As a businessperson, it's in your best interests to have some knowledge of the general outline of business law on the state and federal level. While this doesn't mean you need to get a degree in business, it can't hurt to take a few general classes at the local community college.

A prospective business law attorney should always be willing to discuss his or her education and general qualifications in a friendly, open way. There's no need to be pushy, but you should ask, and they should be willing to answer without evasion.

If consulting with your friends and colleagues about a good business law attorney doesn't net you any names (and it should), then fire up the Internet and do a search on lawyers in your area. It's a great way to make a start on your search and gain an appreciation of who's out there.