Long-Term Counsel for Growing Agency - NJ Barred

We are hiring an attorney to support multiple entities in drafting, reviewing, and managing legal documents and filings. We're looking for a long-term partner, not a one-off project - someone we can depend on consistently as our client base and contract volume grow. The role starts with a paid one-month trial to confirm fit. Upon successful completion, it moves into an ongoing, as-needed contract relationship; that's the explicit intent, not just a possibility. For resource and budget efficiency, we use AI and legal SaaS (ie. RocketLawyer & similar) to draft first versions of contracts. We need judgment on language, risk allocation, and enforceability, and consistency across documents so they reflect one coherent legal posture over time. We expect you to think like a business partner, not just a drafter. Make sound calls independently, flag risk proactively, and ask clarifying questions early rather than guessing. Scope of Work Contractor and vendor agreements, client-facing contracts (including review and negotiation), entity formation and structure, and trademark research and filings. Additional needs as they arise. Requirements - Active, good-standing admission to the New Jersey state bar (required) - Transactional/business law experience: contracts, LLC formation, trademarks - Looking for ongoing client work, not single-project gigs; please confirm this in your proposal - Practical, business-minded advice, not just technically correct advice - Prompt acknowledgement and responsiveness - replies to messages within 24 business hours (ie. confirm request was received) Hours & Rate ~5-10 hrs/month to start, growing as we add clients - $100/hr, paid weekly through Upwork — below typical NJ rates, offered in exchange for a genuine long-term relationship and consistent monthly work - All work scoped and approved before it begins Logistics Async updates and tracking via ClickUp, with brief syncs as needed. All work product belongs to the agency upon payment; all client and business information is strictly confidential. Future Path As we grow: expanded hours, deeper involvement in client-facing legal structuring, and potentially a formal retainer arrangement.