Home Blog Trucking Lawyer: Who Are They? What Do They Do?

Trucking Lawyer: Who Are They? What Do They Do?

Jump to Section

What Is A Trucking Lawyer?

A trucking lawyer, also known as a commercial trucking attorney, practices transportation law. They provide legal services to commercial entities, including contractors, trucking companies, and logisticians. A trucking lawyer can help businesses understand transportation law’s intricacies while protecting their clients’ rights during legal proceedings.

What Is Transportation Law?

Transportation law addresses commerce and travel matters that occur on streets, by air, on water, and by train. It is primarily concerned with the administration and oversight of safety standards and logistics activity. The U.S. Department of Transportation (USDOT) and the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) are responsible for regulating transportation law.

While federal trucking laws apply, individual states create and follow their own transportation laws. However, federal agencies are the leading authorities over trucking company rules and regulations, laws for truck drivers, and delivery vehicle regulation.

Numerous legal issues can arise when driving trucks in the state and throughout the country. Transportation law also encompasses several legal issues, including labor laws, personal injury, workers’ compensation, criminal law, contract law, and more.

For more information about trucking regulations, take a look at this article .

Meet some lawyers on our platform

Dolan W.

1352 projects on CC
CC verified
View Profile

Tim E.

127 projects on CC
CC verified
View Profile

Faryal A.

433 projects on CC
CC verified
View Profile

Gill D.

89 projects on CC
CC verified
View Profile

Who Needs A Trucking Lawyer?

Transportation lawyers are helpful when you have a vested business interest in trucking. Transportation laws are highly technical and complicated. A trucking lawyer can help your business interpret them while staying compliant.

The following individuals and entities may need a trucking lawyer:

  • Independent truck drivers
  • Trucking companies
  • Trucking operators
  • Logistics providers
  • Shippers
  • Receivers
  • Insurance companies
  • Transportation brokers
  • Freight forwarders
  • And more

A trucking lawyer oversees issues related to the commercial company’s legal interests and not the private employee. Private employees and contractors follow different sets of laws, which means that they need to find an attorney that addresses a specific area of practice.

Here is an article that helps you understand trucking regulations .

What Does A Trucking Lawyer Do?

Trucking lawyers handle a wide range of cases. However, they primarily fall under the arm of trucking and transportation regulation. A trucking lawyer should stay aware of recent legal developments at the state and federal levels while conveying these changes to clients.

A trucking lawyer handles the following issues:

  • Commercial vehicle accidents : Accidents happen. Trucking lawyers can represent commercial entities when one of their drivers or employees get into an accident.
  • Commercial vehicle damage claims : Insurance companies are not always on your side. Hiring a trucking lawyer will ensure that you get a fair settlement for your losses.
  • FMCSA and DOT compliance : Federal laws are intricate. A trucking lawyer will help you interpret these laws while overseeing your compliance measures.
  • Public transportation defense : Public transportation cases follow a different set of laws than traditional trucking matters. Your attorney will ensure that your company meets all notification requirements, deadlines, and other issues related to tort laws.
  • Labor law matters : Federal and state laws heavily regulate labor laws and truck drivers. Your labor force is your most valuable asset. Work with a trucking lawyer to manage this aspect of your business lawfully.
  • Civil litigation representation : If you need to go to court, a trucking lawyer will help you prepare and appear on your behalf. He or she will also provide ongoing advice and counsel to protect your rights.
  • Contract matters : Contracts govern the formal business relationships that we share. Your trucking lawyer will draft and update contracts as the governing laws change over time.
  • Ongoing legal counsel : Trucking companies often face ongoing legal issues related to compliance alone. When you consider personal injury laws, insurance matters, and labor law, having ongoing counsel becomes critically important for trucking companies to thrive.
  • Truck driver legal services : Truck drivers need legal help as well when they work for themselves. Rather than being managed, independent drivers must oversee every aspect of compliance. Truck driver legal services will provide clarity and insight when you need it.

Regardless of your company size, a trucking lawyer is your best bet on staying in business while mitigating exposure to high legal risks. If you are a smaller company, you could work with a legal team by the project as well. Ensure that you have a game plan for hiring labor lawyers for truck drivers or lawyers for trucking companies.

Check out this article on trucking hours and regulations .

ContractsCounsel Trucking Lawyer Image

Image via Pexels by Markus Spiske

Hiring A Trucking Lawyer

You should never hire a lawyer without considering your options carefully. After narrowing down your choices, request an initial consultation with a trucking law firm to get a sense of how they can help before making any commitments. Some charge a nominal fee for consultation, while others offer them for free.

