why not call an attorney when you start a small business?

by Carolina Medhurst 7 min read

While it’s not mandatory to enlist the help of an attorney to start your business, it does save time and thousands of dollars in potential legal issues should they arise. Building Your Business The first step in starting a business is to determine a business structure.

Full Answer

Do I need a lawyer for my Small Business?

Sep 13, 2012 · Although you can usually represent yourself in court and do not need to hire a small business attorney attorney, one exception to this rule in California is is if your small business is formed as a corporation in California because in California (like many other states), a corporation must be represented by an attorney, you have no choice. So, if your corporation …

Do I need an attorney to start a sole proprietorship?

May 23, 2016 · When starting a small business, getting sued is the worst thing that could happen to you as the money that you were supposed to put in your business all goes into legal fees and attorneys. This is the reason why having a lawyer hired before starting a business is essential. Many lawsuits can be avoided or settled for a low amount if the company has a legal advisor …

What type of lawyer should I hire to handle a business dispute?

What are the different types of small business lawyers?

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Why do you need an attorney to draft a contract?

If you need to draft a new contract, having an attorney help can ensure that your arrangement is legal.

What to do if someone else is suing your company?

If your business is considering filing a lawsuit or if someone else is suing your company, you will want to consult with a Los Angeles civil litigation lawyer. Litigation attorneys know which cases have a good chance of being successful and are familiar with all of the procedures involved.

What is a business form?

Business Form. When you initially set up your business, you have to make decisions about your company’s structure. Even selling handmade crafts at local festivals requires a business structure. Your structure will dictate the legal responsibilities and potential liability of business owners.

What happens if you choose the wrong entity?

Choosing the wrong entity could result in making you personally liable for the mistake of one of your employees or partners. There are several common business structures that new companies use. These structures can be changed down the road, but making the right choice upfront can save plenty of headaches later on.

Do businesses take part in contracts?

Most businesses take part in contracts in one way or another. Whether they are renting real estate for their storefront, creating an agreement with a vendor or service provider, or making agreements between partners, investors, and employees, contracts are a part of the business.

What is a sole proprietorship?

Your small business attorney can help you make the right decisions. Sole Proprietorships are typically one-person operations. The owners remain personally liable for lawsuits filed against the company, and profits and losses are reported on the owners’ personal tax returns.

What is a partnership business?

Partnerships are when two or more people start a business together. While there are no required forms to register, it is often advised to have some sort of contract dictating ownership. Each owner will pay their share of the company’s profits or losses on their personal tax returns. Corporations come in several sizes.

Who said "Nothing is certain except for death and taxes"?

Most attribute that quote to Benjamin Franklin when he included it in a letter in 1789, although there is debate about the origin of that statement.

Do small business owners need an attorney?

Regardless, owners need a small business attorney at the ready to fight for their company when such situations arise. An attorney who isn’t going to hesitate to advocate zealously for clients can level the playing field and even help resolve issues before they become much larger problems.

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