Table of Contents
LegalZoom
LegalZoom offers a comprehensive online legal platform with a global reach, providing assistance for both business ventures and personal legal matters.
RocketLawyer
If your business requires handling numerous legal documents, RocketLawyer is a top choice. It is renowned for its extensive library of legal forms and templates.
Incfile
Incfile specializes in meeting the legal needs of new businesses. Whether you’re setting up an LLC, nonprofit, or corporation, Incfile can guide you through the process with expert support.
UpCounsel
UpCounsel connects you with a network of over 5,000 experienced lawyers ready to handle complex legal issues online, making legal assistance accessible and efficient for your needs.
Avvo
Avvo is a user-friendly platform to explore different legal issues. It functions as an online directory of lawyers where you can find answers to your legal questions efficiently, making it a helpful resource for those needing quick legal advice.
If you’re looking for the top online legal services, the clear leaders are LegalZoom and RocketLawyer. As more legal activities move online, the phrase “Where there is a will, there is a lawsuit,” by Addison Mizner, reminds us how common legal disputes are. If you searched for “online legal services,” chances are you’re seeking straightforward, accessible legal help. Being an entrepreneur means navigating over 40 million lawsuits annually in the US, according to recent statistics. Speaking from personal experience running a successful blog and facing legal challenges, I can confidently say that online legal services are essential tools. They operate entirely over the internet, offering peace of mind and assistance with corporate filings, dispute resolution, legal defense, copyright issues, and more. However, choosing the right service is vital when dealing with legal matters.
What is the Top Online Legal Service?
Here are some of the best options on the market today. Let’s dive in.
1. LegalZoom
The Most Comprehensive Legal Service Platform
LegalZoom stands out as the top overall online legal service because of its all-encompassing approach. It offers a broad spectrum of legal solutions and has an international reach, making it suitable for businesses operating globally.
Ideal For
Overall Rating
Pricing Range
$79 – $349
Yearly Discount
None
Special Offer
LegalZoom is a comprehensive online legal service available worldwide, offering a broad spectrum of legal solutions for both personal and business needs. Whether you’re starting a new business or drafting a will, LegalZoom can assist. Operating since 2001, it is one of the oldest platforms in this space, having supported over four million businesses and maintaining a presence in multiple locations.
Some of the key services available through LegalZoom include business formation paperwork, customizable legal documents with electronic signatures, intellectual property protection, legal consultations, and business planning advice. It is designed to be a one-stop shop for all legal requirements, though it is crucial to note that LegalZoom does not function as a traditional law firm and cannot represent clients in court. Instead, it connects you with licensed lawyers across the country for affordable legal assistance.
Of particular note is its extensive intellectual property service, which helps clients file patents and safeguard their inventions and ideas. Pricing varies based on specific services, with options available for one-time fees or memberships, but additional charges such as state filing fees will apply depending on the service selected.
Pricing starts from $79 for various packages, including Economy, Standard, and Express Gold options, and may vary depending on the specific service and state fees involved. Whether you’re an artist protecting your work or an entrepreneur launching an innovative project, LegalZoom provides solutions tailored to your needs.
For further details, you can visit their website and explore their offerings, pricing, and additional legal services designed to help individuals and businesses navigate legal processes effectively.
2. RocketLawyer
Specializing in legal document creation, RocketLawyer is highly regarded for its focus on providing reliable and user-friendly legal documents. The platform caters to users seeking straightforward legal tools and has built a reputation for making legal paperwork accessible and easy to understand.
Expert Advice
Looking to optimize your business operations but unsure about legal paperwork? RocketLawyer offers an online platform that’s perfect for handling your legal document needs. It boasts a vast collection of legal forms and documents, along with access to experienced lawyers for any issues. This makes it a valuable tool for companies aiming to stay compliant and protected under the law.
If you’re managing numerous legal forms for your business, RocketLawyer is your top choice. It is renowned for its comprehensive collection of legal documents and forms. Whether you’re starting a new company, seeking to patent an idea, or leasing property, RocketLawyer has tools and resources to assist you.
The platform offers essential services such as business formation support, legal advice and document review for small businesses, and the creation of non-disclosure agreements and commercial contracts. It even provides legal assistance for personal property issues and health-related legalities. One of its key features is a vast library of ready-made legal documents covering everything from estate planning to intellectual property rights. If the exact document you need isn’t available, RocketLawyer’s intuitive customization tool allows you to tailor documents with consideration of state laws, ensuring they are court-ready.
Using RocketLawyer is straightforward; you simply answer simple questions in plain English, and the platform handles the legal technicalities, making legal processes accessible to non-experts.
Pricing is split into two categories: Premium Membership and Non-Member options. Premium members enjoy benefits such as free legal document creation, online signature capabilities, discounted attorney services, and free incorporation filings—along with significant discounts on subsequent filings.
