FAQ – What Are Fractional General Counsel Services?

Aug 12, 2025 | Business Law

Understanding Fractional General Counsel Services

If your business needs legal guidance but isn’t ready to hire a full-time lawyer, fractional general counsel services offer a smart solution. At Thompson & Howle, we provide part-time, strategic legal support that gives you all the benefits of an in-house counsel, without the overhead.

 

What Does a Fractional General Counsel Do?

A fractional general counsel acts much like your own part-time in-house lawyer. At Thompson & Howle, our services include:

  • Ongoing legal support—answering questions and helping guide big-picture decisions

  • Drafting, reviewing, and negotiating contracts (vendor, lease, employment, etc.)

  • Employment law guidance from onboarding to discipline or termination

  • Risk assessments and proactive planning

  • Corporate governance support (formation, bylaws, board procedures)

  • Compliance and policy development

  • Dispute resolution, with priority access to litigation support if needed

Why Do Businesses Choose Fractional General Counsel?

  1. Cost-conscious: Access high-level legal experience without the expense of a full-time hire.

  2. Strategic partnership: You get proactive guidance tailored to your business—not just reactive advice.

  3. Consistency: We learn your business and can support disputes or trial proceedings seamlessly.

Who Benefits from Fractional General Counsel Services?

  • Startups and small businesses needing reliable legal counsel but lacking budget for full-time staff

  • Companies that need flexibility—support that grows or scales down with your needs

  • Businesses entering regulated environments, seeking to avoid costly legal oversights

 

How Does It Usually Work?

Most businesses engage us on a retainer or project basis—whether a few hours a week or a monthly subscription. We take time to understand your operations, becoming an embedded legal partner who can anticipate issues and act swiftly. If litigation arises, we’re already in your corner.

 

QuestionAnswer
What is fractional general counsel?A part-time, embedded legal advisor offering wide-ranging counsel.
Benefits?Cost-efficient, proactive, integrated support.
Ideal for?Startups, small to mid-sized businesses, or anyone needing flexible legal help.
How it works?Retainers or project arrangements; deep understanding of your business from day one.

Want The Best in Fractional General Counsel Services?

 

If your business is ready to take a smarter approach to legal support, Thompson & Howle Trial Lawyers, PLLC can help. Our fractional general counsel services give Arkansas businesses the peace of mind that comes with having a trusted legal partner—without the full-time cost.

 

📞 Call us today at (479) 844-4086 or visit thompsonandhowle.com to schedule a consultation and see how we can protect and strengthen your business.