Whether you are a new business owner or have run your small business for years, we are here for you.
Most people only think about hiring a lawyer when there is a problem; however, the best time to seek legal counsel is when you’re starting a business before there ever is a problem.
Attorney’s fees are at their lowest when they are trying to anticipate certain contingencies and at their highest once issues have arisen.
Hiring a transactional attorney to help oversee drafting of contracts.
Recently, a friend reticent to hire an attorney said that he was only selling to friends and family. I told him that friends and family are the ones who sue each other the most!
Forming a New Business
When forming a new business…choosing a corporate structure. This can have big consequences. Additionally, if you structure the ownership of your company appropriately, you may be eligible for various perks.
Designate the proper business entity;
Check which licenses, permits, and registrations your business needs;
Make sure you’re paying proper business taxes;
Do proper bookeeping;
Get a founders agreement in writing;
Set a vesting schedule for all founders and early employees;
Get your employer identification number;
Protect your intellectual property;
Classify your workers properly;
Purchase workers’ compensation insurance;
Make sure you’re in compliance with Securities Laws;
https://www.nerdwallet.com/article/small-business/startup-legal-checklist
Expanding an Existing Business
From employment agreements to leases, having well crafted contracts can save you time, hassle, and money.
Buying or Selling a Business
Ensure fair valuation of your life’s work;
Protect your best interests during every stage of the transaction;
Ensure all terms are favorable
Don’t take the DIY approach. May be the cheaper option in the short run, but can come back to bite you in the long run.
Entity Formation;
Company Agreements and Articles of Incorporation;
Contract (and Commercial Lease) Drafting, Review, and Negotiation; and
Etc.
Employment Agreement