Here are a few items that you will want to consider when selecting an attorney to represent your trucking company or organization:

  • Licensing and training : Start by ensuring that the trucking lawyer is licensed with your state’s bar association. It is wise to check out whether they have experienced any disciplinary issues and the circumstances surrounding them.
  • Reputation : A trucking lawyer must have a sterling reputation with a strong track record of success serving commercial transportation entities. Spend time to review testimonials and the attorneys’ website to gain a sense of their reputation.
  • Experience : Experience is critical to effectively and efficiently providing trucking legal services. For example, you don’t hire a personal injury lawyer to handle your business affairs in the same way that you only hire a trucking lawyer to address transportation laws and regulations.
  • “Desk-side” manner : Find a lawyer that makes you feel good about hiring them. If you get a sense that something is off or not right, listen to that instinct. It is essential that you hire a legal professional you trust.
  • Communication style : It is much easier to conduct business with someone who communicates well. Is the attorney proactive about updates? Can you reach them quickly? Ask these questions when you attend your initial consultation.
  • Organization : A well-organized attorney is much different from a disorganized one. You can always tell that an attorney is organized when they never fail to follow-up and follow through on their word every time. You can determine the level of an organization possessed by the appearance of their office.
  • Attorneys’ fees : Attorney fees are wide-ranging in the legal industry. Your organization could pay up to $1,000 an hour for legal services. However, others cost much less, such as the $150 to $500 range.
  • Payment options : Some lawyers may request that you pay a traditional retainer for their legal services. However, modern law firms are now working on flat fees and subscription services. Determine what level of service makes the most sense for your situation.

It is worth taking your time when hiring a trucking lawyer rather than rush through the process. Vet your prospects carefully, and don’t be afraid to ask questions that matter to your organization. Any pushback could be a red flag and signal that it is time to move on.

Ultimately, you must use common sense when hiring a trucking lawyer. The relationship may continue for several years, and you want to be sure you are hiring someone for the long haul. Go with an attorney who makes you feel comfortable and confident.

You can also check out this website to learn more about trucking lawyers and representation.

Need a trucking lawyer?

If you need a trucking lawyer to help you with legal issues, post your project to ContractsCounsel today. There is no upfront cost!


ContractsCounsel is not a law firm, and this post should not be considered and does not contain legal advice. To ensure the information and advice in this post are correct, sufficient, and appropriate for your situation, please consult a licensed attorney. Also, using or accessing ContractsCounsel's site does not create an attorney-client relationship between you and ContractsCounsel.


How ContractsCounsel Works
Hiring a lawyer on ContractsCounsel is easy, transparent and affordable.
1. Post a Free Project
Complete our 4-step process to provide info on what you need done.
2. Get Bids to Review
Receive flat-fee bids from lawyers in our marketplace to compare.
3. Start Your Project
Securely pay to start working with the lawyer you select.

Meet some of our Lawyers

Odini G. on ContractsCounsel
View Odini
5.0 (8)
Member Since:
August 7, 2024

Odini G.

Attorney
Free Consultation
Aspen
19 Yrs Experience
Licensed in CO, GA, NY
Emory University School of Law

I am an accomplished attorney with more than 19 years of experience and extensive expertise in business negotiations, commercial contracts, and technology transactions. With a proven track record of providing strategic legal advice and delivering exceptional results, I have successfully assisted numerous clients in drafting, reviewing, and negotiating various business arrangements. My experience encompasses a wide range of areas, including intellectual property, data privacy and security, SaaS agreements, and software licenses. I co-founded a reputable general corporate law firm with three offices in Aspen, Atlanta, and New York. As a partner and attorney, I represented diverse clients, including start-ups, public corporations, investors, financial institutions, educational institutions, and non-profit entities. With a focus on delivering comprehensive legal solutions, I provided general counsel, expert dispute resolution, efficient litigation management, and skillful contract drafting and negotiations for businesses across industries.

Recent  ContractsCounsel Client  Review:
5.0

"Supremely responsive and works surprisingly quickly. Strongly recommend!"

Jim B. on ContractsCounsel
View Jim
5.0 (1)
Member Since:
September 4, 2024

Jim B.

Managing Partner, Business Lawyer
Free Consultation
Portland, Oregon
24 Yrs Experience
Licensed in OR
Southern Illinois University

Since 2002, when I first received my law license and began practicing in criminal litigation, I have dedicated myself to providing competent and impassioned legal representation to my clients. Transitioning into business and intellectual property law and serving the Oregon community under the banner of INTELLEQUITY since 2016, I embarked on a mission to offer an unparalleled level of personalized legal guidance that empowers my clients through understanding, support, and legal mastery. As a seasoned attorney, I recognize that behind every case is a person with a distinct set of emotions, aspirations, and challenges. This is why my approach to legal services is not just about cases and statutes; it's about people and their lives. Whether it's navigating the intricacies of business law or safeguarding your intellectual property, I'm here to provide more than just professional counsel—I offer a compassionate, personalized approach to every case. This means keeping you well-informed at every step, empowering you with in-depth understanding, and steering you towards decisions that are legally sound and, more importantly, right for you.

