Corporate Law Blog

A Veteran’s Guide to Launching a Business: From Op Order to Operating Agreement

SECTION I: SITUATION

1. CAUTION.

Veterans are trained to identify threats early, but in the civilian corporate world, those threats look different, appearing as free online templates, handshake deals, and casual legal advice akin to a barracks lawyer. At first glance, these shortcuts seem harmless. But under pressure, when money is on the line, partners are running to the exits or contract terms are challenged, these devices fail to stand up.  Too many first-time business owners step into the market without proper legal personal protective equipment. They rely on generic operating agreements, misfiled registrations, and misunderstood tax elections. The damage is rarely immediate, but picking up the pieces can be catastrophic to a junior entrepreneur. Ignoring early warning signs or skipping pre-mission checks can result in mission failure. In business, the enemy is anything that undermines your legal structure, credibility, or long-term survivability.  More >

I Have My LLC — Now What?

You’ve just formed your limited liability company (“LLC”) and you’re finally able to breathe a big sigh of relief. The paperwork is complete, and you can finally get started with your dream business, right? More >

Federal Reserve Announces Expansion of Main Street Lending Program

The Federal Reserve expanded the Main Street Lending Program on Monday, June 8, 2020. The expansion allows for more small and medium-sized businesses to receive support during the COVID-19 pandemic. The Main Street Lending Program was established to support lending to businesses who were in sound financial condition before the pandemic began. More >

The CARES Act – What You Need to Know about Relief Now Available for Businesses

With the passage of the Coronavirus Aid, Relief and Economic Security Act, or CARES Act, businesses received a dose of much-needed relief in the form of tax payment deferrals and loan programs. In this post, we’ll take a look at both the previously established EIDL Program and the Paycheck Protection Program. More >

Businesses – Loans and Tax Relief for the COVID-19 Crisis Are Available

After the passage of the CARES Act stimulus package, there are more than a few current items of relief available to businesses impacted by the crisis, outlined below. More >

Five Legal Considerations for Starting a Small Business: Which Type of Entity is Best?

You started your small business yourself – just you and an idea. As time went on, you became more successful. You added employees. You opened a storefront. You started contracting with outside vendors. And while each of these events took place, you added additional liability – liability that could harm you personally as a sole proprietor. That’s exactly why business entities exist; they create a sustainable structure in which to operate while simultaneously shielding you personally from liability, for the most part. Not all business entities are created equal, however, and choosing an entity to organize or incorporate can come with both benefits and consequences. More >

Five Reasons to Consult an Attorney for Your Small Business

Starting a small business can be difficult. It requires a tremendous amount of passion and dedication, as well as some assistance from professionals such as accountants, insurance agents and others. While you may not need an attorney in the same measure, consulting one at the outset of the business and periodically throughout can get you off to a good start and keep you from falling into common legal traps. Here are five reasons you should consult with an attorney that will greatly benefit your small business. More >