The Critical Role of General Counsel in Safeguarding Business Success
By Deana Holiday Ingraham
Edited by Anana Harris Parris
As both a partner at Dreyer & Associates Law Firm and the Mayor of East Point, I have seen firsthand the countless legal challenges businesses face daily. Whether it's navigating complex regulatory requirements, drafting contracts, or managing disputes, businesses of all sizes need expert legal guidance to stay compliant and avoid costly mistakes. Retaining general counsel is not just a protective measure—it’s a strategic investment in the longevity and success of your business. Business owners need someone in their corner who understands their operations, advocates for their best interests, and ensures they are on solid legal footing.
As Mayor, I oversee a city full of vibrant businesses—ranging from local start-ups to larger enterprises—all of which had to navigate an evolving legal landscape. From zoning regulations and employee disputes to tax compliance and environmental laws, the legal issues that arise can be overwhelming. Business owners often don't have the time or expertise to manage these matters themselves. A general counsel provides peace of mind by addressing these issues proactively, ensuring that legal pitfalls don’t derail their operations. My experience in overseeing businesses in East Point has reinforced my belief that having a dedicated legal advocate is essential to protecting both short-term success and long-term growth.
In addition to handling legal challenges as they arise, general counsel plays a crucial role in helping businesses develop strategies that minimize risk. This forward-thinking approach involves not only ensuring that current practices comply with local, state, and federal laws but also advising on mergers and acquisitions, intellectual property protection, and employee relations. I’ve seen businesses thrive under the guidance of strong legal counsel, especially when legal strategy is aligned with business goals. As Mayor, I lead initiatives like the “Welcoming City” designation and The Healthy Point Initiative, which required deep collaboration with business owners and legal experts to ensure the city's growth was both innovative and compliant with all regulations.
Ultimately, retaining general counsel is about more than just avoiding lawsuits or fines—it’s about creating a foundation for sustainable success. As both a lawyer and a public servant, I have consistently advocated for businesses to be proactive in their legal matters. With the right legal counsel by your side, you not only mitigate risk but also unlock opportunities for growth. In my dual roles, I have seen that the most successful businesses are those that understand the value of having a legal partner who is just as invested in their success as they are.