Small business lawyers:
- Assist clients in deciding which entity is right for their small business by describing the benefits and liabilities of each type of entity (corporations, limited liability companies, partnerships);
- Research the availability of the business name you’ve chosen, and follow New York’s rules regarding business names. Additionally, a trademark search should be conducted to ensure you’re not infringing on another company’s trademarked name;
- Purchase and sell businesses;
- Plan for succession and exit strategies;
- Incorporate strategies into the original business plan to avoid conflicts between business associates, using shareholder, partnership or buy/sell agreements;
- Negotiate and review contracts and leases; and
- Advise businesses as to copyright, trademark and other intellectual property matters.
Each of these topics will be discussed at length in future blog posts. Many business owners only contact an attorney once a problem has already occurred. The right lawyer will help you avoid risk and protect your business from the beginning, leaving you to run and grow your small business. If you have any questions about any of these issues, you should contact an attorney who focuses on small business law.
Almost everything you do in your small business will have a legal implication. Establishing and maintaining a good relationship with a lawyer is sound business practice. A good choice for a small business lawyer is one who owns and runs their own small business as I do with my legal practice. As the owner of my own small business on Long Island, I understand the issues your business is faced with daily in New York.