Recent  ContractsCounsel Client  Review:
5.0

"Great person to work with. He helped gain a better understanding of my own business."

Dolan W. on ContractsCounsel
View Dolan
5.0 (593)
Member Since:
September 8, 2024

Dolan W.

Attorney
Free Consultation
San Diego, California
10 Yrs Experience
Licensed in CA
Purdue Law School

You need a lawyer who's more than just knowledgeable – you need someone who's on your side. That's where I come in. I'll be there every step of the way, offering clear communication and proactive solutions. Whether you're starting a business or navigating a complex legal matter, I'll help you make informed decisions and achieve your goals. I also have drafted many templates to save you money. Just use this link - https://www.contractscounsel.com/client/lawyer-profile/3764#Templates Why Choose Me? I put you first I'm proactive I'm efficient I'm accessible

Recent  ContractsCounsel Client  Review:
5.0

"Dolan meticulously reviewed our commercial real estate contract and provided invaluable feedback and adjustments to ensure we were well protected. He went above and beyond what we initially requested, not only identifying important issues but also explaining the “why” behind each redline and providing a clear summary of the recommended changes. His attention to detail, expertise, and thoroughness gave us tremendous peace of mind. Highly recommend Dolan!"

Ana C. on ContractsCounsel
View Ana
Member Since:
August 7, 2024

Ana C.

Managing Member
Free Consultation
Washington, DC
20 Yrs Experience
Licensed in DC
Columbia Law School

Fractional General Counsel for growing companies, mainly in the financial sector, including companies operating in Mexico or Latin America. My niche includes companies who need day to day legal services, but are not ready to hire an in-house lawyer, and companies whose in-house legal team needs additional support. I am admitted to practice law in the District of Columbia and Mexico. With a bicultural legal education and background, and an extensive network of contacts in both jurisdictions, I’m able to provide efficient and high-quality services to my clients. With more than 18 years of legal experience, I have: - Led the Legal Department of a financial institution held by a public company - Led the Legal Department of a family office holding investments in diverse sectors - Participated on several M&A transactions - Participated on an IPO process - Participated in the purchase of a banking institution in the U.S. by a foreign group of investors - Worked at law firms with international presence Legal experience mainly in Corporate Governance, Securities Regulations, M&A, Corporate Development, Contracts, Corporate Law, Compensation, Policy Development, Investor Relations, among others. Non-for-profit Board and pro-bono experience.

Michael L. on ContractsCounsel
View Michael
Member Since:
August 19, 2024

Michael L.

Managing Attorney
Free Consultation
Glastonbury, CT
29 Yrs Experience
Licensed in NY
New England Law/Boston

Solo practitioner, licensed in New York State 27+ years. Areas of practice: Small Business Law, Commercial Contracts, Commercial Litigation, Employment Law & Litigation, Estate Planning, Business Succession Planning.

Richard H. on ContractsCounsel
View Richard
Member Since:
September 3, 2024

Richard H.

Solo practice
Free Consultation
Dallas, Texas
45 Yrs Experience
Licensed in TX
Sum Svhool of Law

After 30 years of practice I large, publicly traded companies, I went out on my own. I engaged in general practice for 10 years before retiring. I continue to do work on a contract basis.

Dennis S. on ContractsCounsel
View Dennis
Member Since:
September 3, 2024

Dennis S.

Principal
Free Consultation
Las Vegas, Nevada
31 Yrs Experience
Licensed in CA, NV
Brigham Young University

