Business Law Attorney Overview

Lawyer Representation in Commercial Legal Matters

Businesses represent a significant investment of time and money on the part of their owners. Because of this, an owner, partners who co-own a company, investors who have a financial stake in a company, and other stakeholders will want to be sure a business is protected from any threats, including those of a legal nature. Owners will also want to use the legal tools available to them to ensure the ongoing success of their business.

It is important to work with a skilled business law attorney when forming or acquiring a business or when dealing with any legal matters that may arise. An experienced lawyer can provide invaluable guidance, ensuring that the laws are followed correctly and helping resolve legal disputes that a business encounters. They can also work closely with owners and partners to determine the ideal strategies that will encourage ongoing success.

Business Law Issues

An attorney can provide assistance with a wide variety of issues related to a business, including:

• Business organizations - When forming a business, owners should choose the type of business entity that meets their needs. Certain entities may provide for more flexibility in business management, while others may allow a business to raise capital. Owners and partners will also need to understand what steps they can take to protect themselves from liability. An attorney can help business owners understand the benefits provided by a sole proprietorship, partnership, limited liability company (LLC), S-corporation, or other type of business organization.
• Banking and finance - An attorney can work with a business to ensure compliance with banking regulations and address the issues that may arise when obtaining financing that will allow the business to operate. Legal help with loan agreements and other financing options can ensure that a business will be able to access funding when necessary, and a lawyer can advise owners and partners on what steps they can take to avoid difficult financial burdens.
• Commercial law - A lawyer can ensure that the sales of goods meet the requirements of the Uniform Commercial Code. They can also provide guidance on business transactions and related concerns.
• Mergers and acquisitions - A lawyer can help a business understand and address the issues involved when acquiring or merging with another company, including compliance with federal, state, and local laws and regulations. An attorney can help perform due diligence, assist with reorganization of a company, and address contractual concerns or other issues that could affect the future of a business.
• Contracts - An attorney can help draft and negotiate a wide variety of contractual agreements, including shareholder agreements, partnership agreements, operating documents, employment contracts, non-compete agreements, non-disclosure agreements, severance agreements, vendor contracts, service contracts, licensing agreements, and real estate contracts. They can provide guidance on the rights and obligations that will apply to a business and how to make sure the terms of a contract can be enforced.
• Business litigation - A business may face a wide variety of legal challenges, such as employment disputes, breach of contract lawsuits, or intellectual property disputes. A strong attorney can advocate for a business in court or resolve issues through negotiations, arbitration, or settlements.
• Commercial leases - When a business needs to lease space where it will operate, it will need to make sure the terms of the lease are fully understood. An attorney can help negotiate agreements and address concerns related to allowed uses of a property, improvements, maintenance, responsibility for paying utilities and taxes, subleasing, exclusivity rights, and termination.
• Mediation - In order to avoid litigation, businesses may choose to settle disputes by using an impartial mediator, working to reach a resolution that all parties can agree on.
• General counsel - A business may need to address ongoing legal issues, but it may not have the resources to hire a permanent lawyer as part of its staff. An attorney who provides general counsel services can address any legal concerns that may affect a business, ensuring that its interests will be protected.

When addressing the legal issues involved in forming a business, settling disputes, or addressing changes related to financing and growth, it is essential to work with a business lawyer who understands the federal and state laws that affect the business. A skilled attorney can ensure that the rights of all parties are protected and that all legal requirements are met while advocating for the business's best interests in any legal disputes.