20 Apr
20Apr

Has anyone recently started a business on a small scale? If so, one will be inundated with a list of tasks from day-to-day operations to planning for the future. There are a range of different legal issues that small business owners face, which is why one should be informed and prepared. Since most individuals have limited knowledge, it is best to take the help of a business attorney.To help one avoid legal problems with different types of business contracts, state regulations or any other pitfalls with starting a new business, the expert attorneys at Washington Law Partners, the Best Law Firm in Washington DC have created this blog to help one gain a better understanding of the entire process. The firm has assisted many people with legal services such as business law, estate planning, securities law, etc. Below are some important questions that one must consider and bring to the new attorney’s attention when starting a business. Keep reading to learn more.

Generals Questions to Ask a Business Attorney 

When hiring a lawyer, one wants to hire a professional who has spent years studying and practicing law. Therefore, one should make their meetings with them as productive as possible by asking several questions. This can be divided into general questions and business-related questions.

General Questions Include the Following: 

There are questions that help to understand who the lawyer is, how they operate, and what one can expect from them. These include: 

  • Since how long have they been practicing law? 
  • What is their specialization? 
  • What are their major roles and duties? 
  • How do they bill? 
  • What companies do they work with? Is it similar to the ones you are seeking? 
  • Are they experienced with startups? 
  • Are they familiar with the laws of incorporation? 

 Business-Related Questions 

If one wants specific advice, there are a couple of business-related queries one must make. This is done to identify whether or not the lawyer is well-versed in the field. If looking for a renowned Business Attorney in Washington DC, one can visit Washington Law Partners, a trusted law firm. The questions are as below: 

1. What business structure to select?  

The first thing to do when creating a small business is to determine its structure or entity. A business attorney is a person best suited for helping one make that informed decision. 

  • Both sole proprietorships and general partnerships view the business and the owner as the same entity. So if in case there are debts or legal issues, one would be held liable. 
  • C Corps, LLCs, and S Corps help distinguish the business from the individual, so one does not have to risk their personal assets. 
  • The lawyer will also comprehensively view the business and the plans. Doing that will impact how the business is owned, managed and taxed. 

2. How to minimize risk? 

Starting a small business can be risky. Firstly, a lawyer can assess the situation and look for the areas having the greatest risks. Once they have thoroughly assessed the business, they can make suggestions on how to avoid issues. The common ways to do this include the following: 

  • Creating an ideal entity
  • Obtaining insurance, necessary permits and licenses
  • Following the best hiring practices
  • Using thorough contracts
  • Complying with local, state and federal laws.

Note: By asking such questions, one can ensure compliance with safety regulations, anti-discrimination or employment and termination laws. 

3. How to select a business name? 

A name one selects for the business is important, but many business owners operate under the false assumption that they can simply pick any name and sell their products. There are certain rules and regulations naming new business entities. Additionally, one might need to be concerned about trademarks or naming errors. For example; having a deceptive statement in the name itself. A lawyer can assist one with researching for availability, selecting the proper name, and applying for rights of use.

4. Is the business currently operating legally?

One might not be aware whether they currently comply with local, municipal, state and federal laws. There could be fees, permits, and licenses one must apply for to operate legally. If one fails to do so, it can lead to fines, penalties, legal liabilities, and business closure. However, by consulting an attorney, one can establish that they are working within the boundaries of the law. If not, the lawyer can point out areas that need correction. Also, laws and regulations are changed or updated regularly. Therefore one needs a lawyer to advise such changes.  If one needs any guidance or information on legal matters, one can consult the talented attorneys at Washington Law Partners (WLP). They will answer the questions, provide guidance, and discuss all potential problems when starting a business. WLP, a leading Washington DC Law Firm, has provided knowledge and expertise for 35 years. The attorneys are experts in business law, estate planning, personal injury, securities law, etc.

For more information, consult the experts at WLP today!

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