Dennis Sponer co-founded ScripNet, a uniquely designed Pharmacy Benefit Management (PBM) company in 1997. After serving as In-House Counsel for one of Las Vegas’ largest healthcare conglomerates, Dennis devised a payor based technological solution to the challenge of pharmaceutical payment and remittance. As one of the first workers’ compensation specific Pharmacy Benefit Managers in the industry, Dennis pushed the boundaries of what a PBM can do. ScripNet was a three-time winner of the Inc. 500 and was named to the Inc. 5000 numerous times thereafter. Clients of ScripNet included some of the largest carriers, governmental entities, and self-insured employers in the nation, including FedEx, Starbucks, Lockheed Martin, the Cities of Dallas, Atlanta and Philadelphia as well as the State of Texas and the State of Nevada. After fifteen years of exceptional growth and class leading industry recognition, ScripNet was acquired in 2012 by Optum Healthcare Solutions. After selling ScripNet, Dennis served as Executive Vice President for the acquiring company and was successful in integrating ScripNet into the larger entity. His latest venture, HSARx, was a consumer facing Pharmacy Benefit Manager focused on the owners of health savings accounts. He sold HSARx to SwiftScript in October of 2023. Dennis obtained his Juris Doctorate from Brigham Young University where he served as Note and Comment Editor of the Law Review. He then obtained his Master of Laws in Taxation (L.L.M.) from the University of San Diego. After selling ScripNet, Dennis returned to school to earn his TRIUM MBA, the program jointly administered by New York University's Stern School of Business, the London School of Economics and HEC Paris. Dennis is a member of the 1999 Leadership Las Vegas graduating class, was named by InBusiness Las Vegas to its annual Top 40 Under 40 list, is a graduate of MIT's prestigious Birthing of Giants program and holds a certificate in full stack development from MIT. Dennis is licensed as an attorney in California and Nevada and is a past President of the Las Vegas Chapter of the Entrepreneurs' Organization. He serves on the Southern Utah University School of Business National Advisory Board, the SUU Entrepreneur Leadership Council and the UNLV College of Liberal Arts Board. Through his consultancy, SRX Advisors, Dennis serves as an advisor and legal counsel to various startups, health care technology and artificial intelligence firms.

Jonathan W. on ContractsCounsel
View Jonathan
Member Since:
September 4, 2024

Jonathan W.

Partner
Free Consultation
San Francisco, California
33 Yrs Experience
Licensed in CA, WA
Columbia University School of Law

Jonathan Wright offers 30+ years of legal and business expertise to clients seeking a trusted advisor. His experience as a CEO and General Counsel for tech, healthcare, and biotech companies enables him to provide seasoned guidance on complex contracts, strategic agreements, and business transactions. Whether you're starting a company, navigating financings, or handling day-to-day corporate legal needs, Jonathan offers valuable insights and support.

Antonio P. on ContractsCounsel
View Antonio
Member Since:
September 10, 2024

Antonio P.

Attorney
Free Consultation
Fort Wayne, Indiana
4 Yrs Experience
Licensed in IN
Atlanta's John Marshall Law School

At Pishvai Law, Tony's attention to detail and deep community roots define his practice. A lifelong Fort Wayne native, Tony returned home after attending law school in Atlanta, Georgia, emphasizing his commitment to serving his community firsthand. As a solo practitioner, Tony offers a level of personalized service and dedication unmatched by larger firms. With a focus on tailored solutions and individualized attention, Tony ensures that each client receives the care they deserve. Whether you're facing a complex legal matter or seeking guidance, Tony is dedicated to providing the support and expertise you need to navigate your case with confidence.

Andrew G. on ContractsCounsel
View Andrew
Member Since:
September 19, 2024

Andrew G.

Principal Attorney
Free Consultation
Cleveland, Ohio
11 Yrs Experience
Licensed in OH
Harvard Law School

Mr. Goodwin is an experienced transactional attorney, with experience working both for a large law firm and as in-house counsel for a leading global healthcare system.

Find the best lawyer for your project

Browse Lawyers Now

Quick, user friendly and one of the better ways I've come across to get ahold of lawyers willing to take new clients.

View Trustpilot Review

Need help with a legal contract?

Post Your Project

Get Free Bids to Compare

Hire Your Lawyer

CONTRACT LAWYERS BY TOP CITIES
See All Transportation Lawyers

Contracts Counsel was incredibly helpful and easy to use. I submitted a project for a lawyer's help within a day I had received over 6 proposals from qualified lawyers. I submitted a bid that works best for my business and we went forward with the project.

View Trustpilot Review

I never knew how difficult it was to obtain representation or a lawyer, and ContractsCounsel was EXACTLY the type of service I was hoping for when I was in a pinch. Working with their service was efficient, effective and made me feel in control. Thank you so much and should I ever need attorney services down the road, I'll certainly be a repeat customer.

View Trustpilot Review

I got 5 bids within 24h of posting my project. I choose the person who provided the most detailed and relevant intro letter, highlighting their experience relevant to my project. I am very satisfied with the outcome and quality of the two agreements that were produced, they actually far exceed my expectations.

View Trustpilot Review

How It Works

Post Your Project

Get Free Bids to Compare

Hire Your Lawyer

Want to speak to someone?

Get in touch below and we will schedule a time to connect!

Request a call

Find lawyers and attorneys by city