-compete clauses.
Are non-compete agreements enforceable in California?
Generally, no. California Business and Professions Code Section 16600 renders most non-compete agreements unenforceable against employees and independent contractors. This makes California one of the most employee-friendly states on this issue. However, non-solicitation clauses, trade secret protections, and certain other restrictions may still be enforceable with careful drafting. If you are presented with a non-compete or want to protect your business from departing employees or contractors, a California contract attorney can advise on what protections are actually available to you.
Can a contract attorney help negotiate agreements?
Yes. A contract attorney negotiates terms on your behalf to ensure the agreement reflects your interests and reduces legal and financial risk. Effective contract negotiation goes beyond just changing numbers, it includes identifying one-sided provisions, balancing liability allocations, clarifying performance standards, and ensuring dispute resolution terms are workable. Professional negotiation often results in better terms and a stronger business relationship from the outset.
