As startups and expanding companies scale, legal needs often outgrow ad hoc outside counsel—but not every business is ready to hire a full-time lawyer. That’s where a fractional General Counsel (fractional GC) comes in.
A fractional GC is an experienced attorney who provides in-house-style legal support on a part-time, contract, or as-needed basis. You get strategic legal guidance without the cost or commitment of hiring a full-time General Counsel.
A fractional GC also acts as a legal quarterback when highly specialized issues come up. If your business needs niche expertise—like intellectual property, international regulations, data privacy, or tax structuring—they can identify the right specialist and coordinate the work. They can also oversee outside counsel teams to ensure strategy, communication, and costs stay aligned with your business goals.
What Does a Fractional General Counsel Do?
A fractional GC can handle many of the same responsibilities as a traditional in-house lawyer, including:
- Contract drafting, review, and negotiation
- Corporate governance and entity maintenance
- Employment law policies and compliance
- Fundraising and investment documentation
- Regulatory compliance and risk management
- Strategic legal advice to founders, leadership, and boards
The key benefit is flexibility—you only pay for the level of involvement your business needs.
Key Benefits of Hiring a Fractional GC
1. Cost-Effective Legal Support
Hiring a full-time General Counsel can cost six figures plus benefits. A fractional GC gives you senior-level legal guidance at a fraction of the cost, often on a flat-fee or monthly plan.
2. Scalable Legal Services
As your company grows, your legal needs change. Fractional general counsel services scale with you—whether you need a few hours per month or more hands-on involvement during fundraising or expansion.
3. Strategic, Business-Focused Counsel
Unlike outside law firms that bill hourly for isolated issues, a fractional GC develops ongoing familiarity with your operations and goals, offering legal advice aligned with business strategy.
4. Faster Turnaround and Dedicated Support
You’re not waiting in a queue or working with rotating attorneys. A fractional GC functions as part of your leadership team and prioritizes your company.
5. Reduced Legal Risk
Proactive oversight of contracts, compliance, and policies helps prevent costly disputes and legal issues before they arise.
6. Founder and Executive Bandwidth
Instead of making legal decisions on their own, founders and executives gain a trusted advisor, freeing them up to focus on growth.
Who Should Consider Hiring a Fractional GC?
Fractional General Counsel services are ideal for:
- Startups preparing for funding rounds or rapid growth
- Early-stage companies with recurring legal needs
- Small and mid-sized businesses without in-house counsel
- Businesses expanding into new markets or adding employees
- Founders seeking proactive legal risk management
If your company needs consistent legal guidance but isn’t ready for a full-time hire, a fractional GC offers a perfect middle ground.
Fractional GC Services at Christou Law Offices
At Christou Law Offices, we serve as fractional General Counsel for startups and growing businesses that want practical, business-minded legal guidance. Our flat-fee and tailored monthly plans provide predictable pricing and in-house-level support without the overhead.
Whether you need help with contracts, fundraising, governance, or compliance, we integrate with your team and deliver the legal clarity you need to grow confidently.
Interested in fractional GC services for your business?
Book a consultation with Christou Law Offices to explore the right fit for your legal needs.
