Avoiding This Common Mistake At All Costs
Starting a new or home-based business is more common than ever. With an unstable economy and a pandemic shutting down businesses across America, this is a way for people to make ends meet while pursuing their dreams. In previous economies, there was always the promise of your stable career to return to if your venture failed. We can’t count on that safety net today.
It is important than that business owners set up their business correctly. There is one mistake that many small or home office businesses make that costs them big on the back end. That mistake is not hiring the right law firm to draft business agreements and contracts.
Your Business Attorney Discussion
Ideally, you would consult with a business attorney before you invest too much time and money into your new company. However, most people skip this step and move directly into production and sales. Even if you’re already operating it is best to back up and review some of the basics of your business.
Consult with a Business Attorney
You’re likely an expert in how to operate your business and concerning yourself with the legal process may seem daunting and tiresome. But your business attorney will mitigate risks and potential legal ramifications later, allowing you to follow your passions and be successful.
Most people have no idea where to start their discussion with their attorney. Having a clear idea of what you should discuss will save you time and money. Here are some of the questions you should discuss with your business law attorney before (or just after) you start your business.
What’s needed to start my business? This is how you’re going to connect with customers and generate revenues. At a minimum this includes a well defined business plan, financial plan, and legal documents.
What is the best way to structure my business? The selection of a business structure may be based on your business goals, whether or not you have partners and other practical considerations. Each business structure has financial and tax implications. An experienced business attorney helps you understand how federal and state laws apply to your business.
What do I need to know about my industry? It is essential that you comply with your industry’s regulations. This will include the industry-specific laws, regulations, and policies. It’s also crucial to understand education requirements, permits, licensing and other compliance related legalities. Experienced business law attorneys help you navigate through the complex paperwork, permitting process, and licensing without making critical errors that cost you time and money.
Does my business need bylaws or an operating agreement? Creating the proper organizational documents for your business is important. What documents are required depends upon the structure of your business. Corporations require bylaws. Limited liability companies should have operating agreements and partnerships should have partnership agreements. These organizational documents cover important matters regarding the ownership and management of your business. Not only do they provide rules for your business, they help hold everyone accountable. Having the proper documentation helps protect you and your assets from creditors of the business.
What should I consider when choosing my name? The last thing you want to do is incur a law suit because of your name. It may also cause issues down the road if you decide to trademark your name or even sell your business. Having professional guidance can be instrumental in selecting a name for your business.
What do I do to protect my intellectual property? We protect our ideas, secrets, technology, and intellectual property by using patents, trademarks and copyrights. But understanding what you need can be complex and challenging. Your business law attorney can explain the differences between the three, and how they may apply to your business today or in the future.
Consult Your Lawyer First
Protecting your business is essential to it’s survival. Speaking with your attorney first will be paramount in it’s success. Having a great legal team in place will ensure you receive advice on the things that are essential to the formation and operation of your business. This includes those elements many business owners overlook such as selection of business type, hiring contracts, operating agreements, and even protecting your intellectual property. The right business law attorney will become one of your biggest assets. As someone well versed in establishing businesses, your business law attorney can ensure your company is properly protected.
Richard Cunningham Law has extensive experience in helping companies get established, choose the right corporate structure, create documents that protect the company and in helping them protect their intellectual property. If you have a business or wish to start one, contact our offices today.
Still have questions? Schedule a consultation today.