What does a Small Business Law lawyers do?
Small Business Law lawyers help business owners with a variety of legal matters. They can draft and review contracts, help with employee issues, handle tax compliance matters, and more. In some cases, they may also litigate on behalf of their clients. Whether you are just starting out or have been in business for many years, a Small Business Law lawyer in your area can be a valuable asset. They can also help you avoid legal problems down the road.
If you are starting a small business
...there are a few things you should do to protect yourself from legal trouble. First, choose the right business structure. There are several different options, and the one you choose will have different legal implications. You should also have written contracts with all of your employees. This will help to avoid any misunderstandings about job duties, compensation, and other important issues. Finally, make sure you are complying with all applicable laws and regulations. A Small Business Law lawyer can help you with all of these things and more. They can also review your contracts to make sure they are fair and legally binding.
If you are already in business...
you may still need the help of a Small Business Law lawyer from time to time. They can review contracts, advise you on employee issues, and help you comply with regulations. If you are ever sued, they can also represent you in court. Having a good relationship with a Small Business lawyer can help you avoid many legal problems and save you a lot of money in the long run.
Top 10 issues handled by Small Business Lawyers
While many small business lawyers are able to handle business formation or contracts, some specialize in areas such as employment law, intellectual property, or tax compliance. There are many issues that a small business lawyer can help with, but here are some of the most common:
- Business formation
- Contracts
- Tax compliance
- Employment law
- Intellectual property
- Financing
- Leases and property rights
- Liability and insurance
- Franchises
- Succession planning
How much does it cost to hire a Small Business Law attorney?
The cost of hiring a Small Business attorney will vary depending on the size and complexity of your business, the lawyer's experience, and the location of your business. Generally, you can expect to pay an hourly rate for most legal services. This rate can range from $100 to $300 per hour. In some cases, you may be able to negotiate a flat fee for certain services. You should also expect to pay for any out-of-pocket expenses, such as filing fees or the cost of copies. When hiring a Small Business law firm, be sure to ask about their fees and get a written estimate of the total cost of their services.
What are some common mistakes made by small businesses?
One of the most common mistakes made by small businesses is failing to have written contracts with their employees. This can lead to misunderstandings about job duties, compensation, and other important issues. It is also important to comply with all applicable laws and regulations. Failure to do so can result in hefty fines or even jail time. Another mistake made by small businesses is failing to properly protect their intellectual property. This can include not registering trademarks or copyrights, or not taking steps to stop others from using your ideas without permission. Finally, many small businesses do not have adequate liability insurance. This can leave them exposed to large financial losses if they are sued.
What are some common questions small business owners have for their lawyers?
- What are the different business structures and which one is right for my business?
- Do I need to have written contracts with my employees?
- What laws and regulations do I need to be aware of?
- How can I protect my intellectual property?
- Do I need liability insurance?
- What should I do if I am sued?
If you have any questions about these or other legal issues, be sure to ask your Small Business Law lawyer. They will be able to provide you with the information and guidance you need to make the best decisions for your business.
TOP 5 questions & answers related to Small Business Law
1. What are the different business structures and which one is right for my business?
The four most common business structures in the United States are sole proprietorships, partnerships, limited liability companies (LLCs), and corporations. The structure you choose will depend on a number of factors, including the size and complexity of your business, your personal liability risk, and tax considerations. Your Small Business Law lawyer can help you choose the right structure for your business.
2. Do I need to have written contracts with my employees?
Yes. Written contracts are important for defining the rights and responsibilities of both employers and employees. Without a contract, an employer may be liable for any number of issues, including unpaid wages, benefits, or vacation time. A contract can also help to prevent misunderstandings about job duties, compensation, and other important issues. Your Small Business Law lawyer can help you draft an employment contract that meets the specific needs of your business.
3. What laws and regulations do I need to be aware of?
There are a variety of federal, state, and local laws and regulations that apply to small businesses. These laws cover topics such as employment, taxation, and environmental protection. Failure to comply with these laws can result in hefty fines or even jail time. Your Small Business Law lawyer can help you ensure that your business is in compliance with all applicable laws and regulations.
4. How can I protect my intellectual property?
Your intellectual property includes things like your business name, logo, and website content. You can protect your intellectual property by registering it with the federal government. This will give you exclusive rights to use it for your business purposes. Your Small Business Law lawyer can help you register your intellectual property and take steps to stop others from using it without permission.
5. Do I need liability insurance?
Liability insurance protects your business from financial losses if you are sued. If you have employees, customers, or clients, you should consider purchasing liability insurance. This will protect you from lawsuits alleging that your business caused someone physical or emotional harm. Your Small Business Law lawyer can help you determine the amount of coverage you need and find an insurance policy that meets your needs.
These are just a few of the many questions small business owners have for their lawyers. If you have any questions about legal issues affecting your business, be sure to ask your Small Business Law lawyer near you. They will be able to provide you with the information and guidance you need to make the best decisions for your business.
John Pontius is Small Business Law attorney serving Alexandria and surrounding cities.
Long-time practicing attorney, he is licensed for 51 years.
You can call this attorney to schedule your free initial consultation and make an appointment at 211 N Union St #100, Alexandria,…, VA.
William John Kearns, Jr. is Small Business Law attorney serving Willingboro and surrounding cities.
Long-time practicing attorney, he is licensed for 57 years.
You can call this attorney to schedule your free initial consultation and make an appointment at 600 Beverly Rancocas Rd., Willingboro, NJ.
Richard H. Sugg, Jr. is Small Business Law attorney serving Centennial and surrounding cities.
Long-time practicing attorney, he is licensed for 40 years.
You can call this attorney to schedule your free initial consultation and make an appointment at 6412 S. Quebec Street, Centennial, CO.
Max Dunham Miller, Jr. is Small Business Law attorney serving Bel Air and surrounding cities.
Long-time practicing attorney, he is licensed for 46 years.
You can call this attorney to schedule your free initial consultation and make an appointment at 5 South Hickory Avenue, Bel Air, MD.
Matt E. Dannheisser is Small Business Law attorney serving Pensacola and surrounding cities.
Long-time practicing attorney, he is licensed for 39 years.
You can call this attorney to schedule your free initial consultation and make an appointment at 504 North Baylen Street, Pensacola, FL.
Alan H. Katz is Small Business Law attorney serving Boston and surrounding cities.
Long-time practicing attorney, he is licensed for 52 years.
You can call this attorney to schedule your free initial consultation and make an appointment at 90 Canal Street, Boston, MA.
John J. Russo is Small Business Law attorney serving Appleton and surrounding cities.
Long-time practicing attorney, he is licensed for 40 years.
You can call this attorney to schedule your free initial consultation and make an appointment at 2401 E. Enterprise Avenue, Appleton, WI.
Alan D. Rothenberg is Small Business Law attorney serving Rockville and surrounding cities.
Long-time practicing attorney, he is licensed for 47 years.
You can call this attorney to schedule your free initial consultation and make an appointment at 401 North Washington Street, Suite 500, Rockville, MD.
David John Newacheck is Small Business Law attorney serving San Leandro and surrounding cities.
Long-time practicing attorney, he is licensed for 43 years.
You can call this attorney to schedule your free initial consultation and make an appointment at 220 Juana Avenue, San Leandro, CA.
