Skip to content

Four Ways a Lawyer Can Help You Create a Successful Online Business in the UK

Table of Contents

Starting an online business in the UK can be exciting, but it also comes with its fair share of legal challenges. From drafting contracts to protecting your Intellectual Property (IP), having a skilled lawyer by your side can make a significant difference in the success of your online business. This article will explore four key ways a lawyer can help you navigate the legal landscape and build a thriving online business in the UK.

Determining your venture’s legal structure is one of the first and most crucial steps in setting up an online business.

A lawyer specialising in commercial law can guide you through choosing the appropriate structure, such as a: 

  • partnership;
  • limited company; or 
  • sole tradership.  

They will consider factors such as liability protection, tax implications, and ownership requirements to ensure that you make an informed decision.

Moreover, an expert lawyer can help you navigate the complex web of regulations and compliance requirements specific to online businesses in the UK. From data protection laws to consumer rights regulations, there are various legal frameworks that your new business must adhere to.

Failing to comply with these regulations can result in costly penalties and damage your reputation. An experienced lawyer will update you on the latest legal requirements and ensure your online business remains compliant. 

2. Contracts Drafting and Review

Contracts are pivotal in safeguarding your business interests and ensuring smooth operations. Whether it is drafting agreements with suppliers, service providers, or customers, a lawyer can help you create clear and comprehensive contracts that protect your rights and mitigate potential risks.

An expert lawyer will work closely with you to understand your specific business needs and goals. They will then tailor contracts that address key aspects, such as: 

Having well-drafted agreements in place can minimise the likelihood of disputes and protect your business from legal pitfalls.

Furthermore, a lawyer can also review contracts presented to you by other parties. Their expertise in the legal field will help you identify any unfavourable terms or potential risks, allowing you to negotiate better deals and protect your business interests effectively.

Front page of publication
UK Startup Manual

LegalVision’s Startup Manual is essential reading material for any startup founder looking to launch and grow a successful startup.

Download Now
Continue reading this article below the form
By submitting this form, you agree to receive emails from LegalVision and can unsubscribe at any time. View our Privacy Policy.
This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged.

3. Intellectual Property Protection

Intellectual Property (IP) has become a valuable asset for online businesses. Protecting your IP is crucial to maintaining a competitive edge and preventing unauthorised use, whether it is: 

  • a unique brand name;
  • a logo;
  • website content; or 
  • an innovative product design.

A lawyer specialising in IP law can guide you through the process of trademark registration, copyright protection, and patent applications. They will conduct thorough searches to ensure your chosen brand name or logo is available and file the necessary applications on your behalf. By securing your IP rights, you can deter potential infringers and take legal action if necessary.

Furthermore, a lawyer can assist in drafting non-disclosure agreements (NDAs) and licencing agreements to protect your trade secrets and ensure that your IP remains safeguarded when collaborating with partners or outsourcing certain aspects of your business.

4. Dispute Resolution and Litigation 

No matter how meticulously you plan and operate your online business, disputes and conflicts with people may arise from time to time. When negotiations fail, having a lawyer with expertise in dispute resolution and litigation can be invaluable.

Law firms can help you explore alternative dispute resolution methods, such as negotiation, mediation, expert determination or arbitration, to reach a satisfactory resolution without going to court. These methods are often quicker, cost-effective, and allow you to maintain a certain level of control over the outcome.

However, a lawyer can represent your interests in court if litigation becomes unavoidable. They will build a strong case, gather evidence, and argue on your behalf to protect your rights and secure a favourable outcome.  

Having a skilled lawyer by your side can provide peace of mind, knowing that you have a legal expert fighting for your business’s best interests. Furthermore, a lawyer’s involvement can also deter potential adversaries as it indicates the likelihood of your business protecting its legal interests.

Key Takeaways

Starting and running a successful online business in the UK requires more than a great product or service. It demands a solid understanding of the legal landscape and proactive measures to protect your business interests. Legal assistance from a lawyer can provide invaluable guidance and support throughout your eCommerce journey. From helping you choose the proper legal structure and ensuring compliance with regulations to drafting and reviewing contracts, protecting your IP and representing your eCommerce business in dispute resolution or litigation, a lawyer can be a strategic partner in building a successful online business.

If you need legal assistance with your eCommerce business, our experienced e-commerce and online business lawyers can assist as part of our LegalVision membership. For a low monthly fee, you will have unlimited access to lawyers to answer your questions and draft and review your documents. Call us today on 0808 196 8584 or visit our membership page.  

Frequently Asked Questions

Can a lawyer cover all necessary legal aspects of creating an online business?

Yes, lawyers can provide legal advice on all aspects of eCommerce and the online business world, including advice on social media marketing and the prospects of business success. Most business lawyers have high levels of commercial awareness, so they have expertise in the legal sector and dealing with business leaders.

Is it possible to start an online business without a lawyer?

Whilst most steps can be taken without a lawyer, many tasks go beyond entrepreneurial skills and require legal knowledge. So, while creating a business without a legal professional is possible, it is not always advisable.

Register for our free webinars

Startup Essentials: How to Make Investors Love You

Online
Attract investors and secure funding for your startup. Register for our free webinar.
Register Now

How to Expand Your Business Into a Franchise

Online
Drive rapid growth in your business by turning it into a franchise. Register for our free webinar.
Register Now

Privacy Law in 2025: What Your Business Needs to Know

Online
Stay ahead of the latest privacy law developments. Register for our free webinar.
Register Now

Redundancies and Restructuring: Understanding Your Employer Obligations

Online
Planning to make a role redundant? Understand your employer obligations. Register for our free webinar.
Register Now
See more webinars >
Thomas Sutherland

Thomas Sutherland

Read all articles by Thomas

About LegalVision

LegalVision is an innovative commercial law firm that provides businesses with affordable, unlimited and ongoing legal assistance through our membership. We operate in Australia, the United Kingdom and New Zealand.

Learn more

We’re an award-winning law firm

  • Award

    2024 Law Company of the Year Finalist - The Lawyer Awards

  • Award

    2024 Law Firm of the Year Finalist - Modern Law Private Client Awards

  • Award

    2023 Economic Innovator of the Year Finalist - The Spectator

  • Award

    2023 Law Company of the Year Finalist - The Lawyer Awards

  • Award

    2023 Future of Legal Services Innovation - Legal Innovation Awards