Choosing a structure
Most US businesses operate as sole proprietorships, partnerships, LLCs or corporations. An LLC or corporation can limit personal liability, but each has different tax and governance implications. A business lawyer can help you choose and form the right entity in the right state, and draft operating or shareholder agreements.
Questions to ask a business & corporate lawyer
- Have you worked with businesses of my size and in my sector?
- Can you give me a fixed fee for this piece of work?
- Who else in the firm handles tax, employment or property if I need them?
- Do you offer a monthly retainer for ongoing questions?
Frequently asked questions
Do I need a lawyer to form an LLC?
Not necessarily, but a lawyer can draft an operating agreement tailored to your business and co-owners, which helps prevent disputes later.
How do business lawyers charge?
Hourly rates are common, but many offer fixed fees for formations, standard contracts or monthly retainers.