Although in some cases people who wish to start, purchase, sell or operate a business may not need a lawyer, the complexities of Colorado business laws and regulations often make it necessary to have one. I can assist you in numerous aspects of starting, buying, selling or running a business:
- Choice of entity: this could be a C corp or S corp, which have different tax implications; a limited liability company (an LLC, which is the most popular entity for the small business owner); a sole proprietorship; a general partnership; a limited liability partnership; a limited partnership; a limited liability limited partnership; or a limited partnership association. The entity you choose has numerous tax and legal consequences.
- Licensing and regulation issues: some businesses, such as restaurants that serve liquor, are heavily regulated. They need liquor licenses and must comply with health department regulations, for instance. Numerous other businesses are subject to regulations that they must follow in order to start or continue a business.
- Succession planning for businesses: people often choose to sell a successful or struggling existing business, or they may not know what to do when a person who is running a business is ready to retire or suddenly dies. I can assist in this process through the formation of contracts such as buy-sell agreements and other instruments.
- Employee issues: in these days of frequent misunderstandings and lawsuits, it’s very important to have property employment contracts.
- Financing and start-up: if you are starting a business and need help with financing for it, I can help guide you through the process by assisting you with a business plan and other documents you may need to secure a loan.
- Trade secrets and non-compete agreements: you want to make sure that the unique parts of your business are properly protected.