3. Incfile
Ideal for Starting a Business
Expert Advice
Incfile helps new entrepreneurs get their businesses off to a strong start by offering essential legal services. They work closely with business owners daily to support growth and success. Whether you’re forming an LLC, nonprofit, or other types of organizations, Incfile provides the necessary guidance to navigate the process smoothly.
Incfile specializes in handling the legal requirements for those looking to establish a new business. Whether you’re setting up an LLC, a non-profit, or a corporation, Incfile offers the necessary legal support to get you started.
Even if you’re unsure which type of business structure is best for you, Incfile can assist in guiding your decision. It’s especially suitable for first-time entrepreneurs and small enterprises aiming for a quick launch.
Their website provides a detailed library of legal documents that can help you initiate and expand your business efficiently. These resources are available at no cost, reflecting Incfile’s dedication to supporting its clients.
With Incfile, you gain access to services like verifying business name availability, assistance with document preparation and filing, expedited processing times, a free Registered Agent Service for the first year, free tax consultations, online document access, and ongoing alerts and support.
Pricing-wise, Incfile is an affordable choice for online legal services. Their plans are divided into three levels: the Silver plan, which includes all core features at no cost (you only pay the state fees); the Gold plan, which provides all the essentials needed to start a business; and the Platinum plan, offering the full suite of services. To get a precise quote for the Gold or Platinum options, you select your business type and state.
If you’re ready to accelerate your business launch and handle tax planning efficiently, you can start with Incfile by visiting their order page here
4. UpCounsel
Moving on to other legal outsourcing options, UpCounsel stands out as a top choice for outsourcing legal departments. It offers a platform where you can connect with thousands of qualified lawyers suited to your legal needs. I recommend exploring UpCounsel if you’re seeking top-tier legal services at competitive prices.
The platform features a comprehensive network of attorneys ready to assist, and their marketplace model makes it easy to find a lawyer who fits your specific requirements. UpCounsel is ideal for businesses looking to outsource parts or all of their legal departments, providing flexibility and specialized expertise.
Here is the link to their website: https://www.upcounsel.com/
Whether you need ongoing legal advice or project-specific support, UpCounsel’s service is designed to meet a wide range of legal outsourcing needs efficiently.
Pricing
Quote-Based
Annual Discount
No
Promotion
UpCounsel is a digital platform that connects clients with legal professionals to handle complex legal issues. It boasts a network of over 5,000 thoroughly vetted lawyers, each with at least 14 years of legal experience. This ensures you can depend on their services for any legal concern you might have.
The way UpCounsel works is straightforward: you post your legal problem on the platform and wait for lawyers to submit their proposals. The platform’s smart algorithm then matches your case with the most suitable bids, presenting you with the best options to choose from.
Some of the services offered by UpCounsel include:
- Business formation
- Drafting agreements
- Intellectual property law
- General legal representation
- Employment and labor law
- Financial legal advice
Before committing, you can have a free consultation with any lawyer to get a sense of their approach and expertise. This helps you make an informed decision about whether to hire them.
All transactions occur through the platform, so there are no hidden fees. Posting a job is free, and you only pay when you hire a lawyer. This makes it a flexible option for one-time legal advice or establishing a team of freelance attorneys for ongoing assistance.
Your confidentiality is protected throughout the process, as all communication and negotiations happen within the secure UpCounsel environment.
Pricing:
Because it operates on a bidding model, UpCounsel does not have fixed prices. This flexibility can be advantageous for those seeking customized solutions tailored to their budget. To start, simply post a job here.
5. Avvo
Ideal for Finding Legal Experts for Specific Cases
Expert Advice
Many people find it difficult to know where to begin when searching for legal assistance, especially for specific issues. Avvo is a useful online platform that helps you locate legal services and get professional advice. Its comprehensive lawyer directory enables you to search for experts tailored to your particular case.Even after establishing your business, various legal issues may still arise. For small business owners, covering costly legal fees can be quite burdensome. Fortunately, Avvo offers a helpful solution in such situations.
It’s an effective platform to explore different legal concerns and find potential solutions. Avvo functions as an online directory of attorneys, enabling users to get their legal questions answered easily.
Whether your concerns involve power of attorney, real estate, or financial law, Avvo provides resources and support. Its core feature is a question-and-answer forum: you submit your legal question, and qualified lawyers respond to help. You also have the option to post questions anonymously, safeguarding your privacy.
Some of the topics covered on Avvo include:
– Debt and bankruptcy
– Business law
– Family law
– Criminal law
– Immigration and employment law
– Real estate law
– Personal injury
Additionally, Avvo allows users to browse through previous questions posted by others, so you can find answers to common issues without needing to ask a new question.
As for costs, posting questions and seeking answers on Avvo is entirely free. Remember, the advice provided is general information and does not substitute for legal representation. If you require personalized legal services, you can hire attorneys through the platform, paying their hourly rates accordingly.
Overall, considering the free access to legal insights, Avvo is a valuable resource for business owners seeking quick answers to their legal queries.
LegalMatch is another platform worth mentioning, especially for finding local attorneys. If you want assistance connecting with lawyers in your area, LegalMatch can be a helpful resource.
