Business Attorney in Leland, NC

A good relationship with a business and corporate attorney could be one of the best investments you make. Building a successful business is very challenging, and the more you grow, the greater the risk of costly litigation. This is where a business attorney comes in. They can keep a watchful eye on the legal and regulatory front to keep you free from lawsuits, and allow you to focus on growing the business.

If you need help starting your business off on the right foot, writing contracts, managing employment law matters, or anything else, get in touch for a complimentary consultation today.

Services a Business Attorney Can Provide in Leland, NC

Business Formation & Incorporation

NC is business-friendly, and forming a business here is more straightforward than in other states. But it can still be confusing. At this stage, depending on your business model, a lawyer can advise on what business legal structure will work best for you and help you create it. The most common structures are:

Sole Proprietorships

Sole Proprietorships require you to register your business name in the register of deeds for the county where you operate according to N.C. Gen. Stat. § 66-71.4.

Partnerships

Partnerships also require you to register your business name, and you should create a partnership agreement that defines your relationship with your partners, including roles and responsibilities.

LLCs

must follow the naming convention provided under N.C. Gen. Stat. § 55D-20 and have a registered agent according to N.C. Gen. Stat. § 55D-30. They are also required to file articles of registration with the Secretary of State's Business Registration Division.

Corporations

Corporations are mandated to follow specified naming conventions and appoint registered agents. Corporations will also have to file articles of incorporation with the Secretary of State, according to N.C. Gen. Stat. § 55-2-02.

Depending on the nature of the business, you may also need to acquire special licenses or permits from the state. If you intend to have employees, a lawyer can also help you apply for and get an Employee Identification Number from the IRS.

Contract Drafting and Review

This is one of the most important things for a business, and a business attorney can especially look out for your interests. Your contracts determine your relationships with third parties like suppliers and other contractors. Naturally, there may be clauses in different contracts that won't be in your best interest, and your attorney will notify you of any such clauses. As a general rule, you should only sign something if your attorney has looked over it. They can also help you draft your contracts when you enter a relationship with another party.

Real Estate

A business lawyer can help with lease agreements and rental contracts. If you are constructing, they could also help with permits, zoning approvals, etc.

Regulatory Compliance

Each industry has specific federal and state regulations, and a good business lawyer will remain aware of developments and ensure you are compliant. A business lawyer will also help you with some general regulations, like filing your correct taxes when you should.

Labor

NC has workplace and employer laws to regulate wages, protect minors, and prevent workplace discrimination. Workplace safety laws, whistle-blower laws, and laws regarding an employer's right to terminate employees' contracts exist.

Intellectual Property Protection

A business lawyer will help you protect your copyrights, patents, trademarks, design marks, trade dress, and any other intellectual property you may have.

Dispute Resolution & Negotiation

Business attorneys could provide arbitration and mediation services to resolve disputes between you and a third party. They could also negotiate with government bodies and other businesses on your behalf.

Litigation

When you have to appear in court for a matter related to your business, your business attorney can represent you.

What Should you Consider when Selecting a Business Attorney?

Location

Your lawyer should be geographically close to you because you shouldn't travel long distances and spend valuable time seeing them. So, if you are in Leland, NC, you would do better with qualified lawyers.

Industry Familiarity

A lawyer familiar with your industry will better help you navigate the regulatory requirements of your business industry. But if you get a lawyer or a law firm that is familiar with your industry but can also perform holistically, that is better because the different service areas often overlap.

Fees

Finally, their rates should be within your budget.

Having a Business Attorney as Your Registered Agent

NC law requires that LLCs and corporations have registered third-party agents that accept legal papers on their behalf and can forward notices, processes, and demands to them. If your business is an LLC or corporation, it is a good idea to have your business attorney as your registered agent because that way, they are also notified of everything legal on your radar.

Contact Bespoke Estate Law Today

Contact Bespoke Estate Law if you're searching for a business attorney in Leland, NC. We help small, medium, and large companies, and whether you need help drafting documents or implementing employee policies, we are available for a consultation.