The dream of starting your own business can take years to realize. You’ll need to arrange funding, build the right team, and establish a well-defined, streamlined process. When the time comes, you’ll want to ensure everything proceeds smoothly without any execution issues. At this point, obtaining legal guidance is crucial.
Texas business laws have specific regulations and requirements that businesses must comply with. To navigate these requirements, consider hiring a business lawyer with detailed knowledge of business law. These experts can advise you on various business matters, including entity formation, litigation, and partnerships.
Choosing a Business Model
One of the most critical decisions a business lawyer can help you with is selecting the right business model. Options include sole proprietorship, partnership, corporation, limited liability company (LLC), limited liability partnership (LLP), limited partnership, and nonprofit corporation. The business structure you choose significantly impacts ownership, management, and taxation. A business lawyer can inform you about the tax, legal, and other implications of your decision.
Protecting Intellectual Property
Businesses and individuals often use copyrights and trademarks to protect intellectual property. Business names, logos, slogans, and packaging distinguish a business from its competition. If you have inventions, you need to apply for patents to protect your business interests. A business lawyer can help you identify your intellectual property and advise you on steps to safeguard it.
Choosing the Right Name
When selecting a business name, you must follow various legal guidelines. You cannot use a name that another business is already using, as this can lead to legal trouble. A business name that infringes on a registered trademark can spell legal issues, so consulting a business lawyer to explain the rules for choosing a business name is a good idea.
Providing Operating Guidelines
Businesses must operate according to corporate bylaws and LLC operating agreements. These documents cover important topics such as shareholder meetings, issuing shares, and key business decisions. A business lawyer can help draft these documents, defining business policies and operating procedures.
Minimizing Risks
As a business owner, you must ensure compliance with employment laws, anti-discrimination laws, and safety regulations. Failure to comply can result in fines, penalties, and litigation. Working with a business lawyer, you can develop policies, procedures, and handbooks summarizing workplace rules to ensure legal compliance.
Contact the Lawyer Referral Service of Central Texas today for help finding a qualified lawyer who is right for you.
Examining business law reveals many cases where businesses shut down due to legal issues before they even started operations. Hiring a business lawyer can help you avoid such scenarios and set your business up for success.
Since 1966, we have helped hundreds of thousands of Austin and Central Texas residents and businesses find the right lawyer to work tirelessly on their behalf and get the results they deserve.
Get an instant referral online, 24/7 or call the Lawyer Referral Service during regular business hours (8:00 AM to 4:30 PM) at (512) 472-8303 or toll-free at 866-303-8303. We want to help.