Online legal services offer helpful options, but sometimes working directly with a local attorney is more effective. In certain situations, you’ll benefit from collaborating face-to-face with someone in your area. LegalMatch is a platform that helps connect you with local lawyers at affordable prices.
LegalMatch operates similarly to UpCounsel. It is a marketplace where you can find lawyers on demand to handle various legal needs. The key difference is that it emphasizes matching you with attorneys nearby. This allows you to visit their offices and deal with your legal issues in person. To get started, you simply post your legal inquiry on the website. Then, you wait approximately 24 hours for suitable lawyers in your area to respond.
Once lawyers submit their proposals and contact details, you can review multiple options. After narrowing down your choices, you will gain full access to detailed profiles and reviews, which include the lawyer’s history, experience, and client feedback. This comprehensive data helps you make an informed decision without pressure, giving you a chance to discuss your case and choose the lawyer best suited for your needs.
Another benefit of the platform is that all participating lawyers are pre-screened, ensuring you receive relevant and qualified proposals. According to the company, LegalMatch has handled over five million cases with a customer satisfaction rate exceeding 90%. Best of all, using the service is free; you only pay for the legal services you hire. Whether your issue is related to business or personal matters, LegalMatch can facilitate getting the right legal assistance for you. To begin, just submit your case details here.
Another excellent platform is LegalShield, which is especially popular for offering affordable monthly plans. This service provides legal support for families and small businesses at a flat rate every month. Its user-friendly website and mobile app are compatible with most major platforms. LegalShield also offers a variety of free tools to help answer common legal questions, along with discounted rates on customized legal services.
With a LegalShield membership, you receive legal assistance in several key areas: general legal consultations, business-related legal needs, debt collection support, trial defense, intellectual property, and immigration issues. The service also covers topics such as antitrust laws, legal agreements, and taxation matters. Members benefit from 24/7 customer support, including dedicated help via the mobile app, making legal help accessible whenever you need it. The platform’s straightforward pricing and comprehensive support make it an excellent choice for those seeking affordable legal aid.
Pricing:
LegalShield offers a variety of plans with transparent pricing:
- Personal Legal Plans starting at $24.95 per month
- Small Business Plans starting at $49.00 per month
- Business Memberships beginning at $145 per month
Overall, LegalShield provides an array of features at affordable rates. With multiple plans tailored for personal and business needs, it’s a flexible option, though it’s best suited for minor legal matters rather than complex cases.
What to Consider When Selecting an Online Legal Service
Choosing the right online legal service requires careful consideration of several important factors:
1. Clarify Your Legal Needs
Before selecting a service, understand the specific legal support you require. Not all platforms cover the same areas of law. For example, if you need assistance preparing corporate documents, a service specializing in family law won’t be very helpful. It’s wise to research each provider’s website and review their previous cases to find a platform that matches your needs. If your legal needs span multiple areas, providers like LegalZoom that offer diverse services are worth considering.
2. Evaluate Their Reputation
Reputation is key when choosing an online legal service. Avoid platforms with low or questionable ratings. Instead, research their track record by reviewing past case histories and talking to previous clients for honest feedback. Ensure the lawyers on the platform are properly vetted, as you’ll be relying on their expertise for important legal matters.
3. Consider Your Business Size and Stage
The size and development phase of your business significantly impact the type of legal service you should choose. Startups typically need help with incorporation, making services like Incfile ideal. Larger, established businesses might require dedicated legal teams, where platforms such as UpCounsel can provide comprehensive support.
4. Determine Frequency of Legal Assistance
Some businesses only need legal help occasionally, while others require ongoing support. If your needs are occasional, opt for platforms offering one-time plans. For continuous legal support, choose services that provide on-demand lawyers, like RocketLawyer, which offers long-term membership options.
5. The Lawyer’s Location Matters
While many legal services handle documentation online, in some cases, you may need to consult with a local attorney. Services like LegalMatch can connect you with lawyers in your area by matching your location via zip code or state. This makes it possible to meet with your lawyer in person when necessary.
6. Budget Considerations
Legal services can be costly, which is a crucial factor for new or small businesses. Always review pricing plans carefully before making a commitment to ensure they fit within your budget constraints.
Conclusion
Legal needs can arise unexpectedly when managing a business. While some entrepreneurs opt for DIY solutions by using resources like Nolo, more serious business owners should consider professional online legal services. These services provide peace of mind and help address issues proactively, often saving you from bigger problems down the line.
Strongly consider platforms like LegalZoom or RocketLawyer for reliable legal support. They offer accessible, efficient ways to handle legal matters and ensure your business is well-protected.
Further Resources on StepThroughThePortal.com: Did you know that the legal industry itself has transitioned online, making case research and evidence management easier? Check out our list of top eDiscovery software for the leading tools in this space.
If you’re a lawyer interested in blogging, visit my blogging for lawyers guide to learn how to start and grow a successful online presence. I’ll walk you through all the steps necessary to launch and sustain your legal blog.