Lawyers

Lawyers

A guide to the different types of small business legal representation

There are several legal matters you’ll have to deal with as a small business owner. If you find a great small business lawyer, you may be able to rely on him or her for all of your needs. However, because there are so many different aspects involved in your business start up and operation, you may want to find a law firm where you can access a number of different lawyers with various specialties.

The Help You Need

Whether you go with one or with many, here are some issues that may arise with your small business, which may require legal representation:

  • Start up. When you’re first starting up your business, there’s a lot of paperwork to be filed, such as permits, licenses, names, trademarks, etc. There are also different regulations you’re expected to follow depending on the type of business, such as building and health inspections. A lawyer can help you sort out the red tape and get you going quickly.
  • Legal structures. Whether you’re a small home business, a partnership or a corporation, there are different legal regulations you need to follow for start up and operation. A small business lawyer can keep you current on all the rules you need to be following.
  • Contracts. You always want to be sure you know what you’re getting into before you sign on the dotted line. A contract is a legally binding document that can change the way you operate your business and can easily affect your profitability. Have a lawyer look over anything you plan on signing so that you’re protected.
  • Trademarks, patents and intellectual property. In business it’s important to protect your edge - which is usually your great ideas! Whether it’s a product, process or service you’ve developed, you want to make sure that others can’t cash in on your hard work. A lawyer can help you establish trademarks and patents, and protect your intellectual property, giving you the edge over your competitors.
  • Finances and taxes. Tax laws and structures are different depending on your type of business. You want to make sure you’re paying into everything you need to, and that you’re getting all your deductions and benefits. A lawyer will be able to guide you through complicated tax processes and help you keep your money in your pocket.
  • Business operations. The daily operation of your business can be complicated. There are a number of different issues related to areas such as employees, purchasing, customer relations, etc. Use a lawyer to develop a system of best practices so you know you’re running your business ethically and profitably.