Attorneys Putting Your New Virginia Business On The Path To Success
Taking a business idea and turning it into reality requires vision, hard work and risk. Founding a business may not be easy, but finding the right business law attorney should be. Throughout Virginia, countless clients have turned to our lawyers at Walker Jones, PC, for knowledgeable guidance and personalized service. They are ready to guide you through all aspects of the startup process, and can provide ongoing guidance and your business grows and expands.
Choosing The Right Entity For Your Business
One of the first and most important decisions you’ll need to make is choosing the right business structure. The structure you choose can affect your taxes, liability and even how easy it is to get funding. Common options include:
Sole proprietorship: This is the simplest form, where you own and run the business yourself. It’s easy to set up but offers no personal liability protection. You are personally responsible for all debts and obligations.
Partnership: If you’re starting a business with one or more people, a partnership might be right for you. It’s relatively simple and allows you to share profits and responsibilities. However, like sole proprietorships, partners are personally liable for business debts.
Limited liability company (LLC): An LLC offers flexibility and protects your personal assets from business liabilities. It combines the benefits of a corporation and a partnership. It’s a popular choice for small to medium-sized businesses.
Corporation: Corporations provide the strongest protection from personal liability but are more complex and expensive to set up. They are ideal for businesses that plan to raise capital by issuing stock.
S corporation: This is a special type of corporation that allows profits to pass through to your personal tax return, avoiding double taxation. There are certain eligibility requirements, however, so it is not an option for every business.
Nonprofit organization: If your goal is to operate for charitable, educational or religious purposes, a nonprofit might be the best fit. Nonprofits can apply for tax-exempt status but must adhere to strict regulations.
Each business structure has its own advantages and drawbacks. Our business and corporate law attorneys will help you understand your options and make the most appropriate choice in light of your business goals and the level of risk you’re willing to take.
Legal Services For New And Established Business Owners
Whether you are just starting your business or have been in operation for some time, our attorneys can help you with all legal aspects of your enterprise, including:
- Drafting and reviewing contracts (for suppliers, customers, employees, etc.)
- Protection of trademarks and intellectual property protection
- Compliance with employment laws and regulations
- Obtaining necessary business licenses and permits
- Maintaining regulatory compliance (federal, state and local regulations that apply to your business)
- Commercial lease and property agreements
- Securing financing and investment
- Identifying and mitigating potential risks facing your business
While many of the services above are designed to prevent legal problems, issues can nonetheless arise. When they do, our skilled commercial litigation attorneys provide legal support to resolve them efficiently. This includes mediation, arbitration and courtroom litigation if necessary.
Work Directly With A Business Startup Attorney – Contact Us Today
At Walker Jones, PC, our goal is to provide you with the legal support you need to build a strong foundation for your new business. From our offices in Warrenton and Rappahannock, we assist business owners and entrepreneurs throughout Virginia. Contact us today to learn more about how we can help you succeed. Just call 540-595-3657 or reach out online.
Meet Our Business Law Attorneys
Michael T. Brown
Bennett T.W. Eastham
Walker Jones, PC, serves clients throughout Virginia, including Fauquier, Rappahannock, Culpeper, Loudoun, Prince William, Fairfax, Arlington, Alexandria, Warren, Winchester, Frederick, Clarke, Stafford, Spotsylvania, Fredericksburg, Madison, Orange and Albemarle.