Your Legal Department, On-Call—Fractional General Counsel Chicago

Big-Firm Legal Support—Flexible, Affordable, and Always There

Think of it as having your own in-house attorney, but only when you need them. The Law Offices of Katrina M. Barnett provides Fractional General Counsel services for Chicago and Illinois businesses, giving you proactive legal guidance on a flexible, cost-effective basis. Enjoy the benefits of a seasoned legal advisor—ready to review contracts, guide compliance, answer questions, and protect your interests—without the commitment or price of a full-time hire.

Your On-Demand Legal Partner—How the Service Supports You

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  • Flexible Arrangements
    Available by retainer or for a set number of monthly hours, scaling up or down as your needs change.

  • Ongoing, Proactive Relationship
    We become familiar with your business, industry, and leadership team—delivering faster, more tailored counsel every time you reach out.

  • Breadth of Expertise
    Our attorneys have broad business law knowledge, handling the varied needs that arise as your company grows.

  • Typical Services Include:

  • Contract drafting and review

  • HR and employment law guidance

  • Compliance audits and licensing

  • Strategic planning (expansion, investor relations, risk management)

  • “First call” for any legal question or new opportunity

Real Results for Chicago Businesses

  • Provided ongoing general counsel to a tech startup—reviewing contracts, vetting NDAs, and advising on regulatory compliance—saving them thousands annually over traditional legal fees.

  • Served as part-time GC for a family-owned business—managing quarterly compliance and legal checkups, and being on call for urgent questions or projects.

  • Clients report improved confidence, fewer legal blind spots, and significant cost savings with our flat monthly fractional plans.

Is This Service Right for You?

  • What is fractional general counsel?
    It’s ongoing legal support from a business attorney—offered on a part-time, as-needed basis rather than as a full-time in-house hire.
  • Who is it for?
    Ideal for companies not ready for a full-time legal department, but with recurring legal needs—startups, small businesses, growing enterprises, or companies with intermittent but important legal questions.
  • Why choose this approach?
    Pay only for the hours and expertise you need, enjoy continuity of counsel, and never scramble for a new lawyer when issues arise.

Fractional General Counsel—Your Questions Answered

  • Do small businesses really need a general counsel?

    If you’re facing legal questions, signing contracts, hiring employees, or growing fast, the answer is often yes. Fractional GC services provide legal oversight without the overhead.

  • What’s the difference between hiring outside counsel and fractional GC?

    Fractional GC offers a dedicated relationship—ongoing support, deep familiarity with your business, and preventive advice—rather than one-off transactional help.

  • Can you provide GC services virtually?

    Yes. We offer both in-person and virtual support for Illinois businesses.

  • Are these services available outside Illinois?

    Fractional General Counsel legal services are offered only to businesses in Chicago and throughout Illinois.

Empower Your Business With Proactive, On-Call Legal Guidance

Don’t wait for problems to get expert advice. Contact the Law Offices of Katrina M. Barnett to learn how our fractional General Counsel services can protect and propel your company—without the full-time expense.